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Generated 2026-10-13. 91 transcripts, 55584 timed lines.
Machine-generated transcripts from Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk, not manually corrected. Wording, including names, may contain transcription errors. Episode 92 is excluded.

CONTENTS
1. Shawn Lee Jones of Creative Healing Foundation and G6 Landscaping (Season 2 · Episode 20)
2. You Should Not Need a Setback to Get Focused Do the Work, Get Your Rest Creative Entrepreneurs (Season 1 · Episode 58)
3. What Is a Creative Entrepreneur? Turning Creativity Into a Profitable Business (Season 1 · Episode 57)
4. Brother Tremain Lasenby of Lasenby Illustrations (Season 2 · Episode 19)
5. Always Be Launching How Consistency Focus & Doing the Work Drive Business Growth (Season 1 · Episode 56)
6. Shcarra Benn The Creative Leo of Creative Leo Designs (Season 2 · Episode 18)
7. Stop Chasing Quick Results The Truth About Building a Successful Business (Season 1 · Episode 55)
8. The Pull Up Experience Episode 321 with Photographer Steve Jackson (repurposed) (Season 1 · Episode 54)
9. You Don’t Have to Be Superman Avoiding Decision Fatigue Finding Balance & Building a Business (Season 1 · Episode 53)
10. Jeweled Justice - Finding Your Voice Through Spoken Word Poetry (Season 2 · Episode 17)
11. I Just Want to Be Human: The Cost of Being an Entrepreneur (Season 1 · Episode 52)
12. Honoring MC Chill at Cleveland History Center AAHCC 2026 (Season 1 · Episode 51)
13. How to Produce 10,000 Podcasts Episodes & Master Your Creative Craft (Season 1 · Episode 50)
14. How to Build A Creative Media Business from Scratch with Special Guest Sevenn Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 49)
15. Damon Darling Vs Walmart and Sam's Club Ban (Season 1 · Episode 48)
16. Self Analysis Refines Business Values (Season 1 · Episode 47)
17. Importance Of Networking (Season 1 · Episode 46)
18. How to Get A Quarter Raise (Season 1 · Episode 45)
19. Value In Leisure (Season 1 · Episode 44)
20. Getting Your Reps (Why You Must Get Your Reps) (Season 1 · Episode 43)
21. Start Before You Are Ready The Creative Entrepreneur's Guide to Growth (Season 1 · Episode 42)
22. Test Yourself, Don’t Be Afraid To Test Yourself (Season 1 · Episode 41)
23. Affirmations For Creative Entrepreneurs (Season 1 · Episode 40)
24. Tybo Audio  Studio Jesus - Expert Studio and Production Specialist (Season 2 · Episode 16)
25. Sell Old Material and Content (Season 1 · Episode 39)
26. Terrance TDames Productions Music Consistency (Season 2 · Episode 15)
27. Dayja Smith - Coko's Crown (Season 2 · Episode 14)
28. Raw Glass - Darnell McAdams Multimedia Specialist (Season 2 · Episode 13)
29. Morelle McCane Olympian Boxer (Season 2 · Episode 12)
30. Michael Bell Sr.  "Peerless" A Branding Masterclass (Season 2 · Episode 11)
31. Erika & Paterson - Braid Connector (Season 2 · Episode 10)
32. From Attendee to Vendor My Podcast Summit 2026 Journey (Season 1 · Episode 38)
33. Nicole D. Miller - NDMiller Publishing (Season 2 · Episode 9)
34. Why Every Business Should Have A Podcast In 2026 (Grow Faster Without Ads) (Season 1 · Episode 37)
35. Launch Your First Podcast in One Day: Done-For-You “My First Pod” Experience (Limited Spots) (Season 1 · Episode 36)
36. Caught In A Hailstorm: Real-Life Lessons For Creative Entrepreneurs When Everything Hits At Once (Season 1 · Episode 35)
37. David Shands Comes Back To Cleveland With Donni Wiggins (Season 1 · Episode 34)
38. 33 Minutes of Sleep Building While Tired (Season 1 · Episode 33)
39. Devin Moore - DJ Rev Dev (Season 2 · Episode 8)
40. Ned Sanders - PhotoCred Ned (Season 2 · Episode 7)
41. India Su'Juan - Sujuans Decor (Season 2 · Episode 6)
42. Motivational Encouragement Keep Going (Season 1 · Episode 32)
43. Forever Grateful — Gratitude When the Bills Come Due (Season 1 · Episode 31)
44. From Flat Tires to Business Upsells: Lessons on Preparation, Protection, and Profit (Season 1 · Episode 30)
45. David Shands In Cleveland (Season 1 · Episode 29)
46. Mastermind Inner Circle - Creative Frequency (Season 1 · Episode 28)
47. Daily Routine Personal Journey Weekly (Season 1 · Episode 27)
48. Rest In Peace ( raw recording / unedited ) - DS
49. The Right Opportunity (Season 1 · Episode 26)
50. Jessica Williams - Jess Juiced (Season 2 · Episode 5)
51. Brandon Gates Speaks To Euclid High Entrepreneur Students (TPUE) (Season 1 · Episode 25)
52. Be Like A Chameleon (Season 1 · Episode 24)
53. Justine Johnson Of Just Designs (Season 2 · Episode 4)
54. Lai Lai - Melting Magnets Photography (Season 2 · Episode 3)
55. Photographer's Guidance (Season 1 · Episode 23)
56. Origins Of A Creative Entrepreneur (Season 1 · Episode 22)
57. FutureLAND Cleveland Ai Forward Summit at MOCA
58. Eric Stephens “Beyond The Walls 2” Presented by  Redwood Ministry Powered by Rooted In Christ Podcast (Full Episode) (Season 2 · Episode 2)
59. Beyond The Walls 2 Promo at Podcasters United (Short)
60. Day 11 - Social Media Fast Recap (Season 1 · Episode 21)
61. Day 10 Social Media Sabbatical Trust (Season 1 · Episode 20)
62. Day 9 Social Media Sabbatical Digital Awareness (Season 1 · Episode 19)
63. Day 8 Social Media Sabbatical Perfect Digital Image Online (Season 1 · Episode 18)
64. Day 7 Social Media Sabbatical Satisfaction (Season 1 · Episode 17)
65. Day 6 Social Media Sabbatical Produce Do Not Consume (Season 1 · Episode 16)
66. Day 5 Social Media Sabbatical Power Of Systems (Season 1 · Episode 15)
67. Day 4 Social Media Sabbatical Connect & Communicate (Season 1 · Episode 14)
68. Day 3 Social Media Sabbatical Do The Work (Season 1 · Episode 13)
69. Day 2 Social Media Sabbatical Habits (Season 1 · Episode 12)
70. Day 1 Social Media Sabbatical Detox (Season 1 · Episode 11)
71. Wait, Where You Get These Numbers From?
72. My Creative Business Coaching Style
73. Alex Hormozi $100M Money Models Book - Attraction Offers How To Make Money
74. Master Of All Trades w/ Eroc Beatz
75. Eliminate Distractions Even The NBA
76. Get Better (short)
77. Public or Private
78. Podcast Summit Recap - Day 2 - 2025 (Season 1)
79. Podcast Summit Recap - Day 1 - 2025 (Season 1)
80. Father's Day Fuel & Interview Purpose
81. Khayla Monique - The Unshatter'd Adoptee Interviewed by Steve Jackson (Alien) (Season 2 · Episode 1)
82. Ep. 9 - Self Love Momentum w/ Photographer Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 9)
83. Ep. 8 - Relationships Matter Today w/ Photographer Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 8)
84. Ep. 7 - Personal Journey of Constant Progression with Photographer Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 7)
85. Ep. 6 Value and Economic Cost w/ Photographer Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 6)
86. Ep. 5 - Mental Hygiene With Meditation And Prayer w/ Photographer Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 5)
87. Ep. 4 Offers with Photographer Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 4)
88. Ep. 3 Decision Making with Photographer Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 3)
89. Ep. 2 Abundance Mindset with Photographer Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 2)
90. Ep. 1 Mindset and Expectations with Photographer Jackson (Season 1 · Episode 1)
91. Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk Podcast Trailer (Season 1 · Episode 0)

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1. Shawn Lee Jones of Creative Healing Foundation and G6 Landscaping
Season 2 · Episode 20
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/shawn-lee-jones-of-creative-healing-foundation-and-g6-landsc
========================================================================

[00:00:01.010 --> 00:00:06.730] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:07.410 --> 00:00:10.810] with your host, photographer Jackson Steve Jackson
[00:00:10.810 --> 00:00:13.330] at Alienize Photos Media.
[00:00:14.310 --> 00:00:17.870] And I have a special, special, special, special guest,
[00:00:18.750 --> 00:00:23.030] Mr. Sean Lee Jones, a veteran entrepreneur,
[00:00:23.330 --> 00:00:25.510] photographer, filmmaker, community builder
[00:00:25.510 --> 00:00:28.310] whose life reflects service, creativity,
[00:00:28.310 --> 00:00:32.150] resilience, and legacy, which is important.
[00:00:33.310 --> 00:00:37.450] After serving 17 years, six months, and five days
[00:00:37.450 --> 00:00:41.690] to be exact in the military, Sean redirected,
[00:00:42.680 --> 00:00:45.750] Sean redirected his discipline and leadership
[00:00:45.750 --> 00:00:47.150] into entrepreneurship.
[00:00:48.830 --> 00:00:53.450] He is the president of G6 Landscaping and Snow Removal
[00:00:53.450 --> 00:00:55.350] and Ohio Sea Corporation,
[00:00:55.350 --> 00:00:59.030] built around battery-powered landscaping operations,
[00:00:59.790 --> 00:01:02.390] efficiency, and sustainable growth.
[00:01:03.370 --> 00:01:06.650] He is also the co-founder of Creative Feeling Foundation,
[00:01:07.410 --> 00:01:10.330] where photography, media, storytelling, and agriculture,
[00:01:10.970 --> 00:01:13.750] and creative education are used to strengthen
[00:01:13.750 --> 00:01:15.390] individuals and communities.
[00:01:16.470 --> 00:01:19.810] Through Liquid Vision Film,
[00:01:21.050 --> 00:01:24.370] Sean continues his work as visual storyteller,
[00:01:24.370 --> 00:01:27.730] documenting people, organization, events,
[00:01:27.910 --> 00:01:29.410] and meaningful life experiences.
[00:01:30.990 --> 00:01:33.050] His business journey is deeply connected
[00:01:33.050 --> 00:01:35.650] into family, mentorship, ownership,
[00:01:36.290 --> 00:01:37.690] and generational legacy.
[00:01:39.130 --> 00:01:41.790] Sean believes success is not simply measured
[00:01:41.790 --> 00:01:43.390] by money or recognition,
[00:01:44.090 --> 00:01:46.530] but by the ability to create opportunity
[00:01:46.530 --> 00:01:48.630] should knowledge serve others
[00:01:48.630 --> 00:01:52.070] and leave something meaningful for the next generation.
[00:01:52.590 --> 00:01:53.470] That's right.
[00:01:53.710 --> 00:01:56.730] Sean Lee Jones, my brother, my mentor, how you doing?
[00:01:57.030 --> 00:02:00.470] Hey, bro, I'm glad we was able to get this sit down.
[00:02:00.770 --> 00:02:02.650] Our schedules finally came together
[00:02:02.650 --> 00:02:04.690] and we were able to make something happen, right?
[00:02:04.930 --> 00:02:07.270] Yeah, we are here, we are here, we're here.
[00:02:07.450 --> 00:02:09.330] It came a long way, so it's gonna,
[00:02:09.750 --> 00:02:13.810] just the next phase is exciting to see where it go.
[00:02:14.310 --> 00:02:14.790] Yes, sir.
[00:02:15.670 --> 00:02:19.050] And it's funny, I think about, oop.
[00:02:19.050 --> 00:02:19.710] Man down.
[00:02:19.710 --> 00:02:24.380] We got equipment falling, that's never a good sign.
[00:02:25.380 --> 00:02:26.600] But it happens.
[00:02:26.880 --> 00:02:28.720] Yes, it happens, it happens, it happens.
[00:02:30.140 --> 00:02:32.800] But you just think about G6, it's like,
[00:02:33.100 --> 00:02:36.860] wow, we kind of knew each other for six, six years,
[00:02:36.880 --> 00:02:38.140] so that's right on point.
[00:02:38.840 --> 00:02:41.920] But for the community that may not know G6,
[00:02:42.020 --> 00:02:43.040] what is G6?
[00:02:43.620 --> 00:02:45.620] So G6 is?
[00:02:49.510 --> 00:02:50.750] The sixth letter after the alphabet.
[00:02:51.550 --> 00:02:52.590] It really is, right?
[00:02:53.230 --> 00:02:54.250] A, B, C, D, E, E.
[00:02:54.570 --> 00:02:56.110] Yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:02:56.210 --> 00:02:57.670] It's the sixth letter in the alphabet
[00:02:57.670 --> 00:03:00.570] and everybody always ask what G6 is.
[00:03:01.130 --> 00:03:02.990] How did you come up with that?
[00:03:03.450 --> 00:03:09.610] Is there some particular meaning to the G or the six?
[00:03:11.470 --> 00:03:16.900] And all it really is is a representation
[00:03:17.500 --> 00:03:21.840] of why I do this, what keeps me on focus.
[00:03:22.840 --> 00:03:25.060] At the time, it was my six grandkids.
[00:03:25.820 --> 00:03:26.140] Okay.
[00:03:26.620 --> 00:03:27.420] Now there's seven,
[00:03:27.440 --> 00:03:29.580] so I'm gonna come up with something else for him.
[00:03:30.860 --> 00:03:33.900] But for the six that started it,
[00:03:34.180 --> 00:03:36.280] it was just about building legacy,
[00:03:36.300 --> 00:03:39.800] trying to figure out what to name it.
[00:03:41.900 --> 00:03:48.910] G6 has this introduction before it even had a name.
[00:03:50.150 --> 00:03:53.730] And that was, I wanna say, six years prior.
[00:03:53.850 --> 00:03:55.010] Wow, yeah.
[00:03:55.770 --> 00:04:00.130] Yeah, so it was six years before it even got a name, G6.
[00:04:00.970 --> 00:04:04.850] In 2016, I bought my first Ego more
[00:04:06.010 --> 00:04:08.190] and had a really small yard.
[00:04:08.190 --> 00:04:09.630] Yard wasn't as big as this room.
[00:04:11.520 --> 00:04:14.920] And the battery just cut the grass two, three times
[00:04:14.920 --> 00:04:16.560] and still had battery.
[00:04:16.899 --> 00:04:21.380] At the time, I was pushing a five amp hour battery
[00:04:21.380 --> 00:04:24.300] on one 21 inch more
[00:04:25.060 --> 00:04:27.240] and had enough to do my yard.
[00:04:27.340 --> 00:04:30.200] I would then jump over to Ms. Dot's yard, my neighbor.
[00:04:30.320 --> 00:04:31.840] I would do her front yard.
[00:04:32.280 --> 00:04:35.640] And then I had another neighbor on the other side of me.
[00:04:36.140 --> 00:04:38.660] I would do her yard.
[00:04:39.180 --> 00:04:41.640] And then I would jump across the street
[00:04:41.640 --> 00:04:43.760] and do another yard.
[00:04:44.120 --> 00:04:46.140] Then there was a field next door to that
[00:04:46.140 --> 00:04:47.960] that I would do that
[00:04:47.960 --> 00:04:49.380] because that's where I walk my dog at.
[00:04:50.220 --> 00:04:53.980] So all of that was still operating on one battery
[00:04:53.980 --> 00:04:57.480] and not having to go to the gas station.
[00:04:59.060 --> 00:05:03.160] The whole idea of landscaping from that was just there.
[00:05:03.260 --> 00:05:04.140] I mean, just cutting grass.
[00:05:04.280 --> 00:05:05.120] It wasn't even landscaping.
[00:05:05.140 --> 00:05:06.720] Just cutting grass was different
[00:05:06.720 --> 00:05:09.360] because you didn't have to do all of the preparations.
[00:05:09.480 --> 00:05:11.940] Went and grabbed a more proper battery in there
[00:05:11.940 --> 00:05:12.620] and you was gone.
[00:05:13.080 --> 00:05:14.600] Battery, when it did die,
[00:05:14.680 --> 00:05:16.500] put it on the charger, charge up.
[00:05:16.640 --> 00:05:18.680] You're gonna go do whatever you're gonna do.
[00:05:19.000 --> 00:05:21.100] And then you come back, battery charged,
[00:05:21.180 --> 00:05:22.520] pop it back in and you go.
[00:05:23.310 --> 00:05:27.280] You wasn't dealing with no oils, no spark plugs,
[00:05:28.580 --> 00:05:30.080] no, you know, no gas.
[00:05:31.020 --> 00:05:34.340] And it just, the idea behind it as a young kid,
[00:05:34.380 --> 00:05:35.520] I used to go down south
[00:05:36.600 --> 00:05:39.000] and I would be sent down to cut grass,
[00:05:39.720 --> 00:05:41.460] 10, 11, 12 years old.
[00:05:41.980 --> 00:05:43.400] And it was work.
[00:05:43.940 --> 00:05:45.060] I remember it at work
[00:05:45.060 --> 00:05:47.980] because you had to pull the lawn mower out of the shed,
[00:05:48.260 --> 00:05:50.320] help you get stung by no bees.
[00:05:51.040 --> 00:05:54.400] You didn't get chased out, you know, in that aspect.
[00:05:55.400 --> 00:05:57.140] Then dealing with the spark plug.
[00:05:57.160 --> 00:05:58.480] You gotta go find some gas.
[00:05:58.580 --> 00:05:59.680] You got the gas can.
[00:05:59.800 --> 00:06:02.600] You gotta go, somebody take you to the gas station
[00:06:02.600 --> 00:06:04.980] and get the, it was a whole build out
[00:06:04.980 --> 00:06:06.520] to just cut the grass.
[00:06:07.280 --> 00:06:09.900] And when I came back up north and up to Cleveland,
[00:06:10.620 --> 00:06:11.680] we stayed at the projects.
[00:06:12.000 --> 00:06:13.460] So we didn't have no grass.
[00:06:13.600 --> 00:06:15.720] The maintenance men cut the grass, you know.
[00:06:16.040 --> 00:06:17.920] So where there was grass, there it is.
[00:06:18.620 --> 00:06:21.140] And I used to always think like, wow, you know,
[00:06:21.140 --> 00:06:24.560] if we went up to the heights and cut grass,
[00:06:25.780 --> 00:06:26.800] we could make money,
[00:06:26.980 --> 00:06:29.800] but we ain't had no grass.
[00:06:30.060 --> 00:06:32.980] We didn't even have one.
[00:06:33.700 --> 00:06:37.440] So I fast forward through all of growing up,
[00:06:38.540 --> 00:06:40.820] 2016 turns into 2017.
[00:06:42.240 --> 00:06:44.400] Key Bank comes on to Kimberly Street
[00:06:44.400 --> 00:06:47.300] and they do this whole block cleanup thing.
[00:06:47.520 --> 00:06:50.860] And I'm like, oh cool, I'm gonna participate in that
[00:06:50.860 --> 00:06:52.940] and see how many yards I can cut.
[00:06:53.140 --> 00:06:56.680] And I cut like 11 to 14 yards on that,
[00:06:56.980 --> 00:06:59.580] just front yards on that street.
[00:07:00.860 --> 00:07:02.520] And my feet was killing me though.
[00:07:07.650 --> 00:07:09.950] I said, well, if they ever come out with a zero turn,
[00:07:10.450 --> 00:07:12.090] I wanna see what that does.
[00:07:17.480 --> 00:07:19.520] For those who don't know what a zero turn is,
[00:07:19.620 --> 00:07:20.160] what's a zero turn?
[00:07:20.180 --> 00:07:23.600] Zero turn is the riding lawn mower that you sit on.
[00:07:23.780 --> 00:07:25.380] You got the little controllers on it.
[00:07:25.860 --> 00:07:27.920] Go-kart with blades on it.
[00:07:27.940 --> 00:07:28.420] Go-kart.
[00:07:28.780 --> 00:07:29.900] Go-kart on the grass.
[00:07:29.900 --> 00:07:31.200] Yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:07:31.500 --> 00:07:32.340] It's a good way to look at it.
[00:07:32.460 --> 00:07:35.220] So if you've never rode one, it's fun.
[00:07:36.080 --> 00:07:37.640] It's a grown man's toy.
[00:07:38.700 --> 00:07:41.000] You get a chance to get something accomplished
[00:07:41.000 --> 00:07:41.800] at the same time.
[00:07:41.880 --> 00:07:43.120] You get a chance to have some fun
[00:07:43.120 --> 00:07:44.540] and relax at the same time.
[00:07:45.260 --> 00:07:47.240] You're concentrating on what you're doing.
[00:07:48.440 --> 00:07:50.420] It's not work first of all.
[00:07:51.480 --> 00:07:55.020] It's accomplishing something that you putting pride into.
[00:07:55.240 --> 00:07:57.120] You're putting your attention into it
[00:07:57.120 --> 00:07:59.400] and you're not rushing through it.
[00:07:59.400 --> 00:08:00.860] So it becomes enjoyable.
[00:08:04.390 --> 00:08:06.830] 2020, they came out with it.
[00:08:07.190 --> 00:08:08.550] And I told my wife, I said,
[00:08:08.670 --> 00:08:10.270] look, I gotta get one of those.
[00:08:10.410 --> 00:08:13.930] I got this idea of this landscaping business.
[00:08:14.370 --> 00:08:18.670] I'm about to retire in a couple of more years.
[00:08:18.950 --> 00:08:21.890] And if I can do what I wanna do,
[00:08:22.030 --> 00:08:24.210] I just wanna make enough money cutting grass
[00:08:24.210 --> 00:08:26.310] so I can take you on a trip once a year.
[00:08:26.490 --> 00:08:29.290] So I figure six, seven grand cutting grass
[00:08:29.290 --> 00:08:32.330] is not many yards, not many flowers planted
[00:08:32.330 --> 00:08:33.250] and all of that.
[00:08:33.870 --> 00:08:36.230] And that was the thought process.
[00:08:36.650 --> 00:08:38.470] And from there, it grew wings.
[00:08:40.549 --> 00:08:43.429] First year I went out and I did it like that.
[00:08:44.049 --> 00:08:45.650] I didn't have a truck at first.
[00:08:45.810 --> 00:08:47.230] That was the first part about it.
[00:08:47.230 --> 00:08:48.010] I didn't have a truck.
[00:08:48.110 --> 00:08:48.930] I had an SUV.
[00:08:50.670 --> 00:08:53.010] So that was his own process.
[00:08:53.730 --> 00:08:56.010] And I finally transitioned over to a truck,
[00:08:56.130 --> 00:08:58.710] which was the best, oh man, the best.
[00:08:58.710 --> 00:08:59.410] Great investment.
[00:08:59.630 --> 00:09:01.050] Great investment, great investment.
[00:09:01.530 --> 00:09:04.050] Always understood the importance of a man having a truck.
[00:09:04.590 --> 00:09:06.410] But when I had a buddy in Texas
[00:09:06.410 --> 00:09:08.050] that used to tell me all the time,
[00:09:08.230 --> 00:09:09.570] Pat, he was like, man, you need to get a truck.
[00:09:09.770 --> 00:09:11.050] Man, ain't nobody gonna take you seriously.
[00:09:12.050 --> 00:09:13.430] Trailer and no truck.
[00:09:13.710 --> 00:09:15.490] I'm like, man, but I got a MDX.
[00:09:15.730 --> 00:09:17.870] I'm pulling a trailer with the MDX.
[00:09:18.010 --> 00:09:19.190] I can drive this trailer.
[00:09:19.870 --> 00:09:21.790] And then I can steal, skrrt, skrrt.
[00:09:21.970 --> 00:09:24.250] And you know, I enjoyed that.
[00:09:24.410 --> 00:09:27.390] That was one of the best vehicles
[00:09:28.170 --> 00:09:31.610] I ever had the experience of driving.
[00:09:34.200 --> 00:09:34.720] Great ride.
[00:09:35.080 --> 00:09:36.160] Acura did their thing.
[00:09:36.260 --> 00:09:37.860] It was a 2016 in itself.
[00:09:38.500 --> 00:09:42.350] And I enjoyed that build.
[00:09:42.630 --> 00:09:44.190] But I had to go to the truck.
[00:09:44.470 --> 00:09:46.690] I got it with South Euclid.
[00:09:46.870 --> 00:09:50.150] I ran into a young lady that worked in
[00:09:50.150 --> 00:09:51.790] the one South Euclid nonprofit.
[00:09:52.930 --> 00:09:54.710] And one day we was just talking at the park
[00:09:54.710 --> 00:09:56.450] and she was like, Sean, what do you do?
[00:09:56.550 --> 00:09:57.930] And I went down the list.
[00:09:58.150 --> 00:10:00.670] Well, I'm trying to retire from VA.
[00:10:01.570 --> 00:10:02.410] I'm a veteran.
[00:10:03.050 --> 00:10:04.470] She's like, you're just a renaissance, man.
[00:10:04.470 --> 00:10:05.990] You just do everything, huh?
[00:10:06.170 --> 00:10:07.610] Cause I had my camera with me.
[00:10:07.610 --> 00:10:09.070] I was taking pictures that day.
[00:10:09.490 --> 00:10:15.550] And from there, she told me about the senior program.
[00:10:16.070 --> 00:10:18.250] But somehow we got into talking about cutting grass
[00:10:18.250 --> 00:10:19.070] and all that stuff.
[00:10:19.110 --> 00:10:20.790] And she told me, well, if you had a truck
[00:10:20.790 --> 00:10:22.790] and you can do snow removal,
[00:10:23.370 --> 00:10:25.590] you can do senior program.
[00:10:25.910 --> 00:10:27.350] And I was like, oh, that's right on my alley.
[00:10:27.410 --> 00:10:28.370] That's what I wanna do.
[00:10:28.570 --> 00:10:31.590] I don't wanna charge people for cutting the grass
[00:10:31.590 --> 00:10:34.110] cause I don't wanna have to deal with that aspect of it.
[00:10:34.370 --> 00:10:35.550] I'm not in it for the money.
[00:10:36.050 --> 00:10:39.090] So that's not truly important with me.
[00:10:39.490 --> 00:10:41.850] I'm cutting seniors and veterans grass
[00:10:41.850 --> 00:10:44.710] and you still gonna pay me for it on top of it?
[00:10:44.890 --> 00:10:46.130] Oh, that's a win or win.
[00:10:48.660 --> 00:10:51.680] I looked at landscaping, the entry into it
[00:10:51.680 --> 00:10:53.600] has always been the equipment.
[00:10:54.060 --> 00:10:55.740] Nobody wants to buy a lawn mower,
[00:10:56.400 --> 00:10:59.660] especially if you don't got a house.
[00:11:01.160 --> 00:11:02.380] Nobody, what am I gonna do with a lawn mower?
[00:11:02.380 --> 00:11:05.200] I'm gonna spend six, seven, $800 on a lawn mower.
[00:11:05.380 --> 00:11:05.940] For what?
[00:11:06.160 --> 00:11:09.520] I can do all of this with that instead of a lawn mower.
[00:11:09.880 --> 00:11:13.260] And I just understood what lawn mowers do.
[00:11:13.700 --> 00:11:17.440] And when you take the gas aspect out of it,
[00:11:17.460 --> 00:11:19.680] the profit margin, the money just changed.
[00:11:21.960 --> 00:11:23.060] It's just been a great thing.
[00:11:23.520 --> 00:11:27.740] Yeah, especially as the gas prices steadily increase,
[00:11:27.740 --> 00:11:29.960] like it's out of control.
[00:11:30.760 --> 00:11:34.540] This season here has been one for the records.
[00:11:35.580 --> 00:11:37.660] And every landscaper that I've talked to,
[00:11:37.920 --> 00:11:39.040] they feel it, they feel it at the pump.
[00:11:39.320 --> 00:11:41.460] It's been a whole thing across the whole industry
[00:11:41.460 --> 00:11:47.180] on the web that's dealing with going electric,
[00:11:47.520 --> 00:11:49.420] one, and raising prices.
[00:11:51.060 --> 00:11:57.000] Miss Smith been paying $25 for the last 14 years
[00:11:57.000 --> 00:12:02.640] to get her grass cut bi-weekly is what they consider it.
[00:12:03.560 --> 00:12:07.160] And now prices end up, that one yard and that's $50.
[00:12:08.060 --> 00:12:10.280] And Miss Smith ain't trying to pay it,
[00:12:10.540 --> 00:12:15.380] but she don't understand how that price went up.
[00:12:17.040 --> 00:12:18.480] I understand, okay, gas prices went up.
[00:12:18.620 --> 00:12:20.280] I understand grocery prices went up,
[00:12:20.460 --> 00:12:23.260] but you're gonna raise the price
[00:12:23.260 --> 00:12:26.640] on doing the same service that you've been doing?
[00:12:27.240 --> 00:12:28.620] Oh, explain it to me.
[00:12:28.760 --> 00:12:31.520] And that drives them a little bit
[00:12:31.520 --> 00:12:34.340] toward battery-operated equipment,
[00:12:34.500 --> 00:12:38.520] but they'll go purchase it themselves, which is cool.
[00:12:38.680 --> 00:12:39.720] Great for the environment,
[00:12:40.060 --> 00:12:42.220] but at the same time, the landscapers are like,
[00:12:42.240 --> 00:12:45.300] hey, hold on, gotta go up on these prices
[00:12:46.180 --> 00:12:48.280] and the average person just not gonna get out there
[00:12:48.280 --> 00:12:49.300] and do a great job.
[00:12:51.520 --> 00:12:55.140] Well, it sounds like processes and systems is important.
[00:12:58.680 --> 00:13:00.040] I guess I stumbled on this.
[00:13:00.040 --> 00:13:03.020] It wasn't intended to be what it is
[00:13:03.020 --> 00:13:08.240] and the future of where I'm looking for it to go is off.
[00:13:08.880 --> 00:13:12.700] The imagination is just so vast.
[00:13:12.940 --> 00:13:15.260] I mean, you can make it what you wanna make it,
[00:13:15.260 --> 00:13:16.480] but at the same time,
[00:13:17.160 --> 00:13:20.080] I'm looking and thinking into franchising,
[00:13:20.380 --> 00:13:25.060] I'm looking and thinking into youth entrepreneurial programs,
[00:13:26.920 --> 00:13:28.080] just building it out.
[00:13:28.080 --> 00:13:30.100] I mean, in this, I had a,
[00:13:30.140 --> 00:13:32.700] so one of the other things that got me into this was,
[00:13:32.920 --> 00:13:36.380] or is, a neighbor that I have, Brother Anderson.
[00:13:37.640 --> 00:13:38.780] Shout out to Brother Anderson.
[00:13:40.120 --> 00:13:44.640] Brother Anderson is 96 years old.
[00:13:44.880 --> 00:13:49.820] He'll be 97 come this upcoming March in 2027.
[00:13:53.450 --> 00:13:55.170] When I first moved into South Euclid,
[00:14:01.060 --> 00:14:06.440] Arkansas dude moved into Cleveland in like the 1940s
[00:14:06.440 --> 00:14:08.700] and he talked to me like I was here with him
[00:14:08.700 --> 00:14:09.880] when he moved here.
[00:14:10.040 --> 00:14:12.000] So it was just the coolest conversations.
[00:14:12.740 --> 00:14:15.300] Yeah, you remember, Brother Anderson.
[00:14:15.940 --> 00:14:17.900] St. Clair looked completely different
[00:14:17.900 --> 00:14:20.520] when you saw it for the first time
[00:14:20.520 --> 00:14:21.740] and when I go to it now.
[00:14:23.520 --> 00:14:25.980] And from there, I just seen what he was doing.
[00:14:26.040 --> 00:14:27.380] He got up every day.
[00:14:31.200 --> 00:14:33.340] He cut grass until he was 95.
[00:14:34.060 --> 00:14:40.940] 95, that's when he called me and told me I'm done.
[00:14:40.940 --> 00:14:46.720] And at that time, I was into my second, third year of cutting.
[00:14:48.160 --> 00:14:51.220] So he said, listen, I'm gonna do the first year.
[00:14:51.280 --> 00:14:52.400] Now this is to catch with it
[00:14:52.400 --> 00:14:54.980] because the first year he did his yard
[00:14:54.980 --> 00:14:57.100] and two yards on the side of it.
[00:14:57.160 --> 00:14:58.200] That's 95.
[00:14:59.260 --> 00:15:02.300] 96, he just started doing his own yard.
[00:15:04.220 --> 00:15:06.700] So looking at him and what he was doing,
[00:15:07.060 --> 00:15:08.400] he was one, staying busy.
[00:15:10.040 --> 00:15:13.540] Two, he wasn't a troublemaker, wasn't in any trouble.
[00:15:14.040 --> 00:15:17.810] And he was helpful to the community.
[00:15:19.760 --> 00:15:22.080] The South Euclid Magazine did a nice write-up on him
[00:15:22.080 --> 00:15:24.820] at one point when I moved into the neighborhood
[00:15:25.820 --> 00:15:27.900] and got a chance to hear his story,
[00:15:28.080 --> 00:15:29.160] how he got into it.
[00:15:29.160 --> 00:15:30.800] He got into landscaping.
[00:15:31.400 --> 00:15:33.900] And what I learned also was
[00:15:33.900 --> 00:15:35.780] there's a difference between landscaping
[00:15:35.780 --> 00:15:36.820] and yard maintenance.
[00:15:37.080 --> 00:15:38.820] Cutting grass is just yard maintenance.
[00:15:39.540 --> 00:15:43.200] A whole different level than landscaping.
[00:15:43.440 --> 00:15:46.280] Culturally, we just see somebody outside in the yard
[00:15:46.280 --> 00:15:49.620] and they raking, blowing leaves or whatever
[00:15:49.620 --> 00:15:52.000] and we just give them the title of landscaping.
[00:15:55.740 --> 00:15:57.080] You get into the industry,
[00:15:57.500 --> 00:15:59.340] you learn the different terminology,
[00:15:59.460 --> 00:16:03.660] you learn how and why it's different
[00:16:05.000 --> 00:16:06.280] and the prices come.
[00:16:06.880 --> 00:16:09.640] And then the different services you do come.
[00:16:10.140 --> 00:16:11.500] Because people gonna ask you to do everything.
[00:16:11.500 --> 00:16:13.740] They want you to cut this branch down here.
[00:16:13.740 --> 00:16:16.020] They want you to move this plant here to here.
[00:16:16.220 --> 00:16:17.920] They want you to throw mulch here.
[00:16:18.180 --> 00:16:22.640] So it gets more and more from just cutting grass.
[00:16:22.720 --> 00:16:26.280] But at the same time, myself,
[00:16:28.870 --> 00:16:30.950] I have to figure how do you build this out?
[00:16:30.950 --> 00:16:32.230] How do you grow the team?
[00:16:32.490 --> 00:16:33.050] It's money.
[00:16:33.930 --> 00:16:35.790] So, hey, let me pay somebody else to do this.
[00:16:37.350 --> 00:16:39.490] And when you find someone that wants to work
[00:16:39.490 --> 00:16:43.630] for a fair wage, you explain to them,
[00:16:43.750 --> 00:16:46.130] hey, listen, this isn't hourly work right here.
[00:16:46.130 --> 00:16:48.170] This is production.
[00:16:49.050 --> 00:16:50.630] You get paid based on what you do.
[00:16:50.670 --> 00:16:52.370] You go cut this yard, you get paid.
[00:16:52.650 --> 00:16:54.890] You don't come in and clock in for six hours
[00:16:54.890 --> 00:16:56.890] and make $10 an hour,
[00:16:57.030 --> 00:17:00.310] but you can go cut this yard over here and make $20.
[00:17:00.530 --> 00:17:03.690] Go make this $20 and be done in three hours.
[00:17:04.550 --> 00:17:06.849] For a kid, when I say kid,
[00:17:06.890 --> 00:17:11.849] I'm talking about 15, 16 year old, maybe 17.
[00:17:14.750 --> 00:17:16.630] That's enough in a sense.
[00:17:17.349 --> 00:17:19.790] It's enough work and it's enough in your pocket
[00:17:19.790 --> 00:17:22.310] for you to go do what you want to do.
[00:17:22.510 --> 00:17:24.810] That's one day, but what if you do two days?
[00:17:24.950 --> 00:17:25.990] What if you do three days?
[00:17:27.250 --> 00:17:30.050] What if you learn something else to do
[00:17:30.050 --> 00:17:31.830] with that tool over there
[00:17:31.830 --> 00:17:35.630] and now you can go knock on somebody's door and say,
[00:17:36.210 --> 00:17:38.410] this is my resume, this is what I can do.
[00:17:39.930 --> 00:17:41.690] What service can I offer you?
[00:17:42.150 --> 00:17:44.110] And then that comes into the training aspect
[00:17:44.110 --> 00:17:46.470] and then that gets into the entrepreneurial part
[00:17:48.010 --> 00:17:49.850] of one, being creative,
[00:17:50.310 --> 00:17:52.330] two, wanting to have some bread in your pocket.
[00:17:54.840 --> 00:17:58.920] As I've grown, I learned.
[00:18:00.380 --> 00:18:03.640] When you get to the point where you want to be productive,
[00:18:04.800 --> 00:18:07.480] it's best to find something positive to get.
[00:18:08.970 --> 00:18:11.700] The negative stuff is going to be.
[00:18:11.700 --> 00:18:13.460] If you go down that wrong path
[00:18:13.460 --> 00:18:16.480] and you end up in the wrong situation at a young age
[00:18:16.480 --> 00:18:18.200] just because you're trying to put some money
[00:18:18.200 --> 00:18:20.340] in your pocket so you can impress this girl
[00:18:20.340 --> 00:18:22.280] or you can go hang out with your fellas,
[00:18:24.240 --> 00:18:25.500] life can fuck you up real,
[00:18:25.600 --> 00:18:27.240] I don't know if I can say that on here or not,
[00:18:28.300 --> 00:18:30.600] throw you a curve real quick
[00:18:30.600 --> 00:18:33.820] and some brothers don't recover from those
[00:18:33.820 --> 00:18:39.220] and it's already hard becoming a man,
[00:18:41.260 --> 00:18:47.180] a black man stereotype because we're different.
[00:18:48.560 --> 00:18:50.260] It's a little different.
[00:18:51.020 --> 00:18:53.660] So finding something positive to get into
[00:18:53.660 --> 00:18:55.540] that's going to put some money in your pocket
[00:18:55.540 --> 00:19:00.820] is how G6 is building its legacy on helping
[00:19:02.080 --> 00:19:05.640] young entrepreneurs are more focused,
[00:19:06.140 --> 00:19:08.280] more mission driven and let me teach you something.
[00:19:08.280 --> 00:19:09.000] Let me show you something,
[00:19:09.020 --> 00:19:11.040] because the other part about it is
[00:19:11.040 --> 00:19:14.300] when you're in a truck and you ride,
[00:19:15.420 --> 00:19:17.440] you can do a couple of different things
[00:19:17.440 --> 00:19:20.120] from point A to point B,
[00:19:20.120 --> 00:19:21.880] but when you turn the music off
[00:19:21.880 --> 00:19:24.000] and it's just a hum of the engine
[00:19:24.630 --> 00:19:27.040] and now you're getting familiar with one another,
[00:19:28.640 --> 00:19:32.580] conversation, now you got a young soul
[00:19:32.580 --> 00:19:36.120] that's willing to open up and have a conversation
[00:19:36.120 --> 00:19:40.280] with an older soul and hopefully that older soul
[00:19:40.280 --> 00:19:43.720] has some wisdom to him and now he can pass on
[00:19:43.720 --> 00:19:48.400] to that 17, 18, 19, 20, 21 year old and so on
[00:19:48.400 --> 00:19:52.400] because at that point, it's how we learn,
[00:19:54.610 --> 00:19:59.710] seeing, doing, hearing, you start asking questions
[00:19:59.710 --> 00:20:02.570] and they do and that's the coolest part to it about me,
[00:20:02.570 --> 00:20:04.610] when I get around the younger guys
[00:20:05.210 --> 00:20:08.760] and open up and start asking questions,
[00:20:09.180 --> 00:20:13.720] they start talking about and coming from that
[00:20:13.720 --> 00:20:17.320] understanding and knowing that it don't happen
[00:20:17.320 --> 00:20:18.840] the way that you want it to happen
[00:20:18.840 --> 00:20:21.140] and it definitely don't happen in the timeline
[00:20:21.140 --> 00:20:22.480] that you want it to happen in.
[00:20:22.720 --> 00:20:23.460] Yeah, for sure.
[00:20:26.990 --> 00:20:30.890] I know when I asked you to send your bio,
[00:20:30.970 --> 00:20:33.970] you also recommended that you ask your mother
[00:20:33.970 --> 00:20:35.370] to write a bio about you.
[00:20:35.370 --> 00:20:41.430] Yeah, that was coincidental on that part.
[00:20:42.530 --> 00:20:45.330] My mother's birthday was on the 5th
[00:20:45.330 --> 00:20:49.850] and I'm in the process of putting something together
[00:20:49.850 --> 00:20:53.410] for her and at the same time, you asked me that,
[00:20:53.590 --> 00:20:57.830] it was, hey, man, check this out, what would you say?
[00:20:58.190 --> 00:20:59.610] And it just came out that way
[00:20:59.610 --> 00:21:04.010] and she sent me her thing and I said,
[00:21:04.010 --> 00:21:09.230] okay, we got the ability now to throw it into chat GPT
[00:21:09.710 --> 00:21:11.930] and chat GTT said, hey, listen,
[00:21:12.130 --> 00:21:14.790] I'm gonna keep the same language
[00:21:14.790 --> 00:21:20.620] and the same tone directions here and there
[00:21:20.620 --> 00:21:22.060] within the way this was written
[00:21:22.060 --> 00:21:23.840] and then it came out like, man,
[00:21:23.880 --> 00:21:29.740] I said, oh wow, that's how that came about.
[00:21:30.000 --> 00:21:32.520] But I thank you, cause if you never would have asked me
[00:21:33.990 --> 00:21:36.790] and I asked her and it never wouldn't have got
[00:21:36.790 --> 00:21:37.630] back to you.
[00:21:37.630 --> 00:21:41.850] The conversation and yeah, one thing she said was,
[00:21:41.850 --> 00:21:43.830] you know, you ask the questions
[00:21:43.830 --> 00:21:46.210] and you research before doing something
[00:21:46.210 --> 00:21:49.850] and that's something that you instill back into the youth.
[00:21:49.850 --> 00:21:51.270] I see that, yeah.
[00:21:51.870 --> 00:21:54.330] Yeah, that's how I, I mean, it's helped me
[00:21:54.330 --> 00:21:57.550] through life, you know, being able to have people
[00:21:57.550 --> 00:22:00.850] to ask questions, cause sometimes you have people
[00:22:00.850 --> 00:22:03.350] that you can't ask questions, you know.
[00:22:03.930 --> 00:22:06.850] Some people don't know the answers to the questions
[00:22:06.850 --> 00:22:09.950] that you may ask and some people,
[00:22:09.950 --> 00:22:11.430] they'll just tell you anything.
[00:22:11.910 --> 00:22:13.630] Maybe because they just like talking
[00:22:14.150 --> 00:22:16.190] or maybe because they just don't wanna feel
[00:22:16.190 --> 00:22:17.070] like they don't know.
[00:22:17.870 --> 00:22:19.530] But when you're asking questions,
[00:22:19.910 --> 00:22:22.070] my grandfather used to tell me this thing
[00:22:22.070 --> 00:22:23.750] where he said, don't ever ask a question
[00:22:23.750 --> 00:22:25.210] that you don't know the answer to.
[00:22:31.190 --> 00:22:32.430] Hit me a certain type of way.
[00:22:32.450 --> 00:22:33.970] I remember when I was younger
[00:22:35.690 --> 00:22:38.070] and in life, it got me to that point
[00:22:38.690 --> 00:22:41.230] where if I'm gonna ask you a question about something,
[00:22:41.230 --> 00:22:43.830] at least I wanna have some information about it.
[00:22:43.910 --> 00:22:49.280] I don't wanna ask you about a subject
[00:22:49.280 --> 00:22:51.300] that I have no interest in.
[00:22:51.720 --> 00:22:52.160] Right.
[00:22:52.280 --> 00:22:54.080] How do I know what you're telling me is the truth?
[00:22:55.980 --> 00:22:59.040] I'm just gonna listen to what somebody else say.
[00:23:00.360 --> 00:23:01.780] My grandfather used to always say,
[00:23:02.520 --> 00:23:04.580] have your own mind, think for yourself.
[00:23:04.680 --> 00:23:05.800] I remember them words, yeah.
[00:23:07.080 --> 00:23:09.620] You're gonna have somebody else always think for you.
[00:23:11.540 --> 00:23:12.600] Yeah, you live in their life.
[00:23:12.680 --> 00:23:14.280] You live in the life that they want you to live.
[00:23:15.160 --> 00:23:20.380] So that's some Pearson words
[00:23:20.380 --> 00:23:22.900] because we live in an age of AI
[00:23:22.900 --> 00:23:26.600] where a lot of people are stuck with this technology
[00:23:26.600 --> 00:23:29.220] and always on AI,
[00:23:29.900 --> 00:23:32.100] which a computer is thinking for them
[00:23:32.740 --> 00:23:35.040] and not a human thinking for themselves.
[00:23:35.860 --> 00:23:39.740] So how do we balance the two
[00:23:39.740 --> 00:23:41.580] where we use this as research
[00:23:41.580 --> 00:23:43.760] and also as a thinking partner,
[00:23:44.380 --> 00:23:47.380] but we may become overly consumed with it
[00:23:47.380 --> 00:23:50.460] versus going back to meditating and reading
[00:23:50.460 --> 00:23:52.240] and journaling your thoughts?
[00:23:53.860 --> 00:23:55.120] For everybody is different
[00:23:56.750 --> 00:24:01.390] and everybody wakes up at a different point.
[00:24:04.250 --> 00:24:07.750] There's a generation now, they're growing up with it.
[00:24:07.750 --> 00:24:09.670] They're not gonna have the understanding
[00:24:09.670 --> 00:24:12.010] of what life was without it.
[00:24:12.790 --> 00:24:16.410] So that in itself is gonna make a really big difference
[00:24:17.270 --> 00:24:20.230] in the future as we move forward
[00:24:20.230 --> 00:24:27.610] because it's like, looking at my age group, 51,
[00:24:28.570 --> 00:24:32.410] our grandparents, 9.9 out of 10,
[00:24:32.730 --> 00:24:38.180] had outhouses when they were moved up,
[00:24:38.240 --> 00:24:39.680] got grown, moved to the city,
[00:24:39.780 --> 00:24:40.880] they had indoor plumbing.
[00:24:42.000 --> 00:24:43.940] But when they went back down south,
[00:24:44.640 --> 00:24:49.370] they still had outhouses, had to learn how to,
[00:24:49.450 --> 00:24:50.850] they learned to deal with both.
[00:24:50.850 --> 00:24:53.890] It wasn't a thing about going back to the outhouse
[00:24:53.890 --> 00:24:57.130] because you knew where you had to go to relieve yourself.
[00:25:00.110 --> 00:25:03.010] I'm saying that to say the difference is gonna be
[00:25:03.010 --> 00:25:05.910] for my generation coming into this
[00:25:05.910 --> 00:25:08.150] and the generation above me,
[00:25:08.390 --> 00:25:13.630] learning to use it productively,
[00:25:15.940 --> 00:25:18.820] just becoming consumers of information.
[00:25:19.800 --> 00:25:22.060] People can tell you any and everything.
[00:25:22.160 --> 00:25:23.880] I love watching these videos
[00:25:23.880 --> 00:25:27.500] where somebody's telling you what to do.
[00:25:30.340 --> 00:25:35.220] Where's the expertise in them to tell you what to do?
[00:25:36.480 --> 00:25:38.720] We don't even look at it like that anymore.
[00:25:39.200 --> 00:25:43.280] Media, although it was screwed, was censored.
[00:25:43.860 --> 00:25:46.360] You could only put factual information out.
[00:25:47.340 --> 00:25:53.160] You couldn't talk down about a particular product
[00:25:53.160 --> 00:25:56.160] unless you did it in a certain way, things like that.
[00:25:58.400 --> 00:26:00.940] Now, you can say whatever you want to say.
[00:26:01.600 --> 00:26:04.260] This is as good, as bad, as indifferent, whatever.
[00:26:04.440 --> 00:26:06.800] And somebody's gonna look at it
[00:26:06.800 --> 00:26:08.820] and then they have to determine for themselves
[00:26:08.820 --> 00:26:10.980] how they're gonna use that information.
[00:26:11.780 --> 00:26:13.600] And that's the scariest part
[00:26:13.600 --> 00:26:15.540] because when somebody come to you,
[00:26:15.700 --> 00:26:16.840] like say your daughter,
[00:26:16.860 --> 00:26:18.020] she come to you and she say,
[00:26:18.420 --> 00:26:21.880] daddy, this right here is what I was told
[00:26:21.880 --> 00:26:28.130] and I shouldn't eat broccoli anymore.
[00:26:30.980 --> 00:26:35.480] Somebody on Facebook said broccoli was nasty, dude.
[00:26:35.740 --> 00:26:40.500] It had lead in it and it tastes like coppers.
[00:26:40.880 --> 00:26:42.940] I'm just throwing stuff out there.
[00:26:43.120 --> 00:26:46.760] But at the same time, somebody formed an opinion about it
[00:26:46.760 --> 00:26:48.740] and to get likes or a post or whatever,
[00:26:49.340 --> 00:26:51.020] that's what they put out there.
[00:26:51.580 --> 00:26:52.520] Somebody gonna like this.
[00:26:52.760 --> 00:26:53.980] I've seen a video.
[00:26:55.200 --> 00:26:57.220] You get to see the videos of people killing people.
[00:26:57.640 --> 00:26:58.880] I mean, this isn't a movie.
[00:26:58.880 --> 00:27:01.020] This is really live video.
[00:27:01.280 --> 00:27:02.920] Oh, he just shot her.
[00:27:04.550 --> 00:27:07.890] She dead and you're getting exposed to that
[00:27:09.050 --> 00:27:11.510] because it's available through technology.
[00:27:11.810 --> 00:27:13.550] And now they got the AI videos
[00:27:13.550 --> 00:27:15.650] where you don't know the video real or not.
[00:27:15.730 --> 00:27:17.250] So now you looking to see,
[00:27:17.470 --> 00:27:19.450] okay, yeah, that's out of context.
[00:27:19.590 --> 00:27:22.570] Yeah, that's not a real video.
[00:27:24.680 --> 00:27:26.340] So yeah, but I'm glad it's here.
[00:27:26.420 --> 00:27:28.180] I'm glad I get a chance to experience it.
[00:27:28.180 --> 00:27:29.360] It's been fun.
[00:27:29.360 --> 00:27:36.780] Yeah, that's like bending the dimensions and reality
[00:27:36.780 --> 00:27:43.320] like combining and transforming life into reality
[00:27:44.140 --> 00:27:45.900] mixed with technology,
[00:27:46.340 --> 00:27:49.600] mixed with the metaverses and stuff like that,
[00:27:50.200 --> 00:27:52.740] which is, it's a lot.
[00:27:52.860 --> 00:27:54.460] It's a wild, yeah, it's a lot.
[00:27:56.920 --> 00:27:59.920] Back in that day, my biggest thing was
[00:27:59.920 --> 00:28:01.320] like being an astronaut.
[00:28:03.720 --> 00:28:07.400] Now you add this technology layer to it.
[00:28:08.790 --> 00:28:09.930] Like what is the astronaut?
[00:28:10.730 --> 00:28:13.150] You don't even have to be an astronaut anymore
[00:28:13.150 --> 00:28:14.930] to see what outer space looks like.
[00:28:15.530 --> 00:28:16.670] You don't have to be an astronaut
[00:28:16.670 --> 00:28:18.810] to even see what outer space feels like.
[00:28:19.170 --> 00:28:20.270] They got places you can go
[00:28:20.270 --> 00:28:22.570] to get that experience right here.
[00:28:23.530 --> 00:28:24.550] So like you say, yeah,
[00:28:24.790 --> 00:28:26.990] what is being an astronaut today
[00:28:26.990 --> 00:28:31.830] compared to being an astronaut in the 60s and the 70s?
[00:28:31.830 --> 00:28:33.430] Yeah, it was a...
[00:28:33.430 --> 00:28:34.550] I didn't even know it was,
[00:28:34.630 --> 00:28:38.410] that was something that people actually became
[00:28:38.410 --> 00:28:40.470] in that sense where you would just say,
[00:28:40.510 --> 00:28:41.750] hey, I wanna be an astronaut
[00:28:41.750 --> 00:28:44.490] and then you go to school to become an astronaut.
[00:28:45.350 --> 00:28:45.370] Yeah.
[00:28:47.810 --> 00:28:50.970] That's kind of funny because a lot of people in school,
[00:28:51.030 --> 00:28:52.450] what you wanna be when you grow up?
[00:28:52.830 --> 00:28:54.990] I wanna be a firefighter, I wanna be a police,
[00:28:55.090 --> 00:28:56.110] or I wanna be a doctor.
[00:28:56.250 --> 00:28:58.890] And I just, my big mind, I'm like,
[00:28:58.890 --> 00:28:59.770] I wanna do something different.
[00:28:59.770 --> 00:29:02.030] I wanna be what everybody else wanna be
[00:29:02.030 --> 00:29:03.590] or do what everybody else do.
[00:29:03.970 --> 00:29:04.970] I wanna be an astronaut,
[00:29:05.090 --> 00:29:07.530] not even knowing what an astronaut was at the time.
[00:29:08.290 --> 00:29:09.530] So it's like, wow.
[00:29:10.630 --> 00:29:12.510] And now everybody call me alien.
[00:29:12.650 --> 00:29:15.970] So it's like, it never left me in a sense,
[00:29:16.130 --> 00:29:20.130] just that bigger picture, that outer space,
[00:29:23.900 --> 00:29:25.660] that thinking bigger.
[00:29:25.900 --> 00:29:27.220] Outside the box.
[00:29:27.280 --> 00:29:27.700] Yeah.
[00:29:27.800 --> 00:29:28.880] Where everybody else is.
[00:29:28.880 --> 00:29:29.780] No box, having no box.
[00:29:30.100 --> 00:29:31.180] Yeah, having no box.
[00:29:31.400 --> 00:29:32.640] And that's, you know, like you say,
[00:29:32.640 --> 00:29:34.220] and growing up in school,
[00:29:34.400 --> 00:29:36.020] that's the first thing they put us in is a box
[00:29:36.020 --> 00:29:37.720] to say, okay, what do you wanna be?
[00:29:38.140 --> 00:29:38.840] That part, yeah.
[00:29:38.900 --> 00:29:40.720] And you have to figure it out
[00:29:40.720 --> 00:29:44.680] and determine your life course
[00:29:44.680 --> 00:29:46.720] based on what you see as you wanted to be.
[00:29:47.660 --> 00:29:51.300] Not having any input on why you were put here
[00:29:51.300 --> 00:29:52.060] in the first place.
[00:29:52.320 --> 00:29:53.260] What were you put here to be?
[00:29:53.320 --> 00:29:54.360] What were you put here to do?
[00:29:54.620 --> 00:29:55.900] Who were you put here to help?
[00:29:56.000 --> 00:29:57.960] How were you put here to help whom?
[00:29:58.400 --> 00:29:58.980] All right.
[00:30:01.000 --> 00:30:03.660] And that takes it to a whole different level
[00:30:03.660 --> 00:30:05.480] because now we're in positions
[00:30:05.480 --> 00:30:07.760] because we were taught to get a job,
[00:30:07.840 --> 00:30:10.580] to go to work, to earn money
[00:30:10.580 --> 00:30:11.920] so that we could pay bills.
[00:30:13.380 --> 00:30:15.340] I tell kids, and I'm talking to them,
[00:30:15.420 --> 00:30:17.700] I say, listen, stay home as long as you can.
[00:30:18.260 --> 00:30:21.040] But don't be a freeloader, you know?
[00:30:21.140 --> 00:30:23.040] Don't come to the point where, okay,
[00:30:23.060 --> 00:30:25.460] just because you can still stay in your parents' home,
[00:30:25.840 --> 00:30:26.900] you're not contributing.
[00:30:28.000 --> 00:30:28.220] You know?
[00:30:28.820 --> 00:30:30.580] Figure out, like I told one cat,
[00:30:30.740 --> 00:30:31.680] I said, hey man, listen,
[00:30:31.960 --> 00:30:33.800] go home and I'll just ask for the sewer bill.
[00:30:34.240 --> 00:30:35.460] Just tell him, you know, don't worry about it.
[00:30:35.460 --> 00:30:36.920] I'm gonna pay the sewer bill.
[00:30:36.920 --> 00:30:37.980] He said, sewer bill?
[00:30:38.120 --> 00:30:39.000] Well, what's the sewer bill?
[00:30:39.180 --> 00:30:41.180] Like, yeah, exactly, you know?
[00:30:41.520 --> 00:30:43.080] Still that training, too.
[00:30:43.840 --> 00:30:45.460] Getting to that point of understanding,
[00:30:45.520 --> 00:30:46.680] just because you made some money.
[00:30:47.220 --> 00:30:48.160] I had another cat tell me,
[00:30:48.220 --> 00:30:49.420] he had some money in his pocket
[00:30:49.420 --> 00:30:50.860] and he was burning a hole in his pocket.
[00:30:51.240 --> 00:30:52.460] He wanted to stop at the store
[00:30:52.460 --> 00:30:53.900] and he wanted to grab something here
[00:30:53.900 --> 00:30:54.620] and he wanted to stop
[00:30:54.620 --> 00:30:55.900] and he wanted to grab something here.
[00:30:55.900 --> 00:30:57.220] And it's like, okay, you know what?
[00:30:57.540 --> 00:30:59.060] It's cool, you can spend your money like that
[00:30:59.060 --> 00:30:59.620] because guess what?
[00:30:59.680 --> 00:31:00.800] You don't got no responsibility.
[00:31:01.540 --> 00:31:02.520] You're 17, right?
[00:31:02.680 --> 00:31:03.420] Enjoy it.
[00:31:03.420 --> 00:31:05.460] Because in a minute, you're gonna be 18.
[00:31:06.160 --> 00:31:07.980] And when you get 18, guess what?
[00:31:08.280 --> 00:31:10.000] Now you're gonna come certain responsibilities.
[00:31:10.860 --> 00:31:13.100] Now you gotta, your clothes are dirty.
[00:31:13.680 --> 00:31:15.980] Yeah, mom's bought the detergent
[00:31:15.980 --> 00:31:18.920] or sent you to the store to get the detergent.
[00:31:19.520 --> 00:31:22.750] Now you gotta provide the detergent.
[00:31:22.870 --> 00:31:24.170] Where you gonna wash your clothes at?
[00:31:24.670 --> 00:31:26.330] Yeah, there's a laundry man up on the corner.
[00:31:28.820 --> 00:31:30.300] Now you gotta go get the quarters.
[00:31:30.540 --> 00:31:33.160] But you didn't know it cost $7 a load.
[00:31:34.300 --> 00:31:35.860] And you're looking for free dry.
[00:31:38.020 --> 00:31:40.720] And those are the things and the hurdles in life
[00:31:40.720 --> 00:31:44.220] that I wanna help young people avoid.
[00:31:45.360 --> 00:31:47.240] I wanna help young people understand
[00:31:47.240 --> 00:31:49.140] that yeah, this is what's next.
[00:31:51.310 --> 00:31:52.690] You need to get prepared for it now
[00:31:52.690 --> 00:31:53.550] because it's coming.
[00:31:53.750 --> 00:31:55.330] It ain't that it's not coming, it's coming.
[00:31:55.410 --> 00:31:56.030] It's here.
[00:31:56.450 --> 00:31:59.430] Yeah, yeah, you just 17 now.
[00:31:59.850 --> 00:32:00.870] Wait till you're 19.
[00:32:02.070 --> 00:32:04.590] 19, what do you think 21 gonna look like?
[00:32:04.930 --> 00:32:06.210] Feel like it.
[00:32:06.370 --> 00:32:08.850] You ain't been 25 yet, but guess what?
[00:32:08.850 --> 00:32:10.030] I have.
[00:32:10.770 --> 00:32:12.750] And to get that break in the insurance costs,
[00:32:12.870 --> 00:32:16.830] oh, that feel like money in your pocket.
[00:32:18.170 --> 00:32:21.290] But at the same time, what do you do with it?
[00:32:26.430 --> 00:32:28.710] Well, I say even when it's out of your pocket,
[00:32:29.850 --> 00:32:31.770] because like you said, you could spend it
[00:32:31.770 --> 00:32:33.630] and you could save it, you can invest it,
[00:32:33.670 --> 00:32:37.810] you could donate it, invest in yourself,
[00:32:37.890 --> 00:32:39.470] which is the biggest thing you can do.
[00:32:41.790 --> 00:32:43.830] When I was a young younger guy,
[00:32:44.350 --> 00:32:45.310] had a photographer,
[00:32:45.750 --> 00:32:47.950] because all I ever wanted to do was be a photographer.
[00:32:48.870 --> 00:32:51.190] I just wanted to take pictures, make a living.
[00:32:54.590 --> 00:32:56.070] When was the first time you picked up a camera?
[00:32:56.570 --> 00:32:57.270] Your very first camera.
[00:32:57.330 --> 00:32:59.750] The very first time I picked up a camera,
[00:32:59.870 --> 00:33:02.810] I was probably about five or six years old
[00:33:02.810 --> 00:33:03.930] in Cincinnati.
[00:33:05.690 --> 00:33:09.590] And attic, my aunt Juro, my grandmother's sister,
[00:33:10.210 --> 00:33:11.630] they had all of this stuff
[00:33:12.150 --> 00:33:13.690] that was just up in the attic.
[00:33:14.050 --> 00:33:16.510] And I don't know what we were doing down there,
[00:33:16.510 --> 00:33:18.010] but I found this little camera.
[00:33:19.170 --> 00:33:20.930] And I was going around, I didn't have no film,
[00:33:21.030 --> 00:33:23.390] but all of the buttons worked and it made noise.
[00:33:23.790 --> 00:33:26.170] And I went around and I'm ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch.
[00:33:26.970 --> 00:33:29.090] And that's the earliest I remember.
[00:33:29.530 --> 00:33:31.270] I have a lot of memories with cameras.
[00:33:32.930 --> 00:33:36.110] It wasn't until high school
[00:33:37.870 --> 00:33:39.670] that I made the determination
[00:33:39.670 --> 00:33:41.330] that that's what I really wanted to do.
[00:33:42.030 --> 00:33:44.050] But I was going to school for dental technology,
[00:33:44.070 --> 00:33:45.910] so I learned how to make crowns and bridges
[00:33:45.910 --> 00:33:46.690] in high school.
[00:33:47.450 --> 00:33:51.930] And then high school gave me a trajectory in life,
[00:33:52.010 --> 00:33:54.190] because I only did three years of high school.
[00:33:54.650 --> 00:33:56.390] So that fourth year,
[00:33:56.530 --> 00:33:59.610] I was already working in a dental lab,
[00:33:59.970 --> 00:34:02.230] living the life of an adult,
[00:34:02.570 --> 00:34:04.570] living in my parents' basement.
[00:34:06.890 --> 00:34:07.570] I couldn't say no more.
[00:34:08.650 --> 00:34:11.030] Full-time job, got up every morning,
[00:34:11.170 --> 00:34:12.570] went to work five days a week,
[00:34:12.909 --> 00:34:13.989] but I couldn't say no more.
[00:34:14.790 --> 00:34:18.110] So I had to figure, ask the questions for myself.
[00:34:18.770 --> 00:34:20.110] Why can't I save no money?
[00:34:20.370 --> 00:34:23.650] I want to give me a car, I want to move out,
[00:34:23.770 --> 00:34:26.489] give me an apartment, but everything costs.
[00:34:27.389 --> 00:34:29.210] But why can't I save any money?
[00:34:29.610 --> 00:34:32.190] So I had to go through the process of figuring that out,
[00:34:32.530 --> 00:34:33.750] and then I had to say,
[00:34:33.790 --> 00:34:36.409] okay, I'm going to change that,
[00:34:36.510 --> 00:34:38.770] because now I'm going to save me some money,
[00:34:38.810 --> 00:34:39.850] because that's important.
[00:34:40.190 --> 00:34:41.510] So I had to give up some things,
[00:34:41.510 --> 00:34:42.710] and I got to that point,
[00:34:42.710 --> 00:34:44.429] saved a few dollars up,
[00:34:44.610 --> 00:34:46.889] and still didn't have enough to give me a camera.
[00:34:48.270 --> 00:34:50.150] So I joined the army,
[00:34:51.409 --> 00:34:52.710] and joining the army,
[00:34:52.989 --> 00:34:55.870] my whole goal was to buy me a camera.
[00:34:58.630 --> 00:35:02.830] The same bridge that I saw just two years prior,
[00:35:03.550 --> 00:35:06.290] being laid down by the army engineers
[00:35:06.290 --> 00:35:08.430] going over into Bosnia from Hungary.
[00:35:08.890 --> 00:35:10.910] I remember laying on the floor
[00:35:11.810 --> 00:35:14.170] in the living room, watching TV,
[00:35:15.990 --> 00:35:19.730] and big news, CNN talking about them laying this bridge
[00:35:19.730 --> 00:35:21.290] and how they did it and everything.
[00:35:21.730 --> 00:35:23.470] I'm just talking down on them.
[00:35:23.470 --> 00:35:25.870] Oh man, they some fools going over there,
[00:35:26.050 --> 00:35:27.690] fighting this war and all of this stuff
[00:35:27.690 --> 00:35:28.970] and everything like that.
[00:35:30.050 --> 00:35:32.090] And two years later, I crossed the same bridge.
[00:35:33.710 --> 00:35:35.790] So it was a life lesson for me.
[00:35:36.170 --> 00:35:38.410] Well, I think it goes back to that exposure,
[00:35:38.610 --> 00:35:40.070] you know, what you exposed to.
[00:35:41.990 --> 00:35:45.810] Would it kind of unconsciously be coming in your mind
[00:35:45.810 --> 00:35:47.230] and you see it on TV?
[00:35:50.110 --> 00:35:53.710] Also, look at it like you had this ambition
[00:35:53.710 --> 00:35:54.690] to get what you wanted.
[00:35:55.490 --> 00:35:58.170] You wanted that camera, you wanted to purchase that,
[00:35:58.170 --> 00:35:59.910] and you found it.
[00:36:01.770 --> 00:36:04.490] You know, and when you bring it all together,
[00:36:04.570 --> 00:36:06.170] I really just didn't want to fuck up.
[00:36:06.870 --> 00:36:07.730] I really just didn't want to.
[00:36:07.730 --> 00:36:08.110] Like in life?
[00:36:08.250 --> 00:36:10.410] In life, I really just didn't want to be a fuck up.
[00:36:10.630 --> 00:36:12.970] I really just didn't want to find myself
[00:36:12.970 --> 00:36:15.950] in a situation where I wasn't moving forward.
[00:36:16.690 --> 00:36:19.910] You know, the dental lab was the starting point
[00:36:19.910 --> 00:36:22.880] of I don't want to do this for,
[00:36:25.440 --> 00:36:28.380] and I learned that in less than three years.
[00:36:28.400 --> 00:36:30.940] It was like two and a half years, I learned that.
[00:36:31.700 --> 00:36:33.000] You telling me I got to do this
[00:36:33.000 --> 00:36:36.760] for another 40 years to retire?
[00:36:37.880 --> 00:36:39.980] And then they said, well, if you joined the military,
[00:36:40.060 --> 00:36:42.320] you only got to do 20 years, so you cut that in half.
[00:36:43.320 --> 00:36:46.080] But then they said, when you join the military,
[00:36:46.080 --> 00:36:48.800] you got to go active, and you got to do 20 years active
[00:36:48.800 --> 00:36:50.300] to retire in 20 years.
[00:36:51.160 --> 00:36:52.560] So it was like all of these different,
[00:36:52.680 --> 00:36:54.260] you get a little information,
[00:36:54.640 --> 00:36:56.860] and then the rabbit hole get a little deeper,
[00:36:56.860 --> 00:36:57.840] and it's like, okay.
[00:36:58.540 --> 00:37:00.440] And then I found out, they said, hey, listen,
[00:37:00.480 --> 00:37:03.140] once you get in the military, just don't ever get out.
[00:37:04.460 --> 00:37:06.580] Stay in for as long as you can.
[00:37:08.380 --> 00:37:11.000] I did that, and that put me at 17 years,
[00:37:11.080 --> 00:37:12.380] six months, and five days.
[00:37:13.880 --> 00:37:15.840] And I'm proud of that time,
[00:37:15.840 --> 00:37:21.920] because although everything that I looked to do in my life,
[00:37:22.540 --> 00:37:28.110] I wasn't always making the right choices.
[00:37:29.620 --> 00:37:35.680] But I learned how to not give up,
[00:37:36.060 --> 00:37:40.940] to keep the vision, to let the passion burn enough
[00:37:40.940 --> 00:37:45.160] to the point where I didn't have cameras
[00:37:46.260 --> 00:37:47.880] over and over again.
[00:37:49.470 --> 00:37:51.050] I gave it up twice.
[00:37:51.790 --> 00:37:54.430] When I met you, you don't know,
[00:37:54.590 --> 00:37:56.910] but that was the first time I had been out shooting
[00:37:56.910 --> 00:37:58.610] in like five years.
[00:38:00.750 --> 00:38:02.770] And that was me trying to figure out,
[00:38:02.930 --> 00:38:04.710] okay, if I'm gonna get back into this,
[00:38:04.810 --> 00:38:06.630] how do I wanna get back into it?
[00:38:06.790 --> 00:38:08.610] Because the first time I got into it,
[00:38:08.730 --> 00:38:10.370] I was just shooting Polaroids.
[00:38:10.650 --> 00:38:12.350] And I was doing the bars,
[00:38:12.630 --> 00:38:14.990] because that was $5 a shot.
[00:38:15.530 --> 00:38:18.690] And at $5 a shot, that was enough money in your pocket
[00:38:18.690 --> 00:38:22.110] from the dope boys and the girls dressing up
[00:38:22.110 --> 00:38:24.490] on Friday and Saturday night to say,
[00:38:25.070 --> 00:38:27.270] man, now if I can do this, this,
[00:38:27.510 --> 00:38:29.290] and get a birthday party here,
[00:38:30.490 --> 00:38:32.710] and do a wedding in the summer.
[00:38:33.190 --> 00:38:34.950] And then I'm looking and I'm finding out
[00:38:34.950 --> 00:38:36.790] what people are charging for these things.
[00:38:36.790 --> 00:38:39.830] And it's like, wow, you can take something
[00:38:39.830 --> 00:38:45.150] that's worth $2 and sell it for $20?
[00:38:46.410 --> 00:38:48.110] Because you added value to it
[00:38:48.110 --> 00:38:49.330] because of what you put on.
[00:38:52.110 --> 00:38:53.850] Those numbers make sense to me.
[00:38:54.550 --> 00:38:56.590] And that's how I saw it.
[00:38:57.410 --> 00:38:59.630] And the 80s, I grew up through that,
[00:38:59.870 --> 00:39:01.990] running into the 90s.
[00:39:02.070 --> 00:39:08.750] Economy started doing what it was doing in 94, 95, 96.
[00:39:10.710 --> 00:39:13.790] And I was thankful to be able to take that move
[00:39:13.790 --> 00:39:16.790] and move forward and join the service.
[00:39:17.690 --> 00:39:23.190] Again, I only did three and a half years active with that.
[00:39:23.970 --> 00:39:25.890] So life for me, time-wise,
[00:39:26.070 --> 00:39:29.910] has just always been broken up a little different
[00:39:30.630 --> 00:39:33.490] than traditionally how they say you gotta do it.
[00:39:33.490 --> 00:39:35.650] You gotta do four years in the military.
[00:39:36.090 --> 00:39:38.010] Then they say if you do four, you might as well do eight.
[00:39:38.030 --> 00:39:39.770] If you do eight, you might as well do 12.
[00:39:39.850 --> 00:39:41.370] If you do 12, you might as well go ahead
[00:39:41.370 --> 00:39:42.890] and retire out of there in 20.
[00:39:42.890 --> 00:39:48.490] And we don't have the hindsight moving forward
[00:39:48.490 --> 00:39:50.830] to see where that's a good idea.
[00:39:51.330 --> 00:39:52.790] Because we're looking at saying, man,
[00:39:53.470 --> 00:39:55.030] I know what I wanna do next year.
[00:39:55.530 --> 00:39:57.470] I know what I wanna do next season.
[00:39:58.070 --> 00:39:59.890] I know what I want for Christmas.
[00:40:01.410 --> 00:40:06.130] So how does that play a part in the decisions
[00:40:06.130 --> 00:40:08.230] that we make moving forward?
[00:40:13.020 --> 00:40:15.660] Wanna stop in, definitely wanna say thank you
[00:40:15.660 --> 00:40:18.000] for your service, service and time.
[00:40:19.220 --> 00:40:21.060] I definitely appreciate it.
[00:40:23.360 --> 00:40:25.880] But kind of shifting gears,
[00:40:27.300 --> 00:40:30.380] I know you said you was getting back into photography
[00:40:30.380 --> 00:40:31.820] like when you first met me
[00:40:31.820 --> 00:40:34.180] and I was just starting my photography journey.
[00:40:35.160 --> 00:40:38.240] Like just thinking back as a child, kindergarten,
[00:40:38.460 --> 00:40:40.560] five years old, six years old,
[00:40:40.580 --> 00:40:43.440] going to the zoo for a field trip
[00:40:43.440 --> 00:40:46.460] and my mother purchased a little 12-shot camera
[00:40:46.460 --> 00:40:47.440] and wound it up.
[00:40:48.040 --> 00:40:51.100] And I remember wasting all my shots
[00:40:51.100 --> 00:40:54.280] as soon as we got off the bus, just a little animal.
[00:40:55.360 --> 00:40:56.780] I only got like two shots.
[00:40:56.900 --> 00:40:58.180] I'm seeing a number at the bottom.
[00:40:58.340 --> 00:41:00.400] I was like, is that the, let me see.
[00:41:00.900 --> 00:41:01.760] Yep, it changed.
[00:41:02.120 --> 00:41:03.820] I got one shot left.
[00:41:05.200 --> 00:41:06.720] And that was my first moment.
[00:41:07.140 --> 00:41:08.480] So holding the camera,
[00:41:08.680 --> 00:41:10.540] experiencing the camera in the film days.
[00:41:10.720 --> 00:41:13.400] I'm like, wow, never saw that film ever
[00:41:13.400 --> 00:41:16.240] but just the experience of this,
[00:41:16.240 --> 00:41:17.700] taking a picture I always love.
[00:41:17.920 --> 00:41:20.720] Like, wow, I could freeze time,
[00:41:21.000 --> 00:41:23.920] capture a moment and remember it now.
[00:41:24.140 --> 00:41:24.740] It's digital.
[00:41:24.800 --> 00:41:26.440] You can really remember it instantly.
[00:41:26.600 --> 00:41:27.440] You can see it instantly.
[00:41:27.760 --> 00:41:29.720] You can do so much digitally now
[00:41:29.720 --> 00:41:32.240] where it's not even the camera anymore.
[00:41:32.500 --> 00:41:34.200] It's the, you have a phone
[00:41:34.920 --> 00:41:38.360] and get as creative as you wanna get where,
[00:41:38.420 --> 00:41:40.720] like I've done a wedding on a phone before.
[00:41:40.720 --> 00:41:45.240] And when I first, it was a guy that taught me photography.
[00:41:45.460 --> 00:41:47.200] One of my first mentors, Mickey.
[00:41:48.740 --> 00:41:50.840] And Mickey used to take a camera
[00:41:51.440 --> 00:41:53.960] and he'll throw what he called a hammer on it.
[00:41:54.560 --> 00:41:56.980] And then he'll put a light on it.
[00:41:57.040 --> 00:41:59.000] And then he'll put a soft box on it.
[00:41:59.000 --> 00:42:01.300] And if you've never seen all of those things,
[00:42:01.620 --> 00:42:02.980] it's like, wow.
[00:42:03.540 --> 00:42:07.620] I mean, and it looks professional.
[00:42:08.020 --> 00:42:09.360] It looks polished.
[00:42:09.360 --> 00:42:13.340] It looks like, man, he took care of that, you know?
[00:42:14.860 --> 00:42:18.660] So the idea behind, it was a piece of equipment
[00:42:18.660 --> 00:42:21.460] that he just took and transformed into something else
[00:42:21.460 --> 00:42:25.760] that was just, and then learning what everything did.
[00:42:25.980 --> 00:42:27.940] The hammer was so you could mount the flash.
[00:42:28.000 --> 00:42:30.200] The flash needed to sit above the lens
[00:42:30.200 --> 00:42:35.220] so it could run so that it can push the light
[00:42:35.220 --> 00:42:36.140] through the shadows.
[00:42:36.520 --> 00:42:39.340] The soft box was so that it can soften the light.
[00:42:39.340 --> 00:42:40.900] And you wouldn't get hard shadows.
[00:42:41.400 --> 00:42:44.200] So once you learned all of those things for myself,
[00:42:45.020 --> 00:42:46.440] it got really interesting.
[00:42:46.780 --> 00:42:49.240] Because now I knew something
[00:42:50.060 --> 00:42:51.680] and it was just always interesting
[00:42:51.680 --> 00:42:52.940] that nobody else wanna learn.
[00:42:53.580 --> 00:42:56.120] It was like, they were too intimidated
[00:42:56.860 --> 00:42:59.640] by all of the knobs and the numbers and everything.
[00:42:59.680 --> 00:43:01.500] And that was the most exciting thing for me
[00:43:01.500 --> 00:43:02.200] about the camera.
[00:43:02.380 --> 00:43:03.580] Yeah, it was like math.
[00:43:03.860 --> 00:43:06.060] Yeah, yeah, it was literally, it's math.
[00:43:06.260 --> 00:43:07.860] It's solving a problem.
[00:43:07.860 --> 00:43:11.720] And when I first started with Polaroid,
[00:43:11.840 --> 00:43:13.180] and you said you had one shot left,
[00:43:13.580 --> 00:43:15.520] you started off with one shot.
[00:43:15.940 --> 00:43:19.140] So you had to not only learn how to compose the shot,
[00:43:19.520 --> 00:43:22.560] you had to make sure, and the Polaroids are light hogs.
[00:43:22.800 --> 00:43:27.000] Oh wow, they ambient light don't got nothing
[00:43:27.000 --> 00:43:27.980] on the Polaroid.
[00:43:28.140 --> 00:43:30.620] You about to have the blackest, darkest picture.
[00:43:30.820 --> 00:43:33.200] You know who it is just because you took it
[00:43:33.200 --> 00:43:35.120] and you knew what that scenery was.
[00:43:35.120 --> 00:43:37.880] But yeah, you ever look through somebody's photo album
[00:43:37.880 --> 00:43:40.320] and you get to the Polaroids and it's like,
[00:43:41.630 --> 00:43:43.190] yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:43:45.310 --> 00:43:46.970] And I learned that way.
[00:43:47.430 --> 00:43:49.270] And then I was tested.
[00:43:50.150 --> 00:43:55.030] And the test came into, now go take a shot.
[00:43:56.610 --> 00:43:58.230] Now did somebody, did they like that shot?
[00:43:58.270 --> 00:43:59.150] Because if they liked that shot,
[00:43:59.170 --> 00:44:00.090] they gonna give you $5.
[00:44:01.050 --> 00:44:03.230] And they give you $5, you owe me a dollar
[00:44:03.230 --> 00:44:05.350] because that's how much the film costs
[00:44:05.350 --> 00:44:06.990] and you got 10 of those in there.
[00:44:07.410 --> 00:44:09.590] So you come back and give me $10,
[00:44:09.750 --> 00:44:12.290] I'm gonna go buy another pack of film
[00:44:12.830 --> 00:44:14.390] and then you get to do it on Lover again.
[00:44:14.850 --> 00:44:16.790] And to me, that was just the exciting part.
[00:44:17.150 --> 00:44:19.630] And then he told me something that stuck
[00:44:19.630 --> 00:44:21.210] as soon as he said it.
[00:44:21.210 --> 00:44:24.530] He said, I don't know how invested you are in this.
[00:44:28.530 --> 00:44:29.970] Wow, cause he let me borrow his cameras.
[00:44:30.090 --> 00:44:31.770] I go knock on the door, boom, boom, boom.
[00:44:31.950 --> 00:44:35.750] I was there, you know, 16, 17 year old,
[00:44:35.750 --> 00:44:37.410] you know, going down to Gordon Park.
[00:44:37.410 --> 00:44:39.130] Hey, Mickey Young, hey, can I get a camera?
[00:44:39.710 --> 00:44:43.230] He had 35 millimeters, Pentex, Minotas,
[00:44:43.890 --> 00:44:45.870] Nikons, yeah, go ahead, grab you one.
[00:44:47.370 --> 00:44:50.950] Going out there and now people looking at me like,
[00:44:50.990 --> 00:44:53.350] cause I got this camera and I'm this young dude
[00:44:53.350 --> 00:44:55.910] and it's, oh man, cameraman, picture man,
[00:44:56.050 --> 00:44:57.050] hey, come take this picture.
[00:44:58.070 --> 00:45:01.890] From that part, it was enjoyable, man.
[00:45:01.950 --> 00:45:04.910] It was, I thought it was enough to,
[00:45:05.190 --> 00:45:06.830] I seen him making a living at it.
[00:45:06.830 --> 00:45:08.690] And then I seen other photographers
[00:45:08.690 --> 00:45:10.670] that was in the community doing it.
[00:45:10.750 --> 00:45:13.090] And I said, oh, okay, I can do that too.
[00:45:14.010 --> 00:45:15.950] And I knew what to stay away from,
[00:45:16.170 --> 00:45:17.310] cause you're in the clubs.
[00:45:17.950 --> 00:45:20.750] So everybody drinking, everybody smoking,
[00:45:21.910 --> 00:45:23.330] whatever kind of drug you into,
[00:45:23.390 --> 00:45:25.350] that's what you into, you know.
[00:45:25.410 --> 00:45:27.610] And I just knew to stay away from all of that.
[00:45:28.430 --> 00:45:33.670] And that's what really, I say saved me
[00:45:33.670 --> 00:45:36.750] because I didn't get caught up into the community.
[00:45:37.150 --> 00:45:38.470] I didn't get caught up into,
[00:45:38.810 --> 00:45:40.890] even though I was in the clubs and the bars
[00:45:40.890 --> 00:45:48.490] at 17, 18, caught up in, you know.
[00:45:48.690 --> 00:45:49.950] Mickey used to say, you know,
[00:45:52.740 --> 00:45:54.840] I don't know if I can say this the way he used to say
[00:45:54.840 --> 00:46:00.010] it, but the way it was put was a woman,
[00:46:02.280 --> 00:46:06.380] if she hang out with you and she give you something,
[00:46:06.960 --> 00:46:08.280] that ain't gonna pay no bills.
[00:46:09.560 --> 00:46:10.760] But you got that camera
[00:46:12.000 --> 00:46:14.500] and she camera free,
[00:46:14.960 --> 00:46:16.600] cause she wants you to take pictures.
[00:46:17.240 --> 00:46:19.600] Oh, now you go to the 35 millimeter and now you,
[00:46:19.640 --> 00:46:21.860] oh, okay, this photo shoot right here is $75.
[00:46:23.240 --> 00:46:24.680] And every time they man this,
[00:46:25.860 --> 00:46:34.310] I didn't have brides wanna sleep with you
[00:46:34.310 --> 00:46:36.130] just so you can take their pictures for their wedding.
[00:46:40.260 --> 00:46:42.940] It's a cost and they don't want to pay the cost.
[00:46:45.320 --> 00:46:46.900] Wedding, three, $4,000
[00:46:47.840 --> 00:46:52.520] for the pictures you say you won't, it's the cameraman.
[00:46:54.380 --> 00:46:55.660] No, no, that don't pay no bills.
[00:46:55.920 --> 00:46:57.040] All right.
[00:46:57.500 --> 00:46:58.680] And then you had to figure out
[00:46:58.680 --> 00:47:01.280] do you want to be labeled that type of photographer?
[00:47:02.120 --> 00:47:03.720] Cause she gonna tell all her friends,
[00:47:04.060 --> 00:47:05.380] yeah, you gonna hang out with Sean,
[00:47:05.500 --> 00:47:06.500] yeah, he take all your pictures.
[00:47:07.360 --> 00:47:07.420] Yeah.
[00:47:11.660 --> 00:47:14.280] Yeah, that's the important business lesson,
[00:47:14.480 --> 00:47:16.700] especially if you want to be in business,
[00:47:16.980 --> 00:47:18.260] any business for real.
[00:47:18.960 --> 00:47:20.260] Yeah, yeah.
[00:47:20.820 --> 00:47:23.480] And it goes on both sides, male and female.
[00:47:23.480 --> 00:47:25.320] You're gonna do business, do business.
[00:47:25.820 --> 00:47:27.500] Don't mix the two.
[00:47:30.800 --> 00:47:33.280] Especially not setting out to do that.
[00:47:33.900 --> 00:47:35.900] I'm not saying you're not gonna find your,
[00:47:36.020 --> 00:47:36.920] cause you got a lot of people
[00:47:36.920 --> 00:47:38.100] that are listening to this type of stuff.
[00:47:38.680 --> 00:47:40.500] I ain't saying you not gonna go out there
[00:47:40.500 --> 00:47:43.520] and find your husband or your wife
[00:47:43.520 --> 00:47:46.960] or your significant other in the field
[00:47:46.960 --> 00:47:48.120] because that's what you do.
[00:47:48.480 --> 00:47:49.620] I'm saying don't go out there
[00:47:49.620 --> 00:47:52.160] and get caught up in it and end up,
[00:47:52.380 --> 00:47:54.120] your camera's not making you money.
[00:47:54.770 --> 00:47:58.040] Your camera's not supporting you like the tool it is
[00:47:58.040 --> 00:47:59.180] because it's just another tool
[00:47:59.180 --> 00:48:00.600] and another form of a toolbox.
[00:48:02.000 --> 00:48:04.080] What's in your camera bag is just equivalent
[00:48:04.080 --> 00:48:07.060] to what a mechanic got in his tool chest.
[00:48:07.600 --> 00:48:10.100] It's how you use it that makes the difference.
[00:48:11.060 --> 00:48:13.920] Yeah, and I think that also goes to the vision,
[00:48:14.340 --> 00:48:21.300] which you focusing your vision on and vision and see.
[00:48:26.060 --> 00:48:27.800] Don't be scared to try different things.
[00:48:27.800 --> 00:48:30.200] For sure, I tried something,
[00:48:31.040 --> 00:48:33.200] this for this podcast and then,
[00:48:33.200 --> 00:48:36.140] but for time I went back to the old method.
[00:48:36.340 --> 00:48:36.900] Old faithful.
[00:48:37.420 --> 00:48:39.260] Old faithful, yeah, you know, supporting.
[00:48:40.500 --> 00:48:42.660] Yeah, yeah, ain't nothing less because the more,
[00:48:43.380 --> 00:48:47.080] and this particular craft is so forgiving now
[00:48:47.080 --> 00:48:49.360] where you got Lightroom, you got Photoshop,
[00:48:50.060 --> 00:48:52.460] you got all type of audio equipment
[00:48:52.460 --> 00:48:54.960] that you can go back and make sound,
[00:48:55.060 --> 00:48:56.020] do what you want it to do.
[00:48:56.020 --> 00:48:58.920] You can pull it and push it, you know.
[00:48:59.100 --> 00:48:59.420] Yeah.
[00:49:01.600 --> 00:49:04.660] There's luts when you get into videography.
[00:49:05.020 --> 00:49:10.780] There's so much to it that you can use to create
[00:49:10.780 --> 00:49:11.800] and correct with.
[00:49:13.690 --> 00:49:15.670] And one of the things that I liked about photography
[00:49:16.470 --> 00:49:19.730] was when I got into the learning process of it,
[00:49:19.830 --> 00:49:23.950] it was the only craft that I saw that was teaching,
[00:49:24.690 --> 00:49:26.370] learn all of the rules first
[00:49:26.370 --> 00:49:28.970] and then learn how to break them as best you can.
[00:49:31.060 --> 00:49:32.400] And then that's when you get to the point
[00:49:32.400 --> 00:49:34.100] where you now become creative.
[00:49:35.100 --> 00:49:37.560] And like the first time around for me
[00:49:37.560 --> 00:49:40.860] trying to do photography as a business,
[00:49:41.000 --> 00:49:44.300] I did okay, I did cabarets.
[00:49:45.500 --> 00:49:47.540] I was probably one of the first photographers
[00:49:47.540 --> 00:49:51.900] in Cleveland with printers.
[00:49:52.500 --> 00:49:56.600] I used to go out with these HP 1100 printers
[00:49:56.600 --> 00:49:59.000] and I went from doing Polaroids
[00:49:59.000 --> 00:50:01.200] I need your eight by 10 right now.
[00:50:01.960 --> 00:50:04.480] Oh you can, eight by 10, how much?
[00:50:04.780 --> 00:50:10.320] Now I'm going from $5, $10 shot to 20, 25.
[00:50:11.060 --> 00:50:13.580] Let me see if I can get 35 off of this one right here.
[00:50:14.200 --> 00:50:15.600] And people were paying.
[00:50:16.160 --> 00:50:19.120] And the economy messed up
[00:50:19.120 --> 00:50:21.580] and people got a little tighter on their pockets.
[00:50:22.180 --> 00:50:24.360] And as you see, that all does this too
[00:50:24.360 --> 00:50:28.800] because I experienced that in the early 2000s.
[00:50:29.720 --> 00:50:34.020] And then that's when I knew I had a motorcycle accident.
[00:50:34.620 --> 00:50:37.120] And that was the first time
[00:50:37.120 --> 00:50:47.740] life showed me something where you had no money coming in
[00:50:47.740 --> 00:50:51.530] and you couldn't go make any money.
[00:50:59.100 --> 00:51:01.060] Mentally get yourself in a situation
[00:51:01.060 --> 00:51:03.280] where now you'll be holding to other people
[00:51:03.880 --> 00:51:11.470] or you can put on your boots and hey, get back at it.
[00:51:11.550 --> 00:51:16.290] And I remember my first event back was in July.
[00:51:16.350 --> 00:51:18.450] It was a cotillion and I was on crutches.
[00:51:19.290 --> 00:51:21.030] And it was one of those events.
[00:51:21.110 --> 00:51:23.410] I had sold off a couple of weddings that I had had.
[00:51:23.510 --> 00:51:26.370] I had stopped taking events for about three months
[00:51:28.290 --> 00:51:29.850] and I didn't have a lot.
[00:51:30.090 --> 00:51:34.870] But what I did have quickly, groceries here,
[00:51:35.390 --> 00:51:38.550] you got to pay for this, bills still due.
[00:51:39.170 --> 00:51:41.790] So that pushed that.
[00:51:42.170 --> 00:51:45.150] But I was still in the military.
[00:51:45.430 --> 00:51:47.370] I was still in the national guard.
[00:51:48.880 --> 00:51:56.900] What that did was it pushed me to get back in the drill
[00:51:58.960 --> 00:52:01.020] to do extra drills.
[00:52:03.150 --> 00:52:05.590] And then I started looking at,
[00:52:05.850 --> 00:52:07.990] well, what am I gonna do if this ever happened again?
[00:52:08.430 --> 00:52:10.290] This was a motorcycle accident.
[00:52:11.030 --> 00:52:17.180] What happened if something else happened and I can't work?
[00:52:18.180 --> 00:52:19.460] Well, I got to get a job.
[00:52:20.740 --> 00:52:24.440] And for me, I understood Cleveland in that area
[00:52:24.440 --> 00:52:26.720] where certain jobs, you want to get a job,
[00:52:26.780 --> 00:52:30.500] you want to get a certain job so that it's gonna pay well
[00:52:30.500 --> 00:52:33.360] and you can get some longevity into it.
[00:52:33.420 --> 00:52:36.640] Because now I had went and reverted back to the,
[00:52:36.740 --> 00:52:39.300] I got to have a job and this photography
[00:52:39.300 --> 00:52:40.340] is just my hustle.
[00:52:41.650 --> 00:52:45.610] It wasn't until later in life that I looked at it
[00:52:45.610 --> 00:52:47.230] as an entrepreneurial type of journey.
[00:52:47.710 --> 00:52:50.570] It was a creative hustle for me.
[00:52:51.190 --> 00:52:53.630] And it could pay enough for a lifestyle.
[00:52:53.870 --> 00:52:55.290] And I was cool with that.
[00:52:56.050 --> 00:53:02.750] Now I'm like, man, sucks to be broke all over again
[00:53:02.750 --> 00:53:04.230] and starting over.
[00:53:04.570 --> 00:53:07.310] So the job came with benefits and all of that.
[00:53:07.650 --> 00:53:09.530] And being a veteran, I went straight to the VA.
[00:53:10.130 --> 00:53:14.330] And for about two, three weeks,
[00:53:15.650 --> 00:53:16.670] probably like every Monday,
[00:53:17.070 --> 00:53:19.110] as you were every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday,
[00:53:19.530 --> 00:53:22.090] I went up to the VA, sat in the cafeteria,
[00:53:22.570 --> 00:53:25.010] looked at applications, what was available
[00:53:25.010 --> 00:53:26.390] and I put in for them.
[00:53:28.460 --> 00:53:30.600] I ended up getting two cars
[00:53:30.600 --> 00:53:32.240] with two different jobs at the VA.
[00:53:32.660 --> 00:53:34.000] And I went on an interview.
[00:53:34.680 --> 00:53:36.060] In the interview I went on,
[00:53:37.640 --> 00:53:40.800] the lady that interviewed me, we talked about clothes.
[00:53:41.220 --> 00:53:45.100] We talked, I had on a Tweed sports coat.
[00:53:47.140 --> 00:53:49.120] And we talked, she was a Marine.
[00:53:49.600 --> 00:53:50.820] And we just talked.
[00:53:52.300 --> 00:53:54.380] It was for, it was a student position
[00:53:54.380 --> 00:53:57.240] because I was still a student at Cleveland State
[00:53:57.240 --> 00:53:58.040] at the time.
[00:53:59.900 --> 00:54:01.720] And after that, okay, cool.
[00:54:02.580 --> 00:54:05.160] She called me back and offered me the position.
[00:54:05.340 --> 00:54:06.980] I said, yeah, I'll take it, yeah, cool.
[00:54:08.200 --> 00:54:10.660] Then I had another position for the EMS department
[00:54:10.660 --> 00:54:14.000] because I was a veteran in how that process went for me.
[00:54:14.600 --> 00:54:18.040] I just got a call and said, go do a physical.
[00:54:18.980 --> 00:54:20.240] And when I went and did the physical,
[00:54:21.540 --> 00:54:24.440] came back and said, okay, the physical checked off good.
[00:54:25.740 --> 00:54:26.960] You start on this day.
[00:54:28.460 --> 00:54:29.260] Okay, cool.
[00:54:30.060 --> 00:54:31.000] Now I got two jobs.
[00:54:31.880 --> 00:54:32.940] And one was a night job
[00:54:32.940 --> 00:54:34.660] and one was a day job at the VA.
[00:54:35.580 --> 00:54:38.800] And I got a call from HR and they said, Mr. Jones,
[00:54:40.040 --> 00:54:41.460] I'm sitting here on my desk
[00:54:41.460 --> 00:54:44.940] and I got you in two job positions here at the VA.
[00:54:45.740 --> 00:54:48.900] And she said, you can't have both of them.
[00:54:48.900 --> 00:54:50.220] You only can have one.
[00:54:51.440 --> 00:54:54.140] And I said, asked her a couple of questions, you know.
[00:54:54.480 --> 00:54:56.960] Which one was more permanent?
[00:54:57.240 --> 00:55:00.160] What was I getting over one and the other one?
[00:55:00.160 --> 00:55:04.320] And it came down to the student position.
[00:55:04.720 --> 00:55:06.340] I could wear my own clothes
[00:55:07.240 --> 00:55:10.860] but I could only be in that position while I was in school.
[00:55:11.140 --> 00:55:15.200] If I stopped going to school, position cease.
[00:55:17.080 --> 00:55:20.120] The other position, I'm an EMS worker,
[00:55:21.910 --> 00:55:27.760] work third shift and I wear a uniform and it's permanent.
[00:55:30.860 --> 00:55:33.160] And that's how my career in the VA started.
[00:55:33.940 --> 00:55:39.400] And I did that 17 years.
[00:55:40.820 --> 00:55:44.260] And I got up to the point where at 46,
[00:55:44.920 --> 00:55:48.160] I was 90% disabled through the army
[00:55:48.940 --> 00:55:51.980] and my body wasn't doing what it was doing
[00:55:51.980 --> 00:55:53.840] when I was 32 no more.
[00:55:54.280 --> 00:55:57.960] And I looked up and said, man,
[00:55:58.440 --> 00:56:00.660] social security sent me this letter and they said,
[00:56:01.560 --> 00:56:05.640] well, at 67, you'll be eligible for a full retirement.
[00:56:07.060 --> 00:56:09.520] And they had a number associated with it.
[00:56:09.560 --> 00:56:13.360] And I said, wow, that's 20 years.
[00:56:13.360 --> 00:56:18.300] I gotta work another 20 years just for you to give me
[00:56:18.300 --> 00:56:20.280] the money that's on this piece of paper.
[00:56:20.300 --> 00:56:22.220] And it ain't a lot, it ain't a lot.
[00:56:23.020 --> 00:56:24.900] And you telling me if I retire early,
[00:56:25.240 --> 00:56:29.080] it's just gonna be a couple of dollars less.
[00:56:32.520 --> 00:56:33.480] Less than a hundred dollars.
[00:56:33.940 --> 00:56:37.180] From 62 to 67, that five years,
[00:56:37.520 --> 00:56:40.240] you only losing like 80 something dollars.
[00:56:41.990 --> 00:56:43.610] But I gotta get to 62.
[00:56:44.150 --> 00:56:46.090] I'm 46 at the time.
[00:56:46.670 --> 00:56:48.750] And this don't make sense.
[00:56:48.830 --> 00:56:51.330] Why am I working that hard like this?
[00:56:51.830 --> 00:56:53.590] And I said, I only did my numbers
[00:56:53.590 --> 00:56:55.150] and put some things in play.
[00:56:55.690 --> 00:56:59.170] And that's everything started happening at the same time.
[00:57:00.050 --> 00:57:04.730] That's when G6 started, it's built.
[00:57:06.610 --> 00:57:08.990] And I said, look, went to my wife and I told her,
[00:57:08.990 --> 00:57:13.230] I said, look, I can't do this job at the VA
[00:57:13.230 --> 00:57:18.110] and build this landscaping from what I see in my head.
[00:57:19.270 --> 00:57:21.990] Something gotta get, and it ain't gonna be my dream.
[00:57:22.810 --> 00:57:25.850] So I don't know when, but I'm telling you,
[00:57:25.850 --> 00:57:27.310] one day I'm gonna go to work
[00:57:27.310 --> 00:57:29.590] and that's gonna be the last day I go to work.
[00:57:30.250 --> 00:57:33.950] And from there, it's just gonna have to do what it do.
[00:57:34.790 --> 00:57:35.870] And she ain't like that.
[00:57:36.470 --> 00:57:40.350] I would say what was your thought process
[00:57:40.350 --> 00:57:42.770] in making a decision like that?
[00:57:43.070 --> 00:57:47.290] Economics, being able to know the number
[00:57:47.290 --> 00:57:49.810] and being able to afford life.
[00:57:50.230 --> 00:57:55.450] Life is an affordable lesson that we go through.
[00:57:57.140 --> 00:57:59.180] We go through the same seasons over and over again.
[00:57:59.300 --> 00:58:00.060] It's about to be fall.
[00:58:00.100 --> 00:58:01.720] How many falls have you been through?
[00:58:02.560 --> 00:58:03.840] After fall comes winter.
[00:58:04.020 --> 00:58:08.370] We in Cleveland, it's gonna do what it do.
[00:58:08.610 --> 00:58:10.510] Spring is right around the corner,
[00:58:10.510 --> 00:58:12.370] but it's not gonna start until April.
[00:58:14.140 --> 00:58:16.000] And it does the same thing over and over again.
[00:58:16.260 --> 00:58:17.560] No matter how you look at it,
[00:58:17.680 --> 00:58:19.400] it's the same thing over and over again.
[00:58:19.400 --> 00:58:20.820] You can go different places.
[00:58:21.060 --> 00:58:22.800] It's the same thing over and over again.
[00:58:23.100 --> 00:58:24.400] The question comes is,
[00:58:24.640 --> 00:58:26.220] how do you afford month to month?
[00:58:26.900 --> 00:58:30.380] How do you get from point A to point B?
[00:58:30.720 --> 00:58:31.240] It's a number.
[00:58:31.880 --> 00:58:33.700] I don't care if it's rent, mortgage,
[00:58:34.060 --> 00:58:37.780] car note, maintenance, groceries, gas.
[00:58:38.020 --> 00:58:38.680] It's a number.
[00:58:38.680 --> 00:58:43.060] And every month, every year,
[00:58:43.460 --> 00:58:45.900] you're paying what that cost is.
[00:58:46.700 --> 00:58:48.760] But the only way to figure out what that cost is
[00:58:48.760 --> 00:58:51.000] is not to project what it is,
[00:58:51.260 --> 00:58:52.480] it's to add up last month.
[00:58:52.980 --> 00:58:54.320] How much did I spend last month?
[00:58:55.880 --> 00:58:58.000] You know the season changed last October.
[00:58:58.140 --> 00:58:59.820] Well, how much did I spend last October?
[00:59:00.080 --> 00:59:01.880] Well, I'm gonna pretty much do the same shit
[00:59:01.880 --> 00:59:02.880] all over again,
[00:59:05.360 --> 00:59:07.900] but now you can choose because you know what you did.
[00:59:09.140 --> 00:59:13.540] You know if you spent $600 in groceries
[00:59:13.540 --> 00:59:18.900] through the month of October, 94,
[00:59:20.660 --> 00:59:22.200] you're gonna do the same thing again in 95?
[00:59:22.420 --> 00:59:23.820] Because if you're not gonna do the same thing,
[00:59:23.820 --> 00:59:24.860] what's gonna change?
[00:59:25.460 --> 00:59:31.240] Because in 94, if it was a lot of eating out,
[00:59:33.830 --> 00:59:36.430] you're gonna do the same thing in 95?
[00:59:37.790 --> 00:59:39.250] Then I had to make that decision.
[00:59:39.910 --> 00:59:44.330] Listen, I spent $600 last year and just going to eat.
[00:59:45.290 --> 00:59:46.530] I ain't gonna do that again.
[00:59:47.470 --> 00:59:49.310] So I'm gonna buy more groceries.
[00:59:54.700 --> 00:59:56.680] Driving is the same thing, gas.
[00:59:57.440 --> 00:59:59.020] And the military helped me with that
[00:59:59.020 --> 01:00:00.700] because in the gas aspect,
[01:00:01.240 --> 01:00:04.420] in the military, my first job duty was a fueler.
[01:00:04.620 --> 01:00:07.420] So I pumped fuel into a lot of vehicles.
[01:00:08.040 --> 01:00:10.020] And I see not many gallons,
[01:00:10.220 --> 01:00:13.260] because I rode around with 2,500 gallons on me
[01:00:13.260 --> 01:00:15.260] at any given point in time.
[01:00:15.760 --> 01:00:17.520] And I had to get that off to somebody
[01:00:17.520 --> 01:00:18.860] so I can go get some more.
[01:00:19.300 --> 01:00:23.140] And I had a sergeant who took me under his wing.
[01:00:23.580 --> 01:00:25.700] And now I was the one that was going
[01:00:26.380 --> 01:00:29.260] to get the fuel from the boat places
[01:00:29.260 --> 01:00:31.660] and not just stand in the truck,
[01:00:31.660 --> 01:00:32.760] because we got there.
[01:00:33.540 --> 01:00:34.660] And that came to,
[01:00:34.740 --> 01:00:36.440] now you get the chance to see the paperwork.
[01:00:36.840 --> 01:00:38.840] And when you find out that you just filled up
[01:00:38.840 --> 01:00:41.560] four hemorrhoids and that cost,
[01:00:42.900 --> 01:00:44.620] got a couple of commas in it.
[01:00:48.200 --> 01:00:50.820] I ain't know we had to pay for this, just gas.
[01:00:51.360 --> 01:00:53.620] Yeah, this coming out of the government budget right here.
[01:00:54.160 --> 01:00:56.180] But in the military, it's just a signature.
[01:00:56.300 --> 01:00:57.320] You just signed for shit.
[01:00:58.300 --> 01:01:00.180] You signed $40,000 worth of fuel
[01:01:00.180 --> 01:01:01.680] and you ain't even know it.
[01:01:02.080 --> 01:01:03.540] And then when I started doing that,
[01:01:03.540 --> 01:01:04.600] I started paying attention.
[01:01:04.880 --> 01:01:06.900] Like, oh, if we doing that
[01:01:06.900 --> 01:01:08.560] and we just training this week
[01:01:10.100 --> 01:01:12.800] and we got other units that's doing the same thing,
[01:01:12.800 --> 01:01:16.840] I wonder how much the first infantry's budget is
[01:01:16.840 --> 01:01:18.760] for just fuel.
[01:01:20.480 --> 01:01:21.780] And then you start asking questions
[01:01:21.780 --> 01:01:23.320] and then people start looking at you weird
[01:01:23.320 --> 01:01:24.840] because you are private
[01:01:24.840 --> 01:01:26.780] and you're not supposed to be asking
[01:01:26.780 --> 01:01:29.780] sergeants and lieutenants these type of questions.
[01:01:30.000 --> 01:01:31.720] And it's like, hey, man, I just want to know
[01:01:31.720 --> 01:01:32.780] how much is on?
[01:01:33.900 --> 01:01:37.240] And then it's fuel, then it's food,
[01:01:37.700 --> 01:01:38.800] then it's clothing.
[01:01:39.960 --> 01:01:41.620] And it just became, okay.
[01:01:41.620 --> 01:01:44.040] And I used to see the spreadsheets and everything
[01:01:44.040 --> 01:01:44.680] when you're on it.
[01:01:44.800 --> 01:01:47.380] And then I started keeping my own spreadsheets
[01:01:48.080 --> 01:01:49.460] and writing shit out.
[01:01:49.620 --> 01:01:51.180] Because when you see it,
[01:01:51.180 --> 01:01:52.960] it makes all the difference in the world.
[01:01:53.700 --> 01:01:54.560] Going back to that vision.
[01:01:55.300 --> 01:01:56.740] But you can't deny it.
[01:01:56.880 --> 01:01:57.940] And now it's concrete.
[01:01:58.060 --> 01:01:59.960] And now you have to change it.
[01:01:59.960 --> 01:02:01.480] Because if you want to do better.
[01:02:09.130 --> 01:02:11.810] Let's shift gears to the Creative Healing Foundation.
[01:02:12.710 --> 01:02:14.550] Amazing Creative Healing Foundation.
[01:02:14.970 --> 01:02:15.330] Man.
[01:02:17.080 --> 01:02:18.020] I remember the birth.
[01:02:18.020 --> 01:02:19.340] I remember, you know,
[01:02:20.360 --> 01:02:22.760] originated the idea first came to me
[01:02:22.760 --> 01:02:24.480] and we birthed it, made it happen.
[01:02:25.400 --> 01:02:27.800] But how important is that,
[01:02:27.800 --> 01:02:29.440] that give back, that mentorship,
[01:02:29.640 --> 01:02:30.900] even that ownership,
[01:02:31.640 --> 01:02:33.540] like, you know, providing the tools
[01:02:33.540 --> 01:02:37.780] for the community and also heal.
[01:02:39.420 --> 01:02:41.940] I found it a challenge getting to the community.
[01:02:43.990 --> 01:02:45.390] It's one thing to come
[01:02:45.830 --> 01:02:47.930] with the idea of what you want to do.
[01:02:48.250 --> 01:02:51.580] It's another thing getting others
[01:02:52.380 --> 01:02:55.860] to invest into the idea of what you want to do.
[01:02:56.260 --> 01:02:57.820] So it was like when we first came out
[01:02:57.820 --> 01:03:00.840] and we first started with Creative Healing Foundation,
[01:03:01.640 --> 01:03:04.340] you know, I mean, you in there too.
[01:03:04.980 --> 01:03:06.620] You know, you was definitely,
[01:03:07.560 --> 01:03:09.300] I mean, you're the youngest person.
[01:03:09.460 --> 01:03:11.940] Out of the five heads that sat at the table,
[01:03:12.060 --> 01:03:13.280] you're the youngest one sitting there
[01:03:13.280 --> 01:03:15.760] when we came up with the Creative Healing Foundation.
[01:03:16.320 --> 01:03:18.560] And the idea behind it was just,
[01:03:18.560 --> 01:03:19.700] we just wanted to create.
[01:03:20.340 --> 01:03:23.240] If it wasn't for going down to the arcade
[01:03:23.240 --> 01:03:24.760] and getting put out,
[01:03:25.660 --> 01:03:26.960] the Creative Healing Foundation
[01:03:26.960 --> 01:03:28.360] probably never would have been,
[01:03:28.500 --> 01:03:30.340] came the Creative Healing Foundation
[01:03:30.340 --> 01:03:32.180] because we didn't have a reason to.
[01:03:32.600 --> 01:03:34.840] That was just something that sparked an idea like,
[01:03:35.060 --> 01:03:36.460] hey, you know, we don't want to get put out no more.
[01:03:36.580 --> 01:03:36.900] Guess what?
[01:03:37.200 --> 01:03:39.660] We develop an organization.
[01:03:40.080 --> 01:03:43.060] And I got that information because I had the ear
[01:03:43.980 --> 01:03:51.610] of an older, wiser, other father,
[01:03:52.290 --> 01:03:57.180] Uncle Juro was just all of that in the one.
[01:03:57.780 --> 01:03:59.920] And his profession allowed him,
[01:04:00.740 --> 01:04:02.380] not only we were in COVID,
[01:04:03.620 --> 01:04:05.460] every Sunday I had his ear.
[01:04:05.920 --> 01:04:09.040] So here we are every Sunday going to churches
[01:04:09.040 --> 01:04:10.500] to do these videos.
[01:04:11.760 --> 01:04:14.660] And I'm having the conversations with him
[01:04:14.660 --> 01:04:15.920] that we're having.
[01:04:16.280 --> 01:04:18.220] And he's giving his advice like,
[01:04:18.420 --> 01:04:19.660] hey, well, okay, this is how you do this
[01:04:19.660 --> 01:04:20.500] and this is how you do that.
[01:04:20.700 --> 01:04:22.080] And at the same time,
[01:04:22.640 --> 01:04:24.440] the paperwork part of it,
[01:04:24.440 --> 01:04:25.880] he's willing to help.
[01:04:26.460 --> 01:04:28.440] So if it wasn't for Uncle Juro
[01:04:28.440 --> 01:04:30.400] willing to help bring the idea
[01:04:30.400 --> 01:04:33.480] and the visions that we had into fruition,
[01:04:35.000 --> 01:04:36.740] there wouldn't be a Creative Healing Foundation.
[01:04:37.400 --> 01:04:39.720] Because economically on that side,
[01:04:41.200 --> 01:04:44.640] what people were paying in 2020 to start nonprofits
[01:04:45.260 --> 01:04:50.480] cost us a fraction of the app part in itself
[01:04:51.100 --> 01:04:54.480] is what got the Creative Healing Foundation
[01:04:54.480 --> 01:04:59.380] off the ground and started into being a 501c3.
[01:05:00.020 --> 01:05:01.780] And now this is part of it.
[01:05:01.780 --> 01:05:04.080] This is part of that transition
[01:05:05.340 --> 01:05:09.800] from being a creative to wanting to teach
[01:05:09.800 --> 01:05:11.060] and show people,
[01:05:12.060 --> 01:05:13.780] hey, photography saved me.
[01:05:14.380 --> 01:05:16.420] I can show you how it saved me.
[01:05:16.540 --> 01:05:18.340] I can point a finger at a picture
[01:05:18.340 --> 01:05:20.460] and tell you the story about this picture
[01:05:20.460 --> 01:05:22.800] and how this picture helped save me.
[01:05:24.640 --> 01:05:26.200] Now let me show you how to take the picture.
[01:05:28.230 --> 01:05:29.010] I have a camera.
[01:05:29.390 --> 01:05:31.110] Don't worry about it, you can use one of mine.
[01:05:32.660 --> 01:05:34.900] And then that's the part where it gets
[01:05:35.920 --> 01:05:37.540] to sharing and caring.
[01:05:38.020 --> 01:05:40.700] You know, a lot of times we wanna possess things.
[01:05:42.380 --> 01:05:43.760] Mickey shared with me.
[01:05:43.780 --> 01:05:45.720] Mickey shared his camera with me
[01:05:45.720 --> 01:05:47.440] and it wasn't just one.
[01:05:47.980 --> 01:05:50.060] But he let me know at the same time,
[01:05:50.200 --> 01:05:52.460] hey man, I know how important this is with you.
[01:05:52.980 --> 01:05:55.320] So for me running into,
[01:05:55.820 --> 01:05:56.680] and I've always been,
[01:05:56.680 --> 01:05:58.020] so I'm the oldest from my mother.
[01:05:58.440 --> 01:06:01.500] So I've always been around older people
[01:06:01.500 --> 01:06:03.040] and then younger people.
[01:06:03.260 --> 01:06:07.560] And it wasn't never really people around my age group
[01:06:07.560 --> 01:06:12.360] with my mindset that I had to communicate with.
[01:06:12.660 --> 01:06:14.260] So I was either up here with them
[01:06:14.260 --> 01:06:16.440] or I was down here playing with them.
[01:06:17.140 --> 01:06:20.100] So bringing that together was kind of always tricky,
[01:06:20.100 --> 01:06:22.520] especially when everybody wanna tell you
[01:06:22.520 --> 01:06:24.120] how to do what's in your head to do.
[01:06:27.410 --> 01:06:30.710] The seed was planted within you,
[01:06:31.170 --> 01:06:32.450] but at the same time,
[01:06:32.550 --> 01:06:34.910] you're sharing the information with others.
[01:06:35.210 --> 01:06:38.150] And then they wanna take your information
[01:06:38.150 --> 01:06:41.070] and tell you what to do with it.
[01:06:41.070 --> 01:06:44.070] And it's like, come on, let's go back a little bit.
[01:06:44.310 --> 01:06:45.710] Let's start back over again.
[01:06:46.230 --> 01:06:47.570] Let's just learn how to work.
[01:06:47.590 --> 01:06:48.710] The camera works.
[01:06:49.550 --> 01:06:51.310] And now let's go take pictures
[01:06:51.310 --> 01:06:54.930] because I'm explaining to you that you're gonna need to know
[01:06:54.930 --> 01:06:57.530] how to put them batteries in there before we get out there
[01:06:57.530 --> 01:06:59.410] and you're looking like an idiot.
[01:07:01.410 --> 01:07:03.130] I did it, trust me.
[01:07:03.650 --> 01:07:05.370] They all don't work the same.
[01:07:06.410 --> 01:07:09.810] And for me, that was the biggest lesson moving forward
[01:07:09.810 --> 01:07:13.690] where wanting to help,
[01:07:13.970 --> 01:07:18.890] wanting to help those that didn't see what I saw.
[01:07:20.130 --> 01:07:22.430] And I saw photography, I saw,
[01:07:22.430 --> 01:07:26.010] my vision, my dream was shooting Polaroids was,
[01:07:26.170 --> 01:07:28.090] man, I wish I can take pictures forever
[01:07:28.090 --> 01:07:31.690] and didn't have to do one shot, one kill.
[01:07:34.010 --> 01:07:38.510] So the testing that Mickey had for me in shooting was,
[01:07:38.770 --> 01:07:42.310] there was this one bar that had mirrors against the wall
[01:07:43.110 --> 01:07:44.830] and to take pictures in this bar,
[01:07:44.830 --> 01:07:47.130] you had to know how to angle the light.
[01:07:48.170 --> 01:07:50.310] So you were either bouncing it off the ceiling,
[01:07:50.770 --> 01:07:52.150] bouncing it out of corners,
[01:07:52.150 --> 01:07:54.490] without getting a reflection.
[01:07:57.060 --> 01:08:01.780] And when I first seen it, I didn't understand it.
[01:08:01.780 --> 01:08:03.500] But then I got a chance to try it.
[01:08:03.500 --> 01:08:05.940] And when I had the hands-on part about it
[01:08:05.940 --> 01:08:07.720] and taking the picture, it was,
[01:08:07.880 --> 01:08:08.900] okay, I gotta take this picture
[01:08:08.900 --> 01:08:10.700] and they're not gonna give me no money
[01:08:10.700 --> 01:08:14.680] if I don't get this flash not in their eyes.
[01:08:16.319 --> 01:08:18.859] So, okay, I saw what he did, boom, boom, boom.
[01:08:19.680 --> 01:08:24.560] And the Polaroids, you just got a viewfinder.
[01:08:25.399 --> 01:08:28.220] So you gotta frame everything up in this viewfinder.
[01:08:28.540 --> 01:08:32.180] And it's not exactly what's gonna be on the picture,
[01:08:32.240 --> 01:08:34.300] but every camera works different.
[01:08:34.359 --> 01:08:37.319] So you gotta figure out how that particular camera work.
[01:08:38.319 --> 01:08:40.760] And they didn't want their feet cut off.
[01:08:40.819 --> 01:08:42.680] They wanted head to toe shots.
[01:08:43.359 --> 01:08:43.859] Full body.
[01:08:44.220 --> 01:08:46.580] They want three people in the shot.
[01:08:46.580 --> 01:08:48.740] And you gotta, okay.
[01:08:49.660 --> 01:08:51.779] And they don't even want the elbow cut off.
[01:08:52.560 --> 01:08:56.100] So you gotta find out where those cut-off lines at.
[01:08:56.420 --> 01:08:58.540] And you don't got the little cute stuff
[01:08:58.540 --> 01:09:00.300] that you got in cameras and the phone.
[01:09:00.580 --> 01:09:01.720] No, you don't got no bridge.
[01:09:02.359 --> 01:09:02.880] Crosshairs.
[01:09:03.279 --> 01:09:04.340] No, no, no.
[01:09:04.359 --> 01:09:05.899] You gonna find that one by yourself.
[01:09:06.380 --> 01:09:06.819] Yeah, okay.
[01:09:08.140 --> 01:09:09.880] And learning that way,
[01:09:10.580 --> 01:09:12.560] it taught me so much about photography.
[01:09:13.000 --> 01:09:14.899] And then it helped teach me about people.
[01:09:15.420 --> 01:09:18.740] It helped me learn confidence.
[01:09:20.260 --> 01:09:21.580] Learn how to talk to people.
[01:09:23.279 --> 01:09:24.479] Learn how to be a leader.
[01:09:25.500 --> 01:09:27.660] Learn how to be in control of an environment.
[01:09:28.040 --> 01:09:28.560] That's the worst thing.
[01:09:28.700 --> 01:09:29.640] You had a birthday party.
[01:09:29.740 --> 01:09:31.540] Everybody drinking except for you.
[01:09:32.220 --> 01:09:34.240] You 17, 18 years old,
[01:09:34.279 --> 01:09:36.880] and you trying to get 16 people together for a photo.
[01:09:37.120 --> 01:09:37.779] Oh yeah, who?
[01:09:38.140 --> 01:09:38.660] Even wedding.
[01:09:38.939 --> 01:09:39.840] No, nobody want a car.
[01:09:40.000 --> 01:09:41.520] And you always got the one asshole
[01:09:41.520 --> 01:09:43.260] that just want to be an asshole,
[01:09:43.560 --> 01:09:44.819] just to be an asshole.
[01:09:44.819 --> 01:09:45.779] You know?
[01:09:46.120 --> 01:09:47.240] But you got to get this picture.
[01:09:47.740 --> 01:09:49.740] Everybody want to see everybody's eyes.
[01:09:50.140 --> 01:09:52.340] You know, everybody's head got to be in the picture.
[01:09:52.520 --> 01:09:53.000] You know?
[01:09:53.460 --> 01:09:58.020] So all of that was interesting to me.
[01:09:58.040 --> 01:09:59.120] I enjoyed it.
[01:10:01.130 --> 01:10:03.330] I liked the idea of,
[01:10:03.670 --> 01:10:05.190] after it was all sitting over with,
[01:10:05.330 --> 01:10:06.250] they ate the cake,
[01:10:06.850 --> 01:10:07.910] the food gone,
[01:10:08.810 --> 01:10:10.410] the dress back in the closet.
[01:10:11.150 --> 01:10:11.530] Yeah.
[01:10:11.730 --> 01:10:12.770] But you got that picture.
[01:10:14.960 --> 01:10:15.660] Made it work.
[01:10:16.780 --> 01:10:18.340] And that's what it was all about.
[01:10:18.420 --> 01:10:19.520] I didn't want to fuck up.
[01:10:19.860 --> 01:10:20.980] Didn't want to fuck up the picture.
[01:10:21.580 --> 01:10:21.900] You know?
[01:10:21.940 --> 01:10:24.080] Cause I wanted you to have the picture forever.
[01:10:24.220 --> 01:10:25.780] So when somebody else look at that picture,
[01:10:26.160 --> 01:10:28.340] like I'm at a point now in life when,
[01:10:28.500 --> 01:10:30.300] you know, we're doing these home going services.
[01:10:30.440 --> 01:10:33.240] I got one of my brothers, he do obituaries.
[01:10:33.380 --> 01:10:34.700] Shout out to Anthony.
[01:10:36.400 --> 01:10:40.620] And you see people send him 20, 30 pictures.
[01:10:42.340 --> 01:10:44.100] You see the Polaroids come through.
[01:10:44.100 --> 01:10:45.080] Yeah, man.
[01:10:45.180 --> 01:10:46.280] I wonder if that's one that I took.
[01:10:46.460 --> 01:10:47.260] If that's one that I took.
[01:10:47.400 --> 01:10:49.000] And every once in a while you find something,
[01:10:49.420 --> 01:10:50.800] you know, see something that you didn't took.
[01:10:51.540 --> 01:10:53.720] And it's a good feeling that, you know,
[01:10:53.740 --> 01:10:55.380] now it's like 20, 30 years
[01:10:55.380 --> 01:10:57.480] and somebody held on to that.
[01:10:59.970 --> 01:11:01.630] That feeling that it gives
[01:11:01.630 --> 01:11:04.490] crosses into that feeling that I get
[01:11:04.490 --> 01:11:06.010] when I go cut grass.
[01:11:07.050 --> 01:11:07.990] It's not a job.
[01:11:08.490 --> 01:11:10.630] It's something that I want to do.
[01:11:10.890 --> 01:11:11.150] You know?
[01:11:11.150 --> 01:11:14.470] It's something that gives me that inner glow
[01:11:16.610 --> 01:11:19.310] where after I walk off this yard,
[01:11:19.450 --> 01:11:21.750] I want to be satisfied
[01:11:21.750 --> 01:11:25.250] that I put in not only my best efforts,
[01:11:26.030 --> 01:11:28.210] but now I got something that somebody else gonna come.
[01:11:28.250 --> 01:11:29.930] That's the best one when they ain't even home
[01:11:29.930 --> 01:11:30.510] when you cut.
[01:11:30.890 --> 01:11:32.910] And then they come home and then they roll up
[01:11:32.910 --> 01:11:33.930] and you wonder like,
[01:11:33.930 --> 01:11:35.470] I wonder if they passed they house
[01:11:35.470 --> 01:11:36.790] cause they didn't know, you know,
[01:11:36.870 --> 01:11:38.330] the grass was cut type shit.
[01:11:39.890 --> 01:11:43.250] And all of that just, it's just,
[01:11:43.250 --> 01:11:44.830] it's being creative.
[01:11:45.470 --> 01:11:45.650] You know?
[01:11:45.850 --> 01:11:47.510] Like I tow up my yard.
[01:11:48.010 --> 01:11:50.230] You know, one of the first thing I called my wife one day
[01:11:50.230 --> 01:11:51.350] I was like, hey, listen,
[01:11:52.450 --> 01:11:53.370] let you know now,
[01:11:53.690 --> 01:11:54.910] doing something to the yard.
[01:11:55.250 --> 01:11:56.870] I'm putting these flower beds in
[01:11:56.870 --> 01:11:58.350] and I just rented this,
[01:11:58.350 --> 01:12:01.050] it's called a bed edger.
[01:12:04.260 --> 01:12:05.700] I started where I was just going
[01:12:05.700 --> 01:12:08.140] put this one little line in
[01:12:08.840 --> 01:12:10.140] and then it got fun.
[01:12:10.320 --> 01:12:11.980] I'm pushing the machine around.
[01:12:12.140 --> 01:12:12.980] I was like, oh yeah.
[01:12:14.080 --> 01:12:16.600] And I like, it was a corner lot.
[01:12:16.700 --> 01:12:17.600] So it was a lot of land
[01:12:17.600 --> 01:12:21.740] and you go back and forth so many times.
[01:12:22.040 --> 01:12:24.260] You know, so I was like, yeah, okay.
[01:12:24.560 --> 01:12:26.740] So I kinda, I created in my mind,
[01:12:26.960 --> 01:12:27.980] which was racetrack.
[01:12:29.560 --> 01:12:31.000] So I had my starting point,
[01:12:31.060 --> 01:12:33.300] my end point and then even when I cut the grass,
[01:12:33.420 --> 01:12:35.140] I'm riding it like this
[01:12:35.140 --> 01:12:37.740] and then I'm going around this bed and all of that.
[01:12:37.800 --> 01:12:39.580] But I had to tear all of that up
[01:12:39.580 --> 01:12:41.580] in order to create all of that.
[01:12:42.320 --> 01:12:43.960] And my wife didn't understand
[01:12:45.430 --> 01:12:47.450] because that first season,
[01:12:47.790 --> 01:12:50.070] oh man, the yard was terrible.
[01:12:52.240 --> 01:12:53.520] I started letting it grow
[01:12:53.520 --> 01:12:55.100] and then I started letting it grow
[01:12:55.100 --> 01:12:56.840] and I got mad at something
[01:12:57.220 --> 01:12:58.220] and I just said, fuck,
[01:12:58.400 --> 01:13:00.020] I ain't cutting this right here.
[01:13:00.200 --> 01:13:02.660] And then I would cut patterns in the yard
[01:13:02.660 --> 01:13:04.320] and it would grow over here
[01:13:05.600 --> 01:13:07.120] and snake through this.
[01:13:07.120 --> 01:13:08.380] I just did all type of stuff
[01:13:08.380 --> 01:13:09.980] because at that point,
[01:13:09.980 --> 01:13:13.580] I was at a point where it's mine.
[01:13:15.740 --> 01:13:18.120] I can cut my grass however I wanna cut my grass.
[01:13:18.120 --> 01:13:20.200] Why do I have to cut my grass
[01:13:20.760 --> 01:13:22.640] the same way everybody else cut their grass?
[01:13:23.220 --> 01:13:23.560] Right, indeed.
[01:13:23.640 --> 01:13:26.960] And that creativity fell into
[01:13:28.140 --> 01:13:30.200] the enjoyment that I get
[01:13:30.200 --> 01:13:32.520] from being able to create something
[01:13:32.520 --> 01:13:35.760] and have that instant gratification from it.
[01:13:36.740 --> 01:13:39.140] Landscaping as you work, cutting grass,
[01:13:39.580 --> 01:13:40.900] it's the same as cooking.
[01:13:41.340 --> 01:13:43.320] You have that instant gratification.
[01:13:43.420 --> 01:13:44.160] It tastes good.
[01:13:44.520 --> 01:13:45.220] Yeah, you happy.
[01:13:46.000 --> 01:13:47.000] Cake didn't fall.
[01:13:47.000 --> 01:13:47.720] You happy.
[01:13:48.280 --> 01:13:50.120] You set the blades right.
[01:13:51.380 --> 01:13:52.300] Blades were sharp.
[01:13:52.500 --> 01:13:53.220] They wasn't dull.
[01:13:54.400 --> 01:13:55.700] The grass wasn't wet.
[01:13:56.440 --> 01:13:57.960] It all went up in the bag.
[01:13:58.580 --> 01:13:59.600] You ain't had to get out
[01:13:59.600 --> 01:14:01.840] 50 times to unclog the chute.
[01:14:03.340 --> 01:14:04.820] Now you get to edge it.
[01:14:08.240 --> 01:14:09.160] Then you sit back
[01:14:09.160 --> 01:14:10.980] and you get a chance to enjoy it
[01:14:10.980 --> 01:14:13.240] and then other people get a chance to enjoy it.
[01:14:14.520 --> 01:14:16.260] So now later it becomes a conversation.
[01:14:16.360 --> 01:14:17.920] Why did you do that like that?
[01:14:18.920 --> 01:14:20.240] Because Citi came and asked me.
[01:14:20.240 --> 01:14:21.200] They said, yeah, okay,
[01:14:22.220 --> 01:14:24.000] grass can't be over six inches.
[01:14:25.420 --> 01:14:29.100] And I had shit that was three feet.
[01:14:32.060 --> 01:14:33.360] Coolest thing in the world.
[01:14:34.040 --> 01:14:34.840] It's natural.
[01:14:34.940 --> 01:14:36.160] Let it do what it do.
[01:14:36.300 --> 01:14:37.080] Yeah, like here.
[01:14:38.140 --> 01:14:40.460] They said, no, because you remember
[01:14:40.460 --> 01:14:42.260] Cleveland Heights did a thing one year
[01:14:42.260 --> 01:14:44.440] where they had a no-grow season.
[01:14:44.800 --> 01:14:47.480] They didn't cut the grass for,
[01:14:47.480 --> 01:14:50.100] I think for like May and June
[01:14:50.880 --> 01:14:52.900] or April and May or something like that.
[01:14:52.900 --> 01:14:53.860] They didn't cut the grass.
[01:14:53.980 --> 01:14:55.900] It was like a no-grow zone.
[01:14:56.260 --> 01:14:58.320] And I seen what the grass was doing
[01:14:58.320 --> 01:15:00.260] and I thought that that was just the coolest thing.
[01:15:00.360 --> 01:15:01.380] And I said, okay, yeah,
[01:15:01.600 --> 01:15:03.840] I'm gonna put some no-grow areas in my yard
[01:15:03.840 --> 01:15:07.380] and it was an experience.
[01:15:08.000 --> 01:15:10.460] Yeah, and going back to that experience,
[01:15:12.840 --> 01:15:15.260] you got a lot of good memories
[01:15:15.260 --> 01:15:17.540] that created those experiences.
[01:15:19.020 --> 01:15:21.560] And that helps me reflect on
[01:15:22.560 --> 01:15:24.320] kind of why I got into photography.
[01:15:25.080 --> 01:15:26.440] And why I do what I do
[01:15:26.440 --> 01:15:29.000] because I look at myself as a historian
[01:15:29.660 --> 01:15:33.520] where a photo could just be
[01:15:35.620 --> 01:15:38.940] documenting my first childhood home,
[01:15:39.180 --> 01:15:41.400] which is now torn down.
[01:15:42.940 --> 01:15:46.040] My house that I grew up in,
[01:15:47.980 --> 01:15:49.620] kindergarten all the way to
[01:15:50.200 --> 01:15:52.020] like a freshman in high school.
[01:15:52.320 --> 01:15:53.460] It's just a lot of land.
[01:15:54.720 --> 01:15:56.500] Elementary school, torn down.
[01:15:58.660 --> 01:16:00.580] Hospital, Euclid Hospital, gone.
[01:16:01.160 --> 01:16:02.520] Like I have no memories,
[01:16:03.240 --> 01:16:06.200] like always envision it like MTV Cribs,
[01:16:06.360 --> 01:16:08.140] like they go on past a old neighborhood.
[01:16:08.520 --> 01:16:09.800] I used to grew up in that house.
[01:16:10.540 --> 01:16:13.800] I can't say these things, it's just, it's gone.
[01:16:14.400 --> 01:16:17.500] But if I had that memory, that photo,
[01:16:17.620 --> 01:16:21.740] that video to visually show people, it'd be different.
[01:16:22.280 --> 01:16:25.320] But I want to ask how important is a photo to you?
[01:16:26.480 --> 01:16:28.420] Like not taking photos for others,
[01:16:28.980 --> 01:16:31.020] but someone taking a photo of you
[01:16:31.020 --> 01:16:32.580] or a moment in your life.
[01:16:33.400 --> 01:16:39.100] So it was a very long time before I had a photo.
[01:16:39.160 --> 01:16:40.320] Let me say it like this.
[01:16:45.240 --> 01:16:48.480] I wasn't always crazy about having my picture taken.
[01:16:49.640 --> 01:16:53.180] So getting behind the camera was a shield
[01:16:53.800 --> 01:16:55.880] at the same time away from that.
[01:17:03.110 --> 01:17:15.830] I noticed that when you go over people's houses,
[01:17:16.670 --> 01:17:18.950] they got pictures on the mantle of people
[01:17:18.950 --> 01:17:20.930] and pictures on the wall and stuff.
[01:17:21.110 --> 01:17:22.710] Like certain people's houses, I would go over
[01:17:22.710 --> 01:17:24.570] and just have pictures of places.
[01:17:25.010 --> 01:17:29.490] We grew up in the projects where we had this one wall
[01:17:30.130 --> 01:17:32.230] where stepfather had all of these pictures
[01:17:32.230 --> 01:17:33.110] on the whole wall.
[01:17:34.010 --> 01:17:39.460] And it was like somebody did that.
[01:17:39.780 --> 01:17:41.800] I want to be able to do that.
[01:17:41.800 --> 01:17:44.780] And that double exposure picture,
[01:17:44.920 --> 01:17:46.840] I thought that was the coolest thing ever.
[01:17:46.840 --> 01:17:49.160] You had two pictures on one piece of paper.
[01:17:49.340 --> 01:17:50.300] I said, oh man.
[01:17:50.800 --> 01:17:52.020] And I couldn't draw.
[01:17:52.740 --> 01:17:57.320] So that was my only outlet created.
[01:17:58.580 --> 01:18:01.660] And the more I learned from the camera,
[01:18:04.240 --> 01:18:10.220] the more I got interested in what else I could do.
[01:18:10.760 --> 01:18:14.780] And then war came and I left and went to war.
[01:18:16.140 --> 01:18:18.960] 2008, I was deployed and I got rid
[01:18:18.960 --> 01:18:20.720] of all of my cameras and everything.
[01:18:21.220 --> 01:18:23.580] Cause I wanted, unlike any other,
[01:18:23.640 --> 01:18:25.600] every other deployment that I went on,
[01:18:26.760 --> 01:18:28.920] I took my cameras with me.
[01:18:28.920 --> 01:18:30.360] How many cameras did you have?
[01:18:31.020 --> 01:18:32.440] At one point in time.
[01:18:32.940 --> 01:18:37.580] I remember my first camera was a KRS Super from Sears.
[01:18:37.760 --> 01:18:39.000] I got it from a pawn shop.
[01:18:39.320 --> 01:18:42.900] Cost me $150 and I went to the pawn shop
[01:18:42.900 --> 01:18:44.440] cause I heard that's where you gonna get
[01:18:44.440 --> 01:18:46.920] a good used 35 millimeter camera from.
[01:18:47.860 --> 01:18:50.380] And went down on paying to the only pawn shop
[01:18:50.380 --> 01:18:52.420] that I knew of and walked in there
[01:18:52.420 --> 01:18:53.740] and I seen the camera in there
[01:18:53.740 --> 01:18:56.380] and it just looked like a 35 millimeter camera.
[01:18:56.680 --> 01:19:00.240] I didn't know what it was named.
[01:19:00.440 --> 01:19:03.260] Didn't have a price tag on it, which was my fault.
[01:19:03.720 --> 01:19:04.560] I said, let me see that.
[01:19:04.820 --> 01:19:06.520] And the guy pulled the camera out.
[01:19:06.700 --> 01:19:07.580] I knew they hit the button
[01:19:07.580 --> 01:19:09.780] to make sure the trigger worked and everything.
[01:19:10.440 --> 01:19:11.860] Make sure the curtains stay open.
[01:19:12.140 --> 01:19:14.020] These are all the things that I learned from Mickey.
[01:19:15.260 --> 01:19:19.690] And I said, okay, I'll take this.
[01:19:21.190 --> 01:19:23.170] And he said something, something, something.
[01:19:23.310 --> 01:19:25.470] I said, yeah, yeah, I'll take the camera or whatever.
[01:19:25.770 --> 01:19:27.110] He took the lens off the camera,
[01:19:27.230 --> 01:19:28.950] put the lens back in the case,
[01:19:29.570 --> 01:19:32.570] put the lens cap on the cover on the camera.
[01:19:32.650 --> 01:19:33.830] He said that'd be $100.
[01:19:34.550 --> 01:19:36.790] And I said, I can't do nothing without the lens.
[01:19:37.650 --> 01:19:38.770] I need the lens.
[01:19:39.510 --> 01:19:40.930] He said, that'd be another $50.
[01:19:41.430 --> 01:19:42.430] And I said, ooh.
[01:19:42.750 --> 01:19:44.810] And that was my lesson in photography
[01:19:44.810 --> 01:19:46.170] that everything costs.
[01:19:49.880 --> 01:19:51.800] From there to the light stands,
[01:19:52.620 --> 01:19:56.480] to all of the different brackets and everything costs.
[01:19:56.580 --> 01:19:59.640] And if you want it, you're gonna pay for it.
[01:19:59.660 --> 01:20:01.040] Because it's the only way to get it.
[01:20:01.180 --> 01:20:02.300] If you take anything,
[01:20:02.660 --> 01:20:04.600] you got the repercussions that go along with that.
[01:20:04.760 --> 01:20:05.800] And that ain't never cool.
[01:20:06.760 --> 01:20:09.180] So you understand the value
[01:20:10.040 --> 01:20:11.700] behind everything you purchase.
[01:20:12.180 --> 01:20:14.400] I know you got little shit in your camera bag
[01:20:14.400 --> 01:20:16.880] that's this motherfucking big that costs $80.
[01:20:16.880 --> 01:20:18.060] Real small, yeah.
[01:20:18.520 --> 01:20:21.180] And you might not use it, but twice a year.
[01:20:21.920 --> 01:20:25.140] But when you need it, it's good to have it there.
[01:20:25.400 --> 01:20:25.940] It's good to have.
[01:20:26.160 --> 01:20:27.980] I use an ND filter.
[01:20:28.900 --> 01:20:33.480] I was outside for a fest, and I don't ever use it.
[01:20:33.500 --> 01:20:35.920] But I know it's good to retain the highlights.
[01:20:36.580 --> 01:20:38.120] It's like retaining five stops,
[01:20:38.200 --> 01:20:39.500] which is kind of an overkill.
[01:20:40.520 --> 01:20:42.620] But I mean, it did what it did
[01:20:42.620 --> 01:20:44.740] for what it needed to do and that purpose.
[01:20:44.740 --> 01:20:46.960] But I do a lot of indoor events.
[01:20:47.740 --> 01:20:51.600] So, you know, it got its day of time this weekend.
[01:20:53.040 --> 01:20:53.520] Yeah.
[01:20:54.000 --> 01:20:54.300] Yeah, yeah.
[01:20:54.380 --> 01:20:55.720] And that costs me like 120.
[01:20:56.240 --> 01:20:58.980] So use it like once or twice a year.
[01:20:58.980 --> 01:20:59.840] But it's needed.
[01:21:00.400 --> 01:21:03.440] And that's the tool that's in the toolbox,
[01:21:03.600 --> 01:21:04.280] like the mechanic.
[01:21:04.420 --> 01:21:07.060] The mechanic don't always use every socket on every job.
[01:21:07.600 --> 01:21:09.400] But he gotta have all those sockets.
[01:21:11.200 --> 01:21:13.000] Once you, I think once,
[01:21:13.180 --> 01:21:15.800] as a creative who digests that part,
[01:21:18.400 --> 01:21:20.640] the next thing that you need,
[01:21:21.500 --> 01:21:23.040] it changes the game.
[01:21:23.200 --> 01:21:25.940] Cause when you got the pieces,
[01:21:26.580 --> 01:21:28.620] you can make something out of it.
[01:21:28.740 --> 01:21:31.160] Yeah, that goes back to,
[01:21:31.300 --> 01:21:33.520] I had my first camera and, you know,
[01:21:33.520 --> 01:21:36.380] when we first met and I told you
[01:21:36.380 --> 01:21:38.000] that I wanted to get into photography.
[01:21:38.180 --> 01:21:41.120] I was transitioning from music and poetry
[01:21:41.120 --> 01:21:42.000] into photography.
[01:21:42.220 --> 01:21:43.640] I wanted to take it more seriously.
[01:21:44.400 --> 01:21:46.320] And I told you, I'm like, well,
[01:21:46.320 --> 01:21:49.540] I definitely got to be a man of my word.
[01:21:50.500 --> 01:21:53.520] And I told this to somebody, my vision, my dream.
[01:21:53.580 --> 01:21:55.720] And I was actively studying it,
[01:21:56.540 --> 01:21:58.220] even purchased my first camera,
[01:21:58.540 --> 01:21:59.540] practicing on my own,
[01:22:00.660 --> 01:22:02.160] looking at different videos,
[01:22:02.620 --> 01:22:03.960] just going to different events,
[01:22:04.360 --> 01:22:05.820] practicing, doing stuff for free.
[01:22:07.360 --> 01:22:09.440] And I remember you took me out one time,
[01:22:09.500 --> 01:22:11.340] we was at the downtown arcade.
[01:22:12.400 --> 01:22:14.320] And you was telling me, get this, get that.
[01:22:14.320 --> 01:22:16.200] And I'm like, man, it's so much stuff.
[01:22:16.880 --> 01:22:19.460] Go get the light, go get the 50 millimeter.
[01:22:19.620 --> 01:22:20.400] I'm like, 50 millimeter?
[01:22:21.080 --> 01:22:22.420] Do they say 50 on it?
[01:22:22.520 --> 01:22:26.520] Looking at the, it's got 24, 50, it's Zoom.
[01:22:26.740 --> 01:22:27.580] I don't know.
[01:22:27.700 --> 01:22:29.000] Oh, get this, get that.
[01:22:29.360 --> 01:22:30.000] Do B-Row.
[01:22:30.160 --> 01:22:32.000] I don't know what B-Row is.
[01:22:32.160 --> 01:22:34.360] It's video though, I just get video.
[01:22:34.980 --> 01:22:38.400] Behind the scenes, B-Row, behind the scenes,
[01:22:38.580 --> 01:22:39.320] same thing, right?
[01:22:39.980 --> 01:22:44.060] But just learning and just really enjoying the moment
[01:22:44.060 --> 01:22:48.100] and the relaxed atmosphere and having fun and creating.
[01:22:48.800 --> 01:22:50.320] I mean, that's what you did too,
[01:22:50.780 --> 01:22:52.720] is having fun, creating, directing.
[01:22:53.360 --> 01:22:54.900] And I just seen that like, wow,
[01:22:55.200 --> 01:22:56.800] it is definitely levels to it.
[01:22:56.840 --> 01:22:57.460] And like you said,
[01:22:57.480 --> 01:23:00.560] you never know what you may need in a toolkit.
[01:23:03.930 --> 01:23:07.510] I mean, I've went through periods where
[01:23:07.510 --> 01:23:10.090] instead of letting money burn a hole in my pocket,
[01:23:10.950 --> 01:23:12.390] sit down with a piece of paper in the pencil
[01:23:12.390 --> 01:23:13.830] and figure out what else I need
[01:23:15.400 --> 01:23:18.480] and paying for things intentionally
[01:23:19.140 --> 01:23:23.400] helped save the crisis later down the line.
[01:23:23.540 --> 01:23:25.820] Because when it occurred, it was, okay, I got that.
[01:23:25.980 --> 01:23:27.420] Okay, I got that.
[01:23:28.460 --> 01:23:31.960] Man, like that 70 to 200 lens.
[01:23:32.660 --> 01:23:32.880] Yeah, wow.
[01:23:33.520 --> 01:23:37.200] That is, boy, the story that goes along with that,
[01:23:38.360 --> 01:23:43.280] it was, I paid twice as much as what it cost.
[01:23:44.080 --> 01:23:44.840] Ain't that expensive?
[01:23:44.840 --> 01:23:50.590] I mean, yeah, but I made it affordable,
[01:23:51.960 --> 01:23:53.480] paid for it over time.
[01:23:53.820 --> 01:23:55.560] And I looked at it and said,
[01:23:55.560 --> 01:23:59.140] I'd rather have it now than need it later.
[01:24:01.540 --> 01:24:05.120] And that one lens, just from the,
[01:24:05.180 --> 01:24:07.100] just from people seeing me shooting,
[01:24:08.120 --> 01:24:10.800] changed everything before they even seen my work.
[01:24:11.340 --> 01:24:19.280] And that's what helped me into this realm of photography
[01:24:20.220 --> 01:24:22.560] where I knew everything to get
[01:24:23.160 --> 01:24:24.980] when I got back into photography.
[01:24:26.830 --> 01:24:30.870] And I knew what it was gonna cost in order to get it.
[01:24:31.230 --> 01:24:33.970] So I had to put a budget together
[01:24:33.970 --> 01:24:36.670] and I had to explain that budget to my wife
[01:24:36.670 --> 01:24:37.650] at the same time.
[01:24:37.810 --> 01:24:39.610] Like, listen, I'm gonna spend a lot of money
[01:24:39.610 --> 01:24:41.450] over a short period of time.
[01:24:41.630 --> 01:24:43.330] You're gonna see a lot of things come in here
[01:24:43.330 --> 01:24:45.210] and I'm telling you everything that I get,
[01:24:45.570 --> 01:24:46.430] I'm gonna need.
[01:24:47.650 --> 01:24:49.110] Why you need six bags?
[01:24:51.690 --> 01:24:53.390] Wow, yeah.
[01:24:54.290 --> 01:24:57.410] You got six different camera bags.
[01:24:57.470 --> 01:24:59.970] What do you need six different camera bags for?
[01:25:00.190 --> 01:25:02.710] Well, it depends on what type of shoot I'm going to.
[01:25:03.870 --> 01:25:07.750] Different camera bags carry equipment differently.
[01:25:08.850 --> 01:25:09.930] And when you show up,
[01:25:09.970 --> 01:25:12.030] you always wanna show up as a professional.
[01:25:12.390 --> 01:25:14.350] So you don't want a rinky dink bag.
[01:25:15.050 --> 01:25:16.470] You don't wanna come in,
[01:25:16.530 --> 01:25:17.910] instead of having a camera book bag,
[01:25:17.970 --> 01:25:20.330] you just come in with a book bag.
[01:25:21.510 --> 01:25:25.470] It changes the way people perceive you as a profession.
[01:25:26.010 --> 01:25:28.770] If you walk with your chin up and your chest poked out,
[01:25:28.950 --> 01:25:32.750] people gonna respect you and look at you different.
[01:25:33.210 --> 01:25:36.390] And that's what I knew going into it.
[01:25:36.430 --> 01:25:40.350] If you talk with a louder voice,
[01:25:41.390 --> 01:25:42.810] no matter if it's deep or loud,
[01:25:42.830 --> 01:25:46.370] but if you project, people gonna listen more.
[01:25:46.650 --> 01:25:48.390] They gonna take direction more
[01:25:48.390 --> 01:25:50.330] than if you whisper everything that you say.
[01:25:50.810 --> 01:25:53.990] But whispering also has its own benefit
[01:25:53.990 --> 01:25:55.790] when you're in small groups.
[01:25:55.910 --> 01:25:58.790] Because if you want somebody to really pay attention
[01:25:58.790 --> 01:26:01.210] to what you're saying, they gotta lean in.
[01:26:02.170 --> 01:26:03.650] Now you know who's interested.
[01:26:08.480 --> 01:26:11.140] It all comes kind of like full circle
[01:26:11.140 --> 01:26:12.760] because you learn different things.
[01:26:12.800 --> 01:26:14.820] And I'm quite sure in your walking life,
[01:26:14.860 --> 01:26:18.360] you've learned things not necessarily
[01:26:19.160 --> 01:26:20.980] that was photography related,
[01:26:22.300 --> 01:26:26.100] but helped you in your craft and photography
[01:26:26.100 --> 01:26:29.720] because of the skill that you possess from what you are.
[01:26:35.970 --> 01:26:37.110] And I wanna ask you,
[01:26:37.150 --> 01:26:41.790] what would you say to a young creative entrepreneur
[01:26:43.070 --> 01:26:45.730] that wants to get in their field,
[01:26:45.750 --> 01:26:50.130] whether it's acting or photography, video,
[01:26:50.870 --> 01:26:53.790] or any other creative field and become an entrepreneur,
[01:26:53.870 --> 01:26:54.710] what would you say to them?
[01:26:54.990 --> 01:26:56.070] Get in it.
[01:26:56.070 --> 01:26:57.690] Get in it.
[01:27:00.480 --> 01:27:04.900] However it works for you, get in it.
[01:27:04.900 --> 01:27:06.940] Don't sit on the sidelines talking about
[01:27:06.940 --> 01:27:11.020] what you wanna do and you're not actively doing it.
[01:27:11.020 --> 01:27:12.960] You're not actually pursuing it.
[01:27:14.740 --> 01:27:17.560] Now you have YouTube University.
[01:27:18.440 --> 01:27:24.990] You have so many places you can go to the library.
[01:27:25.090 --> 01:27:25.890] It used to be the only place
[01:27:25.890 --> 01:27:27.330] you can go to get information.
[01:27:28.130 --> 01:27:29.790] Now you can do internships.
[01:27:32.130 --> 01:27:35.850] Surf the web, chat GPT, Google.
[01:27:40.100 --> 01:27:42.420] And learning isn't just consuming.
[01:27:43.100 --> 01:27:45.020] I'm gonna sit here and I'm gonna watch four videos
[01:27:45.020 --> 01:27:47.460] about lenses and, okay.
[01:27:47.940 --> 01:27:49.580] But what did you obtain from that?
[01:27:50.320 --> 01:27:51.260] Where your notes at?
[01:27:51.740 --> 01:27:54.020] What you gonna sit back when it's screen not there
[01:27:54.020 --> 01:27:55.680] and you gonna go over and say,
[01:27:56.220 --> 01:28:00.910] okay, yeah, that's what the triangle is.
[01:28:03.220 --> 01:28:05.060] ISO, what is ISO, ISO?
[01:28:06.500 --> 01:28:11.460] Oh, okay, okay, this is why ISO is one to 100, 200.
[01:28:11.500 --> 01:28:13.000] That's the film speed, okay.
[01:28:13.480 --> 01:28:16.540] Now you got the references to go back to
[01:28:16.540 --> 01:28:21.640] and you're not just trying to hoard
[01:28:21.640 --> 01:28:24.940] or download all of this information into you.
[01:28:25.240 --> 01:28:27.660] Just because you watch it, you gonna remember it.
[01:28:28.240 --> 01:28:29.500] Just because you watch it,
[01:28:29.700 --> 01:28:33.220] that's not telling the culture
[01:28:33.220 --> 01:28:35.020] that that's what you're interested in.
[01:28:35.540 --> 01:28:37.900] If you wanna be a dancer, hey.
[01:28:39.020 --> 01:28:41.020] Buy some dance clothes, you know.
[01:28:41.400 --> 01:28:44.540] Don't be scared to say, hey, play this music
[01:28:44.540 --> 01:28:46.200] and now people gotta watch you dance.
[01:28:46.320 --> 01:28:46.660] Right.
[01:28:48.480 --> 01:28:50.660] Yeah, so you gotta do it.
[01:28:50.760 --> 01:28:53.840] You wanna, and it could be anything.
[01:28:54.160 --> 01:28:56.840] You wanna be a doctor, you know.
[01:28:57.440 --> 01:29:00.780] Get you a, get you a telescope, you know.
[01:29:00.820 --> 01:29:02.220] Go around and anything.
[01:29:02.320 --> 01:29:04.920] Hey, can I listen to your heartbeat?
[01:29:05.180 --> 01:29:05.500] Yeah.
[01:29:06.100 --> 01:29:08.340] I think we do it as kids
[01:29:08.340 --> 01:29:09.860] but not necessarily as adults.
[01:29:10.440 --> 01:29:12.620] Like, you know, especially Halloween kids
[01:29:12.620 --> 01:29:15.380] be different things every other year
[01:29:15.380 --> 01:29:16.600] using their imagination.
[01:29:17.160 --> 01:29:18.940] Or even when they're playing together,
[01:29:19.180 --> 01:29:22.620] or they're dinosaur, they be whatever they wanna be.
[01:29:23.140 --> 01:29:25.040] But we get older and we kinda lose that.
[01:29:25.060 --> 01:29:27.880] And that's the worst experience that we have as adults
[01:29:27.880 --> 01:29:32.960] because we get pushed out to having to have a job.
[01:29:33.300 --> 01:29:37.440] And for us as black men, having to provide.
[01:29:38.340 --> 01:29:41.340] When you go out here and you've been creating life,
[01:29:41.860 --> 01:29:43.480] now you're not only providing for yourself
[01:29:43.480 --> 01:29:44.960] but you're providing for others.
[01:29:46.800 --> 01:29:51.040] Now, you don't got the time for the imagination.
[01:29:51.860 --> 01:29:52.580] Time or energy.
[01:29:52.840 --> 01:29:54.340] Because you gotta produce.
[01:29:55.420 --> 01:29:57.940] And in that producing, you burning that energy
[01:29:57.940 --> 01:29:59.760] so now you don't have the energy
[01:29:59.760 --> 01:30:04.200] to put toward the imagination and the vision.
[01:30:04.200 --> 01:30:06.640] And when you, as humans,
[01:30:08.280 --> 01:30:11.120] and we don't have humans around us
[01:30:11.120 --> 01:30:13.840] to fuel our imagination,
[01:30:14.640 --> 01:30:17.780] to ask the questions, to get the answers,
[01:30:18.100 --> 01:30:20.000] to go out and experience it,
[01:30:21.860 --> 01:30:24.620] then we have no choice but to fall in line
[01:30:24.620 --> 01:30:26.780] and get a job, go to work, pay the bills.
[01:30:27.440 --> 01:30:30.700] And after a while, from the experience of it,
[01:30:30.720 --> 01:30:31.520] it's mind-numbing.
[01:30:32.120 --> 01:30:32.900] I gotta get up again.
[01:30:33.400 --> 01:30:36.020] Mondays, we dread Mondays.
[01:30:36.180 --> 01:30:39.180] Monday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday,
[01:30:39.400 --> 01:30:41.200] hope it's a three-day, four-day weekend.
[01:30:42.700 --> 01:30:44.120] Now go back to work.
[01:30:44.900 --> 01:30:48.860] And we grow up in an environment that teaches
[01:30:49.800 --> 01:30:50.860] this is sad.
[01:30:54.150 --> 01:30:55.610] Yeah, like the hamster will of life
[01:30:55.610 --> 01:30:58.090] is keep going and going and going, nothing changed.
[01:30:58.850 --> 01:31:00.750] You're not doing what you wanna do.
[01:31:01.290 --> 01:31:02.670] You're doing what you gotta do now.
[01:31:02.750 --> 01:31:03.810] Doing what you gotta do, yeah.
[01:31:03.810 --> 01:31:06.330] And now let somebody step on your toe.
[01:31:06.650 --> 01:31:09.170] Or now let somebody bump into you.
[01:31:09.250 --> 01:31:11.970] Or now let somebody talk to you any kind of way.
[01:31:14.010 --> 01:31:16.430] You know, you're having these dreams,
[01:31:16.450 --> 01:31:18.550] but you're living in somebody else's dream.
[01:31:19.650 --> 01:31:20.630] Thought you gotta pay the bills.
[01:31:21.530 --> 01:31:23.810] So what I try to tell the young men,
[01:31:24.750 --> 01:31:26.290] hey, first thing you need to do
[01:31:27.730 --> 01:31:29.150] is you need to provide,
[01:31:29.450 --> 01:31:31.090] learn how to provide for yourself.
[01:31:31.850 --> 01:31:34.510] Once you learn how to provide for yourself,
[01:31:35.370 --> 01:31:36.790] learn the responsibility.
[01:31:40.770 --> 01:31:43.710] And the first responsibility comes shelter.
[01:31:44.950 --> 01:31:46.450] I don't care if you're living in your car,
[01:31:47.470 --> 01:31:48.950] but you have to have that shelter.
[01:31:50.030 --> 01:31:53.590] You gotta get to the point where you have the ability
[01:31:53.590 --> 01:31:57.310] to move in this realm, this world,
[01:31:58.290 --> 01:31:59.770] the way life pulls you to.
[01:32:00.170 --> 01:32:02.430] Everybody gonna go to sleep, everybody gonna wake up.
[01:32:02.550 --> 01:32:03.630] What time you gonna get up?
[01:32:04.630 --> 01:32:07.290] The military taught me,
[01:32:07.470 --> 01:32:11.790] listen, your day can start at 3.30 a.m.
[01:32:14.060 --> 01:32:15.720] And it's a full day.
[01:32:17.840 --> 01:32:21.860] And when you lay down at 8 p.m., lights.
[01:32:26.290 --> 01:32:28.390] If I never would've left Cleveland,
[01:32:30.230 --> 01:32:31.910] never would've experienced that.
[01:32:32.290 --> 01:32:35.070] Never would've experienced that whole,
[01:32:35.170 --> 01:32:36.690] I joined the military when they,
[01:32:36.750 --> 01:32:38.330] we'd do more before 6 a.m.
[01:32:38.330 --> 01:32:39.730] than most people do all day.
[01:32:39.990 --> 01:32:40.410] Yeah.
[01:32:40.410 --> 01:32:41.090] Wow.
[01:32:41.510 --> 01:32:41.990] Yeah.
[01:32:42.530 --> 01:32:46.890] But some people, they don't get up until 11, 12 o'clock,
[01:32:47.530 --> 01:32:50.590] one o'clock, and they wanna make it sound
[01:32:50.590 --> 01:32:54.330] like it was exciting that they slept all fucking day.
[01:32:55.630 --> 01:32:57.390] Yeah, I ain't get up to 12 o'clock.
[01:32:58.310 --> 01:33:00.170] Yeah, I ain't get up until I was,
[01:33:00.210 --> 01:33:02.170] I ain't get out the house til 1.30, man.
[01:33:02.630 --> 01:33:04.370] Yeah, and that's exciting.
[01:33:05.830 --> 01:33:08.370] I'm supposed to congratulate.
[01:33:09.100 --> 01:33:11.650] Nah, you missed the whole damn day.
[01:33:12.110 --> 01:33:12.390] Oh yeah.
[01:33:12.930 --> 01:33:14.690] Life just passed you by.
[01:33:15.630 --> 01:33:18.050] I had one young cadet with me, he's 17.
[01:33:19.470 --> 01:33:21.050] We out at seven o'clock in the morning.
[01:33:21.130 --> 01:33:22.910] I picked him up about 7.30.
[01:33:23.330 --> 01:33:27.190] We riding around, going to a cut.
[01:33:28.570 --> 01:33:32.090] And he's seeing people working for the city.
[01:33:32.570 --> 01:33:33.450] He's seeing traffic.
[01:33:33.770 --> 01:33:35.830] He's seeing people moving, doing things.
[01:33:36.310 --> 01:33:39.830] And he like, man, I ain't know there's too many people up
[01:33:39.830 --> 01:33:41.250] this time of the day.
[01:33:41.610 --> 01:33:43.470] Yeah, man, there's a whole world out here.
[01:33:44.170 --> 01:33:44.790] Whole world.
[01:33:45.870 --> 01:33:48.290] And you ain't left off the east side of Cleveland.
[01:33:50.030 --> 01:33:52.050] So let me explain to you, get out here.
[01:33:52.290 --> 01:33:54.650] I tell them, get out here and experience it, man.
[01:33:55.150 --> 01:33:59.110] Get out here and learn that life is a lot.
[01:34:05.810 --> 01:34:06.710] It is what we making.
[01:34:10.760 --> 01:34:12.300] You know, we spoke on imagination.
[01:34:12.680 --> 01:34:14.600] Imagination is definitely big.
[01:34:15.300 --> 01:34:17.700] It's going back to camera having that image.
[01:34:18.740 --> 01:34:22.360] But as we sit here in this room here,
[01:34:22.640 --> 01:34:24.800] shooting the podcast or filming the podcast,
[01:34:26.460 --> 01:34:29.700] I know this space will be transformed
[01:34:29.700 --> 01:34:34.100] to a podcast space and location people could come to.
[01:34:34.440 --> 01:34:36.040] How soon can we expect that?
[01:34:36.980 --> 01:34:39.480] I'm looking at, see, October.
[01:34:39.780 --> 01:34:40.920] It's in like, we here now.
[01:34:42.260 --> 01:34:44.440] It's available now.
[01:34:45.080 --> 01:34:47.540] It's just not the way I want it to be.
[01:34:47.640 --> 01:34:49.780] It's not where my imagination has it at.
[01:34:52.800 --> 01:34:57.060] Those are foam panels in those bags right there.
[01:34:57.220 --> 01:34:58.980] Those go up, you know.
[01:34:59.120 --> 01:35:01.600] This just got tables and chairs sitting around the place.
[01:35:01.660 --> 01:35:04.900] And we came and we put some lights up and, you know,
[01:35:07.780 --> 01:35:09.940] so it's a...
[01:35:09.940 --> 01:35:11.480] Just doing it, you know, no excuses.
[01:35:11.740 --> 01:35:12.240] Just doing it.
[01:35:12.340 --> 01:35:13.420] You know, this setup right here,
[01:35:13.420 --> 01:35:15.440] I just set this up last night
[01:35:15.440 --> 01:35:17.960] because I wanted to see what the space will provide.
[01:35:17.960 --> 01:35:21.280] Could I set three tables up in here?
[01:35:21.540 --> 01:35:22.260] What would it look like?
[01:35:22.340 --> 01:35:23.880] What would it feel like, you know?
[01:35:24.100 --> 01:35:26.420] It was just me in here and I'm moving this stand around
[01:35:26.420 --> 01:35:27.220] like it's a person.
[01:35:27.320 --> 01:35:30.000] Like, okay, I want to see what that space looks like
[01:35:30.000 --> 01:35:32.760] for somebody sitting across the table from.
[01:35:33.980 --> 01:35:35.880] So this right here is a setup
[01:35:36.760 --> 01:35:40.340] that wasn't even part of the idea of the setup,
[01:35:40.340 --> 01:35:45.260] but it's being used within that setup, you know?
[01:35:45.260 --> 01:35:46.480] We just came.
[01:35:46.680 --> 01:35:47.620] Hey, I told you, go in here.
[01:35:47.640 --> 01:35:50.680] Hey, go, make yourself at home and find a spot, you know?
[01:35:50.940 --> 01:35:52.040] You ain't come in and say,
[01:35:52.080 --> 01:35:53.520] hey, let's move this right here
[01:35:53.520 --> 01:35:54.680] and put this over here.
[01:35:54.860 --> 01:35:55.520] I want it done.
[01:35:56.560 --> 01:35:58.580] Pulled up the chairs, sat down and said,
[01:35:58.640 --> 01:35:59.200] all right, boom,
[01:35:59.300 --> 01:36:00.400] this is where we're going to do this.
[01:36:02.220 --> 01:36:04.800] That's the biggest part of starting.
[01:36:05.460 --> 01:36:07.740] You know, a lot of times we want it to start for us.
[01:36:07.760 --> 01:36:11.800] We want somebody else to get the momentum going.
[01:36:11.920 --> 01:36:14.700] We want somebody else to have the vision
[01:36:14.700 --> 01:36:16.780] and we want to come take their vision
[01:36:18.840 --> 01:36:21.380] and now do something with it.
[01:36:21.380 --> 01:36:25.200] And it's like, don't work like that.
[01:36:31.820 --> 01:36:32.520] It's a nation.
[01:36:33.180 --> 01:36:36.320] And when we can come together and we can create together,
[01:36:36.660 --> 01:36:38.420] it's like, when we go out and we shoot,
[01:36:39.060 --> 01:36:41.320] we can take pictures of the same exact thing.
[01:36:42.520 --> 01:36:46.040] But when we sit back and now we're critiquing our work,
[01:36:46.680 --> 01:36:48.440] damn, that was a,
[01:36:48.540 --> 01:36:50.720] you saw that Gatorade bottle from that angle?
[01:36:51.180 --> 01:36:52.760] Right, perspective, yeah.
[01:36:53.220 --> 01:36:54.840] What was you shooting that with?
[01:36:56.220 --> 01:36:57.660] Cause that made a difference.
[01:36:59.140 --> 01:37:01.600] That depth of field, oh man, wow.
[01:37:08.290 --> 01:37:11.490] But you take all of that and you bring it together.
[01:37:11.750 --> 01:37:13.070] And then when you have people,
[01:37:13.410 --> 01:37:15.670] see another thing I like about photography is,
[01:37:16.030 --> 01:37:19.690] when you have people who have never worked together,
[01:37:20.610 --> 01:37:21.750] but know what they're,
[01:37:24.980 --> 01:37:26.800] you don't even have to know what you're doing
[01:37:26.800 --> 01:37:27.520] half the time,
[01:37:27.520 --> 01:37:29.300] you just got to know some of the terminology
[01:37:29.300 --> 01:37:31.380] and be willing to help.
[01:37:32.380 --> 01:37:34.000] Willing to do something
[01:37:34.000 --> 01:37:36.240] that you don't always got your hand out for.
[01:37:36.940 --> 01:37:39.360] Cause in this field I learned,
[01:37:40.960 --> 01:37:43.320] it's like, it covers the same thing
[01:37:43.320 --> 01:37:44.340] with cutting grass.
[01:37:45.440 --> 01:37:46.720] I can't take every picture.
[01:37:46.920 --> 01:37:48.420] I can't cut every yard.
[01:37:49.380 --> 01:37:53.380] But if I know enough people that have lawnmowers,
[01:37:54.280 --> 01:37:56.580] I know enough people that have cameras,
[01:37:57.280 --> 01:37:59.300] when they come down to when the phone ring
[01:37:59.300 --> 01:38:00.060] and somebody say,
[01:38:00.320 --> 01:38:01.840] hey Sean, can you come cut this?
[01:38:02.140 --> 01:38:03.460] Can you come take this?
[01:38:03.500 --> 01:38:06.900] And I can say, no, I can't, but alien can.
[01:38:08.040 --> 01:38:09.280] No, I can't.
[01:38:09.680 --> 01:38:11.940] But this young dude over here,
[01:38:12.120 --> 01:38:13.860] I know he need to make some money
[01:38:13.860 --> 01:38:15.820] and he been in the house for two days.
[01:38:16.160 --> 01:38:17.340] He need to get out.
[01:38:24.240 --> 01:38:24.720] I want him to do.
[01:38:27.860 --> 01:38:32.540] I ask all my creative people this question.
[01:38:35.120 --> 01:38:38.260] You know, thinking of your creative process
[01:38:38.260 --> 01:38:40.960] as a weather forecast, what would that be?
[01:38:43.470 --> 01:38:44.930] Create, say that again.
[01:38:45.730 --> 01:38:48.510] So we all have this thought process
[01:38:48.510 --> 01:38:50.150] and this creative process.
[01:38:51.650 --> 01:38:53.470] Throughout your creative process,
[01:38:53.770 --> 01:38:56.630] how would you explain it if it was a weather forecast?
[01:38:59.300 --> 01:39:00.140] In the morning,
[01:39:02.250 --> 01:39:05.090] sun might come out with a rainbow around noon.
[01:39:05.310 --> 01:39:06.090] It's not promised.
[01:39:07.010 --> 01:39:09.650] Like if you look up, you just might see it.
[01:39:12.620 --> 01:39:13.760] Be ready.
[01:39:14.820 --> 01:39:15.940] Cause the weather gonna change.
[01:39:16.200 --> 01:39:16.520] Like Cleveland.
[01:39:17.000 --> 01:39:17.460] Like Cleveland, yeah.
[01:39:17.840 --> 01:39:19.860] The weather, you can prepare
[01:39:19.860 --> 01:39:23.260] for what the forecast say is gonna be,
[01:39:23.380 --> 01:39:25.420] but be prepared for if it's not.
[01:39:27.450 --> 01:39:29.750] And that's pretty much landscape
[01:39:29.750 --> 01:39:30.850] and photography the same thing.
[01:39:30.870 --> 01:39:33.530] I wake up some days and I have a shot that I did.
[01:39:41.820 --> 01:39:44.540] Cause the shot, it burned the,
[01:39:44.540 --> 01:39:47.220] I say it burned the image in my brain
[01:39:47.220 --> 01:39:48.680] over the course of time.
[01:39:49.500 --> 01:39:52.900] Where I saw the shot before I went and took the shot.
[01:39:54.300 --> 01:39:56.440] And when I got there to the location,
[01:39:56.720 --> 01:39:58.500] it was a certain time of the morning
[01:39:58.500 --> 01:40:00.920] that you had to get there in order to get the shot.
[01:40:01.120 --> 01:40:03.560] So you had to backtrack to prepare
[01:40:03.560 --> 01:40:06.940] to be there before the sun came up.
[01:40:10.000 --> 01:40:12.760] When I got there, everything,
[01:40:12.960 --> 01:40:14.280] the ride there was great.
[01:40:14.500 --> 01:40:19.340] You know, I'm always excited about the transition
[01:40:19.340 --> 01:40:21.180] from point A to point B
[01:40:21.180 --> 01:40:23.740] because we spent so much time doing that.
[01:40:23.760 --> 01:40:25.440] Why can't that be exciting too?
[01:40:27.240 --> 01:40:28.380] Enjoy the journey.
[01:40:29.480 --> 01:40:31.640] And in the journey to get there,
[01:40:35.280 --> 01:40:36.980] birds flying all over the place.
[01:40:37.640 --> 01:40:39.380] I didn't see the birds in my vision.
[01:40:40.980 --> 01:40:43.620] So the anxiety set in,
[01:40:44.360 --> 01:40:46.140] the stress set in.
[01:40:49.020 --> 01:40:50.580] I got tools in my toolbox now,
[01:40:50.580 --> 01:40:51.880] so let me deal with that.
[01:40:52.500 --> 01:40:53.940] Yeah, and some breathing exercises.
[01:40:58.150 --> 01:40:59.730] I'm still gonna take this picture.
[01:41:00.410 --> 01:41:03.930] And like how you said with the filter, the ND filter.
[01:41:04.630 --> 01:41:07.870] I had the variable ND filter on there.
[01:41:08.590 --> 01:41:10.730] So now the sun is starting to come up.
[01:41:10.850 --> 01:41:12.010] I'm in location.
[01:41:12.770 --> 01:41:16.430] And now I'm twisting this filter ever so slightly.
[01:41:16.650 --> 01:41:19.830] I'm shooting digital raw, so I can just keep.
[01:41:24.580 --> 01:41:26.140] You know, when you get the shot
[01:41:26.140 --> 01:41:28.240] and you know when you hit it and it's the one,
[01:41:28.360 --> 01:41:32.140] you say, ooh, the light did something
[01:41:32.140 --> 01:41:35.020] where it didn't came and hit something
[01:41:35.020 --> 01:41:37.500] and it didn't, something that happened
[01:41:37.500 --> 01:41:42.320] and you just say, ooh, and you just, and it's bird.
[01:41:42.560 --> 01:41:46.300] I was comfortable with the shot,
[01:41:46.300 --> 01:41:48.400] but I didn't expect the birds.
[01:41:48.440 --> 01:41:50.040] And when I printed the shot,
[01:41:53.360 --> 01:41:54.940] when you look at the picture,
[01:41:55.200 --> 01:41:57.120] you can just never stop counting the birds.
[01:41:57.140 --> 01:41:58.380] And it's so relaxing.
[01:41:59.020 --> 01:42:02.880] It's like the shot for me is just so cool.
[01:42:03.140 --> 01:42:06.220] And it's all of these birds in the shot.
[01:42:06.320 --> 01:42:08.460] And when you first look at it, you don't see the birds.
[01:42:08.460 --> 01:42:11.360] You see the sunrise, you see the lake,
[01:42:12.020 --> 01:42:13.580] you see the silhouettes of the building.
[01:42:14.200 --> 01:42:16.920] And then you say, hold on, that's a bird.
[01:42:17.120 --> 01:42:18.260] That's a bird, that's a bird.
[01:42:18.440 --> 01:42:19.500] Then you start counting the bird.
[01:42:20.280 --> 01:42:22.120] I've still yet to count all the birds
[01:42:22.120 --> 01:42:28.400] and I've counted a lot of birds.
[01:42:28.540 --> 01:42:30.080] I was saying, did I ever see that one?
[01:42:30.640 --> 01:42:34.390] I don't know, no.
[01:42:34.610 --> 01:42:35.310] I took it to my-
[01:42:35.310 --> 01:42:36.090] Did you print that one?
[01:42:36.330 --> 01:42:37.250] I printed it.
[01:42:37.370 --> 01:42:38.950] I posted it before, I know that.
[01:42:39.050 --> 01:42:40.770] But when I printed it, I took it to the VA.
[01:42:40.930 --> 01:42:44.090] It took it, I'm hanging in my counselor's office.
[01:42:44.910 --> 01:42:46.970] And that was a transition for me
[01:42:46.970 --> 01:42:51.830] because that gave me the ability to shoot for me.
[01:42:52.470 --> 01:42:53.890] When you're shooting pictures of people,
[01:42:53.950 --> 01:42:55.170] you're shooting for those people.
[01:42:55.190 --> 01:42:56.630] Because I want to take a picture of you
[01:42:56.630 --> 01:42:57.470] that you gonna like.
[01:42:58.070 --> 01:42:59.890] And that's how I got into photography
[01:42:59.890 --> 01:43:02.450] because you gonna pay me for the picture
[01:43:02.450 --> 01:43:03.570] that I take of you.
[01:43:04.770 --> 01:43:07.270] But now if I can take a picture of something,
[01:43:07.550 --> 01:43:10.190] a flower, a bus,
[01:43:10.750 --> 01:43:14.010] you know, six, seven people might like that picture.
[01:43:15.270 --> 01:43:17.390] Sunrise, sunset, you know,
[01:43:17.590 --> 01:43:19.290] some more people might like that picture.
[01:43:19.970 --> 01:43:23.010] And if they like it enough, they'll pay for it.
[01:43:23.370 --> 01:43:26.030] And now you've created a whole nother revenue stream
[01:43:26.030 --> 01:43:29.370] because you have pictures that multiple people like.
[01:43:32.730 --> 01:43:34.010] Taking pictures of other people
[01:43:34.010 --> 01:43:36.190] would call me be so, you know,
[01:43:36.190 --> 01:43:37.650] to that person or the family
[01:43:37.650 --> 01:43:39.610] or people that know them directly, so.
[01:43:40.330 --> 01:43:44.210] But like you said, the iconic shot, Count the Birds,
[01:43:45.130 --> 01:43:46.770] you know, that could be thousands, millions.
[01:43:49.220 --> 01:43:56.160] I kind of, the strangest photo shoot I ever did
[01:43:56.540 --> 01:44:00.260] was I took a wedding photo to blind people.
[01:44:03.890 --> 01:44:08.730] Their reasoning for wanting to have pictures
[01:44:08.730 --> 01:44:12.570] of the wedding was they had a daughter
[01:44:13.350 --> 01:44:15.710] and she was a little infant kid at the time,
[01:44:15.710 --> 01:44:16.550] but she wasn't blind.
[01:44:17.390 --> 01:44:22.620] And they wanted to have that memory
[01:44:22.620 --> 01:44:25.720] for her to see when she got out.
[01:44:31.020 --> 01:44:32.640] So this, you know, this,
[01:44:34.020 --> 01:44:35.640] it can take you some places.
[01:44:39.970 --> 01:44:40.770] Me, yeah, man.
[01:44:42.810 --> 01:44:44.250] It's been an experience.
[01:44:44.350 --> 01:44:45.290] I've enjoyed it.
[01:44:45.290 --> 01:44:48.910] I'm excited about the next phase of it.
[01:44:49.670 --> 01:44:52.030] I'm excited about what this is gonna do.
[01:44:52.370 --> 01:44:54.410] I'm excited about what that's gonna do.
[01:44:54.610 --> 01:44:56.810] I'm excited about what that's gonna do.
[01:44:56.810 --> 01:45:05.050] You know, it's just exciting, man.
[01:45:05.330 --> 01:45:08.410] It's to be, for me, to be 51
[01:45:08.410 --> 01:45:10.810] and be in the position that I am in
[01:45:12.250 --> 01:45:16.830] is so inspiring for me to keep moving forward
[01:45:16.830 --> 01:45:20.630] because I see what I see
[01:45:20.630 --> 01:45:24.530] and I learned that trying to get somebody else
[01:45:24.530 --> 01:45:27.990] to see what you see is hard as hell,
[01:45:28.110 --> 01:45:30.110] but I can show you.
[01:45:30.810 --> 01:45:33.070] The only way I can show you is if I do the things
[01:45:33.070 --> 01:45:35.490] that it does in order to get to that point,
[01:45:35.890 --> 01:45:37.050] like coming in.
[01:45:37.710 --> 01:45:40.970] And I believe that life put things in front of you
[01:45:40.970 --> 01:45:44.270] to help make you understand
[01:45:44.270 --> 01:45:46.510] that you're on the right path,
[01:45:46.830 --> 01:45:48.930] just like it can put things in front of you
[01:45:48.930 --> 01:45:51.190] to say you're on the wrong path.
[01:45:51.890 --> 01:45:54.930] You know, I woke up this morning looking for a door
[01:45:54.930 --> 01:46:00.120] to build a wall and coming here today,
[01:46:00.900 --> 01:46:05.820] I was late because I saw a door on the side of the road
[01:46:05.820 --> 01:46:07.900] and said, okay, let me backtrack around
[01:46:07.900 --> 01:46:10.860] and pick that up because that was there for me.
[01:46:11.180 --> 01:46:13.140] That wasn't just there.
[01:46:13.580 --> 01:46:17.320] That was there for me.
[01:46:18.400 --> 01:46:19.780] How it was placed there,
[01:46:19.800 --> 01:46:21.900] even the person that put it there
[01:46:21.900 --> 01:46:24.460] don't even know and understand.
[01:46:24.980 --> 01:46:27.520] But I would have been foolish
[01:46:28.400 --> 01:46:33.280] to ride past that door and not stop to check it
[01:46:33.280 --> 01:46:35.080] to say, okay, I wonder if, guess what?
[01:46:35.440 --> 01:46:36.320] Is this intact?
[01:46:37.900 --> 01:46:39.820] Because we throw things away all the time.
[01:46:39.860 --> 01:46:41.060] All the time, you know?
[01:46:41.340 --> 01:46:42.880] But we don't want it no more
[01:46:42.880 --> 01:46:45.060] because we got a stain on it.
[01:46:45.620 --> 01:46:47.020] But guess what, I can put some paint over that.
[01:46:49.230 --> 01:46:50.570] Is it still in one piece?
[01:46:51.430 --> 01:46:53.730] You know, is the hinges broke on it or something?
[01:46:54.230 --> 01:46:55.730] You know what, they just threw this door away
[01:46:55.730 --> 01:46:57.950] because it didn't fit the new look
[01:46:57.950 --> 01:46:59.070] that they was going for.
[01:47:00.490 --> 01:47:04.570] And that door was there for me and I got it.
[01:47:07.790 --> 01:47:09.470] After hearing you today,
[01:47:09.730 --> 01:47:14.610] it's definitely a story of, you know,
[01:47:14.850 --> 01:47:16.130] executing off creativity
[01:47:16.130 --> 01:47:18.870] and then also it's that layer of resilience.
[01:47:22.430 --> 01:47:26.090] You know, also here, you know, you're always learning.
[01:47:26.610 --> 01:47:27.530] You're always growing.
[01:47:29.030 --> 01:47:32.290] Even through me, you know, you say you learn things
[01:47:33.010 --> 01:47:35.250] and that's, I think exactly one,
[01:47:35.350 --> 01:47:39.210] one and a half years in age difference.
[01:47:40.570 --> 01:47:46.370] Maybe exactly, wow, 30, 34, 17, yeah, 51, wow.
[01:47:49.510 --> 01:47:51.570] Like I said, you always learning, always growing.
[01:47:51.650 --> 01:47:54.630] How important it is always learning
[01:47:54.630 --> 01:47:56.090] no matter how old you get.
[01:47:57.670 --> 01:48:00.530] Cause if you stop, it stops.
[01:48:01.210 --> 01:48:02.330] If you stop learning,
[01:48:02.570 --> 01:48:03.730] just think if I never would have learned
[01:48:03.730 --> 01:48:05.170] how to use a digital camera
[01:48:05.170 --> 01:48:07.650] or I was never interested in figuring out
[01:48:07.650 --> 01:48:10.770] what wifi was or if I was fixed on,
[01:48:10.770 --> 01:48:12.330] I mean, when I got my first cell phone.
[01:48:13.290 --> 01:48:18.680] Oh man, this is, now I have a history with cell phones
[01:48:18.680 --> 01:48:20.420] that go back to the nineties
[01:48:20.420 --> 01:48:24.360] when we didn't have cell phones.
[01:48:24.420 --> 01:48:26.280] We were still running through pager.
[01:48:27.860 --> 01:48:30.320] But my experience with cell phones,
[01:48:30.500 --> 01:48:33.080] when I went to Germany in 99,
[01:48:33.280 --> 01:48:34.560] they didn't have house phones.
[01:48:34.560 --> 01:48:35.820] They had cell phones.
[01:48:36.600 --> 01:48:38.160] And it was like, wow.
[01:48:38.740 --> 01:48:38.820] I was-
[01:48:38.820 --> 01:48:39.940] Was it a satellite phone or?
[01:48:40.060 --> 01:48:42.400] No, these were cell phones, cell phones.
[01:48:42.660 --> 01:48:45.540] And it gave me the information
[01:48:45.540 --> 01:48:49.340] on how fast technology was for them.
[01:48:49.580 --> 01:48:52.540] I got introduced to the internet in Germany.
[01:48:53.280 --> 01:48:56.500] I got my first Yahoo account in Germany.
[01:48:57.440 --> 01:48:58.600] When I came back home,
[01:48:58.620 --> 01:49:02.400] I was already familiar with computers.
[01:49:02.400 --> 01:49:03.720] But at the same time,
[01:49:03.720 --> 01:49:04.700] I didn't know what they were gonna do.
[01:49:07.180 --> 01:49:09.940] But I was interested enough to say, ah.
[01:49:10.600 --> 01:49:12.740] And then I was around enough people
[01:49:12.740 --> 01:49:14.620] that I was interested in them to say,
[01:49:14.840 --> 01:49:16.920] hey, this is what this is doing right now.
[01:49:17.100 --> 01:49:19.840] Cause I remember Photoshop 5.0.
[01:49:21.440 --> 01:49:22.320] 7.0.
[01:49:22.900 --> 01:49:24.780] I had another photographer friend tell me,
[01:49:24.880 --> 01:49:25.280] he said, listen,
[01:49:26.040 --> 01:49:27.700] I'll teach you how to use Photoshop
[01:49:27.700 --> 01:49:28.760] if you buy the disc.
[01:49:29.540 --> 01:49:31.460] And the disc was $749.
[01:49:32.140 --> 01:49:32.580] Yeah.
[01:49:35.820 --> 01:49:37.620] You can't go get a bootleg copy of it.
[01:49:37.620 --> 01:49:39.420] You gotta buy it.
[01:49:39.420 --> 01:49:40.880] That's the way it was explained to me.
[01:49:43.940 --> 01:49:46.420] And it was, it's just always been,
[01:49:49.780 --> 01:49:54.000] if you want it enough and you understand
[01:49:54.960 --> 01:49:57.140] it's not gonna happen in your time,
[01:49:57.860 --> 01:49:59.540] but if you stay after it, yeah.
[01:49:59.720 --> 01:50:00.660] It's like Lailaway.
[01:50:01.200 --> 01:50:03.100] I don't gotta tell you I want this
[01:50:03.100 --> 01:50:06.160] and give you $10 and you go put it in the closet
[01:50:06.160 --> 01:50:08.100] and tell me when I finish paying for it,
[01:50:08.140 --> 01:50:09.160] you give it to me.
[01:50:09.760 --> 01:50:11.040] I know that's what I want.
[01:50:11.040 --> 01:50:13.000] I know it's gonna cost me.
[01:50:13.080 --> 01:50:15.520] I know, okay, when I do make some money,
[01:50:15.920 --> 01:50:17.920] this is what I need to do with the money.
[01:50:18.940 --> 01:50:21.100] Cause if I don't, guess what?
[01:50:21.600 --> 01:50:23.640] Everybody else got something to tell you
[01:50:23.640 --> 01:50:25.280] what to do with your money.
[01:50:26.300 --> 01:50:28.360] Everybody else got a reason
[01:50:28.360 --> 01:50:32.260] that your money is so important
[01:50:32.260 --> 01:50:35.640] for them to have to pay a bill,
[01:50:36.080 --> 01:50:37.260] to get what they want,
[01:50:37.880 --> 01:50:39.580] to do what they needed to do.
[01:50:40.480 --> 01:50:43.120] And once you learn how to say no,
[01:50:43.560 --> 01:50:47.840] it changes all of that because it's yours.
[01:50:48.420 --> 01:50:49.220] You earned that.
[01:50:50.680 --> 01:50:52.600] Now what you gonna do with it?
[01:50:52.820 --> 01:50:55.240] And that's the hardest thing,
[01:50:55.300 --> 01:50:58.140] I think we have to learn in life
[01:50:58.140 --> 01:51:00.540] and it's a time thing.
[01:51:00.980 --> 01:51:03.720] You have to get that time behind you
[01:51:03.720 --> 01:51:10.050] to understand and being put in the position
[01:51:11.090 --> 01:51:14.130] so that you can get the information the right way.
[01:51:14.990 --> 01:51:16.890] Some people go to jail to figure out,
[01:51:17.010 --> 01:51:18.230] hey, that's not where I wanna be.
[01:51:21.320 --> 01:51:22.540] Why do you gotta go there to find out
[01:51:22.540 --> 01:51:23.700] that's not where you wanna be?
[01:51:25.380 --> 01:51:29.000] Every story that I ever heard about jail
[01:51:29.580 --> 01:51:32.280] told me that's not where I wanna be.
[01:51:32.720 --> 01:51:33.500] Exactly, yeah.
[01:51:33.940 --> 01:51:36.440] So why do I have to put myself in a position
[01:51:36.440 --> 01:51:40.520] to be there for me to understand and realize
[01:51:40.520 --> 01:51:42.660] that's not where I wanna be?
[01:51:43.680 --> 01:51:44.740] Not that curious.
[01:51:48.710 --> 01:51:50.090] And that's the part of it.
[01:51:50.370 --> 01:51:52.670] I do right because it's right to do right.
[01:51:52.830 --> 01:51:55.070] I do right because it feels good to do right.
[01:51:55.190 --> 01:51:57.150] I sleep better at night.
[01:51:57.310 --> 01:52:01.010] When I do right, I ain't saying I always did right.
[01:52:01.690 --> 01:52:05.050] I did some wrong shit too and I don't sleep well.
[01:52:06.990 --> 01:52:12.230] That wasn't a restful night when I fucked up.
[01:52:12.970 --> 01:52:15.830] I made that decision and I didn't,
[01:52:15.830 --> 01:52:17.810] no, I didn't, no, no, no, no, no.
[01:52:17.930 --> 01:52:18.790] I shouldn't have did that.
[01:52:23.300 --> 01:52:25.000] I lived and I learned, man,
[01:52:25.000 --> 01:52:28.520] and I'm at a position in life now
[01:52:28.520 --> 01:52:29.940] where life is the lesson.
[01:52:31.080 --> 01:52:33.240] I'm not just telling people anything
[01:52:33.240 --> 01:52:36.380] that this is how you should do it.
[01:52:37.240 --> 01:52:42.080] I've lived this 51 years, 14 before.
[01:52:42.200 --> 01:52:44.720] I know what 14 feels like.
[01:52:45.460 --> 01:52:47.640] I still know what 14 feels like.
[01:52:48.380 --> 01:52:50.860] I know what 16 feels like.
[01:52:52.500 --> 01:52:59.540] I know what 17, 18, 21, 25, 32, 33, 35, 41, 40s.
[01:52:59.540 --> 01:53:05.680] I know what that feels like and I don't mind sharing.
[01:53:09.990 --> 01:53:14.130] With it all being said, as we wrap up the interview,
[01:53:15.890 --> 01:53:19.170] what would you say is your legacy
[01:53:20.050 --> 01:53:23.930] for everything you built business-wise
[01:53:23.930 --> 01:53:25.090] and then you individually?
[01:53:28.360 --> 01:53:32.420] The legacy part is I want everything
[01:53:32.420 --> 01:53:33.880] that I've become a part of
[01:53:33.880 --> 01:53:35.820] and the things that I'm gonna become a part of
[01:53:35.820 --> 01:53:38.560] in the future to continue to exist,
[01:53:38.680 --> 01:53:40.120] to continue to grow.
[01:53:41.020 --> 01:53:42.620] This flesh, this body,
[01:53:44.060 --> 01:53:46.460] all of this one day not be here.
[01:53:47.000 --> 01:53:50.240] But because of technology, now we have things like this.
[01:53:50.860 --> 01:53:53.240] Somebody somewhere might hear this video
[01:53:53.240 --> 01:53:56.040] and it might help them in life.
[01:53:56.040 --> 01:54:00.020] I had a chance at the end of the school year
[01:54:00.020 --> 01:54:05.660] to go to Daniel Morgan and talk to,
[01:54:05.820 --> 01:54:09.140] man, I talked to some five-year-olds.
[01:54:09.440 --> 01:54:12.260] They wasn't even born in 2020.
[01:54:12.480 --> 01:54:13.920] These are the COVID babies.
[01:54:15.000 --> 01:54:18.720] And I talked to first graders, second graders,
[01:54:18.960 --> 01:54:21.980] third graders, and I couldn't wait to get
[01:54:21.980 --> 01:54:22.760] to the eighth graders
[01:54:22.760 --> 01:54:24.260] because that's who I was there for.
[01:54:24.260 --> 01:54:26.780] And they were the last ones for me to talk to.
[01:54:27.740 --> 01:54:29.680] And that kept me there
[01:54:30.560 --> 01:54:33.480] because I remember when I was in the eighth grade,
[01:54:33.700 --> 01:54:36.120] I remember when I almost lost my life
[01:54:37.590 --> 01:54:41.390] and I remember the things that led up to me
[01:54:41.390 --> 01:54:42.810] almost losing my life.
[01:54:43.350 --> 01:54:46.130] And that experience in itself was something
[01:54:46.130 --> 01:54:49.510] that I wanted to talk to an eighth grader about
[01:54:49.510 --> 01:54:50.730] because, hey, man, listen,
[01:54:50.870 --> 01:54:52.530] I know this summer is about to happen.
[01:54:52.810 --> 01:54:54.690] I know next year you're going to high school
[01:54:54.690 --> 01:54:55.790] and guess what?
[01:54:56.010 --> 01:54:57.490] I know the things that you wanted
[01:54:57.490 --> 01:54:58.930] and things that you want to do,
[01:55:00.880 --> 01:55:02.340] but I can tell you, guess what?
[01:55:03.620 --> 01:55:05.660] This, doing it like this and doing it like this,
[01:55:05.800 --> 01:55:09.720] it ain't worth it because time,
[01:55:10.640 --> 01:55:13.160] it's not standing still for nobody.
[01:55:15.100 --> 01:55:16.700] And just like you're going to go to the ninth grade,
[01:55:16.840 --> 01:55:17.900] you're going to go to the 10th grade.
[01:55:19.810 --> 01:55:22.530] But if you get stuck on this stupid right here,
[01:55:25.180 --> 01:55:26.520] I can be the rest of your life.
[01:55:27.760 --> 01:55:29.300] I seen a video on YouTube
[01:55:29.300 --> 01:55:32.580] and I think I let you go on this one
[01:55:32.580 --> 01:55:36.640] where this guy, they pushed him through,
[01:55:36.900 --> 01:55:39.840] he climbed through the window to open the door
[01:55:39.840 --> 01:55:42.120] for a house that they were going to break into.
[01:55:43.720 --> 01:55:48.390] He was the driver, not the doer.
[01:55:50.080 --> 01:55:52.180] A man and his daughter lost their lives
[01:55:53.700 --> 01:55:56.420] through this craziness.
[01:55:57.870 --> 01:55:59.710] But when he sat in there with the police,
[01:56:00.230 --> 01:56:01.610] he explained to them,
[01:56:02.210 --> 01:56:03.810] and if you listen to the interview,
[01:56:04.330 --> 01:56:05.950] he was really, man, listen,
[01:56:05.950 --> 01:56:10.660] I didn't want to, they made me.
[01:56:11.900 --> 01:56:13.420] That wasn't what I was,
[01:56:13.960 --> 01:56:17.740] I didn't have nothing to do with them killing them people.
[01:56:18.660 --> 01:56:21.780] But you didn't already made yourself complicit
[01:56:22.480 --> 01:56:24.160] to the actual act
[01:56:24.160 --> 01:56:26.920] because now you've given them the information
[01:56:27.600 --> 01:56:29.760] that you didn't know not to give them
[01:56:29.760 --> 01:56:32.800] and now this young man doing 50 years of life.
[01:56:35.260 --> 01:56:36.700] And you didn't even do the crime,
[01:56:36.760 --> 01:56:38.000] you was just there
[01:56:38.620 --> 01:56:40.660] because you wasn't strong enough to say,
[01:56:40.840 --> 01:56:42.640] no, I'm not climbing through that window.
[01:56:46.290 --> 01:56:47.110] Life gone.
[01:56:54.600 --> 01:56:59.260] I had someone that had a similar thing,
[01:56:59.720 --> 01:57:01.500] no lives were lost though.
[01:57:12.570 --> 01:57:14.130] Caught up in the wrong environments,
[01:57:14.510 --> 01:57:16.090] caught around the wrong people
[01:57:16.670 --> 01:57:18.530] or people that don't even have a legacy
[01:57:18.530 --> 01:57:21.590] or that vision or that good direction in life.
[01:57:21.950 --> 01:57:23.170] Like you said earlier,
[01:57:23.850 --> 01:57:25.910] getting caught up in something that's positive,
[01:57:26.630 --> 01:57:29.030] doing stuff that's good for the environment,
[01:57:29.030 --> 01:57:30.130] doing right,
[01:57:31.210 --> 01:57:32.070] which is needed.
[01:57:33.230 --> 01:57:35.510] And I just applaud you
[01:57:35.510 --> 01:57:36.990] and thank you for being that example.
[01:57:39.940 --> 01:57:41.000] As we wrap up,
[01:57:41.240 --> 01:57:43.080] how can everybody find you,
[01:57:43.420 --> 01:57:45.480] locate you if they want to book you
[01:57:45.480 --> 01:57:49.640] or reach out to G6 or Liquid Vision Films?
[01:57:50.000 --> 01:57:50.620] How can they do that?
[01:57:50.960 --> 01:57:52.400] G6 No Gas,
[01:57:53.920 --> 01:57:55.060] that's the tag,
[01:57:56.320 --> 01:57:57.840] Instagram, Facebook.
[01:57:59.260 --> 01:58:01.120] I'm working on a YouTube page now.
[01:58:01.120 --> 01:58:02.360] YouTube, okay.
[01:58:04.920 --> 01:58:08.340] Underscore Liquid V Film on Instagram.
[01:58:09.080 --> 01:58:11.320] It's where I post some of my work at.
[01:58:12.620 --> 01:58:13.320] But other than that,
[01:58:13.400 --> 01:58:16.200] I mean, it's really just stay tuned
[01:58:16.200 --> 01:58:18.020] because it ain't even started yet.
[01:58:18.220 --> 01:58:21.080] It's just getting to that point.
[01:58:22.830 --> 01:58:26.050] And I just hope that I can help somebody
[01:58:27.050 --> 01:58:28.730] down the line,
[01:58:29.310 --> 01:58:31.770] make better decisions for themselves
[01:58:31.770 --> 01:58:33.970] as life move forward
[01:58:33.970 --> 01:58:38.670] because we need something to do.
[01:58:38.750 --> 01:58:41.290] And if this is something that you enjoy doing,
[01:58:41.810 --> 01:58:43.770] you just gotta get around the right people
[01:58:43.770 --> 01:58:46.250] that's doing what you enjoy to do.
[01:58:47.310 --> 01:58:48.370] And they gonna feed you
[01:58:48.370 --> 01:58:50.170] and they gonna teach you how to feed yourself.
[01:58:50.530 --> 01:58:51.990] That's the most important part.
[01:58:55.220 --> 01:58:56.080] Yes, yes.
[01:58:56.840 --> 01:58:57.680] And there you have it.
[01:58:57.740 --> 01:58:59.180] This is photographer Jackson,
[01:58:59.320 --> 01:59:02.340] Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos Media
[01:59:02.340 --> 01:59:04.640] bringing you another episode
[01:59:04.640 --> 01:59:06.840] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[01:59:06.840 --> 01:59:10.640] with Mr. Sean Lee Jones, my mentor, my brother.
[01:59:11.560 --> 01:59:13.440] Hey, taking this one to the top.
[01:59:14.020 --> 01:59:16.540] And if you wanna find me and book me,
[01:59:16.540 --> 01:59:19.960] visit alienizephotos.com
[01:59:19.960 --> 01:59:24.200] and follow me on all social media at Alienize Photos.
[01:59:24.640 --> 01:59:25.860] All right, till next time.
[01:59:26.160 --> 01:59:26.420] Peace.
[01:59:27.120 --> 01:59:27.620] Peace.

========================================================================
2. You Should Not Need a Setback to Get Focused Do the Work, Get Your Rest Creative Entrepreneurs
Season 1 · Episode 58
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/you-should-not-need-a-setback-to-get-focused-do-the-work-get
========================================================================

[00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:06.940] welcome everyone this is photographer Jackson and I'm sorry if I sound
[00:00:06.940 --> 00:00:16.630] nasally and all that currently under the weather getting better definitely had
[00:00:16.630 --> 00:00:22.510] to update you speak my mind and do the work while I take a little break and
[00:00:22.510 --> 00:00:35.950] recover it's as funny as you know we feel ill on the path of healing they feel
[00:00:35.950 --> 00:00:45.450] sick or whatever the case may be just not a hundred percent it's it's like we
[00:00:46.050 --> 00:00:54.510] journey and all of a sudden we get hyper focus once we get a hundred percent we
[00:00:54.510 --> 00:01:01.190] just we just do the work and that's kind of kind of what I'm on the path of
[00:01:01.190 --> 00:01:09.490] doing right now it's funny to say just just doing the work and being
[00:01:09.490 --> 00:01:16.170] hyper focused like I got so much done today after just recovering I'm almost
[00:01:16.170 --> 00:01:22.350] a hundred percent as you can hear I'm still nasally like I was going through
[00:01:22.350 --> 00:01:31.590] it I don't even speak about the past few days it's been aching and sore it's been
[00:01:31.590 --> 00:01:39.710] crazy but the recovery is good I'm feeling much better and I just been
[00:01:39.710 --> 00:01:45.010] getting work done I've just been knocking out a lot of things I had time to sit
[00:01:45.010 --> 00:01:53.250] there lay there think about everything I had to do once I found the strength had
[00:01:53.250 --> 00:02:01.170] the energy to do all these things I've just been doing it I've been really
[00:02:01.170 --> 00:02:06.330] really knocking out everything I had on my list that I'm supposed to do
[00:02:06.330 --> 00:02:14.130] should be doing could be doing pass through I just begin to done so I'm
[00:02:14.130 --> 00:02:21.950] encouraging anyone to get sick or ill or any of those things but try to get hyper
[00:02:21.950 --> 00:02:32.050] focus don't don't let you know these misfortunes and setbacks be the only
[00:02:32.050 --> 00:02:40.550] way to catapult you forward that's more so a word and lesson for me but
[00:02:40.550 --> 00:02:47.690] if you could receive it take it in definitely do but I just want to say wow
[00:02:47.690 --> 00:03:00.670] you got what to do just do it it's crazy how big is these situations all
[00:03:00.670 --> 00:03:08.230] of a sudden it may be like a handicap but what is a handicap are you giving
[00:03:08.230 --> 00:03:14.890] yourself that handicap we forget to be thankful be full of gratitude because
[00:03:14.890 --> 00:03:21.710] any moment these could turn around our life could change in an instant and mine
[00:03:21.710 --> 00:03:28.010] definitely did I know the seasons just change in the weather is changing you
[00:03:28.010 --> 00:03:33.510] know definitely around a lot of different people so I didn't expect
[00:03:34.210 --> 00:03:40.910] but you know it helped me be more grateful when I'm at full health and a
[00:03:40.910 --> 00:03:45.450] hundred percent or even over a hundred percent I know I haven't been
[00:03:45.450 --> 00:03:51.390] getting a lot of rest or much rest like I should be average like four and
[00:03:51.390 --> 00:04:00.990] a half hours five hours maybe max my day you know sometimes even two and a
[00:04:00.990 --> 00:04:08.250] three hours which is like insane you know compared to the amount of work
[00:04:09.430 --> 00:04:15.410] that should be accomplished it needs to be done you know compared to that the
[00:04:15.410 --> 00:04:21.450] average is like seven to eight and a half hours of rest each day and I
[00:04:21.450 --> 00:04:28.030] would love to get that definitely one day someday someday soon you know I'm
[00:04:28.030 --> 00:04:35.390] thinking about what my full capability would be if I got eight hours of rest
[00:04:35.390 --> 00:04:42.470] each and every day if I'm at full energy each and every day if I'm at
[00:04:42.470 --> 00:04:58.010] full mental capacity each and every day but I'm always grateful I'm always
[00:04:58.810 --> 00:05:02.030] some take what's given it to you and make it even better
[00:05:03.510 --> 00:05:09.910] so these past few days I've honestly been catching up on rest I did nothing
[00:05:09.910 --> 00:05:20.990] at all I spent time with my daughter and my girl but uh other than that like I just
[00:05:20.990 --> 00:05:29.590] in and in the bed as you can see well as you can hear it's just a lazily I'm sorry
[00:05:29.590 --> 00:05:34.950] for this I cut this short just so y'all want to deal with this and you know y'all
[00:05:34.950 --> 00:05:41.910] gonna have a full better episode but I just wanted to hop on and just remind y'all just
[00:05:41.910 --> 00:05:46.770] do the work no matter what like I'm doing the work and I'm not even a hundred percent
[00:05:46.770 --> 00:05:53.090] you still gotta put in the work the effort you know I'm waiting for files to load
[00:05:53.170 --> 00:06:01.690] export so I'm like well let me update my people my creative entrepreneurs my entrepreneurs
[00:06:01.690 --> 00:06:09.610] small business owners my creative artists my photographers all my good people
[00:06:10.890 --> 00:06:19.380] my service base providers y'all have to do what y'all gotta do
[00:06:20.140 --> 00:06:25.000] applaud yourself for what you've gotten this far don't take it for granted
[00:06:25.960 --> 00:06:33.300] give yourself that achievement even if nobody else do you know what you did you know
[00:06:33.300 --> 00:06:39.960] applaud yourself celebrate yourself celebrate the small words it's all about that gratitude
[00:06:39.960 --> 00:06:47.620] for the littlest things when the big things happens gratitude will be one times 10 times
[00:06:47.620 --> 00:06:57.560] 100 and the whole world could recognize it and celebrate with you so no matter what just
[00:06:58.180 --> 00:07:06.420] stay focused do the work get your rest take your vitamins drink plenty of water do your
[00:07:06.420 --> 00:07:15.380] exercises because that's something I've been lacking this past few days and I'm ready to jump
[00:07:15.380 --> 00:07:26.660] back out there so tomorrow I should be 100% you know I hope so but I think I should be
[00:07:27.830 --> 00:07:34.780] I will go to bed much earlier today I don't have anything on the schedule or anything
[00:07:34.780 --> 00:07:42.920] that's urgent so I'm definitely getting my rest I've done a lot of work I got a master class
[00:07:42.920 --> 00:07:52.780] in about 30 minutes that I'm attending so with one of my uh community so I'll be doing that
[00:07:52.780 --> 00:08:01.020] the next 30 minutes so I'm just prepping myself I've been doing a liquid fast
[00:08:02.280 --> 00:08:12.760] um something something different I was just going to fast but I know when you're going through
[00:08:12.760 --> 00:08:18.100] it and under the weather you got to stay hydrated and flush all the stuff out and
[00:08:20.050 --> 00:08:27.710] I had to I had to eat something at this well yesterday evening but I tried to fast
[00:08:27.710 --> 00:08:34.490] and liquid fast as long as I can throughout the day I'm gonna try the same thing today
[00:08:36.010 --> 00:08:40.049] and just try to overeat every evening kind of like Ramadan
[00:08:41.169 --> 00:08:48.290] so y'all take care of yourself couldn't know what else will or would
[00:08:49.310 --> 00:08:59.050] you are your own healer you are your own provider you are your own boss
[00:08:59.870 --> 00:09:08.750] you just remember that but I am wanting to also mention a few things that's coming up
[00:09:09.890 --> 00:09:20.410] um let's say the pull-up experience we are currently at 332 episodes and counting
[00:09:20.410 --> 00:09:32.640] me beauty told is almost at 100 eyes photos industry told almost at 100 so it's definitely
[00:09:32.640 --> 00:09:39.300] accomplishment for you know my podcast and the podcast that I produce and behind
[00:09:41.560 --> 00:09:46.500] this is it's amazing a shout out to overflow studios with the partnership with
[00:09:47.620 --> 00:09:53.980] overflow studios who just took it to a higher level and you know I'm a part of it be more
[00:09:53.980 --> 00:10:02.280] behind the scenes not directly so I'm proud of all of it but you could catch us all at
[00:10:03.420 --> 00:10:12.040] futureland this year will be presenting once again or podcasting so we collectively have over
[00:10:12.780 --> 00:10:22.960] you know 500 published episodes collectively as a team and we're bringing you the blueprint
[00:10:22.960 --> 00:10:32.240] and you know showing you some of our tactics and even for those who are aspiring podcasters
[00:10:32.860 --> 00:10:38.880] they wanted to get started in podcasts especially if you have a business and let me repeat that
[00:10:38.880 --> 00:10:44.240] especially if you have a business I only recommend podcasting if you have a business
[00:10:44.240 --> 00:10:49.120] that's just me you know I'm not telling you what to do or you just want to gossip
[00:10:49.120 --> 00:10:56.060] have a podcast and talking yeah talking yeah that's what you do but I'm all about
[00:10:57.520 --> 00:11:03.980] businesses having a podcast having an offer you know showing your expertise
[00:11:03.980 --> 00:11:11.160] and bringing guests on to be potential partners or even clients so you can catch us at this
[00:11:11.160 --> 00:11:21.980] futureland November 21st, 2026 at the Midtown Collaboration Center
[00:11:21.980 --> 00:11:33.240] MCC Midtown Collaboration Center November 21st, 2026 and the presentation is at
[00:11:33.240 --> 00:11:41.000] 11 a.m to 2 p.m and I think the tickets are free but we also have a podcast bootcamp
[00:11:42.120 --> 00:11:47.520] where we're going to put you through the wringer and get you started put you through
[00:11:47.520 --> 00:11:54.660] different obstacle courses even you know have you conduct a podcast with broken equipment
[00:11:55.320 --> 00:12:02.700] so if you want to be part of that there's limited slots that is I think later in the day
[00:12:02.700 --> 00:12:09.380] for the podcast bootcamp and I think the tickets are like $25 and I think it's only
[00:12:09.380 --> 00:12:18.800] eight slots and three has already been taken so yeah join us for the podcast presentation
[00:12:18.800 --> 00:12:24.400] in the a.m and then you know later for the bootcamp it's going to be a great time at the
[00:12:24.400 --> 00:12:30.800] Midtown Collaboration Center near Midtown Cleveland, Ohio
[00:12:32.300 --> 00:12:38.480] kind of near downtown 55th area if you're you know in the city definitely come out check out
[00:12:38.480 --> 00:12:43.920] the whole futureland conference so much to learn so much to gain so many connections
[00:12:43.920 --> 00:12:50.480] so many power players are in the building and if you've never been to a creative meetup
[00:12:51.440 --> 00:12:56.480] power by futureland you definitely have to attend their monthly creative meetups
[00:12:56.480 --> 00:13:02.820] and I've been helping them grow and promote the document you know the whole process with
[00:13:02.820 --> 00:13:09.630] the creative meetups is only getting better it definitely joined their new
[00:13:10.950 --> 00:13:27.030] uh flux application flx by futureland and it's a join flx.com join flx.com
[00:13:27.030 --> 00:13:34.070] they just made an announcement with their flex app you know shout out to my main man brent
[00:13:34.710 --> 00:13:41.250] for building a whole layout and I've seen it from the beginning all the way to now
[00:13:41.890 --> 00:13:48.610] you know put yourself on the map that's one of the videos today that I just
[00:13:49.390 --> 00:13:56.910] finish and put together and shout out to Brianna Casanova my lady
[00:13:57.630 --> 00:14:05.850] lady b for putting it together the bones of it together and I tweaked a little things
[00:14:05.850 --> 00:14:12.510] and polished it but for the main part she did her thing with that video as always if you see
[00:14:12.510 --> 00:14:22.410] her work if you need a podcast producer podcast editor she is your go-to woman all right you
[00:14:22.410 --> 00:14:31.110] before I start you know piled up with a lot of work because everybody knows me alien hospitals
[00:14:31.110 --> 00:14:42.090] industry talk is an audio first podcast or audio based podcast and if I was ever to jump to video
[00:14:42.090 --> 00:14:47.250] which could be any moment now you know she would definitely be behind the scenes and cutting
[00:14:47.250 --> 00:14:54.150] these clips up and it's only a matter of time before I jump to video so definitely book her
[00:14:54.150 --> 00:15:03.330] while y'all can and you can catch her at overflow studios.com I think it's overflow
[00:15:03.330 --> 00:15:13.110] studios.com but definitely tap in her social media I think it's overflow underscore studios
[00:15:14.070 --> 00:15:22.630] but you know you can catch us on a creative frequency on a creative frequency
[00:15:23.330 --> 00:15:31.350] or social media and you could find both of us there really alienize photos and overflow studios
[00:15:31.350 --> 00:15:38.470] so yeah if you want us both to produce your podcast and really take it to a new level
[00:15:38.910 --> 00:15:47.530] so do it behind the scenes content with the photos get us behind the scenes videos
[00:15:48.390 --> 00:15:55.870] I'm doing your show notes your SEO titles all that good stuff and you know of course she's
[00:15:55.870 --> 00:16:03.010] filming editing chopping it up for you let me just package it up definitely book us both
[00:16:03.010 --> 00:16:09.910] it's gonna be at a hefty price just to let you know but if it's doable for you
[00:16:09.910 --> 00:16:15.710] you want to take your podcast to another level definitely book us we're here for you
[00:16:16.530 --> 00:16:25.250] and I want to say thank you all for tuning in to another episode this this has been a
[00:16:26.060 --> 00:16:31.830] sorry if y'all I'm gonna cut it short because I gotta I actually gotta blow my nose
[00:16:32.690 --> 00:16:38.370] oh man excuse me but check me out at alienizephotos.com
[00:16:39.290 --> 00:16:47.730] and at alienize photos or on social media until next time y'all peace love and blessings
[00:16:47.730 --> 00:16:48.370] continue

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3. What Is a Creative Entrepreneur? Turning Creativity Into a Profitable Business
Season 1 · Episode 57
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/what-is-a-creative-entrepreneur-turning-creativity-into-a-pr
========================================================================

[00:00:00.850 --> 00:00:04.110] Are you a creative entrepreneur?
[00:00:05.550 --> 00:00:07.250] Now, everyone asks me,
[00:00:08.230 --> 00:00:10.310] what is a creative entrepreneur?
[00:00:10.510 --> 00:00:14.750] Are you talking about a creative entrepreneur?
[00:00:14.950 --> 00:00:20.230] Is it a creative artist, a business owner, entrepreneur?
[00:00:21.810 --> 00:00:23.290] It's a creative entrepreneur.
[00:00:24.430 --> 00:00:28.450] And a creative entrepreneur is an individual
[00:00:28.450 --> 00:00:34.070] who builds a business based on their unique creative talents,
[00:00:35.550 --> 00:00:40.570] artistic skills, and or intellectual property.
[00:00:41.730 --> 00:00:45.450] They bridge the gap between artistic expression
[00:00:45.830 --> 00:00:48.730] and commercial viability,
[00:00:49.630 --> 00:00:53.070] turning ideas like design, writing, art, fashion,
[00:00:53.390 --> 00:00:58.430] and most of all, media into a society.
[00:00:58.450 --> 00:01:00.550] A sustainable enterprise.
[00:01:02.090 --> 00:01:04.470] And unlike traditional entrepreneurs
[00:01:04.470 --> 00:01:08.010] who may focus solely on market gaps,
[00:01:09.250 --> 00:01:14.890] creative entrepreneurs prioritize passion and innovation
[00:01:14.890 --> 00:01:17.250] as their core business drivers.
[00:01:18.210 --> 00:01:21.190] And we have different industries
[00:01:21.190 --> 00:01:24.250] under creative entrepreneurs,
[00:01:24.250 --> 00:01:32.030] such as design and visual art, media, content, crafts,
[00:01:32.290 --> 00:01:38.550] and physical products, or that builds physical products,
[00:01:39.410 --> 00:01:42.030] performing, fine arts.
[00:01:42.890 --> 00:01:46.850] And I'm gonna get into a little deeper
[00:01:46.850 --> 00:01:48.730] versus just the industries.
[00:01:48.850 --> 00:01:51.210] Let me go more inside the industries.
[00:01:51.800 --> 00:01:55.970] Like for me in media, you have your podcasters,
[00:01:56.290 --> 00:01:59.490] your YouTubers, photographers, videographers,
[00:01:59.790 --> 00:02:03.630] your actors, filmmakers, authors,
[00:02:04.250 --> 00:02:07.510] copywriters, digital content creators,
[00:02:07.870 --> 00:02:11.970] which has blown up these past 10 years
[00:02:11.970 --> 00:02:14.210] and being a YouTuber now,
[00:02:14.330 --> 00:02:17.410] I think podcasting has really taken off.
[00:02:17.470 --> 00:02:19.070] Everybody wanna be a podcaster.
[00:02:19.750 --> 00:02:22.730] First it was YouTube, I wanna be a YouTuber now.
[00:02:23.070 --> 00:02:25.770] Everybody wanna be a podcast and have a podcast.
[00:02:26.450 --> 00:02:29.030] And then we gonna stay in that media
[00:02:29.030 --> 00:02:31.170] with the visual arts and design,
[00:02:31.430 --> 00:02:36.330] graphic designers, illustrators, fashion designers,
[00:02:37.030 --> 00:02:41.170] interior decorators are actually creative entrepreneurs.
[00:02:42.470 --> 00:02:45.390] Photography is also in that category as well
[00:02:45.390 --> 00:02:47.010] as far as visual art.
[00:02:50.230 --> 00:02:55.290] And we're going to more of the arts and the craft
[00:02:55.610 --> 00:02:58.750] or anybody to do any type of arts and craft
[00:02:58.750 --> 00:03:06.210] or even sometimes architecture and construction,
[00:03:07.310 --> 00:03:12.250] the way things are made and built to woodworkers
[00:03:12.250 --> 00:03:16.670] and apparel makers like clothing designers
[00:03:16.670 --> 00:03:18.210] and things like that.
[00:03:20.730 --> 00:03:23.890] Pottery, a lot of those things,
[00:03:24.330 --> 00:03:26.230] that's creative entrepreneur,
[00:03:26.630 --> 00:03:28.210] you're using your creative ability
[00:03:29.030 --> 00:03:34.030] to generate funds and solve a problem.
[00:03:35.290 --> 00:03:37.250] So it's a beautiful thing
[00:03:37.250 --> 00:03:42.050] and going to performing arts with musician
[00:03:42.050 --> 00:03:52.310] and dancers, actors, painters, exhibitors, digital artists,
[00:03:54.740 --> 00:03:56.180] live artists.
[00:03:59.220 --> 00:04:04.480] So it's a thin line between being an artist
[00:04:04.480 --> 00:04:08.700] who is an entrepreneur or an entrepreneur
[00:04:08.700 --> 00:04:11.460] who is an artist.
[00:04:11.460 --> 00:04:14.000] I think that's totally separate
[00:04:14.730 --> 00:04:19.000] from being a creative entrepreneur.
[00:04:19.800 --> 00:04:27.080] Like me, I am the definition of a creative entrepreneur.
[00:04:29.320 --> 00:04:31.000] And welcome, welcome, welcome.
[00:04:31.940 --> 00:04:36.460] This is Steve Jackson, photographer Jackson
[00:04:36.760 --> 00:04:39.500] of Alien Eyes Photos Media
[00:04:39.500 --> 00:04:45.920] and this is Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:04:47.810 --> 00:04:49.550] And I've been getting these questions
[00:04:49.550 --> 00:04:54.210] on creative entrepreneurship as I speak much
[00:04:54.210 --> 00:04:58.510] and highly on creative entrepreneurship
[00:04:58.510 --> 00:05:01.270] and being a creative entrepreneur
[00:05:02.410 --> 00:05:07.690] who I felt for me was a great definition
[00:05:07.690 --> 00:05:09.950] on like how to describe me.
[00:05:10.910 --> 00:05:14.710] Like even being a musician and doing poetry,
[00:05:14.790 --> 00:05:17.290] I always had that business mindset
[00:05:17.290 --> 00:05:19.110] in the back of my head.
[00:05:20.330 --> 00:05:23.470] It was things that I would study and practice
[00:05:24.650 --> 00:05:28.370] and listen and read different business books.
[00:05:28.970 --> 00:05:33.430] So it was always ingrained in my head
[00:05:33.430 --> 00:05:37.170] but I was such an artist.
[00:05:37.690 --> 00:05:40.130] Now I think it kind of flip-flopped
[00:05:40.130 --> 00:05:44.610] where I'm more business-minded, more than I'm an artist
[00:05:46.780 --> 00:05:48.510] but I'm still creative.
[00:05:50.050 --> 00:05:51.570] You know, I have to be creative.
[00:05:51.570 --> 00:05:52.930] I have to create.
[00:05:53.610 --> 00:05:57.750] The solutions I bring to my clients
[00:05:57.750 --> 00:06:02.270] involves me creating, even creating a plan,
[00:06:03.430 --> 00:06:05.550] creating how it's gonna look,
[00:06:05.550 --> 00:06:07.930] capturing it, documenting it,
[00:06:08.030 --> 00:06:12.190] putting it all together, making sure it's polished visually
[00:06:13.750 --> 00:06:18.890] because I get my clients visible.
[00:06:20.670 --> 00:06:24.110] Their brand becomes visible after working with me
[00:06:24.830 --> 00:06:28.890] and that's always the goal but I have to create them
[00:06:30.880 --> 00:06:34.720] and through my creation I get paid
[00:06:35.500 --> 00:06:37.080] based on the results.
[00:06:43.120 --> 00:06:45.460] So anyone that's,
[00:06:47.730 --> 00:06:49.530] because I heard it a lot being a poet,
[00:06:49.730 --> 00:06:51.630] like there's no money in poetry.
[00:06:52.130 --> 00:06:56.230] There's no money writing poetry.
[00:06:57.790 --> 00:06:59.490] You know, poets don't make money.
[00:07:00.390 --> 00:07:02.430] You know, I heard that a lot
[00:07:03.190 --> 00:07:06.230] when I was actively doing poetry,
[00:07:06.590 --> 00:07:07.990] performing and writing.
[00:07:09.970 --> 00:07:15.870] And I mean, if I would've just shift gears
[00:07:15.870 --> 00:07:18.390] and had the mindset that I had, you know,
[00:07:20.380 --> 00:07:25.970] like, oh my goodness, oh my goodness.
[00:07:28.830 --> 00:07:30.190] And I'm saying oh my goodness
[00:07:30.190 --> 00:07:35.010] because it's something that I could really do right now
[00:07:35.670 --> 00:07:37.630] because I have a lot of past work
[00:07:37.630 --> 00:07:40.050] and a lot of unreleased work
[00:07:41.300 --> 00:07:45.480] that I think y'all may be hearing exclusive.
[00:07:45.480 --> 00:07:48.940] Like, I just gave myself a good thought
[00:07:48.940 --> 00:07:50.260] just doing this podcast.
[00:07:50.300 --> 00:07:51.200] Like, why?
[00:07:52.140 --> 00:07:54.560] I mean, yeah, I could've done it
[00:07:54.560 --> 00:07:55.420] if I had a mindset.
[00:07:55.660 --> 00:07:57.520] Now, I have the mindset right now
[00:07:57.520 --> 00:07:58.860] and I still have the content
[00:07:58.860 --> 00:08:00.240] and the poetry and the writing.
[00:08:01.840 --> 00:08:04.700] So, huh, I'ma put something together.
[00:08:05.860 --> 00:08:07.020] Yeah, I'ma just leave it at that.
[00:08:07.300 --> 00:08:11.200] I'ma put something together with my past work.
[00:08:11.260 --> 00:08:14.560] I'ma add some new stuff too, you know.
[00:08:15.740 --> 00:08:17.520] I'm still right here and there,
[00:08:19.910 --> 00:08:21.930] but, you know, that's more so for me
[00:08:21.930 --> 00:08:24.730] and for, you know, not necessarily for fun,
[00:08:24.750 --> 00:08:26.250] but just for the sport.
[00:08:26.710 --> 00:08:29.110] I'ma just not do it here and there,
[00:08:29.110 --> 00:08:30.270] but not like how I used to.
[00:08:30.270 --> 00:08:33.210] I used to be up all day and night.
[00:08:33.270 --> 00:08:35.669] I'm talking about dedicated.
[00:08:35.929 --> 00:08:40.429] Like, I was making it to the league type of dedication.
[00:08:40.490 --> 00:08:42.870] That's how I was with music and poetry
[00:08:42.870 --> 00:08:45.370] and, you know, with my writings and wrote books
[00:08:45.370 --> 00:08:52.410] that I ended up losing through a bad computer crash
[00:08:52.410 --> 00:08:53.970] and lost everything.
[00:08:55.410 --> 00:08:57.770] Yeah, it devastated me for a long time.
[00:08:57.810 --> 00:09:00.970] Like, I didn't want to write anything anymore.
[00:09:01.050 --> 00:09:03.910] Like, I had books ready to publish.
[00:09:04.130 --> 00:09:07.690] I'm talking about books with a capital S.
[00:09:09.630 --> 00:09:13.550] And it was so much that I lost
[00:09:13.550 --> 00:09:15.810] and it just damaged me.
[00:09:17.350 --> 00:09:19.530] And I didn't want to do anything,
[00:09:19.690 --> 00:09:21.890] especially anything creative alone
[00:09:21.890 --> 00:09:23.950] when I was like that, like, ugh.
[00:09:25.790 --> 00:09:28.550] And with music, I just started freestyle.
[00:09:28.890 --> 00:09:32.070] Like, I stopped writing and just started freestyling
[00:09:32.710 --> 00:09:34.770] and just doing it like that.
[00:09:36.890 --> 00:09:39.450] And it kind of took away, I enjoyed it.
[00:09:39.450 --> 00:09:42.130] I liked it and I was pretty decent,
[00:09:42.130 --> 00:09:48.280] but not like how I wanted or felt
[00:09:51.740 --> 00:09:55.440] how I wanted to market myself and be out there.
[00:09:55.840 --> 00:09:57.160] Freestyling wasn't the way
[00:09:57.160 --> 00:10:02.220] because I always had a powerful mind and powerful thoughts.
[00:10:03.360 --> 00:10:07.000] And I wanted to articulate that correctly,
[00:10:07.000 --> 00:10:09.960] not just by the spur of the moment.
[00:10:10.280 --> 00:10:13.020] I wanted to actually paint the picture
[00:10:13.420 --> 00:10:16.780] of what I was saying correctly in detail,
[00:10:17.040 --> 00:10:19.540] not just the first thing that came to mind
[00:10:19.540 --> 00:10:21.300] because the first thing that come to mind
[00:10:21.300 --> 00:10:23.800] is always not the right thing
[00:10:23.800 --> 00:10:26.640] or the most polished thing or the best thing
[00:10:27.200 --> 00:10:29.380] or what you should be saying in general.
[00:10:33.020 --> 00:10:35.300] So eventually I got back to writing.
[00:10:36.380 --> 00:10:42.840] I had to get out that dark hole
[00:10:43.960 --> 00:10:46.600] and I mean, even through that process,
[00:10:47.000 --> 00:10:50.680] I ended up, the studio I was going to,
[00:10:50.680 --> 00:10:56.500] the engineer closed the studio and, you know,
[00:10:58.420 --> 00:11:00.380] I was young at the time,
[00:11:00.380 --> 00:11:03.820] so that kind of set me back to
[00:11:05.130 --> 00:11:10.830] as far as being creative and actively creating.
[00:11:13.300 --> 00:11:17.380] So it was like two dark holes,
[00:11:17.880 --> 00:11:22.300] two negative things around creating
[00:11:22.300 --> 00:11:25.120] and being an artist and really being passionate.
[00:11:25.660 --> 00:11:28.840] Like it sucked the life out of me really.
[00:11:29.660 --> 00:11:32.980] Like it took years for me to get back to that
[00:11:32.980 --> 00:11:39.260] and have that courage within myself
[00:11:40.620 --> 00:11:43.400] to pull it through and finding the strength
[00:11:43.400 --> 00:11:44.980] to actually do it again.
[00:11:45.060 --> 00:11:47.200] Like it was hard, you know.
[00:11:47.720 --> 00:11:49.380] You know, I had to motivate myself.
[00:11:49.400 --> 00:11:53.680] I had to get re-inspired and, you know,
[00:11:59.340 --> 00:12:03.040] I mean, even to this day,
[00:12:03.180 --> 00:12:10.280] like I've definitely done things on a lower scale.
[00:12:14.440 --> 00:12:19.680] Whether this is, you know, this music, poetry,
[00:12:19.680 --> 00:12:24.580] you know, taking photos, doing videos, of course,
[00:12:24.580 --> 00:12:26.120] you know, at my own will
[00:12:26.900 --> 00:12:30.480] and creating what I want to create now for a client.
[00:12:31.960 --> 00:12:33.940] You know, me just being a pure artist.
[00:12:35.360 --> 00:12:37.640] I haven't done that in a while actually,
[00:12:37.840 --> 00:12:40.940] to be honest and I know I should
[00:12:41.640 --> 00:12:45.460] and they say especially if you do both,
[00:12:45.480 --> 00:12:47.280] like you're a content creator
[00:12:47.280 --> 00:12:50.580] or you create content for your brand
[00:12:51.120 --> 00:12:52.940] and you also serve clients,
[00:12:53.260 --> 00:12:58.200] you should split that up to 70, 30, 70%, you know,
[00:12:58.260 --> 00:13:01.900] for clients 30% is for you and your business
[00:13:01.900 --> 00:13:04.480] and you know, you're creating freely.
[00:13:05.940 --> 00:13:08.400] And I honestly want to get back to that.
[00:13:08.500 --> 00:13:10.900] I know we get caught up in the whole business side
[00:13:10.900 --> 00:13:14.000] and I kind of lost meaning of
[00:13:14.000 --> 00:13:15.880] being a creative entrepreneur
[00:13:15.880 --> 00:13:18.300] and I just became more of an entrepreneur.
[00:13:18.560 --> 00:13:21.520] Like, oh, I got to make six figures
[00:13:21.520 --> 00:13:24.460] and that's still a goal, you know,
[00:13:24.580 --> 00:13:26.120] making my first six figures.
[00:13:28.660 --> 00:13:32.000] I could say this may not be the year, honestly,
[00:13:32.160 --> 00:13:34.780] but this has been a big, you know,
[00:13:34.960 --> 00:13:38.320] catapulting year, a big planning stage
[00:13:38.320 --> 00:13:41.500] from maybe next year or even the year to come
[00:13:41.500 --> 00:13:42.540] right after that.
[00:13:45.120 --> 00:13:48.720] But it would have been lovely to make my six figures
[00:13:48.720 --> 00:13:52.980] but I know, you know, life and business,
[00:13:53.880 --> 00:13:57.820] it said I wasn't ready and I've accepted that.
[00:13:58.400 --> 00:14:00.620] And we're in the third quarter,
[00:14:01.940 --> 00:14:07.140] so it's still time, but, you know,
[00:14:08.620 --> 00:14:12.940] realistically, I probably won't get it this year,
[00:14:13.060 --> 00:14:14.560] which I'm totally fine,
[00:14:15.040 --> 00:14:19.320] but I've definitely became more of a business person,
[00:14:19.780 --> 00:14:23.700] more of an entrepreneur versus a joint,
[00:14:24.240 --> 00:14:27.140] creative entrepreneur, a creative entrepreneur.
[00:14:28.160 --> 00:14:31.460] So I wanted to get back
[00:14:32.880 --> 00:14:36.720] and y'all heard earlier on the podcast,
[00:14:38.080 --> 00:14:40.880] exclusively on Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:14:40.880 --> 00:14:43.700] that I'ma put together something
[00:14:43.700 --> 00:14:48.480] with my old poetry and I don't know what it's gonna be yet,
[00:14:48.480 --> 00:14:49.640] but stay tuned, I wanna,
[00:14:50.560 --> 00:14:54.980] I gotta find means to re-joke my creativity
[00:14:54.980 --> 00:14:57.360] and I know it will help me in my business,
[00:14:57.480 --> 00:14:59.460] I just know it will.
[00:15:00.140 --> 00:15:02.160] And that's why I'm saying it's been catapulted
[00:15:02.160 --> 00:15:05.720] because I'm not even using my own personal skills
[00:15:05.720 --> 00:15:12.340] and talents as I should and oh, I'm ready.
[00:15:14.160 --> 00:15:17.580] So six figures, here you come, here you come,
[00:15:17.580 --> 00:15:21.460] here you come to me because I'm attracted,
[00:15:21.540 --> 00:15:24.960] I'm not chasing, but I know the first time
[00:15:24.960 --> 00:15:30.660] I gotta also kinda put that hustle in and go get it,
[00:15:30.680 --> 00:15:36.860] but I'm also attracted and attracting the right clients
[00:15:36.860 --> 00:15:40.580] versus chasing, I've never really been a chaser
[00:15:40.580 --> 00:15:46.300] in anything in my life or even like chasing women
[00:15:46.300 --> 00:15:50.580] or whatever, like it's never been my style
[00:15:51.080 --> 00:15:52.840] or the way I did business.
[00:15:53.960 --> 00:15:58.320] So I know it's interesting in most situations,
[00:15:58.560 --> 00:16:02.720] like oh, you have to have that hustle in you
[00:16:04.020 --> 00:16:08.080] to be at the level you want to be
[00:16:08.080 --> 00:16:11.660] and that's not always the case and I've seen it
[00:16:11.660 --> 00:16:14.920] and I've experienced it, I've also witnessed it
[00:16:14.920 --> 00:16:17.040] with other people and their business
[00:16:17.720 --> 00:16:19.940] are just like the people they attract
[00:16:19.940 --> 00:16:22.500] and things and opportunities they attract,
[00:16:23.460 --> 00:16:25.320] so it's possible.
[00:16:27.770 --> 00:16:31.050] But to all my creative entrepreneurs,
[00:16:33.810 --> 00:16:37.350] keep that spark, never lose that spark,
[00:16:37.350 --> 00:16:44.990] that creative touch, but you also need to be making money.
[00:16:45.110 --> 00:16:47.510] I know you don't always have to build a business
[00:16:47.510 --> 00:16:51.330] around your art or have your art as a business,
[00:16:53.150 --> 00:16:56.770] but you should be getting paid to speak
[00:16:56.770 --> 00:17:00.530] and I'm saying that as a former performing poet,
[00:17:01.310 --> 00:17:03.290] you should be getting paid to speak.
[00:17:03.290 --> 00:17:11.849] If I book you to be at my event, you're getting paid.
[00:17:13.890 --> 00:17:20.480] So everybody else that books you should pay you
[00:17:22.240 --> 00:17:24.940] and I am happy to set that tone.
[00:17:25.660 --> 00:17:29.000] Again, as a former poet, I know
[00:17:29.000 --> 00:17:30.500] because I've been through it
[00:17:30.500 --> 00:17:34.160] and so many countless shows that I've done for free
[00:17:34.160 --> 00:17:36.880] are for a couple dollars, literally.
[00:17:38.580 --> 00:17:41.620] I know and I know how it is being out in the field
[00:17:41.620 --> 00:17:45.420] and just wanting to do you and do your art,
[00:17:45.520 --> 00:17:47.640] perform your art, showcase your art.
[00:17:47.980 --> 00:17:50.640] I know and I get it and I understand.
[00:17:52.000 --> 00:17:55.980] It is tough, but stay firm.
[00:17:56.220 --> 00:17:57.960] If they want you, they would pay.
[00:18:00.310 --> 00:18:01.510] That's all I got to say.
[00:18:02.750 --> 00:18:04.650] Never lose your creative touch, that spark.
[00:18:05.650 --> 00:18:10.770] Be a creative entrepreneur on purpose with a purpose.
[00:18:12.370 --> 00:18:15.190] Again, this is Steve Jackson,
[00:18:15.430 --> 00:18:19.750] Pataka Jackson of Alienize Photos Media
[00:18:20.550 --> 00:18:25.650] and this is Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:18:26.610 --> 00:18:28.490] And if you want to book me
[00:18:28.490 --> 00:18:31.450] and have a one-on-one consultation,
[00:18:32.110 --> 00:18:35.350] a nice strategy call, ideation session,
[00:18:35.510 --> 00:18:39.970] just to build your business or just to pick my brain,
[00:18:42.280 --> 00:18:44.720] even to book me as an event photographer
[00:18:44.720 --> 00:18:48.120] or you want a podcast production
[00:18:48.120 --> 00:18:51.660] or even some video recaps.
[00:18:51.900 --> 00:18:53.700] For all of that good stuff,
[00:18:54.480 --> 00:18:58.720] visit alienizephotos.com.
[00:18:58.720 --> 00:19:02.360] That's Alienize with a Z,
[00:19:02.900 --> 00:19:06.780] Photos with a S, dot com.
[00:19:07.600 --> 00:19:11.000] And also follow me on all social media,
[00:19:11.800 --> 00:19:14.340] even YouTube, I've been posting a little bit on YouTube.
[00:19:14.420 --> 00:19:17.840] I got to get better on TikTok, but I'm on there.
[00:19:18.360 --> 00:19:23.240] But on all social media, Alienize Photos.
[00:19:23.240 --> 00:19:28.620] All right, y'all, until next time, peace.

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4. Brother Tremain Lasenby of Lasenby Illustrations
Season 2 · Episode 19
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/tremain-lasenby-of-lasenby-illustrations
========================================================================

[00:00:00.690 --> 00:00:08.690] Welcome, welcome, welcome to another episode of Alienize Photos and this re-talk.
[00:00:09.750 --> 00:00:11.690] I got my brother right in front of me.
[00:00:11.690 --> 00:00:13.690] Brother Tremaine Lazenby.
[00:00:14.290 --> 00:00:15.710] Tremaine X.
[00:00:17.250 --> 00:00:19.030] What does the X stand for?
[00:00:19.750 --> 00:00:20.770] It sounds spiritual.
[00:00:21.450 --> 00:00:21.870] Soldier.
[00:00:22.330 --> 00:00:23.530] That's a good question, man.
[00:00:24.470 --> 00:00:25.790] X marks the unknown.
[00:00:27.250 --> 00:00:29.030] So X marks the unknown.
[00:00:29.250 --> 00:00:30.610] It's similar to Malcolm X.
[00:00:31.350 --> 00:00:36.630] You know, we are given a name at birth, so I'm going to keep my first name.
[00:00:36.770 --> 00:00:44.170] But our last name is normally, especially in this country, is owned by a slave master or a slave owner.
[00:00:44.830 --> 00:00:50.350] Some way, shape, or form, even if it's from the Caribbeans, the West Indies, the island.
[00:00:51.070 --> 00:00:58.110] Most of our people here take the name of some type of slave owner or slave master.
[00:00:58.450 --> 00:01:08.810] So X marks the unknown until you are back to your original state, original name, original lifestyle, the state of mind.
[00:01:09.270 --> 00:01:10.810] So X is marked the unknown for now.
[00:01:10.870 --> 00:01:11.750] It's like an equation.
[00:01:11.750 --> 00:01:20.630] You know, while I figure out the roots, the beginning, the history, X marks the unknown until then.
[00:01:21.030 --> 00:01:23.250] I love it, I love it, I love it.
[00:01:23.950 --> 00:01:29.590] You're a master of education, creative director, creative design.
[00:01:30.110 --> 00:01:35.010] I know you from many different hustles just knowing you over the years.
[00:01:35.970 --> 00:01:39.010] But what does that look like for you as a creator?
[00:01:42.560 --> 00:01:48.000] As a creative man, I just really appreciate creating in general.
[00:01:49.680 --> 00:01:56.300] You know, photography, videography is just a hobby, if you will.
[00:01:56.760 --> 00:01:59.480] It's a skill, it's a talent, it's a means to an end.
[00:02:00.300 --> 00:02:01.840] But everything is creation.
[00:02:01.840 --> 00:02:12.420] We have a creator who created everything, you know, people, trees, earth, plants, tables, chairs, doors.
[00:02:13.060 --> 00:02:15.480] Everything, every single thing we look at is created.
[00:02:15.560 --> 00:02:19.860] So I like to create freely in all things, in all aspects.
[00:02:21.060 --> 00:02:28.280] But you know, I definitely, photography and videography is like a start to a freer life.
[00:02:28.280 --> 00:02:31.880] Just creating in general, every time I wake up, creating my day, you know.
[00:02:32.040 --> 00:02:33.320] I love it.
[00:02:33.500 --> 00:02:37.920] You know, I actually speak about, you know, videography, photography.
[00:02:38.740 --> 00:02:46.020] You know, you had multiple chances of working with me, alienized photos, media, you know, assisting me.
[00:02:46.220 --> 00:02:48.060] Thank you, thank you, thank you.
[00:02:48.780 --> 00:02:54.940] But I honestly feel like I want to quit photography.
[00:02:56.140 --> 00:03:05.100] Like, I had this thought, like, approaching my late 30s.
[00:03:05.860 --> 00:03:07.780] And I'm thinking about my first million.
[00:03:07.940 --> 00:03:13.300] I'm like, can I make my first million with photography and video production?
[00:03:13.720 --> 00:03:16.000] Can I? The answer is yes.
[00:03:16.840 --> 00:03:22.040] But will I be tired, burnt out, all this work because we had a pre-production,
[00:03:22.040 --> 00:03:29.820] the planning, the actual production, the events, and then the editing, all the other stuff that goes into it.
[00:03:30.360 --> 00:03:35.060] So many hours to burn out, especially with a slim team.
[00:03:35.840 --> 00:03:42.320] So I thought about, like, either quitting it, putting it on the back burner,
[00:03:44.480 --> 00:03:47.780] or just having it fuel whatever my next endeavor is.
[00:03:47.780 --> 00:03:56.080] Right. I think you needed a restart and a reboot, a reinvention.
[00:03:56.140 --> 00:03:58.580] And I think you have done that over the past year.
[00:03:58.600 --> 00:04:01.820] And it sounds like, to me, you're not done doing that. And that's OK.
[00:04:03.020 --> 00:04:06.460] You know, pressing pause is OK. Regrouping is OK.
[00:04:07.360 --> 00:04:15.160] You know, as far as literally stopping it all together before maximizing something, I don't believe that's OK, though.
[00:04:16.920 --> 00:04:22.900] Because I think you have stretched yourself just a little too thin.
[00:04:23.600 --> 00:04:26.700] And maybe we could think a lot bigger on it as well.
[00:04:28.060 --> 00:04:31.720] Because in any field that you want to do, this is why I ask somebody.
[00:04:31.960 --> 00:04:33.820] I ask, what's the ideal situation?
[00:04:35.000 --> 00:04:39.040] You know, it's like if somebody gave you that million dollars right now,
[00:04:41.200 --> 00:04:44.260] what would you do in a photography and videography realm?
[00:04:45.220 --> 00:04:47.180] What would you do on a daily? You know what I'm saying?
[00:04:47.280 --> 00:04:52.480] It's like, if I gave you a team of 15 men, do you think you could get to a million?
[00:04:53.060 --> 00:04:57.220] How long do you think it would take to get to a million if you had a team of 15 men right now?
[00:04:57.620 --> 00:04:59.660] If somebody just magically snapped their fingers and said,
[00:04:59.680 --> 00:05:03.840] you know what, I'm going to give you a team of 15 men and I'm going to give you 100,000 to start with.
[00:05:04.700 --> 00:05:06.700] How fast do you think you could get to a million?
[00:05:07.380 --> 00:05:08.380] Like, genuine, genuine question.
[00:05:08.500 --> 00:05:12.800] How fast do you think you could get to a million with a team of 15 men and 100,000 starting right now today?
[00:05:12.800 --> 00:05:21.500] So we talk about 15 and then we have 100,000, which is divide that million by 10,
[00:05:21.680 --> 00:05:25.600] and sometimes only 10, which is good.
[00:05:27.440 --> 00:05:28.800] Well, that's for the company.
[00:05:29.240 --> 00:05:36.120] The company will make that, you know, 100,000 and then add that million,
[00:05:36.120 --> 00:05:41.460] but just me personally, just reaching that first million,
[00:05:41.460 --> 00:05:44.400] whether if it's like book sales, like you said,
[00:05:44.500 --> 00:05:50.860] creating and bringing it to an organization or even sales,
[00:05:52.500 --> 00:05:55.160] I personally don't see it with photography.
[00:05:55.500 --> 00:05:58.060] Like I said, can I do it? Definitely yes.
[00:05:58.140 --> 00:06:01.740] Anything is possible, but I also don't want to be burnt out.
[00:06:03.440 --> 00:06:10.060] And even having 15, you know, support team, our workers, our contractors,
[00:06:11.400 --> 00:06:15.060] they're still managing, you know, just being that higher off in managing
[00:06:16.220 --> 00:06:20.700] and having everything on the deadline, fulfilling the deadline.
[00:06:21.660 --> 00:06:23.900] Like I personally care about everybody who I work out.
[00:06:23.940 --> 00:06:25.620] So I had those personal relationships.
[00:06:25.640 --> 00:06:27.180] So it ain't just about the work though.
[00:06:27.240 --> 00:06:29.480] We got the work done on this transaction.
[00:06:29.480 --> 00:06:31.880] Like how you doing in life? How you doing in this?
[00:06:32.200 --> 00:06:36.820] Are you still feeling good about, you know, video, photography, media in general?
[00:06:37.240 --> 00:06:38.840] Like what is your goals in life?
[00:06:38.860 --> 00:06:40.920] So that's how I think too.
[00:06:41.700 --> 00:06:45.040] I think those aspects will make you an even better leader
[00:06:45.040 --> 00:06:49.320] and get you quicker to whatever goal that you may want to get to.
[00:06:50.140 --> 00:06:52.580] I think it's more so just the thoughts that you're having
[00:06:53.240 --> 00:06:55.600] because you telling me that you plan on quitting,
[00:06:55.700 --> 00:06:58.040] you telling me that I still don't think I can do it,
[00:06:58.040 --> 00:07:03.060] you pretty much stopping your whole mind, your frequency, your body to not do it.
[00:07:03.420 --> 00:07:04.280] You almost like...
[00:07:04.280 --> 00:07:06.360] Well, I don't want to say I'm quitting
[00:07:07.020 --> 00:07:09.820] because like I said, it could fuel whatever my next endeavor is.
[00:07:09.980 --> 00:07:14.320] Because your statement was, can I? Yes.
[00:07:14.680 --> 00:07:16.880] Do I believe I will? No.
[00:07:19.340 --> 00:07:20.160] Without burnout.
[00:07:20.340 --> 00:07:21.940] If there's a will, there's a way.
[00:07:22.120 --> 00:07:26.280] The burnout is due to some aspects.
[00:07:27.540 --> 00:07:31.200] Burnout is due to you wearing six different hats.
[00:07:31.720 --> 00:07:37.120] Burnout is you having these certain agendas and certain these certain things
[00:07:37.120 --> 00:07:39.160] and working so much and so hard.
[00:07:39.960 --> 00:07:43.920] So burnout is from, you know, it's like a lot of different things that burnout is coming from.
[00:07:45.120 --> 00:07:52.520] So solving those problems versus checking yourself out the game
[00:07:54.420 --> 00:08:01.880] is the thought process I would think to have versus it's like you the star player
[00:08:02.580 --> 00:08:08.160] and you're telling me, hey, I know I brought you to the team,
[00:08:08.220 --> 00:08:10.960] but I'm thinking about just checking myself out.
[00:08:11.540 --> 00:08:12.920] Coaches ain't come out the game.
[00:08:13.360 --> 00:08:15.560] The players look at you like, we're ready for you to score 50.
[00:08:15.900 --> 00:08:17.920] You're like, man, but I just don't want to.
[00:08:18.200 --> 00:08:20.700] Can I score 50? Yeah, I can score 50 probably.
[00:08:21.060 --> 00:08:22.380] But it's going to be hard though.
[00:08:22.380 --> 00:08:26.480] It's like it was supposed to be easy is the question.
[00:08:26.800 --> 00:08:29.200] You know, like who said it was supposed to be easy?
[00:08:29.240 --> 00:08:30.220] Who said it wasn't burnout?
[00:08:30.920 --> 00:08:34.120] Because the burnout and these different things that you're experiencing
[00:08:34.120 --> 00:08:37.360] is due to some issues that needs to be solved.
[00:08:37.900 --> 00:08:41.900] So solve these issues versus checking yourself out completely
[00:08:42.860 --> 00:08:46.900] because it don't always have to be a bumpy road.
[00:08:47.940 --> 00:08:50.200] Something hard on me still don't need to be a bumpy road.
[00:08:50.200 --> 00:08:50.980] You don't have to be depressed.
[00:08:51.060 --> 00:08:52.560] You don't have to be burnt out.
[00:08:52.580 --> 00:08:56.000] All these different things because that's easily solvable
[00:08:56.000 --> 00:09:00.340] if you set your life up the way you want to because you can.
[00:09:00.480 --> 00:09:02.520] You know, you can set your life up exactly how you want to,
[00:09:02.520 --> 00:09:05.860] to avoid all the things that you don't want to experience
[00:09:05.860 --> 00:09:07.460] on this route to a million.
[00:09:08.500 --> 00:09:10.700] That's the part that can be easily done.
[00:09:11.860 --> 00:09:14.340] But if you just take yourself out the game,
[00:09:14.840 --> 00:09:15.900] then we would never know.
[00:09:16.420 --> 00:09:17.340] You'll never know.
[00:09:17.340 --> 00:09:20.700] And then you'll be starting from day one with something different
[00:09:20.700 --> 00:09:23.630] versus starting from day 3,000.
[00:09:24.940 --> 00:09:25.140] You know?
[00:09:25.680 --> 00:09:27.320] It could be temporary.
[00:09:29.080 --> 00:09:33.740] I definitely love video, photography, just capturing those moments.
[00:09:34.320 --> 00:09:35.580] Just art in general.
[00:09:36.200 --> 00:09:38.680] I do look at it as art and as a creative,
[00:09:38.940 --> 00:09:44.960] but also as a way to help different brands and companies for sure.
[00:09:45.600 --> 00:09:50.620] But I also look at, you know, just me being a Clevender.
[00:09:52.400 --> 00:09:56.620] 2016, we had LeBron, Kevin Love, or Smith.
[00:09:58.500 --> 00:10:00.960] But Mr. Big Shot, Kyrie Irving.
[00:10:01.900 --> 00:10:05.080] Even him loving the game so much,
[00:10:05.580 --> 00:10:08.440] took a lot of time off, even a few seasons off,
[00:10:08.560 --> 00:10:12.840] just to get his self together, his spiritual side together.
[00:10:12.840 --> 00:10:17.600] And him finding different realizations throughout life
[00:10:17.600 --> 00:10:20.420] and his next moves outside of basketball.
[00:10:21.120 --> 00:10:24.020] And I think I'm having that similar epiphany.
[00:10:25.240 --> 00:10:27.320] What is that next thing?
[00:10:27.980 --> 00:10:29.760] Like I said, I love it,
[00:10:29.780 --> 00:10:33.180] but it's like there's something else.
[00:10:33.420 --> 00:10:37.000] And I listen to these podcasts, read these books,
[00:10:38.000 --> 00:10:41.160] and biographies about different companies
[00:10:41.160 --> 00:10:46.500] starting eight months and raising 2.3 billion or some,
[00:10:46.500 --> 00:10:48.140] even close to a trillion.
[00:10:48.360 --> 00:10:49.500] So it's like, man.
[00:10:50.240 --> 00:10:52.860] And I'm, you know, five figures.
[00:10:52.940 --> 00:10:55.800] Some four or five figures, it's like, man.
[00:10:56.420 --> 00:10:59.580] So it's like, what is that next step?
[00:10:59.900 --> 00:11:02.320] Am I going to continue this route
[00:11:03.680 --> 00:11:08.180] or take my talents and shift to somewhere else?
[00:11:08.340 --> 00:11:10.500] That's just kind of my philosophy.
[00:11:10.500 --> 00:11:13.960] And that's, I feel like I was at the same space in life, too,
[00:11:14.460 --> 00:11:15.940] a few times recently.
[00:11:17.140 --> 00:11:20.920] You know, thank God that I'm in this space today.
[00:11:21.280 --> 00:11:26.980] But I think my first crisis was when I turned 30
[00:11:26.980 --> 00:11:29.960] and just questioning all my future moves, my moves,
[00:11:30.140 --> 00:11:33.140] where I'm going to be at physically, location-wise, right?
[00:11:33.480 --> 00:11:35.640] Who is going to be my mate, my partner?
[00:11:36.680 --> 00:11:39.020] What is going to be my main income source?
[00:11:39.020 --> 00:11:42.060] And all these things, it's very serious to me
[00:11:42.060 --> 00:11:44.860] because I felt like it was going to shape the rest of my life.
[00:11:44.860 --> 00:11:47.460] So I had a lot of questions that needed to be answered.
[00:11:47.980 --> 00:11:50.700] But then right before that, maybe like two or three years before that,
[00:11:51.200 --> 00:11:54.280] I went through a completely spiritual journey.
[00:11:55.600 --> 00:11:57.740] And then fast forward, after that crisis,
[00:11:57.740 --> 00:11:59.340] I went through another spiritual journey.
[00:11:59.600 --> 00:12:01.200] I took off work for a whole year.
[00:12:01.440 --> 00:12:02.760] I have a master's degree.
[00:12:02.920 --> 00:12:04.420] I didn't use anything in my master's degree.
[00:12:04.600 --> 00:12:06.300] I didn't use anything from my master's degree.
[00:12:06.300 --> 00:12:07.500] Master's education.
[00:12:07.980 --> 00:12:09.120] Right, master's education.
[00:12:11.240 --> 00:12:13.000] I almost didn't work.
[00:12:13.880 --> 00:12:16.980] But I did do photography and videography thanks to you.
[00:12:17.180 --> 00:12:18.000] Thank you.
[00:12:18.220 --> 00:12:18.960] Sure, yeah.
[00:12:19.340 --> 00:12:23.180] But it was like a spiritual journey that I needed to go on
[00:12:23.180 --> 00:12:26.260] just to be free in life for a moment,
[00:12:27.660 --> 00:12:29.940] just to wake up and get me together.
[00:12:30.020 --> 00:12:32.000] And that's what it sounded like
[00:12:32.000 --> 00:12:34.940] will be a great idea for yourself.
[00:12:35.720 --> 00:12:37.520] It's okay to focus on you.
[00:12:37.860 --> 00:12:38.600] That's okay.
[00:12:39.960 --> 00:12:40.820] You don't have to like,
[00:12:41.960 --> 00:12:44.600] I don't know if you have to rush anything
[00:12:44.600 --> 00:12:50.860] and get to a certain destination or a certain outcome,
[00:12:51.740 --> 00:12:53.780] or make that outcome known.
[00:12:53.840 --> 00:12:56.380] You don't have to just entertain ideas like this,
[00:12:56.780 --> 00:12:57.060] but quit.
[00:12:57.280 --> 00:13:00.640] I think you can just focus on you for a moment.
[00:13:00.920 --> 00:13:02.120] And I think that's okay.
[00:13:02.520 --> 00:13:04.020] Because at some point,
[00:13:04.020 --> 00:13:07.200] you will get back to what it is that you truly want to do.
[00:13:07.780 --> 00:13:09.060] And the way of doing that is actually writing.
[00:13:09.700 --> 00:13:11.720] That's the most recent prompt that I actually wrote about.
[00:13:12.500 --> 00:13:13.720] Let me see my most recent prompt.
[00:13:15.060 --> 00:13:17.660] Don't say that because you say get back to me.
[00:13:18.060 --> 00:13:19.080] I won't want to turn.
[00:13:19.500 --> 00:13:22.180] I won't be doing nothing because I love me.
[00:13:22.700 --> 00:13:25.600] You know, but you loving you,
[00:13:27.930 --> 00:13:30.250] you still a man, right?
[00:13:30.650 --> 00:13:32.850] You still plan to have a family.
[00:13:32.890 --> 00:13:34.150] You have kids.
[00:13:35.490 --> 00:13:40.350] So loving you doesn't necessarily mean an unrealistic life as a man though,
[00:13:40.570 --> 00:13:43.710] because we live in a world that costs.
[00:13:44.350 --> 00:13:44.870] Right.
[00:13:45.330 --> 00:13:47.890] So, you know, in the midst of you being free,
[00:13:48.670 --> 00:13:52.890] I'm sure you still want to earn an income, earn a living,
[00:13:54.070 --> 00:13:56.630] take care of your family and others.
[00:13:57.670 --> 00:14:00.030] That's kind of where I'm kind of hitting that.
[00:14:00.030 --> 00:14:03.630] Like, I know I spoke about the million,
[00:14:03.690 --> 00:14:05.850] but it's also how I get that million.
[00:14:06.430 --> 00:14:09.950] Yeah, when we do these, you know, video production,
[00:14:10.130 --> 00:14:12.490] photography, different events,
[00:14:13.110 --> 00:14:14.950] we have to physically go out there.
[00:14:15.330 --> 00:14:20.250] So it's like, what is that passive income stream that could also help me,
[00:14:20.250 --> 00:14:22.930] even if I continue doing what I'm doing now,
[00:14:23.010 --> 00:14:26.870] but that passive income stream to help me get to that million.
[00:14:26.870 --> 00:14:34.590] It's like, I don't want to be out there six, seven days a week, you know.
[00:14:34.730 --> 00:14:36.450] Let me ask you this question.
[00:14:36.610 --> 00:14:37.210] Yes, sir.
[00:14:37.370 --> 00:14:39.490] Because I don't know if I'm putting everything in perspective.
[00:14:39.570 --> 00:14:40.350] Okay, okay.
[00:14:40.770 --> 00:14:44.070] When we're at these locations, capturing these moments,
[00:14:45.490 --> 00:14:47.250] capturing life, documenting life,
[00:14:47.550 --> 00:14:50.290] life is very precious, very important, very beautiful.
[00:14:51.090 --> 00:14:52.230] I look at myself as a historian.
[00:14:52.370 --> 00:14:54.810] I'm going to make a statement before I ask you a question.
[00:14:55.390 --> 00:15:00.230] My statement first is I haven't seen you sad or mad
[00:15:00.230 --> 00:15:05.570] when you are in your element documenting history.
[00:15:05.650 --> 00:15:06.910] That's first and foremost my statement.
[00:15:06.910 --> 00:15:07.610] Oh yeah, facts.
[00:15:07.870 --> 00:15:11.970] Even if you're tired, you work up 24 hours,
[00:15:12.030 --> 00:15:14.590] you take a five hour energy, you do whatever you need to do beforehand.
[00:15:15.470 --> 00:15:16.910] But once you're in that element,
[00:15:17.070 --> 00:15:22.010] you get the snapping photos, taking videos, talking to people,
[00:15:22.010 --> 00:15:24.410] listening to people, smiling.
[00:15:25.750 --> 00:15:28.030] You know, you might even put the camera down for a hot second
[00:15:28.030 --> 00:15:29.510] and just be in the moment.
[00:15:30.010 --> 00:15:34.310] And it's almost like you're glowing and you're lighting up, right?
[00:15:34.330 --> 00:15:35.670] So that's the statement I have.
[00:15:36.090 --> 00:15:43.950] So the question is why when you think about you're doing these services,
[00:15:44.030 --> 00:15:49.410] why is it so negative as if it doesn't make you happy while in the moment?
[00:15:49.650 --> 00:15:50.970] I love that.
[00:15:50.970 --> 00:15:56.030] Because I'm only on the outside looking in, right?
[00:15:56.310 --> 00:15:59.630] I have never seen you mad or sad while doing these things,
[00:15:59.650 --> 00:16:03.350] but when you speak of them, it's just like,
[00:16:03.550 --> 00:16:06.390] oh man, it's just bad and it's negative and it's just like,
[00:16:06.910 --> 00:16:08.370] I can't do this, I don't want to do this,
[00:16:08.390 --> 00:16:15.080] but that's like some of the happiest times I've ever seen you while doing it,
[00:16:15.400 --> 00:16:20.340] no matter the thoughts before or after though, you know what I'm saying?
[00:16:20.340 --> 00:16:24.700] And that's where the team and help and solutions to keep you sane
[00:16:24.700 --> 00:16:26.360] and not burnt out come in.
[00:16:26.420 --> 00:16:30.980] Because while doing it, I don't see any negatives.
[00:16:31.640 --> 00:16:33.200] The negatives come before and after.
[00:16:33.740 --> 00:16:35.700] The negatives come from the attachments.
[00:16:36.480 --> 00:16:40.460] The negatives come from the problems in life
[00:16:40.460 --> 00:16:45.080] and the things you need to take care of and these bills and this boom, boom, boom.
[00:16:45.440 --> 00:16:48.680] It ain't the service itself though.
[00:16:48.680 --> 00:16:52.480] It's all the things that's like before and after, attached to the service.
[00:16:53.540 --> 00:16:57.080] Well, like you said, yeah, I do love it,
[00:16:57.420 --> 00:17:02.640] and I'm a peaceful and loving person, not radiated.
[00:17:03.460 --> 00:17:04.859] Like I said, I love it.
[00:17:04.880 --> 00:17:05.980] I love it so much.
[00:17:06.280 --> 00:17:11.220] It takes me back to my music days, my music and poetry days.
[00:17:11.800 --> 00:17:13.660] Like, yeah, I love it.
[00:17:13.660 --> 00:17:16.339] Anybody that know me as a child, I love music.
[00:17:16.420 --> 00:17:17.319] I love writing.
[00:17:17.319 --> 00:17:21.060] I love being in the studio.
[00:17:21.599 --> 00:17:26.119] I could perform, but I consider myself more of a recording artist.
[00:17:27.579 --> 00:17:31.920] And will I still get in the studio today after leaving, quitting music?
[00:17:32.820 --> 00:17:33.940] Oh, absolutely.
[00:17:35.260 --> 00:17:37.180] Now performing, that's a different thing.
[00:17:37.360 --> 00:17:39.120] The recording, getting in the studio.
[00:17:39.580 --> 00:17:40.300] Oh, yes.
[00:17:41.480 --> 00:17:45.280] And it takes me back to that same similar situation
[00:17:45.280 --> 00:17:46.820] with video photography.
[00:17:46.960 --> 00:17:47.740] I love it.
[00:17:47.740 --> 00:17:48.360] I love it.
[00:17:48.360 --> 00:17:49.240] I love it.
[00:17:49.880 --> 00:17:54.440] But it's like different stages in life and different maturity points in life.
[00:17:54.540 --> 00:17:57.560] The more you learn, the more you grow, the more you know.
[00:17:58.220 --> 00:18:00.780] So much in my mind, so much I want to do.
[00:18:01.500 --> 00:18:03.680] I know time is ticking.
[00:18:04.640 --> 00:18:07.160] My daughters are getting older, getting bigger.
[00:18:08.060 --> 00:18:09.360] I taught them the skill.
[00:18:09.580 --> 00:18:13.940] If they use it or don't, at least I taught them.
[00:18:13.940 --> 00:18:15.800] And they know it.
[00:18:17.360 --> 00:18:21.440] And I know you talk about me, me blowing and lighting up.
[00:18:23.240 --> 00:18:28.780] I try to do that or be that person no matter what I do.
[00:18:29.780 --> 00:18:33.800] Now, it comes more natural with me with a camera in my hand
[00:18:33.800 --> 00:18:37.600] and me networking, talking to different people.
[00:18:38.540 --> 00:18:44.920] Now, if I was to quit, will I have like a remorse or regret?
[00:18:45.400 --> 00:18:46.280] I don't know.
[00:18:48.620 --> 00:18:52.800] But there's also that side of think bigger.
[00:18:53.300 --> 00:18:56.460] If I didn't have this camera in my hand, I wouldn't make it.
[00:18:56.980 --> 00:19:02.300] That's kind of how I'm thinking in this time, this period I am.
[00:19:02.560 --> 00:19:05.680] Could it just be just thoughts that just come in
[00:19:05.680 --> 00:19:07.060] and free-flowing in my mind?
[00:19:07.060 --> 00:19:07.660] Maybe.
[00:19:08.000 --> 00:19:11.360] But that's just where I'm at in this day and age of my life.
[00:19:12.300 --> 00:19:13.320] That's a good question.
[00:19:13.460 --> 00:19:16.620] Have you ever found any answers to that question necessarily?
[00:19:17.420 --> 00:19:21.100] Or is it just open thoughts and brainstorming at the moment?
[00:19:21.680 --> 00:19:23.680] I would say right now it's open thoughts.
[00:19:23.920 --> 00:19:26.320] I don't even know what that next endeavor would be
[00:19:26.320 --> 00:19:27.700] or what I would jump in.
[00:19:28.080 --> 00:19:32.540] And I've kind of tinkled with tech a little bit.
[00:19:33.180 --> 00:19:36.040] I could be better and network with different people in tech.
[00:19:37.400 --> 00:19:40.340] Because I have the same thoughts from time to time.
[00:19:40.940 --> 00:19:43.680] I let chat and AI help me out.
[00:19:44.320 --> 00:19:46.880] I felt like I was getting to a point where I have so many thoughts
[00:19:46.880 --> 00:19:48.480] I just need to organize them.
[00:19:49.200 --> 00:19:51.040] And then the process of organizing them
[00:19:51.040 --> 00:19:53.800] and just kind of speaking to them, because I don't go to therapy,
[00:19:54.080 --> 00:19:56.580] which I would love to and I plan to still.
[00:19:56.940 --> 00:19:59.900] This is kind of like a little avenue of that at the moment.
[00:19:59.940 --> 00:20:04.200] And when I speak to it, I notice I'm a little too hard on myself.
[00:20:04.200 --> 00:20:06.100] And when I'm speaking of certain things,
[00:20:06.720 --> 00:20:09.500] it tells me the way you're speaking about it
[00:20:09.500 --> 00:20:14.080] as if you're not as closer to what you think you're not closer to.
[00:20:14.160 --> 00:20:18.900] It tells me you're actually in a perfect position
[00:20:18.900 --> 00:20:23.840] just not there on that path.
[00:20:24.180 --> 00:20:25.700] It's like you're in position.
[00:20:26.220 --> 00:20:28.540] You just have to go further in this path
[00:20:28.540 --> 00:20:32.700] and you're actually a lot closer to the destination than you believe.
[00:20:32.700 --> 00:20:35.720] And then that's when you have these other questions.
[00:20:35.900 --> 00:20:36.760] Why is that?
[00:20:37.000 --> 00:20:38.780] Now it's like, why is that?
[00:20:39.240 --> 00:20:39.720] Right, right, right.
[00:20:39.800 --> 00:20:40.300] You know what I'm saying?
[00:20:40.420 --> 00:20:42.700] That's kind of what it is we're here.
[00:20:43.340 --> 00:20:46.040] Because it's like if you did have a perfect world
[00:20:46.040 --> 00:20:49.400] and you didn't have to pick the camera in your hand to earn this,
[00:20:49.500 --> 00:20:53.080] what would it be that you would be doing?
[00:20:54.160 --> 00:20:58.080] And by all means, you could do that because life is short.
[00:20:58.080 --> 00:21:01.820] You know, at the same time, when having kids,
[00:21:02.680 --> 00:21:07.360] when having bills, and having experience and talent in it,
[00:21:07.640 --> 00:21:10.740] that's the thing that set it apart, though.
[00:21:10.900 --> 00:21:13.920] It ain't like you just playing around in this.
[00:21:14.100 --> 00:21:16.040] It's like, no, I have experience, I have connections,
[00:21:16.200 --> 00:21:18.680] I have relationships, I have clients, I have past work,
[00:21:18.920 --> 00:21:21.100] I have a whole platform.
[00:21:22.280 --> 00:21:27.440] That can be an avenue while figuring out these other things.
[00:21:27.440 --> 00:21:29.700] It don't have to be nothing while figuring these things out.
[00:21:29.760 --> 00:21:34.100] It can be this path while figuring out these other things.
[00:21:34.740 --> 00:21:37.520] And I did want to bring up something, too, for this prompt.
[00:21:38.280 --> 00:21:42.200] I actually just did this Sunday, which was today, didn't I write?
[00:21:43.640 --> 00:21:45.900] So this prompt was in the book Think and Grow Rich,
[00:21:46.280 --> 00:21:47.620] but not the original version.
[00:21:47.840 --> 00:21:50.140] It was Think and Grow Rich, a black choice,
[00:21:50.640 --> 00:21:54.720] which is a little bit more tailored to black people,
[00:21:54.720 --> 00:21:59.240] especially in America, with us going through so much
[00:21:59.240 --> 00:22:03.940] and having so much trauma and so much over the last 400 years or so.
[00:22:04.100 --> 00:22:04.460] Yes, sir.
[00:22:04.920 --> 00:22:08.340] And in this prompt, it says spend 60 minutes in one place.
[00:22:09.820 --> 00:22:13.000] Find that comfortable chair, that comfortable desk,
[00:22:13.040 --> 00:22:15.680] that comfortable space that when you're in this space,
[00:22:15.720 --> 00:22:19.840] you feel serene, you feel calm, you feel peace, right?
[00:22:19.920 --> 00:22:20.280] Yeah.
[00:22:20.660 --> 00:22:23.520] That's the first thing, the environment, being comfortable in that.
[00:22:23.520 --> 00:22:27.580] And then it says spend 60 minutes in this one place,
[00:22:29.180 --> 00:22:36.600] defining exactly what it is you expect to be, to do, and to create.
[00:22:37.920 --> 00:22:42.160] So making it known, making it clear, right?
[00:22:42.180 --> 00:22:43.800] Giving yourself time, though.
[00:22:46.690 --> 00:22:49.450] Time where no distractions, right?
[00:22:49.910 --> 00:22:51.110] Really figuring these thoughts out,
[00:22:51.210 --> 00:22:52.910] not just thinking about figuring these thoughts out,
[00:22:52.970 --> 00:22:54.150] but literally figuring it out, right?
[00:22:54.150 --> 00:22:59.750] It says first, write down a clear and concise statement
[00:22:59.750 --> 00:23:05.370] of what you want most in life, what you want most in life, right?
[00:23:07.150 --> 00:23:10.070] Second, outline your plan of achieving this major goal.
[00:23:10.150 --> 00:23:11.410] That's the important part for you now.
[00:23:11.470 --> 00:23:12.450] You're like, man, how?
[00:23:14.050 --> 00:23:16.610] You have to just shut the world off for a moment.
[00:23:16.830 --> 00:23:21.090] Just shut it off for a moment and sit down and get to it.
[00:23:21.370 --> 00:23:22.510] Figure out how, right?
[00:23:22.510 --> 00:23:25.750] Third, set a definite timetable for achieving this goal.
[00:23:26.970 --> 00:23:32.130] And then it also said, you know, set many timetables and many plans
[00:23:33.210 --> 00:23:36.870] so you know that you're in the right direction, right?
[00:23:37.550 --> 00:23:40.110] But most importantly, put this pan into action, right?
[00:23:40.310 --> 00:23:44.890] And then it said fourth, memorize your chief aim and your plan
[00:23:44.890 --> 00:23:47.970] and say it over like it's a prayer, like you praying,
[00:23:47.970 --> 00:23:52.190] like you getting in tune, create a burning desire for it.
[00:23:53.070 --> 00:23:55.590] And this is a prompt that I did that helped me out a lot.
[00:23:55.950 --> 00:24:00.050] But what I did come to find out was I didn't get further away
[00:24:00.050 --> 00:24:02.290] from all the things that I said over the past years.
[00:24:03.150 --> 00:24:07.890] I just became more clear on all these different things
[00:24:07.890 --> 00:24:09.930] that were scattered and just kind of came together
[00:24:09.930 --> 00:24:12.150] to make a perfect plan in order to get to that.
[00:24:12.390 --> 00:24:17.130] And then once I get to that, I can do whatever I want to do.
[00:24:17.130 --> 00:24:20.250] It don't have to take me 15 years to do it.
[00:24:20.570 --> 00:24:21.690] We have a long life.
[00:24:21.890 --> 00:24:25.010] I don't think three to five years is a long time for me
[00:24:26.110 --> 00:24:31.150] to put my head down, work, do what I think that could get me there
[00:24:31.150 --> 00:24:33.970] because once I'm there, I'm there,
[00:24:34.490 --> 00:24:36.150] and the problems are still going to be there.
[00:24:37.290 --> 00:24:38.410] The problem that you have currently,
[00:24:38.550 --> 00:24:42.410] when you get to a million dollars, it's still going to be there.
[00:24:42.970 --> 00:24:44.430] It's truly still going to be there
[00:24:44.430 --> 00:24:46.110] because it ain't really about the money.
[00:24:46.250 --> 00:24:46.890] It ain't about the million dollars.
[00:24:46.890 --> 00:24:50.350] It's about your purpose in life and actually fulfilling that.
[00:24:51.130 --> 00:24:53.630] And we all need a strong foundation to stand on.
[00:24:54.730 --> 00:24:56.890] You've been a very spiritual man
[00:24:57.370 --> 00:24:59.570] in studying so many different avenues and thoughts.
[00:24:59.690 --> 00:25:01.290] You have pulled in so many directions.
[00:25:02.010 --> 00:25:05.510] So what I like to think about is having a strong foundation
[00:25:05.510 --> 00:25:06.570] to stand on something.
[00:25:07.370 --> 00:25:08.990] Not standing on many things.
[00:25:09.110 --> 00:25:11.250] Finally, it is what you stand on.
[00:25:11.750 --> 00:25:13.610] Stand on it. Be firm in it
[00:25:13.610 --> 00:25:15.690] because you stand for something or fall for anything.
[00:25:16.590 --> 00:25:19.810] So if you've got all these different directions pulling you,
[00:25:20.230 --> 00:25:22.710] okay, what is it that you're standing on, though?
[00:25:22.710 --> 00:25:27.630] Stand on it, deal with it, live in it unapologetically,
[00:25:28.170 --> 00:25:30.390] and that might help as well, too.
[00:25:30.670 --> 00:25:32.270] That's something that I experienced in life.
[00:25:32.390 --> 00:25:34.890] It helped because I was a free thinker as well.
[00:25:36.410 --> 00:25:38.090] I believed in everything,
[00:25:39.670 --> 00:25:42.230] but believing in nothing at all at the same time
[00:25:42.230 --> 00:25:43.590] because I believe in everything.
[00:25:43.950 --> 00:25:45.170] Everything is everything.
[00:25:46.610 --> 00:25:49.830] Okay, it's like, you know.
[00:25:50.270 --> 00:25:52.470] I got clear on that, too, aspect,
[00:25:52.490 --> 00:25:54.190] and then that helped me out a lot.
[00:25:54.290 --> 00:25:57.150] I think that helped me out tremendously to have a foundation
[00:25:58.030 --> 00:26:00.770] where I truly know, not like I believe,
[00:26:01.010 --> 00:26:04.890] where I think I know where I'm going to end up.
[00:26:05.670 --> 00:26:07.210] If I do fall short of that,
[00:26:07.250 --> 00:26:08.790] I just know I'm not working hard enough.
[00:26:08.930 --> 00:26:11.510] That's it. It ain't about me having to do...
[00:26:11.510 --> 00:26:13.190] I know I'm just not working hard enough.
[00:26:13.250 --> 00:26:13.730] That's it.
[00:26:14.170 --> 00:26:16.230] I know I'm just not working hard enough
[00:26:16.230 --> 00:26:17.210] in my 24 hours of the day.
[00:26:17.270 --> 00:26:18.310] I have 24 hours.
[00:26:18.890 --> 00:26:20.330] Am I giving my 24 hours to myself
[00:26:20.330 --> 00:26:22.930] or am I giving my 24 hours to the powers that be
[00:26:22.930 --> 00:26:25.030] or the man or somebody else's dream
[00:26:25.030 --> 00:26:27.870] or somebody else's vision, right?
[00:26:27.970 --> 00:26:29.190] You got a big vision,
[00:26:29.890 --> 00:26:32.030] but is you giving your time to your vision
[00:26:32.030 --> 00:26:34.010] versus other people's vision,
[00:26:34.010 --> 00:26:36.350] and that's where this burnout may lie as well
[00:26:37.190 --> 00:26:39.030] because there's so many directions,
[00:26:39.030 --> 00:26:41.470] so many different things, so many...
[00:26:42.150 --> 00:26:44.210] You ain't maximized the 24 hours yet
[00:26:44.210 --> 00:26:46.170] for your own vision, your own dream and yourself.
[00:26:47.950 --> 00:26:49.250] I know that was a lot, my fault.
[00:26:49.350 --> 00:26:50.490] I know that was a lot right there.
[00:26:51.870 --> 00:26:53.730] I know that was like a monologue at that point.
[00:26:54.070 --> 00:26:54.830] It's a monologue.
[00:26:55.410 --> 00:26:57.170] I just need to get those thoughts out though, man,
[00:26:57.190 --> 00:26:57.850] because it's like...
[00:26:57.850 --> 00:26:59.230] I'll receive it.
[00:26:59.790 --> 00:27:00.490] It's just all...
[00:27:00.490 --> 00:27:02.550] Man, it's just really all thoughts, bro.
[00:27:03.230 --> 00:27:04.610] It's just thoughts, man.
[00:27:05.230 --> 00:27:10.250] I know what I heard from you every time we meet
[00:27:10.250 --> 00:27:12.070] and what you're speaking like,
[00:27:12.090 --> 00:27:13.350] what you're speaking of.
[00:27:15.530 --> 00:27:17.250] You didn't say none of that for nothing.
[00:27:19.070 --> 00:27:21.650] You didn't tell me how good you are at this thing
[00:27:21.650 --> 00:27:24.450] and your passion and your future plans
[00:27:24.450 --> 00:27:26.230] and you're about to get $1,000 deals.
[00:27:26.590 --> 00:27:28.270] And all these different things
[00:27:28.270 --> 00:27:31.230] that you set for yourself and all these different plans
[00:27:31.230 --> 00:27:34.590] and all these different goals that you had and spoke of
[00:27:34.590 --> 00:27:36.650] and told me that you were so definite about,
[00:27:37.430 --> 00:27:41.530] that was a such thing that did come from a genuine place.
[00:27:41.870 --> 00:27:45.070] You actually meant every single thing that you said.
[00:27:46.390 --> 00:27:47.490] That was your first mind.
[00:27:48.350 --> 00:27:49.670] You always follow that first mind
[00:27:49.670 --> 00:27:51.310] because that's genuinely what you want to think.
[00:27:51.490 --> 00:27:52.770] That's genuinely what you want to do.
[00:27:53.450 --> 00:27:55.090] Your first mind is your God mind.
[00:27:55.170 --> 00:27:57.630] That's the natural state that you were in
[00:27:57.630 --> 00:28:00.650] when we're having conversations like we're having right now.
[00:28:01.170 --> 00:28:03.410] You're just speaking, free-forming thoughts,
[00:28:03.410 --> 00:28:04.690] and you told me all these different things.
[00:28:04.850 --> 00:28:06.690] Every time we meet, you tell me these different plans
[00:28:06.690 --> 00:28:08.330] and these different goals and these, boom,
[00:28:09.030 --> 00:28:10.910] that was a real thing.
[00:28:10.930 --> 00:28:13.830] So you act on that versus putting all these things
[00:28:13.830 --> 00:28:17.990] on a back burner or putting them to the side completely.
[00:28:18.810 --> 00:28:19.210] Sure.
[00:28:20.250 --> 00:28:22.970] Yeah, and if there was anybody else,
[00:28:23.090 --> 00:28:26.970] I wouldn't be as candid as I am with you.
[00:28:27.150 --> 00:28:28.650] We got this working relationship.
[00:28:28.910 --> 00:28:30.010] We work together.
[00:28:30.110 --> 00:28:31.410] You help me with your business.
[00:28:31.810 --> 00:28:32.890] I help you with yours.
[00:28:32.890 --> 00:28:33.770] But it's versa.
[00:28:34.230 --> 00:28:35.470] We're actively growing.
[00:28:37.070 --> 00:28:41.730] So it's also easier for me to say it to you
[00:28:41.730 --> 00:28:43.750] and actually have these thoughts
[00:28:43.750 --> 00:28:45.330] and speak them out loud.
[00:28:46.130 --> 00:28:49.790] You don't get time to say that to any and everybody.
[00:28:49.950 --> 00:28:50.750] I just met somebody,
[00:28:50.950 --> 00:28:53.550] look, I'm about to quit what I'm doing now
[00:28:53.550 --> 00:28:54.250] and do something else.
[00:28:54.470 --> 00:28:56.110] You can't say that to any and everybody.
[00:28:56.410 --> 00:28:58.510] And then especially potential clients,
[00:28:58.650 --> 00:28:59.430] you scare them away.
[00:29:00.670 --> 00:29:03.290] I'm glad that we're able to have this conversation,
[00:29:03.350 --> 00:29:04.670] but that was just on my mind.
[00:29:04.810 --> 00:29:08.030] I know I'm supposed to highlight you on your story,
[00:29:08.910 --> 00:29:13.810] but it's definitely been on my mind for a couple weeks,
[00:29:13.890 --> 00:29:17.010] couple months now, on and off.
[00:29:17.610 --> 00:29:18.030] Yeah.
[00:29:18.150 --> 00:29:21.850] Thank you for being open and open to myself
[00:29:21.850 --> 00:29:26.050] and open to the world on your thoughts
[00:29:26.050 --> 00:29:27.730] and thinking out loud and sharing that
[00:29:27.730 --> 00:29:28.810] because you don't have to.
[00:29:28.810 --> 00:29:29.730] That's first and foremost,
[00:29:30.530 --> 00:29:32.150] and that's actually something very serious,
[00:29:32.150 --> 00:29:32.910] very personal.
[00:29:33.350 --> 00:29:35.910] So I want to say thank you on behalf of myself
[00:29:35.910 --> 00:29:38.910] and whoever else may hear this.
[00:29:39.550 --> 00:29:41.310] And yeah, thank you.
[00:29:41.310 --> 00:29:41.990] Yeah, I know.
[00:29:42.630 --> 00:29:44.230] I'm looking at your shirt, man.
[00:29:44.330 --> 00:29:44.990] Say, coach.
[00:29:45.030 --> 00:29:47.990] And that's kind of like the angle I want to get in,
[00:29:48.090 --> 00:29:49.930] more mentorship, more coaching.
[00:29:50.090 --> 00:29:50.970] That's why I'm like,
[00:29:51.270 --> 00:29:53.930] what is something I can do without the camera
[00:29:53.930 --> 00:29:55.990] that I still enjoy?
[00:29:57.190 --> 00:29:58.870] It has been coaching.
[00:29:59.030 --> 00:29:59.950] I love coaching.
[00:30:00.170 --> 00:30:01.990] I love mentoring, helping people.
[00:30:02.050 --> 00:30:05.530] I love helping, whether that's capturing their visuals
[00:30:06.230 --> 00:30:09.170] or speaking through an issue or a problem.
[00:30:09.890 --> 00:30:11.410] I'm glad you said that, man,
[00:30:11.430 --> 00:30:13.090] because I think that opens the door
[00:30:13.090 --> 00:30:18.710] to let you know my vision that I have within this space
[00:30:18.710 --> 00:30:21.170] because similar to you,
[00:30:21.170 --> 00:30:26.170] I don't see myself just shooting photography
[00:30:26.170 --> 00:30:27.750] and videography all my life
[00:30:27.750 --> 00:30:31.130] or even see myself doing that on a higher level
[00:30:32.330 --> 00:30:34.610] for such a long period of time.
[00:30:35.030 --> 00:30:38.150] And if I do do it, I do it because I enjoy it
[00:30:38.150 --> 00:30:42.770] because I'm gaining a nice lump sum of money from it
[00:30:42.770 --> 00:30:45.190] or I'm helping other people from it.
[00:30:46.050 --> 00:30:47.190] Or both.
[00:30:47.550 --> 00:30:48.010] Or both.
[00:30:48.010 --> 00:30:51.130] But the vision in itself is much, much, much, much bigger
[00:30:51.130 --> 00:30:52.950] when it all comes together.
[00:30:54.770 --> 00:30:55.750] Okay, okay, okay.
[00:30:56.170 --> 00:31:00.470] So what did you do before you picked the camera back up?
[00:31:00.530 --> 00:31:03.490] Because I know you were studying when you were younger
[00:31:03.490 --> 00:31:05.090] and had a camera when you were younger,
[00:31:05.170 --> 00:31:08.830] but what were you doing when you first set it down
[00:31:08.830 --> 00:31:10.370] and then made that transition
[00:31:10.370 --> 00:31:11.890] before you picked the camera back up?
[00:31:12.190 --> 00:31:12.570] Yeah.
[00:31:13.190 --> 00:31:16.110] So before I put the camera down,
[00:31:16.110 --> 00:31:18.570] you know, I went to Cleveland School of Arts
[00:31:18.570 --> 00:31:21.490] for photography, graphic design, visual arts.
[00:31:22.470 --> 00:31:23.830] Did it since middle school, high school,
[00:31:23.910 --> 00:31:25.930] all through the years of just growing up.
[00:31:26.850 --> 00:31:28.210] The camera was close by.
[00:31:28.850 --> 00:31:30.570] And then I put it down.
[00:31:30.630 --> 00:31:33.750] When I put it down, I went through college pretty much
[00:31:33.750 --> 00:31:35.050] and had a whole collegiate career.
[00:31:36.550 --> 00:31:37.690] You know?
[00:31:39.290 --> 00:31:43.110] Bachelor's degree, master's degree, and...
[00:31:43.110 --> 00:31:45.010] What was that process like?
[00:31:45.270 --> 00:31:48.730] How long did it take you to complete the whole process
[00:31:48.730 --> 00:31:49.770] with your master's?
[00:31:50.250 --> 00:31:54.190] The process in itself was about seven to eight years.
[00:31:54.890 --> 00:31:56.690] Much longer than it needed to be
[00:31:56.690 --> 00:31:58.650] because along the journey,
[00:31:58.930 --> 00:32:03.470] I kind of hit some bumps and bruises along the journey.
[00:32:03.950 --> 00:32:06.190] And I probably had an extra year on the bachelor's
[00:32:06.190 --> 00:32:08.150] and an extra year on the master's as well.
[00:32:08.450 --> 00:32:11.910] But I did finish, so, you know, thankful for that.
[00:32:11.910 --> 00:32:15.030] And the process was...
[00:32:15.030 --> 00:32:18.890] It still was always creating in the background, you know?
[00:32:19.970 --> 00:32:24.890] But the forefront became me helping people,
[00:32:26.210 --> 00:32:28.930] me finding my purpose in life
[00:32:28.930 --> 00:32:31.570] past any skill or talent
[00:32:31.570 --> 00:32:35.930] because I realized that life is much greater
[00:32:35.930 --> 00:32:38.090] than just a tool that I use.
[00:32:38.690 --> 00:32:41.730] So I was in the process of answering those questions,
[00:32:41.730 --> 00:32:43.970] you know, what am I even doing in school?
[00:32:45.190 --> 00:32:46.790] What is my major going to be?
[00:32:46.870 --> 00:32:49.970] What can I see myself doing for years and years to come?
[00:32:49.990 --> 00:32:52.050] And I had to answer those questions.
[00:32:52.450 --> 00:32:53.710] And in that process,
[00:32:54.530 --> 00:32:58.070] the photography and the camera became on the back burner.
[00:32:59.850 --> 00:33:01.970] So kind of similar thoughts that I'm having now,
[00:33:02.070 --> 00:33:03.310] but just in a different form.
[00:33:03.570 --> 00:33:05.230] Yeah, just maybe a lot earlier
[00:33:05.230 --> 00:33:07.950] because I feel like we hit different crises
[00:33:08.650 --> 00:33:10.290] at different points in our life
[00:33:10.290 --> 00:33:13.290] at moments that we need these crises though.
[00:33:13.830 --> 00:33:15.410] Because then we start to answer questions
[00:33:15.410 --> 00:33:17.050] and we need these questions answered.
[00:33:18.030 --> 00:33:20.270] And when you find a solution to these questions,
[00:33:21.370 --> 00:33:23.230] we have a foundation
[00:33:23.870 --> 00:33:25.430] and a trampoline, if you will,
[00:33:25.550 --> 00:33:27.330] to jump off of and cut apart from
[00:33:27.330 --> 00:33:29.510] so we can get that momentum going once again.
[00:33:30.570 --> 00:33:35.230] Now, I know you're speaking to me about all of this.
[00:33:35.690 --> 00:33:38.930] I know you mentioned foundations a few times.
[00:33:38.930 --> 00:33:41.470] But let's say someone younger than us
[00:33:41.470 --> 00:33:44.930] that just lost and they need a foundation,
[00:33:45.090 --> 00:33:46.910] what would you recommend or say to them?
[00:33:48.230 --> 00:33:51.330] Somebody who's completely lost and need a foundation,
[00:33:52.470 --> 00:33:56.730] I will always ask them, have they tried God?
[00:33:58.170 --> 00:34:03.490] And if not God, then any type of spiritual presence,
[00:34:04.610 --> 00:34:07.190] because we are spiritual beings
[00:34:07.190 --> 00:34:09.670] experiencing a physical life.
[00:34:09.830 --> 00:34:10.550] Yes, yes.
[00:34:10.989 --> 00:34:13.550] And we can have all the material things in the world
[00:34:13.550 --> 00:34:15.469] and it still won't solve
[00:34:15.929 --> 00:34:18.150] or fill those voids that we have
[00:34:18.150 --> 00:34:21.130] because life is much greater than me and you.
[00:34:22.190 --> 00:34:23.929] You know, we can have all the money in the world,
[00:34:24.670 --> 00:34:27.330] all the clothes, all the shoes, all the cars,
[00:34:28.850 --> 00:34:30.170] all the material things,
[00:34:31.050 --> 00:34:33.790] and we still gonna get back to square one
[00:34:33.790 --> 00:34:35.630] because square one and that foundation
[00:34:35.630 --> 00:34:38.830] should be something much more greater than ourselves.
[00:34:40.610 --> 00:34:43.630] That's what I always would get them to try.
[00:34:44.110 --> 00:34:48.250] And I won't be so complex when we're presenting it to them, though.
[00:34:48.710 --> 00:34:50.650] You know, we don't need to be in the stars,
[00:34:50.710 --> 00:34:51.810] in the moon, in the earth.
[00:34:52.210 --> 00:34:53.530] I might just tell them something simple.
[00:34:53.670 --> 00:34:55.350] It's like, have you tried to clean your diet?
[00:34:55.489 --> 00:34:57.430] Have you tried to eat something different, you know?
[00:34:58.410 --> 00:35:01.350] If somebody gave you a solution to all your problems,
[00:35:01.430 --> 00:35:02.330] I'd ask them things like that.
[00:35:02.630 --> 00:35:04.430] If the person gave you a solution to all your problems,
[00:35:04.430 --> 00:35:05.370] would you take it?
[00:35:05.510 --> 00:35:06.810] Yeah, I'd take it.
[00:35:07.890 --> 00:35:08.850] Well, try this.
[00:35:09.190 --> 00:35:10.930] You know, have you tried to write down some thoughts,
[00:35:10.930 --> 00:35:12.130] journal, have you tried reading?
[00:35:12.510 --> 00:35:13.830] You know, just kind of, like,
[00:35:13.850 --> 00:35:15.930] getting them to expand their mind first,
[00:35:16.590 --> 00:35:18.690] and that tends to go hand in hand
[00:35:18.690 --> 00:35:20.910] with any type of spiritual awakening as well.
[00:35:21.810 --> 00:35:24.110] Well, if they don't want to expand their mind,
[00:35:24.230 --> 00:35:26.350] if they're so close-minded, like,
[00:35:26.510 --> 00:35:30.950] oh, they don't even want to talk or respond to you.
[00:35:30.950 --> 00:35:33.250] Like, they're so sheltered and closed-minded.
[00:35:34.810 --> 00:35:36.810] I think from there, then,
[00:35:37.290 --> 00:35:40.450] we have to go even more basic-level things,
[00:35:40.550 --> 00:35:42.790] and that basic-level thing would be,
[00:35:42.890 --> 00:35:43.970] do you know who you are?
[00:35:45.430 --> 00:35:45.650] Right?
[00:35:45.870 --> 00:35:46.950] Knowledge of self.
[00:35:48.470 --> 00:35:50.910] That tends to come from a lack of love for self
[00:35:50.910 --> 00:35:52.450] or a lack of knowledge of self.
[00:35:53.490 --> 00:35:55.190] You know, do you know where you come from?
[00:35:55.350 --> 00:35:55.810] Nah.
[00:35:56.070 --> 00:35:57.390] Have you ever thought about where you come from?
[00:35:57.650 --> 00:35:59.490] Nah, I'm trying to eat, bro.
[00:35:59.490 --> 00:35:59.930] I'm hungry.
[00:36:00.410 --> 00:36:03.690] Let me provide a solution to a necessity
[00:36:03.690 --> 00:36:05.330] that you're having that's clouding your thoughts,
[00:36:05.750 --> 00:36:08.770] and in the midst of that, let me just ask her,
[00:36:08.790 --> 00:36:10.070] let me ask some questions,
[00:36:10.230 --> 00:36:11.430] because I don't need to give you no answers,
[00:36:11.550 --> 00:36:14.750] but let me ask some questions to just plant a seed,
[00:36:15.310 --> 00:36:16.490] because even if they be like,
[00:36:16.570 --> 00:36:17.670] no, I'm not trying to hear that,
[00:36:18.450 --> 00:36:19.950] that don't mean a seed wasn't planted,
[00:36:20.010 --> 00:36:21.170] and I might not water it,
[00:36:21.470 --> 00:36:23.870] but somebody else may water that seed that I planted,
[00:36:24.890 --> 00:36:26.270] because words are that powerful.
[00:36:26.810 --> 00:36:27.650] Now, you know what?
[00:36:27.650 --> 00:36:31.030] I mean, even you saying that, like,
[00:36:31.090 --> 00:36:32.170] no, I don't want to hear that.
[00:36:32.170 --> 00:36:32.970] I'm trying to eat.
[00:36:33.610 --> 00:36:36.250] Like, there's so many public schools,
[00:36:36.530 --> 00:36:37.710] inner-city public schools,
[00:36:37.890 --> 00:36:39.130] especially here in Cleveland,
[00:36:41.550 --> 00:36:46.030] just speaking on African Americans or black people
[00:36:47.030 --> 00:36:49.530] versus any other kind of parts, you know,
[00:36:49.550 --> 00:36:52.190] white, Asian, for the main part.
[00:36:54.410 --> 00:36:56.430] You know, they don't have those similar
[00:36:56.430 --> 00:36:58.130] to our same struggles we have.
[00:36:58.270 --> 00:37:00.990] We some, yes, but for the majority, no.
[00:37:01.410 --> 00:37:04.270] Like, we can't learn to our best abilities
[00:37:04.270 --> 00:37:05.170] because we're hungry.
[00:37:05.350 --> 00:37:07.990] We thinking about what's going on at home,
[00:37:08.110 --> 00:37:10.450] or how, you know, we're missing our father,
[00:37:10.690 --> 00:37:13.410] or the dynamics in our home is kind of,
[00:37:13.410 --> 00:37:14.530] you know, lopsided,
[00:37:14.670 --> 00:37:17.290] and every problems that we're taking to school,
[00:37:17.330 --> 00:37:18.570] and that's what we're thinking about,
[00:37:18.790 --> 00:37:20.470] our stomach rumbling and everything.
[00:37:20.570 --> 00:37:22.190] Like, how can we focus on this work
[00:37:22.190 --> 00:37:25.070] and learn the way we should be?
[00:37:25.070 --> 00:37:27.530] So, I'm glad you say that
[00:37:27.530 --> 00:37:30.690] because I definitely want to shine awareness on that,
[00:37:30.690 --> 00:37:33.410] and I'm glad this shift is coming,
[00:37:33.470 --> 00:37:34.670] and it's changing.
[00:37:36.790 --> 00:37:38.790] And, yeah, I definitely went through it,
[00:37:38.790 --> 00:37:41.230] and, you know, a period of my time going through school,
[00:37:41.430 --> 00:37:43.530] whether it was elementary or up to high school,
[00:37:43.590 --> 00:37:46.070] you know, I had to change schools
[00:37:46.070 --> 00:37:47.370] in the middle of high school.
[00:37:47.630 --> 00:37:50.090] Like, it was either that or,
[00:37:50.430 --> 00:37:52.110] like, there was no bus route,
[00:37:52.110 --> 00:37:56.950] so I literally had to walk either three to four hours
[00:37:56.950 --> 00:38:00.710] to my school or just, you know, start it out.
[00:38:00.790 --> 00:38:03.650] Yeah, and that's a common problem,
[00:38:03.650 --> 00:38:05.370] not just for some people,
[00:38:06.450 --> 00:38:07.970] but majority of our people.
[00:38:08.130 --> 00:38:08.650] Yeah.
[00:38:08.870 --> 00:38:11.910] And that's just the fact that we have to sit with.
[00:38:12.750 --> 00:38:15.410] And then that's when these questions
[00:38:15.410 --> 00:38:17.670] that we have about our personal lives
[00:38:19.130 --> 00:38:23.170] can start to get set aside
[00:38:23.170 --> 00:38:25.790] not because we're thinking about not doing something,
[00:38:25.810 --> 00:38:29.110] but set aside because we have bigger fish to fry, right?
[00:38:29.110 --> 00:38:30.810] And it's pretty much like how
[00:38:30.810 --> 00:38:32.630] I told you before we started the interview.
[00:38:32.810 --> 00:38:34.910] It's like, you can identify me as anything you want to,
[00:38:34.910 --> 00:38:38.490] but my main mission and my main goal is saving my people.
[00:38:38.630 --> 00:38:42.750] My main mission is, you know, sharing light and love
[00:38:45.940 --> 00:38:48.160] and fighting against evil and weakness
[00:38:48.160 --> 00:38:49.440] because we are love.
[00:38:49.700 --> 00:38:51.720] You know, love controls everything.
[00:38:51.840 --> 00:38:54.520] Love is like, we have that within us.
[00:38:54.560 --> 00:38:56.800] We are special people, unique people.
[00:38:57.180 --> 00:39:01.840] I want the young black boys and girls to know that.
[00:39:02.180 --> 00:39:03.380] I want the original people to know that.
[00:39:03.400 --> 00:39:06.680] I want anybody who is underrepresented to know that
[00:39:06.680 --> 00:39:10.420] and lead them to a spiritual awakening
[00:39:10.420 --> 00:39:14.780] because I think that can touch many people's lives
[00:39:14.780 --> 00:39:17.920] more than anything I ever thought I could do
[00:39:17.920 --> 00:39:18.920] will, you know.
[00:39:19.600 --> 00:39:22.020] For educational purposes,
[00:39:22.500 --> 00:39:25.660] what would you say is the original people?
[00:39:26.620 --> 00:39:27.540] Original people?
[00:39:29.960 --> 00:39:32.990] Well, any people who is melanated,
[00:39:33.880 --> 00:39:39.500] you know, melanin is a piece of our DNA
[00:39:40.300 --> 00:39:42.380] that's scientifically proven
[00:39:42.380 --> 00:39:44.060] that comes from the original people.
[00:39:44.600 --> 00:39:45.440] So I say original people.
[00:39:45.440 --> 00:39:48.620] Anybody who has any melanated pigments,
[00:39:48.660 --> 00:39:52.320] whether that's yellow, red, brown, or black,
[00:39:53.280 --> 00:39:55.700] you know, any color, really, you know, that's...
[00:39:55.700 --> 00:39:57.660] Any shade is really, you know,
[00:39:57.960 --> 00:40:00.720] and even people who is on the outside of that,
[00:40:00.920 --> 00:40:03.080] they're still human beings and they still are people as well.
[00:40:03.820 --> 00:40:07.060] I just made it to the station between original people
[00:40:07.060 --> 00:40:08.420] and non-original people
[00:40:08.420 --> 00:40:12.940] because original people is normally,
[00:40:12.940 --> 00:40:15.300] numbers-wise, statistically proven
[00:40:15.940 --> 00:40:18.200] to be the minority
[00:40:18.200 --> 00:40:21.740] and the underrepresented individuals
[00:40:21.740 --> 00:40:23.700] in our society that we live in currently.
[00:40:24.040 --> 00:40:27.340] Well, taking it even a step deeper,
[00:40:28.720 --> 00:40:30.740] as far as original people,
[00:40:30.860 --> 00:40:34.400] do you consider, like, giants, original?
[00:40:35.500 --> 00:40:37.300] Giants as in, like, physically giants?
[00:40:37.780 --> 00:40:42.920] Giants, yeah, people that's, like,
[00:40:44.060 --> 00:40:45.660] I can't say.
[00:40:46.140 --> 00:40:48.100] I can't say because I'm not sure.
[00:40:48.940 --> 00:40:53.860] I don't personally know of any giants being original people,
[00:40:54.700 --> 00:40:57.760] but I wouldn't put anything past it.
[00:40:58.140 --> 00:41:03.480] But I do know, in many spiritual texts,
[00:41:04.460 --> 00:41:05.960] whatever the creator looks like,
[00:41:06.140 --> 00:41:10.340] it normally says that we look like that, you know?
[00:41:10.340 --> 00:41:13.360] It always tells us how we look like the creator.
[00:41:16.540 --> 00:41:20.120] You know, as far as I know and have seen and documented,
[00:41:20.740 --> 00:41:21.940] I'm not sure of any giants,
[00:41:22.200 --> 00:41:24.820] but anything is possible when you talk about the creator
[00:41:24.820 --> 00:41:27.140] and his creation, so, you know,
[00:41:27.160 --> 00:41:29.560] I don't think anything is possible, literally.
[00:41:30.580 --> 00:41:32.960] Like I said, this is all for educational purposes,
[00:41:33.500 --> 00:41:35.940] but speaking to, you know,
[00:41:36.040 --> 00:41:38.920] someone who has their master's in education,
[00:41:38.920 --> 00:41:43.880] what do you love teaching or educating people on?
[00:41:45.260 --> 00:41:51.400] I love teaching and educating people on life in itself.
[00:41:51.980 --> 00:41:56.340] You know, I really just love teaching people
[00:41:56.340 --> 00:42:00.400] of how important and special they are
[00:42:00.400 --> 00:42:03.520] because everybody is unique, everybody is special.
[00:42:05.760 --> 00:42:08.670] I love teaching people about themselves,
[00:42:09.760 --> 00:42:11.480] and not in the sense of like I personally know them,
[00:42:12.240 --> 00:42:15.260] but themselves as in how special we are as human beings
[00:42:15.260 --> 00:42:17.100] in the world that we live in today.
[00:42:18.040 --> 00:42:20.760] It doesn't show for that, I don't believe, you know?
[00:42:21.780 --> 00:42:23.320] I don't think it shows for that.
[00:42:23.360 --> 00:42:25.120] So that's like the main thing I love teaching on,
[00:42:25.240 --> 00:42:27.500] teaching on just the knowledge of self,
[00:42:28.160 --> 00:42:29.120] knowledge of the creator,
[00:42:29.400 --> 00:42:31.200] knowledge of, you know, our enemies
[00:42:31.200 --> 00:42:33.280] that stop us from knowing ourselves
[00:42:33.280 --> 00:42:35.740] and knowing the creator and the best light.
[00:42:36.420 --> 00:42:39.100] And it also, what my desire is as well,
[00:42:39.320 --> 00:42:42.500] is teaching us on art and creating in general.
[00:42:43.600 --> 00:42:47.040] Because I feel like since we are in the image of the creator,
[00:42:47.460 --> 00:42:49.140] we are made to create,
[00:42:49.320 --> 00:42:51.300] and I think that's when we are at our best
[00:42:51.300 --> 00:42:53.700] and we are at our most peaceful
[00:42:53.700 --> 00:42:56.100] when we're just freely creating,
[00:42:56.300 --> 00:42:57.580] whether that's creating material things,
[00:42:57.620 --> 00:42:58.860] whether that's creating our day,
[00:43:00.740 --> 00:43:02.600] creating anything, just creating.
[00:43:02.820 --> 00:43:06.260] I think that's when we are at our best, you know?
[00:43:06.700 --> 00:43:08.060] So teaching people art and creating
[00:43:08.520 --> 00:43:11.540] is something I see myself doing for years to come as well.
[00:43:12.140 --> 00:43:14.900] And that's part of the three to five year vision
[00:43:14.900 --> 00:43:15.960] that I was speaking of.
[00:43:16.180 --> 00:43:20.800] I have a whole vision of what that's going to look like
[00:43:20.800 --> 00:43:23.540] and I'm so glad to get clear on that vision, you know?
[00:43:23.540 --> 00:43:29.300] Yeah, I love that you say that.
[00:43:31.560 --> 00:43:33.220] Just the whole creativity
[00:43:34.360 --> 00:43:36.700] and teaching people about life.
[00:43:38.500 --> 00:43:40.320] I'm listening, I'm like,
[00:43:41.040 --> 00:43:43.420] sound like a life coach could be in the future.
[00:43:43.760 --> 00:43:44.800] What do you think about that?
[00:43:47.400 --> 00:43:50.000] Well, that's what my experience speaks towards.
[00:43:50.840 --> 00:43:53.520] So all my experience professional-wise
[00:43:53.520 --> 00:43:56.560] was academic and life coaching.
[00:43:58.020 --> 00:43:59.780] I did it on a college level
[00:43:59.780 --> 00:44:02.040] and I also did it on a high school level.
[00:44:03.060 --> 00:44:04.280] I would say probably like the last seven
[00:44:04.280 --> 00:44:05.200] and eight years of my life
[00:44:05.200 --> 00:44:07.240] has been life and academic coaching.
[00:44:08.300 --> 00:44:11.180] And I think when you speak of academic coaching,
[00:44:12.380 --> 00:44:13.700] you can always show somebody
[00:44:14.440 --> 00:44:15.900] or give somebody a resource,
[00:44:16.060 --> 00:44:19.800] but I think actually untapping their,
[00:44:20.720 --> 00:44:23.020] getting deep in their untapped potential
[00:44:23.020 --> 00:44:26.100] is like an even better thing to coach them on.
[00:44:26.240 --> 00:44:27.700] And not showing them the way,
[00:44:27.700 --> 00:44:31.120] but just kind of getting them to a certain place
[00:44:31.120 --> 00:44:34.200] and space to find it themselves, you know?
[00:44:35.320 --> 00:44:37.960] Like, asking just deeper level questions of like,
[00:44:37.960 --> 00:44:40.220] you know, what I want to do, who am I,
[00:44:40.340 --> 00:44:42.380] where am I going, where did I come from?
[00:44:42.840 --> 00:44:43.940] You know, how long?
[00:44:44.100 --> 00:44:46.260] You just, these deeper level questions
[00:44:46.260 --> 00:44:52.040] is always a way for a fulfilling life.
[00:44:54.050 --> 00:44:55.390] Yes, yes, yes, yes.
[00:44:56.050 --> 00:44:57.350] That's definitely true.
[00:44:59.670 --> 00:45:02.750] And I've had a thing where I was like,
[00:45:02.910 --> 00:45:04.010] I'm going to be a life coach
[00:45:04.010 --> 00:45:10.150] and kind of help people find their light
[00:45:10.150 --> 00:45:14.130] and their gifts and use it to their maximum capabilities.
[00:45:14.270 --> 00:45:19.130] Because it's always that one shift that's always needed.
[00:45:19.450 --> 00:45:22.750] It's not even like teaching or grooming or showing them.
[00:45:22.890 --> 00:45:24.230] It's just the shift.
[00:45:24.810 --> 00:45:26.570] And it's mostly a mindset
[00:45:26.570 --> 00:45:31.470] and, you know, on the podcast I speak a lot on mindset
[00:45:31.470 --> 00:45:33.210] and mind state.
[00:45:33.650 --> 00:45:34.630] It's powerful.
[00:45:35.170 --> 00:45:36.810] Even, you know, before the podcast,
[00:45:36.950 --> 00:45:38.870] just having that time,
[00:45:39.130 --> 00:45:41.010] two, three minutes before we started,
[00:45:42.350 --> 00:45:44.050] just silence, collecting my thoughts,
[00:45:44.870 --> 00:45:46.330] just, you know, getting me together.
[00:45:47.350 --> 00:45:48.790] It's definitely important.
[00:45:49.390 --> 00:45:51.350] And the work you do is important for sure.
[00:45:51.950 --> 00:45:54.670] One thing I will say is like the best way
[00:45:54.670 --> 00:45:56.930] that helped me out in coaching, life coaching,
[00:45:57.070 --> 00:45:58.850] because first you got to feel worthy of doing that
[00:45:59.350 --> 00:46:01.510] because from time to time I have thoughts of like,
[00:46:01.510 --> 00:46:06.570] who am I to show somebody away or tell somebody away?
[00:46:07.410 --> 00:46:10.910] But in the midst of the best solutions that I have,
[00:46:10.930 --> 00:46:12.230] the best outcome that I normally have
[00:46:12.230 --> 00:46:13.990] is when I'm just being genuinely myself.
[00:46:14.990 --> 00:46:16.450] Just being a great person in life,
[00:46:16.650 --> 00:46:18.450] just striving to be a great person,
[00:46:18.650 --> 00:46:20.270] treating others how you want to be treated,
[00:46:20.270 --> 00:46:24.830] and just being a genuine person in young people's lives,
[00:46:25.230 --> 00:46:26.350] which is something that,
[00:46:26.530 --> 00:46:27.710] surprisingly, they don't get often.
[00:46:28.250 --> 00:46:29.970] It's people telling them what they should do,
[00:46:30.690 --> 00:46:32.770] telling them what they don't need to be doing,
[00:46:35.350 --> 00:46:37.450] judging and being too authoritative
[00:46:37.990 --> 00:46:39.650] and, you know, all these different things
[00:46:39.650 --> 00:46:41.690] where it's like when they,
[00:46:42.890 --> 00:46:45.030] when I experience a young person, you know,
[00:46:45.410 --> 00:46:46.830] I just genuinely be myself.
[00:46:47.950 --> 00:46:48.470] You know what I'm saying?
[00:46:48.470 --> 00:46:49.770] I'm not trying to put on the front.
[00:46:50.810 --> 00:46:52.750] I'm not demanding what they should be doing
[00:46:52.750 --> 00:46:53.970] or what they need to be doing.
[00:46:54.650 --> 00:46:57.450] I'm more so just sparking thoughts for them
[00:46:57.450 --> 00:46:58.810] and just being myself.
[00:46:58.990 --> 00:47:01.990] You know, I normally have everything in question form.
[00:47:02.650 --> 00:47:03.690] You know, I normally,
[00:47:03.970 --> 00:47:05.230] sometimes I don't even tell them my answer.
[00:47:05.310 --> 00:47:07.850] I just question them so they can get their own answer
[00:47:07.850 --> 00:47:11.510] and form their own opinions and think their own thoughts
[00:47:11.510 --> 00:47:12.890] because everybody else is,
[00:47:12.890 --> 00:47:14.110] everybody is unique in their own way.
[00:47:14.210 --> 00:47:16.030] You know, we just have to start thinking bigger,
[00:47:16.030 --> 00:47:19.210] expanding our brain, and I just love to do that for kids.
[00:47:19.690 --> 00:47:20.310] You know what I'm saying?
[00:47:21.090 --> 00:47:21.490] Yeah.
[00:47:22.490 --> 00:47:25.610] I think sometimes the best questions are actually,
[00:47:26.790 --> 00:47:28.280] our best answers are actually questions.
[00:47:28.990 --> 00:47:32.030] Like, even if you think about Jeopardy,
[00:47:32.790 --> 00:47:33.790] the game of Jeopardy,
[00:47:35.030 --> 00:47:37.730] like it's answering the question, what is?
[00:47:37.830 --> 00:47:38.430] What is?
[00:47:38.810 --> 00:47:42.330] But yeah, I love that, especially like my young daughters.
[00:47:43.350 --> 00:47:48.620] Like, what did you do that?
[00:47:48.740 --> 00:47:51.220] Not necessarily what did you do that for,
[00:47:51.340 --> 00:47:52.860] but like in a sense,
[00:47:52.880 --> 00:47:54.580] it could be a combination of these questions
[00:47:54.580 --> 00:47:57.120] or like how did that make you feel
[00:47:57.120 --> 00:47:59.660] or how you think that made that person feel
[00:47:59.660 --> 00:48:02.780] if they did something to somebody else or, you know,
[00:48:02.840 --> 00:48:04.120] it's just like questions.
[00:48:04.760 --> 00:48:05.080] Questions.
[00:48:05.340 --> 00:48:09.300] Not necessarily don't do this, don't do that.
[00:48:09.840 --> 00:48:13.120] It's to help them realize what they did
[00:48:13.120 --> 00:48:15.280] and the feelings behind it,
[00:48:15.460 --> 00:48:17.260] not necessarily their feelings,
[00:48:17.360 --> 00:48:18.440] but other people's feelings,
[00:48:18.480 --> 00:48:20.240] how it's going to make other people feel
[00:48:20.240 --> 00:48:22.940] and how is that making you feel
[00:48:22.940 --> 00:48:24.800] that you made people feel this way.
[00:48:25.560 --> 00:48:27.320] Or if someone did something to you
[00:48:27.320 --> 00:48:29.020] and you never told nobody
[00:48:29.020 --> 00:48:30.760] and you just keeping it all in,
[00:48:31.320 --> 00:48:32.800] what do you think it was all going to be?
[00:48:34.040 --> 00:48:35.460] That just made me think about something
[00:48:36.080 --> 00:48:38.420] because I actually did do therapy in my life before
[00:48:39.700 --> 00:48:41.960] because I spoke about doing therapy
[00:48:41.960 --> 00:48:44.120] and going to therapy and I had a plan to do it.
[00:48:44.120 --> 00:48:46.420] I actually did do therapy younger.
[00:48:46.800 --> 00:48:47.340] I did too.
[00:48:47.420 --> 00:48:48.340] And I remember them,
[00:48:49.440 --> 00:48:53.020] I remember getting to a certain destination of thought
[00:48:53.020 --> 00:48:55.460] due to them raising certain questions
[00:48:55.460 --> 00:48:57.320] that I may not have raised for myself.
[00:48:58.380 --> 00:49:00.740] And they never even had to say
[00:49:00.740 --> 00:49:04.260] what the outcome or the answer was.
[00:49:04.520 --> 00:49:07.140] It was just like the answer was led there
[00:49:07.800 --> 00:49:09.040] through my own thinking
[00:49:09.040 --> 00:49:11.560] which caused it to be more effective.
[00:49:11.560 --> 00:49:16.900] It was like, oh, I get it finally now.
[00:49:17.000 --> 00:49:17.620] You know what I'm saying?
[00:49:18.540 --> 00:49:21.000] Which is why this is the ultimate goal.
[00:49:21.080 --> 00:49:22.560] I do want to share this ultimate goal.
[00:49:22.820 --> 00:49:23.840] This is the desire.
[00:49:23.980 --> 00:49:24.520] This is the goal.
[00:49:25.580 --> 00:49:28.280] The goal is to have an arts and cultural center
[00:49:28.280 --> 00:49:29.460] in urban neighborhoods,
[00:49:29.980 --> 00:49:30.980] whether that's one space
[00:49:30.980 --> 00:49:32.520] or whether that's multiple spaces.
[00:49:33.420 --> 00:49:34.600] And within this space,
[00:49:35.120 --> 00:49:37.120] our main thing is being a safe space
[00:49:37.120 --> 00:49:38.660] for young people and young adults
[00:49:38.660 --> 00:49:41.360] or even adults to go and learn,
[00:49:41.660 --> 00:49:42.740] be themselves,
[00:49:42.740 --> 00:49:44.700] and not have to worry about
[00:49:44.700 --> 00:49:45.720] certain things in life
[00:49:46.520 --> 00:49:48.340] that stop them from being
[00:49:48.340 --> 00:49:50.760] the best version of themselves they could be.
[00:49:52.460 --> 00:49:53.660] Within this space,
[00:49:54.080 --> 00:49:55.700] I want to also teach them
[00:49:55.700 --> 00:49:58.620] or have other people come in and teach them
[00:49:58.620 --> 00:49:59.680] and share with them
[00:49:59.680 --> 00:50:01.220] and have workshops
[00:50:03.900 --> 00:50:06.820] on certain subjects of creating.
[00:50:07.800 --> 00:50:10.040] And I also want to provide the resources
[00:50:10.040 --> 00:50:10.860] and the equipment
[00:50:10.860 --> 00:50:12.860] for these different things as well.
[00:50:13.280 --> 00:50:14.920] So this is going to be a safe space
[00:50:15.840 --> 00:50:18.760] that fulfills the mind, body, and spirit,
[00:50:18.760 --> 00:50:19.900] but also teach them
[00:50:19.900 --> 00:50:21.440] and give them the space to create
[00:50:21.440 --> 00:50:23.160] and be free creators
[00:50:23.710 --> 00:50:25.280] in whatever it is they want to do.
[00:50:25.980 --> 00:50:26.680] But most importantly,
[00:50:26.860 --> 00:50:30.010] just being that safe space within chaos.
[00:50:30.540 --> 00:50:30.920] You know what I'm saying?
[00:50:32.680 --> 00:50:34.480] So we're going to have equipment there,
[00:50:34.580 --> 00:50:35.920] maybe a musical studio,
[00:50:35.920 --> 00:50:37.660] maybe art studios,
[00:50:38.360 --> 00:50:40.760] all the equipment that they need to do this,
[00:50:41.800 --> 00:50:44.580] teachers, instructors, presenters,
[00:50:45.160 --> 00:50:46.380] and then we're also going to be going out
[00:50:46.380 --> 00:50:47.400] into the community, too,
[00:50:47.500 --> 00:50:48.220] doing the same thing.
[00:50:49.320 --> 00:50:50.800] We're going to expose them
[00:50:50.800 --> 00:50:51.880] to different things in life
[00:50:51.880 --> 00:50:54.300] so they can raise their level of consciousness
[00:50:54.300 --> 00:50:55.320] in their thinking,
[00:50:55.860 --> 00:50:57.920] but they're also going to be hand-in-hand
[00:50:59.360 --> 00:51:01.360] with anything else that they want to do in life.
[00:51:02.480 --> 00:51:04.640] So that's like the ultimate goal
[00:51:04.640 --> 00:51:08.020] that's going to happen at some point, right?
[00:51:08.260 --> 00:51:09.080] And within that space,
[00:51:09.080 --> 00:51:10.480] I might still do photography,
[00:51:11.120 --> 00:51:12.620] still do videography
[00:51:12.620 --> 00:51:14.360] for different clients and things like that.
[00:51:14.540 --> 00:51:17.440] I might take students on certain jobs with me,
[00:51:18.000 --> 00:51:20.260] or I might, you know,
[00:51:21.540 --> 00:51:23.620] just only do that from time to time
[00:51:23.620 --> 00:51:26.280] while teaching other people photography, videography,
[00:51:26.460 --> 00:51:27.540] different forms of art.
[00:51:28.260 --> 00:51:31.100] But that's like the ultimate plan and goal.
[00:51:32.200 --> 00:51:33.740] Yeah, that's amazing.
[00:51:33.740 --> 00:51:36.220] I want to ask,
[00:51:37.240 --> 00:51:39.000] have you seen or witnessed
[00:51:39.000 --> 00:51:41.740] any other structures
[00:51:42.320 --> 00:51:43.960] or buildings or programs
[00:51:44.420 --> 00:51:46.520] such as what you're trying to build
[00:51:46.520 --> 00:51:48.040] or what you are building?
[00:51:48.840 --> 00:51:49.720] Yeah, so actually,
[00:51:50.460 --> 00:51:51.700] I've been to one personally,
[00:51:52.600 --> 00:51:53.420] and then I also...
[00:51:53.420 --> 00:51:55.780] Like through the program or like...
[00:51:55.780 --> 00:51:58.000] So I've been to one.
[00:51:58.000 --> 00:51:58.760] I visited one.
[00:51:59.140 --> 00:52:00.340] So I've been to one,
[00:52:00.380 --> 00:52:01.000] I visited one,
[00:52:01.020 --> 00:52:01.680] and I'm going to break down
[00:52:01.680 --> 00:52:02.760] what it exactly was.
[00:52:02.760 --> 00:52:05.440] And I also was told about one, too,
[00:52:05.440 --> 00:52:07.060] when I was speaking this out loud.
[00:52:07.540 --> 00:52:09.140] So one of the things I've been to was like,
[00:52:09.200 --> 00:52:11.160] it said it was a church,
[00:52:12.340 --> 00:52:13.320] art and cultural center,
[00:52:13.420 --> 00:52:14.620] where it was like the church,
[00:52:14.920 --> 00:52:16.960] and then it had like a space
[00:52:16.960 --> 00:52:18.940] that housed people.
[00:52:19.880 --> 00:52:21.900] It had different rooms and different spaces
[00:52:23.160 --> 00:52:24.380] where anybody could be
[00:52:24.380 --> 00:52:25.640] whatever they wanted to be,
[00:52:25.780 --> 00:52:27.800] but it was rooted in, you know, religion.
[00:52:28.520 --> 00:52:29.840] And then I saw another space
[00:52:29.840 --> 00:52:31.760] where it was kind of like
[00:52:31.760 --> 00:52:33.160] the arts and cultural center
[00:52:33.160 --> 00:52:34.740] mixed in with a dojo.
[00:52:35.220 --> 00:52:36.640] So it had like self-defense,
[00:52:36.800 --> 00:52:38.540] teaching young people self-defense,
[00:52:39.540 --> 00:52:41.380] spiritual-minded thinking
[00:52:41.380 --> 00:52:42.940] and combat,
[00:52:44.100 --> 00:52:45.140] attached with STEM,
[00:52:47.350 --> 00:52:48.230] attached with art.
[00:52:48.330 --> 00:52:49.990] So it was like a STEM center,
[00:52:50.710 --> 00:52:52.610] dojo mixed in
[00:52:52.610 --> 00:52:53.730] with an art center,
[00:52:53.810 --> 00:52:54.890] and it all came together,
[00:52:54.950 --> 00:52:56.870] so it could be like the academia
[00:52:56.870 --> 00:52:57.950] side of things,
[00:52:58.490 --> 00:52:59.910] the combat, self-defense,
[00:52:59.990 --> 00:53:01.170] and spiritual side of things,
[00:53:01.170 --> 00:53:03.490] as well as the art and creator side of things,
[00:53:03.490 --> 00:53:04.970] and it was like three different spaces
[00:53:04.970 --> 00:53:06.110] within one space,
[00:53:06.310 --> 00:53:09.050] and that's kind of what I see myself having, too.
[00:53:09.530 --> 00:53:11.310] Me holding a certain aspect down,
[00:53:11.310 --> 00:53:12.650] but also bringing other people
[00:53:12.650 --> 00:53:14.370] onto this journey and this vision
[00:53:14.370 --> 00:53:17.310] so they can fulfill their need in life,
[00:53:17.350 --> 00:53:19.150] which is probably helping people most likely,
[00:53:19.290 --> 00:53:22.130] because most people I tend to talk to
[00:53:22.130 --> 00:53:22.770] and work with,
[00:53:23.790 --> 00:53:25.630] their ultimate goal is to help people.
[00:53:27.050 --> 00:53:28.790] So bringing all of us together
[00:53:28.790 --> 00:53:30.270] on this big vision
[00:53:31.310 --> 00:53:33.590] to do whatever it is that we see fit,
[00:53:33.590 --> 00:53:34.850] but just doing it together
[00:53:34.850 --> 00:53:36.270] in a certain space
[00:53:36.270 --> 00:53:38.290] because we can do it quicker
[00:53:38.290 --> 00:53:40.030] and easier and better
[00:53:40.690 --> 00:53:41.970] when like-minded people
[00:53:42.650 --> 00:53:44.150] and great people come together
[00:53:44.150 --> 00:53:45.450] to fulfill these things
[00:53:45.450 --> 00:53:46.730] that we want to fulfill in life.
[00:53:49.600 --> 00:53:50.760] That's what I see happening.
[00:53:51.640 --> 00:53:53.140] I'm not going to do it on my own.
[00:53:53.200 --> 00:53:54.540] I know it's not possible.
[00:53:54.900 --> 00:53:55.840] Maybe it is possible,
[00:53:55.840 --> 00:53:57.780] but I don't want to do it on my own,
[00:53:58.540 --> 00:54:00.660] because that's not what I'm doing it for anyway.
[00:54:00.660 --> 00:54:01.220] I'm doing it in the beginning,
[00:54:01.440 --> 00:54:01.980] you know what I'm saying?
[00:54:03.140 --> 00:54:05.320] I said, what do you have in place already
[00:54:05.320 --> 00:54:06.220] and how long do you think
[00:54:06.220 --> 00:54:07.800] it's going to take you to build
[00:54:08.500 --> 00:54:10.580] like to your full vision?
[00:54:11.940 --> 00:54:14.520] I taught myself within three to five years,
[00:54:14.780 --> 00:54:16.520] this can be a real thing.
[00:54:17.960 --> 00:54:19.260] What I have in place right now
[00:54:20.900 --> 00:54:23.140] is a foundation of other people
[00:54:23.140 --> 00:54:25.120] that I know want the same goal and dream,
[00:54:25.180 --> 00:54:26.140] but just bringing us together
[00:54:26.140 --> 00:54:26.940] on the same vision.
[00:54:27.040 --> 00:54:27.740] So a network.
[00:54:28.440 --> 00:54:30.420] I know this is what they want to do,
[00:54:31.980 --> 00:54:34.520] but just getting them to buy in
[00:54:34.520 --> 00:54:36.540] into this overall bigger vision
[00:54:36.540 --> 00:54:37.920] that I have for us all,
[00:54:38.700 --> 00:54:39.580] because it's not about you,
[00:54:39.620 --> 00:54:40.240] it's not about me,
[00:54:40.240 --> 00:54:41.960] it's about us all.
[00:54:42.520 --> 00:54:43.560] And if we came together,
[00:54:43.600 --> 00:54:44.680] I know it could be done.
[00:54:44.720 --> 00:54:45.440] I know it.
[00:54:45.440 --> 00:54:46.540] I know it is.
[00:54:47.040 --> 00:54:47.320] You know what I'm saying?
[00:54:47.360 --> 00:54:48.900] When we just kind of sit
[00:54:49.520 --> 00:54:51.160] these bills and these problems
[00:54:51.160 --> 00:54:51.960] and these different things
[00:54:51.960 --> 00:54:53.760] that we're going through in life to the side,
[00:54:54.120 --> 00:54:55.400] and I was listening to a podcast yesterday
[00:54:55.400 --> 00:54:56.820] and the podcast said this,
[00:54:56.820 --> 00:54:57.800] he asked the man,
[00:54:58.200 --> 00:54:59.940] he said, you a leader of your family,
[00:55:00.040 --> 00:55:03.560] you got a wife that has no problem with following you,
[00:55:03.860 --> 00:55:05.300] even your mommy or dad
[00:55:05.300 --> 00:55:07.480] and all these people follow you now.
[00:55:08.440 --> 00:55:09.500] He said, how did you do that?
[00:55:09.520 --> 00:55:10.560] And he told him,
[00:55:10.640 --> 00:55:12.540] whoever has the biggest vision win.
[00:55:13.740 --> 00:55:16.540] Whoever has the biggest vision
[00:55:16.540 --> 00:55:18.240] is the person that need to be leading,
[00:55:19.740 --> 00:55:21.180] if you consider that even leading,
[00:55:21.240 --> 00:55:23.640] because it's not necessarily you leading anybody,
[00:55:24.360 --> 00:55:26.020] it's just y'all coming together
[00:55:26.680 --> 00:55:30.260] on one vision that everybody plays a part in.
[00:55:30.280 --> 00:55:32.100] So it's not necessarily leading anybody, it's anything.
[00:55:32.460 --> 00:55:33.440] If I'm leading anybody in anything,
[00:55:33.580 --> 00:55:36.140] I'm just leading them to a bigger thought and vision
[00:55:36.140 --> 00:55:37.600] that we all can come together on.
[00:55:38.620 --> 00:55:40.100] Because we're all leaders.
[00:55:41.540 --> 00:55:43.680] I'm not leading, we're all leaders really.
[00:55:44.200 --> 00:55:45.200] And that's what I have so far.
[00:55:45.280 --> 00:55:47.720] I have the people, I have the idea,
[00:55:47.840 --> 00:55:49.840] and I have the plan written down.
[00:55:50.240 --> 00:55:52.200] I have the vision on how I'm going to get there,
[00:55:52.200 --> 00:55:54.620] how I'm going to get the money to do it.
[00:55:54.740 --> 00:55:56.080] That's what I have so far.
[00:55:57.260 --> 00:55:58.540] And that's the thing that's all I really need
[00:55:58.540 --> 00:55:59.260] so far right now.
[00:55:59.340 --> 00:56:00.140] I think that's all you need.
[00:56:00.320 --> 00:56:02.560] Now I just need to bring to life
[00:56:02.560 --> 00:56:03.920] these things I already wrote down
[00:56:03.920 --> 00:56:06.760] and thought about on paper in my head
[00:56:06.760 --> 00:56:07.700] and my vision.
[00:56:07.720 --> 00:56:09.540] Just need to see it through.
[00:56:11.120 --> 00:56:11.520] Right?
[00:56:11.560 --> 00:56:13.020] Just need patience now right now.
[00:56:13.080 --> 00:56:13.900] Just see it through.
[00:56:14.180 --> 00:56:16.180] Yeah, patience is key for sure.
[00:56:17.140 --> 00:56:19.080] And I know you guys spoke about money
[00:56:19.080 --> 00:56:21.840] and ways to get the money.
[00:56:21.840 --> 00:56:25.080] What about how much money you need
[00:56:25.080 --> 00:56:26.760] to fully build this out?
[00:56:26.940 --> 00:56:29.080] How much money I don't know just yet
[00:56:30.400 --> 00:56:32.740] because I'm still in the beginning stages
[00:56:32.740 --> 00:56:33.900] of completing a few steps
[00:56:33.900 --> 00:56:35.400] before I even get to that point.
[00:56:35.680 --> 00:56:36.780] But that is a good question
[00:56:36.780 --> 00:56:37.620] and something to think about
[00:56:37.620 --> 00:56:39.840] because I might get to whatever I need
[00:56:39.840 --> 00:56:41.200] to get to even sooner.
[00:56:41.740 --> 00:56:42.780] But right now I was thinking about,
[00:56:43.040 --> 00:56:43.780] okay, how?
[00:56:44.140 --> 00:56:45.220] The how, you know?
[00:56:45.620 --> 00:56:49.560] Maybe something like using other people's resources
[00:56:50.360 --> 00:56:53.740] and coming together and partnering with other people.
[00:56:54.720 --> 00:56:55.280] You know what I'm saying?
[00:56:55.580 --> 00:56:57.920] Because it don't necessarily need to be my own money.
[00:56:58.160 --> 00:56:59.280] This could be a non-profit.
[00:56:59.460 --> 00:57:00.580] Normally with non-profits.
[00:57:01.940 --> 00:57:03.620] You can get that paid for.
[00:57:04.460 --> 00:57:05.540] You can get grants.
[00:57:06.420 --> 00:57:09.420] There are grants specifically for these type of things
[00:57:09.420 --> 00:57:12.260] especially within certain neighborhoods as well.
[00:57:12.700 --> 00:57:14.720] Certain neighborhoods have even more grant money
[00:57:14.720 --> 00:57:15.740] and more opportunities.
[00:57:17.220 --> 00:57:19.920] So that's more so the focus
[00:57:19.920 --> 00:57:21.320] and how I think I'm going to do it.
[00:57:21.320 --> 00:57:22.780] Oh yeah, especially in the inner city.
[00:57:24.040 --> 00:57:27.020] Resources, the people, getting there.
[00:57:30.040 --> 00:57:31.940] About three to five years I think I can see it happening
[00:57:31.940 --> 00:57:32.820] for sure, for sure.
[00:57:33.860 --> 00:57:35.880] Even if it happened in ten years, man.
[00:57:37.280 --> 00:57:38.100] Which I don't think it will happen.
[00:57:38.160 --> 00:57:39.940] Even if it did happen in ten years,
[00:57:42.240 --> 00:57:43.840] then it must need to happen in ten years.
[00:57:46.080 --> 00:57:48.580] I think three to five is good.
[00:57:48.580 --> 00:57:51.400] More so the five.
[00:57:52.400 --> 00:57:56.880] I think ten is not a bad number.
[00:57:57.500 --> 00:57:58.620] It's a long time.
[00:57:59.600 --> 00:58:02.320] But I know it could happen sooner.
[00:58:03.620 --> 00:58:08.420] But to fully maximize and even when you have it come to fruition
[00:58:08.420 --> 00:58:12.160] and it's here, it's like I want to continue to build on it
[00:58:12.160 --> 00:58:13.660] for what it is now.
[00:58:13.900 --> 00:58:16.920] And then it's like that constant building and growing now.
[00:58:16.920 --> 00:58:19.020] And then oh, I didn't think about this.
[00:58:19.220 --> 00:58:21.120] Oh, we should also include this.
[00:58:22.780 --> 00:58:26.820] So that's the only reason I would say ten years for sure.
[00:58:27.260 --> 00:58:28.960] I could see it.
[00:58:29.080 --> 00:58:29.940] I say four.
[00:58:30.280 --> 00:58:35.340] Yeah, like ten years would be like maybe it come into its final form
[00:58:36.500 --> 00:58:40.040] in which the final form probably going to change as well, right?
[00:58:40.100 --> 00:58:41.320] Because it's always going to be something better.
[00:58:41.460 --> 00:58:42.860] It's always getting better at it.
[00:58:42.860 --> 00:58:47.040] But within like three or four years, it could be just a space.
[00:58:47.100 --> 00:58:49.940] It could be a space that fulfills all these different things.
[00:58:49.960 --> 00:58:51.160] How big is the space?
[00:58:51.980 --> 00:58:53.780] How long the space is going to be around?
[00:58:54.280 --> 00:58:54.940] I'm not sure.
[00:58:55.780 --> 00:58:58.160] I don't need an office building for this.
[00:58:58.640 --> 00:59:00.780] I might just need a room.
[00:59:01.860 --> 00:59:04.220] I might just need a suite.
[00:59:05.140 --> 00:59:07.680] You know, a suite can turn into a house.
[00:59:07.780 --> 00:59:10.820] A house can turn into a building, a space, you know, a warehouse.
[00:59:11.760 --> 00:59:12.260] You know what I'm saying?
[00:59:12.260 --> 00:59:13.960] A sacred place.
[00:59:15.140 --> 00:59:18.500] It's just, you know, it's just what do it look like?
[00:59:18.840 --> 00:59:23.500] And the overall vision of what I see in my head, it is very grand.
[00:59:23.620 --> 00:59:24.420] It's very big.
[00:59:24.940 --> 00:59:26.880] So, you know, it's going to take some time to get there.
[00:59:26.980 --> 00:59:30.360] I'm sure it's going to look like it's going to take different steps
[00:59:30.360 --> 00:59:32.820] and it's going to look different every single probably year
[00:59:32.820 --> 00:59:35.220] or every couple of years or so for real, for real.
[00:59:35.680 --> 00:59:36.580] That's what I see for sure.
[00:59:36.720 --> 00:59:37.720] Like it's going to look different.
[00:59:38.640 --> 00:59:40.100] I know it, you know?
[00:59:40.100 --> 00:59:42.260] Yeah, that's amazing.
[00:59:43.160 --> 00:59:49.100] Is there any key or powerful partnerships you would see
[00:59:49.640 --> 00:59:51.220] come into collaboration with this?
[00:59:53.160 --> 00:59:55.100] Key collaboration or partnerships?
[00:59:55.260 --> 01:00:00.460] More so just, I guess, any grants or resources available.
[01:00:00.740 --> 01:00:02.120] You know, even if it's government,
[01:00:02.220 --> 01:00:05.080] anything government funded or resources coming together.
[01:00:05.700 --> 01:00:09.080] Any major heavy hitters that's already maybe within these spaces
[01:00:09.080 --> 01:00:12.740] or doing these certain things, you know, I see coming together.
[01:00:13.160 --> 01:00:17.900] I see myself coming together with some brothers
[01:00:17.900 --> 01:00:22.320] that I currently have right now that have dreams and goals
[01:00:22.320 --> 01:00:24.880] of doing these certain things but just like in a different light.
[01:00:25.760 --> 01:00:29.700] You know, that's mainly what I see right now so far.
[01:00:30.520 --> 01:00:34.560] Like, you know, it's still taking the life of its own every single day,
[01:00:34.560 --> 01:00:36.260] you know, when I get clearer and clearer.
[01:00:36.380 --> 01:00:38.540] Every day I get clearer and clearer of how it looks
[01:00:38.540 --> 01:00:41.540] and I find more answers and more ways to get there.
[01:00:42.760 --> 01:00:45.920] What you're saying is wake up and create each day.
[01:00:46.240 --> 01:00:47.700] Wake up and create, man.
[01:00:47.700 --> 01:00:49.420] Starting with the day before, man.
[01:00:49.460 --> 01:00:52.040] Creating your day, you know?
[01:00:52.800 --> 01:00:55.620] Visualizing what do I want my day to look like tomorrow?
[01:00:57.660 --> 01:00:58.400] That's you creating.
[01:00:59.120 --> 01:00:59.940] That is true.
[01:01:00.260 --> 01:01:02.740] You creating your life as you go, you know?
[01:01:03.200 --> 01:01:04.640] I read in the book, thank you, girl,
[01:01:04.740 --> 01:01:07.580] with your black choice that success is not necessarily
[01:01:07.580 --> 01:01:10.640] you get to a certain house, a certain car, a certain end goal.
[01:01:12.000 --> 01:01:13.640] Success looks like this.
[01:01:13.680 --> 01:01:16.900] It looks like you on the route to whatever goal
[01:01:16.900 --> 01:01:17.940] that you set for yourself.
[01:01:18.000 --> 01:01:19.480] That is you being successful
[01:01:19.480 --> 01:01:23.100] because you're moving in a positive direction
[01:01:23.100 --> 01:01:24.900] towards a goal that you have.
[01:01:26.100 --> 01:01:27.660] It's not necessarily fulfilling that goal
[01:01:27.660 --> 01:01:30.500] but it's just you pushing forward on that goal.
[01:01:30.560 --> 01:01:33.520] That is you being successful, right?
[01:01:33.680 --> 01:01:36.960] Like, you're successful and when you get to that goal
[01:01:36.960 --> 01:01:39.500] and you meet it, you know what's going to happen?
[01:01:39.920 --> 01:01:41.100] You're going to create a new goal
[01:01:42.000 --> 01:01:44.900] and you're going to go on that path to fulfill that goal
[01:01:44.900 --> 01:01:46.120] and so on and so forth.
[01:01:46.240 --> 01:01:49.620] It's like, who's to say we're not successful right now
[01:01:49.620 --> 01:01:51.260] just because we don't have a million dollars?
[01:01:51.340 --> 01:01:52.420] Like, who said that?
[01:01:53.320 --> 01:01:54.460] Just because we don't have a million dollars
[01:01:54.460 --> 01:01:56.760] doesn't mean we're not currently successful, man.
[01:01:57.260 --> 01:01:58.780] Your daughter think the world of you.
[01:01:58.820 --> 01:02:01.060] Your daughter think probably the world of you.
[01:02:01.100 --> 01:02:01.960] Oh, yeah, for sure.
[01:02:02.000 --> 01:02:02.620] You know what I'm saying?
[01:02:03.900 --> 01:02:06.240] In her eyes, you very successful, man.
[01:02:06.240 --> 01:02:10.800] You successful is what she needs you to be successful, right?
[01:02:11.180 --> 01:02:14.340] And I'm sure a lot of people look at myself that same way
[01:02:14.340 --> 01:02:18.000] and I get, I didn't have people tell me
[01:02:18.000 --> 01:02:19.060] in the trip me out, man.
[01:02:19.060 --> 01:02:21.240] I didn't have students tell me at one point of like,
[01:02:22.060 --> 01:02:24.220] them literally telling me like,
[01:02:24.560 --> 01:02:28.740] I changed their life by telling them a piece of advice
[01:02:28.740 --> 01:02:30.820] that I gave them or giving them a certain story
[01:02:30.820 --> 01:02:32.400] or just giving them a certain word.
[01:02:33.040 --> 01:02:36.820] And it's like, sometimes I can't comprehend it
[01:02:36.820 --> 01:02:38.840] because all I was just doing was just being myself
[01:02:38.840 --> 01:02:40.500] and just speaking life into them
[01:02:40.500 --> 01:02:41.800] and just giving them love, you know?
[01:02:42.360 --> 01:02:42.720] Yeah.
[01:02:42.960 --> 01:02:45.680] So I don't, I normally don't take the credit.
[01:02:45.820 --> 01:02:47.640] You know, I always refer back to God.
[01:02:47.760 --> 01:02:48.920] I always say like, somebody say to me now,
[01:02:48.980 --> 01:02:50.740] I say, praise be to God, praise be to creator.
[01:02:50.900 --> 01:02:52.040] You know, that's where I normally go
[01:02:52.040 --> 01:02:55.060] because it's like, I know I wasn't, it wasn't me.
[01:02:55.860 --> 01:02:57.580] I'm sure I was just, I was just a vessel
[01:02:57.940 --> 01:02:59.820] or just an instrument or a tool
[01:03:00.380 --> 01:03:02.300] for you to get to wherever you're gonna get to anyway.
[01:03:02.520 --> 01:03:04.260] You know, like, it wasn't me at all.
[01:03:04.740 --> 01:03:06.120] Like, it wasn't me at all.
[01:03:06.140 --> 01:03:07.260] I know it wasn't me.
[01:03:08.040 --> 01:03:09.380] 1%, 2%, you know?
[01:03:10.560 --> 01:03:11.960] Right place, right time, too.
[01:03:11.980 --> 01:03:13.240] You know, it wasn't me.
[01:03:13.480 --> 01:03:14.360] It was written.
[01:03:14.440 --> 01:03:15.540] That's what it was, you know?
[01:03:15.540 --> 01:03:17.920] And I just was a piece of the puzzle
[01:03:17.920 --> 01:03:19.620] for you to get to wherever you, you know,
[01:03:19.680 --> 01:03:20.560] was gonna get to anyway.
[01:03:22.700 --> 01:03:24.620] I know you, I just spoke about success.
[01:03:24.760 --> 01:03:27.580] I was saying, what would that success look like to you
[01:03:27.580 --> 01:03:30.240] with all these endeavors and dreams?
[01:03:30.240 --> 01:03:33.960] But like, what would you say your definition of success is?
[01:03:34.260 --> 01:03:36.560] Man, success to me, that's a good question, man.
[01:03:36.700 --> 01:03:38.540] But before I even give it heavy thought,
[01:03:38.680 --> 01:03:40.640] I wanted to say with the first thing that came to my mind,
[01:03:41.100 --> 01:03:46.900] success to me is helping as many individuals as possible,
[01:03:46.940 --> 01:03:49.400] whether I help them an opportunity,
[01:03:50.520 --> 01:03:51.900] help them with a piece of advice,
[01:03:52.620 --> 01:03:54.200] help them get to a certain platform,
[01:03:54.240 --> 01:03:55.300] a certain place in life.
[01:03:55.820 --> 01:03:57.840] But most importantly, success also is me
[01:03:57.840 --> 01:03:59.440] providing opportunities for other people
[01:03:59.440 --> 01:04:01.280] who may be in need.
[01:04:02.140 --> 01:04:05.160] And also success look like for me is when I can
[01:04:05.880 --> 01:04:07.700] take the ones that I love
[01:04:07.700 --> 01:04:09.740] and help them get to wherever they want to get to
[01:04:09.740 --> 01:04:10.660] in life as well.
[01:04:11.800 --> 01:04:15.500] You know, if I could just say a certain word
[01:04:15.980 --> 01:04:18.640] or drop a certain price or buy a certain thing
[01:04:19.300 --> 01:04:21.200] for one of my sisters or my brothers
[01:04:21.200 --> 01:04:23.360] to do whatever it is they want to do in life
[01:04:23.360 --> 01:04:26.520] or to take my whole entire family on vacation
[01:04:27.440 --> 01:04:29.160] for them not to think about normal life
[01:04:29.160 --> 01:04:31.160] and just think about, just for them to just
[01:04:31.160 --> 01:04:33.040] let their hair down and just be for a moment
[01:04:33.040 --> 01:04:33.840] and exist.
[01:04:35.240 --> 01:04:36.460] That's like, oh, I think I,
[01:04:36.800 --> 01:04:39.080] if I ever made it, that would be me making it.
[01:04:39.080 --> 01:04:39.620] I made it.
[01:04:40.140 --> 01:04:42.100] I can't put a certain number on that,
[01:04:42.520 --> 01:04:44.880] but the moment I take my whole entire family,
[01:04:45.100 --> 01:04:46.980] my whole inner family on vacation,
[01:04:47.040 --> 01:04:49.440] which I plan on doing, this is on my list of doing,
[01:04:49.480 --> 01:04:50.760] I know I'm gonna do it at some point.
[01:04:50.920 --> 01:04:51.700] Sure, we both are.
[01:04:51.940 --> 01:04:53.520] Right, I'm gonna take my family on vacation
[01:04:54.420 --> 01:04:58.300] to a tropic area and it's gonna be on me.
[01:04:59.880 --> 01:05:01.600] That's when I get to a place where
[01:05:01.600 --> 01:05:03.860] I know what I plan to get to, you know?
[01:05:04.940 --> 01:05:05.720] That's where I'm good.
[01:05:05.800 --> 01:05:08.520] When I can see all my family on a plane
[01:05:08.520 --> 01:05:09.820] and they sitting on the beach
[01:05:09.820 --> 01:05:10.740] and they all just smiling,
[01:05:11.860 --> 01:05:13.220] and I'm just like, dang,
[01:05:13.460 --> 01:05:15.180] that's when I'm like, yeah, that's it for me.
[01:05:15.180 --> 01:05:15.640] I'm good.
[01:05:16.260 --> 01:05:17.360] Whatever happens for me, I'm good.
[01:05:17.420 --> 01:05:18.080] I'm cool now.
[01:05:18.800 --> 01:05:19.820] I'm cool, man.
[01:05:19.820 --> 01:05:23.400] I just seen my grandma and sisters and brothers
[01:05:24.260 --> 01:05:26.320] and smiling on the beach and there's no like,
[01:05:26.320 --> 01:05:28.960] I know I put the work in to get them there.
[01:05:29.800 --> 01:05:30.640] That's life for me.
[01:05:30.700 --> 01:05:31.180] Like, that's it.
[01:05:31.220 --> 01:05:31.740] That's life.
[01:05:34.220 --> 01:05:34.960] That is life.
[01:05:35.800 --> 01:05:38.200] That's something I think about all the time.
[01:05:38.320 --> 01:05:41.420] It's like, I mean, for me personally,
[01:05:41.560 --> 01:05:44.860] I haven't taken a vacation since,
[01:05:45.240 --> 01:05:48.240] like a real vacation since middle school.
[01:05:48.660 --> 01:05:49.100] Wow.
[01:05:49.520 --> 01:05:51.420] So yeah, that's something personally
[01:05:51.420 --> 01:05:53.020] I want to get back to.
[01:05:53.640 --> 01:05:53.880] Wow.
[01:05:53.880 --> 01:05:56.620] Like I've traveled, I've been out of town,
[01:05:57.320 --> 01:06:00.680] I explore places, but it's mainly for business,
[01:06:00.940 --> 01:06:03.440] not necessarily for leisure or pleasure.
[01:06:04.300 --> 01:06:06.760] Now I still enjoy my times, you know,
[01:06:06.880 --> 01:06:08.920] when I travel different places
[01:06:08.920 --> 01:06:12.100] and been everywhere but Ohio.
[01:06:13.000 --> 01:06:15.080] But it's not that true.
[01:06:15.340 --> 01:06:17.940] Vacations in, I don't got to worry about nothing.
[01:06:18.860 --> 01:06:20.240] But even like you said,
[01:06:20.240 --> 01:06:23.400] you get into that fact where you can bring people along
[01:06:23.400 --> 01:06:25.200] and you have your inner family,
[01:06:25.280 --> 01:06:28.720] your family and friends, all that good stuff.
[01:06:29.500 --> 01:06:31.320] Even close business partners,
[01:06:31.600 --> 01:06:34.020] people you're in collaboration with.
[01:06:35.180 --> 01:06:36.840] That's definitely one of my goals.
[01:06:37.000 --> 01:06:39.160] That's what's missing in your life right now.
[01:06:39.800 --> 01:06:41.540] Yeah, like you said, that zen.
[01:06:42.320 --> 01:06:43.660] Yeah, that's what's missing right now.
[01:06:43.900 --> 01:06:44.520] Quiet time.
[01:06:44.640 --> 01:06:45.800] That's what you need.
[01:06:47.020 --> 01:06:48.040] You need a vacation.
[01:06:48.860 --> 01:06:51.040] A genuine vacation where you just let your hair down
[01:06:52.220 --> 01:06:56.060] and you can just be and exist for a moment of time.
[01:06:58.320 --> 01:06:59.440] I think we all need that.
[01:06:59.460 --> 01:07:00.440] But not only do we need that,
[01:07:00.500 --> 01:07:05.140] we need that frequently throughout every year.
[01:07:05.580 --> 01:07:09.460] So for me, I make sure I have that at least,
[01:07:09.520 --> 01:07:11.100] it got to be at least once a year,
[01:07:11.100 --> 01:07:12.460] but really you should plan that out
[01:07:12.460 --> 01:07:13.560] for you and your family.
[01:07:14.020 --> 01:07:15.260] Maybe like three times a year,
[01:07:15.300 --> 01:07:16.880] four times a year, twice a year.
[01:07:17.440 --> 01:07:19.400] That we know, okay, at some point,
[01:07:19.460 --> 01:07:22.640] we're going to do something,
[01:07:23.440 --> 01:07:26.320] take a getaway and just be together for a moment.
[01:07:26.400 --> 01:07:28.240] Going to Disney World, Disneyland.
[01:07:28.500 --> 01:07:29.280] That's healthy.
[01:07:29.540 --> 01:07:30.660] That's something that's needed.
[01:07:30.740 --> 01:07:32.900] Not wanted, but that's something that's needed
[01:07:33.660 --> 01:07:36.440] every year, at least once a year,
[01:07:36.900 --> 01:07:42.980] so we can get rejuvenated to jump back into the fight.
[01:07:43.180 --> 01:07:43.780] You know what I'm saying?
[01:07:45.200 --> 01:07:47.540] Get rejuvenated, get rebooted, get reset
[01:07:48.300 --> 01:07:54.180] so we can go back to that constant everyday uphill road
[01:07:54.780 --> 01:07:56.240] of our dreams and goals.
[01:07:56.980 --> 01:07:59.800] Even as you speak about rejuvenation,
[01:08:00.120 --> 01:08:01.660] like outside of sleep,
[01:08:02.120 --> 01:08:04.620] let's kind of touch on diet
[01:08:04.620 --> 01:08:06.520] or anything else that you want to touch on.
[01:08:06.580 --> 01:08:08.200] How do you get rejuvenated?
[01:08:09.640 --> 01:08:10.840] Man, I get rejuvenated,
[01:08:10.840 --> 01:08:13.840] that's one thing for sure of just like traveling.
[01:08:15.580 --> 01:08:16.939] But most importantly, man,
[01:08:18.720 --> 01:08:22.760] just staying open and clear,
[01:08:23.060 --> 01:08:26.520] like being an open vessel to receive
[01:08:26.520 --> 01:08:28.620] whatever it is that you need to receive.
[01:08:29.020 --> 01:08:31.040] So I fast from time to time.
[01:08:31.960 --> 01:08:33.240] If I need some answers,
[01:08:33.560 --> 01:08:37.359] I definitely make my fast and my intentions clear
[01:08:37.359 --> 01:08:39.220] before I go into fast as well
[01:08:39.220 --> 01:08:41.140] to receive whatever it is
[01:08:41.140 --> 01:08:42.779] that God maybe want me to receive.
[01:08:43.840 --> 01:08:45.640] So I might go into,
[01:08:46.279 --> 01:08:48.260] well, typically speaking,
[01:08:48.359 --> 01:08:50.920] I go into a fast once a month
[01:08:50.920 --> 01:08:52.319] for three days, water fast.
[01:08:53.020 --> 01:08:54.779] That's something that me,
[01:08:55.080 --> 01:08:57.560] as well as my community,
[01:08:58.319 --> 01:09:00.760] that I exist within do
[01:09:00.760 --> 01:09:03.140] as brothers and sisters in our community.
[01:09:03.140 --> 01:09:09.160] We go on a three-day water fast once a month.
[01:09:11.020 --> 01:09:14.319] Also, just kind of fasting daily as well,
[01:09:14.720 --> 01:09:16.819] 24-hour fast every day.
[01:09:16.960 --> 01:09:19.200] So just kind of not eating
[01:09:20.640 --> 01:09:22.859] until between the hours of four and six,
[01:09:23.000 --> 01:09:25.380] which is like eating with the day,
[01:09:25.600 --> 01:09:28.020] eating with the world, eating with the earth.
[01:09:28.340 --> 01:09:31.319] It's like being in alignment
[01:09:31.319 --> 01:09:32.880] with that circadian rhythm
[01:09:32.880 --> 01:09:37.500] of when life tells us to eat.
[01:09:39.399 --> 01:09:39.979] You know what I'm saying?
[01:09:40.140 --> 01:09:41.979] Then being intentional on what to eat,
[01:09:42.180 --> 01:09:44.300] at what time, that's all important
[01:09:44.300 --> 01:09:46.600] to just be open and receive
[01:09:46.600 --> 01:09:48.100] whatever it is that you need to receive.
[01:09:48.180 --> 01:09:50.200] So that's always a thing I need to do.
[01:09:50.300 --> 01:09:52.359] If I'm just not thinking right,
[01:09:52.380 --> 01:09:53.479] I'm down, I'm sad,
[01:09:53.580 --> 01:09:56.160] it's like maybe I just need to reset physically
[01:09:56.160 --> 01:09:57.960] because my physical is related to my mental
[01:09:57.960 --> 01:09:58.700] and my spiritual.
[01:09:59.700 --> 01:10:01.040] Maybe I just need to get a fast,
[01:10:01.060 --> 01:10:01.960] I mean just fast,
[01:10:02.520 --> 01:10:04.840] and then hand-to-hand with that food fast,
[01:10:04.880 --> 01:10:06.440] maybe I need to fast with certain music,
[01:10:07.000 --> 01:10:09.380] certain people, certain things.
[01:10:11.700 --> 01:10:13.000] Just fast, man.
[01:10:13.420 --> 01:10:16.000] Just become reset, rebooted, man.
[01:10:16.040 --> 01:10:18.900] So that's something I do actually quite often, man.
[01:10:19.000 --> 01:10:21.700] And I try to, not try, but I tend to stay in
[01:10:23.060 --> 01:10:26.960] throughout my days that definitely keep me going,
[01:10:26.960 --> 01:10:30.940] keep me clear-minded, keep me higher,
[01:10:31.060 --> 01:10:32.680] on a higher frequency in life.
[01:10:33.020 --> 01:10:33.520] Yes, sir.
[01:10:34.060 --> 01:10:37.740] And now you speak about food
[01:10:37.740 --> 01:10:41.300] or even the absence of food and fasting.
[01:10:42.100 --> 01:10:44.820] So when you do eat, it ain't fast food.
[01:10:44.900 --> 01:10:46.060] What are you consuming?
[01:10:47.960 --> 01:10:50.860] Man, mainly what I consume on a daily,
[01:10:51.700 --> 01:10:54.700] I consume what grows from the earth,
[01:10:54.700 --> 01:10:57.180] what God put on the earth for us to eat.
[01:10:57.660 --> 01:11:01.020] Before we had any diet,
[01:11:01.100 --> 01:11:03.100] we just ate what was provided to us.
[01:11:03.980 --> 01:11:06.580] So every day I break my fast with fruits,
[01:11:07.780 --> 01:11:11.500] because fruits normally like purify and then refuel.
[01:11:12.700 --> 01:11:13.220] H2O.
[01:11:13.380 --> 01:11:15.400] The first thing I do is every time it's fruit.
[01:11:15.980 --> 01:11:18.080] And then from there, I keep it light,
[01:11:18.220 --> 01:11:20.240] I try to stay, not try,
[01:11:20.360 --> 01:11:21.920] I stay away from carbs mainly.
[01:11:22.480 --> 01:11:25.840] I stay away from heavy carbs and I don't eat meat at all.
[01:11:26.400 --> 01:11:28.660] And I'm not saying none of these things are bad for us,
[01:11:29.060 --> 01:11:30.720] because God put all these things on earth too.
[01:11:30.840 --> 01:11:32.920] He put animals for us to eat.
[01:11:33.240 --> 01:11:34.940] Bread, some of these things is good,
[01:11:34.960 --> 01:11:37.820] but it's just like, I'm looking for better options.
[01:11:38.920 --> 01:11:40.500] I want to be in tune.
[01:11:41.440 --> 01:11:43.860] I want to use that full potential.
[01:11:44.700 --> 01:11:45.220] You know what I'm saying?
[01:11:45.300 --> 01:11:47.460] I want to think like the creator.
[01:11:47.540 --> 01:11:48.700] I want to think like that.
[01:11:49.360 --> 01:11:49.720] You know what I'm saying?
[01:11:49.720 --> 01:11:50.700] I want to use that full potential.
[01:11:50.700 --> 01:11:53.640] So that's what my diet, because it's mainly like, you know,
[01:11:53.660 --> 01:11:58.800] no meat, no heavy carbs, not too much junk food.
[01:11:58.880 --> 01:12:00.180] I might eat sweets here and there.
[01:12:00.200 --> 01:12:01.720] That's like my only downfall or weakness.
[01:12:03.460 --> 01:12:06.440] But even then, it's not necessarily a weakness
[01:12:06.440 --> 01:12:09.820] if it's still pure ingredients within it.
[01:12:09.860 --> 01:12:12.320] Who made this cake that I'm about to consume?
[01:12:12.460 --> 01:12:13.000] You know what I'm saying?
[01:12:13.560 --> 01:12:16.240] Like, even then you still can make this cake from raw sugar
[01:12:16.240 --> 01:12:18.940] or like, you know, some good flour, unbleached flour,
[01:12:18.940 --> 01:12:20.280] you know, things like that.
[01:12:20.820 --> 01:12:24.580] So that's what my diet kind of consists of,
[01:12:24.760 --> 01:12:26.780] mainly fruits, vegetables,
[01:12:29.100 --> 01:12:31.480] not anything heavy as well.
[01:12:32.000 --> 01:12:33.140] So less sugar as possible.
[01:12:34.440 --> 01:12:36.060] So what are your thoughts,
[01:12:36.500 --> 01:12:40.380] like as we living in this world here, 2026,
[01:12:41.720 --> 01:12:45.380] and especially like the vegetables, the crops,
[01:12:45.380 --> 01:12:48.520] they're contaminated, they're bad,
[01:12:48.640 --> 01:12:51.460] and even they're going down to the GMOs,
[01:12:51.540 --> 01:12:54.080] they're manipulated, seedless.
[01:12:54.980 --> 01:13:00.740] How do you stay away and avoid and know what's right?
[01:13:01.040 --> 01:13:01.440] Yeah.
[01:13:02.440 --> 01:13:05.960] Well, first I think any type of start is a good start.
[01:13:07.100 --> 01:13:07.340] You know what I'm saying?
[01:13:07.340 --> 01:13:09.860] You got to start somewhere before you can get a clear,
[01:13:14.800 --> 01:13:15.760] ultimate, jamming.
[01:13:16.680 --> 01:13:18.540] You got to start somewhere, you know what I'm saying?
[01:13:19.160 --> 01:13:21.880] So before you get to saying, oh man, everything is bad,
[01:13:22.080 --> 01:13:23.940] I can't win, I can't eat nothing.
[01:13:24.780 --> 01:13:27.160] Well, what was you eating to begin with?
[01:13:27.840 --> 01:13:30.260] You know, was you just eating pork and hot Cheetos
[01:13:30.260 --> 01:13:33.920] and fruit juices to begin with, artificial fruits?
[01:13:34.180 --> 01:13:35.260] And if that's the case,
[01:13:35.380 --> 01:13:37.180] then maybe just releasing one thing from your diet
[01:13:37.180 --> 01:13:38.540] just to start somewhere.
[01:13:38.540 --> 01:13:42.020] Maybe just eliminate one bad thing that we are consuming
[01:13:42.020 --> 01:13:46.120] before we get to speaking about all these different bad things
[01:13:46.580 --> 01:13:47.920] that's in the earth, you know what I'm saying?
[01:13:47.980 --> 01:13:51.520] So for me, it's going the organic route,
[01:13:51.680 --> 01:13:52.420] you know what I'm saying?
[01:13:53.060 --> 01:13:55.060] It's certain fruits and vegetables that you can eat
[01:13:55.060 --> 01:13:56.160] that don't need to be organic
[01:13:56.160 --> 01:13:58.100] and then there's some that needs to be organic
[01:13:58.100 --> 01:14:01.180] because they are heavily sprayed with pesticides.
[01:14:01.420 --> 01:14:02.780] Berries being one of them.
[01:14:03.140 --> 01:14:05.340] Berries, it's heavily sprayed with pesticides,
[01:14:05.340 --> 01:14:09.160] so normally you probably get organic blueberries,
[01:14:09.620 --> 01:14:11.040] organic strawberries, things like that.
[01:14:11.200 --> 01:14:12.700] So just kind of like finding the knowledge
[01:14:12.700 --> 01:14:16.380] and the things in the world and starting somewhere.
[01:14:16.500 --> 01:14:20.900] But I think all these are just signs for us
[01:14:20.900 --> 01:14:25.260] to get pushed further into where we need to be in life anyway,
[01:14:25.680 --> 01:14:30.000] such as owning our own land, growing our own food,
[01:14:30.000 --> 01:14:35.960] being completely self-sustained in a society
[01:14:35.960 --> 01:14:41.080] that doesn't have your best interests in mind, right?
[01:14:41.680 --> 01:14:43.240] So we can never point the finger
[01:14:43.240 --> 01:14:48.950] if we're depending on other people, right?
[01:14:48.970 --> 01:14:52.590] So just starting somewhere, maybe working for yourself,
[01:14:53.030 --> 01:14:55.330] growing one plant, changing one thing,
[01:14:55.470 --> 01:14:57.130] just starting somewhere
[01:14:57.130 --> 01:14:59.810] and then gaining more knowledge over time
[01:14:59.810 --> 01:15:05.930] to lead yourself into a completely self-sustained life
[01:15:05.930 --> 01:15:08.190] of doing for yourself, you know, for you and your family.
[01:15:08.870 --> 01:15:10.550] Yeah, I like that.
[01:15:11.230 --> 01:15:13.290] If you could only grow one plant,
[01:15:13.670 --> 01:15:14.930] you have to add a farm,
[01:15:15.250 --> 01:15:18.570] but if you grow one plant, one crop, what would that be?
[01:15:19.270 --> 01:15:22.050] If I can grow one thing and just one thing,
[01:15:22.070 --> 01:15:24.410] it would be the Navy bean.
[01:15:27.000 --> 01:15:27.800] The Navy bean.
[01:15:27.980 --> 01:15:29.020] The Navy bean.
[01:15:29.780 --> 01:15:30.380] Okay.
[01:15:31.640 --> 01:15:33.320] I don't think I ever heard that ever.
[01:15:33.940 --> 01:15:36.680] It would be just one thing I can grow and feast on.
[01:15:37.160 --> 01:15:43.080] The Navy bean is a very spiritual crop,
[01:15:43.500 --> 01:15:46.020] once we learn about it.
[01:15:47.760 --> 01:15:52.700] It's almost like an anti-Asian crop.
[01:15:53.180 --> 01:15:54.800] It helps fight cancers.
[01:15:55.740 --> 01:15:57.140] It clears up your skin.
[01:15:57.860 --> 01:15:59.800] If I can eat one thing a day
[01:15:59.800 --> 01:16:01.660] and I just only can choose one thing,
[01:16:01.680 --> 01:16:04.020] I could eat a bowl of Navy bean soup every day
[01:16:04.020 --> 01:16:06.460] and I can look better, look cleaner.
[01:16:06.500 --> 01:16:08.140] My eyes become more whiter.
[01:16:09.320 --> 01:16:11.200] You know, I start thinking a lot better
[01:16:11.200 --> 01:16:15.220] because that's how special that little Navy bean is.
[01:16:16.200 --> 01:16:17.960] Remember how they gave me some Navy bean.
[01:16:18.200 --> 01:16:20.940] Yeah, Navy bean is a very special crop.
[01:16:23.280 --> 01:16:24.480] That's what I would say.
[01:16:25.360 --> 01:16:27.200] I love it, I love it, I love it.
[01:16:27.340 --> 01:16:28.300] Do you want to give me some?
[01:16:28.440 --> 01:16:30.760] I definitely have some Navy bean soup.
[01:16:31.980 --> 01:16:33.580] It's been a while, so yeah,
[01:16:33.660 --> 01:16:36.080] that's a good reminder to hop back on it.
[01:16:36.100 --> 01:16:37.340] Yeah, Navy bean.
[01:16:37.380 --> 01:16:39.340] There's a lot of crops that we need to stay away from, too.
[01:16:40.120 --> 01:16:41.520] You know, there's a lot of crops we need to stay away from.
[01:16:42.140 --> 01:16:44.800] Like, most things that fall into soul food category,
[01:16:44.880 --> 01:16:45.960] we need to stay away from, honestly.
[01:16:46.240 --> 01:16:47.680] The good old soul food.
[01:16:47.740 --> 01:16:48.720] You know, sweet potato.
[01:16:48.800 --> 01:16:50.260] We don't need to be eating sweet potato.
[01:16:50.360 --> 01:16:51.020] Sweet potato.
[01:16:51.120 --> 01:16:51.980] Collard greens.
[01:16:52.400 --> 01:16:53.060] Collard greens.
[01:16:55.340 --> 01:16:55.860] Cornbread.
[01:16:58.080 --> 01:17:02.780] All these things actually stem from a slave diet.
[01:17:03.540 --> 01:17:07.360] That's why we call it soul food because we took the worst food
[01:17:08.160 --> 01:17:10.100] and we made it into something.
[01:17:11.000 --> 01:17:14.400] But the beginning of that is
[01:17:14.400 --> 01:17:16.100] we was given these certain foods
[01:17:16.100 --> 01:17:17.900] because they were the worst foods for us to eat.
[01:17:18.420 --> 01:17:21.940] They were the scraps of the people who were the rulers at the time
[01:17:21.940 --> 01:17:23.680] and our oppressors.
[01:17:23.940 --> 01:17:25.900] We just, you know, us as, you know,
[01:17:26.000 --> 01:17:28.080] especially black folks, but just all people, you know,
[01:17:28.840 --> 01:17:29.700] you know, original people.
[01:17:30.580 --> 01:17:33.260] We take anything and we make it something.
[01:17:33.680 --> 01:17:33.940] You know what I'm saying?
[01:17:33.940 --> 01:17:34.760] We take anything.
[01:17:34.940 --> 01:17:36.920] We take a house and make it a home, you know?
[01:17:36.980 --> 01:17:37.520] That's right.
[01:17:37.600 --> 01:17:40.280] We take some ingredients and some bread
[01:17:40.280 --> 01:17:41.240] and we make it a meal.
[01:17:41.620 --> 01:17:43.740] You know, we take a broken person and make them whole.
[01:17:44.200 --> 01:17:45.560] So, you know, with that being said,
[01:17:45.560 --> 01:17:49.060] we did that same thing with the food that we was provided in turn.
[01:17:49.080 --> 01:17:50.300] That's why we got soul food.
[01:17:50.300 --> 01:17:52.900] But really it was a diet to make it,
[01:17:53.240 --> 01:17:56.440] to break a powerful being into a slave though.
[01:17:57.340 --> 01:17:57.820] Wow.
[01:17:58.200 --> 01:17:58.840] With the food.
[01:17:59.260 --> 01:17:59.860] With the food.
[01:17:59.960 --> 01:18:01.180] That's like the first thing they needed.
[01:18:01.720 --> 01:18:03.680] That's the first thing that was changed
[01:18:03.680 --> 01:18:09.020] when we got captured from our motherland into this place.
[01:18:09.740 --> 01:18:11.380] The first thing they changed was our diet,
[01:18:12.660 --> 01:18:14.320] which was the process of making a slave
[01:18:14.320 --> 01:18:16.580] because they didn't grab slaves.
[01:18:16.660 --> 01:18:20.220] They grabbed powerful people, engineers, scientists,
[01:18:21.540 --> 01:18:24.380] rulers, and over a process in a generational period,
[01:18:24.580 --> 01:18:26.460] they made them into slaves.
[01:18:27.440 --> 01:18:28.560] But they just didn't capture.
[01:18:28.680 --> 01:18:30.920] We just wasn't slaves to begin with.
[01:18:31.640 --> 01:18:34.720] It was a process to make a person a slave.
[01:18:34.820 --> 01:18:35.580] A process, yeah.
[01:18:35.700 --> 01:18:37.060] And the diet is one thing.
[01:18:37.100 --> 01:18:38.520] The first thing they changed was our diet.
[01:18:38.860 --> 01:18:40.760] The diet controls your mind.
[01:18:40.960 --> 01:18:43.480] I don't know if it's cloudy, foggy, clear.
[01:18:43.960 --> 01:18:46.160] Which is in turn, we changed that.
[01:18:46.220 --> 01:18:46.800] You know what I'm saying?
[01:18:46.880 --> 01:18:48.360] We changed our diet now.
[01:18:48.360 --> 01:18:50.180] And this day and age in 2026,
[01:18:51.040 --> 01:18:54.080] it would be like reversing that process all over again.
[01:18:54.420 --> 01:18:54.940] Yeah.
[01:18:55.460 --> 01:18:59.440] And then we can grow to whatever we want to grow at, you know?
[01:19:00.300 --> 01:19:02.280] Sounds simple, you know?
[01:19:02.960 --> 01:19:04.520] You all know we always making complex.
[01:19:05.340 --> 01:19:05.600] Yeah, yeah.
[01:19:05.900 --> 01:19:10.140] We hear complaining our auntie, our grandma.
[01:19:11.440 --> 01:19:11.820] We used to.
[01:19:11.820 --> 01:19:18.040] So we definitely got to shift as a collective culture,
[01:19:18.060 --> 01:19:19.340] as a whole, for sure.
[01:19:20.620 --> 01:19:22.960] I know you spoke about the Navy bean.
[01:19:23.160 --> 01:19:28.880] Is there another bean that you kind of help
[01:19:29.480 --> 01:19:34.100] rejuvenate yourself, get your energy that you seek?
[01:19:35.360 --> 01:19:37.340] I don't know about another bean,
[01:19:37.880 --> 01:19:39.800] but you know, as far as other crops,
[01:19:39.800 --> 01:19:42.760] there's plenty of crops that's out there
[01:19:42.760 --> 01:19:44.640] that's good for the soul, you know?
[01:19:47.110 --> 01:19:48.190] There's plenty of crops,
[01:19:48.290 --> 01:19:50.390] but I think what's most important is the crops
[01:19:50.390 --> 01:19:51.590] that we don't need to eat.
[01:19:52.370 --> 01:19:55.090] Because we can identify the list of things not to eat,
[01:19:55.270 --> 01:19:56.470] which is going to be surprisingly
[01:19:57.170 --> 01:19:58.850] most of the things that we eat, though.
[01:19:59.090 --> 01:20:00.070] That's going to be the hard part.
[01:20:00.110 --> 01:20:01.610] That's going to be the part that's going to be the shocker.
[01:20:01.670 --> 01:20:02.890] That is the most common, you know?
[01:20:02.990 --> 01:20:04.790] Yeah, the most common things
[01:20:05.270 --> 01:20:08.510] is actually not the original things that we need to eat.
[01:20:08.510 --> 01:20:10.970] So instead of like what we need to eat
[01:20:10.970 --> 01:20:13.470] is more so like what not to eat.
[01:20:13.650 --> 01:20:15.830] And then from there, we can explore
[01:20:15.830 --> 01:20:19.050] the unlimited source of food that we have,
[01:20:19.710 --> 01:20:21.290] such as the apple, for example.
[01:20:21.310 --> 01:20:22.190] I love apples.
[01:20:22.570 --> 01:20:23.090] You know what I'm saying?
[01:20:23.130 --> 01:20:27.770] We just eat the common two or three species of apples,
[01:20:28.010 --> 01:20:31.490] but like there's hundreds of different types of apples
[01:20:31.490 --> 01:20:32.750] at one point in time.
[01:20:33.390 --> 01:20:36.290] There's hundreds of different type of oranges
[01:20:36.290 --> 01:20:38.690] and bananas in this different type, you know?
[01:20:39.030 --> 01:20:43.590] But we just have became, you know, industrialized
[01:20:43.590 --> 01:20:47.510] and like eating the same type of foods
[01:20:47.510 --> 01:20:48.630] and crops and things.
[01:20:50.150 --> 01:20:51.810] But it is endless.
[01:20:52.030 --> 01:20:52.650] It's almost endless.
[01:20:52.710 --> 01:20:54.750] A different type of crops, vegetables,
[01:20:54.870 --> 01:20:55.810] and fruits is out there.
[01:20:56.050 --> 01:20:57.250] It's really endless, you know?
[01:20:57.610 --> 01:20:59.130] What about the coffee bean?
[01:20:59.730 --> 01:21:00.810] What's your thoughts about the coffee bean?
[01:21:00.810 --> 01:21:01.250] Coffee?
[01:21:02.350 --> 01:21:05.290] So it's funny because at first,
[01:21:05.290 --> 01:21:07.190] I was a little bit against coffee, right?
[01:21:08.830 --> 01:21:09.850] I was against coffee.
[01:21:09.950 --> 01:21:11.290] I'm like, man, coffee too bad for me.
[01:21:11.310 --> 01:21:12.770] I see people be addicted to coffee.
[01:21:13.290 --> 01:21:14.250] They can't even think right
[01:21:14.250 --> 01:21:15.330] if they don't have any more than coffee.
[01:21:16.490 --> 01:21:19.590] But then I got introduced on the knowledge of,
[01:21:19.770 --> 01:21:20.570] oh no, that's not the coffee.
[01:21:20.630 --> 01:21:23.410] It's the sugar and the cream that they're addicted to.
[01:21:24.490 --> 01:21:28.130] It's a sugar fix that they is fixed to, right?
[01:21:28.130 --> 01:21:30.370] And then I learned that, oh no, a cup of coffee,
[01:21:30.710 --> 01:21:33.330] a good cup of coffee, you know,
[01:21:33.330 --> 01:21:37.370] is actually a great thing to do in the morning, right?
[01:21:37.830 --> 01:21:41.210] And then you can even add other spices
[01:21:42.810 --> 01:21:44.510] or natural things to your coffee
[01:21:44.510 --> 01:21:47.630] to even lighten and heighten
[01:21:47.630 --> 01:21:49.550] those already positive effects
[01:21:49.550 --> 01:21:51.890] of a one cup of coffee can do for you,
[01:21:51.890 --> 01:21:52.830] you know, in the morning
[01:21:52.830 --> 01:21:56.510] to get your juices flowing and get you heightened, right?
[01:21:56.830 --> 01:21:59.110] You know, after, right, the water, you tell me, right?
[01:21:59.150 --> 01:22:00.490] After the water, drinking the water first?
[01:22:00.490 --> 01:22:01.550] After the water first, yes, yes.
[01:22:01.550 --> 01:22:03.530] You know, as soon as you wake up, drink that water first.
[01:22:04.250 --> 01:22:06.390] But you know, a cup of coffee, it's not bad.
[01:22:06.490 --> 01:22:08.690] You just keep it black, keep it straight
[01:22:11.170 --> 01:22:13.270] and not overdo it as well.
[01:22:15.010 --> 01:22:19.230] So no creamers, no sugars, no...
[01:22:19.230 --> 01:22:20.010] No...
[01:22:20.010 --> 01:22:20.470] Additives.
[01:22:20.750 --> 01:22:21.410] No additives.
[01:22:21.570 --> 01:22:22.930] If I do add it, it's going to be
[01:22:22.930 --> 01:22:25.270] natural things added such as honey,
[01:22:25.950 --> 01:22:28.110] which is something that never goes bad.
[01:22:28.110 --> 01:22:32.050] Honey is the one thing in this earth, food-wise,
[01:22:32.190 --> 01:22:33.130] that doesn't expire.
[01:22:34.230 --> 01:22:36.450] So if that's the case, how special is honey is?
[01:22:38.230 --> 01:22:40.810] Well, you know, we call our mate honey.
[01:22:41.090 --> 01:22:41.610] Hey, honey.
[01:22:41.790 --> 01:22:42.190] Honey.
[01:22:42.810 --> 01:22:45.710] They call heaven the land of milk and honey.
[01:22:45.910 --> 01:22:46.510] Milk and honey.
[01:22:46.710 --> 01:22:48.830] So how special are those two things then
[01:22:48.830 --> 01:22:50.970] if heaven is the land of milk and honey?
[01:22:51.030 --> 01:22:53.230] Well, I don't know so much about milk
[01:22:53.230 --> 01:22:55.530] and that milk does spoil and expire.
[01:22:56.130 --> 01:22:57.330] But definitely honey, for sure.
[01:22:57.330 --> 01:22:58.830] And one thing I did learn about...
[01:22:58.830 --> 01:22:59.830] See, I don't drink milk.
[01:22:59.890 --> 01:23:00.930] I haven't drunk milk yet.
[01:23:00.950 --> 01:23:02.250] I haven't drunk milk in so long.
[01:23:02.390 --> 01:23:03.670] But this is why though,
[01:23:05.950 --> 01:23:09.410] because it's not raw milk, right?
[01:23:10.270 --> 01:23:13.130] Raw milk is actually good for you.
[01:23:13.750 --> 01:23:15.490] But I think, if I'm not mistaken,
[01:23:15.570 --> 01:23:17.330] it's actually illegal to sell in Ohio though.
[01:23:18.230 --> 01:23:19.390] Which we have to ask ourselves,
[01:23:19.510 --> 01:23:20.450] why is that then?
[01:23:22.410 --> 01:23:23.310] Why is that?
[01:23:23.350 --> 01:23:26.310] Why is it so hard to get a bottle of raw milk
[01:23:26.310 --> 01:23:27.910] and if you do find a bottle of raw milk,
[01:23:28.030 --> 01:23:28.830] why is it $20?
[01:23:28.990 --> 01:23:29.990] Why is it so expensive?
[01:23:30.670 --> 01:23:32.750] These are questions we need to ask ourselves, you know?
[01:23:34.870 --> 01:23:37.770] Well, I mean, I'm not sure about the raw milk
[01:23:37.770 --> 01:23:40.630] unless you talk about breast milk.
[01:23:40.990 --> 01:23:45.010] I grew up when I was a baby drinking breast milk,
[01:23:45.250 --> 01:23:49.490] which is some of the best milk that I've known.
[01:23:50.250 --> 01:23:50.730] Yeah.
[01:23:51.950 --> 01:23:57.010] And then we're drinking the milk by the jug,
[01:23:57.350 --> 01:23:58.830] which is mostly cow milk,
[01:23:59.650 --> 01:24:01.750] which is all types of stuff in it
[01:24:01.750 --> 01:24:03.810] that I'm not going to need a name.
[01:24:05.610 --> 01:24:07.470] But yeah, raw milk, okay.
[01:24:07.590 --> 01:24:10.810] But the milk from the gallon is pasteurized
[01:24:10.810 --> 01:24:12.590] and they go through all these different processes
[01:24:12.590 --> 01:24:15.150] and they take all the good things from it
[01:24:15.150 --> 01:24:17.590] and they give you back all the bad, you know what I'm saying?
[01:24:17.590 --> 01:24:22.750] So, but raw milk, which I haven't tasted before,
[01:24:24.190 --> 01:24:28.150] I tell myself if I do or if you get your own cow.
[01:24:30.460 --> 01:24:32.400] But you're still getting it from the cow.
[01:24:33.240 --> 01:24:36.240] The cow is not necessarily a bad animal.
[01:24:37.640 --> 01:24:39.440] I don't think the cow or the goat
[01:24:39.440 --> 01:24:42.600] is not necessarily bad animals to drink or eat from
[01:24:43.620 --> 01:24:47.280] because God also put different animals
[01:24:48.520 --> 01:24:51.960] here on earth for us to consume if you see fit.
[01:24:52.860 --> 01:24:55.060] But it's just a way of going about it, right?
[01:24:55.100 --> 01:24:58.560] Knowing that this is a living thing.
[01:24:58.760 --> 01:25:00.200] This is a sacrifice.
[01:25:01.520 --> 01:25:02.780] This is divine.
[01:25:02.820 --> 01:25:03.720] This is holy.
[01:25:04.420 --> 01:25:07.320] So if you're going to consume something such as that,
[01:25:07.860 --> 01:25:09.440] you consume it the right way,
[01:25:10.060 --> 01:25:14.880] such as kosher or halal, you know, certain different groups.
[01:25:15.460 --> 01:25:16.820] They don't kill an animal.
[01:25:16.820 --> 01:25:18.760] So they might put it out as misery
[01:25:18.760 --> 01:25:23.160] in a very holy and tasteful
[01:25:23.160 --> 01:25:26.920] and, you know, peaceful way
[01:25:27.780 --> 01:25:30.880] before consuming it, right?
[01:25:31.780 --> 01:25:35.180] Because really everything on this earth
[01:25:35.820 --> 01:25:40.820] is for us to experience and consume.
[01:25:41.340 --> 01:25:46.160] You know, like us being in the image of the creator,
[01:25:47.440 --> 01:25:51.020] everything essentially in life is subservient to us.
[01:25:52.160 --> 01:25:54.700] It's just what we do with it
[01:25:54.700 --> 01:25:58.160] is the question and how, right?
[01:26:02.480 --> 01:26:04.220] And with that being said,
[01:26:06.260 --> 01:26:10.470] it's like a good thought process.
[01:26:12.990 --> 01:26:15.070] But I want to speak more on the creative process.
[01:26:15.510 --> 01:26:16.350] Yeah, absolutely.
[01:26:17.610 --> 01:26:18.590] As a creative,
[01:26:18.590 --> 01:26:21.570] you go into your creative process.
[01:26:22.190 --> 01:26:24.450] How would you explain your creative process
[01:26:24.450 --> 01:26:25.750] as a weather forecast?
[01:26:27.290 --> 01:26:27.850] Well,
[01:26:29.250 --> 01:26:32.870] speaking on creative, that's a creative question, you know?
[01:26:33.250 --> 01:26:33.830] From a creative.
[01:26:34.230 --> 01:26:36.770] From a creative in a creative space.
[01:26:38.850 --> 01:26:40.730] If I had to explain my creative process
[01:26:42.390 --> 01:26:44.610] in terms of a weather forecast,
[01:26:46.090 --> 01:26:47.630] I will say
[01:26:49.330 --> 01:26:52.310] it's like a thunderstorm, right?
[01:26:53.610 --> 01:26:56.930] But it's like the full thunderstorm
[01:26:56.930 --> 01:26:58.430] coming and leaving,
[01:26:59.490 --> 01:27:02.010] coming and going, because like the storm doesn't just,
[01:27:02.230 --> 01:27:04.010] life doesn't just start off in the storm.
[01:27:04.350 --> 01:27:04.710] Right.
[01:27:04.710 --> 01:27:06.090] It starts off a sunny day.
[01:27:07.170 --> 01:27:09.850] And then the air starts to cool down,
[01:27:10.030 --> 01:27:11.110] the wind starts to pick up,
[01:27:11.150 --> 01:27:13.150] the night starts to get a little darker.
[01:27:13.970 --> 01:27:14.930] I smell it.
[01:27:15.110 --> 01:27:16.510] The smell start to change, right?
[01:27:16.670 --> 01:27:17.750] Now the storm is coming.
[01:27:17.850 --> 01:27:19.490] Now I'm in the storm, right?
[01:27:19.750 --> 01:27:21.950] But then after the storm, what happens again, right?
[01:27:22.630 --> 01:27:24.130] Sun come right back up.
[01:27:24.610 --> 01:27:24.790] Right.
[01:27:24.850 --> 01:27:26.630] So when I'm in my creative process,
[01:27:27.310 --> 01:27:28.790] I first start off with just ideas,
[01:27:29.070 --> 01:27:31.390] beautiful ideas, endless ideas.
[01:27:33.070 --> 01:27:35.870] No barriers or obstacles in my way.
[01:27:36.250 --> 01:27:36.710] Endless.
[01:27:37.470 --> 01:27:38.890] But then a storm comes, right?
[01:27:39.030 --> 01:27:42.150] Now you got to put these ideas into fruition,
[01:27:42.150 --> 01:27:45.430] into actual form, manifested ideas.
[01:27:46.170 --> 01:27:47.270] And sometimes it's not the easiest.
[01:27:48.350 --> 01:27:49.470] I see some through,
[01:27:50.510 --> 01:27:52.770] some of them I don't see through, right?
[01:27:53.410 --> 01:27:56.990] But if you do move forward in that creative process,
[01:27:57.090 --> 01:27:59.830] which I have seen ideas really come together,
[01:27:59.890 --> 01:28:00.590] such as my business.
[01:28:00.650 --> 01:28:02.150] I've seen my business come together
[01:28:02.150 --> 01:28:04.710] and I've seen a happy client and I've seen it through.
[01:28:05.170 --> 01:28:06.930] That's when the sun comes back out, right?
[01:28:07.250 --> 01:28:09.050] It wasn't easy getting to that point.
[01:28:09.050 --> 01:28:12.390] It wasn't a walk in the park.
[01:28:12.590 --> 01:28:14.650] It's some trials, it's some tribulations.
[01:28:15.570 --> 01:28:17.750] But that's the beautiful thing about creating, right?
[01:28:17.790 --> 01:28:18.590] Like if it was easy,
[01:28:18.670 --> 01:28:19.930] then we probably wouldn't even want to do it, you know?
[01:28:19.970 --> 01:28:23.950] It's like we probably wouldn't even be alive.
[01:28:24.070 --> 01:28:25.610] If something was easy, then we ain't alive, you know?
[01:28:25.990 --> 01:28:28.290] So after all those trials and tribulations
[01:28:28.290 --> 01:28:30.850] and seeing the idea through, it's nothing like that.
[01:28:31.150 --> 01:28:32.530] And that's when that sun come back out
[01:28:32.530 --> 01:28:33.830] after that thunderstorm, you know?
[01:28:34.150 --> 01:28:36.330] So that's how I would describe it.
[01:28:36.330 --> 01:28:38.550] Like the coming and the going of a thunderstorm.
[01:28:40.890 --> 01:28:41.230] Okay, okay.
[01:28:41.350 --> 01:28:42.850] And rain, not necessarily bad.
[01:28:42.930 --> 01:28:44.970] It's not a bad thing because it rain.
[01:28:45.850 --> 01:28:48.530] You just have to adapt to the rain,
[01:28:49.950 --> 01:28:52.930] see the rain for what it is, you know?
[01:28:53.090 --> 01:28:54.930] Knowing that the rain has a purpose as well,
[01:28:54.930 --> 01:28:56.230] even though we don't want to be out in the rain.
[01:28:56.610 --> 01:28:58.150] It's still at the rain.
[01:28:58.170 --> 01:28:59.010] That's how we grow plants.
[01:28:59.030 --> 01:28:59.890] That's how we grow vegetables.
[01:28:59.950 --> 01:29:01.870] That's how we get life, you know?
[01:29:01.910 --> 01:29:02.630] Life come about.
[01:29:02.690 --> 01:29:03.730] How we get water, you know?
[01:29:03.730 --> 01:29:04.430] All these different things.
[01:29:04.930 --> 01:29:06.350] That's how I'd describe it.
[01:29:07.670 --> 01:29:10.270] That's how we definitely grow.
[01:29:11.590 --> 01:29:14.550] Like heavy rain, I kind of avoid heavy rain,
[01:29:15.530 --> 01:29:17.630] even driving through heavy rain.
[01:29:17.850 --> 01:29:19.330] But I love being out in the rain.
[01:29:19.570 --> 01:29:24.190] Like mine is a sunny, warm, sunny day.
[01:29:24.850 --> 01:29:26.250] But you know, with intense heat,
[01:29:26.450 --> 01:29:29.370] you want to cool off, so it's got a little drizzle.
[01:29:29.830 --> 01:29:31.770] Not too heavy of a rain,
[01:29:31.890 --> 01:29:34.750] but light rain where it's a drizzle and it's refreshing.
[01:29:35.830 --> 01:29:38.710] It's like, wow, you know,
[01:29:38.790 --> 01:29:40.770] you got kind of like all the elements.
[01:29:41.630 --> 01:29:41.770] Yeah.
[01:29:41.890 --> 01:29:43.470] The sun, the clouds, the rain.
[01:29:43.650 --> 01:29:44.810] Get you through once again,
[01:29:44.910 --> 01:29:46.590] just a little get you through.
[01:29:46.990 --> 01:29:48.150] Thank you.
[01:29:48.530 --> 01:29:51.390] Even with, you know, your creative process,
[01:29:52.070 --> 01:29:54.330] a lot of us are using AI now,
[01:29:56.350 --> 01:29:59.270] especially for brainstorming.
[01:29:59.370 --> 01:30:01.870] So that's kind of around that you say storm,
[01:30:02.690 --> 01:30:03.950] or the thunderstorm.
[01:30:04.630 --> 01:30:06.310] So how are you using AI?
[01:30:06.450 --> 01:30:07.770] What's your thoughts on AI?
[01:30:08.310 --> 01:30:10.070] I am totally pro AI.
[01:30:10.270 --> 01:30:11.170] Pro AI, okay.
[01:30:11.710 --> 01:30:16.590] I'm totally pro AI because AI is a tool to help us
[01:30:16.590 --> 01:30:18.230] do whatever it is we want to do in life.
[01:30:18.370 --> 01:30:20.950] Yes, there are negative things that could come from AI.
[01:30:21.770 --> 01:30:24.110] Yes, it's negative things that come from anything,
[01:30:24.210 --> 01:30:26.930] but that's on us and not the tool in itself.
[01:30:28.330 --> 01:30:28.370] Right.
[01:30:29.850 --> 01:30:32.930] We use the tool, not that the tool don't use us.
[01:30:33.430 --> 01:30:35.930] In a way, it learns from us.
[01:30:36.870 --> 01:30:37.330] Right.
[01:30:37.510 --> 01:30:41.230] It uses us as far as whatever we give it.
[01:30:41.530 --> 01:30:41.910] Right.
[01:30:42.990 --> 01:30:44.810] It would never be the original though.
[01:30:44.990 --> 01:30:45.690] Oh no.
[01:30:45.750 --> 01:30:47.550] No matter how smart AI could get.
[01:30:47.910 --> 01:30:48.330] It's artificial.
[01:30:49.270 --> 01:30:50.470] It's artificial.
[01:30:51.190 --> 01:30:52.370] It's mimicking us.
[01:30:52.890 --> 01:30:54.430] It's mimicking the human brain.
[01:30:55.610 --> 01:30:59.710] If anything, it shows you what we are capable of doing
[01:30:59.710 --> 01:31:03.590] if we are operating at our full capacity.
[01:31:04.790 --> 01:31:07.030] You know, even a calculator, when it does math
[01:31:07.030 --> 01:31:10.130] in 0.2 seconds, we the first calculators.
[01:31:10.190 --> 01:31:10.710] That's true.
[01:31:11.030 --> 01:31:13.310] We created math, right?
[01:31:13.670 --> 01:31:17.390] So I'm totally pro AI, and I use it more and more,
[01:31:17.470 --> 01:31:19.650] and I always find different ways to use it
[01:31:19.650 --> 01:31:22.310] to help me shift through my thoughts
[01:31:22.310 --> 01:31:24.670] and organize my thoughts and put my thoughts
[01:31:24.670 --> 01:31:27.730] in different compartments so I can get to my goals
[01:31:27.730 --> 01:31:28.630] a lot faster.
[01:31:29.430 --> 01:31:30.710] You know, at this point, I'm using AI
[01:31:30.710 --> 01:31:34.250] as my business partner, my financial advisor,
[01:31:35.290 --> 01:31:38.530] sometimes even similar to a therapist as well.
[01:31:38.890 --> 01:31:39.370] Okay.
[01:31:39.490 --> 01:31:41.530] So those are the avenues that it's helping me with
[01:31:41.530 --> 01:31:44.110] right now, so it's organizing my business,
[01:31:44.230 --> 01:31:46.650] it's helping me get my SOPs,
[01:31:46.710 --> 01:31:48.290] my standard operating procedures together,
[01:31:48.370 --> 01:31:50.770] my mission, my visions, my whys,
[01:31:50.770 --> 01:31:55.350] my hows, helping me answer so many different questions
[01:31:55.350 --> 01:31:59.030] so I can just focus on doing what I love to do,
[01:31:59.190 --> 01:32:00.830] which is creating as a creator.
[01:32:02.110 --> 01:32:07.010] Have more time to do, come up with the ideas
[01:32:07.010 --> 01:32:09.770] and fulfill these ideas versus the in-between things
[01:32:09.770 --> 01:32:12.750] that burn us out, right?
[01:32:13.490 --> 01:32:16.390] Using this AI as a tool that it is
[01:32:16.390 --> 01:32:20.410] so I can continue to just think and act
[01:32:20.410 --> 01:32:23.510] and create versus doing all these in-between
[01:32:23.510 --> 01:32:25.830] little minuscule things that take me away
[01:32:25.830 --> 01:32:28.030] from the bigger dreams of creating
[01:32:28.030 --> 01:32:29.010] and fulfilling things.
[01:32:31.460 --> 01:32:32.220] That's amazing.
[01:32:32.560 --> 01:32:34.560] What was something that blown you away
[01:32:34.560 --> 01:32:38.060] with AI, any tool, the AI tool?
[01:32:38.340 --> 01:32:39.440] That blown me away, man.
[01:32:39.480 --> 01:32:40.800] Right now, I think it's very,
[01:32:41.740 --> 01:32:43.100] I think it's already totally,
[01:32:43.160 --> 01:32:45.720] I think it's pretty advanced, you know,
[01:32:45.720 --> 01:32:47.800] because it's a lot of paid versions
[01:32:47.800 --> 01:32:49.540] and a lot of paid different things out there.
[01:32:50.040 --> 01:32:53.220] Right now, man, I'm not on social media right now,
[01:32:55.320 --> 01:32:57.700] but I did hop on social media
[01:32:57.700 --> 01:32:59.700] from time to time, like Twitter or X,
[01:33:00.100 --> 01:33:06.540] and it amazes me how it literally creates videos
[01:33:07.320 --> 01:33:10.460] of actual people, actual things, actual events,
[01:33:11.140 --> 01:33:14.640] and people actually believe it to be real
[01:33:14.640 --> 01:33:16.740] and accept it as real.
[01:33:18.200 --> 01:33:19.720] That's the dangerous part, right?
[01:33:19.800 --> 01:33:20.480] We talk about dangerous,
[01:33:20.660 --> 01:33:22.720] and it's definitely dangerous of how people use it,
[01:33:22.840 --> 01:33:24.060] but that's what amazes me.
[01:33:24.080 --> 01:33:27.920] The video creation, the voice creations,
[01:33:29.160 --> 01:33:30.660] the creating a narrative,
[01:33:30.880 --> 01:33:32.700] whatever narrative that you want to create
[01:33:32.700 --> 01:33:34.600] and seeing that narrative through,
[01:33:34.640 --> 01:33:35.760] for good or for worse.
[01:33:36.380 --> 01:33:37.380] That's amazing to me.
[01:33:38.420 --> 01:33:39.860] That's amazing to me.
[01:33:40.780 --> 01:33:43.140] I mean, like you said, it's amazing,
[01:33:43.140 --> 01:33:47.180] but also, like you said, with the food,
[01:33:47.240 --> 01:33:48.600] I kind of link it with the food.
[01:33:49.780 --> 01:33:52.460] Like, it's a lot of artificial food out here.
[01:33:53.240 --> 01:33:54.920] It's good. It tastes good,
[01:33:54.920 --> 01:33:58.080] but at the end of the day, it's good.
[01:33:58.420 --> 01:34:00.820] Now, AI is a different thing than food
[01:34:01.660 --> 01:34:03.840] because we consume both of it,
[01:34:03.840 --> 01:34:08.180] but we actually control the AI more
[01:34:08.840 --> 01:34:10.720] than control the food supply.
[01:34:11.780 --> 01:34:13.740] So, I love that connection.
[01:34:14.240 --> 01:34:16.140] I lean more towards good than bad
[01:34:16.920 --> 01:34:19.700] only because it's like any other invention.
[01:34:20.000 --> 01:34:22.360] It's like we have to remember that we are the inventor.
[01:34:22.960 --> 01:34:23.660] Yeah, like that.
[01:34:24.020 --> 01:34:29.240] Any invention is made to make everyday life easier,
[01:34:32.100 --> 01:34:35.180] similar to a cell phone, a calculator,
[01:34:35.360 --> 01:34:37.900] or any other invention out in the world, you know?
[01:34:38.480 --> 01:34:41.000] It takes on a mind of its own from time to time,
[01:34:41.000 --> 01:34:43.400] and it's definitely not meant for the most positive,
[01:34:43.460 --> 01:34:47.520] but it is a tool and used in a righteous
[01:34:47.520 --> 01:34:49.160] or a positive manner.
[01:34:49.520 --> 01:34:52.020] It's made to make life easier, you know?
[01:34:53.520 --> 01:34:58.340] So you can get to go sooner, quicker, easier, you know?
[01:34:59.580 --> 01:35:03.560] There's so many different opportunities within that space.
[01:35:03.660 --> 01:35:05.920] I think it's only the beginning of that, honestly.
[01:35:06.700 --> 01:35:08.240] Yeah, for sure, for sure.
[01:35:08.240 --> 01:35:10.640] And man, as we wrap,
[01:35:10.700 --> 01:35:15.340] because I got to head to Ashley podcast production.
[01:35:15.520 --> 01:35:18.240] I was thinking about me quitting photography
[01:35:19.120 --> 01:35:20.540] and video production.
[01:35:20.740 --> 01:35:23.480] I got to actually do this in like 30 minutes,
[01:35:24.240 --> 01:35:26.240] so I'm actually actually running behind,
[01:35:26.400 --> 01:35:31.580] but this is definitely a fruitful, fruitful interview.
[01:35:32.980 --> 01:35:34.780] Conversation, I don't want to call it an interview.
[01:35:35.200 --> 01:35:35.480] Conversation.
[01:35:35.820 --> 01:35:36.800] Conversation indeed.
[01:35:36.920 --> 01:35:37.480] For sure.
[01:35:37.480 --> 01:35:38.600] Higher level conversation.
[01:35:38.720 --> 01:35:39.420] Higher level.
[01:35:40.020 --> 01:35:41.660] Hey, shout out to 19Keys.
[01:35:41.820 --> 01:35:43.140] Shout out to 19Keys.
[01:35:43.260 --> 01:35:45.380] I just listened to his album, man.
[01:35:45.420 --> 01:35:46.040] We the Gods.
[01:35:46.900 --> 01:35:48.280] Yeah, she has clarity.
[01:35:48.880 --> 01:35:49.680] We the Gods, man.
[01:35:49.680 --> 01:35:51.060] That's a statement in itself, man.
[01:35:51.060 --> 01:35:52.840] You can have a whole podcast on, man.
[01:35:52.840 --> 01:35:53.420] We the Gods.
[01:35:53.840 --> 01:35:53.860] Yeah.
[01:35:54.420 --> 01:35:56.000] We're going to have to do part two for sure.
[01:35:56.000 --> 01:35:56.840] Look at that, man.
[01:35:57.040 --> 01:35:59.840] Because yeah, this film is scratching the surface.
[01:35:59.900 --> 01:36:02.240] There's a lot of, you know, I want to touch on.
[01:36:02.320 --> 01:36:03.600] A lot of we talk about.
[01:36:03.660 --> 01:36:05.680] I'm like, man, we're going to save it for the podcast,
[01:36:05.680 --> 01:36:08.920] but you know, we're going to definitely do part two.
[01:36:09.440 --> 01:36:11.820] But I want to leave you with a couple of questions.
[01:36:12.980 --> 01:36:16.780] Where do you see yourself?
[01:36:17.460 --> 01:36:22.660] And then what do you see your business as you think about legacy?
[01:36:26.150 --> 01:36:32.830] For myself, I see myself with a wife and kids.
[01:36:35.180 --> 01:36:40.840] Finally, fulfilling and enjoying life in the form that it's supposed to be enjoyed.
[01:36:40.960 --> 01:36:45.460] I think we all enjoy life with a significant other,
[01:36:45.620 --> 01:36:49.300] you know, other half, another half, you know, companionship.
[01:36:49.440 --> 01:36:54.120] I think that's something, a part of life as well as creating life too.
[01:36:54.600 --> 01:36:56.440] You know, creating life with a lifelong partner
[01:36:56.440 --> 01:36:58.220] and not creating life with, you know,
[01:36:59.020 --> 01:37:02.220] just an individual that you just happen to have a moment or time with.
[01:37:02.440 --> 01:37:02.920] Yeah.
[01:37:02.920 --> 01:37:07.120] So I see myself, you know, going through life with an individual
[01:37:07.120 --> 01:37:08.880] and creating life with an individual.
[01:37:09.680 --> 01:37:12.560] A wife, my wife, with kids, starting a legacy.
[01:37:12.640 --> 01:37:14.400] I think that's also part of legacy in itself.
[01:37:14.840 --> 01:37:15.100] Yes, sir.
[01:37:15.140 --> 01:37:18.020] You know, your missus and your kids is legacy.
[01:37:18.400 --> 01:37:20.020] You know, that's what legacy is all about.
[01:37:20.800 --> 01:37:22.640] You know, having some healthy kids,
[01:37:24.180 --> 01:37:26.420] doing something positive and righteous in life, man.
[01:37:26.520 --> 01:37:30.120] That sounds like the life I need and going to have.
[01:37:30.120 --> 01:37:38.140] As far as my business, man, just I see it in short term
[01:37:38.140 --> 01:37:45.200] of getting hired in clientele, thinking a lot bigger on my everyday goals,
[01:37:46.220 --> 01:37:50.570] you know, a lot more collaborations
[01:37:50.920 --> 01:37:58.420] and then also more resources using other people's tools, money,
[01:37:59.600 --> 01:38:04.100] getting grants so I can not think about the little things
[01:38:04.100 --> 01:38:06.120] and I can have more room and space to create
[01:38:06.120 --> 01:38:08.840] since I'm not worrying about money or opportunity,
[01:38:09.660 --> 01:38:11.000] having the opportunity, having the money
[01:38:11.000 --> 01:38:14.560] so I can create within this space and actually maximize
[01:38:14.560 --> 01:38:16.540] what I truly do see for myself,
[01:38:16.800 --> 01:38:19.760] creating different videos and pictures.
[01:38:20.080 --> 01:38:20.520] Yeah.
[01:38:20.560 --> 01:38:22.380] And then that's going to be the stepping block
[01:38:22.380 --> 01:38:24.780] for the arts and cultural center
[01:38:24.780 --> 01:38:27.140] that I want to collaborate with others for
[01:38:27.140 --> 01:38:29.640] and teaching other people the same science.
[01:38:29.700 --> 01:38:31.120] I'm going to call it a science, if you will,
[01:38:31.180 --> 01:38:34.340] creating in this science of art.
[01:38:34.500 --> 01:38:35.620] I love it.
[01:38:35.620 --> 01:38:36.560] Science of art.
[01:38:36.800 --> 01:38:39.460] You know, and then also providing opportunities
[01:38:39.460 --> 01:38:42.100] and resources for other people,
[01:38:42.520 --> 01:38:47.100] especially in lower socioeconomic neighborhoods
[01:38:47.100 --> 01:38:50.680] for them to not be so focused on a negative
[01:38:51.680 --> 01:38:55.060] and can be focused, finally focused on a positive
[01:38:55.060 --> 01:38:58.540] and having something better to get to in life.
[01:38:59.460 --> 01:39:00.780] Okay, okay.
[01:39:01.040 --> 01:39:04.380] And yeah, that arts and cultural center is going to be amazing
[01:39:04.380 --> 01:39:07.340] and I'm looking at this hand sanitizer
[01:39:07.340 --> 01:39:09.960] and what do hand sanitizer do?
[01:39:10.420 --> 01:39:13.400] It cleans and get rid of the germs
[01:39:13.400 --> 01:39:14.720] and with what?
[01:39:15.400 --> 01:39:19.200] The active ingredient is in line with the purpose,
[01:39:19.460 --> 01:39:21.080] literally in line with the purpose.
[01:39:22.040 --> 01:39:22.680] It's crazy.
[01:39:22.680 --> 01:39:24.360] I was looking at that as you were saying
[01:39:24.360 --> 01:39:28.280] and everything you have is like active ingredients
[01:39:28.280 --> 01:39:29.700] to your purpose.
[01:39:29.980 --> 01:39:31.080] It's like, wow.
[01:39:31.640 --> 01:39:33.740] I say that's alignment for sure.
[01:39:34.340 --> 01:39:34.780] Alignment, man.
[01:39:35.860 --> 01:39:38.060] That's the part we try to get to, man.
[01:39:38.080 --> 01:39:39.500] Alignment, you know?
[01:39:40.600 --> 01:39:41.500] Alignment, brother.
[01:39:42.340 --> 01:39:42.900] Balance.
[01:39:44.180 --> 01:39:44.740] Patience.
[01:39:46.420 --> 01:39:48.920] So we can find that peace and alignment, brother.
[01:39:49.680 --> 01:39:50.200] Okay.
[01:39:50.900 --> 01:39:55.140] So what is like three to five key takeaways
[01:39:55.140 --> 01:39:56.800] from this interview,
[01:39:57.060 --> 01:39:58.440] whether it's something you said
[01:39:58.440 --> 01:40:00.680] or didn't get a chance to say
[01:40:00.680 --> 01:40:02.660] that you would want somebody to take away
[01:40:02.660 --> 01:40:03.880] from this conversation?
[01:40:05.460 --> 01:40:07.680] I think one thing we touched on a lot,
[01:40:07.820 --> 01:40:08.860] which is not perfect.
[01:40:09.060 --> 01:40:10.560] I don't know if it was a purpose to it or not,
[01:40:10.600 --> 01:40:13.680] but just kind of thinking about this conversation
[01:40:13.680 --> 01:40:16.740] of money, success, business,
[01:40:16.740 --> 01:40:19.660] all these things that we focus on day to day so much.
[01:40:19.880 --> 01:40:21.620] But then when you ask me questions about
[01:40:21.620 --> 01:40:24.040] what is the purpose and what I want to do
[01:40:24.040 --> 01:40:25.320] and what's the end goal,
[01:40:26.000 --> 01:40:26.920] it was like, okay,
[01:40:27.280 --> 01:40:30.060] focusing on things outside of that,
[01:40:31.440 --> 01:40:33.260] actually understanding and seeing
[01:40:33.260 --> 01:40:35.160] that it's a deeper purpose in life.
[01:40:36.160 --> 01:40:39.620] And we all are unique and special in our own way
[01:40:40.600 --> 01:40:42.720] in not having a certain amount of money,
[01:40:43.720 --> 01:40:45.500] not doing a certain type of field
[01:40:45.500 --> 01:40:47.820] or not having certain questions and things figured out.
[01:40:47.880 --> 01:40:50.540] Life doesn't take you away from that greater purpose
[01:40:50.540 --> 01:40:52.420] that you really are fulfilling,
[01:40:52.460 --> 01:40:53.900] whether we see that or not.
[01:40:54.480 --> 01:40:56.660] That's something that I really noticed
[01:40:56.660 --> 01:40:58.780] and kind of just thought about right now.
[01:40:58.840 --> 01:41:00.900] I'm like, wow, we have all these plans
[01:41:00.900 --> 01:41:02.980] to get to this money and different fields
[01:41:02.980 --> 01:41:03.920] and how we gonna do it.
[01:41:04.580 --> 01:41:05.480] But when you just asked me,
[01:41:05.800 --> 01:41:06.940] what did I see for myself?
[01:41:07.040 --> 01:41:08.200] It's like, oh, having a wife,
[01:41:08.860 --> 01:41:12.400] genuine love, kids, healthy kids,
[01:41:13.560 --> 01:41:16.580] just a legacy, that's more important,
[01:41:16.700 --> 01:41:17.660] or helping people,
[01:41:18.880 --> 01:41:22.480] getting other people to see themselves in a higher light.
[01:41:23.520 --> 01:41:25.020] That's the important things in life.
[01:41:25.140 --> 01:41:26.240] And as long as we doing that,
[01:41:27.000 --> 01:41:28.900] I don't need a lot of money to do that right now.
[01:41:29.400 --> 01:41:30.360] That's something I'm doing right now
[01:41:30.360 --> 01:41:31.700] and I can continue doing right now.
[01:41:31.900 --> 01:41:33.080] So I am successful.
[01:41:34.180 --> 01:41:36.740] So that's a good takeaway for sure, for sure, man.
[01:41:38.540 --> 01:41:41.760] And just aiming to make better choices overall in life
[01:41:41.760 --> 01:41:43.720] and knowing that we are worthy to do that.
[01:41:44.080 --> 01:41:46.260] And knowing that it is a positive outcome
[01:41:46.260 --> 01:41:48.960] that comes from making positive decisions
[01:41:48.960 --> 01:41:50.020] and changes in our life.
[01:41:50.180 --> 01:41:51.860] Whether we taking something out of our diet,
[01:41:52.020 --> 01:41:53.480] taking something out of our hobbies,
[01:41:54.060 --> 01:41:55.080] our everyday life,
[01:41:56.480 --> 01:41:59.420] and taking control of our day,
[01:41:59.520 --> 01:42:00.860] taking control of our job,
[01:42:01.700 --> 01:42:04.200] our time, doing for self.
[01:42:05.700 --> 01:42:08.540] There are plenty of positive outcomes from that
[01:42:08.540 --> 01:42:12.140] and we can actually go to our limitless potential
[01:42:12.140 --> 01:42:14.140] that we all have and possess.
[01:42:15.120 --> 01:42:16.600] Wow, it's amazing.
[01:42:16.840 --> 01:42:20.020] I cannot close it out any better than that.
[01:42:21.040 --> 01:42:23.060] You know, for the people out there listening,
[01:42:23.920 --> 01:42:26.580] where can they find you, book you, follow you,
[01:42:26.600 --> 01:42:27.440] all that good stuff?
[01:42:29.020 --> 01:42:31.800] Well, good question.
[01:42:32.840 --> 01:42:33.320] Good question.
[01:42:33.440 --> 01:42:38.020] My website is www.lazabillustrations.com.
[01:42:38.020 --> 01:42:39.280] That would be the best space.
[01:42:39.640 --> 01:42:41.220] How you spell it out for them?
[01:42:41.720 --> 01:42:44.400] L-A-S-E-N-B-Y, Lazenby,
[01:42:44.680 --> 01:42:46.660] which is my born Laz name
[01:42:46.660 --> 01:42:48.380] or my family legacy name.
[01:42:50.160 --> 01:42:52.300] Illustrations, the typical way of spelling it.
[01:42:52.300 --> 01:42:57.400] I-L-L-U-S-T-R-A-T-I-O-N-S.com.
[01:42:57.660 --> 01:43:00.740] So www.lazabillustrations.com.
[01:43:00.860 --> 01:43:02.900] And from there you also can find my email,
[01:43:03.620 --> 01:43:04.460] which is the same thing,
[01:43:04.600 --> 01:43:06.660] lazabillustrations.gmail.com,
[01:43:06.660 --> 01:43:09.320] my phone number, as well as my social media,
[01:43:09.400 --> 01:43:10.560] where I'm not currently on,
[01:43:10.580 --> 01:43:12.460] but it's still there for you to experience
[01:43:12.460 --> 01:43:14.700] all the things that I put out into the world,
[01:43:14.840 --> 01:43:16.260] into those social media spaces.
[01:43:17.520 --> 01:43:19.740] At lazabillustrations on Instagram,
[01:43:20.920 --> 01:43:24.860] at mainline101 for my personal account on Instagram,
[01:43:25.240 --> 01:43:28.080] as well as TikTok, which I don't be on much,
[01:43:28.100 --> 01:43:29.820] and also YouTube as well.
[01:43:29.820 --> 01:43:34.880] Mainline M-A-I-N-L-I-N-E-1-0-1
[01:43:34.880 --> 01:43:36.680] on other platforms as well.
[01:43:36.680 --> 01:43:38.680] And I want to say just thank you for you
[01:43:38.680 --> 01:43:40.660] for sharing this space for me.
[01:43:40.920 --> 01:43:42.060] Genuinely, man, thank you, man.
[01:43:42.140 --> 01:43:42.540] You know what I'm saying?
[01:43:42.660 --> 01:43:44.000] It's been long awaited,
[01:43:44.000 --> 01:43:45.440] but we have these conversations all the time,
[01:43:45.500 --> 01:43:47.240] so it's just another walk in the park, man.
[01:43:47.300 --> 01:43:51.400] You know, just bringing our consciousness together
[01:43:51.960 --> 01:43:53.680] just for a greater cause, man.
[01:43:53.700 --> 01:43:54.820] So I appreciate you, man.
[01:43:54.880 --> 01:43:56.580] And I want to say thank you.
[01:43:56.720 --> 01:43:57.660] Thank you, God, man.
[01:43:57.660 --> 01:43:59.320] You know, thank God just for the opportunities
[01:43:59.320 --> 01:44:02.420] and, you know, just for the spaces
[01:44:02.420 --> 01:44:05.380] and the people that I meet on this journey of life, man.
[01:44:05.380 --> 01:44:07.340] I'm just grateful, brother, just grateful.
[01:44:07.920 --> 01:44:10.340] Hey, I want to say this.
[01:44:10.840 --> 01:44:14.660] Like, first off, thank you and thank you for believing me
[01:44:14.660 --> 01:44:18.700] and coming along with me on these different missions
[01:44:18.700 --> 01:44:24.180] that I call jobs with the photography, video,
[01:44:24.180 --> 01:44:27.560] media, productions, events.
[01:44:29.280 --> 01:44:33.120] But, man, I always knew, like,
[01:44:33.180 --> 01:44:37.160] the time we had or was going to have,
[01:44:37.880 --> 01:44:39.480] like, a sit-down conversation,
[01:44:39.760 --> 01:44:41.620] a formal sit-down conversation like this
[01:44:41.620 --> 01:44:43.000] on the podcast setting,
[01:44:43.460 --> 01:44:44.700] because we both have podcasts,
[01:44:44.780 --> 01:44:46.300] and also shout out your podcast, too.
[01:44:46.400 --> 01:44:49.020] Oh, yeah, Pound De-Rooted podcast, man.
[01:44:49.660 --> 01:44:51.300] That's also an attachment of the brand
[01:44:51.300 --> 01:44:52.400] Liza B Illustrations, man.
[01:44:52.400 --> 01:44:55.120] I have custom clothings on the website as well.
[01:44:55.500 --> 01:44:56.680] Another creative space that I have,
[01:44:56.880 --> 01:44:57.480] Pound De-Rooted.
[01:44:58.080 --> 01:44:59.080] It's a lifestyle.
[01:45:00.680 --> 01:45:02.500] It's a movement, man, you know,
[01:45:02.500 --> 01:45:05.720] just bringing like-minded people together
[01:45:05.720 --> 01:45:08.160] for things such as this, you know, financial literacy,
[01:45:08.860 --> 01:45:11.100] true history of self, true history of the creator,
[01:45:12.280 --> 01:45:14.320] you know, a higher consciousness and frequency, man.
[01:45:14.340 --> 01:45:15.960] Pound De-Rooted is the movement.
[01:45:16.440 --> 01:45:17.360] That's the podcast.
[01:45:17.460 --> 01:45:18.320] That's the clothes.
[01:45:18.780 --> 01:45:19.620] That's the brand.
[01:45:20.360 --> 01:45:22.300] That's hand-to-hand with Liza B Illustrations, man,
[01:45:22.300 --> 01:45:23.780] so I'm grateful for that as well.
[01:45:24.640 --> 01:45:25.580] You know, we are culture.
[01:45:25.640 --> 01:45:26.380] We are knowledge.
[01:45:26.440 --> 01:45:27.300] We are life, man.
[01:45:27.580 --> 01:45:28.460] We everything, man.
[01:45:28.460 --> 01:45:29.420] We the beginning.
[01:45:30.280 --> 01:45:31.500] We, as in all people, everybody,
[01:45:31.600 --> 01:45:32.580] we are the beginning, man,
[01:45:32.580 --> 01:45:33.860] so that calls for something, man.
[01:45:33.860 --> 01:45:34.920] We very special, man.
[01:45:34.960 --> 01:45:36.040] So we deep-rooted, man,
[01:45:36.060 --> 01:45:36.800] a lot more deep-rooted
[01:45:36.800 --> 01:45:38.500] than we believed or know to be.
[01:45:39.440 --> 01:45:40.480] Yes, yes, yes.
[01:45:41.640 --> 01:45:43.760] And again, back to, like, when we first met,
[01:45:45.400 --> 01:45:48.620] ironically, with Troy and Rashad at Tri-C.
[01:45:48.620 --> 01:45:49.400] Yes, sir.
[01:45:49.500 --> 01:45:50.880] Shout-out to earn your leisure.
[01:45:51.500 --> 01:45:52.840] Yeah, literally.
[01:45:53.020 --> 01:45:53.820] Earn your leisure.
[01:45:53.960 --> 01:45:54.900] And that's kind of, like,
[01:45:54.900 --> 01:45:57.740] what this whole conversation has been about,
[01:45:57.740 --> 01:46:00.680] even opening, like, me, quote-unquote,
[01:46:00.920 --> 01:46:03.240] quitting video and photography
[01:46:03.240 --> 01:46:05.460] to something greater, like,
[01:46:05.800 --> 01:46:07.900] for me to earn my leisure.
[01:46:08.300 --> 01:46:09.040] And that's crazy.
[01:46:09.120 --> 01:46:10.560] It's like a full circle moment.
[01:46:10.600 --> 01:46:11.540] We got on that.
[01:46:11.840 --> 01:46:13.060] And even after the event,
[01:46:13.080 --> 01:46:15.540] we spoke for, like, two hours just in the parking lot.
[01:46:15.660 --> 01:46:18.240] First inside, then in the parking lot, bro.
[01:46:18.860 --> 01:46:20.340] First time ever meeting, bro.
[01:46:20.920 --> 01:46:21.960] And I said, well, I'm like,
[01:46:22.040 --> 01:46:23.160] we gonna work together.
[01:46:23.360 --> 01:46:25.100] And, like, we have been working together.
[01:46:25.460 --> 01:46:25.960] We have, man.
[01:46:26.340 --> 01:46:26.720] Man.
[01:46:27.240 --> 01:46:27.980] Earning our leisure.
[01:46:28.340 --> 01:46:28.860] Have, man.
[01:46:29.120 --> 01:46:30.880] I do want to say one thing, though,
[01:46:30.880 --> 01:46:31.600] before we get out of here.
[01:46:31.680 --> 01:46:32.220] Yes, sir.
[01:46:33.000 --> 01:46:35.360] I don't necessarily think I like the word quit, man.
[01:46:35.860 --> 01:46:37.640] The word doesn't move me at all.
[01:46:38.380 --> 01:46:39.680] It is certain things we need to quit.
[01:46:39.680 --> 01:46:40.660] We need to quit in life.
[01:46:40.860 --> 01:46:42.860] But when you paired quit
[01:46:43.420 --> 01:46:44.860] with things that are positive
[01:46:44.860 --> 01:46:46.240] and have did so much for us,
[01:46:46.240 --> 01:46:48.500] it just doesn't sit with my spirit.
[01:46:48.820 --> 01:46:49.240] I love it.
[01:46:49.280 --> 01:46:49.500] I love it.
[01:46:49.700 --> 01:46:50.860] That's probably why I keep on...
[01:46:50.860 --> 01:46:51.500] Talk to me.
[01:46:51.560 --> 01:46:51.920] Talk to me.
[01:46:51.920 --> 01:46:53.460] That's probably why I'm looking at it
[01:46:53.460 --> 01:46:54.600] so, like, side-eyes.
[01:46:54.640 --> 01:46:55.940] Like, you keep saying this word quit.
[01:46:56.120 --> 01:46:58.280] It's like, I don't even like that word to begin with.
[01:46:58.340 --> 01:46:59.300] I don't either, honestly.
[01:46:59.860 --> 01:47:01.880] But, you know, just to be realistic,
[01:47:02.720 --> 01:47:05.020] there are some things in life we do have to quit.
[01:47:05.820 --> 01:47:07.840] But it ain't never nothing positive we need to quit, though.
[01:47:08.700 --> 01:47:09.240] I don't even...
[01:47:09.240 --> 01:47:11.320] I don't like to even use that word quit.
[01:47:12.900 --> 01:47:13.620] Like, just to...
[01:47:13.620 --> 01:47:15.280] I just wanted to put that into the air,
[01:47:15.320 --> 01:47:16.620] into the space of, like...
[01:47:16.620 --> 01:47:20.200] Of how we repeatedly keep saying this word quit, man.
[01:47:20.260 --> 01:47:21.680] It's like, words are powerful.
[01:47:22.440 --> 01:47:24.380] Maybe we're not choosing the right words.
[01:47:24.760 --> 01:47:25.420] You know what I'm saying?
[01:47:26.820 --> 01:47:27.080] Quit.
[01:47:27.400 --> 01:47:28.940] Like, what are we quitting for, man?
[01:47:29.180 --> 01:47:30.060] What are we quitting for?
[01:47:30.640 --> 01:47:31.320] Ain't no quit, man.
[01:47:31.400 --> 01:47:31.820] This is a fact.
[01:47:31.880 --> 01:47:32.780] This life thing is...
[01:47:33.380 --> 01:47:33.920] We ain't quitting, man.
[01:47:33.940 --> 01:47:35.940] We're riding this thing to the end, man.
[01:47:36.000 --> 01:47:36.800] To the winds for love.
[01:47:36.820 --> 01:47:38.300] Well, it's about the end, like...
[01:47:38.300 --> 01:47:39.880] Yeah, we're riding this to the winds for love, man.
[01:47:39.880 --> 01:47:42.900] The end to quit is kind of cousins, though, you know?
[01:47:43.140 --> 01:47:43.900] Nah, man.
[01:47:44.020 --> 01:47:44.740] Nah, it ain't.
[01:47:45.220 --> 01:47:46.580] Quitting is by choice.
[01:47:46.580 --> 01:47:46.680] I say pause.
[01:47:46.780 --> 01:47:47.440] I say pause.
[01:47:47.600 --> 01:47:48.680] Quitting is a choice.
[01:47:49.580 --> 01:47:51.540] Life is gonna be inevitable.
[01:47:51.780 --> 01:47:53.060] It's an end, but it ain't...
[01:47:53.060 --> 01:47:54.420] We ain't ended it, you know?
[01:47:54.560 --> 01:47:56.360] Well, your spirit lasts forever, so...
[01:47:56.360 --> 01:47:56.780] Right.
[01:47:57.100 --> 01:47:57.500] Exactly.
[01:47:57.580 --> 01:47:59.540] You know, we just return back to where we came.
[01:48:01.040 --> 01:48:03.680] So, it's the end of this moment,
[01:48:04.580 --> 01:48:05.600] of this space.
[01:48:06.140 --> 01:48:07.100] But there ain't no quitting, man.
[01:48:07.100 --> 01:48:07.700] There ain't no quitting.
[01:48:07.860 --> 01:48:08.760] We don't quit, man.
[01:48:09.220 --> 01:48:10.800] We're eliminating that word out of vocabulary.
[01:48:10.900 --> 01:48:12.260] We're talking about quitting something bad, man.
[01:48:12.260 --> 01:48:13.440] We're talking about quitting drugs,
[01:48:14.240 --> 01:48:15.620] quitting bad habits,
[01:48:16.320 --> 01:48:17.060] quitting negative things.
[01:48:17.160 --> 01:48:18.040] That's the only time you can say quit.
[01:48:18.160 --> 01:48:19.840] Other than that, we ain't saying quit.
[01:48:20.100 --> 01:48:20.940] We done with that word.
[01:48:21.260 --> 01:48:21.940] We ain't quitting nothing.
[01:48:22.200 --> 01:48:23.100] Mama ain't raising no quitter.
[01:48:23.980 --> 01:48:24.900] Ooh, that's right.
[01:48:25.200 --> 01:48:25.960] We ain't raising no quitter.
[01:48:26.140 --> 01:48:27.360] We ain't saying the word quit.
[01:48:27.440 --> 01:48:28.920] We're gonna save it for part two.
[01:48:29.240 --> 01:48:30.700] I already see where this is going, man.
[01:48:31.080 --> 01:48:33.600] I got to set up for the Pull Up Experience interviews.
[01:48:34.360 --> 01:48:35.240] We got a meeting.
[01:48:35.520 --> 01:48:36.520] We got interviews.
[01:48:36.720 --> 01:48:37.600] All this good stuff.
[01:48:37.760 --> 01:48:40.280] So, it was an eventful evening and night.
[01:48:41.160 --> 01:48:42.220] I appreciate you again, brother.
[01:48:42.240 --> 01:48:42.480] Yes, sir.
[01:48:42.480 --> 01:48:42.960] Thank you, man.
[01:48:43.000 --> 01:48:43.700] I appreciate you, bro.
[01:48:43.960 --> 01:48:48.280] Until next time on Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk
[01:48:48.280 --> 01:48:52.260] with your host, photographer Jackson Steve Jackson
[01:48:52.260 --> 01:48:54.300] of Alien Eyes Photos Media,
[01:48:54.880 --> 01:48:59.000] bringing you another episode of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[01:48:59.360 --> 01:49:01.200] And if you want to book me,
[01:49:01.300 --> 01:49:05.380] you can find me at alieneyesephotos.com
[01:49:05.380 --> 01:49:09.560] and all my social media at Alien Eyes
[01:49:09.560 --> 01:49:13.700] Photos with a Z, Photos with an S on all social media.
[01:49:14.460 --> 01:49:16.620] Again, peace, love, and blessings.
[01:49:16.980 --> 01:49:18.500] Love, love, love always.
[01:49:19.280 --> 01:49:19.540] Peace.
[01:49:19.800 --> 01:49:20.140] Peace.

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5. Always Be Launching How Consistency Focus & Doing the Work Drive Business Growth
Season 1 · Episode 56
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/always-be-launching-how-consistency-focus-doing-the-work-dri
========================================================================

[00:00:01.330 --> 00:00:08.850] Welcome, welcome, welcome back to Alienize Photos industry talk.
[00:00:09.610 --> 00:00:15.630] And this is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos Media.
[00:00:16.730 --> 00:00:20.890] And I want to reflect on these past two weeks.
[00:00:21.450 --> 00:00:24.190] I did my first virtual conference.
[00:00:24.330 --> 00:00:25.550] Okay, let me take it back.
[00:00:26.910 --> 00:00:36.770] I helped produce and be in the background and service my first virtual conference.
[00:00:37.110 --> 00:00:48.310] Along with the host, my friend, my sister, also client, Nicole D. Miller.
[00:00:48.450 --> 00:00:54.390] So shout out to Nicole D. Miller during her first virtual conference.
[00:00:54.390 --> 00:01:01.290] It was amazing. We show up live, we create content.
[00:01:01.750 --> 00:01:08.010] But to put on our first conference, starting with the virtual, it was so amazing.
[00:01:09.070 --> 00:01:15.070] It was a lot of work put into it on the front end, even during.
[00:01:16.430 --> 00:01:22.030] Now it's just getting the content after, which you could breathe a little bit once it's all over.
[00:01:22.870 --> 00:01:27.070] But doing it and being in it, it's amazing.
[00:01:27.830 --> 00:01:31.670] And it's like, launch, launch.
[00:01:31.830 --> 00:01:43.190] And even this past weekend, the To You Wine presents the South Euclid Wine and Dine Festival.
[00:01:43.310 --> 00:01:46.870] Also with Fort Bistro in the city of South Euclid.
[00:01:46.870 --> 00:01:53.470] So always launch, launch, launch, launch.
[00:01:53.550 --> 00:02:02.910] And that's words from one of my mentors, Donnie Wiggins, in the Social Proof Circle with David Shands.
[00:02:03.050 --> 00:02:06.950] And Donnie always says launch, launch, launch.
[00:02:06.990 --> 00:02:09.810] Always be in launch mode. Always launch something.
[00:02:10.490 --> 00:02:12.110] Always be prepared to launch.
[00:02:12.110 --> 00:02:18.610] You're always launching. No matter what stage in your business, you're always launching.
[00:02:19.270 --> 00:02:20.950] Launch, launch, launch.
[00:02:22.090 --> 00:02:33.330] And during those moments where we were in the launch segment of our mentorship and our activities,
[00:02:34.250 --> 00:02:40.170] I launched a podcast every single day in the month of August.
[00:02:40.170 --> 00:02:45.790] Except for like the last two, because I was just so burnt out in so many things.
[00:02:46.570 --> 00:02:48.490] And I had the virtual conference.
[00:02:48.770 --> 00:02:56.030] I had my own stuff, my own events, my own projects and work to do.
[00:02:56.250 --> 00:02:58.510] And then the South Euclid Wine and Dine Festival.
[00:02:58.710 --> 00:03:02.770] It was like so many things. It was like, oh man.
[00:03:05.350 --> 00:03:09.150] But I published as many as I could.
[00:03:09.150 --> 00:03:14.790] I really want to count how many I published within the month of August,
[00:03:14.870 --> 00:03:28.470] because I know I started on like the third and just went straight into, I don't know, the 27th, 28th of August.
[00:03:29.270 --> 00:03:35.410] I'm about to find this and really count it live to see if I really.
[00:03:35.410 --> 00:03:38.430] Let's just see how many I did. Let's see.
[00:03:38.970 --> 00:03:57.600] I have the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, the 20th again.
[00:03:57.600 --> 00:04:08.960] Two on the 20th, the 21st, 22nd, 24th, the 24th again, 25th, 26th, 27th and the 31st.
[00:04:09.000 --> 00:04:15.380] So let me see how many episodes I published at the month of August.
[00:04:15.380 --> 00:04:36.340] That's 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 and 26.
[00:04:36.840 --> 00:04:40.800] 26 episodes in the month of August.
[00:04:40.800 --> 00:04:42.180] You talk about launching.
[00:04:44.320 --> 00:04:56.940] I think I was trying to prove a point or something, but I also had a back catalog where I just wanted to just get everything out also so I looked at it as a good opportunity to do that.
[00:04:57.480 --> 00:04:58.720] And I did just that.
[00:04:59.360 --> 00:05:09.520] But again, shout out to the South Euclid Wine and Dime Fest powered by To You Wines, Miss Nakia Hudson.
[00:05:11.520 --> 00:05:14.140] You did it again. This is the third annual.
[00:05:15.180 --> 00:05:16.880] Stay tuned for the fourth annual.
[00:05:18.280 --> 00:05:24.480] And we had DJ Lowkey, we had DJ E-Spins, we had Davey with Freedom Papers.
[00:05:25.520 --> 00:05:28.500] Man, we had so many different vendors.
[00:05:28.780 --> 00:05:32.680] I'm talking about lines out of this world.
[00:05:32.980 --> 00:05:38.440] Like even the wine lines to get wine samples and to purchase your wine and wine bottles.
[00:05:39.320 --> 00:05:40.560] The lines were long.
[00:05:40.940 --> 00:05:43.140] Like I was more so assistant.
[00:05:43.260 --> 00:05:44.560] I took a few pictures.
[00:05:45.400 --> 00:05:47.540] I captured some videos as well.
[00:05:47.960 --> 00:05:51.740] But I was more so hands on working support.
[00:05:51.740 --> 00:05:55.800] And what needed to be done, who needed to be helped.
[00:05:56.620 --> 00:05:59.880] That's what I did and focused on this year.
[00:06:02.260 --> 00:06:05.220] I was pretty much sober until the end.
[00:06:05.280 --> 00:06:10.560] I had a couple of sips but not like, you know, previous years actually enjoying myself.
[00:06:11.360 --> 00:06:17.380] Enjoying the festivities, enjoying the wine vendors and trying the different wines that I haven't tried.
[00:06:18.400 --> 00:06:24.420] But I had a little siu wines at the end.
[00:06:25.100 --> 00:06:33.840] So and then also Zesty Compass taste their spicy sangria.
[00:06:33.960 --> 00:06:35.640] It was something like that.
[00:06:35.680 --> 00:06:36.740] Spicy sangria.
[00:06:37.320 --> 00:06:38.380] So something different.
[00:06:38.940 --> 00:06:46.600] But for the most part, I was more so focused on making the event a success and whatever needed to be done.
[00:06:48.280 --> 00:07:00.300] Like even, you know, sometimes when people are not engaging in the artist, you have to kind of help out that situation.
[00:07:00.340 --> 00:07:01.960] Just me being a former artist.
[00:07:02.060 --> 00:07:06.660] And I know Davey kind of leaned on me in that situation.
[00:07:06.660 --> 00:07:16.280] You know, even telling experience at the time, just increase the volume because it's perfect when you're in the tent.
[00:07:16.400 --> 00:07:24.300] But when you're not in the tent, you're out, you know, enjoying the fest or sitting around outside the tent.
[00:07:24.640 --> 00:07:26.100] It's a different experience.
[00:07:26.640 --> 00:07:32.200] So it's just like playing all parts that kind of need to be played to jack of all trades.
[00:07:33.400 --> 00:07:35.260] I did not mean for that to rhyme.
[00:07:35.260 --> 00:07:38.040] But, hey, I may use that.
[00:07:38.080 --> 00:07:38.940] I'm going to use it.
[00:07:39.120 --> 00:07:40.740] I am going to use it.
[00:07:41.540 --> 00:07:41.960] Wow.
[00:07:42.340 --> 00:07:43.020] That was amazing.
[00:07:43.060 --> 00:07:44.160] Right on that spot.
[00:07:44.820 --> 00:07:45.340] Freestyling.
[00:07:45.520 --> 00:07:46.400] Going back to my origins.
[00:07:47.540 --> 00:07:52.620] But I also had a good conversation with my mentor, Sean Lee Jones.
[00:07:52.680 --> 00:07:54.920] We finally got an episode in the book.
[00:07:54.980 --> 00:07:57.260] So definitely look out for that as well.
[00:07:57.260 --> 00:08:06.060] So there's a lot I've been doing and working on creating this video.
[00:08:06.200 --> 00:08:14.560] My first speaker reel for a client and which is like, wow, I got to get a speaker reel for myself.
[00:08:14.680 --> 00:08:24.940] But even before that, like a reel just for me promoting my photography business, you know, something different than the advertisement.
[00:08:24.940 --> 00:08:32.360] But it still showcases who I am, what I do, what I like, you know, all those things.
[00:08:32.360 --> 00:08:33.600] So it's like, wow.
[00:08:34.700 --> 00:08:44.460] You know, I'm getting exposed to a lot of good things and a lot of good situations, a lot of good ideas and a lot of things like I need to do this.
[00:08:45.860 --> 00:08:48.020] So it's a feel good moment.
[00:08:49.020 --> 00:08:50.940] Feel good feeling also.
[00:08:52.080 --> 00:08:53.640] So it's always good.
[00:08:53.640 --> 00:09:00.200] But shout out to Nicole D. Miller for her first virtual conference.
[00:09:01.100 --> 00:09:03.060] It was amazing to witness.
[00:09:03.800 --> 00:09:06.380] It was amazing to be a part of.
[00:09:07.360 --> 00:09:17.680] It was amazing to, you know, just really live in it, especially the topic, which was faith.
[00:09:19.280 --> 00:09:20.740] Faith, faith, faith.
[00:09:20.740 --> 00:09:23.900] They love not their lives.
[00:09:25.260 --> 00:09:27.440] Virtual Conference 2026.
[00:09:28.080 --> 00:09:30.940] So I'm just thinking.
[00:09:32.420 --> 00:09:33.960] Next year.
[00:09:35.000 --> 00:09:37.840] What is they love not their lives.
[00:09:38.580 --> 00:09:39.880] Conference is going to be.
[00:09:40.300 --> 00:09:41.600] And we had talks.
[00:09:43.020 --> 00:09:47.860] And to make this an in-person conference is definitely to go.
[00:09:50.600 --> 00:09:52.680] So I'm excited for that.
[00:09:52.740 --> 00:09:54.360] I'm excited to see that.
[00:09:54.960 --> 00:10:00.080] I enjoyed everyone living in a purpose and sharing a message and wisdom.
[00:10:01.020 --> 00:10:03.140] Their faith message and their prayers.
[00:10:04.480 --> 00:10:05.740] It was something different.
[00:10:06.840 --> 00:10:09.320] And I was glad I was a part of that.
[00:10:09.460 --> 00:10:15.960] I'm glad Nicole asked me to be a part of it and assist her and just help her.
[00:10:15.960 --> 00:10:18.040] It was amazing.
[00:10:19.180 --> 00:10:20.120] Shout out to you.
[00:10:20.540 --> 00:10:22.340] Shout out to all you do.
[00:10:22.860 --> 00:10:26.640] Shout out to your publishing company and the Miller Publishing.
[00:10:27.860 --> 00:10:29.380] Shout out to Girl Talk.
[00:10:30.420 --> 00:10:35.160] And I was a panelist on Girl Talk for one of her events.
[00:10:36.120 --> 00:10:38.840] And you can check out the episode.
[00:10:39.240 --> 00:10:41.400] Girl Talk podcast.
[00:10:42.220 --> 00:10:45.700] And then also on YouTube, the actual panel discussion.
[00:10:47.120 --> 00:10:52.320] I was with my four brothers, my four older brothers.
[00:10:52.340 --> 00:10:54.780] I like to say because I'm the youngest of the bunch.
[00:10:56.900 --> 00:11:04.580] I had some feedback that I didn't say too much or I didn't elaborate on a lot of things.
[00:11:04.580 --> 00:11:06.780] Kind of like the others did.
[00:11:08.020 --> 00:11:14.860] But those who know me know I'm kind of short-winded, a man of a few words.
[00:11:14.880 --> 00:11:16.700] I like to get straight to the point.
[00:11:18.520 --> 00:11:19.820] That's not all the time.
[00:11:19.860 --> 00:11:24.900] Of course, I got this podcast to even challenge that.
[00:11:25.220 --> 00:11:29.720] So I'm more long-form, you know, speaking for a long period of time.
[00:11:29.720 --> 00:11:35.580] Having an interview, so I'm speaking for an hour at a time and challenging myself.
[00:11:36.240 --> 00:11:40.080] That's the biggest part of it all, just challenging yourself.
[00:11:41.840 --> 00:11:48.540] But I definitely wanted to shed light on the Cody Miller and the Kia with 2U1s.
[00:11:48.580 --> 00:11:54.440] Both my partners, family, clients, all that good stuff.
[00:11:54.440 --> 00:12:00.420] And shout out to the pull-up experience, who me and the Kia is also part of.
[00:12:00.600 --> 00:12:08.220] And the pull-up experience showed up and showed out as far as supporting and assisting, being all hands on deck.
[00:12:08.880 --> 00:12:11.900] That's the importance of having a team and a community.
[00:12:12.440 --> 00:12:15.460] So shout out to the entire pull-up experience.
[00:12:15.500 --> 00:12:19.520] And we also did interviews, and like I said, I did video and pictures as well.
[00:12:19.520 --> 00:12:25.280] So I was working the slushy machine too, working on the slushy lines.
[00:12:25.740 --> 00:12:29.700] It was long and wow, it was like amazing.
[00:12:30.800 --> 00:12:32.740] So we're going to run it back next year.
[00:12:33.140 --> 00:12:37.700] We're going to try to get another slushy machine and a better system for this all.
[00:12:38.400 --> 00:12:46.240] You know, I asked the thing, just me, just wanted to play different roles just to see how much the event could grow.
[00:12:46.240 --> 00:12:48.540] You know, the wine fest can grow.
[00:12:49.540 --> 00:12:52.500] So self-ugly wine and dine fest could be a staple.
[00:12:54.120 --> 00:13:01.320] We just post about it and people show up instead of just promoting and constantly promoting.
[00:13:01.440 --> 00:13:02.660] I don't have to worry about promoting.
[00:13:02.860 --> 00:13:06.740] We just post a date, boom, to get sold out already.
[00:13:07.560 --> 00:13:10.940] Like Jay-Z at the Madison Square Garden when we sold out, boom.
[00:13:10.940 --> 00:13:24.340] So that's where I want to get every event that I'm a part of, whether if it's my event or someone else's event or even an event I'm attending or supporting.
[00:13:25.240 --> 00:13:33.940] I want that event to sell out or be at its maximum, you know, capability and volume and capacity.
[00:13:34.660 --> 00:13:38.520] You know, that's always the goal, especially with my event.
[00:13:38.800 --> 00:13:49.420] So, of course, I wanted to sell out and, you know, for it to be a success and for it to be a monetary success, at least break even or get a couple dollars over.
[00:13:50.080 --> 00:13:54.080] But, you know, the goal is to definitely break even.
[00:13:54.080 --> 00:14:03.760] But you win, you know, viewers, you win a new audience, a client, partnerships, visibility by breaking even.
[00:14:04.040 --> 00:14:09.060] And then if you make money over that, then that's profit, which is also good.
[00:14:09.060 --> 00:14:27.000] You know, because, yeah, you want to pay your expenses, but you also want to pay your business forward and invest in yourself and have capital left over and expendable, you know, money, funds to do what you need to do and also want to do.
[00:14:27.000 --> 00:14:34.200] It's important to grow in the business, having money in the bank, capital, being profitable.
[00:14:35.260 --> 00:14:41.720] And nobody doesn't like a profitable business or having investors invest in something that's profitable.
[00:14:41.720 --> 00:14:46.040] So, I've seen it, but you don't hear about it often.
[00:14:46.320 --> 00:14:57.400] You hear about companies that are profitable, profitable companies that are seen as they can be invested into.
[00:14:58.160 --> 00:15:05.120] And that's where you want your business to be, even if you're not having someone invest in your business.
[00:15:05.380 --> 00:15:19.420] It's you growing it, you building your team, hiring your staff, getting interns, you know, having different positions, W2 employees, contractors, the combination of it all.
[00:15:21.080 --> 00:15:28.460] It is, it's important and it's important for you to also know your identity.
[00:15:29.600 --> 00:15:46.540] And that's what I've seen with Nokia and Nicole, as they stay true to their identity and what they wanted their brand to represent, what they wanted their event to represent, what they wanted their fest, their conference, all that to represent.
[00:15:47.760 --> 00:15:48.960] It's important.
[00:15:49.840 --> 00:16:05.460] And for me, just being behind the scenes, being in the background, assistant, supporting, you know, you see different things and you're like, oh, this can be improved, this needs to be done.
[00:16:06.360 --> 00:16:15.200] You also look at your own self and your own business, your own brand, like, oh, this could be done, this needs to be done.
[00:16:15.200 --> 00:16:20.320] Oh, I could do this better. And there's a lot of things that I could do better.
[00:16:20.780 --> 00:16:28.860] You know, sometimes it go from a short list of things that need to be done, all the way to a long list that needs to be done all the way to a whole book.
[00:16:29.720 --> 00:16:40.580] Sometimes there's only one thing that needs to be done, but, you know, as time goes on and life moves on as your business, you know, each day is out here.
[00:16:40.580 --> 00:16:44.920] There's different things that need to be done as you knock stuff off the list.
[00:16:45.020 --> 00:16:50.620] But, you know, a couple of days later, there's a whole bunch more that's on the list that you got to do.
[00:16:51.240 --> 00:16:58.860] You know, it's like being at a W2 job or whatever job, whatever job that needs to be done.
[00:16:58.880 --> 00:17:02.040] I'm sure there's more work coming soon.
[00:17:02.920 --> 00:17:08.680] Yeah, you only got a little break or whatever or you almost done until it piles back up.
[00:17:08.680 --> 00:17:10.220] It's only a matter of time.
[00:17:10.920 --> 00:17:13.760] We all know that even in our businesses.
[00:17:14.400 --> 00:17:20.619] It's always work that needs to be done instead of working a nine to five, you know, eight hours a day.
[00:17:20.800 --> 00:17:29.320] We work in sun up to sundown and most times 12 hours a day, you know, 14 sometimes.
[00:17:29.400 --> 00:17:31.220] So that's overtime theoretically.
[00:17:31.220 --> 00:17:35.500] And we don't always make money in that time.
[00:17:35.720 --> 00:17:45.780] It's doing the X, Y, and Z things all the way from A, all the way from zero, all the way to 101 and then two.
[00:17:46.220 --> 00:17:53.840] It's always stuff that needs to be done in life and business, with work, with parenting, whatever.
[00:17:54.060 --> 00:17:57.640] It's always work that needs to be done.
[00:17:57.640 --> 00:18:03.440] And I just want to leave off with that message that it's always work that needs to be done
[00:18:03.440 --> 00:18:09.940] because you always supposed to improve, always supposed to elevate, always supposed to grow,
[00:18:10.340 --> 00:18:16.160] always supposed to get better, always supposed to be moving forward and progressing and going up.
[00:18:16.980 --> 00:18:18.220] It's like you want your money.
[00:18:18.300 --> 00:18:21.000] If you invest in a stock, you want it to go up, right?
[00:18:21.860 --> 00:18:29.240] So you should always go up and elevate your mind, your mindset and, you know, read the books, B and E's,
[00:18:29.340 --> 00:18:31.900] workshops, boot camps, master classes.
[00:18:32.400 --> 00:18:46.040] Like I invested so much, I invested so much in education and different conferences, different workshops,
[00:18:47.460 --> 00:18:58.600] e-books, courses, like it was like July and August, just alone this year, July and August.
[00:18:59.100 --> 00:18:59.840] So much.
[00:19:00.080 --> 00:19:03.100] I just bought the last thing.
[00:19:03.380 --> 00:19:07.600] I asked the Kirkwood who's about to come on in 30 minutes.
[00:19:08.560 --> 00:19:12.760] So it's like I'm always improving, always learning.
[00:19:14.300 --> 00:19:24.160] There's so much I want to do and I'm challenging myself to read 10 pages a day,
[00:19:26.390 --> 00:19:33.090] whether that's the same book or between a combination of two books or whatever.
[00:19:33.570 --> 00:19:42.190] But I want to challenge myself to read 10 pages a day, starting today and just make it a daily habit.
[00:19:43.050 --> 00:19:50.810] You know, sometimes I may fall short and only read five or seven pages, but the goal is 10.
[00:19:50.870 --> 00:19:57.590] I know there's days where I may read a few chapters or even 50 pages.
[00:19:57.670 --> 00:20:06.710] So I know every day will look different, but the goal is to open the book, at least get to 10 pages.
[00:20:06.710 --> 00:20:11.070] I know it won't always happen.
[00:20:12.150 --> 00:20:18.870] I give myself grace and give myself grace now, forgive myself for falling short.
[00:20:19.610 --> 00:20:24.470] But it's all about setting the goal and hitting the goal.
[00:20:25.270 --> 00:20:27.910] Sometimes we fall short, but don't beat yourself up.
[00:20:28.550 --> 00:20:29.890] But also put in that work.
[00:20:30.250 --> 00:20:31.130] Don't be lazy.
[00:20:31.310 --> 00:20:32.230] Don't procrastinate.
[00:20:32.230 --> 00:20:36.250] Do the work, stay focused, eliminate the distractions.
[00:20:37.310 --> 00:20:43.230] With that being said, check out my social media sabbatical series.
[00:20:43.410 --> 00:20:48.910] It was a 10-day social media sabbatical and I documented it all.
[00:20:49.390 --> 00:20:52.850] I kind of talk about eliminate distractions.
[00:20:52.850 --> 00:21:03.350] Also, when I was going to try out for the NBA G League, the Cleveland charge of the Cavaliers,
[00:21:03.510 --> 00:21:11.450] Cleveland Cavaliers and me being a big basketball fan and also watching basketball in the NBA from time to time,
[00:21:12.250 --> 00:21:17.930] I even made an episode on deleting all distractions, even the NBA,
[00:21:19.470 --> 00:21:26.290] because I was also building out this podcast when I first got the opportunity to try out for the G League.
[00:21:27.830 --> 00:21:35.050] And I was like, wow, if I make it to the G League, that's one step closer of actually being in the NBA,
[00:21:35.270 --> 00:21:37.910] playing in the NBA, closer to my childhood dream.
[00:21:39.110 --> 00:21:43.930] But, you know, looking at myself and looking at my age and my physicality,
[00:21:43.930 --> 00:21:54.070] like, if I would have kept training up to this point, you know, I haven't played basketball in like two years
[00:21:54.070 --> 00:22:01.130] or at least consistently for sure, like once a week or even once a month.
[00:22:01.130 --> 00:22:06.910] It was like, it's bad as far as like me claiming to be a basketball player.
[00:22:08.550 --> 00:22:12.210] It's been years since I've like actively done it.
[00:22:12.210 --> 00:22:18.010] In my early 20s, I used to go to the gym like every day or every other day, you know,
[00:22:18.130 --> 00:22:22.590] play basketball with the indoor or outside sometimes.
[00:22:23.450 --> 00:22:25.510] But I had to eliminate it.
[00:22:25.510 --> 00:22:27.370] Like I'm going to I just built this podcast.
[00:22:27.950 --> 00:22:29.210] My business is growing.
[00:22:29.830 --> 00:22:31.350] I need to focus on this.
[00:22:31.470 --> 00:22:36.210] Like I had to eliminate it and eliminate it from my thoughts and my brain.
[00:22:36.370 --> 00:22:40.850] Like, no, stay focused and build the podcast, build the business.
[00:22:40.850 --> 00:22:49.730] I'm about to invest this money into this, this tryout, as you could say, and it's gas and I'm going to be tired.
[00:22:50.270 --> 00:22:54.710] It was a day that I had to work the previous night and it was early.
[00:22:54.750 --> 00:23:02.330] I think it was like a 10, 10 to 12 a.m. workout and tryout.
[00:23:02.830 --> 00:23:07.130] And it was like, do I want to make this 45-minute drive?
[00:23:07.230 --> 00:23:07.750] I'm tired.
[00:23:07.750 --> 00:23:13.150] I know I'm not going to get rest, you know, probably not going to eat.
[00:23:14.870 --> 00:23:16.510] It was just so many factors.
[00:23:16.750 --> 00:23:20.510] And it was a cost to it as well, you know, just to try out.
[00:23:20.890 --> 00:23:23.530] But of course, I'm like, well, yeah, let me do it.
[00:23:23.530 --> 00:23:24.730] I got to go for the experience.
[00:23:24.830 --> 00:23:25.830] This is my time.
[00:23:25.870 --> 00:23:34.530] If I don't make it OK, at least, you know, I get to meet some of the people that could become future stars, you know,
[00:23:34.530 --> 00:23:38.310] future NBA icons and superstars.
[00:23:38.850 --> 00:23:39.690] You never know.
[00:23:39.830 --> 00:23:47.630] I'm right here in Cleveland, my city, and I played with them before they came to the NBA.
[00:23:47.830 --> 00:23:50.110] It was just like, I'm going to do it anyway.
[00:23:50.810 --> 00:23:51.650] But I'm like, you know what?
[00:23:51.770 --> 00:23:52.470] No, I'm not.
[00:23:52.770 --> 00:23:59.070] I got to take care of myself, take care of my body, take care of my priorities, you know, take care of my business,
[00:23:59.850 --> 00:24:03.370] maintain my business, continue to grow my business, stay focused,
[00:24:03.370 --> 00:24:07.410] continue to build out this podcast, continue to drop episodes.
[00:24:07.770 --> 00:24:10.790] And I'm almost on episode 100, y'all.
[00:24:11.290 --> 00:24:11.850] Consistency.
[00:24:13.130 --> 00:24:17.050] But, you know, definitely check out that episode.
[00:24:17.070 --> 00:24:23.290] And also my social media, 10-day social media sabbatical, day one through day 10.
[00:24:23.290 --> 00:24:31.050] But I also have day 11, where day 10, 11, I did in Las Vegas because I was out there for a conference.
[00:24:31.050 --> 00:24:34.750] So no matter what, I didn't stop and I kept my promise.
[00:24:35.010 --> 00:24:36.470] I said I'm going to document the journey.
[00:24:36.850 --> 00:24:37.990] And I did that.
[00:24:38.670 --> 00:24:45.530] But I'm still getting that social media sabbatical, like the book together.
[00:24:46.950 --> 00:24:51.690] I was going to do it right after that series, but I'm like, I'm going to actually take my time with it.
[00:24:52.610 --> 00:24:54.670] So that will be dropping soon.
[00:24:54.670 --> 00:24:58.170] And I may do another social media sabbatical series.
[00:24:58.170 --> 00:25:01.550] So yeah, check out those episodes.
[00:25:02.330 --> 00:25:05.610] Just lock in, focus, do the work.
[00:25:06.290 --> 00:25:07.610] Eliminate distractions.
[00:25:08.190 --> 00:25:09.390] You know, make goals.
[00:25:10.230 --> 00:25:11.570] Make internal goals.
[00:25:11.870 --> 00:25:12.950] Talk to yourself.
[00:25:14.950 --> 00:25:17.250] And yeah, let it all happen.
[00:25:17.390 --> 00:25:18.630] Make it all come true.
[00:25:19.930 --> 00:25:25.170] But as we wrap, thank you for tuning in and listening, as always.
[00:25:25.170 --> 00:25:35.990] This is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media, bringing you another episode of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:25:37.230 --> 00:25:39.470] Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[00:25:39.650 --> 00:25:49.170] I know for those who want to book me or for more information, please visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:25:52.530 --> 00:25:53.930] Alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:25:53.930 --> 00:25:59.310] And then follow me on all social media, especially Instagram and threads.
[00:25:59.590 --> 00:26:03.990] Follow me at alieneyesphotos.
[00:26:04.770 --> 00:26:11.350] And that's eyes with a Z. Alieneyesphotos.
[00:26:12.630 --> 00:26:14.710] All right, y'all. I am out. Peace.

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6. Shcarra Benn The Creative Leo of Creative Leo Designs
Season 2 · Episode 18
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/shcarra-benn-the-creative-leo-of-creative-leo-designs
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[00:00:01.070 --> 00:00:07.590] Welcome, welcome, welcome back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:08.189 --> 00:00:14.410] And I have a special guest, a special creative here in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:00:15.490 --> 00:00:19.970] The creative Leo herself, Shakara Ben.
[00:00:20.390 --> 00:00:27.210] We're talking Goldman Sachs, small 10,000, small business cohort attendee.
[00:00:28.810 --> 00:00:30.870] Who's who in Cleveland?
[00:00:32.310 --> 00:00:34.030] Acting you, alumni.
[00:00:34.470 --> 00:00:35.350] Like, come on.
[00:00:36.030 --> 00:00:38.850] It's representing Ohio at the fullest.
[00:00:39.990 --> 00:00:45.690] Ms. Shakara, I know you could introduce yourself more polished and better than I can.
[00:00:46.230 --> 00:00:49.150] So tell the people who you are and what you do.
[00:00:51.180 --> 00:00:52.460] Hello, everyone.
[00:00:52.460 --> 00:01:05.560] I am Shakara Ben, yes, aka the creative Leo of creative Leo designs where I feel that creativity is in everyone's DNA, and that it is up.
[00:01:05.740 --> 00:01:09.920] It is for creativity to be seen and heard in every space that you're in.
[00:01:10.320 --> 00:01:14.140] We do graphic design and commercial printing.
[00:01:14.140 --> 00:01:18.220] We also do a lot of creative consultancy as well.
[00:01:18.620 --> 00:01:21.300] So I am like a creative guru.
[00:01:21.880 --> 00:01:29.500] And so what that means is that, as I said, creativity is in everybody and each person has their different types.
[00:01:29.880 --> 00:01:33.160] So for me, I used to do event planning.
[00:01:33.360 --> 00:01:40.420] So I love doing things of that nature with decor and floor arrangements and things of that nature.
[00:01:40.420 --> 00:01:50.320] I also love doing graphic design, but I also love doing set design as far as like on a movie set or something like that as well.
[00:01:50.360 --> 00:01:53.900] So it's just not graphics that I do.
[00:01:54.640 --> 00:01:58.580] So, yeah, I miss creative here in the city of Cleveland.
[00:01:59.560 --> 00:02:00.940] Okay, set design.
[00:02:01.200 --> 00:02:03.000] I love it.
[00:02:03.000 --> 00:02:04.040] Cool, cool, cool.
[00:02:05.080 --> 00:02:11.060] So, when did you first learn about creativity?
[00:02:12.020 --> 00:02:17.360] Like, when you first heard the word and you learned what it was, when was that?
[00:02:19.670 --> 00:02:24.730] I would say when I was younger, my parents used to say, Oh, you're so creative.
[00:02:24.730 --> 00:02:27.570] Were you so artistic and things like that?
[00:02:27.590 --> 00:02:44.510] Because as a kid, I was that one who had her crayon box and her drawing pad or her coloring boots and things of that nature and was designing clothes and doing all types of stuff, drawing architectural buildings, you name it.
[00:02:44.830 --> 00:02:51.130] But I cannot draw the best or anything, but my dad, he can draw amazing.
[00:02:51.130 --> 00:02:55.250] And so I would say I first heard it from my parents.
[00:02:56.110 --> 00:03:10.870] But I will say that I didn't believe in my creativity until about maybe six years ago, to be honest, because I had to become confident with my creativity as it stands.
[00:03:12.910 --> 00:03:22.390] Wow, so like in the midst of COVID, just about when everybody started launching businesses or finding themselves.
[00:03:24.050 --> 00:03:29.650] Yeah, COVID stopped my event planning side of the business completely.
[00:03:30.470 --> 00:03:37.730] And I had to figure out how do I stay afloat, how do I keep the business going because I was not willing to cave in and so I turned to graphics.
[00:03:37.730 --> 00:03:45.350] I used to do graphics quite a bit, but it was more so connected to events that I was going to be doing.
[00:03:46.090 --> 00:03:52.450] Well, I started designing COVID t-shirts, COVID mugs, COVID you name it during that time.
[00:03:52.470 --> 00:04:01.190] And I made it through COVID, the front end of COVID that way, which actually made it able for me to get my commercial printer.
[00:04:02.690 --> 00:04:04.610] And so that's how I transitioned.
[00:04:05.310 --> 00:04:09.710] But like year five, right, it was something down the road that I planned to do.
[00:04:09.990 --> 00:04:15.650] But then I ended up bumping it up because during COVID, a lot of people were passing away.
[00:04:16.630 --> 00:04:19.610] And that's when I also lost my grandmother as well.
[00:04:20.310 --> 00:04:29.810] And one of the things that happened during that time was it came time to do her obituary and my family and everybody believed that I could do it.
[00:04:29.810 --> 00:04:33.130] You know, you can do it, Cara. I'm like, nah.
[00:04:33.190 --> 00:04:36.310] And I sat in front of the computer for days trying to do it.
[00:04:36.310 --> 00:04:38.030] And I could not bring myself to do it.
[00:04:38.510 --> 00:04:43.250] And so I told my aunt, hey, how the funeral home do it.
[00:04:43.310 --> 00:04:44.170] So I just couldn't.
[00:04:45.390 --> 00:04:50.910] Like the creativity just shut off. I don't know if it's because of my grandmother's or I don't know.
[00:04:50.950 --> 00:04:55.750] It just went away. And I really felt defeated by that though.
[00:04:56.190 --> 00:04:59.270] Because when I saw her obituary while it was nice, it was.
[00:04:59.270 --> 00:05:02.450] I knew I could have did it once I saw what was done.
[00:05:02.630 --> 00:05:04.710] And I said, oh, I could have did this.
[00:05:05.390 --> 00:05:14.090] But after that, I realized that for my family, at least, I wanted to make our obituaries.
[00:05:14.370 --> 00:05:17.990] You know, I didn't want to feel like I let the family down in that way.
[00:05:18.310 --> 00:05:24.990] So I started doing my family's obituaries, unfortunately, as time went on until now.
[00:05:24.990 --> 00:05:27.990] But I started doing obituaries, period.
[00:05:28.250 --> 00:05:36.390] And I do a lot of obituaries now and work with federal homes here in the city and some kind of out of state.
[00:05:38.010 --> 00:05:41.690] And so my creativity began to expand and grow.
[00:05:42.710 --> 00:05:50.190] Also, I never thought that I would do obituaries, by the way, because it's a sensitive area and still is for me.
[00:05:50.190 --> 00:05:52.150] Still is. Still is.
[00:05:52.790 --> 00:05:59.090] But I began to look at it differently from a different perspective, is that I'm preserving someone's legacy.
[00:06:01.530 --> 00:06:05.330] And culturally, in the back family, we passed out obituaries.
[00:06:05.410 --> 00:06:07.790] They become part of the family.
[00:06:09.130 --> 00:06:11.290] So I wanted to be a part of that.
[00:06:11.290 --> 00:06:21.910] And so I have been a part of creating the one thing that can last within that person's legacy and print for.
[00:06:22.730 --> 00:06:24.090] So I look at it that way.
[00:06:27.610 --> 00:06:28.990] That's amazing to hear.
[00:06:29.250 --> 00:06:31.390] And I definitely commend you for that.
[00:06:32.250 --> 00:06:37.450] Like, for me, a similar story, just to keep it short.
[00:06:38.160 --> 00:06:48.770] The reason I got back into photography was it was like more so when I was a young kid, like kindergarten, first grade,
[00:06:50.330 --> 00:06:58.690] walking around with a 12-shot wound up film camera, disposable film camera, and always wasted shots in like two minutes.
[00:07:01.070 --> 00:07:10.090] I saw like a lot of my history dissolving and fading away and didn't have that documentation, that photograph,
[00:07:10.230 --> 00:07:14.770] the show, a family member, a friend, a loved one, key dates.
[00:07:15.690 --> 00:07:21.730] Like, you know how they have MTV Cribs, they rolling down the street like, yeah, I grew up in that house when I was a kid.
[00:07:22.110 --> 00:07:23.650] I graduated from this school.
[00:07:23.650 --> 00:07:27.170] Like, my hospital, Euclid Hospital, gone.
[00:07:27.830 --> 00:07:29.410] Elementary, gone.
[00:07:30.850 --> 00:07:33.530] Childhood, home, tore down.
[00:07:34.390 --> 00:07:38.810] Now, now, Collingwood, my high school, it's no longer in this.
[00:07:38.890 --> 00:07:41.090] Like, it's crazy, all these things.
[00:07:41.870 --> 00:07:43.910] It's more, but it's so much.
[00:07:43.990 --> 00:07:47.050] And it's like, wow, I really don't have a record of this.
[00:07:47.050 --> 00:07:52.910] So I'm like, in a sense, me being a photographer, yeah, I capture moments,
[00:07:53.030 --> 00:07:57.330] but it's more so me positioning myself as a historian.
[00:07:58.290 --> 00:07:58.810] Right.
[00:07:58.810 --> 00:08:00.390] Like you say, event planner.
[00:08:00.530 --> 00:08:03.490] That's why I love event planners, because y'all get it.
[00:08:03.630 --> 00:08:09.990] And like, I just spent three hours on the call yesterday going over an event, and we got the foundation down pack.
[00:08:10.050 --> 00:08:13.670] That's good, but there's still a lot more to talk about.
[00:08:14.670 --> 00:08:20.750] And each event only happens that day and that period of time.
[00:08:20.750 --> 00:08:22.470] So go back to that historian.
[00:08:23.110 --> 00:08:27.410] And that's why I felt compelled to, like, just go all in.
[00:08:27.810 --> 00:08:35.450] From an artist being on stage to an artist behind the camera documenting key moments.
[00:08:36.390 --> 00:08:37.270] For sure.
[00:08:37.270 --> 00:08:48.690] You know, because as creatives, we have a way of how we can let our legacy live, you know?
[00:08:49.390 --> 00:08:52.430] And we all can capture it in many different ways.
[00:08:54.250 --> 00:09:02.150] I know that I always tell people, it's crazy because I was going to do a post about this coming up, but it's true.
[00:09:02.150 --> 00:09:07.730] I wanted to tell people, hey, in your life, you know, make sure you take pictures.
[00:09:08.310 --> 00:09:10.510] Make sure you go get some professional pictures.
[00:09:11.010 --> 00:09:13.390] Make sure you take pictures with family and friends.
[00:09:13.430 --> 00:09:14.270] Make sure.
[00:09:14.670 --> 00:09:22.310] Because I can't tell you how many obituary cover pictures I've gotten, and the family say, well, this is all we had.
[00:09:23.290 --> 00:09:31.290] And honestly, I had a moment one day, and I didn't know the person I was doing the obituary for at all.
[00:09:31.290 --> 00:09:32.870] But I got emotional.
[00:09:33.370 --> 00:09:41.670] And I think it might be because I wanted to know the story, but the family said, we only have the driver license picture.
[00:09:43.230 --> 00:09:46.730] And I just couldn't process it, but I had to.
[00:09:47.310 --> 00:09:48.970] And that was the picture I had to use.
[00:09:49.050 --> 00:09:52.530] And in my head, I kept thinking, why?
[00:09:53.230 --> 00:09:56.210] Why would you only have a driver's license picture?
[00:09:57.370 --> 00:10:00.330] You know, did no one want to take pictures of you?
[00:10:00.330 --> 00:10:01.390] Did you not?
[00:10:01.690 --> 00:10:12.550] And obviously, I would never have the answers, but it made me emotional because I feel like we all should be celebrated while we're living in Africa.
[00:10:14.170 --> 00:10:18.230] And I just was curious, like, how could you not have pictures?
[00:10:18.910 --> 00:10:23.050] And how do you go through, you know, without having any?
[00:10:23.050 --> 00:10:27.370] And again, I won't have the answers, but it just made me feel sad.
[00:10:27.470 --> 00:10:32.590] And I just want people to know, celebrate, take pictures, capture these moments.
[00:10:34.390 --> 00:10:37.250] They can be passed down as you see it.
[00:10:37.270 --> 00:10:48.810] And so I just want for us to really kind of think about the end, even though we may not want to.
[00:10:48.810 --> 00:10:50.650] It's a real thing.
[00:10:52.490 --> 00:10:54.930] And what's going to be on that front cover?
[00:10:55.250 --> 00:10:56.750] Are you going to have a picture?
[00:10:58.630 --> 00:11:04.790] So, yeah, I resonate with the capturing moments for sure.
[00:11:05.390 --> 00:11:05.910] Wow.
[00:11:06.850 --> 00:11:07.190] Wow.
[00:11:07.670 --> 00:11:10.030] That is heavy.
[00:11:10.190 --> 00:11:22.870] And I'm thinking like, wow, just the driver's license picture is the only, in a sense, memory we have to show the only memory we have to look back at.
[00:11:23.250 --> 00:11:26.850] It's like, wow, that's powerful.
[00:11:27.010 --> 00:11:32.270] And, you know, we have access to these smartphones now that comes with cameras.
[00:11:32.270 --> 00:11:37.770] So everybody could take a picture every second of the day if they wanted to.
[00:11:38.370 --> 00:11:38.470] Right.
[00:11:40.520 --> 00:11:43.080] So, I mean, really, it's no excuse.
[00:11:43.180 --> 00:11:50.640] But like you said, it's good to get those professional pictures and pictures with family and friends and business partners as well.
[00:11:51.720 --> 00:11:56.800] Like, it took a while to get professional pictures with my team.
[00:11:57.060 --> 00:11:57.920] Like, it's crazy.
[00:11:59.300 --> 00:12:00.440] So yeah, it's important.
[00:12:01.680 --> 00:12:02.700] It is.
[00:12:02.960 --> 00:12:10.740] It's actually making me think like, wow, I need to share my story.
[00:12:12.340 --> 00:12:13.020] Yeah.
[00:12:14.580 --> 00:12:16.540] Yeah, photos are important.
[00:12:20.300 --> 00:12:22.320] I might have to do some self-reflection after this.
[00:12:25.220 --> 00:12:32.000] Yeah, my outlook has been changed drastically because I do a picture race every week.
[00:12:33.260 --> 00:12:36.560] Is that, would you say, like a target audience?
[00:12:39.120 --> 00:12:45.100] No, I would say my target audience is still creativity.
[00:12:46.040 --> 00:12:52.240] And what I mean by that is, you know, I love to be called upon for any types of creativity.
[00:12:54.500 --> 00:12:58.460] It's not the only thing that I want to print or, you know, things like that.
[00:12:59.080 --> 00:13:11.400] But it is something that I sometimes it's hard for me to kind of tease it out.
[00:13:11.480 --> 00:13:12.840] That makes sense.
[00:13:13.480 --> 00:13:14.370] So let's talk about it.
[00:13:14.970 --> 00:13:19.730] Yeah, so like I want to so I do a bit to where she is, but also do logos.
[00:13:19.930 --> 00:13:20.470] I do flyers.
[00:13:20.950 --> 00:13:22.050] I do websites.
[00:13:22.890 --> 00:13:23.890] I do business cards.
[00:13:23.950 --> 00:13:25.050] I do billboards.
[00:13:25.530 --> 00:13:27.770] You know, I do brand strategies.
[00:13:27.770 --> 00:13:29.590] I am a creative strategist.
[00:13:30.850 --> 00:13:36.510] I work with businesses to creatively think about how they can market their business.
[00:13:36.650 --> 00:13:39.510] How can they position their business for growth?
[00:13:40.390 --> 00:13:48.130] How can they position their business for different growth levels that may make, you know, phase one, two, three and four.
[00:13:48.630 --> 00:13:51.630] My creativity comes on everything that I do.
[00:13:52.170 --> 00:13:52.550] Right.
[00:13:53.670 --> 00:13:58.270] But does it mean that it's only one thing I want to do?
[00:13:58.510 --> 00:13:58.790] No.
[00:13:59.090 --> 00:14:02.510] And I couldn't see myself doing one thing.
[00:14:02.870 --> 00:14:03.750] You know what I mean?
[00:14:04.830 --> 00:14:10.590] So that's the thing I'm, you know, sometimes I have a hard time with.
[00:14:10.950 --> 00:14:14.450] But there are some things that I just know I'm just not in the space no more of doing.
[00:14:14.650 --> 00:14:19.050] So like event planning, I'm going to refer that out.
[00:14:19.130 --> 00:14:26.770] Hey, I know someone else because I can't I don't have the capacity anymore to do the work that has to go into that.
[00:14:26.770 --> 00:14:37.790] But it doesn't mean that I can't maybe creatively strategize with you for your event to help you understand different angles you can use with it and leave it at that.
[00:14:38.610 --> 00:14:40.770] So it's just interesting.
[00:14:41.950 --> 00:14:46.370] I'm in different projects, multiple projects.
[00:14:47.290 --> 00:14:50.550] What would you say is your dream project?
[00:14:50.850 --> 00:14:54.570] Like if you could wake up and be like, I'm ready to get to work.
[00:14:55.230 --> 00:14:56.810] What would that be?
[00:14:58.650 --> 00:15:04.990] My dream project is I want to do the graphics for a movie.
[00:15:06.730 --> 00:15:09.650] I would like to do opening credits, ending credits.
[00:15:09.790 --> 00:15:13.410] I would like to do the graphics within the movie.
[00:15:14.630 --> 00:15:25.150] As far as like, like you may, you know how we might see a city and the bus may say that city's metropolitan bus district, da da da da.
[00:15:25.430 --> 00:15:30.050] But that's really not real. It's graphics that's put in within the filming.
[00:15:30.830 --> 00:15:32.690] So it can look like it's there.
[00:15:33.490 --> 00:15:37.090] So I want to be on a movie set.
[00:15:37.090 --> 00:15:42.170] And I want to be active in that space.
[00:15:42.590 --> 00:15:46.410] So I joined the Greater Cleveland Film Commission.
[00:15:47.770 --> 00:15:57.910] I went to learn how you could become a TA on a set and, you know, really putting in some time, really trying to network that space.
[00:15:58.450 --> 00:16:06.210] But I know I can do it, you know, or have the opportunity to do set design for a movie.
[00:16:06.210 --> 00:16:09.490] In that space or play or something.
[00:16:10.270 --> 00:16:18.950] Again, I'm talking about on a large scale movie at that, but, you know, some something big.
[00:16:19.030 --> 00:16:21.070] But yeah, that's my dream.
[00:16:21.330 --> 00:16:22.970] Have you ever done a movie before?
[00:16:24.170 --> 00:16:29.390] No, I've done some set designs, but not for a major movie at all.
[00:16:30.390 --> 00:16:33.670] So I could tell you the story.
[00:16:35.750 --> 00:16:41.730] A movie starts with an S, been around for a while, originated in Cleveland.
[00:16:43.590 --> 00:16:46.270] Superhero. You know what that movie is?
[00:16:47.470 --> 00:16:48.150] Superman.
[00:16:49.570 --> 00:16:51.110] Yeah. Yep.
[00:16:51.110 --> 00:17:06.010] So I kind of got shining really, really cute and looked frowned upon because this was my first movie ever that I got to work on set for.
[00:17:06.450 --> 00:17:09.530] My first day and I learned Superman as a PA.
[00:17:10.829 --> 00:17:14.650] And people were just bashing me out.
[00:17:15.290 --> 00:17:20.410] How you get this? I've been working in the movie for seven years and I couldn't get it.
[00:17:20.770 --> 00:17:23.150] It was like so much like dang.
[00:17:23.630 --> 00:17:29.990] But it's going back to who you know and going back to the Cleveland Film Commission who helped get me back.
[00:17:30.770 --> 00:17:36.210] I'm working with the people, the staff of Warner Brothers in New Orleans.
[00:17:36.470 --> 00:17:38.970] And it's about the network.
[00:17:39.870 --> 00:17:43.630] It is. Networking is huge in that industry.
[00:17:43.830 --> 00:17:46.350] It was huge period. Don't get me wrong.
[00:17:46.510 --> 00:17:49.990] But in that industry, it's way bigger.
[00:17:51.010 --> 00:17:52.970] And actually learning who people are.
[00:17:52.970 --> 00:18:01.010] But I feel like networking in general is something you have to do to get out here to be seen and heard.
[00:18:01.190 --> 00:18:06.170] You cannot just expect people to heard about you.
[00:18:06.330 --> 00:18:08.750] And then it don't work like that.
[00:18:08.930 --> 00:18:14.930] Because even in those cases, people want to see you showing up.
[00:18:14.950 --> 00:18:17.450] They want to see you getting active in different things.
[00:18:17.450 --> 00:18:25.630] And so I keep trying to be active as best possible in that space.
[00:18:27.410 --> 00:18:29.370] Because I know one day it's going to happen, right?
[00:18:29.370 --> 00:18:32.790] And I got to be ready. But that is my dream.
[00:18:34.530 --> 00:18:40.050] And just being in some type of production space as well, I actually like that type of stuff.
[00:18:40.830 --> 00:18:41.810] Okay, okay.
[00:18:41.830 --> 00:18:43.650] So that's why I say I'm a creative.
[00:18:43.650 --> 00:18:46.430] It's not just I do the graphics.
[00:18:46.690 --> 00:18:53.190] No, I can also probably be on set and lean to other different areas creatively.
[00:18:56.490 --> 00:18:57.770] Creative chameleon.
[00:19:00.570 --> 00:19:02.550] I like that. I like that.
[00:19:03.090 --> 00:19:08.410] So yeah, I was speaking with my daughter yesterday, my oldest daughter.
[00:19:08.410 --> 00:19:14.810] I was telling her about, like you said, event planning, going over different events.
[00:19:16.130 --> 00:19:17.770] And one of the aspects was networking.
[00:19:17.890 --> 00:19:19.010] And she's like, what's networking?
[00:19:19.570 --> 00:19:25.390] So I was just explaining to her, you meet someone typically new that you may not know.
[00:19:25.530 --> 00:19:31.450] Tell them about yourself, what you do, what they need help in, and how you could possibly help them.
[00:19:33.150 --> 00:19:37.050] So yeah, networking is definitely, definitely, definitely, definitely powerful.
[00:19:38.290 --> 00:19:40.490] And that movie is going to come through.
[00:19:41.230 --> 00:19:48.210] Maybe even if we got to come up with a movie script and create a movie set, it's going to happen.
[00:19:48.630 --> 00:19:50.050] Trust me, it's going to happen.
[00:19:52.710 --> 00:19:58.990] Because I'm like, you know, I'm like, okay, you know how you had a bucket list for life?
[00:19:59.970 --> 00:20:06.030] I'm like, okay, maybe as I get older or something, I'll be on the set or things like that.
[00:20:06.030 --> 00:20:08.770] And I'll just see it, you know, and I'll feel it.
[00:20:08.790 --> 00:20:10.510] And so I'm like, okay, it's coming.
[00:20:10.930 --> 00:20:15.130] You know, but I have my list in general, though.
[00:20:15.170 --> 00:20:16.630] So that's one thing on the list.
[00:20:16.850 --> 00:20:19.570] But I still got my list of things I want to do.
[00:20:20.490 --> 00:20:22.370] So yeah, yeah.
[00:20:23.190 --> 00:20:24.350] Oh yeah, it's coming.
[00:20:24.990 --> 00:20:28.170] And I know they do, I think, quarterly networking events.
[00:20:29.010 --> 00:20:29.270] Yep.
[00:20:29.470 --> 00:20:29.850] I'm not sure.
[00:20:32.590 --> 00:20:37.570] It's definitely a great networking ecosystem to be a part of.
[00:20:37.950 --> 00:20:38.490] It is.
[00:20:39.110 --> 00:20:42.070] Is that where we met or did we meet at something else?
[00:20:42.270 --> 00:20:47.370] I feel like we met or seen each other so many times, but we officially met.
[00:20:49.890 --> 00:20:51.890] I think it was some event with Ray.
[00:20:53.290 --> 00:20:55.790] It was, but I think it was the commission event.
[00:20:56.190 --> 00:20:56.850] I really do.
[00:20:58.430 --> 00:20:59.210] Two years ago?
[00:21:00.690 --> 00:21:01.170] Yeah.
[00:21:03.110 --> 00:21:07.510] I believe it was at one of their events.
[00:21:08.790 --> 00:21:11.890] We met, but we didn't talk talk, but we met.
[00:21:12.330 --> 00:21:16.050] And then later on we talked and began to talk.
[00:21:16.250 --> 00:21:18.310] But yeah, pretty sure.
[00:21:19.790 --> 00:21:21.090] Look, we be out here.
[00:21:21.270 --> 00:21:22.250] That's how much.
[00:21:22.250 --> 00:21:23.290] I know, right?
[00:21:23.430 --> 00:21:24.550] We blend together.
[00:21:24.550 --> 00:21:26.350] And the memory not helping.
[00:21:26.710 --> 00:21:29.350] The memory is a little bit glitchy.
[00:21:30.610 --> 00:21:32.750] I know you, you know me.
[00:21:33.350 --> 00:21:35.610] Yeah, that's what matters now.
[00:21:35.650 --> 00:21:37.230] We know each other, like you said.
[00:21:40.070 --> 00:21:47.150] So I know you transitioned from event planning and more of the creative field.
[00:21:48.010 --> 00:21:59.910] I know creative is more, like you said, that creative, a different side of your brain than event planning, which may be more logical and logistical.
[00:22:00.490 --> 00:22:05.270] So how did you kind of shift your brain and mindset to be more creative?
[00:22:08.130 --> 00:22:15.230] So first I had to start to trust my creativity and be confident in my creativity.
[00:22:16.090 --> 00:22:23.690] As I said, you know, a few years ago, I made that that that switch mentally.
[00:22:24.190 --> 00:22:32.330] I was being very hard on myself about my creativity and critiquing it and and all types of things, honestly.
[00:22:32.650 --> 00:22:38.810] But I realized that our creativity is supposed to be unique.
[00:22:38.810 --> 00:22:47.930] And so because it's not to be duplicated because it's connected to that person and no one person can be duplicated.
[00:22:48.610 --> 00:22:59.250] So if that's the case, then my creativity can be liked by someone else, just as well as someone else's creativity can also be liked by the same person.
[00:22:59.470 --> 00:23:04.190] But it doesn't mean that I shouldn't like my creativity versus the other person's right.
[00:23:04.190 --> 00:23:08.670] Like somebody else's creativity shouldn't dictate if yours is good or not.
[00:23:09.710 --> 00:23:11.930] All creativity is good.
[00:23:12.550 --> 00:23:13.630] All creativity.
[00:23:15.030 --> 00:23:18.370] Yeah, I feel like all creativity is needed.
[00:23:19.690 --> 00:23:27.310] Because I do feel like if we didn't have it, the world would stand still and would not have evolved.
[00:23:29.210 --> 00:23:37.730] Because I feel like creativity also is creating solutions to problems that society is facing.
[00:23:38.690 --> 00:23:48.470] Whether it's somebody creatively, critically thought about something, then it helps, right?
[00:23:48.710 --> 00:23:54.910] So the stoplight, you know, somebody said, hey, you know, we got not somebody.
[00:23:54.910 --> 00:23:57.330] But it actually happened here in Cleveland.
[00:23:59.490 --> 00:24:06.810] So when the stoplight was created, it was like, you know, hey, we need to do something to control traffic more better.
[00:24:07.210 --> 00:24:08.490] People are getting killed.
[00:24:09.150 --> 00:24:10.590] You know, these are happening.
[00:24:11.270 --> 00:24:18.250] So families were losing people or things of that nature because of an issue, a problem.
[00:24:18.250 --> 00:24:23.910] And then it was solved by having traffic lights, you know, to keep people safe.
[00:24:25.050 --> 00:24:30.530] That's something that has withstand the test of time, period, hands down.
[00:24:31.030 --> 00:24:37.050] And it's actually one of like my little quirky, corny things that I love as far as that has been created.
[00:24:37.630 --> 00:24:45.210] I'm a very creative nerd when it comes to how things are made or why they were made and things like that.
[00:24:46.200 --> 00:24:54.330] But without that, you know, if we didn't have stoplights right now, what would be going on?
[00:24:55.350 --> 00:24:58.630] Well, how would this be processing, you know?
[00:24:59.390 --> 00:25:02.310] And so each and that was in that space.
[00:25:02.410 --> 00:25:06.570] Right. So I just like creativity in different spaces matter.
[00:25:07.330 --> 00:25:12.130] You can have open heart surgery now with microscopic arms.
[00:25:13.050 --> 00:25:14.930] Somebody had a thought first.
[00:25:15.150 --> 00:25:19.090] Creativity always starts with a thought before action happens.
[00:25:19.950 --> 00:25:25.330] Then it gets turned into the action that it needs to be or however in each different spaces.
[00:25:25.710 --> 00:25:28.370] I'm not in the medical space at all.
[00:25:29.630 --> 00:25:38.310] But if people are able to have open heart surgery or that massive surgeries without having open heart and risking that and things like that, that's amazing.
[00:25:39.030 --> 00:25:40.910] That's helping somebody.
[00:25:41.710 --> 00:25:43.990] If I had a heart problem, I would be happy.
[00:25:44.370 --> 00:25:48.570] Somebody creatively begin to engineer that and to create it.
[00:25:49.250 --> 00:25:53.710] You know, so I just say that creativity is needed.
[00:25:54.010 --> 00:26:00.830] Like everybody needs it in their space because it's saving lives in that case.
[00:26:01.610 --> 00:26:01.710] Right.
[00:26:02.210 --> 00:26:04.810] And then it's saving lives with the traffic light.
[00:26:04.810 --> 00:26:15.190] But at the same time, in the medical field, you know, the when they're pumping air, when you're doing a CPR first day, somebody thought about that.
[00:26:15.930 --> 00:26:16.530] That's it.
[00:26:16.530 --> 00:26:25.050] It's things out here that is when you sit back and really look at things around you, you will see creativity totally different.
[00:26:25.970 --> 00:26:30.030] But you're like, wait a minute, or, oh, they made it this way for that reason.
[00:26:31.510 --> 00:26:34.450] This is adapting to evolution.
[00:26:36.090 --> 00:26:37.490] Our creations are adapted.
[00:26:38.210 --> 00:26:40.110] This is why we got iPhone 17.
[00:26:40.650 --> 00:26:45.170] When I first got an iPhone, I was sophomore in college and I was so excited.
[00:26:45.310 --> 00:26:48.090] I had an iPod and an iPhone 4.
[00:26:48.490 --> 00:26:49.310] I had a 4.
[00:26:49.370 --> 00:26:50.550] Now we have 17.
[00:26:51.390 --> 00:26:57.770] If you go look at the versions of iPhones and the versions of Androids over the time,
[00:26:57.770 --> 00:27:01.110] mind you, I'm only 38.
[00:27:01.710 --> 00:27:07.410] I used to have to hit A, B, C, you know, J, K, L to text.
[00:27:08.470 --> 00:27:12.010] Now I can just talk to my phone, you know, text.
[00:27:12.230 --> 00:27:13.750] I can record it to the voice note.
[00:27:14.550 --> 00:27:20.830] That is because of creativity and evolution over time.
[00:27:21.370 --> 00:27:21.930] Period.
[00:27:22.210 --> 00:27:23.150] Started with thought.
[00:27:24.210 --> 00:27:24.710] Yeah.
[00:27:25.510 --> 00:27:37.390] Well, when I ask all creativity, because, you know, you've seen these chat GPT flyers,
[00:27:37.410 --> 00:27:39.650] and I want to get your opinion on that too.
[00:27:39.930 --> 00:27:42.310] Is that still creativity?
[00:27:44.530 --> 00:27:46.230] For me, it is.
[00:27:46.270 --> 00:27:47.190] Here's what I'm going to say.
[00:27:47.710 --> 00:27:53.730] Now, is the output not the best when it comes to if they start looking alike?
[00:27:53.730 --> 00:27:56.110] No, but I am going to say this.
[00:27:56.230 --> 00:28:00.030] You can also talk to it differently to make it change the look as well.
[00:28:00.870 --> 00:28:04.230] I think AI in itself is creativity.
[00:28:05.470 --> 00:28:07.550] Hands down, it is.
[00:28:07.890 --> 00:28:11.770] We watch futuristic movies all the time, right?
[00:28:12.970 --> 00:28:15.790] I do believe one day there's going to be some hover cars.
[00:28:15.910 --> 00:28:23.430] I might not live to see it as far as like the actual cars that people are using or things like that.
[00:28:23.430 --> 00:28:27.830] But I do believe that technology is going to continue to advance.
[00:28:28.530 --> 00:28:32.510] It's going to advance because we are advancing it.
[00:28:32.650 --> 00:28:34.690] We are creating the advancement.
[00:28:35.270 --> 00:28:36.750] And it's just the truth.
[00:28:38.430 --> 00:28:47.310] For instance, the other day, I was on the airplane, and I'm used to the airplane having plugs or the port to plug on my phone.
[00:28:48.170 --> 00:28:49.890] And this airplane didn't have that.
[00:28:49.890 --> 00:28:53.870] And I was just, my mouth was wide open, like, where's the plugs?
[00:28:55.010 --> 00:28:57.830] Acting as if I was not born in 87.
[00:28:59.010 --> 00:29:04.270] When we, you know, growing up, no plugs or no airplane, you know what I mean?
[00:29:06.630 --> 00:29:12.930] But technology is convenient for us.
[00:29:14.430 --> 00:29:16.490] And it makes things easier.
[00:29:16.490 --> 00:29:22.450] We are becoming a society that is adapting to easier.
[00:29:26.030 --> 00:29:28.430] Kids now, you know, can I get an Uber?
[00:29:29.310 --> 00:29:30.270] Can I get a Lyft?
[00:29:30.630 --> 00:29:32.510] They're not doing the RTA.
[00:29:32.730 --> 00:29:33.450] I don't know.
[00:29:34.250 --> 00:29:36.270] You know, we didn't have money for taxis.
[00:29:36.610 --> 00:29:37.010] Okay.
[00:29:37.210 --> 00:29:45.330] So you had to go ahead, bust that move, get on Auntie Rita, get to where you got to get to go into if you want to meet your friends now.
[00:29:45.330 --> 00:29:46.050] Or walk.
[00:29:46.870 --> 00:29:48.010] Yeah, or walk.
[00:29:48.290 --> 00:29:48.770] You're right.
[00:29:50.370 --> 00:29:52.310] You got to, can we get an Uber?
[00:29:52.370 --> 00:29:56.990] And kids ultimately don't want to do stuff because they, I don't have a ride.
[00:29:57.570 --> 00:29:58.570] Get on the bus.
[00:29:58.630 --> 00:29:59.990] No, I'm not doing that.
[00:30:00.510 --> 00:30:02.030] Times are changing.
[00:30:02.450 --> 00:30:07.030] But it's because of creativity that is changing.
[00:30:07.390 --> 00:30:14.550] So if the Uber app was never thought, it never happened, Lyft never happened, what would these kids be doing?
[00:30:16.730 --> 00:30:18.710] They can't have money for the taxi, right?
[00:30:18.710 --> 00:30:19.850] So they need to get on the bus.
[00:30:20.330 --> 00:30:24.830] The bus system will still be active, but times keep changing.
[00:30:25.310 --> 00:30:29.690] So I think that AI is a part of our time change.
[00:30:30.970 --> 00:30:36.990] And then eventually, you know, the next decade and decade after that, things are going to continue to evolve.
[00:30:37.750 --> 00:30:49.330] But it's not necessarily a bad, bad thing unless, unless people begin to rely on it in such a way where they forget the fundamentals.
[00:30:50.570 --> 00:30:57.910] So would you say you stuck somewhere if it's an emergency versus getting on the bus?
[00:30:58.190 --> 00:30:59.950] Like would you not get on the bus?
[00:31:00.230 --> 00:31:01.850] You know, that type of stuff.
[00:31:01.850 --> 00:31:09.510] When it begins to maybe alter the mind process of thinking, I'll say, OK, we got some problems.
[00:31:10.150 --> 00:31:16.570] But for some people and for some designers, they're not liking AI.
[00:31:16.690 --> 00:31:17.970] I get it.
[00:31:18.090 --> 00:31:21.930] I mean, because it can affect us, you know, honestly.
[00:31:22.870 --> 00:31:30.190] But at the same time, I know that AI can't do some of the stuff we can do still.
[00:31:31.190 --> 00:31:34.130] Now, again, maybe down the road, who knows?
[00:31:34.210 --> 00:31:34.790] I don't know.
[00:31:34.970 --> 00:31:41.610] But I know it's not going to stop because the creativity, the evolution of creativity is evolving.
[00:31:42.410 --> 00:31:44.310] And we can't stop it.
[00:31:44.470 --> 00:31:54.630] We can't stop it because we if we did stop it or if it does stop society, the world will stop.
[00:31:55.350 --> 00:31:57.330] I mean, you know, I mean, we will be stuck in time.
[00:31:57.330 --> 00:32:06.310] You know, just. Just imagine, you know, when I remember being gas being 99 cent when I was younger.
[00:32:06.770 --> 00:32:08.470] What have we stayed in that?
[00:32:08.610 --> 00:32:10.050] What if it stayed right?
[00:32:10.870 --> 00:32:19.130] You know, what the with that pricing that's going up, would the economy be able to withstand if things stayed at a certain cost?
[00:32:19.470 --> 00:32:22.390] So that means that minimum wage will stay where it's at.
[00:32:22.950 --> 00:32:25.650] Everything is evolving with or without us.
[00:32:25.650 --> 00:32:27.010] We can't stop it.
[00:32:27.150 --> 00:32:29.290] It just it's naturally happening.
[00:32:32.530 --> 00:32:35.290] I mean, it'd be nice if we'd spend 99 cent a gallon.
[00:32:35.350 --> 00:32:36.390] Don't get me wrong.
[00:32:36.610 --> 00:32:39.890] And I wouldn't mind my 25 cent bag of chips, you know.
[00:32:41.090 --> 00:32:46.090] But yeah, no, that's that's that's a pastime now.
[00:32:46.650 --> 00:32:49.810] And only some of us are going to know the pastime at that.
[00:32:49.810 --> 00:32:54.490] You know, someone who's 18 don't know about 25 cent bag chips.
[00:32:55.490 --> 00:32:55.970] Period.
[00:32:57.130 --> 00:32:58.450] Four for a dollar.
[00:32:58.730 --> 00:33:00.250] OK, four for a dollar.
[00:33:00.970 --> 00:33:02.190] You know, you have three dollars.
[00:33:02.770 --> 00:33:06.290] You come back with a nice little store for a nice little bag from the corner store.
[00:33:06.470 --> 00:33:08.110] You know, a couple days.
[00:33:08.650 --> 00:33:09.110] Yeah.
[00:33:10.410 --> 00:33:11.890] Right. Not right.
[00:33:12.390 --> 00:33:13.330] And so it's crazy.
[00:33:13.390 --> 00:33:18.510] So it's kind of like, do we want things to be bought or do we want things to stand still?
[00:33:18.510 --> 00:33:24.530] And I think selfishly, some of us to a degree, we want some pieces to stay the same
[00:33:24.530 --> 00:33:26.410] and we want some pieces to get better.
[00:33:26.850 --> 00:33:27.290] Yeah.
[00:33:27.390 --> 00:33:33.270] And then, you know, I can honestly say there's some things I'm like, oh, we need to do better with this.
[00:33:33.650 --> 00:33:36.530] But there's some areas I'm like, no, let's just keep it the same.
[00:33:37.050 --> 00:33:38.870] Like some recipes have changed.
[00:33:39.990 --> 00:33:42.890] You know, McDonald's fries back in the day used to.
[00:33:43.170 --> 00:33:44.570] Yeah, those was good.
[00:33:44.570 --> 00:33:46.510] Now, I don't know what that means.
[00:33:46.750 --> 00:33:47.850] It's disgusting.
[00:33:48.370 --> 00:33:49.730] You know what I mean?
[00:33:50.250 --> 00:33:54.950] And so but I remembered a good version of a milkshake.
[00:33:55.470 --> 00:33:58.890] And so some things I just don't think should have changed.
[00:33:59.950 --> 00:34:04.670] But how do you go through years without changing?
[00:34:04.970 --> 00:34:07.290] Because there's going to be new thoughts, right?
[00:34:07.430 --> 00:34:09.449] There's going to be new ways to do things.
[00:34:10.750 --> 00:34:17.770] If you think about like the movie The Hunger Games, how they would have all the holograms
[00:34:17.770 --> 00:34:20.670] and stuff pop up and things like that.
[00:34:20.810 --> 00:34:23.030] Well, that's a real thing.
[00:34:23.909 --> 00:34:26.949] We just haven't seen it out facing yet.
[00:34:27.350 --> 00:34:28.270] You know what I mean?
[00:34:28.929 --> 00:34:32.310] But that's possible because this is what I say.
[00:34:33.139 --> 00:34:41.370] The things we see in movies, the thoughts behind it has to have some possibility.
[00:34:42.750 --> 00:34:43.170] Some.
[00:34:44.250 --> 00:34:45.870] I'm not saying all, but some.
[00:34:46.449 --> 00:34:53.510] If you can create it in a movie, even if it's digitally, you can maybe create it for real.
[00:34:53.550 --> 00:34:55.429] And that's why people are evolving.
[00:34:58.050 --> 00:35:01.090] I've had the, if I can go back in time.
[00:35:01.090 --> 00:35:01.730] All right.
[00:35:01.850 --> 00:35:04.190] So again, my corny moment.
[00:35:04.490 --> 00:35:11.030] But I would love to go to like one of those old school, like 1912 world fairs.
[00:35:11.030 --> 00:35:15.010] You go see the new inventions coming up and what people are trying to do.
[00:35:15.230 --> 00:35:16.850] I would love to go see that.
[00:35:18.070 --> 00:35:23.970] Because I know it was creativity in its purest moment, per se.
[00:35:24.710 --> 00:35:27.390] And so from that type of things to now,
[00:35:27.970 --> 00:35:31.610] if we had a world fair now, what would it look like?
[00:35:32.950 --> 00:35:33.890] Well, let's do it.
[00:35:33.950 --> 00:35:34.910] Let's bring it back.
[00:35:36.090 --> 00:35:40.090] You know, I thought about it and I really, really, it was on my spirit.
[00:35:40.570 --> 00:35:41.530] It's on my list.
[00:35:41.630 --> 00:35:43.050] Let me say that it's on my list.
[00:35:43.130 --> 00:35:45.150] And I do want to do one.
[00:35:46.350 --> 00:35:48.750] Only because I feel like creativity again.
[00:35:49.050 --> 00:35:55.630] Don't people see creativity as art, artistic form, drawing, color?
[00:35:55.870 --> 00:35:56.230] No.
[00:35:56.230 --> 00:35:58.230] I don't see it that way.
[00:35:58.450 --> 00:35:59.590] That's a component.
[00:36:00.810 --> 00:36:03.470] But creativity is in so many different ways.
[00:36:04.150 --> 00:36:06.750] You can take a picture that can touch millions.
[00:36:08.070 --> 00:36:10.110] You know, that's powerful.
[00:36:10.630 --> 00:36:11.530] That's powerful.
[00:36:12.010 --> 00:36:13.210] You didn't draw it.
[00:36:13.430 --> 00:36:14.830] You didn't color it.
[00:36:14.910 --> 00:36:16.250] You didn't paint it.
[00:36:16.550 --> 00:36:18.750] You know, that's creativity, right?
[00:36:18.750 --> 00:36:25.850] A person can have some spoken word or a speech that can move people.
[00:36:26.550 --> 00:36:32.330] You know, when Barack Obama won the presidency,
[00:36:34.230 --> 00:36:35.610] everybody in the world was crying.
[00:36:36.990 --> 00:36:38.850] His speech was that powerful.
[00:36:39.990 --> 00:36:42.430] Whoever wrote it, if it was him, I don't know.
[00:36:42.630 --> 00:36:44.450] But it was powerful.
[00:36:44.550 --> 00:36:46.950] Those words were powerful.
[00:36:48.050 --> 00:36:54.890] Creativity has the ability to move people in many ways.
[00:36:57.950 --> 00:37:01.510] So that's my, I mean, it's my outlook on AI.
[00:37:03.910 --> 00:37:05.690] But it's a fad.
[00:37:05.770 --> 00:37:09.610] I think the fire thing will eventually begin to switch up.
[00:37:09.870 --> 00:37:10.290] We'll see.
[00:37:12.370 --> 00:37:14.290] It's constantly evolving.
[00:37:14.290 --> 00:37:21.050] I try to read an article or watch a video on it at least once a week
[00:37:21.050 --> 00:37:23.370] just to keep my head around it.
[00:37:23.370 --> 00:37:24.570] I'm like, oh, okay.
[00:37:25.030 --> 00:37:26.370] Boy, they got nanobanana now.
[00:37:27.290 --> 00:37:28.750] Oh, they got GPT.
[00:37:28.930 --> 00:37:30.370] Got a new imaging system now.
[00:37:31.630 --> 00:37:35.710] And so it's like every week, every month, there's a new thing.
[00:37:35.950 --> 00:37:39.370] And if you don't stay on top of it,
[00:37:39.930 --> 00:37:42.730] it's so much to catch up on and you will get lost.
[00:37:43.730 --> 00:37:52.150] But do you see any negatives or any harms in being too creative?
[00:37:55.630 --> 00:38:00.730] I think some negatives may be not harmful,
[00:38:00.730 --> 00:38:08.630] but some negatives may be that your type of creativity may not resonate with some.
[00:38:09.630 --> 00:38:12.350] And so you may get some pushback.
[00:38:12.350 --> 00:38:18.190] You may get some naysayers or non-supporters,
[00:38:19.630 --> 00:38:22.410] which can negatively impact that person.
[00:38:24.190 --> 00:38:31.330] But one thing I am noticing is that somebody's creativity is going to be for somebody.
[00:38:33.010 --> 00:38:37.630] It may not be for you, but it can be for somebody, right?
[00:38:37.630 --> 00:38:41.630] And one of the things that made me think about that is
[00:38:42.910 --> 00:38:48.370] R&B music versus heavy metal.
[00:38:50.590 --> 00:38:56.210] Totally different crowd that may attract and things like that, right?
[00:38:57.790 --> 00:39:00.230] But there's still an audience for both.
[00:39:00.230 --> 00:39:07.650] One leads to more relaxed love or kickback feel vibes.
[00:39:07.790 --> 00:39:12.210] And the other one is more high energy.
[00:39:13.590 --> 00:39:15.350] Well, yeah, high energy.
[00:39:15.670 --> 00:39:20.470] The words may be twisted in such a way and things of that nature.
[00:39:20.710 --> 00:39:25.910] For some people may feel like I'm not sure what they're saying and things of that nature.
[00:39:25.910 --> 00:39:30.710] And so I think that it's okay to understand that
[00:39:30.710 --> 00:39:34.350] the negative sides of creative and being creative
[00:39:34.770 --> 00:39:38.470] is that you're going to have someone who may not see your vision,
[00:39:38.870 --> 00:39:42.210] but it doesn't mean your vision can't be seen.
[00:39:42.510 --> 00:39:45.150] One more time, one more time.
[00:39:46.970 --> 00:39:50.590] So you may, as a creative, you have to realize
[00:39:50.590 --> 00:39:55.410] that your vision may not be seen by other people,
[00:39:55.410 --> 00:39:59.170] but it does not mean that your vision should not be seen.
[00:40:02.920 --> 00:40:06.280] So that's how I kind of walk my creative walk.
[00:40:06.420 --> 00:40:11.080] And also, even when I'm looking at others creative,
[00:40:11.340 --> 00:40:14.940] make sure my perspective is aligned with no biases.
[00:40:16.480 --> 00:40:18.740] Because it don't have to resonate with me.
[00:40:18.760 --> 00:40:22.320] It don't mean it's not creative, you know?
[00:40:22.320 --> 00:40:30.780] Wow, this is one of my favorite, my top creative conversation.
[00:40:30.860 --> 00:40:32.320] I don't have too many creative conversations.
[00:40:32.520 --> 00:40:33.560] This is refreshing.
[00:40:34.640 --> 00:40:38.120] I haven't got this high from talking about creativity
[00:40:38.120 --> 00:40:42.200] or even reading about it since Rick Rubin's book.
[00:40:43.180 --> 00:40:43.540] Okay.
[00:40:44.140 --> 00:40:45.020] Like how he wrote that.
[00:40:45.400 --> 00:40:50.820] I've never heard another author or writer write like that.
[00:40:50.820 --> 00:40:52.920] So yeah, this is refreshing.
[00:40:56.360 --> 00:40:59.960] Well, I didn't say this, but my book will be coming out on my birthday.
[00:41:02.000 --> 00:41:04.640] Being intentional with my movements.
[00:41:05.680 --> 00:41:09.300] And because it's August Leo, so August 14th,
[00:41:09.300 --> 00:41:12.060] I am going to be releasing my creative book
[00:41:12.060 --> 00:41:15.180] that is about creativity being in our DNA.
[00:41:16.520 --> 00:41:17.340] Do you have a title?
[00:41:17.340 --> 00:41:21.260] Is the title able to be shared at this moment?
[00:41:21.620 --> 00:41:23.260] Almost, almost.
[00:41:24.220 --> 00:41:27.420] I have to meet with my mother and I want to talk to my dad
[00:41:27.420 --> 00:41:29.340] and then I'm going to finalize it.
[00:41:29.420 --> 00:41:33.220] I do have like three, but I want them to weigh in on it
[00:41:33.220 --> 00:41:35.840] because I feel like they made me creative that I am.
[00:41:38.690 --> 00:41:40.010] Definitely be on the lookout.
[00:41:40.730 --> 00:41:44.690] And once it's out, I'll definitely add it to the show notes.
[00:41:46.130 --> 00:41:46.610] Wonderful.
[00:41:47.190 --> 00:41:47.870] Oh yeah.
[00:41:48.710 --> 00:41:52.670] So let's keep on this conversation about creativity
[00:41:52.670 --> 00:41:55.210] and what people see in their perspectives
[00:41:55.850 --> 00:41:57.730] because we know we have art.
[00:41:58.170 --> 00:41:59.870] You know, people put their time in.
[00:41:59.870 --> 00:42:02.010] I'm talking about sometimes years.
[00:42:03.010 --> 00:42:07.750] And it sells for like $10, $20, $100 maybe.
[00:42:08.270 --> 00:42:11.910] And then you have those people that just make a dot,
[00:42:11.910 --> 00:42:16.710] a small dot on a white canvas or a stripe
[00:42:16.710 --> 00:42:19.950] across the diagonal corner.
[00:42:20.370 --> 00:42:22.190] And it sells for millions.
[00:42:23.090 --> 00:42:25.050] What's your thoughts on that?
[00:42:26.370 --> 00:42:31.290] My thoughts on that is all about how did they creatively
[00:42:31.290 --> 00:42:34.550] market into a brand themselves?
[00:42:36.630 --> 00:42:41.010] Because your story and who you are
[00:42:41.010 --> 00:42:47.310] behind your work is what's going to also sell it, right?
[00:42:49.350 --> 00:42:55.210] How did they position themselves and or who positioned them?
[00:42:57.090 --> 00:43:01.810] So, for instance, if you have an art release
[00:43:01.810 --> 00:43:04.950] and you have Beyonce coming,
[00:43:05.730 --> 00:43:09.650] folks don't buy your blue line on your white canvas, period.
[00:43:11.330 --> 00:43:13.230] Influence is huge.
[00:43:14.530 --> 00:43:16.290] But one thing I'm going to say,
[00:43:17.750 --> 00:43:20.130] and this is what I've been tapping into lately,
[00:43:21.530 --> 00:43:24.810] is what is my creative influence?
[00:43:27.310 --> 00:43:30.990] How does that actually resonate, right?
[00:43:30.990 --> 00:43:34.610] So we do social media content, things of that nature.
[00:43:34.710 --> 00:43:36.850] And I personally do some content,
[00:43:37.030 --> 00:43:39.110] but I decided that I want to do more.
[00:43:39.110 --> 00:43:42.970] I decided that I'm going to start to speak my raw,
[00:43:43.190 --> 00:43:46.170] creative truth on a daily, right?
[00:43:46.930 --> 00:43:50.430] And a lot of people say that,
[00:43:51.510 --> 00:43:53.650] oh, I know you can draw.
[00:43:53.810 --> 00:43:57.130] And I say, well, I appreciate that, but I can't.
[00:43:58.610 --> 00:44:00.050] I can draft.
[00:44:00.450 --> 00:44:04.470] I can, you know, draft buildings or something, room scapes,
[00:44:04.470 --> 00:44:11.250] but I cannot free and draw for sale, in my opinion, right?
[00:44:12.270 --> 00:44:16.030] But it had me thinking one day, people think I can,
[00:44:16.370 --> 00:44:19.470] and they probably, you know, okay, I like it, right?
[00:44:19.910 --> 00:44:25.510] It's all about the influence of how you kind of come off the people.
[00:44:25.990 --> 00:44:30.250] It's also the same creative influence
[00:44:30.250 --> 00:44:33.710] that I think political people have to utilize.
[00:44:34.910 --> 00:44:39.650] Because you cannot reach millions of people without having it.
[00:44:40.110 --> 00:44:40.730] You know what I mean?
[00:44:40.830 --> 00:44:41.830] It's just the truth.
[00:44:42.450 --> 00:44:44.870] Even musicians and things like that.
[00:44:45.810 --> 00:44:49.900] So when you are like in a social space,
[00:44:50.430 --> 00:44:52.670] you have to begin to look at your creative influence
[00:44:52.670 --> 00:44:54.350] when it comes to your artwork
[00:44:55.550 --> 00:44:57.890] or whatever you're creating and putting out.
[00:44:59.130 --> 00:45:01.430] I did see a show that was in New York.
[00:45:02.110 --> 00:45:04.390] I didn't go to it, but I seen it online.
[00:45:05.770 --> 00:45:11.690] And she had crocheted basically watercolor paintings.
[00:45:12.250 --> 00:45:16.410] It was like, imagine watercolor, but in crochet.
[00:45:17.830 --> 00:45:23.510] And she didn't have a good sale, but I thought the work was amazing.
[00:45:23.770 --> 00:45:26.670] I'm like, how did you do that with crochet, y'all?
[00:45:26.830 --> 00:45:27.610] And I was like, wow.
[00:45:28.470 --> 00:45:33.490] And so she went on social media and started talking about it.
[00:45:33.510 --> 00:45:35.810] I was like, you know, I really put a lot into this
[00:45:35.810 --> 00:45:37.130] and this, this, this, that, and a third.
[00:45:38.390 --> 00:45:42.770] And somebody ended up sharing one somebody
[00:45:42.770 --> 00:45:45.030] and then another somebody and then another somebody.
[00:45:45.770 --> 00:45:51.030] And actually, you know, she's crying because her collection got sold out.
[00:45:53.730 --> 00:45:57.240] So was it the people who shared it, the influence?
[00:45:58.370 --> 00:46:00.670] Was it her story that did the influence?
[00:46:00.830 --> 00:46:02.430] Was it a combination of both?
[00:46:03.130 --> 00:46:09.950] Either way, when you create, my premise is to be confident
[00:46:09.950 --> 00:46:12.530] that your work is a million dollars.
[00:46:12.790 --> 00:46:17.290] Because the way you see it is how other people will see it,
[00:46:17.290 --> 00:46:19.210] you know, at the end of the day.
[00:46:19.210 --> 00:46:24.630] And so I had to get out of my own creative self-doubting head
[00:46:26.470 --> 00:46:33.050] that my designs can move, my designs can empower,
[00:46:33.690 --> 00:46:37.690] my designs can change things, you know?
[00:46:38.390 --> 00:46:44.440] And so I wanted to make sure that when we're creating,
[00:46:44.780 --> 00:46:48.960] no matter what you're doing, realize that it's a purpose.
[00:46:48.960 --> 00:46:53.240] You're creating with a purpose for a reason.
[00:46:54.260 --> 00:46:55.740] And you're good from there.
[00:46:56.220 --> 00:47:02.910] But also, too, and say that red dot, right?
[00:47:04.930 --> 00:47:06.110] Perspective is key.
[00:47:07.390 --> 00:47:09.630] That red dot may mean something for one person,
[00:47:09.790 --> 00:47:11.210] but something different for the other.
[00:47:11.750 --> 00:47:13.510] We used to do this when we was in school.
[00:47:13.510 --> 00:47:16.050] When I was in college, we would have our art classes.
[00:47:16.670 --> 00:47:20.730] You would have to put your work up on the easel and sit down.
[00:47:21.410 --> 00:47:25.070] And you had to take, you know, people's feedback,
[00:47:25.250 --> 00:47:26.610] whether it was good or bad.
[00:47:27.190 --> 00:47:30.070] And then we always would also share what we saw.
[00:47:30.430 --> 00:47:34.950] Before you say anything, it was what the audience saw.
[00:47:35.370 --> 00:47:39.070] And it always blew my mind how people were seeing
[00:47:39.070 --> 00:47:40.970] something totally different than what I intended.
[00:47:41.510 --> 00:47:42.070] Yeah.
[00:47:42.070 --> 00:47:47.150] But then I realized that if that piece resonates with them in that way,
[00:47:48.490 --> 00:47:53.310] then that's what makes this click and connect, right?
[00:47:54.930 --> 00:47:57.910] So yeah, I went to the fashion talks,
[00:47:58.710 --> 00:48:01.710] fashion show yesterday under the chandelier.
[00:48:02.630 --> 00:48:05.610] It was a great show, so many different designs.
[00:48:06.710 --> 00:48:08.890] But one of the biggest things that I fell in love with
[00:48:08.890 --> 00:48:14.830] about the whole fashion show was the music choice that they used
[00:48:14.830 --> 00:48:16.690] for the collection that was walking,
[00:48:17.850 --> 00:48:22.670] to the point where I shazamed each song and I listened to each one
[00:48:23.830 --> 00:48:28.250] because creativity is more than just what we were looking at.
[00:48:28.650 --> 00:48:33.350] It was the words of the song that resonated with the pieces.
[00:48:33.350 --> 00:48:35.970] I was just like, well, my mind was blown.
[00:48:39.130 --> 00:48:42.530] But everybody enjoyed, you know, people having a good time,
[00:48:43.050 --> 00:48:46.470] but you never know what resonates with a person.
[00:48:49.430 --> 00:48:52.710] So was it some pieces that I personally wouldn't wear?
[00:48:52.950 --> 00:48:54.430] Sure, absolutely.
[00:48:55.090 --> 00:48:56.730] But it don't mean that they wasn't nice.
[00:48:56.950 --> 00:48:58.870] It don't mean that they were creatively done
[00:48:58.870 --> 00:49:02.270] and it was artistic in the way it looked, sure.
[00:49:02.270 --> 00:49:04.230] But it made me think like,
[00:49:04.550 --> 00:49:06.770] oh, just because I won't wear somebody else's, right?
[00:49:08.830 --> 00:49:13.870] It's your design, your creative, your eye is here for somebody.
[00:49:14.090 --> 00:49:16.630] And that's just, I can't keep saying that enough.
[00:49:17.490 --> 00:49:20.910] You know, it's for somebody, period.
[00:49:21.170 --> 00:49:22.750] You just got to do it.
[00:49:23.490 --> 00:49:25.910] And social media haven't told us that by now.
[00:49:28.010 --> 00:49:30.370] You know, back in the day when we didn't have,
[00:49:31.550 --> 00:49:34.390] Facebook came out my first year in college.
[00:49:35.030 --> 00:49:37.550] It took a while just for that to get going into how it was.
[00:49:40.210 --> 00:49:43.910] But before you had all of that type of influence,
[00:49:45.410 --> 00:49:48.530] you kind of had to hit the street, you know, hit the pavement more.
[00:49:49.250 --> 00:49:51.510] You would see people set up a lot more back then.
[00:49:51.790 --> 00:49:56.070] But now we can showcase, yeah, you saw it, right?
[00:49:56.070 --> 00:50:00.070] But now you can showcase yourself in such a way.
[00:50:00.950 --> 00:50:12.670] So I say that use your creative influence to influence, basically.
[00:50:14.010 --> 00:50:14.550] Wow.
[00:50:17.470 --> 00:50:20.110] That's the segment right there.
[00:50:20.310 --> 00:50:23.570] Use your creative influence to influence.
[00:50:23.570 --> 00:50:30.710] And I love when I see creatives, you know,
[00:50:30.850 --> 00:50:36.050] getting in the political world and helping the politics and politicians
[00:50:36.470 --> 00:50:40.470] and social causes and using their voice, using their art,
[00:50:40.770 --> 00:50:44.790] their creativity to help drive that impact.
[00:50:45.750 --> 00:50:47.010] It's amazing.
[00:50:47.940 --> 00:50:55.030] But I want to ask, as I ask every creative that I have on a podcast,
[00:50:56.010 --> 00:51:01.210] this question on creativity, so more about your process.
[00:51:02.430 --> 00:51:09.750] So I want you to describe your creative process as if it was a weather forecast.
[00:51:12.510 --> 00:51:13.210] Okay.
[00:51:16.100 --> 00:51:25.080] So I would say my creative process is going to involve some sunny skies,
[00:51:26.500 --> 00:51:31.820] it's going to involve a quiet storm,
[00:51:34.140 --> 00:51:39.040] and then I would say that it would ultimately also involve some heavy rains.
[00:51:41.410 --> 00:51:47.650] Then I would say that it's going to describe or include potentially
[00:51:47.650 --> 00:51:52.490] some drop in weather late at night.
[00:51:53.330 --> 00:51:57.770] I mostly create at night, I'm up all night,
[00:51:58.550 --> 00:52:02.510] just something about the nighttime and still the calm of it for me,
[00:52:03.330 --> 00:52:05.990] and the energy, you know, everybody's at rest.
[00:52:08.790 --> 00:52:12.430] Then I would say it's going to include some cloudy skies,
[00:52:13.830 --> 00:52:17.270] and sometimes I have to step back from a design,
[00:52:17.970 --> 00:52:19.610] and I may have to go listen to music,
[00:52:19.690 --> 00:52:26.570] or I may have to go take a breather or a pause before I can come back to it.
[00:52:27.530 --> 00:52:30.590] But then after those clouds have moved,
[00:52:30.830 --> 00:52:32.890] we're back to the bright sunny skies,
[00:52:32.890 --> 00:52:38.590] and I'm in my Zen space of finishing what I'm working on,
[00:52:39.670 --> 00:52:46.250] but I ultimately sometimes have to sit and think out my creativity,
[00:52:46.930 --> 00:52:48.430] or I have to hear it.
[00:52:50.810 --> 00:52:55.570] So I would say that that's where the other storms come from,
[00:52:56.170 --> 00:52:57.850] is listening to someone talk.
[00:52:59.190 --> 00:53:04.550] Most of my clients, I need to hear what they're envisioning.
[00:53:04.970 --> 00:53:08.930] Usually when I hear it, I can take it on and get it going
[00:53:08.930 --> 00:53:11.230] because I'm an audio visual learner.
[00:53:12.530 --> 00:53:15.470] So I just kind of hear that's where the storm comes from,
[00:53:15.570 --> 00:53:17.390] is them talking to me.
[00:53:18.570 --> 00:53:26.390] And then I'll also say, so the rain is the ideas pouring.
[00:53:28.310 --> 00:53:31.910] Once I kind of hear different things, ideas get to going.
[00:53:32.330 --> 00:53:34.090] I start seeing it.
[00:53:34.150 --> 00:53:36.650] I'm like, okay, I got it, right?
[00:53:37.090 --> 00:53:41.530] But I also have started projects, and then like I said, I hit that block,
[00:53:41.530 --> 00:53:45.110] and that's where the clouds come from because I'm a little foggy.
[00:53:45.110 --> 00:53:48.010] I'm like, hold on, okay, see, okay, wait.
[00:53:48.390 --> 00:53:50.150] And I have to go readjust, you know what I'm saying,
[00:53:50.410 --> 00:53:52.810] realign and come back to the sunny skies.
[00:53:54.450 --> 00:53:58.210] So I would say my creative process includes that and a whole lot of music.
[00:54:00.520 --> 00:54:07.160] I create with music of all types of genres while I'm creating.
[00:54:07.800 --> 00:54:12.000] Listening to music a lot, probably 10 hours of my day if not more.
[00:54:12.000 --> 00:54:14.820] I was going to ask, what is that song,
[00:54:14.900 --> 00:54:19.600] your go-to song when you want to get in your creative mindset?
[00:54:21.440 --> 00:54:25.500] Okay, so I am a big instrumental person,
[00:54:27.200 --> 00:54:31.820] big band type person to a degree, if that makes sense.
[00:54:32.540 --> 00:54:38.940] And I used to play the clarinet and was real big into music.
[00:54:38.940 --> 00:54:42.600] And so as far as like when I was growing up.
[00:54:44.380 --> 00:54:48.080] So when I was younger, I used to play the B-flat clarinet,
[00:54:48.540 --> 00:54:52.260] and I loved band music and I loved instrumentals and things like that.
[00:54:52.260 --> 00:54:58.460] But I love music that can make you feel like you're moving
[00:54:58.460 --> 00:55:00.980] or you can feel the energy.
[00:55:01.920 --> 00:55:09.240] So one of my songs I listen to quite a bit is the dawn of the planet of the apes.
[00:55:09.240 --> 00:55:10.960] It's on that movie soundtrack.
[00:55:11.760 --> 00:55:16.580] It's the great eight processional, it's the name of the song.
[00:55:17.160 --> 00:55:17.720] Okay.
[00:55:18.680 --> 00:55:26.250] And it makes me just feel like I can conquer Mount Kilimanjaro or something,
[00:55:26.710 --> 00:55:27.730] to be quite honest.
[00:55:27.930 --> 00:55:31.830] And so that's a song that I really kind of get into for sure.
[00:55:34.110 --> 00:55:35.410] Okay, I'm about to check that out.
[00:55:35.410 --> 00:55:42.190] See, I love photo editing because you get to listen to music, like you said,
[00:55:42.230 --> 00:55:46.270] but when I'm doing videos, I got to listen to the audio and the dialogue
[00:55:46.270 --> 00:55:49.930] and this and that, so it's not a lot of music time.
[00:55:50.490 --> 00:55:53.210] But yeah, editing photos.
[00:55:54.730 --> 00:55:57.590] I know I listened to, it was this one soundtrack.
[00:55:57.810 --> 00:56:00.350] It was a car movie.
[00:56:00.370 --> 00:56:01.930] I'm trying to think which one it was.
[00:56:01.930 --> 00:56:06.790] But they had a nice intro song to the soundtrack.
[00:56:06.930 --> 00:56:11.750] It was, man, I had that on repeat for hours.
[00:56:14.270 --> 00:56:15.910] Trying to think who it was.
[00:56:16.110 --> 00:56:19.330] I know it was some car movie in the last five years.
[00:56:21.090 --> 00:56:23.630] But man, yeah, I love a good instrumentalist.
[00:56:23.990 --> 00:56:28.970] I always find that one or two good songs in a movie, like you said,
[00:56:28.970 --> 00:56:31.910] to examine different songs at different events.
[00:56:32.190 --> 00:56:34.350] Like when I go to a movie, I'm like,
[00:56:34.490 --> 00:56:37.830] oh, I love how they created that scene with this song.
[00:56:38.430 --> 00:56:40.870] You know, you listen to the song sometimes without the movie.
[00:56:41.150 --> 00:56:42.270] It's like, ah, duh.
[00:56:42.790 --> 00:56:43.310] Exactly.
[00:56:43.490 --> 00:56:48.850] You see, and that's like why I love all aspects of creativity, right?
[00:56:48.970 --> 00:56:49.490] Yeah.
[00:56:49.870 --> 00:56:51.850] Because you got the person who wrote the script,
[00:56:52.310 --> 00:56:56.270] but the person who scored the music made it come to life, right?
[00:56:56.270 --> 00:56:57.930] The script was fired,
[00:56:58.330 --> 00:57:02.430] but you had to build the layers of creativity to make it be.
[00:57:02.710 --> 00:57:06.090] Right now, the person who wrote the script may not be good at scoring.
[00:57:06.510 --> 00:57:07.390] You know, they don't.
[00:57:07.390 --> 00:57:08.590] They ain't they cup of tea.
[00:57:09.110 --> 00:57:14.570] But with these layers, we are creating masterpieces as creatives.
[00:57:14.830 --> 00:57:18.950] And I'm here for it every day.
[00:57:19.410 --> 00:57:22.430] We don't hear that word anymore.
[00:57:22.750 --> 00:57:25.550] Like back in the day, oh, this is my masterpiece.
[00:57:25.550 --> 00:57:27.770] You don't hear that anymore.
[00:57:28.190 --> 00:57:30.050] No, you don't.
[00:57:30.150 --> 00:57:30.490] You do.
[00:57:30.650 --> 00:57:31.510] You don't.
[00:57:31.610 --> 00:57:32.250] We got to bring that.
[00:57:32.250 --> 00:57:33.250] You don't.
[00:57:34.170 --> 00:57:34.850] We do.
[00:57:35.330 --> 00:57:36.050] We do.
[00:57:36.430 --> 00:57:38.650] I might just make that on my T-shirt.
[00:57:40.010 --> 00:57:41.290] This is my masterpiece.
[00:57:42.870 --> 00:57:43.390] Yes.
[00:57:44.310 --> 00:57:45.450] Yeah, we're bringing it back.
[00:57:46.350 --> 00:57:48.010] We're bringing back all the good times.
[00:57:48.510 --> 00:57:49.650] All the good times.
[00:57:49.650 --> 00:57:52.110] The 25 cent.
[00:57:52.670 --> 00:57:55.890] You might not get as much, but it's still going to be 25 cent.
[00:57:56.310 --> 00:57:56.690] Right.
[00:57:57.910 --> 00:58:03.230] Man, can you imagine if they had a store that was kind of price-like back then?
[00:58:03.970 --> 00:58:04.490] Shoosh.
[00:58:04.590 --> 00:58:06.370] I think they'd be sold out.
[00:58:06.650 --> 00:58:08.270] They'd come out with a store, right?
[00:58:11.160 --> 00:58:12.900] Well, not a store like that.
[00:58:13.020 --> 00:58:14.640] I can't even do no convenience store.
[00:58:14.640 --> 00:58:16.340] I mean...
[00:58:16.340 --> 00:58:18.660] Maybe I'll sell some stuff in it.
[00:58:19.920 --> 00:58:25.340] Now I'm getting this vision, have a back-in-the-day event,
[00:58:25.940 --> 00:58:30.340] where you get that feel, and even teaching a younger generation
[00:58:30.340 --> 00:58:34.220] what it was like to live in different time periods.
[00:58:35.000 --> 00:58:36.060] Mm-hmm.
[00:58:36.380 --> 00:58:39.260] That's my historian brain coming to me, in fact.
[00:58:40.440 --> 00:58:41.300] I love it.
[00:58:41.580 --> 00:58:42.660] That's different.
[00:58:43.500 --> 00:58:44.220] I like it.
[00:58:44.580 --> 00:58:45.280] I'm alien.
[00:58:45.320 --> 00:58:46.220] I got to be different.
[00:58:47.300 --> 00:58:47.840] Yes.
[00:58:47.840 --> 00:58:52.920] That's my higher level, higher consciousness.
[00:58:53.860 --> 00:58:58.090] I think creativity is one of the highest levels of consciousness.
[00:58:59.120 --> 00:58:59.680] It is.
[00:59:00.780 --> 00:59:03.220] Whatever you imagine to come alive, you should think about it.
[00:59:03.220 --> 00:59:06.700] You definitely can and will and shall.
[00:59:06.780 --> 00:59:09.520] You just got to do it, you know?
[00:59:09.900 --> 00:59:14.280] Yeah, the doing it, the execution is the key part.
[00:59:14.280 --> 00:59:19.220] And I think that the low noise is every four to five minutes,
[00:59:19.520 --> 00:59:20.900] four and a half, five minutes.
[00:59:23.220 --> 00:59:27.880] But, yeah, creativity, to me, is a lifesaver.
[00:59:29.000 --> 00:59:32.440] I know being depressed, especially as a teenager,
[00:59:33.220 --> 00:59:35.340] before I even knew what depression was,
[00:59:37.180 --> 00:59:38.500] creativity, it helped me.
[00:59:38.580 --> 00:59:43.000] I'm not a freehand jar, but sometimes I just need to draw it out.
[00:59:43.000 --> 00:59:46.660] Like I'm more of a writer and a musician.
[00:59:47.440 --> 00:59:51.360] And sometimes that don't work because you in this mind state,
[00:59:51.380 --> 00:59:54.660] but just drawing it out, still being creative,
[00:59:55.580 --> 01:00:01.500] or doing something unorthodox, like writing on a roll or something.
[01:00:01.860 --> 01:00:04.620] Like, uh, being a creative mess.
[01:00:05.680 --> 01:00:10.820] And then, like you said, like that rain and then the sunshine come out
[01:00:10.820 --> 01:00:12.140] after the clouds.
[01:00:13.600 --> 01:00:17.680] Like my creative process as a weather forecast
[01:00:18.660 --> 01:00:25.880] is a warm, sunny day with light drizzle rain to refresh you occasionally.
[01:00:30.350 --> 01:00:32.050] Because, you know, intense heat sometimes,
[01:00:32.290 --> 01:00:35.530] like all right, it's a little overwhelming in that rain.
[01:00:36.210 --> 01:00:40.710] Almost like you see a loved one that you ain't seen in a long time.
[01:00:40.710 --> 01:00:44.350] Or, you know, if it's a husband or a wife,
[01:00:44.350 --> 01:00:46.350] you ain't seen them in weeks.
[01:00:46.710 --> 01:00:49.670] And then it's like, man, I've been struggling.
[01:00:50.770 --> 01:00:51.990] I'm going to get out this rut.
[01:00:52.030 --> 01:00:55.550] And then they come around or even be your best friend or something.
[01:00:56.370 --> 01:01:00.110] And they come around and just change your whole mood and momentum of your day.
[01:01:00.970 --> 01:01:03.890] Yeah, the whole mood and momentum.
[01:01:05.330 --> 01:01:07.870] That's what I aim for with everything.
[01:01:07.870 --> 01:01:12.550] I mean, like, with my poetry, it was like that horror, that gritty,
[01:01:12.770 --> 01:01:13.930] like, oh, you're going to feel it.
[01:01:13.930 --> 01:01:16.150] You're going to feel what I had to go through.
[01:01:16.530 --> 01:01:20.430] But it's always ending it on a positive note, someway, somehow.
[01:01:22.410 --> 01:01:24.730] Even if I didn't reach that positive note yet.
[01:01:25.830 --> 01:01:27.330] Yeah, and that's the thing.
[01:01:27.590 --> 01:01:31.970] So I love the positivity that creativity can give.
[01:01:33.430 --> 01:01:34.270] It's so natural.
[01:01:34.410 --> 01:01:35.330] It's so pure.
[01:01:35.330 --> 01:01:36.850] It's kind.
[01:01:38.210 --> 01:01:39.030] And it's uplifting.
[01:01:39.450 --> 01:01:40.570] And it can be supportive.
[01:01:41.070 --> 01:01:42.430] You know, it can even be funny.
[01:01:44.830 --> 01:01:46.670] When need be, right?
[01:01:47.170 --> 01:01:47.930] I'll never forget.
[01:01:48.450 --> 01:01:50.330] I don't like going to the doctor's.
[01:01:51.210 --> 01:01:53.650] I get scared and just all types of stuff.
[01:01:54.010 --> 01:01:54.890] But I never forget.
[01:01:55.530 --> 01:02:00.570] The nurse told my doctor that I was like, I have white coat syndrome,
[01:02:00.570 --> 01:02:06.330] like I just get really have anxiety or anxious when I met the doctors.
[01:02:06.390 --> 01:02:12.530] My doctor came in walking like a running a tank or something.
[01:02:12.970 --> 01:02:16.610] And I'm going to stop laughing like, um, hello.
[01:02:16.810 --> 01:02:18.870] First time meeting this doctor, by the way.
[01:02:19.870 --> 01:02:20.850] And I'm cracking up.
[01:02:21.070 --> 01:02:22.010] I'm like, oh, hello.
[01:02:22.210 --> 01:02:24.070] He's like, what's your name?
[01:02:24.070 --> 01:02:29.330] Talking like a whole like monkey type situation.
[01:02:29.330 --> 01:02:31.210] Oh, it was hilarious.
[01:02:31.950 --> 01:02:33.050] He was like, you feel better?
[01:02:33.130 --> 01:02:34.170] I was like, yeah.
[01:02:34.370 --> 01:02:35.270] I was like, why did you do that?
[01:02:35.270 --> 01:02:36.750] He told me why.
[01:02:37.230 --> 01:02:43.370] And I just felt so happy and supported in that moment because I was by myself.
[01:02:43.970 --> 01:02:48.130] And his creativity said, let me go in here and make her laugh.
[01:02:49.190 --> 01:02:49.930] Loved it.
[01:02:49.930 --> 01:02:54.110] You know, changed the game and made me feel more relaxed for my appointment,
[01:02:54.630 --> 01:02:57.330] which wasn't nothing too crazy, but I just didn't want to be there.
[01:02:57.350 --> 01:02:58.310] I'm like, I'm ready to go.
[01:02:58.310 --> 01:02:58.850] Hurry up.
[01:02:58.890 --> 01:02:59.710] Get me out of here.
[01:03:00.170 --> 01:03:03.190] And it was like he didn't have to do that.
[01:03:03.930 --> 01:03:04.210] Right.
[01:03:04.430 --> 01:03:10.410] I appreciated his creative thought and that moment, his caringness and willing to make
[01:03:10.410 --> 01:03:13.710] himself look like a whole orangutan or whatever.
[01:03:14.810 --> 01:03:18.210] And so I'll never forget that moment sticks with me.
[01:03:18.510 --> 01:03:18.670] Right.
[01:03:19.230 --> 01:03:23.350] It's always like people say, well, you can be kind and nice to somebody, you
[01:03:23.350 --> 01:03:24.490] know, and things like that.
[01:03:24.490 --> 01:03:30.170] But the way he chose to do it was his form of creativity in his space.
[01:03:30.310 --> 01:03:30.490] Right.
[01:03:30.490 --> 01:03:31.390] He's a doctor.
[01:03:32.130 --> 01:03:35.390] So he didn't, you know, he didn't have to do it that way because he just
[01:03:35.390 --> 01:03:38.230] hate on, you know, but he took that time.
[01:03:39.350 --> 01:03:43.930] So I just love what creativity can bring in many spaces.
[01:03:45.010 --> 01:03:45.410] Yeah.
[01:03:45.410 --> 01:03:47.690] I love that and love people like that.
[01:03:47.710 --> 01:03:51.610] Like they say, take your job seriously.
[01:03:51.610 --> 01:03:55.930] I feel like even though people will be like, oh, he's I got a doctor that's
[01:03:55.930 --> 01:03:57.290] playing or I act like a monkey.
[01:03:57.290 --> 01:03:58.030] He's childish.
[01:03:58.310 --> 01:04:01.950] No, he took his job seriously because at the end of the day, like you
[01:04:01.950 --> 01:04:07.670] said, you laugh and laughter is the best medicine ever.
[01:04:07.670 --> 01:04:08.210] Mm hmm.
[01:04:08.630 --> 01:04:09.470] Like it heals.
[01:04:10.810 --> 01:04:16.890] Like even looking back, like even me being the co-founder of creative
[01:04:16.890 --> 01:04:26.350] Healing Foundation, nonprofit, like when we all sat down and came, put our
[01:04:26.350 --> 01:04:32.550] minds together to have it come about, like we do see creativity as a healing
[01:04:32.550 --> 01:04:33.350] mechanism.
[01:04:33.870 --> 01:04:37.430] And what ways can we heal creatively?
[01:04:37.630 --> 01:04:39.190] Mm hmm.
[01:04:39.190 --> 01:04:48.260] I asked you, especially in the early stages, mostly as a kid, teenager, what
[01:04:49.170 --> 01:04:54.010] avenues did you see that helped healed you that was creative?
[01:04:59.810 --> 01:05:02.770] What avenues that have healed me that's creative?
[01:05:05.650 --> 01:05:09.480] Music, for sure.
[01:05:10.000 --> 01:05:15.060] When I am going through trying times, I resort to music.
[01:05:16.760 --> 01:05:17.720] Drawing.
[01:05:18.200 --> 01:05:19.240] What type of music?
[01:05:20.340 --> 01:05:23.800] So I really listen to all types of music.
[01:05:25.340 --> 01:05:29.200] So I love reggae music.
[01:05:29.680 --> 01:05:31.500] It's my number one.
[01:05:32.680 --> 01:05:36.200] Afrobeat, soca, but I also love classical.
[01:05:37.380 --> 01:05:39.000] I also love contemporary.
[01:05:40.940 --> 01:05:46.320] I love house music, as it would be called, or techno.
[01:05:46.840 --> 01:05:47.200] Yeah.
[01:05:49.940 --> 01:05:55.830] And I love instrumentals and band music.
[01:05:56.110 --> 01:06:00.670] So I like to listen to band cadences and drum lines and things like
[01:06:00.670 --> 01:06:01.430] that.
[01:06:01.950 --> 01:06:02.670] Okay.
[01:06:02.670 --> 01:06:05.570] But I also like listening to DJ mashups.
[01:06:07.070 --> 01:06:08.550] Love it, love it, love it.
[01:06:08.610 --> 01:06:11.930] Because you never know how they're going to do a lead out or a lead in.
[01:06:12.010 --> 01:06:16.530] And they may do a mashup to chew and even expect them for them to do, but
[01:06:16.530 --> 01:06:21.730] because of their creative ear, they heard that undertone beat from the
[01:06:21.730 --> 01:06:22.830] one song to the next.
[01:06:23.030 --> 01:06:25.110] And so I love that.
[01:06:28.830 --> 01:06:31.590] Drawing or doodling, I'll call it doodling.
[01:06:32.250 --> 01:06:32.650] I don't know.
[01:06:33.250 --> 01:06:35.510] Doodling, I'll doodle.
[01:06:37.010 --> 01:06:38.290] Doodly doodly do.
[01:06:42.050 --> 01:06:47.410] Oh, but I was in school, I used to doodle a lot in my books and stuff
[01:06:47.410 --> 01:06:50.150] and to the point where they call my parents, like, she's not focusing.
[01:06:51.150 --> 01:06:55.070] And I kept telling them I'm having a hard time focusing, you know, and
[01:06:55.070 --> 01:07:00.510] you know, us as creatives, most of us have some type of neurodivergency
[01:07:00.510 --> 01:07:02.350] going on somewhere and somewhere.
[01:07:03.230 --> 01:07:06.770] And so I didn't find out until I got to college.
[01:07:07.890 --> 01:07:10.350] And so I doodle sometimes.
[01:07:11.250 --> 01:07:12.810] It helps my mind escape.
[01:07:13.490 --> 01:07:14.790] I might doodle anything.
[01:07:15.330 --> 01:07:20.430] I might be doing a whole battle on Mortal Kombat just happening.
[01:07:21.110 --> 01:07:24.850] This is my version of my, you know, what I'm drawing, but I might do
[01:07:24.850 --> 01:07:28.910] that when sometimes I'll write a little, like it's a comic book or
[01:07:28.910 --> 01:07:32.990] sometimes I'll write, like, love stories as far as, like, in the
[01:07:32.990 --> 01:07:34.510] little quotes and stuff.
[01:07:35.270 --> 01:07:36.610] That helps my mind escape.
[01:07:38.750 --> 01:07:45.790] Another creative area that I really zen out to is watching movies.
[01:07:46.530 --> 01:07:51.370] I'm a big movie buff, but when I'm overwhelmed, I'll legitimately
[01:07:51.370 --> 01:07:55.150] even go to the movies and pick a movie, watch it.
[01:07:55.150 --> 01:07:56.910] Don't matter what it is, none of that.
[01:07:56.910 --> 01:07:58.390] Don't read it.
[01:07:58.690 --> 01:07:59.090] None of that.
[01:07:59.150 --> 01:08:01.070] Say, okay, which one's coming up?
[01:08:01.210 --> 01:08:01.910] Pick that one.
[01:08:02.030 --> 01:08:02.350] Okay.
[01:08:02.770 --> 01:08:03.890] Watch it.
[01:08:04.190 --> 01:08:06.830] I like the creativity that movies give.
[01:08:08.110 --> 01:08:10.850] Most especially when you begin to look at the deep symbolism or
[01:08:10.850 --> 01:08:12.550] certain things and things like that.
[01:08:13.730 --> 01:08:22.090] So I would say I always look to kind of decompress with other
[01:08:22.090 --> 01:08:24.090] creative things that's around me.
[01:08:26.970 --> 01:08:28.170] Do you have a favorite artist?
[01:08:30.950 --> 01:08:34.270] As far as music?
[01:08:35.210 --> 01:08:42.670] Music, painting, someone that's like you, creative community.
[01:08:42.689 --> 01:08:47.050] So my favorite artist is Andy Warhol.
[01:08:49.069 --> 01:08:51.729] I like his work.
[01:08:52.370 --> 01:08:58.910] My favorite architect is Courtney, well, generic, but it's Frank
[01:08:58.910 --> 01:08:59.770] Boy, right?
[01:09:01.310 --> 01:09:03.970] Because I like the stories behind his work.
[01:09:04.270 --> 01:09:06.950] When you look at his buildings and the story that's behind it,
[01:09:06.950 --> 01:09:09.010] you can see it.
[01:09:11.490 --> 01:09:19.529] My favorite artist, Reggae, or I would say it's Jacqueer,
[01:09:19.529 --> 01:09:25.050] Egyptian, I mean, this goes on with them.
[01:09:26.189 --> 01:09:28.550] But those men.
[01:09:29.990 --> 01:09:36.710] And then my favorite band to listen to is Clark Atlanta.
[01:09:38.330 --> 01:09:50.819] And then I also like, I like mystery movies.
[01:09:51.420 --> 01:09:57.290] Like movies that make you think, like, okay, you thought it was
[01:09:57.290 --> 01:09:58.890] that person, but it wasn't.
[01:09:59.230 --> 01:10:04.490] So almost like clue movies, but I like that type of movie.
[01:10:05.530 --> 01:10:09.410] Kind of what my mind needs to kind of relax is that.
[01:10:09.410 --> 01:10:12.510] And then I also would watch romance movies.
[01:10:13.310 --> 01:10:18.650] Only because I'm a sappy chick, so I'd be sitting there crying.
[01:10:19.090 --> 01:10:20.330] And I'm a lovey dovey chick.
[01:10:20.330 --> 01:10:22.850] It's got to be a rom-com.
[01:10:23.630 --> 01:10:25.050] It's got to be a laugh.
[01:10:25.990 --> 01:10:28.090] I like rom-coms.
[01:10:29.070 --> 01:10:30.810] Cheesy, but rom-coms.
[01:10:32.930 --> 01:10:35.530] I like rom-coms too.
[01:10:36.170 --> 01:10:37.490] But I'm definitely a hard marching.
[01:10:41.430 --> 01:10:44.790] Oh, that's good.
[01:10:44.990 --> 01:10:45.550] That's good.
[01:10:46.670 --> 01:10:50.150] And transition more on the business side.
[01:10:50.950 --> 01:10:53.550] When was that moment that it clicked?
[01:10:53.870 --> 01:10:54.450] Like, you know what?
[01:10:54.450 --> 01:10:58.830] I can use my creativity for business purposes.
[01:11:00.170 --> 01:11:02.750] Do you remember what our occurrence was?
[01:11:05.140 --> 01:11:08.040] So my occurrence was interesting.
[01:11:08.060 --> 01:11:15.980] It was because my professor was on my neck when I was in college.
[01:11:15.980 --> 01:11:19.000] And I felt like he was picking on me.
[01:11:19.280 --> 01:11:24.600] And one day, he thought that I was in my phone.
[01:11:25.580 --> 01:11:28.540] And I wasn't, but I was.
[01:11:30.240 --> 01:11:32.560] So he was like, Shakur, come up here.
[01:11:32.620 --> 01:11:35.020] And I'm like, man, why this man calling me up here?
[01:11:35.060 --> 01:11:35.620] Dang.
[01:11:36.540 --> 01:11:40.740] And it was only two black students in my whole program.
[01:11:41.340 --> 01:11:43.800] And it was me, one other female.
[01:11:45.260 --> 01:11:49.260] And he was like, I felt like he was picking on me, right?
[01:11:49.400 --> 01:11:55.980] And all my professors were non-minority.
[01:11:57.020 --> 01:12:02.030] So he says, what's going to be your legacy as a designer?
[01:12:03.310 --> 01:12:05.650] And I made this face, and he made it back.
[01:12:06.310 --> 01:12:11.490] He said, well, I'm thinking, call me up here to ask me this right now.
[01:12:11.510 --> 01:12:12.470] It's all random.
[01:12:12.470 --> 01:12:15.470] Like literally, while he was lecturing, he did it.
[01:12:15.990 --> 01:12:18.090] And so I was like, I'm a creative Leo.
[01:12:18.530 --> 01:12:19.450] He was like, we're proving.
[01:12:19.590 --> 01:12:20.630] I was like, all right.
[01:12:20.950 --> 01:12:26.270] So I started my business a month later.
[01:12:27.450 --> 01:12:33.670] Now, when I started it, truthfully, it was because of that moment.
[01:12:34.170 --> 01:12:43.050] But I did not have the mental thought that I would do something with the business.
[01:12:44.090 --> 01:12:49.110] I was studying to be an interior designer, and that's what I was about to go do in life.
[01:12:49.730 --> 01:12:52.050] And yeah, sophomore year of college.
[01:12:53.090 --> 01:12:56.150] And so he became my first client.
[01:12:57.270 --> 01:13:02.490] He asked me to design a flyer for his Christmas party at his house.
[01:13:03.930 --> 01:13:05.790] He invited me to the Christmas party.
[01:13:06.050 --> 01:13:06.470] I went.
[01:13:06.470 --> 01:13:10.250] And again, I'm still thinking, why does man invite me to this Christmas party?
[01:13:10.670 --> 01:13:13.150] But I went and had a great time.
[01:13:13.690 --> 01:13:17.710] And I asked him, why you be being so hard on me?
[01:13:18.150 --> 01:13:20.270] He said, because you don't see your own potential.
[01:13:23.070 --> 01:13:27.210] And honestly, looking back, that was the moment.
[01:13:27.970 --> 01:13:34.210] You know, for when I realized that I do have what it takes,
[01:13:34.210 --> 01:13:37.110] I just need to apply myself and do better.
[01:13:38.470 --> 01:13:44.970] And so then I started taking design classes on the graphic side, fell in love with that as well.
[01:13:46.130 --> 01:13:48.670] And then began to do different things.
[01:13:49.870 --> 01:13:53.490] And my family would always have, like, events and parties and stuff.
[01:13:54.250 --> 01:13:55.370] So I started.
[01:13:55.870 --> 01:13:57.670] I took my business serious.
[01:13:57.670 --> 01:14:03.050] Maybe like, I don't say probably like seven or eight months later,
[01:14:03.350 --> 01:14:07.250] he was having something and I wanted to like brand myself.
[01:14:07.370 --> 01:14:12.230] And so I started figuring out how one of my business logo to be what it is.
[01:14:12.370 --> 01:14:14.910] It took all that time to do that.
[01:14:14.910 --> 01:14:28.670] And he ended up telling me later on down the road down the years that, you know, he was proud of me.
[01:14:28.710 --> 01:14:33.650] He was happy to see me still sticking with being the creative Leo.
[01:14:35.850 --> 01:14:39.250] And I graduated and got a job.
[01:14:40.250 --> 01:14:43.550] The business was still something on the side that I did.
[01:14:43.550 --> 01:14:45.870] It was cool, but it was still something on the side.
[01:14:46.730 --> 01:14:52.110] And then one day I realized I was running somebody else's company and I have my own that I could run.
[01:14:54.610 --> 01:14:55.490] And then.
[01:14:56.830 --> 01:15:04.630] My so the company I was with, they was a situation that happened and basically eluded to that I was not being trustworthy.
[01:15:05.190 --> 01:15:07.150] But somebody was lying on me.
[01:15:07.550 --> 01:15:09.590] So they end up coming out in the rents later.
[01:15:09.590 --> 01:15:20.150] But, you know, so I realized that I wanted to be somewhere of value where I could be valued and, you know, appreciated and not seen in the light that I never would do.
[01:15:21.170 --> 01:15:27.830] So I took that leap of faith and go full time in the business and have not looked back.
[01:15:30.190 --> 01:15:39.890] It's been an interesting journey because, again, there's been so many challenges that have come my way, but I refuse to give up.
[01:15:39.890 --> 01:15:41.630] I refuse to cave in.
[01:15:41.930 --> 01:15:43.650] And, you know, I'm going to try to keep pushing.
[01:15:44.230 --> 01:15:59.550] But I had a couple of different aha moments business wise that solidified me being on this journey, especially that no look back.
[01:15:59.770 --> 01:16:04.510] I'll say if you did look back, we would have never met this conversation.
[01:16:04.610 --> 01:16:07.750] This podcast would have never been had.
[01:16:07.750 --> 01:16:09.610] Like it's so many moments.
[01:16:10.450 --> 01:16:13.230] We went right into so many of the same rooms.
[01:16:14.330 --> 01:16:15.310] That works.
[01:16:17.690 --> 01:16:24.090] But even started an office on like you just jumped and did it and wanted to prove yourself.
[01:16:24.590 --> 01:16:35.570] So where did you learn business from, or was it parents pure experience, pure experience and then I ended up going to get a business degree.
[01:16:37.330 --> 01:16:41.190] I wanted to make sure that I understood it better.
[01:16:41.870 --> 01:16:52.670] So I changed my major and did it up, switching the business and then getting a business degree and then
[01:16:54.930 --> 01:16:58.410] applying what I have learned in my business.
[01:16:59.350 --> 01:17:04.490] And then, but the rest of it was through the trenches.
[01:17:05.650 --> 01:17:10.450] To be honest, just, you know, learn about trial and error.
[01:17:10.910 --> 01:17:13.410] Realize, oh, I was supposed to do that this way.
[01:17:14.570 --> 01:17:18.630] Oh, I need to go fix that my bad, you know.
[01:17:20.190 --> 01:17:27.630] But that type of those moments made me begin to really want to learn more and really make sure that I'm taking this serious.
[01:17:27.930 --> 01:17:34.170] And I realized that I'm only going to get as far as I can based off of what I put in.
[01:17:34.970 --> 01:17:41.630] So I've been putting in, pouring in, learning more and more and more to elevate my business.
[01:17:43.390 --> 01:17:46.050] Yeah, I definitely testify to that.
[01:17:46.250 --> 01:17:46.910] Yes, you are.
[01:17:47.090 --> 01:17:55.830] And even being in the same rooms, like I said, and learning from the same people and same colleges, college programs.
[01:17:56.870 --> 01:17:58.030] Like, yes, you are.
[01:17:58.070 --> 01:17:58.630] Yes, you are.
[01:17:58.690 --> 01:18:00.050] Yes, you are.
[01:18:00.590 --> 01:18:05.670] About that growth and constant learning and the more you learn, the more creative you could be.
[01:18:06.450 --> 01:18:06.970] Absolutely.
[01:18:07.910 --> 01:18:11.890] The more you're exposed to different things, the more you see, the more you hear.
[01:18:12.150 --> 01:18:14.810] The different stories that's being shared.
[01:18:16.190 --> 01:18:18.130] The different angles, the different perspectives.
[01:18:18.230 --> 01:18:20.950] It's always something to learn from.
[01:18:21.750 --> 01:18:27.490] Even if people that, they draw the same picture over and over and over.
[01:18:28.410 --> 01:18:32.710] It gradually evolves or changes and gets better.
[01:18:33.170 --> 01:18:35.930] Because they did it 10,000 times.
[01:18:35.930 --> 01:18:42.010] But the million time they did it, it may look completely different from the first time they did it.
[01:18:42.730 --> 01:18:43.690] But it's the same picture.
[01:18:48.810 --> 01:18:55.190] Did you have a biggest business lesson already or is this something that's still in the works?
[01:18:57.790 --> 01:18:59.370] Biggest business lesson?
[01:19:02.940 --> 01:19:06.680] I'm going to have to go with this.
[01:19:06.820 --> 01:19:09.840] I'm learning through the $10,000 Small Business Program.
[01:19:10.880 --> 01:19:12.680] Knowing your numbers.
[01:19:14.820 --> 01:19:20.760] That, to me, that's been my biggest stand-in-all moment so far on this journey.
[01:19:21.540 --> 01:19:25.700] That I wish I'd approached and known my numbers the way I know them now.
[01:19:26.180 --> 01:19:29.640] To help me make decisions that I probably would be further ahead.
[01:19:30.140 --> 01:19:31.300] Oh, I like that.
[01:19:31.420 --> 01:19:37.060] And I probably wouldn't have made some of the mistakes I made, you know, financially and things like that.
[01:19:37.060 --> 01:19:38.740] If I knew the numbers.
[01:19:39.300 --> 01:19:45.760] But sometimes when you're in business, you, just like in life, you're like, okay, well, I feel this is right or I feel this.
[01:19:46.220 --> 01:19:50.140] No, everything in business, run the numbers.
[01:19:50.740 --> 01:19:52.920] Let the numbers dictate your decision.
[01:19:54.180 --> 01:19:54.700] Period.
[01:19:55.420 --> 01:19:57.160] Don't add up.
[01:19:57.380 --> 01:20:00.160] If it makes sense number-wise, don't do it.
[01:20:00.260 --> 01:20:04.240] Or see how you need to alter it to maybe make the sense for the numbers.
[01:20:04.240 --> 01:20:09.480] But if I would have just had that beforehand.
[01:20:10.320 --> 01:20:11.240] Oh, my goodness.
[01:20:13.140 --> 01:20:15.680] I just would just so many things differently.
[01:20:16.060 --> 01:20:18.720] So now I don't make no decisions without knowing my numbers.
[01:20:19.780 --> 01:20:24.140] So before you knew your numbers and you was making those decisions, what was that like?
[01:20:25.900 --> 01:20:31.120] It was me feeling like, okay, this seems like it'll be right, you know?
[01:20:31.120 --> 01:20:37.500] Or I think people will buy this shirt, right?
[01:20:38.160 --> 01:20:40.520] But I didn't do no research.
[01:20:41.100 --> 01:20:42.480] I didn't do no perspectives.
[01:20:43.100 --> 01:20:45.540] So I'm going off what I think I feel.
[01:20:47.920 --> 01:20:49.460] That's fine and dandy.
[01:20:50.740 --> 01:20:58.100] But I think I feel only go so far if you didn't test out what you're thinking of, you know?
[01:21:00.000 --> 01:21:03.740] Kind of like when you're doing research and development.
[01:21:04.420 --> 01:21:07.520] If you got a product, that's the reason why they test it.
[01:21:07.800 --> 01:21:11.580] That's the reason you got to test products because you got to know the numbers behind it.
[01:21:11.740 --> 01:21:16.600] When you did the product testing, how many people liked it?
[01:21:16.740 --> 01:21:17.220] Didn't like it?
[01:21:17.220 --> 01:21:17.940] The taste was great.
[01:21:17.940 --> 01:21:18.860] Taste was bad.
[01:21:18.980 --> 01:21:19.920] The smell was good.
[01:21:19.960 --> 01:21:20.980] The smell was bad.
[01:21:21.440 --> 01:21:22.680] The after effect was this.
[01:21:22.860 --> 01:21:24.100] How many did you do?
[01:21:24.340 --> 01:21:26.400] Test 100 people or not?
[01:21:27.140 --> 01:21:29.280] Because what if they do no testing?
[01:21:30.880 --> 01:21:39.300] And you say, like I remember I bought for my printer, I should have bought one pack of paper, tested it out.
[01:21:39.360 --> 01:21:44.560] No, I bought a whole three cases of this paper because it was a good deal.
[01:21:45.340 --> 01:21:49.840] The paper ended up being not the best paper for the obituary.
[01:21:49.840 --> 01:21:57.460] So now we're stuck with three cases of this paper that you can't return, right?
[01:21:58.980 --> 01:22:01.400] So I should have tested it out.
[01:22:01.400 --> 01:22:04.180] There's some R&D on that paper, right?
[01:22:04.980 --> 01:22:07.580] But not even looking at the cost of running the numbers.
[01:22:08.140 --> 01:22:11.540] How much is it going to cost me if this is not good paper?
[01:22:12.260 --> 01:22:13.360] I didn't look at that.
[01:22:14.900 --> 01:22:17.140] So that was a waste of money.
[01:22:17.140 --> 01:22:19.200] Should have did some numbers.
[01:22:19.420 --> 01:22:28.600] Should have looked at the cost better and should have realized the cost was going to be substantial if the paper didn't work out.
[01:22:29.280 --> 01:22:32.320] But I went with the, I think it might work.
[01:22:33.780 --> 01:22:37.700] And because they had to sell a cut to three cases.
[01:22:39.480 --> 01:22:47.930] So yeah, that was a fail for sure because I never, you know what?
[01:22:47.950 --> 01:22:51.030] To this day that paper is in my storage unit.
[01:22:51.290 --> 01:22:53.390] Come to think of it.
[01:22:53.930 --> 01:23:04.690] Well, I know you hold different workshops and you have almost 500 plus attendees at these workshops.
[01:23:05.430 --> 01:23:07.070] I think you could use them at your workshops.
[01:23:08.310 --> 01:23:11.030] If I probably should just use a prescribed paper.
[01:23:11.830 --> 01:23:13.470] I probably should.
[01:23:13.850 --> 01:23:19.670] I really should because I can't print on it, you know, or I can even, you know what?
[01:23:19.990 --> 01:23:21.310] I probably can't even donate.
[01:23:22.550 --> 01:23:27.610] Now I'm talking to you through other programs that they're doing with the Youth in the City Artwise.
[01:23:28.050 --> 01:23:30.410] I can maybe donate it.
[01:23:30.570 --> 01:23:32.870] And that's probably should do something.
[01:23:33.150 --> 01:23:35.170] It's definitely sitting there.
[01:23:35.170 --> 01:23:36.390] It has a new home.
[01:23:38.570 --> 01:23:40.510] I didn't get rid of it.
[01:23:40.590 --> 01:23:43.510] You know, I didn't have to thought of repurposing and use it.
[01:23:44.110 --> 01:23:47.550] But I had a little delay on my actions.
[01:23:50.710 --> 01:23:52.210] Some come abouts, cool.
[01:23:54.090 --> 01:23:54.610] Yes.
[01:23:54.930 --> 01:23:55.770] Well, know your numbers.
[01:23:56.430 --> 01:23:56.630] Yeah.
[01:23:56.850 --> 01:23:58.350] So know your numbers.
[01:24:00.210 --> 01:24:02.210] How much do your dream cost?
[01:24:02.350 --> 01:24:03.350] You know your numbers.
[01:24:03.350 --> 01:24:08.510] You want to do set design and graphics for a movie.
[01:24:08.790 --> 01:24:15.770] If the right movie was to approach you with a limited budget, what would you charge them?
[01:24:22.040 --> 01:24:24.220] Probably 100,000.
[01:24:27.160 --> 01:24:27.740] Know your numbers.
[01:24:27.840 --> 01:24:30.640] Why you come up with that number specifically?
[01:24:32.580 --> 01:24:40.920] Because you look at maybe how much time it's going to take to do the filming and things like that.
[01:24:40.920 --> 01:24:43.460] And maybe how many hours, you know.
[01:24:43.740 --> 01:24:47.180] So when you break all that down, what does it equal to?
[01:24:47.280 --> 01:24:50.140] And then you also got to think about if you're going to have to pay somebody.
[01:24:50.940 --> 01:24:54.700] But that is for like a three month film time.
[01:24:55.800 --> 01:24:58.660] Now, if it was six months, then we tripling it.
[01:24:58.660 --> 01:24:59.880] I mean doubling it, I'm sorry.
[01:25:00.760 --> 01:25:08.260] But yeah, because I might have to pay somebody within that time frame to assist or something like that.
[01:25:08.260 --> 01:25:13.940] So it depends on the type of set, but I'm thinking like a smaller set.
[01:25:16.230 --> 01:25:21.170] Now we got like eight different rooms, two hospital views.
[01:25:21.230 --> 01:25:22.290] That's a different story.
[01:25:24.310 --> 01:25:26.350] But I'm thinking something small.
[01:25:27.690 --> 01:25:28.330] Okay.
[01:25:30.090 --> 01:25:34.350] And as you mentioned, team, you need these key players.
[01:25:34.350 --> 01:25:35.610] Excuse me.
[01:25:35.770 --> 01:25:39.290] Not just for the movie, but for your business right now.
[01:25:39.710 --> 01:25:41.330] The creative Leo.
[01:25:42.310 --> 01:25:45.610] What are some of the people that you need on your team right now?
[01:25:48.050 --> 01:25:58.710] I need fellow creative strategists that can take on different key project areas.
[01:26:00.250 --> 01:26:04.230] So as I said, we do commercial printing, but we also do graphics.
[01:26:04.230 --> 01:26:11.270] So someone that can be over a commercial printing side would be cool and try to drive that area.
[01:26:11.290 --> 01:26:13.290] Someone to drive the graphic area.
[01:26:14.610 --> 01:26:26.950] And then myself will more or less kind of play a role in those key areas, but also drive the creative brand side of things as well.
[01:26:29.040 --> 01:26:29.220] Okay.
[01:26:29.220 --> 01:26:37.040] And when you say creative strategist, because I mean, I consider myself as a creative strategist in a sense.
[01:26:38.300 --> 01:26:42.620] Not necessarily brand myself as that, but a wink wink.
[01:26:43.000 --> 01:26:44.900] We could definitely talk about it.
[01:26:51.050 --> 01:26:53.470] But wrapping up, wrapping up, wrapping up.
[01:26:54.470 --> 01:27:03.310] When we think about legacy, what does legacy mean for you and then also for your business?
[01:27:06.130 --> 01:27:19.080] For me, legacy means how did I make people feel when they met me or when they spoke to me or when they saw me?
[01:27:19.080 --> 01:27:25.280] Legacy for me personally is about community impact as well.
[01:27:25.280 --> 01:27:33.840] I'm big on the community, big on volunteering, big on helping out where I can in any way.
[01:27:34.200 --> 01:27:44.340] Because I feel like my community poured into me as I was growing up and I feel that it still does.
[01:27:45.660 --> 01:27:48.900] On a business side, connecting to a community.
[01:27:51.700 --> 01:27:57.180] You're asking the community to support your business, but not support the community as a business.
[01:27:57.340 --> 01:27:59.120] It's crazy work to me.
[01:28:00.440 --> 01:28:06.960] Because there's areas as business owners we can have great impact when it comes to our community.
[01:28:06.960 --> 01:28:15.920] Whether you donate into local community center to help them with feed, doing meals or something like that.
[01:28:16.460 --> 01:28:19.000] The impact can go all the way.
[01:28:19.800 --> 01:28:24.280] And most especially when you collaborate with other business owners to make a bigger impact.
[01:28:25.940 --> 01:28:36.400] Legacy for my business is how can we preserve certain moments in time and become a part of history
[01:28:36.400 --> 01:28:39.880] that will ultimately evolve history.
[01:28:44.200 --> 01:28:46.660] I would say that's my legacy.
[01:28:49.260 --> 01:29:00.840] And as you talk about preservation, I just took a walk last year downtown multiple times.
[01:29:01.520 --> 01:29:07.180] Just around downtown looking at the buildings, looking at the art, looking at the statues.
[01:29:08.320 --> 01:29:12.420] You see a lot of grief, a lot of sadness.
[01:29:13.460 --> 01:29:20.900] War and poverty and these statues and monuments and even the architecture on the buildings.
[01:29:21.120 --> 01:29:28.640] If you really look at the detail of certain buildings downtown, it's grief and it's sadness.
[01:29:29.840 --> 01:29:33.240] And then it reflects the city.
[01:29:33.240 --> 01:29:35.800] And when people look at that, it's almost like a mirror.
[01:29:35.980 --> 01:29:37.840] They reflect what they see.
[01:29:38.800 --> 01:29:44.340] And you see the homelessness, the poverty, the war with the shootings and everything.
[01:29:44.820 --> 01:29:46.960] Because our downtown looks like this.
[01:29:46.960 --> 01:29:48.340] This is what we're reflecting.
[01:29:49.420 --> 01:29:56.160] What is your thoughts on those images,
[01:29:57.180 --> 01:30:03.500] visualization pieces that are used downtown and on these buildings and statues?
[01:30:06.960 --> 01:30:09.080] You said what is some of the visualization?
[01:30:10.800 --> 01:30:18.020] What's your thoughts on the visualization and the images, the imagery that's used on these buildings?
[01:30:21.740 --> 01:30:26.260] So, you know, obviously going to school for interior design,
[01:30:26.460 --> 01:30:29.040] you really learn and we have to learn architectural history.
[01:30:29.680 --> 01:30:32.600] And we have to be able to look at a building or look at a house
[01:30:32.600 --> 01:30:37.360] and tell you all the designs features and write them down for a test.
[01:30:38.460 --> 01:30:41.800] So, I totally get where you're coming from.
[01:30:42.980 --> 01:30:47.900] I think these features and these things tell history.
[01:30:50.000 --> 01:30:59.620] Just like 50 years from now, the signs, the walls, the monuments,
[01:30:59.780 --> 01:31:06.460] or the areas that have George Floyd on them, the murals, things like that,
[01:31:07.820 --> 01:31:11.220] people are going to go back and look that up.
[01:31:11.220 --> 01:31:15.240] And it's going to speak to our history and our time.
[01:31:16.730 --> 01:31:21.230] But if you go back to some historical parts of Cleveland
[01:31:22.290 --> 01:31:25.990] and you go back and realize that you're standing on a street
[01:31:27.530 --> 01:31:31.050] that was considered a segregated area
[01:31:31.810 --> 01:31:38.510] and you are in a part of it where your ancestors were not welcomed,
[01:31:40.080 --> 01:31:44.300] it changes your whole perspective as you stand in that moment.
[01:31:45.920 --> 01:31:48.240] Because you're now looking at a house
[01:31:48.240 --> 01:31:52.420] or something that stood during that time frame
[01:31:53.080 --> 01:31:55.680] that was a part of the historical society.
[01:31:56.700 --> 01:31:59.100] And it will tell you different histories and stuff.
[01:31:59.620 --> 01:32:04.060] And you're like, whoa, okay, so this house was this.
[01:32:04.580 --> 01:32:06.860] In Akron, John Brown House,
[01:32:07.620 --> 01:32:09.820] so you just live in Akron but not Akron U.
[01:32:10.320 --> 01:32:13.600] But the John Brown House is there in Akron, it still stands.
[01:32:17.200 --> 01:32:19.900] And going to go see that and reading the history
[01:32:20.380 --> 01:32:25.060] and seeing where it is now, it's not on a bad side of town or nothing.
[01:32:25.720 --> 01:32:30.440] It's just like, what did this look like?
[01:32:30.940 --> 01:32:33.940] You know in a movie where they can stand in the middle
[01:32:33.940 --> 01:32:38.140] somewhere and everything around them rewinds.
[01:32:39.480 --> 01:32:43.120] I think that what we see is a part of history,
[01:32:44.060 --> 01:32:47.180] most especially in certain architectural designs
[01:32:47.180 --> 01:32:49.980] and things of that nature as well.
[01:32:52.240 --> 01:32:55.740] The reason why some buildings have gargoyles on them
[01:32:55.740 --> 01:33:04.280] or like Grecian people or all that is the story behind it.
[01:33:06.940 --> 01:33:13.300] And they creatively, to me, preserved history by putting that there,
[01:33:13.300 --> 01:33:17.080] which is why murial walls and things like that
[01:33:17.080 --> 01:33:20.980] where people, artists who are creatively expressing their feelings
[01:33:20.980 --> 01:33:30.560] about maybe what's going on in society, if it still stands, you know.
[01:33:31.580 --> 01:33:37.300] You surely influenced me and stopped me from cussing out the city of Cleveland.
[01:33:37.300 --> 01:33:38.960] Y'all need to change this.
[01:33:40.780 --> 01:33:42.020] It's a different perspective.
[01:33:43.000 --> 01:33:45.260] That's actually different.
[01:33:47.740 --> 01:33:48.220] Okay.
[01:33:49.420 --> 01:33:55.220] And for someone that's listening to this as we explore your creative mind,
[01:33:56.580 --> 01:34:01.040] what is three to five takeaways from this podcast interview
[01:34:01.040 --> 01:34:03.340] that you would love to leave?
[01:34:06.730 --> 01:34:12.050] Understand that your creativity deserves to be seen and heard.
[01:34:14.610 --> 01:34:18.370] Make sure that you use your creativity to influence.
[01:34:20.810 --> 01:34:24.290] And ask yourself, what will your legacy be with your creativity?
[01:34:29.050 --> 01:34:30.610] I would say those are minds.
[01:34:33.870 --> 01:34:40.790] Creative influence is like the overarching theme in my mind for this.
[01:34:42.510 --> 01:34:43.530] This has been beautiful.
[01:34:44.810 --> 01:34:48.790] But I know you said you have a shop, a book.
[01:34:49.490 --> 01:34:52.810] How can we find more information about that?
[01:34:53.130 --> 01:34:56.490] Or can they look you up, book you, all that good stuff?
[01:34:57.670 --> 01:34:58.150] Sure.
[01:34:58.350 --> 01:35:04.370] So I'm on Instagram at the underscore Creative Leo
[01:35:05.530 --> 01:35:09.030] or at Creative Leo Designs, business-wise,
[01:35:09.030 --> 01:35:13.270] I'm on Facebook, Creative Leo Designs,
[01:35:13.330 --> 01:35:19.250] or my name, which is spelled S-H-C-A-R-R-A.
[01:35:19.910 --> 01:35:23.350] Last name being with two N's, B-E-N-N.
[01:35:23.770 --> 01:35:24.930] I'm on LinkedIn.
[01:35:25.810 --> 01:35:27.550] Connect with me where you may like.
[01:35:28.130 --> 01:35:31.770] If you want to have more conversations or dialogue about creativity,
[01:35:32.730 --> 01:35:35.810] how you view it, what you think, I'm here for it.
[01:35:35.810 --> 01:35:41.210] If you're interested in maybe understanding what your creativity may be,
[01:35:41.210 --> 01:35:45.570] I'm here for that as well because I help people understand that, you know,
[01:35:45.610 --> 01:35:46.650] you have it as well.
[01:35:46.990 --> 01:35:51.050] And so I normally, I have yet to not bring it out of somebody
[01:35:51.830 --> 01:35:55.050] because I want to make sure everybody understands their creativity
[01:35:55.050 --> 01:35:56.650] and why it's needed.
[01:35:57.950 --> 01:36:01.130] So book will be coming out August 14th,
[01:36:01.150 --> 01:36:04.310] named to be determined by collaborating with Mom and Dad.
[01:36:06.130 --> 01:36:11.250] And my Creative Hub, again, will be opening August 14th,
[01:36:11.250 --> 01:36:13.970] if everything goes well, as well.
[01:36:14.810 --> 01:36:16.450] So August 14th is my birthday.
[01:36:16.790 --> 01:36:18.690] We're going to be celebrating a lot of different things,
[01:36:18.830 --> 01:36:21.090] but ultimately that day we celebrate creativity.
[01:36:21.810 --> 01:36:24.590] So follow me for more so you can come out and support.
[01:36:26.050 --> 01:36:30.590] Creative Freak, I was going to say, yeah, August 14th,
[01:36:30.590 --> 01:36:33.230] you're definitely living it up creatively.
[01:36:34.770 --> 01:36:35.050] Yes.
[01:36:35.850 --> 01:36:36.730] I'll be there.
[01:36:36.730 --> 01:36:40.650] I'll be in the building and also purchasing a book.
[01:36:41.050 --> 01:36:45.450] I love to see the progress and love to read what you got
[01:36:45.450 --> 01:36:47.450] and your thoughts with all you've written.
[01:36:48.450 --> 01:36:51.170] If it's anything like this conversation, oh yeah,
[01:36:51.210 --> 01:36:52.730] I know the book is going to be great.
[01:36:54.270 --> 01:36:57.070] Yes, it's me, 100%.
[01:36:58.250 --> 01:36:59.010] 1000%.
[01:36:59.010 --> 01:36:59.610] Yes.
[01:37:01.070 --> 01:37:03.810] Yes, I appreciate you and taking the time.
[01:37:03.870 --> 01:37:04.650] This is beautiful.
[01:37:05.870 --> 01:37:06.370] Absolutely.
[01:37:06.430 --> 01:37:07.950] Thank you for having me.
[01:37:08.810 --> 01:37:09.570] Yeah.
[01:37:10.490 --> 01:37:13.290] And then y'all know me, Mr. Photographer Jackson,
[01:37:13.470 --> 01:37:16.970] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[01:37:17.650 --> 01:37:23.290] And this is another episode of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk
[01:37:23.290 --> 01:37:26.590] with Shakara Ben, the creative Leo.
[01:37:27.450 --> 01:37:34.670] And you can find me online at Alien Eyes Photos on all media.
[01:37:35.250 --> 01:37:40.710] And check out the website and book me, alieneyesphotos.com.
[01:37:41.210 --> 01:37:46.050] And everybody know we love holding creative entrepreneurs accountable
[01:37:46.050 --> 01:37:50.310] and getting them started, getting them over that hump.
[01:37:50.310 --> 01:37:54.130] We are purpose pushers for creative entrepreneurs
[01:37:54.130 --> 01:37:57.910] helping you stay on a creative frequency.
[01:37:58.690 --> 01:38:04.510] So follow us on a creative frequency on all media, especially Instagram.
[01:38:05.670 --> 01:38:09.770] And hey, again, this is another episode of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[01:38:10.630 --> 01:38:11.570] Shakara, we did it.
[01:38:11.730 --> 01:38:13.110] It's another one in the books.
[01:38:14.010 --> 01:38:14.290] Absolutely.
[01:38:14.610 --> 01:38:15.150] History.
[01:38:15.150 --> 01:38:19.930] History, history, history with the creative and the historian.
[01:38:21.230 --> 01:38:23.290] We are out.
[01:38:24.150 --> 01:38:24.530] Bye.

========================================================================
7. Stop Chasing Quick Results The Truth About Building a Successful Business
Season 1 · Episode 55
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/stop-chasing-quick-results-the-truth-about-building-a-succes
========================================================================

[00:00:01.650 --> 00:00:09.430] Walk on, walk on, walk on back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:10.850 --> 00:00:14.190] And let's talk about quick results.
[00:00:15.670 --> 00:00:19.010] This is your host, photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson.
[00:00:20.290 --> 00:00:25.250] And I know a lot of people want overnight success,
[00:00:25.630 --> 00:00:29.930] overnight results, overnight solutions.
[00:00:31.110 --> 00:00:38.930] Just for instance, you know, a lot of people get married and many people get divorces.
[00:00:39.910 --> 00:00:47.970] And then I break up, there's still feelings and emotions and attachment and lifestyle and habits and memories.
[00:00:49.050 --> 00:00:52.350] And it takes time. It takes time to heal.
[00:00:52.450 --> 00:00:56.750] You can't just go out the next day and start dating someone else.
[00:00:56.750 --> 00:01:02.630] I mean, you can, but it's not healthy to. You're not healed.
[00:01:02.730 --> 00:01:05.510] You're not taking that moment in time for yourself.
[00:01:05.610 --> 00:01:11.950] You're not refinding yourself, rediscovering yourself, like who you really are outside of this relationship.
[00:01:12.390 --> 00:01:18.470] Because now being a single person again off of this time period or being with this person
[00:01:18.470 --> 00:01:24.010] and doing similar lifestyles, having a combined lifestyle, it is different.
[00:01:24.010 --> 00:01:26.770] It takes time.
[00:01:27.410 --> 00:01:30.810] Just like being a champion.
[00:01:32.090 --> 00:01:40.710] You're not just going to be a champion off of your first, you know, match, your first game, whatever that may be.
[00:01:41.630 --> 00:01:48.430] It takes time and it's a process and then it's the season and then it's the playoffs and there's the actual championship game.
[00:01:48.430 --> 00:01:53.190] And you have to get it, steps to it. Just follow the steps.
[00:01:54.410 --> 00:02:05.710] But a lot of us want to push the button down, wait 20 to 30 seconds and expect money to pop up.
[00:02:06.030 --> 00:02:09.410] You want the bread. You want the bread to pop up.
[00:02:09.889 --> 00:02:13.270] That's what you want. And I get it. I like bread too.
[00:02:13.270 --> 00:02:16.710] You know, the money as you call it, bread.
[00:02:17.450 --> 00:02:20.010] But I do like toast, toast with butter and jelly.
[00:02:20.890 --> 00:02:22.910] That's been a classic growing up.
[00:02:24.710 --> 00:02:32.550] Everybody want these microwave quick results, like put it in the microwave, two minutes later, bing, it's done.
[00:02:34.370 --> 00:02:39.310] And especially with this AI, people are really expecting these results.
[00:02:39.310 --> 00:02:44.370] Like, oh, I don't need a photo shoot. Oh, I don't need video production.
[00:02:44.990 --> 00:02:47.130] Oh, I don't need podcasts.
[00:02:47.410 --> 00:02:51.530] I don't need this. Oh, I don't need a consultant. Oh, I don't need it.
[00:02:51.770 --> 00:02:56.530] I got AI. I got chatty. I got Claude.
[00:02:56.590 --> 00:02:59.370] I got Gemini. I got Grog.
[00:03:00.410 --> 00:03:03.470] I got perplexity. I've been doing my research.
[00:03:05.530 --> 00:03:09.730] Like, AI is not, well, let me take that back.
[00:03:09.850 --> 00:03:12.230] I'm going to say AI is not here to save the day.
[00:03:13.250 --> 00:03:19.270] But to make it your N-R-B-R, you want that quick result.
[00:03:21.090 --> 00:03:29.050] And you put it into work beforehand and then using AI as a tool and then also working with it.
[00:03:29.050 --> 00:03:34.890] And then also using it at the end to wrap it all up.
[00:03:35.530 --> 00:03:36.790] That should be the process.
[00:03:37.050 --> 00:03:43.110] Not just you input into AI and you just roll with it and they controlling you.
[00:03:43.110 --> 00:03:44.090] You work for it.
[00:03:44.370 --> 00:03:50.990] And there's actually a website that's for AI hired humans.
[00:03:52.270 --> 00:03:53.930] So, yeah, it's real.
[00:03:53.930 --> 00:04:02.590] So if that's the case, just go do that versus, you know, whatever AI spits out at you.
[00:04:02.670 --> 00:04:09.490] You take it and roll with it, even with pictures and these flyers and content creation with it.
[00:04:12.580 --> 00:04:15.840] Never take the first one. Just do it again.
[00:04:15.840 --> 00:04:27.020] It's like, give me one more or even say give me two to three versions of this versus just one or whatever they come up with.
[00:04:27.480 --> 00:04:28.520] That's it.
[00:04:30.200 --> 00:04:34.540] And it's going back to that microwave quick results.
[00:04:34.920 --> 00:04:40.920] You want to push the button down on the toaster, wait 20, 30 seconds.
[00:04:42.060 --> 00:04:48.280] And want something magical to pop up like, you wanted to shock you, catch you off guard.
[00:04:48.480 --> 00:04:50.260] Wow, it really happened.
[00:04:50.460 --> 00:04:52.400] It popped. Wow, it's done.
[00:04:52.680 --> 00:04:53.840] I've got the solution.
[00:04:54.500 --> 00:04:55.980] It's finally done.
[00:04:56.060 --> 00:04:57.340] It's finally here.
[00:04:57.520 --> 00:04:59.580] I finally feel success.
[00:05:00.740 --> 00:05:06.830] But to pop that bubble, it takes time.
[00:05:07.190 --> 00:05:10.650] It really takes time, time to build.
[00:05:10.650 --> 00:05:14.950] Time to get the skills to where they need to be.
[00:05:15.530 --> 00:05:18.990] Time for consistency to keep compounded and building.
[00:05:19.990 --> 00:05:21.650] It takes time.
[00:05:21.710 --> 00:05:22.870] And take your time.
[00:05:23.490 --> 00:05:26.110] Don't be afraid and take your time.
[00:05:26.550 --> 00:05:36.690] You have to have patience, especially as a business owner, as an entrepreneur, creative entrepreneur, small business owner,
[00:05:38.410 --> 00:05:48.270] founder, CEO, you have to take that time and take time for yourself.
[00:05:48.870 --> 00:05:57.390] Whether if it's once a week, twice a week, take time for yourself, even if it's a half day.
[00:05:58.210 --> 00:05:59.970] Take that half day for yourself.
[00:06:00.050 --> 00:06:00.710] You know what?
[00:06:02.710 --> 00:06:09.350] This afternoon all the way to the evening and nighttime, this is my time.
[00:06:09.570 --> 00:06:17.770] This is my time once a week, once every two weeks, once every month.
[00:06:17.970 --> 00:06:19.150] But start somewhere.
[00:06:22.020 --> 00:06:28.120] I would say start with one full day and see how it works out for you.
[00:06:28.480 --> 00:06:29.220] Balance out.
[00:06:29.340 --> 00:06:30.460] But you need that time.
[00:06:30.460 --> 00:06:32.860] The time to yourself is powerful.
[00:06:33.880 --> 00:06:40.540] Even having that micro time each day, whether it's just waking up and taking that time, taking that time to meditate,
[00:06:40.820 --> 00:06:45.400] taking that time for yourself, taking your time to reflect, writing your journal.
[00:06:47.120 --> 00:06:48.360] Do what you got to do.
[00:06:50.120 --> 00:06:51.760] That time is for you.
[00:06:52.300 --> 00:06:55.640] Because the world is so, so loud.
[00:06:56.080 --> 00:06:58.760] Like, oh, I can't even hear myself, hear my thoughts.
[00:06:58.760 --> 00:07:00.320] I'm always in different conversations.
[00:07:00.540 --> 00:07:01.180] Oh, I got to network.
[00:07:01.420 --> 00:07:02.600] Oh, I got to do this production.
[00:07:02.920 --> 00:07:03.840] Oh, I got to direct.
[00:07:04.140 --> 00:07:05.800] Oh, I got to have this consultation.
[00:07:06.020 --> 00:07:09.080] Oh, I got to have this pre-production call, this discovery call.
[00:07:09.500 --> 00:07:10.880] Oh, I got to do this sales call.
[00:07:10.920 --> 00:07:11.980] Oh, I got to do this email.
[00:07:12.140 --> 00:07:16.020] This world is so loud and so much going on at once.
[00:07:16.280 --> 00:07:23.100] So many things going on at the same time at once.
[00:07:24.180 --> 00:07:25.140] So loud.
[00:07:25.780 --> 00:07:27.160] I want to hear myself.
[00:07:27.160 --> 00:07:30.580] I want to be one with myself.
[00:07:31.440 --> 00:07:41.100] It's cool to be one with the world, but you must first be one with yourself, especially as a solo entrepreneur.
[00:07:42.020 --> 00:07:51.680] It's important because you want the right people around you once you start adding team members and hiring and getting interns
[00:07:52.660 --> 00:07:58.360] and consultants, accountants, lawyers, like all of that.
[00:07:59.400 --> 00:08:05.780] You want to have the right people in place and people that you can trust and that are skillful.
[00:08:06.640 --> 00:08:15.400] So when you have that moment and that time away and be able to take months off, you know,
[00:08:15.480 --> 00:08:19.360] even a year if you wanted to have the right people in place,
[00:08:19.360 --> 00:08:26.800] you train them and you know their skills, you know their value, their worth, their worth and their work ethic.
[00:08:27.640 --> 00:08:29.480] Like, it takes time.
[00:08:31.630 --> 00:08:34.909] It really, really takes time.
[00:08:37.350 --> 00:08:41.990] And remember, you are your own competition.
[00:08:42.990 --> 00:08:54.550] You are to get better each day and not wait for things to just go of course.
[00:08:55.990 --> 00:09:01.380] Like magically something's going to happen by complaining.
[00:09:03.660 --> 00:09:05.240] So take that step back.
[00:09:06.520 --> 00:09:09.780] Be consistent and doing great things.
[00:09:09.780 --> 00:09:13.940] Reach for perfection, the awesomeness.
[00:09:13.940 --> 00:09:19.460] If you have that and you keep that, all the great things are going to come.
[00:09:19.880 --> 00:09:24.120] All the success that you're dying for and earning for is going to come.
[00:09:25.040 --> 00:09:30.920] All of the things you constantly think about when you're up at night and you land and stand at the ceiling
[00:09:30.920 --> 00:09:35.860] and looking at the wall, these things are going to come with hard work.
[00:09:35.860 --> 00:09:38.680] Get yourself out of that rut.
[00:09:39.740 --> 00:09:40.920] You have to do it.
[00:09:40.920 --> 00:09:42.680] You have to show up for you.
[00:09:43.000 --> 00:09:43.940] You first.
[00:09:44.280 --> 00:09:45.120] Be strong.
[00:09:46.360 --> 00:09:48.560] But you can't wait for quick results.
[00:09:49.420 --> 00:09:50.980] Take that time for yourself.
[00:09:53.190 --> 00:09:54.210] Be patient.
[00:09:56.030 --> 00:09:58.630] The greatness and your time is coming.
[00:09:59.730 --> 00:10:00.710] I promise you.
[00:10:01.130 --> 00:10:04.330] And if you was already there and you kind of got knocked off,
[00:10:05.150 --> 00:10:05.890] guess what?
[00:10:05.970 --> 00:10:08.330] Your time is going to come again.
[00:10:11.880 --> 00:10:13.060] It's going to happen.
[00:10:13.420 --> 00:10:13.960] It's life.
[00:10:14.340 --> 00:10:16.680] It's like hills and valleys, the peaks.
[00:10:17.240 --> 00:10:20.420] Climbing the mountain one time you're up, one time you're down.
[00:10:20.700 --> 00:10:21.960] Or reach the biggest peak.
[00:10:22.360 --> 00:10:23.520] Oh no, look at that.
[00:10:23.800 --> 00:10:25.000] There's something even greater.
[00:10:25.900 --> 00:10:26.820] It's life.
[00:10:27.660 --> 00:10:28.660] Know that it's going to happen.
[00:10:28.800 --> 00:10:30.000] So be patient with it.
[00:10:30.440 --> 00:10:31.760] Be patient with your life.
[00:10:37.160 --> 00:10:41.910] It will all come.
[00:10:41.990 --> 00:10:43.910] Don't rely on these quick results.
[00:10:43.910 --> 00:10:47.550] Don't rely on these magical wishes.
[00:10:49.090 --> 00:10:50.370] The blessings is going to come.
[00:10:50.730 --> 00:10:52.310] Trust me.
[00:10:52.650 --> 00:10:53.970] All right, y'all.
[00:10:54.390 --> 00:10:56.830] I got to hop on this Zoom call.
[00:10:57.750 --> 00:11:03.350] I am Mr. Photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:11:04.150 --> 00:11:10.970] And this has been another episode of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:11:11.790 --> 00:11:13.230] Thank you for tuning in.
[00:11:13.230 --> 00:11:19.230] And if you want to follow me, you can follow me at Alien Eyes Photos
[00:11:20.230 --> 00:11:27.330] and also at A-E-P-I-T-P-O-D.
[00:11:27.530 --> 00:11:30.550] That's A-E-P-I-T Pod.
[00:11:32.550 --> 00:11:37.590] And check me out for more information or to book me directly
[00:11:37.910 --> 00:11:39.550] and get on my calendar.
[00:11:40.370 --> 00:11:45.950] Or if you need a podcast shot, your event covered,
[00:11:46.630 --> 00:11:50.970] definitely visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:11:51.250 --> 00:11:52.870] All the booking information.
[00:11:53.750 --> 00:11:57.270] Some of my old galleries, portfolios up there.
[00:11:57.310 --> 00:11:59.730] I got to update that, but I'm going to be serious.
[00:12:00.310 --> 00:12:01.430] But people like it.
[00:12:01.950 --> 00:12:04.610] But they see my work now, they're like, wow.
[00:12:05.210 --> 00:12:06.130] They're blown away.
[00:12:06.310 --> 00:12:08.750] So that's kind of the little ripple effect.
[00:12:08.750 --> 00:12:11.650] Like, oh, you like my past or you don't really like me now.
[00:12:12.310 --> 00:12:14.850] But yeah, visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:12:15.070 --> 00:12:15.810] I am out.

========================================================================
8. The Pull Up Experience Episode 321 with Photographer Steve Jackson (repurposed)
Season 1 · Episode 54
Listen: https://youtu.be/TQU1wXhysLU?si=bICCkGDMCqH_8vo7
========================================================================

[00:00:00.140 --> 00:00:03.880] What's going on everybody welcome to the post
[00:00:08.560 --> 00:00:14.220] So for the one the only mrs. Steven the Jackson
[00:00:18.300 --> 00:00:19.820] Yes, sir
[00:00:23.420 --> 00:00:30.120] If you you know, so funny you I know you've seen it every time where I was Steve Steve is a with
[00:00:31.020 --> 00:00:33.200] Sure and the crazy
[00:00:33.200 --> 00:00:36.100] photography scene just to see
[00:00:37.060 --> 00:00:39.340] What the scene on you, okay
[00:00:44.000 --> 00:00:47.900] One of the with there will be no close friends about sensei
[00:00:47.900 --> 00:00:52.980] And I wanted one of your father because listen since they've been down
[00:00:53.640 --> 00:00:59.080] We talked about snow sleep. He's been there. He's been there making sure it was a little great
[00:00:59.080 --> 00:01:03.060] Now he's liberating to make sure it's afforded into goddess. Yeah
[00:01:04.400 --> 00:01:11.200] But I can't take me time we have conferences where he literally from podcast to life in general
[00:01:15.520 --> 00:01:17.600] That's the podcast right there
[00:01:17.600 --> 00:01:19.540] I'm all the tears. It's done
[00:01:22.280 --> 00:01:25.700] But you really are the heart yeah
[00:01:27.640 --> 00:01:32.000] Appreciate your beautiful introduction. I know a lot of people say that but like now I feel it
[00:01:36.520 --> 00:01:37.080] Okay
[00:01:37.080 --> 00:01:37.400] I
[00:01:41.040 --> 00:01:48.700] Because beauty told has had the pleasure of having you behind the scenes doing what you do best making sure that
[00:01:48.700 --> 00:01:50.940] everything is
[00:01:50.940 --> 00:01:57.340] Photo to a tee. Okay, and I am blessed to have you any time you come through that though
[00:01:57.340 --> 00:01:59.560] I know it's not to be is my beauty
[00:01:59.560 --> 00:02:00.540] good
[00:02:01.760 --> 00:02:02.320] Okay
[00:02:07.500 --> 00:02:13.720] So, thank you for all that you do. Thank you for all that you have done don't do all that
[00:02:13.720 --> 00:02:19.200] No, I appreciate y'all like five years and to make it in counting
[00:02:24.760 --> 00:02:31.780] A lot of podcasters fall off within the first year even businesses don't even make it to the second year
[00:02:31.780 --> 00:02:36.780] So just to attest to that like then kudos to you and we still doing still growing
[00:02:37.080 --> 00:02:39.960] I'm glad hey glad that you have
[00:02:43.420 --> 00:02:44.980] Yes, sir
[00:02:55.120 --> 00:03:00.300] St. Claire
[00:03:00.900 --> 00:03:01.420] Where
[00:03:05.260 --> 00:03:08.300] 56 you know, it's just you know, we just organic
[00:03:09.440 --> 00:03:11.820] We'll be hitting numbers all day
[00:03:12.640 --> 00:03:13.840] game show
[00:03:14.960 --> 00:03:18.460] Yeah, hundred fifty six percent clarify six bricks
[00:03:20.280 --> 00:03:25.900] Between start off Lake Shore Grove would and then most of my year childhood years saying clear
[00:03:27.100 --> 00:03:31.380] Wow, even my school of St. Claire, but it's crazy like
[00:03:31.380 --> 00:03:36.060] You know just my origin story becoming a photographer. I
[00:03:36.060 --> 00:03:38.900] Call it 12 shots because y'all remember them 12 shot cameras
[00:03:39.640 --> 00:03:41.340] Cameras you wanted up. Yes
[00:03:42.400 --> 00:03:48.440] Oh, I had a field trip. My mother brought me a camera and I use all of it within the first couple minutes
[00:03:49.820 --> 00:03:52.920] So that's my origin story behind the camera, but
[00:03:53.760 --> 00:04:00.900] Document everything because my my childhood hospital gone childhood homes gone childhood high school
[00:04:00.900 --> 00:04:02.300] Go on my elementary
[00:04:02.300 --> 00:04:06.840] Preschool a lot of things or even at Collinwood now is shut down
[00:04:06.840 --> 00:04:12.600] So like all of my history is gone. So I don't have no photos or nothing to document
[00:04:12.600 --> 00:04:15.720] And that's why I'm like, I'm more of a historian to anything
[00:04:16.140 --> 00:04:16.540] Wow
[00:04:19.820 --> 00:04:24.900] Documentation I'm making history literally so like, you know how they had MTV Cribs
[00:04:24.900 --> 00:04:28.300] I can't ride past my childhood home. I grew up in that home
[00:04:28.900 --> 00:04:34.160] So that's the main reason I personally became a photographer and you know
[00:04:34.160 --> 00:04:38.260] I know I know I'm kind of jumping the gun, but just giving more of my ordinary story
[00:04:39.980 --> 00:04:42.880] Well, I like it goes back to the throwback with the click click
[00:04:45.740 --> 00:04:48.000] You know I'm saying because you have a kid it's like
[00:04:51.720 --> 00:04:55.060] But one thing I prefer is but you are created for it
[00:04:55.060 --> 00:05:01.400] Yes, sir, you are like any facet I feel like you have dabble in it and master it to a certain extent
[00:05:01.400 --> 00:05:03.320] I love it poetry
[00:05:05.280 --> 00:05:11.060] Make music you've done these things. So have you always that kid that a talent show
[00:05:11.060 --> 00:05:15.020] We know more Steve up there or it was something that you grassy
[00:05:16.120 --> 00:05:20.660] A lot of people want to be performed just like the camera. I'm more behind the scenes
[00:05:20.660 --> 00:05:23.990] I would write it be in the studio. But as far as like
[00:05:24.700 --> 00:05:29.630] publicly performing I did a couple of talent shows in school, but it didn't come to
[00:05:31.220 --> 00:05:37.600] Whoo my later years in my 20s when I actually start performing performing constantly. I remember doing over
[00:05:38.560 --> 00:05:40.980] 50 plus shows in one year
[00:05:40.980 --> 00:05:44.720] So that you gotta think about that's like multiple shows each week
[00:05:48.780 --> 00:05:55.670] Well, I'm gonna actually I don't say shy but I'm introverted but that helps help me
[00:05:56.360 --> 00:06:02.520] Broadcast my emotion feelings and thoughts. I'm always having the thoughts. I got a million thoughts running in my mind at once
[00:06:04.720 --> 00:06:06.670] So it just helped me
[00:06:07.770 --> 00:06:14.650] Structure and just get it all out my head and that became poetry and then poetry became music, you know
[00:06:19.510 --> 00:06:25.330] It's funny because my producer my first producer was my brother and then he fell off I'm like
[00:06:25.330 --> 00:06:31.830] I'm gonna continue that and still write and like I remember having those, you know instrumentals with the CDs
[00:06:32.850 --> 00:06:36.390] You know where they had a single but they also had instrumental
[00:06:36.670 --> 00:06:43.730] Like I'll rupture anything just freestyling just I'm talking about Barry White that that long timid
[00:06:45.430 --> 00:06:47.190] Just freestyling anything
[00:06:48.590 --> 00:06:53.590] Little Wayne in the before little Wayne little way. I was actually one of my favorite artists back in the hot boys days
[00:06:53.590 --> 00:06:55.070] I'm like he gonna blow up
[00:06:58.410 --> 00:07:00.010] So by the way
[00:07:01.650 --> 00:07:04.750] You are you are you are avid basketball player
[00:07:06.990 --> 00:07:09.530] Oh fun fact about you
[00:07:10.370 --> 00:07:12.600] It's crazy I have a episode
[00:07:14.490 --> 00:07:21.150] Eliminate all distractions even the NBA and I was gonna try out for the NBA G League
[00:07:21.150 --> 00:07:28.130] For the Cavs G League team the charge. I took a step back. I'm like, it's a time investment
[00:07:28.130 --> 00:07:32.550] Financial investment. I'm gonna be tired cuz I have to work. It was like
[00:07:33.430 --> 00:07:37.470] I'm like, I'm older than most cats. They coming fresh out of high school college
[00:07:38.430 --> 00:07:39.990] taller fashion like
[00:07:40.710 --> 00:07:45.230] But I end up not doing it and focus more on my podcast my business
[00:07:45.970 --> 00:07:50.290] Alienize photos, so check that episode out alienize photos industry talk
[00:07:51.170 --> 00:07:55.130] Eliminate all distractions even the NBA but yeah, I love basketball
[00:07:56.550 --> 00:08:01.390] I played in high school middle school when undefeated my eighth grade year
[00:08:06.330 --> 00:08:07.570] MVP of my
[00:08:07.570 --> 00:08:11.470] So I didn't make this funny I didn't make the varsity our
[00:08:12.230 --> 00:08:15.130] Junior varsity, but they had a freshman team. Okay
[00:08:15.130 --> 00:08:22.670] I ended up making MVP of that captain of that captain across country, which I became the only runner everybody else fell off
[00:08:22.670 --> 00:08:30.490] So by default captain of the cross country team tracks. I was like, you know, just just being out here
[00:08:30.750 --> 00:08:32.070] An athlete
[00:08:45.430 --> 00:08:47.690] 16 16 for
[00:08:47.690 --> 00:08:54.170] and might have elevated out. So we're in the staircase. We had to go up to the sixth floor.
[00:08:55.230 --> 00:09:01.750] Sensei is gone. He's gone. I'm like, what is this? With the cake, with the birthday cake.
[00:09:02.030 --> 00:09:12.010] I am dying in the stairwell. It was hot. I've never seen Sensei. He was like, come on,
[00:09:12.010 --> 00:09:20.630] come on, come on, come on. Oh, he was coached, Sensei. So that makes sense. I mean, he could go.
[00:09:23.270 --> 00:09:28.970] Well, I ain't slim for nothing. I got a little dad bod now, but you know, I try to, I try to,
[00:09:28.970 --> 00:09:34.170] you know, be out there. I used to be a fitness coach for a few months with Herbal Life.
[00:09:36.290 --> 00:09:41.930] What? We find out so much about Sensei. Yeah, you know, I'm a dad bod in it, but I had a lot
[00:09:41.930 --> 00:09:46.790] of people run hills. So I can't just say, oh, run these hills. I do it with you. I ain't
[00:09:46.790 --> 00:09:50.950] going to tell you, dude. I do it with you. That's how I am, you know, with my teaching and
[00:09:50.950 --> 00:09:58.130] I do it with you. Okay. I'm pretty sure. That's why we're here. Yeah, we was like,
[00:09:58.130 --> 00:10:06.690] wait for this episode. Okay. So we are realizing that we have so many different hats that you're
[00:10:06.690 --> 00:10:10.810] wearing at such a young age in your life, you know, cause you're in your early twenties and
[00:10:10.810 --> 00:10:14.890] you're really starting to like dibble and dabble and everything. Now they say everything
[00:10:14.890 --> 00:10:20.870] happens in seasons. So was it poetry first and then that transition to music and what
[00:10:21.430 --> 00:10:26.970] I guess led you to start one and then end one to start something new.
[00:10:26.970 --> 00:10:34.010] It was all together. I would say poetry came first because it was just writing my thoughts out
[00:10:34.010 --> 00:10:40.890] and then my brother started producing with Fruity Loops FL Studio. I'm like, oh yeah. Then he
[00:10:40.890 --> 00:10:46.410] went over to Japan and the military and kind of got straight away. I'm like, so what's up,
[00:10:46.510 --> 00:10:51.290] man? We, you know, we brothers, we get one, two punch it like that. So I just had to,
[00:10:51.290 --> 00:10:56.150] you know, continue myself. I've always been a writer, whether that's books, poetry, music.
[00:10:56.150 --> 00:11:02.090] I just love writing, you know, so that's how it all started is writing, just writing is writing.
[00:11:02.550 --> 00:11:10.730] Wow. That's impressive. Now. Okay. So you, you realize so poetry and music is together.
[00:11:10.730 --> 00:11:16.610] So I guess maybe my next question is when does photography come into play? Cause we,
[00:11:16.790 --> 00:11:22.310] we talked about, you know, rewind when you had the little clickety click and that was like
[00:11:22.310 --> 00:11:27.830] first little trial into, you know, being able to know about photos and the importance of
[00:11:27.830 --> 00:11:32.270] documenting. So how does that, you know, moving forward come into play?
[00:11:32.830 --> 00:11:38.450] Going from the film days, um, can't say I'm a film photographer naturally, but
[00:11:38.450 --> 00:11:47.230] all the way to, I would say it's the end, end of my music poetry career,
[00:11:47.890 --> 00:11:56.330] where I used to host, perform, be featured, but I would still film others and take pictures on my
[00:11:56.330 --> 00:12:00.470] phone. I'm like, this is content that I want for myself. If I'm an artist, I want to, you
[00:12:00.470 --> 00:12:05.710] know, have video to post and take pictures, remember the day, see myself in action,
[00:12:06.010 --> 00:12:10.450] critique myself. So I'm like, let me just do it for others. Even if it's like a couple
[00:12:10.450 --> 00:12:14.550] minutes, you know, boom, boom, boom, send it to them. Oh, thanks, man. This is dope.
[00:12:14.550 --> 00:12:21.090] I'm like, Oh, really is dope. So I'm like, I'm seeing how a lot of people are getting paid.
[00:12:21.110 --> 00:12:27.250] It was mainly through, you know, photography, video at different events. Like I said,
[00:12:27.250 --> 00:12:31.310] I was doing 50 plus shows. So I'm starting to see the whole, just standing back,
[00:12:31.450 --> 00:12:36.190] just seeing the whole event structures and how they set up and the flow and everything.
[00:12:36.330 --> 00:12:41.750] I'm like, Oh, how to move, how the money's moving. And they say it's not a lot of money
[00:12:41.750 --> 00:12:47.810] in poetry or poets don't get paid, which is true. And with my music, a lot of people
[00:12:47.810 --> 00:12:52.530] didn't want to pay my rate. So it's like almost default to poetry. Like they want me to do
[00:12:52.530 --> 00:12:58.250] something free. You get like a palm or two. That's it. I ain't enjoying the song. Like,
[00:12:58.270 --> 00:13:03.130] cause that's, I do a performance like Michael Jackson. I ain't just up there reciting,
[00:13:03.430 --> 00:13:06.630] oh, hey, yeah, yeah. Like, no, I'm moving. I'm coming from the ceiling.
[00:13:06.630 --> 00:13:11.290] I remember one. I gotta see the video for this. Oh, man.
[00:13:13.490 --> 00:13:17.670] I'll come from there. You hear my voice from the back room and like, where you got?
[00:13:17.810 --> 00:13:21.490] And then I just come out like, oh, like, you know, make it.
[00:13:21.670 --> 00:13:25.590] You know where we seen that? Futureland where he's on stage. Sensei, we all on
[00:13:25.590 --> 00:13:28.790] stage. Sensei said, no, I'm going to be right in front. Yeah. Remember when he jumped
[00:13:28.790 --> 00:13:36.610] down and he was out there. He was down there with the audience. That's my, that's
[00:13:36.610 --> 00:13:41.010] I didn't know y'all was on stage yet. Like I'm yelling through the halls. It's like,
[00:13:42.510 --> 00:13:47.510] they're on stage. I'm like, oh, that's, that's my people. I'm supposed to be on stage too.
[00:13:47.970 --> 00:13:55.830] I'm on a hype like, yeah. I'm like, I didn't know we was on stage. So I came back and then
[00:13:55.830 --> 00:13:58.310] like our slides were on. It was like a whole bunch of-
[00:13:58.310 --> 00:14:01.450] It was a whole bunch. We'll talk about it. We'll talk about the part of pivot.
[00:14:01.650 --> 00:14:01.850] Yeah.
[00:14:01.850 --> 00:14:05.370] So I was already off the stage trying to work with that behind the scenes.
[00:14:05.370 --> 00:14:10.270] So I was just like, well, just, you know, I want to interact with her. I like walking and moving
[00:14:10.710 --> 00:14:14.470] sitting right down next to you. You know, this is what I've been through in my life.
[00:14:14.550 --> 00:14:17.750] You know what I mean? Like engaging with the crowd and feeling them. You know,
[00:14:17.750 --> 00:14:24.210] that connection and that, that I kind of like really, you know, like Michael Jackson on
[00:14:24.210 --> 00:14:28.650] stage, they are already fainting and usher. What if they came and sit down next to you?
[00:14:28.750 --> 00:14:29.650] It's a different experience.
[00:14:29.950 --> 00:14:33.490] Oh my gosh. Yeah. It's a memorable one because those are the things that
[00:14:33.490 --> 00:14:35.930] people remember 5, 10, 20 years.
[00:14:36.050 --> 00:14:37.270] It's like, I'm like, Jesus, am I going out now?
[00:14:37.270 --> 00:14:37.330] Yeah.
[00:14:37.330 --> 00:14:40.790] If I go to a concert with the performers, just, come on, y'all say it.
[00:14:41.050 --> 00:14:41.410] Yes.
[00:14:41.570 --> 00:14:41.870] Okay.
[00:14:42.170 --> 00:14:43.970] They call it that. Everybody had their style, you know?
[00:14:44.890 --> 00:14:48.390] But sometimes you get a little old. Love you Mary J. Blige, but girl,
[00:14:48.470 --> 00:14:49.450] you're going to have to pick it up now.
[00:14:54.070 --> 00:14:54.790] Yes, yes.
[00:14:55.070 --> 00:14:59.250] So I do have to ask this. So I'm very curious to know.
[00:14:59.490 --> 00:14:59.850] Okay.
[00:14:59.850 --> 00:15:06.590] Child of the podcast. But when you said that you ended your poetry
[00:15:06.590 --> 00:15:12.670] in your basically a music scene to be able to now start going into photography, what,
[00:15:13.150 --> 00:15:18.510] what was the, what was the sign that you knew that it was time to end that season?
[00:15:18.650 --> 00:15:21.050] I know everything goes in season, but what was your like,
[00:15:21.270 --> 00:15:22.870] yeah, I'm gonna have to hang this up.
[00:15:23.230 --> 00:15:26.230] Like towards the end, I'll end up losing my grandfather.
[00:15:26.910 --> 00:15:32.290] Like my first time crying in front of an audience, in front of people publicly,
[00:15:33.050 --> 00:15:35.610] like it just all came out. So I couldn't even get my words right.
[00:15:35.650 --> 00:15:37.790] One of my staple poems, like,
[00:15:39.830 --> 00:15:42.350] like can't remember the words and this is all okay.
[00:15:42.430 --> 00:15:45.050] I'm like, look, I'm going to just talk to y'all, you know,
[00:15:45.110 --> 00:15:48.230] whatever you've been through, you know, just really giving them a heart
[00:15:48.230 --> 00:15:51.210] and what I felt at the time, like I ain't going to perform.
[00:15:51.250 --> 00:15:54.670] I'm just giving a real raw me. And that's also spoken word. That's poetry.
[00:15:54.810 --> 00:15:55.870] You know, it's just that raw.
[00:15:56.390 --> 00:16:01.190] Emotion. But when I, when I go into something,
[00:16:01.990 --> 00:16:03.910] I like studying it, practicing it.
[00:16:04.010 --> 00:16:06.630] So I'm like, if I'm going to go in photography and video,
[00:16:07.210 --> 00:16:08.530] I'm going to go all in. I'm going to study.
[00:16:08.730 --> 00:16:12.090] So I did countless hours study, whole bunch of free events,
[00:16:12.170 --> 00:16:15.190] just going to different events, always bringing my camera everywhere I go.
[00:16:15.890 --> 00:16:18.110] Now everybody assume, oh, you got your camera.
[00:16:18.190 --> 00:16:19.030] Can you get a picture here?
[00:16:19.030 --> 00:16:22.530] So I stopped bringing it with me because that's when I started
[00:16:22.530 --> 00:16:25.610] transitioning into a business and learning more about the business.
[00:16:25.870 --> 00:16:29.010] As a photographer first and then add a video.
[00:16:29.510 --> 00:16:31.390] You are a mentor to so many others, right?
[00:16:31.690 --> 00:16:33.870] But when you first started out, who was the mentors or people
[00:16:33.870 --> 00:16:37.090] who were showing you the photography side at all?
[00:16:37.490 --> 00:16:38.310] Because I had nobody.
[00:16:38.710 --> 00:16:40.710] So you got to trial and error.
[00:16:41.310 --> 00:16:44.110] Yes. Not, not till later in my career.
[00:16:44.150 --> 00:16:47.150] I was fortunate to meet Sean Lee Jones.
[00:16:49.130 --> 00:16:52.130] Yes, yes, yes. I know he's been a couple of events.
[00:16:52.430 --> 00:16:54.990] He was at the podcast workshop we did.
[00:16:55.770 --> 00:16:57.830] He's real good friends with Asia.
[00:16:58.350 --> 00:17:01.530] So, yeah, like, man, he took me.
[00:17:01.630 --> 00:17:04.869] He's like, grab this 50 millimeter.
[00:17:05.069 --> 00:17:06.869] Now I'm like, 50. I'm looking at it.
[00:17:06.869 --> 00:17:08.810] Do I say five? Like, which one?
[00:17:09.369 --> 00:17:11.369] I don't know. He's like, shoot B-roll.
[00:17:12.150 --> 00:17:15.270] I ain't no B-roll, man. Get this, get that.
[00:17:15.369 --> 00:17:15.770] I'm like.
[00:17:15.910 --> 00:17:19.190] I'm sorry, since you got to say what B-roll is,
[00:17:19.349 --> 00:17:20.250] still don't know what it is.
[00:17:20.329 --> 00:17:21.750] When you say B-roll, what do you mean?
[00:17:24.060 --> 00:17:25.180] Now y'all already know.
[00:17:25.180 --> 00:17:28.540] So, so the main camera is the A-roll,
[00:17:28.620 --> 00:17:30.280] which you mainly see in front of you.
[00:17:30.300 --> 00:17:33.320] And then behind the scenes, the complimentary footage,
[00:17:33.360 --> 00:17:35.140] that's the B-roll with the secondary.
[00:17:35.460 --> 00:17:37.440] Like that's more so B-roll.
[00:17:37.580 --> 00:17:40.680] And that's the main, like, you know.
[00:17:40.860 --> 00:17:42.520] Or we show a picture of the setup,
[00:17:42.700 --> 00:17:43.660] like that'd be B-roll.
[00:17:44.000 --> 00:17:45.780] Oh, okay. Now I know.
[00:17:45.840 --> 00:17:48.000] Thank you, Brandon, for pointing that out.
[00:17:48.780 --> 00:17:50.020] Anytime, you know.
[00:17:50.760 --> 00:17:51.800] Yeah. So what about y'all?
[00:17:51.860 --> 00:17:53.480] When y'all first started getting into,
[00:17:54.160 --> 00:17:55.400] production and podcast,
[00:17:55.480 --> 00:17:56.840] and what were y'all initial thoughts?
[00:17:57.880 --> 00:17:59.160] Well, that was you, Sensei.
[00:17:59.580 --> 00:18:00.260] The hands down.
[00:18:01.480 --> 00:18:03.520] Well, but even before, like even a thought,
[00:18:03.640 --> 00:18:05.400] like what made you want to start a fire there?
[00:18:05.720 --> 00:18:06.280] You already know.
[00:18:06.380 --> 00:18:07.340] It's the Davis Shands.
[00:18:07.640 --> 00:18:07.840] Forever.
[00:18:08.660 --> 00:18:09.020] Okay.
[00:18:09.200 --> 00:18:09.880] Shout out to Davis Shands.
[00:18:10.380 --> 00:18:11.300] Shout out to Davis Shands.
[00:18:11.400 --> 00:18:11.980] No, hands down.
[00:18:12.160 --> 00:18:13.780] I will forever be grateful for that man,
[00:18:14.800 --> 00:18:17.040] because listen to the group, man.
[00:18:17.080 --> 00:18:18.560] You actually got me hip to Davis Shands.
[00:18:18.760 --> 00:18:19.120] Me too.
[00:18:19.340 --> 00:18:21.380] I didn't know anything about him until you.
[00:18:21.740 --> 00:18:21.760] What?
[00:18:21.760 --> 00:18:22.040] Yeah.
[00:18:22.320 --> 00:18:22.640] Yeah.
[00:18:22.740 --> 00:18:23.100] Okay.
[00:18:23.100 --> 00:18:25.060] And Donnie just happened to be a bonus,
[00:18:25.060 --> 00:18:26.740] because I definitely knew about her.
[00:18:26.920 --> 00:18:27.300] Man, listen.
[00:18:27.360 --> 00:18:28.180] I loved them together.
[00:18:28.380 --> 00:18:29.380] Dave and Donnie are my friends.
[00:18:30.040 --> 00:18:30.220] Absolutely.
[00:18:30.340 --> 00:18:30.840] No, no, listen.
[00:18:31.100 --> 00:18:31.480] I'll listen.
[00:18:32.440 --> 00:18:33.780] You want something about hours,
[00:18:33.860 --> 00:18:35.660] hours consuming podcast,
[00:18:36.680 --> 00:18:37.080] commutes,
[00:18:37.360 --> 00:18:38.040] anytime, free time,
[00:18:38.140 --> 00:18:39.900] I'm going to cut the ground with the podcast or what not.
[00:18:40.120 --> 00:18:41.240] Hey, same, same.
[00:18:41.360 --> 00:18:43.180] That and audiobooks, like man.
[00:18:43.380 --> 00:18:45.700] After music, it's like I heard somebody say,
[00:18:45.800 --> 00:18:47.680] if you're not rich, you shouldn't be listening to music.
[00:18:47.720 --> 00:18:48.760] You should be learning.
[00:18:49.520 --> 00:18:50.880] So I'm like, I'm learning until I'm rich.
[00:18:51.180 --> 00:18:52.520] Somebody said the same thing about TV.
[00:18:53.180 --> 00:18:55.680] You ain't rich, you shouldn't be watching TV, movies.
[00:18:55.980 --> 00:18:56.820] That's why I'd be like,
[00:18:57.080 --> 00:18:58.460] you ain't never seen so-and-so?
[00:18:58.680 --> 00:19:00.140] I'm like, I ain't watch TV.
[00:19:01.300 --> 00:19:02.980] I'm either working, studying.
[00:19:03.220 --> 00:19:04.500] I don't even have a TV in my bedroom.
[00:19:04.540 --> 00:19:05.760] That's how serious it is.
[00:19:06.420 --> 00:19:07.760] Well, for me, I can use a break though.
[00:19:08.020 --> 00:19:08.920] So I'm like, we can watch TV.
[00:19:08.920 --> 00:19:09.980] No, man, yeah.
[00:19:10.480 --> 00:19:11.880] Sometimes, but you know,
[00:19:12.180 --> 00:19:13.800] my lady behind the camera.
[00:19:14.420 --> 00:19:15.520] Whoop, whoop, shout out to her.
[00:19:16.900 --> 00:19:18.940] Brie, you know, be getting mad at me.
[00:19:18.940 --> 00:19:20.260] Oh, we about to watch so-and-so.
[00:19:23.300 --> 00:19:26.020] All right, it's funny because my daughter's seven.
[00:19:26.780 --> 00:19:29.660] She'd be like, oh, you know, are we going to the movies?
[00:19:29.780 --> 00:19:31.340] I'd be like, yeah, are we going to the movies?
[00:19:31.540 --> 00:19:32.920] Oh, just to go to sleep.
[00:19:32.920 --> 00:19:34.020] You pay for a nap.
[00:19:34.280 --> 00:19:35.820] She'd pay for a nap, my profession.
[00:19:36.720 --> 00:19:37.300] I'd be kicking.
[00:19:39.020 --> 00:19:39.760] She'd be like, I'm-
[00:19:39.760 --> 00:19:41.720] She's more of an entrepreneur, if you ask me.
[00:19:42.060 --> 00:19:42.460] Yeah.
[00:19:42.580 --> 00:19:44.900] Well, if a lot of movies start slow,
[00:19:45.220 --> 00:19:47.020] that's the importance of a hook.
[00:19:47.480 --> 00:19:48.920] With anything you do, your content,
[00:19:48.940 --> 00:19:50.780] your podcast videos and movies,
[00:19:50.780 --> 00:19:51.720] you got to have that.
[00:19:51.780 --> 00:19:52.600] But you got to draw them in
[00:19:52.600 --> 00:19:55.880] because a movie start off slow and I'm-
[00:19:55.880 --> 00:19:57.200] Yeah, you ain't the only one.
[00:19:57.220 --> 00:19:58.020] I do so much.
[00:19:58.180 --> 00:19:58.680] I'm tired.
[00:19:58.920 --> 00:20:01.280] My mind be going like, man, it's dark.
[00:20:02.500 --> 00:20:03.160] I'm going to sleep.
[00:20:06.940 --> 00:20:09.220] Man, I mean, even outside of that,
[00:20:09.240 --> 00:20:10.300] it was like, events.
[00:20:10.560 --> 00:20:12.820] I'm like, man, I could be doing so much other stuff.
[00:20:13.700 --> 00:20:16.000] But you know, we already make the most out of it.
[00:20:16.340 --> 00:20:16.520] That's true.
[00:20:16.740 --> 00:20:18.040] You got your friends in the moment since then.
[00:20:18.340 --> 00:20:19.680] What about you with the podcast though?
[00:20:20.240 --> 00:20:21.720] Before you get too far.
[00:20:23.360 --> 00:20:25.300] I wanted to do podcasting
[00:20:25.300 --> 00:20:27.740] because of being on the full of experience.
[00:20:29.500 --> 00:20:30.400] I didn't know.
[00:20:30.480 --> 00:20:31.560] But you know, sometimes you don't realize
[00:20:31.560 --> 00:20:34.220] how God sets everything up
[00:20:34.220 --> 00:20:37.120] and he's very crafty at what he does.
[00:20:38.500 --> 00:20:40.260] So I didn't know that all my journals
[00:20:40.260 --> 00:20:41.000] that I had been journaling
[00:20:41.000 --> 00:20:44.720] during the most painful moments of my life
[00:20:44.720 --> 00:20:47.400] would eventually be the foundation
[00:20:47.400 --> 00:20:49.820] of what U2TOE would be born off of.
[00:20:50.240 --> 00:20:51.660] Beautiful podcast, by the way.
[00:20:52.140 --> 00:20:52.600] Thank you.
[00:20:52.660 --> 00:20:53.260] Thank you.
[00:20:53.280 --> 00:20:54.260] And it's even more beautiful,
[00:20:54.380 --> 00:20:55.140] which I'll help.
[00:20:55.480 --> 00:20:55.840] Hallelujah.
[00:20:56.500 --> 00:20:58.960] Well, yeah, you know, I will appreciate it.
[00:20:59.060 --> 00:21:00.800] And I think a lot of studios.
[00:21:01.220 --> 00:21:01.820] For sure.
[00:21:02.180 --> 00:21:03.760] I'm like, wow, this is amazing.
[00:21:03.860 --> 00:21:05.580] Even stuff that I don't do,
[00:21:06.020 --> 00:21:08.520] like, you know, you could teach somebody things,
[00:21:08.920 --> 00:21:11.340] but, you know, they surpass you.
[00:21:11.820 --> 00:21:13.560] That's even amazing for them.
[00:21:13.620 --> 00:21:14.600] For sure.
[00:21:14.980 --> 00:21:17.040] And you've talked about how you,
[00:21:17.040 --> 00:21:18.600] when you decided to go into photography,
[00:21:18.920 --> 00:21:21.700] you spoke on how you kind of self-taught yourself.
[00:21:22.380 --> 00:21:24.880] But what did that all include
[00:21:24.880 --> 00:21:27.260] was that U2TOE University was that,
[00:21:27.260 --> 00:21:29.240] I know you said later became a mentor,
[00:21:29.340 --> 00:21:31.220] but what did you do prior to the mentor
[00:21:31.220 --> 00:21:32.760] as far as educating yourself?
[00:21:33.540 --> 00:21:35.900] Well, you could always sit down with U2TOE
[00:21:35.900 --> 00:21:36.820] and watch videos.
[00:21:37.060 --> 00:21:40.100] Like I purchased a lot of e-books, courses,
[00:21:40.660 --> 00:21:42.080] whether if I finish them or not,
[00:21:42.080 --> 00:21:43.620] it's up to, you know,
[00:21:43.920 --> 00:21:45.200] I try to, I spend money.
[00:21:45.380 --> 00:21:45.920] For sure.
[00:21:46.340 --> 00:21:48.020] It's just about getting out in the field,
[00:21:48.060 --> 00:21:49.360] you know, practicing, we're all like,
[00:21:49.420 --> 00:21:51.680] oh, you won't never know until you try it.
[00:21:51.680 --> 00:21:52.840] Like, I didn't know what,
[00:21:53.280 --> 00:21:54.880] how shutter speed affects the aperture,
[00:21:54.900 --> 00:21:55.900] affects the ISO.
[00:21:56.160 --> 00:21:57.160] I know y'all looking at me like,
[00:21:58.020 --> 00:22:00.640] Well, Brandon, he's looking very confused.
[00:22:01.160 --> 00:22:02.240] That's how I was.
[00:22:02.320 --> 00:22:03.080] I mean, even Bree,
[00:22:03.160 --> 00:22:04.360] like just breaking it down to her,
[00:22:04.420 --> 00:22:05.120] she's like, what is what?
[00:22:05.220 --> 00:22:05.860] So I'm like, okay,
[00:22:06.240 --> 00:22:08.100] if I could teach it to somebody else,
[00:22:08.340 --> 00:22:10.560] I know that I could master it
[00:22:10.560 --> 00:22:11.380] and understand it better.
[00:22:11.460 --> 00:22:13.640] Like even teaching my daughter's photography,
[00:22:14.220 --> 00:22:15.820] like, you know, two days.
[00:22:15.820 --> 00:22:17.260] So I know, you know,
[00:22:17.260 --> 00:22:17.900] I could teach anybody,
[00:22:17.940 --> 00:22:20.060] if I could teach a little kid in two days.
[00:22:20.460 --> 00:22:21.940] So, but yeah,
[00:22:22.000 --> 00:22:24.480] just bringing my camera wherever I go,
[00:22:24.640 --> 00:22:26.220] just practicing in the dark,
[00:22:26.800 --> 00:22:29.060] bright outside, inside,
[00:22:29.600 --> 00:22:31.100] like different environments,
[00:22:31.240 --> 00:22:32.580] just practice, practice, practice,
[00:22:32.620 --> 00:22:33.400] practice, practice, practice.
[00:22:33.600 --> 00:22:35.420] Sometimes they don't even see the picture.
[00:22:35.540 --> 00:22:36.920] It's just me just getting my reps.
[00:22:37.880 --> 00:22:38.560] And me and Bree,
[00:22:38.620 --> 00:22:41.140] we all about reps replace doubt.
[00:22:41.180 --> 00:22:41.800] Come on now.
[00:22:42.120 --> 00:22:43.320] I feel it, that's our mantra.
[00:22:43.660 --> 00:22:44.400] That's our mantra.
[00:22:44.400 --> 00:22:45.960] And also purpose push it.
[00:22:46.100 --> 00:22:47.300] We got to push that.
[00:22:47.300 --> 00:22:47.620] Figure it out.
[00:22:47.780 --> 00:22:48.460] Yeah, we got to figure it out.
[00:22:48.460 --> 00:22:49.100] But the reps though,
[00:22:49.220 --> 00:22:50.280] you know, the reps, man.
[00:22:50.960 --> 00:22:51.960] Just like the gym.
[00:22:52.560 --> 00:22:54.360] Now you're doing your sleep now, Sensei.
[00:22:55.600 --> 00:22:55.620] Yeah.
[00:22:55.620 --> 00:22:57.300] I'm just going to show me the move
[00:22:57.300 --> 00:22:58.900] when you come up or whatnot,
[00:22:59.160 --> 00:23:00.180] when you're recording.
[00:23:00.440 --> 00:23:00.840] The panning.
[00:23:00.960 --> 00:23:02.000] Yeah, the panning, the panning.
[00:23:02.420 --> 00:23:03.560] Listen, I feel like that's why
[00:23:03.560 --> 00:23:04.340] my signature move.
[00:23:04.460 --> 00:23:05.260] That's your signature move.
[00:23:05.400 --> 00:23:06.140] I love it.
[00:23:06.140 --> 00:23:06.680] I love it.
[00:23:06.680 --> 00:23:07.260] I love it.
[00:23:07.680 --> 00:23:09.100] You know, everybody got a signature move,
[00:23:09.260 --> 00:23:09.940] just like Spike Lee,
[00:23:09.980 --> 00:23:10.860] he got that like.
[00:23:11.080 --> 00:23:12.340] Yeah, that's true.
[00:23:12.440 --> 00:23:13.500] So I was like, what can I do?
[00:23:13.500 --> 00:23:15.500] I still haven't perfected myself
[00:23:15.500 --> 00:23:16.880] so what I really want to do,
[00:23:16.920 --> 00:23:18.460] but I'm always changing, you know.
[00:23:18.960 --> 00:23:20.640] So, you know, coming down from the ceiling
[00:23:20.640 --> 00:23:22.400] and like I did a lot of that
[00:23:22.400 --> 00:23:23.220] in the early days.
[00:23:23.400 --> 00:23:24.420] So if y'all see that
[00:23:24.420 --> 00:23:25.320] with the pull up experience,
[00:23:25.340 --> 00:23:28.300] the early days coming in the scene.
[00:23:28.640 --> 00:23:29.640] So just trying things.
[00:23:31.220 --> 00:23:31.660] Experimentation.
[00:23:31.860 --> 00:23:32.840] Oh yeah, you brought it back
[00:23:32.840 --> 00:23:35.400] when you did my little promo,
[00:23:35.400 --> 00:23:36.360] real thing.
[00:23:36.740 --> 00:23:37.480] You keep trying stuff.
[00:23:37.540 --> 00:23:38.460] I said, okay.
[00:23:38.680 --> 00:23:40.200] Like if I wasn't a creative,
[00:23:40.260 --> 00:23:41.140] I'd be a scientist,
[00:23:41.180 --> 00:23:42.700] which is still creativity to me.
[00:23:43.620 --> 00:23:44.740] A mad scientist,
[00:23:44.920 --> 00:23:45.700] being in a lab,
[00:23:46.000 --> 00:23:46.600] testing it,
[00:23:46.740 --> 00:23:48.100] pouring to you wines,
[00:23:48.360 --> 00:23:49.180] pouring this and that
[00:23:49.180 --> 00:23:50.220] with a drink of cranberry juice.
[00:23:50.500 --> 00:23:51.360] Let's think about this.
[00:23:51.540 --> 00:23:52.440] I feel like there's nothing
[00:23:52.440 --> 00:23:54.340] that you cannot do, brother,
[00:23:54.380 --> 00:23:55.260] because you do it
[00:23:55.740 --> 00:23:56.960] and you're going to try it
[00:23:56.960 --> 00:23:57.560] and you're going to even,
[00:23:58.080 --> 00:23:59.060] and with enough time,
[00:23:59.280 --> 00:23:59.740] you just like,
[00:23:59.860 --> 00:24:00.920] if you're going to give the child
[00:24:00.920 --> 00:24:04.740] enough of equipment or something
[00:24:04.740 --> 00:24:05.440] or time or something,
[00:24:05.440 --> 00:24:06.320] they're going to figure it out.
[00:24:06.480 --> 00:24:07.240] I feel like that's the same thing
[00:24:07.240 --> 00:24:07.920] with you, man.
[00:24:07.980 --> 00:24:08.220] Yeah.
[00:24:08.540 --> 00:24:09.240] Like you just,
[00:24:09.240 --> 00:24:10.460] I'm naturally inquisitive
[00:24:10.460 --> 00:24:12.220] and you're going to actually sell it, man.
[00:24:12.760 --> 00:24:14.740] Well, just not being afraid to fail,
[00:24:14.740 --> 00:24:15.240] you know,
[00:24:15.240 --> 00:24:16.640] and then even with the failures,
[00:24:16.640 --> 00:24:17.580] you know,
[00:24:17.640 --> 00:24:18.980] it's lessons you learn,
[00:24:18.980 --> 00:24:19.500] you know,
[00:24:19.560 --> 00:24:20.260] just with me,
[00:24:20.640 --> 00:24:22.240] like I didn't use flash
[00:24:22.240 --> 00:24:22.920] for the longest.
[00:24:23.180 --> 00:24:23.560] I'm like,
[00:24:23.920 --> 00:24:24.940] I'm just using my camera,
[00:24:24.980 --> 00:24:26.480] but just adding the light
[00:24:26.480 --> 00:24:27.540] and seeing how better
[00:24:27.540 --> 00:24:28.740] the pictures come out
[00:24:28.740 --> 00:24:29.300] and like,
[00:24:29.580 --> 00:24:30.700] especially like with art complex,
[00:24:30.760 --> 00:24:31.920] like darker complexions,
[00:24:32.080 --> 00:24:33.320] you don't need that light.
[00:24:34.180 --> 00:24:35.120] You're going to need that light.
[00:24:35.180 --> 00:24:37.020] Man, I got sensei stories
[00:24:37.020 --> 00:24:38.560] off all day,
[00:24:38.720 --> 00:24:40.740] but I remember he was teaching me
[00:24:40.740 --> 00:24:41.080] that point.
[00:24:41.140 --> 00:24:41.940] Well, first of all,
[00:24:42.300 --> 00:24:43.800] I don't know if you talk to others,
[00:24:43.800 --> 00:24:45.520] but he's like master of the iPhone.
[00:24:45.620 --> 00:24:46.680] For sensei,
[00:24:46.840 --> 00:24:48.520] I know I didn't know anything
[00:24:48.520 --> 00:24:49.100] about the timer.
[00:24:49.220 --> 00:24:51.440] I know about the levels.
[00:24:51.560 --> 00:24:52.280] I know anything about
[00:24:53.820 --> 00:24:55.180] actually using the iPhone
[00:24:55.180 --> 00:24:56.560] to do both for targeting.
[00:24:56.940 --> 00:24:57.100] Yeah.
[00:24:57.100 --> 00:24:57.320] Sensei,
[00:24:57.320 --> 00:24:58.260] I'm used to the practice.
[00:24:58.540 --> 00:24:58.760] Okay.
[00:24:58.980 --> 00:24:59.420] Now I'm like,
[00:24:59.620 --> 00:25:00.220] I can do it.
[00:25:00.220 --> 00:25:01.000] I can do it now,
[00:25:01.040 --> 00:25:01.400] you know?
[00:25:01.560 --> 00:25:01.980] Yes, sir.
[00:25:02.120 --> 00:25:02.380] I love it.
[00:25:02.400 --> 00:25:03.660] I was showing just,
[00:25:03.780 --> 00:25:04.480] well, one time,
[00:25:04.580 --> 00:25:04.940] I was like,
[00:25:04.980 --> 00:25:05.860] show me what you do with your iPhone.
[00:25:06.400 --> 00:25:06.920] Man, listen,
[00:25:07.140 --> 00:25:08.900] you are the goat.
[00:25:09.300 --> 00:25:09.500] Okay.
[00:25:09.520 --> 00:25:09.920] For sure.
[00:25:09.960 --> 00:25:11.280] Well, I started with iPhone,
[00:25:11.280 --> 00:25:13.080] that's how I kind of master
[00:25:13.080 --> 00:25:14.480] before I purchased the camera.
[00:25:14.660 --> 00:25:14.880] You know,
[00:25:16.200 --> 00:25:16.760] first, you know,
[00:25:17.560 --> 00:25:18.660] $800 and then,
[00:25:18.700 --> 00:25:19.180] like, okay,
[00:25:19.180 --> 00:25:21.180] I need actually a more professional camera
[00:25:21.180 --> 00:25:22.560] and then we get into the thousands
[00:25:22.560 --> 00:25:23.580] and stuff like that.
[00:25:24.680 --> 00:25:25.880] Yeah, I started with the iPhone.
[00:25:26.440 --> 00:25:27.760] I still shoot a lot of good content
[00:25:27.760 --> 00:25:28.200] with the iPhone.
[00:25:28.240 --> 00:25:28.820] I'm like, man,
[00:25:28.820 --> 00:25:29.460] I miss it.
[00:25:30.260 --> 00:25:31.900] I know y'all see me be doing that.
[00:25:31.940 --> 00:25:33.800] I do see you doing that.
[00:25:34.140 --> 00:25:35.320] Because it's light too.
[00:25:35.540 --> 00:25:36.460] So I get to,
[00:25:36.540 --> 00:25:37.740] I'm a mover,
[00:25:37.980 --> 00:25:38.540] like even,
[00:25:39.120 --> 00:25:40.000] I love moving.
[00:25:40.220 --> 00:25:41.020] Like with video,
[00:25:41.600 --> 00:25:42.980] I could stand still,
[00:25:42.980 --> 00:25:43.480] but it's like,
[00:25:43.680 --> 00:25:44.320] that's not me.
[00:25:45.100 --> 00:25:45.760] I'm like, say,
[00:25:45.860 --> 00:25:46.420] an athlete.
[00:25:46.660 --> 00:25:47.480] I love movement,
[00:25:48.220 --> 00:25:48.780] being engaged
[00:25:48.780 --> 00:25:49.900] and showing the action
[00:25:49.900 --> 00:25:51.360] and different angles,
[00:25:51.580 --> 00:25:52.620] seeing the emotion
[00:25:52.620 --> 00:25:53.860] from different people.
[00:25:54.160 --> 00:25:55.220] So that's your style right there.
[00:25:55.440 --> 00:25:56.140] That's my style.
[00:25:56.780 --> 00:25:56.820] Okay.
[00:25:56.860 --> 00:25:57.340] Okay.
[00:25:57.660 --> 00:25:58.300] So I'm going to get back
[00:25:58.300 --> 00:25:58.860] to the journey, brother,
[00:25:58.920 --> 00:25:59.320] because,
[00:25:59.840 --> 00:26:00.860] so, you start,
[00:26:00.980 --> 00:26:01.440] you start,
[00:26:02.900 --> 00:26:04.560] you're like a,
[00:26:04.560 --> 00:26:05.120] not a novice,
[00:26:05.180 --> 00:26:06.020] but you still,
[00:26:06.020 --> 00:26:06.500] you still amateur,
[00:26:06.620 --> 00:26:07.020] but you still,
[00:26:07.020 --> 00:26:08.100] you do affect the crowd.
[00:26:08.620 --> 00:26:09.880] Where does launch art
[00:26:09.880 --> 00:26:11.840] play into the scheme of things?
[00:26:13.160 --> 00:26:14.660] Again, shout out to mentors.
[00:26:14.740 --> 00:26:15.840] Shout out to my mentors,
[00:26:15.980 --> 00:26:17.640] Sean Lee Jones,
[00:26:17.800 --> 00:26:18.880] who introduced me
[00:26:18.880 --> 00:26:21.320] to the CEO of LaunchArts,
[00:26:21.700 --> 00:26:23.060] Mr. Jamar Newell.
[00:26:24.640 --> 00:26:26.280] And then becoming
[00:26:26.280 --> 00:26:27.640] another mentor.
[00:26:27.780 --> 00:26:28.020] So it's like,
[00:26:28.160 --> 00:26:29.360] I have two mentors
[00:26:29.360 --> 00:26:30.200] in media.
[00:26:31.380 --> 00:26:32.000] And man,
[00:26:33.540 --> 00:26:33.820] man,
[00:26:33.880 --> 00:26:34.420] we just built
[00:26:34.420 --> 00:26:35.840] a beautiful relationship
[00:26:35.840 --> 00:26:36.860] and ended up becoming
[00:26:36.860 --> 00:26:37.720] vice president
[00:26:37.720 --> 00:26:39.120] at the production side
[00:26:39.120 --> 00:26:39.860] of the business.
[00:26:40.260 --> 00:26:40.880] So like,
[00:26:41.060 --> 00:26:42.380] just him trusting me
[00:26:42.380 --> 00:26:43.620] and sending me
[00:26:43.620 --> 00:26:45.100] even sometimes by myself
[00:26:45.100 --> 00:26:45.680] or with,
[00:26:45.680 --> 00:26:46.000] you know,
[00:26:46.080 --> 00:26:47.120] other team members,
[00:26:48.020 --> 00:26:48.820] just building that trust,
[00:26:48.920 --> 00:26:49.800] building that reps.
[00:26:49.980 --> 00:26:50.920] We did it together
[00:26:50.920 --> 00:26:51.860] for so long.
[00:26:51.920 --> 00:26:52.500] So it's like,
[00:26:53.180 --> 00:26:54.120] if we could kind of have
[00:26:54.120 --> 00:26:55.180] an A and a B team,
[00:26:55.240 --> 00:26:56.060] we could build it out
[00:26:56.060 --> 00:26:56.960] even faster.
[00:26:58.260 --> 00:26:58.560] You know,
[00:26:58.560 --> 00:26:59.420] we just kept
[00:26:59.420 --> 00:27:00.420] in communication,
[00:27:00.660 --> 00:27:00.980] growing,
[00:27:01.140 --> 00:27:01.900] just being honest
[00:27:01.900 --> 00:27:02.780] with each other,
[00:27:02.920 --> 00:27:04.540] even outside of the production,
[00:27:04.720 --> 00:27:05.180] just becoming,
[00:27:05.180 --> 00:27:05.680] you know,
[00:27:05.820 --> 00:27:06.400] friends.
[00:27:07.340 --> 00:27:08.360] And, you know,
[00:27:08.360 --> 00:27:10.360] he telling me personal things
[00:27:10.360 --> 00:27:10.960] even, you know,
[00:27:10.980 --> 00:27:12.400] with his family is like,
[00:27:12.600 --> 00:27:12.940] you know,
[00:27:12.940 --> 00:27:13.780] I get it, you know.
[00:27:14.940 --> 00:27:16.640] Even outside of business
[00:27:16.640 --> 00:27:17.320] and production,
[00:27:17.460 --> 00:27:19.100] we still have our personal lives.
[00:27:20.040 --> 00:27:20.340] You know,
[00:27:20.340 --> 00:27:21.840] I just didn't want him
[00:27:21.840 --> 00:27:23.040] to never forget that.
[00:27:23.500 --> 00:27:24.060] And that's just
[00:27:24.060 --> 00:27:25.160] with anybody in life,
[00:27:25.520 --> 00:27:25.840] you know,
[00:27:25.940 --> 00:27:26.900] with y'all, you know.
[00:27:27.100 --> 00:27:28.100] It ain't always business,
[00:27:28.220 --> 00:27:29.900] ain't always podcasting,
[00:27:29.980 --> 00:27:31.060] like, you know,
[00:27:31.100 --> 00:27:31.720] whatever y'all,
[00:27:31.720 --> 00:27:32.100] you know,
[00:27:32.200 --> 00:27:32.800] want to talk about,
[00:27:32.900 --> 00:27:33.760] need to talk about,
[00:27:33.860 --> 00:27:34.320] we can.
[00:27:35.000 --> 00:27:35.420] Listen,
[00:27:35.820 --> 00:27:36.300] Steve and,
[00:27:36.300 --> 00:27:37.400] Steve in mediated,
[00:27:37.400 --> 00:27:39.200] Steve to be the first thing,
[00:27:39.240 --> 00:27:40.020] shoot an engagement,
[00:27:40.160 --> 00:27:41.160] Steve, you see,
[00:27:41.260 --> 00:27:42.060] we family, okay?
[00:27:42.260 --> 00:27:43.040] For sure.
[00:27:43.300 --> 00:27:44.000] We gang gang.
[00:27:44.260 --> 00:27:44.760] But I want to own,
[00:27:44.760 --> 00:27:45.860] I want to be part of Jamar, man.
[00:27:45.960 --> 00:27:46.300] Because one,
[00:27:46.880 --> 00:27:47.280] Jamar,
[00:27:47.440 --> 00:27:48.040] his hand up,
[00:27:48.240 --> 00:27:49.280] he's an entrepreneur.
[00:27:50.100 --> 00:27:50.500] Man.
[00:27:50.760 --> 00:27:51.160] Entrepreneur,
[00:27:51.400 --> 00:27:52.140] I want to be part of that,
[00:27:52.200 --> 00:27:52.880] because like,
[00:27:53.060 --> 00:27:53.860] he built a launch artist,
[00:27:53.860 --> 00:27:54.460] that was phenomenal.
[00:27:54.600 --> 00:27:55.120] But because he,
[00:27:55.280 --> 00:27:55.960] since this industry,
[00:27:56.140 --> 00:27:57.380] so Jamar was out there,
[00:27:57.700 --> 00:27:59.100] and seeing how a launch artist was,
[00:27:59.160 --> 00:28:00.060] the teamwork y'all did.
[00:28:00.360 --> 00:28:00.780] Let's see,
[00:28:01.240 --> 00:28:02.660] we were at that,
[00:28:02.920 --> 00:28:03.400] have a discussion
[00:28:03.800 --> 00:28:04.520] on that,
[00:28:04.560 --> 00:28:05.560] was it Space 65,
[00:28:05.640 --> 00:28:06.000] whatever.
[00:28:06.000 --> 00:28:08.220] And y'all had the whole team there,
[00:28:08.280 --> 00:28:09.560] and I know you're doing this thing,
[00:28:09.600 --> 00:28:10.220] and I'm seeing,
[00:28:10.640 --> 00:28:11.320] and how easily,
[00:28:11.500 --> 00:28:12.060] and how you lead,
[00:28:12.080 --> 00:28:13.100] and how y'all are directing.
[00:28:13.660 --> 00:28:13.780] Yeah.
[00:28:13.780 --> 00:28:14.540] It's about more work, man.
[00:28:14.940 --> 00:28:15.400] Oh, yeah.
[00:28:15.660 --> 00:28:16.060] That's,
[00:28:16.220 --> 00:28:16.400] like,
[00:28:16.400 --> 00:28:17.440] I didn't have no,
[00:28:18.440 --> 00:28:18.640] like,
[00:28:18.640 --> 00:28:20.140] I could do like the switcher,
[00:28:20.180 --> 00:28:20.520] which is,
[00:28:20.520 --> 00:28:20.720] you know,
[00:28:20.760 --> 00:28:21.900] you switch a lot of time,
[00:28:21.920 --> 00:28:22.420] but like,
[00:28:22.480 --> 00:28:23.020] it was like,
[00:28:23.640 --> 00:28:23.760] yeah,
[00:28:23.760 --> 00:28:24.900] I could do that,
[00:28:24.900 --> 00:28:27.080] but I'd just rather bring in my team.
[00:28:27.120 --> 00:28:27.460] Like,
[00:28:27.460 --> 00:28:28.520] I took a pay cut,
[00:28:28.540 --> 00:28:29.600] I even lost money,
[00:28:29.640 --> 00:28:30.180] because,
[00:28:31.400 --> 00:28:31.800] yeah,
[00:28:31.860 --> 00:28:33.140] they kind of flaked on,
[00:28:33.500 --> 00:28:33.900] you know,
[00:28:33.900 --> 00:28:35.300] that's when I had payment plans,
[00:28:35.300 --> 00:28:35.980] six months.
[00:28:36.420 --> 00:28:36.940] And yeah,
[00:28:36.960 --> 00:28:38.080] that's a whole another story,
[00:28:38.080 --> 00:28:38.680] but yeah,
[00:28:38.700 --> 00:28:40.060] just the business lessons
[00:28:40.060 --> 00:28:41.480] you learn along the go,
[00:28:41.600 --> 00:28:41.800] like,
[00:28:41.860 --> 00:28:41.920] no,
[00:28:41.980 --> 00:28:43.420] you get payment up front now.
[00:28:43.440 --> 00:28:43.760] Like,
[00:28:43.760 --> 00:28:44.560] you mess it up for everybody.
[00:28:46.000 --> 00:28:46.180] Oh,
[00:28:46.180 --> 00:28:46.960] that's good.
[00:28:47.260 --> 00:28:47.540] Actually,
[00:28:47.540 --> 00:28:49.680] I think that that's a very important piece,
[00:28:49.680 --> 00:28:51.720] because I know early in our conversation
[00:28:51.720 --> 00:28:52.440] that you mentioned,
[00:28:52.460 --> 00:28:54.440] as you were getting your feet wet
[00:28:54.440 --> 00:28:55.300] in photography,
[00:28:55.440 --> 00:28:56.860] that you were doing things for free,
[00:28:56.880 --> 00:28:57.560] just so that way,
[00:28:57.560 --> 00:28:58.240] you could be able to,
[00:28:58.240 --> 00:28:58.380] like,
[00:28:58.460 --> 00:28:59.300] build that portfolio,
[00:28:59.420 --> 00:29:00.640] and get your name out here.
[00:29:01.080 --> 00:29:02.960] When did free become a feat?
[00:29:05.300 --> 00:29:06.220] That's crazy.
[00:29:06.880 --> 00:29:08.680] My good friend,
[00:29:09.020 --> 00:29:09.660] E-Rod Beats,
[00:29:09.800 --> 00:29:10.500] he is actually,
[00:29:11.380 --> 00:29:13.220] he was actually one of my last producers
[00:29:13.220 --> 00:29:13.780] I worked with
[00:29:13.780 --> 00:29:15.460] when I was actively doing music,
[00:29:15.800 --> 00:29:16.520] and it's crazy,
[00:29:16.740 --> 00:29:17.780] all the songs he produced,
[00:29:17.800 --> 00:29:20.740] I don't think I'll publicly publish,
[00:29:23.420 --> 00:29:24.940] but they just often to cut
[00:29:24.940 --> 00:29:25.680] in the storage,
[00:29:25.740 --> 00:29:27.000] you know.
[00:29:27.240 --> 00:29:28.140] In a vault,
[00:29:28.640 --> 00:29:29.980] just collecting junk.
[00:29:31.180 --> 00:29:31.780] so,
[00:29:32.240 --> 00:29:34.160] he was actually my first client.
[00:29:34.540 --> 00:29:36.360] I charged $50 for his,
[00:29:36.740 --> 00:29:38.280] a birthday session with him,
[00:29:38.600 --> 00:29:38.980] you know,
[00:29:39.020 --> 00:29:40.820] I'm proud and,
[00:29:40.820 --> 00:29:41.080] you know,
[00:29:41.180 --> 00:29:42.580] happy he trusted me,
[00:29:43.360 --> 00:29:44.280] and was like,
[00:29:44.600 --> 00:29:44.720] man,
[00:29:44.840 --> 00:29:45.080] here,
[00:29:45.240 --> 00:29:46.400] this is,
[00:29:46.520 --> 00:29:47.480] this is what I got.
[00:29:47.580 --> 00:29:47.920] So I'm like,
[00:29:48.040 --> 00:29:48.360] okay,
[00:29:48.480 --> 00:29:50.680] so I end up keeping that $50
[00:29:50.680 --> 00:29:51.740] as a benchmark
[00:29:52.200 --> 00:29:53.120] for a while,
[00:29:53.160 --> 00:29:54.640] and then slowly increasing,
[00:29:54.780 --> 00:29:57.000] and that became $150,
[00:29:57.280 --> 00:29:58.020] and da da da da,
[00:29:58.060 --> 00:29:59.460] so all the way where I'm at now,
[00:29:59.640 --> 00:30:00.020] to where,
[00:30:00.420 --> 00:30:01.440] even doing research
[00:30:01.440 --> 00:30:02.500] on the market in Cleveland,
[00:30:02.540 --> 00:30:03.920] I can't charge thousands,
[00:30:03.920 --> 00:30:04.180] like,
[00:30:04.180 --> 00:30:05.320] if I went somewhere else,
[00:30:05.420 --> 00:30:06.020] California,
[00:30:06.160 --> 00:30:06.520] Atlanta,
[00:30:06.520 --> 00:30:07.340] New York,
[00:30:07.700 --> 00:30:08.900] so just knowing your market
[00:30:08.900 --> 00:30:09.920] and doing your research,
[00:30:09.920 --> 00:30:10.720] because a lot of people
[00:30:10.720 --> 00:30:11.640] are not going to pay that,
[00:30:11.880 --> 00:30:12.800] but you also want to,
[00:30:12.800 --> 00:30:13.140] you know,
[00:30:13.140 --> 00:30:13.760] know your work
[00:30:13.760 --> 00:30:15.120] and charge your work for sure.
[00:30:15.720 --> 00:30:16.160] Okay.
[00:30:16.460 --> 00:30:16.660] Well,
[00:30:16.660 --> 00:30:17.840] I think that's a good tip
[00:30:17.840 --> 00:30:18.520] for those,
[00:30:18.520 --> 00:30:18.840] you know,
[00:30:18.940 --> 00:30:20.820] entrepreneurs that are trying to figure out
[00:30:20.820 --> 00:30:22.740] how to navigate their pricing.
[00:30:23.520 --> 00:30:24.700] It's very important
[00:30:24.700 --> 00:30:25.800] that you do the research
[00:30:25.800 --> 00:30:27.540] and just see where the market is.
[00:30:27.560 --> 00:30:28.120] So like you said,
[00:30:28.160 --> 00:30:29.400] you're not overcharging,
[00:30:29.420 --> 00:30:30.480] but you're not under,
[00:30:30.480 --> 00:30:31.520] you know,
[00:30:31.720 --> 00:30:31.900] value.
[00:30:32.320 --> 00:30:32.520] I'm not overcharged,
[00:30:32.540 --> 00:30:32.900] no.
[00:30:34.280 --> 00:30:34.720] Well,
[00:30:34.720 --> 00:30:35.180] I mean,
[00:30:35.240 --> 00:30:35.960] they might be wondering
[00:30:35.960 --> 00:30:37.060] why the phone ain't ringing,
[00:30:37.320 --> 00:30:38.480] but I get what you're saying.
[00:30:38.780 --> 00:30:40.540] And I guess that is the risk,
[00:30:40.960 --> 00:30:41.980] you know,
[00:30:42.060 --> 00:30:43.720] with being an entrepreneur
[00:30:43.720 --> 00:30:44.200] is that,
[00:30:44.400 --> 00:30:44.660] you know,
[00:30:44.720 --> 00:30:45.560] there are some people
[00:30:45.560 --> 00:30:46.420] that's just not going to be willing
[00:30:46.420 --> 00:30:47.120] to pay that fee
[00:30:47.120 --> 00:30:48.460] and are you okay with it?
[00:30:48.860 --> 00:30:49.180] Yeah,
[00:30:49.180 --> 00:30:50.740] like I've been burnt out.
[00:30:50.740 --> 00:30:52.400] That's what made me increase.
[00:30:52.480 --> 00:30:52.820] I'm like,
[00:30:52.980 --> 00:30:53.460] I'm doing,
[00:30:54.020 --> 00:30:55.160] I'm doing the event.
[00:30:55.160 --> 00:30:56.220] That's time right there.
[00:30:56.220 --> 00:30:57.180] And then I'm coming home
[00:30:57.180 --> 00:30:58.360] and doing homework.
[00:30:58.440 --> 00:30:59.420] Like in school,
[00:30:59.460 --> 00:31:00.560] I love school.
[00:31:00.600 --> 00:31:01.540] Like I really did,
[00:31:01.900 --> 00:31:03.080] but I didn't like homework.
[00:31:03.140 --> 00:31:05.020] I'm not bringing work home
[00:31:05.020 --> 00:31:05.820] and doing work
[00:31:05.820 --> 00:31:07.300] I want to play,
[00:31:08.140 --> 00:31:09.320] you know what I mean?
[00:31:09.420 --> 00:31:10.380] Like I want to do what I do,
[00:31:10.500 --> 00:31:11.240] play basketball,
[00:31:11.480 --> 00:31:12.580] play video games,
[00:31:12.900 --> 00:31:13.600] make music.
[00:31:13.860 --> 00:31:14.760] Like I don't want to be stuck
[00:31:14.760 --> 00:31:15.500] doing homework.
[00:31:15.640 --> 00:31:17.380] And that's what I start to feel
[00:31:17.380 --> 00:31:18.320] like coming home
[00:31:18.320 --> 00:31:20.480] and having to edit long hours,
[00:31:20.480 --> 00:31:21.880] especially when I did my first wedding.
[00:31:22.040 --> 00:31:22.320] I'm like,
[00:31:23.040 --> 00:31:24.280] it's like four,
[00:31:24.280 --> 00:31:24.940] five,
[00:31:25.140 --> 00:31:25.400] six,
[00:31:25.420 --> 00:31:26.180] seven weeks.
[00:31:26.300 --> 00:31:26.740] I'm like,
[00:31:26.840 --> 00:31:26.980] dang,
[00:31:26.980 --> 00:31:28.100] I've got my life back.
[00:31:28.300 --> 00:31:28.840] My daughter came,
[00:31:29.160 --> 00:31:30.300] can we go to the park?
[00:31:30.660 --> 00:31:31.300] I got to edit.
[00:31:32.240 --> 00:31:33.220] Like I'm like,
[00:31:33.320 --> 00:31:33.440] yeah,
[00:31:33.460 --> 00:31:34.460] something got to change
[00:31:34.460 --> 00:31:35.800] and that's the importance of
[00:31:35.820 --> 00:31:37.540] team hiring staff
[00:31:37.540 --> 00:31:38.340] and charging,
[00:31:38.340 --> 00:31:38.960] you know,
[00:31:39.700 --> 00:31:40.160] accordingly.
[00:31:41.380 --> 00:31:43.300] So it's all a trial and error.
[00:31:43.460 --> 00:31:44.660] It definitely is.
[00:31:45.400 --> 00:31:47.020] So what's the biggest lesson
[00:31:47.020 --> 00:31:48.300] that you've learned
[00:31:48.300 --> 00:31:49.300] from,
[00:31:49.300 --> 00:31:49.660] I guess,
[00:31:49.740 --> 00:31:51.680] the business aspect of things?
[00:31:52.300 --> 00:31:52.720] What would you say
[00:31:52.720 --> 00:31:53.920] is the biggest lesson learned?
[00:31:55.480 --> 00:31:58.600] Don't be afraid to reach out.
[00:31:58.620 --> 00:31:59.760] And this is more so
[00:31:59.760 --> 00:32:00.640] like lead generation.
[00:32:00.680 --> 00:32:01.940] Don't be afraid to reach out
[00:32:01.940 --> 00:32:03.580] and the power of the follow-up.
[00:32:03.640 --> 00:32:05.760] Like I met so many clients
[00:32:05.820 --> 00:32:07.940] and great opportunities
[00:32:08.860 --> 00:32:11.080] because I simply did not follow up
[00:32:11.080 --> 00:32:12.720] or because I was too busy
[00:32:12.720 --> 00:32:13.440] or tired.
[00:32:14.560 --> 00:32:15.140] Like, man,
[00:32:15.540 --> 00:32:17.220] that follow-up is everything.
[00:32:17.420 --> 00:32:18.660] Don't be afraid to reach out.
[00:32:18.780 --> 00:32:20.420] If somebody that you want to work with,
[00:32:21.140 --> 00:32:22.100] reach out.
[00:32:22.440 --> 00:32:23.520] The worst they can say is no.
[00:32:33.220 --> 00:32:35.400] It was actually all in the same year
[00:32:35.400 --> 00:32:36.780] launch arts and pull-up experience.
[00:32:36.780 --> 00:32:39.240] So like almost like identical same time.
[00:32:39.760 --> 00:32:40.640] It was July
[00:32:41.660 --> 00:32:43.580] and then August for launch.
[00:32:43.660 --> 00:32:46.300] So it was like right at the same time.
[00:32:49.400 --> 00:32:50.660] I'm saying that's all like
[00:32:50.660 --> 00:32:52.200] we got to kind of build this out.
[00:32:52.320 --> 00:32:53.080] We got the production,
[00:32:53.260 --> 00:32:54.020] you know what I mean?
[00:32:54.560 --> 00:32:55.700] And it's still in the works,
[00:32:55.960 --> 00:32:56.680] you know,
[00:32:56.740 --> 00:32:57.880] what it could actually look like
[00:32:57.880 --> 00:32:59.420] with the power collaboration
[00:32:59.420 --> 00:33:01.280] between my brand and launch arts.
[00:33:01.360 --> 00:33:02.040] Like I literally
[00:33:02.040 --> 00:33:03.820] got it on the back of the shirt.
[00:33:03.820 --> 00:33:05.080] All right, all right.
[00:33:05.320 --> 00:33:05.980] I got it.
[00:33:06.340 --> 00:33:07.680] Y'all got it.
[00:33:07.920 --> 00:33:09.800] We get it.
[00:33:10.020 --> 00:33:10.680] Good knees to the knee.
[00:33:10.860 --> 00:33:12.100] I'm going to do it slowly.
[00:33:13.360 --> 00:33:14.300] But you know,
[00:33:14.360 --> 00:33:15.360] it's just everything.
[00:33:15.620 --> 00:33:15.820] You know,
[00:33:15.820 --> 00:33:18.820] I'm always promoting rather than my brand
[00:33:18.820 --> 00:33:20.420] or pull-up experience exclusively,
[00:33:20.660 --> 00:33:21.680] launch arts exclusively,
[00:33:22.020 --> 00:33:23.240] my podcast exclusively,
[00:33:23.380 --> 00:33:25.020] somebody else's brand exclusively.
[00:33:25.560 --> 00:33:26.400] So you want like,
[00:33:26.680 --> 00:33:27.780] it doesn't matter.
[00:33:28.040 --> 00:33:29.260] I'm going to always promote,
[00:33:29.400 --> 00:33:29.560] you know,
[00:33:29.560 --> 00:33:31.520] like I could wear polo
[00:33:31.520 --> 00:33:33.360] or Sean John
[00:33:33.360 --> 00:33:35.200] or Tommy Hilfiger
[00:33:35.200 --> 00:33:36.520] or any other brand,
[00:33:36.880 --> 00:33:38.200] but why not brands
[00:33:38.200 --> 00:33:39.800] that I actually work with
[00:33:39.800 --> 00:33:41.840] that I'm a part of
[00:33:41.840 --> 00:33:42.700] and that I'm building.
[00:33:43.180 --> 00:33:44.200] You got the pull-up experience,
[00:33:44.240 --> 00:33:45.240] the pull-up experience.
[00:33:45.560 --> 00:33:46.560] We could wear anything.
[00:33:46.600 --> 00:33:47.980] Why not promote yourself?
[00:33:48.240 --> 00:33:48.860] Come on.
[00:33:49.060 --> 00:33:50.180] So that's how I look at it.
[00:33:50.180 --> 00:33:50.800] That's huge.
[00:33:51.200 --> 00:33:52.940] Speaking of wearing yourself,
[00:33:54.740 --> 00:33:55.240] you know,
[00:33:55.340 --> 00:33:57.500] when it comes to photographer Jackson,
[00:33:57.560 --> 00:33:58.740] when it comes to
[00:33:58.740 --> 00:34:00.200] the importance of a name,
[00:34:02.760 --> 00:34:05.600] when did Alienize Photo
[00:34:05.600 --> 00:34:06.680] become the name
[00:34:06.680 --> 00:34:09.159] and how did that come about in general?
[00:34:09.320 --> 00:34:11.659] Boy, you're getting me scared for a minute.
[00:34:12.060 --> 00:34:13.199] You sound like Maury,
[00:34:13.300 --> 00:34:15.260] like you are not the father
[00:34:15.260 --> 00:34:16.719] when it comes to,
[00:34:17.340 --> 00:34:18.040] I'm like,
[00:34:19.800 --> 00:34:20.600] you are.
[00:34:20.780 --> 00:34:22.179] We found some tweets in 05.
[00:34:24.760 --> 00:34:25.739] I got a couple,
[00:34:26.260 --> 00:34:28.520] but the importance of a name,
[00:34:28.520 --> 00:34:34.110] so my first artist name was
[00:34:34.110 --> 00:34:35.409] DJ Powerhouse
[00:34:35.409 --> 00:34:36.909] because my nickname is DJ,
[00:34:36.969 --> 00:34:38.170] family name DJ,
[00:34:38.350 --> 00:34:39.110] S DJ,
[00:34:39.210 --> 00:34:40.370] but I dropped the S.
[00:34:41.230 --> 00:34:43.610] So I was called DJ
[00:34:44.690 --> 00:34:46.889] and I put it in front of player,
[00:34:47.110 --> 00:34:47.850] so DJ player
[00:34:47.850 --> 00:34:49.630] because I'm walking down the street,
[00:34:49.830 --> 00:34:51.230] like I didn't like getting my haircut,
[00:34:52.310 --> 00:34:53.050] as y'all can see,
[00:34:53.670 --> 00:34:54.110] growing up
[00:34:54.110 --> 00:34:55.790] because I didn't have my father in my life.
[00:34:56.030 --> 00:34:57.770] So it's like going to the barbershop.
[00:34:57.770 --> 00:34:59.050] It just felt like that emptiness
[00:34:59.050 --> 00:35:00.090] and that loneliness.
[00:35:01.290 --> 00:35:02.970] But every time I did,
[00:35:03.470 --> 00:35:04.490] hey player, what's up player?
[00:35:04.710 --> 00:35:05.730] Hold your head up, player.
[00:35:05.990 --> 00:35:07.530] So player stuck in my head,
[00:35:07.610 --> 00:35:08.430] I'm like, oh player.
[00:35:08.810 --> 00:35:09.710] And you think about players,
[00:35:09.910 --> 00:35:11.190] smooth and I was smooth with the words.
[00:35:12.990 --> 00:35:15.910] So I put DJ and player
[00:35:15.910 --> 00:35:17.850] and then everybody's getting me mixed up
[00:35:17.850 --> 00:35:19.030] with an actual DJ,
[00:35:19.310 --> 00:35:19.850] like wicked wicked,
[00:35:20.650 --> 00:35:21.770] but I'm like,
[00:35:21.790 --> 00:35:22.970] how can I rebrand myself?
[00:35:23.010 --> 00:35:24.290] So I dropped the DJ
[00:35:24.290 --> 00:35:26.810] and put I in front of player,
[00:35:27.130 --> 00:35:28.270] so I am player,
[00:35:28.770 --> 00:35:29.170] I'm player.
[00:35:29.350 --> 00:35:30.430] Shout out to Apple,
[00:35:30.450 --> 00:35:32.030] which I have equity in.
[00:35:34.530 --> 00:35:36.290] And from I'm player,
[00:35:36.890 --> 00:35:38.450] I added alien,
[00:35:38.710 --> 00:35:40.510] which, you know,
[00:35:40.590 --> 00:35:42.190] my daughter's mother at the time,
[00:35:42.630 --> 00:35:43.610] we performed together.
[00:35:43.730 --> 00:35:44.450] She was a unicorn.
[00:35:44.530 --> 00:35:44.910] So I'm like,
[00:35:45.010 --> 00:35:46.310] what matches the unicorn?
[00:35:46.950 --> 00:35:49.050] And that's how alien became born.
[00:35:49.050 --> 00:35:50.370] You got to be out of this world.
[00:35:50.950 --> 00:35:51.350] Okay.
[00:35:51.470 --> 00:35:52.870] I was trying to still make the connection.
[00:35:52.870 --> 00:35:53.190] Okay.
[00:35:53.310 --> 00:35:53.730] I got you.
[00:35:53.730 --> 00:35:54.350] I follow along.
[00:35:54.470 --> 00:35:55.130] Y'all follow me.
[00:35:55.270 --> 00:35:57.070] That's how you got alien I'm player.
[00:35:57.070 --> 00:35:58.390] So that was my artist name.
[00:35:58.530 --> 00:35:58.750] And I just,
[00:35:58.890 --> 00:35:59.910] everybody knew me as alien.
[00:36:00.030 --> 00:36:01.250] Hey, alien, alien, alien.
[00:36:01.810 --> 00:36:02.790] So I took that alien.
[00:36:03.010 --> 00:36:05.890] So now coming from behind the mic,
[00:36:06.810 --> 00:36:07.650] dropping the mic
[00:36:07.650 --> 00:36:09.410] and now got the lens.
[00:36:09.770 --> 00:36:11.450] So eyes as you can see,
[00:36:11.570 --> 00:36:13.670] now alien can see with the eyes.
[00:36:13.830 --> 00:36:14.790] So alien eyes
[00:36:14.790 --> 00:36:16.630] and what I'm doing is taking photos.
[00:36:17.550 --> 00:36:18.170] So and I'm like,
[00:36:18.170 --> 00:36:19.550] it's going to be bigger than photos.
[00:36:19.670 --> 00:36:21.150] So I added media
[00:36:21.150 --> 00:36:22.970] and a lot of people don't see
[00:36:22.970 --> 00:36:24.930] the media in production.
[00:36:25.070 --> 00:36:26.250] So I just say media.
[00:36:27.630 --> 00:36:29.490] But it's actually media and production.
[00:36:29.950 --> 00:36:31.470] So yeah, the whole shebang.
[00:36:31.570 --> 00:36:31.930] Cause I'm thinking,
[00:36:31.930 --> 00:36:33.430] I was thinking bigger at the time.
[00:36:33.450 --> 00:36:34.910] Like it ain't just going to be photo.
[00:36:35.030 --> 00:36:35.690] It ain't going to be,
[00:36:35.750 --> 00:36:37.010] it's going to be a production.
[00:36:38.490 --> 00:36:38.630] Okay.
[00:36:38.630 --> 00:36:40.270] I know it's going to be like alien.
[00:36:41.950 --> 00:36:42.330] Yeah.
[00:36:42.390 --> 00:36:43.210] What's up with Sensei?
[00:36:43.830 --> 00:36:43.910] Okay.
[00:36:44.630 --> 00:36:45.010] Sensei.
[00:36:45.550 --> 00:36:46.810] I can tell where Sensei came from.
[00:36:47.530 --> 00:36:47.710] Yeah.
[00:36:47.710 --> 00:36:48.570] What Sensei came from?
[00:36:48.570 --> 00:36:50.010] Yeah, you might as well tell us.
[00:36:50.130 --> 00:36:50.250] You know,
[00:36:50.310 --> 00:36:51.510] cause the people probably don't understand
[00:36:51.510 --> 00:36:52.270] where that come from.
[00:36:52.290 --> 00:36:54.090] We just started saying that out of nowhere
[00:36:54.090 --> 00:36:55.290] and it's just sticking and going.
[00:36:55.290 --> 00:36:58.110] And now you're going to call him Sensei.
[00:36:58.370 --> 00:36:58.730] Right.
[00:36:58.890 --> 00:36:59.650] So now I'm like, okay,
[00:36:59.770 --> 00:37:00.570] so which one are you doing?
[00:37:00.930 --> 00:37:01.990] Alien, Alien, Sensei,
[00:37:02.090 --> 00:37:02.650] which one we going?
[00:37:02.790 --> 00:37:03.050] Right, right, right.
[00:37:03.070 --> 00:37:04.710] You guys just made a many hats, you know.
[00:37:05.310 --> 00:37:06.470] But no, if anybody know,
[00:37:07.890 --> 00:37:09.230] this is one thing about me.
[00:37:09.270 --> 00:37:10.130] If you got nicknames,
[00:37:10.290 --> 00:37:11.050] I don't rock you.
[00:37:11.270 --> 00:37:11.410] Okay.
[00:37:11.410 --> 00:37:11.850] That's right.
[00:37:11.870 --> 00:37:12.830] You ain't part of the gang.
[00:37:13.150 --> 00:37:13.370] Okay.
[00:37:13.710 --> 00:37:14.910] Everybody around me got nicknames.
[00:37:15.050 --> 00:37:15.750] They don't even know it.
[00:37:15.910 --> 00:37:16.210] Right.
[00:37:16.470 --> 00:37:17.650] Cause I know somebody that don't know it.
[00:37:18.170 --> 00:37:19.490] But Sensei only made sense
[00:37:19.490 --> 00:37:21.610] because I promise you
[00:37:21.610 --> 00:37:23.130] that in the mean time I'll text Steve
[00:37:23.130 --> 00:37:23.930] on a random like,
[00:37:24.430 --> 00:37:24.830] man,
[00:37:24.830 --> 00:37:26.810] anybody's on this real quick or hey,
[00:37:27.050 --> 00:37:28.490] this is another or photography
[00:37:28.490 --> 00:37:29.930] or this or anything.
[00:37:30.110 --> 00:37:30.510] Okay.
[00:37:30.510 --> 00:37:31.050] I'm like, man,
[00:37:31.130 --> 00:37:32.230] every time I hit him up
[00:37:32.230 --> 00:37:33.450] and I remember I was watching
[00:37:33.450 --> 00:37:34.730] I was watching a comic movie or whatnot.
[00:37:35.610 --> 00:37:36.710] And it was meditating.
[00:37:37.150 --> 00:37:38.470] I was like,
[00:37:38.470 --> 00:37:39.990] I'm the Sensei,
[00:37:41.110 --> 00:37:41.510] Sensei,
[00:37:41.710 --> 00:37:42.290] there we go.
[00:37:42.350 --> 00:37:43.230] Make sense.
[00:37:43.230 --> 00:37:44.190] Yeah, we're going to make sense.
[00:37:44.250 --> 00:37:45.090] It felt right.
[00:37:45.230 --> 00:37:45.630] You know what I'm saying?
[00:37:46.030 --> 00:37:46.170] Yeah.
[00:37:46.610 --> 00:37:47.010] It still do.
[00:37:47.130 --> 00:37:48.450] A good donation should feel right.
[00:37:48.530 --> 00:37:48.930] It does.
[00:37:49.390 --> 00:37:49.730] It fits.
[00:37:50.550 --> 00:37:50.770] It does.
[00:37:50.790 --> 00:37:51.730] I like that.
[00:37:55.890 --> 00:37:56.530] No, yeah.
[00:37:56.530 --> 00:37:57.530] No, like I said,
[00:37:57.530 --> 00:37:58.470] I appreciate you, man.
[00:37:58.570 --> 00:37:59.010] Like I said,
[00:37:59.410 --> 00:38:00.450] if it's even personal,
[00:38:00.590 --> 00:38:02.130] if it's pocket is,
[00:38:02.130 --> 00:38:02.930] brother, you have been there
[00:38:02.930 --> 00:38:03.750] and I appreciate that.
[00:38:03.810 --> 00:38:04.150] You know what I'm saying?
[00:38:04.290 --> 00:38:05.750] You always thank their God.
[00:38:06.570 --> 00:38:07.430] It's just a younger me,
[00:38:07.530 --> 00:38:07.890] you know what I'm saying?
[00:38:07.990 --> 00:38:08.910] Let me just pull it out of there.
[00:38:09.010 --> 00:38:09.550] You know what I mean?
[00:38:09.750 --> 00:38:10.230] He got me.
[00:38:10.390 --> 00:38:11.090] Let me just pull it out of there.
[00:38:11.410 --> 00:38:12.830] That's a good lesson for them.
[00:38:13.670 --> 00:38:14.570] It doesn't matter the age.
[00:38:15.530 --> 00:38:16.150] Oh, trust me.
[00:38:16.210 --> 00:38:18.270] I am not too proud to learn
[00:38:18.270 --> 00:38:19.790] from a child or a kid
[00:38:19.790 --> 00:38:20.670] or a teenager
[00:38:20.670 --> 00:38:21.890] or someone younger than me.
[00:38:22.470 --> 00:38:24.030] These kids out here streaming,
[00:38:24.170 --> 00:38:24.730] I'm talking about,
[00:38:24.810 --> 00:38:25.490] we at the zoo,
[00:38:25.550 --> 00:38:26.070] me and my daughter,
[00:38:26.110 --> 00:38:26.710] we at the zoo.
[00:38:27.010 --> 00:38:28.490] They out there four deep streaming.
[00:38:28.670 --> 00:38:29.270] I'm like, oh,
[00:38:29.910 --> 00:38:31.150] I'm like at the zoo though.
[00:38:32.130 --> 00:38:32.710] Anywhere in the world.
[00:38:33.130 --> 00:38:33.610] But like, hey,
[00:38:33.650 --> 00:38:34.570] they making content
[00:38:34.570 --> 00:38:35.690] and making money.
[00:38:35.950 --> 00:38:37.030] More money than I know.
[00:38:38.250 --> 00:38:39.310] And they just living their life.
[00:38:40.470 --> 00:38:41.670] We using a letter.
[00:38:42.190 --> 00:38:42.430] Brittany,
[00:38:42.590 --> 00:38:43.710] she's a streamer.
[00:38:45.210 --> 00:38:46.510] She's a streamer.
[00:38:46.990 --> 00:38:47.770] Oh, no, brother.
[00:38:47.990 --> 00:38:48.210] I believe.
[00:38:48.430 --> 00:38:49.690] Hey, it's your girl, Brett.
[00:38:50.370 --> 00:38:51.050] Look at this.
[00:38:51.110 --> 00:38:51.510] Look at this.
[00:38:51.670 --> 00:38:52.150] Look at this.
[00:38:52.950 --> 00:38:54.190] I was like, okay.
[00:38:54.230 --> 00:38:55.430] I'm trying, y'all.
[00:38:55.450 --> 00:38:55.870] I'm trying.
[00:38:55.910 --> 00:38:58.270] I feel like I'm trying to figure it out.
[00:38:59.510 --> 00:39:00.370] You get them going.
[00:39:00.510 --> 00:39:01.010] I'm like, yeah.
[00:39:01.030 --> 00:39:02.170] Even the behind the scenes,
[00:39:02.310 --> 00:39:02.750] I'll be like,
[00:39:04.050 --> 00:39:04.930] Brittany, be like,
[00:39:05.010 --> 00:39:05.450] I'll be like,
[00:39:05.550 --> 00:39:06.470] oh, okay.
[00:39:06.710 --> 00:39:07.310] I like it.
[00:39:07.650 --> 00:39:08.050] Yeah.
[00:39:08.850 --> 00:39:09.250] Documented.
[00:39:09.350 --> 00:39:09.890] I love it.
[00:39:09.970 --> 00:39:11.270] A lot of people don't do that.
[00:39:11.330 --> 00:39:13.290] And like, you really do that.
[00:39:13.470 --> 00:39:14.930] Like behind the scenes,
[00:39:15.670 --> 00:39:16.570] you're almost beating me.
[00:39:16.650 --> 00:39:17.330] That's what I'm saying.
[00:39:17.390 --> 00:39:18.770] Like, I could teach somebody,
[00:39:18.770 --> 00:39:20.530] but like, man,
[00:39:20.690 --> 00:39:21.510] y'all got your own skills.
[00:39:22.170 --> 00:39:23.630] When they take what you learn,
[00:39:23.730 --> 00:39:24.410] and they go on a date,
[00:39:24.630 --> 00:39:25.350] they take it first.
[00:39:25.590 --> 00:39:26.430] Or even, you know,
[00:39:26.470 --> 00:39:27.550] finding your own lane.
[00:39:28.590 --> 00:39:29.330] Like, you know,
[00:39:29.490 --> 00:39:30.450] Brittany, you know,
[00:39:30.570 --> 00:39:31.390] streaming, vlogging,
[00:39:31.790 --> 00:39:32.450] doing behind the scenes.
[00:39:32.530 --> 00:39:33.630] She didn't need me for that,
[00:39:33.770 --> 00:39:36.250] but that's something she likes doing.
[00:39:36.990 --> 00:39:37.630] For sure.
[00:39:37.970 --> 00:39:39.550] And I, and thank you.
[00:39:39.610 --> 00:39:40.430] I appreciate that.
[00:39:40.430 --> 00:39:40.870] For sure.
[00:39:40.930 --> 00:39:42.590] And I think that that's very important
[00:39:42.590 --> 00:39:44.250] because, you know,
[00:39:44.370 --> 00:39:45.310] when Brie was doing
[00:39:45.310 --> 00:39:47.510] a lot of my episodes for Beauty Told,
[00:39:47.510 --> 00:39:49.910] you know, she's capturing those moments.
[00:39:49.990 --> 00:39:51.950] And I, I got to thinking to myself
[00:39:51.950 --> 00:39:53.290] as myself and was sitting next to me.
[00:39:53.370 --> 00:39:55.190] I'm like, when do you guys get
[00:39:55.190 --> 00:39:56.690] the camera thrown on y'all?
[00:39:56.710 --> 00:39:58.730] So that way people can be able to catch
[00:39:58.730 --> 00:40:00.990] y'all doing what y'all love to do.
[00:40:00.990 --> 00:40:03.010] The passion, the purpose behind it.
[00:40:03.110 --> 00:40:04.170] How will anybody know
[00:40:04.170 --> 00:40:06.210] if there's nothing documented about y'all?
[00:40:06.390 --> 00:40:08.570] So that's what really started making me
[00:40:08.570 --> 00:40:09.990] realize to, you know,
[00:40:10.050 --> 00:40:11.250] get out that selflessness.
[00:40:11.490 --> 00:40:12.290] So for y'all, you know,
[00:40:12.810 --> 00:40:13.490] that's, you know,
[00:40:13.570 --> 00:40:15.010] maybe in that same situation,
[00:40:15.070 --> 00:40:16.230] if y'all some podcasters
[00:40:16.230 --> 00:40:17.210] want to be a podcaster,
[00:40:17.250 --> 00:40:19.530] remember that it ain't always about the
[00:40:19.530 --> 00:40:20.810] film being on y'all,
[00:40:20.990 --> 00:40:22.410] the lens being on y'all.
[00:40:22.550 --> 00:40:24.450] Pick up and make sure that y'all are,
[00:40:24.450 --> 00:40:25.830] you know, reciprocating that
[00:40:25.830 --> 00:40:27.390] towards those who are helping you
[00:40:27.390 --> 00:40:28.310] because that really,
[00:40:28.890 --> 00:40:29.870] that benefits y'all.
[00:40:29.950 --> 00:40:30.970] That helps to be able to,
[00:40:31.030 --> 00:40:32.770] for more eyes to be able to see
[00:40:32.770 --> 00:40:33.710] y'all in the act.
[00:40:33.750 --> 00:40:35.530] And that way people become curious.
[00:40:35.530 --> 00:40:36.490] They want to know,
[00:40:37.030 --> 00:40:38.430] how can I get that person?
[00:40:38.670 --> 00:40:39.210] You know?
[00:40:39.310 --> 00:40:40.890] Who gets the photographer?
[00:40:41.210 --> 00:40:42.830] That's like the biggest thing.
[00:40:43.090 --> 00:40:43.930] It's like a memoir.
[00:40:44.790 --> 00:40:45.270] Yeah.
[00:40:45.430 --> 00:40:45.910] Oh,
[00:40:47.250 --> 00:40:48.910] who gets the photographer?
[00:40:48.950 --> 00:40:49.850] For sure.
[00:40:50.330 --> 00:40:51.670] Three, two, one.
[00:40:52.310 --> 00:40:53.770] And speaking of just,
[00:40:53.770 --> 00:40:55.010] just this overall,
[00:40:55.230 --> 00:40:55.750] because you,
[00:40:55.790 --> 00:40:56.730] now you're teaching.
[00:40:57.330 --> 00:40:57.730] Yeah.
[00:40:58.070 --> 00:40:59.470] Shots of you in Sese yet.
[00:40:59.650 --> 00:40:59.990] You know what I'm saying?
[00:41:00.050 --> 00:41:01.830] Because y'all were teaching
[00:41:02.590 --> 00:41:05.710] on just how to conduct a podcast.
[00:41:05.790 --> 00:41:06.330] And we're talking about
[00:41:06.330 --> 00:41:07.470] my first podcast in a minute.
[00:41:07.770 --> 00:41:09.050] But you guys are not only just,
[00:41:10.270 --> 00:41:10.630] not only,
[00:41:10.830 --> 00:41:11.590] not saying you got the master,
[00:41:11.650 --> 00:41:13.610] but you guys are helping others,
[00:41:13.610 --> 00:41:14.630] but you guys are also teaching.
[00:41:14.750 --> 00:41:15.750] Let's talk about that.
[00:41:15.990 --> 00:41:17.190] What made you want to teach?
[00:41:17.270 --> 00:41:18.230] Yeah, let's see.
[00:41:18.310 --> 00:41:19.590] You won't come in front again.
[00:41:21.510 --> 00:41:23.110] So it's just amazing.
[00:41:23.230 --> 00:41:24.290] Even right before this,
[00:41:24.410 --> 00:41:27.350] we had a consultation with someone
[00:41:27.350 --> 00:41:31.390] that we filmed their first video podcast.
[00:41:31.430 --> 00:41:33.490] They're doing audio like myself.
[00:41:34.350 --> 00:41:36.230] So they got that going already,
[00:41:36.230 --> 00:41:37.830] but they wanted to introduce video
[00:41:37.830 --> 00:41:40.430] because we shot their first video podcast
[00:41:40.430 --> 00:41:41.030] in Atlanta.
[00:41:41.910 --> 00:41:44.210] So they wanted to take a step further
[00:41:44.210 --> 00:41:45.690] with what they can do on their own.
[00:41:45.750 --> 00:41:47.590] So we had a consultation with them
[00:41:47.590 --> 00:41:50.170] and even providing value,
[00:41:50.270 --> 00:41:51.470] giving them extra time.
[00:41:51.690 --> 00:41:53.050] We really, really care
[00:41:53.570 --> 00:41:55.550] because we really want to see people win.
[00:41:55.850 --> 00:41:57.470] And if you come to us,
[00:41:57.550 --> 00:41:58.570] we're going to make it look good.
[00:41:59.450 --> 00:42:01.090] No, we really want to see this
[00:42:01.090 --> 00:42:02.930] in what you're doing and executing
[00:42:02.930 --> 00:42:04.770] and how you could change.
[00:42:04.830 --> 00:42:06.070] It ain't always about money.
[00:42:06.110 --> 00:42:07.270] It's about the relationship.
[00:42:08.070 --> 00:42:09.910] So just knowing that,
[00:42:10.050 --> 00:42:10.890] the money going to come.
[00:42:11.770 --> 00:42:12.290] Hello.
[00:42:13.890 --> 00:42:15.230] I'm always a teacher.
[00:42:15.630 --> 00:42:16.290] Like you said,
[00:42:16.470 --> 00:42:17.590] you hit me up,
[00:42:17.690 --> 00:42:18.570] just send me a text.
[00:42:18.830 --> 00:42:19.150] Like, I mean,
[00:42:19.150 --> 00:42:20.750] I might not get back right away
[00:42:20.750 --> 00:42:22.090] because I'm doing XYZ.
[00:42:22.150 --> 00:42:23.830] I'm a parent running a business.
[00:42:24.390 --> 00:42:25.450] I'm in a relationship.
[00:42:25.650 --> 00:42:27.090] So you got to spend that time
[00:42:27.090 --> 00:42:28.210] where it's allocated.
[00:42:29.090 --> 00:42:31.530] But I will get back to you for sure.
[00:42:32.230 --> 00:42:34.290] But we did our first workshop.
[00:42:34.930 --> 00:42:35.690] We always say,
[00:42:35.830 --> 00:42:37.330] yeah, we can do much bigger
[00:42:37.330 --> 00:42:38.430] and do greater.
[00:42:38.670 --> 00:42:39.530] Even you learn.
[00:42:39.530 --> 00:42:41.610] You know, you write with us.
[00:42:41.630 --> 00:42:43.190] And the story about how since
[00:42:43.190 --> 00:42:44.610] they had me feel embarrassed
[00:42:45.250 --> 00:42:46.050] at the workshop,
[00:42:46.050 --> 00:42:47.010] I want to hear this.
[00:42:47.170 --> 00:42:47.910] I want to hear this.
[00:42:47.930 --> 00:42:48.810] Not embarrassed.
[00:42:48.970 --> 00:42:49.630] No, no, no.
[00:42:49.670 --> 00:42:50.510] So I never get to listen.
[00:42:50.670 --> 00:42:51.030] Yeah.
[00:42:51.230 --> 00:42:52.210] I never get to lie.
[00:42:52.350 --> 00:42:52.730] She was like,
[00:42:52.930 --> 00:42:54.950] if you're not going to do a one angle,
[00:42:55.610 --> 00:42:56.050] it's basic.
[00:42:57.510 --> 00:42:58.370] I was like,
[00:42:58.730 --> 00:43:00.250] I felt, you know how I used to pass you.
[00:43:00.350 --> 00:43:00.870] I was like,
[00:43:00.870 --> 00:43:02.570] oh, I want to cover my face when I do this.
[00:43:02.570 --> 00:43:03.430] I was like, oh, no.
[00:43:08.940 --> 00:43:10.280] I didn't say it was basic.
[00:43:10.280 --> 00:43:12.180] I said it didn't align properly
[00:43:12.180 --> 00:43:13.200] with modern trends.
[00:43:13.780 --> 00:43:14.100] Yes, she did.
[00:43:14.360 --> 00:43:14.760] She did.
[00:43:14.840 --> 00:43:15.420] Yes, ma'am.
[00:43:15.560 --> 00:43:16.000] Yes, ma'am.
[00:43:16.280 --> 00:43:16.720] Okay.
[00:43:17.680 --> 00:43:18.840] Here, I was like,
[00:43:18.840 --> 00:43:19.460] you know what?
[00:43:20.000 --> 00:43:20.940] And it was like,
[00:43:21.000 --> 00:43:22.000] you know, Mark Jordan did
[00:43:22.540 --> 00:43:23.680] on the last dance.
[00:43:23.840 --> 00:43:24.940] I heard that's personal.
[00:43:25.280 --> 00:43:25.740] I was going to say.
[00:43:25.760 --> 00:43:26.480] Next week,
[00:43:26.780 --> 00:43:27.600] I brought ACAMS.
[00:43:27.820 --> 00:43:28.400] He did, y'all.
[00:43:28.420 --> 00:43:28.800] Yeah, he did.
[00:43:29.040 --> 00:43:30.600] I came in like,
[00:43:30.820 --> 00:43:32.000] what's all of this?
[00:43:32.340 --> 00:43:33.200] We're going to use it, though.
[00:43:33.300 --> 00:43:34.400] Let's have fun, you know.
[00:43:34.420 --> 00:43:35.380] No, no, no, no.
[00:43:35.700 --> 00:43:37.300] But no, I said it because like,
[00:43:37.380 --> 00:43:38.120] once again, it made me think,
[00:43:38.120 --> 00:43:39.660] okay, I would sub the podcast
[00:43:39.660 --> 00:43:43.460] so no, I just can't get it for you guys.
[00:43:43.820 --> 00:43:44.320] That's what I love about singing.
[00:43:44.420 --> 00:43:45.480] We're always educating each other.
[00:43:45.520 --> 00:43:47.060] You know what I love about y'all, man?
[00:43:47.540 --> 00:43:48.420] Y'all are just like me.
[00:43:48.420 --> 00:43:49.980] Y'all are students to the game.
[00:43:50.040 --> 00:43:50.800] No matter what y'all do,
[00:43:50.800 --> 00:43:51.600] y'all are students.
[00:43:51.860 --> 00:43:53.120] Like, you didn't have to implement that
[00:43:53.120 --> 00:43:53.780] and taking it to her.
[00:43:53.780 --> 00:43:54.880] I'm glad you did, though.
[00:43:55.340 --> 00:43:55.540] Yeah.
[00:43:56.420 --> 00:43:56.920] Level up.
[00:43:57.480 --> 00:43:58.720] That means improvement.
[00:43:58.760 --> 00:43:59.740] You want to get better.
[00:44:00.200 --> 00:44:02.000] That's what I love seeing about people.
[00:44:02.200 --> 00:44:03.800] If I don't see you want to improve,
[00:44:04.640 --> 00:44:06.620] even being in prior relationships,
[00:44:07.000 --> 00:44:08.600] like, if I don't see the progress
[00:44:08.600 --> 00:44:09.600] so we're just stagnant.
[00:44:09.720 --> 00:44:10.460] We ain't getting nowhere.
[00:44:10.880 --> 00:44:11.380] You know, evolution.
[00:44:12.040 --> 00:44:13.300] You're not thinking big for yourself.
[00:44:13.380 --> 00:44:15.420] You just want to be in a basic job.
[00:44:16.180 --> 00:44:16.580] Right.
[00:44:17.120 --> 00:44:18.320] I know that's right.
[00:44:18.380 --> 00:44:20.860] I mean, it's just not going nowhere.
[00:44:21.120 --> 00:44:22.320] You know, you're just going to be in the same.
[00:44:23.000 --> 00:44:24.200] So, you know, even, you know,
[00:44:24.200 --> 00:44:25.580] we all could be doing better.
[00:44:25.860 --> 00:44:27.220] Or even my podcast, like,
[00:44:27.220 --> 00:44:28.680] it could be so much better.
[00:44:28.700 --> 00:44:31.960] So it's always that next step we can take
[00:44:31.960 --> 00:44:33.480] and that we want to take.
[00:44:33.560 --> 00:44:34.000] Yeah.
[00:44:34.080 --> 00:44:35.720] And that's the biggest thing that we want to.
[00:44:35.740 --> 00:44:36.260] That's good.
[00:44:36.400 --> 00:44:37.080] That's good.
[00:44:37.780 --> 00:44:40.120] So that brings me that that brings me to the fact
[00:44:40.120 --> 00:44:40.720] that, like you said,
[00:44:40.720 --> 00:44:41.880] we don't just take this information
[00:44:41.880 --> 00:44:44.160] and just, you know, bottle it up.
[00:44:44.160 --> 00:44:46.080] We actually are moving on it.
[00:44:46.080 --> 00:44:48.000] You know, I have a word every year in this year
[00:44:48.000 --> 00:44:49.700] and Brie knows it's execute.
[00:44:50.080 --> 00:44:52.140] So, okay, it's nice to know you have that information,
[00:44:52.140 --> 00:44:53.480] but when do you execute on it?
[00:44:53.480 --> 00:44:55.660] When you start making those those steps.
[00:44:55.780 --> 00:44:57.120] So, like you said, it can be just small steps
[00:44:57.120 --> 00:44:58.920] that eventually lead to before you know it,
[00:44:58.920 --> 00:45:01.040] like, oh, my God, I went from there to here.
[00:45:01.180 --> 00:45:03.320] Like, so you have to move.
[00:45:03.540 --> 00:45:06.080] And I think that for you brought up a good point
[00:45:06.080 --> 00:45:08.020] and for entrepreneurs that are watching this,
[00:45:08.200 --> 00:45:10.120] that it's just important to have those
[00:45:10.120 --> 00:45:12.440] that are going to help you to level up.
[00:45:12.760 --> 00:45:15.420] That's going to be able to show you some things
[00:45:15.420 --> 00:45:17.360] and have your back and give you tips
[00:45:17.360 --> 00:45:18.220] and give you tricks
[00:45:18.220 --> 00:45:20.260] and that you actually take that in
[00:45:20.260 --> 00:45:21.540] and run with it, you know,
[00:45:21.540 --> 00:45:22.660] and actually do something with it
[00:45:22.660 --> 00:45:23.960] because that's going to better you
[00:45:23.960 --> 00:45:25.100] and that's going to better everybody.
[00:45:25.600 --> 00:45:26.540] I mean, my mother used to say,
[00:45:26.640 --> 00:45:27.500] Brie, let's set the block together.
[00:45:27.540 --> 00:45:29.800] So if we all is trying to move towards greatness,
[00:45:29.800 --> 00:45:32.440] I feel like that's much better than us just doing
[00:45:33.360 --> 00:45:34.300] what you're doing today.
[00:45:34.300 --> 00:45:35.520] And it's the same old same old.
[00:45:36.280 --> 00:45:37.980] We came to Atlanta deep.
[00:45:38.120 --> 00:45:38.760] That's what I'm like, man.
[00:45:38.760 --> 00:45:39.660] We got a whole team.
[00:45:39.980 --> 00:45:42.660] People come in individually or with their couple
[00:45:42.660 --> 00:45:44.860] as a couple, but like we came with a team.
[00:45:46.240 --> 00:45:48.620] And I'm like, yeah, we could really, you know,
[00:45:48.840 --> 00:45:50.320] make waves, not just in Cleveland,
[00:45:50.500 --> 00:45:51.520] but outside of Cleveland.
[00:45:51.580 --> 00:45:52.660] That's when I first saw it.
[00:45:52.660 --> 00:45:55.220] I'm like, we really got something,
[00:45:55.340 --> 00:45:56.560] something special too.
[00:45:56.660 --> 00:45:58.520] And like, we could really travel with this.
[00:45:58.760 --> 00:46:01.020] Even teaching workshops like podcast 101,
[00:46:01.540 --> 00:46:04.460] podcast 102 and like everything we do.
[00:46:04.460 --> 00:46:06.520] See, poor than they know it.
[00:46:08.850 --> 00:46:11.690] You know, we took a risk on ourselves
[00:46:11.690 --> 00:46:13.450] by going down there and traveling,
[00:46:13.830 --> 00:46:15.330] like our first conference together.
[00:46:15.330 --> 00:46:18.630] I go to conferences all the time by myself,
[00:46:19.250 --> 00:46:22.230] but you know, we stepped out on faith
[00:46:22.230 --> 00:46:24.430] and just been different,
[00:46:24.890 --> 00:46:26.070] doing something different.
[00:46:26.710 --> 00:46:31.070] And I can say it definitely transformed all of us,
[00:46:31.270 --> 00:46:34.890] even the team in certain ways.
[00:46:35.830 --> 00:46:38.790] Don't know, we gotta speak on that.
[00:46:39.410 --> 00:46:42.930] But I'm just saying it did because, you know.
[00:46:44.450 --> 00:46:46.530] It transformed as a whole because now,
[00:46:46.670 --> 00:46:50.470] because then I feel like the podcast transformed.
[00:46:51.110 --> 00:46:52.710] It got, it went in a different direction.
[00:46:52.870 --> 00:46:53.350] Sure.
[00:46:53.750 --> 00:46:55.290] Yep. And then from that, you know,
[00:46:55.350 --> 00:46:58.150] we, I feel like then we had more direction.
[00:46:58.390 --> 00:47:00.670] We more had more intention going forward.
[00:47:00.930 --> 00:47:02.350] At the latter it was like, okay,
[00:47:02.390 --> 00:47:03.930] we about to go in this direction.
[00:47:04.050 --> 00:47:05.470] And we even stopped yet.
[00:47:05.470 --> 00:47:06.130] That's true.
[00:47:06.710 --> 00:47:09.550] I just think we kind of do the same,
[00:47:09.790 --> 00:47:12.190] but like we have these high names
[00:47:12.190 --> 00:47:14.970] and you know, people that have this high status
[00:47:15.710 --> 00:47:17.910] and being at, you know, podcasts,
[00:47:18.130 --> 00:47:18.990] some of our different conferences,
[00:47:19.150 --> 00:47:21.830] such as that they're approachable
[00:47:21.830 --> 00:47:23.570] and accessible and willing to talk
[00:47:23.570 --> 00:47:26.030] and you know, spend that time with,
[00:47:26.170 --> 00:47:27.590] you know, I don't say anybody,
[00:47:27.830 --> 00:47:29.710] but pretty much anybody.
[00:47:30.390 --> 00:47:31.190] Like they know, oh,
[00:47:32.030 --> 00:47:33.410] like it's coming, get that camera on my face
[00:47:33.410 --> 00:47:35.270] and like, oh, they sit down with you,
[00:47:35.770 --> 00:47:37.790] and have a quick interview with you
[00:47:37.790 --> 00:47:38.670] and talk with you.
[00:47:39.530 --> 00:47:41.750] So just like you said,
[00:47:42.090 --> 00:47:43.310] birds of a feather flock together.
[00:47:43.570 --> 00:47:45.310] You've seen that you want to model that.
[00:47:45.350 --> 00:47:45.830] Sure.
[00:47:46.550 --> 00:47:49.450] And others get encouraged and influenced too.
[00:47:49.670 --> 00:47:51.570] You know, we've both,
[00:47:51.810 --> 00:47:52.990] you know, we've all individually
[00:47:52.990 --> 00:47:56.730] and collectively have grown our brands
[00:47:56.730 --> 00:47:58.550] to the point where people know us,
[00:47:58.550 --> 00:48:00.810] you know, not just as a pull of experience,
[00:48:00.910 --> 00:48:02.330] but they know us as alien photos.
[00:48:02.410 --> 00:48:03.890] They know us as overflow studios
[00:48:03.890 --> 00:48:05.250] or beauty toe.
[00:48:05.530 --> 00:48:07.250] And I think that that just helps to
[00:48:08.270 --> 00:48:10.130] set the tone for when we continue
[00:48:10.130 --> 00:48:11.510] to just catapult this thing
[00:48:11.510 --> 00:48:14.130] and just take it to a whole other dimension.
[00:48:14.630 --> 00:48:15.030] Absolutely.
[00:48:15.390 --> 00:48:15.790] Okay.
[00:48:16.750 --> 00:48:18.910] Listen, I said the other day in an interview,
[00:48:19.250 --> 00:48:20.530] I said this because someone asked the other day,
[00:48:20.750 --> 00:48:21.110] like, you know what I'm saying?
[00:48:22.030 --> 00:48:23.450] Like someone asked what is a pull of experience?
[00:48:23.550 --> 00:48:26.270] Well, I say it's a glomerate of entrepreneurs
[00:48:26.270 --> 00:48:28.610] who are doing something phenomenal
[00:48:28.610 --> 00:48:29.770] for the city of Cleveland and beyond.
[00:48:30.130 --> 00:48:30.450] Yeah.
[00:48:30.670 --> 00:48:31.890] I like to simply say
[00:48:31.890 --> 00:48:33.790] it's an entrepreneur elevation group.
[00:48:34.290 --> 00:48:35.790] Because, you know, we don't,
[00:48:35.950 --> 00:48:37.650] we only elevate ourselves.
[00:48:37.990 --> 00:48:40.170] We elevate everybody around us
[00:48:40.170 --> 00:48:42.510] in the community that we're building.
[00:48:42.750 --> 00:48:45.810] An amazing community that you started to help build.
[00:48:46.310 --> 00:48:48.090] Like, and then now you're adding all the pieces.
[00:48:48.230 --> 00:48:49.430] We just continue building.
[00:48:49.710 --> 00:48:50.490] And our, like you said,
[00:48:50.610 --> 00:48:53.070] our separate brands is like one merge.
[00:48:54.170 --> 00:48:54.810] Like, that's what I'm saying.
[00:48:54.830 --> 00:48:57.450] We ain't even maximizing everything yet.
[00:48:57.730 --> 00:48:59.510] But like, once we really, really do.
[00:49:01.130 --> 00:49:01.810] Look at how we're going.
[00:49:01.810 --> 00:49:02.730] We're going to do this every day.
[00:49:03.850 --> 00:49:05.590] But what do you say?
[00:49:05.890 --> 00:49:09.130] He owned 923 episodes.
[00:49:09.710 --> 00:49:10.650] That was remarkable.
[00:49:11.110 --> 00:49:11.770] That was, that was couple weeks ago.
[00:49:11.910 --> 00:49:13.370] He might be on 950 now.
[00:49:13.610 --> 00:49:14.350] Yeah, who knows?
[00:49:15.010 --> 00:49:16.950] That is phenomenal for sure.
[00:49:17.630 --> 00:49:20.410] So what has been, for you,
[00:49:20.450 --> 00:49:24.650] what's been the most rewarding in your,
[00:49:24.970 --> 00:49:25.770] in the entrepreneur space?
[00:49:25.870 --> 00:49:27.750] What's been the most rewarding for you?
[00:49:28.170 --> 00:49:30.270] Just, just hearing the feedback.
[00:49:33.310 --> 00:49:38.430] And just the, just the accomplishment from someone else.
[00:49:39.330 --> 00:49:41.630] But they also give me the recognition
[00:49:41.630 --> 00:49:43.910] that I documented and captured it in a way
[00:49:43.910 --> 00:49:46.950] that tells their story effectively.
[00:49:47.330 --> 00:49:48.770] Not just capturing this to capture,
[00:49:48.970 --> 00:49:51.270] but really telling their story,
[00:49:51.810 --> 00:49:52.850] getting the B-roll.
[00:49:54.290 --> 00:49:55.950] You know, showing that emotion.
[00:49:59.010 --> 00:50:01.670] And man, just, just the testimonies.
[00:50:01.990 --> 00:50:02.910] And like I said,
[00:50:02.930 --> 00:50:06.310] we just got off a consultation call
[00:50:06.310 --> 00:50:08.310] about podcasting right after this.
[00:50:08.730 --> 00:50:11.470] And like just everything she is saying about both of us
[00:50:11.470 --> 00:50:13.370] and just the experience we gave her
[00:50:13.370 --> 00:50:15.730] and that it wasn't just transactional.
[00:50:16.110 --> 00:50:17.370] It was transformational
[00:50:17.370 --> 00:50:19.210] and that we kept that relationship going.
[00:50:19.310 --> 00:50:20.170] Like it wasn't just,
[00:50:20.410 --> 00:50:21.890] oh, you recorded my podcast, that's it.
[00:50:22.270 --> 00:50:23.690] Like, no, we were right there,
[00:50:23.690 --> 00:50:25.310] like holding your hand almost.
[00:50:25.530 --> 00:50:29.170] Like we, we're not just, you know,
[00:50:29.430 --> 00:50:31.710] a transaction, like our client or where,
[00:50:31.710 --> 00:50:33.090] like we're family at the end.
[00:50:33.390 --> 00:50:35.090] Once you rock with us, we family.
[00:50:35.790 --> 00:50:37.430] Like we ain't gonna let everybody in our house.
[00:50:37.990 --> 00:50:39.190] That's, that's, you know, lame,
[00:50:39.450 --> 00:50:41.570] but like whatever you need,
[00:50:41.570 --> 00:50:43.630] like don't be afraid to reach out.
[00:50:44.610 --> 00:50:45.810] I mean, going back to even,
[00:50:46.410 --> 00:50:48.510] you know, someone that's starting the business
[00:50:48.510 --> 00:50:51.230] and when they need those first customers,
[00:50:51.490 --> 00:50:54.130] those leads, don't be afraid to reach out.
[00:50:54.250 --> 00:50:57.130] I mean, that's just about even with a mentor or a coach
[00:50:57.130 --> 00:51:00.910] and you're gonna need a mentor in or a coach, for sure.
[00:51:01.930 --> 00:51:03.990] And I could be a mentor or a coach,
[00:51:04.110 --> 00:51:06.370] one of these lovely people here,
[00:51:06.590 --> 00:51:08.850] even Breed and my daughter or something like,
[00:51:09.830 --> 00:51:13.170] no matter who it is or who you want to work with,
[00:51:13.210 --> 00:51:14.650] reach out, you know,
[00:51:14.830 --> 00:51:18.090] or they might even have recommendations for you.
[00:51:18.590 --> 00:51:19.070] Yeah.
[00:51:20.010 --> 00:51:21.570] So real quick, because you, you,
[00:51:21.670 --> 00:51:24.450] you're not nearly as true as you awesome podcast.
[00:51:24.730 --> 00:51:25.650] Oh, yeah.
[00:51:26.090 --> 00:51:27.470] You talk about what made kids,
[00:51:27.610 --> 00:51:29.350] because you, like I said, you were behind the camera.
[00:51:29.390 --> 00:51:30.170] What made you wonder?
[00:51:30.170 --> 00:51:32.570] Well, you've been on podcast.
[00:51:32.710 --> 00:51:33.230] Sometimes.
[00:51:34.610 --> 00:51:36.630] What made you want to start your own podcast?
[00:51:36.890 --> 00:51:37.150] Yeah.
[00:51:37.450 --> 00:51:39.810] So, interestingly, when I was doing music,
[00:51:40.210 --> 00:51:42.050] I did start a podcast.
[00:51:43.190 --> 00:51:45.230] It was called Lyrical Logic Podcast,
[00:51:45.310 --> 00:51:46.950] where I break down different lyrics
[00:51:46.950 --> 00:51:48.490] of different songs and poems.
[00:51:48.850 --> 00:51:50.650] And then each artist that I brought on,
[00:51:50.710 --> 00:51:51.750] I had them perform
[00:51:51.750 --> 00:51:54.730] and then we break down their song or poem.
[00:51:55.050 --> 00:51:57.370] So like, I'm always thinking about what's the meaning,
[00:51:57.370 --> 00:51:59.450] because I'm, like, you can hear a good beat
[00:51:59.450 --> 00:52:01.210] or, you know, a good song, whatever,
[00:52:01.770 --> 00:52:02.930] but what are you really saying?
[00:52:03.570 --> 00:52:06.870] So I was getting more into the weeds of the lyrics
[00:52:06.870 --> 00:52:08.830] and the meanings, you know, origin.
[00:52:09.510 --> 00:52:11.130] You know, like, it's always a deeper story.
[00:52:11.170 --> 00:52:12.590] Like, I could take it one way,
[00:52:12.870 --> 00:52:15.110] but the artists know exactly what they're doing.
[00:52:15.390 --> 00:52:15.730] Yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:52:15.850 --> 00:52:16.930] I'm like, okay.
[00:52:18.150 --> 00:52:20.470] But even fast forwarding back to production,
[00:52:20.530 --> 00:52:24.110] I'm like, I have a business.
[00:52:25.030 --> 00:52:26.050] I'm an introvert.
[00:52:26.050 --> 00:52:28.150] I don't really like doing this and doing that,
[00:52:28.290 --> 00:52:31.210] but what can I do to market my business?
[00:52:31.930 --> 00:52:34.530] I'm like, every business should have a podcast,
[00:52:34.570 --> 00:52:36.190] so why shouldn't my business?
[00:52:37.550 --> 00:52:37.850] You know?
[00:52:38.050 --> 00:52:41.130] So I started Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:52:42.030 --> 00:52:43.810] I'm currently on, I'll just be recording.
[00:52:43.910 --> 00:52:46.310] I'm probably like on 70 or something like that.
[00:52:47.950 --> 00:52:50.830] But publicly, like 50, 59,
[00:52:51.070 --> 00:52:52.430] but I got like 70.
[00:52:52.990 --> 00:52:54.730] Wow, so you got something in the vault.
[00:52:54.810 --> 00:52:55.390] Ready that long.
[00:52:55.390 --> 00:52:56.630] I got something from a lot.
[00:52:56.770 --> 00:52:57.010] Yeah.
[00:52:57.030 --> 00:52:57.770] And that's about ironic.
[00:52:57.830 --> 00:53:00.730] He's a photographer who does audio podcasts.
[00:53:01.150 --> 00:53:02.730] I know that is ironic.
[00:53:03.130 --> 00:53:03.690] I know.
[00:53:04.630 --> 00:53:06.270] But I thought about this,
[00:53:06.510 --> 00:53:08.010] like, because I've taken it back to music.
[00:53:08.070 --> 00:53:10.510] I used to record voice notes in my car
[00:53:10.510 --> 00:53:11.150] while I'm driving.
[00:53:11.750 --> 00:53:15.230] Like, my song's like, hey, I gotta go harder.
[00:53:15.430 --> 00:53:16.490] I'm so smarter.
[00:53:16.750 --> 00:53:18.410] So I'm like, I just took that same principle.
[00:53:18.630 --> 00:53:22.530] I'm like, I record a 20-minute podcast while I drive,
[00:53:23.010 --> 00:53:25.670] and I try to keep it within 20 to 30 minutes,
[00:53:25.790 --> 00:53:27.190] like the old school shows.
[00:53:28.450 --> 00:53:30.950] Let that be a testament to anybody with a pocket.
[00:53:31.370 --> 00:53:33.970] He's commuting, it's a good reason to shoot in his pocket.
[00:53:34.530 --> 00:53:35.230] What's your excuse?
[00:53:36.550 --> 00:53:37.430] Do it.
[00:53:38.030 --> 00:53:39.490] Do it now.
[00:53:39.830 --> 00:53:41.210] Yeah, because like, I don't gotta worry about,
[00:53:41.530 --> 00:53:42.690] like, even before this,
[00:53:42.870 --> 00:53:45.810] how long did it honestly take for us to set up
[00:53:45.810 --> 00:53:47.990] and, you know, minus, minus the sun.
[00:53:49.350 --> 00:53:51.550] Before that, the lights, the cameras, the mics,
[00:53:51.550 --> 00:53:55.310] I can just put the mics in my phone, record, you know,
[00:53:55.370 --> 00:53:56.070] wherever I want.
[00:53:56.190 --> 00:53:57.210] Like, I got this thought in my head.
[00:53:57.230 --> 00:53:58.170] I want to get it right there.
[00:53:58.170 --> 00:54:00.010] I don't want her to worry about how I look.
[00:54:01.330 --> 00:54:03.390] Most of the times, like, I don't need to retwit.
[00:54:03.450 --> 00:54:04.650] I don't need to retwit right now.
[00:54:05.070 --> 00:54:07.610] But I'm not worried about how I'm showing up on camera.
[00:54:07.850 --> 00:54:09.050] I don't gotta worry about the lights,
[00:54:09.130 --> 00:54:10.390] or I gotta charge this.
[00:54:10.610 --> 00:54:11.370] Less equipment.
[00:54:11.490 --> 00:54:13.030] I can do it wherever I want,
[00:54:13.310 --> 00:54:15.510] just press record and get my thoughts out.
[00:54:15.590 --> 00:54:17.490] Because you think about a podcast,
[00:54:18.710 --> 00:54:19.850] it's audio only.
[00:54:21.070 --> 00:54:23.110] That's how it started, like radio.
[00:54:23.530 --> 00:54:23.910] That's true.
[00:54:24.370 --> 00:54:26.470] And then we started introducing, you know,
[00:54:26.670 --> 00:54:28.010] cameras with video.
[00:54:28.410 --> 00:54:30.430] Even radio stations, they have video now.
[00:54:31.410 --> 00:54:34.750] So podcasts have helped, you know, evolve the radio.
[00:54:36.370 --> 00:54:38.730] But yeah, adding camera and everything,
[00:54:39.730 --> 00:54:41.450] like, even with Lyrical Logic podcast,
[00:54:41.570 --> 00:54:42.890] it was audio only.
[00:54:44.130 --> 00:54:45.150] So you could do it everywhere.
[00:54:45.390 --> 00:54:47.430] I was recording in the car, recording,
[00:54:47.870 --> 00:54:49.090] you know, on the couch,
[00:54:49.090 --> 00:54:50.230] boom, boom, boom.
[00:54:50.330 --> 00:54:51.630] It's like, I don't gotta worry about it.
[00:54:51.630 --> 00:54:53.170] Because I like also moving.
[00:54:53.390 --> 00:54:54.930] Because I'll walk away from the camera
[00:54:54.930 --> 00:54:55.930] and forget the camera rolling.
[00:54:56.630 --> 00:54:57.630] I like moving.
[00:54:57.850 --> 00:54:58.710] Like, I'm a pacer.
[00:54:58.790 --> 00:55:00.650] That's how I get my thoughts down.
[00:55:00.690 --> 00:55:02.070] That's how I used to write a lot of songs.
[00:55:02.110 --> 00:55:04.750] I cannot stay still most of the time.
[00:55:04.850 --> 00:55:07.070] It's like that energy is always emotion.
[00:55:07.890 --> 00:55:10.410] So I'm like, why can't my thoughts,
[00:55:10.490 --> 00:55:11.450] my thoughts are emotional,
[00:55:11.690 --> 00:55:13.590] energy, emotion, everything just flowing.
[00:55:15.030 --> 00:55:16.070] That's good, that's good.
[00:55:16.070 --> 00:55:17.850] Listen, I'm a podcast, by the way.
[00:55:17.950 --> 00:55:19.430] I'm a podcast connoisseur.
[00:55:19.690 --> 00:55:20.230] Thank you.
[00:55:20.530 --> 00:55:21.710] I like how you take,
[00:55:22.530 --> 00:55:23.330] and I'm just, it's not,
[00:55:23.430 --> 00:55:24.990] and you think this would be all photography industry,
[00:55:24.990 --> 00:55:26.350] you take different industries.
[00:55:27.050 --> 00:55:27.790] People with different issues.
[00:55:27.950 --> 00:55:28.690] So shout out to you, brother.
[00:55:28.730 --> 00:55:29.470] Yeah, interview.
[00:55:29.490 --> 00:55:30.610] You go a little deeper.
[00:55:31.710 --> 00:55:32.750] I try, you know,
[00:55:32.890 --> 00:55:34.850] interview different people from different industries.
[00:55:34.910 --> 00:55:35.970] And we all can assist.
[00:55:36.350 --> 00:55:38.770] Like, what can we learn from the relationship industry
[00:55:38.770 --> 00:55:40.110] and apply it to our business?
[00:55:40.270 --> 00:55:42.390] What can we learn with podcasts
[00:55:42.390 --> 00:55:44.890] and building the community into our business?
[00:55:44.890 --> 00:55:47.230] What can you learn from photography industry
[00:55:47.750 --> 00:55:50.650] and media industry for our own business?
[00:55:50.650 --> 00:55:51.710] We all need media.
[00:55:52.830 --> 00:55:55.410] And then we all need tags, housing.
[00:55:55.570 --> 00:55:56.890] We all need these things.
[00:55:57.110 --> 00:55:59.050] And what are they doing in their industry
[00:55:59.050 --> 00:56:00.690] that we can apply to our own?
[00:56:02.950 --> 00:56:05.590] So that's what I do when I interview different people.
[00:56:06.190 --> 00:56:07.610] But with my solo podcast,
[00:56:07.810 --> 00:56:11.410] I look like I take it as master classes
[00:56:11.410 --> 00:56:12.950] and different things that
[00:56:13.510 --> 00:56:15.250] I could take and have for myself.
[00:56:15.550 --> 00:56:20.650] If they want to book me for a speech on podcasts,
[00:56:20.730 --> 00:56:22.550] I already have episodes about that.
[00:56:22.810 --> 00:56:24.890] So I just kind of listen to my own stuff
[00:56:24.890 --> 00:56:26.610] and already have the blueprint
[00:56:27.610 --> 00:56:29.130] or confidence, motivation.
[00:56:29.190 --> 00:56:31.050] I already had these topics, mindset.
[00:56:31.550 --> 00:56:33.310] I already had these topics on my podcast,
[00:56:33.430 --> 00:56:34.590] just listening to podcasts.
[00:56:34.950 --> 00:56:35.950] And then for me,
[00:56:36.310 --> 00:56:37.650] I could also listen to it like,
[00:56:38.090 --> 00:56:39.450] oh, yeah, mindset.
[00:56:39.570 --> 00:56:40.570] Okay, touch on this.
[00:56:40.770 --> 00:56:41.610] Okay, touch on this.
[00:56:42.130 --> 00:56:44.690] And seeing what resonates with the audience.
[00:56:45.190 --> 00:56:47.610] So that's why I love the podcast.
[00:56:48.270 --> 00:56:51.230] And it just helps me in many different ways,
[00:56:51.250 --> 00:56:52.570] not just marketing my business,
[00:56:52.710 --> 00:56:55.430] but like I said, using it as a master class
[00:56:55.430 --> 00:56:58.410] or people want to book me for speeches
[00:56:58.410 --> 00:56:59.670] like with Futureland,
[00:56:59.970 --> 00:57:01.630] they had, you know,
[00:57:01.690 --> 00:57:02.730] I speak on stage,
[00:57:02.830 --> 00:57:04.490] every business should have a podcast.
[00:57:04.950 --> 00:57:06.510] That's what it's an episode
[00:57:06.510 --> 00:57:09.130] on Alien Hospital's industry talk.
[00:57:09.130 --> 00:57:11.830] A-E-P-E-I-T.
[00:57:12.010 --> 00:57:14.770] I'm going to say E, A-E-P-I-T.
[00:57:15.150 --> 00:57:16.450] Okay, all right.
[00:57:16.650 --> 00:57:17.930] Love it, love it.
[00:57:18.290 --> 00:57:19.670] So I think that, you know,
[00:57:19.670 --> 00:57:21.710] it's very important to your point
[00:57:21.710 --> 00:57:22.730] to have a podcast
[00:57:23.270 --> 00:57:25.290] just to be able to get your voice
[00:57:25.290 --> 00:57:26.410] to have it be heard.
[00:57:26.930 --> 00:57:27.790] You know, David Shands,
[00:57:27.830 --> 00:57:28.610] when he came to Cleveland,
[00:57:28.990 --> 00:57:29.950] explained the importance
[00:57:29.950 --> 00:57:32.710] of being able to document something
[00:57:33.750 --> 00:57:35.570] because you want to leave that.
[00:57:35.630 --> 00:57:37.770] That can now be part of your legacy.
[00:57:38.410 --> 00:57:40.430] Um, you know, when we leave this earth,
[00:57:40.590 --> 00:57:41.810] you know, so it's very important.
[00:57:41.810 --> 00:57:43.530] Now, not only have you decided
[00:57:43.530 --> 00:57:46.530] to do podcasting for yourself,
[00:57:46.530 --> 00:57:47.590] but you also have decided
[00:57:47.590 --> 00:57:50.530] to go back behind the lens,
[00:57:51.130 --> 00:57:53.450] make it a business with your partner.
[00:57:53.870 --> 00:57:57.070] And my first pod, like, um,
[00:57:57.070 --> 00:58:00.330] phenomenal how you guys took an idea,
[00:58:01.350 --> 00:58:03.010] strategize it thoroughly
[00:58:03.010 --> 00:58:04.510] thanks to Overflow Studios.
[00:58:05.090 --> 00:58:05.510] Okay.
[00:58:05.650 --> 00:58:07.330] Shout out to Overflow Studios.
[00:58:07.330 --> 00:58:08.510] Shout out to her.
[00:58:09.630 --> 00:58:10.290] And not only that,
[00:58:10.350 --> 00:58:12.150] but you guys moved on it.
[00:58:12.390 --> 00:58:13.790] You know, it wasn't just an idea
[00:58:13.790 --> 00:58:15.290] that sat and sat for years and years.
[00:58:15.410 --> 00:58:17.030] You move and you move quickly.
[00:58:17.630 --> 00:58:19.550] So tell us how that experience
[00:58:19.550 --> 00:58:20.930] has been to be able to
[00:58:22.010 --> 00:58:23.610] now be another business venture
[00:58:23.610 --> 00:58:24.390] for yourself.
[00:58:25.990 --> 00:58:27.110] So I want to say
[00:58:27.110 --> 00:58:28.430] it's a business venture,
[00:58:28.490 --> 00:58:30.150] but it's one of our main offers
[00:58:30.150 --> 00:58:30.910] for sure.
[00:58:31.170 --> 00:58:32.990] And shout out to Brianna
[00:58:32.990 --> 00:58:34.430] for that for sure.
[00:58:34.550 --> 00:58:36.290] She initially brought me the idea
[00:58:36.290 --> 00:58:38.650] like, oh, we should do this.
[00:58:38.710 --> 00:58:40.310] And she thought her name my first pod.
[00:58:40.430 --> 00:58:42.750] I'm like, it's kind of cheesy,
[00:58:42.750 --> 00:58:44.990] but now like sitting with it,
[00:58:44.990 --> 00:58:46.510] like, I'm like, that is brilliant.
[00:58:46.570 --> 00:58:47.570] That is amazing.
[00:58:47.650 --> 00:58:49.570] Like, it's literally my first pod.
[00:58:49.690 --> 00:58:50.730] Like, I'm like,
[00:58:50.730 --> 00:58:52.290] we got to do more with this too.
[00:58:52.490 --> 00:58:54.630] And then I just helped build it out more.
[00:58:54.750 --> 00:58:56.310] But when she initially came to him,
[00:58:57.690 --> 00:58:59.770] like, no, I wasn't feeling it,
[00:58:59.950 --> 00:59:01.790] but just trust in the process
[00:59:01.790 --> 00:59:03.910] and trust in your partner.
[00:59:04.250 --> 00:59:05.190] That part.
[00:59:05.190 --> 00:59:06.510] So many things I bring her,
[00:59:06.570 --> 00:59:07.470] she'd be like, no.
[00:59:10.750 --> 00:59:12.150] But, you know,
[00:59:12.250 --> 00:59:13.950] just just trusting a partner,
[00:59:14.130 --> 00:59:16.370] even outside of that with business,
[00:59:16.370 --> 00:59:18.890] you have to build that trust.
[00:59:18.950 --> 00:59:19.350] You do.
[00:59:19.470 --> 00:59:21.110] They got to know you, like you,
[00:59:21.590 --> 00:59:22.830] but most of all, trust you.
[00:59:22.930 --> 00:59:24.670] I got episodes on that too.
[00:59:26.390 --> 00:59:29.310] So yeah, we're always building it,
[00:59:29.310 --> 00:59:30.970] but that's something
[00:59:30.970 --> 00:59:32.550] we actually talked about recently
[00:59:32.550 --> 00:59:34.750] where we're actually going to show fit
[00:59:35.370 --> 00:59:36.870] for later because,
[00:59:38.190 --> 00:59:39.150] you know, just reviewing
[00:59:39.150 --> 00:59:40.990] and reflecting and like, okay,
[00:59:41.510 --> 00:59:44.630] are we really getting out of it
[00:59:44.630 --> 00:59:46.810] what we really want to get out of it?
[00:59:47.970 --> 00:59:49.390] Yes, with the production.
[00:59:49.870 --> 00:59:50.830] Yes, with the relationship
[00:59:50.830 --> 00:59:53.290] and helping people financially,
[00:59:53.330 --> 00:59:54.970] we are taking a loss.
[00:59:55.030 --> 00:59:57.010] Like, if you book us regularly
[00:59:57.010 --> 00:59:59.310] with all our services together,
[00:59:59.330 --> 01:00:00.630] like, it's much more
[01:00:00.630 --> 01:00:01.370] than what we're offering
[01:00:01.370 --> 01:00:02.370] with my first pod.
[01:00:03.010 --> 01:00:06.090] We want to help people launch
[01:00:06.090 --> 01:00:07.290] their first podcast
[01:00:07.290 --> 01:00:08.690] and give them that confidence
[01:00:08.690 --> 01:00:11.070] and let them know that it's possible
[01:00:11.070 --> 01:00:12.890] and do it with quality.
[01:00:12.950 --> 01:00:14.330] Shout out to Overflow Studios
[01:00:14.330 --> 01:00:16.650] because I could help film,
[01:00:16.710 --> 01:00:18.350] take pictures behind the scenes,
[01:00:18.890 --> 01:00:19.730] but the editor.
[01:00:20.430 --> 01:00:21.370] God bless her.
[01:00:21.550 --> 01:00:22.750] God bless her.
[01:00:24.850 --> 01:00:25.950] Shout out to the editor.
[01:00:27.650 --> 01:00:29.010] Bless y'all.
[01:00:29.210 --> 01:00:30.050] Bless y'all.
[01:00:30.050 --> 01:00:31.250] Because I know.
[01:00:31.990 --> 01:00:32.850] Behind the scenes
[01:00:32.850 --> 01:00:33.810] on the camera right now.
[01:00:38.980 --> 01:00:39.940] So sensitive.
[01:00:40.280 --> 01:00:41.700] We talk about the future
[01:00:41.700 --> 01:00:43.620] but the kids, my first pod,
[01:00:44.500 --> 01:00:45.520] I think it's phenomenal idea.
[01:00:45.880 --> 01:00:46.520] That's crazy.
[01:00:47.140 --> 01:00:48.160] Speaking about music,
[01:00:48.240 --> 01:00:49.120] going back to my music,
[01:00:49.220 --> 01:00:52.180] I had a mixtape called
[01:00:53.100 --> 01:00:54.660] Pass the Future.
[01:00:56.380 --> 01:00:58.240] That was way before Alien
[01:00:58.240 --> 01:00:58.620] so I'm like,
[01:00:58.640 --> 01:00:59.920] this is all coming alive.
[01:01:00.140 --> 01:01:01.080] It does.
[01:01:01.720 --> 01:01:03.140] Funny how that works.
[01:01:03.440 --> 01:01:04.440] I love that.
[01:01:05.600 --> 01:01:07.160] Because it all kind of co-exist.
[01:01:08.740 --> 01:01:10.280] But I'm about to interrupt you.
[01:01:10.480 --> 01:01:11.760] I just want to throw that in.
[01:01:12.340 --> 01:01:12.980] What do we expect
[01:01:12.980 --> 01:01:13.840] for the future from you, brother?
[01:01:14.440 --> 01:01:15.200] Because listen,
[01:01:15.620 --> 01:01:16.460] the sky's living with you.
[01:01:16.460 --> 01:01:16.840] Sure.
[01:01:17.100 --> 01:01:17.680] We know,
[01:01:17.800 --> 01:01:18.500] literally, if you say
[01:01:18.500 --> 01:01:19.780] since this is my own,
[01:01:19.880 --> 01:01:20.760] be I or should not.
[01:01:22.120 --> 01:01:22.460] Darn it.
[01:01:22.460 --> 01:01:22.940] He going to be there.
[01:01:23.460 --> 01:01:25.160] Well, it's crazy that you said that.
[01:01:26.020 --> 01:01:28.120] I actually did once I was,
[01:01:28.640 --> 01:01:29.500] when I was little
[01:01:29.500 --> 01:01:30.260] because
[01:01:31.280 --> 01:01:31.700] you know,
[01:01:31.900 --> 01:01:33.280] we all had those questions.
[01:01:33.340 --> 01:01:33.920] What you want to be
[01:01:33.920 --> 01:01:34.660] when you grow up?
[01:01:34.800 --> 01:01:35.220] What you want to be
[01:01:35.220 --> 01:01:35.840] when you grow up?
[01:01:36.160 --> 01:01:37.080] Even till now,
[01:01:37.120 --> 01:01:38.020] you can still grow up.
[01:01:38.520 --> 01:01:39.600] What did you want to be
[01:01:39.600 --> 01:01:40.500] when you were a kid?
[01:01:40.780 --> 01:01:41.760] I wanted to be a singer.
[01:01:42.080 --> 01:01:43.020] What you wanted to be?
[01:01:43.280 --> 01:01:43.860] Kenair Wayans.
[01:01:46.380 --> 01:01:47.920] But y'all are unique.
[01:01:48.500 --> 01:01:49.220] But you hear,
[01:01:49.620 --> 01:01:50.560] oh, I'm a police officer,
[01:01:50.680 --> 01:01:51.460] a firefighter,
[01:01:51.600 --> 01:01:52.300] or this or that.
[01:01:52.340 --> 01:01:53.060] Nurse, doctor.
[01:01:53.920 --> 01:01:54.280] I'm like,
[01:01:54.320 --> 01:01:55.420] what's different about you?
[01:01:55.420 --> 01:01:56.300] I want to be an astronaut.
[01:01:56.920 --> 01:01:58.360] I didn't know what astronaut was.
[01:01:59.040 --> 01:02:01.160] So I want to be something different.
[01:02:01.200 --> 01:02:02.520] I always love being different,
[01:02:02.660 --> 01:02:03.360] being original,
[01:02:03.480 --> 01:02:04.080] doing something,
[01:02:04.320 --> 01:02:04.800] somebody else.
[01:02:04.940 --> 01:02:06.300] Everybody using chat GPT,
[01:02:06.320 --> 01:02:07.080] I was using Claude.
[01:02:08.800 --> 01:02:09.740] And everybody was getting Claude.
[01:02:09.780 --> 01:02:11.060] I started shifting in Gemini.
[01:02:11.300 --> 01:02:11.820] But I don't really like,
[01:02:11.940 --> 01:02:13.500] I'm still sticking with what I like best,
[01:02:13.740 --> 01:02:14.720] which is Claude,
[01:02:14.900 --> 01:02:15.140] A.I.
[01:02:15.240 --> 01:02:17.040] as far as the A.I.s.
[01:02:17.160 --> 01:02:18.760] The three big top ones.
[01:02:20.240 --> 01:02:21.360] No shade to Grock,
[01:02:21.420 --> 01:02:23.300] but I think those are the three tops.
[01:02:24.320 --> 01:02:25.780] Chat, Gemini, and Claude.
[01:02:28.820 --> 01:02:30.560] It's just about me being different.
[01:02:31.300 --> 01:02:31.980] And like I said,
[01:02:31.980 --> 01:02:33.500] I didn't know what an astronaut was,
[01:02:33.520 --> 01:02:35.300] but if I don't know what it is,
[01:02:35.320 --> 01:02:36.260] I'm going to research it.
[01:02:36.300 --> 01:02:37.620] I'm like, oh, it's kind of different.
[01:02:37.720 --> 01:02:38.080] Okay.
[01:02:38.780 --> 01:02:41.940] Like, I know you probably never heard this,
[01:02:43.280 --> 01:02:44.260] but I was like,
[01:02:44.320 --> 01:02:45.720] if I get married,
[01:02:47.220 --> 01:02:48.480] I want to get married on the moon.
[01:02:53.600 --> 01:02:55.320] That's just how I like to be different.
[01:02:55.460 --> 01:02:55.760] Like, well,
[01:02:55.760 --> 01:02:57.180] I've never heard of that before.
[01:02:57.180 --> 01:02:59.200] How many people got married on the moon?
[01:03:03.880 --> 01:03:04.760] Well, well,
[01:03:04.800 --> 01:03:06.080] we're just going to have to pull up.
[01:03:06.100 --> 01:03:06.340] No.
[01:03:08.260 --> 01:03:08.960] No, that's a destination.
[01:03:08.960 --> 01:03:10.300] We're going to be floating there, boy.
[01:03:10.500 --> 01:03:12.140] Yeah, that's a destination wedding for sure.
[01:03:12.620 --> 01:03:14.560] I don't know how we all going to get up there.
[01:03:18.440 --> 01:03:20.020] It may take us some years.
[01:03:20.140 --> 01:03:21.300] I don't know how the time shall look
[01:03:21.300 --> 01:03:22.980] with the, you know,
[01:03:23.060 --> 01:03:24.460] the rocks and the outer space
[01:03:24.460 --> 01:03:25.880] and, you know, being an astronaut.
[01:03:25.880 --> 01:03:28.240] But however long it take,
[01:03:29.180 --> 01:03:31.100] I don't really know too much about it.
[01:03:31.660 --> 01:03:33.620] But I know, like I said,
[01:03:33.700 --> 01:03:34.400] I never traveled.
[01:03:34.600 --> 01:03:36.060] How many people really explored
[01:03:36.060 --> 01:03:36.920] and traveled the moon
[01:03:36.920 --> 01:03:39.520] but to get married on the moon?
[01:03:41.770 --> 01:03:42.630] Now, you know what they say,
[01:03:42.770 --> 01:03:43.850] oh, heads over the moon,
[01:03:44.150 --> 01:03:45.570] or however that saying go.
[01:03:46.370 --> 01:03:47.610] Why not just take it to the moon?
[01:03:48.370 --> 01:03:49.630] The cow jumped over the moon,
[01:03:49.690 --> 01:03:50.470] so did the aliens.
[01:03:51.090 --> 01:03:52.590] Wow, all right.
[01:03:53.010 --> 01:03:54.410] Let's see some aliens up there.
[01:03:54.410 --> 01:03:55.030] They might be.
[01:03:55.870 --> 01:03:58.270] Might be part of the attendees.
[01:03:58.890 --> 01:03:58.910] Right.
[01:03:59.550 --> 01:04:00.090] Okay.
[01:04:00.230 --> 01:04:00.630] You know.
[01:04:00.890 --> 01:04:01.870] So one aspect of it,
[01:04:02.250 --> 01:04:03.510] but what can we expect
[01:04:03.510 --> 01:04:04.510] for you to be professionally?
[01:04:05.870 --> 01:04:06.410] Professionally?
[01:04:07.050 --> 01:04:09.030] I think me doing more teaching,
[01:04:09.410 --> 01:04:10.250] more workshops,
[01:04:10.690 --> 01:04:13.630] me stepping away from the camera more,
[01:04:13.930 --> 01:04:14.210] even, you know,
[01:04:14.310 --> 01:04:16.030] building out a team training
[01:04:16.030 --> 01:04:19.190] and finding different, you know,
[01:04:19.290 --> 01:04:21.550] people to mentor and interns
[01:04:21.550 --> 01:04:22.770] and building them up.
[01:04:22.770 --> 01:04:23.170] Sure.
[01:04:25.050 --> 01:04:27.130] Just really stepping away
[01:04:27.130 --> 01:04:29.050] because I thought about this.
[01:04:31.110 --> 01:04:32.270] You know, like my first million.
[01:04:33.110 --> 01:04:34.790] You know, will it come from photography?
[01:04:34.950 --> 01:04:36.210] Yeah, I could grind away,
[01:04:36.210 --> 01:04:38.230] but I'll be tired and all this.
[01:04:38.710 --> 01:04:40.210] I'm where I really enjoy.
[01:04:40.350 --> 01:04:41.230] Yeah, I can make a million,
[01:04:41.350 --> 01:04:43.970] but I'll have to do X, Y, and Z events
[01:04:43.970 --> 01:04:45.810] or so many productions.
[01:04:45.910 --> 01:04:47.150] So it's like, okay,
[01:04:47.770 --> 01:04:48.930] what is that next tier,
[01:04:49.090 --> 01:04:50.250] that next level
[01:04:51.190 --> 01:04:53.370] besides, you know, photography, video
[01:04:53.370 --> 01:04:55.390] that would help me make my first million,
[01:04:55.410 --> 01:04:56.410] which I'm still building
[01:04:56.410 --> 01:04:57.530] and working on in my head.
[01:04:57.550 --> 01:04:58.990] Like I have a bunch of ideas.
[01:04:59.290 --> 01:05:01.810] So this is just about sitting down,
[01:05:02.010 --> 01:05:02.930] strategizing, planning,
[01:05:03.090 --> 01:05:04.990] having that time with self
[01:05:04.990 --> 01:05:07.410] and seeing what really is effective,
[01:05:07.450 --> 01:05:08.350] what really works
[01:05:08.350 --> 01:05:09.990] and what, you know, I love.
[01:05:10.190 --> 01:05:12.290] Like, because you could do something,
[01:05:12.510 --> 01:05:14.010] but do you really love it?
[01:05:14.010 --> 01:05:14.150] That's good.
[01:05:14.170 --> 01:05:16.430] You'll get burnt out either way, you know.
[01:05:17.710 --> 01:05:17.950] So.
[01:05:17.950 --> 01:05:18.570] I'm good.
[01:05:19.530 --> 01:05:21.150] Yes, it's a work in progress,
[01:05:21.150 --> 01:05:22.850] but you know the futures,
[01:05:23.050 --> 01:05:24.470] it could change.
[01:05:24.490 --> 01:05:26.490] Yeah, I can say one day like,
[01:05:26.490 --> 01:05:27.750] oh, I could be an astronaut,
[01:05:27.750 --> 01:05:29.690] but tomorrow I'm a scientist.
[01:05:30.550 --> 01:05:31.770] Next day I'm back rapping.
[01:05:32.090 --> 01:05:32.850] You never know.
[01:05:33.290 --> 01:05:35.270] So, but the fact that these things
[01:05:35.270 --> 01:05:36.790] is all possible to you,
[01:05:36.890 --> 01:05:39.170] since that's possible for all of us.
[01:05:40.310 --> 01:05:41.150] Listen, I know people,
[01:05:41.850 --> 01:05:43.450] they they they studied on one thing.
[01:05:43.450 --> 01:05:46.370] You said, hey, I can do it.
[01:05:46.570 --> 01:05:47.790] Yeah, that's good.
[01:05:48.910 --> 01:05:50.730] I respect and admire that, bro,
[01:05:51.870 --> 01:05:53.170] because I know what I'm good at
[01:05:53.170 --> 01:05:54.750] and I stick to that.
[01:05:54.890 --> 01:05:57.030] Well, don't be afraid to try new things,
[01:05:57.070 --> 01:05:58.370] you know, like you even being
[01:05:58.370 --> 01:05:59.290] behind the camera more,
[01:05:59.410 --> 01:06:00.790] saying you like being behind the camera.
[01:06:00.890 --> 01:06:02.530] You want to step from
[01:06:02.530 --> 01:06:03.570] in front of the camera
[01:06:03.570 --> 01:06:05.250] and be behind the scenes more.
[01:06:05.390 --> 01:06:06.310] I'm like, oh, really?
[01:06:06.550 --> 01:06:08.250] Oh, speaking as lightning, you know.
[01:06:08.470 --> 01:06:10.670] Yeah, you know, you know.
[01:06:13.510 --> 01:06:16.150] So I'm actually excited for this joint
[01:06:16.150 --> 01:06:18.290] because you have you have sat around
[01:06:18.290 --> 01:06:20.530] for 300 plus answers to these questions.
[01:06:20.530 --> 01:06:22.210] Yeah, get sensei's answers.
[01:06:22.250 --> 01:06:23.490] I'm excited about this.
[01:06:23.490 --> 01:06:26.370] Yeah, like I never heard this before.
[01:06:26.370 --> 01:06:27.410] We're just going to ask.
[01:06:27.710 --> 01:06:28.710] Right with these questions.
[01:06:28.790 --> 01:06:31.210] So everybody knows we have stable questions.
[01:06:31.730 --> 01:06:32.870] Yeah, like I said, it's hard.
[01:06:32.910 --> 01:06:34.110] She even heard them all, right?
[01:06:34.310 --> 01:06:35.210] But I know you're going to have
[01:06:35.210 --> 01:06:37.930] his his specific answer to the question.
[01:06:38.790 --> 01:06:40.690] But Cleveland said you clean one array
[01:06:40.690 --> 01:06:41.850] and you've seen it.
[01:06:42.250 --> 01:06:44.830] And another one of you flowers, man,
[01:06:45.050 --> 01:06:45.830] collaboration, brother.
[01:06:46.150 --> 01:06:46.890] You are a man.
[01:06:47.730 --> 01:06:49.270] You know what I'm saying?
[01:06:49.610 --> 01:06:52.190] Hands down, like he says the message clever.
[01:06:52.810 --> 01:06:54.150] He he's bringing me in clever.
[01:06:54.310 --> 01:06:55.410] So I'm like, I'll be part of collaboration.
[01:06:55.530 --> 01:06:57.810] But I'm like, no, since they're going to do clever.
[01:06:58.370 --> 01:06:59.610] Well, I get credit for it.
[01:06:59.650 --> 01:07:00.730] Because since they know I'm high,
[01:07:00.730 --> 01:07:03.110] I am a level headed person.
[01:07:03.470 --> 01:07:05.150] So I don't I don't I don't be level headed.
[01:07:05.170 --> 01:07:06.230] It's just like, all right, man.
[01:07:06.570 --> 01:07:10.270] Yeah, but I started to say collaboration.
[01:07:10.410 --> 01:07:11.790] It's just like.
[01:07:11.870 --> 01:07:12.930] I'm for you to have the stigma
[01:07:12.930 --> 01:07:14.710] of not being a clever place.
[01:07:14.710 --> 01:07:17.190] So let's say you've been in my collaborator.
[01:07:18.930 --> 01:07:20.110] How do you feel like we can change
[01:07:20.110 --> 01:07:21.790] the narrative of Cleveland?
[01:07:22.530 --> 01:07:24.470] Change the stigma of not being clever place.
[01:07:26.530 --> 01:07:29.890] I think just being collaborative, like.
[01:07:31.370 --> 01:07:34.090] I think it started for me with music.
[01:07:34.630 --> 01:07:36.410] Like, I wanted to collaborate with everybody.
[01:07:36.690 --> 01:07:39.710] Pop artists, rock artists, other rappers, singers.
[01:07:39.870 --> 01:07:41.570] I love collaborative singers.
[01:07:42.170 --> 01:07:43.750] Like, I think I'm making my best hits.
[01:07:44.510 --> 01:07:45.530] With singers.
[01:07:46.670 --> 01:07:49.550] So I just took that same principle just throughout life.
[01:07:50.010 --> 01:07:52.530] Like, even being a kid in school,
[01:07:52.670 --> 01:07:55.170] I could sit at any lunch table with any crowd.
[01:07:55.870 --> 01:08:00.310] Like, I'm not with the jocks or the high people.
[01:08:00.310 --> 01:08:01.950] Like, I could be with anybody.
[01:08:03.030 --> 01:08:05.350] You know, the isolated people to the popular people.
[01:08:05.810 --> 01:08:07.750] Like, I'm sitting at a new lunch table each day.
[01:08:08.330 --> 01:08:09.810] Like, what y'all got going on?
[01:08:09.830 --> 01:08:10.990] Like, I can sit by myself.
[01:08:11.430 --> 01:08:12.830] And I don't mind sitting by myself.
[01:08:12.830 --> 01:08:14.670] A lot of people don't sit with themselves.
[01:08:15.210 --> 01:08:17.910] But once you sit with yourself, you learn yourself.
[01:08:18.290 --> 01:08:20.270] And that way, you're going to open it up more.
[01:08:21.710 --> 01:08:23.689] Like, I could be in front of the camera.
[01:08:23.810 --> 01:08:25.149] You know, with that pull-up spin.
[01:08:25.189 --> 01:08:26.810] I could be behind the scenes.
[01:08:27.210 --> 01:08:28.029] I could be off the scenes.
[01:08:28.130 --> 01:08:28.770] I don't got to do nothing.
[01:08:28.770 --> 01:08:30.390] I could be doing a show notes.
[01:08:30.450 --> 01:08:32.630] I could be doing, you know, administrative work.
[01:08:32.630 --> 01:08:34.130] I could do so many different tasks.
[01:08:34.189 --> 01:08:35.569] But it's about that flexibility
[01:08:35.569 --> 01:08:37.910] and know what team you're a part of
[01:08:37.910 --> 01:08:39.890] and what collaboration you're part of.
[01:08:40.410 --> 01:08:41.609] You know, but also.
[01:08:42.830 --> 01:08:44.370] It's just being open.
[01:08:45.529 --> 01:08:46.790] Like, even being with the pull-up spin.
[01:08:46.850 --> 01:08:48.130] It's just being open, you know.
[01:08:48.670 --> 01:08:50.330] And shout out to Angie Arlo.
[01:08:50.330 --> 01:08:51.529] Shout out to Arlo.
[01:08:51.750 --> 01:08:52.870] Because I could have been like,
[01:08:52.890 --> 01:08:54.290] what, they ain't paying me.
[01:08:56.850 --> 01:08:58.670] And I could say anything.
[01:08:58.870 --> 01:09:01.229] I'd be like, I don't know these people.
[01:09:02.370 --> 01:09:04.750] But what was crazy was,
[01:09:05.270 --> 01:09:06.890] I'm always open to collaboration.
[01:09:07.069 --> 01:09:08.710] At least if it's just one day or whatever.
[01:09:09.130 --> 01:09:12.529] But I wanted to start a business podcast.
[01:09:13.189 --> 01:09:15.430] All right, you know, full of entrepreneurs.
[01:09:15.450 --> 01:09:17.370] And that's what y'all were doing.
[01:09:17.550 --> 01:09:21.630] So I'm like, I could have my business podcast,
[01:09:21.649 --> 01:09:23.290] but I don't have to be the face of it.
[01:09:23.410 --> 01:09:25.170] And so I thought it was perfect for me.
[01:09:25.170 --> 01:09:26.750] Because I didn't want to be your face.
[01:09:26.790 --> 01:09:28.930] And like, this has been beautiful.
[01:09:30.350 --> 01:09:34.090] But just collaborating with Overflow Studios a lot.
[01:09:34.149 --> 01:09:36.410] Even when LaunchArts, the pull-up experience,
[01:09:36.850 --> 01:09:38.670] you know, Futureland, Crayon Meetups.
[01:09:39.149 --> 01:09:42.109] Like, it's just about being open and saying yes.
[01:09:42.109 --> 01:09:45.250] Because it could be a one-time thing.
[01:09:45.670 --> 01:09:47.970] But you don't know where it could go if you don't never try.
[01:09:49.550 --> 01:09:52.770] So along with the trying, never give up.
[01:09:54.470 --> 01:09:55.170] Never give up.
[01:09:55.230 --> 01:09:55.810] Never quit.
[01:09:55.950 --> 01:09:56.790] Never give up.
[01:09:57.890 --> 01:09:59.990] But try once at least, you know.
[01:10:00.090 --> 01:10:01.470] Maybe it don't work out.
[01:10:01.870 --> 01:10:05.690] You know, I would love to see weird collaborations
[01:10:05.690 --> 01:10:07.330] between Coke and Pepsi.
[01:10:07.710 --> 01:10:08.870] Like, whoop, they came together.
[01:10:09.830 --> 01:10:11.770] I love seeing stuff like that.
[01:10:11.770 --> 01:10:16.690] Things that naturally don't work together or collaborate.
[01:10:19.170 --> 01:10:22.010] So it's all about the what-ifs, the possibilities,
[01:10:22.110 --> 01:10:25.730] and just being open and trying at least once.
[01:10:27.810 --> 01:10:30.970] So, Sensei, I believe everyone wants your product.
[01:10:31.230 --> 01:10:33.570] And this thing about, I feel like you collaborate
[01:10:33.570 --> 01:10:34.730] with a good portion of the people.
[01:10:35.210 --> 01:10:38.010] But who can we hope for you to collaborate in the future?
[01:10:38.070 --> 01:10:39.650] Who would you like to collaborate in the future, Sensei?
[01:10:39.670 --> 01:10:40.930] Because I can think about it.
[01:10:40.930 --> 01:10:41.470] You know what I'm saying?
[01:10:41.770 --> 01:10:42.870] A lot of people.
[01:10:43.370 --> 01:10:47.010] Well, if you were asking me this like a month ago,
[01:10:47.070 --> 01:10:50.030] I'd have probably said David Shands on the podcast summit.
[01:10:50.230 --> 01:10:53.230] We kind of did in a way and did some interviews
[01:10:53.230 --> 01:10:54.930] at Creative Clubhouse.
[01:10:55.210 --> 01:10:56.530] Come on, that's major.
[01:10:56.830 --> 01:10:58.230] Shout out to y'all.
[01:10:58.330 --> 01:10:58.970] That's major.
[01:10:59.970 --> 01:11:03.910] So, but outside of that, I would say,
[01:11:05.630 --> 01:11:08.470] I mean, everybody that I'm collaborating with now,
[01:11:08.470 --> 01:11:13.470] just more, maybe something, music.
[01:11:15.530 --> 01:11:16.490] It's crazy.
[01:11:16.530 --> 01:11:17.830] I know they're not here right now,
[01:11:17.830 --> 01:11:20.970] but I want to collaborate with Tupac, Michael Jackson,
[01:11:21.530 --> 01:11:23.650] their legacy and things like that.
[01:11:23.850 --> 01:11:24.870] They are progressive, though.
[01:11:26.210 --> 01:11:33.030] I want to collaborate with companies from the tech industry
[01:11:33.030 --> 01:11:37.370] because I think my knowledge with media
[01:11:38.470 --> 01:11:42.430] I think tech has a lot less media attention,
[01:11:42.650 --> 01:11:45.690] but if I could bring that side and that awareness,
[01:11:45.930 --> 01:11:46.750] that visibility,
[01:11:47.470 --> 01:11:50.090] I think it would just open the world up even more.
[01:11:52.250 --> 01:11:54.330] It's no specific company or entity,
[01:11:54.970 --> 01:11:56.470] but I'm kind of wink-winking,
[01:11:57.590 --> 01:12:00.610] whoever aligns with my values, goals, beliefs,
[01:12:00.750 --> 01:12:03.930] and also the money, reach out.
[01:12:04.090 --> 01:12:06.770] I'm always open to collaborate just about anybody.
[01:12:06.770 --> 01:12:11.210] As long as you're positive, have a good story, a mission,
[01:12:11.890 --> 01:12:13.830] you're not doing nothing negative in the world
[01:12:13.830 --> 01:12:14.790] or hurting people.
[01:12:15.010 --> 01:12:16.010] I'm willing to collab.
[01:12:16.250 --> 01:12:16.690] I'm open.
[01:12:20.390 --> 01:12:24.150] I mean, that's why I started coming around beauty talk.
[01:12:24.270 --> 01:12:25.530] I'm like, we got to collab more.
[01:12:25.590 --> 01:12:27.890] You're getting close to that 100 episode.
[01:12:28.170 --> 01:12:31.010] I want to be there to see your progress
[01:12:31.010 --> 01:12:36.310] and everything that you do leading up to this 100th episode.
[01:12:36.310 --> 01:12:38.090] Like you said, you want to have a live event,
[01:12:38.310 --> 01:12:39.430] so I specialize.
[01:12:39.430 --> 01:12:43.110] Thank you, you and Brie putting that in my ear and my baby.
[01:12:44.210 --> 01:12:45.170] I specialize with live events.
[01:12:45.410 --> 01:12:46.530] I want to help you in that,
[01:12:46.910 --> 01:12:48.230] but to be able to help you,
[01:12:48.230 --> 01:12:50.550] I got to be around more and understand your process
[01:12:50.550 --> 01:12:52.170] and your flow.
[01:12:52.450 --> 01:12:53.850] And now I'm learning that better.
[01:12:53.990 --> 01:12:57.430] It's like, okay, we did the 50th at Tower City.
[01:12:58.090 --> 01:12:59.490] I'm about to do 100.
[01:12:59.730 --> 01:13:01.710] We did 200 with David Shands.
[01:13:02.410 --> 01:13:05.050] So it's like these milestones.
[01:13:05.670 --> 01:13:09.530] It's like, I want you to focus on the podcast.
[01:13:09.890 --> 01:13:12.030] Like when it comes to a live event, I got you.
[01:13:12.070 --> 01:13:13.030] I can help you with that.
[01:13:13.350 --> 01:13:13.710] For sure.
[01:13:14.830 --> 01:13:15.530] So, you know what I'm saying?
[01:13:15.650 --> 01:13:16.850] Even with the pull of the spans,
[01:13:16.930 --> 01:13:19.430] we're about to be on 500 next year.
[01:13:19.970 --> 01:13:20.570] Probably next year.
[01:13:20.570 --> 01:13:21.630] I guess we'll do something for 350.
[01:13:21.790 --> 01:13:22.570] Nah, I think about it.
[01:13:22.990 --> 01:13:25.630] Yeah, we can't even, yeah.
[01:13:26.030 --> 01:13:27.490] It is, it is.
[01:13:28.810 --> 01:13:29.250] Awesome.
[01:13:29.830 --> 01:13:31.890] Well listen, I think that we know
[01:13:31.890 --> 01:13:35.250] and y'all know that the legacy for you
[01:13:35.250 --> 01:13:37.190] is just out of this world.
[01:13:38.050 --> 01:13:45.310] Okay, you are doing so much from born day to now
[01:13:45.310 --> 01:13:47.570] and then you continue to do so
[01:13:47.570 --> 01:13:49.230] and you have to have your daughter
[01:13:49.230 --> 01:13:52.050] that is mimicking everything
[01:13:52.050 --> 01:13:54.130] and really just taking that in as a sponge.
[01:13:54.450 --> 01:13:57.410] And I can't wait to see what comes about with that
[01:13:57.410 --> 01:14:00.910] because she's very much very passionate about it.
[01:14:00.910 --> 01:14:02.470] Just like her dad.
[01:14:03.810 --> 01:14:06.710] So, legacy, legacy, phenomenal.
[01:14:07.030 --> 01:14:07.750] It's coming.
[01:14:08.430 --> 01:14:11.570] And for that, what would you like the legacy
[01:14:11.570 --> 01:14:15.490] to be for yourself as Stephen D. Jackson?
[01:14:16.350 --> 01:14:17.430] Or would you like the legacy
[01:14:17.430 --> 01:14:18.450] to be for everything?
[01:14:18.670 --> 01:14:19.830] Entrepreneur, because I mean,
[01:14:19.910 --> 01:14:20.950] the list goes on and on.
[01:14:20.950 --> 01:14:23.530] I can start off with alien eyes, photos,
[01:14:23.530 --> 01:14:26.110] but it's obviously more underneath that umbrella.
[01:14:27.190 --> 01:14:28.390] Personally, is this all,
[01:14:28.390 --> 01:14:34.270] when people think about alien, or photographer Jackson,
[01:14:34.610 --> 01:14:40.430] or Steve, or Stephen D. Jackson, one of those names.
[01:14:41.350 --> 01:14:42.210] Or even our player,
[01:14:42.450 --> 01:14:44.690] like just raising that consciousness.
[01:14:44.910 --> 01:14:46.150] Like when y'all come around me,
[01:14:46.290 --> 01:14:49.870] it's like that intuitiveness,
[01:14:50.270 --> 01:14:53.110] that inquisitiveness, that wisdom.
[01:14:53.530 --> 01:14:55.790] And that's what I'm like, man, who is Stephen?
[01:14:56.090 --> 01:14:57.490] I'm almost like, what would Jesus do?
[01:14:58.130 --> 01:14:58.910] Who is Stephen?
[01:14:59.710 --> 01:15:01.150] I said themself quite a bit.
[01:15:01.250 --> 01:15:01.910] I ain't gonna lie to y'all.
[01:15:02.530 --> 01:15:03.370] Who is Stephen?
[01:15:03.390 --> 01:15:04.170] Who is Stephen?
[01:15:04.630 --> 01:15:05.890] Right, it's like that moment,
[01:15:07.330 --> 01:15:09.730] even with alien, when you think about aliens,
[01:15:09.970 --> 01:15:12.510] what do you think about, or where are they?
[01:15:13.970 --> 01:15:15.350] In another galaxy.
[01:15:15.470 --> 01:15:16.430] And when you think about galaxy,
[01:15:16.530 --> 01:15:18.110] where is that compared to you,
[01:15:18.230 --> 01:15:19.310] in relationship to you?
[01:15:20.030 --> 01:15:22.770] I mean, born far, far away.
[01:15:22.950 --> 01:15:25.010] Far away, higher, you'd be higher, like stars.
[01:15:25.010 --> 01:15:26.270] Yeah, definitely higher.
[01:15:26.270 --> 01:15:30.150] Raising your level of thinking, your consciousness,
[01:15:30.670 --> 01:15:33.210] and just positivity, good energy.
[01:15:35.010 --> 01:15:39.330] That's the things I want to leave behind in this world
[01:15:39.330 --> 01:15:40.970] and have that compounding effect,
[01:15:41.230 --> 01:15:43.030] not just with me, but my businesses,
[01:15:43.510 --> 01:15:46.130] my family, everybody that I'm around.
[01:15:46.570 --> 01:15:47.690] It's just like, man.
[01:15:49.250 --> 01:15:52.260] I lost a mentor even before I got into
[01:15:52.260 --> 01:15:55.560] you know, like photography and video.
[01:15:57.700 --> 01:15:59.640] It's the Silver B. Richards, you know, RP.
[01:16:02.060 --> 01:16:04.740] Who I was studying behind in radio,
[01:16:04.960 --> 01:16:06.360] interning with him in radio.
[01:16:07.000 --> 01:16:10.140] So just a full circle, me coming back to a podcast
[01:16:10.140 --> 01:16:11.840] and it reminds me of that,
[01:16:11.920 --> 01:16:14.080] being in the radio for four years,
[01:16:14.300 --> 01:16:18.200] reaching that number one spot in different categories.
[01:16:19.380 --> 01:16:21.320] So it's just about leaving an imprint
[01:16:21.880 --> 01:16:27.040] with consciousness, positivity, wisdom, and good moments.
[01:16:28.840 --> 01:16:31.620] For my business, it's like I said,
[01:16:32.580 --> 01:16:37.720] with the photos is one thing, the media, yeah, production,
[01:16:37.920 --> 01:16:39.920] but like that big calamity.
[01:16:40.860 --> 01:16:43.400] Like when I seen Tyler Perry with his plays
[01:16:43.400 --> 01:16:46.900] and then some movies to the whole big studio.
[01:16:48.240 --> 01:16:48.880] It's amazing.
[01:16:48.880 --> 01:16:52.820] So I want it to be big as that.
[01:16:53.640 --> 01:16:57.780] And, you know, have media in different schools
[01:16:57.780 --> 01:17:01.000] and where people and students, not just students,
[01:17:01.160 --> 01:17:03.140] but like even older people, you know,
[01:17:03.160 --> 01:17:04.900] they can learn and take upon
[01:17:04.900 --> 01:17:06.780] and even explore, experiment.
[01:17:08.040 --> 01:17:10.420] And my biggest thing is just with my business
[01:17:10.420 --> 01:17:13.280] is just experiment and explore
[01:17:14.260 --> 01:17:16.560] that exploration, that alien.
[01:17:17.820 --> 01:17:19.580] Yeah, I'm telling you.
[01:17:19.880 --> 01:17:20.740] Oh, we missed a buzzer.
[01:17:20.880 --> 01:17:21.840] It's cool, it's cool.
[01:17:22.700 --> 01:17:23.440] We're gonna add it in.
[01:17:23.720 --> 01:17:26.120] Yeah, there we go.
[01:17:26.740 --> 01:17:31.840] Well, listen, I mean, we have long awaited this episode,
[01:17:31.840 --> 01:17:35.500] I mean, for a long time and it's finally come.
[01:17:35.520 --> 01:17:37.820] And I know that there's no doubt
[01:17:37.820 --> 01:17:39.840] that someone that is watching, someone listening
[01:17:39.840 --> 01:17:45.980] is inspired, encouraged, and just educated now as well
[01:17:45.980 --> 01:17:47.440] on some of the things, you know,
[01:17:47.520 --> 01:17:49.660] that you have been able to do and achieve
[01:17:49.660 --> 01:17:51.920] in your short span of life
[01:17:51.920 --> 01:17:53.480] because, you know, we've got so much more to go.
[01:17:54.580 --> 01:17:57.180] So for those that, you know,
[01:17:57.440 --> 01:18:01.020] do want to take this interview episode
[01:18:01.020 --> 01:18:04.660] and really wrap it into three gyms,
[01:18:04.860 --> 01:18:06.620] what would your gyms be for them?
[01:18:08.970 --> 01:18:10.410] I'm gonna just list a whole bunch
[01:18:10.410 --> 01:18:12.130] because, you know, for some people,
[01:18:12.270 --> 01:18:13.790] three maybe is not enough.
[01:18:14.350 --> 01:18:17.070] Be open, be creative, be collaborative,
[01:18:17.070 --> 01:18:20.050] always study, being open to learning,
[01:18:20.310 --> 01:18:23.370] being open to mentors and learning from anybody,
[01:18:23.650 --> 01:18:25.010] even people younger than you.
[01:18:26.150 --> 01:18:29.350] But my biggest thing is always elevate.
[01:18:30.090 --> 01:18:31.370] Yes, come on.
[01:18:32.970 --> 01:18:33.930] Always elevate.
[01:18:34.230 --> 01:18:36.350] I like that, I like that a lot.
[01:18:36.390 --> 01:18:38.150] Three, two, one, even three, two, one.
[01:18:38.830 --> 01:18:40.590] So a lot of people that know me,
[01:18:40.810 --> 01:18:43.430] know I have the angel number one, two, three,
[01:18:43.450 --> 01:18:45.350] three, two, one, any variation of those numbers.
[01:18:45.350 --> 01:18:48.610] And then my last track wasn't even a song,
[01:18:48.610 --> 01:18:50.350] it was an affirmation track.
[01:18:51.910 --> 01:18:54.870] Alien Eyes, affirmations one, two, three.
[01:18:56.050 --> 01:18:57.970] So shout out to the reverse of this,
[01:18:58.050 --> 01:19:00.430] three, two, one, episode three, two, one.
[01:19:00.990 --> 01:19:02.630] Thank you, thank you for having me on.
[01:19:02.930 --> 01:19:04.410] So I got to ask Sensei,
[01:19:04.550 --> 01:19:06.390] and you've been here since the beginning,
[01:19:06.730 --> 01:19:08.410] but who would you like to see on the full experience
[01:19:08.410 --> 01:19:09.510] in your opinion next up?
[01:19:13.600 --> 01:19:15.720] Oh, I knew that was coming.
[01:19:15.720 --> 01:19:22.220] I want to see you, you, you, you watching this,
[01:19:22.680 --> 01:19:24.580] and also the person behind the camera,
[01:19:24.840 --> 01:19:27.200] Ms. Brianna Casanova, most importantly,
[01:19:27.380 --> 01:19:29.560] but you, you watching this,
[01:19:29.720 --> 01:19:31.460] you have to become on the pull-up experience.
[01:19:31.860 --> 01:19:33.180] If you have a business,
[01:19:34.380 --> 01:19:35.940] if you are an entrepreneur,
[01:19:36.180 --> 01:19:37.760] if you're doing something good in the community,
[01:19:37.820 --> 01:19:38.960] if you've got a good story,
[01:19:39.620 --> 01:19:42.320] you've got to be on the pull-up experience.
[01:19:42.800 --> 01:19:46.260] You know, you could be all the way up here,
[01:19:46.360 --> 01:19:47.540] you could be just starting off,
[01:19:47.540 --> 01:19:48.620] you could be in between.
[01:19:49.200 --> 01:19:54.560] I do want to see Ms. Brianna Casanova's official episode.
[01:19:55.740 --> 01:19:57.800] It's coming, it's coming, it's coming.
[01:19:58.000 --> 01:19:58.640] Going for you, man.
[01:19:59.220 --> 01:20:01.500] But even, even more of a long shot too,
[01:20:01.500 --> 01:20:04.160] I want to see my daughter, Ms. Sevin Jackson.
[01:20:04.500 --> 01:20:08.320] No, Sevin, Sevin, Sevin, I'm going to be Sevin this episode.
[01:20:08.600 --> 01:20:09.840] Hey, I love it, I love it.
[01:20:09.840 --> 01:20:10.880] I like that.
[01:20:10.880 --> 01:20:10.980] Yeah.
[01:20:12.400 --> 01:20:15.300] No, listen, we appreciate you, man.
[01:20:15.320 --> 01:20:15.680] Yeah.
[01:20:16.440 --> 01:20:17.720] And just want to be able to get flowers, man,
[01:20:17.740 --> 01:20:20.500] because once again, you have been from the beginning,
[01:20:20.720 --> 01:20:21.480] not even here from the beginning,
[01:20:21.580 --> 01:20:24.080] but you have been, I can't hide it,
[01:20:24.440 --> 01:20:26.380] just a staple in the pull-up experience.
[01:20:26.540 --> 01:20:28.360] There wouldn't be no pull-up experience without your brother.
[01:20:29.300 --> 01:20:30.680] So we want to thank you for that, man.
[01:20:31.180 --> 01:20:33.160] I mean, you're the face of it, man.
[01:20:34.200 --> 01:20:35.920] You know, man, you keep it going though.
[01:20:36.160 --> 01:20:38.480] You're purpose-pushing, you keep us out there.
[01:20:38.640 --> 01:20:39.160] That is.
[01:20:39.160 --> 01:20:42.660] I remember doing 20 episodes in a week one time.
[01:20:42.900 --> 01:20:43.360] Oh my gosh.
[01:20:43.360 --> 01:20:44.200] At least it felt like it.
[01:20:44.740 --> 01:20:47.880] I don't know what I signed up for, unofficially.
[01:20:49.800 --> 01:20:50.860] Hey, we still going strong.
[01:20:51.400 --> 01:20:51.500] We still going.
[01:20:51.500 --> 01:20:54.280] And I can say, listen, I know some groups,
[01:20:54.460 --> 01:20:56.360] listen, we still going strong though,
[01:20:56.560 --> 01:20:57.720] and I appreciate that about us.
[01:20:57.780 --> 01:20:58.240] Yes, sir.
[01:20:58.440 --> 01:20:59.820] Lastly, since the work people learn,
[01:21:00.000 --> 01:21:00.900] more people can book you,
[01:21:01.020 --> 01:21:02.700] where can they get on with my first pop,
[01:21:02.800 --> 01:21:03.680] all that good information, man.
[01:21:03.960 --> 01:21:06.440] Yeah, so just reach out to me,
[01:21:06.440 --> 01:21:10.360] all social media at Alien Eyes Photos.
[01:21:10.380 --> 01:21:14.460] That's Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with a S,
[01:21:14.700 --> 01:21:17.560] and then also alieneyesphotos.com.
[01:21:18.260 --> 01:21:21.180] And I just started a podcast page for the podcast.
[01:21:21.180 --> 01:21:22.360] Woo-hoo.
[01:21:22.560 --> 01:21:24.860] A-E-P-I-T, pod.
[01:21:25.220 --> 01:21:29.980] So that's Alien Eyes Photos industry pod for the podcast.
[01:21:30.540 --> 01:21:32.960] And then check it out on all audio media.
[01:21:33.700 --> 01:21:33.940] Love it.
[01:21:33.940 --> 01:21:34.960] Our lights, cut it out.
[01:21:35.060 --> 01:21:35.920] We shall do it.
[01:21:35.920 --> 01:21:37.000] They kicking us out, y'all.
[01:21:37.100 --> 01:21:37.660] They kicking us out.
[01:21:37.900 --> 01:21:38.120] It is done.
[01:21:38.280 --> 01:21:39.080] That's a good night, okay?
[01:21:39.080 --> 01:21:40.500] We are still here rocking.
[01:21:40.620 --> 01:21:41.060] That's right.
[01:21:41.180 --> 01:21:41.400] That's right.
[01:21:41.520 --> 01:21:42.500] Except that we ain't breezy, brother.
[01:21:43.000 --> 01:21:44.240] This is actually a 3-2-1.
[01:21:44.380 --> 01:21:45.780] It's a very special one.
[01:21:47.560 --> 01:21:48.400] Till next time, y'all.
[01:21:48.540 --> 01:21:48.940] All right?
[01:21:49.180 --> 01:21:49.420] Peace.
[01:21:50.000 --> 01:21:50.320] Peace.

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9. You Don’t Have to Be Superman Avoiding Decision Fatigue Finding Balance & Building a Business
Season 1 · Episode 53
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/you-dont-have-to-be-superman-avoiding-decision-fatigue-findi
========================================================================

[00:00:01.140 --> 00:00:08.020] Do you know learning styles can hinder, hurt,
[00:00:10.060 --> 00:00:13.140] or make progression on your understanding
[00:00:13.650 --> 00:00:15.160] on the way you learn?
[00:00:16.300 --> 00:00:23.130] It took me some time to reflect on
[00:00:24.250 --> 00:00:26.410] why I wasn't grasped in subjects.
[00:00:26.550 --> 00:00:29.250] Like I'm currently studying coding,
[00:00:31.130 --> 00:00:33.030] getting more and more into tech space,
[00:00:33.030 --> 00:00:35.870] studying coding, getting into coding,
[00:00:37.130 --> 00:00:40.310] and eventually I would start dabbling around
[00:00:40.310 --> 00:00:44.790] with vibe coding, which is using natural language
[00:00:44.790 --> 00:00:48.810] versus the coding language, computer language.
[00:00:50.090 --> 00:00:54.370] But I want to know both, and effectively.
[00:00:54.930 --> 00:00:58.790] So starting from the basis all the way to coding.
[00:00:59.790 --> 00:01:05.050] And I listened to a lot of my information
[00:01:05.690 --> 00:01:09.750] rather than as partners or even clients
[00:01:09.750 --> 00:01:11.650] working on different projects
[00:01:11.650 --> 00:01:14.170] with video production and marketing,
[00:01:17.090 --> 00:01:21.670] but with podcasts and lectures to add to that
[00:01:21.670 --> 00:01:24.130] because I'm driving most of the time
[00:01:24.130 --> 00:01:25.850] and having phone conversations,
[00:01:29.580 --> 00:01:32.180] that auditory is my biggest thing.
[00:01:34.780 --> 00:01:37.580] But knowing me and doing some reflections,
[00:01:37.920 --> 00:01:44.640] like wow, in school I was more of a visual learning
[00:01:44.640 --> 00:01:48.500] and kinesthetic, like I was so hands on
[00:01:48.500 --> 00:01:50.240] and I had to see it.
[00:01:50.640 --> 00:01:52.800] I had to see it, show me the graphs,
[00:01:53.020 --> 00:01:55.040] show me this, show me that, I was visual.
[00:01:55.760 --> 00:02:02.200] Like for us men, even seeing a beautiful woman is visual.
[00:02:02.520 --> 00:02:08.180] We see them first, then for me it's more so doing
[00:02:08.180 --> 00:02:11.680] and being together, hands on experience.
[00:02:12.920 --> 00:02:17.960] And my lady could definitely say that as I'm a filler.
[00:02:20.780 --> 00:02:23.740] And my love language is physical touch.
[00:02:24.840 --> 00:02:29.120] Which kind of plays along with the learning style.
[00:02:30.260 --> 00:02:36.860] If I was a mechanic, I would have to do it.
[00:02:37.080 --> 00:02:39.540] I would have to feel the tools, play with the tools,
[00:02:39.860 --> 00:02:42.920] notice the size, lugs and all of this and that.
[00:02:45.190 --> 00:02:48.690] And then visual also, just seeing it in repetitions
[00:02:48.690 --> 00:02:52.790] and seeing how things are placed and should be placed
[00:02:53.350 --> 00:02:56.230] and all aligned, I mean alignment isn't right
[00:02:56.230 --> 00:02:58.350] because you don't want an unbalanced car
[00:02:58.350 --> 00:03:01.350] or things out of place or loose,
[00:03:01.870 --> 00:03:03.890] so things have to be aligned.
[00:03:06.840 --> 00:03:09.440] But I would say that was my learning style,
[00:03:09.820 --> 00:03:11.540] kinesthetic visual learner.
[00:03:12.960 --> 00:03:16.560] You know, I had to do, I had to see, I had to touch.
[00:03:17.860 --> 00:03:19.320] And those were my biggest things
[00:03:19.320 --> 00:03:24.240] and as I kind of shift towards my learning ability,
[00:03:25.160 --> 00:03:28.300] and even the opportunity to sense.
[00:03:28.380 --> 00:03:31.940] Like I said, I'm more of an auditory
[00:03:32.700 --> 00:03:34.700] and I think that's a balance,
[00:03:34.780 --> 00:03:37.540] it's like a split third place,
[00:03:38.780 --> 00:03:40.380] just like kinesthetic and visual.
[00:03:41.380 --> 00:03:47.330] Reading and writing and that's tied with auditory.
[00:03:48.950 --> 00:03:52.750] But like I said, I'm always driving or on the go
[00:03:52.750 --> 00:03:55.850] or editing photos or doing this and that.
[00:03:55.850 --> 00:04:00.210] So in the background, I'm listening to different podcasts
[00:04:00.210 --> 00:04:02.950] and lectures and audio books.
[00:04:04.260 --> 00:04:09.430] And that's like my third learning style
[00:04:09.430 --> 00:04:16.050] as far as being effective in me learning and understanding,
[00:04:17.130 --> 00:04:20.190] which I say it can hinder, hurt,
[00:04:21.089 --> 00:04:22.510] or make beautiful progression.
[00:04:22.750 --> 00:04:23.850] It could all be beautiful.
[00:04:24.730 --> 00:04:28.590] But you never know and sometimes it's situational.
[00:04:29.990 --> 00:04:33.290] Sometimes I do need to read and write,
[00:04:33.710 --> 00:04:35.810] take notes, cause I am a note taker,
[00:04:36.190 --> 00:04:41.550] so in different settings and different things work.
[00:04:43.660 --> 00:04:45.220] Yeah, being in that balance
[00:04:45.220 --> 00:04:48.560] between the kinesthetic and visual learner,
[00:04:49.860 --> 00:04:52.400] I know I wanna shift a lot of things in my business
[00:04:52.400 --> 00:04:57.800] and how I retain the knowledge,
[00:04:58.980 --> 00:05:01.020] which simply by doing.
[00:05:03.590 --> 00:05:06.190] And most visual learners have that good retention.
[00:05:07.490 --> 00:05:13.470] So, but I read this article by Bay Atlantic University,
[00:05:14.450 --> 00:05:19.030] translating abstract ideas into visual metaphors,
[00:05:20.430 --> 00:05:23.290] visual learners improve memory recall,
[00:05:23.290 --> 00:05:25.510] enjoy increased focus,
[00:05:26.150 --> 00:05:27.850] and can independently grabs,
[00:05:28.110 --> 00:05:30.490] organize and analyze information,
[00:05:31.090 --> 00:05:34.510] making learning more efficient and enjoyable.
[00:05:36.090 --> 00:05:38.990] That's what I love, the beauty, the thrill,
[00:05:39.950 --> 00:05:41.230] me just being curious.
[00:05:41.390 --> 00:05:44.870] Once I'm curious, I will lock in
[00:05:44.870 --> 00:05:46.930] and try to understand it the best way
[00:05:46.930 --> 00:05:50.050] that I can go all in,
[00:05:50.050 --> 00:05:54.970] like I'm slowly getting to coding, like I mentioned.
[00:05:56.370 --> 00:06:01.090] So if anyone wants to help or have a coding course,
[00:06:02.350 --> 00:06:06.290] something more shorter where I could just digest it.
[00:06:07.330 --> 00:06:11.170] Mainly on the go, but if you wanna do a one-on-one,
[00:06:11.230 --> 00:06:12.750] like I said, I'm wearing hands-on
[00:06:12.750 --> 00:06:15.890] and we can go through some examples and some build-outs
[00:06:15.890 --> 00:06:18.130] cause I have a lot of great ideas,
[00:06:18.910 --> 00:06:22.470] especially in this entrepreneur space
[00:06:22.470 --> 00:06:25.710] with my creative entrepreneurs, my business owners.
[00:06:27.170 --> 00:06:28.870] I have a lot of great ideas
[00:06:28.870 --> 00:06:30.650] and I know I'm only one person.
[00:06:31.930 --> 00:06:34.470] We have 24 hours a day
[00:06:35.190 --> 00:06:37.910] and a third of that we must get some sleep
[00:06:38.610 --> 00:06:40.370] to functionally operate.
[00:06:41.110 --> 00:06:43.310] At least you should be getting that much of sleep.
[00:06:44.250 --> 00:06:46.930] If you listen to my previous episode,
[00:06:47.070 --> 00:06:51.090] 33 minutes of sleep, working while I'm tired,
[00:06:51.210 --> 00:06:55.850] building while I'm tired, yeah, it gets real sometimes,
[00:06:55.850 --> 00:06:59.210] but that's not all days and I always shoot
[00:06:59.210 --> 00:07:02.030] for that six to eight hours of sleep.
[00:07:02.570 --> 00:07:05.250] If I could get to that divine nine sometime,
[00:07:05.450 --> 00:07:07.170] oof, you'd love it when I'm around.
[00:07:07.930 --> 00:07:12.150] I would love to, I would surely love to,
[00:07:12.150 --> 00:07:17.450] but right now sometimes it is 33 minutes
[00:07:17.450 --> 00:07:19.810] out of the 24 hours in a day.
[00:07:21.310 --> 00:07:23.390] Something like once or twice a year,
[00:07:23.450 --> 00:07:28.530] I try not to, at least minimum three and a half
[00:07:29.310 --> 00:07:34.350] where I could just be almost fully functional.
[00:07:35.490 --> 00:07:37.090] It's because I'm used to it,
[00:07:37.950 --> 00:07:42.050] but once I get that seven, eight hours of rest, sleep,
[00:07:42.650 --> 00:07:46.710] I am golden and I am ready to perform at a high level.
[00:07:47.350 --> 00:07:50.530] And for my clients, that's what I am learning.
[00:07:51.010 --> 00:07:53.450] That's why I'm not taking on a lot of projects,
[00:07:53.570 --> 00:07:57.210] a lot of coaching clients, saying yes to everything.
[00:07:58.190 --> 00:07:59.970] Because I wanna get more rest
[00:07:59.970 --> 00:08:02.770] and perform at a higher level
[00:08:03.350 --> 00:08:07.390] than what most people even see me be more creative
[00:08:07.910 --> 00:08:10.650] and be more ambitious and focused.
[00:08:10.650 --> 00:08:15.660] I wanna give it more, more of my all,
[00:08:16.320 --> 00:08:21.240] not just 80, 85%, I wanna give 101 at least,
[00:08:22.340 --> 00:08:23.820] at least.
[00:08:24.900 --> 00:08:27.900] When rest and knowing your learning style
[00:08:27.900 --> 00:08:30.880] and communication style, it helps.
[00:08:31.980 --> 00:08:33.820] It helps tremendously.
[00:08:35.860 --> 00:08:37.679] And it was just something I was thinking about
[00:08:37.679 --> 00:08:39.559] and reflect upon like dang,
[00:08:39.559 --> 00:08:42.500] I remember in school we had these learning styles.
[00:08:43.200 --> 00:08:46.920] Why am I not implying that to my adult life,
[00:08:47.000 --> 00:08:49.280] to my business, how I'm learning about
[00:08:49.280 --> 00:08:53.300] different businesses and different industries and coding?
[00:08:55.340 --> 00:08:58.360] So it's something to think about for yourself.
[00:08:59.140 --> 00:09:04.380] Take that time maybe in silence and meditation,
[00:09:04.380 --> 00:09:06.900] paper, a pen, journal,
[00:09:08.400 --> 00:09:12.700] however you do it, whatever your learning style is,
[00:09:12.800 --> 00:09:14.420] whatever your love language is,
[00:09:14.460 --> 00:09:16.720] whatever your communication style is,
[00:09:17.460 --> 00:09:19.000] which is all important.
[00:09:22.220 --> 00:09:24.000] It is all important.
[00:09:25.600 --> 00:09:28.640] And once you love, going back to love language,
[00:09:28.980 --> 00:09:31.000] once you love what you're doing,
[00:09:31.680 --> 00:09:32.940] love what you're learning,
[00:09:34.380 --> 00:09:36.500] you wanna be almost obsessed with it.
[00:09:38.320 --> 00:09:42.360] And sometimes it gets to that point where you be up
[00:09:42.360 --> 00:09:50.040] 24, 25, 26, 27 hours in a day and counting,
[00:09:52.010 --> 00:09:53.010] which I've done.
[00:09:54.590 --> 00:09:58.250] I've been up 32 hours straight one time,
[00:09:59.950 --> 00:10:01.870] just fascinated, curious.
[00:10:04.720 --> 00:10:09.660] And now I'm doing research on historical entrepreneurs
[00:10:10.420 --> 00:10:13.340] and I might have a series coming out.
[00:10:13.780 --> 00:10:15.520] So stay tuned for that.
[00:10:15.780 --> 00:10:17.000] That's gonna be amazing.
[00:10:18.380 --> 00:10:21.900] Something new, switch it up some time or two.
[00:10:23.360 --> 00:10:25.720] But yeah, I just wanna take the time
[00:10:25.720 --> 00:10:28.580] and reflect on learning style and my learning style
[00:10:28.580 --> 00:10:34.420] and how you can and I can apply it to our business.
[00:10:35.240 --> 00:10:36.400] Our business is.
[00:10:37.840 --> 00:10:42.660] But this is a wrap, another episode in the books.
[00:10:42.940 --> 00:10:45.880] Again, this is about learning styles.
[00:10:46.480 --> 00:10:51.440] It can help you or it can hinder you, hurt you,
[00:10:51.980 --> 00:10:53.420] or it can make beautiful progression
[00:10:53.420 --> 00:10:57.800] and help you beautifully, absolutely amazingly.
[00:10:59.240 --> 00:11:02.300] And this is photographer Jackson,
[00:11:03.140 --> 00:11:07.840] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:11:09.360 --> 00:11:14.140] And this is another episode of Alien Eyes Photos
[00:11:14.140 --> 00:11:20.340] Industry Talk, Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:11:21.560 --> 00:11:28.540] And follow me at Alien Eyes Photos on all media.
[00:11:29.060 --> 00:11:34.520] That's Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with a S.
[00:11:35.080 --> 00:11:37.760] And then check out my website to book me
[00:11:37.760 --> 00:11:39.280] or for more information,
[00:11:39.920 --> 00:11:42.760] even the podcast is on the website too.
[00:11:48.080 --> 00:11:53.280] Alieneyesphotos.com, that's alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:11:54.180 --> 00:11:56.660] Thank you for tuning in to another episode
[00:11:56.660 --> 00:11:59.860] of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk
[00:12:00.210 --> 00:12:05.300] with photographer Jackson and I am out, peace.

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10. Jeweled Justice - Finding Your Voice Through Spoken Word Poetry
Season 2 · Episode 17
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/jeweled-justice
========================================================================

[00:00:01.440 --> 00:00:09.520] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk, and I'm going to jump
[00:00:09.520 --> 00:00:10.280] right into it.
[00:00:10.300 --> 00:00:17.120] I got a special guest next to me, a good friend in the art industry, poetry industry
[00:00:17.120 --> 00:00:19.780] to be exact, but we do a lot of creative things.
[00:00:20.560 --> 00:00:23.180] I'm sitting here with Ms. Jewel Justice.
[00:00:23.960 --> 00:00:26.220] Hello, it's good to see you again.
[00:00:26.380 --> 00:00:27.040] All right.
[00:00:27.140 --> 00:00:27.920] It's been a while.
[00:00:28.200 --> 00:00:29.160] Has been a while.
[00:00:29.160 --> 00:00:34.320] We don't, you know, get out and kick it and have a lot of shows together because I'm not
[00:00:34.320 --> 00:00:36.680] actively performing, but how have you been?
[00:00:37.500 --> 00:00:38.500] I've been well.
[00:00:39.140 --> 00:00:40.940] Poetry has been treating me nicely.
[00:00:41.900 --> 00:00:49.140] I haven't modeled in a few seasons, but I still support that community, and I've
[00:00:49.140 --> 00:00:56.480] just been branching out more with performances and features, and I'm currently for National
[00:00:56.480 --> 00:00:59.180] Poetry Month taking on the 30 for 30 Challenge.
[00:00:59.820 --> 00:01:04.860] So I'm writing a new poem every day for the month of April.
[00:01:05.640 --> 00:01:11.280] I did that for about a couple months with a good friend who's a good model in the
[00:01:11.280 --> 00:01:11.560] city.
[00:01:11.560 --> 00:01:13.220] I'm up here with Dinesha Jones.
[00:01:13.880 --> 00:01:19.540] We had a period where, yeah, it was like two to three months of just writing
[00:01:19.540 --> 00:01:20.180] every day.
[00:01:20.180 --> 00:01:24.920] We have a prompt or just a word and we just make a poem about it.
[00:01:24.920 --> 00:01:29.860] So that was that was my little 30 for 30, even though I went a little longer.
[00:01:30.320 --> 00:01:32.160] But, you know, I'm glad to hear that.
[00:01:32.260 --> 00:01:33.840] I'll not look out for it.
[00:01:33.940 --> 00:01:38.840] Yeah, I'm currently backlogged on posting them, so I'm playing catch up with
[00:01:38.840 --> 00:01:45.160] posting. I've been putting them over on threads and then I also create imagery
[00:01:45.160 --> 00:01:47.740] to put them on my Instagram accounts.
[00:01:50.290 --> 00:01:55.030] Just for the audience that may not know who Jewel Justice is.
[00:01:55.110 --> 00:01:56.390] Who is Jewel Justice?
[00:01:57.030 --> 00:02:00.990] Jewel Justice is a poet and creative supporter.
[00:02:01.690 --> 00:02:08.850] By that, I mean, I utilize words to convey a message to audiences, to.
[00:02:09.130 --> 00:02:17.030] Invoke emotions and critical thinking and for a creative supporter, I support
[00:02:17.030 --> 00:02:20.510] the arts in any capacity that they exist.
[00:02:21.470 --> 00:02:25.390] I'm glad you said creative supporter, because that's actually how I got
[00:02:25.390 --> 00:02:30.830] started in the photography industry and video production, you know, the.
[00:02:31.910 --> 00:02:36.830] Performing at shows, hosting, feature, whatever the case may be, but I get off
[00:02:36.830 --> 00:02:38.890] stage, pull out the iPhone.
[00:02:39.070 --> 00:02:42.790] Yes, iPhone and record, take pictures.
[00:02:42.790 --> 00:02:47.550] I'm like, let me just invest in the actual camera and do it that way.
[00:02:48.130 --> 00:02:51.790] And I did study the game, learned all that I could.
[00:02:52.510 --> 00:02:53.970] I never looked back.
[00:02:53.970 --> 00:03:02.530] Yes, it's interesting when artists are multifaceted, it takes a lot of strength
[00:03:02.530 --> 00:03:06.270] and courage to not allow yourself to be boxed into one craft.
[00:03:11.000 --> 00:03:12.260] It's actually refreshing to hear.
[00:03:12.360 --> 00:03:17.040] You know, I don't hear that often, you know, for someone who also does,
[00:03:17.040 --> 00:03:21.140] you know, a lot of things create creatively.
[00:03:22.620 --> 00:03:24.100] So that's that's the question.
[00:03:25.420 --> 00:03:28.540] So what are some of the things you love to support?
[00:03:29.020 --> 00:03:36.720] Like if I could go to X, Y, Z and whatever state, country or even a Cleveland,
[00:03:37.320 --> 00:03:38.780] what type of show would it be?
[00:03:38.820 --> 00:03:45.800] First of all, and then what would that itinerary is lengthy?
[00:03:47.660 --> 00:03:52.420] I'm not sure if you're aware, but Cleveland's theater district is only
[00:03:52.420 --> 00:03:54.860] second to Broadway in New York.
[00:03:54.860 --> 00:04:00.760] So I spent a great deal of time with my daughter and my family elder
[00:04:00.760 --> 00:04:07.340] before she passed on going to plays at Playhouse as well in Caramoo.
[00:04:08.160 --> 00:04:12.840] We I recently had the privilege and the honor to take my daughter
[00:04:12.840 --> 00:04:18.700] to see the Cleveland Orchestra play the film score of the Black Panther
[00:04:18.700 --> 00:04:20.680] while the Black Panther played.
[00:04:21.600 --> 00:04:24.780] And she until two years ago
[00:04:24.780 --> 00:04:26.740] played the violin herself.
[00:04:27.320 --> 00:04:33.380] And so she was able to see what you can do with classical music
[00:04:33.380 --> 00:04:38.460] and how it can ebb and flow and advance and change and shift
[00:04:38.460 --> 00:04:44.380] and how it is relevant to more than just traditional orchestra.
[00:04:45.320 --> 00:04:47.400] And so she enjoyed herself.
[00:04:48.120 --> 00:04:54.040] So singing, we have gone to see and support the Cleveland Chorale.
[00:04:54.040 --> 00:04:57.720] I was a part of the Cleveland Chorale when they performed
[00:04:57.720 --> 00:05:02.220] their first performance with the NBA All Stars.
[00:05:03.680 --> 00:05:07.220] When the Real Black Friday took over Tower City.
[00:05:08.160 --> 00:05:09.680] Last year before last year?
[00:05:10.140 --> 00:05:13.740] Yeah, maybe it has maybe been two or three years. Yeah, OK.
[00:05:14.740 --> 00:05:20.820] So music, I support a lot of the various Cleveland artists.
[00:05:20.980 --> 00:05:22.900] I don't want to start naming names.
[00:05:22.900 --> 00:05:26.660] So we so we don't have to play charges in my heart and not my head.
[00:05:26.740 --> 00:05:31.800] But there is a plethora of available talent in Cleveland
[00:05:31.800 --> 00:05:36.660] from traditional arts to untraditional arts to informal
[00:05:37.960 --> 00:05:40.700] and contemporary and to dance.
[00:05:41.200 --> 00:05:44.180] And the list goes on. So I support it all.
[00:05:45.300 --> 00:05:48.760] And if I'm not able to support in person or financially,
[00:05:48.760 --> 00:05:53.640] I support by informing others what is available to be
[00:05:54.440 --> 00:05:55.820] indulged in in the city.
[00:05:59.040 --> 00:06:01.280] You touched on a lot of a lot of good things,
[00:06:01.340 --> 00:06:04.760] but just to circle back around, you might have forgot to.
[00:06:05.700 --> 00:06:10.020] What what type of event would you go to if you had to choose?
[00:06:10.580 --> 00:06:13.060] OK, let's say it's a lot of events going on in the city.
[00:06:13.520 --> 00:06:16.500] Why? What type of event would you like?
[00:06:17.200 --> 00:06:20.100] I love this type of thing.
[00:06:20.120 --> 00:06:21.540] I love modeling. I love poetry.
[00:06:22.240 --> 00:06:24.660] I love. What type and then?
[00:06:25.980 --> 00:06:28.620] Like, I don't say organization, I don't think anybody out there.
[00:06:28.620 --> 00:06:30.520] Let's just start with what type of event.
[00:06:31.220 --> 00:06:34.000] OK, I guess I'm going to have to cheat festivals.
[00:06:34.740 --> 00:06:37.220] OK, I love it. I see what you did there.
[00:06:37.860 --> 00:06:41.680] Because at a festival, you can catch a little bit of everything.
[00:06:43.440 --> 00:06:45.660] There's two festivals that I've
[00:06:47.180 --> 00:06:48.140] supported recently.
[00:06:48.860 --> 00:06:52.100] One is newer and one has been around for a few years.
[00:06:52.200 --> 00:06:55.960] And what they have on display is they have stages available
[00:06:55.960 --> 00:07:00.320] for various arts and artists to be able to showcase their work,
[00:07:00.640 --> 00:07:04.340] as well as having vendor areas for artists to be able to sell
[00:07:04.340 --> 00:07:08.500] their work, as well as having active workshops going on
[00:07:08.500 --> 00:07:12.280] so you can see the work, the artists live and in action.
[00:07:12.780 --> 00:07:17.440] So by being able to be in a space of a festival, you have the
[00:07:17.440 --> 00:07:21.200] collective community of collaboration and creatives
[00:07:21.200 --> 00:07:22.800] coming together in one place.
[00:07:23.660 --> 00:07:28.570] I love that, like you said, creative collaboration like that is.
[00:07:30.780 --> 00:07:34.740] You know, those two words just rings my bell and you put them together
[00:07:34.740 --> 00:07:38.040] just like, you know, me as an entrepreneur and also as a creative.
[00:07:38.360 --> 00:07:39.580] I'm a creative entrepreneur.
[00:07:39.900 --> 00:07:44.960] So I love that connected joint pieces
[00:07:45.940 --> 00:07:50.080] like creative entrepreneur collaboration, like put those two together.
[00:07:50.460 --> 00:07:52.840] Then, you know, that sums up me and what I stand for.
[00:07:52.940 --> 00:07:54.500] I'm all about that and support.
[00:07:54.540 --> 00:07:58.180] I love supporting others and especially people that's doing
[00:07:58.180 --> 00:08:02.180] positive things, have a positive message and always say,
[00:08:02.180 --> 00:08:03.720] I elevate positive stories.
[00:08:05.360 --> 00:08:10.120] So I know I asked you at the creative meetup a few weeks back.
[00:08:12.180 --> 00:08:15.040] It was along the lines of your creative process
[00:08:15.040 --> 00:08:19.760] and living in Cleveland, or some may even say New York,
[00:08:19.980 --> 00:08:21.320] but we're here in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:08:22.420 --> 00:08:26.720] The weather, it becomes gloomy and sunny and rainy and snowy
[00:08:26.720 --> 00:08:28.480] all in one day sometimes.
[00:08:29.600 --> 00:08:33.220] So how would you describe your creative process
[00:08:33.220 --> 00:08:35.140] if it was a weather forecast?
[00:08:38.000 --> 00:08:40.240] The phenomenon
[00:08:40.240 --> 00:08:45.260] that I would use to describe my creative process
[00:08:45.630 --> 00:08:50.800] is not common to the Cleveland or even Ohio area.
[00:08:50.880 --> 00:08:55.000] OK, there it's volcano volcano erupting.
[00:08:55.240 --> 00:09:00.320] Yes. It is a delicate
[00:09:00.320 --> 00:09:05.560] juxtaposition between life and destruction.
[00:09:05.560 --> 00:09:08.780] Creation and destruction, life and death,
[00:09:08.880 --> 00:09:14.700] the power of words and language can either pour into someone
[00:09:14.700 --> 00:09:20.060] and create life and create prosperity or can create destitution.
[00:09:20.740 --> 00:09:26.520] And so I've become more mindful of being able to use language
[00:09:26.520 --> 00:09:31.200] and my craft with poetry to speak life
[00:09:31.200 --> 00:09:35.540] and to speak into existence, things that I want to be
[00:09:35.560 --> 00:09:37.240] in a positive manner.
[00:09:37.740 --> 00:09:41.220] But I am fully cognizant and aware of the times
[00:09:41.220 --> 00:09:45.100] where I've used language in a destructive manner.
[00:09:45.640 --> 00:09:49.380] And even when I have been on the receiving end
[00:09:49.380 --> 00:09:54.320] of destructive language and I am in a process of learning
[00:09:54.320 --> 00:10:01.220] how to recreate the narrative, not to take away
[00:10:01.220 --> 00:10:07.480] from what has existed, but to learn how to better edify
[00:10:07.480 --> 00:10:12.520] the truths that I not want to believe because I'm creating
[00:10:12.520 --> 00:10:16.100] a utopia, but want to believe because.
[00:10:17.660 --> 00:10:20.800] If not, there's the only option is death
[00:10:20.800 --> 00:10:23.160] if I don't believe that life is possible.
[00:10:25.530 --> 00:10:28.670] Some powerful words, and I know I know you personally
[00:10:28.670 --> 00:10:32.650] and know we have a similar style as far as pushing
[00:10:32.650 --> 00:10:36.490] positivity and, you know, big on words and language.
[00:10:37.010 --> 00:10:38.650] So how do you balance that?
[00:10:38.690 --> 00:10:43.950] Like, there's a lot of darkness, negativity around you,
[00:10:44.030 --> 00:10:47.310] you know, because it's natural to write about it and talk about it.
[00:10:47.310 --> 00:10:49.850] But how do you turn that into a positive light?
[00:10:51.250 --> 00:10:56.600] A lot of the times it's I'm learning recently
[00:10:56.600 --> 00:10:59.720] that a lot of the ways that I've been expressing myself
[00:10:59.720 --> 00:11:03.260] and have been allowed voice isn't just me.
[00:11:03.260 --> 00:11:07.100] It comes from my faith in God.
[00:11:07.500 --> 00:11:12.500] It comes from me allowing him to guide my words and my footsteps.
[00:11:12.980 --> 00:11:15.900] And for a while, I ran away from that.
[00:11:17.460 --> 00:11:19.740] Not because I feared.
[00:11:21.160 --> 00:11:25.300] So it was because I feared the responsibility
[00:11:25.300 --> 00:11:29.900] and the mantle and the calling that I knew that I was supposed to serve in
[00:11:29.900 --> 00:11:35.060] and being from a place where I was constantly told
[00:11:35.060 --> 00:11:38.540] that I wasn't worth feeling that need.
[00:11:40.050 --> 00:11:41.510] How did you prepare for that?
[00:11:41.710 --> 00:11:42.950] How did you know you were worthy?
[00:11:43.850 --> 00:11:49.410] I still question it, but I have been left with no choice
[00:11:49.410 --> 00:11:51.230] but to follow and move.
[00:11:51.530 --> 00:11:56.250] So I have a poem where I talk about how God treats you
[00:11:56.250 --> 00:11:58.750] like the two year old you take to the bowling alley
[00:11:58.750 --> 00:12:02.030] and they have the bumpers up to cover the gutter.
[00:12:02.110 --> 00:12:05.150] So you have no choice but to stay in your lane.
[00:12:06.310 --> 00:12:11.590] So some events have happened in my life where I have no choice
[00:12:11.590 --> 00:12:16.470] but to be focused because what I was using as a coping mechanism
[00:12:16.470 --> 00:12:18.670] or a distraction have been removed.
[00:12:19.650 --> 00:12:22.050] And it was not a fun process.
[00:12:25.550 --> 00:12:28.530] Take me back in just to mention for the audience,
[00:12:28.570 --> 00:12:30.390] how long have you been in the poetry industry?
[00:12:31.270 --> 00:12:36.330] I have been writing poetry since I've known how to use words.
[00:12:36.810 --> 00:12:41.770] OK, so let's just take us all back.
[00:12:43.550 --> 00:12:46.530] So I love discussing different industries.
[00:12:46.810 --> 00:12:50.550] So how was the poetry scene or poetry industry
[00:12:51.150 --> 00:12:54.570] for you when you first started versus how it is now?
[00:13:01.080 --> 00:13:03.080] I'm a poet in the traditional sense.
[00:13:04.000 --> 00:13:10.120] I am a poet in that I use my poetry to record my lived experiences
[00:13:10.120 --> 00:13:12.760] or the lived experiences of those around me.
[00:13:15.260 --> 00:13:21.760] I am coming to accepting my poetry is not for entertainment.
[00:13:24.100 --> 00:13:26.540] My poetry is to convey a message.
[00:13:26.800 --> 00:13:29.340] It is to enlighten the mind.
[00:13:29.360 --> 00:13:31.340] It is to stir the heart.
[00:13:31.620 --> 00:13:39.640] It is to cause one to look at self and reflect on
[00:13:39.640 --> 00:13:41.860] whether or not the person they currently are
[00:13:41.860 --> 00:13:43.800] is who they want to continue to be.
[00:13:45.020 --> 00:13:49.940] It is to challenge the perceptions that people build around themselves.
[00:13:51.810 --> 00:13:57.890] When I came into poetry, the poetry that I came into growing up in,
[00:13:58.570 --> 00:14:00.890] in the poets that were around me,
[00:14:01.190 --> 00:14:04.850] they used their poetry to activate, for advocacy,
[00:14:05.710 --> 00:14:08.270] to speak out against injustice.
[00:14:09.030 --> 00:14:12.030] And that's not entertainment.
[00:14:12.450 --> 00:14:13.590] That's not fun.
[00:14:14.010 --> 00:14:19.130] That's not going to always garner laughs and claps and adoration.
[00:14:20.070 --> 00:14:24.670] It's going to cause people to admonish you occasionally
[00:14:25.790 --> 00:14:28.690] because it's uncomfortable when you step,
[00:14:29.010 --> 00:14:33.670] when you make a statement and someone feel as if their toes have been stepped on.
[00:14:34.430 --> 00:14:36.770] And instead of going
[00:14:36.770 --> 00:14:39.550] and getting the first aid kit to mend themselves,
[00:14:39.890 --> 00:14:41.310] they'd rather place blame.
[00:14:43.870 --> 00:14:48.870] And so I didn't grow up in what a lot of people
[00:14:48.870 --> 00:14:51.970] and I'm coming to know the term is slam poetry
[00:14:52.890 --> 00:14:55.570] or competitions with poetry.
[00:14:56.570 --> 00:14:58.770] I don't memorize my poetry.
[00:14:59.050 --> 00:15:00.130] I read it.
[00:15:01.730 --> 00:15:05.310] And one thing that speaking to a fellow poet
[00:15:05.310 --> 00:15:09.450] that does similarly read their poetry has stated to me
[00:15:09.450 --> 00:15:12.890] and we even are working on a project together.
[00:15:13.810 --> 00:15:18.230] They said my emotions are my punctuation.
[00:15:20.240 --> 00:15:24.120] And that stuck with me because when I do read my poems,
[00:15:24.140 --> 00:15:26.860] I can vividly go back to the emotions
[00:15:27.420 --> 00:15:31.580] that I was expressing during the poem and that comes out when I read it
[00:15:33.180 --> 00:15:36.920] without having to practice
[00:15:36.920 --> 00:15:39.660] theatrics to go along with the poem.
[00:15:40.300 --> 00:15:45.040] And so the way that I speak, the cadences that I use,
[00:15:45.440 --> 00:15:50.840] the words that I convey, the motions when I do use movement.
[00:15:51.820 --> 00:15:53.080] It's sincere.
[00:15:55.130 --> 00:16:00.330] And I'm not saying that those that participate in slam poetry are insincere.
[00:16:00.650 --> 00:16:05.430] It's just not my style of poetry and it's not how I grew up in poetry.
[00:16:05.430 --> 00:16:09.890] Now, I've attempted to do a few slams here and there.
[00:16:10.690 --> 00:16:15.490] And recently, I actually received positive feedback that I'm doing better
[00:16:15.490 --> 00:16:19.590] considering when I first slammed a few years ago. Yeah.
[00:16:20.230 --> 00:16:21.690] But it's still.
[00:16:23.270 --> 00:16:25.130] It's a difference for me.
[00:16:26.670 --> 00:16:30.650] And even when I did participate in this most recent slam,
[00:16:31.610 --> 00:16:35.970] because of the rules that were established around this particular slam,
[00:16:35.970 --> 00:16:40.270] I ended up doing something that most people don't know I'm capable of,
[00:16:40.610 --> 00:16:41.710] which is freestyling.
[00:16:44.600 --> 00:16:47.980] And I freestyle without a prompted word.
[00:16:50.950 --> 00:16:53.410] And I ended up making it.
[00:16:53.610 --> 00:16:56.290] I didn't make it to the last round, but I made it further
[00:16:56.290 --> 00:17:02.290] than I made it previously with attempting to participate in a slam.
[00:17:02.310 --> 00:17:08.050] And I was proud of myself and allowing myself that time to.
[00:17:09.329 --> 00:17:13.089] Express from a pure place of creativity.
[00:17:13.849 --> 00:17:21.700] Very pure to have you freestyle a little bit later or maybe read.
[00:17:21.839 --> 00:17:23.660] I don't want to put you in the spot, but you know,
[00:17:24.380 --> 00:17:28.460] I give you that option, freestyle or a read poem that you've written.
[00:17:29.820 --> 00:17:33.540] And I was actually one of my questions about slam poetry, because
[00:17:34.520 --> 00:17:39.160] I can slam, but I prefer more performance poetry.
[00:17:39.160 --> 00:17:40.620] Like, that's not my style.
[00:17:40.680 --> 00:17:45.140] Like you said, some people do it for different reasons and slam poetry.
[00:17:45.460 --> 00:17:46.560] It's like that.
[00:17:46.640 --> 00:17:48.180] It's a whole nother level.
[00:17:48.820 --> 00:17:50.580] And it's not me.
[00:17:50.780 --> 00:17:53.220] I love making people feel good.
[00:17:53.400 --> 00:17:57.560] It's like that chilling, kind of like you put on a record from Common
[00:17:58.280 --> 00:18:02.190] or, you know, a lot of positive artists.
[00:18:03.110 --> 00:18:04.330] That's that's just me.
[00:18:05.270 --> 00:18:07.750] So I want to ask you the question
[00:18:08.590 --> 00:18:09.430] for the audience
[00:18:09.430 --> 00:18:13.490] that may not know the difference between performance and slam poetry.
[00:18:13.710 --> 00:18:21.320] We're under the key differences in your opinion.
[00:18:22.500 --> 00:18:26.860] So even for me, there's performance poetry,
[00:18:27.560 --> 00:18:35.800] there's slam poetry, and then there is poetry for the sake of poetry.
[00:18:36.900 --> 00:18:40.380] And also written versus spoken word.
[00:18:40.780 --> 00:18:43.740] Yes. And for me, what those differences are
[00:18:43.740 --> 00:18:47.500] slam poetry, traditional slam poetry,
[00:18:47.580 --> 00:18:52.080] because we even know that within slam poetry, there are deviations.
[00:18:53.080 --> 00:18:56.160] I'm coming to learn that traditional slam poetry.
[00:18:57.400 --> 00:19:07.890] Three minute limit memorized is typically no prop usage.
[00:19:08.530 --> 00:19:12.550] And you have to convey the message within the time frame
[00:19:12.550 --> 00:19:16.150] without stuttering and capture the audience
[00:19:16.710 --> 00:19:20.330] and be cognizant of the connectivity of your
[00:19:20.330 --> 00:19:24.470] how your piece connects from one stanza to the next.
[00:19:25.610 --> 00:19:29.390] It's not always about format, although sometimes there is
[00:19:29.390 --> 00:19:30.870] can be format included.
[00:19:32.530 --> 00:19:36.770] It's more about the punch lines, the metaphors,
[00:19:37.130 --> 00:19:40.970] the similes, the imagery, the pictures that you can paint
[00:19:40.970 --> 00:19:45.250] with the words that you use to sway the audience and or the judges.
[00:19:45.250 --> 00:19:49.010] And that performance poetry.
[00:19:50.890 --> 00:19:52.650] Borrowed from slam.
[00:19:53.750 --> 00:19:57.850] And that it is traditionally memorized.
[00:19:58.630 --> 00:20:03.050] It adds a theatrical element, so prop usage is available.
[00:20:04.010 --> 00:20:09.030] Full body is available for movement to similar
[00:20:09.030 --> 00:20:14.510] to a stage play, which some poems such as Shakespeare are actually
[00:20:14.510 --> 00:20:16.050] play play length.
[00:20:17.170 --> 00:20:22.290] And so it engages the creation of character usage
[00:20:22.290 --> 00:20:24.970] and storytelling into the poetry,
[00:20:25.830 --> 00:20:31.570] whereas the poetry that I write doesn't always use a character.
[00:20:31.710 --> 00:20:36.170] I may not always use metaphors or similes or puns.
[00:20:36.190 --> 00:20:37.390] I know what they are.
[00:20:38.270 --> 00:20:41.510] I know how to utilize analogy and simile
[00:20:41.510 --> 00:20:45.690] and rhyme scheme and sonnets versus haiku.
[00:20:45.890 --> 00:20:47.570] I know my foundations.
[00:20:48.930 --> 00:20:53.150] I am a free verse writer, so I write what comes to me.
[00:20:53.410 --> 00:20:57.910] And the main literary tool that I use the most is word connotation.
[00:20:58.090 --> 00:21:02.710] So that means I play with the way words are perceived,
[00:21:02.990 --> 00:21:07.010] not just the etymology of a word, which is the definition of the word
[00:21:07.010 --> 00:21:10.190] and where it is coming from,
[00:21:10.190 --> 00:21:14.970] but also with how the person in the audience
[00:21:14.970 --> 00:21:20.410] will perceive the word that I've used based on their personal lived experiences.
[00:21:20.890 --> 00:21:24.870] So that lends the word to be interpreted amongst
[00:21:24.870 --> 00:21:29.970] even people in the same room differently because of their personal impact.
[00:21:30.570 --> 00:21:35.730] And so that's what I utilize the most with my poetry.
[00:21:37.400 --> 00:21:41.480] And so it causes you to sit back and think a little bit more
[00:21:41.480 --> 00:21:44.120] than just feeling good in the moment.
[00:21:47.610 --> 00:21:50.290] So who would you say your favorite artist is?
[00:21:50.690 --> 00:21:52.670] Like, I know you're big with words.
[00:21:53.350 --> 00:21:56.530] So to me, it may sound like your favorite artist.
[00:21:56.830 --> 00:21:59.150] Maybe you're good with words and how to use words.
[00:21:59.470 --> 00:22:01.390] But who is your favorite artist or artistess?
[00:22:03.190 --> 00:22:04.650] Besides me, you know.
[00:22:05.930 --> 00:22:08.670] You about to get me in some trouble.
[00:22:09.770 --> 00:22:14.210] So we go start this off with charge it to my head and not my heart.
[00:22:14.210 --> 00:22:19.750] I love all of my poets, some that stand out to me.
[00:22:20.730 --> 00:22:22.970] Because we both have artists, friends, so you know how that is.
[00:22:23.430 --> 00:22:25.210] Exactly. We we're about to.
[00:22:26.110 --> 00:22:30.190] So it could be mainstream or underground mixed roles.
[00:22:31.690 --> 00:22:32.870] For her theatrics,
[00:22:34.350 --> 00:22:37.430] you her theater background and her creative back,
[00:22:37.790 --> 00:22:41.430] her very diverse creative background comes out
[00:22:41.430 --> 00:22:44.910] not only in her writing, but her stage presence and performance.
[00:22:47.670 --> 00:22:49.990] Complexity, I would say, M.C.L.X.
[00:22:50.730 --> 00:22:58.650] He is a poet that the way that he mixes concepts
[00:22:58.650 --> 00:23:03.330] and word usage together in a way that you would not think
[00:23:03.330 --> 00:23:05.770] something should be correlated together.
[00:23:05.830 --> 00:23:09.090] Who is the poet M.C.L.X.
[00:23:09.090 --> 00:23:14.610] OK. It's he has a poem, two poems
[00:23:14.610 --> 00:23:18.370] that he's become known for traffic and sleep deprivation.
[00:23:18.710 --> 00:23:23.010] And the way that he uses and tells stories
[00:23:23.010 --> 00:23:27.930] and uses analogy and metaphor and symbolism.
[00:23:28.990 --> 00:23:32.090] And it takes you on an entirely different journey.
[00:23:32.270 --> 00:23:35.390] And then by the time you get to the end of the poem,
[00:23:35.470 --> 00:23:38.210] you realize that he stayed on topic.
[00:23:38.210 --> 00:23:42.010] But he took you to a lot of different deviated
[00:23:42.610 --> 00:23:44.930] side road shows in the process.
[00:23:50.060 --> 00:23:52.820] I would say Ray McHale, because she
[00:23:54.460 --> 00:23:57.100] does great with personification.
[00:23:58.100 --> 00:24:00.900] Like she the she has this poem
[00:24:00.900 --> 00:24:04.220] where by the time you get to the end of the poem,
[00:24:04.820 --> 00:24:08.140] you realize that what you thought the original subject was
[00:24:08.140 --> 00:24:09.840] was not the subject at all.
[00:24:10.760 --> 00:24:14.620] And you don't realize what it is that she's personifying
[00:24:14.620 --> 00:24:16.880] until she reaches the end of the poem.
[00:24:17.080 --> 00:24:20.160] So she takes you on this outer world
[00:24:20.160 --> 00:24:22.480] journey before she brings you back.
[00:24:25.760 --> 00:24:28.780] And so that that's just a few
[00:24:28.780 --> 00:24:33.160] perform like far as poets that are.
[00:24:34.620 --> 00:24:38.540] Before me, or that I look up to,
[00:24:40.290 --> 00:24:41.370] I would say liberty.
[00:24:43.290 --> 00:24:46.490] She was one of the first poets that I had
[00:24:46.490 --> 00:24:49.530] saw that can freestyle on the mic.
[00:24:50.250 --> 00:24:53.450] Like she'll start with something that may be pre-read
[00:24:53.450 --> 00:24:56.090] and then she'll just get in the zone.
[00:24:56.470 --> 00:24:59.370] And if you once you get to know her, you can tell when she's gotten
[00:24:59.370 --> 00:25:02.150] to that zone and she'll just start freestyling.
[00:25:02.150 --> 00:25:04.530] And it seems like it was one cohesive
[00:25:06.470 --> 00:25:08.170] memorized piece, and it wasn't.
[00:25:08.810 --> 00:25:13.550] Yeah, I definitely had a chance to witness it quite a few times
[00:25:13.550 --> 00:25:15.470] and actually have a poetry album.
[00:25:17.030 --> 00:25:18.350] This is amazing.
[00:25:18.750 --> 00:25:22.150] And you know, now her her son is in the modeling.
[00:25:22.930 --> 00:25:24.890] Doing a lot of modeling shows.
[00:25:25.030 --> 00:25:26.750] And so I work with them in a different light.
[00:25:27.950 --> 00:25:29.150] So yes.
[00:25:30.190 --> 00:25:32.910] And one other poet I'll mention
[00:25:32.910 --> 00:25:35.270] before I get in trouble for naming names,
[00:25:35.710 --> 00:25:39.470] I would be remiss if I did not mention my poetic mother,
[00:25:39.850 --> 00:25:40.770] Miss Honeybell Bass.
[00:25:43.750 --> 00:25:48.810] The not only the way her stage presence, her style,
[00:25:49.110 --> 00:25:55.230] because when I say she is meticulous about her theme matching,
[00:25:56.110 --> 00:25:59.250] if she has a if she's wearing.
[00:26:00.790 --> 00:26:04.470] If the if the colors of the event are going to be purple
[00:26:04.470 --> 00:26:09.610] and gold, she's she walking in head to toe drift.
[00:26:09.890 --> 00:26:11.190] Everything's coordinated.
[00:26:11.650 --> 00:26:14.730] So not only does she make sure she's matching whatever theme
[00:26:14.730 --> 00:26:19.630] she's established, she's bringing with her things to match.
[00:26:19.850 --> 00:26:22.190] So I remember she had did
[00:26:22.970 --> 00:26:26.970] an event and the poem that she was sharing with or
[00:26:26.970 --> 00:26:31.430] poem or sermon she was sharing was about seashells
[00:26:31.430 --> 00:26:37.050] and how crab hermit crabs line up to change shells.
[00:26:37.610 --> 00:26:40.510] And the message was how
[00:26:41.310 --> 00:26:44.650] we have to learn how to get in line for our blessings.
[00:26:44.870 --> 00:26:48.130] We can't always be in competition with one another
[00:26:48.130 --> 00:26:51.850] because we never know if what we're growing out of
[00:26:51.850 --> 00:26:55.250] may be the perfect fit for the person coming behind us.
[00:26:56.030 --> 00:27:00.370] And she actually had shells to pass out
[00:27:00.370 --> 00:27:06.590] to remind you to pass on your shell once you've outgrown it.
[00:27:07.570 --> 00:27:10.430] And so, yes, her the her whole dynamic
[00:27:10.430 --> 00:27:15.350] and she's the poet that taught me about using poetry for advocacy
[00:27:16.050 --> 00:27:17.610] and for education.
[00:27:18.810 --> 00:27:23.510] And yeah, that just she's she's so over the top with it.
[00:27:23.510 --> 00:27:29.410] But I love the way that that dynamic fits her and her personality so well.
[00:27:30.370 --> 00:27:31.970] That's that's a beautiful thing.
[00:27:32.030 --> 00:27:34.010] And like you said, I'm passing on.
[00:27:34.090 --> 00:27:37.070] So that's in a sense, that's that's marketing
[00:27:38.130 --> 00:27:41.570] and a way to be remembered also that impact.
[00:27:42.890 --> 00:27:46.690] So how do you market yourself personally as an artist,
[00:27:49.210 --> 00:27:50.410] multifaceted artist?
[00:27:51.470 --> 00:27:56.730] So one thing I have definitely become known for is my shades.
[00:27:57.950 --> 00:28:03.990] I have them in a plethora of colors, of sizes, of shapes.
[00:28:04.930 --> 00:28:08.730] And it came from a place of my introvertedness,
[00:28:08.930 --> 00:28:13.390] of me not wanting to be center stage, of not wanting to see the audience.
[00:28:13.930 --> 00:28:20.410] So my first set of shades was as dark as Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder
[00:28:20.410 --> 00:28:23.510] put together, because you ain't you can't see me.
[00:28:23.510 --> 00:28:24.550] I can't see you.
[00:28:24.550 --> 00:28:26.690] We're going to say these words and we're going to disappear.
[00:28:28.860 --> 00:28:32.200] Now I've become a lot more confident and comfortable on the stage.
[00:28:32.840 --> 00:28:36.260] However, shades is just going to be a part of the package from now on,
[00:28:36.260 --> 00:28:38.640] because I spent too much money.
[00:28:38.640 --> 00:28:41.900] Right, right, right. I'm all in now.
[00:28:43.540 --> 00:28:45.700] Also, on the fashion side,
[00:28:46.200 --> 00:28:51.420] I've become known for how I present myself when I go onto the stage,
[00:28:51.680 --> 00:28:53.460] even if it's just an open mic.
[00:28:53.460 --> 00:28:57.180] I had one poet tell me they don't remember
[00:28:57.180 --> 00:29:00.160] if they've ever seen me in the same outfit twice.
[00:29:00.640 --> 00:29:03.480] Not that I own that many clothes, I don't think.
[00:29:07.920 --> 00:29:10.380] But after a few
[00:29:11.420 --> 00:29:15.340] months back out in community and the creative community,
[00:29:16.100 --> 00:29:22.260] I ran into I was following a fellow creative around that I grew up around,
[00:29:22.260 --> 00:29:26.120] because the person is older than me, but I grew up around them.
[00:29:26.240 --> 00:29:30.420] And so I was finally grown enough to support them in their creative endeavors.
[00:29:30.440 --> 00:29:31.620] And so I did so.
[00:29:31.880 --> 00:29:35.820] So the more that I saw their name, the more that I followed them around
[00:29:35.820 --> 00:29:38.540] and the more that I followed them around, the more people I met.
[00:29:38.840 --> 00:29:43.040] And in following this person, I ran into an owner
[00:29:43.040 --> 00:29:46.340] of a clothing boutique for curvy women.
[00:29:47.380 --> 00:29:51.500] And I went to the boutique and liked what I saw.
[00:29:51.500 --> 00:29:53.380] And they had a model call out.
[00:29:54.180 --> 00:29:58.220] And during that time, I would have been frequenting a lot of fashion shows.
[00:29:58.820 --> 00:30:01.680] And my daughter had also given me an ultimatum
[00:30:01.680 --> 00:30:05.000] that if I was going to go to another show, I needed to be walking.
[00:30:07.110 --> 00:30:10.530] So things aligned that she put out a model call.
[00:30:10.930 --> 00:30:15.350] I went asked her whether or not I needed to have modeled before.
[00:30:15.410 --> 00:30:17.390] And she said, no, it was amateur friendly.
[00:30:17.830 --> 00:30:19.850] And I got selected for the model call.
[00:30:20.650 --> 00:30:24.970] And I walked in my first show for her and then she had another show.
[00:30:24.970 --> 00:30:28.750] And I think I walked in about four or five shows for her,
[00:30:28.750 --> 00:30:33.530] including being able to walk during the NBA All-Stars.
[00:30:35.620 --> 00:30:40.150] And so that just boosted my confidence because prior to that.
[00:30:41.460 --> 00:30:43.480] Being a foolish figured woman.
[00:30:44.520 --> 00:30:48.700] There were not a lot of stylistic options to wear.
[00:30:49.240 --> 00:30:54.080] And I had spent so much of my young adult
[00:30:54.080 --> 00:30:58.980] and late teens being berated for my size
[00:30:59.580 --> 00:31:03.840] and being told that I was less than because of my size,
[00:31:04.000 --> 00:31:08.000] that I was very self conscious about how I presented myself.
[00:31:08.460 --> 00:31:12.740] So I would wear oversized garments
[00:31:13.340 --> 00:31:18.040] that were not necessarily flattering to my figure simply to hide myself.
[00:31:18.040 --> 00:31:27.650] And it wasn't until I had seen that there is fashion
[00:31:27.650 --> 00:31:33.550] and not fast fashion, but fashion that is size appropriate and flattering
[00:31:34.810 --> 00:31:37.170] that I started to embrace.
[00:31:38.910 --> 00:31:39.970] Who I am.
[00:31:41.620 --> 00:31:45.620] And so because of that, it transitioned to also my confidence
[00:31:45.620 --> 00:31:49.040] on the stage, because I was now able to access
[00:31:49.040 --> 00:31:53.380] stylists, garments that may have been one of kind pieces
[00:31:53.380 --> 00:31:56.120] and wear them in a way that only I could.
[00:31:58.840 --> 00:32:02.140] So as far as marketing, you could say your biggest marketing
[00:32:03.040 --> 00:32:04.440] tactic is networking.
[00:32:05.980 --> 00:32:11.280] So so how how has you taken it, you know, as an introvert?
[00:32:11.600 --> 00:32:15.900] Yes. How how is it networking and getting yourself out there?
[00:32:16.300 --> 00:32:19.100] You know, or what are some tactics that you use?
[00:32:19.100 --> 00:32:22.740] OK, I got to focus on three people once I get my three.
[00:32:23.040 --> 00:32:25.480] OK, I can leave. Or is it China?
[00:32:26.160 --> 00:32:30.080] OK, let me just see what comes about.
[00:32:30.600 --> 00:32:32.780] You have a certain person in mind.
[00:32:33.960 --> 00:32:36.420] What are some of your networking tips for other,
[00:32:36.420 --> 00:32:38.580] you know, introverted artists or entrepreneurs?
[00:32:40.240 --> 00:32:42.460] First, to be comfortable with with yourself.
[00:32:42.460 --> 00:32:44.900] And if you're not comfortable with yourself,
[00:32:45.940 --> 00:32:47.780] get comfortable with your accomplishments.
[00:32:47.780 --> 00:32:51.060] If you I know a lot of people will tell you
[00:32:51.060 --> 00:32:53.420] not to put your worth in your accomplishments,
[00:32:54.100 --> 00:32:56.940] but sometimes that's the only place you have to start.
[00:32:58.040 --> 00:33:01.420] What also boosted my confidence to step out
[00:33:01.420 --> 00:33:07.440] the way that I I have now become known to doing is I
[00:33:07.440 --> 00:33:11.440] serve my country and community as an AmeriCorps
[00:33:11.440 --> 00:33:15.740] VISTA volunteer, this demeaning volunteers and service to America.
[00:33:15.740 --> 00:33:20.580] During that time, what the organization I was stationed with,
[00:33:21.000 --> 00:33:25.400] I had made close professional relationships
[00:33:26.060 --> 00:33:29.900] and those professional relationships became personal friendships.
[00:33:31.160 --> 00:33:35.500] And in talking to the individuals surrounding me at that time.
[00:33:36.560 --> 00:33:41.360] I had to disclose because again, we had started professionally,
[00:33:41.440 --> 00:33:43.480] so they had access to my LinkedIn account,
[00:33:44.100 --> 00:33:48.440] and they had took the time to actually purview my LinkedIn account.
[00:33:49.280 --> 00:33:52.040] And they came back to me and they was like,
[00:33:52.120 --> 00:33:55.460] how are you sitting quiet and unknown
[00:33:55.460 --> 00:34:02.280] when you've accomplished more in a five, ten year span?
[00:34:02.600 --> 00:34:04.920] She was like, you are in your 20s
[00:34:04.920 --> 00:34:09.239] and you have more accreditation than somebody in their 40s.
[00:34:09.239 --> 00:34:13.860] And she started just pouring on this praise that I had not received.
[00:34:14.639 --> 00:34:19.179] And she was like, why do you go and do all of this stuff?
[00:34:19.260 --> 00:34:21.980] I was like, one, when I get bored, I can't sit still.
[00:34:22.000 --> 00:34:24.460] So I'll find something to get into.
[00:34:24.639 --> 00:34:28.100] And then when I couldn't find employment, well, I'm not going.
[00:34:28.480 --> 00:34:31.120] I'd already knew not to have a gap on my resume.
[00:34:31.139 --> 00:34:34.159] So I'm going to fill it with somebody's workshop or class.
[00:34:34.199 --> 00:34:36.219] And I just kept doing it.
[00:34:37.179 --> 00:34:44.880] And so that encouraged me to start speaking with more authority.
[00:34:45.199 --> 00:34:49.280] So when I would go into rooms, a question would be asked
[00:34:49.280 --> 00:34:53.500] and I would be able to answer the question or I would ask a question
[00:34:53.500 --> 00:34:57.060] because I've become also known for at podcasts and different things,
[00:34:57.060 --> 00:34:59.560] asking a question that shakes the whole room.
[00:35:01.540 --> 00:35:07.240] It came from not knowing value of self,
[00:35:07.240 --> 00:35:09.800] so putting value in accomplishments.
[00:35:10.780 --> 00:35:14.860] And so knowing that I got this certification from an organization
[00:35:14.860 --> 00:35:20.280] that has credentialing helped me support myself
[00:35:20.280 --> 00:35:23.940] and navigate through various conversations because I knew
[00:35:23.940 --> 00:35:29.140] I had some accolade that I could say, well, I am certified in this
[00:35:29.140 --> 00:35:32.880] by so and so standard to speak on such and such topic.
[00:35:34.320 --> 00:35:35.680] So it started there.
[00:35:35.880 --> 00:35:42.170] And then it would also be I would quite literally be a wallflower
[00:35:42.170 --> 00:35:43.490] at the networking events.
[00:35:43.510 --> 00:35:44.950] I would stand on the wall.
[00:35:45.770 --> 00:35:48.830] And then I would look at who else was standing on the wall.
[00:35:49.350 --> 00:35:53.330] And then I'd go and lean on the wall against them.
[00:35:53.330 --> 00:35:55.150] And we'd look at each other and look at the wall,
[00:35:55.410 --> 00:35:57.270] the rest of the room and look at each other.
[00:35:57.270 --> 00:36:01.530] And then we'd say, so you're uncomfortable, too.
[00:36:01.850 --> 00:36:03.350] Yes, I'm very uncomfortable.
[00:36:03.610 --> 00:36:06.410] You want to be uncomfortable together. Sure.
[00:36:06.690 --> 00:36:08.970] And we'd sit and have a one on one conversation
[00:36:08.970 --> 00:36:12.310] about how we ended up in this room that we were both too uncomfortable
[00:36:12.310 --> 00:36:15.270] to converse with anybody else other than the fact
[00:36:15.270 --> 00:36:17.090] that we spotted another wallflower.
[00:36:18.250 --> 00:36:23.990] And so that has become what my networking strategy has been
[00:36:23.990 --> 00:36:27.570] individual one on one conversations
[00:36:27.570 --> 00:36:31.190] where I'm able to be open and honest with people
[00:36:31.190 --> 00:36:33.790] about what my experiences are
[00:36:34.430 --> 00:36:37.910] and using empathy to understand their experiences
[00:36:37.910 --> 00:36:41.810] and building rapport and connections that have led
[00:36:41.810 --> 00:36:46.750] to more opportunities, opportunities.
[00:36:47.170 --> 00:36:50.190] So I want to touch on some of your accomplishments
[00:36:50.190 --> 00:36:55.210] or what is one of your proudest or grandest accomplishments?
[00:36:56.580 --> 00:36:58.910] Finally, acknowledging my worth.
[00:37:01.200 --> 00:37:02.100] That's it.
[00:37:02.400 --> 00:37:03.500] I love that.
[00:37:04.180 --> 00:37:06.060] And a lot of this
[00:37:06.060 --> 00:37:10.540] our reason I started this podcast is to get more introspective
[00:37:10.540 --> 00:37:14.720] with the self behind the business versus the business
[00:37:14.720 --> 00:37:18.140] and, you know, sales marketing and all that X, Y, Z,
[00:37:18.220 --> 00:37:21.920] the bells and whistles to run a business or a creative endeavor.
[00:37:22.240 --> 00:37:23.940] But they're more internal.
[00:37:24.460 --> 00:37:28.400] So I'm glad you said that because it's not a true award
[00:37:28.400 --> 00:37:30.360] or accomplishment that you hang on the wall.
[00:37:30.640 --> 00:37:32.300] That's that's inside.
[00:37:34.760 --> 00:37:37.220] Yeah, I mean, projected out, you know,
[00:37:37.400 --> 00:37:40.120] and I'm finally learning how to do that.
[00:37:40.760 --> 00:37:43.800] It's taken quite a bit of time for me to get here.
[00:37:43.800 --> 00:37:45.260] Quite a bit of work,
[00:37:48.060 --> 00:37:49.180] various disappointments.
[00:37:50.260 --> 00:37:54.240] Stepping on my own self to spite my face occasionally.
[00:37:55.900 --> 00:37:58.940] And some hard decisions.
[00:37:59.440 --> 00:38:02.160] But at the end of the day, I can't put the weight
[00:38:02.700 --> 00:38:08.480] on the amount of workshops I've accomplished on the certifications
[00:38:08.480 --> 00:38:11.800] and the amount of alphabet soup that I can put at the end of my name.
[00:38:14.840 --> 00:38:18.300] Because if I am not able to.
[00:38:21.260 --> 00:38:22.540] Acknowledge myself
[00:38:22.540 --> 00:38:28.120] and my value without having to be judged
[00:38:28.120 --> 00:38:31.440] by someone else's perception of what should be valued.
[00:38:32.540 --> 00:38:34.880] Then where is the true word?
[00:38:35.300 --> 00:38:40.740] Because when, say, at any given time, especially in today's climate,
[00:38:41.480 --> 00:38:45.360] one of those certifications lose their accreditation rights,
[00:38:45.960 --> 00:38:50.280] then what is the value of what I learned?
[00:38:50.280 --> 00:38:55.760] Is it simply because ABC Company said that they taught me something?
[00:38:56.020 --> 00:38:58.780] Or is it because I was able to pull
[00:38:59.400 --> 00:39:04.200] knowledge from ABC Company, mix it with my lived experiences
[00:39:04.200 --> 00:39:08.500] and convey a collective message to the next person?
[00:39:16.120 --> 00:39:18.260] Passing it on to the next person.
[00:39:20.540 --> 00:39:24.900] What sensory systems do you use, if any at all?
[00:39:25.660 --> 00:39:27.880] Touch, feel, sight, smell.
[00:39:29.400 --> 00:39:32.260] Or if not some that you would like to include.
[00:39:39.140 --> 00:39:43.660] Some people love burning candles and writing or putting on music,
[00:39:44.100 --> 00:39:46.640] writing, freestyling sometimes.
[00:39:47.480 --> 00:39:48.860] Some people have a dark room.
[00:39:49.980 --> 00:39:52.300] And what are some sensory systems that you use?
[00:39:57.890 --> 00:39:59.210] Lived experiences.
[00:40:01.840 --> 00:40:07.180] Sometimes it will be a song that I'm listening to that.
[00:40:08.540 --> 00:40:12.720] Makes me have a thought, like when I wrote the poem Diva.
[00:40:17.400 --> 00:40:21.900] A few years ago, I was I mean, I think it was the BET Awards or something.
[00:40:22.980 --> 00:40:24.980] Beyonce's song, A Diva is a.
[00:40:26.560 --> 00:40:29.720] I don't even know the lyrics, because all I know now is my acronym.
[00:40:30.380 --> 00:40:30.800] Yes.
[00:40:32.320 --> 00:40:35.440] And I was like, is that all the divas capable of being?
[00:40:36.820 --> 00:40:39.200] Can't a diva be more?
[00:40:40.140 --> 00:40:43.880] Then what is currently being mainstreamed?
[00:40:44.960 --> 00:40:50.060] And so then the acronym came about a daughter invested in Victoria's Achievement.
[00:40:50.380 --> 00:40:54.660] It gives an entirely different definition to diva.
[00:40:54.900 --> 00:40:59.080] It's more than just a prima donna that has her head
[00:40:59.080 --> 00:41:03.400] so far up the clouds that she can't see what's in front of her.
[00:41:03.860 --> 00:41:07.320] It gives it a meaning of someone that
[00:41:08.920 --> 00:41:13.600] recognizes their humility, recognizes that they are.
[00:41:15.180 --> 00:41:17.800] Subject to someone else's authority,
[00:41:18.140 --> 00:41:22.880] recognizes that they are responsible for the mantle that they carry.
[00:41:24.060 --> 00:41:29.440] And so now my daughter runs around talking about diva, this diva, that,
[00:41:29.440 --> 00:41:31.340] and she's referring to my poem.
[00:41:32.940 --> 00:41:38.340] And so now it's again, words have power and two edged sword.
[00:41:38.360 --> 00:41:43.620] So now I have to deal with an 11 year old running around telling me,
[00:41:43.720 --> 00:41:49.260] well, you told me I'm a diva, so I'm not going and we not going.
[00:41:50.060 --> 00:41:56.480] And I don't settle for I was like, OK, let's reevaluate
[00:41:58.220 --> 00:42:01.320] the standards and definitions of what we're going to use.
[00:42:01.620 --> 00:42:05.160] So now when we have conversations and it's time
[00:42:05.160 --> 00:42:09.400] and it's a moment where she needs to be redirected,
[00:42:10.360 --> 00:42:13.200] I'll remind her, OK, you said you're a diva.
[00:42:13.420 --> 00:42:15.240] What is the definition of a diva?
[00:42:15.420 --> 00:42:17.360] What is the responsibility of a diva?
[00:42:18.840 --> 00:42:21.960] Did the actions and the words that you speak,
[00:42:22.640 --> 00:42:25.800] did they characterize what a diva is supposed to be?
[00:42:25.800 --> 00:42:29.540] And the definition that you have for diva, or is it
[00:42:30.280 --> 00:42:31.740] the other definition?
[00:42:31.960 --> 00:42:36.020] And so she has to sit down and reevaluate and take time
[00:42:36.020 --> 00:42:40.660] to reflect on behaviors and actions and see if it lines up
[00:42:40.660 --> 00:42:44.420] with the standards that she set for me to follow for her.
[00:42:45.700 --> 00:42:48.260] And so it allows that evaluative tool.
[00:42:51.810 --> 00:42:57.420] And so that that's covering music site.
[00:42:57.420 --> 00:43:01.840] Sometimes I will see something in my community
[00:43:02.620 --> 00:43:07.360] and it will stir me to have to write, to express
[00:43:07.360 --> 00:43:13.750] what emotions arise from what I've seen, touch.
[00:43:14.850 --> 00:43:19.830] There's been some poems that are born of relationships
[00:43:19.830 --> 00:43:24.990] that I've had and the dreams and aspirations
[00:43:24.990 --> 00:43:28.290] that I've had for those relationships,
[00:43:28.290 --> 00:43:29.850] even though they are no longer.
[00:43:31.150 --> 00:43:37.590] So it comes from a myriad of muses and sources.
[00:43:39.450 --> 00:43:42.370] Speaking on, you know, relationships,
[00:43:42.590 --> 00:43:44.510] whose relationships are important
[00:43:45.310 --> 00:43:49.470] for thriving and long term success and achievements.
[00:43:50.390 --> 00:43:52.110] You have to have good relationships.
[00:43:52.110 --> 00:43:54.350] That's in business or in the creative realm.
[00:43:55.810 --> 00:43:59.690] But when was the last time you heard a poem
[00:44:01.450 --> 00:44:16.900] that made you physically unable to speak one?
[00:44:17.140 --> 00:44:21.010] Because I don't. Yes.
[00:44:22.630 --> 00:44:23.850] I know I've had some in the past.
[00:44:24.050 --> 00:44:27.210] I can't recall the specific title or the artist,
[00:44:27.230 --> 00:44:32.020] but I know I had even yours is, you know, you definitely,
[00:44:32.060 --> 00:44:35.260] like you said, thought provoking and kind of had me stunned.
[00:44:35.640 --> 00:44:37.440] Like, wow, you really just said that?
[00:44:37.840 --> 00:44:41.000] Yeah, I would have I would I would have to say I don't.
[00:44:41.980 --> 00:44:44.700] I couldn't even attempt to name names.
[00:44:44.960 --> 00:44:48.340] Oh, but I do remember the feeling.
[00:44:48.560 --> 00:44:53.140] I do remember being shook by the emotion
[00:44:53.140 --> 00:44:57.200] that was invoked by being staggered
[00:44:57.200 --> 00:45:03.200] by someone else's raw, vulnerable expression
[00:45:04.580 --> 00:45:08.520] and knowing that they were either channeling
[00:45:08.520 --> 00:45:11.680] on behalf of someone else's experience,
[00:45:11.680 --> 00:45:15.780] because that is a possibility, especially as a creative
[00:45:15.780 --> 00:45:17.580] and an empathetic creative.
[00:45:17.900 --> 00:45:21.200] You are very you open yourself
[00:45:22.020 --> 00:45:24.500] to the energies of others.
[00:45:27.300 --> 00:45:32.480] And so you you can tell when a piece that is
[00:45:33.320 --> 00:45:37.340] that was written and that is being performed or even read.
[00:45:37.860 --> 00:45:41.880] If it's coming from that person's personal
[00:45:41.880 --> 00:45:45.740] lived experience or an experience of one close to them
[00:45:45.740 --> 00:45:47.460] and they were retelling that story.
[00:45:55.040 --> 00:45:59.900] To see the artists, artists in the city, you know,
[00:46:00.380 --> 00:46:04.860] you know, speaking for myself, I would travel with it, you know, south
[00:46:04.860 --> 00:46:07.420] south and east, not so much the West Coast.
[00:46:07.420 --> 00:46:11.840] So I haven't, you know, had a chance to witness a lot of West Coast artists.
[00:46:12.280 --> 00:46:14.660] But, you know, south and east and of course, the Midwest.
[00:46:16.140 --> 00:46:17.960] Some powerful, powerful
[00:46:19.260 --> 00:46:21.380] pieces, even music
[00:46:23.200 --> 00:46:24.320] that comes about.
[00:46:24.680 --> 00:46:29.260] I even, you know, shocked myself once when I when I was writing frequency.
[00:46:29.440 --> 00:46:33.480] I'm like, wow, I had to do that all in one sitting
[00:46:33.480 --> 00:46:38.680] because it was just so, so, so powerful and spiritual.
[00:46:39.320 --> 00:46:43.380] Like I can say that was my first in depth spiritual poem.
[00:46:43.460 --> 00:46:48.300] That's kind of how I left and ended my, you know, performing career.
[00:46:51.710 --> 00:46:55.550] Like I said, I'm blessed to be around so many artists
[00:46:55.550 --> 00:47:01.330] that take their craft seriously and have a story to tell
[00:47:01.330 --> 00:47:04.070] and tell, like you said, other people's story.
[00:47:04.410 --> 00:47:06.130] I would say, you know,
[00:47:06.290 --> 00:47:09.750] ever me and Maya and Mowgrey's like those two.
[00:47:11.050 --> 00:47:14.130] Especially Mowgrey, you could go real, real deep
[00:47:14.130 --> 00:47:18.970] in my personal, which, you know, a sense of vulnerability is
[00:47:18.970 --> 00:47:21.990] to me was unmatched at the time we was doing it.
[00:47:23.050 --> 00:47:23.950] So kudos to him.
[00:47:24.070 --> 00:47:27.330] I think he kind of hung it up too, kind of fell back.
[00:47:28.170 --> 00:47:31.430] But, you know, if you haven't heard the nappy
[00:47:32.890 --> 00:47:38.350] who's it, the nappy chronicles or nappy head chronicles, my bad.
[00:47:38.710 --> 00:47:40.450] Mowgrey. Yeah, check it out.
[00:47:41.130 --> 00:47:46.820] Mowgrey's on all streaming platforms and I also want to ask
[00:47:46.820 --> 00:47:49.720] what helps you get into your creative mode in space?
[00:47:53.440 --> 00:47:57.800] It just comes and sometimes it's so highly irritating.
[00:47:58.460 --> 00:48:01.620] I occasionally suffer from insomnia
[00:48:02.800 --> 00:48:07.360] and it will be moments where I know I finally fell asleep
[00:48:08.120 --> 00:48:11.020] and then all of a sudden, all of these thoughts start
[00:48:11.020 --> 00:48:15.820] running through my mind and then I'm up and I'm on my phone
[00:48:15.820 --> 00:48:19.280] because I finally converted to technology so I don't write
[00:48:19.280 --> 00:48:22.740] my poems physically anymore because that became a problem.
[00:48:22.980 --> 00:48:25.380] I have both, I'll say.
[00:48:25.880 --> 00:48:29.440] It became a problem for me because if I'm physically writing
[00:48:29.440 --> 00:48:33.400] while feeling the emotion that's overcoming me.
[00:48:34.700 --> 00:48:37.580] I am not writing in the English language.
[00:48:38.000 --> 00:48:41.560] I am writing in Egyptian hieroglyphics.
[00:48:42.320 --> 00:48:44.620] It is. And then if I.
[00:48:46.160 --> 00:48:50.260] Put my pen down, walk away from the poem and come back.
[00:48:51.420 --> 00:48:55.480] It's only by the grace of God that he gives me the poem back
[00:48:55.480 --> 00:48:58.020] because half the time I cannot go back and reread it.
[00:48:58.700 --> 00:49:01.600] And it don't matter how I try and pace myself.
[00:49:01.960 --> 00:49:04.280] It don't matter if I start off writing in print.
[00:49:04.340 --> 00:49:05.940] I'm going to switch to cursive.
[00:49:06.040 --> 00:49:08.160] And when I write in cursive, it doesn't matter
[00:49:08.160 --> 00:49:10.320] if I have the page tilted one way.
[00:49:11.180 --> 00:49:14.660] My handwriting always slants to the opposite direction
[00:49:14.660 --> 00:49:16.940] that the page was sitting on.
[00:49:16.940 --> 00:49:22.140] And so it just and I think I've shown you some of my old writing.
[00:49:23.660 --> 00:49:27.040] It's I could have been a doctor writing prescriptions at
[00:49:28.280 --> 00:49:29.920] point my handwriting.
[00:49:30.520 --> 00:49:34.560] I still have a poem that I have it unencrypted because
[00:49:35.340 --> 00:49:39.520] I was trying something new back in the early 2000s.
[00:49:39.520 --> 00:49:43.300] It was a cool thing to like write your poem in random shapes.
[00:49:43.700 --> 00:49:46.220] So I tried writing a poem in a spiral
[00:49:46.940 --> 00:49:49.060] and then I ran out of space on the paper.
[00:49:49.320 --> 00:49:51.920] So I inverted the spiral on itself.
[00:49:52.280 --> 00:49:55.780] So now I do not know which part of the spiral is the start
[00:49:55.780 --> 00:49:57.500] or the end of the poem.
[00:49:59.790 --> 00:50:03.570] Another time I did not have an ink pen or a regular paper.
[00:50:03.690 --> 00:50:08.550] I just had this yellow or orange flyer from church
[00:50:09.150 --> 00:50:11.750] and I wrote on the back of it with a yellow highlighter.
[00:50:14.250 --> 00:50:17.030] That poem took about two,
[00:50:17.610 --> 00:50:20.190] maybe five years to figure out what it said.
[00:50:20.490 --> 00:50:23.130] And, you know, by that time, the highlighter has faded.
[00:50:24.510 --> 00:50:27.850] The orange has faded into the highlighter like it was.
[00:50:29.350 --> 00:50:33.550] I don't even know how other than I know God gave me that poem back
[00:50:33.550 --> 00:50:38.360] to finally share with the world because you touched on something,
[00:50:38.380 --> 00:50:41.360] even with business notes and like things for our business.
[00:50:41.380 --> 00:50:43.060] You know, I'm always writing things down.
[00:50:43.180 --> 00:50:44.280] It could be a napkin.
[00:50:44.500 --> 00:50:47.140] It'd be a piece of paper, like you said, a flyer.
[00:50:47.140 --> 00:50:51.220] Yeah, a skin, an arm sometimes, back of the hand.
[00:50:51.860 --> 00:50:56.180] You know, whatever I could write physically on with a pen, I'm going to do it.
[00:50:56.460 --> 00:50:58.720] And, you know, I'm going to transfer it to my phone
[00:50:58.720 --> 00:51:02.500] or, you know, laptop later or wherever I keep my notes.
[00:51:02.720 --> 00:51:04.500] So I definitely can relate.
[00:51:05.680 --> 00:51:07.700] But now I love technology.
[00:51:07.700 --> 00:51:09.440] So sometimes I may write something.
[00:51:09.520 --> 00:51:12.540] I could take a picture of it and have the ability
[00:51:12.540 --> 00:51:15.400] to copy and paste the picture onto a note.
[00:51:15.400 --> 00:51:17.920] So I love technology.
[00:51:18.240 --> 00:51:21.920] So here's where I use technology to to my advantage.
[00:51:22.280 --> 00:51:26.260] Going back to me being a freestyle, free verse writer.
[00:51:27.760 --> 00:51:30.220] Recently, I've been freestyling more often
[00:51:30.880 --> 00:51:34.820] and it's I shouldn't say more often because I've always freestyle.
[00:51:35.000 --> 00:51:37.240] It's just half the time those poems was lost
[00:51:37.240 --> 00:51:41.520] because once I get in the zone and I start talking to myself out loud
[00:51:41.520 --> 00:51:45.380] and it be a poem that I'm not writing it down.
[00:51:45.400 --> 00:51:49.760] And we already established I don't remember my poems.
[00:51:49.760 --> 00:51:52.480] So that would just said to the wind and gone.
[00:51:53.700 --> 00:51:57.080] I now stop myself.
[00:51:57.740 --> 00:52:01.060] Turn on my voice recording app in my phone.
[00:52:01.780 --> 00:52:04.920] Say whatever it is my heart desire is.
[00:52:05.280 --> 00:52:05.940] Turn it off.
[00:52:06.080 --> 00:52:09.100] And at first, before voice recording technology caught up,
[00:52:09.240 --> 00:52:13.120] I would have to pause place replay just to type it out into notes.
[00:52:13.320 --> 00:52:15.100] Now I can transcribe it.
[00:52:15.720 --> 00:52:19.500] From voice to text and then just go in and do my little edits.
[00:52:19.840 --> 00:52:21.800] And it has saved me a lot.
[00:52:23.350 --> 00:52:28.010] Yeah, that's that that part because, you know, I travel a lot and.
[00:52:29.210 --> 00:52:31.010] You know, I listen to a lot of podcasts.
[00:52:31.030 --> 00:52:34.690] So it's like our our audiobook.
[00:52:34.890 --> 00:52:37.410] So it's like a university wide drive.
[00:52:37.770 --> 00:52:41.810] But, you know, I would be in traffic and, you know, I can't always type.
[00:52:42.110 --> 00:52:46.170] So I will audio record a lot of, like I say,
[00:52:46.170 --> 00:52:50.090] either business notes or poems, songs or, you know,
[00:52:50.190 --> 00:52:52.710] just freedom of expression, how I felt that day.
[00:52:53.270 --> 00:52:56.770] And it got me through a lot of tough seasons.
[00:52:57.210 --> 00:52:59.710] Like you talk about being your own best friend,
[00:53:00.230 --> 00:53:03.250] your own personal hear yourself or hear your thoughts,
[00:53:03.250 --> 00:53:06.250] you know, that self love, even that words of encouragement.
[00:53:06.330 --> 00:53:07.510] Like, I really did this.
[00:53:07.990 --> 00:53:11.210] And going back to accomplishments and things that you did.
[00:53:11.970 --> 00:53:14.670] And sometimes people remind me like, man, you really did.
[00:53:15.210 --> 00:53:16.830] Like, you really be out here.
[00:53:17.350 --> 00:53:18.290] I was like, really?
[00:53:18.470 --> 00:53:23.210] Like, it's interesting hearing other people's viewpoint of you.
[00:53:24.030 --> 00:53:26.830] Yes. And that that's like I said earlier,
[00:53:26.830 --> 00:53:31.150] that's what made me start to reevaluate how I
[00:53:33.270 --> 00:53:40.070] the equation that I used to equate what meant worth, because it took.
[00:53:40.790 --> 00:53:42.030] It took a while.
[00:53:42.370 --> 00:53:47.930] And I'm going to you lucky I know you
[00:53:49.130 --> 00:53:52.190] because you you you pulling back some stuff
[00:53:52.190 --> 00:53:55.310] that I think I was going to be sharing publicly this soon.
[00:53:55.590 --> 00:53:57.190] Power power relationships.
[00:54:00.210 --> 00:54:01.750] I'm a firstborn child.
[00:54:04.240 --> 00:54:06.960] My mother and not just a firstborn child.
[00:54:07.100 --> 00:54:08.860] I am a firstborn daughter.
[00:54:09.880 --> 00:54:13.680] My mother, my biological mother, firstborn daughter
[00:54:13.680 --> 00:54:15.760] and the firstborn child.
[00:54:16.480 --> 00:54:21.280] My grandmother, the firstborn daughter and the firstborn child.
[00:54:21.680 --> 00:54:26.240] And I believe my great grandmother was as well.
[00:54:26.380 --> 00:54:30.580] So that's more and my daughter is a firstborn child, firstborn daughter.
[00:54:31.560 --> 00:54:35.860] Being the eldest child comes with a mantle of responsibility
[00:54:36.440 --> 00:54:38.480] that is not always discussed.
[00:54:39.280 --> 00:54:43.320] And being that firstborn and being a daughter
[00:54:43.320 --> 00:54:48.700] in a society where the firstborn
[00:54:48.700 --> 00:54:52.740] traditionally should have been male, you carry
[00:54:53.340 --> 00:54:55.420] a different type of responsibility.
[00:54:56.820 --> 00:54:58.860] I have two younger siblings.
[00:55:00.780 --> 00:55:05.360] I have been in foster care and was adopted.
[00:55:08.040 --> 00:55:11.420] It was my responsibility as the eldest
[00:55:12.140 --> 00:55:14.440] to keep tabs on my two younger siblings,
[00:55:14.440 --> 00:55:16.700] even though we were in separate foster homes.
[00:55:17.140 --> 00:55:19.440] We all got adopted into separate homes.
[00:55:20.460 --> 00:55:22.660] I because I was the oldest,
[00:55:23.160 --> 00:55:25.780] they are four and six years younger than me,
[00:55:26.980 --> 00:55:30.260] meaning they didn't remember much about biological family.
[00:55:30.420 --> 00:55:32.440] If when I when I was removed from the family
[00:55:32.440 --> 00:55:35.180] because we were moved at the same time, I was 10.
[00:55:37.480 --> 00:55:41.380] So it was up to me to one, remind them
[00:55:41.380 --> 00:55:45.820] who they came from, that there was a family that still loved them
[00:55:45.820 --> 00:55:50.140] despite circumstances, how to have access to this family.
[00:55:50.600 --> 00:55:53.120] And that I'm still there for them.
[00:55:53.400 --> 00:55:57.560] And that has become
[00:55:58.400 --> 00:56:04.560] a mantle that became so heavy to carry.
[00:56:05.060 --> 00:56:11.100] It has affected my ability to partake in romantic relationships
[00:56:11.100 --> 00:56:16.780] because it wasn't understood why when my phone would ring,
[00:56:17.300 --> 00:56:20.840] didn't matter what time it was, if it was one of their numbers,
[00:56:21.800 --> 00:56:23.780] everything stopping is coming to a halt
[00:56:23.780 --> 00:56:25.700] and I'm going to see what they need.
[00:56:27.520 --> 00:56:31.600] And it was thought of to be an abnormal relationship
[00:56:31.600 --> 00:56:35.640] without the understanding that in their eyes,
[00:56:36.120 --> 00:56:38.300] because of how young they were when they were removed
[00:56:38.300 --> 00:56:39.600] from the rest of the family,
[00:56:40.780 --> 00:56:42.960] I'm the only blood family they got.
[00:56:43.720 --> 00:56:45.540] So I'm the only one they can call.
[00:56:45.980 --> 00:56:47.980] I'm the only one they can lean on.
[00:56:48.280 --> 00:56:51.460] And that's heavy considering
[00:56:53.060 --> 00:56:56.960] what emotional traumas that I had to endure
[00:56:58.100 --> 00:57:01.580] during the time that I was in foster and adoptive care and
[00:57:02.380 --> 00:57:05.080] still be strong for those around me
[00:57:05.080 --> 00:57:10.200] and not know where it will be safe to unburden myself
[00:57:13.310 --> 00:57:16.690] because proper discernment didn't come till later.
[00:57:17.290 --> 00:57:21.810] So I would go to people thinking that I could share my cares
[00:57:21.810 --> 00:57:26.130] with them and have a shoulder to talk to
[00:57:26.130 --> 00:57:29.390] when, in fact, it was a set of ears connected to a mouth
[00:57:29.390 --> 00:57:31.190] that would go and tell someone else.
[00:57:31.410 --> 00:57:33.390] And so that caused more damage.
[00:57:33.910 --> 00:57:36.330] And so that created lack of trust.
[00:57:38.600 --> 00:57:46.400] So in relationship building, it's it's different having to
[00:57:47.120 --> 00:57:51.720] learn how to trust and lean and ask for help
[00:57:51.720 --> 00:57:55.540] from someone when you're so used to being the answer.
[00:57:59.660 --> 00:58:04.250] So that was heavy.
[00:58:04.850 --> 00:58:05.790] I wasn't expecting it.
[00:58:05.870 --> 00:58:09.270] And I'm going to connect you with my good friend Kayla,
[00:58:11.290 --> 00:58:12.350] who was an adoptee.
[00:58:12.510 --> 00:58:14.170] She goes by the unshattered adoptee.
[00:58:14.250 --> 00:58:15.170] I don't know if you met her or not.
[00:58:16.210 --> 00:58:19.710] But yeah, it has a nonprofit, you know, around that.
[00:58:20.230 --> 00:58:22.950] And I think, yeah, y'all connection really, you know,
[00:58:22.950 --> 00:58:25.750] together with flourish in many different ways.
[00:58:26.550 --> 00:58:30.290] But being someone who's strong and there for others,
[00:58:31.030 --> 00:58:34.070] but sometimes on the back end, you know, I can speak for myself
[00:58:34.070 --> 00:58:37.250] being strong and, you know, assertive in a community.
[00:58:38.190 --> 00:58:40.230] We don't get that in return.
[00:58:41.190 --> 00:58:47.190] So how are let me say,
[00:58:48.070 --> 00:58:52.930] how has it been or even do you have people that
[00:58:54.520 --> 00:58:57.880] are there for you, you know, who's there for the strong
[00:58:57.880 --> 00:59:00.660] and, you know, the strongest for everybody else?
[00:59:03.240 --> 00:59:06.720] I can finally say that I finally found my tribe of people.
[00:59:08.000 --> 00:59:13.160] But even in finding them, it took a while to trust.
[00:59:14.100 --> 00:59:18.260] And for me, trust doesn't just come from you saying you're there.
[00:59:18.980 --> 00:59:22.440] For me, it took actions and it took repetitive action.
[00:59:22.440 --> 00:59:25.300] Oh, I have a girl.
[00:59:25.480 --> 00:59:29.600] Well, two girlfriends that both of my close friends are both older than me.
[00:59:30.220 --> 00:59:33.460] Well, just to find girlfriends for because some people were like,
[00:59:33.460 --> 00:59:36.740] Oh, my homegirls, they got my back.
[00:59:37.340 --> 00:59:41.200] I was born in the 90s is the original definition.
[00:59:41.420 --> 00:59:43.240] Look up the TV sitcom.
[00:59:43.860 --> 00:59:46.860] I just like the clarification.
[00:59:47.580 --> 00:59:52.660] Oh, both of them.
[00:59:52.740 --> 00:59:56.180] We again, these were professional relationships that became personal
[00:59:56.180 --> 00:59:58.000] because I met them in the professional place.
[01:00:00.420 --> 01:00:02.100] They saw me.
[01:00:02.360 --> 01:00:06.040] And again, because I'm younger than them, they would be they would see me
[01:00:06.040 --> 01:00:08.260] doing certain things and moving in a certain way.
[01:00:08.320 --> 01:00:09.700] And they were like, why do you do that?
[01:00:11.670 --> 01:00:12.890] And I would brush them off.
[01:00:13.150 --> 01:00:16.950] And then at one point, they seen that I was struggling with things.
[01:00:17.350 --> 01:00:21.770] And so this is where having friends
[01:00:21.770 --> 01:00:24.410] that are older than you is a blessing and a curse,
[01:00:24.650 --> 01:00:27.710] because one day they your homegirl and the next day they talking to you
[01:00:27.710 --> 01:00:29.050] like, hey, your mammy.
[01:00:32.570 --> 01:00:37.250] So I guess I triggered the mama and my one homegirl
[01:00:37.250 --> 01:00:40.330] because she was like, yeah,
[01:00:41.130 --> 01:00:45.270] I did X, Y and Z, and you're going to accept X, Y and Z.
[01:00:45.310 --> 01:00:46.950] And we're doing X, Y and Z.
[01:00:46.970 --> 01:00:48.290] And you're just going to show up.
[01:00:49.960 --> 01:00:53.820] And she showed up for me in that way more than once.
[01:00:54.600 --> 01:00:58.320] And it took a while for me to realize that I could actually trust her.
[01:00:59.040 --> 01:01:01.640] So when something came up with my family,
[01:01:02.360 --> 01:01:06.880] I had no one else that I could trust to be that vulnerable with.
[01:01:07.220 --> 01:01:11.900] I called her and she was like, I'm shocked that you actually asked for help.
[01:01:12.320 --> 01:01:17.020] So the first thing that she said, other than asking about the situation.
[01:01:18.540 --> 01:01:20.800] Well, she told me she was proud that I asked for help.
[01:01:23.200 --> 01:01:26.260] How much that just sunk in my heart, like I really felt that in my heart
[01:01:26.260 --> 01:01:29.020] because I'm someone that doesn't ask for help.
[01:01:29.240 --> 01:01:30.160] I'm I'm introverted.
[01:01:30.160 --> 01:01:31.380] I'm to myself a lot.
[01:01:31.540 --> 01:01:34.440] I love, you know, taking initiative on things
[01:01:34.440 --> 01:01:38.080] I love doing or have to do, but by myself.
[01:01:38.640 --> 01:01:43.500] And like, you know, like I said, being a strong person and helping other people.
[01:01:44.040 --> 01:01:47.320] There's not too many people that, you know, help me or, you know,
[01:01:47.420 --> 01:01:52.320] not that I also I don't ask for the help, but I appreciate those that,
[01:01:52.320 --> 01:01:56.040] you know, take the time out like, you know, let me assist you.
[01:01:56.040 --> 01:01:59.380] Let me give you some resources, even if you want to do it by yourself.
[01:01:59.380 --> 01:02:02.860] Let me, you know, set you up so you can do it by yourself even better.
[01:02:03.680 --> 01:02:07.100] Right. I appreciate that, you know, because I'm I'm a creative
[01:02:07.100 --> 01:02:08.900] and I'm structured a certain way.
[01:02:08.900 --> 01:02:12.600] I'm trying to be more structured and, you know, allow more people in
[01:02:12.600 --> 01:02:16.520] and allow, you know, like you said, that tribe and the community to assist.
[01:02:17.200 --> 01:02:19.940] And, you know, sometimes it's hard, you know.
[01:02:20.800 --> 01:02:24.140] It could be a trust thing, but for me, it's not necessarily trust.
[01:02:24.860 --> 01:02:26.020] It's a it's a habit.
[01:02:26.060 --> 01:02:29.000] You know, I'm used to being by myself and doing stuff by myself.
[01:02:29.840 --> 01:02:32.860] Having to, you know, love myself,
[01:02:33.960 --> 01:02:37.940] you know, my own best friend, you know, do business by myself.
[01:02:38.400 --> 01:02:43.040] Like, you know, in this current stage, 2025, I am my only employee, you know.
[01:02:44.000 --> 01:02:48.040] So I do work on a lot of teams and I know how it is,
[01:02:48.060 --> 01:02:49.600] you know, starting off.
[01:02:50.460 --> 01:02:54.680] Do you have any encouraging words for, you know, a new entrepreneur, a new artist?
[01:02:55.980 --> 01:02:58.480] And see, that's where me and you knock heads,
[01:02:58.540 --> 01:03:01.040] because you kept calling me an entrepreneur a few years ago,
[01:03:01.040 --> 01:03:02.360] and I would say, no, I'm not.
[01:03:06.220 --> 01:03:07.480] I was still saying.
[01:03:08.500 --> 01:03:09.460] I'm a creative.
[01:03:10.500 --> 01:03:13.200] I am. So wait, wait, wait.
[01:03:13.320 --> 01:03:15.540] Let's rewind, because I ain't going to let you question.
[01:03:17.600 --> 01:03:21.000] So. Do you make money for poetry?
[01:03:21.140 --> 01:03:26.060] Yes. I just started making money for poetry within the last year.
[01:03:26.060 --> 01:03:28.620] Because, OK, well, well.
[01:03:28.940 --> 01:03:36.220] Yes. Within the last year, prior to that, it was it was my therapy.
[01:03:36.440 --> 01:03:40.040] It was my outlet. It was how I expressed myself.
[01:03:40.620 --> 01:03:43.320] It was how I was able to.
[01:03:43.460 --> 01:03:44.740] And it still is.
[01:03:45.080 --> 01:03:48.300] It's how I'm able to communicate and convey messages to people
[01:03:48.300 --> 01:03:50.480] when I'm not able to talk to them directly.
[01:03:50.780 --> 01:03:55.320] Or I feel that there is a hindrance between how I'm able to communicate.
[01:03:56.080 --> 01:04:01.200] And poetry has always been my voice in those moments
[01:04:01.200 --> 01:04:03.520] where I feel that I can't use my actual voice.
[01:04:06.520 --> 01:04:08.020] That's how it was with music.
[01:04:08.300 --> 01:04:10.840] I mean, I got to say poetry, too, and they're both, you know,
[01:04:10.980 --> 01:04:11.720] one and the same.
[01:04:14.490 --> 01:04:18.150] And I appreciate you with your deep emotions.
[01:04:19.530 --> 01:04:21.110] And there's a couple more questions,
[01:04:21.110 --> 01:04:23.150] and I was kind of pressed with time today.
[01:04:23.830 --> 01:04:27.530] But how has media influenced your market?
[01:04:28.410 --> 01:04:33.390] And industry, as far as like poetry, modeling, just the artist scene
[01:04:33.970 --> 01:04:39.730] in general, you know, I'm into media and photography and video production.
[01:04:40.530 --> 01:04:44.490] How has that influenced maybe the past 10 years up to now?
[01:04:45.110 --> 01:04:47.670] And, you know, both have advanced and evolved.
[01:04:48.470 --> 01:04:53.270] So I guess that I tie into your previous question with this one.
[01:04:54.090 --> 01:04:56.970] What I would advise someone coming up
[01:04:58.450 --> 01:05:03.890] in wanting to be a paid artist
[01:05:04.550 --> 01:05:10.810] is to find what skills you have from whatever your professional day job is
[01:05:10.810 --> 01:05:15.490] and how you can tie them into what you do creatively.
[01:05:16.330 --> 01:05:20.650] So going back to those accolades that I said that I have
[01:05:20.650 --> 01:05:25.650] on the professional side of things, I went when I was in high school,
[01:05:25.650 --> 01:05:29.970] I did Oracle Database Modeling and then also some robotic engineering.
[01:05:34.150 --> 01:05:39.650] So I got a bit of IT designing background when I was at the rec center
[01:05:39.650 --> 01:05:42.770] and I would volunteer because Mr.
[01:05:42.950 --> 01:05:45.310] Howard understood that I was going to be at the rec every day
[01:05:45.310 --> 01:05:46.430] because I didn't want to be at home.
[01:05:46.470 --> 01:05:47.590] He put me to work.
[01:05:48.430 --> 01:05:52.110] Miss Denise was the tech admin at the time,
[01:05:52.110 --> 01:05:55.970] and this was when Windows 93 was still a thing.
[01:05:56.010 --> 01:05:58.090] Yes, I'm dating myself. Good Lord.
[01:05:58.190 --> 01:05:59.350] You don't say it too loud.
[01:05:59.490 --> 01:06:02.290] The young folks were like, oh, you were born in the 1900s?
[01:06:04.250 --> 01:06:08.350] So this was back when Canva was not even a dream.
[01:06:08.450 --> 01:06:10.190] We had Microsoft Publisher.
[01:06:11.050 --> 01:06:15.710] And so I learned under her how to manipulate and create flyers
[01:06:15.710 --> 01:06:19.570] and create banners and all of that good stuff in Publisher.
[01:06:19.570 --> 01:06:25.050] I even ended up becoming responsible for making the anniversary flyers
[01:06:25.050 --> 01:06:29.950] for my church because of the way I could build and stack the word art
[01:06:29.950 --> 01:06:34.490] and the designs and the images and drop the pictures in and all of that.
[01:06:35.630 --> 01:06:41.770] So I then Canva came about and my best friend, my twin,
[01:06:42.590 --> 01:06:46.910] he does graphic designing, and so we both would play off of each other.
[01:06:46.910 --> 01:06:53.210] And so I started using my graphic design abilities to showcase my poetry
[01:06:53.790 --> 01:06:56.890] and even other things on my Instagram.
[01:06:57.310 --> 01:07:00.650] So majority of the things on my Instagram,
[01:07:00.730 --> 01:07:06.590] even when I was just showcasing someone else's art that and I attended the event,
[01:07:06.910 --> 01:07:08.090] I did that design.
[01:07:08.170 --> 01:07:11.350] I dropped it in Canva and I did the video edits myself.
[01:07:11.410 --> 01:07:13.590] I did the audio edit adding.
[01:07:13.830 --> 01:07:15.990] I did all of that myself.
[01:07:16.630 --> 01:07:20.010] The crop work, the formatting in the words,
[01:07:20.230 --> 01:07:22.850] I would start with the available templates,
[01:07:22.850 --> 01:07:27.910] but I will always edit them to what my aesthetic was for the day.
[01:07:28.150 --> 01:07:31.290] So even now with me doing the 30 for 30 challenge,
[01:07:31.590 --> 01:07:34.990] the reason it's taken me a bit longer to post them over on Instagram
[01:07:34.990 --> 01:07:40.230] versus threads is because I'm actually doing the work to edit
[01:07:40.230 --> 01:07:44.410] and create the designing in Canva to make it fit.
[01:07:45.690 --> 01:07:47.810] And post or some of them will be real.
[01:07:47.970 --> 01:07:50.530] Some of them will be slide bags.
[01:07:50.890 --> 01:07:52.310] So, yeah.
[01:07:52.930 --> 01:07:57.630] So you use your skills across the board
[01:07:57.630 --> 01:08:03.870] and see how they are able to coalesce and correlate to one another.
[01:08:06.270 --> 01:08:09.430] Just you expressing all of that sounds like an entrepreneur to me,
[01:08:09.430 --> 01:08:11.950] you know, as far as marketing and get yourself out there,
[01:08:11.950 --> 01:08:16.029] which a lot of entrepreneurs and business owners have to do.
[01:08:17.410 --> 01:08:20.569] So to kind of wrap it up in a summit,
[01:08:22.250 --> 01:08:26.430] sum it up and wrap it up in a bow reviewing this interview.
[01:08:26.670 --> 01:08:28.790] What are some key takeaways?
[01:08:29.310 --> 01:08:32.050] Maybe three to five things that you mentioned
[01:08:32.050 --> 01:08:33.810] or maybe haven't mentioned.
[01:08:37.420 --> 01:08:39.560] What do you want people to take away from this interview
[01:08:39.560 --> 01:08:45.279] before even listening to it or if they listen to it?
[01:08:49.140 --> 01:08:53.479] Take the time to find your own equation to self-worth.
[01:08:53.479 --> 01:08:54.710] One more time.
[01:08:56.420 --> 01:09:01.160] Take the time to find your own equation for self-worth.
[01:09:05.810 --> 01:09:08.029] Enjoy that life is a journey.
[01:09:11.000 --> 01:09:12.660] Stop to smell the roses.
[01:09:13.340 --> 01:09:15.760] Don't always be focused on where you're headed.
[01:09:21.910 --> 01:09:26.370] It's okay to ask for help, but use discernment.
[01:09:38.200 --> 01:09:41.020] Acronym that I've been using recently is
[01:09:41.760 --> 01:09:45.819] live your life VIP, victory in progress.
[01:09:48.960 --> 01:09:50.859] Can't close even better than it.
[01:09:50.859 --> 01:09:52.040] Well, let me take that back.
[01:09:52.160 --> 01:09:55.020] Maybe we can because I still want you to do a poem.
[01:09:56.640 --> 01:09:59.140] I thought I was going to get away with that.
[01:09:59.220 --> 01:09:59.980] I can't.
[01:10:00.260 --> 01:10:04.140] I mean, I've expressed on this podcast in my Sunday episodes,
[01:10:04.380 --> 01:10:09.780] like one of these days y'all hear a poem or a song from me,
[01:10:09.900 --> 01:10:12.220] but, you know, I have artist friends
[01:10:12.880 --> 01:10:15.140] and what better way to do it?
[01:10:15.140 --> 01:10:20.380] You know, I can even start it off with my snippet of frequency.
[01:10:20.840 --> 01:10:22.260] One of my staple poems.
[01:10:24.300 --> 01:10:24.780] Frequency.
[01:10:26.020 --> 01:10:27.740] Frequency is what you frequently see.
[01:10:29.040 --> 01:10:32.240] Vibrations all in the universe and also inside of me.
[01:10:37.440 --> 01:10:39.800] I was about to say, because if you're going to do frequency,
[01:10:39.940 --> 01:10:41.360] that means I got to find the version
[01:10:41.360 --> 01:10:43.000] that I wrote after hearing that one.
[01:10:43.220 --> 01:10:44.820] That one's in the archives.
[01:10:45.080 --> 01:10:47.400] All right, y'all about to get a real treat.
[01:10:48.240 --> 01:10:50.360] So is you really about to do frequency?
[01:10:50.680 --> 01:10:51.820] I mean, only do a snippet.
[01:10:51.860 --> 01:10:53.500] Maybe they get a, you know, one day.
[01:10:55.480 --> 01:10:57.080] I think you need a little more.
[01:10:57.320 --> 01:10:58.940] It's just in the wild.
[01:10:59.440 --> 01:11:01.100] Look, now I got to find mine.
[01:11:01.560 --> 01:11:03.420] It's in the archives.
[01:11:03.740 --> 01:11:04.500] It's all good.
[01:11:05.600 --> 01:11:06.260] So frequency.
[01:11:08.120 --> 01:11:10.160] Your frequency is what you frequently see.
[01:11:11.340 --> 01:11:14.360] Vibrations all in the universe and also inside of me.
[01:11:15.060 --> 01:11:16.920] Alien to the world society.
[01:11:17.400 --> 01:11:19.880] Shooting stars consciously.
[01:11:20.500 --> 01:11:21.260] Righteously.
[01:11:21.640 --> 01:11:24.220] Until every dust particle unites in me.
[01:11:24.480 --> 01:11:25.240] Sparkling.
[01:11:25.780 --> 01:11:29.320] As water wine and jewelry and jewelry see.
[01:11:29.760 --> 01:11:32.280] I shine bright beyond my time of infinity.
[01:11:32.800 --> 01:11:33.540] Living sea.
[01:11:33.720 --> 01:11:36.180] Speckles around my eyes as vicinity.
[01:11:37.040 --> 01:11:37.420] Vividly.
[01:11:38.040 --> 01:11:38.800] Femininity.
[01:11:39.160 --> 01:11:40.940] Raise my higher divinity.
[01:11:41.580 --> 01:11:42.560] Sacred trinity.
[01:11:42.920 --> 01:11:45.000] Reflects my divine masculinity.
[01:11:46.020 --> 01:11:47.020] Felt in the trenches.
[01:11:47.020 --> 01:11:48.260] Relentless.
[01:11:48.660 --> 01:11:52.140] Lost my human mind to gain my spiritual senses.
[01:11:53.000 --> 01:11:53.680] Defenseless.
[01:11:54.240 --> 01:11:54.920] Elevation.
[01:11:55.700 --> 01:11:57.420] Through focus and meditation.
[01:12:00.580 --> 01:12:02.360] Frequency is a little snippet.
[01:12:04.100 --> 01:12:09.720] One of these days, you know, I may even have a creative outlet on this podcast,
[01:12:09.780 --> 01:12:13.720] but I focus more on the business and creative entrepreneur side.
[01:12:14.500 --> 01:12:22.380] You know how more so newer entrepreneurs thrive as far as marketing and branding purposes.
[01:12:25.620 --> 01:12:29.180] So I am torn whether or not I should do the piece that
[01:12:29.180 --> 01:12:33.740] I wrote that was inspired by that piece or do something new.
[01:12:40.890 --> 01:12:47.390] It kind of correlates since, you know, I've dropped it in, you know.
[01:12:48.110 --> 01:12:50.710] How about I do both?
[01:12:51.390 --> 01:12:51.970] Okay.
[01:12:54.870 --> 01:12:56.370] Or how about a snippet of each other?
[01:12:56.570 --> 01:12:56.830] That's fair.
[01:13:03.630 --> 01:13:06.550] You got me digging through the archives looking for poetry.
[01:13:08.610 --> 01:13:11.010] I'm going to do my closing words for the podcast.
[01:13:12.010 --> 01:13:17.490] This has been, and stay tuned, because she's about to drop some nice thought-provoking
[01:13:17.490 --> 01:13:18.670] poetry for y'all.
[01:13:19.690 --> 01:13:25.890] So I appreciate everyone tuning in to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[01:13:25.890 --> 01:13:32.330] as I cover different industries and give different business insights and tips
[01:13:32.330 --> 01:13:38.110] for new entrepreneurs and speak about my personal journey as a creative entrepreneur.
[01:13:39.730 --> 01:13:45.810] And I think Ms. Jewel Justice is about to drop some nice words for you all.
[01:13:49.110 --> 01:13:50.250] Do you deserve me?
[01:13:51.350 --> 01:13:53.490] Will you work to reserve me?
[01:13:53.990 --> 01:13:56.090] Will you help preserve my energy?
[01:13:56.950 --> 01:13:59.370] Because lately I feel so understated.
[01:14:00.390 --> 01:14:01.850] This feeling is overrated.
[01:14:02.510 --> 01:14:06.870] I've been giving access to my energy to people that don't deserve it.
[01:14:07.130 --> 01:14:08.870] They don't appreciate it.
[01:14:09.030 --> 01:14:12.750] They come back for refills like they are entitled to it.
[01:14:12.830 --> 01:14:14.830] While I'm cutting off the tap.
[01:14:15.090 --> 01:14:16.790] Revoking your access.
[01:14:17.250 --> 01:14:20.630] Installing a gatekeeper you'll need permission to pass.
[01:14:21.050 --> 01:14:25.810] Will you be found worthy of the privilege to gain access to that backstage pass?
[01:14:26.090 --> 01:14:28.830] Or will you be headed off at the start?
[01:14:29.390 --> 01:14:32.810] Because your intentions are not unadulterated.
[01:14:33.450 --> 01:14:35.710] Will your heart be found contaminated?
[01:14:37.030 --> 01:14:38.970] And that's just a snippet of that one.
[01:14:43.650 --> 01:14:45.530] I just want to shout out my media partners.
[01:14:45.930 --> 01:14:49.450] As we're here at LaunchArts recording this episode.
[01:14:50.390 --> 01:14:55.590] Yes, definitely check out LaunchArts media video production partners.
[01:14:56.450 --> 01:14:59.190] Vice president over the vice production.
[01:14:59.190 --> 01:15:01.630] I said vice production twice didn't I?
[01:15:01.890 --> 01:15:02.550] Video production.
[01:15:02.650 --> 01:15:03.890] It was two VVP.
[01:15:04.010 --> 01:15:05.490] Video production and vice president.
[01:15:05.610 --> 01:15:06.590] He had VP VP.
[01:15:07.930 --> 01:15:10.810] And then also the Pull Up Experience.
[01:15:11.310 --> 01:15:14.430] Fastest growing podcast here in Cleveland, Ohio.
[01:15:14.970 --> 01:15:16.790] Business podcast is at that.
[01:15:17.370 --> 01:15:21.030] And we had the opportunity to travel this past year.
[01:15:21.890 --> 01:15:23.310] You know brunch out a little bit.
[01:15:23.750 --> 01:15:26.770] So tap into the Pull Up Experience podcast.
[01:15:27.070 --> 01:15:28.430] We're big on YouTube.
[01:15:28.430 --> 01:15:30.390] That's our biggest platform right now.
[01:15:30.610 --> 01:15:34.170] And we just started releasing a lot of the audio episodes.
[01:15:34.170 --> 01:15:34.990] So stay tuned.
[01:15:36.950 --> 01:15:38.650] And also I can't forget about my brand.
[01:15:38.930 --> 01:15:39.030] Right?
[01:15:39.090 --> 01:15:41.130] Alienize Photos Media.
[01:15:41.470 --> 01:15:45.830] Where I focus on a lot of event photography nationally.
[01:15:45.950 --> 01:15:48.210] Soon to be globally.
[01:15:49.330 --> 01:15:53.770] So if you're looking for an event photographer or just even consulting.
[01:15:54.690 --> 01:15:58.270] Contact me at alienizephotos.com.
[01:15:58.270 --> 01:16:00.190] Scroll down to the bottom.
[01:16:01.370 --> 01:16:02.610] I'm reconstructing my site.
[01:16:02.810 --> 01:16:03.870] Because I've been learning.
[01:16:04.350 --> 01:16:06.530] So to put your contact info up top.
[01:16:06.890 --> 01:16:08.330] But scroll down to the bottom.
[01:16:08.870 --> 01:16:10.210] Or hit the booking link.
[01:16:10.710 --> 01:16:12.650] And send me some information about it.
[01:16:13.050 --> 01:16:16.130] And we can set up a call and see if it works for the both of us.
[01:16:17.130 --> 01:16:18.390] And then if you want coaching.
[01:16:18.510 --> 01:16:20.990] I do a lot of ideation sessions.
[01:16:21.030 --> 01:16:23.550] I love bouncing off ideas with others.
[01:16:23.670 --> 01:16:25.430] Especially other creatives.
[01:16:25.610 --> 01:16:26.590] Not just entrepreneurs.
[01:16:26.710 --> 01:16:27.470] Not just artists.
[01:16:28.110 --> 01:16:29.590] Creative entrepreneurs.
[01:16:30.110 --> 01:16:31.570] So if you love coaching.
[01:16:31.830 --> 01:16:32.570] You need strategy.
[01:16:32.790 --> 01:16:34.350] You want to build your brand more.
[01:16:34.350 --> 01:16:35.710] You can have a session.
[01:16:35.750 --> 01:16:40.770] So contact me if any of those fit your needs or wants or desires.
[01:16:42.190 --> 01:16:44.750] So we'd like to close out this episode.
[01:16:44.850 --> 01:16:45.950] Miss Jewel Justice.
[01:16:46.390 --> 01:16:48.450] And where can everybody find you at?
[01:16:49.430 --> 01:16:52.430] So my poetry can be found on Instagram.
[01:16:52.430 --> 01:16:58.670] At J-E-W-E-L-E-D-G-E-M-S underscore.
[01:17:00.290 --> 01:17:04.030] And the link in my bio will take you to any other interviews I have.
[01:17:04.050 --> 01:17:05.650] As well as my threads account.
[01:17:05.690 --> 01:17:07.110] My YouTube page.
[01:17:07.770 --> 01:17:11.150] My primary Instagram is Jewel Justice.
[01:17:11.430 --> 01:17:13.650] That's where you will find all things me.
[01:17:14.130 --> 01:17:19.570] And that's J-E-W-E-L-E-D-J-U-S-T-I-C-E.
[01:17:20.330 --> 01:17:21.090] That's them.
[01:17:21.230 --> 01:17:24.810] And then, you know, I will have it all connected to the show notes.
[01:17:24.970 --> 01:17:29.330] So if you're getting catching or if you're driving or anything of that sort.
[01:17:29.890 --> 01:17:31.230] It will be in the show notes.
[01:17:32.790 --> 01:17:37.070] So I'm going to close this out with I've been writing these poems.
[01:17:37.450 --> 01:17:39.730] It is a poetry prompt that ran a while.
[01:17:39.730 --> 01:17:43.030] I believe either in February or the latter part of March.
[01:17:45.670 --> 01:17:49.510] King Luce challenged me to the challenge that he had been challenged in.
[01:17:49.570 --> 01:17:53.690] And I think King Kamea.
[01:17:53.690 --> 01:17:55.170] I know I'm butchering that name.
[01:17:57.050 --> 01:17:58.910] Originally issued the challenge.
[01:17:59.950 --> 01:18:06.510] So I've been writing these poems to express the recessed thoughts of my mind
[01:18:06.510 --> 01:18:13.930] is more like a device to unwind, unbind, unravel, rewrite the prerequisites of my life.
[01:18:13.970 --> 01:18:18.930] See, I write these poems, songs of praise to God that created me
[01:18:18.930 --> 01:18:21.470] because he saw me when I didn't see myself.
[01:18:21.810 --> 01:18:26.730] I write these poems as encouragement for others still traveling through the dark.
[01:18:26.930 --> 01:18:31.350] I'll be the light shining at the end of the tunnel showing you
[01:18:31.350 --> 01:18:33.270] there's better on the other side.
[01:18:33.270 --> 01:18:38.370] I write to show you that you can photosynthesize pain into your own chlorophyll.
[01:18:38.450 --> 01:18:43.730] I write to show you you can overwrite, remix, retwist, re-encrypt to decrypt
[01:18:43.730 --> 01:18:45.790] those things you felt you were stuck in.
[01:18:45.790 --> 01:18:51.470] I write these poems so you don't feel as if you have to be buried in a crypt of your pain.
[01:18:51.590 --> 01:18:54.350] I write these poems to transmute energy.
[01:18:54.970 --> 01:19:01.810] I write these poems as more than a way to showcase my ability to take letters,
[01:19:02.190 --> 01:19:06.790] transform them into words, words into metaphors, metaphors into puns,
[01:19:06.790 --> 01:19:09.850] puns into similes, similes into fast meal thoughts.
[01:19:09.890 --> 01:19:14.810] I write as if it's the only way I'm capable of breathing.
[01:19:14.810 --> 01:19:19.770] I write these poems to intone the stories of those that have gone on before me.
[01:19:20.270 --> 01:19:24.010] I write to inform the future so they don't forget their past.
[01:19:24.350 --> 01:19:28.430] To carry on the existence of today so it's transcribed through time.
[01:19:28.710 --> 01:19:32.690] I write this poem because I'm just the vessel it flows through.
[01:19:32.950 --> 01:19:37.010] I write so these bits and bytes can be computed into your mind.
[01:19:37.090 --> 01:19:41.930] I write and release into the atmosphere that the power of the tongue
[01:19:41.930 --> 01:19:48.970] and the power of the pen are something to behold, to treasure, to cherish.
[01:19:49.830 --> 01:19:54.150] But most of all is not there to be misperched by your fear.
[01:19:54.650 --> 01:19:57.250] I've been writing these poems.
[01:19:58.310 --> 01:20:01.270] Wow, we cannot close better than that.
[01:20:01.630 --> 01:20:05.200] And it's been a while since we had to catch a live show because
[01:20:06.160 --> 01:20:10.760] yeah, your poetry has always struck a nerve.
[01:20:11.020 --> 01:20:14.870] And like you said, it's very thought-provoking and I appreciate that.
[01:20:15.760 --> 01:20:22.320] Again, this has been Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk with photographer Jackson
[01:20:22.320 --> 01:20:27.840] interviewing the well-known, word-crafted poet.
[01:20:28.880 --> 01:20:30.140] I don't want to limit you to Cleveland.
[01:20:30.980 --> 01:20:31.640] You're national.
[01:20:31.700 --> 01:20:32.760] You're national now.
[01:20:33.920 --> 01:20:34.540] Thank you.
[01:20:34.540 --> 01:20:35.820] Your justice.
[01:20:36.120 --> 01:20:36.860] Thank you again.
[01:20:37.360 --> 01:20:38.700] Thank you so much, Alien.
[01:20:39.180 --> 01:20:39.820] Yes, yes.
[01:20:40.060 --> 01:20:42.000] I appreciate y'all until next time.
[01:20:42.520 --> 01:20:46.020] Like, share, subscribe, run back the previous episode.
[01:20:46.380 --> 01:20:48.080] Check out the solo episodes.
[01:20:48.560 --> 01:20:53.940] And yeah, remember, check out alieneyesphotos.com and also on social media.
[01:20:54.100 --> 01:21:00.360] You can follow me at alieneyes with a Z, photos with an S on all social media,
[01:21:00.360 --> 01:21:01.700] and also fan base.
[01:21:01.700 --> 01:21:06.820] If you haven't downloaded fan base, check the fan base app out.
[01:21:07.140 --> 01:21:08.740] It's the app for creators.
[01:21:08.900 --> 01:21:11.140] I appreciate y'all.
[01:21:11.620 --> 01:21:14.140] Godspeed, self-love, motivation.
[01:21:15.200 --> 01:21:16.340] You gotta love yourself.
[01:21:16.760 --> 01:21:20.280] If you don't love you, then no one else will.
[01:21:21.040 --> 01:21:22.720] And that's all I have for today.
[01:21:22.760 --> 01:21:23.920] I am out.
[01:21:24.580 --> 01:21:24.740] Peace.

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11. I Just Want to Be Human: The Cost of Being an Entrepreneur
Season 1 · Episode 52
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/i-just-want-to-be-human-the-cost-of-being-an-entrepreneur
========================================================================

[00:00:00.820 --> 00:00:08.690] We just want to live life. We just want to be human beings
[00:00:09.550 --> 00:00:11.890] Be with our loved ones be with our family
[00:00:13.270 --> 00:00:15.390] Not be in decision fatigue
[00:00:16.550 --> 00:00:22.650] You know we want to be creative we want to be these entrepreneurs
[00:00:23.530 --> 00:00:27.050] These business owners run a business have a brand
[00:00:28.370 --> 00:00:30.830] Make money lots of money
[00:00:31.870 --> 00:00:33.750] And just live life
[00:00:34.290 --> 00:00:36.690] Have a normal life be normal
[00:00:36.690 --> 00:00:41.430] Not always having to be Superman and for my women not always having to be superwoman
[00:00:41.430 --> 00:00:51.180] I want to have quiet time too. I want to relax rest sleep
[00:00:51.180 --> 00:00:56.480] And as you should in moderation take that time for yourself and give yourself the proper breaks
[00:00:56.480 --> 00:01:00.080] Not only throughout the day, but throughout the year throughout your business
[00:01:00.780 --> 00:01:07.140] You can give your business a break one or two days. Just give it a break a
[00:01:07.140 --> 00:01:07.780] quick break
[00:01:07.780 --> 00:01:10.040] Get back to work rest with charge
[00:01:10.680 --> 00:01:14.700] Get your mind right because doing the same thing over and over and over is insanity
[00:01:15.320 --> 00:01:19.740] And we don't want to drive ourselves insane like I
[00:01:19.740 --> 00:01:21.320] make so many decisions
[00:01:22.740 --> 00:01:24.400] every day and
[00:01:26.000 --> 00:01:32.560] To be honest, this is one of those days that I did not want to do anything. I did not want to get up
[00:01:32.560 --> 00:01:36.060] We got like four hours, maybe four and a half hours of rest
[00:01:38.020 --> 00:01:39.480] Sleep you can try
[00:01:40.120 --> 00:01:42.400] Could not but I'd be up at a certain time
[00:01:43.660 --> 00:01:44.940] Or back up at a certain time
[00:01:47.050 --> 00:01:51.070] You know, I'm a parent. So I'd be a father. I
[00:01:51.070 --> 00:01:55.250] Gotta run a business. I even have an event to film tonight
[00:01:56.450 --> 00:01:57.250] this evening
[00:01:57.250 --> 00:01:59.510] Bring in my daughter with me
[00:02:00.990 --> 00:02:04.350] So again, I have to be a father I have work to do have an event
[00:02:06.050 --> 00:02:08.370] Even after it all I have work to do
[00:02:09.490 --> 00:02:15.490] You know, I even have a physical job a nine-to-five many call it just over broke jail be job
[00:02:16.960 --> 00:02:21.220] Just listen to the dialogue sometime being in an environment, you know
[00:02:21.220 --> 00:02:25.460] I can't wait to get off to do X Y & Z y'all can't wait to get off the boat sleep
[00:02:25.460 --> 00:02:30.200] Oh just this job. This is not distant. But at the end of the day, you know what you signed up for
[00:02:30.880 --> 00:02:34.780] And people complain like it would be better. It's it's like any other environment
[00:02:34.780 --> 00:02:39.100] But make sure you're in the right environments because I hear this all the time. It's like
[00:02:39.100 --> 00:02:46.020] I got to get out and you know, there's nobody around me
[00:02:46.020 --> 00:02:52.420] That's like me or even have a business or even a feeling motivate all can't wait to retire when you hear that. Oh
[00:02:54.340 --> 00:02:57.340] Do another 30 40 years
[00:02:57.340 --> 00:02:59.860] You don't have dreams go like what?
[00:03:01.400 --> 00:03:08.980] So it's hard for me to be around many people because I don't know their goals
[00:03:08.980 --> 00:03:11.480] They're ambitious and dreams their mindset
[00:03:11.980 --> 00:03:16.820] Because it rubs off on me. Just I can't wait to get off to play the new game the PS
[00:03:18.040 --> 00:03:18.600] five
[00:03:20.320 --> 00:03:23.380] 2k whatever in Madden Call of Duty
[00:03:24.080 --> 00:03:31.640] All these other games and watch anime just chill people live in a life should they get off and they good
[00:03:32.220 --> 00:03:34.380] Eight hours. They're good
[00:03:35.160 --> 00:03:36.280] I'm doing
[00:03:36.800 --> 00:03:37.240] Who
[00:03:38.960 --> 00:03:43.420] Almost 24 hours the time and I sleep, you know, again, I'm a parent that is apparent
[00:03:43.420 --> 00:03:46.280] I take time to drive time to move from these places
[00:03:47.900 --> 00:03:56.380] Operated business vice president of another business director and producer of two podcasts. Oh
[00:03:56.380 --> 00:03:57.760] Have my own podcast
[00:03:58.800 --> 00:04:04.040] You listen to the podcast alien. I saw those industry talk and I came in strong and I wanted to
[00:04:04.040 --> 00:04:06.280] Know you didn't hit a welcome just like whoa
[00:04:07.520 --> 00:04:15.700] But it reminds me using my nine to five to leverage my life
[00:04:16.459 --> 00:04:18.740] to leverage my business
[00:04:19.700 --> 00:04:21.620] To one day I won't
[00:04:22.260 --> 00:04:25.760] Need a job not saying that I need a job right now
[00:04:28.350 --> 00:04:29.390] but I
[00:04:29.390 --> 00:04:30.750] Could take a chance on myself
[00:04:31.930 --> 00:04:36.690] But also will be taking a chance on my children or my nieces or my nephews
[00:04:36.690 --> 00:04:40.230] You know the younger generation family and
[00:04:43.090 --> 00:04:44.950] We all have to eat
[00:04:45.890 --> 00:04:48.150] The babies need clothes
[00:04:49.170 --> 00:04:53.850] Need endless stuff have to pay for school this this and now all the little stuff. I take care of yourself
[00:04:56.180 --> 00:04:59.300] so to have that security as
[00:04:59.300 --> 00:05:00.040] entrepreneur
[00:05:00.700 --> 00:05:05.480] One who sometimes have to take risks sometimes have to work long hours
[00:05:05.480 --> 00:05:10.620] Sometimes we don't know when the next dollar is gonna come in our business or what we have to pay for keep paying for
[00:05:10.620 --> 00:05:11.680] What would happen?
[00:05:12.840 --> 00:05:14.620] So to have that extra security I do
[00:05:15.280 --> 00:05:18.580] Work a job a JLB just over broke a nine to five
[00:05:21.920 --> 00:05:28.000] Just my children my family and I know one day
[00:05:30.430 --> 00:05:34.090] Like an ambitious goal that I set out for I
[00:05:34.090 --> 00:05:35.530] Want to make my first six figures?
[00:05:37.590 --> 00:05:40.570] So the only thing I didn't do is put a time limit on it
[00:05:40.570 --> 00:05:44.470] Myself a year, so I'll just say the end of
[00:05:44.470 --> 00:05:46.190] 2025 so the end of
[00:05:46.190 --> 00:05:48.990] 2026 by this time next year in January or
[00:05:49.910 --> 00:05:51.890] December leading up to January I
[00:05:52.610 --> 00:05:59.870] Will say January would be my deadline, but December would be the year mark to make my first six figures
[00:06:01.890 --> 00:06:09.810] That's one with five zeros or as nine with multiple nines and other numbers I
[00:06:09.810 --> 00:06:15.390] Special six figures it's an ambitious go
[00:06:15.970 --> 00:06:18.650] But I know I could attain it. I
[00:06:18.650 --> 00:06:20.730] have some vicious dreams and big dreams and
[00:06:22.390 --> 00:06:26.930] Great imaginations a lot of things and work a lot of projects. I want to work on
[00:06:26.930 --> 00:06:30.910] I just want to live life and be human and to know a lot of people feel that way to like
[00:06:30.910 --> 00:06:33.830] Oh, I just want to create all I want to make me some song
[00:06:33.830 --> 00:06:37.670] I just want to shoot all I just want to film all I just want to edit
[00:06:38.430 --> 00:06:43.950] All I just want to do business all I just want to play chess all to my play basketball all I want to do is
[00:06:43.950 --> 00:06:51.160] Relax and I feel it. I understand it. I feel the pain
[00:06:51.720 --> 00:06:55.000] Like so many decisions I have to make in business
[00:06:56.200 --> 00:06:57.080] my life
[00:06:57.880 --> 00:06:58.320] children
[00:07:00.760 --> 00:07:01.640] Co-parenting
[00:07:01.640 --> 00:07:02.980] being a relationship
[00:07:03.800 --> 00:07:06.500] You know the different decisions we have to make as a unit
[00:07:08.160 --> 00:07:13.060] Sometimes I have to make the decision for both of us and it's like, oh I
[00:07:13.060 --> 00:07:14.820] Don't know in this moment, but
[00:07:15.600 --> 00:07:17.720] The decision is needed to be made
[00:07:18.660 --> 00:07:19.180] so
[00:07:20.620 --> 00:07:21.960] like the decision
[00:07:23.700 --> 00:07:25.580] But you know we get decision fatigue
[00:07:26.840 --> 00:07:29.900] mentally fatigue physically fatigue spiritually fatigue
[00:07:31.320 --> 00:07:32.360] verbally fatigue
[00:07:33.220 --> 00:07:36.960] You just need to rest especially me as an introvert introvert
[00:07:37.560 --> 00:07:39.280] Introvert we have to rest
[00:07:40.040 --> 00:07:42.060] Yes, I have to rest
[00:07:43.460 --> 00:07:50.270] Lot go through life
[00:07:52.150 --> 00:07:54.330] We dream or at least we should dream
[00:07:56.950 --> 00:07:59.750] We don't always fulfill our dreams or go after our dreams
[00:08:00.630 --> 00:08:07.290] But we watch other people live their dream be ambitious and do what they want to do a life and live a normal life
[00:08:08.310 --> 00:08:09.910] when they can
[00:08:09.910 --> 00:08:11.790] want to and feel
[00:08:12.590 --> 00:08:14.630] It'd be him a be a human
[00:08:14.630 --> 00:08:20.910] Experience life. I know we all got to do we got to do
[00:08:22.350 --> 00:08:24.760] And that's the only way to do
[00:08:25.510 --> 00:08:34.010] Until you set yourself up to the point. We could do whatever you want to do, but it starts with the work
[00:08:34.799 --> 00:08:37.669] It starts with taking a rest need it
[00:08:39.120 --> 00:08:47.770] It start with aligning yourself with the right goals being in the right environments. It takes work
[00:08:48.960 --> 00:08:51.240] set of sacrifice and dedication
[00:08:52.240 --> 00:08:55.240] Like if I went all in on my business
[00:08:57.020 --> 00:09:02.300] Right now. I mean I wouldn't be satisfied so I'm making more
[00:09:03.320 --> 00:09:05.240] my w-2
[00:09:05.240 --> 00:09:10.080] That I am in my business right now. This is year two of my business and
[00:09:10.920 --> 00:09:12.760] another reason to start
[00:09:13.320 --> 00:09:15.600] You know speaking more
[00:09:15.600 --> 00:09:17.280] and starting this podcast
[00:09:17.280 --> 00:09:20.040] just to help market and
[00:09:20.040 --> 00:09:25.140] Get the word out of my business alien eyes photos media
[00:09:25.860 --> 00:09:29.160] hence the name alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:09:31.040 --> 00:09:32.000] podcast and
[00:09:33.400 --> 00:09:35.720] It was a decision I had to make I know
[00:09:35.720 --> 00:09:41.060] I'm already doing a lot already have a lot of projects to go on a lot of things that I want to do
[00:09:41.060 --> 00:09:45.400] a lot of businesses that I want to partner with and be involved with
[00:09:46.280 --> 00:09:51.840] But I know it takes time. I don't I know I don't want to
[00:09:53.140 --> 00:09:57.800] Keep putting myself in so many things and so many situations and so many opportunities
[00:09:57.800 --> 00:10:06.000] where it feels like I'm dibbling and dabbling and going from this to that to this to that and
[00:10:06.000 --> 00:10:08.220] photography has
[00:10:08.220 --> 00:10:10.280] Well led me to videography
[00:10:11.300 --> 00:10:17.800] You know being able to work on video productions and film and podcast along with the photography
[00:10:17.800 --> 00:10:22.860] I'm at events doing both videography and photography not just one
[00:10:24.160 --> 00:10:24.800] and
[00:10:24.800 --> 00:10:27.620] I'm glad people trust me with both
[00:10:28.520 --> 00:10:35.320] Being that value creator bring a value to their business and their events and their coverage and their documentation
[00:10:37.120 --> 00:10:46.960] Being an ally partner they can trust and as event photography is alien eyes photos media bread and butter
[00:10:48.280 --> 00:10:50.600] Also do events and have a team
[00:10:50.600 --> 00:10:58.820] You have a bigger team outside of my team will launch arts media and I am
[00:10:58.820 --> 00:11:02.160] valuable piece in the video production department
[00:11:02.160 --> 00:11:11.360] As I continue to help and bring fresh ideas and be there on set at events at the
[00:11:11.360 --> 00:11:13.540] Different gallus
[00:11:13.540 --> 00:11:15.640] different productions
[00:11:17.540 --> 00:11:18.200] meetings
[00:11:21.100 --> 00:11:25.040] And sometimes I feel like I'm not even doing a lot
[00:11:25.040 --> 00:11:32.980] I know I have impact, but I know there's always more and I feel like all right now with everything that I do
[00:11:32.980 --> 00:11:36.760] Everything that I'm a part of I want to give more and show up
[00:11:37.480 --> 00:11:40.540] Better than what I'm already showing up. I
[00:11:40.540 --> 00:11:42.300] Want to be better. I just don't want to be in it
[00:11:42.300 --> 00:11:47.380] I want to thrive and I want everything around me everything I touch. I want it to be successful
[00:11:47.380 --> 00:11:53.960] I want it to thrive. I want to see it rise
[00:11:53.960 --> 00:11:56.060] Build grow nourish
[00:11:56.840 --> 00:11:58.340] Be able to give back
[00:11:58.980 --> 00:12:01.320] Community be a part of different communities
[00:12:03.100 --> 00:12:05.120] Everything that I'm part of
[00:12:05.960 --> 00:12:08.960] Because if not, why am I doing it for anyway?
[00:12:10.820 --> 00:12:11.380] so
[00:12:11.380 --> 00:12:16.160] I'm very intentional of what I get a part of opportunities that I take
[00:12:20.160 --> 00:12:21.280] very very
[00:12:21.280 --> 00:12:23.020] intentional like
[00:12:23.020 --> 00:12:28.960] You know, I do a lot of events. I don't do many birthday parties like at all
[00:12:28.960 --> 00:12:34.140] Because that's just not my lane, but if you give me a conference a workshop a networking event
[00:12:35.260 --> 00:12:37.940] video production a podcast that actually
[00:12:38.780 --> 00:12:42.580] brings value to not only my life my world
[00:12:42.580 --> 00:12:45.180] But the world and community
[00:12:47.030 --> 00:12:53.370] Our communities that I'm a part of at least that I feel like that are positive and nourishing and that are needed
[00:12:53.370 --> 00:12:59.630] Now there were some podcasts. I had to decline to do, you know behind the scenes and production for
[00:13:00.390 --> 00:13:03.690] But I helped them get set up and I didn't leave them in the cold
[00:13:03.690 --> 00:13:10.170] I didn't leave them in the rain. I did give them proper resources and guidance that you know, hope they use
[00:13:13.750 --> 00:13:15.250] There's always things
[00:13:16.010 --> 00:13:17.730] That's needed to be done
[00:13:17.730 --> 00:13:20.270] Needed to be said needed to be felt
[00:13:20.970 --> 00:13:23.150] when we go through all these emotions as
[00:13:24.510 --> 00:13:28.270] An entrepreneur as a creative as artists as a creative entrepreneur
[00:13:29.630 --> 00:13:30.790] as a business owner
[00:13:31.730 --> 00:13:33.470] as a father as a
[00:13:34.690 --> 00:13:36.590] Husband as a wife
[00:13:36.590 --> 00:13:39.660] even boyfriend girlfriend a couple
[00:13:41.780 --> 00:13:43.720] friendships even
[00:13:43.720 --> 00:13:48.080] business partners, but
[00:13:48.860 --> 00:13:50.940] Always say
[00:13:51.680 --> 00:13:57.130] Don't react all free emotion and always find that common ground
[00:13:58.280 --> 00:14:06.730] Of communicating our way to communicate and those both go hand and
[00:14:08.170 --> 00:14:10.340] But it starts with
[00:14:12.350 --> 00:14:13.830] Having that
[00:14:13.830 --> 00:14:18.630] Emotional balance being as sane
[00:14:20.020 --> 00:14:20.760] Calm
[00:14:20.760 --> 00:14:27.180] As you would be always and be grateful and be happy. I don't want to forget those got to be grateful
[00:14:27.180 --> 00:14:37.070] We've got to be happy got to stay in the gratitude vibration the positive vibrations
[00:14:37.690 --> 00:14:38.990] even speak
[00:14:38.990 --> 00:14:40.170] positive
[00:14:40.770 --> 00:14:41.350] vibrations
[00:14:42.710 --> 00:14:47.010] Which are positive words words are vibrations music is vibrational
[00:14:48.550 --> 00:14:55.750] So think about the vibrations you are putting in your life putting in the world and as I'm
[00:14:55.750 --> 00:14:59.990] Recording this taking time for myself before I had to pick my daughter up for school
[00:15:01.370 --> 00:15:06.370] And then get something to eat and head to this event that I'm filming this evening
[00:15:07.510 --> 00:15:10.150] You know, I look at this as time to myself and
[00:15:11.190 --> 00:15:12.510] time to reflect
[00:15:12.950 --> 00:15:14.350] like a verbal journal
[00:15:14.890 --> 00:15:16.850] So you hear my thoughts
[00:15:16.850 --> 00:15:18.430] in my journey
[00:15:19.150 --> 00:15:21.510] You're my encouragement to you
[00:15:22.870 --> 00:15:31.260] Listen, yes taking this in it's like medicine to the ears medicine to the brain there medicine to the soul
[00:15:33.750 --> 00:15:34.390] It's fruitful
[00:15:34.390 --> 00:15:35.750] It's encouraging
[00:15:36.530 --> 00:15:38.410] And even speaking about fruitful
[00:15:39.230 --> 00:15:45.390] Just being more conscious and aware of what I eat, especially as we come off these holidays
[00:15:45.990 --> 00:15:48.090] You know, you know these holiday meals
[00:15:50.270 --> 00:15:51.470] Stuffed plates
[00:15:51.470 --> 00:15:57.740] that we conscious of what we constantly eat and
[00:15:57.740 --> 00:16:04.780] Just be more alive because whatever you eat you are what you eat is gonna make you feel a certain way
[00:16:04.780 --> 00:16:11.040] so just drink more water, especially in these times these holiday meals these stuffed plates and
[00:16:11.740 --> 00:16:12.340] And
[00:16:12.340 --> 00:16:15.940] Definitely get your fruit be more fruitful
[00:16:16.580 --> 00:16:22.760] And eat more foods that are electrifying that gives you energy make you feel good make you move just right
[00:16:24.650 --> 00:16:32.490] This can't stay calm with the rage and the blood that be all in these meats from you know slaughtered animals
[00:16:32.490 --> 00:16:40.460] so there's some things to think about but it's a lot of things I want to discuss, but
[00:16:41.340 --> 00:16:43.460] gave myself a
[00:16:43.460 --> 00:16:49.480] 20-minute timer and I'm at that 20 minutes. I have to get ready for
[00:16:49.480 --> 00:16:53.120] This event get my daughter for school grab something to eat and
[00:16:54.100 --> 00:16:57.780] Yeah, and at this event slightly early so I could prepare
[00:16:58.980 --> 00:17:01.160] But um, it's always been a blessing
[00:17:01.980 --> 00:17:04.060] It's been great kind of
[00:17:04.060 --> 00:17:06.819] Getting this off my heart as it was on my heart the last few days
[00:17:06.819 --> 00:17:12.380] Especially, you know while being at work and you know catching up on different projects and really not having the time to sit down
[00:17:13.460 --> 00:17:17.460] As I would want to just being tired, but I'm like, you know, I'm tired anyway
[00:17:17.460 --> 00:17:24.980] so I think this would be a great way to kind of express myself and how I feel in these moments in this season and
[00:17:26.420 --> 00:17:31.320] You know things are seasonal so don't take it to heart always but I
[00:17:31.320 --> 00:17:33.220] Appreciate you always tuning in and listening
[00:17:33.800 --> 00:17:36.160] They'll catch up on the episodes if you're missing some
[00:17:37.060 --> 00:17:40.720] It's a lot of gold in these episodes Bailey Niles photos industry talk
[00:17:41.380 --> 00:17:44.070] And you know, I'd be listening back myself like wow
[00:17:44.980 --> 00:17:51.070] Said that that's amazing. I mean, you know really taking it in reflecting on it and meditating like wow
[00:17:53.060 --> 00:17:55.640] You know giving myself that encouraged me
[00:17:56.340 --> 00:18:01.120] And I hope you are, you know taking it in the same and getting value from this
[00:18:01.120 --> 00:18:04.110] And also that motivation encouragement that you need
[00:18:05.480 --> 00:18:10.810] Appreciate everyone that trust me being a guy and want me to coach them
[00:18:11.470 --> 00:18:12.750] mentor them
[00:18:12.750 --> 00:18:17.230] partner with them all that good stuff a
[00:18:17.230 --> 00:18:22.050] Lot of people reach out to me on the unknown for different events
[00:18:22.050 --> 00:18:29.350] So if you want to book me for an event photography session, that's your event or have video coverage
[00:18:30.270 --> 00:18:33.430] visit alien eyes photos
[00:18:34.070 --> 00:18:37.010] Dot-com that's alien eyes with a Z
[00:18:37.510 --> 00:18:39.790] photos with an S
[00:18:39.790 --> 00:18:47.130] Alien eyes photos dot-com you can follow me over at alien eyes photos on all social media at
[00:18:47.130 --> 00:18:49.470] alien eyes photos
[00:18:51.230 --> 00:18:58.210] Look out for the social media sabbatical my 10-day social media fast
[00:18:58.210 --> 00:18:59.590] Yes
[00:18:59.590 --> 00:19:04.630] I'm not sure the official title of the e-book that is coming out
[00:19:06.410 --> 00:19:13.510] But it's based off my 10-day fast I promised I was going to turn it into a book I decided to
[00:19:13.510 --> 00:19:19.510] You know take a heart on that and just release it for my birthday March 26
[00:19:21.470 --> 00:19:23.910] 2026 so look out in March
[00:19:24.770 --> 00:19:28.130] for the 10-day sabbatical as
[00:19:28.130 --> 00:19:29.810] You know check out that whole series
[00:19:29.810 --> 00:19:34.270] They want to 11 so I did like 10 and a half to 11 days
[00:19:34.970 --> 00:19:41.450] So the 11 day I just did as a recap of all the 10 days of my 10-day sabbatical off social media
[00:19:41.450 --> 00:19:43.550] You know, it's a fast from social media
[00:19:44.690 --> 00:19:49.990] It was you just gotta check out the episodes and I gave some great, you know
[00:19:50.550 --> 00:19:54.390] Nuggets as you can hold on to take in and use for yourself
[00:19:55.090 --> 00:19:59.980] But again, this is photographer Jackson Steve Jackson of alien eyes photo yo
[00:20:00.770 --> 00:20:06.160] podiums ha ha photos media bring you alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:20:08.990 --> 00:20:13.010] Parts let me get some water get out of here. I appreciate y'all. Peace

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12. Honoring MC Chill at Cleveland History Center AAHCC 2026
Season 1 · Episode 51
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/honoring-mc-chill-at-cleveland-history-center-aahcc-2026
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[00:00:01.200 --> 00:00:04.280] Hey, welcome, welcome, welcome.
[00:00:04.680 --> 00:00:07.480] This is photographer Jackson Steve Jackson
[00:00:07.480 --> 00:00:09.800] of Alienize Photos Media.
[00:00:10.340 --> 00:00:13.160] And this is Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:13.820 --> 00:00:17.860] And this is a special African-American heritage
[00:00:17.860 --> 00:00:22.120] and cultural celebration episode,
[00:00:22.340 --> 00:00:25.120] the AAHCCAAHCC.
[00:00:27.260 --> 00:00:28.080] AAHCC.
[00:00:29.880 --> 00:00:34.320] And today we were at the Cleveland History Center.
[00:00:34.920 --> 00:00:38.120] Now I'm hip to the Cleveland History Museum,
[00:00:38.480 --> 00:00:43.420] but I've never been to the Cleveland History Center.
[00:00:44.420 --> 00:00:48.280] OMG, definitely somewhere to check out
[00:00:49.140 --> 00:00:51.400] if you're in the city of Cleveland,
[00:00:52.360 --> 00:00:54.320] if you just love history.
[00:00:54.580 --> 00:00:57.840] The Cleveland History Center is where it's at.
[00:00:58.820 --> 00:01:03.700] But on today, August 22nd, 2026,
[00:01:05.379 --> 00:01:11.080] we honor the legacy, the 40 year anniversary
[00:01:11.460 --> 00:01:17.640] as we celebrate Mr. MC Chill, legendary MC Chill
[00:01:19.180 --> 00:01:22.360] at the African-American Heritage
[00:01:22.360 --> 00:01:27.640] and Culture Celebration, along many other activities
[00:01:27.640 --> 00:01:30.520] as I reconnected with some fellow poets
[00:01:30.520 --> 00:01:34.200] that I used to do poetry with during that time.
[00:01:34.340 --> 00:01:36.740] And they had a pop-up poetry slam,
[00:01:37.820 --> 00:01:40.940] even my old producer, like man,
[00:01:40.960 --> 00:01:43.240] shout out to E-Rock and Young Thomas,
[00:01:43.540 --> 00:01:45.360] Jewel Justice, Quiet Kid.
[00:01:46.080 --> 00:01:47.900] Like they all did, they themed,
[00:01:48.140 --> 00:01:50.780] people who I've shared the stage with,
[00:01:50.780 --> 00:01:52.760] been in different shows with,
[00:01:53.920 --> 00:01:56.920] back when I used to be on the mic and do poetry
[00:01:56.920 --> 00:02:01.860] and just hearing their words saying that I inspired them
[00:02:02.700 --> 00:02:04.760] when, you know, it's a big circle.
[00:02:05.060 --> 00:02:06.140] We inspire each other.
[00:02:06.580 --> 00:02:08.940] I inspire you, you inspire me.
[00:02:09.919 --> 00:02:12.240] But just to hear some of those, you know,
[00:02:12.440 --> 00:02:13.740] stories about inspiration,
[00:02:13.840 --> 00:02:16.760] how I inspired them back in the day
[00:02:16.760 --> 00:02:21.000] with some of my words and performance, which is amazing.
[00:02:22.900 --> 00:02:29.720] But today we honor Mr. MC Chill,
[00:02:32.080 --> 00:02:34.940] the 40 year anniversary of MC Chill
[00:02:34.940 --> 00:02:39.900] becoming Cleveland's first national rap recording artist
[00:02:40.440 --> 00:02:45.400] and is also the first non-New York solo rap act
[00:02:45.400 --> 00:02:47.480] to chart nationally.
[00:02:48.260 --> 00:02:49.920] Won the billboards.
[00:02:51.320 --> 00:02:52.200] Isn't that amazing?
[00:02:52.240 --> 00:02:55.720] Right here in Cleveland, Ohio, Mr. MC Chill,
[00:02:57.000 --> 00:03:03.760] first of many, straight out of Kent State University,
[00:03:05.680 --> 00:03:07.500] but born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio,
[00:03:07.820 --> 00:03:12.780] representing Cleveland and so much history.
[00:03:13.320 --> 00:03:18.920] And we had, also had Carlos Jones in the Plus band,
[00:03:19.060 --> 00:03:23.520] The Lord Jazz, Mix Master Ice, Rick Robinson,
[00:03:24.600 --> 00:03:26.740] Vince Robinson also.
[00:03:27.580 --> 00:03:29.380] Man, so many legendary.
[00:03:29.420 --> 00:03:30.940] I even ran into, you know,
[00:03:31.000 --> 00:03:34.100] one of my idols, DJ Code Cheese.
[00:03:34.900 --> 00:03:36.480] Shout out to DJ Code Cheese,
[00:03:36.540 --> 00:03:41.020] who I had to formally introduce myself as, you know,
[00:03:41.020 --> 00:03:44.200] we've been exchanging messages here and there
[00:03:44.200 --> 00:03:45.880] for the past year.
[00:03:45.880 --> 00:03:47.620] I wanted him on my podcast.
[00:03:47.960 --> 00:03:50.520] He's on my list to be on my podcast.
[00:03:50.580 --> 00:03:54.500] And I reached out to him last year when I was in Atlanta
[00:03:54.500 --> 00:03:56.460] because he moved from Cleveland to Atlanta.
[00:03:58.680 --> 00:04:00.300] And it didn't happen.
[00:04:00.420 --> 00:04:03.540] It didn't go through, but I did not get discouraged.
[00:04:04.800 --> 00:04:09.580] And I just knew he'd be at this legendary event
[00:04:10.100 --> 00:04:12.420] honoring Mr. MC Chill,
[00:04:14.340 --> 00:04:18.339] because he was actually the first DJ to bring MC Chill out,
[00:04:18.720 --> 00:04:20.339] which is wild and crazy.
[00:04:20.380 --> 00:04:23.580] So much history in Cleveland,
[00:04:23.660 --> 00:04:26.700] but so much history with those two alone,
[00:04:27.100 --> 00:04:30.240] MC Chill and DJ Code Cheese.
[00:04:31.280 --> 00:04:36.840] And I've been blessed to hear DJ Code Cheese
[00:04:36.840 --> 00:04:38.380] grace the mic.
[00:04:39.380 --> 00:04:42.340] Like that was before my time when, you know,
[00:04:42.680 --> 00:04:47.900] Freeze, D Frost, when he was an artist.
[00:04:49.140 --> 00:04:53.080] But I knew him when I was a little kid growing up
[00:04:53.080 --> 00:04:56.720] listening to the radio, like 107.9,
[00:04:57.060 --> 00:04:58.480] hearing them scream his name.
[00:04:58.660 --> 00:05:00.720] Yeah, DJ Code Cheese, dah, dah, dah, dah, dah.
[00:05:01.040 --> 00:05:04.500] Like, man, they're playing some good music.
[00:05:05.260 --> 00:05:07.800] Shout out to DJ Code Cheese.
[00:05:09.400 --> 00:05:12.660] But, you know, we took a couple pictures, did a video.
[00:05:13.420 --> 00:05:17.300] He said, yeah, let's reschedule this and make it happen.
[00:05:18.380 --> 00:05:22.460] So look out for that DJ Code Cheese episode.
[00:05:23.380 --> 00:05:25.560] Probably happening next year when I'm in Atlanta.
[00:05:26.840 --> 00:05:28.880] So stay tuned for that.
[00:05:29.740 --> 00:05:30.840] And I'm just honored.
[00:05:32.280 --> 00:05:34.080] There's so many, so many vendors.
[00:05:34.080 --> 00:05:38.580] I did not get a chance to support today
[00:05:38.580 --> 00:05:41.180] or go around like I usually do.
[00:05:41.360 --> 00:05:42.340] I'm sorry.
[00:05:43.340 --> 00:05:48.440] I was running late, had a third shift
[00:05:48.440 --> 00:05:51.600] and working off a couple hours of rest,
[00:05:52.580 --> 00:05:53.940] but wanting to show up.
[00:05:54.100 --> 00:05:57.840] Definitely wanted to support and honor and celebrate
[00:05:57.840 --> 00:06:01.620] their legacy as so many hip hop pioneers,
[00:06:02.380 --> 00:06:05.500] people in Cleveland, the whole music scene,
[00:06:06.340 --> 00:06:09.140] especially in the hip hop music scene here in Cleveland.
[00:06:10.260 --> 00:06:12.080] I had to show up and support.
[00:06:13.660 --> 00:06:15.700] And shout out to my fellow poets,
[00:06:16.400 --> 00:06:18.060] still doing their thing.
[00:06:21.310 --> 00:06:24.550] But yeah, that's why I didn't get the chance to support
[00:06:24.550 --> 00:06:27.230] or check out any of the food vendors
[00:06:27.230 --> 00:06:28.790] or anything like that.
[00:06:29.150 --> 00:06:31.090] I was locked in.
[00:06:31.090 --> 00:06:34.670] Supporting, supporting, supporting, supporting my people,
[00:06:35.450 --> 00:06:37.770] people who I've looked up to growing up,
[00:06:38.190 --> 00:06:41.190] people who I've looked up to during my career.
[00:06:42.550 --> 00:06:44.850] So I made that priority.
[00:06:45.530 --> 00:06:47.290] I didn't even eat.
[00:06:49.030 --> 00:06:51.930] As you can see, I didn't support any of the vendors,
[00:06:52.550 --> 00:06:53.890] which is unlike me,
[00:06:53.890 --> 00:06:58.610] but I did purchase a few items and T-shirts
[00:06:58.610 --> 00:07:02.830] from people who were selling them, just walking around.
[00:07:03.390 --> 00:07:08.370] So I made sure I did that at least.
[00:07:09.550 --> 00:07:14.170] I got to support some way somehow, and I did that.
[00:07:14.990 --> 00:07:16.690] Because support goes a long way.
[00:07:17.710 --> 00:07:19.710] And shout out to Jay Glover.
[00:07:21.150 --> 00:07:24.880] Man, trying to think of,
[00:07:25.060 --> 00:07:28.180] is it 216 in Atlanta?
[00:07:30.440 --> 00:07:32.200] Laterland, 216 in Atlanta,
[00:07:32.200 --> 00:07:35.660] I think it's called, docu-series.
[00:07:39.210 --> 00:07:42.310] Documenting a lot of the early pioneers,
[00:07:42.610 --> 00:07:45.210] like MC Chill, DJ Cochise.
[00:07:45.810 --> 00:07:49.270] So many, so many others, just go check it out.
[00:07:50.250 --> 00:07:53.210] I'm actually opening up the shirt right now,
[00:07:54.330 --> 00:07:56.830] so I make sure I got the right.
[00:07:58.690 --> 00:08:01.390] 216, Legends of the Land.
[00:08:02.190 --> 00:08:06.030] Yes, L-O-T-L.
[00:08:07.570 --> 00:08:12.130] Laterland, also known as Legends of the Land.
[00:08:13.390 --> 00:08:18.850] 216, Legends of the Land, docu-series by Jay Glover.
[00:08:18.970 --> 00:08:21.650] Shout out to Jay Glover for doing this thing.
[00:08:23.440 --> 00:08:24.500] Cause the docu-men.
[00:08:26.720 --> 00:08:31.100] It's crazy, I'm in my car, and he just walked past.
[00:08:32.580 --> 00:08:35.159] That's so ironic, that's the universe.
[00:08:36.880 --> 00:08:39.320] But yeah, this is a day of celebration.
[00:08:39.500 --> 00:08:44.320] And shout out to the official MC Chill Day,
[00:08:44.340 --> 00:08:48.080] August 21st, and as we celebrate today,
[00:08:48.340 --> 00:08:52.800] August 22nd, 2026, 40 years.
[00:08:52.800 --> 00:08:54.500] Yes, that's amazing.
[00:08:55.380 --> 00:08:58.180] And going back to my previous episode
[00:08:58.180 --> 00:09:01.680] about me producing, hosting,
[00:09:02.360 --> 00:09:08.440] and recording collectively, 10,000 podcast episodes.
[00:09:10.000 --> 00:09:11.820] And when I think about 40 years,
[00:09:11.880 --> 00:09:14.280] I think about that too, just that legacy,
[00:09:14.480 --> 00:09:16.360] that history, that pioneer,
[00:09:17.480 --> 00:09:20.480] that consistency, that showing up,
[00:09:20.480 --> 00:09:25.580] staying in the game, showing up being part of the game,
[00:09:26.240 --> 00:09:29.300] and bringing others with you, cause it's important.
[00:09:31.680 --> 00:09:33.560] But yeah, shout out to the whole
[00:09:38.040 --> 00:09:42.960] AAHCC African American Heritage and Cultural Celebration
[00:09:42.960 --> 00:09:44.460] here in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:09:45.220 --> 00:09:47.320] And for hosting the whole event,
[00:09:47.700 --> 00:09:51.120] shout out to the Cleveland History Museum,
[00:09:52.700 --> 00:09:54.940] CHC, my first time there.
[00:09:55.280 --> 00:09:58.400] They even had a Ring Around the Rosie carousel,
[00:09:58.480 --> 00:10:01.140] the horsey carousel,
[00:10:01.160 --> 00:10:04.040] I'm gonna have to bring my daughter back on a day,
[00:10:04.340 --> 00:10:10.380] on a regular day, and just explore the whole building.
[00:10:11.180 --> 00:10:13.260] Because I didn't get a chance to,
[00:10:13.400 --> 00:10:16.780] I said I was gonna be back, and that is a must.
[00:10:17.040 --> 00:10:19.440] I checked out some old cars.
[00:10:20.140 --> 00:10:24.000] And man, I'm just blown away about the history,
[00:10:25.100 --> 00:10:26.940] the airplane, like just the,
[00:10:28.320 --> 00:10:30.460] sometimes I take history for granted,
[00:10:30.480 --> 00:10:33.680] and I know I did in school because it was so boring to me,
[00:10:33.680 --> 00:10:35.080] and I didn't like it.
[00:10:35.400 --> 00:10:39.080] One of my worst subjects as far as like test grades go,
[00:10:40.600 --> 00:10:44.340] but I still did good, I still put in that effort.
[00:10:44.540 --> 00:10:47.920] And even to this day, I'm still researching,
[00:10:47.920 --> 00:10:51.020] and I'm still learning about my history,
[00:10:51.220 --> 00:10:55.220] learning about history, especially American history,
[00:10:56.080 --> 00:10:57.200] because it's important.
[00:10:57.320 --> 00:10:59.060] But the history of your city,
[00:11:00.260 --> 00:11:02.040] the history of the people in your city,
[00:11:02.480 --> 00:11:05.980] the people who came before you, it's important.
[00:11:07.840 --> 00:11:12.480] And the business lesson that I wanna leave today,
[00:11:12.760 --> 00:11:14.600] and take away from today is
[00:11:16.120 --> 00:11:18.780] always support and show up,
[00:11:18.820 --> 00:11:23.400] especially for the people who show up and support you.
[00:11:25.440 --> 00:11:26.700] Reciprocate it.
[00:11:27.060 --> 00:11:30.040] Reciprocate that support, keep showing up,
[00:11:30.180 --> 00:11:31.900] keep clapping, keep celebrating.
[00:11:33.000 --> 00:11:36.720] I don't care if it's your first episode, celebrate,
[00:11:37.080 --> 00:11:39.280] or your hundredth episode, celebrate,
[00:11:39.580 --> 00:11:42.340] or your thousandth episode, celebrate.
[00:11:42.940 --> 00:11:45.480] You clap it up, you clap it up, you clap it up.
[00:11:45.480 --> 00:11:48.840] I don't care if it's your first day in business, celebrate.
[00:11:49.460 --> 00:11:53.180] I don't care if it's your third year in business, celebrate.
[00:11:53.640 --> 00:11:56.400] I don't care if it's your 20th year in business,
[00:11:56.800 --> 00:11:59.580] clap it up and celebrate, celebrate, celebrate.
[00:12:00.520 --> 00:12:01.760] And when you're celebrating,
[00:12:03.600 --> 00:12:05.560] make sure you got people around you
[00:12:05.560 --> 00:12:08.940] who truly support you and really wanna see you win,
[00:12:09.280 --> 00:12:10.740] who really wanna see you grow
[00:12:10.740 --> 00:12:12.480] and take it to the next level,
[00:12:12.480 --> 00:12:14.900] because it's all about the elevation.
[00:12:15.980 --> 00:12:19.460] You gotta elevate and be part of that evolution.
[00:12:20.460 --> 00:12:22.220] It's monumental, it's powerful.
[00:12:22.460 --> 00:12:23.920] Grow, grow, grow.
[00:12:25.060 --> 00:12:29.480] Be supportive, get support, get love, give love.
[00:12:31.610 --> 00:12:34.150] Keep it in your reciprocation, keep it in the loop.
[00:12:34.530 --> 00:12:36.850] Keep, keep it, keep it, keep it.
[00:12:36.850 --> 00:12:37.750] It's important.
[00:12:38.710 --> 00:12:43.630] And I'm seeing that people who've been together
[00:12:43.630 --> 00:12:49.610] 40, 50, 60 plus years and still rocking together,
[00:12:49.810 --> 00:12:52.470] still rocking out and supporting and showing up,
[00:12:53.350 --> 00:12:54.230] it is amazing.
[00:12:55.270 --> 00:12:58.590] So check your support system, build your support system,
[00:12:58.670 --> 00:12:59.750] grow your support system,
[00:13:00.030 --> 00:13:01.570] be there for your support system.
[00:13:02.090 --> 00:13:04.750] Make sure your support system is always there for you
[00:13:04.750 --> 00:13:06.630] when you need them the most,
[00:13:07.050 --> 00:13:10.110] especially through tough and trying times,
[00:13:10.110 --> 00:13:13.050] whether that's your personal life or your business,
[00:13:14.150 --> 00:13:17.050] or you just need an air just to get advice,
[00:13:18.430 --> 00:13:20.750] get the right support system around you
[00:13:21.270 --> 00:13:24.750] and support the people who really support you
[00:13:24.750 --> 00:13:28.210] and that you really wanna support and be there for.
[00:13:29.250 --> 00:13:31.950] It's two different ones, but it all coincide.
[00:13:33.070 --> 00:13:35.130] Just support, it's the biggest thing.
[00:13:35.990 --> 00:13:42.150] But again, I wanna celebrate and continue celebrating
[00:13:42.150 --> 00:13:46.470] and honoring MC Chill and all the pioneers
[00:13:46.470 --> 00:13:48.870] and legends that showed up for him today.
[00:13:50.010 --> 00:13:51.830] Congrats, Mr. MC Chill.
[00:13:52.890 --> 00:13:54.800] You did it, you did it, you did it 40 years
[00:13:55.230 --> 00:13:56.110] and counting.
[00:13:56.990 --> 00:14:01.870] Cleveland history, I'm proud of you and you're a great MC.
[00:14:02.950 --> 00:14:05.770] And shout out to everybody that I named earlier
[00:14:05.770 --> 00:14:12.570] in this episode, Vince Robinson, DJ Cochise,
[00:14:12.910 --> 00:14:15.590] my brother, E Rock Beats, my brother,
[00:14:15.590 --> 00:14:19.370] brother Pat, Jewel of Justice.
[00:14:20.790 --> 00:14:23.510] We have Quiet Kid, Young Thomas,
[00:14:24.730 --> 00:14:27.510] and all the other individuals
[00:14:27.510 --> 00:14:30.690] that I just met earlier today.
[00:14:31.130 --> 00:14:33.910] Shout out to you, I support you.
[00:14:34.090 --> 00:14:36.250] I'm there for you, I love you, I care.
[00:14:37.210 --> 00:14:38.310] Let's grow together.
[00:14:39.550 --> 00:14:43.010] And with that, peace, love and blessings.
[00:14:43.750 --> 00:14:46.610] This is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson
[00:14:46.610 --> 00:14:48.830] of Alienize Photos Media.
[00:14:50.130 --> 00:14:52.330] Again, bringing you another episode
[00:14:52.330 --> 00:14:54.810] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:14:55.570 --> 00:15:00.770] as we celebrate MC Chill.
[00:15:04.510 --> 00:15:05.590] Freeze, defrost.
[00:15:07.010 --> 00:15:15.210] Shout out to my new homie, DJ Cochise.
[00:15:16.230 --> 00:15:18.010] And yeah, I'm excited for this episode
[00:15:18.010 --> 00:15:20.350] even more than I was last year
[00:15:21.210 --> 00:15:24.150] as it gets closer and closer to that time,
[00:15:24.150 --> 00:15:24.970] to that moment.
[00:15:25.670 --> 00:15:28.810] Never give up on your dream, never give up on a goal.
[00:15:29.630 --> 00:15:32.370] It was one of my goals and I never gave up.
[00:15:32.470 --> 00:15:33.530] I never lost sight.
[00:15:34.190 --> 00:15:35.430] And I saw him, I'm like,
[00:15:35.590 --> 00:15:40.090] I gotta reach out and say what's up and tell him.
[00:15:40.350 --> 00:15:42.150] Like, I know we didn't make it happen,
[00:15:42.950 --> 00:15:45.210] but hey, I appreciate you all.
[00:15:45.450 --> 00:15:47.150] You do, how you doing?
[00:15:47.870 --> 00:15:51.390] Hey, I appreciate, he was just about to perform
[00:15:51.390 --> 00:15:52.450] and I didn't even know.
[00:15:52.450 --> 00:15:55.910] So, you know, we interacted right before he got on stage
[00:15:55.910 --> 00:15:57.430] was even more amazing.
[00:15:58.010 --> 00:16:01.210] I captured some good footage and photos of him.
[00:16:01.210 --> 00:16:03.410] Man, shout out to DJ Cochise, man.
[00:16:03.450 --> 00:16:06.030] You've been around for a while and doing your thing.
[00:16:06.110 --> 00:16:08.130] You're a real pioneer as well.
[00:16:08.750 --> 00:16:10.570] But yeah, let's continue the celebration
[00:16:10.570 --> 00:16:12.750] and honoring the people in our lives,
[00:16:13.190 --> 00:16:15.790] whether they're distant or super close.
[00:16:16.490 --> 00:16:19.850] Support, support, support, honor, honor, honor,
[00:16:20.350 --> 00:16:21.690] all that good stuff.
[00:16:22.470 --> 00:16:25.270] But if you wanna follow me,
[00:16:25.430 --> 00:16:28.990] follow me at Alien Eyes Photos
[00:16:28.990 --> 00:16:34.390] and check out my website, alieneyesphotos.com
[00:16:34.390 --> 00:16:37.770] if you wanna book me or for more information.
[00:16:39.030 --> 00:16:41.670] All right, continue that celebration, y'all.
[00:16:41.910 --> 00:16:43.250] Peace, peace, peace.

========================================================================
13. How to Produce 10,000 Podcasts Episodes & Master Your Creative Craft
Season 1 · Episode 50
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/how-to-produce-10000-podcasts-episodes-master-your-creative
========================================================================

[00:00:02.510 --> 00:00:08.350] I have an ambitious goal to host, produce,
[00:00:09.250 --> 00:00:16.910] record 10,000 podcasts in my lifetime.
[00:00:18.310 --> 00:00:23.050] You know, they say 10,000 hours you become a pro,
[00:00:25.660 --> 00:00:33.960] an expert, professional, a master after 10,000 hours.
[00:00:33.960 --> 00:00:41.140] So after 10,000 produced shows or 10,000 shows,
[00:00:42.660 --> 00:00:48.940] I've hosted, recorded, filmed,
[00:00:53.110 --> 00:00:56.650] but a collective of all my network,
[00:00:57.810 --> 00:01:00.130] the podcasts that I produce for,
[00:01:00.750 --> 00:01:03.470] all my solo episodes, all my interviews,
[00:01:06.760 --> 00:01:12.220] but do I create and count the strategy sessions?
[00:01:13.400 --> 00:01:20.980] Like that's ours, because a lot of them,
[00:01:22.400 --> 00:01:25.340] you know, they thrive on just the sessions
[00:01:26.300 --> 00:01:29.480] without me, you know, producing or recording,
[00:01:30.500 --> 00:01:37.860] no production, but just words and wisdom and guidance.
[00:01:39.200 --> 00:01:42.260] Do that count towards the 10,000?
[00:01:43.240 --> 00:01:47.020] Cause if that's the case, I might be closer than I think,
[00:01:48.010 --> 00:01:50.540] but I have this ambitious goal
[00:01:51.840 --> 00:01:57.710] to collectively produce, host, record,
[00:01:58.660 --> 00:02:07.840] do production for collective 10,000 podcast episodes.
[00:02:11.920 --> 00:02:16.190] And I know it's possible.
[00:02:20.730 --> 00:02:24.890] And it almost, it almost chokes me up
[00:02:24.890 --> 00:02:29.810] because it's like, when you get to that 10,000,
[00:02:31.690 --> 00:02:32.250] then what?
[00:02:36.210 --> 00:02:39.110] You are a master, you've been a master,
[00:02:41.530 --> 00:02:45.810] but to have that trust, to have that dedication,
[00:02:46.050 --> 00:02:51.640] to have that consistency, that's a whole nother level.
[00:02:55.000 --> 00:03:04.300] That's the legendary, longevity, purpose.
[00:03:05.200 --> 00:03:07.080] Always go back to that purpose
[00:03:07.080 --> 00:03:08.760] and your values and your beliefs.
[00:03:11.050 --> 00:03:12.610] Why are you doing this?
[00:03:13.650 --> 00:03:16.310] Before you start anything, always ask yourself,
[00:03:16.410 --> 00:03:17.710] why am I doing this?
[00:03:18.510 --> 00:03:20.150] What do I wanna get out of it?
[00:03:20.450 --> 00:03:22.130] What do I wanna learn from this?
[00:03:22.670 --> 00:03:23.910] How do I wanna grow?
[00:03:24.810 --> 00:03:26.650] How do I wanna grow from this?
[00:03:27.590 --> 00:03:29.910] I cannot evolve because of this.
[00:03:31.430 --> 00:03:34.190] What information do I need to learn from this?
[00:03:37.070 --> 00:03:37.990] You need to grow.
[00:03:38.970 --> 00:03:40.390] And that's what I learned
[00:03:41.850 --> 00:03:46.530] after all the podcast episodes, all the talks,
[00:03:47.630 --> 00:03:51.810] even the before and after the podcast cuts off,
[00:03:52.310 --> 00:03:53.290] it's done.
[00:03:55.880 --> 00:04:01.200] It's always these gems, these motivations,
[00:04:01.740 --> 00:04:04.820] this insight, this inspiration, that encouragement,
[00:04:05.540 --> 00:04:12.060] that emotion, authenticity, passion, care,
[00:04:15.720 --> 00:04:18.200] and just that same hunger to wanna evolve
[00:04:18.200 --> 00:04:19.740] and do better and elevate.
[00:04:21.019 --> 00:04:22.720] And that's why I love podcasts
[00:04:22.720 --> 00:04:25.000] because it's just that intimate conversation.
[00:04:25.220 --> 00:04:30.300] Let's just be transparent and real and build and grow.
[00:04:31.740 --> 00:04:34.080] I don't know, let me hear your story.
[00:04:37.670 --> 00:04:39.630] Maybe my story can help yours
[00:04:41.860 --> 00:04:48.990] and be yours can help mine in a thousand.
[00:04:51.410 --> 00:04:54.350] And just think of all of that,
[00:04:56.980 --> 00:05:03.600] that I will help moderate for other creative entrepreneurs
[00:05:05.560 --> 00:05:11.040] and we all just gain insight from each other
[00:05:13.380 --> 00:05:18.570] with no matter the industry, no matter the background,
[00:05:20.520 --> 00:05:24.900] no matter the skin color, we learn from each other.
[00:05:26.970 --> 00:05:34.010] And that's what Industry Talks is about, 10,000.
[00:05:34.810 --> 00:05:36.870] I'm hype, I'm motivated.
[00:05:38.940 --> 00:05:40.720] I might have to put this on a t-shirt,
[00:05:40.780 --> 00:05:42.740] write this all over some walls.
[00:05:43.620 --> 00:05:48.440] 10,000 podcast episodes, host, produce, and recorded.
[00:05:49.900 --> 00:05:52.660] It's going down, I'm probably,
[00:05:54.420 --> 00:05:57.720] I might be a 10th of the way there
[00:05:59.840 --> 00:06:03.760] or a little under a 10th, maybe 11th of the way there.
[00:06:05.540 --> 00:06:11.580] So yeah, maybe in about, say a good 10, 10 years,
[00:06:11.740 --> 00:06:14.740] I could definitely accomplish this.
[00:06:15.340 --> 00:06:21.280] It's almost like you podcast a day or every other day.
[00:06:22.320 --> 00:06:24.440] So let's make it happen.
[00:06:25.300 --> 00:06:29.480] And what is your ambitious goal that you have in mind?
[00:06:29.480 --> 00:06:33.600] Like that big dream in your head
[00:06:33.600 --> 00:06:36.100] that you wanna put out into the universe
[00:06:36.100 --> 00:06:38.680] and make it happen and make it come into fruition
[00:06:39.320 --> 00:06:40.920] and let it all become true.
[00:06:42.000 --> 00:06:43.200] What is that big dream?
[00:06:43.280 --> 00:06:44.380] What is that big goal?
[00:06:44.440 --> 00:06:48.800] What is that big idea that you're holding onto
[00:06:48.800 --> 00:06:53.640] that you want to get out into this universe
[00:06:53.640 --> 00:06:57.460] and let it all exist with you and with others
[00:06:57.940 --> 00:07:01.640] and make the universe a better world to be in?
[00:07:03.520 --> 00:07:05.500] And I'm just speaking on Earth.
[00:07:06.000 --> 00:07:08.460] I know people know me as Alien,
[00:07:09.120 --> 00:07:12.540] Mr. Photographer Jackson, or Alien,
[00:07:13.540 --> 00:07:16.140] which is from my artist name, Alien, not Player.
[00:07:17.220 --> 00:07:19.740] My last track wasn't even music,
[00:07:19.840 --> 00:07:21.360] it was an affirmation track.
[00:07:22.080 --> 00:07:24.500] But I've done music and poetry
[00:07:25.460 --> 00:07:27.720] throughout middle school,
[00:07:28.140 --> 00:07:35.000] all the way up to my older years, my late 20s.
[00:07:35.140 --> 00:07:39.060] And then I started to focus on visual media,
[00:07:39.360 --> 00:07:42.520] photography, video, video production,
[00:07:43.780 --> 00:07:46.320] and just kept that audio element,
[00:07:46.880 --> 00:07:48.740] hence this audio podcast,
[00:07:49.480 --> 00:07:53.140] Alienize Photos Industry Talk podcast.
[00:07:55.740 --> 00:07:59.840] And I get fired up and it just bring me back
[00:07:59.840 --> 00:08:02.860] to my music days, just being in the studio
[00:08:02.860 --> 00:08:07.740] and just really recording and sharing my thoughts,
[00:08:08.700 --> 00:08:15.930] sharing my raw emotion, feelings, thoughts, experiences.
[00:08:18.840 --> 00:08:22.140] This really brings me back and just sharing my insight
[00:08:22.840 --> 00:08:25.720] and what I've learned throughout my journey
[00:08:25.720 --> 00:08:27.400] and what I'm learning, what I'm building,
[00:08:27.400 --> 00:08:31.060] and what I'm growing, and what I'm doing,
[00:08:31.160 --> 00:08:34.820] how I'm evolving, am I evolving.
[00:08:36.659 --> 00:08:41.080] And I'm glad for anybody that's on this journey with me,
[00:08:42.320 --> 00:08:47.400] just recording themselves in real time,
[00:08:48.040 --> 00:08:50.240] just taking that moment of reflection
[00:08:51.440 --> 00:08:54.880] and setting something like a goal or a plan
[00:08:54.880 --> 00:08:56.320] and put it into action.
[00:08:57.720 --> 00:08:59.200] And documented it.
[00:09:00.440 --> 00:09:04.320] And this is me documenting my ambitious goal
[00:09:04.320 --> 00:09:09.480] of 10,000 produced episodes, podcast episodes.
[00:09:10.940 --> 00:09:13.360] So I'm about to go make it happen.
[00:09:14.560 --> 00:09:17.400] Leave in the comments wherever you're listening
[00:09:17.400 --> 00:09:23.140] to this in or at, what is your ambitious goal?
[00:09:24.140 --> 00:09:28.240] What is your big idea, your big dream?
[00:09:30.400 --> 00:09:31.240] Let me know.
[00:09:32.540 --> 00:09:35.060] But if those who do not know me,
[00:09:35.400 --> 00:09:39.040] I am photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson
[00:09:39.040 --> 00:09:42.260] of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:09:43.380 --> 00:09:46.020] And I am bringing you another episode
[00:09:46.020 --> 00:09:49.580] of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:09:50.580 --> 00:09:52.520] Thank you for tuning in.
[00:09:52.880 --> 00:09:58.080] You can find me on all social media at Alien Eyes Photos
[00:09:58.620 --> 00:10:01.560] and check out the website for more information
[00:10:01.560 --> 00:10:06.700] or to book me at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:10:08.420 --> 00:10:10.040] All right, y'all, peace, love, and blessings.
[00:10:10.300 --> 00:10:10.600] Take care.

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14. How to Build A Creative Media Business from Scratch with Special Guest Sevenn Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 49
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/how-to-build-a-creative-media-business-from-scratch-with-spe
========================================================================

[00:00:00.720 --> 00:00:05.760] Welcome back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:06.480 --> 00:00:08.200] And I'm your host, Steve Jackson,
[00:00:08.500 --> 00:00:11.280] photographer Jackson of Alienize Photos Media,
[00:00:11.980 --> 00:00:15.220] also host of Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:15.700 --> 00:00:17.380] But I have my daughter with me.
[00:00:17.600 --> 00:00:18.960] Introduce yourself, young lady.
[00:00:19.440 --> 00:00:22.300] Hi, my name is Seven Jackson
[00:00:22.300 --> 00:00:25.080] and I like to help my dad with photography
[00:00:25.080 --> 00:00:28.160] and I also like modeling.
[00:00:28.720 --> 00:00:29.660] Modeling, okay.
[00:00:30.860 --> 00:00:33.760] And where did you have some questions for me?
[00:00:33.860 --> 00:00:36.240] I see this big paper, this long list.
[00:00:36.640 --> 00:00:38.880] You wanted to ask me some questions about business?
[00:00:39.360 --> 00:00:39.780] Yeah.
[00:00:40.180 --> 00:00:41.000] Let's do it.
[00:00:41.520 --> 00:00:48.400] Okay, what is your favorite thing about your business?
[00:00:49.220 --> 00:00:51.240] My favorite thing about my business
[00:00:51.240 --> 00:00:52.900] is serving people,
[00:00:53.080 --> 00:00:54.960] knowing that I'm doing a great job
[00:00:54.960 --> 00:00:56.700] and helping their business grow.
[00:00:56.740 --> 00:00:57.840] When their business grow,
[00:00:57.840 --> 00:01:00.000] when my business grow,
[00:01:00.380 --> 00:01:02.960] we would reciprocate and help each other.
[00:01:03.400 --> 00:01:06.560] So when they're smiling and having a good time
[00:01:06.560 --> 00:01:07.700] and their business is growing,
[00:01:07.800 --> 00:01:09.080] they're making more money
[00:01:09.080 --> 00:01:10.860] and they're doing what they have to do,
[00:01:11.240 --> 00:01:12.960] I feel like my heart is fulfilled
[00:01:12.960 --> 00:01:14.800] by doing what I need to do.
[00:01:15.560 --> 00:01:18.320] Okay, how did you make your business?
[00:01:19.400 --> 00:01:22.000] Well, first you have to register your business
[00:01:22.000 --> 00:01:22.580] with the state.
[00:01:22.600 --> 00:01:23.920] So we're in the state of Ohio.
[00:01:24.240 --> 00:01:26.340] So I go to the second area of state,
[00:01:26.340 --> 00:01:28.020] you have to register your business.
[00:01:28.440 --> 00:01:31.800] And then there's other background things you have to do,
[00:01:32.420 --> 00:01:34.380] like open a business bank account,
[00:01:34.920 --> 00:01:37.820] make sure you have your agreements together.
[00:01:38.120 --> 00:01:40.360] So whether you're setting up as a LLC
[00:01:40.360 --> 00:01:43.320] or S Corp, C Corp as a corporation
[00:01:43.900 --> 00:01:45.120] or a partnership,
[00:01:45.220 --> 00:01:47.300] like if I go on a partnership with you,
[00:01:47.500 --> 00:01:48.480] that'd be a partnership.
[00:01:48.680 --> 00:01:50.060] But if you're doing it by yourself,
[00:01:50.460 --> 00:01:51.860] most people do a LLC,
[00:01:52.040 --> 00:01:54.200] which is what I started with
[00:01:54.200 --> 00:01:56.140] on both of my first businesses,
[00:01:56.140 --> 00:01:59.080] my publishing and then my media business.
[00:01:59.680 --> 00:02:01.180] So first you have to register,
[00:02:01.900 --> 00:02:03.000] open up your bank account
[00:02:03.000 --> 00:02:05.860] and then first you have to know what you're doing,
[00:02:06.220 --> 00:02:07.280] come up with a plan,
[00:02:07.800 --> 00:02:08.960] plan, plan, plan.
[00:02:09.900 --> 00:02:10.979] Yes, okay.
[00:02:12.900 --> 00:02:17.140] How much podcast episodes do you have?
[00:02:17.480 --> 00:02:19.140] How many podcast episodes I have?
[00:02:19.240 --> 00:02:22.920] I have right now, 81 episodes.
[00:02:22.980 --> 00:02:25.640] No, I released one last night.
[00:02:25.640 --> 00:02:28.600] So 82 episodes currently.
[00:02:29.280 --> 00:02:31.940] And it is in August, 2026.
[00:02:32.020 --> 00:02:34.380] I currently have 82 episodes.
[00:02:34.820 --> 00:02:37.440] About 20 of them are interviews,
[00:02:37.520 --> 00:02:40.260] the rest are solo episodes of myself.
[00:02:41.040 --> 00:02:43.620] Okay, and how much episodes do you want to make?
[00:02:44.600 --> 00:02:46.520] I want to make a million episodes.
[00:02:46.560 --> 00:02:47.340] That is a lot.
[00:02:47.500 --> 00:02:48.940] Nobody's done it before,
[00:02:48.940 --> 00:02:50.940] but I want to make a million episodes
[00:02:50.940 --> 00:02:52.740] and that's throughout my whole lifetime.
[00:02:54.240 --> 00:02:54.720] Okay.
[00:02:55.360 --> 00:02:56.960] That's my ambitious goal.
[00:02:59.040 --> 00:03:04.440] What do you do with your business?
[00:03:05.340 --> 00:03:07.320] So I help creative entrepreneurs
[00:03:07.320 --> 00:03:09.580] and business owners gain visibility
[00:03:10.020 --> 00:03:12.460] through visual and audio medium
[00:03:12.460 --> 00:03:17.140] and that's with photography, video and podcast.
[00:03:17.460 --> 00:03:18.880] So I help them get discovered
[00:03:18.880 --> 00:03:21.840] by photography, video and podcast.
[00:03:22.400 --> 00:03:23.020] Okay.
[00:03:24.340 --> 00:03:27.520] And who works with you in your business?
[00:03:28.280 --> 00:03:30.560] So right now it's just me and my business
[00:03:30.560 --> 00:03:34.220] and then I have people that help me like yourself.
[00:03:34.260 --> 00:03:37.700] I may have Bree, I may have Tramaine,
[00:03:37.860 --> 00:03:38.700] brother Tramaine.
[00:03:39.360 --> 00:03:42.760] So other than that, I collaborate with people.
[00:03:43.720 --> 00:03:46.120] So right now it's just me and my business.
[00:03:46.120 --> 00:03:48.280] Right now they call it a solopreneur,
[00:03:48.600 --> 00:03:51.840] but also collaborate a lot with many different people.
[00:03:51.840 --> 00:03:54.220] I collaborate with Futureland,
[00:03:54.620 --> 00:03:56.360] I collaborate with Overflow Studio,
[00:03:56.560 --> 00:03:57.920] I collaborate with the Pull Up Experience,
[00:03:58.040 --> 00:03:59.920] I collaborate with Launch Arts Media.
[00:04:00.560 --> 00:04:02.900] I collaborate with so many different people
[00:04:02.900 --> 00:04:05.460] that even though it is just me,
[00:04:05.460 --> 00:04:07.980] I'm able to bring people in where it's needed
[00:04:08.640 --> 00:04:12.720] or where I need assistance directly
[00:04:12.720 --> 00:04:15.020] or if they need assistance directly.
[00:04:15.840 --> 00:04:18.459] We keep on exchanging and building our network
[00:04:18.459 --> 00:04:19.420] through collaboration.
[00:04:20.040 --> 00:04:21.700] Collaboration is a superpower.
[00:04:23.640 --> 00:04:24.120] Okay.
[00:04:25.040 --> 00:04:28.360] That is, that's very, very, very good.
[00:04:29.220 --> 00:04:32.140] And how long have you had your business for?
[00:04:32.940 --> 00:04:35.160] So I'm in my third year of business.
[00:04:35.360 --> 00:04:36.760] I've been in business for three years
[00:04:36.760 --> 00:04:38.520] with Alienize Photos Media.
[00:04:39.060 --> 00:04:40.820] I've had a publishing company,
[00:04:41.300 --> 00:04:42.980] but it's kind of been on a back burner
[00:04:42.980 --> 00:04:45.160] and that's been for five years.
[00:04:45.400 --> 00:04:47.460] Five years with S.D.J. Books
[00:04:47.720 --> 00:04:50.740] and then three years with Alienize Photos Media.
[00:04:52.040 --> 00:04:52.540] Okay.
[00:04:53.580 --> 00:04:57.020] What is your business called?
[00:04:58.280 --> 00:04:59.680] What's my business called?
[00:05:00.580 --> 00:05:04.200] My business is called Alienize Photos Media
[00:05:04.200 --> 00:05:05.320] and Productions.
[00:05:05.740 --> 00:05:08.880] And it's not just photos, it's a media company.
[00:05:09.380 --> 00:05:11.100] It's a production house.
[00:05:11.400 --> 00:05:15.220] So we focus on everything visual,
[00:05:15.220 --> 00:05:19.160] whether that's photography, making move boards,
[00:05:19.720 --> 00:05:22.680] setting up a production, doing a production,
[00:05:23.580 --> 00:05:27.220] and video, it's a production, not just photos.
[00:05:27.440 --> 00:05:30.660] So Alienize Photos Media and Production.
[00:05:31.220 --> 00:05:32.940] Where's your business at?
[00:05:33.860 --> 00:05:37.320] So my business is no physical location,
[00:05:37.400 --> 00:05:39.840] even though it's birthed in Cleveland, Ohio,
[00:05:40.380 --> 00:05:43.940] but there's no physical location yet, but stay tuned.
[00:05:45.600 --> 00:05:46.760] Okay.
[00:05:51.740 --> 00:05:55.900] And what is the most difficult...
[00:05:56.560 --> 00:06:00.700] What is the most difficult decision
[00:06:00.700 --> 00:06:03.560] you've made in your business?
[00:06:04.860 --> 00:06:08.260] The most difficult decision I've made in my business
[00:06:08.260 --> 00:06:14.260] was to buy two cameras when I only had one
[00:06:15.100 --> 00:06:18.640] and I was just purchasing another camera
[00:06:18.640 --> 00:06:20.900] one day before an event.
[00:06:21.500 --> 00:06:26.540] And I'm glad I did because that camera ended up breaking
[00:06:27.680 --> 00:06:32.440] and I decided to buy two more cameras
[00:06:32.440 --> 00:06:34.580] just to replace that one camera.
[00:06:36.660 --> 00:06:39.520] It was kind of the best decision I've made
[00:06:40.080 --> 00:06:42.800] because I felt down and out,
[00:06:42.800 --> 00:06:44.700] like, oh, camera broke, oh, that's money,
[00:06:44.940 --> 00:06:46.140] oh, I could just hang it up,
[00:06:46.260 --> 00:06:48.000] like, oh, let me just hang up the business.
[00:06:48.520 --> 00:06:51.880] But I kept it going and I continued to do
[00:06:51.880 --> 00:06:55.720] what I had to do and by investing in two cameras,
[00:06:55.840 --> 00:06:58.640] I'm able to use multiple cameras on different events
[00:06:58.640 --> 00:07:00.520] or lend out a camera if needed
[00:07:00.520 --> 00:07:03.960] when I bring somebody on like yourself in seven.
[00:07:05.120 --> 00:07:07.360] And you get the most work done,
[00:07:07.360 --> 00:07:09.420] you get more bang for your buck,
[00:07:09.420 --> 00:07:13.220] you have more equipment working for you.
[00:07:16.020 --> 00:07:20.300] What's one problem your business has today?
[00:07:21.700 --> 00:07:24.560] One problem my business have today
[00:07:24.560 --> 00:07:29.320] is consistent high ticket clients.
[00:07:29.720 --> 00:07:32.720] And I don't really have a traditional high ticket offer
[00:07:32.720 --> 00:07:35.140] which is a great offer,
[00:07:35.220 --> 00:07:38.800] maybe it's for working with each other for a year
[00:07:38.800 --> 00:07:41.460] or maybe six months or something
[00:07:41.460 --> 00:07:44.080] that really grabs transformation
[00:07:44.080 --> 00:07:47.760] or change in their business for the better
[00:07:47.760 --> 00:07:49.960] because you always want your business to grow.
[00:07:51.320 --> 00:07:53.900] So those are things that we focus on.
[00:07:56.320 --> 00:07:59.160] Tell me about your last episode.
[00:08:00.640 --> 00:08:04.380] My last episode was with Mr.
[00:08:05.720 --> 00:08:06.820] Well, it wasn't with,
[00:08:06.940 --> 00:08:10.320] but it was about Damon Darling who's a comedian.
[00:08:10.320 --> 00:08:13.200] He recently got banned at Walmart.
[00:08:14.500 --> 00:08:17.460] So I wanted to do an episode about that,
[00:08:17.620 --> 00:08:18.780] reflecting my thoughts
[00:08:18.780 --> 00:08:21.920] and extracting the business lesson around that,
[00:08:22.380 --> 00:08:25.280] which is your personal brand is everything.
[00:08:26.240 --> 00:08:28.240] When you're doing things in public,
[00:08:28.580 --> 00:08:29.780] it reflects your brand.
[00:08:30.100 --> 00:08:31.440] It may grab attention,
[00:08:31.640 --> 00:08:35.159] but also is it damaging with your business deal.
[00:08:35.240 --> 00:08:36.720] So that's one thing to look at.
[00:08:38.750 --> 00:08:39.450] Okay.
[00:08:41.490 --> 00:08:44.150] Who's your favorite person to work with?
[00:08:45.190 --> 00:08:50.130] My favorite person to work with is 7 Jackson.
[00:08:50.850 --> 00:08:52.050] When she listens.
[00:08:52.970 --> 00:08:54.010] When she listens.
[00:08:55.050 --> 00:08:58.110] Yeah, she's an amazing person outside of that.
[00:08:58.550 --> 00:09:01.690] I have Ms. Brianna Casanova.
[00:09:02.030 --> 00:09:04.610] I also have Jermaine.
[00:09:04.610 --> 00:09:06.250] I also have Jamar.
[00:09:06.910 --> 00:09:08.830] I love the entire pull-up experience,
[00:09:08.830 --> 00:09:11.390] but those are some people I love working with.
[00:09:14.160 --> 00:09:17.600] Has anyone ever quit or got mad at you?
[00:09:18.560 --> 00:09:21.720] Well, I haven't hired anybody directly,
[00:09:21.800 --> 00:09:23.380] but even the contractors
[00:09:23.380 --> 00:09:25.660] and people that I collaborate and bring in,
[00:09:26.120 --> 00:09:27.720] nobody has ever quit with me.
[00:09:27.760 --> 00:09:30.040] We always had a conversation beforehand.
[00:09:30.560 --> 00:09:32.320] This is something that we both wanna do.
[00:09:32.380 --> 00:09:33.900] And if we both say yes,
[00:09:34.280 --> 00:09:36.300] we're gonna stick to that and keep our word.
[00:09:36.780 --> 00:09:39.040] So there's no quitting, no giving up,
[00:09:39.340 --> 00:09:41.180] no getting mad, no getting frustrated.
[00:09:41.180 --> 00:09:42.540] Let's do business.
[00:09:43.540 --> 00:09:47.040] So I've never had it happen.
[00:09:47.380 --> 00:09:49.240] And great that I never had it happen.
[00:09:49.420 --> 00:09:51.160] I never gave up on nobody.
[00:09:51.360 --> 00:09:55.240] I don't want nobody to give up on me or get mad.
[00:09:57.160 --> 00:09:59.960] So you attract what you give off.
[00:10:00.360 --> 00:10:01.720] You give off what you attract.
[00:10:01.880 --> 00:10:03.140] So it's one big cycle.
[00:10:04.300 --> 00:10:06.140] You are what you put in the universe.
[00:10:07.820 --> 00:10:08.180] Okay.
[00:10:08.360 --> 00:10:10.180] And that is all my questions for you.
[00:10:10.180 --> 00:10:10.720] Questions.
[00:10:11.940 --> 00:10:12.320] All right.
[00:10:12.600 --> 00:10:15.040] And what would you like to be when you grow up, young lady?
[00:10:16.060 --> 00:10:18.400] Either a teacher or a police officer.
[00:10:18.820 --> 00:10:20.220] Teacher or police officer, okay.
[00:10:21.180 --> 00:10:21.600] And-
[00:10:21.600 --> 00:10:22.740] And I have my own business.
[00:10:22.800 --> 00:10:23.900] And if you had a show,
[00:10:24.000 --> 00:10:25.500] what would be the title of your show?
[00:10:31.060 --> 00:10:32.640] Seven Minutes with Seven.
[00:10:32.820 --> 00:10:34.000] Seven Minutes with Seven.
[00:10:34.160 --> 00:10:35.280] Let's see, say that again.
[00:10:35.500 --> 00:10:36.240] Let's say it.
[00:10:36.580 --> 00:10:37.640] What's the title of your show?
[00:10:38.580 --> 00:10:40.560] Seven Minutes with Seven.
[00:10:40.760 --> 00:10:41.540] Let's say it together.
[00:10:41.620 --> 00:10:43.320] Three, two, one.
[00:10:43.320 --> 00:10:45.200] Seven Minutes with Seven.
[00:10:45.360 --> 00:10:46.140] I like that.
[00:10:46.260 --> 00:10:47.160] Seven Minutes with Seven
[00:10:47.160 --> 00:10:50.220] on the Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk Show.
[00:10:50.860 --> 00:10:52.340] Rebirth your podcast.
[00:10:53.100 --> 00:10:54.100] Seven Minutes with Seven.
[00:10:54.380 --> 00:10:55.020] I love it.
[00:10:55.020 --> 00:10:55.820] Let's do it.
[00:10:56.380 --> 00:10:57.040] All right, y'all.
[00:10:57.240 --> 00:10:59.720] This is photographer Jackson Steve Jackson
[00:10:59.720 --> 00:11:01.360] of Alien Eyes Photos Media
[00:11:01.360 --> 00:11:05.600] bringing you another, another special episode
[00:11:05.600 --> 00:11:08.080] of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:11:08.640 --> 00:11:10.380] And if you want to follow me,
[00:11:10.380 --> 00:11:14.780] you can find me over at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:11:15.120 --> 00:11:18.840] Again, that's Alien Eyes Photos on all media.
[00:11:19.500 --> 00:11:21.440] You may catch my daughter on some of them
[00:11:21.440 --> 00:11:24.040] and some of the content, even this video.
[00:11:24.200 --> 00:11:25.080] Ha ha ha.
[00:11:25.520 --> 00:11:28.100] But if you want to book me,
[00:11:28.220 --> 00:11:30.780] find more information about me and my business,
[00:11:31.400 --> 00:11:34.860] check out alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:11:35.380 --> 00:11:38.700] Again, this is Steve Jackson, AKA Alien,
[00:11:38.700 --> 00:11:41.320] also known as Photographer Jackson.
[00:11:41.680 --> 00:11:43.100] And I'm signing out.
[00:11:43.480 --> 00:11:44.320] Say bye.
[00:11:44.840 --> 00:11:45.460] Peace.
[00:11:46.240 --> 00:11:47.040] Peace, peace.
[00:11:47.300 --> 00:11:48.120] Peace and love, everybody.

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15. Damon Darling Vs Walmart and Sam's Club Ban
Season 1 · Episode 48
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/damon-darling-vs-walmart-and-sams-club-ban
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[00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:04.019] So you guys are both gonna get issued a trespass rewardings from Walmart, okay?
[00:00:04.059 --> 00:00:09.980] You guys are no longer allowed to go to any Walmart's any Sam's clubs or any Murphy gas station for life
[00:00:09.980 --> 00:00:15.080] Okay, so there's a life ban whose issue in that what whose issue in the Walmart is
[00:00:17.700 --> 00:00:22.420] So what would we do? That's any private business can I didn't go to Walmart?
[00:00:22.660 --> 00:00:27.340] I came as I can't just do it for no reason again, even if no reason even if we're not they don't
[00:00:36.320 --> 00:00:37.360] A
[00:00:37.360 --> 00:00:38.540] Life ban
[00:00:39.140 --> 00:00:44.420] Not come back in 90 days five years ten years
[00:00:44.420 --> 00:00:46.120] 50 years
[00:00:46.120 --> 00:00:52.190] He's not even 50 not a ban till the holidays
[00:00:53.330 --> 00:00:55.590] but for life
[00:00:56.330 --> 00:01:01.770] This man now has a better shot at getting in a member's only golf club
[00:01:02.770 --> 00:01:04.129] Than Walmart
[00:01:04.989 --> 00:01:07.130] especially in the state of Ohio
[00:01:08.010 --> 00:01:11.610] But welcome welcome welcome welcome
[00:01:11.990 --> 00:01:15.150] back to alienize photos industry talk
[00:01:15.150 --> 00:01:25.130] with your host photographer Jackson and I just wanted to share some light and my personal reflections on
[00:01:25.750 --> 00:01:28.050] Damon Darlin's
[00:01:28.050 --> 00:01:29.930] band from Walmart and
[00:01:29.930 --> 00:01:38.090] Just being a creative entrepreneur as he is a comedian, which is a form of creativity
[00:01:38.970 --> 00:01:45.310] Through your vocal telling jokes and also educating people so no
[00:01:46.130 --> 00:01:48.450] personally a
[00:01:48.450 --> 00:01:50.410] lot of comedians that I know are
[00:01:51.190 --> 00:01:56.090] educators are they put history and current events in
[00:01:56.690 --> 00:01:58.910] You know their stand-up
[00:01:58.910 --> 00:02:00.530] Which I feel
[00:02:00.530 --> 00:02:02.870] very very important
[00:02:03.910 --> 00:02:04.710] now
[00:02:05.350 --> 00:02:08.729] I've never been to one of his stand-up
[00:02:08.729 --> 00:02:10.250] comedic shows
[00:02:10.250 --> 00:02:17.290] But plan on it in the future when he comes to Ohio, maybe my hometown, Cleveland
[00:02:17.290 --> 00:02:19.730] See it at the funny bone
[00:02:20.390 --> 00:02:23.970] Definitely check it out. I definitely want to support and
[00:02:23.970 --> 00:02:24.430] And
[00:02:25.930 --> 00:02:30.500] But just just me being an entrepreneur I wanted to
[00:02:31.390 --> 00:02:33.930] Just reflect that
[00:02:33.930 --> 00:02:36.050] You know one thing
[00:02:37.370 --> 00:02:43.490] Close multiple doors like one incident can close multiple doors like
[00:02:43.490 --> 00:02:46.690] You know you getting banned from Walmart
[00:02:47.650 --> 00:02:52.050] Who was also affiliated with Sam's Club and Murphy?
[00:02:52.810 --> 00:03:01.470] USA gas stations, they're all connected and a band for one can be a band from thousands of locations and
[00:03:02.230 --> 00:03:03.650] multiple brands
[00:03:04.330 --> 00:03:08.630] not just you know the Walmart's the Sam Clubs, but
[00:03:08.630 --> 00:03:14.350] Multiple brands that they are affiliated with not directly but you know
[00:03:14.350 --> 00:03:19.450] They may have partners or people who they do business with so
[00:03:20.010 --> 00:03:25.290] You know my lesson from that is before acting or acting out or acting up
[00:03:26.150 --> 00:03:29.010] map the corporate relationships
[00:03:30.010 --> 00:03:33.910] The blast radius can be small
[00:03:34.550 --> 00:03:40.310] But it's bigger than you think you know
[00:03:40.810 --> 00:03:47.190] They say why did he get banned and oh f Walmart work boycott in Walmart?
[00:03:48.030 --> 00:03:51.430] I mean all he's being good. He's doing good
[00:03:52.470 --> 00:03:58.130] Doing these charitable acts. He's giving money away. He's paying for groceries. He's paying for people
[00:03:58.650 --> 00:04:00.450] X Y & Z
[00:04:00.450 --> 00:04:05.850] You know speaking life and encouragement to people
[00:04:07.030 --> 00:04:11.590] but how Walmart took it as
[00:04:11.590 --> 00:04:16.769] disruptive behavior disruptive to their shoppers and
[00:04:17.190 --> 00:04:26.810] You know just a respect and being you know shopping in peace and I get that but I
[00:04:26.810 --> 00:04:28.730] Know when I heard that
[00:04:28.730 --> 00:04:33.310] Life ban is like wow for someone being banned
[00:04:33.310 --> 00:04:41.470] For life not just a couple months not just a year not five ten years before the life I
[00:04:42.510 --> 00:04:46.210] had to do my own research and I
[00:04:46.210 --> 00:04:51.110] Watched a lot of Damon Darlin's videos mainly on Instagram
[00:04:51.110 --> 00:04:55.410] But some something told me to dive a little deeper and I watch
[00:04:56.010 --> 00:04:57.290] some of his
[00:04:57.290 --> 00:05:02.210] YouTube episodes like the long form content versus the short form
[00:05:02.210 --> 00:05:06.730] which is a contrast and especially like those older videos like
[00:05:07.330 --> 00:05:14.250] It on social media doesn't show him clipping his toenail or getting someone to clip his toenails
[00:05:14.250 --> 00:05:18.610] or him pouring milk on us like I did not see that on Instagram, so
[00:05:18.610 --> 00:05:23.550] Me checking out his YouTube. It was like a different person to me like wow I
[00:05:24.770 --> 00:05:27.370] Did not know that like I was surprised so it
[00:05:28.350 --> 00:05:33.890] It made me take a step back. It's still me back a little bit. I'm not gonna even you know lie on that
[00:05:34.710 --> 00:05:35.190] but
[00:05:36.050 --> 00:05:37.810] I'm like wow I
[00:05:39.090 --> 00:05:40.530] Did not know
[00:05:41.190 --> 00:05:45.170] And I'm not thinking in the other way, but
[00:05:46.630 --> 00:05:49.030] That definitely hurt your brand
[00:05:49.870 --> 00:05:57.190] And I know his biggest drive was to get his coffee brand me mom's field coffee and
[00:05:57.190 --> 00:06:01.070] All the Walmart's but just going back to what I said earlier
[00:06:01.790 --> 00:06:03.830] You know one
[00:06:03.830 --> 00:06:07.650] Action of yours what incident can close multiple doors
[00:06:07.650 --> 00:06:10.470] And he can't take it somewhere else
[00:06:11.550 --> 00:06:19.670] Have different partners different relationships, but to me I feel like he should have went about it a different way
[00:06:20.350 --> 00:06:28.750] No partner with a nonprofit to do these charitable acts to buy people's gas and groceries and give back
[00:06:29.670 --> 00:06:33.850] Donate or even partner with Walmart's own
[00:06:33.850 --> 00:06:36.030] You know a charitable
[00:06:36.030 --> 00:06:38.090] foundations Walmart foundation
[00:06:38.090 --> 00:06:45.990] The one that Sam's Club have you can find it all on no Walmart org for their no
[00:06:45.990 --> 00:06:48.350] nonprofit and charity acts
[00:06:48.890 --> 00:06:53.030] but if he didn't want to do any of that just starting a
[00:06:53.030 --> 00:07:00.530] Nonprofit and keep a record of all of this and have people you know donate to his cause and he you know
[00:07:00.530 --> 00:07:05.790] Recycle and give it back and partner with other nonprofits or
[00:07:06.370 --> 00:07:10.350] You know there's there's other ways, but what I?
[00:07:10.650 --> 00:07:13.950] Would have want to see you know in some of these videos
[00:07:14.990 --> 00:07:20.770] Because there's a lot of homeless people as you know
[00:07:20.770 --> 00:07:23.370] Passing away from hunger starvation
[00:07:24.330 --> 00:07:27.130] lack of good quality water and care
[00:07:28.070 --> 00:07:31.590] You know see some of those charitable acts
[00:07:32.350 --> 00:07:35.950] with you know the homelessness that's on these streets and
[00:07:36.970 --> 00:07:39.990] Being from where I'm coming from in the state of Ohio
[00:07:39.990 --> 00:07:43.650] Which were both from no couple hours apart
[00:07:45.090 --> 00:07:47.110] it is
[00:07:47.110 --> 00:07:51.310] It's evident and is a solution is needed definitely
[00:07:52.410 --> 00:07:53.170] but
[00:07:53.170 --> 00:07:58.390] You know giving back to the middle class or lower middle class and
[00:07:58.410 --> 00:08:06.110] You know people that struggling I get it, and it makes more of a story, and it's more interesting then
[00:08:06.110 --> 00:08:10.850] you know what I just proclaim and just stated, but
[00:08:11.550 --> 00:08:13.950] at the same time
[00:08:13.950 --> 00:08:16.040] If we're going to do it
[00:08:17.030 --> 00:08:19.580] Let's just start at the lowest level work our way up
[00:08:20.630 --> 00:08:23.480] Especially in our home state or home town
[00:08:24.870 --> 00:08:26.310] It's only right
[00:08:27.510 --> 00:08:28.150] but
[00:08:29.230 --> 00:08:35.710] You know to each his own I'm proud of what he's doing, but I just want him to recognize that
[00:08:36.789 --> 00:08:41.929] You know being banned from Walmart, which is a big big corporation
[00:08:41.929 --> 00:08:48.260] we all know and when these other organizations are
[00:08:51.700 --> 00:08:54.680] doing their research when a
[00:08:54.680 --> 00:08:56.780] Deal was being made or offer
[00:08:56.780 --> 00:09:03.520] To get his coffee brand me mom's coffee fuel coffee in you know one of these other stores
[00:09:05.440 --> 00:09:10.180] It's gonna be hard cuz that's gonna be the first thing they see like a live band and
[00:09:11.180 --> 00:09:16.980] You know that's gonna raise a red flag and raise their eyebrows like should we do this
[00:09:18.540 --> 00:09:20.920] Without doing even
[00:09:20.920 --> 00:09:22.660] more research
[00:09:23.680 --> 00:09:25.540] It's hard for them, so
[00:09:27.140 --> 00:09:34.120] This is something I thought about and something I want every no entrepreneur business owner
[00:09:35.180 --> 00:09:36.860] content creator
[00:09:36.860 --> 00:09:43.680] Creative entrepreneur to really really think about as you're building your own brand as you're growing your brand
[00:09:43.940 --> 00:09:45.900] and your public awareness
[00:09:46.580 --> 00:09:48.840] and it's in it's hard because
[00:09:50.040 --> 00:09:51.560] You know
[00:09:51.560 --> 00:09:53.580] the chaos and
[00:09:53.580 --> 00:09:55.380] the pranks
[00:09:55.380 --> 00:09:56.640] The jokes
[00:09:56.640 --> 00:10:03.240] You know the negative stuff the fights the all that gets attention and goes viral
[00:10:03.800 --> 00:10:08.220] versus all the good acts and
[00:10:08.220 --> 00:10:11.480] All the positivity that could be seen
[00:10:12.680 --> 00:10:16.920] Like it needs to change and it hurts that
[00:10:17.280 --> 00:10:18.880] you know
[00:10:18.880 --> 00:10:24.120] Having to do these pranks and jokes sometimes and being in chaos
[00:10:24.120 --> 00:10:28.920] Gets the attention the fire the viral attention
[00:10:31.450 --> 00:10:33.730] man, it hurts
[00:10:34.570 --> 00:10:36.610] And it's like why?
[00:10:37.550 --> 00:10:39.050] can it be different because
[00:10:39.990 --> 00:10:43.390] Doing those different acts hurt your brand
[00:10:45.020 --> 00:10:47.600] it hurts your brand and
[00:10:48.580 --> 00:10:50.760] That's one thing I always
[00:10:51.860 --> 00:10:53.980] pride in just
[00:10:53.980 --> 00:10:59.020] The brand especially as a personal brand and him being a face
[00:10:59.860 --> 00:11:02.480] literally the face of his coffee brand
[00:11:03.340 --> 00:11:10.560] Kind of depth damage the reputation in public and different brands and corporations and companies
[00:11:12.340 --> 00:11:13.180] so
[00:11:13.180 --> 00:11:17.920] Just something I wanted to take from this all
[00:11:18.600 --> 00:11:24.740] You know kind of share light on especially to my audience my followers everybody that
[00:11:24.740 --> 00:11:31.500] Trust me or come to me for advice like this is a lesson that I definitely wanted to document and
[00:11:32.220 --> 00:11:36.080] You know documentation becomes intellectual property
[00:11:36.680 --> 00:11:38.820] everything you post as an asset
[00:11:39.840 --> 00:11:42.060] but on the flip side
[00:11:42.680 --> 00:11:44.700] If you do something
[00:11:44.700 --> 00:11:50.620] You know like that milk stunt and all the pranks like having someone clip this toenail
[00:11:51.100 --> 00:11:53.000] in the middle of the story like what's
[00:11:53.940 --> 00:11:59.220] but um, yeah that you know come back fire even years later, so
[00:12:01.800 --> 00:12:04.920] Just be careful what you do what you put out
[00:12:05.980 --> 00:12:08.300] Messages you portray
[00:12:10.380 --> 00:12:12.680] Give off and tell
[00:12:13.920 --> 00:12:18.040] Just just being more aware and more conscious of what you're doing
[00:12:18.820 --> 00:12:23.460] It's good to uplift people give back to people
[00:12:23.460 --> 00:12:31.700] And do good things for people and know everything doesn't have to be
[00:12:31.700 --> 00:12:38.780] Glaring glam or chaotic or something negative just to get attention
[00:12:39.720 --> 00:12:41.400] But remember
[00:12:41.400 --> 00:12:45.160] Hey, make it interesting make it fun
[00:12:45.160 --> 00:12:47.700] Make it great make it powerful
[00:12:49.400 --> 00:12:52.620] You are the best you could be
[00:12:53.760 --> 00:12:58.300] And I'm just I'm just proud of Damon Darling success and
[00:12:59.220 --> 00:13:00.600] You know
[00:13:00.600 --> 00:13:02.600] Just the numbers
[00:13:02.600 --> 00:13:06.960] Across YouTube Facebook Instagram tick-tock
[00:13:08.960 --> 00:13:10.720] Coming across
[00:13:10.720 --> 00:13:13.080] almost 8 8 million
[00:13:13.080 --> 00:13:15.240] This is in August so
[00:13:16.120 --> 00:13:17.600] maybe by the end of
[00:13:18.120 --> 00:13:19.960] 2026 or beginning of
[00:13:20.560 --> 00:13:26.020] 2027 if I have a collective billion followers, which is amazing
[00:13:26.680 --> 00:13:28.580] that doesn't even
[00:13:28.580 --> 00:13:34.580] Testify for the people that doesn't have social media or who haven't even subscribed
[00:13:34.580 --> 00:13:41.300] But really support him in real life and people who speak over, you know him in real life
[00:13:42.460 --> 00:13:44.580] Positivity and praying
[00:13:44.580 --> 00:13:46.780] prayers and all that good stuff
[00:13:47.600 --> 00:13:51.600] Like I said, I definitely want to check out and support
[00:13:52.360 --> 00:13:53.960] one of his
[00:13:53.960 --> 00:14:00.200] Comedy shows upcoming stand-up comedy shows. I think I
[00:14:01.420 --> 00:14:04.100] Think he is stopping in Ohio at funny bone
[00:14:04.100 --> 00:14:09.680] So I definitely get my tickets or if not, I know he had one in Columbus
[00:14:09.680 --> 00:14:12.380] So I'll check that out either one
[00:14:13.080 --> 00:14:14.700] We will see
[00:14:15.080 --> 00:14:18.860] Yeah, this has been like a wake-up call to me like
[00:14:19.860 --> 00:14:24.220] be more mindful your brain even the people you collaborate with and everything just
[00:14:25.400 --> 00:14:28.020] Man, it's like a wake-up call. Like I said
[00:14:29.080 --> 00:14:36.420] That life ban is different Damon Darling versus Walmart versus Sam's Club versus Murphy
[00:14:36.420 --> 00:14:38.120] USA gas station
[00:14:38.740 --> 00:14:41.160] and this is
[00:14:41.160 --> 00:14:42.720] photographer Jackson
[00:14:42.720 --> 00:14:48.140] Steve Jackson of alien eyes photos media
[00:14:48.140 --> 00:14:54.280] Bringing you another episode of alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:14:54.280 --> 00:14:57.820] And this one is on Dame darling
[00:14:58.180 --> 00:14:59.260] versus
[00:14:59.260 --> 00:15:00.540] Walmart
[00:15:01.240 --> 00:15:03.780] since he was banned from Walmart, I
[00:15:04.620 --> 00:15:11.020] Just wanted to report and share my light and teach a little lesson that your brand
[00:15:11.020 --> 00:15:19.060] Especially personal brand is viable and one door closed can close multiple doors without you even knowing
[00:15:19.900 --> 00:15:22.120] So just stay conscious of that
[00:15:22.620 --> 00:15:27.260] Continue to raise your vibrations your consciousness and your peace and love
[00:15:27.620 --> 00:15:29.720] in this universe
[00:15:30.260 --> 00:15:35.300] Again, I am photographer Jackson and I am signing out
[00:15:36.480 --> 00:15:38.300] But before I go
[00:15:39.140 --> 00:15:41.550] Subscribe share this podcast
[00:15:42.460 --> 00:15:47.530] Alien eyes photos industry talk is growing and I cannot do it without you
[00:15:47.920 --> 00:15:50.720] But visit alien eyes photos
[00:15:50.720 --> 00:15:51.960] calm
[00:15:51.960 --> 00:15:54.900] And you can follow me at
[00:15:54.900 --> 00:15:57.940] Alien eyes and that's what is he?
[00:15:58.260 --> 00:15:59.980] photos with s
[00:16:00.520 --> 00:16:06.140] Alien eyes photos in the podcast now has social media
[00:16:06.140 --> 00:16:10.340] So check out AEP IT
[00:16:10.980 --> 00:16:15.020] POD that's AEP IT pod
[00:16:15.020 --> 00:16:20.160] Check me out on Instagram and we're building and we're growing and
[00:16:21.160 --> 00:16:24.380] Hey, you are too, and I'm proud of you and all that you do
[00:16:25.060 --> 00:16:26.620] signing out peace

========================================================================
16. Self Analysis Refines Business Values
Season 1 · Episode 47
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/self-analysis-refines-business-values
========================================================================

[00:00:04.130 --> 00:00:07.810] Welcome, welcome, welcome.
[00:00:08.990 --> 00:00:15.090] Welcome back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:15.780 --> 00:00:21.910] with your host, photographer, Jackson, Steve Jackson
[00:00:21.910 --> 00:00:24.110] of Alienize Photos.
[00:00:24.630 --> 00:00:27.070] Welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:27.410 --> 00:00:29.350] And if this is your first time,
[00:00:29.350 --> 00:00:31.110] I want you to get excited.
[00:00:31.910 --> 00:00:33.250] I want you to get motivated.
[00:00:33.990 --> 00:00:35.250] I want you to get educated.
[00:00:36.110 --> 00:00:38.830] I want you to seek and search for the wisdom
[00:00:39.350 --> 00:00:41.470] and allow it to come to you.
[00:00:41.910 --> 00:00:43.550] I want you to take it in.
[00:00:43.890 --> 00:00:45.310] Use it. Don't just sit on it.
[00:00:45.310 --> 00:00:46.990] Don't just hold it in your mind.
[00:00:48.670 --> 00:00:49.770] Teach it.
[00:00:50.090 --> 00:00:51.570] Implement it.
[00:00:51.910 --> 00:00:53.610] Use it to your advantage.
[00:00:55.210 --> 00:00:55.770] Exhale.
[00:00:56.710 --> 00:00:57.790] Keep progressing.
[00:00:58.370 --> 00:00:59.170] Keep going.
[00:00:59.750 --> 00:01:01.550] Keep doing what you got to do.
[00:01:02.670 --> 00:01:04.650] Yes, keep doing what you got to do
[00:01:04.650 --> 00:01:06.930] even when you don't want to do it.
[00:01:07.690 --> 00:01:08.970] Be who you need to be
[00:01:08.970 --> 00:01:11.450] even when you don't want to be that person.
[00:01:12.210 --> 00:01:13.610] When you don't want to do nothing.
[00:01:13.650 --> 00:01:15.110] When you don't want to get out of bed.
[00:01:15.230 --> 00:01:16.730] When you just want to be lazy.
[00:01:17.350 --> 00:01:18.910] But you got to do the work.
[00:01:19.630 --> 00:01:20.410] Wouldn't like he say?
[00:01:20.770 --> 00:01:21.830] Just do it.
[00:01:22.690 --> 00:01:24.670] And we look at these slogans
[00:01:24.670 --> 00:01:26.650] it's like admission and vision.
[00:01:27.790 --> 00:01:29.770] And these slogans are who we are.
[00:01:30.270 --> 00:01:31.370] What are our values?
[00:01:31.670 --> 00:01:32.850] What value do we bring?
[00:01:32.930 --> 00:01:34.130] What do we stand for?
[00:01:34.750 --> 00:01:36.910] And we have to remember that in business
[00:01:37.750 --> 00:01:41.850] and have these self reflections.
[00:01:43.130 --> 00:01:44.210] Self analysis.
[00:01:45.190 --> 00:01:48.050] We do analysis on our entrepreneur journey
[00:01:48.050 --> 00:01:49.290] and in our businesses.
[00:01:50.410 --> 00:01:52.490] But when do we do a self analysis
[00:01:52.490 --> 00:01:54.890] on ourselves and our lives?
[00:01:56.690 --> 00:01:59.670] Like when we started off in business
[00:01:59.670 --> 00:02:03.510] our client could be a more broader thing
[00:02:03.510 --> 00:02:06.790] but now it's more tighter, more niche
[00:02:07.730 --> 00:02:10.250] more enclosed, more specific.
[00:02:12.210 --> 00:02:14.270] So are we attracting those same clients?
[00:02:14.470 --> 00:02:16.810] Maybe you're having a headache
[00:02:16.810 --> 00:02:21.870] or not wanting to deal with the stuff
[00:02:21.870 --> 00:02:24.810] you started business with for 5, 10 years.
[00:02:24.950 --> 00:02:26.070] Nothing changed at all.
[00:02:26.150 --> 00:02:26.930] Not your values.
[00:02:27.110 --> 00:02:28.030] Not your value.
[00:02:29.410 --> 00:02:32.230] Because a business that's staying the same
[00:02:32.790 --> 00:02:35.250] over a long period of time in revenue
[00:02:35.250 --> 00:02:37.090] are slightly decreasing.
[00:02:37.770 --> 00:02:39.590] It's going to eventually go out of business.
[00:02:39.650 --> 00:02:40.670] You have to progress.
[00:02:40.770 --> 00:02:41.770] You have to increase.
[00:02:42.490 --> 00:02:44.390] It's okay to maintain for a little while.
[00:02:44.710 --> 00:02:45.530] Yeah, maintain.
[00:02:46.430 --> 00:02:47.830] To get you over the hump.
[00:02:48.450 --> 00:02:50.090] Maybe even go down a little bit
[00:02:50.090 --> 00:02:51.170] but you have to bounce back
[00:02:51.170 --> 00:02:52.610] and you have to continue to grow.
[00:02:53.090 --> 00:02:54.390] It's all about the elevation.
[00:02:55.210 --> 00:02:56.450] This entrepreneur journey
[00:02:57.170 --> 00:02:59.890] this creative entrepreneur journey
[00:02:59.890 --> 00:03:02.190] this business
[00:03:02.190 --> 00:03:03.910] this business life
[00:03:04.670 --> 00:03:06.010] this journey
[00:03:07.250 --> 00:03:08.550] you have to grow.
[00:03:08.590 --> 00:03:09.650] It's the only way.
[00:03:10.770 --> 00:03:12.730] You have to continue to grow.
[00:03:14.270 --> 00:03:17.410] You have to feel inspired
[00:03:17.410 --> 00:03:19.190] be excited, be motivated.
[00:03:19.750 --> 00:03:20.510] Do the work.
[00:03:20.510 --> 00:03:24.870] Do the work even when you don't feel like doing the work.
[00:03:25.230 --> 00:03:28.110] And I have many days like that a lot.
[00:03:29.370 --> 00:03:31.870] But still, give yourself that grace
[00:03:31.870 --> 00:03:33.550] that self love, that self care.
[00:03:34.270 --> 00:03:35.430] You know, take that break.
[00:03:35.550 --> 00:03:36.490] Take a moment.
[00:03:37.110 --> 00:03:38.110] Go on that vacation.
[00:03:40.290 --> 00:03:42.350] But when you get back, you got to do that work.
[00:03:42.890 --> 00:03:44.150] And put in the work.
[00:03:44.770 --> 00:03:46.850] To get to the point where that
[00:03:47.570 --> 00:03:48.910] vacation is enjoyable.
[00:03:48.970 --> 00:03:50.330] That break is enjoyable.
[00:03:50.330 --> 00:03:52.010] Take that breath.
[00:03:52.110 --> 00:03:55.470] Take that extra deep breath in another one.
[00:03:55.910 --> 00:03:56.830] Feel good.
[00:03:57.850 --> 00:04:00.150] Feel all the love in your heart just radiating.
[00:04:01.090 --> 00:04:02.410] That excitement brewing.
[00:04:03.270 --> 00:04:03.930] Heart beating.
[00:04:04.070 --> 00:04:05.050] You're like, yes.
[00:04:05.430 --> 00:04:06.830] I can't wait to get back to work.
[00:04:07.130 --> 00:04:08.050] Put in the work.
[00:04:08.490 --> 00:04:09.710] Keep elevating.
[00:04:10.290 --> 00:04:11.030] Keep growing.
[00:04:12.510 --> 00:04:15.030] And again, do that self analysis.
[00:04:16.170 --> 00:04:17.649] As well as in your business.
[00:04:20.209 --> 00:04:21.209] What are your values?
[00:04:23.210 --> 00:04:24.450] What is your value?
[00:04:24.570 --> 00:04:25.290] What do you bring?
[00:04:25.390 --> 00:04:25.950] What do you do?
[00:04:26.070 --> 00:04:26.950] What don't you do?
[00:04:27.370 --> 00:04:28.630] What won't you do?
[00:04:30.270 --> 00:04:31.610] What can you outsource?
[00:04:32.350 --> 00:04:34.010] What partners can you bring in?
[00:04:35.230 --> 00:04:36.510] But how can you grow?
[00:04:38.470 --> 00:04:39.930] That should be the main target.
[00:04:41.830 --> 00:04:42.730] Continue to grow.
[00:04:44.010 --> 00:04:45.250] Continue to be great.
[00:04:46.110 --> 00:04:47.090] Continue to elevate.
[00:04:48.310 --> 00:04:49.150] Continue to blossom.
[00:04:50.490 --> 00:04:51.650] Continue to flourish.
[00:04:53.740 --> 00:04:55.420] Continue to be wise.
[00:04:56.780 --> 00:04:59.380] And when you get the wisdom, teach it.
[00:04:59.420 --> 00:05:00.080] Implement it.
[00:05:00.080 --> 00:05:00.900] Don't just sit on it.
[00:05:00.900 --> 00:05:01.860] Don't just hold it in.
[00:05:04.440 --> 00:05:05.740] You have to put in the work.
[00:05:09.630 --> 00:05:11.030] You've got to act on it.
[00:05:12.370 --> 00:05:16.770] I know many years, like, I'm well studied in, you know,
[00:05:16.950 --> 00:05:19.250] multiple subjects and multiple industries.
[00:05:20.770 --> 00:05:28.350] And for a while, I just sat on it, like, wait, I'm
[00:05:28.350 --> 00:05:34.510] going to just, instead of going to school, just hire these
[00:05:34.510 --> 00:05:38.770] beautiful experts whenever I need them.
[00:05:39.050 --> 00:05:40.330] They're having a master class.
[00:05:40.350 --> 00:05:40.930] I'm there.
[00:05:40.970 --> 00:05:41.650] I'm attending.
[00:05:42.630 --> 00:05:43.670] They need help with something.
[00:05:43.730 --> 00:05:44.450] Let's do something.
[00:05:44.550 --> 00:05:45.070] Let's barter.
[00:05:45.150 --> 00:05:46.450] Let's work something out.
[00:05:47.450 --> 00:05:48.370] Work for each other.
[00:05:48.570 --> 00:05:49.110] Let's partner.
[00:05:49.410 --> 00:05:50.150] Let's do something.
[00:05:50.210 --> 00:05:51.330] Let's grow.
[00:05:52.790 --> 00:05:57.010] And, you know, the constant support with a lot of people
[00:05:57.010 --> 00:06:01.090] in my network for the events that I do, events that I
[00:06:01.090 --> 00:06:05.690] hold, you know, as well as the reciprocation and support,
[00:06:06.230 --> 00:06:09.970] you know, their businesses and their events, their
[00:06:09.970 --> 00:06:13.850] services, their products, what they got going on, you
[00:06:13.850 --> 00:06:15.690] know, even if it's just helping with marketing,
[00:06:16.190 --> 00:06:19.650] helping word of mouth, getting the promo out there,
[00:06:19.650 --> 00:06:20.270] you know.
[00:06:22.400 --> 00:06:23.500] And it takes community.
[00:06:23.960 --> 00:06:25.420] You cannot do this alone.
[00:06:25.420 --> 00:06:28.260] So that's another thing with the growth.
[00:06:28.840 --> 00:06:31.780] So you cannot always do things alone.
[00:06:32.180 --> 00:06:36.480] And if you want to go farther, sometimes even faster,
[00:06:37.900 --> 00:06:45.220] you have to bring in others, others that compliment you,
[00:06:45.780 --> 00:06:49.660] others that help you succeed, that help you elevate as you
[00:06:49.660 --> 00:06:50.820] elevate each other.
[00:06:51.520 --> 00:06:54.040] And that's the way it should be in any relationship.
[00:06:54.040 --> 00:06:57.700] And relationships are important, especially the
[00:06:57.700 --> 00:06:59.260] right ones and the healthy ones.
[00:07:00.360 --> 00:07:04.380] They will get you so far, I swear, in life and business.
[00:07:04.720 --> 00:07:06.220] It's so many things.
[00:07:06.820 --> 00:07:07.560] It's powerful.
[00:07:08.980 --> 00:07:11.760] But I just wanted to jump in here real quick.
[00:07:13.000 --> 00:07:15.860] Actually, a lot of this got deleted.
[00:07:16.440 --> 00:07:17.720] So I'm sorry.
[00:07:17.820 --> 00:07:19.340] This is supposed to be longer.
[00:07:20.380 --> 00:07:21.420] And, ooh, I was in it.
[00:07:21.420 --> 00:07:24.120] And my mic cut off, and I didn't realize it.
[00:07:24.800 --> 00:07:29.020] So I had to, yeah, kind of summarize what I said.
[00:07:29.960 --> 00:07:32.180] Even, you know, the free-flowing, I said,
[00:07:32.400 --> 00:07:33.820] some added on things.
[00:07:33.880 --> 00:07:36.620] So hopefully you still found this beneficial.
[00:07:37.420 --> 00:07:41.660] I appreciate you always for tuning in to Alienize Photos
[00:07:41.660 --> 00:07:48.280] Industry Talk with your host, Steve, photographer Jackson
[00:07:48.280 --> 00:07:51.680] of Alienize Photos.
[00:07:51.900 --> 00:07:56.440] And if you want to book me or find more information on me
[00:07:56.440 --> 00:08:03.700] and my business, Alienize Photos, visit AlienizePhotos.com.
[00:08:04.480 --> 00:08:12.140] Alienize with a Z, Photos with a S, AlienizePhotos.com.
[00:08:12.260 --> 00:08:17.540] And follow me on all social media, AlienizePhotos.
[00:08:17.540 --> 00:08:21.640] Yes, at AlienizePhotos.
[00:08:22.040 --> 00:08:28.100] Also on fan base, who I happen to be a well-investor in.
[00:08:28.660 --> 00:08:32.780] So also follow me on fan base, AlienizePhotos.
[00:08:32.940 --> 00:08:34.260] You cannot miss me.
[00:08:34.280 --> 00:08:36.400] I have the verification badge.
[00:08:37.380 --> 00:08:39.740] So yeah, definitely connect.
[00:08:40.400 --> 00:08:42.900] We seek to get creators paid.
[00:08:43.559 --> 00:08:46.100] So yes, you get paid off your content on fan base.
[00:08:46.100 --> 00:08:49.620] So definitely add your content on fan base.
[00:08:50.400 --> 00:08:51.940] And add me, follow me.
[00:08:52.140 --> 00:08:53.760] Give me some likes and loves.
[00:08:54.160 --> 00:08:59.260] I see there I also have some exclusive programming on there.
[00:08:59.320 --> 00:09:01.140] So yeah, you want to tune in.
[00:09:03.900 --> 00:09:05.120] I think that's it.
[00:09:05.240 --> 00:09:07.820] If you want to book me as a coach, event photography,
[00:09:08.380 --> 00:09:09.280] you're having a wedding.
[00:09:10.160 --> 00:09:14.400] Oh yeah, those are my three top services.
[00:09:16.100 --> 00:09:16.560] I love it.
[00:09:16.600 --> 00:09:17.040] I love it.
[00:09:17.040 --> 00:09:18.280] I love what I do.
[00:09:18.520 --> 00:09:20.160] Just actually wrapped up a wedding.
[00:09:22.100 --> 00:09:23.080] Yeah, it was beautiful.
[00:09:23.200 --> 00:09:24.360] That's all I got to say.
[00:09:25.600 --> 00:09:27.640] And I'm in a post-production mode.
[00:09:28.400 --> 00:09:31.660] I have my team there backing me up.
[00:09:31.760 --> 00:09:32.800] They did well.
[00:09:32.920 --> 00:09:33.800] They're amazing.
[00:09:34.460 --> 00:09:36.340] I've seen some of the content.
[00:09:36.400 --> 00:09:38.360] They've got some BTS content.
[00:09:38.800 --> 00:09:41.760] So look at that, especially on all the social media
[00:09:41.760 --> 00:09:42.640] platforms.
[00:09:43.500 --> 00:09:46.400] Yeah, it's going to be a lot coming your way.
[00:09:46.460 --> 00:09:49.640] I got a lot of things in motion in the background.
[00:09:51.920 --> 00:09:57.020] Took a minor break with LaunchArts Media, LaunchArts
[00:09:57.020 --> 00:10:00.400] Media and the Pull Up Experience.
[00:10:01.220 --> 00:10:06.640] Both my media partners and definitely the team
[00:10:06.640 --> 00:10:10.060] around both of them, as we all come together,
[00:10:10.960 --> 00:10:14.620] mentors and how mastermind we all come together
[00:10:14.620 --> 00:10:19.400] and also collaborate and do events and productions
[00:10:19.400 --> 00:10:19.940] together.
[00:10:19.980 --> 00:10:21.180] So it's a beautiful thing.
[00:10:21.940 --> 00:10:23.520] So shout out to my media partners.
[00:10:23.860 --> 00:10:28.900] But it was just ironic this year that we all
[00:10:28.900 --> 00:10:31.760] took a break around the same time.
[00:10:33.590 --> 00:10:37.030] So that was my mini break from LaunchArts Media
[00:10:37.030 --> 00:10:40.350] who I'm the vice president of the video
[00:10:40.350 --> 00:10:44.750] production department on the leadership team,
[00:10:45.070 --> 00:10:48.230] leadership committee, and then the creative
[00:10:48.230 --> 00:10:52.510] director, lead photographer of the Pull Up
[00:10:52.510 --> 00:10:53.230] Experience.
[00:10:55.190 --> 00:10:58.190] So, you know, definitely follow them on social
[00:10:58.190 --> 00:10:59.590] media as well.
[00:11:00.210 --> 00:11:03.110] Or you could just check out my bio at Alienize
[00:11:03.110 --> 00:11:05.930] Photos and you can see them linked to my
[00:11:05.930 --> 00:11:07.110] page in my bio.
[00:11:09.290 --> 00:11:10.290] But, yeah, it felt good.
[00:11:10.330 --> 00:11:12.810] But I've still been working, doing work, you
[00:11:12.810 --> 00:11:14.950] know, working more on my business, working more
[00:11:14.950 --> 00:11:18.350] on my systems, working more on my growth,
[00:11:19.070 --> 00:11:22.050] working more on my revenue and, you know,
[00:11:22.250 --> 00:11:23.770] getting finances in line.
[00:11:23.810 --> 00:11:27.770] Sometimes we let things slip by or, you know,
[00:11:27.850 --> 00:11:31.510] I'm paying, you know, $1,000, you know,
[00:11:31.650 --> 00:11:34.450] re-incurring for something I don't use.
[00:11:34.490 --> 00:11:36.550] I'm like, well, that's a big loss.
[00:11:36.550 --> 00:11:38.970] We've got to, yeah, okay, let's get this
[00:11:38.970 --> 00:11:39.930] charge reversed.
[00:11:40.490 --> 00:11:41.490] Let's get this refund.
[00:11:42.850 --> 00:11:44.270] Let's put a stop to this.
[00:11:45.530 --> 00:11:48.010] So, you know, do that self-analysis, like I
[00:11:48.010 --> 00:11:48.310] said.
[00:11:49.310 --> 00:11:52.570] Again, if you need me, visit alienizephotos.com.
[00:11:54.850 --> 00:11:55.890] Alienizephotos.com.
[00:11:56.630 --> 00:11:59.570] If you want to sponsor on a podcast, be a
[00:11:59.570 --> 00:11:59.970] sponsor.
[00:12:00.230 --> 00:12:02.530] If you want a partner, reach out.
[00:12:03.190 --> 00:12:06.030] I'm always open to ideas, collaboration.
[00:12:06.030 --> 00:12:08.990] So, you never know until you ask.
[00:12:09.750 --> 00:12:10.010] All right.
[00:12:10.150 --> 00:12:11.470] Peace, love, and blessings, everyone.
[00:12:11.750 --> 00:12:12.230] Take care.

========================================================================
17. Importance Of Networking
Season 1 · Episode 46
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/how-to-get-a-quarter-raise-pt-2
========================================================================

[00:00:00.820 --> 00:00:08.780] Walk on, walk on, walk on to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:09.040 --> 00:00:11.240] Yes, yes, yes, yes.
[00:00:11.640 --> 00:00:17.500] With your host, Mr. Steve, Photographer Jackson,
[00:00:18.420 --> 00:00:20.760] or Photographer Jackson for short.
[00:00:21.040 --> 00:00:25.160] Most people call me Alien from my music days,
[00:00:25.480 --> 00:00:28.900] Alienize Player, or even now with my business,
[00:00:28.900 --> 00:00:31.280] Alienize Photos Media.
[00:00:32.920 --> 00:00:35.700] And yes, I just want to jump on real quick
[00:00:35.700 --> 00:00:37.720] and speak about networking.
[00:00:38.060 --> 00:00:39.400] And throughout my podcast,
[00:00:39.400 --> 00:00:41.480] I will be speaking about networking
[00:00:41.480 --> 00:00:43.840] and the importance of networking.
[00:00:44.880 --> 00:00:47.950] So yes, let's definitely jump into it.
[00:00:49.040 --> 00:00:52.040] Again, this is Steve Jackson.
[00:00:52.760 --> 00:00:56.820] Most know me as a photographer, creative artist,
[00:00:56.820 --> 00:01:02.100] business coach, a strategist, and a power networker,
[00:01:02.140 --> 00:01:03.460] because I'm like the glue.
[00:01:04.739 --> 00:01:05.319] Yeah.
[00:01:05.840 --> 00:01:08.700] And it's important to connect with other peoples.
[00:01:09.240 --> 00:01:10.560] If you want to grow your business,
[00:01:10.620 --> 00:01:12.020] if you want to grow your following,
[00:01:12.120 --> 00:01:15.280] if you want to grow anything, you have to network.
[00:01:16.000 --> 00:01:19.020] If you want more opportunities, you have to network.
[00:01:20.000 --> 00:01:24.600] I go to networking events twice a month,
[00:01:25.350 --> 00:01:26.960] a lot more than that,
[00:01:27.000 --> 00:01:30.840] but I try to push for at least twice a month, at least.
[00:01:31.400 --> 00:01:34.040] At least, even when I don't feel like it,
[00:01:34.040 --> 00:01:39.060] even if I only stay 30 minutes, I still show up.
[00:01:40.810 --> 00:01:44.670] I show up for myself, I show up for my business,
[00:01:45.270 --> 00:01:46.430] and I show up for others.
[00:01:46.830 --> 00:01:48.570] You got to have a support system.
[00:01:49.370 --> 00:01:51.710] You could do it as a team or you could do it solely.
[00:01:52.550 --> 00:01:53.810] Throw your own events.
[00:01:53.810 --> 00:01:56.650] And to get people to come out to your event,
[00:01:57.290 --> 00:01:59.050] how do you do that?
[00:02:00.030 --> 00:02:00.910] By networking.
[00:02:02.390 --> 00:02:03.710] By networking.
[00:02:05.010 --> 00:02:07.970] And like I said, this is going to be real short
[00:02:08.770 --> 00:02:10.910] because I'm going to be speaking about networking
[00:02:10.910 --> 00:02:12.730] throughout this podcast.
[00:02:14.250 --> 00:02:15.010] And yeah.
[00:02:15.950 --> 00:02:18.570] So my daughters gave me the thumbs up
[00:02:18.570 --> 00:02:20.970] that the files are done.
[00:02:20.970 --> 00:02:23.530] I had a couple photo shoots today,
[00:02:24.250 --> 00:02:29.190] and then more recently, a video production for a podcast.
[00:02:30.110 --> 00:02:32.870] So I'm like, well, while these files load up,
[00:02:33.110 --> 00:02:35.390] I'm going to record an episode real quick
[00:02:35.390 --> 00:02:38.530] just to give y'all the importance of networking
[00:02:38.530 --> 00:02:39.770] or just that reminder.
[00:02:39.870 --> 00:02:41.570] You may know the importance of networking,
[00:02:42.170 --> 00:02:45.330] but just to give you that reminder to don't be afraid.
[00:02:45.930 --> 00:02:47.570] Step outside your comfort zone
[00:02:47.570 --> 00:02:51.370] if you think you're not able to network effectively.
[00:02:52.670 --> 00:02:53.870] Just test it.
[00:02:54.250 --> 00:02:58.490] Get three contacts and sit in the corner out of that
[00:02:58.490 --> 00:03:01.070] or get three contacts and leave.
[00:03:02.310 --> 00:03:04.190] But definitely challenge yourself.
[00:03:04.790 --> 00:03:06.150] Make them connections.
[00:03:06.250 --> 00:03:07.470] Get those contacts.
[00:03:07.590 --> 00:03:08.590] Build your network.
[00:03:09.350 --> 00:03:12.430] Your net worth is based off your network
[00:03:13.250 --> 00:03:14.270] and vice versa.
[00:03:15.050 --> 00:03:16.510] So yeah.
[00:03:16.510 --> 00:03:18.450] Or I ain't going to say vice versa.
[00:03:18.790 --> 00:03:21.530] Your net worth is mostly your network.
[00:03:22.850 --> 00:03:24.630] So who's in your network?
[00:03:25.530 --> 00:03:26.830] How's your network doing?
[00:03:26.910 --> 00:03:30.270] How big your network is is all important,
[00:03:30.270 --> 00:03:31.970] especially for your net worth.
[00:03:33.270 --> 00:03:34.010] And yeah, like I said,
[00:03:34.030 --> 00:03:35.290] my daughter gave me the thumbs up
[00:03:35.290 --> 00:03:36.910] that the files are done.
[00:03:37.230 --> 00:03:39.130] So I'm going to wrap up real quick
[00:03:39.130 --> 00:03:41.790] because it's been a long day
[00:03:41.790 --> 00:03:45.450] and we've been at the studio for hours,
[00:03:45.450 --> 00:03:46.890] even a couple of hours
[00:03:46.890 --> 00:03:49.870] because the production carried over a little bit.
[00:03:50.190 --> 00:03:52.070] But hey, that's media.
[00:03:53.290 --> 00:03:55.590] And yeah, we're pretty hungry.
[00:03:55.990 --> 00:03:57.010] And it's dinner time.
[00:03:57.890 --> 00:04:01.850] And she had some schoolwork, summer schoolwork
[00:04:01.850 --> 00:04:03.950] and knocked it out.
[00:04:04.590 --> 00:04:09.330] So she's ready to get home to her toys before bed.
[00:04:09.990 --> 00:04:11.890] So I'm going to wrap this up.
[00:04:12.310 --> 00:04:14.050] Remember to get out there and network.
[00:04:14.570 --> 00:04:15.850] Shed your skin.
[00:04:16.089 --> 00:04:18.510] Even sometimes I have to talk to myself
[00:04:18.510 --> 00:04:19.649] and hype myself up.
[00:04:19.870 --> 00:04:21.550] Like, look, you're here now.
[00:04:22.270 --> 00:04:23.590] Just shake a couple of hands,
[00:04:23.950 --> 00:04:25.170] meet new people,
[00:04:25.670 --> 00:04:28.050] be intentional as possible.
[00:04:28.650 --> 00:04:32.350] You may be coming into a blind networking thing.
[00:04:32.450 --> 00:04:35.470] Like you don't know anybody or who will be there,
[00:04:35.650 --> 00:04:37.630] but it's best to do your research
[00:04:37.630 --> 00:04:39.190] for the people that will be there.
[00:04:39.330 --> 00:04:40.950] Maybe there's a speaker,
[00:04:41.070 --> 00:04:42.090] maybe there's a panel,
[00:04:42.150 --> 00:04:43.150] maybe there's a host,
[00:04:43.150 --> 00:04:45.830] maybe there's a company sponsoring.
[00:04:46.510 --> 00:04:49.350] So you kind of want to look those companies up,
[00:04:50.110 --> 00:04:51.850] see who the key players are,
[00:04:52.490 --> 00:04:54.470] see if they align with what you do
[00:04:54.470 --> 00:04:55.630] and what you want to do
[00:04:55.630 --> 00:04:57.910] and maybe the opportunities you want to set for.
[00:04:58.070 --> 00:04:59.690] Or maybe you want to partner with them
[00:04:59.690 --> 00:05:03.510] or hire them or they may hire you.
[00:05:03.850 --> 00:05:05.330] So you never know,
[00:05:05.830 --> 00:05:07.330] but you got to get out there and network
[00:05:07.330 --> 00:05:08.890] and build your network
[00:05:09.520 --> 00:05:11.630] and it builds your net worth.
[00:05:12.050 --> 00:05:14.190] And also raise your value,
[00:05:14.510 --> 00:05:16.010] but it all ties together.
[00:05:16.190 --> 00:05:17.930] So don't be afraid,
[00:05:17.950 --> 00:05:19.070] get out there and network.
[00:05:19.710 --> 00:05:21.470] Again, I'm going to keep it real short.
[00:05:21.510 --> 00:05:22.850] So I'm going to wrap this up.
[00:05:23.210 --> 00:05:28.450] Again, this is Alien Eye player throwback.
[00:05:29.290 --> 00:05:31.510] Alien Eye's Photos Industry Talk
[00:05:31.510 --> 00:05:32.430] with your host,
[00:05:32.710 --> 00:05:34.330] photographer Jackson,
[00:05:34.870 --> 00:05:36.570] Steve Jackson.
[00:05:37.770 --> 00:05:39.310] Give me your importance on networking.
[00:05:40.410 --> 00:05:43.610] And if you ever need me as a business coach
[00:05:43.610 --> 00:05:45.750] or event photography
[00:05:45.750 --> 00:05:48.330] or to be your wedding photographer
[00:05:48.330 --> 00:05:51.730] or video production, podcast production,
[00:05:52.430 --> 00:05:54.490] consultant, business coaching,
[00:05:55.430 --> 00:05:57.150] just a talk strategy,
[00:05:57.510 --> 00:05:58.670] ideation sessions,
[00:05:59.590 --> 00:06:00.790] kind of whatever you need
[00:06:00.790 --> 00:06:05.130] on a high level visual marketing spectrum,
[00:06:05.970 --> 00:06:07.070] I can help you.
[00:06:07.170 --> 00:06:08.290] Or I have a network
[00:06:08.290 --> 00:06:10.170] that can help you as well.
[00:06:10.310 --> 00:06:12.470] So definitely reach out to me
[00:06:12.470 --> 00:06:15.210] at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:06:15.370 --> 00:06:17.830] That's Alien Eyes with a Z
[00:06:17.830 --> 00:06:19.910] and Photos with a S.
[00:06:21.030 --> 00:06:22.310] Alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:06:22.610 --> 00:06:25.070] And you can follow me on all social media
[00:06:25.070 --> 00:06:30.190] at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:06:31.510 --> 00:06:32.990] Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:06:33.230 --> 00:06:34.110] Yes, everybody.
[00:06:34.690 --> 00:06:35.750] Follow me,
[00:06:35.930 --> 00:06:37.030] contact me,
[00:06:37.030 --> 00:06:38.710] reach out to me,
[00:06:38.870 --> 00:06:40.970] like, share, comment,
[00:06:41.290 --> 00:06:42.270] all that good stuff.
[00:06:42.470 --> 00:06:44.350] Share this podcast with a friend,
[00:06:44.830 --> 00:06:46.170] especially this episode.
[00:06:46.710 --> 00:06:48.590] And I thank you for tuning in.
[00:06:48.810 --> 00:06:50.070] Till next time, everybody.
[00:06:50.930 --> 00:06:51.490] Peace.

========================================================================
18. How to Get A Quarter Raise
Season 1 · Episode 45
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/how-to-get-a-quarter-raise
========================================================================

[00:00:00.690 --> 00:00:03.110] Welcome, welcome, welcome.
[00:00:03.850 --> 00:00:06.370] This is photographer Steve Jackson
[00:00:07.150 --> 00:00:09.170] of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:00:09.870 --> 00:00:13.290] And this is Alien Eyes Photos industry talk.
[00:00:14.910 --> 00:00:16.890] Thank you for tuning in.
[00:00:17.470 --> 00:00:23.510] And I was just reflecting and kind of reminiscing.
[00:00:25.660 --> 00:00:29.540] I like to do reflections even of my younger self
[00:00:30.480 --> 00:00:34.220] and just thinking about how I am on my entrepreneur journey
[00:00:34.880 --> 00:00:39.120] from an artist, now creative entrepreneur.
[00:00:41.880 --> 00:00:45.720] I haven't always started there or even as an artist.
[00:00:47.180 --> 00:00:50.360] Well, art was always a part of my life,
[00:00:50.380 --> 00:00:54.640] but as far as making money from my art and as an artist.
[00:00:57.280 --> 00:00:59.080] Of course, we had to work jobs
[00:00:59.080 --> 00:01:06.060] and I remember just being under value for three years.
[00:01:06.920 --> 00:01:09.720] You know, I've got a quarter raise
[00:01:10.100 --> 00:01:13.040] and then even the next year I got another quarter raise.
[00:01:13.060 --> 00:01:14.320] It was like a quarter.
[00:01:15.060 --> 00:01:16.520] So before that even happened,
[00:01:16.520 --> 00:01:21.960] I wanted to renegotiate the raise way beforehand
[00:01:21.960 --> 00:01:25.240] before that quote unquote quarter hit again.
[00:01:26.140 --> 00:01:29.380] Like given tasks and duties,
[00:01:30.340 --> 00:01:33.780] job duties that you didn't sign up for originally.
[00:01:34.580 --> 00:01:38.880] Now you're doing four different departments, same pay.
[00:01:39.320 --> 00:01:41.420] At the end of the year, you get a quarter raise
[00:01:41.420 --> 00:01:50.080] like 25 cent raise after doing the job for five people
[00:01:50.980 --> 00:01:53.660] and people that's supposed to be replaced
[00:01:53.660 --> 00:01:57.740] that got fired or injured, never got replaced
[00:01:57.740 --> 00:01:59.620] and you're picking up the slack,
[00:02:00.480 --> 00:02:03.160] having to stay after late,
[00:02:03.740 --> 00:02:08.280] not getting paid overtime or additional wages,
[00:02:09.380 --> 00:02:12.400] also doing other things within a company.
[00:02:15.880 --> 00:02:18.300] It just makes you think like, you know,
[00:02:18.420 --> 00:02:20.000] starting off as an entrepreneur,
[00:02:21.240 --> 00:02:23.100] you will be wearing many hats,
[00:02:23.860 --> 00:02:25.860] you know, doing a lot of everything,
[00:02:26.460 --> 00:02:29.120] but of course you would like it
[00:02:29.120 --> 00:02:31.720] and you enjoy it because it's something you're building.
[00:02:32.680 --> 00:02:35.420] You're not going to always like it or always enjoy it
[00:02:35.420 --> 00:02:39.080] but there will be aspects that you will enjoy
[00:02:39.540 --> 00:02:43.780] and there'll be phases that keep you
[00:02:45.160 --> 00:02:48.900] not doing the things that you're supposed to do
[00:02:49.650 --> 00:02:52.500] but you have to continue to do
[00:02:52.500 --> 00:02:55.880] what you're supposed to do for you
[00:02:55.880 --> 00:02:58.300] and where you want to be.
[00:02:59.320 --> 00:03:01.320] Like I didn't join the military
[00:03:01.320 --> 00:03:05.200] after being approached by military officers,
[00:03:05.440 --> 00:03:07.020] you know, recruiting officers
[00:03:07.020 --> 00:03:09.260] for different military branches
[00:03:10.420 --> 00:03:13.860] and I was considering it since they, you know,
[00:03:14.040 --> 00:03:15.620] pay for your college and housing,
[00:03:15.620 --> 00:03:17.140] like this and I'm like, okay,
[00:03:17.640 --> 00:03:21.820] there's nice benefits to it and pay is decent
[00:03:23.360 --> 00:03:25.900] and you get to retire after 20 years,
[00:03:25.980 --> 00:03:28.260] I'm like, oh, that's actually hurt
[00:03:28.260 --> 00:03:30.180] but I'm thinking like, okay,
[00:03:30.720 --> 00:03:34.340] especially now I'm thinking how I'm moving in life,
[00:03:35.700 --> 00:03:40.960] like first 20 years of my life was just more music
[00:03:41.780 --> 00:03:45.300] and now transition to more visual
[00:03:45.880 --> 00:03:48.960] where it's more photography and video.
[00:03:49.760 --> 00:03:55.320] So I'm like, what's the next 420 is going to be after 40
[00:03:55.320 --> 00:03:57.640] and what's the next 20 after that
[00:03:58.500 --> 00:04:05.480] and that 80 years of age all the way to 100,
[00:04:06.160 --> 00:04:07.700] what that's going to be vital,
[00:04:08.140 --> 00:04:09.820] like what am I going to focus on,
[00:04:09.820 --> 00:04:12.400] what is going to be my art form at that time
[00:04:14.160 --> 00:04:17.000] and, you know, just looking at it like that.
[00:04:18.380 --> 00:04:19.899] I declined in the military
[00:04:20.459 --> 00:04:24.820] because I said they didn't have any musical jobs,
[00:04:26.380 --> 00:04:27.900] anything that has to do with music,
[00:04:27.920 --> 00:04:30.480] I want to be a musician, I want to be an artist.
[00:04:31.760 --> 00:04:34.580] So I declined, I said, I figured it out
[00:04:35.340 --> 00:04:38.360] and I'm glad I always took risks,
[00:04:38.760 --> 00:04:44.150] just going back to that job, you know,
[00:04:44.950 --> 00:04:49.390] all of a sudden they said they are relocating,
[00:04:49.410 --> 00:04:52.550] you know, for somewhere that was going back to 20,
[00:04:52.910 --> 00:04:57.330] like 20, 25 minutes further than, you know,
[00:04:57.630 --> 00:04:59.850] as convenient, it was a neighborhood job.
[00:05:00.930 --> 00:05:05.370] It was 10, 15 minutes, not too far for me.
[00:05:06.110 --> 00:05:07.930] So I gave it grace,
[00:05:07.930 --> 00:05:11.410] but yeah, that quarter at 25 cent raise,
[00:05:12.250 --> 00:05:13.510] it just wasn't enough.
[00:05:13.630 --> 00:05:20.830] Like I was 16, 17, 18 working at a grocery store.
[00:05:21.810 --> 00:05:24.270] Started a little above minimum wage
[00:05:24.270 --> 00:05:28.670] and, you know, I used to give 50 cent, a dollar increases
[00:05:28.670 --> 00:05:31.110] like, you know, that's still not a lot
[00:05:31.110 --> 00:05:34.210] for, you know, people that make, you know,
[00:05:34.510 --> 00:05:36.870] millions and billions and I'm just thinking about that,
[00:05:36.870 --> 00:05:41.230] and then I just, I'm pretty sure you got a large fraction
[00:05:41.230 --> 00:05:44.870] close to that, you know, million, billion,
[00:05:45.110 --> 00:05:47.330] just like these millionaires and billionaires,
[00:05:47.790 --> 00:05:50.430] you know, this is vital work.
[00:05:51.090 --> 00:05:52.950] I'm not sure of all the overhead costs,
[00:05:53.030 --> 00:05:55.910] but I'm sure what you're getting paid
[00:05:55.910 --> 00:05:59.490] is way much more than I'm getting paid
[00:05:59.490 --> 00:06:02.410] as a, you know, 20 year old.
[00:06:03.490 --> 00:06:09.330] But I was always business minded, entrepreneur minded,
[00:06:09.330 --> 00:06:13.250] and I had to develop that as an artist
[00:06:13.250 --> 00:06:17.270] and I wasn't always monetized and know what I knew now.
[00:06:18.250 --> 00:06:20.150] And then like, I just knew I had to learn
[00:06:20.150 --> 00:06:21.470] the whole business side.
[00:06:21.910 --> 00:06:26.190] So I also applied that when I went to different jobs
[00:06:26.190 --> 00:06:27.730] and worked for different employers,
[00:06:28.350 --> 00:06:30.250] I still kept with business
[00:06:30.250 --> 00:06:31.950] and treated myself like a businessman
[00:06:31.950 --> 00:06:34.030] and even asked different questions.
[00:06:34.490 --> 00:06:36.330] And then I shocked people like, wow,
[00:06:36.470 --> 00:06:39.190] I didn't expect you to say that or ask this
[00:06:39.190 --> 00:06:39.970] or this and that.
[00:06:41.870 --> 00:06:45.570] And I had no quitting after I found out,
[00:06:46.470 --> 00:06:51.650] well, it was months later I stayed as long as I could,
[00:06:52.790 --> 00:06:57.630] but the whole relocation and the avoidance
[00:06:58.370 --> 00:07:01.090] for three and a half straight weeks
[00:07:01.970 --> 00:07:03.930] of we're supposed to have this meeting
[00:07:03.930 --> 00:07:05.950] or something just happens.
[00:07:06.610 --> 00:07:08.730] Oh, well, we'll get to it next Friday
[00:07:08.730 --> 00:07:12.730] and then don't even show up like,
[00:07:14.250 --> 00:07:15.330] almost like the whole week.
[00:07:16.130 --> 00:07:20.270] So it's things like that and not even honoring that,
[00:07:20.290 --> 00:07:22.410] you know, a meeting was set
[00:07:23.090 --> 00:07:26.950] and multiple times basically didn't show up.
[00:07:27.010 --> 00:07:29.470] It was just that act of avoidance, okay.
[00:07:31.090 --> 00:07:35.950] So I just knew my power and the power
[00:07:35.950 --> 00:07:38.670] of just standing up for yourself and having a voice,
[00:07:39.510 --> 00:07:41.930] no matter what you do or where you at,
[00:07:42.590 --> 00:07:45.030] is standing up for yourself and having that voice
[00:07:45.030 --> 00:07:47.050] and standing on your dream.
[00:07:47.450 --> 00:07:49.890] Like, you know, you are worth more.
[00:07:51.410 --> 00:07:56.030] And those are some things I just was reflecting on,
[00:07:57.350 --> 00:07:59.470] just came to mind, came to heart.
[00:07:59.470 --> 00:08:02.410] And it's like, yeah, I'm glad I am doing better
[00:08:03.330 --> 00:08:06.770] and showing up for myself and learning
[00:08:07.870 --> 00:08:10.670] and applying all that I need to apply
[00:08:10.670 --> 00:08:13.770] to get to where I need to be.
[00:08:16.380 --> 00:08:18.260] But stay focused out there.
[00:08:18.980 --> 00:08:22.600] Whatever you wanna do, you have to do it.
[00:08:23.260 --> 00:08:25.780] And this is just a reminder from my reflections
[00:08:25.780 --> 00:08:28.040] from my entrepreneur journey,
[00:08:28.600 --> 00:08:33.720] continue to layer with me, you know, go down my path.
[00:08:34.340 --> 00:08:39.059] Some of my journey, hopefully it helps you
[00:08:39.059 --> 00:08:43.340] to become a better creative, a better entrepreneur,
[00:08:44.100 --> 00:08:49.950] a better creative entrepreneur, a better person,
[00:08:50.690 --> 00:08:56.030] man, woman, whatever you wanna be,
[00:08:56.330 --> 00:08:57.370] remember you can do that.
[00:08:58.430 --> 00:08:59.730] All right, y'all gotta get out of here.
[00:08:59.830 --> 00:09:01.370] This is photographer Jackson,
[00:09:01.370 --> 00:09:04.710] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:09:05.290 --> 00:09:08.930] And this is Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:09:09.830 --> 00:09:13.270] And you can follow me at alieneyesphotos,
[00:09:13.270 --> 00:09:18.450] that's alieneyesphotos with a S,
[00:09:19.690 --> 00:09:21.370] but the I's is with a Z.
[00:09:22.070 --> 00:09:25.010] And alieneyesphotos.com, again,
[00:09:25.350 --> 00:09:28.150] that's alien eyes like your eyeballs,
[00:09:28.430 --> 00:09:34.870] but with a Z, I's with a Z, Photos with a S.com,
[00:09:34.990 --> 00:09:40.930] alieneyesphotos.com and at alieneyesphotos on all media.
[00:09:41.930 --> 00:09:43.170] All right, y'all, peace.

========================================================================
19. Value In Leisure
Season 1 · Episode 44
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/value-in-leisure
========================================================================

[00:00:01.230 --> 00:00:11.450] Walk on, walk on, walk on, walk on to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk with your host,
[00:00:11.650 --> 00:00:19.690] photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media, bringing you Alien Eyes
[00:00:19.690 --> 00:00:28.430] Photos Industry Talk, and I don't want to be too long because I have to eat, it's
[00:00:28.430 --> 00:00:34.930] midnight, just got home from this event. I'm sounding a little nasally, feeling a little
[00:00:34.930 --> 00:00:43.430] nasally, so that's how you know this is real and authentic, and I'll just give you my journey as
[00:00:43.430 --> 00:00:52.370] promised anyway. Like I could be, you know, getting ready for bed, really be working,
[00:00:53.000 --> 00:00:58.570] getting ready for bed, relaxing, or, you know, I got a meal, I want to eat it while it's hot,
[00:00:59.370 --> 00:01:10.190] and I'm out all day, and, you know, I enjoyed myself being out today coming from this event,
[00:01:10.890 --> 00:01:19.870] you know, I know most of the organizers of the event, you know, it's something I always look
[00:01:19.870 --> 00:01:30.820] forward to when they do anything. I was, to be candid, I was supposed to be the contracted
[00:01:30.820 --> 00:01:42.940] media for this event, and, you know, just handling business and doing business. You
[00:01:42.940 --> 00:01:53.150] have a price and a price point, you adjust as needed, yes, but when someone undercuts your
[00:01:53.150 --> 00:02:04.260] budget, I would just do not take it, you know, say, you would save it for the opportunity for
[00:02:04.260 --> 00:02:13.120] someone else, or maybe someone who needs the opportunity, who haven't had many opportunities,
[00:02:14.420 --> 00:02:20.300] but I work with a team, and I have to pay my team, I have to pay myself,
[00:02:21.400 --> 00:02:29.290] and, you know, the first couple years I never took from the company, as far as paying myself,
[00:02:29.840 --> 00:02:46.410] I always work, I'm actually still an employee somewhere, but you have to stand,
[00:02:47.870 --> 00:02:56.010] or what you stand on, your price is your price, unless it's free, just think about it like that,
[00:02:56.690 --> 00:03:04.770] because even though I wasn't officially hired, I still contribute, I still supported, I still
[00:03:05.390 --> 00:03:14.230] got media for this favorite event of mine, and that's a bad quote when I see it,
[00:03:14.230 --> 00:03:22.780] it's been annual, it's year after year, and I love it, so I'd rather do it for free,
[00:03:24.320 --> 00:03:30.720] and enjoy myself, and not have that pressure, or just be working and feel like I'm undervalued,
[00:03:30.740 --> 00:03:39.180] or anything like that, so just take that pressure, that alleviation of that tightness,
[00:03:39.180 --> 00:03:48.140] like, uh, no, it's good to say no, it's good to walk away from deals that are not yours,
[00:03:49.780 --> 00:03:57.690] are we still cool? Yeah, we know business is business, but catch me on the next one,
[00:04:00.310 --> 00:04:08.770] oh yeah, sometimes negotiation is good, sometimes negotiation is bad, sometimes
[00:04:09.410 --> 00:04:18.510] you cannot negotiate anything, like, no, this is, this is it, take it or leave it, some cases,
[00:04:19.149 --> 00:04:25.070] yeah, it's good to negotiate, talk about it, work something out, be in the middle,
[00:04:27.350 --> 00:04:35.360] but I'll let you be the judge of that, you are your own individual, you are your own entity,
[00:04:36.080 --> 00:04:45.380] we make our own decisions, but I'm just giving you the options, so, but I use both,
[00:04:46.600 --> 00:04:53.560] there's a lot of times, especially like non-profits, so any non-profits listening to
[00:04:53.560 --> 00:05:01.740] this, don't try to take advantage of me now, but I try to work with them a little more,
[00:05:01.740 --> 00:05:12.560] because I see the impact, I've been a part of so many, and it brings that emotion out of you,
[00:05:12.580 --> 00:05:19.480] like, almost even to tears sometimes, as a man, just feeling the impact of so many
[00:05:20.080 --> 00:05:28.680] of these non-profits that's doing great work, like, wow, so I do negotiate stuff like that,
[00:05:29.420 --> 00:05:34.880] even do some things for free, like I believe in, everyone gets that free one, maybe it's a free
[00:05:34.880 --> 00:05:40.200] picture, that first one is free, but after that, I'm gonna have to charge you, you know,
[00:05:40.200 --> 00:05:46.020] the game is free, but if you really want to continue on and accelerate and do this long
[00:05:46.020 --> 00:05:56.980] time, it's gonna cost you, it's a fee to things, so, yeah, my entrepreneur journey
[00:05:56.980 --> 00:06:03.360] has been so, so fruitful, just me and so many people like I have at this event,
[00:06:04.020 --> 00:06:10.560] and just go out to events, network, the key to going out is to network,
[00:06:11.300 --> 00:06:16.540] if you're gonna step out, you meet one person at least, they gotta go, especially if you're
[00:06:16.540 --> 00:06:22.920] introverted, I am introverted, but I've grown to know so many people that have always been
[00:06:22.920 --> 00:06:27.940] out, people are like, dang, you everywhere, I see you everywhere, what are you just saying?
[00:06:29.140 --> 00:06:36.880] Yes, it's my frequency, even with the days and months, sometimes I'll just be inside y'all,
[00:06:37.840 --> 00:06:43.380] months away, people would finally pop out again, people are like, wow, I see you everywhere,
[00:06:43.880 --> 00:06:48.560] I'm like, look, I've been in the house for a month, really? Oh, it's the same,
[00:06:48.560 --> 00:06:56.280] yeah, because I'm outside, what many people don't go out, or go out to, or potentially network,
[00:06:57.180 --> 00:07:04.820] or even if it's not attention, but just build their network, build their brand, connect,
[00:07:05.320 --> 00:07:10.540] shake hands, talk with people, experience new things, different events, different industries,
[00:07:10.540 --> 00:07:16.500] shout out to alien hospitals, industry talk, industry talk,
[00:07:18.420 --> 00:07:24.080] as I cover different industries and interview guests from different industries,
[00:07:25.240 --> 00:07:34.620] specialists, professionals, and then we all come together as a community, bring it together
[00:07:35.300 --> 00:07:46.000] as a humanity, like, we all grow together, you know, we could all be in this together,
[00:07:46.500 --> 00:07:53.600] what are you learning? What is your industry doing that my industry could apply? What is
[00:07:53.600 --> 00:08:00.080] that? And that's why I wanted to start this podcast, and that's why going out to events
[00:08:01.140 --> 00:08:04.840] is important, that's why I wanted to take the night off,
[00:08:05.580 --> 00:08:10.720] I didn't want to work, I wanted to actually attend, be an attendee, enjoy myself,
[00:08:11.680 --> 00:08:15.980] still create context, I'm a content creator, this is what I do, I'm going to do it regardless,
[00:08:18.020 --> 00:08:25.400] but enjoy myself, and network, and meet people, I even did a podcast at the event,
[00:08:26.780 --> 00:08:35.280] and produced with the Pull Up Experience, as always, my production partner, shout out
[00:08:35.280 --> 00:08:45.080] to the Pull Up Experience, man, if you're not following us on Instagram, it's the Pull Up EXP,
[00:08:45.080 --> 00:08:50.900] the Pull Up EXP, but check out our YouTube, all our interviews,
[00:08:52.540 --> 00:09:01.520] all our interviews, we're past episode 300, I lost count, I lost count, but yes,
[00:09:03.000 --> 00:09:09.580] check out the Pull Up Experience on YouTube, the Pull Up Experience podcast, oh my gosh,
[00:09:09.580 --> 00:09:17.520] out of Cleveland, Ohio, we are doing it, tap in, please, and I want to shout out my other media
[00:09:17.520 --> 00:09:24.660] partners, LaunchArts Media, and I am the Vice President of LaunchArts Media, the video department
[00:09:24.660 --> 00:09:31.600] help me contribute great visuals to these brilliant clients, brilliant partners,
[00:09:32.760 --> 00:09:38.280] everybody that needs the digital market and content, the visuals,
[00:09:41.960 --> 00:09:51.340] oh, tap in, LaunchArts Media, we get your notice, I want to shout out Alien Eyes Photos
[00:09:52.520 --> 00:09:59.000] Media, I don't shout out Alien Eyes Photos Media that much, especially since I've been
[00:09:59.000 --> 00:10:05.680] starting the podcast and building it up more, but your go-to for event photography
[00:10:06.380 --> 00:10:13.480] and video production, specializing in behind the scenes podcasts
[00:10:14.640 --> 00:10:20.700] and live events, shout out to Creative Frequency,
[00:10:21.940 --> 00:10:30.060] yes, I could not do that alone as far as the consistency, so you can join us at Creative
[00:10:31.080 --> 00:10:40.400] Frequency on all platforms, on a Creative Frequency, on a Creative Frequency on social
[00:10:40.400 --> 00:10:52.470] media, that is me and Bri, Brianna Casanova, oh man, we're just artists, genius, genius
[00:10:52.470 --> 00:11:01.550] artists, I don't, we just like, so talented in so many different art forms,
[00:11:02.870 --> 00:11:09.150] we're creative and we are creatives, and as I talk to you creative entrepreneurs,
[00:11:10.930 --> 00:11:19.990] follow us, Creative Frequency, as we continue to show you how to be
[00:11:19.990 --> 00:11:27.950] consistently creative and that's the frequency you want to be on, you want to frequently be
[00:11:27.950 --> 00:11:35.850] creative and that's why we name ourselves Creative Frequency, again that's on a Creative
[00:11:36.630 --> 00:11:45.830] Frequency, on a Creative Frequency, all right, but I'm about to wrap this up because I got to
[00:11:45.830 --> 00:11:55.870] leave, so follow me at Alien Eyes Photos, that's Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with an S,
[00:11:56.430 --> 00:12:03.190] and then if you want more information or to book me as a photographer or consultant,
[00:12:05.730 --> 00:12:13.530] visit alieneyesphotos.com, that's alieneyesphotos.com, and this has been
[00:12:13.530 --> 00:12:22.150] another edition of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk, and I am your host photographer Jackson,
[00:12:22.910 --> 00:12:29.610] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media, Alien Eyes Photos Media, we everywhere,
[00:12:29.610 --> 00:12:32.090] art your piece about.

========================================================================
20. Getting Your Reps (Why You Must Get Your Reps)
Season 1 · Episode 43
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/getting-your-reps-why-you-must-get-your-reps
========================================================================

[00:00:01.580 --> 00:00:03.940] Get your reps
[00:00:05.120 --> 00:00:13.660] Be in the power position and the habit of getting your reps
[00:00:15.520 --> 00:00:20.360] Walk on walk on walk on walk on walk on walk on walk on walk on
[00:00:21.580 --> 00:00:28.280] To alien eyes photos industry talk and this is photographer Jackson
[00:00:28.920 --> 00:00:35.540] This is all about getting your reps are more so a reminder for
[00:00:35.540 --> 00:00:37.760] getting your
[00:00:37.760 --> 00:00:39.560] reps and
[00:00:40.500 --> 00:00:43.460] If you follow creator frequency
[00:00:43.460 --> 00:00:50.720] All media on a creative frequency, you know me and Brianna preach about
[00:00:51.220 --> 00:00:53.060] getting our
[00:00:53.060 --> 00:00:53.660] reps
[00:00:53.660 --> 00:01:02.520] We had a show segment about getting our reps is giving us room and space and also a platform
[00:01:04.080 --> 00:01:07.580] To get our reps and getting our reps means
[00:01:09.540 --> 00:01:10.740] practice our
[00:01:11.520 --> 00:01:19.220] Number of repetitions that we get just practice on things that we normally may not do
[00:01:19.220 --> 00:01:21.720] but in our own space and
[00:01:22.240 --> 00:01:30.540] See we're wrong. We're right. We'll correct what we could fix what we like what we didn't like how we can make it better
[00:01:31.140 --> 00:01:36.440] before we serve our customers and that's the beauty of
[00:01:36.440 --> 00:01:42.440] Being in the relationship where you both do the same type of things or at least
[00:01:42.440 --> 00:01:44.220] compatible things
[00:01:45.220 --> 00:01:49.980] So with us kind of being in the same industry like we slightly
[00:01:49.980 --> 00:01:54.520] Have different styles and serve different clients
[00:01:54.520 --> 00:01:59.060] but for the most part our skill and our technician and
[00:02:00.320 --> 00:02:03.940] Flow is the same business. It's the same
[00:02:04.820 --> 00:02:05.540] so
[00:02:06.820 --> 00:02:14.680] That's good to have a complementary things that we can almost like a couple going to the gym and working out together
[00:02:14.900 --> 00:02:19.960] We working out we trying different workouts. We we doing this we doing that
[00:02:19.980 --> 00:02:21.580] We're doing this many reps
[00:02:21.580 --> 00:02:27.180] We're doing this many reps on this one and just trying different things and what we like
[00:02:27.180 --> 00:02:32.560] You know at the end of the day, we don't have to be in a cookie cutter system. Like, okay
[00:02:32.560 --> 00:02:34.900] We do this we do this we do this
[00:02:34.900 --> 00:02:39.100] We do this we do this we do this we do this we do this we do this
[00:02:39.100 --> 00:02:41.260] I know we do this
[00:02:41.980 --> 00:02:46.380] Then we do that and then we do this do this do that do that and he would do this
[00:02:46.980 --> 00:02:49.060] We do that do that do that do this
[00:02:49.060 --> 00:02:57.800] So just having all the different combinations and having a space to be open to learn and grow and perfect
[00:02:58.560 --> 00:03:02.980] And when you are getting your reps you are on the road to perfection
[00:03:04.340 --> 00:03:05.880] You're on a road
[00:03:05.880 --> 00:03:12.640] For constant progress getting better. If you haven't listened to my show
[00:03:14.300 --> 00:03:15.820] Getting better
[00:03:15.820 --> 00:03:18.620] Definitely check that out
[00:03:19.600 --> 00:03:24.040] It's a short episode. I believe about five minutes long
[00:03:25.600 --> 00:03:32.140] It's quick easy to digest a great reminder. I love giving these reminders on my entrepreneur journey
[00:03:32.140 --> 00:03:37.800] It's also like a mirror reflection to me and reminders to me
[00:03:37.800 --> 00:03:41.820] But also reminders to you, but if you're hearing it for the first time
[00:03:41.820 --> 00:03:48.100] That's even more beautiful. You know, you get introduced to different perspective and concepts and growth
[00:03:48.100 --> 00:03:52.060] You know, you got to be exposed to grow to grow
[00:03:53.220 --> 00:03:58.960] You have to be exposed to growth to grow
[00:03:59.740 --> 00:04:01.740] it's like maybe
[00:04:03.920 --> 00:04:05.520] Exposed to
[00:04:05.520 --> 00:04:10.620] You know your environment. Maybe there's a lot of
[00:04:10.620 --> 00:04:16.320] You know killings going on. There's a lot of cracks. It's
[00:04:16.320 --> 00:04:18.079] Just a lot of traffic jam
[00:04:18.920 --> 00:04:22.300] There's a lot of this. There's a lot of that
[00:04:23.620 --> 00:04:30.900] So if you're always around it, that's what you are supposed to constantly that's all you see
[00:04:31.860 --> 00:04:33.740] There's a high percentage
[00:04:35.200 --> 00:04:40.700] That you're going to be caught up in that that's what I happen to you xy see
[00:04:42.060 --> 00:04:44.180] But if you expose yourself
[00:04:44.180 --> 00:04:50.440] To the beautiful life and around people who are investors people who are
[00:04:50.440 --> 00:04:53.560] Nice people who are continuously learning
[00:04:53.560 --> 00:04:56.720] people who run successful businesses
[00:04:57.460 --> 00:05:01.940] Those who are successful in their career are in their art endeavors
[00:05:02.700 --> 00:05:04.520] those who continuously
[00:05:05.060 --> 00:05:06.180] grow
[00:05:06.180 --> 00:05:08.360] When you around growth
[00:05:09.000 --> 00:05:16.280] You tend to grow and you continuously doing that by getting your reps
[00:05:16.280 --> 00:05:21.480] You got to keep getting your reps and I could keep going back to getting your reps
[00:05:21.480 --> 00:05:24.940] You have to get your reps get your reps
[00:05:25.900 --> 00:05:30.120] And you get a new piece of equipment or buy new software
[00:05:30.860 --> 00:05:35.060] Get your reps and learn in the system learning that
[00:05:35.580 --> 00:05:41.880] There may be phone and maybe a camera it may be a new machinery in your factory business
[00:05:41.880 --> 00:05:44.980] It may be a new tool in the bakery
[00:05:45.500 --> 00:05:49.810] It could be a new computer system for your office
[00:05:51.040 --> 00:05:52.680] Whatever you
[00:05:52.680 --> 00:05:54.440] Whatever it may be
[00:05:54.440 --> 00:05:57.790] continue to learn it get your reps like
[00:05:58.760 --> 00:06:01.750] Honestly humans, we cannot let
[00:06:03.150 --> 00:06:05.450] Computers technology and AI
[00:06:05.450 --> 00:06:09.030] surpass us when we taught it
[00:06:09.030 --> 00:06:14.050] Yes, like our child in a way where we kind of birthed it made it
[00:06:15.450 --> 00:06:19.390] And it's supposed to be better than us. Just like our children
[00:06:20.330 --> 00:06:21.050] so
[00:06:22.590 --> 00:06:28.910] There's one thing to be good, but let's be great. Let's be excellent
[00:06:29.650 --> 00:06:31.350] And then that's so
[00:06:31.350 --> 00:06:32.250] effectively
[00:06:33.230 --> 00:06:35.030] Communicating getting our reps
[00:06:35.790 --> 00:06:44.310] With each other would work with didn't work. We like what we don't like I we constantly have to do that as humans
[00:06:45.130 --> 00:06:51.490] Amongst each other not just to ourselves like I don't like that. Oh, yeah, they're keeping that inside
[00:06:52.670 --> 00:06:58.610] But you have to have it inside and also out can't just keep it inside
[00:06:58.610 --> 00:07:06.170] Some things are meant to be let out and shared and that's how we grow not only as
[00:07:07.150 --> 00:07:11.330] Individuals but as human beings of a whole as a collector
[00:07:11.970 --> 00:07:19.890] Just think about we are all one. We all should grow together and be towards that constant progression like I love
[00:07:20.410 --> 00:07:28.310] Upward and forward motion that constant progression. I even made a song about constant progression because it's so
[00:07:28.310 --> 00:07:28.910] important
[00:07:29.830 --> 00:07:31.830] and the way you get your
[00:07:32.710 --> 00:07:37.610] Be on that road to the constant progression. It's just about getting your reps
[00:07:38.210 --> 00:07:45.430] Continue to get your reps get your reps. I am getting my reps get your reps
[00:07:45.430 --> 00:07:50.850] I am getting my reps get your reps. I am getting my reps
[00:07:50.850 --> 00:07:54.910] Get your reps. I am getting my reps
[00:07:55.950 --> 00:07:56.750] We
[00:07:57.750 --> 00:08:02.370] And that is so important. I might have to do a part two
[00:08:03.310 --> 00:08:05.850] I'm about to uh go guest film
[00:08:06.810 --> 00:08:09.170] Be co-director
[00:08:09.170 --> 00:08:11.950] On set of beauty toe
[00:08:11.950 --> 00:08:14.710] I know she's on the road
[00:08:14.710 --> 00:08:17.850] Getting a hundred episodes. So i'm gonna start
[00:08:18.430 --> 00:08:20.770] start popping in and uh
[00:08:21.650 --> 00:08:26.830] Kind of gear up towards the hundred episode. I know that's big for miss britney knight
[00:08:27.170 --> 00:08:30.350] And shout out to the queen assist
[00:08:30.350 --> 00:08:37.289] You are doing it keep going keep elevating if you haven't checked out beauty toe
[00:08:37.850 --> 00:08:40.510] also produced by
[00:08:40.850 --> 00:08:43.090] My co-founder creator frequency
[00:08:45.170 --> 00:08:52.390] Brianna casanova of overflow studio. Shout out to the team. I am proud of both of you
[00:08:52.390 --> 00:08:54.290] Keep doing it
[00:08:54.290 --> 00:08:58.050] Like I said, i'm a sis and help out when I can and you know
[00:08:58.050 --> 00:09:01.130] Even if you spend like 10 15 minutes after the show
[00:09:01.890 --> 00:09:07.170] Uh on multiple shows that is brilliant. You know where we could kind of
[00:09:07.170 --> 00:09:11.810] Uh come back to the drum board game plan mastermind and
[00:09:12.580 --> 00:09:19.130] Figure out some things so stay tuned of what we're going to do for her hundred episode
[00:09:19.680 --> 00:09:22.120] And I wonder what ideas she has so
[00:09:22.610 --> 00:09:23.790] Stay tuned
[00:09:24.480 --> 00:09:28.030] And then you know, we are all part of the pull-up
[00:09:28.030 --> 00:09:29.110] experience
[00:09:29.110 --> 00:09:35.100] the number one entrepreneur elevation group in cleveland, ohio
[00:09:35.880 --> 00:09:40.120] Like we are big on entrepreneurship. We are big on community
[00:09:40.120 --> 00:09:44.120] We are big on making an impact and connecting others
[00:09:44.900 --> 00:09:47.020] Collaboration is the name
[00:09:47.580 --> 00:09:49.460] And we are big on collaboration
[00:09:49.460 --> 00:09:56.640] And if you haven't checked out the pull-up experience podcast, please check out the pull-up experience podcast
[00:09:56.640 --> 00:09:58.120] on youtube
[00:09:58.700 --> 00:10:02.160] We're a little backed up on the audio but we're getting caught up
[00:10:02.160 --> 00:10:09.780] But youtube is our golden platform if you want to check out our newest and latest episodes some great
[00:10:09.780 --> 00:10:10.660] interviews
[00:10:10.660 --> 00:10:15.760] Of many many entrepreneurs business owners community leaders
[00:10:16.880 --> 00:10:18.160] public officials
[00:10:20.220 --> 00:10:22.020] Listen to their story
[00:10:22.860 --> 00:10:26.440] And it's always a good time when you with the pull-up experience. So just
[00:10:27.460 --> 00:10:31.620] Come along you when you listen to beauty toe for your relational
[00:10:32.220 --> 00:10:38.500] If you want some great interviews with entrepreneurs business owners and community leaders
[00:10:39.560 --> 00:10:44.100] The pull-up experience podcast which you should listen to
[00:10:45.000 --> 00:10:49.300] And if you want to hear more about a perspective that's different
[00:10:50.020 --> 00:10:52.280] For creative entrepreneurs
[00:10:52.280 --> 00:10:55.660] And sometimes I may interview people here
[00:10:56.700 --> 00:11:00.200] But if you want to hear my voice and learn
[00:11:00.780 --> 00:11:05.320] And see what you could take away with some great insights and stay connected
[00:11:06.260 --> 00:11:11.640] Check out this podcast alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:11:12.200 --> 00:11:15.760] Again, that's alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:11:16.480 --> 00:11:19.460] And if you want to follow the podcast that's at
[00:11:20.540 --> 00:11:24.840] Alien eyes photos right now and that's my business
[00:11:24.840 --> 00:11:34.020] Or you can check out alien eyes photos.com you can find a podcast on their alien eyes photos
[00:11:34.020 --> 00:11:34.760] dot
[00:11:35.940 --> 00:11:36.820] com
[00:11:37.560 --> 00:11:38.440] Yes
[00:11:38.440 --> 00:11:44.000] And i'm connected with the pull-up experience on that page
[00:11:44.000 --> 00:11:51.440] And also beauty toe and i'll be connecting them both so y'all can find it and follow
[00:11:52.400 --> 00:11:55.200] But you can find it at beauty toe
[00:11:55.720 --> 00:11:59.300] I think it's an underscore somewhere, but beauty toe
[00:11:59.940 --> 00:12:01.360] on ig
[00:12:02.240 --> 00:12:06.020] and the pull up exp
[00:12:06.560 --> 00:12:08.560] The pull-up experience on ig
[00:12:09.140 --> 00:12:11.520] Yeah, follow and tag
[00:12:11.960 --> 00:12:14.040] Let us know that you're listening
[00:12:14.560 --> 00:12:16.760] We surely appreciate it, but
[00:12:17.240 --> 00:12:21.000] Just like with me even like my intros and outros
[00:12:21.000 --> 00:12:24.300] That's perfect timing for me to get my reps. Okay
[00:12:24.900 --> 00:12:29.380] I need a little more energy here. Oh, I need to reflect my voice a little more here
[00:12:29.380 --> 00:12:35.680] Oh, I need to enunciate a little more crunch my way. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah
[00:12:35.680 --> 00:12:38.640] Sometimes it's about getting your reps. Okay
[00:12:38.640 --> 00:12:41.340] I was tired that day
[00:12:42.000 --> 00:12:43.820] Even though I still made it happen
[00:12:43.820 --> 00:12:44.200] Okay
[00:12:44.200 --> 00:12:50.080] I still gotta push through and give it that effort that energy that it deserves that is needed
[00:12:50.080 --> 00:12:54.100] for this episode for this conversation for this dialogue for
[00:12:55.420 --> 00:13:03.280] The velocity of the word to the volume and pitch and cue and sonically
[00:13:04.940 --> 00:13:10.060] For my listeners just getting my reps
[00:13:10.880 --> 00:13:12.800] They are not on a stage
[00:13:13.260 --> 00:13:20.100] But me having my own platform my own podcast my own talk show with the say
[00:13:21.000 --> 00:13:26.540] I am getting my reps and just speaking and articulating my thoughts
[00:13:27.760 --> 00:13:30.600] Putting it out in the universe. So like I said
[00:13:30.600 --> 00:13:36.280] For years, I was keeping it in getting my reps of keeping it in inside me
[00:13:36.860 --> 00:13:38.380] You know mostly
[00:13:38.380 --> 00:13:40.340] known as a writer
[00:13:41.060 --> 00:13:42.720] and recording artists
[00:13:43.460 --> 00:13:48.200] Which I would frequently express myself, but since I haven't been doing those things
[00:13:48.200 --> 00:13:55.420] Sometimes it's hard. You know, i'm a photographer event photographer at that so I specialize in events
[00:13:57.700 --> 00:14:03.000] It's not too many times you can be created, especially when you're doing client work
[00:14:03.000 --> 00:14:07.960] It's best to get your reps outside of your client work
[00:14:08.680 --> 00:14:10.900] The work you do for clients
[00:14:11.880 --> 00:14:14.100] Just go outside one day
[00:14:14.660 --> 00:14:18.040] Or practice with a friend that's in the industry
[00:14:18.980 --> 00:14:21.560] At ease talks at ease simulations
[00:14:22.520 --> 00:14:24.240] Play around with different stuff
[00:14:24.240 --> 00:14:27.480] And that's how you grow and that's how you learn
[00:14:28.040 --> 00:14:31.260] And that's how you be on the road to perfection
[00:14:34.040 --> 00:14:35.020] It's great
[00:14:35.020 --> 00:14:36.880] To be perfect
[00:14:37.480 --> 00:14:39.500] And are you always going to be perfect?
[00:14:40.100 --> 00:14:41.240] There's a possibility
[00:14:42.200 --> 00:14:44.140] That's also on you
[00:14:46.600 --> 00:14:50.180] I can't preach it enough get your reps
[00:14:50.180 --> 00:14:51.260] be
[00:14:51.260 --> 00:14:54.100] Sure to practice if you want
[00:14:54.100 --> 00:14:54.860] to
[00:14:54.860 --> 00:14:56.100] Be perfect
[00:14:56.420 --> 00:14:58.160] You have to practice
[00:14:58.680 --> 00:14:59.320] perfectly
[00:15:01.180 --> 00:15:05.100] You have to be great good excellent amazing
[00:15:06.140 --> 00:15:13.490] Just gotta blow it out the water by getting your reps
[00:15:15.060 --> 00:15:17.260] I cannot preach enough
[00:15:17.260 --> 00:15:18.420] get
[00:15:18.420 --> 00:15:19.820] your
[00:15:19.820 --> 00:15:20.660] reps
[00:15:21.880 --> 00:15:25.980] All right, y'all gotta get ready for beauty tobe
[00:15:26.420 --> 00:15:28.720] Got to set up
[00:15:28.720 --> 00:15:30.100] got about
[00:15:30.100 --> 00:15:35.300] 40 minutes and I need about 15 to get ready and pack up so
[00:15:36.340 --> 00:15:41.400] This is photographer jackson of alien eyes photos media
[00:15:42.340 --> 00:15:48.220] This has been another edition of alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:15:48.820 --> 00:15:53.460] Again, if you want to follow me, you can follow me at alien eyes
[00:15:54.340 --> 00:15:55.100] photos
[00:15:55.330 --> 00:16:00.220] And you're going to book me for event photographer or coaching
[00:16:01.660 --> 00:16:02.500] visit
[00:16:02.500 --> 00:16:05.040] alien eyes photos
[00:16:05.040 --> 00:16:06.520] dot com
[00:16:06.520 --> 00:16:08.160] that's alien
[00:16:09.020 --> 00:16:11.460] eyes with a z
[00:16:11.460 --> 00:16:13.790] Photos with a s
[00:16:14.020 --> 00:16:16.120] alien eyes photos
[00:16:16.120 --> 00:16:18.420] dot com
[00:16:18.420 --> 00:16:21.670] Again, this is your host photographer jackson
[00:16:22.230 --> 00:16:26.030] Steve jackson of alien eyes photos media
[00:16:26.030 --> 00:16:30.390] And this is alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:16:31.030 --> 00:16:33.610] Thank you everyone for tuning in and listening
[00:16:35.070 --> 00:16:37.710] Get your reps
[00:16:38.710 --> 00:16:39.910] All right
[00:16:39.910 --> 00:16:41.770] Thank you. Thank you. Thank you

========================================================================
21. Start Before You Are Ready The Creative Entrepreneur's Guide to Growth
Season 1 · Episode 42
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/start-before-you-are-ready-the-creative-entrepreneurs-guide
========================================================================

[00:00:00.850 --> 00:00:06.710] Welcome, welcome, welcome to alienize Vodos industry talk.
[00:00:08.170 --> 00:00:14.430] I just want to reminisce on when I first picked up a camera
[00:00:16.480 --> 00:00:23.810] was maybe four or five and go all the way to now.
[00:00:25.110 --> 00:00:32.870] After putting the camera down and about 20, 2016, 2017
[00:00:32.870 --> 00:00:37.190] and picking the camera up again for the first time
[00:00:39.190 --> 00:00:46.030] and really diving into it like the end of 2018
[00:00:47.950 --> 00:00:53.310] jumping back in almost 10 years, it's 2026.
[00:00:53.670 --> 00:00:57.170] I think almost 10 years I picked up a camera again
[00:00:59.600 --> 00:01:04.900] but just reminiscing on a time where I had to really
[00:01:04.900 --> 00:01:08.420] learn it and learn it in the professional manner
[00:01:08.420 --> 00:01:12.920] the technicalities and settings and all the terminology.
[00:01:15.300 --> 00:01:19.500] Just learning how things work.
[00:01:21.120 --> 00:01:26.660] Not just the camera but one set when you're doing a film
[00:01:26.660 --> 00:01:31.360] or taking photos and how lighting works
[00:01:31.360 --> 00:01:34.420] the different lighting you need, the modifiers
[00:01:34.420 --> 00:01:38.980] the fusions, the interaction with customers.
[00:01:44.010 --> 00:01:49.170] So me not knowing like much of this coming from
[00:01:49.170 --> 00:01:53.530] an artist's background and being an artist all my life
[00:01:54.270 --> 00:01:57.310] I did not really know the business side
[00:01:57.310 --> 00:02:02.650] or how to take professional and high quality photos.
[00:02:03.950 --> 00:02:08.650] Like everybody have a phone, we take pictures or videos
[00:02:09.490 --> 00:02:16.790] but actually monetizing what you do with a camera
[00:02:19.320 --> 00:02:25.000] doing professional, high quality work is a difference.
[00:02:26.360 --> 00:02:30.720] I remember my first two years before I charged anyone
[00:02:30.720 --> 00:02:38.120] anything I helped other photographers with their work
[00:02:38.560 --> 00:02:42.760] being a second shooter, helping them on set
[00:02:42.760 --> 00:02:45.460] just being a PA that's a production assistant
[00:02:45.880 --> 00:02:48.200] doing the same thing with video production
[00:02:48.200 --> 00:02:55.240] and podcast and commercials, even movie I had
[00:02:56.260 --> 00:03:01.540] the luxury to be on set for Superman
[00:03:02.140 --> 00:03:03.520] when it was filmed in Cleveland
[00:03:06.760 --> 00:03:09.120] and that was my first movie set ever
[00:03:09.120 --> 00:03:12.400] people were surprised like I've worked all these years
[00:03:12.400 --> 00:03:15.580] my butt off and I barely could get on the set
[00:03:15.580 --> 00:03:18.280] and you just walk in and you get Superman?
[00:03:19.940 --> 00:03:24.280] Well, it's about connections and relationships
[00:03:25.270 --> 00:03:28.120] and just being dedicated and willing to grow
[00:03:28.120 --> 00:03:30.060] and learn and put yourself out there.
[00:03:30.820 --> 00:03:33.900] And that's what I did like the first two years
[00:03:33.900 --> 00:03:37.340] jumping in I did not charge anything,
[00:03:37.960 --> 00:03:42.480] I helped other people and outside of that
[00:03:42.480 --> 00:03:46.440] I brought my camera wherever I went.
[00:03:47.660 --> 00:03:50.140] I'm an artist, I'm known to perform
[00:03:50.140 --> 00:03:54.140] multiple shows sometimes in a single day
[00:03:54.140 --> 00:03:56.380] but multiple shows a week.
[00:03:57.280 --> 00:04:00.320] So I just did that same thing with my camera
[00:04:00.320 --> 00:04:01.640] instead of like an open mic.
[00:04:02.240 --> 00:04:04.720] I grabbed my camera and went to one event
[00:04:06.860 --> 00:04:08.520] shot all the photos.
[00:04:15.020 --> 00:04:17.820] You know, my first time doing it was very,
[00:04:18.800 --> 00:04:24.370] very different, I'm like, is this how people
[00:04:25.830 --> 00:04:35.300] making a living but still my next almost 150 events
[00:04:36.200 --> 00:04:40.940] for free later that's when I'm like,
[00:04:41.200 --> 00:04:43.380] okay, let me put some numbers behind it
[00:04:44.340 --> 00:04:48.760] and I booked my first client, my brother Erock actually
[00:04:49.520 --> 00:04:54.560] it was his birthday and he needed some more artists
[00:04:54.560 --> 00:04:59.160] profile photos and I charged him $50.
[00:05:01.120 --> 00:05:04.440] If it was someone else, most likely it would have been
[00:05:05.100 --> 00:05:07.960] that higher number starting off,
[00:05:10.660 --> 00:05:14.560] but yeah I charged $50, that was the family discount.
[00:05:15.960 --> 00:05:19.400] But I was like, well, let me stick to it
[00:05:19.400 --> 00:05:25.500] maybe charge people 55, like I wasn't running
[00:05:25.500 --> 00:05:29.940] as a business so it wasn't until years later
[00:05:30.480 --> 00:05:35.920] I developed Alienize Photos and Alienize Photos Media
[00:05:36.560 --> 00:05:40.200] and Alienize Photos industry talk years later.
[00:05:41.200 --> 00:05:44.800] So everything compounded off starting for free
[00:05:44.800 --> 00:05:47.600] just doing the work, jumping in,
[00:05:47.780 --> 00:05:51.500] being around other people that's doing high quality
[00:05:51.500 --> 00:05:56.260] work and being at the level that you strive to be
[00:05:56.260 --> 00:06:00.040] and want to be, you have to be around these people,
[00:06:00.340 --> 00:06:04.400] ask, can you carry your bags, take them out to coffee,
[00:06:04.720 --> 00:06:07.660] go out to lunch, pick the brand for a few minutes,
[00:06:08.880 --> 00:06:11.520] can I ask you three questions over a coffee?
[00:06:12.100 --> 00:06:14.480] Little dude, see what it comes about,
[00:06:14.920 --> 00:06:16.560] can I help you on one of your sets?
[00:06:17.000 --> 00:06:18.320] Can I help you behind the scenes?
[00:06:18.380 --> 00:06:19.840] Can I take photos of you?
[00:06:19.840 --> 00:06:23.220] Can I shadow you in a production call?
[00:06:23.560 --> 00:06:28.480] Like, just be open and that's the benefits
[00:06:28.480 --> 00:06:31.460] of having a mentor and having a coach
[00:06:32.000 --> 00:06:35.000] and I can assist you with that.
[00:06:35.660 --> 00:06:41.960] Anybody in media, especially on the visual medium side,
[00:06:43.260 --> 00:06:47.460] I can help you, anyone in business
[00:06:48.310 --> 00:06:53.400] and want to just get their business organized
[00:06:53.400 --> 00:06:57.440] and have a better strategy and direction,
[00:06:58.680 --> 00:07:00.320] I can help with that.
[00:07:01.360 --> 00:07:07.340] You want marketing or promotion to bring a content plan
[00:07:07.340 --> 00:07:09.820] to your business and around your business,
[00:07:10.640 --> 00:07:12.100] I can help with that.
[00:07:12.900 --> 00:07:15.900] If you have a great event in mind
[00:07:15.900 --> 00:07:18.740] that's very impactful for the community
[00:07:18.740 --> 00:07:22.420] or you're putting on a conference or a boot camp
[00:07:22.420 --> 00:07:26.440] or a networking event, I can help with that.
[00:07:28.120 --> 00:07:29.880] Let me help you with that
[00:07:31.660 --> 00:07:33.870] and if you're familiar with Creative Frequency,
[00:07:33.890 --> 00:07:38.630] you know we're big on work with us.
[00:07:38.690 --> 00:07:43.790] We're showing you us doing work in real time.
[00:07:44.570 --> 00:07:49.670] Like me and Brianna just really, really, really
[00:07:50.930 --> 00:07:52.750] taking it to a whole nother level.
[00:07:53.390 --> 00:07:57.810] Hosting every single day and even behind the scenes
[00:07:57.810 --> 00:08:01.070] of some of the things we're doing and working on.
[00:08:02.470 --> 00:08:03.850] We are really doing the work
[00:08:03.850 --> 00:08:06.950] and we're documenting in real time
[00:08:06.950 --> 00:08:10.890] and showing this sometimes not in real time
[00:08:10.890 --> 00:08:14.530] but it's documented and we put it out over time
[00:08:14.530 --> 00:08:16.510] and have it at our body of work.
[00:08:17.510 --> 00:08:21.610] So some of the things we may have filmed a week ago
[00:08:21.610 --> 00:08:23.270] or just now put it out
[00:08:23.270 --> 00:08:26.090] because we keep that body of content.
[00:08:26.110 --> 00:08:30.930] We try to document our life and our projects
[00:08:30.930 --> 00:08:36.230] and our successes and just content that we put together
[00:08:36.230 --> 00:08:39.070] and tailor to our audience
[00:08:39.490 --> 00:08:44.930] which is creative entrepreneurs, artists, business owners,
[00:08:45.950 --> 00:08:48.250] you know the collection of our brands,
[00:08:49.270 --> 00:08:51.690] not just brand, our brands.
[00:08:52.210 --> 00:08:54.030] So we have alienized photos, media,
[00:08:54.230 --> 00:08:55.870] we have overflow studios,
[00:08:56.510 --> 00:08:58.670] lady beat music, alienized playing music.
[00:08:59.090 --> 00:09:00.770] We have Creative Frequency
[00:09:01.150 --> 00:09:07.110] and then we're tied to other organizations and entities
[00:09:07.110 --> 00:09:09.210] and just community.
[00:09:09.790 --> 00:09:13.370] So we think about all of that
[00:09:13.370 --> 00:09:15.210] and the audience that we serve
[00:09:15.210 --> 00:09:17.370] and the people that we love talking to
[00:09:17.370 --> 00:09:20.730] and helping and love seeing when.
[00:09:21.590 --> 00:09:23.270] Like we love seeing people when,
[00:09:23.430 --> 00:09:25.270] we love being around other people
[00:09:25.270 --> 00:09:28.310] that love seeing other people when
[00:09:28.310 --> 00:09:32.350] and it's like that selflessness on both sides
[00:09:32.350 --> 00:09:33.450] and all sides.
[00:09:33.730 --> 00:09:35.910] We all come together, we all grow
[00:09:37.450 --> 00:09:42.530] and I just got all of that just by starting off for free,
[00:09:42.830 --> 00:09:44.910] just doing the work, practicing.
[00:09:45.470 --> 00:09:48.170] It's like wanting to be on the basketball team,
[00:09:48.210 --> 00:09:49.870] you know tryouts is in the month.
[00:09:50.710 --> 00:09:52.110] I'm picking up a basketball,
[00:09:52.230 --> 00:09:53.470] if I don't have a basketball,
[00:09:53.790 --> 00:09:54.830] I'm borrowing a basketball.
[00:09:54.910 --> 00:09:56.370] If I cannot borrow a basketball,
[00:09:56.990 --> 00:09:58.490] I'm buying a basketball.
[00:09:58.650 --> 00:10:01.390] If I cannot buy a basketball because I have the money,
[00:10:01.710 --> 00:10:03.950] I am gonna find some way to get the money
[00:10:03.950 --> 00:10:05.370] to buy a basketball.
[00:10:06.010 --> 00:10:07.590] So I can get to the gym,
[00:10:07.830 --> 00:10:09.890] so I can bounce it around the basement,
[00:10:10.090 --> 00:10:11.730] go outside, dribble it up and down the street,
[00:10:11.750 --> 00:10:13.690] go to the park, go to the court,
[00:10:14.250 --> 00:10:17.170] play pickup games, practice, practice, practice,
[00:10:17.170 --> 00:10:18.510] practice, practice, practice.
[00:10:18.970 --> 00:10:21.210] And that's the same thing I did with my camera.
[00:10:23.030 --> 00:10:25.390] Learning my camera and the insides and out,
[00:10:25.650 --> 00:10:26.430] knowing how it'll work,
[00:10:26.730 --> 00:10:28.270] knowing how long the battery works,
[00:10:28.790 --> 00:10:31.990] knowing how long things take.
[00:10:32.550 --> 00:10:34.750] Like recycling time on a flash,
[00:10:34.750 --> 00:10:36.990] like when a flash, flash off,
[00:10:37.190 --> 00:10:39.710] usually takes two to three seconds to recycle
[00:10:39.710 --> 00:10:41.810] before you could flash into the flash.
[00:10:42.130 --> 00:10:43.730] I had to learn that with photography,
[00:10:44.330 --> 00:10:47.090] doing weddings where things move at a fast pace
[00:10:47.090 --> 00:10:48.270] in a fast motion,
[00:10:48.710 --> 00:10:51.490] and these events, especially high energy,
[00:10:51.830 --> 00:10:55.550] like concerts and music, fast pace.
[00:10:56.410 --> 00:10:58.950] That flash needs to go off at a certain time,
[00:10:58.990 --> 00:11:00.750] and I had to realize that,
[00:11:00.750 --> 00:11:05.010] well, the flash I have, it takes four seconds for me
[00:11:05.010 --> 00:11:07.310] to reload and cycle back
[00:11:07.310 --> 00:11:09.590] until I could flash another shot.
[00:11:09.970 --> 00:11:12.850] I miss my moment, or I could take the picture,
[00:11:13.190 --> 00:11:14.370] but the flash won't go off,
[00:11:14.450 --> 00:11:15.750] so it will be real dark
[00:11:15.750 --> 00:11:17.730] and nobody will be able to see it.
[00:11:18.010 --> 00:11:20.610] There will be low quality because there's no light.
[00:11:22.050 --> 00:11:25.910] So I had to invest in the right tools
[00:11:25.910 --> 00:11:27.450] and lighting for me,
[00:11:27.450 --> 00:11:30.330] what works with me and my system and my workflow.
[00:11:31.170 --> 00:11:33.590] And that's one thing you get by just practicing,
[00:11:33.950 --> 00:11:35.450] doing it, doing it for free.
[00:11:35.830 --> 00:11:38.570] I still take my camera mostly,
[00:11:39.110 --> 00:11:41.410] not everywhere, but mostly everywhere I go.
[00:11:42.210 --> 00:11:43.770] I used to take it all the time.
[00:11:43.990 --> 00:11:46.830] Now, I keep it at home a lot of times,
[00:11:46.830 --> 00:11:49.830] and I don't want to get in that habit
[00:11:49.830 --> 00:11:54.350] where people think they can just get something for free
[00:11:54.350 --> 00:11:57.010] anytime, or, oh, you're doing it anyway.
[00:11:58.810 --> 00:12:00.610] And I never wanted to get to that point.
[00:12:00.690 --> 00:12:03.890] I saw it getting to that point at one time, too.
[00:12:04.770 --> 00:12:07.590] Just respecting my boundaries in my business.
[00:12:09.860 --> 00:12:11.900] I definitely had to start charging
[00:12:12.520 --> 00:12:14.260] and then also cutting back
[00:12:14.260 --> 00:12:15.880] and keeping my camera at home.
[00:12:16.340 --> 00:12:19.380] Maybe I'm going back to how I started with the iPhone
[00:12:19.880 --> 00:12:24.160] and just capturing pictures and mainly video on that.
[00:12:24.160 --> 00:12:27.380] So I'm like, well, no camera.
[00:12:29.040 --> 00:12:30.240] I use the phone.
[00:12:31.620 --> 00:12:34.660] So I'm still doing it or still make,
[00:12:34.800 --> 00:12:37.480] take a couple, I call it snapshots
[00:12:37.480 --> 00:12:40.940] because the camera is a picture for the phone.
[00:12:41.360 --> 00:12:42.240] It's a snapshot.
[00:12:42.720 --> 00:12:45.360] Can you get good quality photos from a phone?
[00:12:45.900 --> 00:12:47.760] Yes, it really know what you're doing
[00:12:47.760 --> 00:12:50.540] and you practice, practice, practice,
[00:12:50.940 --> 00:12:52.860] just like you had an actual camera.
[00:12:55.890 --> 00:12:58.890] But take that to wherever you do,
[00:12:59.050 --> 00:13:00.510] whatever industry you're in,
[00:13:00.550 --> 00:13:02.470] whatever business you're in or running
[00:13:02.470 --> 00:13:04.990] or thinking about running and starting up.
[00:13:06.710 --> 00:13:09.150] Practice, practice, practice.
[00:13:09.510 --> 00:13:10.730] Get inside a community.
[00:13:11.050 --> 00:13:13.690] Be around other like-minded people
[00:13:13.690 --> 00:13:17.370] or people that's on a higher level than you
[00:13:17.370 --> 00:13:21.370] by one or two, sometimes three,
[00:13:21.510 --> 00:13:23.510] depending on where you want to go.
[00:13:24.030 --> 00:13:29.970] And the fast pace or how quick you want to develop
[00:13:29.970 --> 00:13:35.350] and really grow or even when you wanna scale your business.
[00:13:36.750 --> 00:13:40.570] Get around people that's just a couple steps
[00:13:41.350 --> 00:13:48.520] past you, above you, it's important.
[00:13:51.460 --> 00:13:55.660] So practice, be in the right communities,
[00:13:56.000 --> 00:13:57.660] having the right coaches, mentors.
[00:13:59.260 --> 00:14:04.370] And I'll say lastly, do it for free,
[00:14:06.250 --> 00:14:09.770] especially that first one, even the second one,
[00:14:10.430 --> 00:14:11.790] maybe even the third one.
[00:14:13.150 --> 00:14:17.010] So if you bake cakes, give three cakes away.
[00:14:17.890 --> 00:14:19.270] The first three cakes away.
[00:14:19.370 --> 00:14:21.110] Oh, it's your birthday, let me bake you a cake.
[00:14:21.630 --> 00:14:22.750] This is my treat.
[00:14:23.730 --> 00:14:26.270] Just make sure you shout me out.
[00:14:26.710 --> 00:14:29.310] You take pictures of it, post them on social media.
[00:14:29.570 --> 00:14:30.810] That's all I ask.
[00:14:33.230 --> 00:14:36.310] Three times, the fourth one charge.
[00:14:37.810 --> 00:14:40.430] How much your supplies cost, the ingredients,
[00:14:40.650 --> 00:14:42.230] how long it takes to bake it,
[00:14:42.530 --> 00:14:44.250] if it's been delivered, the packaging.
[00:14:44.990 --> 00:14:48.270] Keep all that consideration, then labor costs,
[00:14:48.830 --> 00:14:53.170] marketing, all that on your fourth.
[00:14:54.370 --> 00:14:56.830] And I'll tell you by your 25th cake,
[00:14:56.930 --> 00:15:01.130] you're gonna, our 25th purchase,
[00:15:02.090 --> 00:15:07.290] you will realize what you need to do to adjust your pricing.
[00:15:08.470 --> 00:15:11.470] If you need to increase, are my prices too high?
[00:15:12.250 --> 00:15:16.110] Our cost of products and ingredients is increasing.
[00:15:17.430 --> 00:15:20.730] So sometimes you need to increase based on that.
[00:15:21.590 --> 00:15:23.050] Are you quite a business?
[00:15:23.830 --> 00:15:27.110] Because you're no longer running a profitable business.
[00:15:28.410 --> 00:15:30.990] You're running a donation, a charity at that point.
[00:15:31.130 --> 00:15:33.190] Doing it as a hobby.
[00:15:34.750 --> 00:15:36.790] So you don't wanna fall in that trap either.
[00:15:37.870 --> 00:15:41.210] So do it for free, be in the right community.
[00:15:42.170 --> 00:15:45.530] And that's either having a good coach or a good mentor,
[00:15:46.470 --> 00:15:49.290] or just being in different communities
[00:15:49.290 --> 00:15:52.450] to where you all help each other,
[00:15:52.570 --> 00:15:53.730] keep each other accountable,
[00:15:53.890 --> 00:15:55.670] or you learn the same things.
[00:15:56.890 --> 00:15:59.550] And then lastly, practice.
[00:16:00.310 --> 00:16:03.610] Practice, practice, practice, get out there.
[00:16:03.730 --> 00:16:06.830] And just do it, test new things.
[00:16:07.830 --> 00:16:09.230] That's the only way you're gonna grow.
[00:16:11.240 --> 00:16:16.080] And if you're new, if you're just starting your business,
[00:16:17.740 --> 00:16:19.100] if you're a creative entrepreneur,
[00:16:19.220 --> 00:16:21.560] you don't even know how to make your first dollar,
[00:16:23.650 --> 00:16:25.530] this is for you.
[00:16:26.910 --> 00:16:30.110] And this is Alien Eyes Photos Industry.
[00:16:30.110 --> 00:16:35.070] Talk with your host, photographer Jackson,
[00:16:35.930 --> 00:16:39.370] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:16:40.610 --> 00:16:42.990] And this is another episode
[00:16:43.760 --> 00:16:45.850] for all my creative entrepreneurs,
[00:16:46.150 --> 00:16:47.450] especially my photographers,
[00:16:48.490 --> 00:16:50.470] but whatever business you in,
[00:16:50.850 --> 00:16:52.310] whatever business you run,
[00:16:52.970 --> 00:16:55.960] whatever industry you partake in,
[00:16:57.090 --> 00:16:58.390] whatever industry you're growing,
[00:16:58.390 --> 00:17:00.770] because I know you're growing that industry.
[00:17:02.940 --> 00:17:05.060] This is for you.
[00:17:06.599 --> 00:17:09.700] Or if you're a mentor or a coach,
[00:17:10.700 --> 00:17:12.599] give them this episode.
[00:17:13.819 --> 00:17:15.060] They need it.
[00:17:17.339 --> 00:17:19.800] But if you wanna find more information
[00:17:19.800 --> 00:17:23.119] or even about the podcast and the choir,
[00:17:23.760 --> 00:17:25.800] scroll all the way down to the website
[00:17:25.800 --> 00:17:28.720] of Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:17:28.720 --> 00:17:31.160] That's alieneyes.com.
[00:17:38.740 --> 00:17:41.240] Visiting alieneyesphotos.com,
[00:17:41.500 --> 00:17:42.900] scroll to the bottom,
[00:17:43.880 --> 00:17:45.420] type in your information,
[00:17:45.980 --> 00:17:46.920] tell me what it's about,
[00:17:47.060 --> 00:17:50.040] whether it's an event or to inquire on the podcast,
[00:17:51.100 --> 00:17:52.820] and put a date on it.
[00:17:52.880 --> 00:17:54.420] If the date is available,
[00:17:54.700 --> 00:17:57.260] I will give you that date.
[00:17:58.260 --> 00:18:01.140] Or we could find another date together
[00:18:01.140 --> 00:18:03.260] that works for the both of us.
[00:18:05.400 --> 00:18:07.500] And then you could follow me
[00:18:08.520 --> 00:18:11.420] on a creative frequency.
[00:18:12.060 --> 00:18:14.320] That's me and Brianna Casanova
[00:18:14.320 --> 00:18:16.620] with Oliver Float Studios.
[00:18:19.580 --> 00:18:22.100] And then individually with my business
[00:18:22.100 --> 00:18:25.600] and brand, Alien Eyes Photos,
[00:18:25.900 --> 00:18:30.220] that's Alien Eyes Photos on all media.
[00:18:31.560 --> 00:18:33.940] And you can check the podcast out,
[00:18:34.260 --> 00:18:35.340] share it with a friend,
[00:18:35.440 --> 00:18:37.540] share it with a business partner or colleague,
[00:18:37.600 --> 00:18:39.260] share it with your community.
[00:18:40.720 --> 00:18:43.700] Send them this episode of Alien Eyes Photos
[00:18:43.700 --> 00:18:44.620] industry talk.
[00:18:45.280 --> 00:18:48.580] But there's hundreds of more episodes
[00:18:49.340 --> 00:18:52.200] between the Pull Up Experience podcast,
[00:18:53.280 --> 00:18:55.400] Alien Eyes Photos industry talk.
[00:18:55.920 --> 00:18:59.080] If you want that business and entrepreneurship,
[00:19:00.680 --> 00:19:03.480] and then even going internal
[00:19:04.380 --> 00:19:08.840] with your faith and relationship issues.
[00:19:09.720 --> 00:19:11.240] Well, I don't want to call them issues,
[00:19:11.520 --> 00:19:18.360] but topics and encouragement and insight and guidance.
[00:19:19.280 --> 00:19:24.480] Check out Beauty Toe with Ms. Brittany Knight.
[00:19:26.380 --> 00:19:28.240] Shout out to the whole team
[00:19:28.800 --> 00:19:29.760] the Pull Up Experience,
[00:19:29.960 --> 00:19:32.420] because we are all a part of the Pull Up Experience.
[00:19:32.780 --> 00:19:35.860] From Brandon Gates to Nikia Hudson,
[00:19:36.640 --> 00:19:41.500] Sam Walks, Michelle Gates, Brianna Casanova,
[00:19:42.000 --> 00:19:45.280] Steven D. Jackson or photographer Jackson,
[00:19:45.480 --> 00:19:46.800] many know me as.
[00:19:48.000 --> 00:19:51.900] We are really doing it.
[00:19:52.580 --> 00:19:54.960] We're building brands and building brands
[00:19:54.960 --> 00:19:56.520] and building brands.
[00:19:56.520 --> 00:20:00.500] Not just internally, but also other people brands.
[00:20:02.520 --> 00:20:04.600] We need all come together
[00:20:05.020 --> 00:20:09.540] and really showcase our potential.
[00:20:17.560 --> 00:20:20.120] Stay along the journey with Alien Eyes Photos
[00:20:20.120 --> 00:20:23.080] industry talk and trust me,
[00:20:23.080 --> 00:20:24.640] you'll be the first to know.
[00:20:25.420 --> 00:20:26.600] All right, y'all.
[00:20:26.780 --> 00:20:27.320] Peace.

========================================================================
22. Test Yourself, Don’t Be Afraid To Test Yourself
Season 1 · Episode 41
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/test-yourself-dont-be-afraid-to-test-yourself
========================================================================

[00:00:01.710 --> 00:00:06.590] Walk em, walk em, walk em, walk em, walk em, walk em.
[00:00:07.970 --> 00:00:17.370] This is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos Media bringing you Alienize
[00:00:17.370 --> 00:00:27.270] Photos industry talk and I'm testing out a new microphone so if it sounds you know
[00:00:27.270 --> 00:00:33.190] inconsistent with the audio that you're used to hearing I apologize in advance but I'm
[00:00:33.190 --> 00:00:45.050] gonna jump right into it and even even though I am testing you know I'm a man of experimenting
[00:00:45.050 --> 00:00:52.150] and changing and improving and elevating I'm testing this mic but I also want to
[00:00:52.150 --> 00:01:03.330] talk about testing, testing yourself, checking yourself because after the test it has to
[00:01:03.330 --> 00:01:03.970] be checked.
[00:01:04.810 --> 00:01:10.970] You can have an accountability partner where you both test each other or you test yourself
[00:01:10.970 --> 00:01:14.710] and have them check it or a combination of both.
[00:01:17.910 --> 00:01:26.320] You always gotta be testing yourself, testing your abilities, testing your will,
[00:01:28.600 --> 00:01:36.900] testing your boundaries, testing your work, testing your skills.
[00:01:39.630 --> 00:01:47.320] You know there's nothing wrong with friendly competition but you know don't put competition
[00:01:47.320 --> 00:01:52.560] too far where you fall out of collaboration and you know arguments and fights and chaos
[00:01:52.560 --> 00:01:59.240] start to happen but test yourself.
[00:02:02.450 --> 00:02:08.509] How can a teacher know where you at in learning something new, the new concept
[00:02:11.460 --> 00:02:20.740] if they don't test you and figure that out that's data and what you get in return
[00:02:20.740 --> 00:02:34.840] is data so come up with a test once a month for yourself.
[00:02:37.780 --> 00:02:47.600] Like my test is gonna be not being on social media at night you know though like
[00:02:49.680 --> 00:03:07.780] close to a little before noon and then late at night like peak time for work and anything
[00:03:07.780 --> 00:03:14.880] out there 1.30 a.m. you know I'm pretty tired I'm doing it tired studying tired
[00:03:14.880 --> 00:03:23.340] editing tired going over clients materials and work tired you know I know when it's
[00:03:23.340 --> 00:03:29.560] like exhaustion and stuff and it's just like okay I just need to go to sleep but
[00:03:29.560 --> 00:03:36.280] some days I push through because I really want to get this done and while I have that
[00:03:36.280 --> 00:03:41.680] momentum you want to push through while it's on my heart while it's on my mind
[00:03:41.680 --> 00:03:45.880] because when I lay down it's gonna all I think about and I'm just gonna stay
[00:03:45.880 --> 00:03:53.660] up anyway so it's just like best I just work to you know I demand of myself to
[00:03:53.660 --> 00:04:05.110] know so test yourself test test your past knowledge you know some some things
[00:04:05.110 --> 00:04:10.190] change as the world constantly evolves you know we got to evolve as human
[00:04:10.190 --> 00:04:17.029] beings I know there's a lot of AI coming out but don't lose your touch
[00:04:17.029 --> 00:04:28.320] as a human as a human being you know never lose your touch never lose who
[00:04:28.320 --> 00:04:37.020] you are your identity your self-identity you know your self-love be in tune with
[00:04:37.020 --> 00:04:42.760] yourself your mind your thoughts your spirit your being the universe higher
[00:04:42.760 --> 00:04:55.870] power your brothers your sisters your family friends business partners or lose
[00:04:55.870 --> 00:05:02.930] that identity of who you are but you got to test yourself maybe you don't
[00:05:03.670 --> 00:05:11.310] just test yourself oh I love ice cream ten years later test yourself if you
[00:05:11.310 --> 00:05:18.010] still love ice cream go to an ice cream contest you see if you still like
[00:05:18.010 --> 00:05:27.860] it the same way or not I'm sure there's people who been in a hot dog
[00:05:27.860 --> 00:05:33.680] eating contest you know pork hot dogs like that and you know they converted
[00:05:34.040 --> 00:05:38.680] life started eating healthier and you know gaining awareness where they stop
[00:05:38.680 --> 00:05:49.330] eating you know these things so you got to test yourself you know you
[00:05:49.330 --> 00:05:56.340] change things change the universe change the world change many things
[00:05:56.340 --> 00:06:05.100] change and that's a good question if things are the same do that mean is
[00:06:05.700 --> 00:06:14.660] it still changing in a way because it's changing this navigation through each
[00:06:14.660 --> 00:06:19.980] day each second each you know encounterment with other energies and
[00:06:19.980 --> 00:06:26.000] people it's like adapting so is that changing it's changing the
[00:06:26.000 --> 00:06:34.710] environment but the thing behind that is the consistency which backs it up
[00:06:35.990 --> 00:06:47.400] and which defines it because consistency is I would say better than talent you
[00:06:47.400 --> 00:06:50.920] know if you consistently doing the right things and you know as I'm
[00:06:50.920 --> 00:07:00.610] consistently elevating myself rise and do these things as I do these
[00:07:00.610 --> 00:07:14.850] things I know there's change and then after that change needs to be
[00:07:14.850 --> 00:07:26.250] transformation and with that transformation becomes the testimony and
[00:07:26.250 --> 00:07:32.930] what's at the beginning of testimony the test and then you get the money
[00:07:32.930 --> 00:07:39.830] you get it when people shy from you they want to know that you're credible
[00:07:39.830 --> 00:07:43.890] and you want to hear past clients testimonies like how what they think
[00:07:43.890 --> 00:07:48.890] about you would have you done for them what work have you done for them you
[00:07:49.910 --> 00:07:55.130] know versus somebody that's new and foreign or a stranger and something
[00:07:55.130 --> 00:08:06.360] they probably don't even need but if you you know showing your proof you
[00:08:06.360 --> 00:08:11.060] know without you know being overbearing I know some some people
[00:08:11.060 --> 00:08:14.620] take it to the highest limits and being overbearing and just all in
[00:08:14.620 --> 00:08:19.960] people's face you know however I respect it you know you marketing
[00:08:19.960 --> 00:08:26.940] trying to put yourself out there I get it but okay let's just tone it down
[00:08:26.940 --> 00:08:35.070] slightly you know you got to believe in your boundaries not only as a
[00:08:35.070 --> 00:08:40.750] business owner but as a human being you know sometimes you got to step away
[00:08:40.750 --> 00:08:51.360] from work or your job or your career for you you know test test test your
[00:08:51.360 --> 00:09:02.440] job test your career test your business step away for a week or two and be with
[00:09:02.440 --> 00:09:12.080] you and then when you go back to it you will you will find some answers that
[00:09:12.080 --> 00:09:21.630] one you were maybe looking for and two stuff you never even thought of but
[00:09:21.630 --> 00:09:25.190] you got to test yourself test your business and that's the only way to get
[00:09:25.190 --> 00:09:35.120] better you know setting challenges and overcoming it reaching a goal whether
[00:09:35.120 --> 00:09:43.020] that's big or small starts with the test so don't be afraid to test
[00:09:43.020 --> 00:09:50.590] yourself you know whatever that test may be on the other side you will see
[00:09:50.590 --> 00:10:03.700] if it was all meant to be by testing yourself yeah that's a that's
[00:10:03.700 --> 00:10:08.320] that's a wrap for today y'all test yourself or don't be afraid to test
[00:10:08.320 --> 00:10:16.040] yourself again this is photographer Jackson Steve Jackson of alienize photos
[00:10:16.040 --> 00:10:22.780] media bringing you alienize photos industry talk this has been an episode
[00:10:22.780 --> 00:10:33.000] about testing testing yourself testing the things around you but keep it
[00:10:33.000 --> 00:10:38.940] internal again this is an intro specter business podcast and as
[00:10:38.940 --> 00:10:47.180] business leaders and entrepreneurs we need to go internal with ourselves and
[00:10:47.800 --> 00:10:52.240] really be in tune with our mental health and our health and in general
[00:10:52.240 --> 00:10:55.480] make sure we're going to the gym taking our vitamins you know getting
[00:10:55.480 --> 00:11:04.840] meditation more rest more quiet time do that it's important again this is
[00:11:04.840 --> 00:11:12.620] Steve Jackson of alienize photos media in partnership with the pull up
[00:11:12.620 --> 00:11:20.600] experience and also launch arts media we do a lot of creative things digital
[00:11:20.600 --> 00:11:30.090] marketing social media management video production live interviews even with
[00:11:30.090 --> 00:11:38.850] business coaching like you know these are the teams that I run with and I'm
[00:11:38.850 --> 00:11:47.510] always open to collaborate I'm guaranteeing you know people that I work
[00:11:47.510 --> 00:11:55.420] with love collaboration so you know the bigger you want this to be we can
[00:11:55.420 --> 00:12:09.690] but again I gotta discuss budgets please come with a respectable budget because
[00:12:09.690 --> 00:12:14.350] we have families in our time it's not free and any time away from the
[00:12:14.350 --> 00:12:21.450] business is deducting so you know I had to it has to be you know
[00:12:21.450 --> 00:12:31.090] worthwhile gotta be reasonable again respectable gonna show up the best we
[00:12:31.090 --> 00:12:38.590] can you know keeping communications deliver the best final outcome and
[00:12:38.590 --> 00:12:49.100] results alright you can find me over at alien eyes photos alien eyes photos
[00:12:49.260 --> 00:12:59.640] on all media alien eyes photos.com that's alien eyes with a z photos with
[00:12:59.640 --> 00:13:10.940] a s.com yeah also check out creative frequency you can follow us on a
[00:13:11.520 --> 00:13:18.340] creative frequency on a creative frequency on our social media and
[00:13:18.340 --> 00:13:26.880] also YouTube check out me and Brianna Casanova you know really teaching
[00:13:26.880 --> 00:13:32.600] people how to stay creative and elevate their wavelength creative wavelength
[00:13:33.680 --> 00:13:39.900] and be in sync with their selves and make it through purpose because
[00:13:39.900 --> 00:13:46.860] purpose drives it all creativity fuels it all keeping that passion and
[00:13:46.860 --> 00:13:52.180] motivation and you never know where you'll be especially if you test
[00:13:52.180 --> 00:13:55.260] yourself alright peace

========================================================================
23. Affirmations For Creative Entrepreneurs
Season 1 · Episode 40
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/affirmations-for-creative-entrepreneurs
========================================================================

[00:00:01.140 --> 00:00:03.900] Walk on, walk on, walk on.
[00:00:04.720 --> 00:00:09.880] If you are into affirmations, this one is for you.
[00:00:10.940 --> 00:00:16.140] If you are a creative entrepreneur, this is for you.
[00:00:17.680 --> 00:00:22.260] Now, anyone that knows me, Mr. Photographer Jackson here,
[00:00:23.120 --> 00:00:27.320] over on Alienize Photos Industry Talk,
[00:00:29.530 --> 00:00:31.250] I love affirmations.
[00:00:31.870 --> 00:00:34.830] I have my own affirmation track,
[00:00:35.850 --> 00:00:39.270] Alien Affirmations, one, two, three.
[00:00:39.750 --> 00:00:42.310] Alien Affirmations, one, two, three.
[00:00:42.750 --> 00:00:45.170] For Alien Oplaya.
[00:00:45.530 --> 00:00:47.690] Check it out, it's a good eight-minute track.
[00:00:48.350 --> 00:00:51.050] It's a powerful affirmation, I just, I am good.
[00:00:51.670 --> 00:00:54.610] I am great, I get deeper.
[00:00:56.150 --> 00:00:59.890] And I'm gonna give you some affirmations
[00:01:00.710 --> 00:01:02.950] to go about your day, something to kind of
[00:01:02.950 --> 00:01:05.370] get you motivated, give you that reminder.
[00:01:06.210 --> 00:01:08.890] You can say it along with me, I'm gonna say it twice.
[00:01:10.010 --> 00:01:11.050] Let's go.
[00:01:12.290 --> 00:01:16.330] I am grateful for the many blessings in my life.
[00:01:18.710 --> 00:01:23.230] I am grateful for the many blessings in my life.
[00:01:27.960 --> 00:01:34.540] I can pay my wants, needs, and desires effortlessly.
[00:01:38.950 --> 00:01:45.950] I can pay my wants, needs, and desires effortlessly.
[00:01:50.400 --> 00:01:53.060] I am worthy, and I am enough.
[00:01:56.900 --> 00:01:59.780] I am worthy, and I am enough.
[00:02:02.360 --> 00:02:06.960] I am in tune with the abundant nature of the universe.
[00:02:09.250 --> 00:02:14.530] I am in tune with the abundant nature of the universe.
[00:02:17.560 --> 00:02:20.300] I am building a money mansion.
[00:02:23.330 --> 00:02:26.270] I am building a money mansion.
[00:02:29.050 --> 00:02:31.750] I am abundantly abundant.
[00:02:34.880 --> 00:02:38.040] I am abundantly abundant.
[00:02:42.770 --> 00:02:47.150] I love myself, I love my life.
[00:02:49.540 --> 00:02:53.900] I love myself, I love my life.
[00:02:58.000 --> 00:02:59.600] Now you don't have to repeat this,
[00:02:59.720 --> 00:03:01.560] but I'm gonna give you some words of wisdom.
[00:03:04.010 --> 00:03:07.750] Life is a continuous movie of a journey
[00:03:07.750 --> 00:03:12.290] of love, peace, and educated guesses
[00:03:14.850 --> 00:03:17.710] and many situations and experiences.
[00:03:19.610 --> 00:03:21.510] Life is an educated guess.
[00:03:22.690 --> 00:03:27.070] Always continue to learn and get educated.
[00:03:28.270 --> 00:03:29.970] Hence the educated guess.
[00:03:34.850 --> 00:03:36.790] But never guessed about yourself.
[00:03:38.250 --> 00:03:42.210] Always speak kind, gentle words over yourself
[00:03:42.890 --> 00:03:44.210] and through yourself.
[00:03:46.730 --> 00:03:50.770] Like I am rich, wealthy, and full of abundance.
[00:03:52.650 --> 00:03:56.270] I am rich, wealthy, and full of abundance.
[00:03:58.370 --> 00:04:02.650] I always wake up energized and ready to conquer the day.
[00:04:04.050 --> 00:04:08.290] I always wake up energized and ready to conquer the day.
[00:04:09.770 --> 00:04:13.670] My business is growing every single day.
[00:04:14.830 --> 00:04:19.610] My business is growing every single day.
[00:04:21.250 --> 00:04:25.190] As I am expanding, my business expands.
[00:04:27.110 --> 00:04:31.030] As I am expanding, my business expands.
[00:04:32.370 --> 00:04:35.750] I am learning and developing as a human being.
[00:04:37.070 --> 00:04:40.750] I am learning and developing as a human being.
[00:04:42.190 --> 00:04:46.870] Positive opportunities follow me.
[00:04:48.700 --> 00:04:52.060] Positive opportunities follow me.
[00:04:54.090 --> 00:04:58.270] I get paid easily and often.
[00:05:00.130 --> 00:05:05.120] I get paid easily and often.
[00:05:06.660 --> 00:05:09.120] Money is pouring into my life.
[00:05:10.860 --> 00:05:13.600] Money is pouring into my life.
[00:05:15.460 --> 00:05:16.840] I am positive.
[00:05:19.500 --> 00:05:21.080] I am positive.
[00:05:23.660 --> 00:05:25.040] I love myself.
[00:05:27.140 --> 00:05:28.400] I love myself.
[00:05:30.770 --> 00:05:32.910] I'm an amazing creative entrepreneur.
[00:05:35.370 --> 00:05:37.670] I am an amazing creative entrepreneur.
[00:05:38.710 --> 00:05:39.890] And we're gonna end with,
[00:05:40.410 --> 00:05:44.030] we are a amazing creative entrepreneur.
[00:05:45.900 --> 00:05:52.020] I am a creative entrepreneur
[00:05:52.680 --> 00:05:54.440] that happens to be amazing.
[00:05:56.300 --> 00:05:59.220] I am a creative entrepreneur
[00:06:00.220 --> 00:06:02.540] that happens to be amazing.
[00:06:04.600 --> 00:06:07.060] I am an amazing entrepreneur.
[00:06:09.920 --> 00:06:13.120] I am an amazing creative.
[00:06:15.480 --> 00:06:18.040] I am an amazing creative entrepreneur.
[00:06:20.700 --> 00:06:23.140] I am an amazing creative entrepreneur.
[00:06:24.720 --> 00:06:26.020] Stay blessed.
[00:06:26.760 --> 00:06:30.360] This is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson,
[00:06:30.760 --> 00:06:33.680] AKA Mr. Alienar Player.
[00:06:33.680 --> 00:06:36.500] If you wanna check out more affirmations,
[00:06:36.920 --> 00:06:40.800] check out Alien Affirmations 1, 2, 3.
[00:06:41.080 --> 00:06:44.780] Yes, Alien Affirmations 1, 2, 3
[00:06:44.780 --> 00:06:49.180] by Alienar Player on Apple, Spotify,
[00:06:49.360 --> 00:06:51.420] wherever you stream your tracks.
[00:06:51.880 --> 00:06:53.080] It is everywhere.
[00:06:54.600 --> 00:06:59.420] Again, photographer Jackson of Alienar's Photos Media
[00:07:00.000 --> 00:07:02.660] and Alienar's Photos Industry Talk.
[00:07:03.680 --> 00:07:06.480] Catch me at alien eyes.
[00:07:07.020 --> 00:07:10.740] It's eyes with a Z and photos.
[00:07:11.120 --> 00:07:16.400] Photos with a S on all social media and at the dot com.
[00:07:16.580 --> 00:07:18.820] So alienarsphotos.com
[00:07:18.820 --> 00:07:21.860] if you wanna book me up for more information.
[00:07:22.600 --> 00:07:24.100] Thank you for tuning in.
[00:07:24.440 --> 00:07:26.900] Let me know how you like these affirmations.
[00:07:26.980 --> 00:07:28.340] Shoot me a message like,
[00:07:28.600 --> 00:07:30.280] hey, we want some more affirmations.
[00:07:30.300 --> 00:07:31.180] This was good.
[00:07:31.180 --> 00:07:31.980] This is needed.
[00:07:32.480 --> 00:07:34.140] I have a whole track.
[00:07:35.420 --> 00:07:40.320] I was supposed to put out an album of affirmations,
[00:07:40.400 --> 00:07:42.720] but I postponed it.
[00:07:43.660 --> 00:07:45.980] So if you like this style,
[00:07:46.320 --> 00:07:47.880] I could offer you more
[00:07:47.880 --> 00:07:52.260] because I have so many that I just got out of my head
[00:07:52.260 --> 00:07:56.580] that I just wrote down over the past five years,
[00:07:57.100 --> 00:07:58.500] the personal affirmations
[00:07:58.500 --> 00:08:02.560] that got me through some tough times, hard times
[00:08:02.560 --> 00:08:06.940] and that I truly believe in and really that I believe.
[00:08:08.600 --> 00:08:13.100] So if you want more of these affirmations, let me know.
[00:08:13.700 --> 00:08:17.580] Again, photographer Jackson of Alienar's Photos Media
[00:08:18.130 --> 00:08:20.460] and Alienar's Photos Industry Talk.
[00:08:21.480 --> 00:08:24.040] Let me know how you like these affirmations.
[00:08:24.880 --> 00:08:25.680] All right.
[00:08:26.200 --> 00:08:26.860] Take care.

========================================================================
24. Tybo Audio  Studio Jesus - Expert Studio and Production Specialist
Season 2 · Episode 16
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/tybo-audio-studio-jesus
========================================================================

[00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:02.260] I would like to introduce Mr. Tybo.
[00:00:02.300 --> 00:00:03.720] And I'm not talking about the workout,
[00:00:03.940 --> 00:00:05.640] the cardio workout with Billy Banks.
[00:00:05.980 --> 00:00:07.860] I'm not talking about Tybo, Nevada.
[00:00:07.980 --> 00:00:09.580] I'm not talking about a typo.
[00:00:09.600 --> 00:00:12.160] I'm talking about Tybo, audio.
[00:00:12.720 --> 00:00:14.500] Everything around me was just like chaotic.
[00:00:14.660 --> 00:00:16.020] And I was like, man, I gotta be the person
[00:00:16.020 --> 00:00:18.040] to make that change, make that difference.
[00:00:18.360 --> 00:00:19.860] So one day when I was 16 years old,
[00:00:19.920 --> 00:00:21.740] I walked to this college I'd never been to.
[00:00:21.900 --> 00:00:22.840] And I just told him, I said,
[00:00:22.840 --> 00:00:23.720] I wanna go to school here.
[00:00:23.920 --> 00:00:25.280] Yeah, that was the day my life changed.
[00:00:25.480 --> 00:00:26.840] I know there's a change
[00:00:26.840 --> 00:00:28.440] because you're a testimony to that.
[00:00:28.520 --> 00:00:29.700] It took a lot of pressure.
[00:00:29.700 --> 00:00:32.360] A lot of darkness, the type of environment
[00:00:32.360 --> 00:00:33.700] it takes to make a diamond.
[00:00:33.940 --> 00:00:35.520] It's not a pretty environment.
[00:00:36.120 --> 00:00:37.620] So ever since I touched down in Atlanta,
[00:00:37.640 --> 00:00:40.140] I've been like, yo, let me prove my worth
[00:00:40.140 --> 00:00:41.740] and I know you'll pay me.
[00:00:41.800 --> 00:00:43.760] Cause I've been doing it like that since I was 17.
[00:00:43.900 --> 00:00:46.380] I show up at any studio, fix everything.
[00:00:46.640 --> 00:00:49.020] I was like, bro, I just made $500 in two hours.
[00:00:49.440 --> 00:00:51.700] And I'm like 17, 18 at the time.
[00:00:51.940 --> 00:00:54.320] But you said all of your clients are like your mentors.
[00:00:54.820 --> 00:00:56.760] Majority of my clients are my mentors actually.
[00:00:56.940 --> 00:00:58.300] Just because you love something,
[00:00:58.300 --> 00:00:59.800] love learning about something,
[00:00:59.860 --> 00:01:01.860] it doesn't mean you need to turn it into a career.
[00:01:02.720 --> 00:01:04.959] Welcome, welcome, welcome
[00:01:04.959 --> 00:01:07.900] to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:01:07.900 --> 00:01:10.120] with your host photographer Jackson,
[00:01:10.360 --> 00:01:13.620] Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos Media.
[00:01:14.400 --> 00:01:17.200] And to my right, I have a special, special guest,
[00:01:17.660 --> 00:01:19.540] a production specialist.
[00:01:20.220 --> 00:01:22.260] And yeah, look at the studio.
[00:01:22.880 --> 00:01:25.660] Creator Clubhouse here in Atlanta, Georgia,
[00:01:25.660 --> 00:01:30.720] fresh off the podcast summit, 26, or 26.
[00:01:31.880 --> 00:01:34.280] And I would like to introduce Mr. Tybo.
[00:01:34.300 --> 00:01:35.760] And I'm not talking about the workout,
[00:01:35.940 --> 00:01:37.660] the cardio workout with Billy Banks.
[00:01:37.980 --> 00:01:39.860] I'm not talking about Tybo, Nevada.
[00:01:39.960 --> 00:01:41.600] I'm not talking about a typo.
[00:01:41.600 --> 00:01:44.100] I'm talking about Tybo audio.
[00:01:44.720 --> 00:01:45.700] How you doing, my brother?
[00:01:45.900 --> 00:01:46.680] I'm feeling good, brother.
[00:01:46.720 --> 00:01:47.520] I'm blessed to be here.
[00:01:47.620 --> 00:01:49.340] I'm surprised you know about Tybo, Nevada.
[00:01:49.520 --> 00:01:50.760] Nobody knows about that.
[00:01:50.800 --> 00:01:51.820] You did your research.
[00:01:51.900 --> 00:01:52.820] I did my research.
[00:01:52.820 --> 00:01:53.280] Yes, sir.
[00:01:53.280 --> 00:01:55.880] So I did a little brief introduction,
[00:01:56.100 --> 00:01:57.780] but nobody could do it better than yourself.
[00:01:58.200 --> 00:01:59.760] Introduce yourself to the people.
[00:02:00.000 --> 00:02:01.040] Yeah, no, my name is Tybo.
[00:02:01.440 --> 00:02:04.440] I set up studios for entrepreneurs and creators,
[00:02:04.620 --> 00:02:07.340] and I specialize in audio, lighting, and video.
[00:02:08.539 --> 00:02:09.720] I would say which one is your favorite?
[00:02:10.380 --> 00:02:13.140] Probably audio, because that's where I started off.
[00:02:13.220 --> 00:02:15.200] I have a deep love for music.
[00:02:16.240 --> 00:02:17.300] Yeah, so probably audio.
[00:02:17.720 --> 00:02:20.060] Okay, so you say you have a deep love for music
[00:02:20.060 --> 00:02:22.020] that you use to do music, produce,
[00:02:22.020 --> 00:02:23.700] or more like an artist.
[00:02:23.980 --> 00:02:25.840] I've done every aspect of audio
[00:02:25.840 --> 00:02:27.660] as far as like I've been a rapper,
[00:02:27.860 --> 00:02:29.540] I've been a producer, I've made beats,
[00:02:29.680 --> 00:02:32.400] I've played piano, I've taken vocal lessons,
[00:02:32.780 --> 00:02:34.840] I've been on tours, I've mixed and mastered.
[00:02:35.100 --> 00:02:37.060] Anything you can think of as far as audio,
[00:02:37.120 --> 00:02:38.700] I've gotten paid a lot of money
[00:02:38.700 --> 00:02:40.320] to do it at some point, so yeah.
[00:02:40.540 --> 00:02:44.420] Okay, so you say you've been a performing artist,
[00:02:44.660 --> 00:02:45.440] recording artist.
[00:02:45.620 --> 00:02:47.100] Where can we find some of this music?
[00:02:47.400 --> 00:02:49.480] You can look up Tybo audio on all platforms.
[00:02:49.520 --> 00:02:50.980] You're gonna see all of my older music.
[00:02:50.980 --> 00:02:52.940] I haven't released music in like six or seven years,
[00:02:52.980 --> 00:02:54.840] but yeah, I did like 55 songs.
[00:02:54.860 --> 00:02:56.440] I dropped like five different projects,
[00:02:56.820 --> 00:02:58.820] all produced by me, all written,
[00:02:59.500 --> 00:03:00.760] recorded, everything done by me.
[00:03:01.060 --> 00:03:01.780] That is amazing.
[00:03:01.800 --> 00:03:03.440] I used to be a recording artist myself.
[00:03:03.480 --> 00:03:05.480] That's actually how I got into production
[00:03:05.480 --> 00:03:07.240] and being a photographer.
[00:03:08.140 --> 00:03:10.280] I would get off stage, perform in our host
[00:03:10.280 --> 00:03:12.060] and record other artists on my iPhone.
[00:03:12.120 --> 00:03:14.120] I'm like, let me invest in the camera.
[00:03:14.360 --> 00:03:15.540] So when I did that,
[00:03:15.720 --> 00:03:17.420] I started studying and practicing,
[00:03:17.600 --> 00:03:18.700] studying and practicing,
[00:03:19.000 --> 00:03:20.760] then kind of left the music scene.
[00:03:20.760 --> 00:03:23.160] Music and poetry, can't forget the poetry
[00:03:23.720 --> 00:03:25.660] and just never look back.
[00:03:26.600 --> 00:03:29.120] Here now, I'm in front of the camera,
[00:03:29.180 --> 00:03:30.780] but I'm usually behind the camera.
[00:03:31.700 --> 00:03:32.860] It's good to have that balance.
[00:03:33.240 --> 00:03:34.000] Oh yeah.
[00:03:35.040 --> 00:03:36.880] So who's your favorite artist?
[00:03:37.260 --> 00:03:39.620] Favorite artist of all time had to be Stevie Wonder.
[00:03:40.560 --> 00:03:42.280] If I had to choose like rap music,
[00:03:42.340 --> 00:03:43.100] like my favorite rapper,
[00:03:43.220 --> 00:03:44.540] I had to go Kendrick Lamar.
[00:03:45.880 --> 00:03:47.480] But yeah, and then favorite band.
[00:03:48.160 --> 00:03:50.240] I always tell people it's a hard choice
[00:03:50.240 --> 00:03:51.860] between either Earth, Wind and Fire
[00:03:51.860 --> 00:03:53.480] or a band called Steely Dan.
[00:03:53.700 --> 00:03:56.840] They both are like the top bands for me.
[00:03:58.680 --> 00:04:01.020] I love Earth, Wind and Fire.
[00:04:01.280 --> 00:04:02.340] And then to repeat,
[00:04:02.860 --> 00:04:05.220] I like Michael Jackson and Tupac.
[00:04:05.620 --> 00:04:08.620] I say since my name is Steve Jackson
[00:04:08.620 --> 00:04:11.860] and I say Michael Jackson is my uncle
[00:04:12.270 --> 00:04:13.980] and then Tupac is my father.
[00:04:16.700 --> 00:04:19.420] So even jumping back to the early days,
[00:04:19.420 --> 00:04:22.540] I know let's see your presentation yesterday.
[00:04:22.540 --> 00:04:26.020] You say you dropped out of school in middle school,
[00:04:26.140 --> 00:04:26.760] like sixth grade.
[00:04:27.160 --> 00:04:29.020] Yeah, sixth grade was my last official grade
[00:04:29.020 --> 00:04:30.100] in like public school.
[00:04:30.620 --> 00:04:33.320] And then I did like four or five years, no school.
[00:04:33.440 --> 00:04:34.340] I was just in the streets,
[00:04:34.500 --> 00:04:35.840] kind of roaming around doing my own thing.
[00:04:35.860 --> 00:04:37.000] And then finally at 16,
[00:04:37.300 --> 00:04:39.820] I decided to get my GED and go to college.
[00:04:39.980 --> 00:04:43.020] And I ended up being in this scholarship program
[00:04:43.020 --> 00:04:45.820] that paid for my college education from 16 to 21.
[00:04:46.160 --> 00:04:47.820] I took as many classes as I could.
[00:04:47.820 --> 00:04:50.000] I learned as many things as I could in that time
[00:04:50.000 --> 00:04:52.800] and got two degrees and been doing this ever since.
[00:04:53.620 --> 00:04:55.300] So going back to that sixth grade,
[00:04:55.560 --> 00:04:56.500] what made you drop out?
[00:04:56.620 --> 00:04:57.540] What happened around that time?
[00:04:57.920 --> 00:04:59.240] So I was going through a lot of family stuff.
[00:04:59.420 --> 00:05:01.080] My dad went to prison when I was 10 years old.
[00:05:01.100 --> 00:05:03.040] And by the time he was released,
[00:05:03.040 --> 00:05:05.340] he was super institutionalized.
[00:05:05.340 --> 00:05:07.200] And my mom was dealing with homelessness
[00:05:07.200 --> 00:05:09.300] and drug addiction and all of these things.
[00:05:09.320 --> 00:05:12.160] So just my family life was just chaotic at that time.
[00:05:13.060 --> 00:05:14.820] So school just wasn't in the picture for me.
[00:05:15.160 --> 00:05:16.100] Oh wow.
[00:05:16.100 --> 00:05:18.300] And then what influenced you to go back to school?
[00:05:19.140 --> 00:05:20.160] Seeing the people around me,
[00:05:20.220 --> 00:05:21.500] like the situations I was in,
[00:05:21.620 --> 00:05:24.600] I'd lost a couple friends and my dad in and out of jail,
[00:05:24.660 --> 00:05:25.960] my brother in and out of jail,
[00:05:26.140 --> 00:05:28.580] like just everything around me was just like chaotic.
[00:05:28.620 --> 00:05:30.100] And I was like, man, I gotta be the person
[00:05:30.100 --> 00:05:32.120] to make that change, make that difference.
[00:05:32.300 --> 00:05:33.960] So one day when I was 16 years old,
[00:05:33.960 --> 00:05:35.420] I decided to just,
[00:05:35.600 --> 00:05:36.520] literally I was sitting in this house
[00:05:36.520 --> 00:05:37.780] and I turned this TV off.
[00:05:37.940 --> 00:05:39.700] I was just sitting there watching TV.
[00:05:39.980 --> 00:05:41.100] I turned it off and I was like,
[00:05:41.180 --> 00:05:41.940] yo, this is the day.
[00:05:42.060 --> 00:05:43.980] And I walked to this college and never been to.
[00:05:44.460 --> 00:05:45.420] And I just told him, I said,
[00:05:45.420 --> 00:05:46.340] I wanna go to school here.
[00:05:46.500 --> 00:05:48.380] And the funny thing is like I was in the wrong building.
[00:05:48.460 --> 00:05:49.800] I was in like the sports building there.
[00:05:49.840 --> 00:05:51.160] Like you need to go to administration
[00:05:51.160 --> 00:05:52.620] and sign up and do all this.
[00:05:53.340 --> 00:05:54.880] But yeah, that was the day my life changed.
[00:05:55.360 --> 00:05:56.560] I love that for you.
[00:05:56.600 --> 00:05:59.180] And I know so many countless people
[00:05:59.180 --> 00:06:01.200] going through it, especially young ones,
[00:06:01.700 --> 00:06:03.560] lost their parents or just struggling
[00:06:03.560 --> 00:06:04.640] to figure a way out,
[00:06:04.640 --> 00:06:05.860] just being in the streets,
[00:06:06.240 --> 00:06:07.920] hanging around the same people.
[00:06:08.620 --> 00:06:09.940] I know there's a change
[00:06:09.940 --> 00:06:11.660] because you're a testimony to that.
[00:06:12.120 --> 00:06:14.320] Is there a message you can share
[00:06:14.320 --> 00:06:15.240] for a younger person
[00:06:15.240 --> 00:06:16.620] that's going through something similar?
[00:06:17.560 --> 00:06:19.320] Yeah, I say pressure makes diamonds.
[00:06:19.980 --> 00:06:23.600] So you guys see this finished product here,
[00:06:23.600 --> 00:06:24.880] but it took a lot of pressure,
[00:06:25.620 --> 00:06:26.420] a lot of darkness.
[00:06:26.860 --> 00:06:29.400] The type of environment it takes to make a diamond,
[00:06:29.920 --> 00:06:31.720] it's not a pretty environment.
[00:06:32.080 --> 00:06:34.640] But then when you get that diamond shining,
[00:06:34.800 --> 00:06:37.140] it's bright, so it's worth it in the end.
[00:06:37.480 --> 00:06:38.540] So just don't give up.
[00:06:38.940 --> 00:06:39.560] Don't give up.
[00:06:39.680 --> 00:06:41.360] I'm a firm believer in that.
[00:06:41.360 --> 00:06:45.120] Take breaks, take pauses, but don't give up.
[00:06:45.340 --> 00:06:46.220] Never, never stop.
[00:06:46.300 --> 00:06:46.880] I love that.
[00:06:47.520 --> 00:06:49.380] And we're sitting in one of the studios
[00:06:49.380 --> 00:06:51.220] you built or helped build, create.
[00:06:51.520 --> 00:06:54.020] What was the process behind it
[00:06:54.020 --> 00:06:55.480] and how long did it take?
[00:06:55.480 --> 00:06:58.100] So I met Dave two years ago at a mastermind.
[00:06:58.220 --> 00:06:59.280] It was one of his masterminds.
[00:06:59.280 --> 00:07:00.940] Dave does these masterminds,
[00:07:00.940 --> 00:07:02.760] I want to say maybe like once or twice a year.
[00:07:02.760 --> 00:07:04.440] He gets all the biggest podcasters,
[00:07:04.940 --> 00:07:08.600] biggest entertainers in Atlanta all in one space.
[00:07:08.600 --> 00:07:10.600] And we just politic, we connect,
[00:07:10.720 --> 00:07:12.480] we share thoughts and ideas.
[00:07:12.600 --> 00:07:14.580] But I got invited to one of these masterminds.
[00:07:14.620 --> 00:07:16.220] I never heard of David Chan's before,
[00:07:16.220 --> 00:07:17.820] never seen the Social Proof podcast.
[00:07:18.220 --> 00:07:20.120] But somebody invited me to this mastermind
[00:07:20.120 --> 00:07:22.020] and I walked in, it was this big old mansion
[00:07:22.400 --> 00:07:24.020] actually owned by one of my clients, Neo.
[00:07:24.160 --> 00:07:24.820] Shout out, Neo.
[00:07:24.980 --> 00:07:25.600] Shout out, Neo.
[00:07:26.360 --> 00:07:28.320] So I walked in and there was a bunch of people
[00:07:28.320 --> 00:07:29.300] that I already worked with
[00:07:29.300 --> 00:07:31.860] and I didn't know it was David Chan's event,
[00:07:31.920 --> 00:07:33.860] but essentially two of my clients stood up
[00:07:33.860 --> 00:07:35.420] and they're like, yo, everybody in this room
[00:07:35.420 --> 00:07:36.900] needs to connect with this guy, Tybo.
[00:07:36.920 --> 00:07:38.240] He's the dopest producer.
[00:07:38.240 --> 00:07:39.320] He's the dopest engineer.
[00:07:39.440 --> 00:07:41.000] You guys gotta get with this guy.
[00:07:41.520 --> 00:07:42.640] And so David took notice.
[00:07:42.760 --> 00:07:43.300] He was like, wait a minute,
[00:07:43.300 --> 00:07:44.480] I've never even seen that dude.
[00:07:44.660 --> 00:07:45.840] And he's at my mastermind.
[00:07:46.160 --> 00:07:47.140] So he walked up to me.
[00:07:47.180 --> 00:07:49.900] He's like, hey bro, just want to introduce myself.
[00:07:49.960 --> 00:07:51.360] He's like, you gotta come by my studio.
[00:07:51.480 --> 00:07:53.220] And I was like, bet I'll come by whenever.
[00:07:53.300 --> 00:07:54.620] He's like, can you stop by tomorrow?
[00:07:55.040 --> 00:07:56.340] And I was like, yep, let's do it.
[00:07:56.700 --> 00:07:59.580] So I came here the next day, it was like 10 a.m.
[00:08:00.280 --> 00:08:02.380] And I walked in and I'd just seen everything
[00:08:02.380 --> 00:08:04.640] and I was like, you guys can make
[00:08:04.640 --> 00:08:06.560] some crazy upgrades to this space
[00:08:06.560 --> 00:08:07.880] because you guys already have,
[00:08:08.160 --> 00:08:09.700] they had this room built out.
[00:08:09.700 --> 00:08:10.600] They had the back room,
[00:08:10.600 --> 00:08:12.820] but it just wasn't really cohesive.
[00:08:13.000 --> 00:08:14.680] Everything wasn't optimized.
[00:08:15.580 --> 00:08:17.260] So I pulled David to the side and said,
[00:08:17.260 --> 00:08:19.140] yo, let me get you right.
[00:08:19.380 --> 00:08:22.320] Let me fully utilize this building
[00:08:22.320 --> 00:08:23.960] to its fullest potential.
[00:08:24.680 --> 00:08:26.020] So he was like, all right,
[00:08:26.080 --> 00:08:27.160] well, how much are you gonna cost?
[00:08:27.500 --> 00:08:29.920] And I was like, this stuff ain't cheap.
[00:08:30.280 --> 00:08:32.220] So he already spent thousands of dollars
[00:08:32.220 --> 00:08:32.780] in this building.
[00:08:32.840 --> 00:08:34.120] So he was like, all right.
[00:08:34.440 --> 00:08:36.100] So I told him, I was like, yo, let's do this.
[00:08:36.100 --> 00:08:36.659] Let's do that.
[00:08:36.659 --> 00:08:38.400] So now all of the rooms are connected.
[00:08:38.400 --> 00:08:39.440] You can live stream.
[00:08:39.580 --> 00:08:41.980] You can sit in this room and do an interview
[00:08:41.980 --> 00:08:43.740] and everybody can see you in the event room.
[00:08:44.039 --> 00:08:46.380] And you can use this room as a green room now
[00:08:46.380 --> 00:08:47.480] because we used to do events,
[00:08:47.760 --> 00:08:49.520] but people always had to be in there to watch.
[00:08:49.560 --> 00:08:51.880] Now you can sit in here and watch the event from here.
[00:08:52.400 --> 00:08:53.780] So turning this place to like
[00:08:53.780 --> 00:08:55.400] a full fledged production house,
[00:08:55.600 --> 00:08:56.580] like that was my goal.
[00:08:56.880 --> 00:08:57.640] So, and now we here.
[00:08:58.120 --> 00:08:58.760] Yeah, it is.
[00:08:58.920 --> 00:09:00.840] I've been here a few days this week
[00:09:00.840 --> 00:09:02.040] and I'm like amazed.
[00:09:02.220 --> 00:09:04.100] So just to see it, I'm like, wow.
[00:09:04.600 --> 00:09:06.480] And the creator behind it, it's amazing.
[00:09:07.040 --> 00:09:07.560] Yeah, thank you, bro.
[00:09:07.900 --> 00:09:09.340] So what about this panel wall?
[00:09:09.960 --> 00:09:11.240] Like how long did it take to build?
[00:09:11.460 --> 00:09:13.000] Like what's behind the wall?
[00:09:13.160 --> 00:09:15.440] So this was actually drywall a couple months ago.
[00:09:16.180 --> 00:09:18.100] There's a guy, Walls of Georgia.
[00:09:18.140 --> 00:09:19.180] I might be saying it wrong,
[00:09:19.180 --> 00:09:20.600] but we can try to find it, put it on the screen.
[00:09:20.600 --> 00:09:22.060] I think Dave Shans did mention him too.
[00:09:22.100 --> 00:09:23.920] Yeah, so I think it's Walls of Georgia.
[00:09:23.980 --> 00:09:25.860] He did the one in the office.
[00:09:25.900 --> 00:09:28.260] He did another wall, but he did this one.
[00:09:28.440 --> 00:09:29.220] I'm not gonna lie.
[00:09:29.280 --> 00:09:32.200] I'm not a big fan of visible light on camera
[00:09:33.080 --> 00:09:34.660] because some of the things I talk about,
[00:09:35.060 --> 00:09:35.900] like luminance values,
[00:09:36.120 --> 00:09:38.180] sometimes when you have the brightest thing on screen,
[00:09:38.240 --> 00:09:40.440] people's eyes automatically go towards it.
[00:09:40.980 --> 00:09:43.040] So me personally, I don't like to put a lot
[00:09:43.040 --> 00:09:45.520] of visible lights in the background of my shots, but.
[00:09:45.520 --> 00:09:46.480] Can we turn the lights down a little?
[00:09:46.660 --> 00:09:47.740] No, no, no.
[00:09:47.920 --> 00:09:48.840] You're good, no, you're good.
[00:09:49.080 --> 00:09:51.100] But what I will say is the wow factor.
[00:09:51.380 --> 00:09:52.940] Anytime somebody comes in this room,
[00:09:53.080 --> 00:09:54.820] they're immediately wowed.
[00:09:54.900 --> 00:09:56.820] So it's like this trade-off of like.
[00:09:57.520 --> 00:09:59.840] I think it's the colors, the, you know, the.
[00:09:59.840 --> 00:10:00.880] Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:10:00.880 --> 00:10:03.200] But honestly, the look in here when you post it,
[00:10:03.200 --> 00:10:04.040] it looks good.
[00:10:04.420 --> 00:10:04.940] So like. It does.
[00:10:05.520 --> 00:10:06.520] Yeah, you can't deny that.
[00:10:06.860 --> 00:10:08.020] Yeah, that is, that is true.
[00:10:08.040 --> 00:10:08.840] Okay, okay.
[00:10:09.360 --> 00:10:11.780] So for someone that's just starting out
[00:10:11.780 --> 00:10:13.200] that doesn't have a big budget
[00:10:13.200 --> 00:10:14.720] and is still using an iPhone,
[00:10:15.320 --> 00:10:16.960] what are some things you would recommend for them?
[00:10:18.560 --> 00:10:20.840] Study photography, study composition,
[00:10:21.160 --> 00:10:22.340] study the rule of thirds,
[00:10:22.460 --> 00:10:23.420] some of the stuff that we went over.
[00:10:23.620 --> 00:10:25.520] Like honestly, all of those things
[00:10:25.520 --> 00:10:28.240] translate right over to a iPhone
[00:10:28.240 --> 00:10:29.520] or a professional camera.
[00:10:29.520 --> 00:10:33.640] And if you take those same types of just like frameworks,
[00:10:33.660 --> 00:10:35.160] you can transfer them to any camera.
[00:10:35.240 --> 00:10:38.400] I can put, I can take a Canon, Sony,
[00:10:39.240 --> 00:10:40.080] Blackmagic, whatever,
[00:10:40.120 --> 00:10:41.740] and I can apply those same principles
[00:10:41.740 --> 00:10:43.420] and it still won't look professional,
[00:10:43.420 --> 00:10:44.680] it's gonna still look cinematic.
[00:10:45.260 --> 00:10:48.220] So just study, you know, exposure, you know,
[00:10:48.460 --> 00:10:49.680] lighting, all of those things,
[00:10:49.680 --> 00:10:52.100] and you can make an iPhone look incredible.
[00:10:52.500 --> 00:10:55.180] Yeah, I've definitely done it too.
[00:10:56.240 --> 00:10:58.720] I shot a podcast, three iPhones for someone
[00:10:58.720 --> 00:10:59.760] that didn't have the budget,
[00:10:59.940 --> 00:11:01.280] but they had multiple iPhones.
[00:11:01.500 --> 00:11:02.620] I'm like, oh, just use this.
[00:11:03.600 --> 00:11:05.560] So what were some of the first tools
[00:11:05.560 --> 00:11:07.080] and equipment you had starting out?
[00:11:07.860 --> 00:11:10.140] Microphone, I bought my first microphone super young
[00:11:10.140 --> 00:11:12.300] and I forget what it was.
[00:11:13.160 --> 00:11:14.940] I want to say it was a Shure or something,
[00:11:14.940 --> 00:11:16.480] but it was like one of the condenser microphones.
[00:11:16.500 --> 00:11:18.080] So I always, I started off with audio.
[00:11:18.720 --> 00:11:21.660] First light I bought must have been a Godox,
[00:11:21.940 --> 00:11:23.580] one of those little Amazon Godox lights.
[00:11:24.060 --> 00:11:26.720] And then video, my first camera was a Sony,
[00:11:26.720 --> 00:11:29.920] like a 6100, it didn't even do video.
[00:11:30.420 --> 00:11:32.640] Or like you could record a video and it was like 30,
[00:11:32.720 --> 00:11:34.120] so it was like really bad for video,
[00:11:34.120 --> 00:11:35.320] but it was good for photos.
[00:11:35.820 --> 00:11:38.960] So those were like the kind of the three first tools
[00:11:38.960 --> 00:11:39.840] I ever invested in.
[00:11:40.280 --> 00:11:42.520] Okay, what about some of the tools you use
[00:11:42.520 --> 00:11:43.960] or that you love right now?
[00:11:44.920 --> 00:11:46.420] We use a lot of FX 30s.
[00:11:46.420 --> 00:11:47.160] I'm a Sony shooter.
[00:11:47.600 --> 00:11:48.980] Ever since I bought my first Sony,
[00:11:49.480 --> 00:11:50.860] you know, I've been Sony gang,
[00:11:50.940 --> 00:11:52.600] but I use a lot of black magics.
[00:11:52.680 --> 00:11:53.820] I love Nikon.
[00:11:54.260 --> 00:11:56.040] Honestly, it's more about the lens and the lighting
[00:11:56.040 --> 00:11:57.460] for me, like the camera body,
[00:11:57.940 --> 00:11:59.640] I can switch that out and most people,
[00:11:59.820 --> 00:12:01.760] nine out of 10 people wouldn't even be able to recognize
[00:12:01.760 --> 00:12:03.880] like, oh, this is a Nikon versus a Sony
[00:12:03.880 --> 00:12:04.780] versus a black magic.
[00:12:04.900 --> 00:12:07.560] It's cause the lighting and the lens is really pristine.
[00:12:08.160 --> 00:12:08.880] I love that, I love that.
[00:12:08.980 --> 00:12:11.460] I know people get caught up in the names
[00:12:11.460 --> 00:12:13.080] and all that, it's just a tool.
[00:12:13.380 --> 00:12:13.780] Absolutely.
[00:12:13.920 --> 00:12:16.700] I mean, same with AI, like chat GBT,
[00:12:16.900 --> 00:12:19.260] Gemini, Claude, it's just a tool.
[00:12:19.660 --> 00:12:20.240] Whoa, whoa, whoa, now they,
[00:12:20.460 --> 00:12:22.180] those aren't all the same now.
[00:12:22.400 --> 00:12:24.220] Like those, I use them all differently.
[00:12:24.360 --> 00:12:26.020] Like I got Claude, I got-
[00:12:26.020 --> 00:12:26.740] Break it down.
[00:12:27.020 --> 00:12:28.560] Yeah, we don't want to go too deep in AI,
[00:12:28.780 --> 00:12:30.380] but like Gemini, I feel like I'd use Gemini
[00:12:30.380 --> 00:12:32.500] just for like photos, the nano banana,
[00:12:32.660 --> 00:12:33.980] like, and the thing is like,
[00:12:34.080 --> 00:12:35.840] I think of Google as an infrastructure
[00:12:35.840 --> 00:12:37.560] that's been around for so long
[00:12:37.560 --> 00:12:39.980] that they have Google search engine.
[00:12:40.220 --> 00:12:43.200] They have things that chat GBT or open AI
[00:12:43.200 --> 00:12:45.220] just doesn't have access to,
[00:12:45.420 --> 00:12:47.860] versus, you know, Claude, their research tools.
[00:12:47.920 --> 00:12:50.460] Like each one of them has a very specific,
[00:12:50.460 --> 00:12:53.640] like strong set and I feel like utilizing each one.
[00:12:54.000 --> 00:12:55.820] But yeah, they're all the tool at the end of the day.
[00:12:56.560 --> 00:12:57.460] That's right, that's right.
[00:12:58.400 --> 00:12:59.980] And I mean, to go even deeper,
[00:13:00.140 --> 00:13:02.420] I know Google has some, you know,
[00:13:02.760 --> 00:13:05.560] investments in Claude and Tropic.
[00:13:06.160 --> 00:13:06.400] Yep.
[00:13:06.940 --> 00:13:08.620] But even talking about AI,
[00:13:08.960 --> 00:13:12.560] where do you see the future of it for like production
[00:13:12.560 --> 00:13:16.160] and recording and just the whole industry
[00:13:16.160 --> 00:13:17.240] like five years from now?
[00:13:17.420 --> 00:13:19.100] I'm actually AI, this is,
[00:13:19.440 --> 00:13:21.200] I'm an AI person right now.
[00:13:21.620 --> 00:13:21.740] No, I'm kidding.
[00:13:22.180 --> 00:13:24.300] No, the future for AI is going to be like,
[00:13:24.320 --> 00:13:25.060] it's like the internet.
[00:13:25.060 --> 00:13:26.800] I tell people like,
[00:13:26.960 --> 00:13:30.360] people were back in the day were looking at phone books
[00:13:30.360 --> 00:13:32.060] and being like, oh, you know,
[00:13:32.060 --> 00:13:33.720] I can put my stuff in the phone book
[00:13:33.720 --> 00:13:34.960] and then the internet came out
[00:13:34.960 --> 00:13:37.240] and then phone books got wiped away.
[00:13:37.380 --> 00:13:40.040] So I feel like AI is almost like the new internet.
[00:13:40.360 --> 00:13:40.900] You know what I mean?
[00:13:41.080 --> 00:13:41.880] Like I like that.
[00:13:42.480 --> 00:13:44.260] So yeah, you got to utilize AI.
[00:13:44.320 --> 00:13:46.720] I feel like all of these big platforms,
[00:13:46.860 --> 00:13:48.740] you know, Facebook, Instagram,
[00:13:48.800 --> 00:13:50.300] like they're all integrating AI.
[00:13:50.420 --> 00:13:52.600] So it's like, why aren't you integrating AI
[00:13:52.600 --> 00:13:54.360] into some sort of workflow for you?
[00:13:54.360 --> 00:13:57.220] I don't use like voice, I don't use video,
[00:13:57.220 --> 00:13:59.540] I don't use anything like that for my content,
[00:13:59.580 --> 00:14:01.100] but on the back end of stuff,
[00:14:01.160 --> 00:14:03.680] I'm using ideas, scripting, all of that stuff.
[00:14:04.080 --> 00:14:05.040] Okay, okay.
[00:14:05.340 --> 00:14:07.680] For people that want to shy away from AI,
[00:14:08.000 --> 00:14:09.520] mostly like the older generation,
[00:14:09.780 --> 00:14:11.460] is there words that you would love to say to them?
[00:14:12.120 --> 00:14:13.400] Just adopt it slowly.
[00:14:13.760 --> 00:14:15.420] I mean, it's one of those tools
[00:14:15.420 --> 00:14:17.560] where you can't really avoid it.
[00:14:17.580 --> 00:14:18.980] Like I said, like if you have a phone,
[00:14:19.000 --> 00:14:19.820] if you have a computer,
[00:14:19.940 --> 00:14:23.320] all of the companies are starting to utilize AI.
[00:14:23.320 --> 00:14:25.520] So it's like, I think subconsciously,
[00:14:25.600 --> 00:14:27.480] you might be like, oh, I don't want to use AI,
[00:14:27.480 --> 00:14:29.400] but it's like, you kind of are low key.
[00:14:29.420 --> 00:14:30.500] Like if you use iPhone
[00:14:30.500 --> 00:14:33.040] or if you use like any of these platforms.
[00:14:33.340 --> 00:14:35.120] So I feel like it's kind of inevitable.
[00:14:35.500 --> 00:14:37.700] It's almost like trying not to use electricity.
[00:14:38.180 --> 00:14:38.680] You know what I mean?
[00:14:38.720 --> 00:14:39.600] It's like, at some point,
[00:14:39.640 --> 00:14:40.880] you're going to use some electricity.
[00:14:41.420 --> 00:14:42.560] Speaking about electricity,
[00:14:42.660 --> 00:14:45.800] I know they say it's consuming the water.
[00:14:46.220 --> 00:14:49.020] I know people get like big on that.
[00:14:49.040 --> 00:14:51.080] Like it's affecting the water system,
[00:14:51.240 --> 00:14:52.440] inspecting this, inspecting that,
[00:14:52.440 --> 00:14:53.980] all the towers, this and this and that.
[00:14:54.220 --> 00:14:55.700] Yeah, there's a lot of misinformation.
[00:14:55.960 --> 00:14:58.580] One dude, I think his name is Todd Hanks.
[00:14:58.780 --> 00:15:00.460] I may be getting his name wrong,
[00:15:00.600 --> 00:15:03.000] but he's a big YouTuber and he's done,
[00:15:03.340 --> 00:15:06.600] he was on the science channel and he's done a lot.
[00:15:06.720 --> 00:15:08.040] He's a white guy with glasses,
[00:15:08.040 --> 00:15:09.580] but he did a very good breakdown
[00:15:09.580 --> 00:15:12.400] of water consumption, electricity consumption.
[00:15:12.560 --> 00:15:14.160] And one thing he pointed out
[00:15:14.160 --> 00:15:17.840] is that corn fields actually are like 10 times
[00:15:17.840 --> 00:15:19.660] or a hundred times worse
[00:15:20.180 --> 00:15:23.560] than AI built for water consumption and electricity.
[00:15:23.780 --> 00:15:26.060] And then the thing is what's crazy is he pointed out
[00:15:26.060 --> 00:15:30.960] is we're using like 10 times as much water for corn.
[00:15:31.600 --> 00:15:33.920] And then what we do is we turn around and just burn it.
[00:15:34.340 --> 00:15:37.060] So it's like, if we really wanted to like
[00:15:37.060 --> 00:15:38.320] crack down on the environment
[00:15:38.320 --> 00:15:39.540] and actually make some differences,
[00:15:39.640 --> 00:15:41.640] we would go to some of these big old corn fields
[00:15:41.640 --> 00:15:43.520] versus like these AI data centers.
[00:15:43.580 --> 00:15:45.860] And I'm not saying these AI data centers aren't bad,
[00:15:45.860 --> 00:15:48.100] but I'm saying there are other things
[00:15:48.100 --> 00:15:50.420] that are way bigger in proportion
[00:15:50.420 --> 00:15:52.800] that are ruining the planet and water
[00:15:52.800 --> 00:15:53.640] and all of this stuff.
[00:15:54.100 --> 00:15:55.720] So I feel like we need people like him
[00:15:55.720 --> 00:15:57.160] who are pointing this out and being like,
[00:15:57.180 --> 00:15:58.380] don't fall for the propaganda
[00:15:58.380 --> 00:16:00.480] and don't fall for like the click-baity kind of stuff
[00:16:00.480 --> 00:16:01.860] and actually trust somebody
[00:16:01.860 --> 00:16:03.280] who knows what they're talking about.
[00:16:03.620 --> 00:16:05.660] Yeah, so even speaking about corn,
[00:16:05.760 --> 00:16:08.560] I know it doesn't break down in your body very well
[00:16:08.560 --> 00:16:10.160] and I think you're vegan, right?
[00:16:10.400 --> 00:16:10.860] Yeah, I'm vegan.
[00:16:11.180 --> 00:16:15.100] So is corn a vegetable that you should consume?
[00:16:15.660 --> 00:16:17.040] It's mainly the cellulose,
[00:16:17.040 --> 00:16:19.580] I think is, you can't break it down.
[00:16:19.720 --> 00:16:22.140] But the thing is like the inner parts of a corn,
[00:16:22.360 --> 00:16:24.940] like it still has starch, it still has carbohydrates.
[00:16:25.200 --> 00:16:26.700] So it's one of those trade-offs.
[00:16:26.860 --> 00:16:29.720] Like if you have pre-existing health conditions,
[00:16:29.900 --> 00:16:31.440] corn may not be good for you.
[00:16:31.440 --> 00:16:32.620] Like if you have digestive issues
[00:16:32.620 --> 00:16:34.340] like that cellulose and that fiber,
[00:16:34.480 --> 00:16:36.220] it might cause some issues.
[00:16:36.240 --> 00:16:37.900] But if you have a healthy digestive system,
[00:16:38.320 --> 00:16:40.400] piece of corn, corn on the cob, cornbread,
[00:16:40.860 --> 00:16:41.700] that ain't gonna mess you up.
[00:16:42.500 --> 00:16:44.180] And it's about that time of the year
[00:16:44.180 --> 00:16:45.400] to start eating that stuff, huh?
[00:16:45.400 --> 00:16:48.540] It's 4th of July, bro, we gonna cook out tonight.
[00:16:49.580 --> 00:16:50.460] Independence Day.
[00:16:51.280 --> 00:16:54.320] So even talking about like health, health is wealth.
[00:16:54.960 --> 00:16:56.760] When was that transition to like
[00:16:56.760 --> 00:16:58.060] when you wanted to start a business
[00:16:58.060 --> 00:16:59.040] and start making money?
[00:16:59.120 --> 00:17:00.160] When was that time period?
[00:17:00.600 --> 00:17:01.920] I've always been a hustler,
[00:17:02.220 --> 00:17:04.260] always like my mom told me this story.
[00:17:04.319 --> 00:17:05.900] She was like, yeah, when you were 10 years old,
[00:17:06.560 --> 00:17:07.599] you were in the front yard
[00:17:07.599 --> 00:17:09.359] and you had all your toys lined up.
[00:17:09.359 --> 00:17:10.920] And I came outside and I was like,
[00:17:10.920 --> 00:17:13.140] why are you putting your toys in the lawn like this?
[00:17:13.160 --> 00:17:14.000] And she was like,
[00:17:14.000 --> 00:17:15.800] you said you were gonna do a yard sale
[00:17:15.800 --> 00:17:16.740] and sell all your toys
[00:17:16.740 --> 00:17:17.980] because you wanted to make money.
[00:17:18.020 --> 00:17:19.140] I love that.
[00:17:19.579 --> 00:17:20.720] But my dad was an entrepreneur.
[00:17:20.780 --> 00:17:21.900] My dad had three jobs.
[00:17:22.579 --> 00:17:24.859] He detailed boats for rich white men.
[00:17:25.319 --> 00:17:26.900] He drove a taxi on the side
[00:17:26.900 --> 00:17:28.200] and he was doing some stuff on,
[00:17:28.520 --> 00:17:29.480] making some extra money.
[00:17:30.300 --> 00:17:31.780] So he was always a hustler.
[00:17:31.840 --> 00:17:33.500] So I always watched my dad be an entrepreneur.
[00:17:34.060 --> 00:17:35.540] He always, he actually taught me math
[00:17:35.540 --> 00:17:36.480] at a very young age,
[00:17:36.500 --> 00:17:38.200] like two or three years old by counting money.
[00:17:38.360 --> 00:17:40.600] So like, I think that that was like the early stages
[00:17:40.600 --> 00:17:43.060] of me just being a entrepreneur, a hustler.
[00:17:43.060 --> 00:17:45.880] I used to go to school and I'd buy a box of candy bars
[00:17:45.880 --> 00:17:48.720] and try to sell them, you know, cans of soda, whatever.
[00:17:48.900 --> 00:17:50.600] Like any way I could make money.
[00:17:50.720 --> 00:17:52.260] Like I remember when I was like 14,
[00:17:52.380 --> 00:17:53.380] there was a big festival.
[00:17:53.940 --> 00:17:55.840] We ended up taking Kool-Aid,
[00:17:56.120 --> 00:17:57.260] filling them up with Kool-Aid
[00:17:57.260 --> 00:17:59.160] and taking like a splash of alcohol
[00:17:59.160 --> 00:18:00.780] and putting it in the water bottle
[00:18:00.780 --> 00:18:02.440] and selling them for $5 each.
[00:18:02.960 --> 00:18:05.340] That was the first time I ever made like,
[00:18:06.020 --> 00:18:07.660] like a good chunk of money.
[00:18:07.660 --> 00:18:11.220] I remember I spent $100 on like the alcohol,
[00:18:11.220 --> 00:18:12.940] the Kool-Aid, the bottles, everything.
[00:18:13.000 --> 00:18:14.360] And I made like $800.
[00:18:14.940 --> 00:18:15.340] Wow.
[00:18:15.880 --> 00:18:18.100] And I was like, wait a minute, I just took $100
[00:18:19.000 --> 00:18:22.140] and I went outside for a day and I made like 800.
[00:18:22.300 --> 00:18:23.260] I was like, I made 700.
[00:18:23.860 --> 00:18:25.400] That was like the moment.
[00:18:25.520 --> 00:18:27.360] I was like, yes, I love this feeling.
[00:18:27.780 --> 00:18:28.780] I need to do this.
[00:18:29.160 --> 00:18:31.340] So I did that, you know, legal stuff.
[00:18:31.340 --> 00:18:33.340] But then by the time I was 16, 17,
[00:18:33.480 --> 00:18:35.160] got into college, people were like,
[00:18:35.160 --> 00:18:36.620] yo, you can get paid to do this stuff.
[00:18:36.620 --> 00:18:37.900] And that was the moment.
[00:18:37.940 --> 00:18:38.960] I was like, bet.
[00:18:38.960 --> 00:18:40.720] So I remember my first corporate job,
[00:18:40.720 --> 00:18:42.360] showed up at like 7 a.m.
[00:18:42.400 --> 00:18:43.320] I set up some microphones,
[00:18:43.680 --> 00:18:45.760] left by nine o'clock, $500.
[00:18:46.080 --> 00:18:48.420] I was like, bro, I just made $500 in two hours.
[00:18:48.920 --> 00:18:51.120] And I'm like 17, 18 at the time.
[00:18:51.360 --> 00:18:53.300] People around me is not making that kind of money.
[00:18:53.500 --> 00:18:55.980] And I was just like, bro, this is it.
[00:18:56.200 --> 00:18:58.620] So I like just hit the ground running, always like,
[00:18:58.700 --> 00:18:59.920] yo, you need this, you need that.
[00:19:00.200 --> 00:19:02.540] And for me, what it taught me is
[00:19:02.540 --> 00:19:04.740] provide as much value and the pay will come.
[00:19:05.080 --> 00:19:06.880] And a lot of people do it backwards,
[00:19:07.040 --> 00:19:07.660] especially in Atlanta.
[00:19:07.760 --> 00:19:09.560] Like I've met a lot of people, they're like,
[00:19:09.560 --> 00:19:11.440] yeah, pay me first and then I'll give you the value.
[00:19:12.040 --> 00:19:13.340] Ever since I touched down in Atlanta,
[00:19:13.360 --> 00:19:16.100] I've been like, yo, let me prove my worth
[00:19:16.100 --> 00:19:17.660] and I know you'll pay me.
[00:19:17.740 --> 00:19:19.740] Because I've been doing it like that since I was 17.
[00:19:19.880 --> 00:19:22.800] I show up at any studio, fix everything.
[00:19:23.080 --> 00:19:23.880] They didn't even ask.
[00:19:23.940 --> 00:19:25.680] And they'd be like, bro, what the heck?
[00:19:25.780 --> 00:19:27.180] Like this dude came in and like,
[00:19:27.260 --> 00:19:28.480] we had this problem, this problem.
[00:19:28.520 --> 00:19:29.520] He literally fixed it.
[00:19:30.040 --> 00:19:32.860] My engineers who've been on payroll for a whole year
[00:19:32.860 --> 00:19:33.660] didn't even fix this.
[00:19:33.680 --> 00:19:35.960] This dude didn't even charge me anything, he fixed it.
[00:19:36.740 --> 00:19:38.300] So having that kind of work ethic,
[00:19:38.900 --> 00:19:40.940] I feel like that's what takes you further
[00:19:40.940 --> 00:19:42.020] in this industry.
[00:19:43.080 --> 00:19:45.520] Yeah, I had a similar story.
[00:19:45.760 --> 00:19:48.280] When I was young, maybe like four or five,
[00:19:48.400 --> 00:19:51.380] used to have like the penny rappers.
[00:19:51.420 --> 00:19:53.200] So I just had a whole pile of pennies
[00:19:53.200 --> 00:19:53.940] for them, the rappers.
[00:19:53.980 --> 00:19:56.160] My mother's like, oh, you could do that.
[00:19:56.240 --> 00:19:57.660] You're like a bank teller.
[00:19:57.760 --> 00:19:59.220] You count the pennies and this and that.
[00:19:59.500 --> 00:20:00.580] Ended up getting the machine.
[00:20:00.960 --> 00:20:02.640] So that was my early days.
[00:20:02.720 --> 00:20:04.380] I'm like, hmm, I just love money.
[00:20:04.580 --> 00:20:06.800] Or counting money, like counting money, counting money.
[00:20:06.800 --> 00:20:09.420] But I didn't know entrepreneurship until I got older.
[00:20:10.180 --> 00:20:12.400] And I'd always been a writer, writer first
[00:20:12.400 --> 00:20:15.160] and start writing music, start writing poetry.
[00:20:15.760 --> 00:20:18.140] And it all just turned to where I am today.
[00:20:18.200 --> 00:20:18.820] That's fire.
[00:20:19.100 --> 00:20:21.700] And then you said when you touched down to Atlanta,
[00:20:21.980 --> 00:20:22.740] where were you before?
[00:20:23.340 --> 00:20:24.440] I'm from Seattle, Washington.
[00:20:24.620 --> 00:20:27.580] So I was pretty much raised in Seattle, Washington.
[00:20:27.660 --> 00:20:29.160] I was born in Texas, strange enough,
[00:20:29.160 --> 00:20:30.520] but I didn't spend any time there.
[00:20:31.200 --> 00:20:33.040] So yeah, raised in Seattle, Washington.
[00:20:33.040 --> 00:20:35.460] And then during 2021, during the pandemic,
[00:20:35.460 --> 00:20:37.940] all of the studios and all the productions in Seattle
[00:20:37.940 --> 00:20:39.980] I was working, they pretty much shut down.
[00:20:40.220 --> 00:20:41.780] Thankfully, one of the studios I worked at
[00:20:41.780 --> 00:20:42.500] gave me unemployment.
[00:20:42.660 --> 00:20:44.860] So I was making good money in the pandemic.
[00:20:45.240 --> 00:20:46.500] When I was thinking about it,
[00:20:46.500 --> 00:20:47.380] I was like, where should I move to?
[00:20:47.380 --> 00:20:49.860] Where should I go to start from ground,
[00:20:50.300 --> 00:20:51.280] just start from fresh?
[00:20:51.880 --> 00:20:53.580] I was like, Atlanta is the spot.
[00:20:54.520 --> 00:20:55.840] And yeah, I've moved here.
[00:20:56.200 --> 00:20:57.440] And I had this thing in my mind.
[00:20:57.520 --> 00:20:59.820] I was like, if I can't find work with,
[00:20:59.900 --> 00:21:02.060] because I wanted to work with entrepreneurs, rappers.
[00:21:02.100 --> 00:21:04.000] I wanted to do all the big stuff, right?
[00:21:04.000 --> 00:21:05.920] If I can't do any of that,
[00:21:06.080 --> 00:21:07.300] nobody wants to pay me for that,
[00:21:07.600 --> 00:21:10.700] my backup plan is to work at a church.
[00:21:11.380 --> 00:21:13.160] Because churches will always need somebody
[00:21:13.160 --> 00:21:15.600] who has good audio skills, good lighting skills,
[00:21:15.640 --> 00:21:16.420] good video skills.
[00:21:16.480 --> 00:21:18.720] I was like, I will find at least one church
[00:21:18.720 --> 00:21:19.980] who will hire me and pay me.
[00:21:20.000 --> 00:21:21.560] So that was like my backup plan.
[00:21:21.720 --> 00:21:23.580] I was like, if I can't find anything,
[00:21:23.720 --> 00:21:25.440] I was like, I'm just gonna walk to each church
[00:21:25.440 --> 00:21:26.900] and be like, yo, I'm an audio engineer,
[00:21:26.980 --> 00:21:28.560] I'm lighting, let me help you, let me work.
[00:21:29.280 --> 00:21:31.900] And funny enough, within a week of landing here,
[00:21:32.160 --> 00:21:33.180] somebody called me and they're like,
[00:21:33.180 --> 00:21:34.780] yo, we need a lighting guy.
[00:21:35.280 --> 00:21:35.780] It's church.
[00:21:36.200 --> 00:21:37.140] I said, bet, let me do it.
[00:21:37.140 --> 00:21:38.560] I don't care how much, I'll be there.
[00:21:38.840 --> 00:21:40.560] I ended up working with Darius Daniels
[00:21:40.560 --> 00:21:41.340] with Change Church.
[00:21:41.620 --> 00:21:42.840] I don't know if you're familiar with them,
[00:21:42.840 --> 00:21:44.580] but they're one of the largest churches.
[00:21:44.840 --> 00:21:46.100] You think of mega churches,
[00:21:46.260 --> 00:21:47.460] Change Church is one of those.
[00:21:48.080 --> 00:21:50.740] So yeah, that was a blessing in disguise
[00:21:50.740 --> 00:21:52.240] because I got to meet so many people
[00:21:52.660 --> 00:21:53.820] through that church.
[00:21:54.500 --> 00:21:55.900] And honestly, I think that that was
[00:21:55.900 --> 00:21:57.420] the first connection that I made
[00:21:57.420 --> 00:21:59.020] where it was meeting all these people
[00:21:59.020 --> 00:22:00.460] and then they realized I did audio
[00:22:00.460 --> 00:22:02.260] and then they realized I did camera
[00:22:02.260 --> 00:22:04.480] and then they were just fully utilizing everything
[00:22:04.480 --> 00:22:05.700] and then I met a bunch of people
[00:22:05.700 --> 00:22:07.780] and yeah, hit the ground running.
[00:22:08.220 --> 00:22:08.660] Wow.
[00:22:09.020 --> 00:22:12.040] And did you just go by faith
[00:22:12.040 --> 00:22:13.860] or did you do detailed research
[00:22:13.860 --> 00:22:14.940] from Atlanta before coming?
[00:22:15.780 --> 00:22:18.860] I had a cousin here and I had visited in 2019
[00:22:18.860 --> 00:22:20.620] for maybe two weeks,
[00:22:20.800 --> 00:22:21.720] but it wasn't like,
[00:22:21.740 --> 00:22:23.780] I never had idea of moving out here.
[00:22:23.920 --> 00:22:25.360] I just came out here to visit him
[00:22:25.360 --> 00:22:26.800] because I wanted to go on vacation
[00:22:27.360 --> 00:22:30.160] and he took me around and he's a photographer
[00:22:30.160 --> 00:22:31.480] so he took me to some clubs,
[00:22:31.480 --> 00:22:33.720] he showed me around and I was just so impressed
[00:22:33.720 --> 00:22:35.740] by how many black people were here,
[00:22:35.800 --> 00:22:37.140] how many successful black people were,
[00:22:37.140 --> 00:22:38.320] I was just like, yeah.
[00:22:38.620 --> 00:22:40.040] And I think if that planted a seed,
[00:22:40.300 --> 00:22:41.400] because this is 2019,
[00:22:42.240 --> 00:22:44.600] I did a podcast six or seven months later
[00:22:44.600 --> 00:22:46.680] with my boss at one of the studios in Seattle
[00:22:46.680 --> 00:22:47.920] and he goes, where do you see yourself
[00:22:47.920 --> 00:22:48.780] in two to three years?
[00:22:49.480 --> 00:22:50.320] And I was like, honestly,
[00:22:50.660 --> 00:22:52.020] I kind of want to move to Atlanta.
[00:22:52.460 --> 00:22:53.580] And he goes, I lived in Atlanta
[00:22:53.580 --> 00:22:54.760] and I was in the tech industry there.
[00:22:54.800 --> 00:22:55.620] He's like, what do you feel like
[00:22:55.620 --> 00:22:59.160] you can contribute to the tech world down there?
[00:22:59.800 --> 00:23:01.300] And I was like, honestly,
[00:23:01.420 --> 00:23:03.980] I feel like my understanding of all this stuff
[00:23:03.980 --> 00:23:05.840] is just so deep that I was like,
[00:23:05.840 --> 00:23:07.360] I feel like they need somebody
[00:23:07.360 --> 00:23:10.120] who really is deep in the rabbit hole
[00:23:10.120 --> 00:23:12.000] and can understand this stuff.
[00:23:12.040 --> 00:23:12.640] Because here's the thing,
[00:23:12.700 --> 00:23:14.620] I meet photographers and videographers
[00:23:14.620 --> 00:23:15.860] who are really dope.
[00:23:16.280 --> 00:23:17.840] They know how to get the dopest shot
[00:23:17.840 --> 00:23:19.360] and literally they'll shoot you
[00:23:19.360 --> 00:23:20.340] the most cinematic stuff,
[00:23:20.960 --> 00:23:23.280] but it's like, I start asking about
[00:23:23.280 --> 00:23:26.420] the little shutters, just little details
[00:23:26.420 --> 00:23:28.400] and they're like, yeah, I know what it means
[00:23:28.400 --> 00:23:30.720] but they don't really know it, know it.
[00:23:31.080 --> 00:23:31.940] And I'm like, dang.
[00:23:31.940 --> 00:23:33.020] So what do you mean know it, know it?
[00:23:33.100 --> 00:23:34.080] Because I know shutter speed.
[00:23:34.080 --> 00:23:36.460] Well, not like shutter, even color science,
[00:23:36.660 --> 00:23:39.320] going into frame rate.
[00:23:39.460 --> 00:23:41.320] There's just little production things,
[00:23:42.040 --> 00:23:45.680] 32-bit float and matching the kilohertz
[00:23:45.680 --> 00:23:48.280] and Nyquist frequencies.
[00:23:48.620 --> 00:23:49.860] I've never heard of Nyquist, what's that?
[00:23:50.400 --> 00:23:52.560] It's just all of these little things
[00:23:52.560 --> 00:23:53.440] where it's like, okay,
[00:23:53.620 --> 00:23:55.060] I've been deep in the rabbit hole,
[00:23:55.060 --> 00:23:57.880] the manuals, so I know how to apply this
[00:23:57.880 --> 00:23:58.840] to production.
[00:24:00.040 --> 00:24:02.540] This is ultimately why I ended up in the podcast space
[00:24:02.540 --> 00:24:05.620] is because being a videographer,
[00:24:05.820 --> 00:24:07.500] you're really good with the camera
[00:24:07.500 --> 00:24:08.820] and framing all of that,
[00:24:08.880 --> 00:24:11.120] but that doesn't mean you know about
[00:24:11.120 --> 00:24:13.460] syncing cameras and multi-camera angles.
[00:24:14.260 --> 00:24:16.080] That's a whole other world.
[00:24:16.900 --> 00:24:19.940] So just being a videographer doesn't mean
[00:24:19.940 --> 00:24:21.940] you have all of the production skills.
[00:24:22.500 --> 00:24:24.960] Oh, the audio and making sure this audio cable
[00:24:24.960 --> 00:24:26.420] doesn't cross any power cables
[00:24:26.420 --> 00:24:28.260] because that's how you introduce interference.
[00:24:28.460 --> 00:24:31.840] So it's like, I wanted to cohesively wrap everything
[00:24:31.840 --> 00:24:34.160] and be like, no, this is how you need
[00:24:34.160 --> 00:24:35.220] to look at everything.
[00:24:36.200 --> 00:24:38.580] So I pretty much said that on a podcast 2019
[00:24:38.580 --> 00:24:41.660] with my boss and pretty much manifested all of that.
[00:24:41.760 --> 00:24:42.480] I told him, I was like, yeah,
[00:24:42.480 --> 00:24:43.160] I just want to go out there.
[00:24:43.180 --> 00:24:44.200] I want to work with all the big people
[00:24:44.200 --> 00:24:44.920] and blah, blah, blah.
[00:24:45.280 --> 00:24:46.340] So then now we're here.
[00:24:46.760 --> 00:24:47.100] Wow.
[00:24:47.360 --> 00:24:49.520] So what was the biggest production?
[00:24:50.340 --> 00:24:52.880] 20, 30 cameras, microphones,
[00:24:53.060 --> 00:24:54.980] what was the biggest production, something like that?
[00:24:55.640 --> 00:24:57.560] I mean, any arena we've worked in,
[00:24:57.660 --> 00:24:59.500] I mean, we did some stuff at State Farm.
[00:24:59.720 --> 00:25:02.080] We've done stuff at the Coca-Cola Roxy.
[00:25:02.220 --> 00:25:04.320] We've done stuff like any venue,
[00:25:04.900 --> 00:25:06.920] like big venue, we've done stuff
[00:25:06.920 --> 00:25:07.960] like back home in Seattle.
[00:25:08.640 --> 00:25:10.060] There's a couple of venues downtown
[00:25:10.060 --> 00:25:11.720] we've sold out, done shows.
[00:25:12.440 --> 00:25:14.360] So any of those, yeah,
[00:25:14.420 --> 00:25:15.800] it's like more than a thousand people.
[00:25:15.860 --> 00:25:17.280] Like even the podcast summit,
[00:25:17.700 --> 00:25:19.240] you was there like those are big.
[00:25:20.000 --> 00:25:21.740] Yes, I did two of those with David Shams
[00:25:21.740 --> 00:25:22.860] before I was ever on stage.
[00:25:22.940 --> 00:25:24.660] So I was backstage running the production
[00:25:24.660 --> 00:25:26.760] for last year and the year before that.
[00:25:27.020 --> 00:25:28.680] Yeah, I was there last year.
[00:25:28.740 --> 00:25:29.620] I was a tenny this year.
[00:25:29.760 --> 00:25:30.380] I'm a vendor.
[00:25:30.800 --> 00:25:32.740] So it was definitely a great experience.
[00:25:33.320 --> 00:25:35.600] And how long does it usually take to set up?
[00:25:35.660 --> 00:25:38.220] I know it's like sometimes days before
[00:25:38.220 --> 00:25:39.980] people that don't see the work,
[00:25:39.980 --> 00:25:41.220] how long does it usually take?
[00:25:41.680 --> 00:25:43.420] For the bigger ones, yeah, it's just a whole day.
[00:25:43.720 --> 00:25:45.960] Like we'll show up 7 a.m. the day before
[00:25:45.960 --> 00:25:47.760] and we don't leave until like 7 p.m.
[00:25:48.060 --> 00:25:49.840] And then we'll show up back again.
[00:25:50.100 --> 00:25:51.640] Like it depends on what time you start.
[00:25:51.660 --> 00:25:52.920] It's like a 10 a.m., 9 a.m. start.
[00:25:52.920 --> 00:25:55.700] Yeah, you got to show up the day before,
[00:25:55.960 --> 00:25:56.780] get everything prepped.
[00:25:56.800 --> 00:25:57.740] But if it's like a noon,
[00:25:57.780 --> 00:25:59.280] you could show up sometimes like 7 a.m.,
[00:25:59.280 --> 00:26:00.720] get it all done four or five hours.
[00:26:00.740 --> 00:26:02.140] It just depends what it is.
[00:26:02.500 --> 00:26:05.560] Okay, so for people that's new to business,
[00:26:05.840 --> 00:26:07.260] they usually, you know, bill up front
[00:26:07.260 --> 00:26:11.800] for the time that they're on set or on location.
[00:26:13.500 --> 00:26:17.100] Is that something that they should be factoring in
[00:26:17.100 --> 00:26:18.920] like that pre-time to set up,
[00:26:18.960 --> 00:26:21.140] that pre-production and also the time to set up?
[00:26:21.140 --> 00:26:23.260] It depends on what role you're in, right?
[00:26:23.320 --> 00:26:25.120] Because if you're just like a stagehand
[00:26:25.120 --> 00:26:26.540] or somebody who like, yeah,
[00:26:26.620 --> 00:26:28.160] hourly would probably be the better route.
[00:26:28.280 --> 00:26:30.480] So you can, you know, because if you stay over,
[00:26:30.600 --> 00:26:33.380] then you know, you want to get paid for that time over.
[00:26:33.840 --> 00:26:35.260] But honestly, for the people who like
[00:26:35.260 --> 00:26:37.360] are more in the production role and overseeing stuff,
[00:26:37.380 --> 00:26:39.120] I mean, it's usually just a flat rate.
[00:26:39.780 --> 00:26:41.620] So that's what I typically owe
[00:26:41.620 --> 00:26:43.320] is a day rate or just a project rate.
[00:26:43.500 --> 00:26:45.180] It's definitely good to know for my,
[00:26:45.480 --> 00:26:46.880] people that are starting out,
[00:26:46.880 --> 00:26:50.740] I know a lot of beginner photographers and videographers,
[00:26:50.740 --> 00:26:52.520] people that want to be in production
[00:26:52.520 --> 00:26:55.440] and even a podcast production.
[00:26:56.100 --> 00:26:58.360] You know, I hear it all the time and I'm,
[00:26:58.600 --> 00:27:01.000] what I tell them is, you know,
[00:27:01.120 --> 00:27:03.720] charge with your worth, charge for your time
[00:27:03.720 --> 00:27:05.420] and also the value provided.
[00:27:06.400 --> 00:27:07.880] Now, you know, with that equation,
[00:27:08.060 --> 00:27:09.920] they can figure out the numbers themselves,
[00:27:09.920 --> 00:27:11.900] but that's kind of what I tell them.
[00:27:11.960 --> 00:27:12.400] Absolutely.
[00:27:12.820 --> 00:27:14.800] So do you have any like mentors
[00:27:14.800 --> 00:27:18.420] that you, you know, work under or consult with?
[00:27:18.840 --> 00:27:19.480] Yeah, no, absolutely.
[00:27:19.480 --> 00:27:22.920] So David Shands, obviously a great mentor of mine.
[00:27:23.780 --> 00:27:24.540] Nehemiah Davis.
[00:27:24.860 --> 00:27:26.040] Honestly, all of my clients
[00:27:26.040 --> 00:27:28.080] give me some form of mentorship.
[00:27:28.340 --> 00:27:30.620] But you said all of your clients are like your mentors.
[00:27:31.360 --> 00:27:32.060] Honestly, they are,
[00:27:32.080 --> 00:27:34.740] because I've provided so much value to them
[00:27:34.740 --> 00:27:36.620] that they are like, yo, we want to pay you
[00:27:36.620 --> 00:27:38.940] and provide more value to you as a person.
[00:27:39.560 --> 00:27:40.960] So I've been super blessed.
[00:27:41.260 --> 00:27:42.440] Like even yesterday,
[00:27:42.440 --> 00:27:44.440] I'm not sure if you met Ashley Kirkwood.
[00:27:44.680 --> 00:27:46.520] She was the speaker way to cash.
[00:27:46.620 --> 00:27:48.860] I was in the hot seat with Ashley yesterday.
[00:27:48.860 --> 00:27:50.280] Yeah, so like even her,
[00:27:50.360 --> 00:27:52.780] like she always blessed me with wisdom and knowledge.
[00:27:53.040 --> 00:27:55.060] And like, I feel like all of the people that I'm around,
[00:27:55.180 --> 00:27:56.700] they're just such great people.
[00:27:56.800 --> 00:27:57.960] They just want to see me win.
[00:27:58.000 --> 00:27:59.740] So they're like, yo, you should do this.
[00:27:59.840 --> 00:28:00.460] You should try that.
[00:28:00.540 --> 00:28:01.620] You should connect with this person.
[00:28:01.620 --> 00:28:03.680] So like, honestly, I feel like
[00:28:03.680 --> 00:28:05.780] a majority of my clients are my mentors, actually.
[00:28:06.000 --> 00:28:08.320] But the biggest ones, I'd say David Shands,
[00:28:08.800 --> 00:28:10.800] Neo, Nehemiah Davis, shout out him.
[00:28:10.820 --> 00:28:12.680] And then I'm gonna say Katie Bo.
[00:28:13.160 --> 00:28:15.780] He owns a studio called The Content Factory.
[00:28:16.340 --> 00:28:18.300] That's like a person who's-
[00:28:18.300 --> 00:28:18.800] Here in Atlanta.
[00:28:19.040 --> 00:28:21.340] Yeah, he's here in Atlanta, but he's a really good guy.
[00:28:21.580 --> 00:28:22.560] He's a voiceover.
[00:28:22.560 --> 00:28:24.260] He did gospel radio for a long time.
[00:28:24.280 --> 00:28:26.300] You've heard his voice all over the radio in Atlanta,
[00:28:26.320 --> 00:28:27.880] but he's another great mentor.
[00:28:28.020 --> 00:28:29.680] So those three dudes, shout out to them.
[00:28:29.700 --> 00:28:32.940] They have completely transformed my life as a man.
[00:28:33.200 --> 00:28:33.580] So yeah.
[00:28:33.980 --> 00:28:36.140] I've never heard that answer before.
[00:28:36.780 --> 00:28:40.040] Like my clients or like my mentors are my mentors.
[00:28:40.400 --> 00:28:42.540] Like, wow, I've never heard that.
[00:28:42.980 --> 00:28:43.540] That's amazing.
[00:28:43.580 --> 00:28:45.680] I'm fortunate to work with some really dope people
[00:28:45.680 --> 00:28:48.160] in Atlanta, so if I need tax advice,
[00:28:48.220 --> 00:28:50.380] if I need business advice, I just worked with,
[00:28:50.580 --> 00:28:52.420] I just connected with that trademark lawyer yesterday.
[00:28:52.700 --> 00:28:53.060] Okay, yeah.
[00:28:53.060 --> 00:28:54.800] And she's like, yeah, I work with all of your clients,
[00:28:54.860 --> 00:28:56.200] so I'm gonna help you get your trademark.
[00:28:56.300 --> 00:28:57.660] So it's like little things like that.
[00:28:57.780 --> 00:29:00.880] It's like, she's gonna pay me to set up her studio,
[00:29:00.900 --> 00:29:02.840] but then I also get trademark services.
[00:29:03.020 --> 00:29:05.560] It's like, how blessed is that of an opportunity?
[00:29:06.020 --> 00:29:08.300] Sounds like I need to make a move to Atlanta myself.
[00:29:08.560 --> 00:29:09.840] Absolutely, I'm gonna see you here, brother.
[00:29:10.020 --> 00:29:11.420] Okay, hey, I'm gonna be around.
[00:29:12.000 --> 00:29:14.260] And even going back to like Washington.
[00:29:15.100 --> 00:29:17.520] So Seattle, what would you say you left behind?
[00:29:17.620 --> 00:29:19.580] Like what are the top three things
[00:29:19.580 --> 00:29:20.720] you would say they're known for?
[00:29:21.360 --> 00:29:22.980] The cloudiness and the raininess
[00:29:22.980 --> 00:29:25.800] and just like the gloomy depression.
[00:29:26.580 --> 00:29:28.460] Seattle is known for being just rainy
[00:29:28.460 --> 00:29:29.560] and gray all the time.
[00:29:29.580 --> 00:29:31.020] We get two months in the summer
[00:29:31.020 --> 00:29:32.180] where it's really nice out.
[00:29:32.300 --> 00:29:33.860] It'd be like 80 degrees, clear skies.
[00:29:34.060 --> 00:29:37.020] And then from like September all the way back
[00:29:37.020 --> 00:29:38.920] to like May, it's just rainy and gray.
[00:29:39.140 --> 00:29:40.680] So like, I don't miss that.
[00:29:41.020 --> 00:29:43.420] I went through a lot of seasonal affect disorder.
[00:29:43.420 --> 00:29:44.460] Have you ever heard of that?
[00:29:44.460 --> 00:29:44.740] No.
[00:29:45.000 --> 00:29:46.080] So I did that on the presentation
[00:29:46.080 --> 00:29:46.820] where I talked about,
[00:29:46.820 --> 00:29:48.620] it's called seasonal affect disorders.
[00:29:48.660 --> 00:29:49.660] It stands for SAD.
[00:29:49.900 --> 00:29:52.080] But it's when you don't get enough vitamin D
[00:29:52.080 --> 00:29:53.180] and you don't get enough sunlight,
[00:29:53.400 --> 00:29:54.720] you actually can get depression
[00:29:54.720 --> 00:29:56.660] because you're not getting the hormones
[00:29:56.660 --> 00:29:57.180] and you're not,
[00:29:57.520 --> 00:29:59.020] because like vitamin D is really important
[00:29:59.020 --> 00:30:01.300] to all of your like vital organs
[00:30:01.300 --> 00:30:03.660] and how your body's like hormone regulation,
[00:30:03.680 --> 00:30:04.240] all of that.
[00:30:04.760 --> 00:30:06.140] So I don't think I was up,
[00:30:06.180 --> 00:30:08.000] in Seattle, I just wasn't getting outside enough.
[00:30:08.060 --> 00:30:09.140] I wasn't getting enough sunlight.
[00:30:09.540 --> 00:30:11.760] And yeah, it's just, it's sadness, depression.
[00:30:11.760 --> 00:30:13.640] But as soon as I moved out here,
[00:30:13.660 --> 00:30:15.360] got in the sun, this Atlanta heat, bro,
[00:30:15.380 --> 00:30:16.360] all that stuff went away.
[00:30:16.460 --> 00:30:17.920] I'm like, I'm outside now.
[00:30:18.380 --> 00:30:18.560] So.
[00:30:18.560 --> 00:30:18.940] Yeah, that's good.
[00:30:19.060 --> 00:30:19.900] You look vibrant too.
[00:30:20.140 --> 00:30:20.520] Exactly.
[00:30:21.160 --> 00:30:24.840] So that's actually a good segue to my questions.
[00:30:25.020 --> 00:30:27.060] I like to ask creatives,
[00:30:27.360 --> 00:30:29.440] thinking about your creative process
[00:30:29.440 --> 00:30:31.360] as a weather forecast,
[00:30:31.980 --> 00:30:34.320] how would you explain that?
[00:30:34.540 --> 00:30:36.680] Your creative process as a weather forecast?
[00:30:37.500 --> 00:30:38.960] It's very much like
[00:30:40.260 --> 00:30:41.400] Atlanta or Seattle.
[00:30:41.400 --> 00:30:42.440] So like at one minute,
[00:30:42.460 --> 00:30:43.860] it could be really clear out
[00:30:43.860 --> 00:30:45.040] and then 10 minutes later,
[00:30:45.960 --> 00:30:46.860] a great cloud rolls in.
[00:30:46.940 --> 00:30:48.280] So it's like, it's almost like,
[00:30:48.980 --> 00:30:50.580] you can't plan for something.
[00:30:50.660 --> 00:30:52.880] Like you almost gotta just go with the flow
[00:30:52.880 --> 00:30:56.240] and you gotta be prepared for things to shift and change.
[00:30:57.180 --> 00:30:58.040] Sometimes like,
[00:30:58.680 --> 00:31:00.680] I explain it almost like cooking, right?
[00:31:00.680 --> 00:31:02.980] Like I have these ideas
[00:31:02.980 --> 00:31:05.780] and I keep some of them on the main burner
[00:31:06.160 --> 00:31:07.480] because I gotta like cook them
[00:31:07.480 --> 00:31:08.560] and I gotta like stir fry,
[00:31:08.620 --> 00:31:10.040] make sure that it's getting cooked.
[00:31:11.000 --> 00:31:11.720] Other ideas,
[00:31:11.740 --> 00:31:13.760] sometimes I push them to the back burner
[00:31:13.760 --> 00:31:16.240] and I put the pot on and I let it simmer on low.
[00:31:16.920 --> 00:31:17.560] So it's like,
[00:31:17.580 --> 00:31:19.300] I got this ebook that I've been working on
[00:31:19.300 --> 00:31:20.240] for like four months.
[00:31:20.680 --> 00:31:22.480] I was going hard, going hard, going hard.
[00:31:22.520 --> 00:31:24.480] And then I had to put a pause on that.
[00:31:24.520 --> 00:31:25.520] I had to put it on the back burner
[00:31:25.520 --> 00:31:26.680] because I had to do some other stuff,
[00:31:26.680 --> 00:31:27.360] push it to the front.
[00:31:27.460 --> 00:31:30.340] So it's like, that's how creatively I move is like,
[00:31:30.340 --> 00:31:31.360] okay, what is priority?
[00:31:31.440 --> 00:31:34.140] What needs to go on that main big eye on the stove
[00:31:34.140 --> 00:31:35.380] where you like cooking up
[00:31:35.380 --> 00:31:39.080] versus what can go in the back on the back burner
[00:31:39.080 --> 00:31:40.060] and kind of just simmer.
[00:31:41.360 --> 00:31:43.280] I mean, speaking about cooking up,
[00:31:43.880 --> 00:31:45.720] what are some things you're gonna enjoy later on?
[00:31:46.340 --> 00:31:48.940] I got reservations for a Filipino restaurant.
[00:31:49.120 --> 00:31:49.620] I'm Filipino.
[00:31:49.840 --> 00:31:52.180] So there's a Filipino restaurant down the street
[00:31:52.180 --> 00:31:54.040] and me and my family like to go there.
[00:31:54.620 --> 00:31:57.100] So treat my family to dinner tonight and yeah.
[00:31:57.620 --> 00:31:58.620] Okay, okay.
[00:31:59.140 --> 00:31:59.460] Definitely.
[00:31:59.640 --> 00:32:00.660] What about your favorite dish?
[00:32:01.320 --> 00:32:02.000] I'm Filipino.
[00:32:02.100 --> 00:32:03.480] So anything with rice, honestly,
[00:32:03.620 --> 00:32:06.320] curries, stir fries, anything rice based,
[00:32:06.400 --> 00:32:07.640] I would tear it up.
[00:32:08.200 --> 00:32:10.100] Okay, okay, okay, okay.
[00:32:10.760 --> 00:32:14.720] So anybody else trying to get in, mentor, intern,
[00:32:15.300 --> 00:32:16.840] have a talk, you do coffee?
[00:32:17.640 --> 00:32:18.440] I do tea.
[00:32:18.620 --> 00:32:20.840] Sometimes I do coffee, but yeah, a little bit.
[00:32:21.060 --> 00:32:23.160] A little wink, wink if anybody want to know.
[00:32:24.200 --> 00:32:27.140] Curry, stir fry with the rice and tea.
[00:32:28.200 --> 00:32:29.240] So what's your favorite tea?
[00:32:30.060 --> 00:32:32.200] I drink a tea called Puerh.
[00:32:32.300 --> 00:32:36.200] It's P-U-E-R-H and it's a fermented tea.
[00:32:36.200 --> 00:32:37.900] So a lot of people don't know this about tea,
[00:32:38.520 --> 00:32:40.660] but all tea comes from one plant.
[00:32:40.960 --> 00:32:41.800] One plant, okay.
[00:32:41.900 --> 00:32:43.860] So if it doesn't come from this one plant,
[00:32:44.020 --> 00:32:45.420] it technically isn't even a tea.
[00:32:45.700 --> 00:32:47.680] And I think it's called a Camellia cemensis plant.
[00:32:47.840 --> 00:32:50.320] That's where you get green tea, black tea, white tea,
[00:32:50.360 --> 00:32:52.240] all of the teas come from this one plant.
[00:32:52.540 --> 00:32:55.120] When you grow this one plant, Camellia cemensis,
[00:32:55.660 --> 00:32:57.240] you can chop down the leaves
[00:32:57.240 --> 00:32:59.300] and depending on what you do with those leaves,
[00:32:59.320 --> 00:33:01.420] you can get green tea, you can get black tea,
[00:33:01.500 --> 00:33:03.040] you can get oolong tea, you can get.
[00:33:03.360 --> 00:33:04.860] But if it doesn't come from that plant,
[00:33:04.860 --> 00:33:07.920] it's actually just herbal water.
[00:33:08.520 --> 00:33:10.940] It's like herbal tea, but it's not even a tea really.
[00:33:11.060 --> 00:33:11.900] You can't call it a tea.
[00:33:12.680 --> 00:33:15.740] So like when you drink mint tea or any other tea,
[00:33:15.740 --> 00:33:16.880] if it doesn't come from that plant,
[00:33:16.880 --> 00:33:17.600] it's not really a tea.
[00:33:17.920 --> 00:33:21.100] But since they take the Camellia cemensis plant,
[00:33:21.180 --> 00:33:23.960] they chop it down, they dry the leaves,
[00:33:24.320 --> 00:33:25.480] you can get green tea.
[00:33:25.820 --> 00:33:27.720] If you roast it, you can get black tea.
[00:33:27.740 --> 00:33:30.260] And then if you ferment it, you get puerh tea.
[00:33:30.280 --> 00:33:33.620] And when you ferment, you get probiotics and prebiotics
[00:33:33.620 --> 00:33:36.160] and that's where you get a lot of like the healthy
[00:33:36.680 --> 00:33:38.460] microbiome, gut health kind of stuff.
[00:33:38.540 --> 00:33:40.260] Like, I'm not sure if you ever took prebiotics
[00:33:40.260 --> 00:33:42.800] or probiotics, but it's usually something fermented
[00:33:42.800 --> 00:33:46.020] like kimchi, sauerkraut, any of those things
[00:33:46.020 --> 00:33:48.020] because they have living organisms in it
[00:33:48.020 --> 00:33:50.520] that will help feed the good bacteria in your body.
[00:33:50.940 --> 00:33:53.500] Wow, you sound like a holistic medical doctor.
[00:33:53.720 --> 00:33:54.620] You know what's funny enough is actually
[00:33:54.620 --> 00:33:56.840] my whole first year of college was to become a doctor.
[00:33:57.400 --> 00:34:00.440] I switched my major in college to become an engineer.
[00:34:01.180 --> 00:34:01.560] Wow.
[00:34:02.220 --> 00:34:03.580] So I love learning about health.
[00:34:03.700 --> 00:34:06.400] I love talking about anything spiritual health,
[00:34:06.400 --> 00:34:07.920] you know, all of that stuff.
[00:34:08.120 --> 00:34:09.199] Okay, okay, okay.
[00:34:09.480 --> 00:34:10.280] I love that.
[00:34:10.780 --> 00:34:12.540] Because it's always needed going back
[00:34:12.540 --> 00:34:14.219] to that health as well.
[00:34:14.620 --> 00:34:16.239] And then what made you make that shift
[00:34:16.239 --> 00:34:19.800] from studying to be a doctor into like audio?
[00:34:20.580 --> 00:34:22.500] You know what's funny is I interviewed a black doctor.
[00:34:22.960 --> 00:34:24.380] So they told me, they said,
[00:34:24.420 --> 00:34:25.719] hey, if you want to become a doctor,
[00:34:25.820 --> 00:34:28.260] you got to go find somebody who does
[00:34:28.260 --> 00:34:30.020] what you want to do and interview them.
[00:34:30.020 --> 00:34:31.219] And I said, bet.
[00:34:31.460 --> 00:34:32.360] So I went online.
[00:34:32.360 --> 00:34:34.780] I found this doctor,
[00:34:34.920 --> 00:34:37.780] because I wanted to study naturopathic medicine.
[00:34:38.159 --> 00:34:39.620] So I found this naturopathic doctor.
[00:34:39.920 --> 00:34:40.920] He was this black dude.
[00:34:41.000 --> 00:34:42.060] And I was like, bet.
[00:34:42.400 --> 00:34:43.480] You look like me.
[00:34:43.540 --> 00:34:44.719] You do what I want to do.
[00:34:44.840 --> 00:34:45.639] I emailed him.
[00:34:46.020 --> 00:34:47.540] I was like, yo, I want to do an interview for you.
[00:34:47.560 --> 00:34:49.100] I'm studying to become a naturopathic doctor.
[00:34:49.199 --> 00:34:50.639] He goes, responded right away.
[00:34:50.719 --> 00:34:51.860] He's like, bet, let's do it.
[00:34:52.080 --> 00:34:54.880] So we hop on Zoom and,
[00:34:55.000 --> 00:34:56.699] or actually it was Skype at the time or something.
[00:34:56.719 --> 00:34:59.520] So we hop on a video call and we're talking
[00:34:59.520 --> 00:35:02.520] and he goes, do you actually want to wake up
[00:35:02.520 --> 00:35:03.940] every day and work with sick people?
[00:35:04.280 --> 00:35:06.880] And I had not ever thought of that.
[00:35:07.160 --> 00:35:09.380] My whole entire first year of like,
[00:35:09.380 --> 00:35:10.140] I want to become a doctor.
[00:35:10.180 --> 00:35:11.320] I want to be telling all my counselors,
[00:35:11.460 --> 00:35:12.160] everyone around me is like,
[00:35:12.160 --> 00:35:13.260] yeah, he's going to become a doctor.
[00:35:13.880 --> 00:35:16.220] He framed it in a way I was like, dang.
[00:35:16.620 --> 00:35:17.640] One question, why?
[00:35:17.820 --> 00:35:18.700] I was like, dang.
[00:35:18.780 --> 00:35:20.380] I was like, I do not want to wake up
[00:35:20.380 --> 00:35:21.940] every morning and work with sick people.
[00:35:22.420 --> 00:35:25.480] And he goes, just because you love learning
[00:35:25.480 --> 00:35:26.700] about something doesn't mean you need
[00:35:26.700 --> 00:35:27.740] to turn it into a career.
[00:35:27.740 --> 00:35:30.100] One more time, one more time, one more time.
[00:35:30.400 --> 00:35:31.820] Just because you love something,
[00:35:32.080 --> 00:35:33.800] love learning about something doesn't mean
[00:35:33.800 --> 00:35:36.200] you need to turn it into a career, right?
[00:35:36.240 --> 00:35:39.920] I could love knitting or I could love golfing.
[00:35:39.920 --> 00:35:42.000] That doesn't mean I need to turn that into my career.
[00:35:42.040 --> 00:35:43.440] It could just mean something that you love
[00:35:43.440 --> 00:35:44.780] learning about and that you're passionate about.
[00:35:44.860 --> 00:35:46.460] It doesn't need to become your career.
[00:35:46.800 --> 00:35:48.920] So the minute he said that, I was like, dang.
[00:35:49.220 --> 00:35:51.440] Okay, maybe I just love learning about natural medicine
[00:35:51.440 --> 00:35:53.420] and I was like, maybe I don't want to become
[00:35:53.420 --> 00:35:54.480] a naturopathic doctor.
[00:35:54.840 --> 00:35:57.300] And all that doubt, I think he started seeing it.
[00:35:57.300 --> 00:35:59.640] And he goes, let me ask you this.
[00:36:00.080 --> 00:36:02.180] What is something you could wake up
[00:36:02.180 --> 00:36:03.820] and do every single day?
[00:36:04.300 --> 00:36:06.820] And I was like, music.
[00:36:08.060 --> 00:36:10.340] And he goes, because I was already making music
[00:36:10.340 --> 00:36:11.180] every day at the time.
[00:36:11.260 --> 00:36:12.800] I'm with my homies, we're writing raps,
[00:36:12.880 --> 00:36:14.300] we're downloading beats on YouTube,
[00:36:14.400 --> 00:36:15.720] we're trying to figure out how to record
[00:36:15.720 --> 00:36:16.520] and all this stuff.
[00:36:16.980 --> 00:36:18.060] We're doing this every day.
[00:36:18.360 --> 00:36:20.280] And I'm like, dang, he's right.
[00:36:20.820 --> 00:36:22.800] So I'm like, yeah, I can do music every single day.
[00:36:22.800 --> 00:36:23.860] He says, do that.
[00:36:25.140 --> 00:36:26.760] That was the end of that phone call.
[00:36:27.660 --> 00:36:28.980] I just had this pit in my stomach.
[00:36:29.120 --> 00:36:29.700] I was like, dang.
[00:36:30.000 --> 00:36:31.100] So I went back to my counselor
[00:36:31.100 --> 00:36:33.280] and I said, yo, switch all my classes.
[00:36:33.680 --> 00:36:34.580] He goes, what do you mean?
[00:36:34.840 --> 00:36:36.280] And I had 23 credits at the time.
[00:36:36.380 --> 00:36:37.720] I was like, bro, switch all my classes.
[00:36:37.780 --> 00:36:40.200] He's like, but we picked out a school,
[00:36:40.340 --> 00:36:41.660] we had this map played out.
[00:36:41.680 --> 00:36:43.640] I was like, bro, we gotta pivot.
[00:36:44.000 --> 00:36:45.060] I was like, bro, we gotta pivot.
[00:36:45.180 --> 00:36:47.700] I was like, sign me up for every single music class.
[00:36:48.480 --> 00:36:50.040] And he was just like, are you serious?
[00:36:50.280 --> 00:36:51.360] And I was like, sign me up
[00:36:51.360 --> 00:36:53.300] for every single music class.
[00:36:53.980 --> 00:36:55.240] And I was like, bet.
[00:36:56.020 --> 00:36:58.760] So the next day I literally walked to the music building
[00:36:58.760 --> 00:37:00.420] and in the college I went to,
[00:37:00.520 --> 00:37:02.220] it's like you got the science department,
[00:37:02.300 --> 00:37:04.140] you got the automotive, you got all these buildings
[00:37:04.140 --> 00:37:07.080] and then way off on the side is this music building
[00:37:07.080 --> 00:37:09.400] because we make all this noise and it's loud
[00:37:09.400 --> 00:37:10.700] so they put us off in the cut.
[00:37:11.320 --> 00:37:13.660] I remember walking through this trail to get there
[00:37:13.660 --> 00:37:15.380] and I'm like, man, this place is crazy.
[00:37:15.420 --> 00:37:15.880] I'm like, what?
[00:37:16.580 --> 00:37:19.100] I walk in the first doors
[00:37:19.100 --> 00:37:21.980] and all I hear is music coming from every direction.
[00:37:22.120 --> 00:37:23.160] I hear people singing.
[00:37:23.160 --> 00:37:25.740] I hear pianos, I hear saxophones, I hear,
[00:37:26.200 --> 00:37:29.320] and that just like, it just this warm feeling in my body.
[00:37:29.400 --> 00:37:30.760] I was like, this is where I need to be.
[00:37:31.180 --> 00:37:32.420] I was like, this is it.
[00:37:32.900 --> 00:37:35.860] And I walked in and I took one piano class
[00:37:35.860 --> 00:37:36.860] and I was sold.
[00:37:37.020 --> 00:37:38.020] I was like, this is, I'm like,
[00:37:38.200 --> 00:37:39.340] I literally that day I was like,
[00:37:39.340 --> 00:37:40.440] I'm getting every music degree.
[00:37:41.000 --> 00:37:42.640] I seen every music degree they offered
[00:37:42.640 --> 00:37:43.920] and I was like, I'm getting all of them.
[00:37:44.440 --> 00:37:46.580] My counselor is like, bet, let's do it.
[00:37:46.920 --> 00:37:49.480] So I took like 23, 24 credits per quarter,
[00:37:50.220 --> 00:37:52.680] vocal lessons, bass lessons, music production,
[00:37:52.680 --> 00:37:55.660] I took any class that they offered.
[00:37:55.860 --> 00:37:57.460] I took it, I was just like, I wanna learn it.
[00:37:57.820 --> 00:38:00.120] And ended up about a year into that
[00:38:00.120 --> 00:38:02.100] they noticed me at the studios
[00:38:02.100 --> 00:38:04.480] because the studios were ran by these managers
[00:38:04.480 --> 00:38:05.980] and the manager was like,
[00:38:06.000 --> 00:38:09.920] hey, who's that kid that shows up at 7 a.m.
[00:38:09.960 --> 00:38:10.480] every morning?
[00:38:10.600 --> 00:38:11.940] He's like, he's here before I am.
[00:38:12.300 --> 00:38:13.960] Like the boss showed up at eight.
[00:38:14.060 --> 00:38:15.080] I was there before him
[00:38:15.080 --> 00:38:18.420] and then he left at 5 p.m. or 6 p.m.
[00:38:18.420 --> 00:38:19.220] and I was still there.
[00:38:19.220 --> 00:38:22.660] He goes, yo, that dude is here every single day
[00:38:22.660 --> 00:38:23.900] and they're open on the weekends.
[00:38:23.920 --> 00:38:25.280] I'm there literally Monday
[00:38:25.740 --> 00:38:27.760] all the way back again till next Monday.
[00:38:28.560 --> 00:38:30.380] And I'm in there like learning how,
[00:38:30.460 --> 00:38:31.640] like what is his microphone?
[00:38:31.840 --> 00:38:33.480] I'm like learning how to make cable.
[00:38:33.580 --> 00:38:34.900] I'm literally learning everything.
[00:38:34.940 --> 00:38:36.640] And then the studio manager pulled me to the side.
[00:38:36.660 --> 00:38:39.540] He goes, hey bro, you're here so much
[00:38:39.540 --> 00:38:42.940] and I can clearly see you have like a deep hunger
[00:38:42.940 --> 00:38:44.220] and a deep passion for all this stuff.
[00:38:44.240 --> 00:38:46.680] He goes, I wanna open up the work study program for you.
[00:38:46.680 --> 00:38:48.380] He's like, I closed it a couple of years ago
[00:38:48.960 --> 00:38:51.880] but he's like, I just haven't seen a student this hungry.
[00:38:51.940 --> 00:38:55.260] And he goes, I wanna hire you on as a work study.
[00:38:55.680 --> 00:38:57.160] So from that day on,
[00:38:57.280 --> 00:39:00.900] I was making I think $12 an hour being there.
[00:39:01.520 --> 00:39:03.240] Cause he was like, bro, you're already here
[00:39:03.240 --> 00:39:05.460] every single day for like more than 10 hours.
[00:39:05.480 --> 00:39:07.500] He was like, you might as well get paid to be here.
[00:39:08.140 --> 00:39:10.180] He blessed me with that job at 18.
[00:39:10.860 --> 00:39:12.480] And then by the time I graduated,
[00:39:12.840 --> 00:39:13.880] the work study had ended
[00:39:13.880 --> 00:39:15.920] cause work study is only for students.
[00:39:16.440 --> 00:39:18.400] So I graduated and he goes,
[00:39:18.520 --> 00:39:20.420] hey bro, I wanna offer you a full time position here.
[00:39:20.920 --> 00:39:21.780] And I was like, bet.
[00:39:22.320 --> 00:39:24.700] So and then I ended up not taking the full time
[00:39:24.700 --> 00:39:25.800] because I had so many other gigs
[00:39:25.800 --> 00:39:27.520] but I ended up doing a part time there.
[00:39:28.640 --> 00:39:30.800] And yeah, that was just a huge blessing
[00:39:30.800 --> 00:39:31.920] working in those studios.
[00:39:32.320 --> 00:39:33.920] And people would come to the studios and be like,
[00:39:33.920 --> 00:39:36.740] hey, we need somebody for this project or whatever.
[00:39:37.080 --> 00:39:37.960] I was the first person.
[00:39:38.000 --> 00:39:39.460] They were like, you gotta get Tybo.
[00:39:39.480 --> 00:39:41.100] So I did weddings, I did conferences.
[00:39:41.220 --> 00:39:43.480] I did all of these things just working at that studio
[00:39:43.880 --> 00:39:45.300] and made so many connections
[00:39:45.300 --> 00:39:48.980] and built a reputation in Seattle for like the tech.
[00:39:49.260 --> 00:39:50.780] So you go out to Seattle and they're like,
[00:39:50.800 --> 00:39:51.480] oh, you need a honey?
[00:39:51.740 --> 00:39:53.220] They'll probably be like, oh, get Tybo.
[00:39:53.340 --> 00:39:54.520] I'm like, I don't even live there no more.
[00:39:54.840 --> 00:39:55.760] So yeah.
[00:39:56.160 --> 00:39:58.440] And that's amazing, amazing, amazing story.
[00:39:58.980 --> 00:40:01.980] So even talking about hobbies outside of music,
[00:40:02.160 --> 00:40:04.580] outside of studying natural medicine,
[00:40:05.140 --> 00:40:06.980] what are some of your hobbies or passions?
[00:40:07.360 --> 00:40:08.020] Bro, I got too many.
[00:40:08.120 --> 00:40:08.700] I got too many.
[00:40:08.800 --> 00:40:10.780] Like I literally, if you come to my house,
[00:40:10.800 --> 00:40:11.780] I got a three bedroom house.
[00:40:11.940 --> 00:40:13.860] Every single room is a studio
[00:40:13.860 --> 00:40:15.120] and I'm always doing something.
[00:40:15.800 --> 00:40:17.260] Like different types of studios.
[00:40:17.500 --> 00:40:18.600] Yeah, so I got a virtual studio.
[00:40:18.680 --> 00:40:20.540] I got like green screen where you can like click a button
[00:40:20.540 --> 00:40:22.460] and do any backdrop and it looks like,
[00:40:22.640 --> 00:40:24.700] most people when I'm on the green screen,
[00:40:24.700 --> 00:40:25.580] they don't even know.
[00:40:25.940 --> 00:40:27.720] Like they're like, bro, you got a new studio?
[00:40:27.880 --> 00:40:29.140] I'm like, click another button, it changes.
[00:40:29.280 --> 00:40:30.940] They're like, wait, what just happened?
[00:40:32.300 --> 00:40:33.680] I do 3D printing.
[00:40:33.920 --> 00:40:35.700] I do laser engraving.
[00:40:35.800 --> 00:40:36.760] I make jewelry.
[00:40:37.260 --> 00:40:38.340] You'll see me on my story.
[00:40:38.380 --> 00:40:39.900] I got a bunch of gold and silver.
[00:40:40.140 --> 00:40:41.220] I melted down.
[00:40:41.260 --> 00:40:42.700] I'll play with diamonds and stuff.
[00:40:42.760 --> 00:40:44.960] So I've made chains for myself.
[00:40:44.960 --> 00:40:47.460] I've made Cuban bracelets.
[00:40:47.620 --> 00:40:49.720] I've made a bunch of rings for the shorties
[00:40:49.720 --> 00:40:50.740] that I'm dating and stuff.
[00:40:51.040 --> 00:40:51.460] So yeah.
[00:40:51.900 --> 00:40:52.780] So I love jewelry.
[00:40:53.000 --> 00:40:54.600] I love anything arts and crafts,
[00:40:54.600 --> 00:40:55.800] anything creative, honestly.
[00:40:55.880 --> 00:40:57.200] Like I love cooking as well.
[00:40:57.560 --> 00:40:59.660] I'll see a recipe on TikTok of that.
[00:40:59.760 --> 00:41:00.780] I want to try to make that.
[00:41:01.020 --> 00:41:01.900] So anything creative.
[00:41:01.920 --> 00:41:04.320] I'm like a real big creative person.
[00:41:04.900 --> 00:41:05.780] So yeah.
[00:41:06.300 --> 00:41:06.720] Wow.
[00:41:06.980 --> 00:41:07.740] I love that.
[00:41:07.900 --> 00:41:10.460] Even got a chance to check out the green screen
[00:41:10.460 --> 00:41:14.220] yesterday and that's just amazing where technology is.
[00:41:14.220 --> 00:41:17.560] I know green screen has been around for a long time
[00:41:17.560 --> 00:41:19.860] in the Hollywood movies and like you said,
[00:41:19.900 --> 00:41:20.820] virtual setups.
[00:41:21.980 --> 00:41:22.720] It's amazing.
[00:41:23.380 --> 00:41:25.720] So for someone that wants to get into green screening
[00:41:25.720 --> 00:41:27.440] where there's some equipment that they'll need.
[00:41:27.780 --> 00:41:28.960] You need lighting, good lighting.
[00:41:29.200 --> 00:41:31.280] I mean, if you give me some really good lights
[00:41:31.280 --> 00:41:33.380] on the iPhone, I could make some green screen footage
[00:41:33.380 --> 00:41:36.140] and really you don't need a lot of like back
[00:41:36.140 --> 00:41:38.340] in the day you used to need like Adobe
[00:41:38.340 --> 00:41:39.840] and you need all this software.
[00:41:40.140 --> 00:41:41.920] And then honestly you got CapCut.
[00:41:42.020 --> 00:41:43.760] CapCut got green screen removal.
[00:41:44.640 --> 00:41:45.460] Blink, boom.
[00:41:45.820 --> 00:41:47.100] Now you just put whatever you want.
[00:41:47.180 --> 00:41:48.440] Now you got AI backgrounds.
[00:41:48.700 --> 00:41:51.560] Like I used, even like a year ago I used to design.
[00:41:52.160 --> 00:41:54.120] Like I used to have to go into the software
[00:41:54.120 --> 00:41:56.480] and create each element and place a plant.
[00:41:56.520 --> 00:41:59.020] Like I was in a 3D software creating these rooms.
[00:41:59.080 --> 00:42:00.000] Now you got AI.
[00:42:00.020 --> 00:42:01.980] You just prompt 60 seconds.
[00:42:02.280 --> 00:42:03.720] It generates you whatever you want.
[00:42:04.160 --> 00:42:05.320] And then you can revise it.
[00:42:05.400 --> 00:42:07.860] You know, put my logo in the back or put this.
[00:42:07.920 --> 00:42:09.640] I was like, there's no excuse
[00:42:09.640 --> 00:42:11.940] of why you can't do no green screen content nowadays.
[00:42:11.940 --> 00:42:15.340] It used to be the entry was like really, really high
[00:42:15.340 --> 00:42:17.240] but now it's like you could do it from, you know,
[00:42:17.400 --> 00:42:19.220] cell phones and bring lights off.
[00:42:20.380 --> 00:42:20.500] Wow.
[00:42:21.780 --> 00:42:22.960] So, so much to learn.
[00:42:23.080 --> 00:42:25.700] And like you said, technology is advancing
[00:42:25.700 --> 00:42:28.760] so it's like no excuse at all.
[00:42:28.840 --> 00:42:30.220] No excuse at all.
[00:42:30.560 --> 00:42:31.460] One popular way.
[00:42:33.200 --> 00:42:36.580] So going back to them early days,
[00:42:37.240 --> 00:42:40.400] starting a business, hustling, doing all of that,
[00:42:41.340 --> 00:42:43.820] what did you see yourself in those moments?
[00:42:43.980 --> 00:42:46.280] Like, did you see yourself in a position you are now
[00:42:46.280 --> 00:42:49.480] or do you say someday I'ma make it?
[00:42:49.640 --> 00:42:50.680] Someday I'ma make it.
[00:42:50.700 --> 00:42:52.020] Someday it's gonna be this way.
[00:42:52.640 --> 00:42:53.600] Like what was your mindset?
[00:42:53.760 --> 00:42:55.320] I was one of those delusional people.
[00:42:55.800 --> 00:42:57.260] Like at 12 years old, 13 years old,
[00:42:57.260 --> 00:42:58.320] I'm telling all my friends like,
[00:42:58.400 --> 00:43:00.420] hey bro, I'm about to get that Lambo.
[00:43:00.520 --> 00:43:01.820] I'm about to get it.
[00:43:01.980 --> 00:43:04.800] And everybody around me is like, yeah, right.
[00:43:05.460 --> 00:43:07.980] Yeah, like bro, I literally come from homelessness,
[00:43:08.080 --> 00:43:08.740] from the street.
[00:43:08.740 --> 00:43:11.160] I used to hold up signs to get money, like all of it.
[00:43:11.660 --> 00:43:13.280] And I'm delusional in my mind.
[00:43:13.460 --> 00:43:15.420] I'm like, no, bro, I used to be like,
[00:43:15.460 --> 00:43:17.380] yeah, no, I get that high rise crib.
[00:43:17.420 --> 00:43:18.440] I'm about to get that car.
[00:43:19.300 --> 00:43:19.700] And-
[00:43:19.700 --> 00:43:20.920] So you had to visualize.
[00:43:21.200 --> 00:43:21.960] Oh, absolutely.
[00:43:22.060 --> 00:43:22.820] And then the thing is,
[00:43:22.880 --> 00:43:24.600] if you read any of my horoscope stuff,
[00:43:24.620 --> 00:43:25.600] I got this birthday book.
[00:43:25.900 --> 00:43:28.040] Any birthday book or horoscope that I've ever read,
[00:43:28.420 --> 00:43:29.980] it always says something about manifestation.
[00:43:30.360 --> 00:43:34.000] So I literally have been able to manifest anything
[00:43:34.000 --> 00:43:34.880] that I've ever thought of.
[00:43:35.400 --> 00:43:38.540] And what's crazy is I used to manifest bad stuff.
[00:43:38.540 --> 00:43:39.960] I used to be like, man, I hate that person.
[00:43:40.040 --> 00:43:41.440] I wish something bad would happen.
[00:43:41.500 --> 00:43:42.480] And then stuff would happen.
[00:43:42.640 --> 00:43:43.460] I'd be like, ooh.
[00:43:43.700 --> 00:43:46.280] I'm like, yo, I probably shouldn't think bad stuff.
[00:43:46.340 --> 00:43:49.100] And that's why the power of the mind is so strong.
[00:43:49.500 --> 00:43:52.660] So I only like to consume healthy stuff.
[00:43:52.760 --> 00:43:55.580] Even my feed, I try not to consume anything negative
[00:43:55.580 --> 00:43:56.260] or anything bad,
[00:43:56.260 --> 00:43:58.480] because those things will plant seeds in my mind
[00:43:58.480 --> 00:43:59.820] and those seeds can grow.
[00:44:01.140 --> 00:44:03.680] So I've always been good with manifesting.
[00:44:05.460 --> 00:44:07.120] Even what's crazy about podcast summit
[00:44:07.560 --> 00:44:10.180] is I was getting all of these podcast summit ads
[00:44:10.180 --> 00:44:11.860] before I even went to podcast summit.
[00:44:12.100 --> 00:44:14.160] I remember the two years ago,
[00:44:14.220 --> 00:44:16.340] it was like ad, ad, ad, all on my feed.
[00:44:16.780 --> 00:44:19.000] And it used to piss me off because I used to be like,
[00:44:19.120 --> 00:44:21.460] bro, I've shot over 400 episodes of the podcast.
[00:44:21.680 --> 00:44:24.620] I know more about podcasts than any of those people.
[00:44:24.840 --> 00:44:27.440] I'm like, and I was like, bro, I deserve to be there.
[00:44:27.720 --> 00:44:29.540] Literally, that's what I'm saying.
[00:44:29.620 --> 00:44:30.820] And I'd never been to a podcast summit.
[00:44:30.880 --> 00:44:31.720] I'm seeing these ads.
[00:44:32.420 --> 00:44:35.620] One day I get a call, and it's David Shands.
[00:44:36.160 --> 00:44:37.560] I answer it.
[00:44:37.720 --> 00:44:40.840] He's like, hey, bro, I need somebody at podcast summit.
[00:44:40.960 --> 00:44:41.760] Are you available?
[00:44:42.360 --> 00:44:43.520] Look at God right there.
[00:44:43.820 --> 00:44:44.780] Look at God, wow.
[00:44:45.060 --> 00:44:46.360] It's literally, I've seen the ads
[00:44:46.360 --> 00:44:47.700] for like two or three weeks,
[00:44:47.760 --> 00:44:49.260] and I'm like, I need to be there.
[00:44:49.300 --> 00:44:50.720] I deserve to be there.
[00:44:51.180 --> 00:44:52.800] Boom, I get a call from David Shands.
[00:44:52.800 --> 00:44:53.960] He's asking me to be there.
[00:44:54.360 --> 00:44:56.340] So it's like stuff like that,
[00:44:57.180 --> 00:44:59.440] just simple manifestations of like,
[00:44:59.700 --> 00:45:01.660] or even I DM'd people
[00:45:01.660 --> 00:45:04.880] that I wanted to set up studios for a year ago.
[00:45:05.290 --> 00:45:06.760] And now those people are hitting me up,
[00:45:06.760 --> 00:45:07.980] bro, how much you cost?
[00:45:07.980 --> 00:45:09.400] I'm like, bro, I'll pay you right away.
[00:45:09.680 --> 00:45:12.380] So it's like, yeah, no, exactly.
[00:45:12.460 --> 00:45:13.900] Like chasing all these people,
[00:45:13.900 --> 00:45:15.700] and then now these people are chasing you.
[00:45:15.940 --> 00:45:17.980] So it's like, yeah.
[00:45:18.620 --> 00:45:19.980] Like you said, manifestation,
[00:45:20.360 --> 00:45:23.820] even like you said, the thoughts and the seeds,
[00:45:24.020 --> 00:45:25.000] like even the words,
[00:45:25.460 --> 00:45:28.220] like even coming from a recording artist standpoint,
[00:45:29.360 --> 00:45:30.920] my last track wasn't a song.
[00:45:31.380 --> 00:45:32.720] It was an affirmation track,
[00:45:32.720 --> 00:45:34.260] like an eight-minute affirmation track
[00:45:34.260 --> 00:45:37.960] called Alien Affirmations, one, two, three,
[00:45:38.360 --> 00:45:39.700] which is like my angel number.
[00:45:40.600 --> 00:45:42.940] And then alien stems from my whole brand,
[00:45:43.080 --> 00:45:44.480] my artists, Alien Eye Play,
[00:45:44.560 --> 00:45:46.040] and then now Alien Eye's photo.
[00:45:46.620 --> 00:45:49.100] So yeah, people are like, oh, what's your last song?
[00:45:49.260 --> 00:45:50.960] It was actually an affirmation track.
[00:45:51.320 --> 00:45:52.800] You know, shift in your mindset.
[00:45:53.660 --> 00:45:55.360] My last song was fuck 2020.
[00:45:56.560 --> 00:45:57.860] So 2020 was your last?
[00:45:57.860 --> 00:45:59.860] Yeah, that was the pandemic.
[00:46:00.040 --> 00:46:00.920] I had a lot of feelings.
[00:46:01.300 --> 00:46:01.760] Yeah, exactly.
[00:46:01.760 --> 00:46:03.640] I was like, yo, and I think I made it
[00:46:03.640 --> 00:46:04.260] right at the end of the year.
[00:46:04.300 --> 00:46:06.500] I was like, yeah, this year has been shitty.
[00:46:06.640 --> 00:46:08.200] I was like, yeah, I'm just gonna make a diss track
[00:46:08.200 --> 00:46:10.860] to 2020, and everybody back home was like,
[00:46:10.940 --> 00:46:11.780] yeah, fuck 2020.
[00:46:12.620 --> 00:46:15.800] What about your favorite song that you made?
[00:46:16.060 --> 00:46:17.160] Favorite song that I made?
[00:46:18.420 --> 00:46:20.480] I would probably say anything off my first album,
[00:46:21.120 --> 00:46:22.860] because here's the thing, is when I first started,
[00:46:22.920 --> 00:46:25.700] I was like, I put so much effort and time.
[00:46:25.700 --> 00:46:27.600] I spent one year making my first album,
[00:46:27.640 --> 00:46:28.760] and it was only eight songs.
[00:46:29.600 --> 00:46:33.180] But each phase, I had to go through the beat selection,
[00:46:33.820 --> 00:46:36.720] the writing, the mixing, the mastering.
[00:46:38.000 --> 00:46:41.560] I described it as if you had to make 100 burgers, right?
[00:46:42.500 --> 00:46:44.500] You wouldn't go in and just make one burger,
[00:46:44.820 --> 00:46:46.460] wrap it up, make the next one, right?
[00:46:46.840 --> 00:46:47.960] What you would do is you would prep.
[00:46:48.100 --> 00:46:49.400] You would lay out all the buns.
[00:46:49.780 --> 00:46:51.140] You put the patties on.
[00:46:51.520 --> 00:46:52.760] You would lay all the tomatoes.
[00:46:52.860 --> 00:46:54.820] Like, you would do it all in a batch, right?
[00:46:54.840 --> 00:46:56.020] So you could do it more efficiently.
[00:46:56.400 --> 00:46:57.500] So when I made my first album,
[00:46:57.500 --> 00:46:58.460] I did it just like that.
[00:46:58.460 --> 00:46:59.780] I selected all the beats.
[00:47:01.040 --> 00:47:02.440] I selected all the song tracks.
[00:47:02.620 --> 00:47:03.940] I went and wrote all the things.
[00:47:04.100 --> 00:47:04.840] I went into the recording.
[00:47:04.880 --> 00:47:06.780] So each one of those was a stage,
[00:47:07.660 --> 00:47:09.580] and that took a whole year to make.
[00:47:09.660 --> 00:47:11.260] And I feel like that process,
[00:47:11.980 --> 00:47:14.420] it just made these tracks that I'm like,
[00:47:14.700 --> 00:47:15.740] I'm really proud of.
[00:47:15.900 --> 00:47:18.340] Anything after that, I stopped putting that effort in,
[00:47:18.340 --> 00:47:23.200] because I realized that music is about consumption, right?
[00:47:23.360 --> 00:47:24.840] If it took me one year
[00:47:24.840 --> 00:47:27.980] to make all the eight of these tracks,
[00:47:28.440 --> 00:47:30.340] and it only takes you 20 minutes to listen,
[00:47:30.820 --> 00:47:32.520] I'm like, was it really worth it?
[00:47:32.700 --> 00:47:34.320] And then that's when I started realizing,
[00:47:34.520 --> 00:47:36.120] okay, let me get better at creating
[00:47:36.120 --> 00:47:38.420] to where I can literally make a whole album in a month.
[00:47:39.120 --> 00:47:39.860] And I was like, yo,
[00:47:39.880 --> 00:47:41.420] I need to get better with the creativity
[00:47:41.420 --> 00:47:42.400] where I can crank.
[00:47:42.460 --> 00:47:45.720] It was more about, what is it?
[00:47:46.480 --> 00:47:47.800] Not quality over quantity.
[00:47:48.180 --> 00:47:48.960] I was trying to go,
[00:47:49.220 --> 00:47:51.540] I started with quality over quantity,
[00:47:51.680 --> 00:47:52.460] but then I switched.
[00:47:52.520 --> 00:47:53.780] I was like, yo, let's do quantity.
[00:47:53.780 --> 00:47:55.820] And so then I started cranking out tracks.
[00:47:55.820 --> 00:47:58.900] And I feel like that is what got me that muscle,
[00:47:59.020 --> 00:48:00.900] where it's like, now, if we sit down,
[00:48:00.900 --> 00:48:01.980] you play one beat right now,
[00:48:01.980 --> 00:48:03.720] I could write you a track in 20 minutes,
[00:48:03.720 --> 00:48:04.840] record it, mix it.
[00:48:04.880 --> 00:48:06.740] We can have a track done by four o'clock.
[00:48:07.040 --> 00:48:08.640] Okay, I got to be out there.
[00:48:08.780 --> 00:48:09.040] We gone?
[00:48:09.500 --> 00:48:09.860] Exactly.
[00:48:09.980 --> 00:48:11.380] And that's where I wanted to be.
[00:48:11.680 --> 00:48:14.080] But before, my creativity process was like,
[00:48:14.080 --> 00:48:15.180] oh, now I got to select a beat.
[00:48:15.220 --> 00:48:16.660] I got to get inspired to write.
[00:48:16.920 --> 00:48:17.740] I got to get...
[00:48:17.740 --> 00:48:19.540] So I was like, no, I got to crank these out.
[00:48:19.680 --> 00:48:21.760] So anything off my first album, to answer your question,
[00:48:21.760 --> 00:48:23.760] my first track is called Tybo Intro.
[00:48:24.180 --> 00:48:26.700] I just love that song, you know, play it anytime.
[00:48:26.880 --> 00:48:29.020] And I just, it's a vibe, but yeah.
[00:48:29.600 --> 00:48:30.940] Well, as you would say,
[00:48:31.140 --> 00:48:33.440] explaining and explaining the process in different stages
[00:48:33.440 --> 00:48:37.140] sounds like editing, like multi-cam editing,
[00:48:37.640 --> 00:48:38.360] post-production.
[00:48:38.920 --> 00:48:41.620] So is there like a workflow you have for editing?
[00:48:42.440 --> 00:48:45.240] I've talked about the pre, the production and the post.
[00:48:45.740 --> 00:48:46.860] I think that's trance.
[00:48:47.060 --> 00:48:48.900] Yeah, the three P's or the five P's.
[00:48:48.900 --> 00:48:53.040] I think that, I think I think about all production
[00:48:53.040 --> 00:48:53.640] in that way.
[00:48:53.980 --> 00:48:55.260] Like, even though I was talking about my album,
[00:48:55.460 --> 00:48:58.040] I went into pre-production, then I went into production,
[00:48:58.300 --> 00:48:59.460] then I went into post-production.
[00:48:59.900 --> 00:49:01.500] So if you're asking mainly about
[00:49:01.500 --> 00:49:02.680] the post-production process,
[00:49:02.720 --> 00:49:05.280] I feel like that is when I'm transferring everything
[00:49:05.280 --> 00:49:07.780] and making sure like, I always use references.
[00:49:08.240 --> 00:49:10.520] Like, I feel like as an engineer,
[00:49:11.060 --> 00:49:13.140] they taught me how to use references early on,
[00:49:13.200 --> 00:49:15.260] and I transferred that into every other skill
[00:49:15.260 --> 00:49:15.800] that I used.
[00:49:15.980 --> 00:49:17.280] Break that down, references.
[00:49:17.280 --> 00:49:20.520] Yeah, so when you're mixing a song,
[00:49:20.520 --> 00:49:22.320] let's say you just recorded this track and you say,
[00:49:22.580 --> 00:49:25.000] hey Tybo, I want you to mix and master this track.
[00:49:25.800 --> 00:49:26.940] What I'm gonna ask you for is,
[00:49:27.240 --> 00:49:30.340] hey, I want you to find a song that is similar to this
[00:49:30.920 --> 00:49:32.500] that we can use as a reference
[00:49:32.500 --> 00:49:34.500] so we know that the final product
[00:49:34.500 --> 00:49:36.800] should look something like this, right?
[00:49:37.140 --> 00:49:39.180] And it's the same thing if you're a photographer,
[00:49:39.360 --> 00:49:39.460] I'd say.
[00:49:39.460 --> 00:49:42.400] Wait, wait, wait, because you hit a key point.
[00:49:43.440 --> 00:49:45.100] Something like this, not exactly,
[00:49:45.100 --> 00:49:47.180] but something like this.
[00:49:47.460 --> 00:49:48.320] Because I get that a lot.
[00:49:48.500 --> 00:49:50.240] Like, oh, it's not, it's something like that.
[00:49:50.320 --> 00:49:51.680] No, exactly, same with photography.
[00:49:51.700 --> 00:49:54.300] Like, if I'm a photographer and I'm like, hey,
[00:49:54.800 --> 00:49:55.780] or if I'm a model, I'm like,
[00:49:55.780 --> 00:49:57.080] hey, I want to shoot with this photographer.
[00:49:57.260 --> 00:49:58.740] I'm gonna give him reference photos.
[00:49:58.860 --> 00:50:01.440] I'm gonna say, hey, I like these, these looks.
[00:50:01.660 --> 00:50:03.280] I want to go for something like this.
[00:50:03.560 --> 00:50:05.860] So I always use references for everything I do,
[00:50:05.920 --> 00:50:07.600] whether it's lighting, video.
[00:50:07.820 --> 00:50:09.960] Like, I'll look at a diary of a CEO.
[00:50:10.000 --> 00:50:11.200] I'm like, oh, is this a reference?
[00:50:11.360 --> 00:50:12.300] You want it like this?
[00:50:12.360 --> 00:50:13.940] This is moody, this is dark, this is intimate.
[00:50:13.940 --> 00:50:15.380] And they're like, no, I want more light,
[00:50:15.520 --> 00:50:17.560] or I want more like, I want Joe Rogan,
[00:50:17.580 --> 00:50:20.280] or I want this Call Me Daddy podcast, whatever.
[00:50:20.540 --> 00:50:22.500] Like, I used them as a reference point, essentially,
[00:50:22.840 --> 00:50:24.540] to get the client to where they want to go.
[00:50:24.880 --> 00:50:26.220] Okay, okay, okay.
[00:50:26.900 --> 00:50:30.540] Now, as we approach the end of this episode,
[00:50:31.040 --> 00:50:33.420] I would like to hear your biggest lesson
[00:50:33.420 --> 00:50:35.760] that you learned throughout your whole career.
[00:50:36.680 --> 00:50:40.380] I would say, provide value, and the money will come.
[00:50:40.600 --> 00:50:43.760] Like, that's really the biggest lesson
[00:50:44.680 --> 00:50:46.520] everywhere I go, I'm trying to provide value.
[00:50:46.760 --> 00:50:48.500] And that's before I even think about money.
[00:50:48.980 --> 00:50:51.760] And I think that the people who provide the most value
[00:50:51.760 --> 00:50:52.960] will never have a money problem.
[00:50:53.500 --> 00:50:54.820] I love that, that is true.
[00:50:55.440 --> 00:50:58.560] What about the biggest or the greatest insight,
[00:50:58.760 --> 00:50:59.960] a business insight that you learned?
[00:51:00.840 --> 00:51:03.080] You know what's crazy is I don't do this now,
[00:51:03.580 --> 00:51:06.140] but somebody said that if you don't have
[00:51:06.140 --> 00:51:07.960] monthly recurring revenue in your business,
[00:51:07.980 --> 00:51:09.160] you don't have a real business.
[00:51:11.080 --> 00:51:13.320] And I thought of that, and I was just like,
[00:51:13.320 --> 00:51:14.740] man, that's a really good concept,
[00:51:14.820 --> 00:51:16.380] because if you think about Netflix
[00:51:16.380 --> 00:51:17.900] and all of these streaming platforms,
[00:51:18.060 --> 00:51:20.720] they have your money every month coming in.
[00:51:21.840 --> 00:51:23.800] So as entrepreneurs and creators,
[00:51:23.940 --> 00:51:26.900] if we are starting from ground zero every month,
[00:51:27.260 --> 00:51:29.460] where we have to go out and find new gigs,
[00:51:29.500 --> 00:51:30.460] new clients, or whatever,
[00:51:30.600 --> 00:51:32.620] it's like, do you really have a real business?
[00:51:32.740 --> 00:51:33.480] And I was like, dang.
[00:51:33.900 --> 00:51:35.720] So that's kind of something new that I'm thinking about
[00:51:35.720 --> 00:51:41.040] is like, okay, how do I work in that monthly revenue?
[00:51:41.200 --> 00:51:42.600] Where it's like, and you know,
[00:51:42.600 --> 00:51:44.080] and especially for me,
[00:51:44.480 --> 00:51:47.440] I know if I did a school community where I taught this stuff,
[00:51:47.520 --> 00:51:49.940] it's like people easily would join my Patreon,
[00:51:50.140 --> 00:51:51.400] my school community, whatever,
[00:51:51.720 --> 00:51:53.480] and that's that monthly revenue
[00:51:53.480 --> 00:51:55.560] where it's like people just every month
[00:51:55.560 --> 00:51:59.080] are getting that value, but also paying, so.
[00:51:59.480 --> 00:52:00.040] That is true.
[00:52:00.060 --> 00:52:02.640] So we can see a school community or Patreon coming soon?
[00:52:03.260 --> 00:52:04.380] Honestly, yeah, no, probably.
[00:52:04.920 --> 00:52:08.240] I'm just so busy with this high ticket studio stuff.
[00:52:08.480 --> 00:52:11.260] It's like the energy that it takes for that.
[00:52:11.260 --> 00:52:13.760] I gotta kind of weigh out the options,
[00:52:14.040 --> 00:52:15.360] but soon enough, you guys will probably see.
[00:52:15.680 --> 00:52:17.500] Well, you know, you don't always have to be
[00:52:17.500 --> 00:52:19.040] the face of it or run it.
[00:52:19.080 --> 00:52:22.440] You can always hire someone or have someone organize it
[00:52:22.440 --> 00:52:25.700] or have prerecorded videos and then.
[00:52:25.940 --> 00:52:27.000] But you know, me being a passion,
[00:52:27.120 --> 00:52:28.880] like I view everything like my baby.
[00:52:29.000 --> 00:52:30.380] So I'm like, that's my child that I get.
[00:52:30.500 --> 00:52:32.640] Even if you paid me like $99 a month
[00:52:32.640 --> 00:52:34.160] or even $20 a month, right?
[00:52:34.580 --> 00:52:35.700] You're gonna get the same treatment
[00:52:35.700 --> 00:52:37.640] as my 5,000, $10,000 client,
[00:52:37.640 --> 00:52:40.460] because I don't view the money as like,
[00:52:40.460 --> 00:52:42.220] oh, you paid me more, I'm gonna give you more value.
[00:52:42.260 --> 00:52:44.660] It's like, no, you're coming to me.
[00:52:44.680 --> 00:52:46.180] You're gonna get the value no matter what.
[00:52:46.540 --> 00:52:50.060] So that's why I prioritize more of the higher ticket stuff.
[00:52:50.240 --> 00:52:51.640] I'm like, do I really wanna do the community?
[00:52:51.720 --> 00:52:53.860] But eventually I will, like what you're saying.
[00:52:54.540 --> 00:52:56.260] Okay, no, it's nothing wrong with it.
[00:52:56.320 --> 00:52:58.200] A high ticket is definitely a good thing.
[00:52:59.540 --> 00:53:01.920] My audience is creative entrepreneurs,
[00:53:02.180 --> 00:53:03.900] mainly beginning creative entrepreneurs.
[00:53:04.640 --> 00:53:06.500] What is one thing that you would leave them?
[00:53:07.000 --> 00:53:08.700] I already said this, but don't give up,
[00:53:08.700 --> 00:53:10.260] because here's the thing.
[00:53:10.580 --> 00:53:12.820] We are so quick to beat ourselves up,
[00:53:13.780 --> 00:53:15.680] but really let the world do that.
[00:53:15.880 --> 00:53:17.320] You should be encouraging yourself.
[00:53:17.360 --> 00:53:18.520] You should be uplifting yourself.
[00:53:18.840 --> 00:53:21.280] So the minute I hear somebody talking down about themselves
[00:53:21.280 --> 00:53:22.640] or beating themselves up, I'm like,
[00:53:22.680 --> 00:53:24.240] yo, don't do that.
[00:53:24.420 --> 00:53:25.780] The world will do that for you.
[00:53:26.020 --> 00:53:27.700] You need to be the one uplifting.
[00:53:27.860 --> 00:53:28.780] You need to be the encouragement.
[00:53:28.900 --> 00:53:30.380] You need to be the vessel,
[00:53:30.580 --> 00:53:32.440] because you are the most important thing
[00:53:32.440 --> 00:53:33.220] at the end of the day.
[00:53:33.420 --> 00:53:34.600] Nobody's gonna give you that motivation.
[00:53:34.700 --> 00:53:35.620] Nobody's gonna wake you up
[00:53:35.620 --> 00:53:37.100] and do the things that you have to do.
[00:53:37.100 --> 00:53:39.800] So, you know, work in that internal,
[00:53:40.140 --> 00:53:42.780] like, you know, let it shine from the inside out.
[00:53:43.540 --> 00:53:44.620] I love it.
[00:53:45.140 --> 00:53:48.200] And this was an amazing, amazing interview,
[00:53:48.980 --> 00:53:51.660] but for someone that has a couple minutes,
[00:53:52.140 --> 00:53:55.280] what is three to five takeaways you would like to share?
[00:53:56.180 --> 00:53:57.680] Give me a topic, give me.
[00:53:58.060 --> 00:53:59.220] This whole interview,
[00:53:59.240 --> 00:54:01.520] even if it's something you didn't get to mention.
[00:54:02.340 --> 00:54:04.740] Audio, I wanna go over audio real quick.
[00:54:06.020 --> 00:54:07.880] Try to get your microphone as close as you can.
[00:54:08.320 --> 00:54:10.340] Like, if you get this microphone right here,
[00:54:10.340 --> 00:54:12.060] you guys are gonna hear the difference, right?
[00:54:12.080 --> 00:54:13.240] It's gonna be bassy.
[00:54:13.340 --> 00:54:15.300] It's gonna be, it's gonna sound like I'm on the radio
[00:54:15.300 --> 00:54:17.260] versus if you just move it slightly back,
[00:54:17.740 --> 00:54:20.560] like even this, the frequency response
[00:54:20.560 --> 00:54:22.600] from one to two inches of movement,
[00:54:22.740 --> 00:54:24.080] like, it's crazy.
[00:54:24.220 --> 00:54:25.400] Like, you can hear it.
[00:54:25.400 --> 00:54:27.120] Like, if I'm like, yo, hey guys, what's up?
[00:54:27.200 --> 00:54:28.540] Versus, hey guys, what's up?
[00:54:28.880 --> 00:54:31.080] So, try to get as close as you can to the microphone.
[00:54:31.340 --> 00:54:33.140] That would be my one thing about audio.
[00:54:33.680 --> 00:54:34.900] Two, I'm gonna go over lighting.
[00:54:36.260 --> 00:54:37.880] One thing about lighting people don't realize
[00:54:37.880 --> 00:54:40.920] is every time you double your distance,
[00:54:41.240 --> 00:54:43.380] you lose 75% of the power.
[00:54:43.660 --> 00:54:44.220] Now, let me, let me.
[00:54:44.420 --> 00:54:46.580] Double your distance, you lose 75%.
[00:54:46.580 --> 00:54:47.420] Now, I'm gonna break it down.
[00:54:47.420 --> 00:54:48.260] These are gonna be some numbers.
[00:54:48.320 --> 00:54:49.580] You might have to show some stuff on the screen,
[00:54:49.600 --> 00:54:50.020] but check this out.
[00:54:50.040 --> 00:54:50.660] Yes, yes.
[00:54:51.500 --> 00:54:53.680] If I have this light in front of me
[00:54:53.680 --> 00:54:57.360] and it's at 100%, right?
[00:54:58.300 --> 00:55:02.660] If I have it four feet away and at 100%,
[00:55:02.660 --> 00:55:04.180] if I move it back eight feet,
[00:55:04.620 --> 00:55:06.960] you'd be like, oh, it went down to 50%.
[00:55:06.960 --> 00:55:09.420] But really, it went down to 25%.
[00:55:09.880 --> 00:55:11.560] So, a lot of people don't realize
[00:55:11.560 --> 00:55:13.120] the closer you have the light,
[00:55:13.260 --> 00:55:16.300] the more luminance you actually get.
[00:55:16.720 --> 00:55:18.460] So, it's called the inverse law.
[00:55:18.920 --> 00:55:20.860] It's the inverse law theory.
[00:55:21.160 --> 00:55:23.260] It's like the, pretty much just saying
[00:55:23.260 --> 00:55:26.580] every time you double a distance, you lose 75%.
[00:55:26.580 --> 00:55:29.340] So, try to keep your lights as close as you can.
[00:55:29.540 --> 00:55:30.580] Like, as close as you can,
[00:55:30.620 --> 00:55:32.300] especially if you don't have a really bright light.
[00:55:32.300 --> 00:55:33.840] You can notice the distance too.
[00:55:34.020 --> 00:55:36.400] Like, you just move the light closer.
[00:55:36.560 --> 00:55:38.480] You're like, whoa, how'd it get way more brighter?
[00:55:38.660 --> 00:55:41.000] Like, it's just, it's a law of physics.
[00:55:41.560 --> 00:55:42.400] So, that's for that.
[00:55:42.720 --> 00:55:43.500] And then video,
[00:55:44.120 --> 00:55:45.700] make sure you pay attention to the skin tones.
[00:55:46.260 --> 00:55:48.080] Like, I see a lot of these videos,
[00:55:48.580 --> 00:55:50.020] the skin tones would be crazy.
[00:55:50.480 --> 00:55:54.400] It'd be all purple or green or just like the red
[00:55:54.400 --> 00:55:56.600] or it's like, use a reference.
[00:55:56.700 --> 00:55:58.040] We went over the reference photo.
[00:55:58.160 --> 00:55:58.440] Yes.
[00:55:58.980 --> 00:56:00.180] Make sure that those skin tones
[00:56:00.180 --> 00:56:01.340] look like the reference photo.
[00:56:01.340 --> 00:56:03.220] And if you don't have a good reference photo,
[00:56:03.220 --> 00:56:05.540] use like news stations and broadcasts
[00:56:05.540 --> 00:56:06.560] and like real television.
[00:56:06.940 --> 00:56:09.480] Cause they're gonna give you like the accurate skin tone
[00:56:09.480 --> 00:56:11.100] that are actual colors and you can look
[00:56:11.100 --> 00:56:14.040] and be like, wait a minute, my skin looks real pale.
[00:56:14.300 --> 00:56:16.680] Like, why it look like, my stuff look gray,
[00:56:16.820 --> 00:56:18.640] look like alien-ish, like.
[00:56:18.720 --> 00:56:19.040] Alien.
[00:56:19.280 --> 00:56:20.880] Exactly, I forgot that in there.
[00:56:21.140 --> 00:56:23.480] But yeah, no, so pay attention to your skin tones
[00:56:23.480 --> 00:56:24.520] when it comes to video.
[00:56:24.700 --> 00:56:26.800] And if you can't get like the right look,
[00:56:27.380 --> 00:56:29.800] believe it or not, chat GBT knows how to make luts now.
[00:56:29.800 --> 00:56:34.720] So you can actually drop in an image of like,
[00:56:34.720 --> 00:56:36.020] let's say a Batman movie and you're like,
[00:56:36.080 --> 00:56:38.940] hey, I want this look on this footage.
[00:56:39.080 --> 00:56:40.840] It will literally make you a cube file.
[00:56:40.920 --> 00:56:42.560] It'll make you a lookup table file.
[00:56:42.800 --> 00:56:44.240] Like, and then you can take that lookup table
[00:56:44.240 --> 00:56:46.200] and just drop it into Premiere or whatever pro.
[00:56:46.400 --> 00:56:48.520] You can get that same exact look, so.
[00:56:51.760 --> 00:56:53.760] Well, I know you mentioned something yesterday
[00:56:53.760 --> 00:56:57.120] about like the background from the subject
[00:56:57.120 --> 00:56:58.980] to like 10 feet minimum.
[00:56:59.320 --> 00:57:00.260] The further the better.
[00:57:00.260 --> 00:57:01.300] Or the bokeh.
[00:57:01.460 --> 00:57:04.140] Like even if we just did a small example of this,
[00:57:04.280 --> 00:57:06.400] like we would move this all the way.
[00:57:06.440 --> 00:57:08.060] Like we would be up against the wall.
[00:57:08.100 --> 00:57:10.180] Like I tell people, you're gonna feel uncomfortable
[00:57:10.180 --> 00:57:10.940] the way I set it up.
[00:57:10.980 --> 00:57:12.460] You're gonna be like up on the wall,
[00:57:12.740 --> 00:57:14.080] but it's gonna look crazy.
[00:57:14.160 --> 00:57:15.260] Like it's gonna look good
[00:57:15.260 --> 00:57:17.160] like when you actually see the final product
[00:57:17.160 --> 00:57:18.900] because you're so separated from the wall
[00:57:18.900 --> 00:57:21.400] and it just looks blurry and looks good.
[00:57:21.900 --> 00:57:23.480] Okay, so we gonna move these chairs up
[00:57:23.480 --> 00:57:25.260] for the next, okay, okay, okay.
[00:57:25.760 --> 00:57:27.940] But a lot of spaces can't, you can't do that.
[00:57:28.160 --> 00:57:29.820] So you gotta leave room for the lights
[00:57:29.820 --> 00:57:31.800] and now you gotta adjust everything, so yeah.
[00:57:31.980 --> 00:57:32.860] Yeah, unfortunately.
[00:57:33.520 --> 00:57:36.480] But what is one question that I didn't ask
[00:57:36.480 --> 00:57:37.640] that I should have asked?
[00:57:40.920 --> 00:57:42.960] Honestly, I feel like you had really good questions, bro.
[00:57:42.980 --> 00:57:44.880] I can't even think of anything you didn't ask.
[00:57:45.060 --> 00:57:46.720] Like you had some really good questions, brother.
[00:57:47.340 --> 00:57:49.980] Or to flip it, what is one powerful question
[00:57:49.980 --> 00:57:52.280] that you were asked throughout your whole lifetime?
[00:57:54.820 --> 00:57:56.300] When did you know you were special?
[00:57:58.160 --> 00:58:01.320] And I'd have to say is like when I was like homeless,
[00:58:01.320 --> 00:58:02.940] like in the shelters and everything,
[00:58:03.000 --> 00:58:05.580] like I remember all of the people,
[00:58:05.640 --> 00:58:07.000] like even like the homeless bums
[00:58:07.000 --> 00:58:10.140] and like you're around some characters in the streets,
[00:58:10.320 --> 00:58:12.480] but even then they saw this light within me
[00:58:12.480 --> 00:58:15.100] and I felt like, I was like, okay, I am special.
[00:58:15.120 --> 00:58:17.420] Even though I'm like in these crazy predicaments
[00:58:17.420 --> 00:58:19.540] and these crazy situations, I was like, I always knew.
[00:58:24.090 --> 00:58:25.790] And then last question,
[00:58:26.710 --> 00:58:30.930] what is legacy for you, Tybal Audio as a person
[00:58:30.930 --> 00:58:32.990] and then as a business entrepreneur?
[00:58:33.510 --> 00:58:35.450] People talk about like heaven and hell, right?
[00:58:35.490 --> 00:58:40.170] And I think that the concept for me is like your legacy.
[00:58:40.610 --> 00:58:43.910] When you think of a name like Bob Marley, right?
[00:58:43.910 --> 00:58:46.090] You think great things, right?
[00:58:46.090 --> 00:58:51.230] And I think that his legacy is living heavenly, right?
[00:58:51.230 --> 00:58:53.690] Because people think great things of him.
[00:58:53.930 --> 00:58:56.770] Versus you think of somebody like Adolf Hitler.
[00:58:57.810 --> 00:59:00.250] That's like, you don't think of good stuff, right?
[00:59:00.250 --> 00:59:03.910] So I think that his legacy is living in hell, right?
[00:59:04.250 --> 00:59:06.950] I don't know if these places are actual places we go,
[00:59:06.950 --> 00:59:08.330] but as far as your legacy,
[00:59:08.470 --> 00:59:11.170] like I wanna be a heavenly legacy
[00:59:11.170 --> 00:59:12.990] where my legacy lives in heaven.
[00:59:13.150 --> 00:59:15.410] Like people praise and talk good about me.
[00:59:15.490 --> 00:59:16.770] Like I don't want anybody to be like,
[00:59:16.910 --> 00:59:18.710] yeah, you screwed me over, you scared me, whatever.
[00:59:18.910 --> 00:59:20.850] Because that's how you get a negative legacy
[00:59:20.850 --> 00:59:22.430] and your name lives in hell.
[00:59:22.990 --> 00:59:25.090] So like that's kind of how I view legacy
[00:59:25.090 --> 00:59:27.190] is like just what you're leaving behind
[00:59:27.190 --> 00:59:28.810] and what people remember you for.
[00:59:29.790 --> 00:59:31.190] Okay, okay, okay.
[00:59:31.770 --> 00:59:33.510] And last and final question.
[00:59:33.730 --> 00:59:37.190] Where can people find you, book you, all that good stuff?
[00:59:37.450 --> 00:59:40.310] Yeah, y'all can find me at Tybo Audio on all platforms.
[00:59:40.450 --> 00:59:43.630] T-Y-B-O-A-U-D-I-O.
[00:59:44.470 --> 00:59:45.490] And if you guys wanna connect with me,
[00:59:45.510 --> 00:59:47.590] you guys can just go to UpgradeMyStudio.com
[00:59:47.590 --> 00:59:49.050] or just shoot me a DM, honestly.
[00:59:49.530 --> 00:59:52.050] And we can talk in there and we can get you all set up.
[00:59:52.570 --> 00:59:54.910] Yes, and make sure you don't hit that typo.
[00:59:55.010 --> 00:59:57.910] It's typo, not like the cardio, Billy Banks.
[00:59:58.190 --> 01:00:01.590] And thank you again, this is photographer Jackson Steve.
[01:00:01.590 --> 01:00:03.910] Jackson of Alienize Photos Media
[01:00:03.910 --> 01:00:05.670] bringing you another episode
[01:00:05.670 --> 01:00:08.050] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[01:00:08.550 --> 01:00:13.110] You can follow me on social media at Alienize Photos
[01:00:13.110 --> 01:00:16.570] and then AlienizePhotos.com if you wanna book,
[01:00:16.810 --> 01:00:18.950] consult, all that good stuff.
[01:00:19.370 --> 01:00:20.650] Thank you again, Tybo.
[01:00:20.850 --> 01:00:21.290] My brother.
[01:00:21.670 --> 01:00:22.230] Appreciate you.
[01:00:22.490 --> 01:00:23.110] Thank you.

========================================================================
25. Sell Old Material and Content
Season 1 · Episode 39
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/sell-old-material-and-content
========================================================================

[00:00:00.940 --> 00:00:04.200] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome
[00:00:04.920 --> 00:00:08.680] back to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:09.220 --> 00:00:10.500] I got about 10 minutes,
[00:00:10.500 --> 00:00:12.920] but something's just been on my mind.
[00:00:13.560 --> 00:00:16.160] Like I've been talking with my creative friends,
[00:00:16.239 --> 00:00:20.080] my old creative friends that used to do music, poetry,
[00:00:20.540 --> 00:00:24.060] a lot of painting, and they kind of transitioned as well.
[00:00:25.260 --> 00:00:29.950] And I was thinking, we have these books,
[00:00:30.890 --> 00:00:35.710] we have all this old work and albums and artwork,
[00:00:36.730 --> 00:00:41.010] paintings, a lot of things, you know?
[00:00:43.900 --> 00:00:46.000] And I was just wondering even to myself
[00:00:46.000 --> 00:00:49.320] that I consider myself as a retired poet,
[00:00:49.920 --> 00:00:53.660] a retired musician, and even like a,
[00:00:53.660 --> 00:00:54.920] well, I can't say a retired author
[00:00:54.920 --> 00:00:57.520] because I'm writing a new book, a couple new books.
[00:00:57.660 --> 00:01:00.700] I've always been writing, so I can't really say that,
[00:01:00.700 --> 00:01:04.780] but a retired poet, a retired musician,
[00:01:06.400 --> 00:01:10.100] I have books, poetry books, and it's like,
[00:01:11.650 --> 00:01:16.370] can I really sell this old book
[00:01:16.370 --> 00:01:20.030] even though I'm not a active performing poet?
[00:01:20.350 --> 00:01:23.650] Because usually, you know, you a performing poet
[00:01:24.430 --> 00:01:26.510] promoting your poetry book.
[00:01:27.450 --> 00:01:32.710] So how do I promote if I'm not active?
[00:01:35.360 --> 00:01:40.280] I know I have the rights who still sell it as I should,
[00:01:40.900 --> 00:01:45.240] and people are interested, and it's my personality,
[00:01:46.500 --> 00:01:50.960] my experience, my mind, my heart, my feelings, emotions,
[00:01:52.240 --> 00:01:56.940] all in that artwork, that music, the poetry,
[00:01:57.630 --> 00:02:05.180] the books, but for an old car salesman,
[00:02:06.400 --> 00:02:09.060] a veteran, maybe 20, 30 years
[00:02:09.530 --> 00:02:11.520] in the car salesman industry,
[00:02:13.590 --> 00:02:17.890] a great guy selling cars, making it happen,
[00:02:18.210 --> 00:02:20.810] wrote a book, two books.
[00:02:21.590 --> 00:02:25.130] Now he's a travel agent doing something else,
[00:02:25.630 --> 00:02:26.730] whole another industry.
[00:02:27.930 --> 00:02:29.530] Well, it's still traveling, I guess,
[00:02:29.530 --> 00:02:32.070] but different position.
[00:02:33.630 --> 00:02:35.930] Haven't been in a dealership in years.
[00:02:37.070 --> 00:02:38.710] Should he still sell that book?
[00:02:39.630 --> 00:02:42.050] Even though he's in a whole another industry,
[00:02:42.850 --> 00:02:44.690] haven't even been to a dealership in years,
[00:02:45.050 --> 00:02:47.710] he, you know, bought his car, and he's good.
[00:02:49.130 --> 00:02:51.910] But he wrote this book with this information.
[00:02:53.070 --> 00:02:55.250] He've done it for 20, 30 years.
[00:02:55.510 --> 00:02:57.910] Should he still sell that book?
[00:02:58.650 --> 00:03:01.930] Even though he's not active in that industry,
[00:03:03.130 --> 00:03:07.430] should that painter sell their old artwork?
[00:03:07.810 --> 00:03:08.530] Should they?
[00:03:10.420 --> 00:03:12.000] But like I said, they had the right,
[00:03:14.580 --> 00:03:20.540] but should they do something that was like timestamp,
[00:03:20.540 --> 00:03:23.710] like maybe a protest, and they document it?
[00:03:25.100 --> 00:03:26.540] Should they sell it?
[00:03:28.590 --> 00:03:30.890] Or is it like a time limit or something?
[00:03:35.650 --> 00:03:39.550] Or what about a plumber?
[00:03:41.410 --> 00:03:43.410] Should they teach a workshop on plumbing
[00:03:43.410 --> 00:03:45.670] if they haven't touched any tools
[00:03:45.670 --> 00:03:48.410] or did any plumbing for 20 years?
[00:03:50.680 --> 00:03:51.880] Something to think about.
[00:03:53.320 --> 00:03:56.660] But what are you doing that you can sell
[00:03:58.710 --> 00:04:02.510] that you could package up, put into a book,
[00:04:03.550 --> 00:04:09.390] put into a course, make it to a workshop or a website?
[00:04:09.950 --> 00:04:11.930] A workshop, an event?
[00:04:15.450 --> 00:04:18.029] What is something that you're doing that you did
[00:04:18.610 --> 00:04:20.810] and having a lot of knowledge on,
[00:04:21.149 --> 00:04:23.090] a lot of insight, a lot of tips
[00:04:23.890 --> 00:04:26.290] that a lot of people may not know
[00:04:27.150 --> 00:04:29.910] or someone that wants to begin in this?
[00:04:30.890 --> 00:04:32.210] This is your perspective.
[00:04:34.270 --> 00:04:35.950] This is your thoughts,
[00:04:37.270 --> 00:04:39.010] your facts that you accumulated,
[00:04:39.410 --> 00:04:41.210] your experience that you accumulated,
[00:04:41.650 --> 00:04:43.370] your skills that you accumulated,
[00:04:43.790 --> 00:04:46.930] your hard work that you compounded
[00:04:46.930 --> 00:04:49.090] and done over and over and over again,
[00:04:49.210 --> 00:04:50.950] all the repetition that you did.
[00:04:53.110 --> 00:04:54.110] You did it.
[00:04:56.520 --> 00:05:00.460] You have that right to do it.
[00:05:03.320 --> 00:05:06.040] No matter how long ago you did, you did it.
[00:05:07.020 --> 00:05:08.020] Talk about it.
[00:05:09.860 --> 00:05:14.420] Maybe somebody 50 years younger than you
[00:05:15.520 --> 00:05:17.920] will appreciate that, like wow.
[00:05:18.440 --> 00:05:20.700] You know they used to do this back in the like,
[00:05:21.060 --> 00:05:22.180] this guy did this.
[00:05:23.180 --> 00:05:24.020] This is genius.
[00:05:25.740 --> 00:05:26.900] But you never know.
[00:05:27.220 --> 00:05:28.680] Talk about your experience.
[00:05:30.480 --> 00:05:31.600] Sell that old work.
[00:05:34.130 --> 00:05:35.530] Sell the old frameworks,
[00:05:35.670 --> 00:05:37.130] what they used to do back in the day
[00:05:37.130 --> 00:05:38.790] before phones and internet.
[00:05:40.230 --> 00:05:41.330] Share some of that.
[00:05:43.960 --> 00:05:46.200] Things are timeless and let it be timeless.
[00:05:47.760 --> 00:05:50.260] But you don't have to promote it as something new.
[00:05:50.860 --> 00:05:55.360] If it's not, especially if you're not in the industry.
[00:05:56.900 --> 00:05:58.500] Keep it real, keep it transparent.
[00:05:59.380 --> 00:06:00.480] But people need to hear it.
[00:06:00.500 --> 00:06:01.760] People want to hear it.
[00:06:01.860 --> 00:06:02.900] I want to hear it.
[00:06:02.900 --> 00:06:03.880] Send it to me.
[00:06:07.990 --> 00:06:09.590] And sales is crucial.
[00:06:12.030 --> 00:06:14.930] Crucial for us entrepreneurs or creative entrepreneurs,
[00:06:16.910 --> 00:06:18.870] our creatives, our artists.
[00:06:21.250 --> 00:06:22.070] It is crucial.
[00:06:22.710 --> 00:06:24.370] So get into sales,
[00:06:25.130 --> 00:06:27.210] get into public speaking,
[00:06:29.250 --> 00:06:30.010] communication.
[00:06:32.200 --> 00:06:35.000] Like me, I wouldn't say I'm the biggest salesman.
[00:06:37.690 --> 00:06:39.430] I know it's something that's
[00:06:41.310 --> 00:06:45.930] continuously a learning journey for me.
[00:06:46.830 --> 00:06:48.610] But I'm more of a marketer.
[00:06:50.370 --> 00:06:53.250] Hence my brand Alien Eyes Photos
[00:06:53.250 --> 00:06:58.410] where I focus on visual media, visual marketing,
[00:06:59.250 --> 00:07:01.970] and also the copy of marketing.
[00:07:02.090 --> 00:07:03.570] So help you with your copywriting
[00:07:03.570 --> 00:07:05.830] and your message write.
[00:07:07.070 --> 00:07:09.250] Having your message match your audience.
[00:07:10.430 --> 00:07:11.570] But the sales,
[00:07:14.750 --> 00:07:17.450] should that old car salesman
[00:07:18.480 --> 00:07:21.310] for 20, 30 years sell that book?
[00:07:23.380 --> 00:07:24.380] Yes, he should.
[00:07:25.220 --> 00:07:29.680] Should that artist sell their own work, their own art?
[00:07:30.260 --> 00:07:31.380] Yes, they should.
[00:07:32.160 --> 00:07:37.380] Should that poet sell his book or her book
[00:07:38.340 --> 00:07:41.020] or they book
[00:07:43.750 --> 00:07:49.830] if they haven't performed in 10, 15 years,
[00:07:50.770 --> 00:07:52.570] haven't wrote any material,
[00:07:53.270 --> 00:07:55.810] any new content or anything,
[00:07:56.450 --> 00:07:58.190] for 10 to 15 years.
[00:08:00.520 --> 00:08:01.680] But what would you do?
[00:08:03.880 --> 00:08:08.260] Would you just let it be piled in a closet,
[00:08:09.020 --> 00:08:10.220] lost under the bed,
[00:08:10.720 --> 00:08:13.600] in the treasure chest, toy box,
[00:08:14.120 --> 00:08:16.300] thrown away in the garbage, in the landfill,
[00:08:18.620 --> 00:08:22.020] but sell it.
[00:08:22.400 --> 00:08:23.620] Generate that revenue.
[00:08:24.620 --> 00:08:27.940] Fund your growth and your new endeavors, you know?
[00:08:30.180 --> 00:08:34.539] Continue to build that business skill of selling.
[00:08:35.840 --> 00:08:38.539] Understand the market, customers.
[00:08:40.220 --> 00:08:41.380] Use it as practice.
[00:08:43.059 --> 00:08:44.880] If you in the tech industry now,
[00:08:44.900 --> 00:08:46.640] but you have this old,
[00:08:47.180 --> 00:08:49.520] you know, collectibles you wanna sell,
[00:08:50.340 --> 00:08:51.620] practice selling the collectibles
[00:08:51.620 --> 00:08:54.800] so when you sell this tech, this new software,
[00:08:55.720 --> 00:08:57.040] it's easy for you.
[00:08:59.330 --> 00:09:00.590] But that's all I wanna say.
[00:09:01.170 --> 00:09:02.850] I gotta pick up my daughter.
[00:09:03.130 --> 00:09:04.930] So it's been a great one.
[00:09:04.930 --> 00:09:07.350] I appreciate y'all always tuning in,
[00:09:07.350 --> 00:09:10.290] listening and sharing and re-listening.
[00:09:11.310 --> 00:09:13.310] These are like my master classes
[00:09:13.310 --> 00:09:15.110] for creative entrepreneurs.
[00:09:16.090 --> 00:09:18.050] I appreciate y'all feedback.
[00:09:18.250 --> 00:09:20.070] Always tuning in,
[00:09:20.170 --> 00:09:22.090] telling me what episodes y'all like
[00:09:22.090 --> 00:09:23.790] and what episodes y'all wanna hear.
[00:09:24.490 --> 00:09:26.090] I'm listening, I'm listening.
[00:09:26.170 --> 00:09:27.410] I'm glad you are listening.
[00:09:27.990 --> 00:09:29.290] Thank you for tuning in
[00:09:29.290 --> 00:09:31.910] to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:09:32.550 --> 00:09:34.810] And I am photographer Jackson,
[00:09:35.210 --> 00:09:38.590] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:09:39.710 --> 00:09:42.290] And if you need visual media, event photography,
[00:09:42.430 --> 00:09:45.930] video production, podcast production or tips,
[00:09:46.650 --> 00:09:49.210] or just, you know, you wanna pick my brain,
[00:09:50.210 --> 00:09:55.050] definitely contact me at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:09:57.330 --> 00:09:59.090] Alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:10:00.130 --> 00:10:03.670] And also follow me at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:10:04.270 --> 00:10:07.910] Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with a S.
[00:10:09.470 --> 00:10:12.610] Yeah, peace.

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26. Terrance TDames Productions Music Consistency
Season 2 · Episode 15
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/terrance-tdames-productions
========================================================================

[00:00:02.580 --> 00:00:09.960] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos industry talk with your host
[00:00:09.960 --> 00:00:15.940] photographer Jackson Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos Media bringing you
[00:00:15.940 --> 00:00:22.480] another episode with a special guest my old producer long time producer when I
[00:00:22.480 --> 00:00:27.120] used to do music see bringing that music back around in my origins the
[00:00:28.060 --> 00:00:34.460] now this is gonna be a testimony to that my good friend my brother T Dames how
[00:00:34.460 --> 00:00:39.760] you feeling yo yo yo I'm good I'm good man I'm blessed to be alive man blessed
[00:00:39.760 --> 00:00:46.340] to be here man how you doing man? I'm lovely I'm fired up just came back
[00:00:46.340 --> 00:00:51.640] from filming another podcast that I'm director and producer for so and now
[00:00:51.640 --> 00:00:55.480] we here I know it's late so I appreciate you for accommodating me
[00:00:55.480 --> 00:01:02.760] I'm still being up to this so I'm a night out still man yes yes oh nah never
[00:01:02.760 --> 00:01:09.620] forget yeah I mean speak about oh nine that brings me back to almost 20 years
[00:01:09.620 --> 00:01:14.280] but just to say 20 years you've been producing about like 20 years right 20
[00:01:14.280 --> 00:01:21.180] plus years for real yeah it's ongoing since about 2005 got introduced to that
[00:01:21.180 --> 00:01:27.480] FL studio making them homeroom beats in Collingwood for the audience I don't
[00:01:27.480 --> 00:01:32.680] know FL what's FL? FL studio one of the most popular dogs out here to create
[00:01:32.680 --> 00:01:38.800] music. Oh Fruity Loops. Yes sir Fruity Loops is top dog when it
[00:01:38.800 --> 00:01:43.540] comes to making quick beats. Have you ever used something outside of Fruity
[00:01:43.540 --> 00:01:49.320] Loops? Yeah I use studio one I use Reeze and I used to use that a lot
[00:01:49.320 --> 00:01:53.680] after Fruity Loops and then I went right back to Fruity Loops because my workflow
[00:01:53.680 --> 00:01:59.600] was all messed up I tried to keep up with Reeze but I had to go right back to
[00:01:59.600 --> 00:02:06.840] FL and kept it going. So what about for a beginner what program would you
[00:02:06.840 --> 00:02:12.020] recommend? FL for sure because everybody liked to click it in so
[00:02:12.020 --> 00:02:15.220] you can actually click in what you hear if you don't have that luxury of
[00:02:15.220 --> 00:02:20.000] having a mini keyboard around you just click all the notes in and it's
[00:02:20.000 --> 00:02:25.600] easy and copy paste and move stuff around some other ones is like that too
[00:02:25.600 --> 00:02:30.540] but it seemed like it's quicker on FL maybe because I've been using it maybe I
[00:02:30.540 --> 00:02:37.880] got some type of favoritism for it. You need a Fruity Loops partnership at this
[00:02:37.880 --> 00:02:42.340] rate. I know. Hey we're gonna talk about it we're gonna make it
[00:02:42.340 --> 00:02:47.120] happen that's a must. Like even the type of things I focus on too
[00:02:47.120 --> 00:02:55.120] like brand partnerships stuff like that so yeah. Oh yeah that'd be a good book. But uh what's
[00:02:55.120 --> 00:03:00.660] what's like the I don't want to say a favorite because I know I know that's
[00:03:00.660 --> 00:03:03.840] kind of subjective but like some of your favorite instrumentals that you
[00:03:03.840 --> 00:03:08.620] created it could be something you release or you know something that you
[00:03:08.620 --> 00:03:14.100] haven't released. A couple of beats I did for PB Trump was one of my
[00:03:14.100 --> 00:03:20.220] favorites both of my favorites I should say and then the one I gave you back
[00:03:20.220 --> 00:03:24.620] against the wall that's still one of my favorites. Man that was one of my favorites. It's so
[00:03:24.620 --> 00:03:31.820] unique like I don't know how it could be. Will Weston and he collab with me. Yes sir. Yeah. I don't know how I created that I
[00:03:31.820 --> 00:03:37.200] created that like four in the morning. I felt pain in that like a story of
[00:03:37.200 --> 00:03:50.120] pain and like man that was organic like it was just man. It sounded like nobody else. That's yeah. And it's another one. I got some tucked away. I like
[00:03:50.120 --> 00:03:56.500] Fliz's uh I did actually a few of Fliz he an artist that's local to as
[00:03:56.500 --> 00:04:01.580] well. I did some unique beats for him and he he did his thing on them.
[00:04:02.120 --> 00:04:09.280] Shout out to you Fliz. We're gonna play and we're gonna have maybe have a behind the
[00:04:09.280 --> 00:04:17.980] scenes session see what I could work out with the man behind the scenes. Yes sir. But yeah I definitely could see you teaching like classes
[00:04:17.980 --> 00:04:29.480] courses or even doing like tutorials basic tutorials and monetizing it. Having a site monetizing it. Yeah I might one day. I still be feeling like I'm
[00:04:29.480 --> 00:04:38.140] learning. I mean but from someone I never even opened a program. Yeah. I'd even maybe they
[00:04:38.140 --> 00:04:48.140] aspire to be a producer but I don't even know how to get started. You know like I like my realm is like early stage creative entrepreneurs. Like that's my
[00:04:48.140 --> 00:05:01.180] focus and that's who I coach as well. So yeah because I definitely started from just a compact computer and a keyboard with a keyboard on it.
[00:05:01.180 --> 00:05:13.500] Shout out to Six Man because he bought that from me. Six Man aka Thomas. He bought that from me and I was like I ain't never seen nothing like this in my life. I was making beats on the piano under the keyboard. It's crazy.
[00:05:14.500 --> 00:05:30.120] Yeah I mean like I said somebody that never even opened a program like you got 20 years of experience. You could teach them how to even start and then they need to figure out something else along the way. I'm sure you got that recipe as well.
[00:05:30.120 --> 00:05:38.480] Yeah I can do that. 20 years. That's a whole Bible. It's almost a quarter of a century. It's crazy.
[00:05:40.800 --> 00:05:46.640] Time flying. Somebody spun the world. They spun around like basketball on the tip of your finger.
[00:05:47.360 --> 00:05:53.960] Just kept spinning that boy. Yeah that's so how you get started in production. I got started so
[00:05:53.960 --> 00:06:00.020] I was always into tech. So I was always using the computers as much as I could in the class.
[00:06:00.600 --> 00:06:10.780] Because my computer was it was all right. The home one. Yeah let me check these deals out. And then
[00:06:12.980 --> 00:06:19.840] so I was in math class and I was messing around with stuff and then my boy was like
[00:06:20.420 --> 00:06:24.800] shot a P watch. He was like hey man since you mess with this computer stuff man
[00:06:25.400 --> 00:06:31.100] I need you to make me some beats and I'll pay you for it. I'm like shoot all right I'll learn it real quick.
[00:06:31.580 --> 00:06:39.120] So you came out the gate monetize. Yeah I did. And I ain't even know how to export beats right.
[00:06:39.560 --> 00:06:44.940] I was just letting it record and then looping it myself. It's just crazy. I think I started
[00:06:44.940 --> 00:06:53.300] like that when I was dabbling into producing. I was doing stuff. I thought I was like alright
[00:06:53.300 --> 00:06:58.480] sound good to me but I know public probably ain't gonna like this. I need you to cook.
[00:06:58.480 --> 00:07:06.600] Oh yeah. Yes sir. That's what's up. That's kind of like some of your first like the
[00:07:06.600 --> 00:07:15.960] Wads brothers man. Yeah UTC. Some of the early some of the early artists. Yes sir.
[00:07:16.680 --> 00:07:24.620] T Shane, D Wads, P Wads and Vette. Yeah they had a group called UTC. That's for 156 in
[00:07:24.620 --> 00:07:29.700] Clare. So they dropped us some heat around that time on the mixtape. I'll tell you what
[00:07:29.700 --> 00:07:34.800] I got their CD upstairs too and the quality was pretty good. They used to mess with
[00:07:35.740 --> 00:07:42.940] uh with a bassline record. Shout out bassline. Yeah it's classic man. It is all one big you
[00:07:42.940 --> 00:07:49.980] know family man. Some were closer some were distant but we all you know from the Collinwood
[00:07:49.980 --> 00:07:55.040] area. Shout out to the railroaders. Collinwood railroad. That's history. I don't think it's
[00:07:55.040 --> 00:08:01.780] even over. That's crazy right. Yeah and we about to do the last tour on 22nd or 23rd so
[00:08:01.780 --> 00:08:10.120] man they closing up shop. It's crazy. Right that's man. Time is flying by. Yeah. Like
[00:08:10.120 --> 00:08:14.720] literally history like and that's that's the beauty of what I do. I mean not only just
[00:08:16.420 --> 00:08:23.500] photography like my childhood house got you know torn down. If I had a photo of that
[00:08:23.500 --> 00:08:27.640] now I can't prove you know how they be on MTV Cribs and like oh this is my old house.
[00:08:28.100 --> 00:08:32.500] I can only say it's a plot of land. There's open space right here. That used to be my
[00:08:32.500 --> 00:08:36.460] that's crazy. I don't have no picture or no visual that are people you know with their
[00:08:36.460 --> 00:08:41.940] grandparents they don't have pictures. So it's like me as a photographer I'm a historian.
[00:08:41.940 --> 00:08:47.700] I'm from freezing time and really capturing moments that's important as you know impactful.
[00:08:48.620 --> 00:08:53.820] Yeah that's true. And it's crazy because my childhood house is knocked down too.
[00:08:53.820 --> 00:08:58.540] It's crazy. I was there for years and so we was holding it down on the front yard.
[00:08:58.600 --> 00:09:07.560] Now it's a plot of land. Yeah right up the street up. Yeah so it's crazy like just seeing
[00:09:07.560 --> 00:09:13.320] the importance of it like the documentation alone like even with this podcast is documenting
[00:09:13.320 --> 00:09:19.100] my journey especially when I do solo episodes it's like almost like master classes like
[00:09:19.760 --> 00:09:24.760] you know somebody you want to invite me on the stage already have you know multiple episodes on
[00:09:24.760 --> 00:09:28.980] it so I can pull from this and have it 80 percent of the way done and I just tailor
[00:09:28.980 --> 00:09:34.900] it to the event or the speech. Yeah true. Yeah I try to keep photos and stuff too.
[00:09:34.900 --> 00:09:41.600] I know it's how significant it is. I take random photos people be forgetting to take photos.
[00:09:42.000 --> 00:09:45.520] They take videos of certain situations in front of them but forget to take a photo
[00:09:45.520 --> 00:09:50.040] or video of themselves in that moment you know. Right. We don't have Polaroids like that
[00:09:50.040 --> 00:09:54.860] no more. Like well they got it as an option but people don't even remember to do that no
[00:09:54.860 --> 00:10:01.120] more. We had at least you know paper documentation of our family tree and situations
[00:10:01.120 --> 00:10:06.260] that was going on and that's all everybody's thinking all digital but that can be gone in a
[00:10:06.260 --> 00:10:14.020] second. Yeah that's true. That's very true. It'll be harder to at least get rid of photo albums
[00:10:14.020 --> 00:10:19.980] then you know them digital albums so people need to tap into that if everybody can remember
[00:10:19.980 --> 00:10:24.380] hey you can send your digital photos to Walgreens like we used to back in the day.
[00:10:24.660 --> 00:10:29.780] You can just send it over the waves now and get it printed out. Yeah. Start opening up your
[00:10:29.780 --> 00:10:35.140] creativity and getting them books together and putting those photos in there capturing
[00:10:35.140 --> 00:10:42.600] memories man and make sure you write on the back of them too. Write the dates. Right yeah
[00:10:42.600 --> 00:10:48.340] that's important. It's almost like a title like man it's the meta the metadata.
[00:10:49.180 --> 00:10:57.050] Yeah man put your name in all that. That's important yeah. I mean I like a lot of old
[00:10:57.050 --> 00:11:05.500] school methods for real. Like you just think about a lot of principles like just Thomas.
[00:11:05.500 --> 00:11:15.540] Yes sir. Definitely is. That's cool. So who are some of the producers you learned from
[00:11:15.540 --> 00:11:20.560] as you were just beginning and started now as you was trying to tinker with the computer and
[00:11:21.480 --> 00:11:30.760] figure the programs out? So in the beginning I used to cook up beats in homeroom and then
[00:11:30.760 --> 00:11:36.360] had somebody named Jet Lee. He made a lot of stuff for Boss Bird and local artists around
[00:11:36.360 --> 00:11:45.100] that time and we was tapping into our own sound so we was inspired heavily by Texas rappers.
[00:11:45.900 --> 00:11:51.720] So I don't know if people know that but Cleveland music is kind of rooted in Texas
[00:11:51.720 --> 00:12:00.640] rap for real. Cap rap is literally the brother of Texas rap. So I learned I was learning
[00:12:00.640 --> 00:12:08.440] how to make certain sounds sound like some Texas beats as well. I needed a hit like that but my
[00:12:08.440 --> 00:12:13.520] ears was like I was trying to train my ears so I was fresh. I had fresh ears. I had to figure
[00:12:13.520 --> 00:12:18.760] out how to do that. So how did you train your ear? So I trained my just trained my ear with
[00:12:18.760 --> 00:12:24.540] experience basically. Experience and repetition. Yeah so that's good because I got this one quote
[00:12:24.540 --> 00:12:30.980] rep replaced out. That's something if anybody follow creative frequency on a creative frequency
[00:12:30.980 --> 00:12:35.880] rest replaced out like showing the word keep doing the words the more you do it
[00:12:35.880 --> 00:12:44.200] you know the more consistent you be. Yeah true true. Yep and then as time progressed
[00:12:44.200 --> 00:12:49.180] and I got better the person that really captured me was Zaytoven Sound because I
[00:12:49.180 --> 00:12:54.590] ain't never heard no beats that sound like that at that time. I definitely was trying
[00:12:54.590 --> 00:12:59.110] to make some of my beats sound like he is. Oh yeah he was doing that too man yeah.
[00:13:01.190 --> 00:13:06.450] I finally stepped back and I was like nah I need to chill because I still have my own sound too
[00:13:06.450 --> 00:13:14.790] though. I was just making stuff but I wanted to replicate some Zaytoven beats. Lex Luger's
[00:13:14.790 --> 00:13:21.870] beats and stuff like that. Maybe Metro because Metro was around too back in the day and I
[00:13:21.870 --> 00:13:28.170] was listening so I was tapped into a lot of Atlantis music scene mixtapes and stuff like that
[00:13:28.170 --> 00:13:33.650] but every time that I learned how to make a beat from somebody else creating beats and stuff
[00:13:33.650 --> 00:13:41.150] like that they do on YouTube too. I basically mimic they beat make my own beats and create
[00:13:41.150 --> 00:13:49.270] my own style. So I mean it's gonna be like a segue to my question after this one but
[00:13:50.140 --> 00:14:00.680] how would you describe your your style your production style? My style let's see
[00:14:02.160 --> 00:14:11.560] my style is like it's a mix of Midwest and a mix of the south like ATL Tennessee style
[00:14:12.360 --> 00:14:18.790] and I'm starting to sprinkle a little bit of the west coast into it as well
[00:14:19.770 --> 00:14:28.450] and get more like more melodies basically now more bass lines that stand out because
[00:14:28.450 --> 00:14:35.990] everybody using the same ATL weights and stuff like that. I don't want to sound the same so
[00:14:35.990 --> 00:14:42.870] be in the pack. That's crazy that's uh like a quote I was uh saying earlier you know if
[00:14:42.870 --> 00:14:48.490] you follow the if you follow the crowd you will never get ahead. Yeah that's true
[00:14:49.590 --> 00:14:54.290] yeah and the only thing I hate about the music game right now or production game I should say
[00:14:54.710 --> 00:14:58.170] is everybody is looking for tight beats that sound like somebody else's
[00:15:00.450 --> 00:15:06.450] just use this beat I'm gonna give you it's a T-Dance beat you sound good on it you'll go
[00:15:06.450 --> 00:15:14.850] good on here trust the process. So with that being said I'd like to ask creatives this question
[00:15:16.930 --> 00:15:27.120] how would you describe your creativity if it was a weather forecast? I'd do one better
[00:15:28.140 --> 00:15:41.500] it's like a summer day in the late 90s. That was a good time okay this you can smell it you
[00:15:41.500 --> 00:15:48.840] wake up in the morning get that morning dew in your nose like it's early I feel like I slept
[00:15:48.840 --> 00:15:57.100] good yeah yeah so it's that tight that refresh me when you wake up yes sir that's what clear
[00:15:57.100 --> 00:16:05.280] weather okay I don't think I ever heard that one before 73 degrees that's perfect yeah that's
[00:16:05.280 --> 00:16:09.600] yeah got the window cracked you feel that little breeze like oh that feels good and
[00:16:09.600 --> 00:16:18.640] stop it but I don't still feel good take it take it okay that's what's up yes sir so I want to
[00:16:18.640 --> 00:16:24.760] kind of change change directions I know you were into to tech as well man I'm thinking about
[00:16:24.760 --> 00:16:31.560] like the music industry you got to have those connections those circuits those systems just
[00:16:31.560 --> 00:16:36.480] like you know a computer when you're building a computer and it's the same in business and
[00:16:36.480 --> 00:16:41.320] music industry you got to have those same connections and circuits and systems in place
[00:16:41.920 --> 00:16:48.540] so what type of systems you have in place for your production business right now
[00:16:49.160 --> 00:16:56.220] the foundation is registering your name please register your production let's go back to the
[00:16:56.220 --> 00:17:00.840] foundations give us let's give uh some new artists some checklists even new producers
[00:17:00.840 --> 00:17:07.720] I'm still learning as I go but I know for sure your checklist should be at least register your
[00:17:07.720 --> 00:17:15.560] name if you want to do business register as a dba you're doing business as so you can be a
[00:17:15.560 --> 00:17:23.380] sole prop register your sole prop get an ein pay the extra fee to do your dba as your producer
[00:17:23.380 --> 00:17:29.740] name so you can get paid in that and open up a business account open up some type of business
[00:17:29.740 --> 00:17:34.780] account uh it's a free one I forgot the name of it off the top of my dome because I just kind of
[00:17:34.780 --> 00:17:40.260] got it recently but uh you tap into that you're paying into that now you got a check that got
[00:17:40.260 --> 00:17:46.980] your name on there now these big companies can actually pay you as a company now you're good
[00:17:46.980 --> 00:17:54.460] on that part now you need to go ahead and get yourself out here now it's 2026 so everybody
[00:17:54.460 --> 00:18:01.260] off line like all it take is one beat and it can be the most random but you think it's trash
[00:18:01.260 --> 00:18:08.560] that boy gonna go viral as soon as like the right ears pick it up and if people use it a
[00:18:10.440 --> 00:18:17.180] that depends though you drop it up on there that's free or at least so yeah you taking
[00:18:17.180 --> 00:18:22.940] a risk with that but um you should do that you should have a place where you can get your
[00:18:22.940 --> 00:18:30.070] bought at like beat stars what is the error I forgot the name of the other one but I guess
[00:18:30.070 --> 00:18:36.390] it's not air table I think is it I can't remember the name of it it's air something I know that
[00:18:36.390 --> 00:18:42.250] air bit that's what it's called yeah yeah yeah and um if you want to do it on your own just
[00:18:42.250 --> 00:18:46.730] buy the premium membership from beat stars and upload your stuff there but you have to have
[00:18:46.730 --> 00:18:50.930] a logo in place for that you know get your logo together too as well for your brand and
[00:18:51.570 --> 00:18:57.830] because they don't know your your name from that logo as well the logo gotta be
[00:18:57.830 --> 00:19:01.750] it gotta be good a good presentation of you man yes sir
[00:19:03.790 --> 00:19:08.050] and deal with certain artists I want to say honestly blow up with artists that you mess
[00:19:08.050 --> 00:19:11.770] with locally or something like that find somebody that's dope and put your effort
[00:19:11.770 --> 00:19:16.370] behind them y'all do your split sheets please do your split sheets in the background what's
[00:19:16.370 --> 00:19:24.010] a split sheet for the new artists split sheet is you getting your proper payments and your back
[00:19:24.010 --> 00:19:30.450] end so artists gets a percentage producer gets a percentage you can also be a writer
[00:19:30.450 --> 00:19:39.610] as producer as well so get all that stuff tapped in you good I want to say smooth selling
[00:19:39.610 --> 00:19:45.230] it's gonna be a lot to learn read your contracts too contracts ain't any law you read
[00:19:45.230 --> 00:19:50.910] contract to figure out what should be paid or what should be done in order for you to get
[00:19:50.910 --> 00:20:01.710] these residuals and signing with these companies and getting caught up in a 360 deal which a lot
[00:20:01.710 --> 00:20:09.250] of early artists that we kind of look up to in our younger days have but what's uh
[00:20:09.250 --> 00:20:16.710] do you see any benefits in a 360 deal not really short-term benefits yeah they
[00:20:16.710 --> 00:20:22.210] blow you up and everything they put everything behind you right after that oh we're gonna need
[00:20:22.210 --> 00:20:28.590] that money back we had to recoup the money back that we signed you with oh you had a fee
[00:20:28.590 --> 00:20:34.390] for all the travel that you had to do oh you had a fee for engineering oh forgot about the
[00:20:34.390 --> 00:20:39.390] fee for the advertisements we did oh we put some people behind the advertisements as well
[00:20:39.390 --> 00:20:45.350] so you gotta pay them too oh you bought in the hole oh hold on you owe us about four
[00:20:45.350 --> 00:20:51.570] albums don't you oh wait wait a minute no no not four more albums we own your name so
[00:20:51.570 --> 00:20:57.870] you with us forever just read it please yeah and that's going back to registering yourself
[00:20:57.870 --> 00:21:05.290] like registering your name having ownership uh just just thinking about as an independent
[00:21:05.290 --> 00:21:14.160] artist like how can you get ahead and i know distribution is one thing marketing is another
[00:21:14.160 --> 00:21:18.660] investing in yourself is another because like if you don't invest it invest in yourself and put
[00:21:18.660 --> 00:21:24.240] in that time you know labels or even other artists and producers ain't gonna want to work
[00:21:24.240 --> 00:21:30.740] with you so definitely invest in yourself invest in your craft learn your craft study your craft
[00:21:30.740 --> 00:21:36.500] practice your craft like even if you sing good keep keep practicing working on different
[00:21:36.500 --> 00:21:42.220] techniques and your voice control it's always ways to improve and you know if you were a
[00:21:42.220 --> 00:21:47.440] songwriter i had different type of you know melodies and song structures like challenge
[00:21:47.440 --> 00:21:53.120] yourself broaden yourself yeah sure and go ahead and press some keyboard keys man you
[00:21:53.120 --> 00:21:59.770] gotta click in everything you gotta cop loops from everything either and please invest in
[00:21:59.770 --> 00:22:06.890] yourself yeah what's the last thing you invested in computer equipment all this computer
[00:22:07.450 --> 00:22:15.090] something got invested in you gotta keep it running it uh software as well matter of fact
[00:22:15.090 --> 00:22:24.370] had to buy some vsts also let's see what else did i buy what about what about ram because i
[00:22:24.370 --> 00:22:28.450] think a lot of people are jumping into it like you said that old computer like what's
[00:22:28.450 --> 00:22:34.470] what's like the basic ram specs a new producer should have 16 gigabytes of ram at least
[00:22:36.790 --> 00:22:43.290] you should at least have an ssd in your computer 512 gigabyte of that and some type of a decent
[00:22:43.290 --> 00:22:49.310] processor it can be an i3 as long as it ain't from 20 years ago you should be okay and
[00:22:51.070 --> 00:22:55.630] a decent screen maybe on the laptop if you got a laptop please have a decent screen them
[00:22:55.630 --> 00:23:01.830] 720p screens be leaving your vsts all toe up you can't see the corner to close it out
[00:23:01.830 --> 00:23:10.630] oh man yeah so i see that a lot yeah definitely 16 gigs is your minimum
[00:23:11.330 --> 00:23:17.590] i prefer 32 that's the optimal you should be set once you go higher than that oh you must
[00:23:17.590 --> 00:23:33.520] got 30 000 vsts in your stuff you must be a master mixer or something like that what kind
[00:23:33.520 --> 00:23:40.160] of projects you working on at the moment i'm working with timeless to mc this is the first
[00:23:40.740 --> 00:23:46.860] me even speaking on this by the way but we cooking up something and my nephew young zay
[00:23:47.560 --> 00:23:52.040] i'm cooking up something with him and it's the first time i spoke with that too
[00:23:55.760 --> 00:24:00.620] shout out to my nephew man it's a beauty to see you man you've been cooking
[00:24:01.240 --> 00:24:09.680] and we go cook some more oh yeah what about uh any collaborations you may see
[00:24:10.400 --> 00:24:19.300] in the future whether that's another producer or artist a brand company you might see me
[00:24:19.300 --> 00:24:25.540] collabing with 1990 now no you're gonna see me collabing with him for real okay that's my boy
[00:24:25.540 --> 00:24:31.220] we got something cooking i know he cooking up something but whenever he need me i'm ready to
[00:24:32.020 --> 00:24:39.740] um collab a mooc on the beat pretty sure that'll be very soon and also the work heads
[00:24:40.680 --> 00:24:47.760] we ain't really been saying too much lately but yeah we're gonna pop out if i pop out anyway
[00:24:47.760 --> 00:24:53.860] it's still work heads regardless and shout out the pack house studios too as well
[00:24:57.030 --> 00:25:04.330] how should how should a new artist or i won't even say new artists is the new or just the
[00:25:04.330 --> 00:25:11.210] work with you how should they approach you um if you're approaching me you fresh face
[00:25:11.210 --> 00:25:19.020] don't expect to get nothing for free because that's just very unprofessional i didn't bump
[00:25:19.020 --> 00:25:25.960] into too many people who would be like yeah we can do this blah blah blah fresh face take one
[00:25:25.960 --> 00:25:31.140] two three beats don't do nothing with it just sit on them maybe drop one song with it
[00:25:31.820 --> 00:25:37.460] ain't do it no promo no nothing like bro that was kind of pointless even made me waste the beat
[00:25:37.460 --> 00:25:43.420] you uploaded it then uh tagged it now now i can't use the beat with somebody else because you go
[00:25:43.420 --> 00:25:49.380] copyright claim it i don't even want to deal with that just approach with your business
[00:25:49.380 --> 00:25:56.740] mind have a plan drop a couple hours we'll see what happens after that yeah
[00:25:57.300 --> 00:26:01.980] do you build plans like they say i don't have one but i don't want to create
[00:26:02.740 --> 00:26:12.660] i don't necessarily build plans myself because i don't really know 1000% what to do i do and
[00:26:12.660 --> 00:26:17.540] don't at the same time uh we might have to put something together then okay yeah we might
[00:26:17.540 --> 00:26:25.140] because you know i understand both sides like kind of all sides so yeah yeah yeah most definitely
[00:26:26.870 --> 00:26:35.070] for like helping my new creators and artists like you know that's that's where i came from
[00:26:35.570 --> 00:26:43.170] yeah before it all just man yeah yes sir being creative seeing creativity in all things
[00:26:43.170 --> 00:26:47.330] yeah that's how we uh stay alive and keep flowing and keep going
[00:26:48.530 --> 00:26:55.290] yeah i would say what's the last uh couple books you read actually i don't read too many
[00:26:55.290 --> 00:27:00.250] books at all honestly i usually just read online there's articles and stuff like that but my
[00:27:00.250 --> 00:27:07.790] latest book i've actually read is about music business but i only read a little bit of it i
[00:27:07.790 --> 00:27:14.550] got the book over here in kona but uh i need to crack it open again because i only skim
[00:27:14.550 --> 00:27:19.590] through like beginning of it to try to figure out some stuff but yeah i gotta read that
[00:27:19.590 --> 00:27:24.830] and that's just part one of two books so i'm gonna get the other book too
[00:27:24.830 --> 00:27:29.800] uh oh so i mean the next time you hop on you're gonna be have read both
[00:27:32.330 --> 00:27:50.820] that's that's the challenge yeah i'll say one of the um last books i've read was uh
[00:27:51.620 --> 00:27:54.020] dollar million dollar money models
[00:27:55.780 --> 00:28:01.960] that's how i'm interested yeah breaking down the different uh money models and uh different
[00:28:01.960 --> 00:28:09.410] promotion offers ads things like that so so it's a it's a great book and it's like oh
[00:28:09.880 --> 00:28:15.400] this car salesman using this one on me oh okay i see what you're doing here you gotta see me
[00:28:15.400 --> 00:28:23.160] oh yeah i love it man like yeah i don't like his personal content i can't i'm not a fan of these
[00:28:23.160 --> 00:28:30.960] other people that i enjoy more than um if i'm listening to a video but like his his his
[00:28:31.600 --> 00:28:38.040] information is always on point and delivery like i would even watch live him breaking the
[00:28:38.040 --> 00:28:45.780] guinness world record of uh of it was a book salesman within 24 hours
[00:28:45.780 --> 00:28:53.040] and then he broke it for uh the business uh sector so like i'm like yeah seeing records
[00:28:53.040 --> 00:28:57.840] being broke live to guinness world records he kind of planned this for planned this and
[00:28:57.840 --> 00:29:04.400] like invited them on you know to keep tallying record like okay he did that and it was like
[00:29:05.080 --> 00:29:09.020] like 28 hours that boy cooking
[00:29:11.340 --> 00:29:19.100] that's crazy and how he was doing it is like having mainly corporations buy like bundles of
[00:29:19.100 --> 00:29:26.580] books so if you get 250 books you also get this so you know add on stacks perks and stuff
[00:29:26.580 --> 00:29:32.180] like that bonuses yeah that's dope yeah that's a good way to like collecting collectors you
[00:29:32.180 --> 00:29:39.180] one book is we'll say 30 but you know 30 times 100 you know with a slight discount i'm sure
[00:29:39.180 --> 00:29:46.940] it's compounding like man it's always open to my mind love watching other creatives and other
[00:29:46.940 --> 00:29:53.280] business owners and how they kind of run and hence at the podcast the industry talk like
[00:29:54.120 --> 00:29:58.640] just having a conversation with different people from different industries and how we
[00:29:58.640 --> 00:30:04.040] all learn from the you know together and you know i never even thought about
[00:30:04.040 --> 00:30:10.860] oh if i sell this water in my industry that's four times the amount like hence at a store
[00:30:13.400 --> 00:30:19.660] is quadruple at an airport you know it's positioning it's like i never thought about
[00:30:19.660 --> 00:30:26.540] positioning my business this way or positioning my brand this way let me try that so you know
[00:30:26.540 --> 00:30:32.580] love these uh different conversations and like i said it's all about that that network and all
[00:30:32.580 --> 00:30:38.180] those connections and the circuits and the systems and once you have a system in place
[00:30:38.180 --> 00:30:45.080] when you're in business everything flow yeah like even even the podcast is doing multiple
[00:30:45.080 --> 00:30:54.560] things for me like the podcast is my biggest marketer for my business alienize photos like
[00:30:54.560 --> 00:31:01.440] my people type it in you know for the podcast oh my business pop up you know i help creative
[00:31:01.440 --> 00:31:09.880] entrepreneurs gain visibility through visual media and also podcasting it seem like we don't stop
[00:31:09.880 --> 00:31:15.840] learning huh hey never that's that's that's the goals like if you know it all in life
[00:31:15.840 --> 00:31:21.060] like then what is life true you know you start you know it all you know it all like
[00:31:21.060 --> 00:31:27.000] is there to learn or what is there to do or how if you're not growing you know i don't like
[00:31:27.000 --> 00:31:39.240] using the d word but your d i e i n g d y i n g so it's about always you know growing and like
[00:31:39.240 --> 00:31:46.140] i said you may be a great singer but you know challenge yourself you got to grow always
[00:31:46.140 --> 00:31:51.880] improve you gotta hold it for 20 seconds oh hold it for 21 seconds hold it for 30
[00:31:51.880 --> 00:31:59.040] always challenge yourself improve yourself always like following things that's uh on a forward
[00:31:59.040 --> 00:32:05.500] and upward progression like if it's going up or if it's moving forward you know i can get
[00:32:05.500 --> 00:32:16.450] down with that like that positivity that positive emotion how do how do you see music nowadays i
[00:32:16.450 --> 00:32:23.190] like when we was growing up we had some good music good cuts and like i felt like it it
[00:32:23.190 --> 00:32:28.990] changed drastically and i used to be in the industry and you know i saw some things and
[00:32:28.990 --> 00:32:35.510] took some steps back as well but it was like man i see where it's going do i even fit in this
[00:32:35.510 --> 00:32:42.670] but also i did a experience experiment with my last uh well it wasn't a full album was
[00:32:42.670 --> 00:32:51.450] ep and just just testing it like i did a bunch of hooks and bridges versus you know traditional
[00:32:51.450 --> 00:32:57.270] verses and i made the verses longer than only one but like just testing testing the waters
[00:32:57.270 --> 00:33:03.510] having my own creative style just like throwing paint paint on the canvas and making it look
[00:33:03.510 --> 00:33:09.170] beautiful like i just really tried that like i'm about to break the untraditional way or like oh
[00:33:09.170 --> 00:33:14.850] verse chorus but like you know no i'm doing it my way painting a story my own way versus
[00:33:14.850 --> 00:33:21.470] how you know we we used to hearing the structure how the radio wants you to structure
[00:33:22.030 --> 00:33:30.810] so that was like one of my last projects before i hung it up and retired but yeah how
[00:33:30.810 --> 00:33:38.870] do you see uh music in this day and age uh i see it as either the labels got lazy or
[00:33:39.590 --> 00:33:45.010] they see artists as disposable now there's so many artists that's coming in and leaving out
[00:33:45.550 --> 00:33:51.510] no longevity and it's the same old story a lot of people complaining about their contracts
[00:33:52.550 --> 00:33:58.710] no people been speaking out about contracts for the longest and you know i think y'all forced to
[00:33:58.710 --> 00:34:05.370] sign it stop doing it yeah y'all ruining the art okay what does that pressure like when they
[00:34:05.370 --> 00:34:11.610] like they they have to sign like you said it's important to read but even if they read it they
[00:34:11.610 --> 00:34:20.989] don't fully understand what's that pressure like like i have it set in front of these labels for
[00:34:20.989 --> 00:34:29.630] these contracts but if i use my like contest clues basically it seemed like they get all
[00:34:29.630 --> 00:34:36.710] smooth talking like come on man we need you to sign this it's a it's a time it's a time limit
[00:34:36.710 --> 00:34:41.230] on it we need you to sign it super quick or something like that yeah they feel obligated
[00:34:41.230 --> 00:34:49.570] to have to sign and take it as is now change that to what fits you and stop doing music for
[00:34:50.830 --> 00:34:55.170] just money you gotta respect the art there's a lot of disrespect to the art too
[00:34:55.810 --> 00:35:02.730] i don't like like they say hip hop is run by the youth it is i'm tapped in to mainly hip hop and
[00:35:02.730 --> 00:35:10.190] rap if you haven't known by the way yes sir so it just seemed like they disrespecting the
[00:35:10.190 --> 00:35:16.750] previous generations they're not doing the due diligence of listening like just listen to it
[00:35:16.750 --> 00:35:24.030] and stop trying to troll all the time i see too much of that going on and it's getting
[00:35:24.030 --> 00:35:30.930] over saturated right now and i think it either is collapsing or already collapsed to be honest
[00:35:31.670 --> 00:35:38.650] so that's why i say get it on your own put out good music good quality music
[00:35:38.650 --> 00:35:46.170] whatever way you feel that sounds good that is good see how it does if you don't get the
[00:35:46.170 --> 00:35:51.890] feedback you get you need to get then maybe change something you got you got to change
[00:35:51.890 --> 00:35:58.790] regardless to capture people's ears or put in some footwork like we used to back then
[00:35:58.790 --> 00:36:05.550] i think that can carry a long way now but i think it's some ways that people haven't thought
[00:36:05.550 --> 00:36:12.270] of because this is a technology age and people ain't got cds no more so you got to be kind of
[00:36:12.270 --> 00:36:17.950] clever put a qr code on your business card or something go ahead and throw a memory card
[00:36:17.950 --> 00:36:26.090] or usb because usb is cheap and an album is under a gigabyte that's all i can put out
[00:36:27.830 --> 00:36:32.990] look look at that see he's passing me one right now double qr codes right here
[00:36:32.990 --> 00:36:38.310] in a podcast link so i got the business and the best of both worlds it looked like a
[00:36:38.310 --> 00:36:43.250] holographic pokemon it is right that's why i did it you know sense that creativity like
[00:36:43.250 --> 00:36:49.030] oh man shining like yeah because like think about your pictures i want you to shine your
[00:36:49.030 --> 00:36:54.470] pictures that's like man that's bringing visibility like yeah that's what i do like
[00:36:54.470 --> 00:36:59.170] just thinking outside the box but like you touched on a lot of key points like you brought
[00:36:59.170 --> 00:37:07.310] up uh you know the oversaturation and you also talk about technology then you also talk about
[00:37:07.310 --> 00:37:12.870] respecting the art respecting the game so what are what are your thoughts on like
[00:37:13.850 --> 00:37:21.090] ai artificial intelligence in the music industry specifically i really don't like it to be honest
[00:37:22.010 --> 00:37:28.230] i mean i don't even think i like using as an assistant because all that stuff is computer
[00:37:28.230 --> 00:37:34.790] program and they kind of got a weird sound to it you know it don't sound right to me
[00:37:34.790 --> 00:37:42.070] maybe if anything if you don't have nothing i don't think you should use it like if you have
[00:37:42.070 --> 00:37:50.330] no creative ideas or you just got the bare minimum nah it'd be cool maybe to use it as
[00:37:50.330 --> 00:37:57.070] an assistant for it like maybe something some padding for what you already know how to do
[00:37:57.070 --> 00:38:04.090] maybe that'd be cool but full-blown ai stuff nah they gonna use it to replace us
[00:38:04.090 --> 00:38:12.950] at the rate that the us has been going anyway it seemed like big businesses is it like got more
[00:38:12.950 --> 00:38:22.590] leeway than the little people which is us so i don't know man i'm torn right now but i still
[00:38:22.590 --> 00:38:29.090] i still look at it and uh i mean it's this is across almost every industry even with like
[00:38:29.090 --> 00:38:36.690] my authors and writers and even with me photography and video everybody's gonna always
[00:38:36.690 --> 00:38:43.470] go back to that authenticity like that organic that rawness that real and you know instead of
[00:38:43.470 --> 00:38:51.490] crisp quality animated pixelated deformed finger uh video you know you got i got a
[00:38:51.490 --> 00:38:56.350] little grain in my photo it's real so authentic like yeah i remember you know being there when
[00:38:56.350 --> 00:39:01.730] took the picture like yeah just that memories so like that connection going back to that circle
[00:39:01.730 --> 00:39:07.230] that circuit that connections like the the motherboard or the computer like is everything
[00:39:07.230 --> 00:39:13.410] is connected like you think of a city you on an airplane you can see those same connections
[00:39:13.410 --> 00:39:18.410] like a motherboard like the whole world is connected think about the universe universe
[00:39:18.410 --> 00:39:28.430] one verse and like even going back to my my experiment uh with my ep i literally did one
[00:39:28.430 --> 00:39:36.690] verse just experiment like what what do the the the crowd the audience you know receptor
[00:39:36.690 --> 00:39:41.350] you know with like they like the standard form do they like the entry in traditional form
[00:39:42.230 --> 00:39:50.550] beta testing and like that's always you know i ran i started to run you know music as a
[00:39:50.550 --> 00:39:59.750] more of a business versus for the art form but like you said it has to have respect like we
[00:39:59.750 --> 00:40:09.270] lost our respect i believe in like say the downfall of like 2018 somewhere around 2018 2017
[00:40:10.390 --> 00:40:13.450] somewhere around there is everything that sounds the same
[00:40:13.830 --> 00:40:20.090] what did mumble rap come out because that annoyed me man that that's what changed i'm like yeah i
[00:40:20.710 --> 00:40:25.650] can't it was basically everybody after an amigo everybody that's been copying the style
[00:40:28.850 --> 00:40:37.070] see people it's so many people that love lord b it's crazy i was i was in the moment and
[00:40:37.070 --> 00:40:43.070] still didn't like him and they say he was the blueprint for a lot of stuff today and
[00:40:43.070 --> 00:40:52.480] that's not really a good thing so this is what is coming out i remember uh being in a music
[00:40:52.480 --> 00:41:00.940] group with somebody uh a short time short live but and it was like man rap is gonna become
[00:41:00.940 --> 00:41:07.340] just this just sounds like this it ain't even be words gonna become a song that's what it
[00:41:07.340 --> 00:41:14.020] became i'm like what this is this is really what it's becoming to uh instrumentals the vocals
[00:41:18.480 --> 00:41:23.080] oh yeah maybe it'd be better if they wasn't saying nothing
[00:41:27.220 --> 00:41:33.260] like 20 minutes long itself i'm like man boy you sound like 12 other diggers right
[00:41:33.260 --> 00:41:40.840] auto-tune the auto-tune is like man yeah it now auto-tune for sure just make everybody sound
[00:41:40.840 --> 00:41:45.660] the same somebody spoke on the two i think it was was it jay-z who spoke on auto-tune
[00:41:46.320 --> 00:41:52.200] or something like that but yeah like t-pain is the og of it because he made it sound like
[00:41:52.200 --> 00:41:58.140] something he he know how to sing and he layered it a certain way too so yeah it's just
[00:41:59.420 --> 00:42:06.360] it's just fire from him but everybody after that maybe future cool too future he got his own sound
[00:42:06.360 --> 00:42:13.020] but after that no i don't think it's too many people that can harness auto-tune correctly
[00:42:13.020 --> 00:42:17.700] because they sounded the same yeah i mean i've been experimenting with i'm not a fan of it
[00:42:17.700 --> 00:42:23.960] but you know turning on very low make me harmonize a little bit yeah i remember what
[00:42:31.640 --> 00:42:37.680] i'm trying to push is just learn some of them notes man yeah just practice like
[00:42:38.660 --> 00:42:42.940] because that's what artists used to do back in the day they well i'm pretty sure singers still
[00:42:42.940 --> 00:42:48.220] do it now but just practice a couple of notes figure out what notes you your voice likes
[00:42:48.220 --> 00:42:52.840] because everybody's voice don't like the same notes you can't hit certain octaves like
[00:42:52.840 --> 00:42:58.580] everybody else yeah but it's not that hard to kind of like drag your your voice around
[00:42:59.160 --> 00:43:04.300] and get them crazy nice hooks i was learning too like you even told me like you're just
[00:43:04.300 --> 00:43:10.820] dragging the word yeah no not like this like this sometimes you don't even need to drag it
[00:43:10.820 --> 00:43:16.160] you just say it like a certain way yeah and it'll carry with the effects like a reverb or
[00:43:16.160 --> 00:43:21.600] something like that but you got to kind of think of a mix like in a mixer mind or
[00:43:21.600 --> 00:43:28.400] want to say like yeah like like a mixer like a person that does mixing and arranging stuff
[00:43:28.400 --> 00:43:34.380] on the recordings you think ahead but you need your engineer to really call that out
[00:43:34.380 --> 00:43:40.540] for you anyway like a good coach yeah good mentor so so yeah like collaboration with
[00:43:40.540 --> 00:43:43.900] your engineer that's a big part too some engineers just be doing it for the bread
[00:43:44.720 --> 00:43:49.540] yeah i've been in both sides like done but i don't blame you though because if you
[00:43:49.540 --> 00:43:55.880] just don't do it for the bread all the time then you're gonna be like spending 40 hours trying
[00:43:55.880 --> 00:44:01.800] to coach some artists like every single artist that you deal with it'd be crazy you'd be like
[00:44:01.800 --> 00:44:06.920] oh we about four hours over the next client already been sitting out there i mean yeah that's
[00:44:06.920 --> 00:44:10.580] what i'm saying even going back to artist development i think that's a loss already
[00:44:10.580 --> 00:44:15.860] in itself yeah you don't see that too much anymore or hear about it i wouldn't say here
[00:44:15.860 --> 00:44:22.280] but yeah actually yeah publicly because they get everybody got social media and they basically
[00:44:22.280 --> 00:44:27.120] oh you know what people got social media and put too much on social media
[00:44:27.120 --> 00:44:32.180] there ain't nothing mysterious about you you do your weird stuff online and everything
[00:44:32.180 --> 00:44:38.320] everybody can see exactly how you are and that's terrible like that'll turn people off right
[00:44:38.320 --> 00:44:42.860] off the top but i mean it goes it's a double edged sword because you do have to build a
[00:44:42.860 --> 00:44:48.700] brand and i think in this day and age even with people with traditional businesses people love
[00:44:48.700 --> 00:44:53.960] seeing that personal brand versus this faceless business that's just the logo but they don't
[00:44:53.960 --> 00:45:00.320] see people or people in the business or people who's behind it so i think people that have a
[00:45:00.320 --> 00:45:06.220] personal brand kind of is winning i think it is kind of a it's a good way to kind of get
[00:45:06.220 --> 00:45:10.960] that out there like you got to put some money behind your videography or photography
[00:45:10.960 --> 00:45:17.880] a bit you can be a little mysterious or not post as much but when you post it'd be something
[00:45:17.880 --> 00:45:24.220] of quality yeah it'd be intentional yeah like so if you do music and you post a nice little
[00:45:24.220 --> 00:45:30.140] quick little promo or something with your song it'd be pretty dope people don't really
[00:45:30.140 --> 00:45:34.680] invest in music videos too much like that either i noticed as well it's kind of been
[00:45:34.680 --> 00:45:40.140] fading away a little bit now i'm thinking about it yeah people don't really do music videos
[00:45:40.140 --> 00:45:47.080] they just put it on tiktok or something like that and hope it go viral that's interesting
[00:45:48.200 --> 00:45:57.160] because someone uh my lady uh she was talking to a student and
[00:45:58.220 --> 00:46:03.940] they were saying they want to do a podcast and their version of a podcast is like a talking
[00:46:03.940 --> 00:46:11.380] hit reel like our podcast first off was just traditionally like this audio only
[00:46:11.420 --> 00:46:19.300] and then we started incorporating video and when i think of a podcast i usually think of something
[00:46:19.300 --> 00:46:26.980] that's 20 minutes or longer so for a 90 second two minute video to be called a podcast i don't
[00:46:26.980 --> 00:46:33.240] think that's accurate so it's interesting how the younger generation view you know like
[00:46:33.240 --> 00:46:38.820] radio and podcast it's interesting yeah there's a lot of people that want to voice their
[00:46:38.820 --> 00:46:45.760] but that's not really a good thing either i think it's too many people podcast too many
[00:46:45.760 --> 00:46:51.580] opinions oh it's over it's over 500 trust me i do these stats because i you know also teach
[00:46:51.580 --> 00:47:02.320] you about podcast and like yes it's five five million plus podcast that's birth and a good
[00:47:02.320 --> 00:47:11.460] fraction of that is in inactive like i even did this research it's crazy i'm in the top
[00:47:11.460 --> 00:47:18.280] 10 percent of podcasts can you believe that oh man yeah i can believe it because of the
[00:47:18.280 --> 00:47:24.520] format of like you not just spewing bs around negative bs but no it's really because people
[00:47:24.520 --> 00:47:31.720] stop they do one or two and they stop like i've i have what 60 60 plus episodes
[00:47:33.140 --> 00:47:39.330] consistency that that's true that's that's true but yeah it's like a little over a year
[00:47:39.600 --> 00:47:46.080] top 10 podcasts so really soon to be like top two percent but it's just like because
[00:47:46.080 --> 00:47:52.960] i stayed in the game just that simple i'm i'm top 10 podcasts when you hear that's crazy
[00:47:52.960 --> 00:47:59.200] yeah that is crazy like wow like i said it still got something to do with your content as well
[00:47:59.200 --> 00:48:05.060] that's true yeah all that negative stuff be kind of draining oh yeah especially all their
[00:48:05.060 --> 00:48:10.480] relationships so it kills me i can see if you convey it a certain way but a lot of
[00:48:10.480 --> 00:48:14.400] them been doing that for attention lately so they don't care what fly out their mouth
[00:48:15.380 --> 00:48:20.800] but even going back to the the music game i think they kind of did the same thing like
[00:48:21.280 --> 00:48:26.760] have like relationship issues and like especially like when the album about to drop like
[00:48:27.480 --> 00:48:36.690] yeah that's true as well man we need more positivity out in the world so let's go back
[00:48:36.690 --> 00:48:40.670] to a new artist how you how do you feel like a new artist should market themselves and get
[00:48:40.670 --> 00:48:47.610] themselves out here honestly at this rate there's so many different things that's going on so
[00:48:47.610 --> 00:48:56.010] easily either pop off or so hard to pop off let me just say do you follow some people
[00:48:56.010 --> 00:49:03.510] or learn from people that didn't blow up in this game already try to take from that
[00:49:04.010 --> 00:49:09.530] try to talk some to some of the older cats as well figure out how they blew up if you
[00:49:09.530 --> 00:49:14.210] didn't even get in touch with them but it's social media out here you can low-key tap in
[00:49:14.210 --> 00:49:22.360] with some folks that popped out just just look around a lot of people be giving game on tiktok
[00:49:22.360 --> 00:49:28.620] to tiktok youtube because those the most viewed things out here and people will just grab their
[00:49:28.620 --> 00:49:36.880] phone and start yapping just check out some tiktoks check out some youtubes maybe read a
[00:49:36.880 --> 00:49:46.460] couple articles check out reddit key insights like even so what i hear is basically like get
[00:49:46.460 --> 00:49:51.940] a coach a mentor or somebody that already been battle tested and you know had some
[00:49:52.780 --> 00:49:57.340] scars and stripes in the battlefield that's actually done the work
[00:49:58.240 --> 00:50:02.940] i mean even you even yourself i don't know people could reach out to you for something
[00:50:02.940 --> 00:50:08.600] some pointers some guidance some tips i can give you a little bit like i said i'm always
[00:50:08.600 --> 00:50:14.120] learning so i'm just kind of still sitting back and figuring it out at the same time
[00:50:15.100 --> 00:50:20.800] well that's that's going back to getting my reps like another thing we have is
[00:50:22.300 --> 00:50:30.140] what creative frequency is our work with me's what we call it since it's two of us work with
[00:50:30.140 --> 00:50:37.820] we www you know dot so work with we are people call it work with me like really documenting
[00:50:37.820 --> 00:50:42.280] behind oh i'm making this beat i know you've definitely done it in the past you know i've
[00:50:42.280 --> 00:50:48.380] seen it 10 years ago like you showed it behind the scenes of you making a beat so like you you've
[00:50:48.380 --> 00:50:53.680] been doing this so like uh going back to that like just documenting the process and like man
[00:50:53.680 --> 00:50:57.880] because people think oh you press a couple buttons you got to beat just like when people
[00:50:57.880 --> 00:51:03.040] think oh i'll just press this this thing oh picture it's come out beautiful no it's a
[00:51:03.040 --> 00:51:07.920] process behind it you got to tailor it's like a song and it's getting mixed and mastered
[00:51:07.920 --> 00:51:14.480] the whole process the whole song structure arrangement like it is still a level of volume
[00:51:14.480 --> 00:51:21.450] like it's a process people don't understand that oh i want my pictures two hours later like
[00:51:22.700 --> 00:51:28.500] can i get home but dang you know i gotta put my creative mind behind it chill out
[00:51:30.120 --> 00:51:35.240] like i i give more respect to like when i used to do music i want to hear myself like
[00:51:35.240 --> 00:51:39.600] when i get at the studio you know of course i got the raw mix that's cool as long as i got
[00:51:39.600 --> 00:51:46.360] something i know it's it takes it takes it's a process to you know get this song polished
[00:51:46.360 --> 00:51:51.680] because like you don't want it to be rushed anyway people back then used to rush a lot
[00:51:51.680 --> 00:51:55.220] they were like yeah let me get that beat real quick let me get that song that we just did
[00:51:55.220 --> 00:51:59.760] come on come on yeah you get it sent over they then leaked it out without the mix on it
[00:51:59.760 --> 00:52:07.760] god come on bro yeah let me finish the mix that's that's the same well that's why i'm
[00:52:07.760 --> 00:52:13.840] sending no photos at them too like the like uh like we depend on a relationship like if i
[00:52:13.840 --> 00:52:19.360] know you may need something or if it's a sensitive time thing i may just just drop it but
[00:52:19.360 --> 00:52:25.580] you know i wait for the edits to be done or send out a proof gallery proof gallery that way
[00:52:25.580 --> 00:52:32.880] you could choose the photos and stuff like that yeah even with raw footage i'm like no
[00:52:32.880 --> 00:52:43.550] you're gonna have to wait for the recap because pay action you get it all yeah i'm gonna hurry
[00:52:43.550 --> 00:52:50.890] up and work on that but yeah that's uh you know just uh being in business and learning
[00:52:50.890 --> 00:52:59.350] things along the way like i my first photo shoot i charged 50 dollars 50 dollars and i was
[00:52:59.350 --> 00:53:06.550] to another artist well artist and producer i call him a dr j of cleveland has produced
[00:53:07.630 --> 00:53:14.210] i say none of no public songs like a lot of songs he produced of mine is not released
[00:53:14.870 --> 00:53:21.870] so that's that's wow but but yeah that's uh my first my first client
[00:53:21.870 --> 00:53:31.070] uh charged 50 dollars definitely uh multiplied that over the years and you know just being in
[00:53:31.070 --> 00:53:37.810] business and like dang i'm working eight ten hours and 50 dollars that's true five dollars
[00:53:37.810 --> 00:53:43.310] an hour no okay okay i like at that time too i mean i didn't have a business but i'm like
[00:53:43.310 --> 00:53:51.590] if i'm being business i gotta make money for these first uh three years like haven't really
[00:53:51.590 --> 00:53:56.650] paid myself from my business like have my business running so pay for all the
[00:53:56.650 --> 00:54:02.770] you know fees and software subscriptions and expenses you know make sure i can maintain
[00:54:02.770 --> 00:54:08.210] and run a business over the years and you know i haven't paid myself but it's like yeah
[00:54:08.210 --> 00:54:13.370] i gotta have that change too at least you know uh five percent or something every job
[00:54:13.370 --> 00:54:21.070] or every booking so and then going back to that okay how can i just kind of stop working
[00:54:21.590 --> 00:54:27.930] like okay what if i had a book or how to you know start a photography business or the things
[00:54:27.930 --> 00:54:35.150] you should you know have a product versus just services because when i do services i gotta
[00:54:35.150 --> 00:54:39.670] physically go out there and do it myself then it's working after hours so just having
[00:54:39.670 --> 00:54:46.070] something in the background to kind of offset that right yeah that's why i was going back
[00:54:46.070 --> 00:54:53.210] like yeah we gotta you know have a product for you like that's a book or even a service like
[00:54:53.210 --> 00:55:00.210] just coaching people how to even set up your uh fruity loops your fl studio to even begin
[00:55:00.210 --> 00:55:05.510] like you want to structure the right way or having enough pay attention to your uh beats
[00:55:05.510 --> 00:55:10.390] per minute and how important that is and having the flow and everything is synced even how to
[00:55:11.070 --> 00:55:17.870] so that's a big important piece of it yeah very because you can also sell your music
[00:55:17.870 --> 00:55:25.470] i don't know if people realize you still can sell your music for like um what was it i think
[00:55:25.470 --> 00:55:32.590] it's ten dollars you have to queue buzz no i'm not queue buzz you can sell high resolution music
[00:55:32.590 --> 00:55:38.810] people export your beats out and songs into the right format and wave or better and you
[00:55:38.810 --> 00:55:45.030] upload it to them high res websites you said wave or better yeah it was better than wave
[00:55:45.030 --> 00:55:55.190] flag because mp3 wave and then flak okay i think i think apple records in flak ac ac or acc
[00:55:55.190 --> 00:56:04.050] acc i think it's aac or acc one or two but yeah uh flak is top dog for sure i i keep a lot
[00:56:04.050 --> 00:56:10.690] in flak format but don't convert your mp3s to flak and wave it don't matter it'll still
[00:56:10.690 --> 00:56:19.370] sound terrible just make sure you get it from the session in that format so if you export it
[00:56:19.370 --> 00:56:24.470] directly in flat and also if you get your beats please get the waves if you can because
[00:56:24.470 --> 00:56:30.550] you have the highest quality as possible mp3 caps it off at a certain quality 320k bps
[00:56:30.550 --> 00:56:36.010] that's terrible well not terrible it's good enough to listen to it's like actually streaming
[00:56:36.010 --> 00:56:43.950] services for for visuals it's like 1080 versus 4k yeah basically like people see 1080 but like
[00:56:43.950 --> 00:56:51.710] you can record in the 4k and then downsize the down symbol yeah exactly most people don't
[00:56:51.710 --> 00:56:58.750] really care about 4k which is crazy like if you show them like a proper like 4k video
[00:56:59.510 --> 00:57:03.550] into 1080 oh yeah they'd be amazed but when they get to the house they ain't
[00:57:03.550 --> 00:57:08.990] remember they don't care yeah but once they start making money and then you go care you
[00:57:08.990 --> 00:57:13.810] should care that's true go ahead export in them ways and flaks because you can put it on other
[00:57:13.810 --> 00:57:19.130] websites as well don't don't forget about bandcamp as well you can have people pay
[00:57:19.130 --> 00:57:23.090] whatever they feel like they want to pay you and i guarantee it will be more than their
[00:57:23.090 --> 00:57:33.510] service how much streaming services pay a portion of a cent per play portion of a cent a fraction of
[00:57:33.510 --> 00:57:43.090] a cent half less than half a cent it's definitely mostly all of them and they're like even like
[00:57:43.090 --> 00:57:49.130] youtube like i've i've been on both sides it's like youtube don't like me like they they they
[00:57:49.990 --> 00:57:57.050] prioritize for creators now that i'm more of a creator it's like i have my podcast on and
[00:57:57.050 --> 00:58:02.930] it's posted directly feed it but now it's like an era it's like when i was an artist it's like
[00:58:02.930 --> 00:58:08.870] man they like well they want to show me love and like just the fraction compared to even
[00:58:08.870 --> 00:58:14.370] other stream of art you know platforms it was at the bottoms like they know they don't
[00:58:14.370 --> 00:58:21.040] focus on music artists i was like they focus on advertisements that's all they care about
[00:58:21.990 --> 00:58:28.390] the more people engage with your stuff though or music they can't really engage but well they
[00:58:28.390 --> 00:58:35.830] you engage the whole track but with videos like actual content videos they can put multiple ads
[00:58:35.830 --> 00:58:40.650] into it so you get paid more from that because of that but music is just is what it is
[00:58:41.190 --> 00:58:47.410] and i think they actually severed like youtube music plays from your actual plays to your
[00:58:47.410 --> 00:58:53.370] music so something like that you got to read it up though but they definitely cutting down
[00:58:53.370 --> 00:58:58.810] payments even more spotify doing the same thing it's terrible for music artists out here
[00:58:58.810 --> 00:59:05.230] just go ahead and put that on other platforms title i think pay the most right now yeah title
[00:59:05.230 --> 00:59:12.890] apples back in napster that was my the top three when i last did my research yeah that
[00:59:12.890 --> 00:59:19.370] was something i paid attention to and that's just the knowledge of even going back to
[00:59:19.370 --> 00:59:26.070] distribution and what platforms you should you know be focusing on and even just building
[00:59:26.070 --> 00:59:34.250] your own platform and like you said maybe beat stars or band camp you just really being
[00:59:34.250 --> 00:59:40.010] strategic and going back to that system you know once you want to publish you know where is
[00:59:40.010 --> 00:59:45.870] it going after that like what's the long-term goal even going to the target audience so as
[00:59:45.870 --> 00:59:55.350] we speak about target audience is there like a uh persona or like an ideal artist you kind of
[00:59:55.350 --> 01:00:01.270] envision as you produce like these the type of type of artists i work with or want to work
[01:00:02.090 --> 01:00:08.310] i prefer to work with somebody that is open-minded about a production is trust process
[01:00:09.190 --> 01:00:14.510] like i might have a certain beat that sound a certain way and i think you'll sound good on
[01:00:14.510 --> 01:00:21.610] it just trust me rap to it somehow like it is difficult for some i want to say actually
[01:00:21.610 --> 01:00:26.790] more than some it's difficult for artists in general to write to beats that they're not
[01:00:26.790 --> 01:00:36.350] used to most people like 90 percent of people chase a youtube beat and then record to it then
[01:00:36.350 --> 01:00:42.830] drop it what's the dangers of that danger that instant copyright strike on your shit
[01:00:43.190 --> 01:00:50.430] right off the top because you're taking somebody's beat it literally say lease or buy
[01:00:51.150 --> 01:00:57.970] in the comments and you just snatch it off record to it and upload it like you bought it
[01:00:59.150 --> 01:01:13.450] like what sense did that make you can't even make money off of it artists should market
[01:01:13.450 --> 01:01:19.590] themselves what about producers how should a producer or how can a producer market themselves
[01:01:21.190 --> 01:01:26.550] beat stars that's what beat stars because that's like the top platform and have some
[01:01:26.550 --> 01:01:32.210] aside for like advertisement budgets because you can push your own advertisement
[01:01:32.790 --> 01:01:38.130] budget to get you more plays and put you in different locations
[01:01:40.210 --> 01:01:47.010] it's it's a weird space right now like you can even make a little video of your beats if
[01:01:47.010 --> 01:01:52.130] it's sound fire enough like you can just record a session the old studio or whatever
[01:01:52.130 --> 01:01:58.970] you use and send it to tiktok and it can pick up a bunch of plays
[01:01:59.730 --> 01:02:06.710] just off of that so you can try that instagram got advertisements behind it too as well
[01:02:10.400 --> 01:02:17.340] youtube youtube it's still it carry a bit you put your make sure you don't forget to put your
[01:02:17.340 --> 01:02:24.530] bio under your your descriptions as well like they can find you at because that's the that's
[01:02:25.240 --> 01:02:34.040] the best way so you kind of got to market yourself as well as your brand so you are
[01:02:34.040 --> 01:02:42.080] your brand yeah you are your brand like yeah going back to that uh you know that
[01:02:42.080 --> 01:02:49.740] presentation and like them talking head videos like people love seeing that personality and
[01:02:49.740 --> 01:02:56.640] going back to building a personal brand which is to me uh the biggest thing and most important
[01:02:56.640 --> 01:03:03.360] in this time you know what i've seen as a creative entrepreneur and the people that i
[01:03:03.360 --> 01:03:09.780] work with like personal brand matters more like people want to see and you know connect
[01:03:09.780 --> 01:03:16.220] with actual people versus going back to like the ai the artificial like people wanted to see
[01:03:16.220 --> 01:03:24.200] the more real and organic that's kind of a balancing act with that i personally would do
[01:03:24.200 --> 01:03:29.160] a balancing act with that just i'll post whatever i want you to see but still not
[01:03:29.160 --> 01:03:35.400] everything you don't post everything if you want to be easily accessible you can engage with
[01:03:35.400 --> 01:03:42.000] audience if you have an audience you know or drop a comment on somebody's page or something
[01:03:42.000 --> 01:03:49.000] you can go viral from that i have before just speaking something real like hey why am i
[01:03:49.000 --> 01:03:56.800] 12 000 13 000 likes like oh i said some real stuff so real just being or authentic
[01:03:56.800 --> 01:04:04.180] with boundaries yeah you know the stuff i've seen i'm like oh my goodness like i was
[01:04:05.440 --> 01:04:12.440] yeah when is the sensor like what's going on like this is you know all these people see this
[01:04:13.200 --> 01:04:19.100] like what am i reading right now what am i viewing like what stuff that i've seen man
[01:04:19.100 --> 01:04:25.400] one of the funniest terms on there is when somebody doing too much it would like the rank
[01:04:25.400 --> 01:04:29.060] can't be that high they put that right under your comment section
[01:04:29.760 --> 01:04:35.460] let it mean you're doing way too much go ahead and shift that gear back down
[01:04:36.300 --> 01:04:43.800] it gets crazy sometimes like i even did a 10 day social media sabbatical like i took
[01:04:44.180 --> 01:04:51.600] it was a 10 and a half almost 11 days off of social media straight it was good timing
[01:04:51.600 --> 01:05:00.200] i was actually in las vegas for a conference a real estate conference at the time and a perfect
[01:05:00.200 --> 01:05:06.660] time and i had more clarity more focus and i felt more productive i got a lot more done
[01:05:06.660 --> 01:05:11.960] i wasn't doom scrolling but now like returning from now like okay i need to put more
[01:05:13.420 --> 01:05:19.040] boundaries and guidelines when i'm on social media or thinking about getting on social
[01:05:19.040 --> 01:05:26.500] like just post and get off and not just keep scrolling or commenting too much or
[01:05:26.900 --> 01:05:33.780] doing quote unquote more research like i set up a five minute timer so after that five minutes
[01:05:33.780 --> 01:05:40.160] up it's like okay i gotta get off now you know sometimes i allow it for that that 15 but
[01:05:40.780 --> 01:05:45.620] yeah i had that five minute mark and that little thing notification pop up okay five
[01:05:46.460 --> 01:05:52.080] oh yes let me sit this down is you right let me get back to work or something
[01:05:52.080 --> 01:05:57.440] yeah that will keep you up at night and oh man sometimes it tethered to you you honestly
[01:05:57.440 --> 01:06:03.000] have to put it across the room on the stand or something on charger just forget about it
[01:06:03.000 --> 01:06:07.540] because you will wake up looking for it and you wake yourself up like just because it's
[01:06:07.540 --> 01:06:13.120] like a natural thing so you try to cut it out at night for real and you'll probably save
[01:06:13.120 --> 01:06:20.220] your sanity you can go insane with this social media stuff oh yeah like even with like uh
[01:06:20.220 --> 01:06:25.480] cutting off wi-fi like not having your phone by you while you sleep like you know it makes
[01:06:25.480 --> 01:06:32.040] with your uh your whole mental like just going as deep as that yeah like yeah we're just going
[01:06:32.040 --> 01:06:38.260] back to being rooted to this this earth like going back to the universe the one verse like
[01:06:38.260 --> 01:06:44.440] are connected so being connected with the nature and the earth sometimes with technology
[01:06:44.440 --> 01:06:50.980] you know it kind of overrules us i'm not being on our right frequency and going back to my
[01:06:51.360 --> 01:06:56.860] my poetry days of frequency i left off at that poem like that was my staple poem
[01:06:57.380 --> 01:07:03.320] and uh it went like uh frequency frequency is what you frequently see
[01:07:04.040 --> 01:07:10.340] vibrations all in the universe and also inside of me alien to this world society
[01:07:10.340 --> 01:07:17.280] shooting stars consciously righteously until every dust particle unites in me
[01:07:17.280 --> 01:07:24.120] sparkling like water wine and jewelry and jewelry yes i'm brighter than my time of infinity
[01:07:24.620 --> 01:07:33.440] living see speckles around my eyes this vicinity vividly femininity raise my higher divinity
[01:07:33.440 --> 01:07:41.300] sacred trinity reflects my divine masculinity lost in the trenches relentless lost my human mind
[01:07:41.300 --> 01:07:50.660] to gain my spiritual senses defenseless elevation through focus and meditation patience
[01:07:51.620 --> 01:08:03.080] eyes closed silence reality is real transcend be fulfilled energy gathered as magic we all
[01:08:03.080 --> 01:08:14.160] have it pass it positivity pass it love pass it around like the last supper at least in this
[01:08:14.160 --> 01:08:20.840] time this dimension keep intentionally moving with the tension open your mind of endless
[01:08:20.840 --> 01:08:28.300] comprehension now listen and listen with attention now listen will you complete the
[01:08:28.300 --> 01:08:35.880] mission that's frequency like that was one of my deepest poems i'm like man this is the one
[01:08:35.880 --> 01:08:40.040] like you know how you wrote that one song like i'm like yeah this is the one it's like
[01:08:40.040 --> 01:08:45.580] nothing higher than that i felt that like i said on a spiritual level like that was more deeper
[01:08:45.580 --> 01:08:52.300] than just you know anything i wrote like that was like man this is beyond me beyond life like
[01:08:52.300 --> 01:08:59.720] this is it's ain't just another song or another poem another creation this is this is something
[01:08:59.720 --> 01:09:06.580] and frequency plays a big part in life in general yeah music too and it's been a lot
[01:09:06.580 --> 01:09:12.359] dark frequencies going on lately dark loops and everything it's another reason i kind of step
[01:09:12.359 --> 01:09:19.109] away from the music because like man it's just you know i feel more refreshed i feel like a
[01:09:19.109 --> 01:09:25.870] human again in a sense like as an artist sometimes we become like a character in a sense
[01:09:26.250 --> 01:09:32.050] the happiest i want to say the happiest we had it musically was like 2016
[01:09:33.310 --> 01:09:39.270] the championship yes and the frequencies were sounding good all the beats was like happy kind
[01:09:39.270 --> 01:09:44.529] of sounding even though they had the crazy eight of ways but hey man everything just sounded so
[01:09:44.529 --> 01:09:51.210] good and hey man we need that back man i had to help bring that back one good time i would
[01:09:51.210 --> 01:09:55.550] say what is what is like one one beat that you produced that coming to mind and have like
[01:09:55.550 --> 01:10:05.210] that happy feeling a happy frequency um it's a flair song that i did i forgot the name of it
[01:10:05.210 --> 01:10:13.270] off the top of my dome but it was different i gotta let you hear it for sure for sure
[01:10:13.270 --> 01:10:23.470] yeah let you hear it was a good beat happy beat different it was one of the ones one of
[01:10:23.470 --> 01:10:32.440] the ones slept on y'all need to listen to it what about a transition to more of the
[01:10:33.160 --> 01:10:40.440] what are some ways that producers can make money to different avenues selling your beats
[01:10:40.440 --> 01:10:47.300] or uploading them for leisure as albums so you make your own beat albums and upload them
[01:10:47.300 --> 01:10:51.880] if if you don't mind uploading them to all the streaming services go right ahead
[01:10:51.880 --> 01:10:55.980] Spotify and all them you got to get an abundance of plays to make some money
[01:10:55.980 --> 01:11:00.040] but if you feel like you can make a good body of work with just your beats
[01:11:00.660 --> 01:11:08.680] go for it it's been done before dj fresh does that and i like his his instrumental albums they
[01:11:08.680 --> 01:11:19.300] sound pretty good sync license sync licenses that too sync licenses for those who don't know
[01:11:19.300 --> 01:11:26.320] are commercial licenses for these companies making jingles melodies something that sounds
[01:11:26.320 --> 01:11:33.830] like it should be on tv movies it's a bit it's like almost like big sounds to kind of
[01:11:33.830 --> 01:11:39.530] gotta have a big sound to a good mix shout out to cleveland trump because he kind of
[01:11:39.530 --> 01:11:43.790] introduced me to that he is a part of the workheads i don't really remember
[01:11:43.790 --> 01:11:52.250] the workheads and he used to make commercials for the people the people that he was around
[01:11:53.150 --> 01:11:56.450] and that's pretty dope that was the first time i heard about that
[01:11:59.040 --> 01:12:02.360] i'll say that probably like bigger contracts too sometimes
[01:12:05.770 --> 01:12:10.350] if you can get into that realm you could be around forever you ain't got to put your tag
[01:12:10.350 --> 01:12:19.610] everywhere who knows you can't but your your sound or jingle or loop melody would be out here
[01:12:20.290 --> 01:12:26.190] in people's ears all the time because the advertisement game is the most profitable game
[01:12:26.830 --> 01:12:34.480] the ads is everywhere if you haven't noticed ads is everywhere that is very very true
[01:12:34.480 --> 01:12:42.280] very true like i feel them so i know and it's and even going back to that
[01:12:42.280 --> 01:12:46.940] maybe you can even help me on it like kind of explaining the difference between
[01:12:48.740 --> 01:12:56.930] uh a monetized beat or like one that you you should going back should be purchasing
[01:12:56.930 --> 01:13:03.510] versus like royalty free community use fair use type of beats like what's the difference between
[01:13:05.010 --> 01:13:11.490] those uh the community fair use style is definitely just anybody can use it
[01:13:12.110 --> 01:13:18.790] so you put that out to the masses thousand people could use it it don't matter royalty
[01:13:18.790 --> 01:13:25.150] free just means you don't get royalty on the back end it's just out here some of the put
[01:13:25.150 --> 01:13:32.110] here and stuff for advertisements though you get paid off of that so you're putting out something
[01:13:32.110 --> 01:13:38.810] for the advertisement slash sync is literally you you get paid your portions there you go
[01:13:38.810 --> 01:13:45.470] you get your credit and everything royalty free literally free i mean but but should companies
[01:13:45.470 --> 01:13:51.770] and brands be using royalty free music in their ads or even artists when they try to use
[01:13:51.770 --> 01:13:57.290] should they be doing that well artists if it is a royalty free beat like if they're trying to
[01:13:57.290 --> 01:14:03.570] monetize off of it basically oh yeah you can yeah it's there for that reason literally if
[01:14:03.570 --> 01:14:09.650] somebody makes a royalty free beat or song or melody something like that this is made to be
[01:14:09.650 --> 01:14:15.810] out like that for the masses go ahead and use it maybe they just like they have a pleasure
[01:14:15.810 --> 01:14:23.910] listening to their music get out here no matter what go ahead it's free so it's kind of like no
[01:14:23.910 --> 01:14:29.930] no barriers for people that inspire to be artists like oh i don't have the resources to
[01:14:29.930 --> 01:14:35.110] it's kind yeah you can say that yeah that is a little cheat code too ain't it you can
[01:14:35.110 --> 01:14:38.830] definitely tap in but still redefine print because it might say something like hey
[01:14:38.830 --> 01:14:44.030] you can only use this during advertisers not right for music so just make sure
[01:14:44.030 --> 01:14:49.830] well and another thing too is there is definitely terms and like sometimes like what they're doing
[01:14:49.830 --> 01:14:57.690] now like with these royalty things they're having you got to have this active subscription
[01:14:58.350 --> 01:15:04.990] to the site to be continually you know used so as long as you have an active subscription
[01:15:04.990 --> 01:15:11.190] you'll be able to use all these different royalty free but at time you don't you know
[01:15:11.190 --> 01:15:17.510] it's like you know copy of it like oh they revoke your license basically that sounds dirty
[01:15:18.490 --> 01:15:25.110] honestly locked in that's distro kid too they saw yeah they did it before
[01:15:26.110 --> 01:15:30.790] yeah they did it to some of the stuff you don't pay it they take your stuff off of streaming
[01:15:30.790 --> 01:15:38.190] services wow i've always brought that that legacy thing so i even i think they changed it
[01:15:38.190 --> 01:15:44.910] because it's gone stuff is gone some stuff is not on streaming because of that right now
[01:15:45.350 --> 01:15:51.130] i heard they're about to get bought out who was it by one of my mba player well i know
[01:15:51.130 --> 01:15:59.890] there's like trying to sell it like probably in the billions i would think so crazy though
[01:15:59.890 --> 01:16:05.210] man so i know that's gonna change in different terms for the next ownership they're probably
[01:16:05.210 --> 01:16:09.610] gonna change things around yeah i don't trust that i don't know what's gonna happen with
[01:16:12.150 --> 01:16:20.300] the streamer size i mean monster my stuff still up there you know active artists at least in this
[01:16:20.300 --> 01:16:26.240] day and age but be clever with it throw out some merch with it too if you feel like your
[01:16:26.240 --> 01:16:32.460] branding is strong enough go ahead put together some quality merch do a limited lineup so that's
[01:16:32.460 --> 01:16:36.220] that's even something i thought about like one of the biggest artists that's really
[01:16:37.220 --> 01:16:44.400] making money that i could definitely testify for is chris brown like you know he thought about
[01:16:44.400 --> 01:16:49.940] oh i'm paying for all of this and you know let me go on tour and i'm going to i'm selling
[01:16:49.940 --> 01:16:56.680] my merch you know now i'm getting people to buy my merch and i also have a vip experience
[01:16:56.680 --> 01:17:01.280] you know they're behind the scenes taking silly photos with me wearing my merch so it's like
[01:17:01.280 --> 01:17:07.240] you know how many times that he monetized not just all buying the tickets he the ticket sales
[01:17:07.240 --> 01:17:13.580] probably he probably almost breaking even on you know paying all the different costs and producers
[01:17:13.580 --> 01:17:19.000] and videographers photographers the sound and like everybody to run the show effectively his
[01:17:19.000 --> 01:17:25.540] staff management you know travel and then okay now you're making you know off the the merch
[01:17:26.500 --> 01:17:34.140] the album sales and the promotion yeah and then the vip experiences behind us you know behind
[01:17:34.140 --> 01:17:41.040] the scenes and the photos like photos like what a thousand dollars a walk thousand miles a piece
[01:17:41.040 --> 01:17:45.440] oh yeah 30 that less man now you profit on each tour versus you know all the different
[01:17:45.440 --> 01:17:49.340] going back to the splits you know knowing your split sheet so if i'm only getting
[01:17:49.980 --> 01:17:55.680] you know uh five percent of this like oh i need to make more money how can i make more money
[01:17:55.680 --> 01:18:00.920] nipsey also did something too remember he sold his album was a thousand dollars or something
[01:18:00.920 --> 01:18:06.300] like yeah it was a hundred dollars with a signature but it was like a thousand limited
[01:18:06.300 --> 01:18:11.000] to like a thousand yeah yeah that's what that's what a hundred thousand yeah six figures
[01:18:11.000 --> 01:18:16.880] it's crazy yeah and it's people for sure pay that you get a physical copy and you get
[01:18:16.880 --> 01:18:21.020] an autograph on there and probably some other experience that you never get
[01:18:21.620 --> 01:18:25.920] so yeah you build up your brand try you go have to start off small though
[01:18:25.920 --> 01:18:35.450] but you get to that status it's a work for sure yeah that was that that was an offer going
[01:18:35.450 --> 01:18:41.330] back to you know different money model that was an offer like you know just being bold
[01:18:41.330 --> 01:18:47.030] and doing that this albums at the time you know selling for what like 10 and 23 dollars
[01:18:47.030 --> 01:18:54.510] average for a drop 100 almost five times the amount five or six times like that was bold
[01:18:54.510 --> 01:18:59.550] a mixtape but that wasn't a mixtape i believe it was a mixtape no i might have been a mixtape
[01:18:59.550 --> 01:19:07.250] i can't remember it now i think it was a mixtape yeah selling for 100 dollars and uh
[01:19:07.250 --> 01:19:11.370] it was only a thousand copies but like that's how i kind of do it too like just
[01:19:11.370 --> 01:19:18.330] down different numbers different like okay uh yeah going back to the 100 grand like okay
[01:19:18.790 --> 01:19:23.650] break that down like okay if i had a thousand clients and i sold 100 of these
[01:19:23.650 --> 01:19:31.210] you know even uh breaking down different you know pricing with different clients like okay
[01:19:32.090 --> 01:19:38.870] well you say your goal is this how many people do you need to solidify or
[01:19:39.530 --> 01:19:43.650] book with to get to this number right at the end of the day it's just numbers
[01:19:44.510 --> 01:19:48.770] instead of making it so hard and complicated just just follow the numbers
[01:19:50.410 --> 01:19:55.010] like going back to like chris brown like he followed the numbers like okay i'm getting
[01:19:55.010 --> 01:20:00.030] this much off ticket sales i'm getting like a hundred dollars a show like okay i need to
[01:20:00.030 --> 01:20:05.850] make more than that i'm the biggest thing i need to compound is multiply this and he found
[01:20:05.850 --> 01:20:13.130] avenue in his lane you work out perfect fool oh yeah like that and that's instant marketing
[01:20:13.130 --> 01:20:19.030] for them people want to post out their photos at aspen a thousand of course i want to post
[01:20:19.030 --> 01:20:25.350] this so that's more market from him and like man that's genius like the closest person that
[01:20:26.110 --> 01:20:32.470] i've witnessed and like the all-time performer is like michael jackson like man one of the
[01:20:32.470 --> 01:20:39.050] greatest performers like that i could like testify and vouch for it like that i would love
[01:20:39.050 --> 01:20:45.150] to see him i didn't appreciate him till a little bit afterwards i started appreciating more music
[01:20:45.150 --> 01:20:51.570] after i got out of high school oh yeah because it seemed like high school was peer pressure music
[01:20:52.130 --> 01:20:56.850] yeah yeah i mean i still listen to mike i used to dress up in michael jackson too
[01:20:56.850 --> 01:21:00.050] like i could play michael jackson in the movie i gotta see that too though michael
[01:21:00.610 --> 01:21:08.560] the new movie just came out that's that's one artist that i can say like
[01:21:10.060 --> 01:21:16.180] all his production all his beats was fire like man and it's all unique and different
[01:21:16.180 --> 01:21:25.360] they was going crazy all his beats and i'm like man he's fire like man i think about that all
[01:21:26.520 --> 01:21:31.180] like there's so many unique melodies and stuff that they created from nothing
[01:21:31.760 --> 01:21:37.960] and people been sampling it over years and everything yeah especially me i sampled a couple
[01:21:37.960 --> 01:21:42.520] of them myself no they can't come out because i can't afford them licensing fees
[01:21:42.520 --> 01:21:49.820] but they in the computer somewhere hey when the time was right man yeah once i get that
[01:21:50.710 --> 01:22:01.240] then use this michael jackson beat i used it as a sample break you off a portion of it
[01:22:01.240 --> 01:22:13.330] but you get there you get there for sure yeah all his production is so unique and then
[01:22:13.330 --> 01:22:21.270] and just back it up with the lyrics and then the heart like man it's one of a kind and i'm
[01:22:21.270 --> 01:22:27.650] that's kind of how i wanted to like take my music you know traditionally known for you know as a
[01:22:27.650 --> 01:22:37.130] rapper being someone that rap but i just wanted to be an artist just do music i'm going to be
[01:22:37.130 --> 01:22:45.830] boxing as a quote-unquote i'm an artist and that's when i got more into the poetry
[01:22:47.940 --> 01:22:54.660] in a sense branching off but still of course doing the music but you know just speaking
[01:22:54.660 --> 01:22:59.540] my mind that was the biggest thing the words and words and the vibration and words have
[01:22:59.540 --> 01:23:07.800] meaning and like words influence you know i was always the one of the ones that
[01:23:08.600 --> 01:23:15.920] focus on the lyrics and that was my biggest thing yeah like when i hear a song i want to
[01:23:15.920 --> 01:23:21.460] hear the lyrics like what are they actually saying you know yeah that's when i like when
[01:23:21.460 --> 01:23:26.360] mumble rap came i'm like no they all not really what is y'all doing what is this
[01:23:26.360 --> 01:23:33.640] having respect for the game like people was telling like man history lessons like man
[01:23:34.620 --> 01:23:40.100] yeah this stuff you need to hear like we had we had pros and cons music no it's just
[01:23:40.100 --> 01:23:47.960] pros no cons huh like we had people that's so dope but you know the consequences behind
[01:23:47.960 --> 01:23:53.040] it because they told you that either immediately or another track like they do storytelling
[01:23:53.040 --> 01:23:57.900] now the people nowadays they the ones that's doing the dope yeah they doing the dope they
[01:23:57.900 --> 01:24:01.960] don't want to press and suicidal it's crazy shooting people for what like
[01:24:02.720 --> 01:24:07.460] you got ops because y'all had an argument in school or something bro like what what you
[01:24:07.460 --> 01:24:13.980] doing drill rap chill out crazy and we spoke on it back in the day like people not using
[01:24:13.980 --> 01:24:18.620] their hands to handle business and they pulling out that pipe and taking you out
[01:24:18.620 --> 01:24:26.120] right it seems like they know the consequences and just don't care regardless like and they're
[01:24:26.120 --> 01:24:32.180] telling themselves because technically we the parents we the parents of this generation is
[01:24:32.180 --> 01:24:37.760] doing it or our brother and older brothers and sisters then raise this crazy generation
[01:24:39.920 --> 01:24:44.820] i really can't even explain it what about the music thing music and media has an influence
[01:24:45.520 --> 01:24:52.880] music now officially has more influence over everything media not so much i mean it's
[01:24:52.880 --> 01:24:59.260] advertising just pop up in your face but it's for sure music like they taking all this
[01:24:59.260 --> 01:25:08.140] negativity rolling it up using it as an excuse clout chasing internet too internet is one of
[01:25:08.140 --> 01:25:14.400] the worst it's like a pro and con with that too people always want to show out people
[01:25:14.400 --> 01:25:21.690] easily put out music same day that they they recorded people don't care what they say will
[01:25:21.690 --> 01:25:30.490] flout their mouth it's it's dirty right now and i just hope that we can figure out another way
[01:25:31.330 --> 01:25:37.330] to to put out this good music like because it's overlooked like we used to have a balance
[01:25:37.330 --> 01:25:45.950] used to have some far rappers we had some pop rappers we had hip-hop and rap artists as well
[01:25:45.950 --> 01:25:51.930] but also let me speak on this there's been a lot of disrespect on hip-hop as a culture
[01:25:51.930 --> 01:25:58.170] in general we have sub genres too just because they rap don't make them a hip-hop
[01:25:58.170 --> 01:26:04.190] artist just because they're hip-hop artists don't make them a rapper yeah we have gangster rap we
[01:26:06.470 --> 01:26:12.770] have vibey rap everything we got so many sub genres use them sub genre tags man
[01:26:13.310 --> 01:26:19.450] everybody is not the same hip-hop changed even the 90s rappers hip-hop changed
[01:26:19.450 --> 01:26:27.250] yeah like like even your dopest mcs you think it's not really the true basis of hip-hop
[01:26:27.250 --> 01:26:36.270] it's evolution of it but our previous artist was definitely taking heed from previous generations
[01:26:36.870 --> 01:26:40.350] i keep on speaking on that because people be forgetting that
[01:26:41.410 --> 01:26:45.580] because i ain't gonna lie yadi rubbed me the wrong way from back in the day
[01:26:47.210 --> 01:26:50.970] he talking about he ain't know who pocket or biggie them would like
[01:26:50.970 --> 01:26:53.450] man if you're going somewhere you know exactly who it is
[01:26:54.790 --> 01:27:00.990] and nobody checked him about it like that they well i won't say nobody nobody around his age
[01:27:00.990 --> 01:27:06.950] checked him about that when somebody older check him about it i know you're an old head
[01:27:06.950 --> 01:27:11.350] that's what i low-key think old head is disrespectful now it used to be
[01:27:11.350 --> 01:27:16.290] something like you're saying this person got older cool now it's like this old
[01:27:17.050 --> 01:27:26.110] talking he an old hater that's what that sound like it's it's crazy though it's definitely crazy
[01:27:28.730 --> 01:27:36.010] what would you say would be like your goal or vision for the music industry especially stuff
[01:27:36.010 --> 01:27:41.990] that you're building and doing in the next 10 years having an ecosystem of people
[01:27:42.550 --> 01:27:47.330] that's on the same page as me whether it be artists producers anybody that got something to
[01:27:47.330 --> 01:27:53.950] with music and business and i prefer cleveland as an ecosystem all this hating that's been
[01:27:53.950 --> 01:27:59.050] going on for years pulling people down talking mess some of them will have a blind
[01:27:59.050 --> 01:28:03.810] they from one of my need to support y'all local artists even people that's outside of
[01:28:03.810 --> 01:28:08.370] the neighborhood too though like please support each other and if some of these local artists
[01:28:08.370 --> 01:28:13.910] show need to collab with these other popular artists from other hoods too why not what
[01:28:13.910 --> 01:28:19.110] to the unity of music where people pop up on trash like oh what you pop up on the track
[01:28:19.110 --> 01:28:24.230] or pop open a music video if you shoot a music video or something yeah ain't no type of cross
[01:28:25.430 --> 01:28:29.190] advertisement like that smart advertisement i mean y'all ain't got to be 100 cool but
[01:28:29.190 --> 01:28:34.490] it'd be nice to show some positivity for once even if y'all rapping about bs sometimes
[01:28:35.430 --> 01:28:43.120] i would say how how can people get in contact with you they want to book
[01:28:43.120 --> 01:28:47.440] finally on social media all that good stuff if you want to get in contact with me
[01:28:48.040 --> 01:28:54.580] find me on b stars.com slash t dames find me on instagram at instagram.com
[01:28:54.580 --> 01:29:02.240] slash it's t dames it's hard to miss me on tiktok it should be t dames of the workheads
[01:29:02.240 --> 01:29:08.800] if not it's t dames on beats so check me out on there and if you need to hear my email
[01:29:08.800 --> 01:29:19.790] get me at beats at t dames dot com follow the man go cop some beats get some exclusives all
[01:29:19.790 --> 01:29:26.370] that good stuff start with these youtube beats and invest in yourself if you're an artist
[01:29:26.370 --> 01:29:37.550] it's a must invest in yourself please and last question for all the new creative entrepreneurs
[01:29:38.990 --> 01:29:43.610] that want to start a business or want to get in the music industry
[01:29:43.610 --> 01:29:50.650] what tips and advice would you leave for them don't lose sight of the vision
[01:29:50.650 --> 01:30:01.480] keep pushing don't listen to the critics but take heed to the critics as well
[01:30:02.760 --> 01:30:07.660] people will talk mess about you and if it's enough people saying the same thing
[01:30:08.180 --> 01:30:14.760] take that as constructive criticism i was humble i still am i'm humble to learning
[01:30:15.300 --> 01:30:21.680] from anybody in this game i don't boast i don't do none of that even though some people tell me
[01:30:21.680 --> 01:30:29.180] i should because i make fire up and now i'm gonna sit here be appreciative and listen
[01:30:29.700 --> 01:30:42.630] and figure this stuff out man you'll get it let's get to it receive that's not taking
[01:30:42.630 --> 01:30:49.130] that in for myself that's that's powerful sometimes you need to take that time sit and
[01:30:49.130 --> 01:30:53.370] like i'm definitely bigger now even before a podcast i'm like yes
[01:30:53.370 --> 01:30:58.030] you know it's a ritual i take that a couple minutes just to meditate collect my thoughts
[01:30:58.030 --> 01:31:02.290] clear my head so yeah sit and listen i definitely received that too
[01:31:04.010 --> 01:31:09.770] but see yeah i appreciate you again brother i appreciate you for having me oh yeah it's
[01:31:09.770 --> 01:31:18.050] been amazing man it's a long time coming a very long time yes yes and this is another
[01:31:18.050 --> 01:31:24.590] episode of alienize photos industry talk with your host photographer jackson steve
[01:31:24.590 --> 01:31:31.650] jackson the alienize photos media and yes man this is a wrap definitely connect tap in
[01:31:32.170 --> 01:31:34.550] i'll catch you on the next one peace

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27. Dayja Smith - Coko's Crown
Season 2 · Episode 14
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/dayja-smith-cokos-crown
========================================================================

[00:00:01.260 --> 00:00:10.100] welcome welcome welcome to alienize photos industry talk and I'm sitting with
[00:00:10.100 --> 00:00:17.880] Miss Deja Smith Cleveland Ohio owner of Coco's crown natural hair care line and
[00:00:17.880 --> 00:00:23.160] I've used her products even though she I bought the product blindly and I loved
[00:00:23.160 --> 00:00:30.520] it and we have more to come on that also a plethora of things multifaceted
[00:00:30.520 --> 00:00:36.740] entrepreneur professional consultant company the list goes on but Deja you
[00:00:36.740 --> 00:00:42.660] can introduce yourself way better than I can tell the people who you are. Hi I am
[00:00:42.660 --> 00:00:49.240] Deja Smith I am born and raised in Cleveland Ohio I currently sit as the
[00:00:49.240 --> 00:00:52.780] vice president of the Urban League of Greater Cleveland's young professionals
[00:00:53.480 --> 00:00:59.620] I also sit as co-chair for the Urban Land Institute's real estate
[00:00:59.620 --> 00:01:04.300] development initiative where we teach minority professionals post-baccalaureate
[00:01:04.300 --> 00:01:10.960] real estate development so yes I am really community-based in Cleveland I
[00:01:10.960 --> 00:01:16.300] am Cleveland State as well as a little alum and I also graduated from
[00:01:16.300 --> 00:01:20.320] Lakeland Community College before I graduated from high school so I also
[00:01:20.320 --> 00:01:25.000] hold a business administration technology certification as well as
[00:01:25.000 --> 00:01:29.020] the state development certification and health care management and
[00:01:29.020 --> 00:01:35.600] psychology bachelors so. You're very well rounded. How did you get started with all these
[00:01:35.600 --> 00:01:41.280] different avenues and things? Really so with natural hair care I got
[00:01:41.280 --> 00:01:45.760] started after high school and I was going to college and I needed to
[00:01:45.760 --> 00:01:49.940] figure out hair products for myself so I got in a wave of creating my
[00:01:49.940 --> 00:01:54.900] own products from what I had present for me in the kitchen and since
[00:01:54.900 --> 00:02:00.680] then and going to school and studying chemistry biology psychology figuring
[00:02:00.680 --> 00:02:06.580] out sciences behind how to create products I pretty much have perfected I
[00:02:06.580 --> 00:02:10.520] would say for my community and the type of product that I would like to
[00:02:10.520 --> 00:02:14.900] have that's how I created it I was also working at a natural hair care
[00:02:14.900 --> 00:02:17.680] well the name of the store is natural hair natural beauty hair
[00:02:17.680 --> 00:02:24.880] boutique at the time but we weren't selling natural hair products we were
[00:02:24.880 --> 00:02:30.020] it because I wanted to sell natural hair products and that's kind of how I got my
[00:02:30.020 --> 00:02:35.860] start for natural hair care as far as D Smith Development Co. I got my start
[00:02:36.360 --> 00:02:41.640] doing business administration technology and then I expanded from that so so
[00:02:41.640 --> 00:02:47.520] going back to the hair care and I said I've used your products and I
[00:02:47.520 --> 00:02:52.560] just want to say how important just just for not fact just how important
[00:02:52.560 --> 00:02:58.320] is personal or sales agent for your brand your business not just for you but
[00:02:58.320 --> 00:03:02.540] like anybody that has a brand because you wasn't there I didn't even know you
[00:03:02.540 --> 00:03:07.780] at the time I know you were over the brand but I'm like sounds like a good
[00:03:07.780 --> 00:03:12.180] brand I could get behind and support it and I've tried the products and
[00:03:12.180 --> 00:03:19.360] loved it I even got the chapstick. Thank you I would say it's super
[00:03:19.360 --> 00:03:24.260] important to have a spokesperson or a salesperson to represent your product
[00:03:24.260 --> 00:03:29.160] in a way that maybe you can't it's good to have somebody be readily
[00:03:29.160 --> 00:03:35.780] available to tell your story as well as market the product and that's really
[00:03:35.780 --> 00:03:40.740] how you connect excuse me I just want connection but the importance of
[00:03:40.740 --> 00:03:45.300] having someone out and about speaking about the product the same way
[00:03:45.300 --> 00:03:49.040] that I am gains attention as well as really just getting a product out
[00:03:49.040 --> 00:03:54.220] here and into the hands of the people so that's beautiful and well told man I
[00:03:54.220 --> 00:04:00.980] remember the first time purchasing it I instantly used the lip balm you
[00:04:00.980 --> 00:04:05.340] prioritized it like a lip balm not a chapstick correct well chapstick it's a
[00:04:05.340 --> 00:04:14.160] brand. Chapstick is copyrighted. Give me right lip moisturizer. Give me correct and it was
[00:04:14.160 --> 00:04:17.579] amazing it was just glide I'm like oh this is smooth this is better than
[00:04:17.579 --> 00:04:22.300] chapstick so thank you which has changed over the years you know I've used so
[00:04:22.300 --> 00:04:26.500] many different products and even from the hair care even I even did the
[00:04:26.500 --> 00:04:33.400] refreshing mist before his interview. Thank you. I feel refreshed. I'm glad that you
[00:04:33.400 --> 00:04:37.400] do that's one of my favorite products actually because you can not
[00:04:37.400 --> 00:04:41.160] only just use it for your hair you can use it for your skin so spray it
[00:04:41.160 --> 00:04:45.320] on your face as well as it's TSA approved because all of my products
[00:04:45.320 --> 00:04:50.380] have antimicrobial and antifungal properties so I like to travel with
[00:04:50.380 --> 00:04:54.480] that I spray my hands spray my airplane seat with it that's how
[00:04:54.480 --> 00:04:58.460] multifaceted my products are so you're not just able to use it to grow
[00:04:58.460 --> 00:05:02.040] your hair and cleanse your scalp and moisturize your scalp but you're also
[00:05:02.040 --> 00:05:07.080] able to use it to cleanse a natural surface I've studied quite some I've
[00:05:07.080 --> 00:05:12.100] done a lot of research on creating the products that I have and before my
[00:05:12.100 --> 00:05:17.480] company started in 2017 I didn't release that specific product until 2021
[00:05:17.480 --> 00:05:22.680] 2022 so that just gives you a timeline on how long that I'm testing these
[00:05:22.680 --> 00:05:26.600] products not only on myself but my friends my family and then just getting
[00:05:26.600 --> 00:05:31.600] feedback as well as how can I make it better so just the evolution of the
[00:05:31.600 --> 00:05:35.920] product before I even release it to the public it is heavily and vastly
[00:05:35.920 --> 00:05:40.480] researched so it can do its multifunctional things that it's
[00:05:41.040 --> 00:05:46.640] heavily researched tested feedback that's what I heard and how important is all of that
[00:05:46.640 --> 00:05:49.980] gaining that feedback and tested because some people are like oh I got
[00:05:49.980 --> 00:05:53.240] this product I'm putting it out really took your time like you said you
[00:05:53.240 --> 00:05:59.280] research you gather feedback made iterations changed it tailored it how
[00:05:59.280 --> 00:06:04.120] important is that extremely important especially when it comes to the
[00:06:04.120 --> 00:06:07.840] product itself and the brand I want to be one of those trusted brands
[00:06:07.840 --> 00:06:11.320] where it's like I know when I go to use her product I know that the quality is
[00:06:11.320 --> 00:06:16.080] gonna be a one if not the quality that is gonna be a one I know that it
[00:06:16.080 --> 00:06:21.220] can help me do that in a third or it's a solution for me so it's
[00:06:21.220 --> 00:06:26.900] extremely important I know for my oil I used to have just a regular
[00:06:26.900 --> 00:06:31.720] screw top and now I have a push-down top so medicinal dropper
[00:06:31.720 --> 00:06:37.640] instead highly important for lifespan of the product so really yes now the
[00:06:37.640 --> 00:06:43.080] product is virtually with that click top dropper the medicinal style dropper the
[00:06:43.080 --> 00:06:49.840] product is now virtually not able to expire so that's the it's a really
[00:06:49.840 --> 00:06:53.400] cool part about the oil and it's packaged in the hydrolytic resistant
[00:06:53.400 --> 00:06:57.980] bottles so so I can't just put in a little plastic bottle and be like oh you
[00:06:57.980 --> 00:07:03.300] could but at some point the quality of the product will be compromised so
[00:07:03.300 --> 00:07:09.600] I pride myself on the science on my packaging as well as the product
[00:07:09.600 --> 00:07:15.320] working together and creating a very potent and high quality style product
[00:07:15.320 --> 00:07:21.300] but as far as tailoring the product in changing it and as well as I don't
[00:07:21.300 --> 00:07:25.240] want to be the person keep releasing a whole bunch of different things like
[00:07:25.240 --> 00:07:28.380] the Jordans I don't want to keep I don't want to keep releasing the
[00:07:28.380 --> 00:07:32.140] thing and a whole bunch of different things I want my one product to stand
[00:07:32.140 --> 00:07:36.660] for itself and it's only going to get better from here and that's one thing
[00:07:36.660 --> 00:07:42.300] that I can say that my company has upheld thus far be a brand ambassador
[00:07:42.300 --> 00:07:45.800] yes you know what I can't wait for you to be a brand ambassador because
[00:07:45.800 --> 00:07:50.200] you're here is extremely long you bought the product blindly it's a real
[00:07:50.200 --> 00:07:55.520] review that's kind of my I can be it send products to people I can give
[00:07:55.520 --> 00:08:00.400] products to people but the customers who are blindly purchasing the product
[00:08:00.400 --> 00:08:05.240] and saying hey I like this and I love this let me go out and actually take the
[00:08:05.240 --> 00:08:08.800] initiative to come back and speak to me to give me that real review those are
[00:08:08.800 --> 00:08:13.120] the customers that I pride myself in having and I can say that that's how my
[00:08:13.120 --> 00:08:19.760] company has sustained itself thus far because my social growth online is not
[00:08:19.760 --> 00:08:25.020] that much but my word of mouth grow is being very pertinent to their
[00:08:25.020 --> 00:08:28.440] survival of my business and the success of my business so it's only
[00:08:29.000 --> 00:08:35.280] yes I'm excited we're growing and I'm coming from being a one-woman show to
[00:08:35.280 --> 00:08:40.200] relinquishing trust unto other people I just met with a friend of mine today
[00:08:40.200 --> 00:08:45.340] and we were just thinking about how can we outsource you you have your hand
[00:08:45.340 --> 00:08:49.720] in so many different places and pots for the success in the growth of your
[00:08:49.720 --> 00:08:54.560] business you have to be willing to expand and take on a team and so
[00:08:54.560 --> 00:08:57.840] that's kind of where I'm at right now it's like my business is in the
[00:08:57.840 --> 00:09:02.960] growing stage the best thing that I can do to scale and foster that growth is
[00:09:02.960 --> 00:09:07.340] to create the team so keeping that success going so what would you say is
[00:09:07.340 --> 00:09:14.500] your first hire has been thus far a business solutions advisor that's how
[00:09:14.500 --> 00:09:21.480] you actually purchased my product the first time around yes the importance
[00:09:21.480 --> 00:09:27.280] of a podcast the pull-up experience yes an omnipresent presence is
[00:09:27.280 --> 00:09:32.320] extremely impactful when growing your business and just having people who are
[00:09:32.320 --> 00:09:37.240] just as passionate and believe in the goal just as much as you I think that
[00:09:37.240 --> 00:09:41.200] that is what creates success around business I can all credit miss Lutri
[00:09:41.200 --> 00:09:47.520] step light we just recently did a chase coaching for impact and I just
[00:09:47.520 --> 00:09:53.820] recently graduated that program but oh you are okay that's amazing
[00:09:53.820 --> 00:09:59.440] congratulations but I would say it's having that mentorship having the
[00:09:59.440 --> 00:10:04.260] advocacy having the people in finance Tim also works for Bank of America so
[00:10:04.260 --> 00:10:08.540] he's always figuring out how can this business be more innovative within
[00:10:08.540 --> 00:10:13.760] whether it be technology whether it be on a marketing standpoint or in a
[00:10:13.760 --> 00:10:18.980] communication standpoint so and then Latrice is kind of that lady who's
[00:10:18.980 --> 00:10:22.860] like she's a powerhouse you know Lutri she's a powerhouse especially
[00:10:22.860 --> 00:10:27.360] with mentorship and telling you this is where you need to be and this is how you
[00:10:27.360 --> 00:10:31.000] go to make that business bankable this is how you properly scale that
[00:10:31.000 --> 00:10:35.260] business this is who you need to speak to and then go from there so
[00:10:35.260 --> 00:10:39.560] I'll say mainly just getting the financial people in order first and then
[00:10:39.560 --> 00:10:44.400] the marketing people in order next is that's gonna be the main thing for a
[00:10:44.400 --> 00:10:51.260] successful business after that my brand ambassadors maybe or I'm
[00:10:51.260 --> 00:10:56.640] definitely in the need of some type of secretary or personal assistant or any
[00:10:56.640 --> 00:11:02.920] type of intern who's willing to follow my company and then grow with me in any
[00:11:02.920 --> 00:11:06.960] type of succession plan that I'm looking forward for to create this to
[00:11:06.960 --> 00:11:21.240] go passively but that's currently finances is my first go-to for my
[00:11:21.240 --> 00:11:30.220] so what about colleges here colleges cosmetology school I think that that's
[00:11:30.220 --> 00:11:36.420] a good idea however I know that those ladies are looking to earn hours as far
[00:11:36.420 --> 00:11:41.580] as service hours for the services that they provide but I would be looking I
[00:11:42.020 --> 00:11:46.920] would be interested in figuring out how I could possibly teach the
[00:11:46.920 --> 00:11:52.240] side of the cosmetology industry the beauty industry because it's one thing
[00:11:52.240 --> 00:11:56.460] to have a skill but it's another thing to have the knowledge to support that
[00:11:56.460 --> 00:12:04.400] skill so that's a good idea thank you so even time that's who what you're
[00:12:04.400 --> 00:12:10.140] doing in a partner with Urban League greater Cleveland young professionals
[00:12:10.580 --> 00:12:20.560] president yes probably since October we're in May right now I am succeeding
[00:12:20.560 --> 00:12:26.700] mr. Devinson so he's pretty cool but I am in in in collaboration and
[00:12:26.700 --> 00:12:33.420] leadership with mr. Colin Jackson as a president you know it's funny he
[00:12:33.420 --> 00:12:37.440] would love something like that we check all the time already I can
[00:12:37.440 --> 00:12:45.660] tell you he's a good friend so what about independent workshops so
[00:12:45.660 --> 00:12:49.960] independent workshops and that's amazing that you brought that up my
[00:12:50.540 --> 00:12:54.920] co-working space where my professional development company D Smith development
[00:12:54.920 --> 00:13:00.080] co I have a co-working space the address is 25863 shard and row Richmond
[00:13:00.080 --> 00:13:06.740] Heights Ohio four four one four three you can drop in and schedule any type
[00:13:06.740 --> 00:13:11.120] workshop that you would like to teach or would like to receive and we can
[00:13:11.120 --> 00:13:16.680] figure out that for you but we do offer working content rooms as well as
[00:13:16.680 --> 00:13:20.440] boardrooms you can drop in and work from home from there we have cubicle
[00:13:20.440 --> 00:13:28.640] spaces handicap accessible yeah drop in and work from home yeah so they're
[00:13:28.640 --> 00:13:33.520] they're called drop-in desks I have people drop in cubicles available
[00:13:33.520 --> 00:13:36.200] let's say you don't want to really work from home you need a new
[00:13:36.200 --> 00:13:41.380] workspace the library doesn't really support taking calls and things like that
[00:13:41.380 --> 00:13:46.260] so you can do that right here at decent development co I guess and is
[00:13:46.260 --> 00:13:50.920] that a something you kind of pawn to your real estate development that is
[00:13:50.920 --> 00:13:56.440] actually yes it's funny that you brought that up um I came across the
[00:13:56.440 --> 00:14:04.680] real estate for the space started okay your wine and let's go to how did I
[00:14:04.680 --> 00:14:10.000] get into contact with the real estate development people was figuring I was
[00:14:10.000 --> 00:14:13.580] in a space this before I had the business solutions advisor I was in a
[00:14:13.580 --> 00:14:18.120] space to where I was like okay how do I get my business out here I was just
[00:14:18.120 --> 00:14:23.160] messaging random people on Instagram like and I spiked your event I ran
[00:14:23.160 --> 00:14:29.680] into Melanie she is pretty much the executive director of the urban land
[00:14:29.680 --> 00:14:34.660] Institute she said sure we're having a women's day event you can come and
[00:14:34.660 --> 00:14:38.540] sponsor I said sure I'd be willing to give you all free products hundreds of
[00:14:38.540 --> 00:14:45.680] free products for gift bags and so she was like wow that's amazing sure come
[00:14:45.680 --> 00:14:49.000] pick them up and so she came and she picked him up she invited me to the
[00:14:49.000 --> 00:14:53.960] event and after she was like would you be interested in doing a real
[00:14:53.960 --> 00:15:00.240] estate development initiative I said sure and yeah I went from being a
[00:15:00.240 --> 00:15:06.040] sponsor to a student and a participant in the ready program to now it being my
[00:15:06.040 --> 00:15:13.700] program I'm the co-chair wait you came with your your brand your product partner
[00:15:13.700 --> 00:15:18.560] basically partner with another business another brand and now you
[00:15:18.560 --> 00:15:25.060] leverage your own brand to basically overtake another brand yeah I wouldn't
[00:15:25.060 --> 00:15:28.960] say overtake though because I definitely grew in that space and they
[00:15:28.960 --> 00:15:34.860] have supported me so greatly as far as like just being hungry and wanting more
[00:15:34.860 --> 00:15:38.540] opportunities because I don't have a real estate development or any real
[00:15:38.540 --> 00:15:42.680] estate background in any type of capacity I was just the girl sponsor in
[00:15:42.680 --> 00:15:46.680] the event you know I do have those connections at Cleveland State and I
[00:15:46.680 --> 00:15:50.820] do have the connections within the community and I do have the willingness
[00:15:50.820 --> 00:15:56.580] to learn as well as be teachable so Melanie was like would you be
[00:15:56.580 --> 00:16:03.120] interested I'm looking for students I said yes that's how I got all the way
[00:16:03.120 --> 00:16:09.400] to being the co-chair of the real estate development initiative to D Smith
[00:16:09.400 --> 00:16:13.200] Development Co. in that aspect I was looking up places okay I finally want
[00:16:13.200 --> 00:16:16.440] to get my feet wet I got my certifications in real estate development
[00:16:16.440 --> 00:16:20.740] I have a network of a global network because Urban Land Institute is a
[00:16:20.740 --> 00:16:25.380] global network of within real estate whether it be construction
[00:16:26.500 --> 00:16:30.000] architects anything you can think of a global network so I'm like okay I have
[00:16:30.000 --> 00:16:34.280] a global network I need to figure out projects for myself how can I get our
[00:16:35.760 --> 00:16:42.000] RFPs those are requests for proposals how can I get RFPs so mentor one
[00:16:42.000 --> 00:16:45.120] of my mentors who was teaching the class they were like you just got to
[00:16:45.120 --> 00:16:47.700] go out and you got to go out and find them don't get your feet wet
[00:16:47.700 --> 00:16:51.920] don't be afraid to get your feet wet so I meet a guy I see an open
[00:16:51.920 --> 00:16:56.040] space and at the time my sister's looking for something to put her
[00:16:56.040 --> 00:17:00.260] esthetician business and so I go and talk to the man I say hey my sister's
[00:17:00.260 --> 00:17:04.900] looking for a place to put her business it didn't end up sitting right
[00:17:04.900 --> 00:17:08.660] with my sister she didn't care for the space really so I said okay I'll
[00:17:08.660 --> 00:17:12.020] take the space because I really like it and the space was kind of beat
[00:17:12.020 --> 00:17:18.700] up I had developed the space put my own knowledge to use and yeah I'm
[00:17:18.700 --> 00:17:25.160] development co so yeah I'm trying to be well-rounded multifaceted important
[00:17:25.160 --> 00:17:28.880] for me to say that if there's anything that I've ever thought that I wanted to
[00:17:28.880 --> 00:17:34.320] do I did it so this is kind of me kind of knowing you advance and run
[00:17:34.320 --> 00:17:40.020] into each other in public or introvert or extrovert Wow okay I would
[00:17:40.020 --> 00:17:46.740] say that I am a introvert you how as an introvert how do you push past
[00:17:46.740 --> 00:17:52.720] all that is to these different hands building these different businesses and
[00:17:52.720 --> 00:17:58.680] brands and certifications like how do you push past that understanding that
[00:17:58.680 --> 00:18:06.600] I have a greater purpose so I do have family is a major thing for me that
[00:18:06.600 --> 00:18:10.980] drives me I am my oldest I'm the oldest sister so it's kind of like
[00:18:10.980 --> 00:18:15.260] your parents really depend on me keeping things in order and in
[00:18:15.880 --> 00:18:19.420] behind people so it's kind of like I've always been like I've always been the
[00:18:19.420 --> 00:18:27.340] boss but now it's to the point of okay and I pull up with me how can I know
[00:18:27.340 --> 00:18:31.420] that not only is my family depending on me but every other young lady who
[00:18:31.420 --> 00:18:38.000] looks like me is depending on me to be better you know she my goals mainly
[00:18:38.000 --> 00:18:44.300] my family but also to women like me I am and think about greatness and
[00:18:44.300 --> 00:18:49.780] I think about accessing spaces I know that not many of me are in that space
[00:18:49.780 --> 00:18:56.020] just being able to infiltrate different spaces bring women up with me but also
[00:18:56.020 --> 00:19:04.180] black people in totality so with that being said has there ever been like a
[00:19:04.180 --> 00:19:14.280] difficult or hard time that you try to do this and kind of go away or you
[00:19:14.900 --> 00:19:20.560] think about several times where I've had to pivot within my professional life I am
[00:19:20.560 --> 00:19:25.820] currently a full-time entrepreneur but I haven't always been that and I am
[00:19:25.820 --> 00:19:31.840] also in a space to where I am wanting to grow within my education and
[00:19:31.840 --> 00:19:35.820] I'm thinking about okay I'm out of school since 2019 how can I be an
[00:19:35.820 --> 00:19:39.240] entrepreneur I've been in that the philanthropist and in the community
[00:19:39.240 --> 00:19:43.400] space and in the advocacy phase how can I take the skills that I'm
[00:19:43.400 --> 00:19:48.500] already having that it's been on a hiatus since the pandemic within the
[00:19:48.500 --> 00:19:54.720] health care industry and I take what I'm doing now and put it towards what
[00:19:54.720 --> 00:19:58.820] it is that I'm doing or want to do later on that's something that I'm
[00:19:58.820 --> 00:20:01.720] currently navigating in this in the process I'm in the process of doing
[00:20:01.720 --> 00:20:09.120] that but as far as my business their industry is a billion-dollar industry
[00:20:09.780 --> 00:20:14.300] people are consistently coming up with ideas that are like yours or similar to
[00:20:14.300 --> 00:20:18.480] yours so you're figuring out how can I stand out it's my product different
[00:20:18.480 --> 00:20:21.940] than everyone else's product you know that all too well yeah you know what I
[00:20:21.940 --> 00:20:25.860] mean big in the podcast industry in the audio visual industry in
[00:20:25.860 --> 00:20:30.560] communication and marketing you have to figure out okay this one might pick
[00:20:30.560 --> 00:20:33.340] up the camera and I don't think they're a photographer and this is
[00:20:33.340 --> 00:20:37.920] something that you actually you want a professional level and so it's kind
[00:20:37.920 --> 00:20:42.720] of with me being a scientist while I am putting out a hair product I'm a
[00:20:42.720 --> 00:20:48.260] scientist my product is multifaceted my product not only grows your hair but
[00:20:48.260 --> 00:20:54.260] helps with topical numbing it also me with my anti-microbial it also helps
[00:20:54.260 --> 00:20:58.220] with skin diseases it also helps with building confidence and making yourself
[00:20:58.220 --> 00:21:03.690] feel better so my thing is pivoting really is a part of my story as the
[00:21:03.690 --> 00:21:14.330] entrepreneur that I am let's cheers to you and we love it it's so good like
[00:21:14.330 --> 00:21:20.130] the party the sangria yes to you wines in South Creek Ohio one of my brand
[00:21:20.130 --> 00:21:33.670] partners man definitely check it out but um like you got a lot on your
[00:21:33.670 --> 00:21:39.690] energy all of this and continue to keep going at a high level I'm doing
[00:21:39.690 --> 00:21:46.230] anything that I am not passionate about so the thing is I feel like anything
[00:21:46.230 --> 00:21:51.170] that I take to or anything that I start it's because I truly believe in
[00:21:51.170 --> 00:21:58.130] it I know a lot of people are into things that are just join or they're
[00:21:58.130 --> 00:22:00.870] they're supporting just a sport support you know social media has
[00:22:01.830 --> 00:22:09.030] trends in me personally I am human rights is like me so my communal work
[00:22:09.030 --> 00:22:14.090] I'm human first in believing everything for my professional development you're
[00:22:14.090 --> 00:22:17.010] gonna get everyone to have the education that they need to support
[00:22:17.010 --> 00:22:22.650] whatever endeavor that they want my natural hair care line it's am wanting
[00:22:22.650 --> 00:22:26.850] people to have access to healthy products that are created small and
[00:22:26.850 --> 00:22:34.050] have any ulterior motive I'm gonna be brands my real estate development is to
[00:22:34.370 --> 00:22:39.370] make sure that minorities have access to real estate and land and education
[00:22:39.370 --> 00:22:45.070] on how to sustain that in community and neighborhoods so it's really for
[00:22:45.070 --> 00:22:48.970] me I'm not doing anything that I don't genuinely believe in or that I
[00:22:48.970 --> 00:22:54.070] don't genuinely support so I don't have an issue going that thousandth
[00:22:54.070 --> 00:23:00.270] I don't have an issue you had a hundred tenth percent genuinely support it you
[00:23:00.270 --> 00:23:04.590] genuinely want a better you just have to be the change you want to see in
[00:23:04.590 --> 00:23:10.550] the world yeah try to show up in ways that I would like to see that all
[00:23:10.550 --> 00:23:17.370] that you believe in everything that you see but what about stuff that you
[00:23:17.370 --> 00:23:22.150] don't believe in or like the enemy to what you're doing um thing that
[00:23:22.150 --> 00:23:27.070] I'll say is you have to have discernment and you they prayed up I have to have
[00:23:29.030 --> 00:23:35.750] discernment I say that I'm very intuitive on being able to ran a space
[00:23:35.750 --> 00:23:42.190] isn't for me you direct myself out of the space as far as I'm gonna always
[00:23:42.190 --> 00:23:45.130] be an odd but as long as you stay ready you don't have to get ready you
[00:23:45.130 --> 00:23:49.050] know long as I'm prepared for whatever it is that can come towards me as
[00:23:49.050 --> 00:23:55.210] and even the diversities that I'm not prepared for know that as long as I
[00:23:55.210 --> 00:23:59.890] stay faithful inconsistent and determined it's always gonna follow up
[00:23:59.890 --> 00:24:05.310] next you know keep going in face of an enemy in the face of any
[00:24:05.310 --> 00:24:08.930] adversities you just got to keep going and you'll you'll understand like
[00:24:09.510 --> 00:24:13.750] you have a vision it's bigger than the problem the vision will always be
[00:24:13.750 --> 00:24:17.630] bigger than the problem so I'm trying to win the war the battles I can
[00:24:17.630 --> 00:24:20.710] battle here or there but I'm trying to win the war you know these are things
[00:24:20.710 --> 00:24:25.410] that I have to mentally tell myself and reaffirm myself but I'm grateful that
[00:24:25.410 --> 00:24:29.830] I do have the mindset and the confidence that I do to be able to keep
[00:24:29.830 --> 00:24:34.910] showing up as you say that quote and they lose the battle but you're
[00:24:34.910 --> 00:24:40.270] gonna win the war is there was like the last few books that you've read
[00:24:40.270 --> 00:24:47.230] I gotta plug my ladies in I know this is crazy 107 days Kamala Harris
[00:24:47.230 --> 00:24:54.930] 107 days I just recently met her I have a signed copy and she is a light I
[00:24:54.930 --> 00:25:01.550] didn't I've never met someone to where their aura kind of boss exudes
[00:25:01.550 --> 00:25:05.750] like I'm gonna be like her one day and I'm 31 so it's like I passed the
[00:25:05.750 --> 00:25:11.370] age where it's like oh but I'm at the age to where I could recognize okay she
[00:25:11.370 --> 00:25:18.870] has great skill great achievements she has a great personality great woman to
[00:25:18.870 --> 00:25:25.290] show up as wait qualities so 107 days by Kamala Harris I'd like to plug okay
[00:25:25.290 --> 00:25:30.850] well as becoming Michelle Obama the first edition where the covers blue and
[00:25:30.850 --> 00:25:38.270] yes so are you running for office no just curious have all these stands and
[00:25:38.270 --> 00:25:43.750] what you believe in and then like two books you recommend is like political
[00:25:43.750 --> 00:25:50.770] figures in the sense um I say no I am NOT running for office but I would
[00:25:50.770 --> 00:25:54.670] like to plug my friend who is running for office you money yes money
[00:25:54.670 --> 00:25:59.750] Edwards Edwards I was thinking Kamala Harris but her name is Imani Edwards
[00:25:59.750 --> 00:26:04.370] she's how I met Kamala Harris Imani Edwards okay so what she's running for
[00:26:04.370 --> 00:26:09.190] she is running for councilwoman downtown ward so we've been voting for her
[00:26:09.710 --> 00:26:15.410] election day but by the time this is published I don't know we gotta vote
[00:26:15.410 --> 00:26:19.770] today so even if you might have to edit this we're not sure I don't mean
[00:26:19.770 --> 00:26:25.630] like I don't know how sure she's gonna be better when my when I say
[00:26:25.630 --> 00:26:30.490] qualities of a great woman a great leader even if she doesn't win can't
[00:26:30.490 --> 00:26:34.790] wait to support any next endeavor for her but yeah I'm gonna need money
[00:26:34.790 --> 00:26:42.970] Edwards what does she do besides she works for Taff so she is a greater
[00:26:42.970 --> 00:26:50.070] Cleveland's young professional general body member we are really grateful to
[00:26:50.070 --> 00:26:56.530] her on our public advocacy committee as well as she simply just did
[00:26:56.530 --> 00:27:00.590] something for our women's initiative on it during the month of March where
[00:27:00.590 --> 00:27:07.030] we hosted pretty much the largest panel that we have in 2026 so yeah
[00:27:07.030 --> 00:27:11.250] we're really excited to have her as well as a lot of our new members who
[00:27:11.250 --> 00:27:17.610] are out and about making a difference we I would say for our IPs is we
[00:27:17.610 --> 00:27:21.450] have everyone in different sectors whether it be sports whether it be the
[00:27:21.450 --> 00:27:25.610] arts whether it be event curating whether it be really say the education
[00:27:25.610 --> 00:27:31.550] business finance like more really well-rounded as an organization and we
[00:27:31.550 --> 00:27:39.290] truly support each other in that aspect yes but no policy for me I am
[00:27:39.290 --> 00:27:46.130] a science girl I love science scenes research clinical studies those type
[00:27:46.130 --> 00:27:53.750] of things love neurology brain studies the human-computer interaction that's
[00:27:53.750 --> 00:28:01.650] my main thing for psychology that I'm truly into right now so is it mainly
[00:28:01.650 --> 00:28:06.830] science because you have like after of things like a well-rounded palette of
[00:28:06.830 --> 00:28:13.110] different intersect industries since I will be your like thing on alternate
[00:28:13.110 --> 00:28:22.690] go or like no I think I don't want to box myself in in that aspect as far as
[00:28:22.690 --> 00:28:28.150] my education goes I would say I the first before I had a high school
[00:28:28.150 --> 00:28:32.770] diploma I had a business administration technology so I was
[00:28:32.770 --> 00:28:37.150] already not only well-rounded in business but I was also well-rounded
[00:28:37.150 --> 00:28:41.650] in the technology space in an administration space that's something
[00:28:41.650 --> 00:28:49.990] that I can do with my eyes closed yes just like and do that now for as my
[00:28:49.990 --> 00:28:56.950] psychology more so of passion and interest the brain why people do the
[00:28:56.950 --> 00:29:05.970] things we do behavior yes so that's actually why I do health care
[00:29:05.970 --> 00:29:11.230] management as well management marketing health care of interaction is
[00:29:11.230 --> 00:29:15.530] what I kind of um why why people think that we think what would make you buy
[00:29:15.530 --> 00:29:20.570] this product over the next one what colors are gonna make you shop what
[00:29:20.570 --> 00:29:26.470] colors are gonna make you click things are yeah things am I gonna say to
[00:29:26.470 --> 00:29:31.150] where it entices people to want to do something you know what I mean what
[00:29:31.150 --> 00:29:35.370] language or what words can I use to get the reader a little bit harder to
[00:29:35.370 --> 00:29:38.810] where they're gonna wanna what's the matter sensory you know I trigger for
[00:29:38.810 --> 00:29:45.510] upon reading this so somatosensory what your emotions your five senses and
[00:29:45.510 --> 00:29:50.450] your five senses and the emotions that follow the five senses it goes really
[00:29:50.450 --> 00:29:54.650] hand-in-hand in marketing so if you were looking like should I do psych
[00:29:54.650 --> 00:29:59.090] should I do business together they're really good really great yes what
[00:29:59.090 --> 00:30:07.510] about the color for your brand and Coco's crown so um do you really want to know the truth I want to know the truth and
[00:30:10.150 --> 00:30:19.370] okay I wanted to do black and white like I know that's crazy so at the time 2017
[00:30:19.370 --> 00:30:23.830] when I would think it was 2016 when I was thinking about like how I want my
[00:30:23.830 --> 00:30:27.990] logo to look ten years ago okay okay this is ten years ago um how am I
[00:30:27.990 --> 00:30:33.990] little to look and so I know I wanted it to be clean plain white
[00:30:33.990 --> 00:30:40.310] I knew I wanted it to be white but got milk is black and white and we are Coco's
[00:30:40.310 --> 00:30:44.410] crown so Coco the color of cocoa black and what kind you think about the
[00:30:44.410 --> 00:30:52.950] cocoa yeah brown yeah you know milk chocolate so that's basically where I
[00:30:52.950 --> 00:30:59.770] got Coco's crown milk chocolate yeah those are the colors the cleanness of
[00:30:59.770 --> 00:31:02.830] that so now anything that you see of Coco's crown it's only gonna say
[00:31:02.830 --> 00:31:07.710] Coco's crown and then everything else will have something around it everything
[00:31:07.710 --> 00:31:12.390] else but the logo itself is just clean white cursive I went for cursive
[00:31:12.390 --> 00:31:19.730] because of crown royal or elegant lux feel yeah like a more lux feel for it
[00:31:20.330 --> 00:31:25.010] but really how I have it no other variation to where you got the brown
[00:31:25.010 --> 00:31:29.390] and the white I don't really do that unless it's on a piece of content to
[00:31:29.390 --> 00:31:35.850] have to be back but kind of got the inspiration from a powerful campaign by
[00:31:35.850 --> 00:31:41.450] the way they got me listen and I'm like doesn't tolerate so for you and
[00:31:41.450 --> 00:31:47.130] um so I'll say what would you say you do for fun like was your passions
[00:31:47.130 --> 00:31:51.410] outside of business and entrepreneurship and policy Coco's
[00:31:51.410 --> 00:31:58.390] crown caring for others I like to do for fun my dogs play with my pets
[00:31:58.390 --> 00:32:04.530] my dogs my nails I'm really good randomly I'm really good at nails I've
[00:32:04.530 --> 00:32:12.470] been doing nails since I was probably 12 years old I would say earlier than
[00:32:12.470 --> 00:32:18.210] 12 maybe 10 no yeah it's years old I probably got my first nail kit but as
[00:32:18.210 --> 00:32:26.840] of lately my nails probably around the 2010s college like 2018 2019 I
[00:32:26.840 --> 00:32:32.340] graduated in 2019 but 20 9 2018 to about 2020 I was like I'm not getting my
[00:32:32.340 --> 00:32:39.900] nails done anymore I was like my nails done heavily um but now I'm so good at
[00:32:39.900 --> 00:32:43.680] doing my own like manicure I prefer to do my own nails before I would
[00:32:43.680 --> 00:32:48.660] prefer to have someone else do them and it's just to the point you
[00:32:48.660 --> 00:32:55.960] were like have done my mom's done my sisters are like yeah I even like
[00:32:56.600 --> 00:33:02.440] if you go to the makeup artist and it's not what you want or happens it rained
[00:33:02.440 --> 00:33:08.060] on or you cry your makeup off so I've been really good at lately a really
[00:33:08.060 --> 00:33:11.460] light natural beat I'll plug my favorite makeup artist right now her
[00:33:11.460 --> 00:33:15.480] name is Madeline Nicole like the last seven years I've been getting my
[00:33:15.480 --> 00:33:21.080] makeup done by Maddie if I'm going like event style and going all out but
[00:33:21.080 --> 00:33:26.920] I'm currently in a space to where I want to pour into myself in a way to where
[00:33:26.920 --> 00:33:32.120] it makes me feel better and I think that it's honing in on my own beauty
[00:33:32.120 --> 00:33:39.560] standards in a natural aspect have really I would say built a love for
[00:33:39.560 --> 00:33:43.240] myself as well as a confidence for myself that I probably didn't have
[00:33:43.240 --> 00:33:47.740] before when someone else was doing the service I think it's because I can
[00:33:47.740 --> 00:33:52.640] tell the evolution of how of me getting better at doing the service to how I
[00:33:52.640 --> 00:33:58.640] like point into myself on that aspect on a self-care aspect allows for me to
[00:33:58.640 --> 00:34:04.220] be gentle with myself in other places offer me to be teachable like hey
[00:34:04.220 --> 00:34:11.159] don't know how to do this you can learn over time and yeah I think just
[00:34:11.159 --> 00:34:15.659] admitting administering self-care to myself is how I become a hobby for
[00:34:15.659 --> 00:34:19.520] myself and I've gotten so good at it to where I can do it for my sister's
[00:34:20.400 --> 00:34:26.239] hobby so with that being said what is your definition of self love oh that's
[00:34:26.239 --> 00:34:34.739] a good one um I think that love is very complex why is that um like it's
[00:34:34.739 --> 00:34:45.639] complex to name or to describe I think love is simple that's fair but I
[00:34:45.639 --> 00:34:53.780] when it comes to self-love I think that self-love looks differently than
[00:34:53.780 --> 00:34:59.380] loving other people so you have to love yourself first like a reflection
[00:34:59.380 --> 00:35:03.840] yeah how you love other people and so that's why other people love you love
[00:35:03.840 --> 00:35:10.300] you exactly so I would say down to discipline can be a part of love
[00:35:10.300 --> 00:35:14.400] that's true you know what I mean so I think that looks it can be complex
[00:35:14.400 --> 00:35:21.820] but you you do things out of love I would define self-love as showing up for
[00:35:21.820 --> 00:35:27.160] oneself in a manner to which no one else can show up for you you know what
[00:35:27.160 --> 00:35:30.920] you need you know what I'm saying you know what makes you feel good you know
[00:35:30.920 --> 00:35:33.620] what makes you happy you know makes you sad you know what I'm saying you
[00:35:33.620 --> 00:35:36.760] know how to console yourself you know you're always gonna be with you
[00:35:36.760 --> 00:35:43.620] that's right so I think that that you are a multifaceted being not just me
[00:35:43.620 --> 00:35:49.740] but other people just being aware where starts with self-awareness and knowing
[00:35:49.740 --> 00:35:55.920] oneself okay going to last time or last activity that you like yeah really
[00:35:55.920 --> 00:36:00.480] practice self-love I love myself I'm like what was that last a moment you
[00:36:00.480 --> 00:36:06.000] had that like probably say last week my birthday just passed
[00:36:06.720 --> 00:36:12.100] late it yes thank you April 29th you just turned it up I was giving your
[00:36:12.100 --> 00:36:22.250] moment I'm preparing for my birthday yeah myself the attention that I
[00:36:22.250 --> 00:36:27.850] deserve the reflection that I'm meeting I'm putting first I think it's
[00:36:27.850 --> 00:36:31.870] easy to say my birthday because everyone like around your day you have
[00:36:31.870 --> 00:36:35.970] a reason to be selfish you have a reason to not do things for others
[00:36:35.970 --> 00:36:42.950] but it also can highlight a time to where it's like okay isn't me today so I
[00:36:42.950 --> 00:36:46.770] would say I would recognize my birthday just passing that's the last
[00:36:46.770 --> 00:36:51.110] time that I can say okay girl you love you you look good you know what I mean
[00:36:51.110 --> 00:36:54.270] just like into myself into a manner to which I don't think anyone else
[00:36:54.270 --> 00:37:03.330] could afford into me so kind of pivoted that's all myself but talking
[00:37:03.330 --> 00:37:07.890] about myself just a little bit as you know I'm into media visual photography
[00:37:07.890 --> 00:37:14.930] videography podcast and helping creative entrepreneurs get their brand out so
[00:37:14.930 --> 00:37:21.430] how would you say media influence your market industry major major I think
[00:37:21.430 --> 00:37:27.030] about ten years ago you know it's first started in the company we're we
[00:37:27.030 --> 00:37:31.590] were living like this is traditional so wins now ladies are doing well
[00:37:31.590 --> 00:37:36.630] then then ladies were doing like the foreclosures and things like that now
[00:37:36.630 --> 00:37:39.930] the ladies are into like the wood things like that and now people are
[00:37:39.930 --> 00:37:42.850] trying to transition back to the natural space it was like okay I like
[00:37:42.850 --> 00:37:49.010] natural hair um so I would say that especially for hair care the industry
[00:37:49.010 --> 00:37:55.330] that I'm in if favorite influencer drops a new hairstyle or a new hair
[00:37:55.330 --> 00:37:59.910] color or a new length that she wants or you know now that's what everyone's
[00:37:59.910 --> 00:38:04.390] gonna be doing for the next six months you know forgive when everyone was doing
[00:38:04.390 --> 00:38:08.970] the feeder braids and then they were calling them like this braids and they're
[00:38:08.970 --> 00:38:12.910] just straight backs right you know what I mean but somehow they have a name
[00:38:12.910 --> 00:38:17.790] to them now and I'm you know good as for getting to put on and having
[00:38:17.790 --> 00:38:22.230] and be able to like coin a style or even like the pop braids those are
[00:38:22.230 --> 00:38:25.750] just braids going down you know what I mean these are just cornrows right
[00:38:25.750 --> 00:38:32.750] but we are like in a space to wear and those braids ran like the pandemic for
[00:38:32.750 --> 00:38:37.470] quite some time I don't know if you know let's say like so yeah you know
[00:38:37.470 --> 00:38:41.450] did we clock smokeless you know guys so and even that's Dior like she's
[00:38:41.450 --> 00:38:44.410] that girl right now but she's not wearing grades but when she was it
[00:38:44.410 --> 00:38:50.290] was like okay I'll raise just like that so I would say social media truly
[00:38:50.290 --> 00:38:56.350] impact on how we carry ourselves but it's significantly made the world
[00:38:56.350 --> 00:39:01.810] smaller so something that you may have not have seen or had access to you
[00:39:01.810 --> 00:39:04.570] have right at your fingertips you can log on and you can go and see
[00:39:04.570 --> 00:39:08.610] someone from China that's right before you could have to get on to the
[00:39:08.610 --> 00:39:13.410] internet and Google search hey someone from China and then before that
[00:39:13.410 --> 00:39:18.750] you used to have to actually go to China you know it's a social has
[00:39:18.750 --> 00:39:25.850] greatly greatly world smaller and that also imposes self-expression which
[00:39:25.850 --> 00:39:32.390] is like our hairstyles it's cool though it goes in constant more
[00:39:32.390 --> 00:39:38.010] accessible yep yep what is like a and like the hair industry that you see
[00:39:38.010 --> 00:39:43.410] or that you admire that you would like to work with that I admired or
[00:39:43.410 --> 00:39:54.630] like to work with yes no your hair is amazing it's beautiful um I say are a
[00:39:54.630 --> 00:40:00.250] Shahidi or Tracy Ellis Ross oh yeah pattern he's done her thing with
[00:40:00.250 --> 00:40:07.370] pattern beauty even Riri Rihanna a little little crush back when she first
[00:40:07.370 --> 00:40:20.110] came but I would say her status as far as the business and entrepreneur as a
[00:40:20.110 --> 00:40:25.770] business owner it's greatly grown I shouted Rihanna out in some a previous
[00:40:25.770 --> 00:40:30.700] interview that I did and I would just say like she's been a pioneer and
[00:40:31.210 --> 00:40:36.550] creating accessibility for people to want to create products that not only
[00:40:36.550 --> 00:40:41.630] people that look like me but also how can it hit other avenues and how can it
[00:40:41.630 --> 00:40:46.930] be multifaceted while products are multifaceted in a space of not always
[00:40:46.930 --> 00:40:53.330] hair I'm going to have samples to be able to to be able to create things
[00:40:53.330 --> 00:41:02.170] like that yeah you know for sure she's taking her company next level so
[00:41:02.770 --> 00:41:09.050] though even before the hair care line even before her entrepreneur and her
[00:41:09.050 --> 00:41:16.370] being an actress I've admired her hair and being on girlfriends and you know
[00:41:16.370 --> 00:41:20.810] you think of the early 2000s women aren't wearing their afros they're
[00:41:20.810 --> 00:41:24.070] just not you know what I'm saying where everyone has the cut the color
[00:41:24.070 --> 00:41:29.290] the relaxer the fixie the micro rate Tracy Ellis Ross wore her hair she
[00:41:29.290 --> 00:41:35.690] exactly how she was and I think that being a watch even even Tia Tamera for
[00:41:35.690 --> 00:41:39.070] the sister sister face you know we're straight in and even after the
[00:41:39.070 --> 00:41:46.550] straight I love watching women where it was okay to be unapologetically
[00:41:46.550 --> 00:41:51.530] themselves and now that I am at their age of when they were doing these
[00:41:51.530 --> 00:41:55.650] things I think that it is very important for me to want to do the
[00:41:55.650 --> 00:42:01.950] because I know that what it did for me so so that's a good good good question
[00:42:01.950 --> 00:42:06.090] that I have in mind like going to those early ages when you were watching
[00:42:06.090 --> 00:42:11.250] them and like let's say seven eight nine ish maybe you won't watch them at
[00:42:11.250 --> 00:42:15.570] the time but let's go back to that time period because my mother's about
[00:42:15.570 --> 00:42:23.390] to be eight and she wears her her her afro so what were like you're
[00:42:23.390 --> 00:42:30.930] thinking about when it comes to here and watching no I mean that's see that
[00:42:30.930 --> 00:42:36.990] you mentioned like just being a young girl and how as a black lady here
[00:42:36.990 --> 00:42:41.350] changes I don't know like culturally for other cultures you know I'd be a
[00:42:41.350 --> 00:42:44.670] way but you the hair that they get at a young age is the hair that they
[00:42:44.670 --> 00:42:52.490] grow up with but us you know from the plaids and that you know to
[00:42:52.490 --> 00:42:57.750] to be able to wrap your hair or being able to straighten your hair I would
[00:42:57.750 --> 00:43:05.410] say when I was eight and nine oh my god my mom was yeah putting my hair she
[00:43:05.410 --> 00:43:12.390] was doing singles in my hair doing braids twisties for my go-to I love
[00:43:12.390 --> 00:43:19.650] twisties with the bo-bos those are my go-to but I remember seeing my aunt
[00:43:19.650 --> 00:43:24.370] and my mom she would do the quickweaves and she would change her color and she
[00:43:24.370 --> 00:43:31.370] would I loved how my mom wasn't afraid to be daring with her hairstyle like
[00:43:31.370 --> 00:43:35.890] she was afraid to have short hair today and long hair tomorrow and that's
[00:43:35.890 --> 00:43:41.150] not something that I have gotten to the point of being able to do because
[00:43:41.150 --> 00:43:46.210] I do maintain my natural hair so much now but when I was that age that was
[00:43:46.210 --> 00:43:51.050] something that I admired like the color I can't wait tonight get this age so I
[00:43:51.050 --> 00:43:57.130] could color my hair right you know it's a but being in that space my mom was
[00:43:57.130 --> 00:44:05.050] really really I would say like she taught us to value how beautiful our hair was
[00:44:05.050 --> 00:44:09.070] and when it was unkempt you know what I mean even when my braids were
[00:44:09.070 --> 00:44:13.610] frizzy and fuzzy you know you know what she would say like that's their
[00:44:13.610 --> 00:44:17.250] frizzy and fuzzy but guess what her hair is still long or that's it's their
[00:44:17.250 --> 00:44:20.930] frizzy and fuzzy it's still curly or still great you know what I mean so
[00:44:20.930 --> 00:44:27.070] these are things that my mom instilled in me at a very young age but teaching
[00:44:27.070 --> 00:44:30.950] me the importance of how to take care of my hair she would tell me like I
[00:44:30.950 --> 00:44:33.530] wouldn't tie my hair up and I would wake up and my hair she'd be like
[00:44:33.530 --> 00:44:37.050] okay you know I'm satisfied so it's all on the pillow and then boom now
[00:44:37.050 --> 00:44:42.430] here I am today selling a silk pillowcase and it being one of my my
[00:44:42.430 --> 00:44:46.690] colors and me being able to send a silk pillowcase to Sugar Sanders and him
[00:44:46.690 --> 00:44:53.130] saying wow I needed that you know that it has come full circle being able to
[00:44:53.130 --> 00:44:58.330] be brought up at eight and nine year old little girl still influences who
[00:44:58.330 --> 00:45:04.470] I am today so it's amazing but I like how you're teaching your daughter you
[00:45:04.470 --> 00:45:10.230] know how hair is and I maintain it it's tricky especially being of color
[00:45:10.230 --> 00:45:14.190] but you know and I would say that I would tell my eight or nine year old
[00:45:14.190 --> 00:45:18.950] self is like it's right now right you just protective styling right now later
[00:45:18.950 --> 00:45:24.030] on you know able to see how you needed to see so it's cool you know it's a
[00:45:24.030 --> 00:45:31.270] growth and and with one cell being comfortable with oneself and you kind
[00:45:31.270 --> 00:45:36.130] of next question I was kind of had my head going to your younger self
[00:45:36.130 --> 00:45:41.870] stuff that you know not developing the brand Coco's crown like what was that
[00:45:41.870 --> 00:45:47.750] crown for you at an early age and all the way to developing the name Coco's
[00:45:47.750 --> 00:45:54.150] crown like how did I come up with the name Coco's crown so Coco my
[00:45:54.150 --> 00:45:59.050] sister Coco she's a sister who I had mentioned earlier about I was looking
[00:45:59.050 --> 00:46:04.050] for a space for her esthetician business so to Coco
[00:46:04.710 --> 00:46:12.670] Coco always had really beautiful hair and I'm like her big sister I've always
[00:46:12.670 --> 00:46:20.190] are her big sister yeah I'm not like we're just really close in age so it's
[00:46:20.190 --> 00:46:25.830] kind of like I'm a big sister but no yeah really so sometimes Coco's like
[00:46:25.830 --> 00:46:30.270] they do you need to be doing you know I would say I definitely am I've
[00:46:30.270 --> 00:46:34.030] always gauging Coco you know what I mean I've always been the leader but
[00:46:34.030 --> 00:46:38.970] between us but Coco has always been like that force like anything
[00:46:38.970 --> 00:46:45.150] Coco's the force behind shit Coco's the force behind things so I've just had her
[00:46:45.150 --> 00:46:49.910] covered I've always wanted to be her crown I've always wanted her to be
[00:46:49.910 --> 00:46:55.930] like anything I do I want I like I've known and also know like my
[00:46:55.930 --> 00:47:00.070] personality and she is the force behind things but she's also extremely
[00:47:00.070 --> 00:47:05.890] sensitive so like face to where she can't show up for herself I'm gonna
[00:47:05.890 --> 00:47:12.010] be the one to show up her so kind of got like the double entendre of the
[00:47:12.010 --> 00:47:18.250] name so crown I am Coco's crown like I have her head I'm I can't explain it
[00:47:18.250 --> 00:47:23.810] but it's like you know relationship but always had beautiful hair she's
[00:47:23.810 --> 00:47:29.270] always represented to what I think a beautiful person is inside and out so
[00:47:29.270 --> 00:47:36.710] I would want my company to reflect and yeah you see if you see Coco crazy
[00:47:36.710 --> 00:47:43.970] yeah but you know they keep you covered it's a status like symbol it also
[00:47:43.970 --> 00:47:48.870] protects the head so heavy is the head that wears the crown and I know you
[00:47:48.870 --> 00:47:52.910] probably can't see but like my crown actually the crown you seen the
[00:47:52.910 --> 00:47:56.510] picture I keep the crown in the past so everybody that was sitting my
[00:47:56.510 --> 00:48:01.730] seat which is not many people but when they do it reminds them of their
[00:48:01.730 --> 00:48:07.810] royalties and their you know yeah your crown represents you know and I look at
[00:48:07.810 --> 00:48:11.510] and look over it's just like a reminder to myself like oh high level
[00:48:11.510 --> 00:48:15.410] and all of royalty so and you know that that you keep it in your car for
[00:48:15.410 --> 00:48:19.370] people to just come in you sit on at the wrong you know I'm saying I like
[00:48:19.910 --> 00:48:28.310] I would also say sometimes our crowns crown slip and I think yeah you know
[00:48:28.310 --> 00:48:32.190] what I'm saying and I think that for me and Coco it's been times like our
[00:48:32.190 --> 00:48:36.650] crowns have slipped a lot and you know what I mean but we're always here to
[00:48:36.650 --> 00:48:43.150] read we adjust around for each other so like yeah when you come I want you
[00:48:43.150 --> 00:48:46.530] to think of women empowerment but not only just women empowerment communal
[00:48:46.530 --> 00:48:50.790] empowerment like when you come in contact I want you to feel like not
[00:48:50.790 --> 00:48:53.990] only is my important you know and that's the first thing people see
[00:48:53.990 --> 00:48:58.390] when they see you not on my crown up to par and up to standard to what I
[00:48:58.390 --> 00:49:02.550] like but if it's not the products that I'm using can get it to that
[00:49:04.170 --> 00:49:11.150] double entendre with the names good rap in a bowl thank you
[00:49:15.170 --> 00:49:20.430] we're celebrating birthdays yes it's been my birthday recently and it's been
[00:49:20.430 --> 00:49:25.830] aliens birthday recently we're having a drink and it's exciting and he's
[00:49:25.830 --> 00:49:31.950] none none of his brand partner and I met her at the Coco selfie space and
[00:49:31.950 --> 00:49:36.950] Coco's face Coco's crown she just recently messaged me to give her a
[00:49:36.950 --> 00:49:41.230] message back um yeah like the women empowerment too these are black women
[00:49:41.230 --> 00:49:47.450] own brands guys just to plug them in and yeah really going really great
[00:49:47.450 --> 00:49:53.450] selfie and content content studio downtown Cleveland Ohio and the
[00:49:53.450 --> 00:50:01.930] arcade I think it's what street or 7th Street one of them I forget it
[00:50:01.930 --> 00:50:07.210] definitely check it out Coco's selfie space and also to you on the south
[00:50:07.210 --> 00:50:12.470] you could Ohio in the plaza where Africa is the amazing black-owned
[00:50:12.470 --> 00:50:22.390] restaurant has been you know what I'm saying and I can't wait I'm grateful
[00:50:22.390 --> 00:50:25.850] to be a part of Cleveland talent I know that you are because you you
[00:50:25.850 --> 00:50:30.070] definitely you're you're cool as far as being a multifaceted photographer
[00:50:30.070 --> 00:50:34.030] and audiovisual person in marketing you know what I mean like you many
[00:50:34.850 --> 00:50:41.390] hats so I feel to even know you but also be amongst the network where we're
[00:50:41.390 --> 00:50:46.550] able to work and connect in different aspects as well we just found out we
[00:50:46.550 --> 00:50:50.470] went to the same we've known each other for years we've known each other
[00:50:50.470 --> 00:50:53.510] for years guys I didn't know we knew each other for years it's like you
[00:50:53.510 --> 00:51:00.390] know I know you it's just like I know I know yes elementary though
[00:51:00.390 --> 00:51:08.210] that's the crazy part yeah reconnect friends and you know each other out in a
[00:51:08.210 --> 00:51:14.010] business aspect and then we're like we know each other and so it's good to
[00:51:14.010 --> 00:51:17.670] be able to work together you know what I mean from knowing you back then
[00:51:17.670 --> 00:51:23.950] to knowing you now a full circle moments like you said same community
[00:51:23.950 --> 00:51:28.410] and build a community been the right spaces and the right events in the
[00:51:28.410 --> 00:51:33.490] right rooms like you know you turn people out I'm in my room you know you
[00:51:33.490 --> 00:51:37.950] turn people like yeah right place those people though because at that point I'm
[00:51:37.950 --> 00:51:40.810] like the production no production to this is about to be right because I
[00:51:40.810 --> 00:51:44.990] see alien in the room so it's like in a moment to where I haven't seen
[00:51:44.990 --> 00:51:48.610] any of your work and haven't been elated to see it you know what I
[00:51:48.610 --> 00:51:53.450] mean so you've done a good job that's fine I'll take that yeah that's
[00:51:53.450 --> 00:51:59.130] definitely how those moments we all do though we don't all we do that's a part
[00:51:59.130 --> 00:52:04.290] of being resilient though resilient entrepreneurship every okay another that
[00:52:04.290 --> 00:52:08.390] I think we should speak about is how people think that entrepreneurship is
[00:52:08.390 --> 00:52:16.570] like glitz and glamour can be sometimes it can be at least you know
[00:52:16.570 --> 00:52:21.670] what I'm saying this media aspect I think I mean just interview we had to
[00:52:21.670 --> 00:52:29.770] yeah I don't see or see the final but they don't see the process and that
[00:52:29.770 --> 00:52:33.990] that's what speak to I think that other times people aren't seeing the
[00:52:33.990 --> 00:52:40.550] process but there is like oh and it's hard to why you're going through it
[00:52:40.550 --> 00:52:46.070] is hard to you know but I can truly say me growing as a small business
[00:52:46.070 --> 00:52:52.270] owner and who's looking to take their business from small to large here's
[00:52:52.270 --> 00:52:55.570] the process is truly where is that you know what I mean being able to
[00:52:55.570 --> 00:52:59.990] connect into lab and being able to be like oh wait I already know this
[00:52:59.990 --> 00:53:07.010] person from before um it's cool so even going back to that starting with
[00:53:07.010 --> 00:53:12.470] entrepreneurship and the rocky roads like what are those key factors or
[00:53:12.470 --> 00:53:17.610] lessons that you would teach maybe like your own self or like a confidence
[00:53:18.590 --> 00:53:26.230] I'm not afraid to speak about myself in places how do you speak about
[00:53:26.230 --> 00:53:31.650] yourself in places I think that not even just I'm less likely to speak you
[00:53:31.650 --> 00:53:35.530] know what I'm saying me being a more of an introverted person I'm not
[00:53:35.530 --> 00:53:39.630] really one to speak unless I'm approached and I think that I would
[00:53:39.630 --> 00:53:43.650] tell my younger self don't be afraid to go up and speak you know what I mean
[00:53:43.650 --> 00:53:49.350] or don't be afraid to tip yourself don't be afraid to stand on that idea
[00:53:49.350 --> 00:53:53.550] don't be afraid to and I think that for me it's like no that's what I
[00:53:53.550 --> 00:53:57.670] would tell my younger self no regrets no to be consistent and don't be
[00:53:57.670 --> 00:54:01.010] afraid to put yourself out there that's amazing it's crazy how we
[00:54:01.010 --> 00:54:05.390] even got to this point that we were both introverted I would never never
[00:54:05.390 --> 00:54:13.610] you know I think that with having a consistent like us each other out in
[00:54:13.610 --> 00:54:19.170] public and a consistent connection I bet you know report amongst people
[00:54:19.170 --> 00:54:26.590] yeah you know that you were really good at being like hey fuck up and no
[00:54:26.590 --> 00:54:31.730] communicative and ensuring that we actually got this done I think that
[00:54:33.250 --> 00:54:36.890] also teaches like hey don't have to be afraid to reach out you don't have to be
[00:54:36.890 --> 00:54:41.070] afraid to do certain things that you want to do so you better reach out to
[00:54:41.070 --> 00:54:50.470] now oh who am I reaching out to next I know my next person that I'm
[00:54:50.470 --> 00:54:55.930] probably gonna reach out to maybe an influencer of some sort like a Yara
[00:54:55.930 --> 00:54:59.890] Shahidi I probably should reach out to Yara okay yeah I ain't gonna say do
[00:55:00.450 --> 00:55:04.790] yeah cuz I gotta grow I don't know you never know I reached out to Shader
[00:55:04.790 --> 00:55:11.730] Sanders and well he browsed yeah I didn't really reach out to him stop
[00:55:13.050 --> 00:55:18.390] um I know anything but it took a little initiative because he said hey
[00:55:18.390 --> 00:55:22.030] I'm gonna view my address you sent me a product that is address and did I
[00:55:22.030 --> 00:55:26.010] think anything of it I was like you know people I'll send them products all
[00:55:26.010 --> 00:55:28.870] the time and I don't actually send them but my brother was like no you
[00:55:28.870 --> 00:55:32.890] do that I'm a lady so I don't really understand the importance of sports
[00:55:34.250 --> 00:55:41.870] there's a business exactly the influence and things like that so visibility and
[00:55:41.870 --> 00:55:46.830] that it was really important for me to genuinely write a message for him
[00:55:46.830 --> 00:55:59.410] in the video to the same packaging I got and so that's the thing too I want
[00:55:59.410 --> 00:56:05.950] my be so quality not so quality but like our products to be of the not
[00:56:05.950 --> 00:56:09.510] only are you gonna receive the same exact package of Shador Sanders you
[00:56:09.510 --> 00:56:14.250] know what I'm saying like I'm at no point am I cutting corners or quality
[00:56:14.250 --> 00:56:19.610] or costs or anything I actually leaving my product truly standing my product
[00:56:19.610 --> 00:56:22.530] you're not gonna receive anything different than what I'm giving my
[00:56:22.530 --> 00:56:30.250] celebs and that's one thing that I can say about Coco's crown then who we
[00:56:30.250 --> 00:56:35.650] are as a company definitely make me a brand ambassador I'm going to your
[00:56:35.650 --> 00:56:39.930] life are so long we have to you so like what code or something that we
[00:56:39.930 --> 00:56:48.530] give to the people a code specific to this interview in this podcast we're
[00:56:48.530 --> 00:56:55.590] gonna do code alien all caps 15% off www.cocoscrown.com
[00:56:55.590 --> 00:56:58.730] I'm about to type it in myself I was like hey listen we're gonna make the code
[00:56:58.730 --> 00:57:02.470] active today so even if you want to promote it I know that this won't air
[00:57:02.470 --> 00:57:09.590] for a little while um but it will be active today okay um code on Coco's
[00:57:09.590 --> 00:57:19.910] crown we'll get you 15% off of all of our products handcrafted or a alien okay
[00:57:19.910 --> 00:57:27.730] yeah capital a l i e n and we will grant you 15% off of all products I
[00:57:28.350 --> 00:57:32.590] don't give out discounts often y'all so Shador didn't even get his own
[00:57:32.590 --> 00:57:38.870] coupon code first yes and then what's the website so they can purchase the
[00:57:38.870 --> 00:57:50.430] website is www.cokoscrown.com yes sir okay Coco's okay yes Coco's with a K
[00:57:50.430 --> 00:57:55.350] y'all heard it first alien hospitals industry talk code alien get the
[00:57:55.350 --> 00:58:00.370] products now I've been using it I love it I always talk about re-end up
[00:58:00.370 --> 00:58:08.850] my supply maybe get me on a monthly supply now we have to make you a
[00:58:08.850 --> 00:58:20.710] only blindly bought my product but I'm like I'm grateful I truly am and I'm
[00:58:20.710 --> 00:58:26.490] grateful for every single purchase thus far I understand I am a small
[00:58:26.490 --> 00:58:32.010] business owner I'm a small business owner who I am a business owner I'm
[00:58:32.010 --> 00:58:35.430] not a small one I'm just a business owner but I'm new you know with face
[00:58:36.010 --> 00:58:43.530] gaining the amount of attraction other companies are but yet yet definitely my
[00:58:43.530 --> 00:58:48.170] product stands when I say that listen if you know you point to where like if
[00:58:48.170 --> 00:58:53.690] you know about what was crying you know me on the team we definitely have
[00:58:53.690 --> 00:58:58.390] to tell you I'm so grateful for you though alien because you have
[00:58:58.390 --> 00:59:02.490] purchased my product as well as giving me a platform to speak on it
[00:59:02.490 --> 00:59:09.270] so use code alien 15% off no expiration I think I'll keep the code active for
[00:59:09.770 --> 00:59:21.970] quite some time I actually do keep the code active my ideas and my brain my
[00:59:21.970 --> 00:59:25.650] brain even talking about creative brand new consider yourself as a
[00:59:25.650 --> 00:59:32.210] creative do I would most definitely so I like to paint secretly that's why I
[00:59:33.310 --> 00:59:39.110] amongst myself I do something that only my family members really know okay
[00:59:40.030 --> 00:59:47.070] I have a well my nails I do they I get my fulfillment with painting my nails
[00:59:47.070 --> 00:59:51.870] but as far as on canvas I'm his minute I think that I have gotten a
[00:59:51.870 --> 00:59:57.970] little bit of out-of-touch being that I've really had to work a lot I've
[00:59:57.970 --> 01:00:04.770] recently so I haven't had the time but it's something that I really would
[01:00:04.770 --> 01:00:13.280] like to get back into doing fun about me when I was in the fifth grade I had
[01:00:13.650 --> 01:00:21.070] a portrait hung from fifth grade to 2019 until the till I graduated college
[01:00:21.070 --> 01:00:27.630] I portrait being hung at the Cleveland Institute of Art yes you
[01:00:27.630 --> 01:00:32.510] know I took that out of my new co-working space at D Smith Defco 2 5 8 6 3
[01:00:32.510 --> 01:00:36.430] Shard and wrote Richmond Heights or four or three if you would like to see
[01:00:36.430 --> 01:00:43.510] that portrait but yeah yeah I went to Hope Academy that's funny um the
[01:00:43.510 --> 01:00:49.030] principal Lee Lazar he ended up going from Hope Academy East to the
[01:00:49.030 --> 01:00:53.210] Cleveland Institute of Art and when he went he had a retired from flip
[01:00:53.810 --> 01:01:00.490] Institute of Art but while he was there he pretty much had my portrait on display
[01:01:00.490 --> 01:01:09.950] for the entire time that I was there you remember mr. Lazar he showed up to
[01:01:09.950 --> 01:01:14.110] he went on my mark and he gifted me my portrait back and it was so funny
[01:01:14.110 --> 01:01:18.550] because I knew it was hung there I never went to see it you know it's
[01:01:18.550 --> 01:01:23.890] been to see it I hadn't seen it being hung but he had like an exhibit it was
[01:01:24.430 --> 01:01:32.030] an exhibit for it so my sister I don't know if you know somebody named Maya
[01:01:32.510 --> 01:01:39.470] Maya last name Williams yes pretty cool
[01:01:43.170 --> 01:01:48.530] Maya Fritz beautiful name and you know what all the Maya's that I know
[01:01:48.530 --> 01:02:01.890] personality Maya Kincaid she's I get them both on the podcast yes that's okay
[01:02:01.890 --> 01:02:05.470] Brian is like my older he's my brother's best my old best friend so
[01:02:05.470 --> 01:02:09.670] it's like child I am the analogous Brian the analogous excuse me
[01:02:09.670 --> 01:02:16.950] Brian the analogous he creates wine um first the file Ohio to major the
[01:02:20.030 --> 01:02:28.010] goodness yes let's start there being able to have like a bad education and
[01:02:28.010 --> 01:02:35.590] creating alcohol and and curating the science wine making and how it brings
[01:02:35.590 --> 01:02:40.650] people together connectivity and even alcohol he's not just he knows more
[01:02:40.650 --> 01:02:45.690] than wine but he's knowledgeable and a number of different spaces Brian's
[01:02:45.690 --> 01:02:51.610] also a DJ fun fact and they're dressed to kale so like they do the lines with
[01:02:51.610 --> 01:02:56.990] the salads oh I love them so much Brian Kincaid Maya Kincaid that's why do
[01:02:56.990 --> 01:03:00.390] you brought up Maya yeah and you're she's pretty sweet as well
[01:03:01.070 --> 01:03:04.850] I'm trying to hear more in the entrepreneur path she even tried her
[01:03:04.850 --> 01:03:09.890] own like skincare products but I didn't stick with it I think it comes
[01:03:09.890 --> 01:03:15.410] people okay it is now I'm ten years in and I still barely have you know
[01:03:15.410 --> 01:03:20.170] certain things with when it comes to my business it just takes consistency and
[01:03:20.170 --> 01:03:25.910] resiliency and wanting to consistently show I think that sometimes is it
[01:03:25.910 --> 01:03:30.470] being a black woman in entrepreneur even a black woman on a day-to-day you
[01:03:30.470 --> 01:03:33.830] know it's black it's hard being a woman I was harbing a black woman you
[01:03:33.830 --> 01:03:38.350] know what I'm saying so having to show up period is a lot but in a
[01:03:38.350 --> 01:03:41.610] space to where we're barely receiving venture capital and it's
[01:03:41.610 --> 01:03:49.830] barely securing you know grant scale of what we need to to this love where we're
[01:03:49.830 --> 01:03:54.390] number one in admitting certain social services it's hard for us to
[01:03:54.390 --> 01:03:59.610] consistently show up but I recommend I for even putting herself out there
[01:03:59.610 --> 01:04:03.290] to do it the first time because now the next time she decides to do her
[01:04:03.290 --> 01:04:08.470] next endeavor she knows the resiliency to do that as well as pivot
[01:04:08.470 --> 01:04:13.230] from that as well as okay go back to the drawing board with that you know
[01:04:13.230 --> 01:04:17.650] who don't understand how much that takes to so to not be a denial and say
[01:04:17.650 --> 01:04:21.690] okay I'm gonna go back and I'm going to readjust my plans see how I can
[01:04:21.690 --> 01:04:27.870] realign with these things so right now may look closed and it may look
[01:04:27.870 --> 01:04:31.410] like something that she isn't into right now but that could be something
[01:04:31.410 --> 01:04:36.150] that she could pivot from later in a different aspect whether it be going to
[01:04:36.790 --> 01:04:42.590] becoming an esthetician or whether it be creating the part of another you know
[01:04:42.590 --> 01:04:45.450] maybe more money this time around or maybe I have more support this time
[01:04:45.450 --> 01:04:49.330] around maybe I have more marketing this support you know this um you get the
[01:04:49.330 --> 01:04:53.930] mistakes that you made first and then build and gain off those mistakes I
[01:04:53.930 --> 01:04:57.470] think a lot of times it gets really frustrating with that rollercoaster in
[01:04:57.470 --> 01:05:02.410] business you know when they're high they're really high but the winter
[01:05:02.410 --> 01:05:06.790] lows are low you know what I'm saying the lows can get real low you know what I'm
[01:05:06.790 --> 01:05:12.650] saying but it's about learning from those lows and I commend her even trying
[01:05:12.650 --> 01:05:15.790] and stepping out into that entrepreneurship field because you gotta
[01:05:15.790 --> 01:05:19.210] be crazy to step out here but once you're out here and you're in it and
[01:05:19.210 --> 01:05:22.890] you're surviving into it you know what I mean and you're creating and
[01:05:22.890 --> 01:05:28.670] thriving it only get better with time so it's just about getting past that
[01:05:29.230 --> 01:05:36.910] that pump that first initial like didn't do the first thing you built from that
[01:05:36.910 --> 01:05:44.370] you know similar like I'm doing event my first pie where I'm doing all day
[01:05:44.370 --> 01:05:50.330] event limited slots for those who want to start a podcast but I recommend you
[01:05:50.330 --> 01:05:55.090] have a business so you can position yourself you have a business and you
[01:05:55.090 --> 01:06:03.110] podcast done for you podcast experience publishing your first podcast episode
[01:06:03.110 --> 01:06:09.010] it's called my first part and it's like just stepping out there and just
[01:06:09.450 --> 01:06:13.930] finally doing it and having that support behind you because we all have
[01:06:13.930 --> 01:06:18.050] these ideas we always want to do something when we talk about this talk
[01:06:18.050 --> 01:06:21.330] about that oh I'm gonna start my business I'm gonna start this I want
[01:06:21.330 --> 01:06:28.290] a podcast all right we're gonna help you do so that kind of reminds me you
[01:06:28.290 --> 01:06:36.150] said that like just yeah it takes a lot of confidence but I think that people
[01:06:36.150 --> 01:06:40.090] are falling and people are afraid of failure and being an
[01:06:40.090 --> 01:06:43.730] entrepreneurship you can't be afraid you know what I'm saying and the fact
[01:06:43.730 --> 01:06:47.310] that she even went out there and got it and got her feet wet you know
[01:06:47.310 --> 01:06:50.950] what I'm saying whether she continued it or not yeah I think and
[01:06:50.950 --> 01:06:55.290] also got to look at statistics 50% of every small business from starting point
[01:06:55.290 --> 01:06:59.870] to now fails so there's a good chance that what you're starting now with
[01:06:59.870 --> 01:07:05.250] however your company is now it won't look like that later on and even my
[01:07:05.250 --> 01:07:10.310] company now Coco's Crown like I'm crunchies no I'm selling handcrafted
[01:07:10.310 --> 01:07:14.110] products you know and there's always to sell handcrafted products and I
[01:07:14.110 --> 01:07:17.630] do still sell scrunchies but my main thing that I was selling it
[01:07:17.630 --> 01:07:22.070] was the scrunchies it was like okay well once the scrunchies sell out what I'm
[01:07:22.070 --> 01:07:25.990] gonna do you know like more scrunchies and be a scrunchie company or do I do
[01:07:25.990 --> 01:07:29.990] this thing and risk and do what you do with it oh you shouldn't have made me
[01:07:29.990 --> 01:07:37.270] ambassador I'm thinking about different events and things I'm like we get to live and have a live interview and then sell the product
[01:07:37.740 --> 01:07:42.630] and you know I'm saying like I and how can I expand from being this one
[01:07:42.630 --> 01:07:50.370] show like right it takes a lot of guts and a lot of guts to be able to to be
[01:07:50.370 --> 01:07:55.150] person and shout out to your sister you know it's sound but you never know where it
[01:07:55.150 --> 01:07:59.570] might be later it might be part of the team too especially with Coco's Crown
[01:07:59.570 --> 01:08:04.390] needing to expand you know what I'm saying like hey I'm open to fostering
[01:08:04.390 --> 01:08:09.630] other connections to grow my company in any any aspect in any realm I do
[01:08:09.630 --> 01:08:15.070] vision for how I would look for it to go but um you know the way straight
[01:08:15.070 --> 01:08:20.569] through you know get a couple bumps and I'm willing to take a couple turns and
[01:08:20.569 --> 01:08:25.109] twists and even had a GPS reroute sometimes I'm okay with that as well
[01:08:25.109 --> 01:08:29.689] you know I'm consistent with it and I think that that's where I'm I've
[01:08:29.689 --> 01:08:36.729] been lately any time I hear the word bang I don't know but but you say
[01:08:37.390 --> 01:08:44.250] so I love to ask this question to creatives what as a creator what is your
[01:08:44.250 --> 01:08:48.710] creative process if it was a rain if it was not a rain but a weather
[01:08:48.710 --> 01:08:56.569] forecast like for me would say it's the light drizzle rain on a sunny day
[01:08:56.569 --> 01:09:02.250] you know how in a that warm heat and then it all of a sudden is rain
[01:09:02.250 --> 01:09:11.210] like refreshing that's how kind of consider process same okay fun fact my
[01:09:11.210 --> 01:09:16.510] dad's song together is called summer rain by Carl Thomas um so back to me
[01:09:16.510 --> 01:09:21.930] and my daughter we be having this funny yeah no I love whenever I'm
[01:09:21.930 --> 01:09:27.649] needing inspiration I turn summer rain on and I like when the song starts you
[01:09:27.649 --> 01:09:31.149] know that's what it gets me going it's like okay now I remember where I
[01:09:31.149 --> 01:09:35.790] was at when like my dad sing the song to me and like the time in my life where
[01:09:35.790 --> 01:09:40.770] he sang that song to me till now and like when I thought about like when I'm
[01:09:40.770 --> 01:09:45.109] having a moment with myself and I'm thinking like okay I'm sorry yeah I'm at
[01:09:45.109 --> 01:09:48.590] a fault or I don't know where to go or you know I get presents of my
[01:09:48.590 --> 01:09:51.450] father my father he's president you know what I mean but it just gives
[01:09:52.109 --> 01:09:56.050] takes me back to that place of being a little girl and and my
[01:09:56.050 --> 01:10:01.950] imagination being broad and my imagination being fresh so whenever I'm
[01:10:01.950 --> 01:10:06.290] eating a little inspo I'm playing summer rain Carl Thomas would say that
[01:10:06.290 --> 01:10:12.970] my creative mark with a marine to a light summer where the where the sky
[01:10:12.970 --> 01:10:17.790] like orangey okay like the rainbow come out the sun we don't know if the
[01:10:17.790 --> 01:10:23.470] rainbows coming or if the Sun might shine like you know peach going back
[01:10:23.470 --> 01:10:30.350] to like the hair industry and Coco's crown what is the latest trends you seen
[01:10:30.350 --> 01:10:36.070] in the industry trends I know we talked about the braids yeah we do we braids
[01:10:36.650 --> 01:10:41.150] trends that I've seen lately are like people are like the asymmetrical back
[01:10:41.150 --> 01:10:48.310] people are bringing back healthy hair days I think a lot of ladies the
[01:10:48.310 --> 01:10:52.510] pandemic has had us protective styling the yeah the pandemic had the ladies
[01:10:52.510 --> 01:10:56.130] protective styling a lot so I think now we're about to see ladies with like
[01:10:56.130 --> 01:11:01.430] they're on the hair journey ladies are silk pressing right now and I'm for
[01:11:01.430 --> 01:11:07.070] the silk presses I'm here for this I'm not one to judge whether you like
[01:11:07.070 --> 01:11:10.130] I'm not one of those naturals where because some naturals judge whether
[01:11:10.130 --> 01:11:16.350] you're a heat style natural or if you're a curly style natural I'm not
[01:11:16.350 --> 01:11:20.030] one of those naturals I have a heat style natural I've been the silk
[01:11:20.030 --> 01:11:28.290] press natural versus I've been the curly natural so as natural is where I'm at
[01:11:28.290 --> 01:11:35.050] with it so I'm I'm here right now the ladies who are taking care of their the
[01:11:35.050 --> 01:11:39.890] true they're here whether it be by silk press or by afro I'm here for
[01:11:39.890 --> 01:11:44.310] the ladies wearing them they're there it grows out of your scalp you know
[01:11:44.310 --> 01:11:48.750] why when you use some other we're in the afros and then I think about the
[01:11:49.310 --> 01:11:53.190] also to like make up my afro well listen your girl is I'm West Indian
[01:11:53.850 --> 01:12:01.210] West so historically ancestors are yeah West Indian and my great
[01:12:01.210 --> 01:12:09.640] grandmother's Native American but I'm we're black like like like to me
[01:12:09.640 --> 01:12:14.760] blind blindly buying your products and not knowing the owner of it and
[01:12:14.760 --> 01:12:21.480] believing in a brand just just hearing a few few words and how do you price you
[01:12:21.480 --> 01:12:27.310] know yourself you're selling yourself or how did you come up with your
[01:12:27.310 --> 01:12:35.450] first pricing like me I first started out I mean I'm free but like my first
[01:12:35.450 --> 01:12:41.790] shoe was a close friend I charged and I stuck with that for about say a
[01:12:41.790 --> 01:12:47.250] half a year then I started incrementally raising my prices so how
[01:12:47.250 --> 01:12:56.270] do you price yourself without no under great question so I'll speak to before
[01:12:56.270 --> 01:13:03.270] I get before I answer that question I've had box stores approach me I've
[01:13:03.270 --> 01:13:09.270] had the targets search me the Myers and each those places have approached
[01:13:09.270 --> 01:13:14.650] me to feel as if they wanted me to adjust the price of my product to
[01:13:14.650 --> 01:13:19.470] it's not it doesn't reflect the amount of work and study and research that
[01:13:19.470 --> 01:13:26.750] I've actually put into it so yeah so that's funny that you have there's been
[01:13:26.750 --> 01:13:30.130] times that's funny you brought that up but there's been times that I've had
[01:13:31.070 --> 01:13:38.510] to decline decline my business because there was attempt to compromise
[01:13:38.510 --> 01:13:43.190] my business and kind of compromise my intellectual property amongst me
[01:13:43.190 --> 01:13:48.550] putting my out there and putting it out for resale and wholesale so that's
[01:13:48.550 --> 01:13:53.070] that I have been struggling with lately but something that also have
[01:13:53.070 --> 01:13:57.070] been kind of telling myself is I sell my product independently I get
[01:13:57.070 --> 01:14:01.870] product you know sales on e-commerce by myself or whether I'm going out to
[01:14:02.410 --> 01:14:08.070] do my shops and things like that you know the great the the the
[01:14:08.070 --> 01:14:12.310] walmarts and Myers they're all great you know what I'm saying but at no
[01:14:12.310 --> 01:14:15.590] point are they're great when there's an attempt to compromise my intellectual
[01:14:15.590 --> 01:14:22.680] property so it means me having to sell my product consistently at what it is
[01:14:22.870 --> 01:14:29.110] and not cheapening the product because because of quality then it's
[01:14:29.110 --> 01:14:36.770] gonna be but as pricing I think that goes to me being business savvy and
[01:14:36.770 --> 01:14:42.010] me me having the business knowledge since before I had a high school
[01:14:42.010 --> 01:14:47.610] diploma I knew that the cost of goods to create a product that manufacture a
[01:14:47.610 --> 01:14:52.970] product that's taken into account so because my products are all vegan all
[01:14:52.970 --> 01:14:59.090] high-quality all cold-pressed and organically says well certified
[01:14:59.090 --> 01:15:06.090] organically source that that I know will I ever cut the the cost product
[01:15:06.090 --> 01:15:09.570] to to maintain you know what I'm saying will not maintain quality but
[01:15:09.570 --> 01:15:16.650] I will never keep in my product my product so I'm at a space to where it's
[01:15:16.650 --> 01:15:21.350] like I need to learn how to scale instead how can I scale this business
[01:15:21.350 --> 01:15:26.210] to sell it independently because at first I was scaling to sell to the big
[01:15:26.210 --> 01:15:30.050] box stores and selling you know different platforms now I'm in a space
[01:15:30.050 --> 01:15:35.090] or it's like okay I go to sell my own because I know how much research I
[01:15:35.090 --> 01:15:40.210] put years of research into one product alone let alone the multiple products
[01:15:40.210 --> 01:15:46.690] that I offer and I don't want the equate version to come out because I
[01:15:46.690 --> 01:15:51.330] decided to sell it for 10 bucks you know what I'm saying no shade to equate
[01:15:51.330 --> 01:15:55.490] we love you know big but I am a an entrepreneur of my own you know and
[01:15:55.490 --> 01:15:59.590] a factory and things like that these are products that are can created
[01:16:01.650 --> 01:16:06.270] organically sourced certified source cold-pressed packaging
[01:16:06.270 --> 01:16:11.750] hydraulic packaging you know so quality I have when it comes to that's it and
[01:16:11.750 --> 01:16:15.930] that's really the difference between my product and the next product you can
[01:16:15.930 --> 01:16:19.890] go and shop wherever else but it's not gonna be created and curated or
[01:16:19.890 --> 01:16:23.590] researched to the level of what I'm doing I've tried I look in the store
[01:16:23.590 --> 01:16:29.190] I read the back of different products and ingredients like you know
[01:16:29.190 --> 01:16:34.610] buy things that's all that's it's accessible to us right here we go and I
[01:16:34.610 --> 01:16:41.750] love that I do that I could offer my product at a lower cost and not that
[01:16:41.750 --> 01:16:45.270] when I am to the point of being able to mass produce I'll be able to do
[01:16:45.830 --> 01:16:49.690] that but currently now I have to because I'm a small business owner I
[01:16:49.690 --> 01:16:57.710] do have to pay for it the sourcing of the product yeah but I am a
[01:16:57.710 --> 01:17:05.030] business owner currently and my business isn't to the level of of being a mass
[01:17:05.030 --> 01:17:10.190] produce a quality I think on that quality and I bank on that cost of
[01:17:10.190 --> 01:17:15.070] product and I bank on so when you're purchasing my product you know because
[01:17:15.070 --> 01:17:19.730] also the product you know that there the feel is there and I'm gonna
[01:17:19.730 --> 01:17:23.750] short you on that and and the products that I'm sending to my
[01:17:23.750 --> 01:17:28.790] labs I'm sending to my customers I'm using myself and you know what I'm
[01:17:28.790 --> 01:17:35.530] saying like you can I'm to build trust currently while scaling this this
[01:17:35.530 --> 01:17:42.530] product definitely okay master P no I like to music even my music career you
[01:17:42.530 --> 01:17:46.190] know opportunities record labels and sitting down with record labels and
[01:17:46.890 --> 01:17:51.430] you know it and just stand independent and knowing the benefits of being
[01:17:51.430 --> 01:18:02.750] can they even me publishing my first damn books after that well I have my
[01:18:02.750 --> 01:18:07.630] first novel was the only one that I had a traditionally published and as a
[01:18:07.630 --> 01:18:11.990] hard copy everything else is like a book format but you know what listen
[01:18:11.990 --> 01:18:17.210] that's how people connect these days looks our work okay so I've on
[01:18:17.210 --> 01:18:24.210] socials like from a different platforms the ebooks are people are college is
[01:18:24.210 --> 01:18:27.410] still a thing and YouTube is still a you know YouTube your learning skills
[01:18:27.410 --> 01:18:33.890] is really really valuable be able to barter skills is value having
[01:18:33.890 --> 01:18:47.190] transferable skills is valuable so it's good to hear that you have a
[01:18:47.190 --> 01:18:52.130] traditional from my first book to independent and doing it all on my own
[01:18:52.130 --> 01:18:57.090] even to the today I just do it all on my own so yeah that kind of act with
[01:18:57.090 --> 01:19:00.770] that and I'm just going back to like I said stories is a power of
[01:19:00.770 --> 01:19:05.650] independent and now he's you know creating the side of music and you
[01:19:05.650 --> 01:19:10.630] know getting big box stores but able to leverage what he's had and you
[01:19:10.630 --> 01:19:16.270] know yeah crazy that you've mentioned master P I went to last
[01:19:16.270 --> 01:19:22.590] essence fest amazing in there but he was also there in the name of not only
[01:19:22.590 --> 01:19:27.310] teaching nonprofit but teaching community he had a community basketball
[01:19:27.310 --> 01:19:33.510] thing he was so his cousin non-profit organizations the point of
[01:19:33.510 --> 01:19:37.350] collaboration and communications amongst people that are like-minded
[01:19:38.090 --> 01:19:44.210] even businesses that are that you know what I'm saying like I love me
[01:19:45.110 --> 01:19:49.450] wholeheartedly I've grown up being a fan of his music but I've also seen him
[01:19:49.450 --> 01:19:54.430] being master P from master rapper how he's transitioned and he's pivoted
[01:19:54.430 --> 01:20:00.230] his career to from being a rapper to be a TV star remember he used to have
[01:20:00.230 --> 01:20:05.030] the Romeo show yeah you know I mean and then he used to have in the
[01:20:05.030 --> 01:20:09.310] growing up hip-hop and things like that so master P I'd say is a very
[01:20:10.890 --> 01:20:15.930] multifaceted not just the music though the the music and having a record label
[01:20:15.930 --> 01:20:20.570] the nonprofits that him teaching basketball him perfect professional
[01:20:20.570 --> 01:20:25.790] sports I don't ask if he receives enough credit you know what I'm saying
[01:20:25.790 --> 01:20:30.650] for all the different avenues that he's he's taken in the different
[01:20:30.650 --> 01:20:37.030] things that he's done so yeah I'll ask for pre-comparison and being
[01:20:37.030 --> 01:20:41.930] someone who's been in Louisiana New Orleans Louisiana recently and seeing
[01:20:41.930 --> 01:20:47.810] him work live I know that as he worked from the beginning to the end and how
[01:20:47.810 --> 01:20:52.370] he really truly was for his community I think that's so admirable and taking
[01:20:52.370 --> 01:20:56.470] that a A-list scale you know what I'm saying a household name scale you
[01:20:56.470 --> 01:21:02.350] know so even like some rap snacks like hearing it you're bringing it back
[01:21:02.350 --> 01:21:05.490] yeah and he has little babies on there you know what I'm saying a
[01:21:05.490 --> 01:21:11.290] little dirks on there for the rap snacks you know so it's like he a pivot back
[01:21:11.290 --> 01:21:16.270] to your sister Maya while my skincare line may be closed right now you know
[01:21:16.270 --> 01:21:19.830] rap snacks a minute now they back out and they're competing with the Cheetos
[01:21:19.830 --> 01:21:22.310] and they're competing with the ladies and they're competing people are buying
[01:21:22.310 --> 01:21:25.870] them and we're able to just drop that name the same way I just drop
[01:21:25.870 --> 01:21:29.350] those names I'm able to drop that rap snacks name and tell you my
[01:21:29.950 --> 01:21:39.130] you know so amazing interview some closing questions where I like some
[01:21:39.130 --> 01:21:43.130] three key someone listening to this interview that you would provide
[01:21:43.130 --> 01:21:52.400] three key takeaways confidence resiliency and self-love so yeah all
[01:21:52.400 --> 01:21:55.840] praise is that so yeah be confident and you have to be able to put
[01:21:55.840 --> 01:21:59.940] yourself out there as well as be able to connect with people that you want
[01:21:59.940 --> 01:22:05.680] to connect with then you're afraid to do so or even the pool connect with you
[01:22:05.680 --> 01:22:08.740] you know I'm saying be don't be afraid to get yourself out there so that
[01:22:08.740 --> 01:22:13.340] confidence matters in every aspect confidence is something that is a very
[01:22:13.340 --> 01:22:20.560] large transferable skill oh yes indeed even going said transferable like I've
[01:22:20.560 --> 01:22:26.120] got my as far as confidence just playing basketball and like you've got
[01:22:26.120 --> 01:22:31.880] had a confidence playing a sport but for me it's basketball and just the
[01:22:31.880 --> 01:22:36.900] whole leadership and running the team or a business it comes from that
[01:22:36.900 --> 01:22:40.580] basketball and it's having a confidence like oh I could just do that
[01:22:40.580 --> 01:22:45.720] because if you're shaky and this you're gonna turn the ball over you
[01:22:45.720 --> 01:22:49.900] want to miss shots and if you don't take those shots are you scared to
[01:22:49.900 --> 01:22:54.200] take those shots it's gonna be all bad how how will you score if you're
[01:22:54.200 --> 01:23:01.760] afraid to take those shots and you know this is like a middle school quote you
[01:23:01.760 --> 01:23:04.980] miss a hundred percent of the shots you don't take but the thing is I'm
[01:23:04.980 --> 01:23:08.200] glad that you said that because it's just like if I'm too afraid to pitch
[01:23:08.200 --> 01:23:12.360] myself you'll never be in a room you know you always you'll always yeah
[01:23:12.880 --> 01:23:17.900] you'll miss shots you don't take so that's where I'm in in life is there a
[01:23:17.900 --> 01:23:22.200] question that I haven't asked you that I should have asked you or you
[01:23:22.200 --> 01:23:31.380] should talk about um I think that we're really well-rounded um something that I
[01:23:31.380 --> 01:23:38.080] that I would like to answer to is just keeping God first and everything that I
[01:23:38.080 --> 01:23:42.360] do and and he's still my life and when you see me I hope that you see
[01:23:42.360 --> 01:23:52.180] him what would that mean I said would you like to close this out with a
[01:23:53.360 --> 01:23:59.500] alien and I as well as able to bless the connectivity and collaboration that
[01:23:59.500 --> 01:24:05.180] we're doing thus far dear Lord I ask that you take this podcast and you raise
[01:24:05.180 --> 01:24:10.480] it and you elevate it to the level of what we need to you know he need your
[01:24:10.480 --> 01:24:13.920] God and and I'm grateful that he did because we were able to connect and
[01:24:13.920 --> 01:24:16.260] we were able to speak about how we actually knew each other and we
[01:24:16.260 --> 01:24:19.800] figured out we knew each other on a different level so I'm grateful for
[01:24:19.800 --> 01:24:25.480] in this aspect for friends who network and put us forward dear Lord and I'm
[01:24:25.480 --> 01:24:29.400] grateful for being consistent in the work that we do and having an
[01:24:29.400 --> 01:24:33.580] opportunity to be able to touch different realms and ways that we
[01:24:33.580 --> 01:24:38.600] haven't been able to before your Lord I ask that you bless us and you
[01:24:38.600 --> 01:24:43.260] bless his travels on the home as well as bless or what we're doing in
[01:24:43.260 --> 01:24:46.960] our work moving forward and that it supports you and when people see you
[01:24:46.960 --> 01:24:50.960] that they only see when we only see you in representation of you dear God
[01:24:52.400 --> 01:24:58.480] and yeah I pray to keep us you we stay we stay consistent within you and your
[01:24:58.480 --> 01:25:03.740] Lord that I pray that our businesses shine light to you when when you see
[01:25:03.740 --> 01:25:08.980] our businesses you you wonder how can can help others if they can impact
[01:25:08.980 --> 01:25:12.000] others and then they actually reach the people that they are are wanting
[01:25:12.000 --> 01:25:16.560] to end your God I am grateful for just having friends and support dear
[01:25:16.560 --> 01:25:22.320] Lord I ask that you bless alien on his way as well as his business and being
[01:25:22.320 --> 01:25:28.440] able to create platforms for people like me to further our careers and any
[01:25:28.440 --> 01:25:32.120] type of advancement that we're doing in any entrepreneurial realm and any
[01:25:32.120 --> 01:25:36.120] marketing realm and any way he may connect with anybody else from this
[01:25:36.120 --> 01:25:41.080] moment forward and your Lord I ask that you take this and you do with
[01:25:41.080 --> 01:25:45.200] your will let it let you're done and once again see you when they
[01:25:45.200 --> 01:25:50.260] see you and in Jesus name or when they hear us they see you and and and that
[01:25:50.260 --> 01:25:54.780] you everyone who is amongst of the sound of our voices moving forward and
[01:25:54.780 --> 01:26:04.710] in Jesus name I pray amen yes man woman yes I love that find you connect
[01:26:04.710 --> 01:26:09.810] with you reach out to you buy some products all that good stuff you can
[01:26:09.810 --> 01:26:18.410] find that day why J a one day to one that's my personal I hair care line is
[01:26:18.410 --> 01:26:25.170] Coco's crown see oh okay oh see our oh WN on every single platform even down
[01:26:25.170 --> 01:26:32.910] to our YouTube channel as well as Smith Development Co. that's D M I T
[01:26:33.670 --> 01:26:39.910] and you can find me that way or visit our location at two five eight six three
[01:26:39.910 --> 01:26:45.190] Charlotte Road Richmond Heights Ohio four four one four three and connect
[01:26:45.190 --> 01:26:49.770] with me in that aspect and you can also shop Coco's crown there so yeah
[01:26:49.770 --> 01:26:54.470] in person or not in the shop e-commerce yes yes or how do you plug
[01:26:54.470 --> 01:27:01.270] one word you can catch me every third Wednesday at the Urban League of
[01:27:02.090 --> 01:27:06.250] Cleveland's young professional meeting we're gonna host them at 6 p.m. every
[01:27:06.250 --> 01:27:12.190] third Wednesday join our general body figure out how you can connect and any
[01:27:12.730 --> 01:27:17.450] aspect to your community in any sector for marketing to policy and
[01:27:17.450 --> 01:27:21.930] advocacy to professional development to membership chairs to executive
[01:27:21.930 --> 01:27:26.030] administrative communities anything any committee that you like to join or
[01:27:26.030 --> 01:27:30.530] any way that you would like to further your endeavors as a professional and
[01:27:30.530 --> 01:27:36.850] the ages of 21 through 40 hit me up at day to one yes this is how you know
[01:27:36.850 --> 01:27:41.030] she's passionate the rain popping out her head I should explain that's how
[01:27:41.030 --> 01:27:46.570] you know the passion is there reach out by the products connect show up
[01:27:46.570 --> 01:27:50.630] shake your hand meet a friend yes please do and and advance your
[01:27:50.630 --> 01:27:57.650] career aspect as well it's been a thank you thank you thank you with me
[01:27:57.650 --> 01:28:04.650] meeting with me having to you wine so like to party you know I'm saying sweet
[01:28:04.650 --> 01:28:08.790] red we've had an amazing time celebrating our birthdays and our
[01:28:08.790 --> 01:28:14.350] businesses together in collaboration with this podcast and I'm so grateful to be
[01:28:14.350 --> 01:28:17.790] speaking with you be drinking with you and connecting with you and I
[01:28:17.790 --> 01:28:24.570] can't wait to see how our endeavors grow from here thank you thank you
[01:28:24.570 --> 01:28:33.410] Don't forget code alien www.cocoscrown.com code alien will get you 15% off of all
[01:28:33.410 --> 01:28:41.410] products and it won't expire and this tiger for Jackson Steve Jackson of
[01:28:41.410 --> 01:28:46.870] alien autos media bringing you another episode of alien eyes photos industry
[01:28:46.870 --> 01:28:52.520] talk and the fire me on all social media you can find me at alien eyes
[01:28:52.520 --> 01:28:59.300] photos on all media and the alien eyes photos calm for more information even
[01:28:59.300 --> 01:29:05.700] about the podcast or to book me alien eyes photos calm and thank you again
[01:29:05.700 --> 01:29:13.440] Deja Deja Smith cocos crown and then some with all thank you for chatting
[01:29:13.440 --> 01:29:17.900] with me we've had a great time thus far I thank everyone for tuning in and
[01:29:17.900 --> 01:29:21.120] until next time peace

========================================================================
28. Raw Glass - Darnell McAdams Multimedia Specialist
Season 2 · Episode 13
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/raw-glass-darnell-mcadams-multimedia-specialist
========================================================================

[00:00:01.900 --> 00:00:04.140] Welcome, welcome, welcome
[00:00:04.140 --> 00:00:07.180] to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:07.720 --> 00:00:11.660] with your host, photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson.
[00:00:12.340 --> 00:00:14.580] And I got a special guest with me tonight
[00:00:14.580 --> 00:00:16.520] or this evening, this afternoon,
[00:00:16.760 --> 00:00:18.080] wherever you're at in the world.
[00:00:19.060 --> 00:00:22.440] Mr. Darnell McAdams of Raw Glass Photography.
[00:00:23.540 --> 00:00:28.040] Special, special multimedia entrepreneur,
[00:00:28.800 --> 00:00:32.580] teacher, mentor, just doing the thing.
[00:00:33.320 --> 00:00:36.740] But you could do better justice introducing yourself.
[00:00:37.480 --> 00:00:38.780] So introduce yourself to the people.
[00:00:39.300 --> 00:00:41.940] My brother, yeah, my name is Darnell McAdams,
[00:00:42.220 --> 00:00:44.700] AKA Raw Glass, AKA Raw, AKA Glass,
[00:00:44.860 --> 00:00:46.040] depending on who you're talking to.
[00:00:47.480 --> 00:00:50.300] Yeah, man, I guess I would consider myself
[00:00:51.460 --> 00:00:54.860] a entrepreneur, community advocate,
[00:00:56.240 --> 00:00:57.060] multimedia specialist.
[00:00:57.060 --> 00:00:58.240] I guess it's a good way to put it
[00:00:58.240 --> 00:01:00.340] because I do a lot of different things
[00:01:00.340 --> 00:01:02.060] with the media content creation,
[00:01:02.240 --> 00:01:03.460] photography, videography.
[00:01:06.060 --> 00:01:08.940] I teach arts and health practitioners
[00:01:08.940 --> 00:01:12.540] is what I'm leaning into now.
[00:01:12.780 --> 00:01:15.720] I'm basically being able to bring arts
[00:01:15.720 --> 00:01:19.360] as a tool for healing into the community.
[00:01:20.220 --> 00:01:22.940] So yeah, that's pretty much me right now
[00:01:22.940 --> 00:01:24.220] in a nutshell, man.
[00:01:24.900 --> 00:01:27.060] Now let's stick with that arts and healing.
[00:01:27.240 --> 00:01:31.000] What is arts and healing the combination of that to you?
[00:01:31.980 --> 00:01:33.360] Well, I mean, for me, man,
[00:01:33.480 --> 00:01:35.120] I think I tell people all the time.
[00:01:35.400 --> 00:01:37.220] For me, the camera saved my life.
[00:01:38.060 --> 00:01:38.980] So I'm my only child.
[00:01:39.120 --> 00:01:40.700] I'm 45 now, but I'm my only child.
[00:01:41.060 --> 00:01:43.940] My dad died three days after my 22nd birthday.
[00:01:45.220 --> 00:01:47.480] My mom died in 2015 on Halloween.
[00:01:49.060 --> 00:01:53.000] And I was really close with my parents.
[00:01:54.400 --> 00:01:56.900] And a lot of my earlier 20s
[00:01:56.900 --> 00:01:58.940] and when I was really young like that,
[00:01:59.220 --> 00:02:00.460] that really defined me
[00:02:00.460 --> 00:02:03.620] because it was really the first time I dealt with death
[00:02:04.520 --> 00:02:05.650] in that close to me.
[00:02:06.840 --> 00:02:09.880] So I had some grandparents,
[00:02:10.259 --> 00:02:12.080] like my mother's parents died while I was young
[00:02:12.080 --> 00:02:12.620] and stuff like that,
[00:02:12.640 --> 00:02:13.760] but there was never anybody close enough
[00:02:13.760 --> 00:02:14.900] and needed to hit home.
[00:02:14.960 --> 00:02:16.520] And the first time it hit me was with that.
[00:02:16.540 --> 00:02:17.660] So it really kind of defined me
[00:02:17.660 --> 00:02:22.040] and I talk about it a lot because it sent me, man.
[00:02:22.520 --> 00:02:26.120] I was, it was my sophomore year in college.
[00:02:26.380 --> 00:02:28.940] I ended up having to come home
[00:02:28.940 --> 00:02:30.700] and then my dad ended up getting cancer
[00:02:30.700 --> 00:02:31.860] and ended up dying.
[00:02:31.960 --> 00:02:33.300] So I ended up not going back to school.
[00:02:33.860 --> 00:02:36.740] And it kind of just put me on a road of anger
[00:02:37.480 --> 00:02:38.840] and that type of thing, man.
[00:02:38.840 --> 00:02:39.780] I've always been into art,
[00:02:40.060 --> 00:02:42.780] but I got really angry for a long time.
[00:02:43.100 --> 00:02:44.320] Took me a while to go to therapy.
[00:02:44.460 --> 00:02:46.380] And then after my mom died,
[00:02:47.300 --> 00:02:48.660] I was just like, you know what, man,
[00:02:48.920 --> 00:02:50.280] I can't chase money anymore.
[00:02:51.200 --> 00:02:53.320] I have to do what I'm passionate about.
[00:02:54.300 --> 00:02:57.540] And I picked up a camera and thank God I picked up a camera
[00:02:57.540 --> 00:03:00.680] because I think I was really going down the wrong path,
[00:03:00.820 --> 00:03:00.880] man.
[00:03:00.880 --> 00:03:02.620] I was really doing a lot of things that I probably,
[00:03:03.520 --> 00:03:04.600] that I don't, you know, I don't,
[00:03:04.600 --> 00:03:06.580] I'm not proud of and I don't feel good about,
[00:03:06.680 --> 00:03:07.500] but I was, you know,
[00:03:07.560 --> 00:03:09.720] I got really depressed and didn't know what to do, man.
[00:03:10.020 --> 00:03:12.800] So when I found the camera and realized that, you know,
[00:03:12.920 --> 00:03:14.700] art has always been my path, it kind of,
[00:03:14.900 --> 00:03:16.300] not kind of, but it saved my life.
[00:03:16.320 --> 00:03:18.200] And I just, I dove into the camera
[00:03:18.680 --> 00:03:20.480] and started realizing that, you know,
[00:03:20.700 --> 00:03:23.860] I'm pretty good at this and just kind of went from there.
[00:03:24.580 --> 00:03:25.920] Yeah. Wow. Amazing.
[00:03:26.160 --> 00:03:28.560] My heart doesn't go off for you.
[00:03:28.840 --> 00:03:29.420] I appreciate that, man.
[00:03:29.500 --> 00:03:32.100] You know, to lose both, nobody would ever even know.
[00:03:32.780 --> 00:03:33.800] And that's, that's definitely all right.
[00:03:33.980 --> 00:03:35.600] Yeah, man. It was, like I said,
[00:03:35.640 --> 00:03:37.900] it was one of the defining things of who I am
[00:03:37.900 --> 00:03:39.180] and why I'm here today.
[00:03:39.220 --> 00:03:40.500] Cause I don't, you know, honestly,
[00:03:40.880 --> 00:03:41.660] if they were still here,
[00:03:41.680 --> 00:03:43.540] I don't know if I'd be doing this.
[00:03:43.980 --> 00:03:44.320] Photography.
[00:03:44.680 --> 00:03:45.940] Yeah. I don't know if I'd be doing art at all.
[00:03:46.060 --> 00:03:46.840] I'd probably be,
[00:03:47.300 --> 00:03:49.160] probably would have got some kind of science degree
[00:03:49.160 --> 00:03:50.800] and, you know, been working some job
[00:03:50.800 --> 00:03:51.940] that I probably ended up hating.
[00:03:52.880 --> 00:03:53.480] You know what I mean?
[00:03:53.740 --> 00:03:55.820] But, you know, I don't, who knows?
[00:03:55.880 --> 00:03:56.280] Who knows?
[00:03:56.720 --> 00:03:58.600] It's hard to say it's the butterfly effect, right?
[00:03:58.600 --> 00:04:00.800] Like, you know, I say I'd go give everything,
[00:04:00.940 --> 00:04:02.080] anything to have my parents back,
[00:04:02.080 --> 00:04:02.760] but then I don't know
[00:04:02.760 --> 00:04:03.900] how my life would've went from there.
[00:04:04.260 --> 00:04:05.100] Not sure I oughta got married,
[00:04:05.160 --> 00:04:06.280] not sure I would've had kids.
[00:04:06.640 --> 00:04:07.640] Right. Any of that.
[00:04:08.340 --> 00:04:10.180] So, life happened how it happened, man.
[00:04:10.500 --> 00:04:13.240] I don't, I don't subscribe to the,
[00:04:15.240 --> 00:04:18.140] when people say, you know,
[00:04:18.240 --> 00:04:19.760] it's all a part of God's plan.
[00:04:20.120 --> 00:04:22.260] I don't, I don't, I don't like saying that
[00:04:22.260 --> 00:04:23.140] because when people lose somebody
[00:04:23.140 --> 00:04:24.180] and the first thing you tell them is,
[00:04:24.440 --> 00:04:26.160] oh yeah, man, well, God, you know,
[00:04:26.260 --> 00:04:27.200] it's because of God.
[00:04:27.440 --> 00:04:30.100] Like, no, God is not out here
[00:04:30.100 --> 00:04:32.800] trying to make me an orphan at 33.
[00:04:33.140 --> 00:04:33.820] You know what I mean?
[00:04:34.000 --> 00:04:34.400] Yeah.
[00:04:34.440 --> 00:04:37.200] However, God did give me the strength
[00:04:38.280 --> 00:04:40.560] to know how to, to learn how to deal with it
[00:04:40.560 --> 00:04:42.740] because God wasn't always there for me.
[00:04:42.740 --> 00:04:44.380] My dad died, man.
[00:04:44.440 --> 00:04:45.600] I lost all religion.
[00:04:45.680 --> 00:04:47.120] I lost all spirituality.
[00:04:47.880 --> 00:04:48.540] I hated God.
[00:04:49.940 --> 00:04:52.480] And so, I'm really careful
[00:04:52.480 --> 00:04:54.020] when it comes to talking about people
[00:04:54.020 --> 00:04:54.580] and losing people.
[00:04:54.620 --> 00:04:56.400] Cause also, you know, I've lost both my parents.
[00:04:57.020 --> 00:04:57.080] Yeah.
[00:04:57.800 --> 00:04:58.400] I didn't lose them.
[00:04:58.560 --> 00:04:59.540] Both my parents died.
[00:05:00.320 --> 00:05:02.760] And therapy, transition died.
[00:05:03.000 --> 00:05:04.000] I think it's final.
[00:05:04.200 --> 00:05:06.240] And I think for me, therapy taught me like,
[00:05:06.340 --> 00:05:07.240] trying to say they passed
[00:05:07.240 --> 00:05:10.540] or any of those more passive ways of talking about it,
[00:05:10.620 --> 00:05:11.740] it makes it less final.
[00:05:11.740 --> 00:05:13.320] It makes it as if it's not something
[00:05:13.320 --> 00:05:14.240] that didn't really happen.
[00:05:14.420 --> 00:05:14.820] It's final.
[00:05:14.960 --> 00:05:15.400] It happened.
[00:05:16.040 --> 00:05:16.560] It's over with nothing.
[00:05:16.760 --> 00:05:18.500] And that's how I've been approaching it.
[00:05:18.900 --> 00:05:20.020] That's how I've had to approach it
[00:05:20.020 --> 00:05:23.080] because the other ways have gotten me, you know,
[00:05:23.240 --> 00:05:24.020] gotten me kind of off.
[00:05:25.400 --> 00:05:27.580] But it's just learning how to deal
[00:05:27.580 --> 00:05:29.280] with the new reality of, you know,
[00:05:29.280 --> 00:05:29.880] I'm my only child, man.
[00:05:29.980 --> 00:05:30.540] That's all I knew.
[00:05:31.540 --> 00:05:32.660] You know, my dad, I was,
[00:05:32.660 --> 00:05:34.260] like I said, I was 22 when my dad died.
[00:05:34.420 --> 00:05:36.180] So, I didn't get a chance to have
[00:05:36.180 --> 00:05:37.920] a lot of those man conversations
[00:05:37.920 --> 00:05:39.960] that I would love to have had with my dad.
[00:05:39.960 --> 00:05:42.740] Cause I wasn't a street kid, man.
[00:05:42.760 --> 00:05:43.480] I was a bird boy.
[00:05:44.420 --> 00:05:46.660] And 22, I was still kind of young, man.
[00:05:46.680 --> 00:05:47.480] I mean, I had lived on my own
[00:05:47.480 --> 00:05:48.460] for a couple of years in college,
[00:05:48.460 --> 00:05:49.420] but I didn't.
[00:05:49.580 --> 00:05:49.740] Yeah.
[00:05:50.200 --> 00:05:51.060] You know, there was still things
[00:05:51.060 --> 00:05:53.620] that I wish I could talk to my father about, you know.
[00:05:53.640 --> 00:05:55.740] And luckily, you know, I had good, you know,
[00:05:56.020 --> 00:05:58.280] figures, male figures in my life after the fact.
[00:05:58.920 --> 00:06:01.000] But, you know, ain't nobody like your parents, man.
[00:06:02.900 --> 00:06:04.140] Let's go back to college.
[00:06:04.640 --> 00:06:05.600] When did you study in college?
[00:06:06.340 --> 00:06:07.380] That's funny, man.
[00:06:07.880 --> 00:06:09.600] So, my major was gonna be mathematics.
[00:06:09.600 --> 00:06:11.080] Yeah, man.
[00:06:11.380 --> 00:06:12.520] So, I used to love math.
[00:06:12.940 --> 00:06:13.960] I still love math.
[00:06:14.180 --> 00:06:14.780] Yeah, yeah.
[00:06:14.800 --> 00:06:15.880] I mean, because it's the only thing
[00:06:16.400 --> 00:06:18.060] that doesn't change for real.
[00:06:18.520 --> 00:06:19.040] You know what I mean?
[00:06:19.100 --> 00:06:21.260] The dictionary is a whole bunch of made up words
[00:06:21.260 --> 00:06:23.100] that we all make up every day.
[00:06:23.100 --> 00:06:23.400] Right.
[00:06:23.920 --> 00:06:25.780] With numbers, numbers pretty much are solid.
[00:06:26.140 --> 00:06:27.360] So, I was good with numbers.
[00:06:27.440 --> 00:06:28.020] I'm always good with numbers.
[00:06:28.160 --> 00:06:29.440] I'm still pretty good with numbers.
[00:06:30.080 --> 00:06:31.540] And I was gonna major in math, man.
[00:06:31.560 --> 00:06:33.880] I had no idea where I was gonna go with that, like.
[00:06:34.880 --> 00:06:36.340] Well, I could kind of say,
[00:06:36.500 --> 00:06:38.380] cause we talk about art.
[00:06:38.380 --> 00:06:40.780] We talk about numbers and math,
[00:06:40.800 --> 00:06:43.180] which are both universal and like,
[00:06:43.220 --> 00:06:44.280] been all over the country.
[00:06:45.440 --> 00:06:50.120] So, as I gotta say that those two take you
[00:06:50.120 --> 00:06:52.240] or took you many places.
[00:06:52.780 --> 00:06:52.900] It did.
[00:06:53.020 --> 00:06:55.380] You know, art took me more places
[00:06:55.380 --> 00:06:57.100] than math took me for real.
[00:06:57.500 --> 00:06:58.460] I mean, but you know what?
[00:06:58.700 --> 00:07:00.240] Photography is math, honestly.
[00:07:00.460 --> 00:07:02.200] Like, understanding the exposure triangle
[00:07:02.200 --> 00:07:02.860] and that kind of stuff.
[00:07:03.260 --> 00:07:05.220] When you start getting into the deep,
[00:07:05.220 --> 00:07:07.380] deep dark secrets of photography
[00:07:07.380 --> 00:07:09.220] and understanding it, I mean, you know.
[00:07:10.480 --> 00:07:11.780] It's a lot of math, man.
[00:07:11.840 --> 00:07:13.180] It's a lot of math, a lot of understanding.
[00:07:13.760 --> 00:07:15.580] We don't have to know math that way,
[00:07:15.600 --> 00:07:17.000] but if you understand math,
[00:07:17.100 --> 00:07:18.360] it makes it a little easier for you.
[00:07:18.840 --> 00:07:19.300] It does, definitely.
[00:07:19.680 --> 00:07:23.380] You know, for the stops and all these other things, man.
[00:07:23.380 --> 00:07:24.620] When you start understanding that stuff,
[00:07:25.000 --> 00:07:27.280] and you know math is a part of all of that stuff.
[00:07:27.620 --> 00:07:28.900] So, it definitely made it easier for me
[00:07:28.900 --> 00:07:31.020] to understand that and to move with it.
[00:07:31.020 --> 00:07:31.680] But yeah, man.
[00:07:31.880 --> 00:07:34.080] Like, yeah, that's one thing that I was.
[00:07:34.160 --> 00:07:35.180] I mean, I grew up moving around
[00:07:35.180 --> 00:07:36.200] cause my dad was military.
[00:07:36.940 --> 00:07:40.420] But I think that's what my love for travel is now,
[00:07:41.600 --> 00:07:44.480] is like, I can't sit still.
[00:07:44.680 --> 00:07:46.340] I think that's really what it comes down to.
[00:07:46.940 --> 00:07:49.040] And I gotta experience other things.
[00:07:49.240 --> 00:07:51.160] Like, you know, my mom always told me, you know,
[00:07:51.240 --> 00:07:55.040] that life is too short to be sitting in one place, man.
[00:07:55.860 --> 00:07:56.440] You know what I mean?
[00:07:56.500 --> 00:07:59.140] You have to get out and experience other things.
[00:08:00.240 --> 00:08:02.340] And what I tell, you know, the kids that I teach,
[00:08:02.520 --> 00:08:05.060] it's like, you know, and what I really believe about
[00:08:05.060 --> 00:08:06.900] our children, our communities and that kind of stuff,
[00:08:07.040 --> 00:08:08.300] anybody that's coming up,
[00:08:08.380 --> 00:08:10.100] the more exposed you are to different things,
[00:08:10.380 --> 00:08:11.980] the more well-rounded you are,
[00:08:12.040 --> 00:08:14.800] the more you really know.
[00:08:14.820 --> 00:08:17.280] You don't have to be overly intelligent.
[00:08:17.680 --> 00:08:20.080] But if you've been other places and seen other things,
[00:08:20.600 --> 00:08:22.660] it really, it's a different type of intelligence
[00:08:22.660 --> 00:08:25.340] and it gives you a different perspective on life.
[00:08:26.220 --> 00:08:26.680] You know what I mean?
[00:08:26.920 --> 00:08:27.920] It opens your mind up.
[00:08:28.260 --> 00:08:29.380] I've never, I haven't met too many people
[00:08:29.380 --> 00:08:32.240] that have been, you know, a whole lot of places
[00:08:32.240 --> 00:08:33.360] and they don't have an open mind.
[00:08:33.840 --> 00:08:35.059] Cause you start understanding that,
[00:08:35.240 --> 00:08:37.440] oh, this ain't just, it ain't just this.
[00:08:38.260 --> 00:08:38.780] You know what I mean?
[00:08:39.600 --> 00:08:40.960] It's like, you talk to family members that,
[00:08:40.960 --> 00:08:41.980] I have not known family members that
[00:08:41.980 --> 00:08:44.520] really ain't been outside of Cleveland, this area.
[00:08:44.560 --> 00:08:47.040] And you understand the closed mindedness
[00:08:47.040 --> 00:08:48.940] because it's like, well, this is all you know,
[00:08:49.240 --> 00:08:51.600] not in a bad way and not throwing shade,
[00:08:51.960 --> 00:08:54.320] but you understand like your perspective is only so big.
[00:08:54.440 --> 00:08:55.960] I mean, me being a military man growing up
[00:08:55.960 --> 00:08:56.840] and moving around a lot,
[00:08:57.140 --> 00:08:59.180] like I can go anywhere really.
[00:08:59.720 --> 00:09:01.080] I'm used to just picking up and going.
[00:09:01.860 --> 00:09:02.920] Some people can't just pick up and going.
[00:09:02.920 --> 00:09:04.300] I get that too, like.
[00:09:07.320 --> 00:09:08.720] Going to raw glass,
[00:09:08.880 --> 00:09:11.660] I know raw is a format in photography
[00:09:11.660 --> 00:09:15.440] and glass is like the lens we look through, see through.
[00:09:16.040 --> 00:09:17.360] What's your definition of raw glass?
[00:09:17.480 --> 00:09:19.560] I mean, you're just going to take my thunder like that.
[00:09:20.220 --> 00:09:22.300] I mean, if that's the definition.
[00:09:23.400 --> 00:09:24.300] You're just going to take my,
[00:09:24.300 --> 00:09:25.200] you're just going to take the thunder
[00:09:25.200 --> 00:09:26.540] by you while you explain it.
[00:09:26.780 --> 00:09:27.180] You know what I mean?
[00:09:27.420 --> 00:09:29.060] No, but that's, that's, that's, yeah.
[00:09:29.120 --> 00:09:29.880] I mean, what you a smart dude,
[00:09:29.880 --> 00:09:30.920] that's where the name came from, dog.
[00:09:30.920 --> 00:09:32.900] When I was thinking of a name for a company,
[00:09:33.400 --> 00:09:35.720] raw is a format and raw also raw is something
[00:09:35.720 --> 00:09:36.860] we used to say back in the day.
[00:09:36.980 --> 00:09:37.420] Oh, that's raw.
[00:09:37.740 --> 00:09:38.260] Right, yeah.
[00:09:38.260 --> 00:09:38.840] You know what I mean?
[00:09:39.080 --> 00:09:39.780] Throwback, yeah, wow.
[00:09:39.840 --> 00:09:40.380] And then, yeah.
[00:09:40.480 --> 00:09:41.640] And then like, like you said, glass,
[00:09:41.720 --> 00:09:43.000] glass is another name for lenses.
[00:09:43.320 --> 00:09:45.600] So that's, that's exactly where the name came from.
[00:09:45.700 --> 00:09:46.780] You get the nail right on the head.
[00:09:47.000 --> 00:09:47.920] Yeah, or I could look at it
[00:09:47.920 --> 00:09:49.580] as you take raw pictures, you know?
[00:09:49.740 --> 00:09:51.380] That too, like it's definitely that.
[00:09:51.580 --> 00:09:53.820] You know, or it's the whole conglomerate of things.
[00:09:53.900 --> 00:09:54.940] Yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:09:55.060 --> 00:09:55.880] But that's where it came from.
[00:09:55.940 --> 00:09:56.600] Like, oh, that's raw.
[00:09:56.760 --> 00:09:58.400] And then, you know, raw is a format in glass.
[00:09:58.580 --> 00:09:58.860] You know what I mean?
[00:09:58.860 --> 00:10:01.260] Raw pictures, raw, you know, raw equipment.
[00:10:01.860 --> 00:10:02.340] You know what I mean?
[00:10:02.420 --> 00:10:04.240] Like that's exactly where the name came from.
[00:10:04.540 --> 00:10:05.820] That's, and I stuck with it.
[00:10:05.860 --> 00:10:07.860] I wasn't even sure that I was gonna keep that name,
[00:10:07.960 --> 00:10:10.240] but it just, you know, I started the,
[00:10:10.240 --> 00:10:12.500] started Raw Glass in 2017,
[00:10:13.160 --> 00:10:14.420] a couple of years before I moved here.
[00:10:15.120 --> 00:10:17.560] And it was like two years after my mom died.
[00:10:17.620 --> 00:10:20.780] And so I was like, okay, after I started doing it,
[00:10:20.800 --> 00:10:23.280] people were like, you know, you could get paid for this.
[00:10:23.320 --> 00:10:25.880] I'm like, nah, I can't get paid for this.
[00:10:25.940 --> 00:10:26.440] Right, right.
[00:10:26.440 --> 00:10:27.800] I'm just, I'm just, you know,
[00:10:27.800 --> 00:10:30.460] it was just, it was just healing for me, baby.
[00:10:30.480 --> 00:10:30.820] You know what I'm saying?
[00:10:30.840 --> 00:10:32.120] It was just therapy for me.
[00:10:32.420 --> 00:10:33.740] Photo walks and that kind of stuff, man.
[00:10:33.740 --> 00:10:34.980] It was just my therapy.
[00:10:35.660 --> 00:10:37.420] But yeah, people started really saying like,
[00:10:37.440 --> 00:10:39.320] nah, man, like you really got an eye.
[00:10:39.380 --> 00:10:41.160] I'm like, okay, well, I started, you know,
[00:10:41.180 --> 00:10:41.780] leaning into it.
[00:10:41.780 --> 00:10:44.000] But yeah, came up with the name and was like, okay.
[00:10:44.280 --> 00:10:44.700] You know what I mean?
[00:10:44.780 --> 00:10:45.600] Let me, let's go.
[00:10:45.960 --> 00:10:46.440] Let's go.
[00:10:46.560 --> 00:10:48.860] And then 2017, that started and it just kind of been,
[00:10:49.820 --> 00:10:52.440] I'm here now, you know, I guess, what is this?
[00:10:52.860 --> 00:10:53.560] Nine years later?
[00:10:53.900 --> 00:10:54.840] Nine years, wow.
[00:10:56.520 --> 00:10:57.600] Yeah, 2017.
[00:10:58.080 --> 00:10:59.640] So next year it'll be 10 years.
[00:10:59.660 --> 00:11:00.240] 10 years, wow.
[00:11:00.240 --> 00:11:00.880] That's crazy.
[00:11:01.260 --> 00:11:01.800] Wow, yeah.
[00:11:02.260 --> 00:11:03.300] Gotta do something big.
[00:11:03.960 --> 00:11:05.140] Nah, nah, I didn't think about it.
[00:11:05.180 --> 00:11:07.840] It's not even, you know, the funny thing, man,
[00:11:07.840 --> 00:11:10.180] is I've actually like pulled back on my business.
[00:11:10.260 --> 00:11:11.680] Like I'm not really,
[00:11:12.060 --> 00:11:15.400] I'm more focused on community now.
[00:11:15.960 --> 00:11:18.360] Ever since I've gotten here to Cleveland,
[00:11:18.980 --> 00:11:22.160] my focus has been trying to make people understand
[00:11:22.160 --> 00:11:24.020] that it can be healing, because it was healing for me.
[00:11:24.020 --> 00:11:26.620] So it was like, well, if it can be healing for me,
[00:11:26.740 --> 00:11:28.420] it's gotta be able to be healing for somebody else.
[00:11:30.700 --> 00:11:32.460] And that's more so where I'm at now,
[00:11:32.560 --> 00:11:34.540] where the man is trying to be able to just teach,
[00:11:34.860 --> 00:11:35.700] get back to the community,
[00:11:35.780 --> 00:11:37.120] because that's a lot of what I do now,
[00:11:37.200 --> 00:11:39.500] teach social emotional learning through photography.
[00:11:42.240 --> 00:11:45.920] And, you know, in workshops and afterschool programming
[00:11:45.920 --> 00:11:47.020] and like all that kind of stuff
[00:11:47.020 --> 00:11:50.100] that I've been doing over the last four years?
[00:11:50.500 --> 00:11:52.360] Four, yeah, about four or five years.
[00:11:54.900 --> 00:11:58.580] So more so passion and impact over the monetary
[00:11:58.580 --> 00:11:59.440] and everything else.
[00:11:59.700 --> 00:12:00.860] Man, that's always been me, man.
[00:12:01.200 --> 00:12:04.600] Like it's literally never been about the dollar for me,
[00:12:04.620 --> 00:12:06.060] man, I ain't balling.
[00:12:06.340 --> 00:12:06.660] You know what I mean?
[00:12:07.180 --> 00:12:09.560] I can confidently tell the kids
[00:12:09.560 --> 00:12:11.500] that I go do like career days and stuff like that.
[00:12:11.780 --> 00:12:14.040] Yeah, I bought a house with a camera
[00:12:14.040 --> 00:12:14.980] and that's the truth.
[00:12:15.680 --> 00:12:17.580] Like, I mean, it's not like the fortunes.
[00:12:17.720 --> 00:12:18.600] No, when I first got here,
[00:12:18.600 --> 00:12:20.460] I had to get a job to show income
[00:12:20.460 --> 00:12:21.160] and that kind of thing,
[00:12:21.160 --> 00:12:22.380] because my business wasn't making enough money
[00:12:22.380 --> 00:12:22.880] to get a house.
[00:12:23.380 --> 00:12:25.520] But soon as I was able to, I quit that job
[00:12:25.520 --> 00:12:27.620] and everything else has just been with a camera.
[00:12:27.840 --> 00:12:29.060] Everything else is, everything I do now
[00:12:29.060 --> 00:12:29.900] is surrounded by the camera.
[00:12:30.700 --> 00:12:33.080] I told myself, if I'm going to do this
[00:12:33.080 --> 00:12:34.660] and I'm going to go like, even if I get,
[00:12:34.700 --> 00:12:38.220] because I have a pretty much part-time
[00:12:38.220 --> 00:12:39.820] or part-time slash full-time job,
[00:12:40.280 --> 00:12:41.360] but it's surrounded by the camera.
[00:12:42.080 --> 00:12:42.340] You know what I mean?
[00:12:42.380 --> 00:12:43.200] Everything I do now,
[00:12:43.220 --> 00:12:44.660] if it's not surrounded by the camera,
[00:12:45.000 --> 00:12:46.180] I really don't want to do it.
[00:12:46.180 --> 00:12:47.580] And I found myself why I couldn't stay
[00:12:47.580 --> 00:12:48.300] in these other jobs
[00:12:48.300 --> 00:12:50.620] because it wasn't what I wanted to do, man.
[00:12:50.740 --> 00:12:51.940] It wasn't, my heart wasn't in it.
[00:12:51.940 --> 00:12:54.580] So if it's not around visual arts
[00:12:54.580 --> 00:12:56.520] or something to do with a camera
[00:12:56.520 --> 00:12:57.120] and that type of thing,
[00:12:57.120 --> 00:12:58.580] I really don't want to do it.
[00:12:58.980 --> 00:13:01.380] And I've learned that life is too short
[00:13:01.380 --> 00:13:02.540] through the loss of my parents
[00:13:02.540 --> 00:13:04.180] to be doing something you don't want to be doing, man.
[00:13:04.600 --> 00:13:06.060] So I don't anymore.
[00:13:06.580 --> 00:13:08.920] No, that's major and I definitely receive it.
[00:13:08.980 --> 00:13:11.460] Yeah, man, it's just,
[00:13:11.460 --> 00:13:12.440] yeah, it's one of those things.
[00:13:13.300 --> 00:13:16.320] I seen like photos and old clips of you
[00:13:16.320 --> 00:13:18.400] with the rock on the game show.
[00:13:18.600 --> 00:13:19.880] Oh, wow. Oh, wow.
[00:13:20.320 --> 00:13:21.720] I didn't know you were going to bring that up.
[00:13:23.080 --> 00:13:27.000] Man, I had to, Wayne Johnson, Mr. The Rock,
[00:13:27.040 --> 00:13:28.080] one of my favorite wrestlers.
[00:13:28.420 --> 00:13:29.620] Oh yeah? Yeah.
[00:13:29.680 --> 00:13:30.260] Yeah, yeah.
[00:13:30.320 --> 00:13:32.640] That was, hey man, that was a time.
[00:13:32.920 --> 00:13:33.460] That was a time.
[00:13:33.480 --> 00:13:34.740] That was a good time in my life, man.
[00:13:34.860 --> 00:13:36.780] That was, man, you know what, honestly, that was what?
[00:13:37.280 --> 00:13:39.240] At this point, it's been 13 years.
[00:13:39.820 --> 00:13:40.940] Yeah, that was 2013.
[00:13:41.760 --> 00:13:43.920] So that was even before I started the business.
[00:13:44.100 --> 00:13:45.580] I was working as a technician.
[00:13:45.620 --> 00:13:49.060] I was fixing industrial scales at the time.
[00:13:49.620 --> 00:13:51.740] Yeah, the CDL, like put it rolling around
[00:13:51.740 --> 00:13:53.360] to like truck scales and that type of stuff
[00:13:53.360 --> 00:13:55.820] and like plants and stuff like Frito Lay and that was,
[00:13:56.060 --> 00:13:56.820] they all got scales.
[00:13:56.960 --> 00:13:57.520] I learned all these things.
[00:13:57.560 --> 00:13:58.580] So I'm fixing scales at the time.
[00:13:58.600 --> 00:14:01.020] But yeah, I ended up getting on this game show, man,
[00:14:01.040 --> 00:14:05.960] on TNT with The Rock called The Hero back in 2013, man.
[00:14:06.000 --> 00:14:08.980] And it was 10 of us that made the cut on there.
[00:14:09.260 --> 00:14:11.620] And it was, yeah, it was cool, man.
[00:14:11.760 --> 00:14:14.640] It was a great experience, I'll say that.
[00:14:14.640 --> 00:14:19.380] Like I'm not sure I would want to do it again,
[00:14:20.000 --> 00:14:22.680] but this is me 13 years later saying that.
[00:14:23.060 --> 00:14:24.200] You know, right after it happened,
[00:14:24.340 --> 00:14:25.840] I probably would have done something like that again.
[00:14:26.440 --> 00:14:27.840] But yeah, it was a great experience, man.
[00:14:27.940 --> 00:14:31.040] It was just, I don't know, it was just lucky.
[00:14:31.880 --> 00:14:33.300] I tell you that, like it was no,
[00:14:33.420 --> 00:14:36.740] I didn't do anything to like, to get onto the show.
[00:14:37.220 --> 00:14:39.120] You know, a lot of people knew about like the cast
[00:14:39.120 --> 00:14:39.900] and call and all that.
[00:14:40.020 --> 00:14:41.180] I came in last minute.
[00:14:42.080 --> 00:14:44.520] Like I wouldn't try it out for MasterChef,
[00:14:44.700 --> 00:14:45.260] as a matter of fact.
[00:14:45.280 --> 00:14:45.960] That's how I got on the show.
[00:14:46.020 --> 00:14:46.980] I don't know if you know that show.
[00:14:47.240 --> 00:14:47.360] Oh yeah.
[00:14:47.360 --> 00:14:48.320] Gordon Ramsay, oh yeah.
[00:14:48.480 --> 00:14:49.780] So I love to cook too, man.
[00:14:49.940 --> 00:14:51.060] So that's another part of my artistry.
[00:14:51.420 --> 00:14:52.480] I love to cook.
[00:14:52.960 --> 00:14:54.140] And so I was like, you know what?
[00:14:54.360 --> 00:14:55.000] MasterChef is here.
[00:14:55.240 --> 00:14:56.740] It was in Portland at the time, Portland, Oregon.
[00:14:56.780 --> 00:14:57.880] I was living in Vancouver, Washington.
[00:14:57.960 --> 00:15:00.040] I was like, man, I had my boy go down with me
[00:15:00.040 --> 00:15:00.660] for moral support.
[00:15:00.780 --> 00:15:01.920] I'm like, man, let's go down here, man.
[00:15:01.940 --> 00:15:03.800] So I made my little, at the time,
[00:15:03.820 --> 00:15:05.220] like one of my favorite dishes to make.
[00:15:05.700 --> 00:15:08.020] I made a shrimp Alfredo from scratch.
[00:15:08.840 --> 00:15:09.960] So the Alfredo from scratch
[00:15:09.960 --> 00:15:11.780] and we cooked the shrimp up and all that went down there
[00:15:11.780 --> 00:15:13.060] and didn't get on the show.
[00:15:13.220 --> 00:15:13.700] You know what I mean?
[00:15:13.780 --> 00:15:15.360] But then I got a call from a producer.
[00:15:15.560 --> 00:15:17.140] I don't know, maybe a few days later,
[00:15:17.680 --> 00:15:18.760] maybe it was just my personality
[00:15:18.760 --> 00:15:19.740] or something that they saw in me.
[00:15:20.020 --> 00:15:22.400] They're like, yeah, so you wanna be on this show
[00:15:22.400 --> 00:15:22.920] with The Rock?
[00:15:22.960 --> 00:15:24.720] And I thought it was one of my boys playing with me,
[00:15:24.840 --> 00:15:25.980] to be completely honest with you.
[00:15:26.300 --> 00:15:27.520] I'm like, yeah, yeah, sure, whatever.
[00:15:28.580 --> 00:15:29.500] And so I hang up the phone.
[00:15:29.620 --> 00:15:30.200] I don't say nothing.
[00:15:30.200 --> 00:15:30.840] I don't call them back.
[00:15:30.880 --> 00:15:31.580] They're like, yeah, call me.
[00:15:31.680 --> 00:15:32.240] Do all this.
[00:15:32.280 --> 00:15:33.000] I'm like, yeah, okay.
[00:15:33.140 --> 00:15:33.720] I thought it was somebody.
[00:15:33.860 --> 00:15:34.320] You know, what am I?
[00:15:34.360 --> 00:15:35.480] Can my boys play around like that?
[00:15:38.420 --> 00:15:39.780] So they called me back.
[00:15:40.260 --> 00:15:42.380] Like, hey man, check this out, man, we serious.
[00:15:42.420 --> 00:15:44.020] Like, do you wanna be on a show with The Rock or not?
[00:15:44.140 --> 00:15:46.100] I'm like, oh, oh, you serious.
[00:15:47.040 --> 00:15:49.360] And so, so yeah, so then I'm like, okay,
[00:15:49.460 --> 00:15:50.200] well, what do I gotta do?
[00:15:50.280 --> 00:15:51.800] And so that, I mean, it was interesting.
[00:15:52.020 --> 00:15:52.740] So they wanted me to,
[00:15:52.780 --> 00:15:55.460] I had to send in some stuff to,
[00:15:56.020 --> 00:15:58.500] like stuff of what I do on my regular every day.
[00:15:58.880 --> 00:16:00.920] And I like try to show who you are type of thing.
[00:16:01.320 --> 00:16:03.220] You know, I guess they liked that.
[00:16:03.220 --> 00:16:05.000] And then I had an interview with one of the producers
[00:16:05.000 --> 00:16:06.220] and they liked me on that.
[00:16:06.280 --> 00:16:08.280] And then they flew me out to LA,
[00:16:08.860 --> 00:16:10.040] my first time ever being in LA,
[00:16:11.120 --> 00:16:12.480] but didn't get to see LA.
[00:16:12.900 --> 00:16:14.520] Cause when you, what I didn't understand
[00:16:14.520 --> 00:16:15.400] and what I understand now
[00:16:15.400 --> 00:16:16.920] is when you're like trying to get on a TV show,
[00:16:17.860 --> 00:16:18.500] they quarantine.
[00:16:19.280 --> 00:16:20.740] So I didn't want you going out talking about it.
[00:16:20.780 --> 00:16:21.880] And I'm like, that's why I keep you.
[00:16:22.080 --> 00:16:23.700] They drive you from the place, back to the place.
[00:16:23.840 --> 00:16:26.100] I went down and did like a mock interview,
[00:16:26.160 --> 00:16:28.080] like a mock on-screen TV interview.
[00:16:29.100 --> 00:16:30.120] And then you do a,
[00:16:30.140 --> 00:16:31.820] I did an interview with like a whole bunch of people
[00:16:31.820 --> 00:16:32.660] that were part of the show,
[00:16:32.780 --> 00:16:33.940] producers and all that stuff.
[00:16:34.840 --> 00:16:36.420] And long story short, I ended up getting on.
[00:16:36.600 --> 00:16:37.760] How long was the full process?
[00:16:38.820 --> 00:16:40.400] That process, shoot.
[00:16:41.060 --> 00:16:42.120] From when they called me,
[00:16:42.180 --> 00:16:44.400] they called me probably two, three weeks later,
[00:16:44.560 --> 00:16:45.820] or maybe three weeks later.
[00:16:46.000 --> 00:16:47.480] I found out that I was getting flown.
[00:16:47.620 --> 00:16:49.180] I was a finalist and got flown to LA.
[00:16:49.620 --> 00:16:50.900] By the time I got flown to LA,
[00:16:51.460 --> 00:16:52.920] this is like December.
[00:16:54.640 --> 00:16:55.580] Yeah, maybe early December,
[00:16:55.700 --> 00:16:57.060] maybe late November, early December.
[00:16:57.960 --> 00:16:59.540] And then flew to LA, came back.
[00:16:59.580 --> 00:17:03.240] And then they called me at the end of December,
[00:17:03.800 --> 00:17:04.800] before the new year,
[00:17:04.980 --> 00:17:06.440] and told me that I had made the show.
[00:17:07.319 --> 00:17:09.140] So it was about three weeks, I would say.
[00:17:09.640 --> 00:17:13.560] And then we started shooting in February of 2013.
[00:17:16.599 --> 00:17:17.760] Yeah, wow.
[00:17:18.180 --> 00:17:19.720] Yeah, February of 2013, yep.
[00:17:20.440 --> 00:17:22.319] So yeah, it wasn't that long once they got to going.
[00:17:22.500 --> 00:17:23.359] Come to find out, man,
[00:17:23.359 --> 00:17:25.099] I was the last one to get selected for the show.
[00:17:25.460 --> 00:17:28.180] And this is what's crazy about reality TV, man,
[00:17:28.180 --> 00:17:32.140] as you start realizing how racially driven stuff is.
[00:17:32.720 --> 00:17:34.640] Because what they said about me was like,
[00:17:34.780 --> 00:17:37.100] oh yeah, we had to, we found the perfect black dude.
[00:17:37.180 --> 00:17:40.020] And it was like, well, you're black enough
[00:17:40.860 --> 00:17:42.640] to appeal to the black folks,
[00:17:43.100 --> 00:17:46.020] but you're also, what's the word?
[00:17:46.500 --> 00:17:50.920] You're not, you're safe enough to appeal to white folks.
[00:17:51.680 --> 00:17:53.160] And I was like, that's crazy.
[00:17:53.240 --> 00:17:54.580] Which, you know, doesn't hurt my feelings
[00:17:54.580 --> 00:17:55.860] and nothing like that, but it's crazy.
[00:17:55.900 --> 00:17:57.940] Cause I'm like, man, TV is really like this.
[00:17:57.960 --> 00:17:59.540] Like they're really trying to make sure
[00:17:59.540 --> 00:18:01.780] that they're not, that they're doing a certain thing
[00:18:01.780 --> 00:18:03.620] and then portraying a certain thing on TV, man.
[00:18:03.780 --> 00:18:05.660] And so, yeah, that was really weird.
[00:18:05.700 --> 00:18:07.800] Cause I mean, growing up, it was, I had that issue, man.
[00:18:07.820 --> 00:18:10.940] I was always not black enough for the black kids
[00:18:11.560 --> 00:18:13.180] and too black for the white kids.
[00:18:13.480 --> 00:18:15.360] I was in this weird little area,
[00:18:16.080 --> 00:18:17.560] you know, this weird little gray area.
[00:18:18.000 --> 00:18:20.780] Then it was like my identity was a weird thing,
[00:18:20.860 --> 00:18:23.040] you know, especially growing, coming up, you know,
[00:18:23.120 --> 00:18:25.260] in my early adolescence in the nineties.
[00:18:25.840 --> 00:18:27.360] It was a weird thing, man.
[00:18:27.920 --> 00:18:30.440] So hearing that from them, I'm like, man, that's crazy.
[00:18:30.440 --> 00:18:31.300] That's crazy.
[00:18:31.580 --> 00:18:34.960] Like that's what, I mean, me being who I am,
[00:18:35.060 --> 00:18:36.080] it's not like I'm changing who I am,
[00:18:36.180 --> 00:18:39.400] but like the fact that people are looking at it like that
[00:18:39.400 --> 00:18:40.400] was wild to me.
[00:18:40.480 --> 00:18:41.500] But yeah, that show was cool, man.
[00:18:41.600 --> 00:18:43.440] I ended up getting second place on that joint, man.
[00:18:43.440 --> 00:18:44.500] I almost won that joint.
[00:18:45.040 --> 00:18:46.000] It went all the way to the end.
[00:18:46.040 --> 00:18:47.200] They kicked off a few people.
[00:18:47.220 --> 00:18:48.120] Still honored, huh?
[00:18:48.560 --> 00:18:49.760] Man, made a few friends, man.
[00:18:49.920 --> 00:18:50.880] Meeting The Rock was cool, man.
[00:18:50.880 --> 00:18:51.740] The Rock is a cool dude.
[00:18:51.840 --> 00:18:53.680] Like he is just like he would think he would be
[00:18:53.680 --> 00:18:54.280] in real life.
[00:18:54.280 --> 00:18:55.320] That's exactly how he is.
[00:18:56.000 --> 00:18:57.660] That dude is a great dude.
[00:18:58.300 --> 00:19:00.640] I mean, he literally has to have people around him
[00:19:00.640 --> 00:19:01.860] to stop him from talking to people
[00:19:01.860 --> 00:19:03.220] because he has to be places.
[00:19:03.800 --> 00:19:06.460] And they're the jerk for him because he's not.
[00:19:06.580 --> 00:19:08.760] He's just a nice guy, man.
[00:19:08.980 --> 00:19:10.460] He's just a really good dude.
[00:19:11.020 --> 00:19:12.460] Like that's what I got from him anyway.
[00:19:13.120 --> 00:19:13.900] And even when he was doing that,
[00:19:13.900 --> 00:19:14.960] he had a whole bunch of stuff going on.
[00:19:14.960 --> 00:19:16.540] He was still doing a lot of that stuff with us.
[00:19:17.520 --> 00:19:20.580] So yeah, man, that was a great time in my life.
[00:19:20.840 --> 00:19:21.460] I ain't gonna hold you.
[00:19:21.760 --> 00:19:22.120] Wow.
[00:19:22.560 --> 00:19:26.040] Yeah, I got a big old poster up that I have to,
[00:19:26.040 --> 00:19:27.860] I tell myself when I get a house, I'm gonna put it up.
[00:19:28.000 --> 00:19:29.720] I still have never put it up, but he signed it for me.
[00:19:29.820 --> 00:19:31.200] So he just signed it for me.
[00:19:32.200 --> 00:19:34.720] A fan who I'm still friends with to this day,
[00:19:35.960 --> 00:19:38.240] a fan won it in auction.
[00:19:38.360 --> 00:19:39.600] It was a picture of me and The Rock
[00:19:39.600 --> 00:19:41.560] dapping each other up and The Rock signed it.
[00:19:42.120 --> 00:19:45.020] Fan ended up winning it on some kind of sweepstakes
[00:19:45.020 --> 00:19:45.800] they did for the show.
[00:19:46.320 --> 00:19:47.980] He calls me or hits me on like Facebook
[00:19:47.980 --> 00:19:48.940] or something like that.
[00:19:48.940 --> 00:19:51.000] And then he says to me, I was like,
[00:19:51.080 --> 00:19:52.140] hey man, I don't really want this.
[00:19:52.160 --> 00:19:52.900] You wanna buy it?
[00:19:53.080 --> 00:19:54.360] I was like, absolutely.
[00:19:54.720 --> 00:19:55.600] I'll buy it from you.
[00:19:55.600 --> 00:19:57.140] Guess he needed money or something like that.
[00:19:57.200 --> 00:19:59.340] And so I can't even remember how much I gave for it.
[00:19:59.380 --> 00:19:59.900] Can't even remember.
[00:20:00.440 --> 00:20:02.320] But then I ended up just signing it myself.
[00:20:02.340 --> 00:20:04.020] And I said, well, when I get a house,
[00:20:04.080 --> 00:20:05.140] I'm gonna put it up somewhere.
[00:20:05.440 --> 00:20:06.160] I still ain't put it up.
[00:20:06.160 --> 00:20:07.420] I've been in this house for six years.
[00:20:07.720 --> 00:20:08.280] Oh yeah, put it up.
[00:20:08.480 --> 00:20:10.160] I know, I need to put it up, man.
[00:20:10.740 --> 00:20:11.720] I'm gonna show it to you before you leave.
[00:20:11.960 --> 00:20:12.740] I'll show you the picture.
[00:20:13.600 --> 00:20:14.540] Yeah, I'll show you the picture.
[00:20:15.860 --> 00:20:16.620] Yeah, it was a trip though.
[00:20:17.080 --> 00:20:18.160] A master chef to that.
[00:20:18.200 --> 00:20:20.960] So it was like a prime example of,
[00:20:20.960 --> 00:20:23.240] they say shoot for the stars, land on the moon.
[00:20:23.660 --> 00:20:24.400] Land on the moon.
[00:20:24.400 --> 00:20:25.520] Shoot for stars, land on the moon.
[00:20:25.560 --> 00:20:26.780] Something like that, yeah, yeah.
[00:20:27.060 --> 00:20:28.580] That's the prime example of that.
[00:20:28.820 --> 00:20:29.780] It really was, man.
[00:20:29.780 --> 00:20:30.460] It kinda was.
[00:20:30.540 --> 00:20:31.180] It kinda was.
[00:20:31.320 --> 00:20:34.300] I really wanted to be on the master chef show, man.
[00:20:34.460 --> 00:20:35.560] I really wanted to get on that joint.
[00:20:35.560 --> 00:20:36.280] Still count.
[00:20:36.540 --> 00:20:38.240] Yeah, yeah, no, that's real.
[00:20:38.340 --> 00:20:39.160] You be doing the thing.
[00:20:39.220 --> 00:20:40.640] I had a couple dishes, it was fun.
[00:20:41.040 --> 00:20:43.640] Yeah, yeah, I still can try, but yeah.
[00:20:43.740 --> 00:20:46.740] But yeah, I didn't expect to get on a show
[00:20:46.740 --> 00:20:48.980] where I'm doing physical stuff.
[00:20:49.620 --> 00:20:51.420] All right, that could be tied in
[00:20:52.540 --> 00:20:54.780] It's the Creative Healing Foundation, cooking.
[00:20:55.860 --> 00:20:56.200] True.
[00:20:57.340 --> 00:20:58.460] Because healing through cooking,
[00:20:58.760 --> 00:20:59.960] like they say food is medicine.
[00:21:00.280 --> 00:21:01.020] Definitely so.
[00:21:01.180 --> 00:21:02.380] I mean, cause it is that for me.
[00:21:02.760 --> 00:21:03.960] Cooking's therapy for me too, man.
[00:21:04.040 --> 00:21:05.480] I love cooking for people.
[00:21:05.560 --> 00:21:06.420] I love cooking for, you know,
[00:21:06.420 --> 00:21:08.320] it's funny cause I don't cook as much for myself.
[00:21:09.400 --> 00:21:10.100] Same, yeah.
[00:21:10.420 --> 00:21:11.800] Yeah, like when my kids is around,
[00:21:12.240 --> 00:21:13.560] I'm Mr. Gourmet Chef.
[00:21:13.900 --> 00:21:14.260] You know what I mean?
[00:21:14.380 --> 00:21:15.800] When they not here with me, it's like,
[00:21:15.860 --> 00:21:17.160] I don't even, what am I gonna do with myself?
[00:21:17.480 --> 00:21:19.440] I got like all of a sudden I'm not a cook no more.
[00:21:21.040 --> 00:21:23.020] That's how I act sometimes anyway, not all the time.
[00:21:23.020 --> 00:21:23.440] Yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:21:23.460 --> 00:21:24.240] Sometimes I'll be cooking.
[00:21:24.880 --> 00:21:27.080] And then you kind of mentioned like the gray area
[00:21:27.080 --> 00:21:28.680] and then looking at your photography,
[00:21:30.240 --> 00:21:31.680] I know you guys like the black and white
[00:21:31.680 --> 00:21:32.580] with the color pop.
[00:21:33.720 --> 00:21:35.160] Like where do you get that style from?
[00:21:35.480 --> 00:21:36.440] Like how'd that come about?
[00:21:37.300 --> 00:21:40.940] My style, so I told you like the camera saved my life.
[00:21:41.080 --> 00:21:43.260] So a lot of the reason why I was shooting
[00:21:43.260 --> 00:21:44.600] was because I was in a dark place.
[00:21:45.220 --> 00:21:47.740] And so, I mean, even if you look at
[00:21:47.740 --> 00:21:49.380] some of my photography that I have up here
[00:21:49.380 --> 00:21:51.080] in the house, like it's dark.
[00:21:51.940 --> 00:21:57.040] Is that, and my base was always very cinematic, right?
[00:21:57.040 --> 00:21:58.780] Because I grew up going to the movies with my mom.
[00:21:58.860 --> 00:22:00.600] I feel like I've been training my eye my whole life.
[00:22:00.980 --> 00:22:02.260] And so I love movies.
[00:22:02.340 --> 00:22:05.060] And so my eye was always,
[00:22:05.220 --> 00:22:07.060] I wanted my edits to be dramatic.
[00:22:07.220 --> 00:22:08.280] I wanted everything to be dramatic.
[00:22:08.300 --> 00:22:09.260] And I was in a dark place
[00:22:09.260 --> 00:22:10.600] and I think I was just shooting for that.
[00:22:10.840 --> 00:22:13.280] But there was always a little bit of hope, right?
[00:22:13.780 --> 00:22:16.160] So for me, it was like, okay, well now,
[00:22:16.240 --> 00:22:17.840] but let me just show you this little piece.
[00:22:17.840 --> 00:22:19.680] Because even in all of this,
[00:22:20.320 --> 00:22:21.440] there's a little bit of hope.
[00:22:21.780 --> 00:22:23.980] And so that color was kind of like to signify
[00:22:23.980 --> 00:22:26.860] that little bit of hope that I had even in the drama.
[00:22:27.580 --> 00:22:29.400] There's a little something here.
[00:22:30.420 --> 00:22:33.040] And that's really how my style came about
[00:22:33.040 --> 00:22:34.740] because I even used to shoot everything
[00:22:34.740 --> 00:22:35.400] in black and white.
[00:22:35.720 --> 00:22:37.540] Like I would shoot in raw in black and white.
[00:22:37.580 --> 00:22:38.580] I didn't care about color.
[00:22:39.040 --> 00:22:41.300] Because for me, it was really all about the shadows,
[00:22:41.480 --> 00:22:42.560] the shadows and the depth.
[00:22:42.840 --> 00:22:43.960] I didn't care about anything else.
[00:22:44.300 --> 00:22:45.500] And I now shoot in color,
[00:22:46.220 --> 00:22:47.560] but when I was doing, yeah,
[00:22:47.680 --> 00:22:48.940] I mean, even when I was shooting for,
[00:22:48.960 --> 00:22:50.340] cause I shoot for Triumph Magazine too.
[00:22:50.440 --> 00:22:53.320] Even when I was shooting for them, like I still do.
[00:22:54.180 --> 00:22:55.020] Still do shoot for them.
[00:22:55.080 --> 00:22:56.120] I don't shoot in black and white anymore,
[00:22:56.120 --> 00:22:58.840] but I would shoot all the subjects in black and white.
[00:23:00.040 --> 00:23:02.400] And Craig will be like, hey man, is it gonna be color?
[00:23:02.460 --> 00:23:03.500] I'm like, no, it's color, trust me.
[00:23:03.700 --> 00:23:04.920] But I don't care about the color.
[00:23:05.100 --> 00:23:06.060] Like it's about the image.
[00:23:06.500 --> 00:23:07.820] It's about how the shadows hit.
[00:23:07.940 --> 00:23:08.920] It's about how that is.
[00:23:08.940 --> 00:23:10.120] That's how I know the image is good.
[00:23:10.200 --> 00:23:11.480] The color is gonna be the color,
[00:23:11.480 --> 00:23:12.740] no matter what you do.
[00:23:13.280 --> 00:23:16.920] So that's, yeah, the drama thing is what it is for me,
[00:23:16.940 --> 00:23:17.980] but I still love shooting like that.
[00:23:18.300 --> 00:23:19.080] That's my style.
[00:23:19.200 --> 00:23:20.420] I feel like that cinematic style.
[00:23:21.600 --> 00:23:22.500] And depending on the picture,
[00:23:22.800 --> 00:23:24.480] like I'll go into a picture knowing, okay,
[00:23:24.720 --> 00:23:25.680] I'll take the picture knowing,
[00:23:25.680 --> 00:23:26.420] looking at the subject like,
[00:23:26.580 --> 00:23:27.740] oh, I know what color I'm gonna pop.
[00:23:28.500 --> 00:23:30.260] And a lot of it started to become a game
[00:23:30.260 --> 00:23:33.060] to where it would get more and more subtle.
[00:23:34.140 --> 00:23:35.560] Like, you know, a lot of people will pop color.
[00:23:35.580 --> 00:23:36.720] I'm not the only one that's ever done that.
[00:23:36.840 --> 00:23:37.200] You know what I mean?
[00:23:37.200 --> 00:23:38.420] That's not my style.
[00:23:39.080 --> 00:23:40.140] A lot of people do it,
[00:23:40.160 --> 00:23:42.000] but it became a game for me now.
[00:23:42.000 --> 00:23:43.500] Even I'll do like little landscapes
[00:23:43.500 --> 00:23:45.140] and I'll have a pop of color in the landscape.
[00:23:45.220 --> 00:23:46.420] And if you're not looking at it hard enough,
[00:23:46.440 --> 00:23:48.060] you won't even catch it.
[00:23:48.140 --> 00:23:48.600] You know what I mean?
[00:23:48.660 --> 00:23:50.100] But it's something that I like to do.
[00:23:50.460 --> 00:23:51.140] Still do it.
[00:23:51.320 --> 00:23:53.140] I just made one the other day, matter of fact.
[00:23:53.660 --> 00:23:55.260] But it's just, you know.
[00:23:55.360 --> 00:23:55.660] Yeah.
[00:23:56.640 --> 00:23:57.180] So I would say,
[00:23:57.600 --> 00:24:00.760] who was your favorite person to capture at Triumph Magazine?
[00:24:01.960 --> 00:24:04.080] My favorite capture at Triumph, man.
[00:24:04.220 --> 00:24:04.920] That's a loaded,
[00:24:05.040 --> 00:24:06.160] cause it's been a few.
[00:24:06.900 --> 00:24:07.640] Or top three, top three.
[00:24:07.800 --> 00:24:08.540] Oh, man.
[00:24:09.940 --> 00:24:10.660] Let's see.
[00:24:13.340 --> 00:24:14.340] You know, one of my,
[00:24:14.380 --> 00:24:16.080] so I'll just go out to my favorite shoots.
[00:24:16.240 --> 00:24:18.700] One of my favorite shoots was,
[00:24:19.560 --> 00:24:23.900] one of my top shoots was definitely with Shannon,
[00:24:27.420 --> 00:24:28.680] Smith, and Jasmine.
[00:24:29.300 --> 00:24:30.480] They're both news anchors.
[00:24:30.480 --> 00:24:31.540] You know, city of Cleveland.
[00:24:32.960 --> 00:24:35.960] And that was a dope shoot because we,
[00:24:36.100 --> 00:24:37.400] you know, they came together.
[00:24:37.440 --> 00:24:38.720] It was just like a beautiful thing,
[00:24:38.800 --> 00:24:39.620] because a lot, you know,
[00:24:39.760 --> 00:24:40.940] we always selling that black folks
[00:24:40.940 --> 00:24:42.200] can't do nothing together, man.
[00:24:42.880 --> 00:24:45.240] And that it's always like a fight,
[00:24:45.320 --> 00:24:46.180] you know what I mean? Competition.
[00:24:46.620 --> 00:24:48.380] Competition between, nah, but these, you know,
[00:24:48.420 --> 00:24:49.800] these black women, both news anchors,
[00:24:49.800 --> 00:24:53.380] both came together and did a shoot on the same day, man.
[00:24:53.400 --> 00:24:54.580] And we just had a time.
[00:24:55.280 --> 00:24:55.780] You know what I'm saying?
[00:24:55.960 --> 00:24:57.700] It was a time, right?
[00:24:58.000 --> 00:24:59.580] That was definitely one of my favorite shoots.
[00:25:00.000 --> 00:25:00.820] Another one of my favorite shoots
[00:25:00.820 --> 00:25:02.240] is we did this summer issue.
[00:25:02.780 --> 00:25:03.560] And it was like a fold-out.
[00:25:03.660 --> 00:25:04.760] It was the only one he did like that.
[00:25:04.760 --> 00:25:05.780] It was like a fold-out issue.
[00:25:06.200 --> 00:25:07.520] But matter of fact, Maxwell shot something
[00:25:07.520 --> 00:25:09.140] for that issue too.
[00:25:09.140 --> 00:25:10.940] But it was a bunch of people from around the city.
[00:25:11.400 --> 00:25:13.840] And he just highlighted like a bunch of clothing brands,
[00:25:14.120 --> 00:25:16.820] a bunch of, just a bunch of different people
[00:25:16.820 --> 00:25:17.480] that were in the city.
[00:25:17.660 --> 00:25:20.200] I think that's how I met Mel, who was a model.
[00:25:20.380 --> 00:25:21.800] That's how I met Hell Vail,
[00:25:21.840 --> 00:25:23.620] who was a local rapper in the city.
[00:25:23.900 --> 00:25:26.080] That's how I found out about New Grind,
[00:25:27.640 --> 00:25:29.780] which is a clothing brand that's in the city.
[00:25:30.360 --> 00:25:33.460] It was just like a big up to a lot of creators
[00:25:33.460 --> 00:25:34.440] in the city.
[00:25:35.620 --> 00:25:37.080] Mike Mathis was a part of that.
[00:25:37.080 --> 00:25:39.340] And we actually shot him again by himself.
[00:25:39.960 --> 00:25:42.060] But this was like, that was one of my favorites too.
[00:25:42.260 --> 00:25:44.560] And then I've got a lot of favorites,
[00:25:44.780 --> 00:25:46.620] but you know the shoot that I really like,
[00:25:46.640 --> 00:25:48.420] the images that I really liked that I got from that
[00:25:49.740 --> 00:25:50.460] was Bashir.
[00:25:51.380 --> 00:25:51.920] Oh yeah.
[00:25:52.100 --> 00:25:53.540] I shot Bashir, man.
[00:25:54.560 --> 00:25:57.360] And like, you know, he's a fellow alpha too, man.
[00:25:57.720 --> 00:26:00.300] But it was, the images we got from that shoot
[00:26:00.300 --> 00:26:01.840] were just, you know, it was really,
[00:26:01.900 --> 00:26:03.400] I really felt like I was in my bag.
[00:26:03.880 --> 00:26:05.820] You know, kind of creating like a style
[00:26:05.820 --> 00:26:07.780] of how I wanted to shoot these editorial images.
[00:26:07.820 --> 00:26:08.920] Cause that's what I've gotten myself into.
[00:26:09.020 --> 00:26:10.700] It's like, I love that editorial style,
[00:26:11.400 --> 00:26:12.720] cinematic style of shooting.
[00:26:13.480 --> 00:26:15.840] And that was definitely one of my favorite shoots too, man.
[00:26:15.980 --> 00:26:18.480] But I've had a lot of them.
[00:26:20.140 --> 00:26:21.060] What's his name?
[00:26:21.760 --> 00:26:23.260] And it's Monte Gaddis, man.
[00:26:23.540 --> 00:26:25.960] I had a shoot with him, he does.
[00:26:26.880 --> 00:26:27.800] It's not rugby.
[00:26:27.940 --> 00:26:29.300] I came thinking of the sport,
[00:26:30.000 --> 00:26:31.700] but we did a shoot in his gym, man,
[00:26:31.800 --> 00:26:33.700] where he got some crazy dope images.
[00:26:34.200 --> 00:26:37.300] I just, I love shooting, man.
[00:26:37.660 --> 00:26:40.880] Like, I love those one-on-one type shoots.
[00:26:40.920 --> 00:26:42.580] That's why I don't really like doing parties
[00:26:42.580 --> 00:26:43.400] and stuff like that anymore.
[00:26:43.760 --> 00:26:44.880] I like the one-on-one experience
[00:26:44.880 --> 00:26:45.720] cause I like to get that.
[00:26:45.980 --> 00:26:46.920] I want your picture,
[00:26:47.040 --> 00:26:49.480] I want your image to be art when it's done.
[00:26:49.780 --> 00:26:50.960] That's like my whole aim.
[00:26:51.400 --> 00:26:52.440] Cause I want it to be something
[00:26:52.440 --> 00:26:53.300] you can put on your wall.
[00:26:53.540 --> 00:26:55.020] But it's also like just a portrait shoot.
[00:26:55.180 --> 00:26:57.920] Like I don't know, I just caught him outside.
[00:26:57.980 --> 00:26:59.120] That was outside the All-Star game.
[00:26:59.300 --> 00:27:00.400] Me and Master's coming out.
[00:27:00.540 --> 00:27:01.460] He's like, man, shoot my picture.
[00:27:02.660 --> 00:27:03.300] He ended up shooting it.
[00:27:03.300 --> 00:27:04.340] And now it's on my wall.
[00:27:04.880 --> 00:27:05.880] And like some of the cats that come in,
[00:27:05.980 --> 00:27:06.520] like they know him.
[00:27:06.680 --> 00:27:07.280] Like, you know him?
[00:27:07.400 --> 00:27:08.160] I'm like, no, I don't know him.
[00:27:08.220 --> 00:27:09.160] And I just shot it.
[00:27:09.820 --> 00:27:11.020] And it's, you know, it's dope.
[00:27:11.140 --> 00:27:13.960] It just represents what I love about Cleveland, man.
[00:27:13.960 --> 00:27:16.100] Like to me, that heat is Cleveland.
[00:27:16.860 --> 00:27:17.400] You know what I mean?
[00:27:17.520 --> 00:27:20.420] Just a cat just doing what he does
[00:27:20.420 --> 00:27:21.560] out there downtown.
[00:27:22.160 --> 00:27:22.980] Just being him, man.
[00:27:23.160 --> 00:27:24.860] Like that's, I mean, the same thing
[00:27:24.860 --> 00:27:26.560] with that one right there with the, you know,
[00:27:26.760 --> 00:27:28.500] with the bikes and a lot of the cats
[00:27:28.500 --> 00:27:29.100] that be in the hood.
[00:27:29.200 --> 00:27:30.360] I think I was doing what you did.
[00:27:30.380 --> 00:27:31.160] Yeah, well you doing that one?
[00:27:31.220 --> 00:27:31.880] Yeah, downtown.
[00:27:31.880 --> 00:27:35.020] Yeah, because we were shooting Lady Poet.
[00:27:35.500 --> 00:27:36.860] Yeah, and they just happened to be out there.
[00:27:37.160 --> 00:27:38.240] Dono Black, because he'd be out there
[00:27:38.240 --> 00:27:39.840] with the kids on the bikes all the time.
[00:27:39.900 --> 00:27:41.920] Shout out to him too, because he's one of the,
[00:27:41.920 --> 00:27:44.580] he's one of the guys that inspired me
[00:27:44.580 --> 00:27:45.460] when I first got to Cleveland.
[00:27:45.840 --> 00:27:47.220] Just seeing what he does around the city.
[00:27:47.360 --> 00:27:48.560] But yeah, he was out with them, man.
[00:27:48.580 --> 00:27:51.160] We just turned to the side and just, man.
[00:27:51.980 --> 00:27:52.260] You know what I mean?
[00:27:52.360 --> 00:27:53.360] That's why you were out there.
[00:27:53.440 --> 00:27:54.220] That's crazy.
[00:27:54.480 --> 00:27:55.340] That's crazy, man.
[00:27:55.340 --> 00:27:57.620] I was like four years ago,
[00:27:58.340 --> 00:27:59.840] or maybe four and a half years ago.
[00:28:00.420 --> 00:28:03.720] I've been out, come August, I'll be out here seven years.
[00:28:04.060 --> 00:28:05.480] Yeah, so I was like four or five years ago,
[00:28:05.600 --> 00:28:06.060] something like that.
[00:28:06.300 --> 00:28:06.620] Maybe five.
[00:28:06.960 --> 00:28:07.700] Four and a half.
[00:28:07.760 --> 00:28:08.700] Yeah, something like that.
[00:28:08.780 --> 00:28:09.520] Say four and a half.
[00:28:09.760 --> 00:28:10.820] Say, yeah, something like that.
[00:28:10.840 --> 00:28:11.700] Cut it in the middle.
[00:28:13.560 --> 00:28:15.740] Yeah, that's definitely amazing, like, why?
[00:28:16.840 --> 00:28:19.080] And definitely got that talent that I,
[00:28:19.080 --> 00:28:21.700] like you said, like, one of my favorite pictures,
[00:28:21.760 --> 00:28:23.680] I think I was seeing was, what was it?
[00:28:23.820 --> 00:28:26.040] Rock, paper, scissors, or rock, paper, cigars.
[00:28:26.060 --> 00:28:27.720] Oh yeah, yeah.
[00:28:28.560 --> 00:28:30.980] So that's my guy right there, man.
[00:28:31.180 --> 00:28:32.760] Bake, my man Bake, man.
[00:28:33.240 --> 00:28:34.560] He, yeah, shout out to my favorite cigars.
[00:28:34.720 --> 00:28:37.380] Yeah, so we used to work together, matter of fact.
[00:28:38.760 --> 00:28:40.360] And he ended up telling me,
[00:28:40.360 --> 00:28:40.960] he ended up telling me,
[00:28:41.000 --> 00:28:42.220] yeah, man, I'm about to start this business.
[00:28:42.500 --> 00:28:43.980] And at the time I was like,
[00:28:44.000 --> 00:28:45.100] well, let me come down and like,
[00:28:45.140 --> 00:28:45.780] give you some images.
[00:28:46.160 --> 00:28:47.720] You talking about the one where he's cutting a cigar?
[00:28:48.040 --> 00:28:49.560] No, that's one of my favorite images.
[00:28:49.580 --> 00:28:50.740] Yeah, I think he had another one.
[00:28:50.880 --> 00:28:51.860] I think he was like seated.
[00:28:53.280 --> 00:28:53.880] I got a few.
[00:28:54.000 --> 00:28:55.120] I got him with some of him rolling.
[00:28:55.440 --> 00:28:57.320] I got, yeah, I got a few of him.
[00:28:57.860 --> 00:28:59.260] That I've posted before,
[00:29:00.000 --> 00:29:01.820] but I don't think a lot of them,
[00:29:02.480 --> 00:29:03.780] a lot of them I haven't really put out there,
[00:29:03.780 --> 00:29:06.340] but yeah, oh man, those are some of my favorite images.
[00:29:06.400 --> 00:29:08.280] Man, I love doing that, man.
[00:29:08.460 --> 00:29:09.560] That's my guy too, man.
[00:29:09.680 --> 00:29:11.680] We still talk, I just talked to him about a week ago.
[00:29:11.940 --> 00:29:13.620] Yeah, he's still rolling cigars,
[00:29:13.620 --> 00:29:14.460] still doing his thing.
[00:29:14.560 --> 00:29:16.580] I'm real Cubans, rolled by a black man.
[00:29:16.600 --> 00:29:18.520] I love it, I love it.
[00:29:19.220 --> 00:29:19.780] Man. Yeah.
[00:29:20.360 --> 00:29:22.380] I never had a cigar, but man, that's-
[00:29:22.380 --> 00:29:22.840] Oh, no?
[00:29:22.920 --> 00:29:25.680] All the accomplishments, I may have to pick one up.
[00:29:25.680 --> 00:29:27.520] So 35th, maybe, on me.
[00:29:27.620 --> 00:29:29.260] Hey, that might not be a bad time.
[00:29:30.000 --> 00:29:31.420] I used to like cigars,
[00:29:31.600 --> 00:29:33.700] but now, man, ever since the health issues,
[00:29:33.800 --> 00:29:35.000] the blood clot issues, man,
[00:29:35.000 --> 00:29:36.820] I don't put nothing in my lungs no more, man.
[00:29:36.980 --> 00:29:38.040] Nothing at all, man.
[00:29:38.160 --> 00:29:39.980] So I stopped all of that.
[00:29:40.940 --> 00:29:43.280] I used to smoke weed and all that good stuff, man,
[00:29:43.300 --> 00:29:44.360] but yeah, I was like, nope.
[00:29:45.020 --> 00:29:46.340] I say all that good stuff like it's good.
[00:29:46.460 --> 00:29:47.660] None of that's a good thing.
[00:29:48.000 --> 00:29:48.860] It's not a good thing.
[00:29:49.100 --> 00:29:50.420] But it's something that I did.
[00:29:50.600 --> 00:29:51.240] Let me just say that.
[00:29:51.400 --> 00:29:52.720] I'm not out here promoting nothing.
[00:29:53.380 --> 00:29:54.320] People do what they do.
[00:29:54.320 --> 00:29:56.940] I did what I did, but I just don't anymore, but yeah.
[00:29:58.380 --> 00:30:00.960] That's good, though, that's good, you know?
[00:30:01.860 --> 00:30:03.940] It's therapeutic and healing and refreshing.
[00:30:05.360 --> 00:30:06.400] Indeed, indeed.
[00:30:07.200 --> 00:30:09.620] So I would say you kind of scaled back
[00:30:09.620 --> 00:30:11.940] from the business just a little bit.
[00:30:13.020 --> 00:30:14.700] When you were in business,
[00:30:14.940 --> 00:30:16.620] what was that process like,
[00:30:16.660 --> 00:30:17.960] especially in the beginning stages?
[00:30:18.260 --> 00:30:19.200] Oh, man, rough.
[00:30:19.980 --> 00:30:22.700] It was rough because you don't-
[00:30:22.700 --> 00:30:23.560] I'm not a businessman.
[00:30:24.940 --> 00:30:26.980] And some people are business-minded like that.
[00:30:27.200 --> 00:30:29.120] I'm still not business-minded like that.
[00:30:30.300 --> 00:30:31.360] I'm just not.
[00:30:31.480 --> 00:30:33.280] It's always been about the art for me.
[00:30:33.740 --> 00:30:34.820] And so it was hard.
[00:30:35.400 --> 00:30:36.780] It was really hard understanding,
[00:30:37.100 --> 00:30:38.720] okay, this money is business money
[00:30:38.720 --> 00:30:40.200] and this money is personal money.
[00:30:40.620 --> 00:30:41.620] And not, I would just-
[00:30:41.620 --> 00:30:42.340] It's all my money.
[00:30:42.420 --> 00:30:44.340] Yeah, it's just all me.
[00:30:44.440 --> 00:30:45.060] I made it.
[00:30:45.240 --> 00:30:46.140] Yeah, we know what I mean.
[00:30:46.300 --> 00:30:50.340] And so I would not, I mean, even to this day,
[00:30:50.340 --> 00:30:53.220] I still have back taxes that I have to file on myself.
[00:30:53.380 --> 00:30:54.520] I'm fully transparent, man.
[00:30:54.520 --> 00:30:55.620] I'm not scared to talk about that kind of stuff.
[00:30:57.300 --> 00:30:58.860] I'm not business-minded.
[00:30:58.980 --> 00:31:00.880] I wasn't business-minded enough up front.
[00:31:01.760 --> 00:31:03.820] And I was, and then being too nice,
[00:31:03.860 --> 00:31:05.720] being too kind, I wouldn't say nice,
[00:31:05.800 --> 00:31:08.120] but being just trying to be too kind and trying to-
[00:31:08.120 --> 00:31:10.180] You gotta know when you're done
[00:31:10.180 --> 00:31:10.940] getting your name out there
[00:31:10.940 --> 00:31:12.360] and when it's time to just start charging.
[00:31:13.460 --> 00:31:15.060] Because people that understand
[00:31:15.600 --> 00:31:18.740] and appreciate your talent and your expertise
[00:31:18.740 --> 00:31:19.700] will pay you for it.
[00:31:19.700 --> 00:31:20.520] That's true.
[00:31:20.940 --> 00:31:22.440] But that's a hard thing to know.
[00:31:22.800 --> 00:31:23.580] No one knows it.
[00:31:23.660 --> 00:31:24.940] No one knows what to charge at first.
[00:31:25.080 --> 00:31:27.000] Knowing what to charge is the hardest thing in the world.
[00:31:27.500 --> 00:31:27.700] You know what I mean?
[00:31:27.720 --> 00:31:28.580] When you're first getting started,
[00:31:28.980 --> 00:31:30.480] you're not trying to be too low
[00:31:31.240 --> 00:31:33.740] because you don't want to disrespect the industry,
[00:31:33.800 --> 00:31:35.080] but you're not trying to go too high
[00:31:35.080 --> 00:31:37.540] because you don't feel like you have enough expertise.
[00:31:38.520 --> 00:31:40.900] Like I always tell people that you charge
[00:31:40.900 --> 00:31:42.320] just a little bit.
[00:31:42.580 --> 00:31:46.900] You go to that level where it feels like uncomfortable
[00:31:47.320 --> 00:31:49.080] and take a tiny step back from that.
[00:31:49.080 --> 00:31:50.860] It shouldn't feel all the way comfortable.
[00:31:52.540 --> 00:31:54.680] It shouldn't feel like, I don't know.
[00:31:55.480 --> 00:31:56.820] Then you know you're charging the right amount.
[00:31:57.380 --> 00:31:58.440] And I heard something good.
[00:31:58.560 --> 00:32:00.240] You should be closing four out of 10.
[00:32:00.480 --> 00:32:02.480] If you're closing six out of 10, you're too cheap.
[00:32:03.200 --> 00:32:04.120] You're not charging enough.
[00:32:04.280 --> 00:32:04.940] I shouldn't say cheap.
[00:32:05.140 --> 00:32:05.800] You're not charging enough.
[00:32:05.900 --> 00:32:06.800] If you're closing six out of 10,
[00:32:06.820 --> 00:32:07.560] you're not charging enough.
[00:32:07.960 --> 00:32:09.640] You should only really be closing four out of 10.
[00:32:10.380 --> 00:32:11.140] When you get to that level
[00:32:11.140 --> 00:32:12.880] where you know what you're doing,
[00:32:13.160 --> 00:32:14.280] but you don't know what to charge.
[00:32:14.800 --> 00:32:15.900] Four out of 10 should be your number.
[00:32:16.400 --> 00:32:19.400] 40% of the people that call you
[00:32:19.400 --> 00:32:20.700] should only be the ones paying
[00:32:20.700 --> 00:32:23.020] what you're charging.
[00:32:24.080 --> 00:32:25.680] Because if not, if you're closing more than that,
[00:32:25.900 --> 00:32:27.200] everybody's like, oh yeah, well come on.
[00:32:28.180 --> 00:32:30.640] Because you start realizing, okay, I'm not charging enough.
[00:32:30.940 --> 00:32:32.120] Right, you get burnt out.
[00:32:32.320 --> 00:32:33.680] Yeah, you get burnt out doing stuff
[00:32:33.680 --> 00:32:34.960] and that happened to me, man.
[00:32:35.220 --> 00:32:37.140] And then I'm saying yes to everything
[00:32:37.560 --> 00:32:39.080] that I didn't want to say yes to.
[00:32:39.280 --> 00:32:42.380] And that's why now when I was able
[00:32:42.380 --> 00:32:44.020] to get into the teacher side of stuff
[00:32:44.020 --> 00:32:46.060] and I was able to get a part-time job
[00:32:46.060 --> 00:32:46.900] and some health insurance.
[00:32:47.360 --> 00:32:49.200] And another thing about being an entrepreneur
[00:32:49.200 --> 00:32:50.400] is health insurance, man.
[00:32:50.480 --> 00:32:53.680] It's like you have to say to yourself,
[00:32:53.900 --> 00:32:55.900] I was young at first doing it when I first started.
[00:32:55.920 --> 00:32:56.900] Now it's like I'm getting older.
[00:32:56.940 --> 00:32:58.000] I'm having some health issues.
[00:32:58.520 --> 00:32:59.360] I need health insurance.
[00:32:59.580 --> 00:33:01.180] So now that's taking a chunk out of what I'm making.
[00:33:01.720 --> 00:33:03.020] And I got to pay for all these things.
[00:33:03.200 --> 00:33:04.120] I got to pay for my kids.
[00:33:04.200 --> 00:33:04.820] I got to pay for the mortgage.
[00:33:04.920 --> 00:33:05.220] I got to pay.
[00:33:05.360 --> 00:33:08.280] So you have to make some sacrifices, man.
[00:33:08.280 --> 00:33:10.000] And you have to really say to yourself,
[00:33:10.180 --> 00:33:11.100] do I really want to keep grinding?
[00:33:11.140 --> 00:33:13.000] Because there was times, dog, where it was bad.
[00:33:13.640 --> 00:33:17.240] I've had months where I made 15 grand,
[00:33:17.480 --> 00:33:19.520] but then I have months where I don't make anything.
[00:33:20.540 --> 00:33:24.500] And so it's one of those sine waves that is hard.
[00:33:24.840 --> 00:33:27.920] It's really, really hard to wrap your head around
[00:33:28.340 --> 00:33:30.020] because you feel real good in those months.
[00:33:30.280 --> 00:33:31.460] And then if you spend too much
[00:33:31.460 --> 00:33:32.520] and realize the next couple of months
[00:33:32.520 --> 00:33:33.780] when you don't do as much revenue,
[00:33:33.900 --> 00:33:36.680] now you're like, oh, what am I going to do?
[00:33:38.060 --> 00:33:39.600] So it's a grind, man.
[00:33:40.260 --> 00:33:41.880] It's not everybody's built for it.
[00:33:41.880 --> 00:33:43.820] And I'm starting to realize that
[00:33:43.820 --> 00:33:46.440] I didn't want to do it as much anymore.
[00:33:46.520 --> 00:33:49.700] So now I've just, I've come back into a niche
[00:33:50.270 --> 00:33:53.560] to where I'm like, okay, this is what I'm more so doing.
[00:33:53.580 --> 00:33:56.500] Like the one-on-one type shoots, small family shoots,
[00:33:57.400 --> 00:33:59.260] the one-on-one, I still shoot for the magazine.
[00:33:59.380 --> 00:34:00.500] That's what I want to be doing.
[00:34:01.060 --> 00:34:03.200] I do weddings with my partner.
[00:34:03.760 --> 00:34:06.220] I shout out to Brian Smith, Brian K. Smith,
[00:34:08.040 --> 00:34:08.960] artisan, artisan?
[00:34:09.500 --> 00:34:10.739] Artisan. Artisan.
[00:34:10.739 --> 00:34:13.760] But he like gonna laugh and be like, damn, this.
[00:34:15.400 --> 00:34:17.600] But I do it with him, you know,
[00:34:17.600 --> 00:34:19.360] because I don't mind being the second shooter.
[00:34:19.360 --> 00:34:20.120] He knows, he's like,
[00:34:20.120 --> 00:34:21.500] I don't like being the first shooter for weddings.
[00:34:21.540 --> 00:34:22.699] I do videos for weddings.
[00:34:22.780 --> 00:34:23.760] I love doing video.
[00:34:24.340 --> 00:34:25.900] Or like just being the shooter for events.
[00:34:26.460 --> 00:34:28.960] I just, I don't like it as much anymore.
[00:34:29.120 --> 00:34:29.840] I'm good at it.
[00:34:30.179 --> 00:34:31.159] Still good at it.
[00:34:31.159 --> 00:34:32.420] Just don't like it.
[00:34:32.560 --> 00:34:34.679] And I had to be honest with myself about that.
[00:34:34.699 --> 00:34:36.280] So that's why I've dialed back from doing it.
[00:34:36.280 --> 00:34:38.179] People ask me, I'm like, eh, no, not really.
[00:34:38.179 --> 00:34:40.620] I try to give it to somebody else that wants to do it.
[00:34:40.920 --> 00:34:41.980] You know, I'm not, it's not my thing.
[00:34:42.219 --> 00:34:45.260] Maxwell, great at it.
[00:34:45.380 --> 00:34:46.100] Shout out LifeScapes.
[00:34:46.340 --> 00:34:46.980] Great at it.
[00:34:47.000 --> 00:34:48.020] Yeah, I've seen his growth, yeah.
[00:34:48.280 --> 00:34:49.040] Yeah, man.
[00:34:49.179 --> 00:34:50.520] Like he's great at doing events.
[00:34:50.760 --> 00:34:51.320] Like that's his thing.
[00:34:52.540 --> 00:34:53.620] I'm not that.
[00:34:54.000 --> 00:34:54.620] You know what I mean?
[00:34:55.139 --> 00:34:57.160] So it's learning your lane is one thing
[00:34:57.160 --> 00:34:58.180] that I've gotten into.
[00:34:58.360 --> 00:35:00.060] You know, going, it's been nine years.
[00:35:00.100 --> 00:35:01.200] Now I know my lane.
[00:35:02.740 --> 00:35:04.540] Like unequivocally know where I want to be
[00:35:04.540 --> 00:35:05.680] with how I shoot photography.
[00:35:06.160 --> 00:35:06.520] Yeah.
[00:35:07.160 --> 00:35:10.620] And I know we kind of didn't speak on the video side.
[00:35:11.620 --> 00:35:12.720] What would you say is your favorite?
[00:35:12.860 --> 00:35:14.240] More photography or video?
[00:35:15.800 --> 00:35:16.720] I don't have a favorite.
[00:35:17.880 --> 00:35:18.420] I don't.
[00:35:18.860 --> 00:35:20.360] I love the visuals.
[00:35:20.760 --> 00:35:22.160] It just depends on what I'm doing.
[00:35:22.580 --> 00:35:23.280] I like them both.
[00:35:23.920 --> 00:35:25.140] I really, really do.
[00:35:25.360 --> 00:35:27.000] Like I really enjoy doing both.
[00:35:27.080 --> 00:35:28.160] It just depends on what I'm doing.
[00:35:28.960 --> 00:35:32.200] I really, my goal is to shoot like a full length movie.
[00:35:32.620 --> 00:35:34.260] That's why, that's my ultimate goal
[00:35:34.260 --> 00:35:35.340] is to get into that.
[00:35:35.340 --> 00:35:36.200] Shoot full length movie.
[00:35:36.260 --> 00:35:39.100] I don't think I'll ever put down shooting photography.
[00:35:40.820 --> 00:35:43.080] Cause the joy I have of going out,
[00:35:43.180 --> 00:35:44.540] getting the shot done and getting that shot
[00:35:44.540 --> 00:35:46.280] and just being really excited about it.
[00:35:46.280 --> 00:35:48.060] That doesn't go anywhere, man.
[00:35:48.420 --> 00:35:50.340] Like I just, you started talking about the Triumph shoots.
[00:35:50.420 --> 00:35:53.900] That makes me happy because those shoots are like,
[00:35:53.900 --> 00:35:55.460] that's when I'm in my bag, man.
[00:35:55.460 --> 00:35:57.480] I get into a groove and I'm able to,
[00:35:57.840 --> 00:35:58.720] there's no time limit.
[00:35:58.880 --> 00:35:59.780] There's no, you know what I mean?
[00:35:59.800 --> 00:36:02.460] We're just shooting, trying to get a good shot.
[00:36:02.460 --> 00:36:06.940] And then the thought process of getting to that shot,
[00:36:07.500 --> 00:36:08.440] like knowing who we're shooting
[00:36:08.440 --> 00:36:09.900] and then being like, okay,
[00:36:10.180 --> 00:36:11.640] people in the scene, wherever we're at
[00:36:11.640 --> 00:36:13.440] and being like, okay, this is the shot we want.
[00:36:14.400 --> 00:36:15.940] Like getting these shots out of my head
[00:36:15.940 --> 00:36:17.380] is like one of those things.
[00:36:17.520 --> 00:36:19.040] It's one of those things I did when I first got here.
[00:36:19.200 --> 00:36:20.900] It's like, I did certain shots that I was like,
[00:36:20.900 --> 00:36:23.200] oh, I gotta get that shot, get it out of my head.
[00:36:23.640 --> 00:36:24.760] I think I got one up here.
[00:36:24.820 --> 00:36:25.700] No, it's not that one.
[00:36:26.120 --> 00:36:31.020] There's one, there was an abandoned church on 93rd.
[00:36:31.020 --> 00:36:32.840] It was 93rd that I went to.
[00:36:32.980 --> 00:36:33.820] Like certain shots in my head,
[00:36:33.860 --> 00:36:35.300] like I always wanted to get certain shots like that.
[00:36:35.380 --> 00:36:36.480] It was the shot on Forest Hills.
[00:36:37.020 --> 00:36:38.160] When I first got here and moved up here,
[00:36:38.220 --> 00:36:39.660] I'm like, oh, that bridge that goes across
[00:36:39.660 --> 00:36:41.120] Forest Hills as you're going up,
[00:36:41.160 --> 00:36:43.560] as you're going up, what's that?
[00:36:43.560 --> 00:36:43.880] Lee?
[00:36:44.360 --> 00:36:45.180] It's not Lee.
[00:36:47.440 --> 00:36:48.860] It's, it's the one down,
[00:36:49.020 --> 00:36:50.380] ooh, what is the name of that street?
[00:36:50.500 --> 00:36:51.140] I can't think of it.
[00:36:51.360 --> 00:36:52.580] Lee, Forest, Forest Hills.
[00:36:52.660 --> 00:36:54.140] It is probably, I think it is Forest Hills Drive.
[00:36:54.900 --> 00:36:56.260] Yeah, it is Forest Hills anyway, but that-
[00:36:56.260 --> 00:36:56.820] Because of Lee and then-
[00:36:56.820 --> 00:36:58.060] Yeah, then Forest Hills, yeah.
[00:36:58.300 --> 00:36:59.920] But that bridge that goes across.
[00:36:59.920 --> 00:37:02.120] The first fall I was here and I seen that bridge,
[00:37:02.260 --> 00:37:03.440] I was like, ooh, I gotta get that shot.
[00:37:04.060 --> 00:37:05.180] I told Jones that.
[00:37:06.660 --> 00:37:08.220] And thank God, my man Jones,
[00:37:08.280 --> 00:37:09.460] shout out to him man, too.
[00:37:10.860 --> 00:37:13.240] Like this doesn't happen without people around me.
[00:37:13.540 --> 00:37:15.520] Like this is how I met you, shooting, right?
[00:37:15.700 --> 00:37:15.980] Right.
[00:37:17.180 --> 00:37:18.600] This is what I'm talking about.
[00:37:18.820 --> 00:37:20.180] Like the building of the community,
[00:37:20.340 --> 00:37:23.260] the artistic community is what it's all about
[00:37:23.260 --> 00:37:25.520] and what makes the juices flow.
[00:37:25.920 --> 00:37:26.900] Cause when you get around other people
[00:37:26.900 --> 00:37:28.200] and start shooting, man, it makes it,
[00:37:28.200 --> 00:37:29.480] it makes it that much more fun.
[00:37:29.940 --> 00:37:31.680] It makes you be able to,
[00:37:31.760 --> 00:37:33.000] it brings out the best in everybody.
[00:37:33.800 --> 00:37:34.980] Cause now everybody is, everybody,
[00:37:35.440 --> 00:37:36.340] we're all in the same place,
[00:37:36.360 --> 00:37:37.520] we're all getting different shots.
[00:37:37.740 --> 00:37:38.100] Right.
[00:37:38.120 --> 00:37:39.720] And we're all excited about each other's shots.
[00:37:39.980 --> 00:37:42.140] Like it's that, that's a real thing for me, man.
[00:37:42.220 --> 00:37:46.360] Like I think that, and I haven't done that in a minute,
[00:37:46.760 --> 00:37:48.160] like going out and doing a photo,
[00:37:48.180 --> 00:37:50.040] a photo like a city scene like we were doing before.
[00:37:50.120 --> 00:37:51.200] Like we need to do that again.
[00:37:51.620 --> 00:37:53.340] Cause I need that back.
[00:37:53.360 --> 00:37:54.200] I need that feeling again.
[00:37:54.400 --> 00:37:56.220] It's been over a year since we done one of those.
[00:37:56.600 --> 00:37:59.480] I would say, speaking of like that,
[00:37:59.580 --> 00:38:01.940] Photobox, any programs coming up?
[00:38:02.920 --> 00:38:05.280] Yeah, we're doing a project, Shifting Energy,
[00:38:05.780 --> 00:38:07.680] which I'm a part of.
[00:38:07.800 --> 00:38:09.280] I'm actually one of the main facilitators for.
[00:38:09.440 --> 00:38:12.400] So I'm doing, I'm doing, teaching photography,
[00:38:12.560 --> 00:38:13.640] teaching healing through photography.
[00:38:14.220 --> 00:38:16.660] And we're basically using the camera
[00:38:16.660 --> 00:38:18.960] to teach our community that you can,
[00:38:18.960 --> 00:38:21.000] you can use this as a healing mechanism.
[00:38:21.780 --> 00:38:22.640] Art can be healing.
[00:38:23.040 --> 00:38:23.920] Like, you know, whatever it is,
[00:38:24.000 --> 00:38:26.080] whatever mental history you have going on,
[00:38:26.080 --> 00:38:27.560] this can be it for you.
[00:38:27.680 --> 00:38:29.880] And showing them how, you know, how,
[00:38:29.920 --> 00:38:31.960] how to look at it in a different way, I guess,
[00:38:32.820 --> 00:38:33.620] is how I sing.
[00:38:33.660 --> 00:38:35.980] We also have creative writing that's going along
[00:38:35.980 --> 00:38:37.740] with that, that's being taught by,
[00:38:38.320 --> 00:38:39.740] what is Keisha's last name?
[00:38:39.800 --> 00:38:40.800] She is a dope poet.
[00:38:41.180 --> 00:38:41.840] Keisha Foster.
[00:38:42.260 --> 00:38:42.660] Yes.
[00:38:43.080 --> 00:38:43.980] Yes, yes, yes.
[00:38:44.200 --> 00:38:44.980] Yeah, you already know.
[00:38:45.220 --> 00:38:46.140] Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:38:46.500 --> 00:38:47.120] Been around.
[00:38:47.160 --> 00:38:50.060] Yeah, cause you've been in these streets, baby.
[00:38:50.380 --> 00:38:51.180] You've been in these streets.
[00:38:51.900 --> 00:38:53.180] But yeah, so she's doing the creative,
[00:38:53.260 --> 00:38:54.820] she's doing the writing side of it.
[00:38:54.820 --> 00:38:57.200] So us together, we're doing, we're doing this.
[00:38:57.580 --> 00:38:58.860] So, you know, people that's coming out.
[00:38:59.300 --> 00:39:00.920] It's strictly for the Mount Pleasant area.
[00:39:01.420 --> 00:39:03.100] And it's free, completely free,
[00:39:03.100 --> 00:39:05.980] six week program, once every Saturday, 11,
[00:39:07.140 --> 00:39:12.000] 11.30 to two, I believe, at a Harvey Rice library.
[00:39:13.000 --> 00:39:15.180] Yeah, everybody that comes out gets a free camera
[00:39:16.920 --> 00:39:18.400] and some free healing.
[00:39:18.860 --> 00:39:19.440] You know what I mean?
[00:39:19.600 --> 00:39:21.640] Like, we have some people from the community
[00:39:21.640 --> 00:39:24.200] coming out that are going to be taking blood pressure
[00:39:24.200 --> 00:39:26.040] and taking vitals.
[00:39:26.500 --> 00:39:28.980] And we have somebody that's going to be,
[00:39:28.980 --> 00:39:30.600] Brother Sincere is going to be coming out
[00:39:30.600 --> 00:39:32.300] at the very beginning of every session
[00:39:32.300 --> 00:39:35.000] and doing a meditation and a grounding
[00:39:35.540 --> 00:39:37.240] to get everybody in that mindset.
[00:39:37.540 --> 00:39:40.420] So like the whole idea behind it is like arts is healing
[00:39:40.420 --> 00:39:41.880] and being healing to community.
[00:39:42.380 --> 00:39:44.360] And actually, like I said, getting real numbers,
[00:39:44.520 --> 00:39:46.180] blood pressure numbers, you know,
[00:39:46.180 --> 00:39:47.400] and making sure that people understand
[00:39:47.400 --> 00:39:48.600] that their health is wealth.
[00:39:49.380 --> 00:39:50.460] Like health is important.
[00:39:50.920 --> 00:39:52.920] And so we're going to have food
[00:39:52.920 --> 00:39:55.060] and the food is going to be designed
[00:39:55.060 --> 00:39:56.780] to be on the healthier side.
[00:39:57.380 --> 00:39:59.600] I'm not exactly sure what the menu is just yet.
[00:39:59.900 --> 00:40:01.200] But Brother Sincere is also a vegan.
[00:40:01.500 --> 00:40:04.060] So we're probably going to try to slide in some vegan stuff.
[00:40:04.120 --> 00:40:05.820] You know, it's hard with our community sometimes,
[00:40:06.320 --> 00:40:07.440] slide that vegan stuff in there.
[00:40:07.460 --> 00:40:09.220] But when you start realizing how good it can be.
[00:40:09.420 --> 00:40:10.440] Oh yeah, it's real good, yeah.
[00:40:10.700 --> 00:40:11.500] Let me get some of that.
[00:40:12.180 --> 00:40:12.660] Let me get some of that.
[00:40:12.680 --> 00:40:13.860] You know, I was vegan for six years.
[00:40:13.980 --> 00:40:16.320] I'm not anymore, but I can eat vegan in a minute.
[00:40:16.640 --> 00:40:17.020] Oh yeah.
[00:40:17.020 --> 00:40:17.780] It's not hard.
[00:40:18.360 --> 00:40:19.000] I prefer it.
[00:40:19.000 --> 00:40:21.100] But like you say, I've been for a few years
[00:40:21.100 --> 00:40:23.960] and I kind of cut back and being around family,
[00:40:24.100 --> 00:40:25.720] you know, old tradition meals.
[00:40:26.480 --> 00:40:26.500] Yeah.
[00:40:28.200 --> 00:40:29.820] So I converted back.
[00:40:30.040 --> 00:40:30.660] Yeah, man.
[00:40:30.980 --> 00:40:32.360] Yeah, I ain't going to hold you.
[00:40:32.680 --> 00:40:33.940] I have to, man.
[00:40:34.140 --> 00:40:36.220] But you know, I definitely,
[00:40:36.400 --> 00:40:39.440] I definitely, it's easier for me to not eat it now.
[00:40:40.080 --> 00:40:41.600] You know, it used to be like I have to have it.
[00:40:41.700 --> 00:40:42.840] Now I'm like, man, it's easier for me
[00:40:42.840 --> 00:40:44.300] to have to make a meal without meat in it.
[00:40:44.400 --> 00:40:44.720] Oh yeah.
[00:40:44.820 --> 00:40:46.040] It's just, it's real easy.
[00:40:46.420 --> 00:40:47.600] And I do it and enjoy it.
[00:40:47.780 --> 00:40:50.900] Yeah, I still don't like traditionally buy meat.
[00:40:50.900 --> 00:40:53.340] Like if I'm out at a restaurant or, you know,
[00:40:53.460 --> 00:40:56.980] family cook, you know I eat it, but I still don't buy it.
[00:40:57.000 --> 00:40:57.820] You still don't buy it?
[00:40:57.880 --> 00:40:59.260] I still, I never bought a,
[00:40:59.260 --> 00:40:59.840] I don't think I,
[00:41:00.420 --> 00:41:03.080] last time I bought a pack of meat was
[00:41:03.080 --> 00:41:06.180] ribeye steak and I was 19.
[00:41:06.660 --> 00:41:07.060] Wow.
[00:41:07.820 --> 00:41:08.220] Wow.
[00:41:08.260 --> 00:41:08.660] Okay.
[00:41:09.200 --> 00:41:11.220] I can't say the same thing with myself, man.
[00:41:12.380 --> 00:41:13.780] The kids will eat it, man.
[00:41:13.840 --> 00:41:15.420] So I'll definitely buy the meats,
[00:41:16.040 --> 00:41:17.560] but I'm definitely trying to,
[00:41:17.560 --> 00:41:18.760] I try to be a little bit more cautious
[00:41:18.760 --> 00:41:20.520] of where I get my meats from.
[00:41:21.300 --> 00:41:25.800] I'd rather get it from better places than the normal.
[00:41:25.940 --> 00:41:28.020] You know, the best place to get it is like from a farm,
[00:41:28.180 --> 00:41:28.640] obviously.
[00:41:29.160 --> 00:41:30.220] If you're going to eat meat,
[00:41:30.920 --> 00:41:32.240] like the closer to the farm the better,
[00:41:32.780 --> 00:41:33.700] but that's not realistic.
[00:41:34.520 --> 00:41:34.720] You know?
[00:41:34.780 --> 00:41:35.500] That's true.
[00:41:35.700 --> 00:41:39.760] Like even with produce, like it's a lot of GMO
[00:41:39.760 --> 00:41:42.300] and going back to the healing,
[00:41:42.340 --> 00:41:43.340] like it affects your brains,
[00:41:43.460 --> 00:41:45.060] the things you eat affects your brain.
[00:41:45.620 --> 00:41:47.920] Like I even see the program
[00:41:49.080 --> 00:41:52.460] being tailored to patients
[00:41:52.460 --> 00:41:54.320] that's like fresh out the hospital.
[00:41:54.360 --> 00:41:54.760] Yes.
[00:41:55.000 --> 00:41:58.540] And need that, almost like that extra confidence.
[00:41:58.760 --> 00:41:59.940] Cause like when you had that confidence
[00:41:59.940 --> 00:42:01.340] and that love around you,
[00:42:01.520 --> 00:42:02.980] like the healing accelerates.
[00:42:03.380 --> 00:42:04.080] Now that's real.
[00:42:04.600 --> 00:42:05.180] That's real.
[00:42:05.400 --> 00:42:06.620] That's when the community comes in.
[00:42:06.660 --> 00:42:07.260] Now you right, man.
[00:42:07.420 --> 00:42:07.840] That's true.
[00:42:08.320 --> 00:42:09.080] Yeah, I'm going to have to take,
[00:42:09.280 --> 00:42:10.520] that's, I'm using that, brother.
[00:42:10.720 --> 00:42:11.060] Oh yeah.
[00:42:11.120 --> 00:42:12.340] Yeah, that's because you right
[00:42:12.340 --> 00:42:13.640] cause that's exactly where it comes from.
[00:42:13.860 --> 00:42:16.220] I mean, when you, you know,
[00:42:16.220 --> 00:42:17.500] they say it was like, reach one,
[00:42:17.580 --> 00:42:19.080] reach one, teach one, each one, teach one.
[00:42:19.380 --> 00:42:21.740] Like, you know, but also like that means that community
[00:42:21.740 --> 00:42:23.600] that, that, that having other people around you
[00:42:23.600 --> 00:42:25.480] doing the same thing, that energy is real, man.
[00:42:25.760 --> 00:42:26.980] I mean, you remember when we did the four of loves,
[00:42:27.140 --> 00:42:28.420] man, them things, you know,
[00:42:28.460 --> 00:42:29.740] them energies used to be real, man.
[00:42:29.740 --> 00:42:30.860] That's a good time, man.
[00:42:31.040 --> 00:42:31.800] So, you know.
[00:42:31.800 --> 00:42:33.720] I still have people talk about them on the acts.
[00:42:33.980 --> 00:42:35.460] I'm like, it's going to happen.
[00:42:35.480 --> 00:42:36.020] It's going to happen.
[00:42:36.020 --> 00:42:37.000] Yeah, last one we did.
[00:42:37.780 --> 00:42:39.340] It was two years ago, the last one we did.
[00:42:39.500 --> 00:42:41.680] We tried to do, we did one down at Gordon Park.
[00:42:41.960 --> 00:42:42.660] No, not Gordon Park.
[00:42:42.900 --> 00:42:44.000] What's the name of the park right there?
[00:42:44.000 --> 00:42:45.900] Going to Cleveland Heights?
[00:42:46.640 --> 00:42:46.800] Kane.
[00:42:47.300 --> 00:42:47.780] Kane Park.
[00:42:47.800 --> 00:42:49.640] Kane Park, yep, yep.
[00:42:50.420 --> 00:42:51.200] Oh, the Amphitheater.
[00:42:52.120 --> 00:42:52.920] Yeah, yep.
[00:42:53.280 --> 00:42:54.220] That's the last time we did one.
[00:42:54.360 --> 00:42:55.940] That was a while back, a couple of years ago.
[00:42:56.500 --> 00:42:57.380] We coming back, man.
[00:42:57.380 --> 00:42:58.280] We going to do another one, man.
[00:42:58.300 --> 00:42:58.940] We going to do another one.
[00:42:59.000 --> 00:43:01.360] Cause we have to, it's, it's, oh yeah.
[00:43:01.700 --> 00:43:02.820] It's a must, I think.
[00:43:03.160 --> 00:43:04.420] Oh yeah, oh yeah.
[00:43:04.920 --> 00:43:05.940] It definitely is.
[00:43:06.400 --> 00:43:07.560] It's, I don't know, I've kind of been
[00:43:07.560 --> 00:43:09.900] out of the arts community,
[00:43:09.960 --> 00:43:12.700] mainly the poetry community for a while now.
[00:43:12.700 --> 00:43:17.480] Maybe four years, retired poet, musician.
[00:43:18.920 --> 00:43:19.440] Feels good.
[00:43:19.540 --> 00:43:21.580] I still get asked to perform, which is an honor.
[00:43:21.900 --> 00:43:22.260] It's a blessing.
[00:43:23.040 --> 00:43:26.260] But it's not, it's not my current life right now.
[00:43:27.320 --> 00:43:27.820] So why?
[00:43:27.960 --> 00:43:29.160] I'm curious now, like.
[00:43:29.200 --> 00:43:31.680] Like you said, I, you know,
[00:43:31.980 --> 00:43:34.740] I used to host, perform, you know,
[00:43:34.820 --> 00:43:36.720] do all this stuff on stage.
[00:43:37.180 --> 00:43:38.460] Then I get off stage.
[00:43:39.240 --> 00:43:42.420] I support others by first starting with
[00:43:42.420 --> 00:43:45.500] the iPhone, filming, taking pictures.
[00:43:45.680 --> 00:43:49.120] I'm like, huh, why don't I just invest in the camera?
[00:43:49.300 --> 00:43:50.660] I finally invested in the camera
[00:43:50.660 --> 00:43:53.180] and I kind of shift gears with the art.
[00:43:53.300 --> 00:43:53.980] It's still art.
[00:43:54.260 --> 00:43:56.840] It's still, it's still me creating,
[00:43:58.040 --> 00:43:59.340] but just in a different way.
[00:43:59.520 --> 00:44:02.020] And I just, I drove right in.
[00:44:02.200 --> 00:44:04.200] It's studying and practicing.
[00:44:04.760 --> 00:44:09.240] So it's like once you start something new,
[00:44:10.120 --> 00:44:11.700] you want to kind of give it your all.
[00:44:11.700 --> 00:44:12.560] And that's what I did.
[00:44:12.640 --> 00:44:14.920] And that's how I found myself taking it serious.
[00:44:15.300 --> 00:44:17.800] Like I was still right in here and there,
[00:44:17.860 --> 00:44:19.740] but not really actively performing.
[00:44:20.040 --> 00:44:20.760] So when we first met,
[00:44:20.900 --> 00:44:23.120] you had just started really get diving in deep.
[00:44:23.360 --> 00:44:24.680] I guess when you really started diving.
[00:44:25.000 --> 00:44:26.900] Yep, I met, I met Jones through,
[00:44:28.920 --> 00:44:31.060] through Sophie at a networking event.
[00:44:31.300 --> 00:44:32.800] He was doing headshots.
[00:44:32.980 --> 00:44:33.380] Okay.
[00:44:33.800 --> 00:44:35.820] And, you know, I bought the,
[00:44:36.120 --> 00:44:37.360] cause it was, it was like a ticket.
[00:44:37.360 --> 00:44:40.260] You just, for a mission, then for, you know,
[00:44:40.260 --> 00:44:43.160] a few more, you get that free headshot.
[00:44:43.300 --> 00:44:44.800] I'm like, I'm going to go get the headshot.
[00:44:44.980 --> 00:44:45.300] Yeah.
[00:44:45.420 --> 00:44:47.200] And I always talk to him like, man,
[00:44:48.440 --> 00:44:50.100] I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm going to start for Tiger film.
[00:44:50.700 --> 00:44:52.120] I'm like, I'm serious.
[00:44:52.320 --> 00:44:52.420] Oh yeah.
[00:44:52.440 --> 00:44:53.380] I'm like, I'm serious.
[00:44:54.760 --> 00:44:56.260] And, and like, you know,
[00:44:56.320 --> 00:44:57.800] we've been close ever since.
[00:44:58.000 --> 00:45:00.440] I'm like, man, that's, that's when I'm like,
[00:45:00.500 --> 00:45:01.480] damn, I really said this.
[00:45:01.520 --> 00:45:02.760] I really got to take it serious now.
[00:45:02.920 --> 00:45:04.880] So it's like, all right.
[00:45:05.200 --> 00:45:07.060] I was still performing for, you know,
[00:45:07.140 --> 00:45:08.440] maybe a year later than I,
[00:45:08.440 --> 00:45:09.680] I lost my grandfather.
[00:45:12.880 --> 00:45:14.180] I wasn't really active,
[00:45:14.200 --> 00:45:16.280] but I still perform here and there
[00:45:16.280 --> 00:45:18.360] for close people that wanted me to.
[00:45:18.860 --> 00:45:20.540] And I remember this, just crying.
[00:45:20.880 --> 00:45:26.460] Like he, he transitioned maybe a week before that.
[00:45:27.320 --> 00:45:28.860] And nothing came out until that day.
[00:45:28.960 --> 00:45:29.720] I was just,
[00:45:32.280 --> 00:45:34.460] I couldn't remember no word.
[00:45:34.540 --> 00:45:36.200] It was just like, man, miss.
[00:45:36.200 --> 00:45:38.780] I'm like, it just started coming down.
[00:45:38.980 --> 00:45:40.340] It was pouring tears.
[00:45:41.180 --> 00:45:43.320] I'm like, I'm like, man, forget it, man.
[00:45:43.700 --> 00:45:46.060] I ain't about to perform or try to act like,
[00:45:46.220 --> 00:45:47.480] no, I'm going to just talk to y'all.
[00:45:48.120 --> 00:45:50.300] Like, if y'all got something real on your heart, man,
[00:45:50.340 --> 00:45:50.980] just express it.
[00:45:50.980 --> 00:45:53.200] Like just, just talking that real deep.
[00:45:53.560 --> 00:45:55.080] Like, man, just forget the performance.
[00:45:55.260 --> 00:45:56.660] I mean, let me just talk to y'all.
[00:45:56.760 --> 00:45:59.120] Just have my eyes closed, tears, just crying.
[00:45:59.240 --> 00:46:01.640] Like just, just speaking to the people, you know.
[00:46:01.900 --> 00:46:03.400] I don't think you ever told me that story, man.
[00:46:04.140 --> 00:46:06.240] We told that, you know, too often.
[00:46:06.720 --> 00:46:07.080] Wow.
[00:46:07.300 --> 00:46:08.700] So yeah, it's like, man.
[00:46:09.120 --> 00:46:10.480] And so when he told you to come out,
[00:46:10.560 --> 00:46:12.320] because that's when we met when we first did that little,
[00:46:12.500 --> 00:46:14.860] that we did, that was one of the,
[00:46:14.900 --> 00:46:17.220] one of the first photo walks that we did.
[00:46:17.540 --> 00:46:22.320] Yeah, but like, RTA, Cedar.
[00:46:23.300 --> 00:46:25.080] Yeah, because we was doing the long exposure stuff
[00:46:25.080 --> 00:46:26.440] and then we started walking around doing.
[00:46:26.680 --> 00:46:28.080] I didn't even know it was a long exposure,
[00:46:28.200 --> 00:46:29.240] but a lot of exposure.
[00:46:29.700 --> 00:46:29.720] Yeah, yeah.
[00:46:30.420 --> 00:46:32.780] He didn't either, because we was messing around
[00:46:32.780 --> 00:46:35.660] with some like light painting and stuff like that too.
[00:46:35.900 --> 00:46:36.580] Like, okay.
[00:46:36.940 --> 00:46:38.400] And I said, y'all, I'm like,
[00:46:38.500 --> 00:46:39.660] I don't even wanna do this.
[00:46:41.540 --> 00:46:43.580] I was fresh, I was brand new.
[00:46:43.660 --> 00:46:44.620] That's crazy.
[00:46:45.080 --> 00:46:46.560] Yeah, yup, yup.
[00:46:46.900 --> 00:46:47.860] That's it, man.
[00:46:48.460 --> 00:46:48.940] That's it.
[00:46:49.360 --> 00:46:49.520] Yup, yup.
[00:46:49.580 --> 00:46:51.300] Y'all was with Juneteenth.
[00:46:51.380 --> 00:46:52.600] It was a Juneteenth event.
[00:46:53.700 --> 00:46:55.900] So that was even more, you know, powerful and iconic.
[00:46:57.300 --> 00:46:58.040] It was like, man.
[00:46:58.180 --> 00:46:59.080] Swimming from near, huh?
[00:46:59.800 --> 00:47:01.420] Hey, it's a crazy bug to catch, man.
[00:47:02.000 --> 00:47:04.340] It's a crazy bug to catch, expensive bug.
[00:47:05.220 --> 00:47:07.080] Man, you start getting into these other cameras,
[00:47:07.340 --> 00:47:08.060] but they, you know,
[00:47:08.280 --> 00:47:09.580] now they starting to come up with some stuff
[00:47:09.580 --> 00:47:12.000] that's kind of like not as expensive as other stuff
[00:47:12.000 --> 00:47:13.220] that still does the job.
[00:47:13.320 --> 00:47:14.000] The technology.
[00:47:14.080 --> 00:47:16.400] Yeah, technology is getting a lot better,
[00:47:16.420 --> 00:47:17.060] a lot cleaner.
[00:47:18.040 --> 00:47:19.980] I see Nikon, I see-
[00:47:19.980 --> 00:47:20.980] Oh, no, no, no, no.
[00:47:21.080 --> 00:47:23.280] I know you don't, but I see,
[00:47:24.840 --> 00:47:27.320] I know when Nikon bought our red,
[00:47:27.400 --> 00:47:29.560] like I always wanted a red cinema camera.
[00:47:29.560 --> 00:47:32.720] So it was like, man, when they made that acquisition,
[00:47:32.820 --> 00:47:34.760] that partnership, I'm like, yes.
[00:47:35.380 --> 00:47:36.280] That'll give me one now.
[00:47:37.120 --> 00:47:41.500] I ended up, I got, so yesterday I got a 5C,
[00:47:41.740 --> 00:47:45.240] a R5C, which is like the lowest level of cinema camera
[00:47:45.240 --> 00:47:46.620] you can get into on Canon.
[00:47:47.000 --> 00:47:48.620] But it's also still good for photography.
[00:47:49.540 --> 00:47:50.980] So it's like, I put my toe in the water
[00:47:50.980 --> 00:47:53.000] and instead of going out and buying like the C series,
[00:47:53.020 --> 00:47:54.300] like a C100 or a C200,
[00:47:54.400 --> 00:47:56.080] I'm like, nah, let me just get this 5C
[00:47:56.080 --> 00:47:56.880] and see what this do.
[00:47:57.140 --> 00:47:58.040] It's a beast though.
[00:47:58.520 --> 00:48:02.300] I still haven't gotten to all the capabilities of it.
[00:48:03.220 --> 00:48:03.760] So like I said,
[00:48:03.760 --> 00:48:05.140] I'm trying to get into this cinema shooting
[00:48:05.140 --> 00:48:06.880] and I've shot a couple of shorts already.
[00:48:08.100 --> 00:48:10.640] So I really wanna get to that level
[00:48:10.640 --> 00:48:11.920] of shooting a feature film.
[00:48:12.520 --> 00:48:13.900] And it's a lot to it.
[00:48:13.940 --> 00:48:15.620] I didn't realize how much it was to it, man.
[00:48:16.240 --> 00:48:18.500] Oh, phew, it's a lot.
[00:48:18.760 --> 00:48:19.400] It's a lot.
[00:48:19.500 --> 00:48:20.720] I've been on set,
[00:48:21.960 --> 00:48:25.180] kind of like your story with the rock, with the hero.
[00:48:26.620 --> 00:48:30.540] I was honored to be a part of the filming
[00:48:30.540 --> 00:48:33.240] when they did it in Cleveland, a Superman movie.
[00:48:33.300 --> 00:48:33.900] Oh, what?
[00:48:34.100 --> 00:48:35.420] I've been a part of the Superman.
[00:48:35.420 --> 00:48:36.000] This is the last one?
[00:48:36.340 --> 00:48:36.960] Yep, the last one.
[00:48:36.980 --> 00:48:37.880] Okay, okay.
[00:48:38.280 --> 00:48:39.360] And people were just hating it,
[00:48:39.400 --> 00:48:40.420] like, how you get this?
[00:48:40.500 --> 00:48:41.620] How you brand new?
[00:48:42.000 --> 00:48:43.220] And it's your first thing.
[00:48:43.360 --> 00:48:45.220] I had to work hard, go through all of them.
[00:48:45.540 --> 00:48:47.100] So people was like, man,
[00:48:47.200 --> 00:48:50.000] like this is my first day working on a movie set.
[00:48:50.100 --> 00:48:50.500] Yeah.
[00:48:50.520 --> 00:48:51.380] And I got Superman.
[00:48:52.080 --> 00:48:52.740] That's wild.
[00:48:52.760 --> 00:48:53.220] People been trying.
[00:48:53.220 --> 00:48:54.580] I didn't know you was on that set, man.
[00:48:55.260 --> 00:48:55.860] That's wild.
[00:48:56.460 --> 00:48:58.000] Downtown, man, it was a experience.
[00:48:58.000 --> 00:48:58.640] What did they have you doing?
[00:49:00.780 --> 00:49:01.840] I was a PA.
[00:49:02.240 --> 00:49:04.080] Okay, so you're basically running around,
[00:49:04.100 --> 00:49:06.180] running around doing whatever it is you need to do.
[00:49:06.640 --> 00:49:08.140] Keeping the crowd maintained,
[00:49:08.340 --> 00:49:09.960] they can't get out of the scene while I'm filming.
[00:49:10.740 --> 00:49:12.360] I know people still gonna do it, do it,
[00:49:12.400 --> 00:49:15.340] like, no phones, it was, it was, it was.
[00:49:15.360 --> 00:49:16.660] I don't think people get, like,
[00:49:16.660 --> 00:49:18.720] how many different jobs there are.
[00:49:18.720 --> 00:49:19.500] It is a lot.
[00:49:19.600 --> 00:49:21.700] And I've seen them, like, man, all these people.
[00:49:21.760 --> 00:49:24.040] Yeah, dog, man.
[00:49:24.560 --> 00:49:27.480] Like, it's, yeah, you literally have people like,
[00:49:27.480 --> 00:49:28.520] like you said, man, that's like,
[00:49:28.520 --> 00:49:30.140] that's like working your way up on a movie set.
[00:49:30.140 --> 00:49:32.180] Cause like most people have started out PA'ing.
[00:49:32.320 --> 00:49:33.280] Yeah, that's how you start, y'all.
[00:49:33.400 --> 00:49:34.520] Yeah, you start out PA'ing.
[00:49:34.540 --> 00:49:36.140] You know, there's literally somebody that,
[00:49:36.600 --> 00:49:38.820] that goes out there and marks where the camera's
[00:49:38.820 --> 00:49:40.940] supposed to be with tape all over the place, man.
[00:49:40.940 --> 00:49:41.820] And you get your gaffers.
[00:49:41.900 --> 00:49:43.240] You're like, it's, yeah, it's crazy
[00:49:43.240 --> 00:49:45.060] when you start looking at how many people it takes.
[00:49:45.460 --> 00:49:46.180] Well, I tell people all the time,
[00:49:46.280 --> 00:49:47.680] look at the credits of a movie.
[00:49:48.000 --> 00:49:48.660] That's how you realize.
[00:49:48.860 --> 00:49:50.420] I stay every movie.
[00:49:50.520 --> 00:49:51.860] I know when people walk out and leave,
[00:49:51.860 --> 00:49:54.100] I stay and watch all those names.
[00:49:54.220 --> 00:49:54.580] Yeah.
[00:49:54.660 --> 00:49:57.360] I'm like, I'ma find, I know somebody, I know somebody.
[00:49:57.780 --> 00:50:00.200] But the company that always stands out the most
[00:50:00.200 --> 00:50:01.080] is Company 3.
[00:50:01.180 --> 00:50:04.020] They do mainly the post-editing and the color grading.
[00:50:04.140 --> 00:50:04.500] Okay.
[00:50:04.580 --> 00:50:06.240] I'm like, so many good movies.
[00:50:06.380 --> 00:50:06.740] Yeah.
[00:50:06.800 --> 00:50:07.420] So many.
[00:50:07.740 --> 00:50:08.460] They're here, aren't they?
[00:50:09.080 --> 00:50:09.440] California.
[00:50:09.520 --> 00:50:10.060] I mean, California.
[00:50:10.060 --> 00:50:10.580] LA, yeah.
[00:50:10.640 --> 00:50:12.060] I thought that was one they're calling Company 3
[00:50:12.060 --> 00:50:12.600] that was here.
[00:50:13.220 --> 00:50:14.680] Yeah, and that's a whole thing.
[00:50:14.900 --> 00:50:16.080] Like, it's like, if you don't understand, man,
[00:50:16.200 --> 00:50:18.380] it's color graders, it's people that edit.
[00:50:18.740 --> 00:50:19.420] Like, the person that edits
[00:50:19.420 --> 00:50:20.400] is not the person that color grades.
[00:50:20.520 --> 00:50:21.680] Like, the person that, you know what I mean?
[00:50:23.380 --> 00:50:24.680] It's a whole thing.
[00:50:24.860 --> 00:50:26.400] It's a whole thing, man.
[00:50:26.700 --> 00:50:28.040] I had no clue.
[00:50:28.560 --> 00:50:30.000] Just being on, like, going back to that show,
[00:50:30.020 --> 00:50:32.180] being on that show, I started to understand, like, wow.
[00:50:32.520 --> 00:50:33.340] There's a bunch of people
[00:50:33.340 --> 00:50:34.300] that do a bunch of different things.
[00:50:34.320 --> 00:50:35.300] Like, it was people that were out there
[00:50:35.300 --> 00:50:38.060] that was just, like, kind of like PA assistants.
[00:50:38.640 --> 00:50:41.540] And they would just, like, if the PA couldn't do it,
[00:50:41.560 --> 00:50:42.660] they wouldn't did it.
[00:50:42.660 --> 00:50:42.880] Yeah.
[00:50:43.060 --> 00:50:44.680] There was story producers.
[00:50:45.120 --> 00:50:45.400] You know what I mean?
[00:50:45.500 --> 00:50:46.820] Like, you start learning reality stuff.
[00:50:46.840 --> 00:50:48.560] Yeah, I seen a physical story board.
[00:50:48.640 --> 00:50:49.680] I'm like, well, dang.
[00:50:49.940 --> 00:50:50.740] Yeah, man.
[00:50:52.060 --> 00:50:55.060] Yeah, dawg, that's why it cost so much
[00:50:55.060 --> 00:50:56.440] to make a real big production.
[00:50:57.280 --> 00:50:58.620] That's why people be out here, you know.
[00:50:59.160 --> 00:51:00.780] And that's why I'll never hate on anybody
[00:51:00.780 --> 00:51:01.640] that puts a project out,
[00:51:01.660 --> 00:51:03.380] because I'm like, man, you finished the product,
[00:51:03.480 --> 00:51:05.580] you edited it, you got it out, man.
[00:51:06.300 --> 00:51:06.660] Salute.
[00:51:07.040 --> 00:51:08.800] Because that's not easy to do, man.
[00:51:08.960 --> 00:51:10.100] It's not easy to do.
[00:51:10.140 --> 00:51:11.580] I don't care what it looks like.
[00:51:11.800 --> 00:51:13.920] People think, like, well, I don't, you know,
[00:51:13.980 --> 00:51:15.720] it's funny when people ask you to do videos for them
[00:51:15.720 --> 00:51:16.180] and stuff like that,
[00:51:16.180 --> 00:51:17.720] and everybody wants their video to look like BET.
[00:51:18.220 --> 00:51:20.120] Like, well, you don't have a BET budget, dawg,
[00:51:20.520 --> 00:51:21.700] because you know what it takes
[00:51:21.700 --> 00:51:23.380] to make a video look like that?
[00:51:23.500 --> 00:51:24.460] Right, right, right.
[00:51:24.520 --> 00:51:25.140] Now, that's true.
[00:51:25.480 --> 00:51:27.100] You not gonna, a lot of people think
[00:51:27.100 --> 00:51:28.300] you just gonna get a video shot
[00:51:28.300 --> 00:51:29.520] and they just think it's gonna come out
[00:51:29.520 --> 00:51:31.060] looking like something that they gonna see on TV.
[00:51:31.120 --> 00:51:32.260] It's like, not necessarily.
[00:51:32.360 --> 00:51:33.060] Like, you gonna understand,
[00:51:33.080 --> 00:51:34.360] like, the lighting that they're putting in,
[00:51:34.400 --> 00:51:36.560] like, they're doing, it's a lot to that, man.
[00:51:37.120 --> 00:51:38.240] And you wanna give me $150?
[00:51:39.540 --> 00:51:39.800] Like.
[00:51:40.660 --> 00:51:41.460] That's how I been.
[00:51:41.760 --> 00:51:42.960] Especially in Cleveland, yeah.
[00:51:43.060 --> 00:51:43.420] Yeah.
[00:51:43.740 --> 00:51:44.080] Unfortunately.
[00:51:45.180 --> 00:51:46.180] Yeah, Cleveland's like that,
[00:51:46.180 --> 00:51:48.000] but it's not the only place that's like that.
[00:51:48.000 --> 00:51:50.840] Like, it's, man, trust me.
[00:51:52.680 --> 00:51:54.660] Black only speaks for, you know, my home town.
[00:51:56.100 --> 00:51:56.540] Yeah, true that, true that, true that.
[00:51:56.800 --> 00:51:57.920] I don't wanna get on nobody,
[00:51:58.080 --> 00:52:00.620] but I can talk about my brothers and sisters, you know.
[00:52:00.640 --> 00:52:00.960] Okay.
[00:52:01.040 --> 00:52:01.780] In the city.
[00:52:03.380 --> 00:52:04.980] You know, cause we could have those conversations
[00:52:04.980 --> 00:52:06.040] with someone out of the city.
[00:52:06.220 --> 00:52:09.280] I can't really have those direct conversations, so.
[00:52:09.360 --> 00:52:10.100] Nah, that's for real.
[00:52:10.340 --> 00:52:10.540] That's for real.
[00:52:11.200 --> 00:52:12.440] I like, I like Atlanta.
[00:52:13.180 --> 00:52:14.500] I know they be doing the thing,
[00:52:14.800 --> 00:52:16.360] and they actively booking,
[00:52:16.360 --> 00:52:18.700] and I call that the second Hollywood.
[00:52:19.600 --> 00:52:20.720] It really is at this point.
[00:52:21.620 --> 00:52:23.340] Yeah, I want you to know we're on a sleep, man.
[00:52:23.460 --> 00:52:24.560] People are sleeping on Cleveland.
[00:52:25.180 --> 00:52:25.520] That's true.
[00:52:25.520 --> 00:52:26.780] Think about how many productions this year, man.
[00:52:26.780 --> 00:52:28.320] How many movies, yep, yep, yep, yep.
[00:52:28.560 --> 00:52:30.140] In the greater Cleveland area.
[00:52:30.520 --> 00:52:31.220] We're the third Hollywood.
[00:52:31.620 --> 00:52:32.540] People are sleeping on Cleveland.
[00:52:33.320 --> 00:52:35.660] We pretty much second Broadway.
[00:52:36.580 --> 00:52:37.060] That's true.
[00:52:37.060 --> 00:52:38.100] I didn't realize who was,
[00:52:38.240 --> 00:52:39.700] Playhouse Square is second to Broadway.
[00:52:40.620 --> 00:52:42.900] Like, Playhouse Square is big, it's a big deal.
[00:52:43.340 --> 00:52:45.020] People are like, hey, you know, people, you know,
[00:52:45.020 --> 00:52:45.540] big actors.
[00:52:45.680 --> 00:52:46.520] I'm gonna play House Square.
[00:52:46.620 --> 00:52:48.080] I'm like, I didn't know it was like that.
[00:52:48.080 --> 00:52:48.380] Oh yeah.
[00:52:48.400 --> 00:52:49.480] That's here in Cleveland, man.
[00:52:49.660 --> 00:52:50.880] So I think we, we need to,
[00:52:50.900 --> 00:52:53.020] we need to, us artists need to big up Cleveland.
[00:52:53.260 --> 00:52:54.820] I mean, I know it's artists do, but I think,
[00:52:55.300 --> 00:52:57.260] I wish, I really wish we got more credit
[00:52:57.260 --> 00:52:58.840] as an artist. It's the whole,
[00:52:59.020 --> 00:53:00.180] ooh yeah, the art scene.
[00:53:00.240 --> 00:53:02.400] Like you said, when I was active,
[00:53:02.400 --> 00:53:05.960] like I've seen so much talent, so many poets,
[00:53:06.120 --> 00:53:07.840] so many musicians, so many,
[00:53:07.840 --> 00:53:11.460] so many talented people walk through.
[00:53:11.460 --> 00:53:15.460] And it's crazy that so many people start in Cleveland
[00:53:15.460 --> 00:53:18.600] or are from Cleveland and they leave and then blow up.
[00:53:19.020 --> 00:53:19.100] Right.
[00:53:19.180 --> 00:53:22.260] One of my favorite comedians all time, Steve Harvey.
[00:53:22.700 --> 00:53:23.060] Like, man.
[00:53:24.840 --> 00:53:25.300] Man.
[00:53:25.480 --> 00:53:28.080] And then his story, man, this is, man.
[00:53:28.260 --> 00:53:29.020] So inspired.
[00:53:30.120 --> 00:53:32.180] It's like, I met his daughter, Brandy,
[00:53:32.200 --> 00:53:33.680] a few times, Brandy Harvey.
[00:53:34.140 --> 00:53:37.200] That's the closest I've came to Steve Harvey.
[00:53:37.460 --> 00:53:39.100] But like, I definitely gonna have Steve Harvey
[00:53:39.100 --> 00:53:39.960] on the show one day.
[00:53:39.980 --> 00:53:40.700] Yeah, you are.
[00:53:40.700 --> 00:53:42.120] Speaking of the existence, man.
[00:53:42.120 --> 00:53:42.540] It's gonna be.
[00:53:43.480 --> 00:53:45.620] My aunts and uncles went to school with him.
[00:53:46.380 --> 00:53:47.860] They all went to high school together.
[00:53:48.440 --> 00:53:49.320] Back in the day.
[00:53:50.320 --> 00:53:51.840] Glenville, I think he went to.
[00:53:52.340 --> 00:53:53.420] Yeah, Glenville.
[00:53:53.480 --> 00:53:54.620] Back in the day, yeah.
[00:53:54.840 --> 00:53:56.000] My aunts and uncles went there.
[00:53:56.200 --> 00:53:57.680] My dad, yeah, my dad,
[00:53:58.020 --> 00:53:59.980] most of my aunts and uncles went to Glenville.
[00:54:00.700 --> 00:54:02.680] But like, yeah, Cleveland is so much talent.
[00:54:02.880 --> 00:54:03.820] Even- So much talent.
[00:54:03.840 --> 00:54:05.600] From the tech to the entrepreneur,
[00:54:06.260 --> 00:54:11.090] it's just like, almost like we don't know our own worth
[00:54:11.090 --> 00:54:12.350] or identity.
[00:54:12.830 --> 00:54:13.990] That's the key thing.
[00:54:14.290 --> 00:54:14.690] Yeah.
[00:54:15.470 --> 00:54:16.650] We have everything.
[00:54:17.410 --> 00:54:17.730] We do.
[00:54:17.850 --> 00:54:21.090] We got all the resources, like it's-
[00:54:21.090 --> 00:54:21.750] Everything is here.
[00:54:21.950 --> 00:54:23.110] Everything is here, man.
[00:54:23.530 --> 00:54:24.210] Everything is here.
[00:54:24.610 --> 00:54:25.830] I don't know why they talk about us
[00:54:25.830 --> 00:54:26.650] the way they do, man.
[00:54:26.690 --> 00:54:28.470] I can't stop them from talking about us, man.
[00:54:28.570 --> 00:54:29.970] I mean, we let it happen.
[00:54:30.510 --> 00:54:31.210] Yeah, I don't know.
[00:54:31.370 --> 00:54:32.690] I don't know we let it happen.
[00:54:32.850 --> 00:54:34.370] Like I just, I don't know.
[00:54:34.370 --> 00:54:35.230] I don't know what it is.
[00:54:35.310 --> 00:54:36.070] I don't know what it is.
[00:54:36.470 --> 00:54:38.110] I heard so many people that's like,
[00:54:38.290 --> 00:54:39.030] what's that, Cleveland?
[00:54:39.550 --> 00:54:40.010] What's that?
[00:54:40.010 --> 00:54:41.250] Yeah, yeah, all the time.
[00:54:41.370 --> 00:54:41.630] You know?
[00:54:41.890 --> 00:54:42.670] All the time like that.
[00:54:42.670 --> 00:54:43.810] Until they come and experience it.
[00:54:43.810 --> 00:54:44.390] I didn't know.
[00:54:44.410 --> 00:54:46.110] The best food restaurants, like-
[00:54:46.110 --> 00:54:47.330] It's a lot of great food out here, man.
[00:54:47.410 --> 00:54:49.270] Lot of great food out here I wouldn't have thought.
[00:54:49.790 --> 00:54:51.130] But yeah, yeah.
[00:54:51.190 --> 00:54:52.230] Shout out to Cleveland, man.
[00:54:52.450 --> 00:54:53.270] Shout out to Cleveland.
[00:54:53.330 --> 00:54:53.970] Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:54:54.110 --> 00:54:54.830] You know what I mean?
[00:54:55.270 --> 00:54:56.270] 2-1-6, man.
[00:54:56.290 --> 00:54:57.350] Stop playing with Cleveland, man.
[00:54:57.370 --> 00:54:59.090] Yes, yes, yes, yes.
[00:54:59.970 --> 00:55:00.630] Yeah, I know y'all.
[00:55:00.710 --> 00:55:01.610] It's kind of pressure time.
[00:55:01.750 --> 00:55:02.550] We got another meeting.
[00:55:03.710 --> 00:55:05.850] But anything you want to leave a young,
[00:55:05.870 --> 00:55:07.850] creative entrepreneur, like my audience,
[00:55:07.990 --> 00:55:09.450] I say creative entrepreneur.
[00:55:09.450 --> 00:55:12.530] Because I'm creative and I'm also an entrepreneur.
[00:55:13.190 --> 00:55:15.210] I just blend it together as a creative entrepreneur.
[00:55:15.630 --> 00:55:16.110] I like that.
[00:55:17.530 --> 00:55:18.450] What's one thing I would say?
[00:55:19.770 --> 00:55:22.870] I would say, don't stop following
[00:55:22.870 --> 00:55:24.350] that passion inside of you, man.
[00:55:24.890 --> 00:55:26.430] Wherever that fire is taking you,
[00:55:26.610 --> 00:55:28.910] even if it's like, okay, I've been doing this,
[00:55:29.030 --> 00:55:30.210] don't be afraid to pivot.
[00:55:31.130 --> 00:55:33.190] Don't be afraid to pivot because
[00:55:33.190 --> 00:55:34.850] the art that you're doing now
[00:55:34.850 --> 00:55:37.070] could just be the start of where you're supposed to be.
[00:55:37.810 --> 00:55:39.390] I can testify to that.
[00:55:39.590 --> 00:55:40.430] You and me both.
[00:55:40.650 --> 00:55:40.970] You know what I mean?
[00:55:41.010 --> 00:55:42.090] I never thought I would be teaching.
[00:55:42.850 --> 00:55:44.430] I was like, you used to do poetry too as well.
[00:55:44.510 --> 00:55:46.190] Yeah, I did, I did, I did.
[00:55:46.330 --> 00:55:48.530] That was my first start with artistry,
[00:55:48.630 --> 00:55:49.430] was poetry spoken word.
[00:55:49.550 --> 00:55:51.170] I used to do it on stage, the spoken word stuff.
[00:55:51.310 --> 00:55:52.710] Had a similar story.
[00:55:53.050 --> 00:55:53.850] Yeah, yeah, man.
[00:55:53.970 --> 00:55:56.090] That's why we went a different way.
[00:55:56.270 --> 00:55:57.490] But yeah, I would say that, man.
[00:55:57.550 --> 00:55:58.590] Don't be afraid to pivot
[00:55:58.590 --> 00:56:01.810] and don't be afraid to allow your spirit
[00:56:01.810 --> 00:56:05.310] to lead you in whatever you're doing.
[00:56:06.390 --> 00:56:10.790] Because I think that we all get away from our spirituality.
[00:56:10.870 --> 00:56:12.990] I'm not even talking about religion of any kind of sort.
[00:56:13.090 --> 00:56:15.030] I'm just saying, whatever your religion is,
[00:56:15.710 --> 00:56:18.150] there is a spirit that you follow within any of that.
[00:56:18.870 --> 00:56:20.550] And follow that spirit, man.
[00:56:20.670 --> 00:56:21.770] And listen to that spirit
[00:56:21.770 --> 00:56:23.510] because that spirit is always right.
[00:56:23.670 --> 00:56:24.930] It's always right.
[00:56:25.390 --> 00:56:25.770] You know what I mean?
[00:56:25.970 --> 00:56:28.130] Like that, whatever is inside of you,
[00:56:28.290 --> 00:56:30.450] whatever you gravitate towards, that's it.
[00:56:31.150 --> 00:56:32.090] You just have to listen.
[00:56:33.470 --> 00:56:35.170] That's what I was saying.
[00:56:35.430 --> 00:56:36.910] Sit down and listen for real.
[00:56:36.930 --> 00:56:37.610] Listen, man.
[00:56:37.970 --> 00:56:39.830] Now, this is one of my favorite questions
[00:56:39.830 --> 00:56:41.630] I love to ask creatives.
[00:56:43.310 --> 00:56:46.810] I asked, what is your creative process
[00:56:46.810 --> 00:56:48.250] as a weather forecast?
[00:56:50.070 --> 00:56:51.090] Yeah, you said it, man.
[00:56:52.470 --> 00:56:55.710] Okay, so as a weather forecast,
[00:56:56.430 --> 00:57:00.050] I would say my creative process
[00:57:05.180 --> 00:57:07.480] is a chaotic storm, right?
[00:57:07.840 --> 00:57:10.940] Maybe even, I mean, think of any kind of chaotic storm,
[00:57:10.960 --> 00:57:12.760] the clouds, maybe even a tornado going.
[00:57:13.180 --> 00:57:14.860] But then you look off in the distance
[00:57:14.860 --> 00:57:16.760] and you see that one break
[00:57:17.320 --> 00:57:19.380] and that ray of sunshine coming in.
[00:57:19.380 --> 00:57:19.820] Yeah.
[00:57:20.200 --> 00:57:22.380] But that's what I would say my creative process is like.
[00:57:22.440 --> 00:57:26.500] It's like getting through the weeds of my head,
[00:57:26.880 --> 00:57:28.420] of the environment, of everything else,
[00:57:28.420 --> 00:57:30.660] and then finding the shot
[00:57:30.660 --> 00:57:34.280] or finding artistically what I want to get to.
[00:57:34.500 --> 00:57:36.540] I think that's how I would explain it.
[00:57:36.740 --> 00:57:37.800] You know what I'm reminding you of?
[00:57:37.880 --> 00:57:41.300] Like those infinite zooms where they'll keep zooming in
[00:57:41.300 --> 00:57:42.380] and goes to another picture,
[00:57:42.520 --> 00:57:45.380] like the dark tunnel and then leads to a bright picture
[00:57:45.380 --> 00:57:47.060] and then a big old landscape.
[00:57:47.540 --> 00:57:47.640] Exactly.
[00:57:47.860 --> 00:57:49.220] And something else, like, okay.
[00:57:49.400 --> 00:57:50.260] Yeah, yeah, man.
[00:57:50.440 --> 00:57:51.900] But yeah, like, you know, big old storm,
[00:57:52.020 --> 00:57:53.960] tornado, whatever, that break,
[00:57:54.060 --> 00:57:55.520] wherever that break is in the storm
[00:57:55.520 --> 00:57:56.980] and that sun is coming through.
[00:57:56.980 --> 00:57:58.720] That's how I would describe it, man.
[00:57:59.300 --> 00:57:59.880] That's how I would describe it,
[00:57:59.880 --> 00:58:01.040] because that's how I feel like
[00:58:01.040 --> 00:58:02.880] my creative process goes all the time.
[00:58:03.180 --> 00:58:04.400] Like it just takes me a second to get there
[00:58:04.400 --> 00:58:06.160] and once I get there, it's like now I'm locked in.
[00:58:06.340 --> 00:58:07.940] Now you can't get me away from that piece of sunshine.
[00:58:08.840 --> 00:58:10.140] No matter what's going on around me.
[00:58:10.240 --> 00:58:11.220] A raw glass vision.
[00:58:11.660 --> 00:58:13.240] Yeah, there it is, there it is.
[00:58:13.580 --> 00:58:15.860] Now, it might be a two-part question
[00:58:15.860 --> 00:58:17.020] or it might be the same.
[00:58:17.140 --> 00:58:17.480] Okay.
[00:58:18.720 --> 00:58:21.440] But what is your favorite lens to shoot with?
[00:58:21.440 --> 00:58:23.120] It could be for photography,
[00:58:23.520 --> 00:58:25.340] and then one for video, or it might be the same.
[00:58:27.540 --> 00:58:28.420] Favorite lens.
[00:58:29.780 --> 00:58:31.120] Probably have to be a 35.
[00:58:31.200 --> 00:58:32.000] 35 for both?
[00:58:33.240 --> 00:58:34.320] Yeah, for both.
[00:58:34.880 --> 00:58:36.960] It's always been my go-to lens.
[00:58:37.960 --> 00:58:38.840] It's compact.
[00:58:41.280 --> 00:58:43.300] It really is.
[00:58:43.480 --> 00:58:44.700] It's true to what it sees,
[00:58:44.740 --> 00:58:47.180] so there's not a lot of distortion.
[00:58:47.920 --> 00:58:49.920] When you're talking about what you're looking at
[00:58:49.920 --> 00:58:51.940] and what it's shooting, it's sharp.
[00:58:52.960 --> 00:58:53.300] You know what I mean?
[00:58:53.320 --> 00:58:55.300] The only drawback for the 35 is that,
[00:58:55.300 --> 00:58:57.120] obviously you can't get really close to stuff,
[00:58:57.640 --> 00:59:00.740] but I mean, you can get close, but you can't.
[00:59:00.760 --> 00:59:01.660] There's no zoom, right?
[00:59:01.700 --> 00:59:03.160] So if you zoom, you gotta move in closer.
[00:59:03.360 --> 00:59:05.300] But I love it because you can get in close
[00:59:05.300 --> 00:59:06.060] and get great shots,
[00:59:06.120 --> 00:59:09.200] and then you can back up and get scenery at the same time.
[00:59:09.740 --> 00:59:11.180] So yeah, I'd have to say the 35, man.
[00:59:11.180 --> 00:59:12.580] The 35 is a beast, man.
[00:59:14.160 --> 00:59:16.000] I done done a lot of damage with a 35.
[00:59:16.080 --> 00:59:17.080] Yeah, I see, I see.
[00:59:17.080 --> 00:59:18.440] A lot of damage with a 35.
[00:59:18.840 --> 00:59:22.620] I'll say you even catching my iconic cover photo,
[00:59:23.160 --> 00:59:26.040] alien eyes photos affirmations.
[00:59:26.420 --> 00:59:28.200] No, alien eyes photos affirmations.
[00:59:28.600 --> 00:59:30.520] Alien affirmations, one, two, three.
[00:59:30.880 --> 00:59:31.000] That's right.
[00:59:31.000 --> 00:59:31.960] My affirmations that-
[00:59:31.960 --> 00:59:32.620] That's right, we did that right here.
[00:59:32.640 --> 00:59:33.080] We did that right here.
[00:59:33.320 --> 00:59:34.660] Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:59:34.660 --> 00:59:35.180] That was a 35.
[00:59:35.560 --> 00:59:36.480] That was a 35.
[00:59:36.480 --> 00:59:36.760] That was a 35.
[00:59:37.760 --> 00:59:40.460] Those are 35, you know what I mean?
[00:59:40.680 --> 00:59:42.860] Like, all these is 35s.
[00:59:43.480 --> 00:59:45.420] Yeah, man, a 35 is my joint, man.
[00:59:45.840 --> 00:59:48.500] If I had to, if I only could use one lens,
[00:59:49.220 --> 00:59:49.940] it'd be that 35.
[00:59:50.460 --> 00:59:52.480] I mean, you'd be, I mean, I would obviously
[00:59:52.480 --> 00:59:54.400] be limited to what I'm doing, but you know,
[00:59:54.480 --> 00:59:56.380] a 35 is a beast, though, man.
[00:59:56.700 --> 01:00:00.540] Like, mine is, I kind of daubed around with a lot.
[01:00:00.780 --> 01:00:05.560] Like, I use all primes, but I'd have to say 85,
[01:00:07.200 --> 01:00:11.560] kind of like stemming off my brand, alien eyes photos,
[01:00:11.760 --> 01:00:14.380] going back to the eyes, like the eyes tell the story.
[01:00:14.520 --> 01:00:14.840] Right.
[01:00:14.840 --> 01:00:17.100] Like, usually with head shots, it's with the 85.
[01:00:17.640 --> 01:00:19.040] So, I just love the 85.
[01:00:19.040 --> 01:00:21.280] 85 is an animal, too, man.
[01:00:21.560 --> 01:00:24.920] 85 is dope, because it really, and they're so sharp.
[01:00:26.400 --> 01:00:27.740] It's so, it's so sharp.
[01:00:28.320 --> 01:00:29.800] Because you shoot Nikon still?
[01:00:30.140 --> 01:00:30.760] I shoot Nikon.
[01:00:31.000 --> 01:00:34.900] I started with Canon, and then invested in Nikons.
[01:00:35.020 --> 01:00:36.280] Like, once you make that investment,
[01:00:36.460 --> 01:00:39.080] buying all the lenses, the whole ecosystem, you know.
[01:00:39.120 --> 01:00:40.980] It's over with, yeah, you got to stick with it.
[01:00:41.080 --> 01:00:44.420] You got the wireless, the mirrorless yet?
[01:00:45.720 --> 01:00:46.760] Yep, all mirrorless.
[01:00:46.840 --> 01:00:47.800] Okay, okay.
[01:00:47.800 --> 01:00:48.980] So, you got your old joints?
[01:00:50.860 --> 01:00:54.540] I have one, I had Lele at seven banging around, you know.
[01:00:55.880 --> 01:00:59.440] And like, it kind of looked like one of the, like-
[01:00:59.440 --> 01:01:00.340] Yeah, like one of these,
[01:01:00.380 --> 01:01:01.740] like a D3500 or something like that?
[01:01:01.760 --> 01:01:02.420] Yep, yep.
[01:01:02.840 --> 01:01:03.600] Yeah, yeah.
[01:01:03.760 --> 01:01:04.160] D33.
[01:01:04.460 --> 01:01:06.280] Yeah, okay, okay, same thing.
[01:01:06.580 --> 01:01:08.000] Yeah, that's, I mean, it's a good starter, man.
[01:01:08.580 --> 01:01:09.280] Man, let me tell you what,
[01:01:09.300 --> 01:01:12.040] I shot with a T5i for the longest, man.
[01:01:12.480 --> 01:01:13.880] I just had night bull, night lenses.
[01:01:13.900 --> 01:01:15.120] That T7, yeah.
[01:01:15.240 --> 01:01:15.640] Yeah.
[01:01:15.920 --> 01:01:17.240] That was the first camera I started with.
[01:01:17.240 --> 01:01:19.040] That's the camera I was making money with at first,
[01:01:19.040 --> 01:01:20.980] and then it had me at 24 to 70, two, eight.
[01:01:22.800 --> 01:01:23.100] Yes, sir.
[01:01:23.100 --> 01:01:23.600] Starting off?
[01:01:23.980 --> 01:01:24.220] Huh?
[01:01:24.380 --> 01:01:24.960] Starting off?
[01:01:25.320 --> 01:01:26.140] No, not starting off.
[01:01:26.960 --> 01:01:29.480] My first upgrade was, I went to a pawn shop
[01:01:29.480 --> 01:01:32.920] and got a 24 to 70 for like 300 bucks.
[01:01:36.020 --> 01:01:37.160] That's the gem right there.
[01:01:37.940 --> 01:01:39.160] That's where I bought my 85.
[01:01:39.280 --> 01:01:42.200] It was like 150 off, but, you know.
[01:01:42.760 --> 01:01:43.040] Yeah, yeah.
[01:01:43.040 --> 01:01:44.860] Getting you versus buying them brand new.
[01:01:45.180 --> 01:01:46.080] All day long.
[01:01:46.480 --> 01:01:49.160] Listen, all day long I'll get a used piece of equipment,
[01:01:49.400 --> 01:01:50.840] like a camera equipment or a lens or something like that,
[01:01:51.340 --> 01:01:52.260] cause what?
[01:01:53.100 --> 01:01:54.540] That stuff you won't understand, man.
[01:01:54.900 --> 01:01:57.600] And lenses, boy, I think, I want a new 70 to 200, man.
[01:01:57.660 --> 01:01:59.180] With them joints, it's just like three grand.
[01:02:00.080 --> 01:02:01.760] Like I just, I got,
[01:02:01.980 --> 01:02:03.460] my daughter's about to graduate high school
[01:02:03.460 --> 01:02:05.100] and then I can't spend three grand on a lens.
[01:02:05.140 --> 01:02:07.880] No, that's why I'm just pulling back up like this.
[01:02:08.300 --> 01:02:10.740] Like I gotta go to Atlanta Angel Live,
[01:02:10.900 --> 01:02:12.240] it's like, oh, I want this camera,
[01:02:12.380 --> 01:02:14.760] I want this lens, I want this, that, that.
[01:02:14.760 --> 01:02:17.080] How you start making them jobs, pay for certain stuff.
[01:02:17.380 --> 01:02:17.980] That's how I started.
[01:02:18.480 --> 01:02:19.940] Who, who gonna pay for this?
[01:02:19.960 --> 01:02:20.980] Right, yeah, exactly.
[01:02:21.520 --> 01:02:23.960] But it's like how I run my business.
[01:02:24.920 --> 01:02:27.240] It's mainly through word of mouth and referrals.
[01:02:27.480 --> 01:02:29.360] Like I'm not actively, you know,
[01:02:29.500 --> 01:02:31.240] picking up the phone and eating like da da da da.
[01:02:31.860 --> 01:02:36.280] You know, like if it's like an inquiry or a listing,
[01:02:36.440 --> 01:02:38.400] like I may, you know, reach out to the person,
[01:02:38.480 --> 01:02:41.620] but like I'm not actively cold calling or like,
[01:02:41.800 --> 01:02:42.960] that's just not my style.
[01:02:43.480 --> 01:02:44.480] Yeah, I mean, I mean, you know,
[01:02:44.540 --> 01:02:45.280] sometimes that's the difference
[01:02:45.280 --> 01:02:47.360] between getting to where you want to get to,
[01:02:47.440 --> 01:02:48.860] but if it's not your style, it's not just,
[01:02:48.980 --> 01:02:50.480] because word of mouth is still a thing, man.
[01:02:50.720 --> 01:02:51.060] I love it.
[01:02:51.060 --> 01:02:52.920] People think that social media is like that,
[01:02:52.920 --> 01:02:56.800] you know, probably only 10% of my business
[01:02:56.800 --> 01:02:58.240] has ever come from social media.
[01:02:58.580 --> 01:02:58.960] You know what I mean?
[01:02:59.340 --> 01:03:01.220] Like it's not as, it's not as,
[01:03:01.220 --> 01:03:03.320] it's not as popping as you think it is
[01:03:03.320 --> 01:03:04.240] so far as bringing in business.
[01:03:04.320 --> 01:03:05.440] People love to look at it.
[01:03:05.440 --> 01:03:05.800] Yeah.
[01:03:06.200 --> 01:03:07.540] But you know, bringing it,
[01:03:07.600 --> 01:03:08.440] so as far as bringing in business,
[01:03:08.800 --> 01:03:11.380] yeah, 10, maybe, maybe, maybe 15% of the business
[01:03:11.380 --> 01:03:12.720] I've gotten through social media.
[01:03:12.720 --> 01:03:15.760] Most of it is like somebody telling somebody about me,
[01:03:16.000 --> 01:03:17.280] or me going do a show, a shoot somewhere,
[01:03:17.360 --> 01:03:18.880] somebody else is there and they get my,
[01:03:19.000 --> 01:03:19.520] you know what I mean?
[01:03:19.520 --> 01:03:20.560] They see me working and they're like,
[01:03:20.560 --> 01:03:21.280] oh yeah, can I?
[01:03:21.820 --> 01:03:22.960] You know, as a matter of fact, you can.
[01:03:22.980 --> 01:03:24.300] And I love that, because it's like,
[01:03:24.380 --> 01:03:25.860] almost like what they say,
[01:03:25.920 --> 01:03:27.980] like a warmly versus a coldly.
[01:03:28.060 --> 01:03:28.420] Yeah.
[01:03:28.420 --> 01:03:29.680] And you don't got to sell.
[01:03:30.040 --> 01:03:31.340] Like we've had that conversation,
[01:03:31.520 --> 01:03:32.540] so yes, I know at that point.
[01:03:32.820 --> 01:03:33.180] Exactly.
[01:03:33.220 --> 01:03:35.380] Like I don't, you know, I don't like selling this.
[01:03:35.620 --> 01:03:38.080] Man, and then most artists aren't salespeople.
[01:03:38.580 --> 01:03:39.380] That's the thing.
[01:03:39.980 --> 01:03:40.720] Most of us aren't.
[01:03:40.800 --> 01:03:41.780] Most of us don't want to,
[01:03:41.780 --> 01:03:44.740] I don't know, it's just, it feels nasty to me.
[01:03:45.120 --> 01:03:46.320] I'm good with people, but I'm not,
[01:03:46.380 --> 01:03:47.180] I don't like selling.
[01:03:47.720 --> 01:03:47.880] Right.
[01:03:48.340 --> 01:03:49.560] And you know, I've got some friends
[01:03:49.560 --> 01:03:51.520] that are good at it and they know how to do it
[01:03:51.520 --> 01:03:53.220] in a way that it doesn't feel that way.
[01:03:53.260 --> 01:03:54.880] But for me, it's just not my thing.
[01:03:55.040 --> 01:03:55.400] Yeah.
[01:03:55.620 --> 01:03:57.160] It's just, I'm not a salesman, man.
[01:03:57.360 --> 01:03:58.300] I'm not a salesman.
[01:03:58.460 --> 01:03:59.180] Here's what I did.
[01:03:59.240 --> 01:03:59.820] Hey, look at this.
[01:04:00.180 --> 01:04:00.900] You want to hire me?
[01:04:02.220 --> 01:04:04.920] I mean, to be kind of even candid and honest,
[01:04:05.060 --> 01:04:06.700] like I still don't have a portfolio.
[01:04:07.700 --> 01:04:09.240] Oh, you just ain't put it together.
[01:04:09.960 --> 01:04:10.300] Yeah.
[01:04:10.980 --> 01:04:13.680] Somebody asked, I'll put something together.
[01:04:14.000 --> 01:04:16.700] I traditionally don't have, here's my portfolio.
[01:04:17.320 --> 01:04:18.060] I don't.
[01:04:18.060 --> 01:04:19.060] No, you still ain't got it.
[01:04:19.080 --> 01:04:20.000] And that's what I love too.
[01:04:22.600 --> 01:04:24.980] For people to trust me, like, oh yeah,
[01:04:25.160 --> 01:04:26.140] he takes good images.
[01:04:26.420 --> 01:04:28.600] I already seen a little body of my work.
[01:04:29.960 --> 01:04:31.280] It's an honor for real.
[01:04:31.640 --> 01:04:33.120] Like I said, I don't like selling.
[01:04:33.380 --> 01:04:34.720] I don't like proving.
[01:04:35.160 --> 01:04:36.220] That's just not my style.
[01:04:36.440 --> 01:04:37.540] Yeah, now I hear that.
[01:04:37.540 --> 01:04:38.100] I hear that.
[01:04:38.100 --> 01:04:40.920] But man, I know you have a portfolio.
[01:04:40.940 --> 01:04:42.020] I have a, I have a.
[01:04:42.300 --> 01:04:43.700] Yeah, I know you do.
[01:04:44.220 --> 01:04:44.620] I know you do.
[01:04:44.720 --> 01:04:46.720] As far as sitting down, putting together.
[01:04:47.300 --> 01:04:49.540] Yeah, I haven't really done, I mean, I have a website,
[01:04:49.960 --> 01:04:52.340] but I have, I need to update my website.
[01:04:52.540 --> 01:04:55.100] Cause a lot of the pictures on my website, man,
[01:04:55.120 --> 01:04:57.300] I did when I first got started and they still,
[01:04:57.380 --> 01:04:58.580] people still go to my website and be like,
[01:04:58.580 --> 01:04:59.180] ooh, this is nice.
[01:04:59.260 --> 01:05:01.580] I'm like, ooh, I'm way better than that now.
[01:05:01.600 --> 01:05:02.360] But that's the thing.
[01:05:02.360 --> 01:05:05.200] If they see those old pictures and they be like,
[01:05:05.220 --> 01:05:06.200] oh, these are good.
[01:05:06.200 --> 01:05:07.660] It just matches what I can do now.
[01:05:08.340 --> 01:05:08.560] You know?
[01:05:08.780 --> 01:05:11.240] So it's almost like, all right, you like that, all right.
[01:05:11.320 --> 01:05:11.780] You like that.
[01:05:11.980 --> 01:05:13.000] Yeah, well, watch this.
[01:05:13.180 --> 01:05:13.800] Right, right.
[01:05:14.980 --> 01:05:17.280] I have a whole better understanding of this now.
[01:05:17.360 --> 01:05:17.980] Right, right.
[01:05:18.120 --> 01:05:19.340] Better equipment, everything.
[01:05:19.460 --> 01:05:20.500] Yeah, yeah, exactly.
[01:05:20.580 --> 01:05:21.920] Cause a lot of that stuff I got on the website
[01:05:21.920 --> 01:05:23.200] is still with my old stuff.
[01:05:23.800 --> 01:05:25.620] But not that the equipment makes the first thing
[01:05:25.620 --> 01:05:26.420] cause it doesn't.
[01:05:26.440 --> 01:05:26.920] Right, right.
[01:05:27.100 --> 01:05:28.660] But you get better in equipment.
[01:05:28.840 --> 01:05:30.200] So it's like, you know, multiply.
[01:05:30.240 --> 01:05:31.120] Yeah, it does.
[01:05:31.180 --> 01:05:31.700] It does.
[01:05:31.820 --> 01:05:33.060] Yeah, it does compound.
[01:05:33.220 --> 01:05:34.340] That's exactly what it does.
[01:05:34.340 --> 01:05:36.760] It definitely gives you a boost.
[01:05:37.660 --> 01:05:38.560] Gives you that boost.
[01:05:40.020 --> 01:05:41.820] And then to wrap up the interview.
[01:05:42.820 --> 01:05:44.880] Any final thoughts at all?
[01:05:46.320 --> 01:05:48.060] No, I just appreciate you doing this with me, man.
[01:05:48.860 --> 01:05:50.540] Like, it's a small circle, man.
[01:05:50.840 --> 01:05:52.100] Coming to see you get started.
[01:05:52.460 --> 01:05:53.980] Now you podcasting, man.
[01:05:54.240 --> 01:05:56.180] You interviewing all the people around the city
[01:05:56.180 --> 01:05:56.900] and all that.
[01:05:57.300 --> 01:05:58.900] Shout out to Pull Up and all that, man.
[01:05:58.900 --> 01:05:59.420] I love it.
[01:05:59.440 --> 01:06:00.420] I love to see it, man.
[01:06:00.420 --> 01:06:01.400] I love what you're doing, bruh.
[01:06:01.840 --> 01:06:02.480] That's real.
[01:06:02.980 --> 01:06:03.580] That's real.
[01:06:03.580 --> 01:06:05.720] You know, we've been trying to schedule this for
[01:06:05.720 --> 01:06:06.600] about a year now.
[01:06:06.600 --> 01:06:07.380] Oh yeah, for a minute.
[01:06:07.620 --> 01:06:09.060] Schedule, kids, this and that.
[01:06:09.220 --> 01:06:11.600] Man, you know, I'll be on the move too, man.
[01:06:11.620 --> 01:06:13.040] You know, I'll be in and out of the country
[01:06:13.040 --> 01:06:15.520] and in and out of the state all the time.
[01:06:15.980 --> 01:06:17.060] So, man, I'm going to Chicago.
[01:06:17.220 --> 01:06:18.420] I'm going to Chicago next week
[01:06:18.420 --> 01:06:20.120] and Atlanta the week after that
[01:06:21.640 --> 01:06:23.140] and Denver the week after that.
[01:06:23.380 --> 01:06:24.440] Oh, I caught you at a good time.
[01:06:24.820 --> 01:06:25.460] Yeah, yeah.
[01:06:27.540 --> 01:06:27.860] Yeah.
[01:06:28.480 --> 01:06:28.840] Real talk.
[01:06:29.220 --> 01:06:31.520] So, and then where can everybody find you
[01:06:31.520 --> 01:06:32.840] at social media website?
[01:06:32.840 --> 01:06:34.220] Where they can book you?
[01:06:34.960 --> 01:06:37.300] I'm Raw Glass Photography on just about everything.
[01:06:37.900 --> 01:06:39.920] So I'm at Raw Glass Photography on Instagram
[01:06:39.920 --> 01:06:43.180] and I'm Raw Glass Photography on Facebook.
[01:06:44.960 --> 01:06:47.380] Raw Glass Photography presents on YouTube.
[01:06:48.720 --> 01:06:50.280] You've put, you Google Raw Glass Photography,
[01:06:50.380 --> 01:06:51.560] you can find it.
[01:06:51.900 --> 01:06:52.600] Pretty much, yeah.
[01:06:52.900 --> 01:06:55.620] And where can they sign up for any future programs?
[01:06:55.780 --> 01:06:56.980] I know you have one coming up.
[01:06:58.300 --> 01:07:00.180] Those are just follow on social media.
[01:07:00.480 --> 01:07:01.980] Like I'll usually put stuff out right now.
[01:07:01.980 --> 01:07:05.880] You can go to creativehealingfoundation.com.
[01:07:05.880 --> 01:07:08.080] Yes, it's dot com, not dot com.
[01:07:08.980 --> 01:07:10.220] To find out some of that stuff.
[01:07:10.280 --> 01:07:11.340] That's not even on there right now
[01:07:11.340 --> 01:07:13.120] because we're just kind of just a partner for that.
[01:07:14.240 --> 01:07:16.360] So, yeah, but just social media
[01:07:16.360 --> 01:07:18.020] is probably the best place to find that kind of stuff.
[01:07:18.080 --> 01:07:20.020] Or you can go to my social media, Darnell McAdams
[01:07:20.400 --> 01:07:21.980] and I usually promote that kind of stuff
[01:07:21.980 --> 01:07:23.300] on my own social media too.
[01:07:23.780 --> 01:07:24.720] So, that's what I do.
[01:07:25.860 --> 01:07:26.420] That's yes.
[01:07:26.500 --> 01:07:27.940] And then this is another edition
[01:07:27.940 --> 01:07:30.580] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[01:07:30.580 --> 01:07:33.340] with photographer Jackson Steve Jackson
[01:07:33.340 --> 01:07:35.500] of Alienize Photos Media.
[01:07:36.300 --> 01:07:39.120] And to find me, check out Alienize Photos
[01:07:39.120 --> 01:07:41.540] on all media on my website
[01:07:41.540 --> 01:07:45.560] and to book me at alienizephotos.com.
[01:07:46.340 --> 01:07:49.060] And until next time, everyone, peace.

========================================================================
29. Morelle McCane Olympian Boxer
Season 2 · Episode 12
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/morelle-mccane-olympian-boxer
========================================================================

[00:00:01.060 --> 00:00:10.600] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk with your host, photographer
[00:00:10.600 --> 00:00:17.500] Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos, Mia, bringing you Alienize Photos Industry
[00:00:17.500 --> 00:00:18.140] Talk.
[00:00:18.540 --> 00:00:28.260] And I have a tech entrepreneur, a wellness industry leader, I'm claiming it now,
[00:00:30.180 --> 00:00:38.840] but most people may know her as an Olympian champion boxer, Ms.
[00:00:39.100 --> 00:00:40.940] Maril McCain.
[00:00:40.980 --> 00:00:43.220] Money Mo, how you doing?
[00:00:43.860 --> 00:00:47.580] I'm gonna need you to bring out the applause machine.
[00:00:48.920 --> 00:00:52.060] Hi, hi, I'm honored to be here.
[00:00:52.140 --> 00:00:53.740] Thank you for inviting me.
[00:00:54.120 --> 00:00:55.900] Yeah, you want to tell the people a little bit about yourself.
[00:00:55.900 --> 00:00:59.880] I know I could say a little bit, but, you know, nobody can do it better than you.
[00:01:00.160 --> 00:01:02.940] Yes, my name is Maril McCain.
[00:01:03.360 --> 00:01:06.100] I'm from Cleveland, Ohio, born and raised.
[00:01:07.480 --> 00:01:13.400] Yes, most people know me as the Olympic boxer, but I like to redefine myself now
[00:01:13.400 --> 00:01:18.580] as Olympic boxer turned entrepreneur and currently a student.
[00:01:19.400 --> 00:01:25.940] Oh, Jesus, this has been a long but beautiful journey.
[00:01:26.380 --> 00:01:30.980] Like I said, I started in Cleveland, Ohio and took my talents to the world stage,
[00:01:31.480 --> 00:01:37.260] started boxing when I was 17 years old, which is kind of late for most people.
[00:01:38.660 --> 00:01:39.700] But you say late.
[00:01:39.840 --> 00:01:41.200] When do most people get started?
[00:01:41.760 --> 00:01:47.120] Listen, it wasn't until I had my first tournament in 2018.
[00:01:47.740 --> 00:01:52.560] 2018, where I realized, oh, my God, these are babies out here boxing.
[00:01:55.100 --> 00:01:59.720] And I didn't see it like when when the kids in my gym used to tell me like,
[00:01:59.800 --> 00:02:02.200] oh, I started at eight, I started at nine.
[00:02:02.560 --> 00:02:04.140] I'm like, never.
[00:02:04.280 --> 00:02:05.340] Like, you're so little.
[00:02:05.880 --> 00:02:07.040] Like, yeah.
[00:02:07.740 --> 00:02:11.740] So when I actually got to see it in person, I was like, oh, snap.
[00:02:11.760 --> 00:02:15.840] I really did start late because we have these babies out here
[00:02:15.840 --> 00:02:21.200] going hard in the paint and they were fierce.
[00:02:22.000 --> 00:02:25.600] And what I couldn't they was a sight to see.
[00:02:26.900 --> 00:02:33.360] But, yeah, so late is most people start between the ages of eight and 12.
[00:02:34.060 --> 00:02:35.540] Eight and 12. Eight and 12.
[00:02:36.760 --> 00:02:39.020] Yeah. Wow. So.
[00:02:40.380 --> 00:02:43.700] I was considered a late starter with the boxing game.
[00:02:43.700 --> 00:02:47.780] And when you think about being a late starter in a boxing game,
[00:02:47.940 --> 00:02:51.640] it's like people don't see you to take that Olympic road.
[00:02:53.800 --> 00:02:56.180] And I'm just blessed and highly favorite.
[00:02:56.280 --> 00:02:59.400] And I thank God I stumbled upon it by accident.
[00:02:59.620 --> 00:03:05.480] It all started in the backyard of the backyard of one hundred
[00:03:05.480 --> 00:03:06.600] and seventeen in St.
[00:03:06.680 --> 00:03:09.540] Clare, my first coach, Coach T. Coach T.
[00:03:09.820 --> 00:03:11.180] Yeah. Yeah.
[00:03:11.180 --> 00:03:13.720] We started in the backyard
[00:03:14.520 --> 00:03:18.360] and then I eventually transitioned to the Glenville Rec.
[00:03:18.820 --> 00:03:21.600] And it just took off every since.
[00:03:21.920 --> 00:03:25.720] And I thank God because it wasn't a journey that I seen myself doing,
[00:03:25.760 --> 00:03:28.300] but I'm grateful that I.
[00:03:28.300 --> 00:03:30.080] Got to be on this journey.
[00:03:30.380 --> 00:03:32.880] I met some awesome people along the way.
[00:03:33.460 --> 00:03:39.400] I've developed myself like I have evolved as a person.
[00:03:39.400 --> 00:03:43.600] Boxing has not only been a sport to me, but it's been therapy.
[00:03:43.680 --> 00:03:44.620] It's been a friend.
[00:03:44.840 --> 00:03:47.240] It's been it's so many different components that.
[00:03:48.580 --> 00:03:51.040] This sport had holds in my heart.
[00:03:51.500 --> 00:03:54.760] And now that I'm on injury, I'm learning to.
[00:03:55.100 --> 00:03:56.800] Well, what point injury?
[00:03:56.980 --> 00:03:58.920] What do you mean on injury?
[00:03:59.080 --> 00:04:01.580] So, yeah, I'm taking a little bit of time off
[00:04:01.580 --> 00:04:06.960] because I have some shoulder issues that I have to attend to.
[00:04:08.220 --> 00:04:11.220] I really haven't seen you knock somebody out the other day, though.
[00:04:12.780 --> 00:04:14.540] Shh. OK.
[00:04:14.780 --> 00:04:19.740] So, yeah, that's another thing about being an athlete.
[00:04:20.200 --> 00:04:21.279] We always on goal.
[00:04:21.399 --> 00:04:25.200] We always want to be the best, do the best,
[00:04:25.640 --> 00:04:28.000] put on those long hours of work, work, work, work.
[00:04:28.220 --> 00:04:32.500] But now I'm learning to prioritize the rest.
[00:04:32.740 --> 00:04:36.940] I'm learning to get into really prioritizing
[00:04:36.940 --> 00:04:41.140] the rest, really making a routine, putting rest in the routine
[00:04:41.140 --> 00:04:44.560] because that's in the roots and put rest in the routine.
[00:04:44.620 --> 00:04:46.220] You have to put rest in your schedule.
[00:04:46.340 --> 00:04:49.040] Listen, I can't come because I have to relax today.
[00:04:49.200 --> 00:04:50.760] OK, tell people that. Yes.
[00:04:51.420 --> 00:04:53.180] I tell people that listening.
[00:04:54.480 --> 00:04:57.420] I can't do it. I need to I need to sit down.
[00:04:57.660 --> 00:04:59.580] I need to be at one with myself.
[00:04:59.780 --> 00:05:01.280] I'm really into meditation.
[00:05:01.540 --> 00:05:05.220] I'm really into self help and just
[00:05:05.900 --> 00:05:09.740] being able to disconnect from the world, telling my people to listen.
[00:05:10.300 --> 00:05:12.460] You know, you have your immediate circle where you're like,
[00:05:12.700 --> 00:05:15.640] if they don't contact me back, I'm going to call the police.
[00:05:15.940 --> 00:05:18.280] I have people in my circle like that.
[00:05:18.560 --> 00:05:19.640] Like, this is not like her.
[00:05:19.700 --> 00:05:22.100] So now I'm learning to be like, listen,
[00:05:23.180 --> 00:05:25.460] FYI, I'm off social media for the day.
[00:05:25.460 --> 00:05:28.300] I'm turning my phone off and I'm relaxing.
[00:05:29.060 --> 00:05:30.920] Don't buy. I'll be available tomorrow.
[00:05:31.060 --> 00:05:33.880] Or don't contact me between these hours.
[00:05:33.880 --> 00:05:37.260] And if it's a real emergency, call the police.
[00:05:39.160 --> 00:05:41.940] No, I really like that because I took a 10 day
[00:05:41.940 --> 00:05:45.380] ended up being 11 day sabbatical off social media.
[00:05:45.600 --> 00:05:48.420] And people like, oh, people was calling me
[00:05:48.420 --> 00:05:50.320] because they knew I'm off social media.
[00:05:50.340 --> 00:05:52.700] And like the only way to get in contact was to call me.
[00:05:52.700 --> 00:05:56.180] So they I'm having like two hour conversations catching up with him.
[00:05:56.240 --> 00:05:58.580] Like, wow, this is actually OK.
[00:05:59.160 --> 00:06:01.680] So this is what it feels like not to be on social media.
[00:06:02.340 --> 00:06:04.960] Everybody reaching out, checking in.
[00:06:05.600 --> 00:06:07.240] Like, I can get a hold of you now.
[00:06:07.340 --> 00:06:09.440] I love those social media breaks.
[00:06:09.680 --> 00:06:14.240] As much as social media is an asset, it is also a liability.
[00:06:14.840 --> 00:06:15.620] What's playing that?
[00:06:16.020 --> 00:06:19.980] Because we we sometimes get so caught up in the scroll.
[00:06:20.800 --> 00:06:24.540] We lose our sense of the outside world.
[00:06:25.360 --> 00:06:28.000] Have you ever just been sitting there for
[00:06:28.000 --> 00:06:30.720] and then you look up and you like, oh, my God,
[00:06:30.720 --> 00:06:33.740] I started scrolling around four and now it's six o'clock.
[00:06:33.860 --> 00:06:35.660] I put a five minute limit on my.
[00:06:35.900 --> 00:06:38.220] I mean, I could myself a little more time sometimes,
[00:06:38.420 --> 00:06:42.360] but I put a five minute five minute limit each day
[00:06:43.480 --> 00:06:46.160] for social media or Instagram, particularly.
[00:06:46.260 --> 00:06:48.280] That's my where I spend most of my time.
[00:06:48.280 --> 00:06:49.380] Yeah, everything else.
[00:06:49.560 --> 00:06:51.900] I kind of, you know, just take my shoes, get off back off.
[00:06:52.120 --> 00:06:53.260] I love that.
[00:06:53.280 --> 00:06:57.780] Just a reminder to like, listen, even scrolling too long, too long.
[00:06:57.780 --> 00:07:00.280] I'm like, dang, you're right.
[00:07:00.360 --> 00:07:02.680] Thank you for sending a reminder and thank you.
[00:07:03.480 --> 00:07:06.080] Because at first, I didn't have that before I took the sabbatical.
[00:07:06.180 --> 00:07:08.000] But I'm like, well, let me ease back in.
[00:07:08.020 --> 00:07:09.360] Let me start with five minutes.
[00:07:10.120 --> 00:07:11.860] All right. Let me add a little more time.
[00:07:12.000 --> 00:07:15.440] Applied some messages, posts and get off because, yeah,
[00:07:15.440 --> 00:07:17.860] you'll be scrolling for days like, oh, yeah.
[00:07:17.860 --> 00:07:19.880] And sometimes you get lost in the sauce.
[00:07:20.180 --> 00:07:22.720] And I'm like, one day I'm sitting here scrolling,
[00:07:23.680 --> 00:07:27.300] I'm getting into somebody's family drama and I'm like, OK,
[00:07:27.300 --> 00:07:31.240] now I have to go find out who the uncle is that she's talking about.
[00:07:31.500 --> 00:07:34.900] And I'm like five pages deep and I'm like, this is not even my business.
[00:07:36.320 --> 00:07:37.780] It's not even my business.
[00:07:37.880 --> 00:07:39.520] But that's what the platform wants.
[00:07:39.660 --> 00:07:40.880] Yeah. It's crazy.
[00:07:41.040 --> 00:07:45.660] So being able to tell yourself it's OK to disassociate with that
[00:07:45.660 --> 00:07:50.080] for a hot second and get back to the real world and get centered
[00:07:50.080 --> 00:07:53.120] is OK with it. It's OK to do that.
[00:07:53.180 --> 00:07:55.940] And I feel like just like any other addiction,
[00:07:55.940 --> 00:08:00.480] social media has become one of those addictions for a lot of people.
[00:08:00.760 --> 00:08:04.000] They can't function without opening that Instagram app.
[00:08:04.040 --> 00:08:06.700] They can't function without making that tick tock.
[00:08:07.040 --> 00:08:12.360] And I just find myself reminding myself, like, OK, listen,
[00:08:12.760 --> 00:08:16.660] it's OK to scroll, indulge, but come back to center
[00:08:17.260 --> 00:08:21.760] and disconnect from everything, be able to say
[00:08:21.760 --> 00:08:23.960] and have control over everything in your life,
[00:08:23.960 --> 00:08:28.380] because essentially people be like, this is not your world, but it is.
[00:08:29.160 --> 00:08:32.659] This is my world, because once I'm gone, the world is gone.
[00:08:33.720 --> 00:08:38.140] So this is my world and I could control that aspect of it.
[00:08:39.020 --> 00:08:41.580] Oh, yeah. Put rest in the routine.
[00:08:42.020 --> 00:08:43.460] Rest in the routine.
[00:08:43.679 --> 00:08:45.020] I love that.
[00:08:45.500 --> 00:08:49.260] And as you speak about addiction in the real world,
[00:08:49.920 --> 00:08:52.560] what are you addicted to in the real world?
[00:08:52.560 --> 00:08:55.420] Besides boxing and entrepreneurship,
[00:08:56.400 --> 00:08:57.180] what are your hobbies?
[00:08:57.440 --> 00:08:59.600] I'm addicted to quotes, y'all.
[00:09:00.220 --> 00:09:02.120] Quote? What's your favorite quote? I love quotes.
[00:09:02.300 --> 00:09:07.680] I love my favorite quote of all time is so cliche,
[00:09:08.040 --> 00:09:10.780] but I don't care if it's my quote.
[00:09:11.560 --> 00:09:15.480] And I got it written down on my mirror in my bathroom
[00:09:15.480 --> 00:09:20.400] just to remind myself to just do it, just do it.
[00:09:20.400 --> 00:09:22.380] Like, sometimes you don't need
[00:09:22.900 --> 00:09:24.900] too many opinions about something.
[00:09:26.040 --> 00:09:28.840] Sometimes you don't need to psych yourself out.
[00:09:29.200 --> 00:09:33.960] And I think that's a lot of I can't speak from everybody's perspective,
[00:09:34.020 --> 00:09:38.600] but a lot of my life was, should I, could I, would I?
[00:09:39.240 --> 00:09:42.980] And now I'm in a phase of life where it's just like, just do it.
[00:09:43.000 --> 00:09:44.380] If it works, it works.
[00:09:44.620 --> 00:09:47.000] I'm going to pray about it and I'm just going to do it.
[00:09:48.040 --> 00:09:52.220] And since I started this Just Do It campaign,
[00:09:52.640 --> 00:09:56.800] God has just been putting the pieces together, honey.
[00:09:58.560 --> 00:10:02.000] Like how I met you, God put the pieces together.
[00:10:02.060 --> 00:10:03.660] Like, I've seen you in Crossin,
[00:10:03.700 --> 00:10:06.760] but I've never had an in-depth conversation with you.
[00:10:06.760 --> 00:10:09.060] And then I had a conversation with you and I'm like,
[00:10:10.220 --> 00:10:13.420] the man behind the camera is intriguing.
[00:10:13.660 --> 00:10:14.900] Like, listen.
[00:10:15.900 --> 00:10:20.520] And then, like, just you knowing who I am, you like,
[00:10:21.300 --> 00:10:23.040] oh, Mo, this is a dope event coming up.
[00:10:23.040 --> 00:10:23.820] You should check it out.
[00:10:23.840 --> 00:10:27.060] And that event led me to meet more people.
[00:10:27.640 --> 00:10:31.060] Like the event that you sent that you sent me
[00:10:31.060 --> 00:10:32.920] just the other day at the school.
[00:10:33.120 --> 00:10:35.720] Yeah. I connected with a guy.
[00:10:36.200 --> 00:10:39.300] And now I've I've learned
[00:10:40.020 --> 00:10:43.720] like so many different avenues to use AI and tech.
[00:10:43.720 --> 00:10:47.380] And internships that's coming up, the mortar program.
[00:10:47.460 --> 00:10:49.540] I'm like, I've never heard of these things.
[00:10:49.840 --> 00:10:55.080] And that's what life is about, to go back to that social media
[00:10:55.080 --> 00:10:56.280] aspect of everything.
[00:10:56.880 --> 00:11:00.240] We disconnect, though we think we're connecting socially.
[00:11:00.400 --> 00:11:02.240] We're using social media.
[00:11:03.260 --> 00:11:07.720] Really, really, we're driving ourselves away
[00:11:07.720 --> 00:11:10.180] from that face-to-face connection.
[00:11:11.540 --> 00:11:13.100] Yeah. So, yeah.
[00:11:14.140 --> 00:11:16.000] Just being able to connect
[00:11:16.940 --> 00:11:19.500] and drive back to what's really mattered
[00:11:19.500 --> 00:11:21.600] at that human to human contact.
[00:11:22.260 --> 00:11:25.260] I don't know. I'm always like connect the dots with everything.
[00:11:25.600 --> 00:11:26.920] You have to, right.
[00:11:27.520 --> 00:11:30.980] And as you spoke about the Glenville, like I've come from the
[00:11:31.480 --> 00:11:32.340] Collingwood neighborhood.
[00:11:33.180 --> 00:11:34.300] So right off the road, still St.
[00:11:34.440 --> 00:11:36.000] Clare, so we still St. Clare. Yeah, for sure, family.
[00:11:36.280 --> 00:11:38.020] You know, we met from a mutual friend.
[00:11:38.120 --> 00:11:39.440] You know, shout out to Shanice.
[00:11:39.660 --> 00:11:41.580] You know, Shanice and Stephanie.
[00:11:43.420 --> 00:11:48.120] But that just goes to show we come a long way in your network.
[00:11:48.340 --> 00:11:49.180] Yeah, it is.
[00:11:49.800 --> 00:11:52.940] Like, yeah, I'm always tell you, I'm like, hey,
[00:11:53.220 --> 00:11:56.760] this has been going on, or I could get you a ticket or whatever.
[00:11:56.920 --> 00:11:58.160] I appreciate it.
[00:11:58.400 --> 00:11:59.560] Be able to be in a room.
[00:11:59.660 --> 00:12:01.440] Being in a room is so powerful.
[00:12:01.540 --> 00:12:05.840] Like, we connected with so many people at the Futureland
[00:12:05.840 --> 00:12:11.120] Summit, AI Forward Summit, and just all the other events
[00:12:11.120 --> 00:12:15.440] that, you know, we got into and will do
[00:12:16.200 --> 00:12:19.560] and continue to build, grow, expand.
[00:12:19.660 --> 00:12:23.060] Like I said, your network is your network.
[00:12:24.040 --> 00:12:27.000] So let's jump into the entrepreneurship.
[00:12:27.280 --> 00:12:31.080] Like, when did you learn entrepreneurship?
[00:12:31.220 --> 00:12:33.280] Or did boxing kind of take you down that road?
[00:12:34.700 --> 00:12:38.400] Um, I've always been like a little entrepreneur
[00:12:38.400 --> 00:12:41.480] from as far as I can remember.
[00:12:41.540 --> 00:12:45.180] A little entrepreneur, a little entrepreneur, a little tiny little entrepreneur.
[00:12:45.480 --> 00:12:48.580] I remember when Topps was open.
[00:12:48.800 --> 00:12:50.700] Remember Topps? Yes.
[00:12:51.360 --> 00:12:52.780] We're aging ourselves, but yes.
[00:12:53.380 --> 00:12:55.220] I remember when Topps was open
[00:12:55.220 --> 00:12:58.040] and I was staying out there and sale candy bars.
[00:12:58.420 --> 00:13:00.320] Oh, you used to sell candy. I didn't ask that.
[00:13:01.080 --> 00:13:04.940] Yes. I was I was one of those little tiny entrepreneurs.
[00:13:05.200 --> 00:13:06.280] Can we wash your car?
[00:13:06.420 --> 00:13:07.760] We're having a special today.
[00:13:07.760 --> 00:13:10.740] Like, I've always had that entrepreneurial spirit.
[00:13:11.260 --> 00:13:15.020] And that's why I didn't really work well on teams.
[00:13:15.260 --> 00:13:19.720] I was I was a basketball player and I was like the Draymond Green of the team.
[00:13:19.780 --> 00:13:21.660] Really? Yeah, I was so passionate.
[00:13:22.440 --> 00:13:24.340] And now I was aggressive.
[00:13:25.060 --> 00:13:26.820] I was I was aggressive.
[00:13:26.940 --> 00:13:28.760] I was one of those aggressive players.
[00:13:28.760 --> 00:13:33.300] And I just wanted everybody to work as hard as me to win.
[00:13:34.640 --> 00:13:36.520] And yes, like.
[00:13:36.520 --> 00:13:41.300] So when I got into boxing, it was an opportunity to be solo,
[00:13:41.480 --> 00:13:42.840] just like the entrepreneur journey.
[00:13:44.100 --> 00:13:46.580] You start solo, but you start building your team.
[00:13:46.660 --> 00:13:48.620] You need a coach. You need a nutritionist.
[00:13:48.700 --> 00:13:52.780] You need a physical therapist, whatever, et cetera, et cetera.
[00:13:52.860 --> 00:13:54.280] All that. You need.
[00:13:55.220 --> 00:13:58.040] Wow. You you need a team
[00:13:58.040 --> 00:14:01.980] if you want to be a great boxer, if you go back to a great boxer.
[00:14:02.220 --> 00:14:05.000] But you are Olympia and you are champion, right?
[00:14:05.000 --> 00:14:07.960] Yes. So all that to be a champ.
[00:14:08.140 --> 00:14:11.940] You need all that to be a champion boxer without it, right?
[00:14:13.400 --> 00:14:17.080] Are you going to be a boxer or are you just going to be a training partner?
[00:14:17.320 --> 00:14:18.680] Oh, yeah.
[00:14:19.160 --> 00:14:21.220] So pick a choice.
[00:14:21.320 --> 00:14:23.520] If you don't want to be a sparring partner,
[00:14:24.100 --> 00:14:26.680] you have to deliberately pick your team.
[00:14:27.240 --> 00:14:29.760] And just like the entrepreneur journey,
[00:14:30.040 --> 00:14:34.040] you have to sit there and pick your team.
[00:14:35.000 --> 00:14:37.400] So, yeah, picking your team is essential.
[00:14:37.740 --> 00:14:40.440] And that's the phase I'm in as a new entrepreneur.
[00:14:41.840 --> 00:14:46.760] A little bit about my new project, which is Moji's Wonderful World.
[00:14:47.200 --> 00:14:51.620] It's a one stop shop platform for adolescents
[00:14:51.620 --> 00:14:55.280] where they can learn physical health, nutrition, health
[00:14:55.280 --> 00:14:59.400] and emotional health on one platform using gamification,
[00:14:59.900 --> 00:15:04.580] which offers real live rewards after they complete the challenges.
[00:15:05.000 --> 00:15:07.800] Um, wait, when you say gamification,
[00:15:07.900 --> 00:15:12.640] yeah, gamification is meeting the children where they're at right now.
[00:15:12.660 --> 00:15:15.700] So they're when you look at the statistics
[00:15:15.700 --> 00:15:20.360] of what is engaging these children these days, they love games.
[00:15:20.860 --> 00:15:25.700] They love things that they can play, like Roblox and Fortnite.
[00:15:27.660 --> 00:15:30.340] So we're using our app
[00:15:30.340 --> 00:15:34.280] to essentially create games that kids can play.
[00:15:34.280 --> 00:15:38.380] We have workout sessions where they wear a heart monitor
[00:15:38.380 --> 00:15:41.760] so we can track if they're really doing
[00:15:42.560 --> 00:15:45.900] the exercises that we provide for them.
[00:15:46.460 --> 00:15:48.500] Oh, so you came up with the workouts yourself or?
[00:15:48.680 --> 00:15:51.760] Yeah, so me and accompanied by AI.
[00:15:52.800 --> 00:15:55.820] OK, so we use a little bit of everything.
[00:15:56.000 --> 00:15:58.420] We use experts, we use AI.
[00:15:59.700 --> 00:16:01.440] And we use experience.
[00:16:02.380 --> 00:16:07.960] But, yeah, so eventually I want my app to be on a very large scale
[00:16:07.960 --> 00:16:11.900] and provide that emotional piece as well,
[00:16:12.040 --> 00:16:15.840] where if your child is having a bad day,
[00:16:15.920 --> 00:16:18.780] which you can report how you're feeling for the day.
[00:16:18.780 --> 00:16:19.860] Well, yes.
[00:16:19.880 --> 00:16:22.560] So if the child logs in and be like, today is not the day.
[00:16:23.200 --> 00:16:25.380] And then the next day, today is not the day.
[00:16:25.540 --> 00:16:26.780] Then the next day, today is not.
[00:16:26.780 --> 00:16:29.580] So you're having three to four bad days in a row.
[00:16:30.090 --> 00:16:33.060] How can this app help you?
[00:16:33.380 --> 00:16:38.620] So what we're doing is we're connecting to real live social workers
[00:16:38.620 --> 00:16:42.100] and counselors where they're looking at those children,
[00:16:42.300 --> 00:16:47.760] log their feelings and eventually log journals where, OK,
[00:16:47.760 --> 00:16:49.160] now we can contact the parent.
[00:16:49.320 --> 00:16:55.000] Hey, just a heads up that we're not intervening as of yet.
[00:16:55.020 --> 00:16:57.520] But if we don't have a response from the parent,
[00:16:57.520 --> 00:17:02.020] that's when we do the second phase of, OK, let's make this phone call.
[00:17:02.180 --> 00:17:04.180] Now we're making this phone call.
[00:17:04.520 --> 00:17:07.900] Now we're connecting with we're doing partnership with schools.
[00:17:07.980 --> 00:17:09.900] So now we're partnering with the school.
[00:17:10.180 --> 00:17:13.940] Hey, little Jonathan has had seven bad days in a row.
[00:17:14.400 --> 00:17:16.760] Is there anything we can do to help him?
[00:17:17.079 --> 00:17:19.819] Can we have the counselor reach out to him?
[00:17:19.900 --> 00:17:21.480] Like, we want this to stick.
[00:17:21.579 --> 00:17:24.420] I personally had friends.
[00:17:25.400 --> 00:17:30.840] Commit suicide, and we didn't know if it was tools available out here
[00:17:30.840 --> 00:17:34.360] that maybe you don't want your friends knowing what you go through,
[00:17:34.480 --> 00:17:39.860] but you log in on an app and somebody goes back and see that
[00:17:39.860 --> 00:17:43.820] and you anonymously get that help you need without
[00:17:45.560 --> 00:17:48.300] feeling like no one's there to help you.
[00:17:48.340 --> 00:17:51.420] So that's when we come in, like I said, to intervene and help
[00:17:51.420 --> 00:17:57.800] and essentially partner with schools, parents and be a full force at
[00:17:57.800 --> 00:18:00.380] we can't keep preaching that the children are our future
[00:18:00.380 --> 00:18:03.940] and not give them the tools to see a bright one.
[00:18:04.140 --> 00:18:09.720] So that's where I come in as Smogy's Wonderful World, which is
[00:18:11.040 --> 00:18:16.400] a compilation of my little brother's name and my sister's name.
[00:18:16.880 --> 00:18:21.280] And they passed on, but I'm keeping their their names alive
[00:18:21.280 --> 00:18:26.760] as well. And it's a cute little acronym as well.
[00:18:27.120 --> 00:18:31.300] Mindfulness, opportunity, growth and empowerment.
[00:18:31.640 --> 00:18:34.180] Mozi is the place where children learn mindfulness,
[00:18:34.800 --> 00:18:38.900] experience new opportunities, grow emotionally and feel empowered
[00:18:38.900 --> 00:18:40.600] to be their best selves.
[00:18:41.060 --> 00:18:45.860] So, yeah, that's that's a little bit about my little entrepreneur journey.
[00:18:46.020 --> 00:18:48.800] And we hope to see this on a global scale.
[00:18:49.000 --> 00:18:50.640] We will see it.
[00:18:50.640 --> 00:18:54.580] Yes, we we hope to see it on the global scale in 12 months.
[00:18:54.940 --> 00:18:57.900] But we're realistically speaking, we we see a bright future
[00:18:57.900 --> 00:18:59.640] with Moji's Wonderful World.
[00:18:59.820 --> 00:19:01.300] We're going to take a global. Don't worry.
[00:19:01.520 --> 00:19:02.380] We're going to take a global.
[00:19:02.520 --> 00:19:05.300] You heard it. You heard it first.
[00:19:06.040 --> 00:19:07.220] Somebody want to hear this.
[00:19:07.460 --> 00:19:12.400] I'm like, look, I want to get behind what Miss Morel is doing.
[00:19:12.800 --> 00:19:14.260] Yes, that is powerful.
[00:19:14.520 --> 00:19:18.040] So we speak about emotional intelligence and as a boxer,
[00:19:18.040 --> 00:19:22.420] sometimes you have to be fearless and like shed off emotions,
[00:19:22.960 --> 00:19:24.880] at least what I think as a boxer.
[00:19:25.400 --> 00:19:28.520] So how did that come about as a boxer
[00:19:28.520 --> 00:19:31.180] and learning that emotional intelligence piece?
[00:19:32.360 --> 00:19:37.200] So emotional intelligence is essential in boxing.
[00:19:38.300 --> 00:19:40.740] You don't necessarily lose your emotions,
[00:19:40.760 --> 00:19:42.300] but you learn how to govern them.
[00:19:42.740 --> 00:19:48.020] I can't show you if an opponent come in and hit you hard, hard,
[00:19:48.040 --> 00:19:51.800] and you've shown that you've been hit hard, then they're going to be like,
[00:19:51.800 --> 00:19:52.660] Oh, yeah, I got you.
[00:19:52.800 --> 00:19:56.960] No, you you you you block that expression out.
[00:19:57.140 --> 00:20:00.920] I can't. Yeah, I can't block the emotion out because I felt the punch.
[00:20:01.040 --> 00:20:03.920] Like, I'm I'm pissed that you just punched me like that.
[00:20:03.960 --> 00:20:06.560] Was somebody that punched you so hard, like, really?
[00:20:06.820 --> 00:20:08.960] I'm about to whoop yo. Exactly.
[00:20:09.180 --> 00:20:11.700] Was it somebody that that you remember?
[00:20:12.360 --> 00:20:15.800] I think it was more so sparring with the guys.
[00:20:16.080 --> 00:20:17.280] Oh, that's different.
[00:20:17.280 --> 00:20:17.960] That's cheating.
[00:20:18.220 --> 00:20:19.700] No, no, it's not cheating.
[00:20:20.080 --> 00:20:20.660] It's cheating.
[00:20:21.120 --> 00:20:23.980] It's you better listen to your coach and keep your hands up.
[00:20:24.360 --> 00:20:26.780] OK, so a lesson. Yes.
[00:20:27.440 --> 00:20:32.040] So it's not cheating because essentially, if you sign up to be a boxer.
[00:20:33.940 --> 00:20:37.560] And it's not a huge world for girls,
[00:20:38.520 --> 00:20:40.860] especially in the inner city of Cleveland.
[00:20:41.260 --> 00:20:44.260] Like, this is this is the most motion that I've seen
[00:20:44.260 --> 00:20:47.240] with the little girls rolling out to become boxers.
[00:20:47.260 --> 00:20:52.240] When I was growing up, I knew maybe two girls doing the same thing as me.
[00:20:52.660 --> 00:20:53.720] Within the city.
[00:20:53.900 --> 00:20:57.220] And it wasn't until I branched out and
[00:20:58.140 --> 00:21:01.960] went to these national competitions that I was able to actually get a fight.
[00:21:02.660 --> 00:21:07.800] So, yeah, when it when we go back to that emotional intelligence piece,
[00:21:07.800 --> 00:21:12.200] uh, first of all, side note,
[00:21:12.540 --> 00:21:16.840] they say the girls are emotional, but I've never seen so many boys cry.
[00:21:17.260 --> 00:21:21.140] My life really in a gym, in the gym, in the fights.
[00:21:22.440 --> 00:21:27.880] I just I've seen so much during this journey,
[00:21:28.100 --> 00:21:31.460] but I can say one thing I've learned.
[00:21:32.120 --> 00:21:37.160] The boys are more emotional when it comes to being boxers.
[00:21:38.380 --> 00:21:43.060] Like girls, all right, we take it like it's cool, like whatever.
[00:21:43.220 --> 00:21:44.420] But the boys.
[00:21:44.900 --> 00:21:46.160] Oh, my goodness.
[00:21:46.260 --> 00:21:48.880] You're not here in the end of it.
[00:21:49.320 --> 00:21:53.800] Well, I would have never thought you're not here in the end of it.
[00:21:53.860 --> 00:21:56.580] I've never seen so many tears in my life.
[00:21:56.740 --> 00:21:59.400] Wow. Yeah. But.
[00:22:00.140 --> 00:22:02.560] Learning to govern your emotions is important.
[00:22:02.560 --> 00:22:05.780] And I've I've learned the biggest lessons in the ring.
[00:22:05.780 --> 00:22:09.260] And I take them with me on a daily basis.
[00:22:09.380 --> 00:22:10.900] What's the biggest lesson that you learn?
[00:22:11.320 --> 00:22:15.880] My biggest lesson that I learned in the ring is that you can prepare all you want.
[00:22:16.760 --> 00:22:21.940] You can prepare, but nothing is compared to actually doing.
[00:22:22.460 --> 00:22:23.160] You know what I'm saying?
[00:22:23.700 --> 00:22:26.340] It's all fun and games till you get punched in the face.
[00:22:26.820 --> 00:22:29.080] Everybody has a plan to get punched in the face.
[00:22:29.480 --> 00:22:34.020] But the thing is, you want to prepare for all of those things
[00:22:34.020 --> 00:22:37.320] because you can sit there and study film when you're a fighter.
[00:22:37.620 --> 00:22:39.760] Like, oh, yeah, look how he throwing this punch at him.
[00:22:40.140 --> 00:22:42.520] Like, look how he throwing this punch or da da da.
[00:22:43.300 --> 00:22:46.780] And then you go in there and they're not doing anything
[00:22:46.780 --> 00:22:50.300] that you just studied on film because they studied you, too.
[00:22:50.560 --> 00:22:51.460] Something different.
[00:22:53.000 --> 00:22:58.340] So the biggest lesson I've learned was to just be open.
[00:22:59.080 --> 00:23:02.560] To keep learning in anything in life,
[00:23:02.560 --> 00:23:09.320] you have to be ready to keep learning and don't don't be closed minded.
[00:23:10.760 --> 00:23:14.800] Just be ready and open and willing to be a student.
[00:23:15.780 --> 00:23:19.280] And yeah, that's the the biggest lesson I've learned was.
[00:23:20.440 --> 00:23:23.400] Never stop learning, never stop learning.
[00:23:23.780 --> 00:23:27.400] And I want to say, like, we're we're actually here behind the scenes
[00:23:27.400 --> 00:23:30.520] at the Futureland Conference, and we've met so many people.
[00:23:30.520 --> 00:23:34.020] I mean, even people kind of stopping us
[00:23:34.020 --> 00:23:36.820] and interacting and kind of switching the layout.
[00:23:38.120 --> 00:23:40.360] So, yeah, this has been actually a journey.
[00:23:40.680 --> 00:23:43.280] This may be like a shorter podcast.
[00:23:43.460 --> 00:23:47.160] It's actually been like two hours, for real, just a process of getting there.
[00:23:47.240 --> 00:23:49.320] We have to do starts and stops and rewinds and cuts.
[00:23:49.540 --> 00:23:51.780] I love it. That's that's networking right there.
[00:23:51.920 --> 00:23:54.300] You got people like, hey, hey, what's that?
[00:23:54.800 --> 00:23:56.180] So that's that's that's love.
[00:23:56.340 --> 00:23:58.520] I love it. I love it. Love and we're live.
[00:23:58.520 --> 00:24:01.460] This is live. We're live from Futureland.
[00:24:01.860 --> 00:24:05.100] But if you love this episode, you're going to have to check out
[00:24:05.100 --> 00:24:10.220] the full episode when we get to sit down and and solitude
[00:24:10.220 --> 00:24:12.240] and peace and really get high.
[00:24:12.280 --> 00:24:13.940] I'm going to tell you all about my life.
[00:24:14.180 --> 00:24:17.460] All my life, I had to fight all your life.
[00:24:17.760 --> 00:24:19.260] You had to fight.
[00:24:19.800 --> 00:24:22.460] So even with that, that's Kendrick Lamar.
[00:24:22.620 --> 00:24:24.620] Did you have like an intro song going on?
[00:24:24.800 --> 00:24:27.660] First of all, we're not going to give that line to Kendrick Lamar.
[00:24:27.660 --> 00:24:31.060] We're going to take date that back to the color purple purple.
[00:24:31.340 --> 00:24:34.080] Yeah, I'm saying like as far as the song,
[00:24:34.620 --> 00:24:37.480] like what was your intro song?
[00:24:37.480 --> 00:24:41.500] What did you come out to like in the hype before you knock somebody out?
[00:24:42.840 --> 00:24:45.340] Whenever I fight internationally,
[00:24:45.640 --> 00:24:49.600] I always like to go back to my roots, Cleveland.
[00:24:50.040 --> 00:24:51.080] So I love that.
[00:24:51.820 --> 00:24:53.140] I'm from the land.
[00:24:53.360 --> 00:24:54.420] So I die.
[00:24:54.420 --> 00:24:56.220] It sounds like that.
[00:24:56.280 --> 00:24:57.800] OK, that's all that's like.
[00:24:58.200 --> 00:24:59.300] Yes, like that.
[00:24:59.480 --> 00:25:00.980] That song just gave me so high.
[00:25:01.180 --> 00:25:03.260] And I have an opportunity to rep my.
[00:25:04.800 --> 00:25:08.460] Who? I have an opportunity to put Cleveland on a map.
[00:25:08.660 --> 00:25:10.200] I love it. I love to see it.
[00:25:10.360 --> 00:25:13.560] And I if you know anything about Cleveland,
[00:25:13.640 --> 00:25:17.380] you know, we are die hard Clevelanders, Cleveland fans.
[00:25:17.500 --> 00:25:22.360] I mean, even from the sports going back to to boxing and football,
[00:25:22.360 --> 00:25:26.220] like the Browns were known for losing season after season.
[00:25:26.380 --> 00:25:26.900] We got our host.
[00:25:27.080 --> 00:25:32.480] But we always come out there every Sunday, every Sunday with pride.
[00:25:32.620 --> 00:25:33.620] Like this the one.
[00:25:34.040 --> 00:25:36.260] This is the game that they're going to.
[00:25:36.320 --> 00:25:39.480] It's the season. This is it.
[00:25:39.480 --> 00:25:41.100] And then we turn it to this is the game.
[00:25:41.960 --> 00:25:43.360] This is our season.
[00:25:43.480 --> 00:25:45.880] I can see us going to the Super Bowl.
[00:25:46.680 --> 00:25:47.740] And you know what?
[00:25:47.820 --> 00:25:50.240] The Browns has taught me.
[00:25:50.240 --> 00:25:57.220] So much so much faith, patience, love, compassion, all of that.
[00:25:57.260 --> 00:25:59.260] Shout out to the Browns. I love y'all.
[00:25:59.640 --> 00:26:01.540] So speaking about like championship, the Super Bowl,
[00:26:01.620 --> 00:26:05.020] what is like that championship, the high status for boxing?
[00:26:05.860 --> 00:26:10.500] That's the Olympics, that's world champions, that's the Continentals.
[00:26:11.600 --> 00:26:12.920] Oh, my gosh.
[00:26:13.000 --> 00:26:14.980] Those are like the three main.
[00:26:16.020 --> 00:26:19.700] Highlights, but the highlight of your amateur career would be the Olympics.
[00:26:19.700 --> 00:26:23.660] Not only making it to that stage, but meddling.
[00:26:24.900 --> 00:26:27.580] And yes, I had an opportunity to go to the Olympics.
[00:26:27.860 --> 00:26:28.960] I got an. Oh, my God.
[00:26:29.060 --> 00:26:32.000] I was like to see like it's no experience
[00:26:32.000 --> 00:26:33.980] I would trade in the world for.
[00:26:35.280 --> 00:26:37.060] What was your favorite experience then?
[00:26:37.520 --> 00:26:39.140] Oh, the village.
[00:26:39.520 --> 00:26:43.340] Yes. All of the rumors about the Olympic village are true.
[00:26:44.200 --> 00:26:45.440] They are all true.
[00:26:45.560 --> 00:26:47.480] Whatever you heard on TV, true.
[00:26:48.340 --> 00:26:49.320] They're true.
[00:26:49.320 --> 00:26:52.540] I hate to say it, but you have people
[00:26:52.540 --> 00:26:55.640] threatening us and yes, we were on cardboard beds.
[00:26:56.020 --> 00:26:58.860] But it's not what everybody thinks.
[00:27:00.280 --> 00:27:03.500] Whoever engineered that bed, you could do a somersault
[00:27:03.500 --> 00:27:05.240] and the bed was not breaking down.
[00:27:05.460 --> 00:27:08.800] OK. And it was straight cardboard for,
[00:27:09.360 --> 00:27:13.520] you know, recycling purposes and all that good stuff.
[00:27:13.520 --> 00:27:14.780] For good causes. Yeah.
[00:27:14.900 --> 00:27:18.380] So my favorite part, like I said, was the Olympic village.
[00:27:18.380 --> 00:27:21.280] See a world peace in the flesh.
[00:27:21.700 --> 00:27:24.480] Like, that's the only way I could describe it.
[00:27:25.320 --> 00:27:29.380] You have so many different nations, nationalities, languages.
[00:27:31.180 --> 00:27:34.880] And all you do is everything is free in the village.
[00:27:34.960 --> 00:27:36.380] You have vending machines everywhere.
[00:27:36.440 --> 00:27:37.680] You have stores everywhere.
[00:27:37.880 --> 00:27:40.100] Everything is entirely free food.
[00:27:41.240 --> 00:27:44.540] You're walking past a country that I've never even heard of.
[00:27:44.680 --> 00:27:47.620] I've never even heard of Tajikistan or.
[00:27:47.620 --> 00:27:51.520] Exactly. You have when you.
[00:27:52.820 --> 00:27:53.860] You realize. Where is that located?
[00:27:54.920 --> 00:27:57.020] I don't know. Somewhere in Asia. I don't know.
[00:27:57.980 --> 00:28:01.660] So you have all these different countries
[00:28:01.660 --> 00:28:04.100] that you've never heard of you.
[00:28:04.200 --> 00:28:06.620] And then some countries only had two representatives.
[00:28:07.160 --> 00:28:09.320] Some countries only had one representative.
[00:28:09.660 --> 00:28:14.240] And you realize how blessed you are to come from America,
[00:28:14.260 --> 00:28:17.600] in a sense, because it was hot in that village.
[00:28:17.620 --> 00:28:20.460] We were in the peak of Paris summer.
[00:28:21.080 --> 00:28:26.760] And if you know anything about Europe, they do not believe in ice or air.
[00:28:28.100 --> 00:28:28.800] So that's for us.
[00:28:30.320 --> 00:28:31.420] We were spoiled.
[00:28:31.920 --> 00:28:36.500] The United States made sure that they shipped us air conditioners.
[00:28:37.660 --> 00:28:41.180] So must because all of these were complaining.
[00:28:41.180 --> 00:28:44.060] So they shipped us portable air conditioners.
[00:28:44.060 --> 00:28:49.780] And we were they were like, oh, you realize how much America
[00:28:49.780 --> 00:28:51.400] is put on the pedestal.
[00:28:51.780 --> 00:28:54.160] But going back to my original statement,
[00:28:54.320 --> 00:28:59.840] seeing that world peace, being connected by one thing and one thing only,
[00:28:59.860 --> 00:29:01.780] and that's representing your nation.
[00:29:02.760 --> 00:29:07.380] But everybody is smiling and laughing and having a good time,
[00:29:07.600 --> 00:29:10.520] because though we're in competition,
[00:29:11.260 --> 00:29:13.680] everybody's like, you worked your ass off to get here.
[00:29:14.060 --> 00:29:16.080] And I respect that aspect.
[00:29:16.700 --> 00:29:18.680] And I respect that you're here.
[00:29:18.900 --> 00:29:21.300] I'm looking at you from across the table as an Olympian,
[00:29:21.320 --> 00:29:23.700] and you're looking at me from across the table as an Olympian.
[00:29:23.820 --> 00:29:25.580] I'm standing next to LeBron James.
[00:29:25.640 --> 00:29:29.460] I'm standing next to Simone Biles and this little old me from St.
[00:29:29.580 --> 00:29:32.080] Clair. And I'm like, damn, we have on the same outfit.
[00:29:33.160 --> 00:29:35.080] Repping the same thing.
[00:29:35.620 --> 00:29:37.180] Repping the same thing.
[00:29:37.880 --> 00:29:42.360] Though they're on higher pedestals, it's like, well, I'm here too.
[00:29:42.900 --> 00:29:47.880] And then I look at myself in the mirror like, OK, look, look at you.
[00:29:48.020 --> 00:29:50.860] Right, right, right, right. So, yeah.
[00:29:52.140 --> 00:29:54.480] I love every moment of it. Wow.
[00:29:54.900 --> 00:29:56.920] So even going back to the championship,
[00:29:57.500 --> 00:30:00.280] did you just win medals or you won a champion?
[00:30:00.880 --> 00:30:04.560] No, so I didn't medal in the Olympics.
[00:30:06.580 --> 00:30:07.800] No, I did not.
[00:30:08.080 --> 00:30:10.940] It was a lot of listen, we don't have to talk off.
[00:30:10.940 --> 00:30:12.560] OK, we definitely will.
[00:30:12.780 --> 00:30:15.980] But they're actually cleaning up the sport of boxing.
[00:30:16.440 --> 00:30:18.920] We didn't have like a.
[00:30:20.580 --> 00:30:22.980] We didn't have I don't want to put the.
[00:30:24.200 --> 00:30:25.560] The incorrect name out.
[00:30:27.260 --> 00:30:31.400] But we had to reevaluate everything.
[00:30:31.840 --> 00:30:36.220] We didn't have a chair because they got rid of our organization
[00:30:36.220 --> 00:30:38.480] that was head of boxing for corruption.
[00:30:38.480 --> 00:30:42.600] So just even making it a boxing for corruption.
[00:30:42.600 --> 00:30:46.840] Yes. So just even the boxing portion, making it to the Olympics
[00:30:47.360 --> 00:30:52.080] was a blessing this time around, because they were scrambling to find
[00:30:52.080 --> 00:30:56.720] who was non-biased to judge boxing
[00:30:57.480 --> 00:30:59.960] in such a short notice.
[00:31:00.640 --> 00:31:03.060] That means you have to train people on what they're looking for.
[00:31:03.160 --> 00:31:04.040] You have to get judges.
[00:31:04.140 --> 00:31:07.660] You have to make sure that these people have good intentions
[00:31:07.660 --> 00:31:10.200] to give the rightful winner what's theirs.
[00:31:12.080 --> 00:31:15.480] So, yeah, that's a that's another story for another day.
[00:31:15.520 --> 00:31:18.700] OK, but but yeah,
[00:31:19.360 --> 00:31:21.720] I didn't medal this time around.
[00:31:22.180 --> 00:31:27.100] I'm going for twenty twenty eight when the Olympics are in our home
[00:31:27.100 --> 00:31:29.460] to even be considering
[00:31:30.260 --> 00:31:34.460] to to be able to represent the United States
[00:31:34.460 --> 00:31:38.620] in the United States Olympics is is is just mind boggling.
[00:31:38.660 --> 00:31:43.080] And I think that's why that's what made me want to do it once again,
[00:31:43.260 --> 00:31:45.400] because it's like, OK, I'm still young.
[00:31:45.780 --> 00:31:47.760] I still have fire in me. Yes.
[00:31:47.760 --> 00:31:49.740] I still have the passion. Yes.
[00:31:50.260 --> 00:31:53.240] Though, like I said, I'm working through injuries right now
[00:31:53.240 --> 00:31:57.680] is the best time to heal myself physically, mentally
[00:31:58.500 --> 00:32:01.280] and be ready to conquer that.
[00:32:02.380 --> 00:32:06.260] And because twenty twenty eight may be the goal. OK.
[00:32:07.880 --> 00:32:10.440] Just being one hundred percent healthy for that.
[00:32:11.660 --> 00:32:15.540] And what is the chances of me being able to compete
[00:32:15.540 --> 00:32:19.200] on the homeland for the biggest competition in the world?
[00:32:19.360 --> 00:32:22.220] That's not rolling around for another ninety nine years.
[00:32:22.220 --> 00:32:23.380] That's amazing.
[00:32:23.480 --> 00:32:26.780] And then after you fight, I'm going to hit you with your own
[00:32:26.780 --> 00:32:28.080] I haven't hit you with the Moji app.
[00:32:28.420 --> 00:32:29.680] What is yours?
[00:32:29.680 --> 00:32:32.700] How are you feeling to meet you with your own app?
[00:32:33.340 --> 00:32:34.700] Yes, I love it.
[00:32:35.080 --> 00:32:38.040] So talk about more of the championships, because, you know,
[00:32:39.160 --> 00:32:41.160] speaking to you off camera,
[00:32:41.440 --> 00:32:47.240] you told me about the championship belts and how it works and operates.
[00:32:47.740 --> 00:32:49.780] You want to speak to the audience a little bit about that.
[00:32:50.240 --> 00:32:51.360] Amateur is a little different.
[00:32:51.540 --> 00:32:55.260] Well, we're talking about the pro aspect of having a WBC.
[00:32:55.400 --> 00:32:59.160] A lot of people don't know that when you hold those titles,
[00:32:59.160 --> 00:33:01.740] you hold the taxes on those belts.
[00:33:01.840 --> 00:33:03.160] The taxes. Yeah.
[00:33:03.600 --> 00:33:05.200] You those belts are tax.
[00:33:05.940 --> 00:33:07.540] Don't believe me.
[00:33:07.560 --> 00:33:09.440] Look it up, people. Wow.
[00:33:09.580 --> 00:33:11.220] So yes, though.
[00:33:12.580 --> 00:33:15.460] People always holler, I want to fight the champ.
[00:33:15.640 --> 00:33:16.620] I want to fight the champ.
[00:33:16.740 --> 00:33:18.100] It's my turn to be the champ.
[00:33:18.480 --> 00:33:20.000] Well, can you afford to be the champ?
[00:33:20.160 --> 00:33:23.940] I hate to say it, but when you have those type of.
[00:33:24.780 --> 00:33:29.140] People that don't do the research on the sport
[00:33:29.140 --> 00:33:31.240] and they're just talking. Yeah. Wow.
[00:33:31.660 --> 00:33:33.800] You have to be able to back that title up.
[00:33:33.840 --> 00:33:36.600] You have to pay to to fight for that title.
[00:33:36.820 --> 00:33:37.780] You got to pay to be the boss.
[00:33:37.900 --> 00:33:40.100] Yeah, you have to pay to be the boss.
[00:33:40.500 --> 00:33:44.140] And that correlates back to being an entrepreneur.
[00:33:44.920 --> 00:33:47.220] That's very true. Wow.
[00:33:48.220 --> 00:33:53.200] So, yeah, I'm listening.
[00:33:53.320 --> 00:33:57.160] I'm looking forward to the future of female boxing.
[00:33:57.160 --> 00:34:00.460] There are so many great women doing great things.
[00:34:00.680 --> 00:34:04.560] We have Clarissa Shields signing one of the biggest deals
[00:34:04.560 --> 00:34:08.100] in the the sport of women's boxing.
[00:34:08.739 --> 00:34:11.840] You have Jake Paul, a Cleveland native
[00:34:11.840 --> 00:34:17.060] that's given these women a platform to showcase their talents.
[00:34:17.239 --> 00:34:18.620] When women wasn't handlining,
[00:34:19.260 --> 00:34:22.040] they didn't think women was could sell tickets
[00:34:22.040 --> 00:34:27.560] and have that many fans to put asses in arenas.
[00:34:28.600 --> 00:34:34.100] So when I see the innovation overall of not just women's boxing,
[00:34:34.400 --> 00:34:35.719] but women's sports.
[00:34:36.139 --> 00:34:37.199] Just like basketball.
[00:34:37.679 --> 00:34:40.520] Yeah. The WNBA is coming to Cleveland.
[00:34:40.780 --> 00:34:41.760] Coming back to Cleveland. Yes.
[00:34:41.900 --> 00:34:47.260] What? 2028 is is going to be one hell of a year in a good way.
[00:34:47.480 --> 00:34:51.739] We're claiming it now is going to be one hell of a year in a great way.
[00:34:51.739 --> 00:34:59.080] And I'm excited to just keep seeing where female sports is going
[00:34:59.080 --> 00:35:00.980] and being a part of it, in a sense.
[00:35:02.060 --> 00:35:03.000] And I'm listening.
[00:35:03.580 --> 00:35:06.680] Y'all set the standards, ladies, because when it's my time,
[00:35:07.620 --> 00:35:09.120] I know God don't make no mistakes.
[00:35:09.500 --> 00:35:11.280] When it's my time, I'm going to shine.
[00:35:11.740 --> 00:35:12.840] So, yeah, for sure.
[00:35:13.260 --> 00:35:17.320] So you're saying 2028, I don't have to fly to Paris to see you fight.
[00:35:17.580 --> 00:35:20.400] No, we're in L.A. L.A. 2028.
[00:35:20.400 --> 00:35:23.080] OK. You can drive there.
[00:35:23.260 --> 00:35:24.200] It's no excuse.
[00:35:24.300 --> 00:35:27.720] I'm catching a plane, but yeah, yeah, I'll be there.
[00:35:28.280 --> 00:35:32.080] That could be a nice road trip. OK. Yeah.
[00:35:33.220 --> 00:35:34.280] Yeah, for sure.
[00:35:34.300 --> 00:35:37.440] So speaking about like road trip, like when you're traveling
[00:35:37.440 --> 00:35:41.580] and like days before the fight, even minutes before the fight,
[00:35:41.660 --> 00:35:44.180] how do you prep or like mentally prep yourself?
[00:35:45.840 --> 00:35:48.780] So you can only do so much, honestly.
[00:35:48.780 --> 00:35:52.200] There's so many people tell you so many different things,
[00:35:52.280 --> 00:35:54.560] but you have to just have confidence.
[00:35:54.800 --> 00:35:55.600] Confidence is key.
[00:35:55.960 --> 00:36:00.420] Did you do everything you needed to do in order to be great in this moment?
[00:36:00.720 --> 00:36:02.960] And you don't look at it as a whole.
[00:36:03.200 --> 00:36:05.640] You look at it as.
[00:36:05.660 --> 00:36:08.680] Minute by minute, round by round, moment by moment.
[00:36:09.640 --> 00:36:12.700] I want to win the everything.
[00:36:13.660 --> 00:36:16.000] But initially, if I win the first round,
[00:36:16.200 --> 00:36:18.480] if I win the second round, if I win the third round,
[00:36:18.480 --> 00:36:24.140] yeah, so you want to scale it on a smaller size because then
[00:36:24.740 --> 00:36:26.340] you're not overthinking it.
[00:36:26.620 --> 00:36:28.060] You're not overdoing it.
[00:36:28.240 --> 00:36:32.860] And my whole thing is when I encourage the little ones to box
[00:36:32.860 --> 00:36:35.940] or if I'm out there working their corners, I'd be like, listen,
[00:36:37.060 --> 00:36:39.300] what are you going to do if she hits you?
[00:36:39.660 --> 00:36:41.560] Hit her back. It's that simple.
[00:36:42.280 --> 00:36:45.080] Wow. I'm listening.
[00:36:45.140 --> 00:36:46.120] You know how to do this.
[00:36:46.160 --> 00:36:47.040] So you coach a little bit.
[00:36:47.040 --> 00:36:48.620] Yeah, I do. Just a little bit.
[00:36:49.400 --> 00:36:50.800] I love to see the babies.
[00:36:51.120 --> 00:36:56.240] Like, I love coming back to my city and showing them, like, listen,
[00:36:57.480 --> 00:37:00.940] if you want it, you could go get it, because I'm literally
[00:37:00.940 --> 00:37:03.300] every statistic in the book.
[00:37:03.360 --> 00:37:05.600] Like, I wasn't supposed to be here.
[00:37:05.780 --> 00:37:08.680] I was in foster care. Really?
[00:37:08.980 --> 00:37:12.080] I was born into
[00:37:12.080 --> 00:37:14.500] I'm number seven out of eight.
[00:37:15.280 --> 00:37:18.560] And my mom was had an addiction.
[00:37:19.080 --> 00:37:22.600] God brought her out of it much, much later in life.
[00:37:22.820 --> 00:37:23.500] Thank God. Yeah.
[00:37:23.960 --> 00:37:25.800] I didn't have a father there growing up.
[00:37:26.080 --> 00:37:31.960] And all of those sounds so sad for you, but it's like, OK, well.
[00:37:32.740 --> 00:37:34.480] Well, now what do we do?
[00:37:34.520 --> 00:37:38.140] Do we sit here and cry about it or are we going to
[00:37:38.960 --> 00:37:41.700] elevate and evolve and learn?
[00:37:42.700 --> 00:37:44.020] Dad, that is a must.
[00:37:44.200 --> 00:37:47.360] And as you said, not growing up with your father,
[00:37:47.400 --> 00:37:48.740] I didn't grow up with my father.
[00:37:48.980 --> 00:37:51.340] Even like it took me
[00:37:51.340 --> 00:37:56.880] in my late 20s, randomly at a store, ran into my father.
[00:37:56.960 --> 00:38:00.380] He's like, Steve, Steve, like, yeah.
[00:38:01.040 --> 00:38:03.360] I'm looking like, how do I do I know you?
[00:38:03.520 --> 00:38:07.040] Like, you know who I am? Like, no, like I'm your father.
[00:38:07.500 --> 00:38:10.000] I'm like, whoa, where you been at?
[00:38:10.000 --> 00:38:12.100] But like, you owe me.
[00:38:12.280 --> 00:38:15.420] Matter of fact, you need to fill my tank up.
[00:38:15.820 --> 00:38:16.600] Fill my tank.
[00:38:16.820 --> 00:38:19.260] But yeah, we actually had a good conversation, though.
[00:38:19.300 --> 00:38:20.980] You know, I didn't know how it was going to go.
[00:38:21.020 --> 00:38:22.500] But it's actually, you know, good.
[00:38:23.020 --> 00:38:25.400] And that's that's what life is about.
[00:38:25.860 --> 00:38:29.600] If you were to hold that grudge against your father for not being there.
[00:38:29.700 --> 00:38:31.560] I made a song, but I got it out.
[00:38:31.580 --> 00:38:32.900] So after that, it's good.
[00:38:32.920 --> 00:38:35.960] But you were open to being like, at least let me hear them,
[00:38:35.960 --> 00:38:37.920] because a lot of people have that mentality.
[00:38:37.960 --> 00:38:39.340] You was never there for me.
[00:38:39.340 --> 00:38:43.900] But honestly, forgiveness is for yourself.
[00:38:44.860 --> 00:38:46.020] Oh, I like that.
[00:38:46.240 --> 00:38:47.800] Yeah, for sure. And I'm listening.
[00:38:47.840 --> 00:38:49.380] I'm glad you got to meet your father.
[00:38:49.840 --> 00:38:52.180] Yeah, it's been a while.
[00:38:52.180 --> 00:38:53.100] They look a lot.
[00:38:53.580 --> 00:38:55.040] Oh, it would come.
[00:38:55.420 --> 00:38:56.440] Just like I was like.
[00:38:57.400 --> 00:38:59.580] I mean, I didn't really think of nothing of it.
[00:38:59.680 --> 00:39:02.440] No, if it happened, it happened and it happened to happen.
[00:39:02.800 --> 00:39:04.920] You know, it was randomly, just randomly.
[00:39:05.360 --> 00:39:05.980] Happened to happen.
[00:39:06.720 --> 00:39:08.400] Yeah, I'm grateful and thankful.
[00:39:09.560 --> 00:39:13.240] You know, I want to say it's the best relationship.
[00:39:13.720 --> 00:39:16.280] Are we staying communications as we should?
[00:39:17.220 --> 00:39:21.620] But, you know, it's still good, even after all these years.
[00:39:21.920 --> 00:39:24.760] I actually know exactly that it's C in the witness.
[00:39:25.020 --> 00:39:28.100] And for him to see me and witness, like, you know, I'm proud of you
[00:39:28.100 --> 00:39:32.420] because he knows watch from a distance as a father, you know.
[00:39:32.780 --> 00:39:35.600] But just being around and in my life,
[00:39:36.140 --> 00:39:39.280] I just imagine what my life would be like.
[00:39:39.340 --> 00:39:44.360] If I did, you know, have my father in the early years
[00:39:44.360 --> 00:39:47.580] growing up and, you know, things and lessons you would have taught me
[00:39:47.580 --> 00:39:49.400] because I made a song.
[00:39:50.860 --> 00:39:54.600] It's called Hating My Heart, Hating My Heart by Alien Ops.
[00:39:54.600 --> 00:39:58.240] They are in the sea as a feature collab.
[00:39:59.080 --> 00:40:00.320] And it was last minute.
[00:40:00.380 --> 00:40:05.020] I said, I hop on a track and just speaking on that situation
[00:40:05.020 --> 00:40:08.760] and my experience is powerful.
[00:40:08.760 --> 00:40:11.140] You know, you have to go listen to the song.
[00:40:11.640 --> 00:40:13.660] Because I don't want to hit the lyrics.
[00:40:13.660 --> 00:40:14.780] Yeah, one more time.
[00:40:15.760 --> 00:40:20.760] Hating My Heart, Hating My Heart by Alien Ops, all media.
[00:40:21.660 --> 00:40:27.100] Speaking about all media, check out Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:40:27.280 --> 00:40:32.620] That's Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with an S on all social media
[00:40:32.620 --> 00:40:34.900] and alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:40:34.960 --> 00:40:38.160] If you want to book me or for more information
[00:40:38.160 --> 00:40:41.800] and as we wrap this up, because we got to go
[00:40:41.800 --> 00:40:46.220] and Mo has to do, you see how I did that, have to do some some work
[00:40:46.220 --> 00:40:50.220] and some homework and work on her business and recover.
[00:40:50.760 --> 00:40:53.500] We had a long day.
[00:40:54.120 --> 00:40:58.600] So how can people find you, read you, book you?
[00:40:58.600 --> 00:41:04.580] You can find me on social media at million underscore dollar underscore Mo.
[00:41:04.580 --> 00:41:08.220] Or you can go to my website, MeroeMcCain.org,
[00:41:08.640 --> 00:41:11.640] where I do do free classes and I do.
[00:41:12.000 --> 00:41:13.400] Yeah, I do do.
[00:41:14.480 --> 00:41:16.560] I host free classes.
[00:41:17.340 --> 00:41:21.480] So I do update the site to the location, the time.
[00:41:22.580 --> 00:41:23.900] They're completely free.
[00:41:24.140 --> 00:41:26.180] Come out. And that's my way of giving.
[00:41:26.380 --> 00:41:28.600] One of my ways of giving back to the community.
[00:41:29.340 --> 00:41:30.560] Yeah. So I do.
[00:41:30.560 --> 00:41:31.560] Do I need my own gloves?
[00:41:32.060 --> 00:41:34.000] I do bring some training gloves.
[00:41:34.000 --> 00:41:35.820] But you do show up.
[00:41:36.900 --> 00:41:38.840] Show up with your own gloves.
[00:41:39.340 --> 00:41:40.460] Please. I got to buy some. OK.
[00:41:40.580 --> 00:41:42.400] How do I fit? I get fitting for.
[00:41:42.620 --> 00:41:44.820] I say they never fit for me.
[00:41:45.200 --> 00:41:47.380] So it just depends when I'm training people,
[00:41:47.380 --> 00:41:51.760] I tell them to get between go by the ounces of the gloves.
[00:41:52.080 --> 00:41:55.860] So you want to get 14 to 16 when you're an adult.
[00:41:55.940 --> 00:42:00.000] And then you want to get 12 to 14 when you're a child,
[00:42:00.200 --> 00:42:01.780] depending on how big the child is.
[00:42:01.780 --> 00:42:06.420] But 12, 14 or 16 ounces are standard for when I'm teaching.
[00:42:06.980 --> 00:42:10.820] But yes, like I said, million underscore dollar underscore
[00:42:10.820 --> 00:42:13.480] mo on social handles.
[00:42:13.900 --> 00:42:17.780] And or you can go to my website at morelmccain.org.
[00:42:18.480 --> 00:42:20.880] And it's been a pleasure talking with you.
[00:42:21.140 --> 00:42:24.000] It's been a long time. It's been a long day.
[00:42:24.140 --> 00:42:27.300] We've been at the Futureland Summit since the a.m.
[00:42:27.300 --> 00:42:28.800] and now it's the p.m. guys.
[00:42:29.700 --> 00:42:31.660] It's dark outside and everything.
[00:42:31.900 --> 00:42:35.540] They wrap it up, they put their clothes up and I am hungry.
[00:42:35.900 --> 00:42:37.460] Like I said, we got stuff to do.
[00:42:37.600 --> 00:42:40.780] But yeah, this is as this has been Alienize Photos
[00:42:40.780 --> 00:42:45.720] Industry Talk with your host, Steve Jackson, photographer
[00:42:45.720 --> 00:42:48.240] Jackson of Alienize Photos Media.
[00:42:48.720 --> 00:42:51.160] Bringing you Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:42:51.640 --> 00:42:53.700] And thank you again, Miss Marell.
[00:42:53.740 --> 00:42:55.380] Thank you for having me.
[00:42:55.400 --> 00:42:57.340] Let me hurry up before she knock me out.
[00:42:57.340 --> 00:42:59.000] Yeah, I got to go.
[00:42:59.340 --> 00:43:00.660] All right, so I'll take care of peace.

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30. Michael Bell Sr.  "Peerless" A Branding Masterclass
Season 2 · Episode 11
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/michael-bell-sr-peerless-a-branding-masterclass
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[00:00:00.590 --> 00:00:06.610] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:07.650 --> 00:00:09.310] And this is big.
[00:00:10.310 --> 00:00:13.830] I have a legend speaking on branding.
[00:00:14.570 --> 00:00:16.910] And I've been in the entertainment realm
[00:00:16.910 --> 00:00:21.150] 50 plus years, heavy in the music,
[00:00:21.370 --> 00:00:25.270] but also an actor, model, coach.
[00:00:26.110 --> 00:00:27.410] There's so many things.
[00:00:27.610 --> 00:00:29.170] And I want to speak on that,
[00:00:29.170 --> 00:00:31.590] but I want to give you your flowers for everything you've done,
[00:00:31.730 --> 00:00:34.490] especially in the music and hip hop community.
[00:00:35.430 --> 00:00:39.210] And, you know, you could do the better introduction for yourself.
[00:00:39.230 --> 00:00:42.370] So I'll let her pass the torch and pass the mic.
[00:00:42.870 --> 00:00:44.630] OK, good evening. Good morning.
[00:00:44.890 --> 00:00:48.490] My name is Michael Bell, AKA Peerless,
[00:00:49.090 --> 00:00:50.870] in terms of my hip hop name,
[00:00:51.570 --> 00:00:53.950] or you can find my music under that name.
[00:00:54.050 --> 00:00:56.210] He's Peerless, Peerless.
[00:00:56.210 --> 00:01:00.770] Yeah, I've been in the entertainment business for 50 plus years.
[00:01:01.650 --> 00:01:05.850] And as an artist, throughout the 50 years,
[00:01:06.190 --> 00:01:10.030] it was all for me about expanding, growing,
[00:01:11.490 --> 00:01:16.110] leaving comfort zones, you know, things of that nature as an artist
[00:01:16.110 --> 00:01:21.730] to keep reaching, because artists, I consider art a limitless source.
[00:01:21.890 --> 00:01:25.710] And as long as you can tap into a creative reservoir,
[00:01:25.710 --> 00:01:27.970] you're right on time and time.
[00:01:30.920 --> 00:01:35.580] So I want to jump right into it, going all the way back to age 14.
[00:01:36.840 --> 00:01:39.760] What were some of those moments like at that age?
[00:01:40.360 --> 00:01:43.920] Well, at the age of what was very popular here in Cleveland,
[00:01:44.700 --> 00:01:48.960] and there was a lot of talent, was talent shows.
[00:01:49.860 --> 00:01:51.400] They were very popular.
[00:01:52.020 --> 00:01:55.860] It was a lot of competition because you had a lot of great talent here.
[00:01:55.860 --> 00:02:01.380] You had a lot of talent that was actually pattering themselves
[00:02:01.380 --> 00:02:03.060] after national acts.
[00:02:03.680 --> 00:02:08.919] So therefore, it could have easily been a national act, easily.
[00:02:09.039 --> 00:02:13.800] I mean, in terms of the nightclubs and things that you had here,
[00:02:14.340 --> 00:02:17.300] you couldn't, in other words, like,
[00:02:17.340 --> 00:02:22.760] I would say that there's a lounge act and then there's a performance act.
[00:02:23.320 --> 00:02:26.360] What's the difference between the lounge act and the performance act?
[00:02:26.680 --> 00:02:31.660] OK, a performance is like what you would go see at a venue,
[00:02:31.860 --> 00:02:34.580] what the Wolf, I was going to say the Wolfstein, but what is it called now?
[00:02:34.700 --> 00:02:35.440] Is it still the Wolfstein?
[00:02:35.480 --> 00:02:36.200] I think that changes.
[00:02:36.480 --> 00:02:40.980] OK, yeah, the Wolfstein State Theatre, it would be that level of talent,
[00:02:41.040 --> 00:02:45.600] because in those days, you got discovered by your performance.
[00:02:45.740 --> 00:02:47.900] If a record company was going to sign you,
[00:02:48.340 --> 00:02:50.200] it would be because of your performance.
[00:02:50.200 --> 00:02:54.580] That's what, you know, we weren't recording a lot of records like the Access,
[00:02:54.720 --> 00:02:56.640] you know, to do those things today.
[00:02:57.720 --> 00:02:59.720] So therefore, the performance was a thing.
[00:03:01.080 --> 00:03:07.060] And I was raised on the street, 139th and Kinsman.
[00:03:07.260 --> 00:03:10.820] And on that street as singers, you had Paul Woodall,
[00:03:11.280 --> 00:03:15.020] you had Michael Camp, you had Alfred Andrews,
[00:03:15.140 --> 00:03:20.080] you had Christine Dixon, you had Tony Christian.
[00:03:20.080 --> 00:03:22.020] It just it was so many singers.
[00:03:22.100 --> 00:03:26.200] So at the age of 11, I started singing.
[00:03:26.200 --> 00:03:28.380] We started out singing Beatles songs.
[00:03:28.540 --> 00:03:31.940] And then a couple of years after that, the Temptations came on.
[00:03:33.080 --> 00:03:35.700] I started singing with Alfred and Michael.
[00:03:36.100 --> 00:03:38.680] And then later on, maybe a year after we started,
[00:03:38.900 --> 00:03:42.140] a young man moved onto our street by the name of Paul Woodall.
[00:03:42.540 --> 00:03:47.900] What was very interesting about Paul at the age of, like, say, 13 or 14,
[00:03:47.900 --> 00:03:50.260] he could arrange vocal harmonies.
[00:03:51.360 --> 00:03:54.020] And because in those days, a lot of us, we didn't have bands
[00:03:54.020 --> 00:03:55.180] unless we were doing the show.
[00:03:55.180 --> 00:03:57.240] So we started out a cappella.
[00:03:57.600 --> 00:04:00.540] So a lot of the vocal things that he would create
[00:04:00.540 --> 00:04:03.400] would compensate for the music that wasn't there.
[00:04:03.400 --> 00:04:04.900] He was a very talented fellow.
[00:04:05.540 --> 00:04:09.660] So I moved from Cleveland to Shaker.
[00:04:10.460 --> 00:04:14.340] And there I met my best friend and one of the best singers ever
[00:04:14.340 --> 00:04:19.300] in Cleveland, Ohio, by the name of a guy by the name of Harold Beverly.
[00:04:19.980 --> 00:04:22.460] He went from Harold Beverly to H.B.
[00:04:22.600 --> 00:04:23.580] Soul to Sundown.
[00:04:23.720 --> 00:04:27.900] He had many names, but he was an extraordinary singer.
[00:04:28.100 --> 00:04:31.580] Because in those days, Eddie Laverto, the OJs was very popular
[00:04:31.580 --> 00:04:36.560] and David Ruffin, of course, and Harold could do both of those well.
[00:04:36.820 --> 00:04:40.880] In fact, years later on, as he traveled through the South
[00:04:40.880 --> 00:04:43.440] and gained some popular popularity,
[00:04:44.400 --> 00:04:48.460] Olly Woodson, who sang Treat Her Like a Lady for the Temptations.
[00:04:48.600 --> 00:04:49.820] That was his drummer.
[00:04:50.360 --> 00:04:51.680] And he would feature Olly.
[00:04:51.860 --> 00:04:54.580] And later on, those guys got together
[00:04:54.580 --> 00:04:58.400] and another with another friend of mine by the name of Nebraska Turner,
[00:04:58.780 --> 00:05:00.520] who I had sung with who
[00:05:01.540 --> 00:05:04.500] some with the some with the Bill Pinkney Platters
[00:05:04.500 --> 00:05:06.300] later on, all those guys together.
[00:05:07.780 --> 00:05:09.200] So there was a lot of that going on.
[00:05:09.280 --> 00:05:11.880] So at 14, I did 12.
[00:05:11.880 --> 00:05:13.460] I did my first talent show.
[00:05:14.100 --> 00:05:17.160] And at that time, the Temptations had a record on live.
[00:05:17.540 --> 00:05:18.740] Don't look back.
[00:05:21.240 --> 00:05:22.620] I just started singing.
[00:05:22.960 --> 00:05:26.180] And a lot of the older guys would say, man, you sound like Paul.
[00:05:26.660 --> 00:05:28.800] I didn't know who I knew David was.
[00:05:28.940 --> 00:05:30.440] You know, I knew who Eddie was.
[00:05:30.440 --> 00:05:31.460] You sound like Paul.
[00:05:31.960 --> 00:05:35.140] So he told me, said, go and get to meet the Temptations album.
[00:05:35.420 --> 00:05:37.900] And Paul, he was the original lead singer.
[00:05:38.000 --> 00:05:41.480] You listen to that. So I did.
[00:05:41.480 --> 00:05:45.300] Now, when he got time to do the talent show was my first performance.
[00:05:45.740 --> 00:05:49.700] And I guess throughout the rehearsals, other people who were on the show
[00:05:49.700 --> 00:05:52.780] were talking about us to the students because we.
[00:05:53.600 --> 00:05:57.800] Well, Alfred and Michael went to Hamilton, the Herald and I went to Shaker.
[00:05:57.880 --> 00:06:01.860] So we couldn't compete because of that, no matter how good we were,
[00:06:02.000 --> 00:06:04.680] because we all didn't attend the same school. Right.
[00:06:05.320 --> 00:06:09.060] So anyway, man, we walked out and it was packed.
[00:06:09.060 --> 00:06:10.820] And I was nervous.
[00:06:11.300 --> 00:06:13.360] But you heard the roar of the crowds.
[00:06:13.580 --> 00:06:15.440] I saw they already heard about us. Right.
[00:06:15.440 --> 00:06:17.860] So I got comfortable. I was real comfortable.
[00:06:18.140 --> 00:06:21.540] And we did the first two songs and by the time we got to my song,
[00:06:21.540 --> 00:06:23.340] which was The Closer.
[00:06:24.580 --> 00:06:27.100] I do remember as soon as it started
[00:06:27.640 --> 00:06:31.400] that the crowd went crazy and I started singing.
[00:06:31.480 --> 00:06:33.080] So I got real comfortable.
[00:06:33.160 --> 00:06:34.760] And I was singing away.
[00:06:34.760 --> 00:06:39.600] And I watched as the crowd went from screaming
[00:06:40.280 --> 00:06:45.140] to standing up and what had occurred.
[00:06:45.660 --> 00:06:47.080] Our time was up.
[00:06:47.240 --> 00:06:51.940] But I was so into the song, I didn't see anybody on the side stage
[00:06:51.940 --> 00:06:53.960] saying, come off, come up, come off.
[00:06:54.500 --> 00:06:55.900] Right. Because our time was up.
[00:06:56.380 --> 00:06:58.420] So I guess they say close the curtain.
[00:06:59.380 --> 00:07:02.780] And the moment I wasn't aware of, but the moment they closed the curtain,
[00:07:02.780 --> 00:07:06.340] I stepped forward in front of the curtain and laid on everybody.
[00:07:06.520 --> 00:07:08.500] Everybody told me it looked like he was playing.
[00:07:09.080 --> 00:07:11.800] And I remember I went down on one knee
[00:07:11.800 --> 00:07:16.080] and these girls bum rushed the stage and they grabbed me
[00:07:16.080 --> 00:07:18.300] and they almost pulled me head first.
[00:07:18.620 --> 00:07:22.620] And the assistant principal, Mr. Noah, he reached out from behind
[00:07:22.620 --> 00:07:24.680] the curtain and grabbed me right on time.
[00:07:24.960 --> 00:07:27.300] And all the guys from the rest of the group ran to me.
[00:07:27.360 --> 00:07:28.400] Oh, man, did you see that?
[00:07:28.400 --> 00:07:30.260] That was called you. Did you see what you did?
[00:07:30.340 --> 00:07:31.020] You know, and I didn't.
[00:07:31.020 --> 00:07:33.320] And it was like, oh, that was it.
[00:07:33.660 --> 00:07:36.820] That was it. You know, this is this is where I needed to be.
[00:07:36.840 --> 00:07:42.540] And I felt someone needed to see us at the age of 12 and at the age of 14.
[00:07:43.840 --> 00:07:47.320] The popular club here was Leo's Casino.
[00:07:47.680 --> 00:07:51.500] In those days, a lot of those acts didn't go
[00:07:51.500 --> 00:07:54.660] and do the large venues like they do now.
[00:07:54.980 --> 00:07:57.940] The supper club was the next level.
[00:07:57.940 --> 00:08:00.500] Like you had the popular Copa
[00:08:00.500 --> 00:08:03.520] Cabana in New York City and Cleveland.
[00:08:04.020 --> 00:08:06.500] You had the Versaia Motor in.
[00:08:07.040 --> 00:08:11.040] So let me for maybe your age group.
[00:08:11.600 --> 00:08:13.920] Let me give you a picture of Cleveland.
[00:08:14.760 --> 00:08:18.000] You had clubs from like a hundred and five
[00:08:18.000 --> 00:08:20.740] all the way down to seventy ninth or seventy first.
[00:08:20.860 --> 00:08:22.520] It was closed everywhere.
[00:08:23.320 --> 00:08:25.660] People were out, man, having fun.
[00:08:25.660 --> 00:08:28.140] A lot of national acts came through here.
[00:08:28.460 --> 00:08:31.940] A lot of them just came in sometimes to sit, you know, just sit in
[00:08:31.940 --> 00:08:37.400] and play because Cleveland, as far as the music goes, it was like Detroit.
[00:08:37.980 --> 00:08:41.919] But we didn't have the producers and what have you
[00:08:41.919 --> 00:08:44.360] to elevate us to that next level.
[00:08:45.040 --> 00:08:49.220] So it was like for me, I wanted to be in the music business.
[00:08:50.280 --> 00:08:53.020] So the Temptations were playing the Versaia.
[00:08:53.020 --> 00:08:56.640] I saw it in a Friday Plain Diller Friday magazine.
[00:08:56.740 --> 00:08:58.760] It was about 11 o'clock at night.
[00:08:59.320 --> 00:09:01.520] And I thought I'd give a call to the venue.
[00:09:02.220 --> 00:09:05.680] And when I called the venue, I knew the name Eddie Kendricks well.
[00:09:05.780 --> 00:09:09.400] And from just studying the album covers for so many years,
[00:09:09.760 --> 00:09:11.840] I felt a vibe with Eddie and Paul.
[00:09:12.720 --> 00:09:14.800] And I called and asked for Eddie.
[00:09:14.960 --> 00:09:17.660] In those days, they send you right through to the room.
[00:09:17.960 --> 00:09:20.720] And I have to tell you that even at 14,
[00:09:20.720 --> 00:09:23.620] my voice was heavy as it is now.
[00:09:23.940 --> 00:09:26.480] So I sounded like an adult man when I called.
[00:09:26.520 --> 00:09:27.980] I didn't think about that then.
[00:09:28.040 --> 00:09:30.380] And I called and I had to speak to Eddie.
[00:09:30.400 --> 00:09:34.460] We greeted and I told him, I said, man, you know, I have a group
[00:09:34.460 --> 00:09:37.280] and we sing your songs and people love us, you know,
[00:09:37.360 --> 00:09:38.600] because of the talent show.
[00:09:39.520 --> 00:09:40.600] And that was the first time.
[00:09:40.740 --> 00:09:42.400] Yeah, that was the first talent show.
[00:09:42.480 --> 00:09:43.780] First performance ever.
[00:09:44.340 --> 00:09:47.920] So what would you say to a young artist that,
[00:09:48.760 --> 00:09:51.480] you know, they haven't got themselves out there
[00:09:51.480 --> 00:09:54.180] or scared or be afraid to get on stage
[00:09:54.840 --> 00:10:00.040] like that limited belief, like that first time stage fright.
[00:10:00.500 --> 00:10:03.340] You know, it's very funny about stage fright
[00:10:03.920 --> 00:10:07.840] because a lot of people relate butterflies.
[00:10:08.300 --> 00:10:09.860] I get butterflies nervous.
[00:10:10.000 --> 00:10:13.120] Yeah. Yeah, that's considered like a nervousness. Right.
[00:10:13.280 --> 00:10:15.600] But here's the story to that.
[00:10:16.480 --> 00:10:18.740] If you've been in the business a long time
[00:10:18.740 --> 00:10:22.620] and then you lose those butterflies, it's time to come off stage.
[00:10:27.780 --> 00:10:33.380] That type of energy, you can cave in or push forward.
[00:10:34.740 --> 00:10:37.860] You see, as in anything, that's a new adventure.
[00:10:38.520 --> 00:10:41.840] The unknown always seems to be frightening until you jump in.
[00:10:41.900 --> 00:10:44.160] And sometimes you got to jump in with no feet.
[00:10:46.140 --> 00:10:47.640] Jump in with no feet. Yeah.
[00:10:47.640 --> 00:10:51.440] That means you don't know what's happening, where you're going to go.
[00:10:52.260 --> 00:10:56.880] But what's important and most important is faith in yourself.
[00:10:57.180 --> 00:11:01.100] Think how much faith that I have to pick up the phone at 14
[00:11:01.100 --> 00:11:04.760] and let me call one of the Temptations at 14.
[00:11:06.910 --> 00:11:08.370] The talent show did it for me.
[00:11:08.690 --> 00:11:13.170] The talent show did it in a way that I didn't want to go to school anymore.
[00:11:15.060 --> 00:11:17.620] You got that mindset at 14. I had that mindset at 14.
[00:11:17.660 --> 00:11:18.300] That's powerful.
[00:11:18.300 --> 00:11:24.480] So I called and he said, Where are you guys singing?
[00:11:25.180 --> 00:11:27.520] And I said, Well, we're singing in my mother's basement.
[00:11:27.680 --> 00:11:30.620] And he said, I'm not coming out to any mother's basement,
[00:11:30.900 --> 00:11:32.900] but you guys could come down here.
[00:11:33.440 --> 00:11:36.300] All right. It was at the Versailles Motor Inn.
[00:11:36.460 --> 00:11:38.720] We could go there. So it was late at night.
[00:11:38.760 --> 00:11:40.380] I was pumped. I was excited.
[00:11:40.480 --> 00:11:43.780] I couldn't wait to the next day, you know, to get together with them,
[00:11:43.780 --> 00:11:46.520] to tell them, hey, man, we're going to audition for Eddie Kendricks.
[00:11:46.520 --> 00:11:50.580] And the next day, I told my mother, my brothers and sisters,
[00:11:50.700 --> 00:11:52.460] and they were like, Mike, for real, how did you know?
[00:11:52.680 --> 00:11:54.700] How did you know where they were staying and everything?
[00:11:54.800 --> 00:11:57.360] So when I got with the guys, they had the same questions.
[00:11:57.960 --> 00:12:00.200] Man, how did you know? How did you know?
[00:12:00.520 --> 00:12:02.140] For me, I'm I'm researching.
[00:12:02.460 --> 00:12:03.960] Well, they're here. I called.
[00:12:04.380 --> 00:12:08.320] And the guy he said to me when I called, hey, man, they're not staying here.
[00:12:08.820 --> 00:12:10.760] They're staying down the street at the Holiday Inn.
[00:12:10.900 --> 00:12:13.700] I said, the Holiday Inn? Yeah, on 36th Street.
[00:12:14.200 --> 00:12:15.840] So that's how I found that out. Right.
[00:12:15.840 --> 00:12:20.260] So in those days, you know, you had the phone in the basement, the phone upstairs.
[00:12:20.260 --> 00:12:24.260] I said, we'll go in the basement and I'm going to call to show you.
[00:12:24.700 --> 00:12:25.860] I know where they are.
[00:12:26.840 --> 00:12:28.840] So I called and they went downstairs.
[00:12:28.980 --> 00:12:30.320] I said, pick up the phone.
[00:12:31.180 --> 00:12:35.140] And they picked up the phone and they heard the operator say, sorry, he's not in.
[00:12:35.600 --> 00:12:39.360] So that call start calling other guys, David, Paul.
[00:12:39.680 --> 00:12:42.700] And they were like, oh, man, we're going to seek for the temptation.
[00:12:42.780 --> 00:12:44.320] They were pumped. Right. Yeah.
[00:12:44.320 --> 00:12:45.500] So we already.
[00:12:46.200 --> 00:12:48.600] And one of the things that Eddie said to me,
[00:12:49.380 --> 00:12:51.240] he said, don't bring any cooties down here.
[00:12:52.140 --> 00:12:57.460] And cooties was our term for what people would say, hoodlums or the gangsters.
[00:12:57.660 --> 00:12:58.940] Don't bring them down here.
[00:12:59.120 --> 00:13:02.680] And as soon as he said that in a way, that
[00:13:03.440 --> 00:13:05.540] kind of celebrity thing
[00:13:06.220 --> 00:13:09.840] kind of went away because he was speaking our language,
[00:13:09.860 --> 00:13:11.940] but he didn't want to be bothered with that.
[00:13:11.940 --> 00:13:14.360] So he was he was aware.
[00:13:14.560 --> 00:13:19.440] I was aware that he was aware what was going on in our generation. Right. Yeah.
[00:13:20.220 --> 00:13:23.140] So a couple of days or a day or two,
[00:13:23.420 --> 00:13:26.660] a day or two before we got ready to go down, I called again.
[00:13:27.000 --> 00:13:28.980] And this is how the phone call went.
[00:13:30.720 --> 00:13:31.620] Hello. Hello, Eddie.
[00:13:32.240 --> 00:13:34.220] Who is this? This is Bill.
[00:13:34.560 --> 00:13:36.040] Don't come down here, damn it.
[00:13:36.220 --> 00:13:38.280] You didn't call. You bugged everybody in the group.
[00:13:38.580 --> 00:13:39.200] I'm sorry.
[00:13:39.200 --> 00:13:43.020] Look, if I hear you bugged another person in this group,
[00:13:44.200 --> 00:13:45.280] don't come down here.
[00:13:45.780 --> 00:13:46.900] So don't bug.
[00:13:47.080 --> 00:13:48.980] If you if you don't do it, you can come.
[00:13:49.320 --> 00:13:50.760] OK. And I didn't know I'm sorry.
[00:13:51.080 --> 00:13:52.080] So he said, OK.
[00:13:52.400 --> 00:13:54.640] Now, I didn't tell the fellas almost booed.
[00:13:54.940 --> 00:13:58.000] So, yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:13:58.120 --> 00:14:00.060] And it came to that day.
[00:14:00.580 --> 00:14:03.220] And we went down and he answered the door.
[00:14:03.400 --> 00:14:06.080] And we I had never seen any with facial hair.
[00:14:06.220 --> 00:14:09.180] Very thin fellow, like six, one, very thin.
[00:14:09.560 --> 00:14:14.160] And we walked in and I noticed and it was the first time that people
[00:14:14.160 --> 00:14:17.420] I saw someone who actually collected records
[00:14:17.420 --> 00:14:20.980] because in his hotel room, it must have been about
[00:14:20.980 --> 00:14:24.980] maybe 50 records lined up of albums of different artists
[00:14:24.980 --> 00:14:26.160] other than themselves.
[00:14:26.680 --> 00:14:30.360] So we found out that he was a collector of phonographs.
[00:14:30.880 --> 00:14:35.880] And so we came in and we had a lot of questions, you know, like
[00:14:35.880 --> 00:14:38.120] why didn't you and David get along?
[00:14:38.120 --> 00:14:42.080] And he addressed it as is as if it was territorial.
[00:14:42.780 --> 00:14:43.900] And I'm from Birmingham.
[00:14:44.400 --> 00:14:45.760] David is from Mississippi.
[00:14:45.840 --> 00:14:47.260] That's how he addressed it.
[00:14:47.420 --> 00:14:50.260] But we got the impression that everything was cool.
[00:14:50.660 --> 00:14:52.160] We asked about drugs.
[00:14:52.920 --> 00:14:53.740] What I noticed
[00:14:54.460 --> 00:14:58.780] that they never spoke about each other's business.
[00:14:59.180 --> 00:15:03.860] The answer was, I don't know about anybody else, but I don't, you know.
[00:15:04.060 --> 00:15:06.160] So we picked up on that.
[00:15:06.160 --> 00:15:08.040] So let me hear you sing.
[00:15:08.660 --> 00:15:11.620] We got up and we sang an OJ song.
[00:15:11.720 --> 00:15:12.760] How does it feel?
[00:15:13.160 --> 00:15:14.160] He's very impressed.
[00:15:14.820 --> 00:15:17.800] And then I saw him don't look back.
[00:15:18.600 --> 00:15:21.080] And the moment that I finished.
[00:15:22.600 --> 00:15:27.260] I kind of got the same response that I got from the talent show.
[00:15:27.300 --> 00:15:29.980] He jumped up and ran out of the room. Wow.
[00:15:31.760 --> 00:15:37.440] And all the guys just it was a surprise because he didn't say anything.
[00:15:37.440 --> 00:15:39.620] He just jumped up and ran out of the room.
[00:15:40.080 --> 00:15:43.580] And we're all we all start, you know, look toward the door as he went out.
[00:15:43.940 --> 00:15:48.140] And in my mind, I said he went to get Paul
[00:15:48.820 --> 00:15:54.020] because the older guys told me you sound like Paul so much like Paul.
[00:15:54.160 --> 00:15:56.040] He came back. He was collected.
[00:15:56.700 --> 00:15:57.940] You know, where did you go?
[00:15:58.240 --> 00:16:01.420] Oh, I went to see some of the other guys in the group.
[00:16:02.060 --> 00:16:04.960] You know, was was around.
[00:16:05.080 --> 00:16:07.160] And then I knew that it was Paul.
[00:16:07.440 --> 00:16:08.840] Yeah. Wow.
[00:16:11.620 --> 00:16:14.580] Then I started to show the choreography,
[00:16:15.360 --> 00:16:17.540] which you say as well, I just move.
[00:16:17.680 --> 00:16:18.380] I'm not a dancer.
[00:16:18.500 --> 00:16:22.300] So I was showing the choreography and where he was standing,
[00:16:22.480 --> 00:16:25.540] the hotel room, you can look out into the parking lot.
[00:16:25.700 --> 00:16:27.620] And Paul just happened to be pulling in.
[00:16:27.940 --> 00:16:32.300] And we all ran to the to the window because he said, here's Paul now.
[00:16:32.640 --> 00:16:36.700] And we saw this green El Dorado pull in green and white
[00:16:36.700 --> 00:16:40.360] pull in and saw this guy get out.
[00:16:40.820 --> 00:16:45.380] And he had what we would call a polo shirt.
[00:16:45.500 --> 00:16:48.600] This is like 1967.
[00:16:48.980 --> 00:16:50.500] He had like a polo.
[00:16:50.860 --> 00:16:54.940] This polo was like a caramel color.
[00:16:56.680 --> 00:16:59.820] And it was it's hard to describe because I've never seen another one
[00:16:59.820 --> 00:17:03.460] like it because it was like material on material made within it
[00:17:03.460 --> 00:17:05.400] because they had a design. It was really nice.
[00:17:05.400 --> 00:17:08.220] And then they had a pair of silk shorts,
[00:17:08.740 --> 00:17:12.500] which would have kind of tapered to the knee that length
[00:17:12.500 --> 00:17:16.680] and a pair of slip on deck tennis shoes and a pair of Ray bands.
[00:17:18.339 --> 00:17:21.260] And as he got out of the car, we was making a hoopla.
[00:17:21.460 --> 00:17:22.119] Paul, Paul.
[00:17:22.220 --> 00:17:25.339] And he humored us by putting on the glass, his glass,
[00:17:25.560 --> 00:17:29.220] like touching his glasses and walking like he was a big time star.
[00:17:29.440 --> 00:17:32.680] You know, yeah. And there was an awning
[00:17:33.220 --> 00:17:35.880] that he would walk under to come into the hotel
[00:17:35.880 --> 00:17:37.980] that he would be out of our visibility.
[00:17:38.440 --> 00:17:42.480] But before that occurred, he threw his keys in the air
[00:17:42.480 --> 00:17:45.700] without losing the stride and without looking back,
[00:17:46.020 --> 00:17:47.200] caught him behind his back.
[00:17:48.320 --> 00:17:49.640] He did a toe spin,
[00:17:50.140 --> 00:17:53.420] caught his keys behind his back without losing the stride.
[00:17:53.980 --> 00:17:57.940] And he came in and Earl Brevely was standing by the door
[00:17:57.940 --> 00:18:02.340] and Eddie says answer the door and he answers the door.
[00:18:02.340 --> 00:18:05.460] And then I heard Earl says, hey, Paul, and Paul says,
[00:18:06.160 --> 00:18:08.400] yeah, yeah, yeah, I talked to you on the phone.
[00:18:08.640 --> 00:18:11.240] And I said, no, that was me.
[00:18:11.560 --> 00:18:13.540] And he said it just like this.
[00:18:13.980 --> 00:18:15.260] Oh, that was you, huh?
[00:18:15.500 --> 00:18:19.780] Like that, you know, I was like, it didn't sound like approving. Right.
[00:18:20.120 --> 00:18:23.320] So I said he was the one that probably gave Eddie all the trouble
[00:18:23.320 --> 00:18:26.800] because not only, you know, did I feel like I messed up,
[00:18:26.820 --> 00:18:31.020] but I felt like I got him in trouble by calling them. Right. Yeah. And
[00:18:32.740 --> 00:18:36.020] I was nervous because he was the choreographer
[00:18:37.020 --> 00:18:38.520] and Eddie was kind of proud.
[00:18:38.600 --> 00:18:40.460] He said, go ahead, Bill, finish the steps.
[00:18:41.340 --> 00:18:44.160] And Paul had on the Ray Band, so you really couldn't read,
[00:18:44.340 --> 00:18:47.220] you know, his face, he had a straight look like a poker face.
[00:18:47.860 --> 00:18:50.560] And he was like, yeah, do the steps.
[00:18:51.620 --> 00:18:56.480] And I started with the choreography and I was probably
[00:18:58.240 --> 00:18:59.880] 60 seconds in.
[00:19:00.320 --> 00:19:03.360] And he said it just like this.
[00:19:04.360 --> 00:19:06.900] We got a goddamn thief in the room.
[00:19:07.660 --> 00:19:11.000] And as a kid, 14,
[00:19:11.700 --> 00:19:15.180] it didn't hit me like a compliment.
[00:19:16.500 --> 00:19:18.860] It actually hit me like I was a thief.
[00:19:19.000 --> 00:19:22.300] And I stopped right there in my tracks.
[00:19:24.000 --> 00:19:29.420] And I think he picked up on that and he said, OK, they can dance
[00:19:29.420 --> 00:19:30.840] but can they sing?
[00:19:31.520 --> 00:19:32.820] And he was already pumped.
[00:19:33.000 --> 00:19:35.700] You know, he's like, yeah, right. See? Yeah.
[00:19:35.760 --> 00:19:37.940] So we saw Harold's song, How Does It Feel?
[00:19:38.000 --> 00:19:42.700] He was like, yeah, OJs, you know, they do the OJs and then I saw him
[00:19:42.700 --> 00:19:43.320] don't look back.
[00:19:44.120 --> 00:19:47.200] And Eddie was sitting down and Paul was standing up.
[00:19:47.740 --> 00:19:51.080] And Eddie kept nudging him while I was singing and pointing up.
[00:19:51.680 --> 00:19:54.320] Get ready, get ready. He's on you.
[00:19:54.820 --> 00:19:58.360] And after everything was after we were done,
[00:19:58.360 --> 00:20:03.460] I was waiting on this response and he just went, oh, yeah,
[00:20:04.100 --> 00:20:06.940] they can sing, but they'll be broke up by tomorrow.
[00:20:07.740 --> 00:20:11.300] And one of the guys in the group said, sure would.
[00:20:12.960 --> 00:20:16.880] And one of the herald got upset and like balled up his fist
[00:20:16.880 --> 00:20:20.060] and was like boo man, because his nickname was Boo, Boo's Alfred.
[00:20:20.160 --> 00:20:22.740] Boo man. And then Paul said, look at his boy,
[00:20:22.820 --> 00:20:24.360] trying to give him the high sign.
[00:20:24.640 --> 00:20:26.440] Like, why did you say that?
[00:20:26.760 --> 00:20:28.220] OK, I'll see you guys later.
[00:20:28.220 --> 00:20:31.580] And he left. And I was like, wow.
[00:20:32.220 --> 00:20:35.560] So Eddie said, look, I want you guys to come back tomorrow.
[00:20:35.720 --> 00:20:37.520] I want some people to hear you.
[00:20:37.780 --> 00:20:40.700] So we will pump these because I got to get ready to go to work.
[00:20:41.220 --> 00:20:43.160] And I asked, where do you work?
[00:20:44.160 --> 00:20:46.180] And he laughed and said, little brother,
[00:20:47.340 --> 00:20:48.260] this is work.
[00:20:48.840 --> 00:20:50.480] So here's our orientation.
[00:20:51.120 --> 00:20:53.800] So we started at the age of 14.
[00:20:53.940 --> 00:20:54.840] And I was the youngest.
[00:20:55.200 --> 00:20:56.880] Hey, let's go to work. Right.
[00:20:56.880 --> 00:20:59.020] You know that we started using that.
[00:21:00.120 --> 00:21:01.740] So the next day,
[00:21:02.880 --> 00:21:04.280] no, what occurred?
[00:21:05.000 --> 00:21:09.180] Eddie went into the bathroom to get ready to for work.
[00:21:09.440 --> 00:21:12.840] And I was standing outside the bathroom door
[00:21:12.840 --> 00:21:15.720] while he was trimming up his food, man, just talking.
[00:21:15.880 --> 00:21:17.620] And there was a knock on the door.
[00:21:18.680 --> 00:21:20.000] And he said, answer that.
[00:21:20.440 --> 00:21:21.940] And when I opened the door,
[00:21:22.520 --> 00:21:25.400] it was this tall fellow
[00:21:25.920 --> 00:21:29.680] that had on this gold shirt with a V neck,
[00:21:30.280 --> 00:21:34.620] green pants and the same deck tennis shoes that Paul had on.
[00:21:35.180 --> 00:21:38.360] And we were listening to the Temptations album,
[00:21:38.480 --> 00:21:40.180] Temptations with a Lot of Soul.
[00:21:40.880 --> 00:21:44.020] And the song that came on was a song called Save My Love
[00:21:44.020 --> 00:21:47.200] for a Rainy Day, which was a song that Eddie had recorded.
[00:21:47.480 --> 00:21:49.800] And this guy, his arm was in a cast.
[00:21:50.500 --> 00:21:54.680] And as soon as I opened the door and he he was just standing there,
[00:21:54.680 --> 00:21:56.400] he looked at me and I looked at him.
[00:21:56.720 --> 00:21:59.720] Then he pushed past me and said, whoa, this is my song.
[00:22:00.120 --> 00:22:01.500] And I was like, Eddie, who was that?
[00:22:01.720 --> 00:22:02.620] He said, that's Ruffett.
[00:22:03.040 --> 00:22:05.600] And see, he didn't have on glasses and anything.
[00:22:05.800 --> 00:22:11.820] And in 67, a lot of black men were transferring over
[00:22:11.820 --> 00:22:14.800] from process, process hairdos.
[00:22:14.960 --> 00:22:18.380] I don't know. You're familiar with the process where you get your hair
[00:22:18.380 --> 00:22:19.460] straightened. Yeah.
[00:22:19.520 --> 00:22:22.060] So, you know, you kind of had that like that white boy's hair.
[00:22:22.200 --> 00:22:23.100] You know what I mean?
[00:22:24.300 --> 00:22:29.560] So yeah, they were leaving that and going in the 60s was about
[00:22:30.540 --> 00:22:34.160] the true culture of blacks in America.
[00:22:34.520 --> 00:22:39.140] And I would say that period was our culture.
[00:22:40.220 --> 00:22:41.740] And I say that.
[00:22:42.360 --> 00:22:45.720] And even though when I'm going to say you may not understand it,
[00:22:45.720 --> 00:22:47.760] but I'm going to use it so you'll get an idea.
[00:22:48.380 --> 00:22:50.660] The ants are ancestors.
[00:22:51.940 --> 00:22:58.120] Well, upon the blacks in the 60s, like full force,
[00:22:59.080 --> 00:23:00.700] you can see it in the dress.
[00:23:01.440 --> 00:23:03.320] You can see it in the consciousness.
[00:23:04.120 --> 00:23:05.720] But at that time in America,
[00:23:06.080 --> 00:23:10.620] everybody was questioning the values of America.
[00:23:10.720 --> 00:23:12.980] You had the hippies, you had this.
[00:23:13.160 --> 00:23:15.300] They would release. They were questioning everything.
[00:23:15.300 --> 00:23:18.780] So out of that period, you got your Martin Luther Kings.
[00:23:18.800 --> 00:23:21.100] You got your H rap Browns.
[00:23:21.100 --> 00:23:24.540] You got your Nikki Giovanni, Nikki Giovanni.
[00:23:24.880 --> 00:23:29.820] You got all our revolutionary people was through the 60s.
[00:23:29.820 --> 00:23:35.160] So the Afro was the identification, black power.
[00:23:35.400 --> 00:23:40.720] But David was standing there with a hairdo that looked like in 67
[00:23:40.720 --> 00:23:45.100] that looked like it was a woman's hair straight out of rollers, curlers.
[00:23:47.020 --> 00:23:49.760] So it took me aback, you know,
[00:23:50.200 --> 00:23:53.320] because there's a lot of things that can go on in the entertainment industry.
[00:23:53.820 --> 00:23:56.020] Right. You know, your stuff about Puffy now, you know,
[00:23:56.040 --> 00:23:57.840] which is not new, a lot of that stuff.
[00:23:57.860 --> 00:24:00.100] So you didn't know who was who, what was what.
[00:24:00.380 --> 00:24:01.500] You know what I mean? Right.
[00:24:01.540 --> 00:24:04.680] And I was cognizant of cognizant of that at that age.
[00:24:04.980 --> 00:24:08.840] But he pushed past me and he started dancing
[00:24:09.380 --> 00:24:14.120] in the middle of the room to the song Save My Love for a Rainy Day.
[00:24:14.120 --> 00:24:16.780] And they were just like taken in.
[00:24:16.980 --> 00:24:19.560] And even where I was standing, I was taken in.
[00:24:19.620 --> 00:24:21.640] I had to I had to say dance, David.
[00:24:21.940 --> 00:24:24.280] And then he quickly turned around and say, hey,
[00:24:24.360 --> 00:24:26.460] you guys can come to my room if you want to.
[00:24:26.600 --> 00:24:29.480] So Eddie said, OK, look, make sure you guys are back at the wall.
[00:24:29.620 --> 00:24:30.380] So we said, OK.
[00:24:30.840 --> 00:24:34.400] So we walk and we walk into David's room, which is a door to down.
[00:24:34.620 --> 00:24:37.320] And he says, my record player is just as good as Eddie's.
[00:24:37.960 --> 00:24:40.420] You know, so we go and we open the door.
[00:24:40.500 --> 00:24:43.820] And it was a gentleman in the bathroom picking his hair out.
[00:24:44.420 --> 00:24:46.620] And I was like, David, who is that?
[00:24:46.860 --> 00:24:48.820] And, you know, you want to be the first to know.
[00:24:48.920 --> 00:24:51.480] And I tell the rest of the guys is coming in right behind me.
[00:24:51.560 --> 00:24:53.940] But they're right behind me. But I want to be in the know.
[00:24:53.940 --> 00:24:54.580] You're right. Right.
[00:24:55.440 --> 00:24:58.040] And I didn't hear him all the way.
[00:24:58.220 --> 00:25:00.880] And I thought he said, that's our manager.
[00:25:01.180 --> 00:25:04.140] And I turned around to the rest of the guys and I said, hey, man,
[00:25:04.220 --> 00:25:05.260] that's the temps manager.
[00:25:05.660 --> 00:25:08.000] And David got in my face and said, that's my manager.
[00:25:09.380 --> 00:25:12.320] And then like I just straighten up like right.
[00:25:13.040 --> 00:25:14.700] And in the hotel room,
[00:25:14.720 --> 00:25:17.380] you only have so much room for clothing and what have you.
[00:25:17.540 --> 00:25:21.140] They had brought up an extra rack for David and like people
[00:25:21.140 --> 00:25:24.720] collect to the shoes that they David must have had about 30 or 40
[00:25:24.720 --> 00:25:26.060] pairs of shoes to wear.
[00:25:26.380 --> 00:25:29.360] Then on the on the dresser, it was a tray
[00:25:29.360 --> 00:25:32.960] with about maybe 30 pair of different frames of glasses.
[00:25:33.100 --> 00:25:37.280] You know, so we walked in and we wanted that.
[00:25:37.580 --> 00:25:40.480] He puts his he puts this little record player on
[00:25:40.480 --> 00:25:44.540] that couldn't compare to Eddie's and he's playing their album.
[00:25:45.080 --> 00:25:47.260] And we David Singh, David Singh.
[00:25:47.640 --> 00:25:51.020] He'd go, no, it's like David Singh.
[00:25:51.500 --> 00:25:55.800] No. So Harold Beverly opened up and he was rolling.
[00:25:56.080 --> 00:26:01.020] David turned around like after he was 30 seconds in for not your words,
[00:26:01.340 --> 00:26:02.740] for not your words.
[00:26:03.060 --> 00:26:06.560] Harold, shut up, because David was like intimidating. Right.
[00:26:07.040 --> 00:26:08.420] So we had questions.
[00:26:08.420 --> 00:26:13.240] You know, it's like, hey, man, we heard you were supposed to go to this party.
[00:26:13.500 --> 00:26:17.580] And David at that time was 26 and David was like, party,
[00:26:18.620 --> 00:26:22.120] party, get your rest, get your rest.
[00:26:23.140 --> 00:26:25.260] And he was almost during this period
[00:26:25.260 --> 00:26:26.700] was talking about different other things.
[00:26:26.860 --> 00:26:28.280] And then he was almost dressed.
[00:26:28.860 --> 00:26:31.880] And then he said, I'm not wearing this.
[00:26:31.980 --> 00:26:33.420] So he took that all off.
[00:26:33.460 --> 00:26:37.100] In my mind, at 14, he's showing out.
[00:26:38.680 --> 00:26:39.720] OK, so
[00:26:40.680 --> 00:26:44.220] as he was going in his drawer to get the fresh pair of socks
[00:26:44.220 --> 00:26:45.980] to go with his next outfit,
[00:26:46.840 --> 00:26:50.500] one of us asked, which one of you go with Tammy Terrell?
[00:26:50.840 --> 00:26:53.660] That was our turn for saying that that's your girlfriend.
[00:26:54.060 --> 00:26:55.340] Is that who you go with?
[00:26:55.780 --> 00:26:59.080] You know, so David did this.
[00:26:59.600 --> 00:27:01.960] Which one of you go with Tammy Terrell?
[00:27:02.100 --> 00:27:04.260] And he says, go with
[00:27:05.620 --> 00:27:10.260] go with and at the time, he pulled off some pictures out of the drawer
[00:27:10.260 --> 00:27:13.700] and he handed them to Alfred and we all jumped on the pictures.
[00:27:13.980 --> 00:27:19.120] And it was a picture of Tammy and it said to my husband, David Ruffin.
[00:27:19.520 --> 00:27:22.860] And we said, oh, man, you married to Tammy Terrell.
[00:27:23.160 --> 00:27:24.520] What did the picture say?
[00:27:25.000 --> 00:27:27.740] It's just you get an idea of David.
[00:27:28.240 --> 00:27:30.720] OK, so so so.
[00:27:30.720 --> 00:27:34.520] So in my mind, I'm like.
[00:27:35.440 --> 00:27:37.780] This guy's like egotistical.
[00:27:38.580 --> 00:27:41.660] You know, I didn't have a turn, but I felt, you know, ego. Right.
[00:27:41.720 --> 00:27:43.460] So I just got I got regular.
[00:27:43.680 --> 00:27:45.420] I got, you know, I felt comfortable.
[00:27:46.400 --> 00:27:49.780] And I think one of the guys asked him something and he said,
[00:27:49.960 --> 00:27:52.440] you see that bottle of medicine on my dresser?
[00:27:53.320 --> 00:27:55.300] I have to drink that every day.
[00:27:55.400 --> 00:27:58.060] He had ulcers at 26 years old.
[00:27:58.060 --> 00:28:00.440] OK. So how was he at?
[00:28:00.500 --> 00:28:02.500] How old was he at the time? He was 26.
[00:28:03.660 --> 00:28:05.140] Oh, wow. OK.
[00:28:05.380 --> 00:28:07.260] Yeah, he had ulcers. He was 26.
[00:28:08.100 --> 00:28:11.800] And I remember getting up off the bed and walking over
[00:28:11.800 --> 00:28:15.580] to the side of the dresser and watch him comb his hair out.
[00:28:17.000 --> 00:28:20.120] And he first time he really initiated something.
[00:28:20.540 --> 00:28:24.540] And you guys have heard of a 75 and everybody was like, no, no.
[00:28:24.600 --> 00:28:27.880] And I went, I have, you know, like that, you know,
[00:28:27.880 --> 00:28:29.540] I'm flexing. I have.
[00:28:30.480 --> 00:28:33.340] And he he from combing his hair out.
[00:28:33.420 --> 00:28:34.780] He was like 63. I'm a little guy.
[00:28:34.780 --> 00:28:38.500] He turned around, got in my face and said, what is it then?
[00:28:39.260 --> 00:28:40.860] And I said, I was intimidated.
[00:28:40.860 --> 00:28:42.860] And I said, I don't know. I was just kidding.
[00:28:42.920 --> 00:28:45.860] He said, I know you were right. Yeah.
[00:28:46.280 --> 00:28:48.900] So he completely completed everything.
[00:28:48.980 --> 00:28:50.840] And we go downstairs in the elevator
[00:28:51.500 --> 00:28:54.900] and we're standing outside on the ramp
[00:28:54.900 --> 00:28:58.960] like of the hotel before you walk into the parking lot.
[00:28:59.400 --> 00:29:03.860] And we see this long limousine come around.
[00:29:04.300 --> 00:29:09.180] And you you you couldn't tell whether it was a Mercedes
[00:29:09.180 --> 00:29:11.700] or whether it was a Cadillac. It was sharp.
[00:29:11.840 --> 00:29:13.660] I had never seen anything like it.
[00:29:13.720 --> 00:29:15.620] I guess this was the 75.
[00:29:16.520 --> 00:29:20.800] And on the car panel on the passenger side,
[00:29:21.080 --> 00:29:23.700] you know, you got the with a light panel, then there's the door.
[00:29:23.700 --> 00:29:27.460] But at the bottom of the front panel panel
[00:29:27.460 --> 00:29:31.220] written in curse and in cursive was David Ruffin.
[00:29:31.300 --> 00:29:33.820] And it was a pair of white frame glasses
[00:29:33.820 --> 00:29:37.280] like illustrated on the car. Wow. Right.
[00:29:37.600 --> 00:29:40.520] And so they the shelf opened the door.
[00:29:40.520 --> 00:29:43.220] When he opened the door, we saw the blooming carpet.
[00:29:43.440 --> 00:29:44.600] We saw the television.
[00:29:44.980 --> 00:29:48.880] We saw the bar in the back and we saw David get in.
[00:29:49.400 --> 00:29:50.560] And he's like, wow.
[00:29:50.760 --> 00:29:52.700] Then we saw the driver get out.
[00:29:52.700 --> 00:29:56.640] Walk back around the David's door, open David's door,
[00:29:56.940 --> 00:30:00.460] let down David's window, go back around, get in the car
[00:30:00.460 --> 00:30:05.360] and take David to the gig, which you can walk probably in eight minutes.
[00:30:05.700 --> 00:30:12.560] Wow. Some of them early lessons like, you know, having a good time,
[00:30:12.660 --> 00:30:16.960] but also soaking up the wisdom and the knowledge and experience.
[00:30:17.600 --> 00:30:21.020] How big is mentorship at an early age or any lessons?
[00:30:21.020 --> 00:30:26.260] Well, after that, what occurred for us the next day
[00:30:27.640 --> 00:30:31.960] really catapulted me into, OK, this is it all the way.
[00:30:32.860 --> 00:30:35.900] So. The day.
[00:30:37.320 --> 00:30:39.620] That was the next day, the people didn't show up.
[00:30:40.220 --> 00:30:42.540] And we were walking Eddie to work.
[00:30:44.820 --> 00:30:48.200] You had to Sahara Hotel on the other side of the street,
[00:30:48.240 --> 00:30:51.180] and then there was the Versailles Motor Inn.
[00:30:52.800 --> 00:30:55.860] And we saw we heard somebody say, hey, Eddie.
[00:30:56.280 --> 00:31:00.600] And it was a guy with his luggage getting out of a taxi.
[00:31:01.300 --> 00:31:04.920] And out of respect, we stayed on this side of the street
[00:31:04.920 --> 00:31:07.680] while Eddie walked over to the guy who called me.
[00:31:07.720 --> 00:31:09.260] Talked for a few minutes.
[00:31:09.500 --> 00:31:12.960] Then he motioned for us to come over and he introduced us
[00:31:12.960 --> 00:31:15.160] to Levi Stubbs and the four tops.
[00:31:15.460 --> 00:31:19.680] And he told us to go upstairs with Levi and he was going to work.
[00:31:19.680 --> 00:31:21.140] So we went upstairs with Levi.
[00:31:21.340 --> 00:31:25.180] We sung for Levi and he took all our names and numbers down.
[00:31:25.200 --> 00:31:28.480] And on the way out, one of the guys said,
[00:31:28.980 --> 00:31:31.660] there goes Barry Gordy and Diana Ross.
[00:31:32.400 --> 00:31:35.620] And me, I had on my I had on my father's
[00:31:35.620 --> 00:31:38.820] seersuckle suit with the white shirt and the white shoes
[00:31:38.820 --> 00:31:40.280] looking like I was from Panama.
[00:31:40.780 --> 00:31:41.700] You know what I'm saying?
[00:31:42.300 --> 00:31:44.620] And I was just trying to be impressive.
[00:31:44.920 --> 00:31:47.540] So I walked up and I said, how are you doing, Mr. Gordy?
[00:31:47.620 --> 00:31:48.900] My name is Michael Bell.
[00:31:48.900 --> 00:31:52.240] And I grabbed Diana Ross's hand and I kissed her on the cheek.
[00:31:52.320 --> 00:31:53.420] And I said, hi, Diana.
[00:31:53.500 --> 00:31:55.680] And she said, and she kind of blushed and said hi.
[00:31:56.140 --> 00:31:58.160] And then he bided her farewell.
[00:31:58.320 --> 00:32:00.520] And then he asked us, where are you guys coming from?
[00:32:00.780 --> 00:32:04.260] So I gave him the whole scoop, how we sung for Ed Paul.
[00:32:04.320 --> 00:32:07.440] And we just left Levi's room, you know,
[00:32:07.500 --> 00:32:08.880] and I guess what they were doing,
[00:32:09.440 --> 00:32:11.020] you know, Detroit wasn't that far away.
[00:32:11.280 --> 00:32:14.760] So their artists would come and support each of the shows
[00:32:14.760 --> 00:32:16.740] like they were coming to support the Timbs.
[00:32:16.740 --> 00:32:19.780] And so he said, well, let me let me let me hear
[00:32:19.780 --> 00:32:21.160] you guys sing something.
[00:32:22.060 --> 00:32:23.780] And we blasted out.
[00:32:23.780 --> 00:32:25.940] Oh, OK, not so loud, not so loud.
[00:32:26.180 --> 00:32:30.900] Call back to the hotel and ask for Robert Bullard
[00:32:30.900 --> 00:32:34.600] and tell him I said to give you guys an audition.
[00:32:34.760 --> 00:32:37.000] Later on, I found out that Robert was his nephew.
[00:32:37.660 --> 00:32:40.400] So on the day of our audition, we go in the room.
[00:32:40.520 --> 00:32:41.960] Robert, real nice guy.
[00:32:42.300 --> 00:32:44.800] It's a beautiful lady sitting in the chair, you know,
[00:32:44.800 --> 00:32:48.200] with her legs folded up and she has on that one piece jumper
[00:32:48.200 --> 00:32:50.340] where you can see her beautiful legs and everything.
[00:32:50.340 --> 00:32:51.120] She's gorgeous.
[00:32:51.580 --> 00:32:55.180] And he introduced us and said, this is Cindy Bird's song.
[00:32:55.400 --> 00:32:57.120] She's going to be the new supreme.
[00:32:57.720 --> 00:32:59.920] And I said, oh, it's going to be four Supremes.
[00:33:00.160 --> 00:33:01.320] And he said, no, three.
[00:33:01.620 --> 00:33:03.380] And that broke my heart.
[00:33:04.440 --> 00:33:05.700] Florence wasn't going to be in the group anymore.
[00:33:05.740 --> 00:33:06.600] That kind of broke my heart.
[00:33:06.840 --> 00:33:08.020] So we did our audition.
[00:33:09.140 --> 00:33:11.100] So I waited a day or two and I called
[00:33:11.980 --> 00:33:13.640] and he said to me,
[00:33:15.100 --> 00:33:20.140] Motown says you guys have a place with us upon graduation.
[00:33:20.760 --> 00:33:21.740] And I got mad.
[00:33:22.540 --> 00:33:24.060] Man, what about Stevie Wonder?
[00:33:24.160 --> 00:33:25.620] Stevie Wonder didn't graduate.
[00:33:25.680 --> 00:33:26.920] And he started laughing.
[00:33:27.460 --> 00:33:31.180] He said, man, Stevie Wonder, man, he's blind.
[00:33:31.180 --> 00:33:32.360] That's totally different.
[00:33:32.420 --> 00:33:36.240] So he said, anytime you come to Detroit, contact me.
[00:33:36.240 --> 00:33:37.460] And I did. And we got together.
[00:33:37.480 --> 00:33:40.340] And that's how I found out he was Gordy's nephew.
[00:33:40.340 --> 00:33:42.280] And I saw some of the history
[00:33:42.280 --> 00:33:47.100] or where Papa Gordy was an enterprising man himself.
[00:33:47.180 --> 00:33:48.220] You know, things like that.
[00:33:48.360 --> 00:33:49.780] I got a sense to see all that.
[00:33:49.900 --> 00:33:52.800] So from that occurring for me,
[00:33:53.900 --> 00:33:58.080] I stayed in touch with Eddie and Paul till Paul passed away
[00:33:58.080 --> 00:34:00.100] and Eddie passed away.
[00:34:00.120 --> 00:34:02.420] I was in contact with them throughout.
[00:34:02.680 --> 00:34:06.200] And I learned I was I was going to be groomed by Paul
[00:34:06.200 --> 00:34:10.159] in New York before they found Paul dead.
[00:34:10.340 --> 00:34:11.460] He had told me that.
[00:34:11.620 --> 00:34:14.100] So we didn't get a chance to get to that.
[00:34:14.280 --> 00:34:17.460] It's so much that I can say, if you want to do another show
[00:34:17.460 --> 00:34:19.760] about them and the things we can do that.
[00:34:19.840 --> 00:34:21.159] That's true. Yeah, young man.
[00:34:21.620 --> 00:34:22.780] I had a lot to see.
[00:34:23.420 --> 00:34:26.360] So and to hear the things from them.
[00:34:27.620 --> 00:34:30.100] You know, when Eddie got out of Temptations,
[00:34:30.179 --> 00:34:32.340] Eddie only had a couple hundred thousand dollars
[00:34:32.880 --> 00:34:39.270] and some houses out of all that fame.
[00:34:40.670 --> 00:34:42.330] Paul was down on his luck.
[00:34:43.739 --> 00:34:47.120] Well, Florence, she ended up on welfare.
[00:34:47.639 --> 00:34:48.920] I think she died on welfare.
[00:34:49.380 --> 00:34:52.960] Oh, man. So one thing about Eddie,
[00:34:54.159 --> 00:34:57.139] this whole push that I learned from Eddie, because I remember
[00:34:57.139 --> 00:35:00.240] I remember the first question I asked was,
[00:35:01.320 --> 00:35:05.020] how do you feel when someone else leads the song?
[00:35:05.640 --> 00:35:08.400] And he said, don't matter me, little brother, long as I get paid.
[00:35:09.680 --> 00:35:11.620] It was always as long as I get paid.
[00:35:12.380 --> 00:35:16.620] So from that, I knew I had to learn the business.
[00:35:17.440 --> 00:35:20.460] And I recorded my first record at 16.
[00:35:21.340 --> 00:35:22.400] Not with Motown.
[00:35:23.040 --> 00:35:25.100] It was a local label here
[00:35:25.660 --> 00:35:29.740] by Bale Bondsman, by the name of Chuck Brown.
[00:35:30.640 --> 00:35:33.560] Chuck Brown created a label called The Rule Records.
[00:35:34.120 --> 00:35:37.020] And initially, he created that label
[00:35:37.020 --> 00:35:40.120] because his girl was a great singer.
[00:35:40.120 --> 00:35:43.380] Her name was Cassandra Abrams, but we called her Chicken.
[00:35:44.140 --> 00:35:47.360] So Sauru, were you kind of learned the business, music business?
[00:35:47.360 --> 00:35:49.120] Well, I'm learning as I go.
[00:35:49.320 --> 00:35:49.820] Learn as you go.
[00:35:50.100 --> 00:35:52.160] Because Eddie was like
[00:35:53.020 --> 00:35:57.400] my big brother, like any references I need or I wasn't sure if I would call him
[00:35:57.400 --> 00:36:01.220] and he would say, little brother this, little brother that, you know,
[00:36:01.220 --> 00:36:03.840] and then I would see him every year, you know, he would come through.
[00:36:07.600 --> 00:36:10.640] So 16, so my parents had to sign that contract.
[00:36:13.040 --> 00:36:14.760] I wrote my first record.
[00:36:15.700 --> 00:36:18.760] I was brought to the label by Paul Woodall.
[00:36:18.820 --> 00:36:22.480] He had joined up with some other guys and they were called the Out of Sites.
[00:36:22.820 --> 00:36:26.960] And they were a very popular recording group,
[00:36:27.240 --> 00:36:31.060] as long as along with the entertains, along with the Imperial Wonders.
[00:36:31.220 --> 00:36:33.480] And people were recording and doing records.
[00:36:33.820 --> 00:36:37.840] And they were being played on the radio at that time by Ken Hawkins.
[00:36:37.840 --> 00:36:42.340] Ken Hawkins was a noted DJ who would reach out to a local talent,
[00:36:42.700 --> 00:36:44.960] Marvelous Ray, and promote them.
[00:36:45.320 --> 00:36:49.180] So and but who played my record was Lynn Toliver.
[00:36:49.300 --> 00:36:52.320] His name was Shotgun at the time.
[00:36:52.780 --> 00:36:54.720] Yeah, we became friends.
[00:36:55.000 --> 00:36:56.620] So Shotgun would play my record.
[00:36:58.160 --> 00:37:02.380] With that, I asked to be out of that contract.
[00:37:02.540 --> 00:37:07.020] And he let me go after maybe a year.
[00:37:07.840 --> 00:37:11.480] Because I think we did two shows.
[00:37:12.260 --> 00:37:16.340] We did one at the Lakeview Palladium in Dayton, Ohio,
[00:37:16.760 --> 00:37:19.720] where we opened up for Curtis Mayfield and impressions.
[00:37:19.980 --> 00:37:22.800] And that was right before Curtis went solo.
[00:37:23.300 --> 00:37:24.540] We did that.
[00:37:24.800 --> 00:37:26.320] So I recorded my record.
[00:37:26.620 --> 00:37:30.200] The focus on that time at the label, it was the Out of Sites.
[00:37:30.860 --> 00:37:34.180] So as far as material, it was going to the Out of Sites.
[00:37:34.560 --> 00:37:36.480] So I decided to write my own song.
[00:37:36.480 --> 00:37:40.460] And I did. And I took it to a noted guitar player
[00:37:40.460 --> 00:37:42.380] who was working with that whole situation.
[00:37:42.600 --> 00:37:44.580] I got by the name of Calvin Brown.
[00:37:45.140 --> 00:37:47.900] So Calvin Brown, I was singing my song for Calvin Brown.
[00:37:48.080 --> 00:37:51.480] And Calvin Brown was like, Mike, you need a change in the song, man.
[00:37:51.500 --> 00:37:52.520] When you get here, do this.
[00:37:52.640 --> 00:37:54.520] So we came up with the song.
[00:37:54.660 --> 00:37:56.140] I can't make it without you.
[00:37:56.560 --> 00:37:59.700] And we did that when, like I said, after those two years,
[00:37:59.840 --> 00:38:04.340] the Americana, downtown Cleveland, that and the Lakeview Palladium,
[00:38:04.670 --> 00:38:06.340] which I didn't get paid.
[00:38:06.860 --> 00:38:09.240] And I was out of that contract.
[00:38:10.780 --> 00:38:13.420] I started with a band.
[00:38:14.720 --> 00:38:16.120] It was a three piece band,
[00:38:16.200 --> 00:38:19.660] Joe Pearson, Clarence Gillespie and George Jones,
[00:38:19.760 --> 00:38:26.680] the hottest three piece rhythm section that you would ever hear, ever hear.
[00:38:27.040 --> 00:38:30.620] Clarence was a man.
[00:38:31.060 --> 00:38:33.440] Clarence, not only was he a drummer,
[00:38:34.640 --> 00:38:37.380] Clarence could put the live shows together
[00:38:37.380 --> 00:38:41.440] in terms of what music should be done, what segues.
[00:38:41.720 --> 00:38:43.760] And when you guys are doing the choreography,
[00:38:44.060 --> 00:38:47.700] I'm going to hit three licks on the snare and you do the licks with the snare.
[00:38:47.920 --> 00:38:50.300] So he was given. I was learning performance.
[00:38:50.480 --> 00:38:52.020] Performance, yeah. Yeah.
[00:38:52.100 --> 00:38:55.580] So we left and went on the road.
[00:38:55.900 --> 00:38:59.840] And then those days, like I said, your show is what sold you.
[00:38:59.840 --> 00:39:02.780] We ended up going through the Southwoods,
[00:39:02.780 --> 00:39:06.180] what's considered the Chitlin circuit down south.
[00:39:06.780 --> 00:39:10.740] And we were a lot in Tennessee, Alabama.
[00:39:11.620 --> 00:39:14.700] And I remember when we were in Alabama,
[00:39:15.660 --> 00:39:20.860] people were asking us, did we ever come up against this band?
[00:39:21.140 --> 00:39:23.120] And I can't remember the name of the band,
[00:39:23.240 --> 00:39:25.800] but I'll tell it to you in a few minutes who they became
[00:39:25.800 --> 00:39:28.060] because they were supposed to be the hot thing.
[00:39:28.060 --> 00:39:30.020] So I know one thing that we did,
[00:39:30.040 --> 00:39:35.280] there was a popular eight or nine piece band called Black Haze in Birmingham.
[00:39:35.420 --> 00:39:38.000] We played the Persian Lounge with these guys.
[00:39:38.260 --> 00:39:42.300] And we were on the show with just the three singers and the three piece.
[00:39:42.840 --> 00:39:44.020] Tore them up.
[00:39:44.980 --> 00:39:47.680] And they had to say, man, we're nine pieces, man.
[00:39:47.720 --> 00:39:50.880] We couldn't touch you because George Clarence and Joe,
[00:39:51.060 --> 00:39:52.020] they were that tight.
[00:39:52.660 --> 00:39:54.820] They were tight playing the show.
[00:39:54.820 --> 00:39:58.780] I mean, it's what you would see like at the state.
[00:39:59.040 --> 00:39:59.840] That's the level.
[00:40:00.500 --> 00:40:01.280] That's what we were.
[00:40:01.560 --> 00:40:04.340] A lounge act, you're just atmosphere.
[00:40:04.760 --> 00:40:05.920] You're just playing the music.
[00:40:06.000 --> 00:40:07.400] And you may sing well.
[00:40:07.460 --> 00:40:11.020] You may do a million runs and all kind of gymnastics.
[00:40:11.480 --> 00:40:12.440] But you just sing.
[00:40:12.660 --> 00:40:14.160] You just sing because our thing was,
[00:40:14.500 --> 00:40:16.420] you can stay at home and listen to a record.
[00:40:17.880 --> 00:40:19.440] You can stay at home.
[00:40:20.820 --> 00:40:22.820] We have to make you come out.
[00:40:22.820 --> 00:40:24.340] I got to see them visually.
[00:40:24.820 --> 00:40:25.660] You see what I'm saying?
[00:40:26.120 --> 00:40:28.820] So you had to answer your earlier question.
[00:40:29.200 --> 00:40:31.260] Most acts I see now are lounge acts.
[00:40:34.720 --> 00:40:37.360] So going back to.
[00:40:37.400 --> 00:40:39.940] So for me, I think I know where you want to go.
[00:40:40.160 --> 00:40:41.300] Going to that contract.
[00:40:41.880 --> 00:40:43.180] I reached out.
[00:40:43.240 --> 00:40:45.560] I wanted to talk to Ben Breen.
[00:40:46.560 --> 00:40:47.400] You know he is?
[00:40:47.960 --> 00:40:48.120] No.
[00:40:48.200 --> 00:40:54.180] Ben Breen was a Tony Award winner on Broadway.
[00:40:56.620 --> 00:41:00.580] Ben ended up with his own TV show one summer.
[00:41:00.780 --> 00:41:06.020] Ben played Chicken George in Roots in the movie Alex Haley's Roots.
[00:41:06.340 --> 00:41:08.580] But Ben was just like dancing.
[00:41:09.000 --> 00:41:11.380] I went to see Ben Breen at the front row.
[00:41:11.960 --> 00:41:21.220] And I saw Ben Breen jump from the stage to the arms of the people's chair and
[00:41:21.220 --> 00:41:25.640] walk on the backs of the chairs all the way back up and then back down to the stage.
[00:41:26.420 --> 00:41:28.060] And that was a revolving stage.
[00:41:28.360 --> 00:41:29.340] Oh, Ben Breen was cold.
[00:41:29.720 --> 00:41:34.260] He was in major shows, Pippin, Harry.
[00:41:34.420 --> 00:41:35.900] He was that guy.
[00:41:36.360 --> 00:41:41.320] And I couldn't get to Ben so I ended up talking to Ben's road manager,
[00:41:41.440 --> 00:41:43.180] a guy by the name of Clay Anderson.
[00:41:43.600 --> 00:41:44.780] See, I always saw things.
[00:41:44.840 --> 00:41:47.700] And he said, you seem like a nice young man.
[00:41:47.740 --> 00:41:49.020] I want to tell you something.
[00:41:49.860 --> 00:41:55.200] He said, in order to succeed, be objective.
[00:41:56.280 --> 00:41:57.360] He said, do you know what I mean?
[00:41:58.200 --> 00:41:59.600] I said, no, what do you mean?
[00:41:59.920 --> 00:42:04.220] He said, always look at yourself in the third person.
[00:42:06.000 --> 00:42:08.360] How do I do that exactly?
[00:42:08.620 --> 00:42:13.620] Well, when you're objective, it's like you're not into your feelings.
[00:42:14.580 --> 00:42:20.120] It's more of, I see the external things that I'm dealing with.
[00:42:20.120 --> 00:42:24.200] Whether I agree with it or not, it is what it is.
[00:42:24.460 --> 00:42:28.520] And I need to do what's necessary because his second thing was,
[00:42:29.220 --> 00:42:32.760] don't allow yourself to be consumed by people.
[00:42:35.060 --> 00:42:38.220] But there's also come a time where, like you said,
[00:42:38.360 --> 00:42:40.240] looking at yourself in an external way.
[00:42:40.720 --> 00:42:43.760] The external things that you're dealing with to make sure
[00:42:43.760 --> 00:42:49.360] that your calculation is proper and moving you toward the
[00:42:49.360 --> 00:42:52.640] optimum action that you need to do to succeed.
[00:42:53.240 --> 00:42:57.140] You need to be able to accept the fact of what's really there.
[00:42:57.780 --> 00:43:01.540] Don't alter it by saying it's something other than what it is.
[00:43:03.040 --> 00:43:04.340] That's the first lesson.
[00:43:05.360 --> 00:43:09.700] I think the first lesson is faith in self.
[00:43:11.240 --> 00:43:15.740] Because in this business, you know, like I hear a lot of people say,
[00:43:15.940 --> 00:43:17.920] I don't want to be around the negative.
[00:43:17.920 --> 00:43:19.360] Stay around the negative.
[00:43:19.400 --> 00:43:22.640] My thing to anyone who's speaking like that,
[00:43:22.640 --> 00:43:29.160] you're already at a disadvantage because if you can't take rejection,
[00:43:29.640 --> 00:43:37.180] and if you can't take someone negative being in a controlling position
[00:43:37.180 --> 00:43:40.780] to help your career, you might as well sit down.
[00:43:41.080 --> 00:43:44.680] This is why there's such a word as strategy.
[00:43:45.280 --> 00:43:50.180] But in order to have a strategy that's on,
[00:43:50.960 --> 00:43:52.940] that means you have to come up with the plan.
[00:43:53.500 --> 00:43:55.820] Why would you make a plan on something that's altered,
[00:43:55.980 --> 00:43:59.160] you altered in your mind instead of what's really there?
[00:43:59.720 --> 00:44:01.940] Because you only operate.
[00:44:02.920 --> 00:44:04.680] See, I look at us with spirits.
[00:44:05.320 --> 00:44:06.180] That's what we are.
[00:44:06.480 --> 00:44:13.520] We possess a mind and we possess a body.
[00:44:14.020 --> 00:44:15.520] You control your body.
[00:44:16.040 --> 00:44:17.520] You control your mind, huh?
[00:44:19.160 --> 00:44:23.840] You only operate off the information that's in your mind.
[00:44:24.800 --> 00:44:28.720] So if you're not getting the results that you desire,
[00:44:29.560 --> 00:44:35.800] check it out and see the information that you're operating off on
[00:44:35.800 --> 00:44:38.460] when it really renders such results.
[00:44:38.820 --> 00:44:40.140] That's being objective.
[00:44:40.720 --> 00:44:41.720] Does that make sense?
[00:44:41.720 --> 00:44:46.680] And that in itself, it's not just music business.
[00:44:47.300 --> 00:44:48.240] That's it, period.
[00:44:48.460 --> 00:44:53.060] Even in life, in knowing how to choose your people,
[00:44:54.280 --> 00:44:56.840] you have to know how to choose your people.
[00:44:57.020 --> 00:44:59.480] It reminds me of chess, like the game chess.
[00:44:59.940 --> 00:45:02.840] Well, then life is likened to a game
[00:45:03.540 --> 00:45:08.560] because in life, you already have to accept the fact
[00:45:08.560 --> 00:45:10.900] that in order to be a winner,
[00:45:10.900 --> 00:45:14.640] accept the fact that the physical universe
[00:45:14.640 --> 00:45:17.520] was not designed for you to win.
[00:45:18.900 --> 00:45:20.040] You got a question on that?
[00:45:21.780 --> 00:45:22.680] Is that so?
[00:45:24.120 --> 00:45:25.360] Actually, it's crazy.
[00:45:26.200 --> 00:45:26.500] I'll tell you what.
[00:45:28.260 --> 00:45:30.680] Say you're getting ready to do something.
[00:45:31.860 --> 00:45:33.240] I'm getting ready for this podcast.
[00:45:34.820 --> 00:45:36.620] Whenever you say you're getting ready to do something,
[00:45:36.940 --> 00:45:38.320] how much doubt pops up?
[00:45:38.440 --> 00:45:39.900] You start looking at different things.
[00:45:40.100 --> 00:45:40.260] What?
[00:45:40.260 --> 00:45:41.580] Am I right?
[00:45:41.980 --> 00:45:42.500] Self-doubt, yeah.
[00:45:43.020 --> 00:45:45.280] So the moment you say you're going to do something,
[00:45:45.640 --> 00:45:46.060] what's there?
[00:45:46.260 --> 00:45:46.820] Doubt.
[00:45:48.160 --> 00:45:48.620] True.
[00:45:49.040 --> 00:45:50.800] It wasn't designed for you to win.
[00:45:51.500 --> 00:45:55.160] It was designed for you to put your will to it
[00:45:55.160 --> 00:45:59.760] and get it done because if anything is going to happen,
[00:46:00.700 --> 00:46:04.040] it's only going to happen if you intend.
[00:46:04.680 --> 00:46:07.120] And the operative word is intend
[00:46:07.840 --> 00:46:11.580] because that which you don't intend will not happen.
[00:46:13.320 --> 00:46:20.520] So when we want to talk about branding and learning anything,
[00:46:21.640 --> 00:46:25.200] my first thing that I would advise anyone
[00:46:25.200 --> 00:46:28.500] is like a professor told me when I went to Kent,
[00:46:28.580 --> 00:46:30.200] my sociology professor,
[00:46:30.640 --> 00:46:36.560] he said what you learn today may not be applicable tomorrow.
[00:46:37.120 --> 00:46:40.060] So make the library your friend
[00:46:40.060 --> 00:46:42.120] because anything you don't know,
[00:46:42.540 --> 00:46:44.300] the information is in there.
[00:46:44.640 --> 00:46:45.680] Now you have Google.
[00:46:46.700 --> 00:46:50.300] So as I was taught in learning,
[00:46:51.560 --> 00:46:55.760] never go past a misunderstood word
[00:46:56.560 --> 00:47:00.940] and never guess at a word to look it up
[00:47:01.360 --> 00:47:05.360] for that's where you begin to get clarity of concept
[00:47:05.360 --> 00:47:07.600] because you can look up one word,
[00:47:07.740 --> 00:47:10.160] it's about five or six different definitions
[00:47:10.160 --> 00:47:14.800] of which one fits the scenario that you're in.
[00:47:15.660 --> 00:47:17.140] It's just like learning concepts.
[00:47:17.680 --> 00:47:18.880] Branding, right quick.
[00:47:19.540 --> 00:47:20.920] A lot of people that I talk to,
[00:47:21.040 --> 00:47:22.440] and we'll get into it,
[00:47:22.540 --> 00:47:27.740] but a lot of people think that what they do is branding
[00:47:27.740 --> 00:47:28.960] and it's not.
[00:47:32.400 --> 00:47:33.140] What is branding?
[00:47:34.960 --> 00:47:37.720] Branding must answer the question,
[00:47:38.780 --> 00:47:45.700] why do I need what you have to offer in my life?
[00:47:46.860 --> 00:47:48.360] Let's take a look at the playing field.
[00:47:48.640 --> 00:47:50.160] How many people doing music?
[00:47:51.860 --> 00:47:52.600] You can't count.
[00:47:53.240 --> 00:47:56.100] How do you break through that
[00:47:56.100 --> 00:47:57.880] in what we're dealing with today?
[00:47:58.060 --> 00:47:58.700] Your identity.
[00:47:58.900 --> 00:47:59.540] How do you break?
[00:48:00.360 --> 00:48:04.060] That's branding was designed to break through the noise.
[00:48:04.420 --> 00:48:06.300] Because then what it puts you in
[00:48:06.300 --> 00:48:08.760] is what is considered a niche market.
[00:48:09.340 --> 00:48:13.820] When somebody could be doing the exact same thing
[00:48:13.820 --> 00:48:16.000] that you're doing,
[00:48:16.620 --> 00:48:18.680] but because of your brand,
[00:48:19.200 --> 00:48:21.120] it takes on something different.
[00:48:21.500 --> 00:48:23.340] For me now,
[00:48:24.300 --> 00:48:25.140] I think I'm doing,
[00:48:25.240 --> 00:48:29.000] I understand the concept because about 20 years ago,
[00:48:29.000 --> 00:48:32.660] I had in 2003,
[00:48:32.680 --> 00:48:36.000] I started going for a reality show
[00:48:36.760 --> 00:48:38.480] and I shopped for three years
[00:48:38.480 --> 00:48:40.820] and then I started shopping the show
[00:48:40.820 --> 00:48:42.640] and I happened to run into a guy
[00:48:42.640 --> 00:48:43.820] who said he had some connections.
[00:48:43.820 --> 00:48:44.680] He came to a gig.
[00:48:44.680 --> 00:48:45.760] I was in a band, Shout,
[00:48:46.020 --> 00:48:48.000] and he loved the band and he was like,
[00:48:48.020 --> 00:48:51.240] hey, look, I got a reality show connections and all that.
[00:48:51.300 --> 00:48:52.480] So I hooked up with this guy.
[00:48:52.840 --> 00:48:54.500] His name was Daniel Money Penny.
[00:48:55.060 --> 00:48:57.040] He said, Mike, most of the pennies.
[00:48:57.200 --> 00:48:58.140] You know what he said?
[00:48:58.140 --> 00:48:59.640] I said, Daniel Money Penny.
[00:48:59.840 --> 00:49:00.480] You sound like money.
[00:49:01.040 --> 00:49:03.040] So Daniel was,
[00:49:03.660 --> 00:49:04.800] we were talking,
[00:49:04.960 --> 00:49:11.180] I think Daniel made $75,000 within a three month period
[00:49:11.180 --> 00:49:12.680] and I was like,
[00:49:13.660 --> 00:49:14.340] how'd you do that?
[00:49:14.380 --> 00:49:16.180] He said, well, I do taglines.
[00:49:16.660 --> 00:49:17.720] I said, what's that?
[00:49:18.740 --> 00:49:20.460] I write lines,
[00:49:21.400 --> 00:49:23.280] business lines and identification lines
[00:49:23.280 --> 00:49:24.400] for people's products.
[00:49:24.560 --> 00:49:25.140] Copywriting?
[00:49:25.620 --> 00:49:26.520] No, like Nike.
[00:49:26.920 --> 00:49:27.740] Just do it.
[00:49:28.740 --> 00:49:30.760] See, there should be a one line
[00:49:30.760 --> 00:49:33.320] that could come out of your brand
[00:49:33.320 --> 00:49:34.620] because what you have to do,
[00:49:34.920 --> 00:49:36.660] once you identify your brand,
[00:49:37.140 --> 00:49:38.540] when people come to you,
[00:49:38.700 --> 00:49:42.400] you have to do what is called brand orientation
[00:49:43.320 --> 00:49:44.500] because they're new to you.
[00:49:44.580 --> 00:49:45.340] Just like going to college.
[00:49:45.760 --> 00:49:46.360] What do you get?
[00:49:47.320 --> 00:49:48.760] Orientation to that, which it is.
[00:49:49.040 --> 00:49:51.880] So you have to orientate people to your brand.
[00:49:52.340 --> 00:49:54.960] This is so ambiguous term to use,
[00:49:55.060 --> 00:49:56.740] but just for the sake of example,
[00:49:56.740 --> 00:49:59.080] say I say my love,
[00:49:59.200 --> 00:50:00.480] and a lot of people say I stand for love.
[00:50:00.600 --> 00:50:01.280] I stand for love.
[00:50:01.500 --> 00:50:02.840] That's not specific enough,
[00:50:02.840 --> 00:50:04.060] but as an example,
[00:50:04.420 --> 00:50:06.400] let me say, okay, love.
[00:50:06.680 --> 00:50:07.500] That's my brand.
[00:50:08.000 --> 00:50:10.320] And then what can I say about love
[00:50:10.900 --> 00:50:12.420] that you need to hear
[00:50:12.420 --> 00:50:14.080] that you've never heard before,
[00:50:14.200 --> 00:50:15.600] but you need this information.
[00:50:15.620 --> 00:50:17.020] I need to tell you
[00:50:17.020 --> 00:50:18.940] because you feel like it can help your life
[00:50:18.940 --> 00:50:21.580] because see, branding is not about you.
[00:50:22.340 --> 00:50:24.220] Branding is about the other people
[00:50:24.220 --> 00:50:25.680] that you're trying to give to.
[00:50:25.820 --> 00:50:26.520] Being direct, yeah.
[00:50:26.520 --> 00:50:29.660] It's not about you at all, at all.
[00:50:30.120 --> 00:50:31.480] I don't care how good you think you are.
[00:50:31.680 --> 00:50:34.280] It's not about you at all.
[00:50:35.000 --> 00:50:36.680] It's about serving them.
[00:50:37.260 --> 00:50:38.760] So with your brand,
[00:50:39.160 --> 00:50:39.780] you say, okay, love,
[00:50:39.920 --> 00:50:41.120] it's my thing, blah, blah, blah.
[00:50:41.480 --> 00:50:42.680] My t-shirts,
[00:50:44.160 --> 00:50:45.840] if it won't have anything,
[00:50:45.940 --> 00:50:46.960] but quotes about love,
[00:50:47.920 --> 00:50:49.080] my music,
[00:50:50.060 --> 00:50:52.180] everything that I do
[00:50:52.740 --> 00:50:53.940] must bear
[00:50:55.100 --> 00:50:56.680] and the visibility
[00:50:57.240 --> 00:50:59.620] of that which I say I am
[00:50:59.620 --> 00:51:00.940] because here's the thing
[00:51:00.940 --> 00:51:02.480] that branding was supposed to do
[00:51:02.480 --> 00:51:03.260] during the period.
[00:51:03.480 --> 00:51:05.620] You had different talk forums
[00:51:05.620 --> 00:51:06.740] and stuff like that
[00:51:06.740 --> 00:51:08.660] that people could lend themselves to
[00:51:08.660 --> 00:51:09.740] get in the chats.
[00:51:10.120 --> 00:51:12.120] So there's other people
[00:51:12.120 --> 00:51:13.840] who have podcasts
[00:51:13.840 --> 00:51:15.680] who have things talk about love.
[00:51:15.980 --> 00:51:17.320] So now what happens?
[00:51:17.860 --> 00:51:18.960] I go over here
[00:51:18.960 --> 00:51:20.120] and I'm over here talking.
[00:51:20.280 --> 00:51:21.240] Oh, that guy, yeah.
[00:51:21.920 --> 00:51:23.340] Oh, what does he do?
[00:51:23.580 --> 00:51:24.560] Oh, he does music.
[00:51:24.860 --> 00:51:25.660] You know what?
[00:51:26.340 --> 00:51:28.120] I'm not that much in the music,
[00:51:28.760 --> 00:51:29.820] but let me check it out
[00:51:29.820 --> 00:51:30.680] because that's my guy.
[00:51:30.700 --> 00:51:32.400] I like the way he feels and think.
[00:51:32.600 --> 00:51:34.240] Oh, man, I'm going to get his stuff.
[00:51:35.880 --> 00:51:37.220] I'm going to buy his t-shirt.
[00:51:37.300 --> 00:51:37.800] I'm going to buy
[00:51:37.800 --> 00:51:39.620] because the way they feel about who.
[00:51:40.480 --> 00:51:40.900] About who?
[00:51:42.240 --> 00:51:42.700] About who?
[00:51:43.080 --> 00:51:43.300] Me.
[00:51:46.240 --> 00:51:47.700] So in a way,
[00:51:49.180 --> 00:51:50.380] it's almost like
[00:51:51.040 --> 00:51:52.220] what Hollywood
[00:51:52.900 --> 00:51:54.820] and what the big corporations do
[00:51:54.820 --> 00:51:55.620] in the music business.
[00:51:55.760 --> 00:51:57.580] We must create a persona.
[00:51:59.220 --> 00:51:59.780] Yeah.
[00:52:01.540 --> 00:52:02.880] Tagline Motown.
[00:52:03.160 --> 00:52:04.200] Who was Motown for?
[00:52:04.300 --> 00:52:06.580] So your audience is in there.
[00:52:06.860 --> 00:52:08.480] Music for Young America.
[00:52:08.840 --> 00:52:10.660] Now, when you take Nike's
[00:52:10.660 --> 00:52:12.120] one line out of their brand,
[00:52:12.440 --> 00:52:13.900] who does it apply to?
[00:52:14.380 --> 00:52:15.600] Just do it.
[00:52:15.880 --> 00:52:17.680] How many people would that apply to?
[00:52:18.860 --> 00:52:19.720] Almost everybody.
[00:52:20.080 --> 00:52:20.880] All right, then.
[00:52:20.880 --> 00:52:21.820] You're getting me now
[00:52:21.820 --> 00:52:23.060] when I'm talking about brand is
[00:52:23.060 --> 00:52:24.480] I mean, we could talk more,
[00:52:24.540 --> 00:52:26.640] but are you getting a sense of it?
[00:52:27.260 --> 00:52:28.520] Just do it.
[00:52:28.720 --> 00:52:30.060] Let's do it.
[00:52:30.580 --> 00:52:31.220] What color?
[00:52:31.760 --> 00:52:32.440] What age?
[00:52:34.120 --> 00:52:34.920] That's a brand.
[00:52:35.200 --> 00:52:36.020] And you know, when I really
[00:52:36.020 --> 00:52:37.360] after I was taught branding,
[00:52:37.360 --> 00:52:39.420] you know, when I really realized
[00:52:39.420 --> 00:52:41.240] how I was supposed to go down,
[00:52:41.700 --> 00:52:43.320] I was an extra
[00:52:44.220 --> 00:52:46.520] for LeBron James commercial
[00:52:47.200 --> 00:52:49.040] when he came back to Cleveland.
[00:52:49.040 --> 00:52:49.960] Mm hmm.
[00:52:50.360 --> 00:52:51.840] And in this commercial,
[00:52:53.020 --> 00:52:53.940] what it showed,
[00:52:54.640 --> 00:52:57.180] they had shots of people
[00:52:57.180 --> 00:52:58.860] on the construction site.
[00:52:59.460 --> 00:53:01.820] They had kids on the school bus.
[00:53:02.440 --> 00:53:04.220] You know, people all over Cleveland.
[00:53:05.040 --> 00:53:06.640] And my scene, I was,
[00:53:06.820 --> 00:53:08.000] we were, we shot it.
[00:53:08.760 --> 00:53:09.580] Was it the Woodstein?
[00:53:09.720 --> 00:53:10.960] We shot it there.
[00:53:11.080 --> 00:53:12.660] And then they they had
[00:53:12.660 --> 00:53:14.020] a half an audience over here.
[00:53:14.040 --> 00:53:14.800] They filmed that.
[00:53:14.860 --> 00:53:15.960] Then they put us to the other side
[00:53:15.960 --> 00:53:16.880] and they filmed that side.
[00:53:16.980 --> 00:53:18.600] And the calves came in.
[00:53:19.100 --> 00:53:20.260] Cavs came in.
[00:53:20.400 --> 00:53:21.560] They're bouncing the ball around.
[00:53:21.620 --> 00:53:22.340] You seen that shot?
[00:53:22.420 --> 00:53:24.660] And then you see LeBron,
[00:53:24.680 --> 00:53:25.780] they go into a huddle
[00:53:25.780 --> 00:53:28.200] and LeBron says Cleveland on so and so.
[00:53:28.360 --> 00:53:29.440] And while he's doing that,
[00:53:29.680 --> 00:53:31.300] you see all these different people
[00:53:31.300 --> 00:53:33.120] from different parts of Cleveland
[00:53:33.120 --> 00:53:33.940] doing their thing.
[00:53:34.240 --> 00:53:34.820] And I remember that.
[00:53:35.100 --> 00:53:36.800] And then all of a sudden,
[00:53:36.800 --> 00:53:38.020] it's like a horn blows
[00:53:38.020 --> 00:53:39.600] and everybody's tuning in.
[00:53:39.760 --> 00:53:41.000] And Brian said, we got to do this.
[00:53:41.300 --> 00:53:42.420] And next thing you know,
[00:53:42.620 --> 00:53:44.340] everybody from wherever they were,
[00:53:44.640 --> 00:53:46.180] they all ended up downtown
[00:53:46.180 --> 00:53:47.620] and center like with Brian.
[00:53:47.660 --> 00:53:48.140] Yeah.
[00:53:48.140 --> 00:53:49.380] That's Brandy.
[00:53:49.460 --> 00:53:49.900] That's Brandy.
[00:53:49.900 --> 00:53:51.620] Do you understand me now?
[00:53:51.960 --> 00:53:52.800] That's Brandy.
[00:53:52.880 --> 00:53:53.840] In unity, community.
[00:53:54.100 --> 00:53:55.600] That's beyond the ball game.
[00:53:55.760 --> 00:53:56.640] Do you see what I'm saying?
[00:53:57.000 --> 00:53:58.940] And when you look at it,
[00:53:59.040 --> 00:54:00.560] it was sharp because
[00:54:00.560 --> 00:54:02.400] he had just come back to Cleveland.
[00:54:03.140 --> 00:54:04.780] And this is for Cleveland.
[00:54:05.020 --> 00:54:05.900] So we're getting you
[00:54:05.900 --> 00:54:08.320] on that emotional level.
[00:54:08.740 --> 00:54:09.180] Brian is back.
[00:54:09.760 --> 00:54:11.120] See, this is Brandy, baby.
[00:54:11.580 --> 00:54:13.660] And that's the thing, man.
[00:54:13.780 --> 00:54:16.020] Just being a creative person, me,
[00:54:16.320 --> 00:54:17.200] just to get your hands
[00:54:17.200 --> 00:54:19.340] at the mold and shape of brand for me,
[00:54:19.540 --> 00:54:20.880] I'm still trying to come up
[00:54:20.880 --> 00:54:21.980] with my orientation.
[00:54:22.300 --> 00:54:24.000] For me, it has worked backwards
[00:54:24.000 --> 00:54:26.200] that I do it through the content
[00:54:26.920 --> 00:54:28.420] because your content,
[00:54:28.760 --> 00:54:30.160] that's what it must speak,
[00:54:30.440 --> 00:54:32.040] what you're about.
[00:54:32.060 --> 00:54:34.200] So it begins to guide
[00:54:34.200 --> 00:54:35.320] so people can come
[00:54:35.320 --> 00:54:37.100] and then it's consistent
[00:54:37.100 --> 00:54:40.020] because it's consistent along the line
[00:54:40.020 --> 00:54:42.440] of your brand and your brand philosophy.
[00:54:43.320 --> 00:54:44.300] You said that woke you up
[00:54:44.300 --> 00:54:45.820] as far as like branding
[00:54:45.820 --> 00:54:47.280] and help you build a brand.
[00:54:47.400 --> 00:54:48.720] When did you know you had
[00:54:49.380 --> 00:54:50.760] brand and down pack like
[00:54:50.760 --> 00:54:52.180] this is what I must do?
[00:54:52.780 --> 00:54:57.280] For me, I'm still that name,
[00:54:58.160 --> 00:54:59.380] what is going to be called
[00:54:59.380 --> 00:55:00.680] in the tagline.
[00:55:01.180 --> 00:55:06.220] For me, an artist's responsibility
[00:55:06.960 --> 00:55:08.120] as an artist,
[00:55:09.080 --> 00:55:11.300] and this is my viewpoint.
[00:55:11.880 --> 00:55:13.340] No one else has to agree with it.
[00:55:14.400 --> 00:55:16.960] It's artist's responsibility
[00:55:18.340 --> 00:55:23.160] to interject what I would say,
[00:55:23.320 --> 00:55:25.260] let me, for lack of a better word,
[00:55:25.740 --> 00:55:29.120] let me say fresh realities
[00:55:29.120 --> 00:55:31.460] into that which is present
[00:55:31.460 --> 00:55:36.000] and the realities that I must interject
[00:55:36.000 --> 00:55:40.580] must be that which furthers humanity
[00:55:40.580 --> 00:55:42.780] or further my people.
[00:55:42.780 --> 00:55:45.860] No artist can be a good artist
[00:55:45.860 --> 00:55:49.820] unless he's aware of his mind,
[00:55:49.840 --> 00:55:51.080] but not only his mind,
[00:55:51.780 --> 00:55:53.220] but the mind of the country
[00:55:53.220 --> 00:55:54.280] in which he lives.
[00:55:56.040 --> 00:56:00.020] You see, for me in my evolution
[00:56:00.020 --> 00:56:02.120] as an artist and that
[00:56:02.400 --> 00:56:03.800] when I look at it all
[00:56:03.800 --> 00:56:06.000] has always been with me
[00:56:06.000 --> 00:56:07.320] is my people.
[00:56:08.340 --> 00:56:11.600] So the money and all that
[00:56:11.600 --> 00:56:13.240] at my stage,
[00:56:13.540 --> 00:56:15.240] it has never been about the money.
[00:56:16.440 --> 00:56:17.640] It's just let me do
[00:56:17.640 --> 00:56:18.420] what I want to do
[00:56:18.420 --> 00:56:19.820] and my father before he passed,
[00:56:19.820 --> 00:56:20.780] he told me something.
[00:56:21.620 --> 00:56:23.880] He said, Mike, you know what?
[00:56:25.100 --> 00:56:26.420] You've always been a success.
[00:56:26.460 --> 00:56:26.980] You know why?
[00:56:27.120 --> 00:56:27.660] I said, why?
[00:56:27.940 --> 00:56:29.080] Because you always did
[00:56:29.080 --> 00:56:30.380] what you wanted to do.
[00:56:33.030 --> 00:56:34.590] And so for me now,
[00:56:34.630 --> 00:56:37.490] the music that I create
[00:56:38.090 --> 00:56:40.990] or anything that I do
[00:56:41.550 --> 00:56:45.950] must help people to dial into
[00:56:46.730 --> 00:56:48.590] that which they possess
[00:56:49.530 --> 00:56:50.790] and to express,
[00:56:51.230 --> 00:56:53.870] especially the climate
[00:56:53.870 --> 00:56:55.350] that we're in
[00:56:55.350 --> 00:56:57.010] in this country politically.
[00:56:57.790 --> 00:56:59.790] See, remember I was talking
[00:56:59.790 --> 00:57:02.650] about the ancestors on us
[00:57:02.650 --> 00:57:04.010] in the 60s.
[00:57:04.150 --> 00:57:05.610] That was the true culture.
[00:57:06.410 --> 00:57:08.330] This that you guys are calling
[00:57:08.330 --> 00:57:09.810] the cultures or subculture,
[00:57:09.810 --> 00:57:11.750] it's a culture without a culture
[00:57:11.750 --> 00:57:13.650] and you don't own anything.
[00:57:13.930 --> 00:57:15.330] You don't do this.
[00:57:15.830 --> 00:57:17.410] So it's not really a culture.
[00:57:17.490 --> 00:57:18.970] I want to speak on culture
[00:57:18.970 --> 00:57:21.450] just so we do have
[00:57:21.450 --> 00:57:24.130] the correct definition of culture.
[00:57:24.190 --> 00:57:24.870] What is culture?
[00:57:25.010 --> 00:57:30.820] For me, culture is a way of life.
[00:57:32.780 --> 00:57:34.160] Culture is a,
[00:57:35.300 --> 00:57:36.640] and that way of life
[00:57:37.260 --> 00:57:40.880] will cause you to do certain actions.
[00:57:42.440 --> 00:57:44.780] When we say culture,
[00:57:45.460 --> 00:57:46.620] then I have to look at
[00:57:46.620 --> 00:57:47.800] what can survive.
[00:57:48.460 --> 00:57:49.180] You know what I mean?
[00:57:50.660 --> 00:57:53.060] What are the true culture?
[00:57:53.380 --> 00:57:56.300] Not the symbols of culture, right?
[00:57:58.420 --> 00:58:00.080] Not the symbols of culture.
[00:58:02.700 --> 00:58:07.180] Just for the sake of definition
[00:58:07.180 --> 00:58:09.320] as I said that
[00:58:10.140 --> 00:58:12.160] I don't like to go past
[00:58:12.880 --> 00:58:14.740] a word that I don't clearly understand
[00:58:14.740 --> 00:58:15.540] or guess at.
[00:58:15.920 --> 00:58:17.500] So that we don't guess
[00:58:17.500 --> 00:58:18.940] and I can speak to it then
[00:58:18.940 --> 00:58:21.240] we can look up the definition of culture
[00:58:21.240 --> 00:58:23.580] and from that I can go into
[00:58:24.160 --> 00:58:25.580] not the symbols of it
[00:58:25.580 --> 00:58:27.960] but the essence of what culture are
[00:58:27.960 --> 00:58:30.080] and what culture would mean to us
[00:58:30.080 --> 00:58:32.000] as a people here in America
[00:58:32.000 --> 00:58:34.240] being descendants of Africans.
[00:58:35.320 --> 00:58:37.120] Because that's what we are.
[00:58:37.580 --> 00:58:39.580] The whole terms of black and white
[00:58:39.580 --> 00:58:42.820] didn't come into play until the 1600s
[00:58:42.820 --> 00:58:44.600] and that came in for a certain reason.
[00:58:45.580 --> 00:58:47.100] That's a whole other subject.
[00:58:47.580 --> 00:58:48.660] So culture for us
[00:58:48.660 --> 00:58:50.620] that would be totally another show
[00:58:50.620 --> 00:58:51.940] if you wanted to know the truth about it
[00:58:51.940 --> 00:58:54.060] because let's not surface that.
[00:58:54.520 --> 00:58:56.880] Let's really get into that
[00:58:56.880 --> 00:58:58.100] where it's clear to us
[00:58:58.100 --> 00:58:59.420] and clear to others
[00:58:59.980 --> 00:59:01.340] that's listening to us
[00:59:01.340 --> 00:59:02.860] because anything I want to say
[00:59:02.860 --> 00:59:03.940] I want to make it clear
[00:59:03.940 --> 00:59:05.980] so a person can decide upon
[00:59:06.820 --> 00:59:09.180] whether that's their reality or not.
[00:59:09.180 --> 00:59:10.380] You see in life
[00:59:10.380 --> 00:59:12.960] there's no such thing in terms of
[00:59:12.960 --> 00:59:14.540] well that's wrong and this was right
[00:59:14.540 --> 00:59:16.620] because what might be right for you
[00:59:16.620 --> 00:59:18.040] could be wrong for someone else.
[00:59:18.320 --> 00:59:19.380] So I like to use
[00:59:19.380 --> 00:59:20.960] that there are three realities.
[00:59:21.380 --> 00:59:21.780] Three realities.
[00:59:22.000 --> 00:59:24.760] Yeah yours, the other person's
[00:59:24.760 --> 00:59:26.080] and what we can agree on
[00:59:26.080 --> 00:59:28.020] because that which we can agree on
[00:59:28.020 --> 00:59:29.420] that means we share reality.
[00:59:30.200 --> 00:59:31.600] That's that which we cannot.
[00:59:31.960 --> 00:59:32.580] Three truths yeah.
[00:59:32.600 --> 00:59:33.700] We don't share reality
[00:59:33.700 --> 00:59:37.620] and that which you share reality with
[00:59:37.620 --> 00:59:39.720] you want to share space with.
[00:59:41.160 --> 00:59:41.800] That's true.
[00:59:42.360 --> 00:59:44.060] So that's how that works.
[00:59:44.460 --> 00:59:46.240] So the whole thing of culture
[00:59:46.240 --> 00:59:48.560] so if I consider myself
[00:59:48.560 --> 00:59:50.640] leading someone into the knowledge of that
[00:59:50.640 --> 00:59:52.540] let's do something on that
[00:59:52.540 --> 00:59:53.620] where we'll come back
[00:59:53.620 --> 00:59:56.540] with the Oxford definition of culture
[00:59:56.540 --> 00:59:57.960] and then we'll go into it
[00:59:57.960 --> 01:00:00.820] and see how applicable it is to us.
[01:00:00.820 --> 01:00:01.460] Let's break it down yes.
[01:00:02.460 --> 01:00:03.920] Yes let's do it.
[01:00:04.500 --> 01:00:05.740] So how long you want to do this
[01:00:05.740 --> 01:00:06.700] because I mean you know
[01:00:06.700 --> 01:00:07.740] we have a couple of shows
[01:00:07.740 --> 01:00:08.440] you already know.
[01:00:08.560 --> 01:00:09.460] That's going to be part of it.
[01:00:09.460 --> 01:00:10.500] Oh yeah you already know.
[01:00:12.180 --> 01:00:14.880] Every week almost you have something new.
[01:00:15.060 --> 01:00:17.400] I mean you know and all this
[01:00:17.400 --> 01:00:18.980] will aid in business.
[01:00:20.560 --> 01:00:22.040] So what's the relationship
[01:00:22.040 --> 01:00:23.840] between branding and marketing?
[01:00:25.240 --> 01:00:28.040] That's all that is all encompassed in it.
[01:00:28.040 --> 01:00:28.800] Go together yeah.
[01:00:28.920 --> 01:00:30.380] Because once you're on the brand
[01:00:30.380 --> 01:00:32.440] and you know that you have to do
[01:00:33.340 --> 01:00:35.360] everything consistently that's visible
[01:00:35.360 --> 01:00:36.880] that keeps you on the straight.
[01:00:37.000 --> 01:00:38.360] That's what branding does.
[01:00:38.960 --> 01:00:40.840] It keeps where it can be predicted.
[01:00:41.180 --> 01:00:42.560] So people say I know
[01:00:42.560 --> 01:00:44.200] that I can go over and deal with this
[01:00:44.200 --> 01:00:46.040] because the brand keeps it consistent
[01:00:46.040 --> 01:00:47.320] the thing that they like.
[01:00:48.320 --> 01:00:49.720] Once you find that you're not
[01:00:49.720 --> 01:00:50.600] jumping all over the place
[01:00:50.600 --> 01:00:51.700] they're over there for your brand.
[01:00:52.000 --> 01:00:54.880] So for me I'm still walking around
[01:00:55.640 --> 01:00:57.820] going like creatively in my mind
[01:00:57.820 --> 01:00:59.460] a lot of times it's just like
[01:00:59.460 --> 01:01:01.700] okay what must this serve?
[01:01:01.760 --> 01:01:02.780] What can I say?
[01:01:02.980 --> 01:01:04.520] What would be the orientation?
[01:01:05.480 --> 01:01:07.400] Because for all of us
[01:01:08.080 --> 01:01:10.860] we all are community building
[01:01:10.860 --> 01:01:13.220] and it's to our community
[01:01:13.220 --> 01:01:15.940] is where we want them to support us
[01:01:16.640 --> 01:01:18.460] but we have to give them something
[01:01:18.460 --> 01:01:20.280] that supports their lives.
[01:01:20.540 --> 01:01:21.600] We're here right now.
[01:01:21.780 --> 01:01:23.000] You know you look at music
[01:01:23.000 --> 01:01:25.040] you know my thing to artists
[01:01:25.040 --> 01:01:27.860] hey man look forget about
[01:01:27.860 --> 01:01:29.820] who was hot back then
[01:01:29.820 --> 01:01:31.760] and who's hot on the charts.
[01:01:31.840 --> 01:01:33.680] Now the people already have that
[01:01:33.680 --> 01:01:34.920] when they go on the internet man
[01:01:34.920 --> 01:01:36.140] looking for that fresh.
[01:01:36.560 --> 01:01:38.680] Why are you looking for the same thing?
[01:01:39.600 --> 01:01:41.480] You know it's like now on the internet
[01:01:41.480 --> 01:01:43.500] you know it's like people can pattern
[01:01:43.500 --> 01:01:45.280] mine and get a million followers
[01:01:45.280 --> 01:01:46.780] doing somebody else's music.
[01:01:48.420 --> 01:01:50.540] So to cut through all that
[01:01:51.620 --> 01:01:54.000] that takes some thought doesn't it?
[01:01:54.320 --> 01:01:54.420] It do.
[01:01:54.620 --> 01:01:56.420] Not just boom I'm a singer
[01:01:56.420 --> 01:01:57.600] I'm at the song so
[01:01:57.600 --> 01:01:58.940] bam I'm at the song
[01:01:58.940 --> 01:01:59.960] so I'm just there the other.
[01:02:00.480 --> 01:02:01.980] I mean how come you don't follow me man?
[01:02:02.780 --> 01:02:05.080] And the killing part
[01:02:06.280 --> 01:02:07.580] you're trying to grow
[01:02:07.580 --> 01:02:08.680] you're not a celebrity
[01:02:08.680 --> 01:02:10.800] interact with people
[01:02:10.800 --> 01:02:12.760] when people say something to you
[01:02:12.760 --> 01:02:14.480] on your page they don't have to
[01:02:14.840 --> 01:02:16.720] come back and acknowledge it
[01:02:16.720 --> 01:02:19.020] say something it's engagement
[01:02:19.020 --> 01:02:21.180] it's social media
[01:02:22.320 --> 01:02:23.600] social social
[01:02:24.400 --> 01:02:26.840] and then when nobody comes to my page
[01:02:26.840 --> 01:02:28.580] how many people do you interact with?
[01:02:30.180 --> 01:02:30.740] Interact.
[01:02:31.000 --> 01:02:31.100] Energy.
[01:02:31.100 --> 01:02:32.800] How many people do you stimulate
[01:02:32.800 --> 01:02:34.340] that they want to come back
[01:02:34.340 --> 01:02:35.140] and say okay okay
[01:02:36.040 --> 01:02:38.120] so get your brand together
[01:02:38.120 --> 01:02:40.460] that might help you along those lines
[01:02:40.460 --> 01:02:42.800] and we'll talk more about branding
[01:02:42.800 --> 01:02:45.180] because it's still probably not clear enough
[01:02:45.180 --> 01:02:46.760] but there is a book
[01:02:47.420 --> 01:02:49.280] that I would suggest
[01:02:49.280 --> 01:02:51.340] for anybody
[01:02:51.940 --> 01:02:53.760] that I studied 20 years ago
[01:02:53.760 --> 01:02:55.580] when I came into content marketing.
[01:02:55.740 --> 01:02:56.440] What's that book?
[01:02:56.440 --> 01:03:01.340] It's called epic content marketing
[01:03:01.720 --> 01:03:13.300] by Joe P. U. L. I. Z. Z. I.
[01:03:15.670 --> 01:03:21.410] I got dialed into content marketing
[01:03:21.410 --> 01:03:25.350] because Daniel Moneypenny
[01:03:26.250 --> 01:03:30.670] cut me into a guy out of Dublin, Ohio
[01:03:30.670 --> 01:03:32.970] Brad Zirconi
[01:03:32.970 --> 01:03:35.530] Brad Zirconi
[01:03:35.530 --> 01:03:39.070] he's a master brander and marketing guy
[01:03:39.070 --> 01:03:40.170] he's on Facebook.
[01:03:40.170 --> 01:03:40.590] Brad Zirconi.
[01:03:40.670 --> 01:03:43.890] Yes C-I-R-C-O-N-E
[01:03:46.610 --> 01:03:48.630] C-I-R-C-O-N-E
[01:03:48.630 --> 01:03:49.710] because at that time
[01:03:49.710 --> 01:03:52.490] I was trying to shop my reality show
[01:03:52.490 --> 01:03:54.770] and I didn't have any stars
[01:03:54.770 --> 01:03:56.570] and Brad
[01:03:57.370 --> 01:03:58.730] Brad said to me
[01:03:59.470 --> 01:04:01.130] Mike take a look at it
[01:04:01.690 --> 01:04:03.490] the most popular show right now
[01:04:03.490 --> 01:04:04.710] doesn't have any stars
[01:04:04.710 --> 01:04:07.690] and it was The Wives of Orange County
[01:04:07.690 --> 01:04:09.330] or something like that
[01:04:10.010 --> 01:04:11.650] and at that time
[01:04:11.650 --> 01:04:15.010] I was so far ahead of the curve
[01:04:15.010 --> 01:04:16.870] that I didn't have any models
[01:04:16.870 --> 01:04:18.450] that I could follow
[01:04:18.450 --> 01:04:21.350] in terms of what I was doing for a reality show
[01:04:21.350 --> 01:04:23.970] I think at the time I was doing that
[01:04:23.970 --> 01:04:27.710] MTV was just going over into that
[01:04:27.710 --> 01:04:29.930] because they later did a piece
[01:04:29.930 --> 01:04:31.950] with Beyonce called a hip-hopper
[01:04:31.950 --> 01:04:32.770] I don't know if you remember that
[01:04:32.770 --> 01:04:33.390] Hip-hopper, yes
[01:04:33.390 --> 01:04:34.570] Yeah they did that hip-hopper
[01:04:34.570 --> 01:04:36.050] but interesting enough
[01:04:36.050 --> 01:04:38.850] a guy from Cleveland pressed a picket
[01:04:38.850 --> 01:04:40.770] Cleveland, Ohio
[01:04:40.770 --> 01:04:43.570] Yeah from MFA at Cleveland State
[01:04:45.170 --> 01:04:46.070] Mike Berry
[01:04:46.790 --> 01:04:47.990] Mike Berry
[01:04:48.690 --> 01:04:49.490] I was
[01:04:49.490 --> 01:04:50.510] we'll get into this too
[01:04:50.510 --> 01:04:52.930] I was instrumental in moving hip-hop
[01:04:52.930 --> 01:04:53.510] in the city
[01:04:53.510 --> 01:04:55.190] in terms of live performances
[01:04:55.190 --> 01:04:57.450] and trying to gel the public
[01:04:57.450 --> 01:04:58.690] with the local artists
[01:04:58.690 --> 01:04:59.990] and at that time
[01:04:59.990 --> 01:05:00.770] Mike Berry
[01:05:00.770 --> 01:05:03.030] they were fade entertainment
[01:05:03.030 --> 01:05:05.370] they were like the most popular
[01:05:05.370 --> 01:05:07.050] in terms of moving product
[01:05:07.050 --> 01:05:08.430] and doing all that kind of stuff
[01:05:08.430 --> 01:05:09.250] they were the cats
[01:05:09.250 --> 01:05:10.790] they were really the cats
[01:05:10.790 --> 01:05:13.010] and they used to come
[01:05:13.010 --> 01:05:14.090] man that's a whole nother story
[01:05:14.090 --> 01:05:15.570] all these people used to work together
[01:05:15.570 --> 01:05:16.590] to get together
[01:05:16.590 --> 01:05:18.030] to try to make Cleveland a place
[01:05:18.030 --> 01:05:19.610] that was happening for music
[01:05:19.610 --> 01:05:20.290] and what happened
[01:05:20.290 --> 01:05:23.070] What do you think changed the culture
[01:05:23.570 --> 01:05:25.390] or that movement?
[01:05:25.410 --> 01:05:26.190] Let me tell you what I did
[01:05:26.190 --> 01:05:27.850] in terms of hip-hop here in Cleveland
[01:05:28.590 --> 01:05:29.350] for me
[01:05:29.810 --> 01:05:30.830] and this
[01:05:32.090 --> 01:05:34.170] I brought my first
[01:05:36.990 --> 01:05:39.490] promotion with hip-hop
[01:05:39.490 --> 01:05:41.190] was KRS-One
[01:05:41.810 --> 01:05:46.770] I had just come from doing a house gig
[01:05:46.770 --> 01:05:49.430] in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
[01:05:49.430 --> 01:05:51.230] I was down there for seven years
[01:05:51.230 --> 01:05:53.250] and then I was back here
[01:05:53.250 --> 01:05:55.230] and I was raising my kids
[01:05:55.970 --> 01:05:56.930] and they were
[01:05:57.510 --> 01:05:58.510] this is funny
[01:05:58.510 --> 01:05:59.410] because my daughter
[01:05:59.410 --> 01:06:01.010] she'll talk about this today
[01:06:01.690 --> 01:06:02.950] remember that time
[01:06:02.950 --> 01:06:04.050] dad picked up the record
[01:06:04.050 --> 01:06:04.610] and said
[01:06:04.610 --> 01:06:06.810] who is a Mac Light?
[01:06:09.070 --> 01:06:09.710] MC Light
[01:06:09.710 --> 01:06:11.010] I called her Mac Light
[01:06:11.010 --> 01:06:12.810] and they started laughing
[01:06:12.810 --> 01:06:14.410] they started laughing
[01:06:14.410 --> 01:06:15.130] right
[01:06:15.130 --> 01:06:16.010] and it's like that
[01:06:16.010 --> 01:06:16.950] MC Light
[01:06:16.950 --> 01:06:17.950] so I said
[01:06:17.950 --> 01:06:19.790] let me try this hip-hop thing
[01:06:19.790 --> 01:06:21.750] so it was between
[01:06:21.750 --> 01:06:23.190] LL Cool J
[01:06:23.190 --> 01:06:25.010] and KRS-One
[01:06:25.490 --> 01:06:27.650] and they said bring KRS-One
[01:06:27.650 --> 01:06:28.850] and I reached out
[01:06:28.850 --> 01:06:30.530] and we brought KRS-One to Cleveland
[01:06:31.090 --> 01:06:31.650] Yeah
[01:06:31.650 --> 01:06:33.570] it actually couldn't play Cleveland
[01:06:34.110 --> 01:06:36.170] because something had occurred in Cleveland
[01:06:36.170 --> 01:06:38.270] I don't know if it was the two live crew or what
[01:06:38.270 --> 01:06:39.210] something happened
[01:06:39.210 --> 01:06:40.490] that they couldn't give hip-hop shows
[01:06:40.490 --> 01:06:41.450] in Cleveland anymore
[01:06:41.450 --> 01:06:43.290] so I ended up having to take him
[01:06:43.290 --> 01:06:45.550] to the Packard Music Theater
[01:06:46.150 --> 01:06:47.370] in Warren, Ohio
[01:06:47.370 --> 01:06:48.410] along that way
[01:06:48.410 --> 01:06:48.910] Okay
[01:06:48.910 --> 01:06:49.470] Yeah
[01:06:50.770 --> 01:06:52.270] So why do you think
[01:06:52.270 --> 01:06:54.090] people rebranded
[01:06:54.090 --> 01:06:55.390] back to you in Cleveland?
[01:06:56.670 --> 01:06:57.670] Like now
[01:06:57.670 --> 01:06:59.890] it's slowly coming back to that
[01:06:59.890 --> 01:07:00.630] What I felt
[01:07:01.610 --> 01:07:03.070] was a disservice
[01:07:04.210 --> 01:07:06.830] to Cleveland's hip-hop community
[01:07:08.270 --> 01:07:11.150] when I had the hip-hop shows
[01:07:11.150 --> 01:07:14.650] you had to audition for me
[01:07:14.650 --> 01:07:16.890] I just don't want 20 people
[01:07:16.890 --> 01:07:18.570] jumping up and down on the stage
[01:07:18.570 --> 01:07:19.970] you remember when that was happening
[01:07:19.970 --> 01:07:21.390] just bring 80 people
[01:07:21.390 --> 01:07:22.350] and we'll jump around
[01:07:22.350 --> 01:07:23.370] it looks like it's happening
[01:07:23.370 --> 01:07:24.870] they had to audition
[01:07:24.870 --> 01:07:26.710] so it was all Mr. Bell
[01:07:26.710 --> 01:07:27.890] I was like no let me have it
[01:07:27.890 --> 01:07:28.830] because here's the thing
[01:07:29.330 --> 01:07:31.630] you want people to come and see these shows
[01:07:31.630 --> 01:07:33.530] and return every week
[01:07:33.530 --> 01:07:34.310] Every week
[01:07:34.310 --> 01:07:35.450] We got to be beyond
[01:07:35.450 --> 01:07:36.310] because what you're trying
[01:07:36.310 --> 01:07:37.730] we're trying to build an audience
[01:07:37.730 --> 01:07:39.410] so that you can sell
[01:07:39.970 --> 01:07:41.630] to your Cleveland audience
[01:07:41.630 --> 01:07:43.370] like they're doing in other cities
[01:07:43.370 --> 01:07:44.690] How else are we doing?
[01:07:44.810 --> 01:07:45.790] We're not riding around
[01:07:45.790 --> 01:07:47.610] selling music out of our car like that
[01:07:47.610 --> 01:07:48.650] So here's the thing
[01:07:48.650 --> 01:07:50.210] if we have a place
[01:07:50.210 --> 01:07:52.630] and the place was the trilogy
[01:07:52.630 --> 01:07:54.570] Don and Bell Mascot
[01:07:54.570 --> 01:07:55.270] who had
[01:07:56.410 --> 01:07:56.890] Bells
[01:07:56.890 --> 01:07:58.730] I had been knowing them since I was a kid
[01:07:58.730 --> 01:08:01.050] and I used to be in their house band
[01:08:01.050 --> 01:08:02.450] for many years
[01:08:02.450 --> 01:08:03.630] when they had house bands
[01:08:03.630 --> 01:08:06.410] so anyway they asked me to come in
[01:08:06.970 --> 01:08:09.150] and at that time I think Latif
[01:08:09.150 --> 01:08:10.930] was actually doing stuff
[01:08:10.930 --> 01:08:13.170] but I guess he was getting ready to switch out
[01:08:14.010 --> 01:08:16.189] and so when I came in the trilogy
[01:08:16.189 --> 01:08:17.170] I think they had
[01:08:18.069 --> 01:08:20.630] maybe 25 people in there that night
[01:08:21.390 --> 01:08:23.290] so I said okay we'll do it
[01:08:23.290 --> 01:08:26.370] and we had like 4,000 invitations
[01:08:26.370 --> 01:08:28.529] that we could pass out
[01:08:28.529 --> 01:08:31.410] and if you got in before 11
[01:08:32.029 --> 01:08:32.729] you're free
[01:08:32.729 --> 01:08:33.609] You're free, yeah
[01:08:33.609 --> 01:08:34.910] So it was me
[01:08:35.970 --> 01:08:37.950] my nephew Corey
[01:08:37.950 --> 01:08:39.130] Corey Grant
[01:08:39.130 --> 01:08:40.670] he's making movies and stuff now
[01:08:40.670 --> 01:08:42.569] He wanted to make movies here
[01:08:42.569 --> 01:08:44.370] but he was here with me
[01:08:44.370 --> 01:08:46.710] and Corey and I we would go out
[01:08:46.710 --> 01:08:49.149] and we would be passing out these flyers
[01:08:49.149 --> 01:08:51.029] but we were doing more than passing our flyers
[01:08:51.029 --> 01:08:52.490] we'd be having conversations
[01:08:52.490 --> 01:08:53.350] yeah man what's up
[01:08:53.350 --> 01:08:54.529] that you know so that interaction
[01:08:54.529 --> 01:08:55.170] we just
[01:08:55.170 --> 01:08:55.729] my energy
[01:08:55.729 --> 01:08:57.210] you know how my energy is right
[01:08:57.210 --> 01:08:58.630] so we're just doing all that man
[01:08:58.630 --> 01:09:00.850] man the first week we were there
[01:09:00.850 --> 01:09:02.990] we had 500 people man
[01:09:02.990 --> 01:09:03.830] and listen
[01:09:03.830 --> 01:09:05.350] when you walked in
[01:09:05.350 --> 01:09:08.590] it became the Metropolis
[01:09:09.210 --> 01:09:10.830] when you walked in
[01:09:11.850 --> 01:09:13.990] and I'm gonna do a series
[01:09:13.990 --> 01:09:15.750] because I filmed a lot of this
[01:09:15.750 --> 01:09:18.050] when you walked in over the bar
[01:09:18.050 --> 01:09:19.069] in the center bar
[01:09:19.069 --> 01:09:20.390] it was a catwalk
[01:09:20.390 --> 01:09:22.729] we had girls on the catwalk
[01:09:22.729 --> 01:09:25.609] you know we had people dancing through the club
[01:09:25.609 --> 01:09:27.330] and the acts were smoking man
[01:09:27.330 --> 01:09:28.410] they were getting down man
[01:09:28.410 --> 01:09:30.830] so a lot of the stuff we have
[01:09:30.830 --> 01:09:33.370] on camera when I do the series
[01:09:33.370 --> 01:09:34.850] that I've been talking to you about
[01:09:34.850 --> 01:09:36.830] and like I said
[01:09:37.950 --> 01:09:40.430] Big Yank was Mike Berry's name
[01:09:40.430 --> 01:09:41.850] always come through
[01:09:41.850 --> 01:09:44.390] Too True, Brina, Too True
[01:09:44.390 --> 01:09:45.370] from Bone's
[01:09:46.250 --> 01:09:47.450] what was that family
[01:09:47.450 --> 01:09:50.290] you know when Bone did that family album
[01:09:50.290 --> 01:09:52.170] the Bone Thugs family album
[01:09:52.170 --> 01:09:55.250] you had the only female rappers was Brina
[01:09:55.250 --> 01:09:55.830] right
[01:09:55.830 --> 01:09:56.310] okay
[01:09:56.310 --> 01:09:57.090] and Jazz
[01:09:57.090 --> 01:10:00.370] so Jazz had kind of went underground
[01:10:00.370 --> 01:10:01.890] and we had Brina
[01:10:01.890 --> 01:10:04.030] anybody who was doing anything
[01:10:04.030 --> 01:10:05.910] in Cleveland as far as hip hop
[01:10:05.910 --> 01:10:07.470] and I'm talking acts
[01:10:07.470 --> 01:10:09.210] I'm talking about great talent
[01:10:09.210 --> 01:10:10.490] so out of that
[01:10:11.450 --> 01:10:13.290] that we had the hip hop convention
[01:10:13.830 --> 01:10:16.450] and I'm active within the hip hop convention
[01:10:16.450 --> 01:10:18.550] they got it lasted for days
[01:10:18.550 --> 01:10:20.590] you got all the legendary people
[01:10:20.590 --> 01:10:21.930] who we had an act of talking
[01:10:21.930 --> 01:10:23.950] and then you had events happening
[01:10:23.950 --> 01:10:24.870] in different clubs
[01:10:24.870 --> 01:10:26.550] the millennium and all that stuff
[01:10:26.550 --> 01:10:28.210] and I remember I was getting ready
[01:10:28.210 --> 01:10:29.210] to go to the millennium
[01:10:29.210 --> 01:10:30.210] and I got a call
[01:10:30.210 --> 01:10:31.710] I got a call from
[01:10:33.610 --> 01:10:34.890] my woman at that time
[01:10:34.890 --> 01:10:35.530] and my daughter
[01:10:35.530 --> 01:10:37.250] Dad we met we met
[01:10:39.410 --> 01:10:40.370] KRS1's dancer
[01:10:41.170 --> 01:10:41.650] dancers
[01:10:41.650 --> 01:10:42.590] Jay Day
[01:10:43.270 --> 01:10:45.230] he said he's going to be on our label
[01:10:45.770 --> 01:10:46.810] and I was like
[01:10:47.690 --> 01:10:49.270] I never met him
[01:10:50.580 --> 01:10:52.540] I don't know but he said he is
[01:10:52.540 --> 01:10:53.920] I never met him
[01:10:54.500 --> 01:10:56.320] so we got there
[01:10:56.320 --> 01:10:58.120] to the KRS1 concert
[01:10:58.120 --> 01:10:59.600] and he came up
[01:10:59.600 --> 01:11:00.920] and he was like what's up Pops
[01:11:01.440 --> 01:11:02.240] and he was like
[01:11:02.240 --> 01:11:04.240] we're going to be you know with you guys
[01:11:04.240 --> 01:11:06.020] so they were from the Boogie Down Bronx
[01:11:06.020 --> 01:11:07.940] so we was recording people
[01:11:07.940 --> 01:11:09.080] from the Boogie Down Bronx
[01:11:09.080 --> 01:11:09.940] and it's interesting
[01:11:09.940 --> 01:11:11.440] because they called me Papa Jack
[01:11:11.800 --> 01:11:12.860] in the Boogie Down Bronx
[01:11:12.860 --> 01:11:14.740] why you call me Papa Jack man
[01:11:14.740 --> 01:11:16.340] because man you remind me
[01:11:16.340 --> 01:11:18.040] of the artist from Greenwich Village
[01:11:18.040 --> 01:11:19.800] you know about Greenwich Village
[01:11:19.800 --> 01:11:21.660] no oh that was the spot for artists
[01:11:21.660 --> 01:11:23.220] in New York that was it
[01:11:23.220 --> 01:11:23.980] New York okay
[01:11:23.980 --> 01:11:25.160] yeah yeah yeah back in the day
[01:11:25.160 --> 01:11:26.440] it was Greenwich Village
[01:11:26.440 --> 01:11:28.660] that's so that's complimentary
[01:11:28.660 --> 01:11:30.140] you know coming from my New York
[01:11:30.140 --> 01:11:31.280] brothers young brothers
[01:11:31.280 --> 01:11:33.020] yeah all the stuff we got
[01:11:33.020 --> 01:11:34.560] man there's so much we can talk about
[01:11:34.560 --> 01:11:35.340] you know that thing
[01:11:35.340 --> 01:11:37.080] we talk from time to time
[01:11:37.080 --> 01:11:38.540] here and there so much
[01:11:38.540 --> 01:11:39.920] I could talk for hours
[01:11:39.920 --> 01:11:41.780] so you just have to get me down
[01:11:41.780 --> 01:11:42.720] to the specifics
[01:11:42.720 --> 01:11:45.480] but I think we're off to a good start
[01:11:45.480 --> 01:11:46.260] here what do you think
[01:11:46.260 --> 01:11:48.820] yes yes and I just want to
[01:11:48.820 --> 01:11:50.700] go back and retouch on the rebranding
[01:11:50.700 --> 01:11:51.980] because like you said
[01:11:51.980 --> 01:11:53.860] branding is about consistency
[01:11:53.860 --> 01:11:56.780] yeah but people sometimes rebrand
[01:11:56.780 --> 01:11:58.700] themselves a hundred different times
[01:11:58.700 --> 01:12:00.500] well here's remember this
[01:12:01.020 --> 01:12:04.760] what I said it's not what you do
[01:12:05.680 --> 01:12:08.240] it's what you represent in life
[01:12:08.240 --> 01:12:11.420] that others need in their lives
[01:12:12.340 --> 01:12:14.900] remember the attention span
[01:12:14.900 --> 01:12:17.340] is like this short yeah
[01:12:21.820 --> 01:12:23.340] so ingenuity
[01:12:23.340 --> 01:12:25.060] see just to say
[01:12:25.060 --> 01:12:26.860] what did I say in the beginning
[01:12:26.860 --> 01:12:29.640] I said in order to do anything
[01:12:29.640 --> 01:12:32.160] you must understand the concept
[01:12:32.160 --> 01:12:34.180] because it's only the information
[01:12:34.180 --> 01:12:36.320] you're going to operate on
[01:12:36.320 --> 01:12:38.320] that exists in your mind
[01:12:39.240 --> 01:12:40.920] so if you're not getting
[01:12:40.920 --> 01:12:42.600] the results that you desire
[01:12:42.600 --> 01:12:44.420] that means that it's something
[01:12:44.420 --> 01:12:45.400] that you're not doing
[01:12:45.400 --> 01:12:48.700] because you can we have the ability
[01:12:48.700 --> 01:12:51.280] to intend anything
[01:12:51.280 --> 01:12:53.600] if you could deal with the opposition
[01:12:54.880 --> 01:12:57.380] if you could deal with the opposition
[01:12:57.380 --> 01:12:59.160] if you cannot deal
[01:12:59.160 --> 01:13:00.380] with the opposition
[01:13:00.380 --> 01:13:02.440] you have no business in the game
[01:13:04.220 --> 01:13:08.560] wow that's that's a mic
[01:13:08.560 --> 01:13:09.400] dropper right there
[01:13:10.200 --> 01:13:12.100] so how do they get back on on track
[01:13:12.100 --> 01:13:13.960] if no when you off track
[01:13:14.660 --> 01:13:16.440] well if they don't have any awareness
[01:13:16.440 --> 01:13:17.640] it's easy to get back on
[01:13:17.640 --> 01:13:21.140] which well that which keeps you consistent
[01:13:21.140 --> 01:13:22.840] you got to be objective
[01:13:23.380 --> 01:13:24.440] you got to know
[01:13:24.440 --> 01:13:26.060] you can fall off at any time
[01:13:26.060 --> 01:13:28.100] but we forget we can change our mind
[01:13:28.100 --> 01:13:29.640] that's the easiest thing in the world
[01:13:29.640 --> 01:13:30.720] if you fell off here
[01:13:30.720 --> 01:13:32.700] okay let me change my mind about this
[01:13:32.700 --> 01:13:33.220] change your mind
[01:13:33.220 --> 01:13:34.140] and get back over here
[01:13:34.880 --> 01:13:38.640] see that's why objectivity is so important
[01:13:38.640 --> 01:13:40.520] because to tell you the truth
[01:13:40.520 --> 01:13:42.620] you're only going to get certainty
[01:13:42.620 --> 01:13:43.820] on that which you see
[01:13:43.820 --> 01:13:45.160] which you can look and see
[01:13:45.160 --> 01:13:46.520] anything else you figure
[01:13:46.520 --> 01:13:47.100] and you're guessing
[01:13:47.820 --> 01:13:49.140] and you can go up
[01:13:49.140 --> 01:13:51.020] one figure only leads to another figure
[01:13:51.020 --> 01:13:52.820] you never get to a final analysis
[01:13:53.340 --> 01:13:54.820] you'd be frustrated by the time
[01:13:54.820 --> 01:13:57.040] you it's like a dwindling spiral
[01:13:57.040 --> 01:13:59.080] one figure leads to this figure
[01:13:59.080 --> 01:13:59.820] to this figure
[01:13:59.820 --> 01:14:01.420] and a mystery is just that
[01:14:01.420 --> 01:14:02.000] it's a mystery
[01:14:02.000 --> 01:14:03.460] it's not just a mystery right
[01:14:03.980 --> 01:14:05.480] so by looking
[01:14:05.480 --> 01:14:07.240] but in your looking
[01:14:07.820 --> 01:14:11.420] you must accept that comfortably
[01:14:12.020 --> 01:14:14.600] even that which you do not agree with
[01:14:14.600 --> 01:14:17.000] that's the only way you surmount opposition
[01:14:17.000 --> 01:14:18.760] because if you can't
[01:14:18.760 --> 01:14:21.420] if you if you can't have opposition
[01:14:21.420 --> 01:14:23.740] that goes back to what I was saying earlier
[01:14:23.740 --> 01:14:25.160] about dealing with negatives
[01:14:25.160 --> 01:14:27.440] somebody can throw some negative in your way
[01:14:27.440 --> 01:14:30.140] that you didn't even think would do that
[01:14:30.140 --> 01:14:31.820] but you're not dealing with them
[01:14:31.820 --> 01:14:33.080] you're dealing with your goal
[01:14:33.080 --> 01:14:34.440] trying to get where you need to go
[01:14:34.440 --> 01:14:36.400] so it ain't personal right
[01:14:36.400 --> 01:14:38.460] what you're getting all emotional about
[01:14:38.460 --> 01:14:40.020] you got strategies to work with
[01:14:40.020 --> 01:14:41.340] get to where you need to go
[01:14:42.180 --> 01:14:44.340] so make friends with negative baby
[01:14:44.340 --> 01:14:45.840] be able to have negative
[01:14:45.840 --> 01:14:47.700] you can because see when you have
[01:14:47.700 --> 01:14:48.620] can have something
[01:14:49.360 --> 01:14:51.020] it's disarmed emotionally
[01:14:51.020 --> 01:14:55.130] you just got the information about it
[01:14:55.130 --> 01:14:56.610] never to repeat again
[01:14:56.610 --> 01:14:57.530] that's just like
[01:14:58.090 --> 01:15:00.090] and it may not work for everyone
[01:15:00.090 --> 01:15:02.050] but the word should
[01:15:02.970 --> 01:15:05.430] is a word that I'm constantly
[01:15:05.430 --> 01:15:06.730] trying to keep
[01:15:07.310 --> 01:15:08.830] out of my vocabulary
[01:15:09.470 --> 01:15:11.270] because when I say something
[01:15:11.270 --> 01:15:11.940] should be
[01:15:12.550 --> 01:15:15.350] I'm not accepting the way it is
[01:15:16.170 --> 01:15:16.830] that's right
[01:15:16.830 --> 01:15:17.390] am I right
[01:15:17.390 --> 01:15:18.010] that's right
[01:15:18.750 --> 01:15:20.230] if I say shouldn't
[01:15:20.870 --> 01:15:21.980] it shouldn't be this
[01:15:23.290 --> 01:15:24.450] I'm not accepting
[01:15:24.450 --> 01:15:27.730] so what's my calculation going to be
[01:15:27.730 --> 01:15:28.950] or when would I be
[01:15:28.950 --> 01:15:31.170] I'm stuck if I say it shouldn't
[01:15:31.170 --> 01:15:32.570] because that being something there
[01:15:33.190 --> 01:15:33.870] I'm stuck
[01:15:34.630 --> 01:15:35.600] what can I do
[01:15:36.090 --> 01:15:38.250] but if I can have it
[01:15:38.250 --> 01:15:39.810] let me look at it
[01:15:39.810 --> 01:15:41.190] okay I need to do this
[01:15:41.270 --> 01:15:42.590] this is like warfare
[01:15:42.590 --> 01:15:44.170] and when this could be looked at
[01:15:44.170 --> 01:15:44.630] warfare
[01:15:44.630 --> 01:15:47.370] when you have two opposing people
[01:15:47.370 --> 01:15:48.170] in war
[01:15:48.170 --> 01:15:49.390] what are they doing
[01:15:49.390 --> 01:15:50.110] in the tents
[01:15:50.110 --> 01:15:51.190] we see it in the movies
[01:15:51.190 --> 01:15:53.530] they're putting strategies together
[01:15:54.010 --> 01:15:56.730] and they're trying to be
[01:15:56.730 --> 01:15:57.690] other determined
[01:15:59.000 --> 01:16:00.800] you don't know what that is
[01:16:00.800 --> 01:16:02.480] let me tell you what it is
[01:16:02.480 --> 01:16:04.320] you were talking about chest
[01:16:04.320 --> 01:16:05.240] chest yep
[01:16:05.240 --> 01:16:09.200] see can you take a loss
[01:16:10.060 --> 01:16:11.220] I can yes
[01:16:11.920 --> 01:16:12.980] they said
[01:16:13.960 --> 01:16:15.640] the most successful person
[01:16:16.440 --> 01:16:18.480] is a person who could lose everything
[01:16:19.000 --> 01:16:20.360] and get it again
[01:16:21.120 --> 01:16:21.680] huh
[01:16:22.520 --> 01:16:24.420] but what happens to people
[01:16:24.420 --> 01:16:26.080] when they lose
[01:16:26.940 --> 01:16:29.620] they become the effect of the loss
[01:16:29.620 --> 01:16:31.520] and it's overwhelming
[01:16:32.840 --> 01:16:35.100] especially if you try to bite off a lot
[01:16:35.100 --> 01:16:36.960] if you try to bite off a lot
[01:16:36.960 --> 01:16:39.080] and you you can get discouraged
[01:16:39.080 --> 01:16:40.220] when you don't get that win
[01:16:40.220 --> 01:16:41.900] that's why small wins
[01:16:41.900 --> 01:16:43.440] are important
[01:16:43.440 --> 01:16:45.180] because they add up
[01:16:45.660 --> 01:16:46.920] to the big win
[01:16:47.520 --> 01:16:48.140] you see
[01:16:48.740 --> 01:16:49.800] that's very important
[01:16:49.800 --> 01:16:51.300] so to share space
[01:16:52.000 --> 01:16:52.540] with that
[01:16:52.540 --> 01:16:53.520] that's why I said
[01:16:53.520 --> 01:16:55.920] you're already on your way to winning
[01:16:56.640 --> 01:16:58.300] when you accept the fact
[01:16:58.300 --> 01:17:00.240] that the physical universe
[01:17:00.240 --> 01:17:01.920] was not designed for you to win
[01:17:02.320 --> 01:17:03.720] going back to the game of life
[01:17:03.720 --> 01:17:04.520] so then you're going to be looking
[01:17:04.520 --> 01:17:06.680] at that which opposes you
[01:17:06.680 --> 01:17:08.900] is it okay for things to oppose you
[01:17:08.900 --> 01:17:10.880] that's what I want to know in life
[01:17:10.880 --> 01:17:13.420] is it all right for things to oppose you
[01:17:13.420 --> 01:17:15.980] because ups and downs are yours
[01:17:15.980 --> 01:17:17.260] no matter how you feel
[01:17:17.960 --> 01:17:21.760] so you got to get a perspective on it
[01:17:21.760 --> 01:17:23.280] because remember this
[01:17:24.020 --> 01:17:26.780] your thoughts are senior
[01:17:26.780 --> 01:17:29.020] to the physical universe
[01:17:29.020 --> 01:17:29.860] wow
[01:17:29.860 --> 01:17:32.420] here want me to make it plain for you
[01:17:32.420 --> 01:17:35.260] anything that you see in the physical universe
[01:17:35.260 --> 01:17:36.680] was once in a person's mind
[01:17:36.680 --> 01:17:37.880] before it showed up here
[01:17:37.880 --> 01:17:38.920] am I lying
[01:17:39.500 --> 01:17:40.240] not at all
[01:17:40.240 --> 01:17:41.760] so where did it happen first
[01:17:41.760 --> 01:17:43.000] in the mind
[01:17:45.280 --> 01:17:47.040] take the example of the Wright brothers
[01:17:47.040 --> 01:17:50.320] whether they stole an ideal or not
[01:17:50.320 --> 01:17:52.020] cars were just being made
[01:17:52.020 --> 01:17:52.700] imagination
[01:17:52.700 --> 01:17:54.520] right so we say
[01:17:54.520 --> 01:17:56.200] not more than imagination
[01:17:57.280 --> 01:17:57.800] communication
[01:17:59.600 --> 01:18:00.680] how so
[01:18:02.540 --> 01:18:03.580] here's how so
[01:18:04.920 --> 01:18:06.060] we're living in a time
[01:18:06.060 --> 01:18:07.280] when there's a lot of cars
[01:18:08.100 --> 01:18:09.700] I come up to you
[01:18:09.700 --> 01:18:10.660] and I say you know what
[01:18:10.660 --> 01:18:12.540] I'm getting ready to make a flying car
[01:18:12.540 --> 01:18:13.820] what would you say
[01:18:13.820 --> 01:18:15.180] I'm crazy
[01:18:15.180 --> 01:18:16.900] we just got cars
[01:18:16.900 --> 01:18:17.860] right
[01:18:17.860 --> 01:18:18.260] right
[01:18:18.260 --> 01:18:20.200] and in my mind
[01:18:20.200 --> 01:18:22.480] that's what I want to do
[01:18:23.280 --> 01:18:25.600] but everywhere I go
[01:18:25.600 --> 01:18:27.740] people are telling me I'm crazy
[01:18:28.980 --> 01:18:32.440] so I lose communication
[01:18:33.020 --> 01:18:34.480] with my idea
[01:18:34.480 --> 01:18:36.280] because I was listening to others
[01:18:37.180 --> 01:18:39.180] I'm out of communication
[01:18:39.180 --> 01:18:42.320] with my own idea
[01:18:42.320 --> 01:18:44.420] going back to that self-doubt
[01:18:44.420 --> 01:18:45.660] not self-doubt
[01:18:47.040 --> 01:18:48.980] not being able to take opposition
[01:18:48.980 --> 01:18:50.220] and see that
[01:18:50.220 --> 01:18:51.700] which opposes you
[01:18:51.700 --> 01:18:53.500] because you can't have opposition
[01:18:53.500 --> 01:18:55.120] so therefore you can't move
[01:18:55.120 --> 01:18:56.520] opposition out the way
[01:18:56.520 --> 01:18:57.860] because you can't have it
[01:18:58.180 --> 01:19:00.100] so therefore it shouldn't be there
[01:19:00.100 --> 01:19:00.900] it should
[01:19:00.900 --> 01:19:01.540] it should
[01:19:01.540 --> 01:19:02.620] you living in the shoes
[01:19:03.300 --> 01:19:04.920] instead of what is
[01:19:06.880 --> 01:19:07.940] what is
[01:19:08.820 --> 01:19:10.460] so that meant
[01:19:11.060 --> 01:19:13.020] how well did I communicate
[01:19:13.020 --> 01:19:14.700] with my own idea
[01:19:14.700 --> 01:19:16.920] if others talked me out of it
[01:19:16.920 --> 01:19:18.960] how well did I communicate with it
[01:19:19.300 --> 01:19:20.620] how well did the
[01:19:20.620 --> 01:19:22.340] the Wright brothers communicate
[01:19:22.340 --> 01:19:23.060] with their idea
[01:19:23.060 --> 01:19:24.500] of making a flying machine
[01:19:24.500 --> 01:19:25.540] very well
[01:19:25.540 --> 01:19:26.160] they can't
[01:19:26.160 --> 01:19:26.780] it happened
[01:19:26.780 --> 01:19:27.420] it happened
[01:19:27.420 --> 01:19:29.300] they could have been talked out of it right
[01:19:29.300 --> 01:19:30.780] but what was the
[01:19:30.780 --> 01:19:32.480] the determining factor was
[01:19:32.480 --> 01:19:35.020] how well you communicate
[01:19:35.020 --> 01:19:36.920] with your own ideas
[01:19:36.920 --> 01:19:39.720] they can only come into the physical presence
[01:19:39.720 --> 01:19:41.960] based on how well you communicate
[01:19:41.960 --> 01:19:43.220] with your own idea
[01:19:43.220 --> 01:19:45.560] that's why some people say some stuff
[01:19:45.560 --> 01:19:47.240] he'd be like oh yeah they're going to do it
[01:19:47.240 --> 01:19:48.240] but the bottom line
[01:19:48.240 --> 01:19:49.700] you don't see how well they communicated
[01:19:49.700 --> 01:19:50.300] with that idea
[01:19:50.300 --> 01:19:51.560] that was something they were just saying
[01:19:52.100 --> 01:19:53.420] and you find that out later
[01:19:53.420 --> 01:19:54.500] when it didn't happen
[01:19:54.500 --> 01:19:56.060] that was something they were just saying
[01:19:58.070 --> 01:19:59.210] am I right
[01:20:00.250 --> 01:20:00.990] that's true
[01:20:00.990 --> 01:20:01.590] am I
[01:20:01.590 --> 01:20:03.270] is that clear
[01:20:03.270 --> 01:20:04.330] because I want to make sure
[01:20:04.330 --> 01:20:05.910] everything I'm saying is clear
[01:20:05.910 --> 01:20:07.450] did I clear that up
[01:20:07.450 --> 01:20:07.990] yeah
[01:20:07.990 --> 01:20:09.310] but how do
[01:20:09.310 --> 01:20:10.330] want to sit down
[01:20:10.330 --> 01:20:11.790] and communicate with your ideas
[01:20:11.790 --> 01:20:13.230] communicate with your idea
[01:20:13.230 --> 01:20:14.470] you have an idea
[01:20:14.470 --> 01:20:16.030] take an idea just off the cuff
[01:20:16.030 --> 01:20:17.450] what's the ideal of yours
[01:20:17.450 --> 01:20:18.810] a book writing a book
[01:20:18.810 --> 01:20:19.890] writing a book
[01:20:19.890 --> 01:20:22.310] so how do you write a book
[01:20:23.050 --> 01:20:24.990] get a pen and paper or typing
[01:20:24.990 --> 01:20:26.650] okay so first you're going to get the pen
[01:20:26.650 --> 01:20:27.050] and the paper
[01:20:27.050 --> 01:20:27.910] that's one move
[01:20:27.910 --> 01:20:30.650] now in all things you have
[01:20:30.650 --> 01:20:32.950] what is called a cycle of action
[01:20:32.950 --> 01:20:34.410] from the beginning
[01:20:34.410 --> 01:20:35.710] to when it ends
[01:20:35.710 --> 01:20:36.750] because if it ends
[01:20:36.750 --> 01:20:37.830] and you still going on
[01:20:37.830 --> 01:20:38.710] that's kind of crazy
[01:20:39.350 --> 01:20:40.190] all right then
[01:20:40.190 --> 01:20:41.870] so in a cycle of action
[01:20:41.870 --> 01:20:42.630] well marketing
[01:20:42.630 --> 01:20:43.390] beyond the book
[01:20:43.390 --> 01:20:44.410] well let's stay here
[01:20:44.470 --> 01:20:45.930] cycle of action
[01:20:48.040 --> 01:20:50.860] the cycle of action must have a beginning
[01:20:51.580 --> 01:20:52.180] right
[01:20:52.180 --> 01:20:53.920] really you must begin
[01:20:53.920 --> 01:20:55.160] let's say
[01:20:55.960 --> 01:20:58.140] I'm going to start at one point
[01:20:58.140 --> 01:20:59.240] and I'm going to walk
[01:20:59.240 --> 01:21:01.240] my intention is to start at this point
[01:21:01.240 --> 01:21:03.280] and walk over to this next point
[01:21:04.060 --> 01:21:05.800] so I must begin
[01:21:05.800 --> 01:21:06.700] by taking what
[01:21:06.700 --> 01:21:08.120] the first step
[01:21:08.120 --> 01:21:08.880] first step
[01:21:08.880 --> 01:21:09.800] that should begin
[01:21:11.000 --> 01:21:13.140] now I got to get
[01:21:13.140 --> 01:21:14.420] to the other side
[01:21:14.420 --> 01:21:15.800] should I be
[01:21:15.800 --> 01:21:16.900] thinking about
[01:21:16.900 --> 01:21:18.680] the step I just made
[01:21:18.680 --> 01:21:20.040] or should I be thinking
[01:21:20.040 --> 01:21:22.280] should I be in present time
[01:21:22.280 --> 01:21:24.000] trying to make the next step
[01:21:24.000 --> 01:21:24.900] present
[01:21:24.900 --> 01:21:27.100] okay then I make that step
[01:21:27.720 --> 01:21:29.480] then I just do two steps
[01:21:29.480 --> 01:21:30.540] should I be
[01:21:30.540 --> 01:21:32.320] dealing with the two steps I've made
[01:21:32.320 --> 01:21:33.400] or in present time
[01:21:33.400 --> 01:21:34.340] going to the third step
[01:21:34.340 --> 01:21:36.040] because it takes eight to get there
[01:21:36.680 --> 01:21:37.960] got to go to eight
[01:21:37.960 --> 01:21:39.420] all right then I keep doing it
[01:21:39.420 --> 01:21:41.360] and I keep staying in present time
[01:21:41.360 --> 01:21:43.220] until I get to my intention
[01:21:43.760 --> 01:21:45.360] okay I want to write a book
[01:21:45.360 --> 01:21:46.720] what did I say
[01:21:46.720 --> 01:21:48.560] my professor said
[01:21:49.280 --> 01:21:52.000] if there's anything you want to know
[01:21:53.890 --> 01:21:55.450] make the library your friend
[01:21:55.450 --> 01:21:58.270] in this case anything you want to know
[01:21:58.270 --> 01:21:59.710] make google your friend
[01:21:59.710 --> 01:22:02.070] how do I become an author
[01:22:02.070 --> 01:22:05.850] first I must have an ideal about a book
[01:22:06.530 --> 01:22:08.830] then I have my ideal about my book
[01:22:08.830 --> 01:22:10.830] now I have to communicate
[01:22:10.830 --> 01:22:12.030] with my idea
[01:22:12.030 --> 01:22:14.470] to see how much I can talk about
[01:22:14.470 --> 01:22:15.630] my idea
[01:22:16.470 --> 01:22:17.990] or if I don't
[01:22:17.990 --> 01:22:19.750] I'm just gonna sit down with the pen
[01:22:19.750 --> 01:22:21.230] and be there
[01:22:21.230 --> 01:22:22.930] with the paper
[01:22:22.930 --> 01:22:24.310] and I'm gonna write down
[01:22:27.200 --> 01:22:28.560] what I do next
[01:22:28.560 --> 01:22:30.780] well I'm waiting on a strike of lightning
[01:22:30.780 --> 01:22:31.660] to hit me
[01:22:31.660 --> 01:22:33.460] because I don't have any direction
[01:22:33.460 --> 01:22:35.860] because I don't know what I intend
[01:22:35.860 --> 01:22:37.260] to write
[01:22:37.260 --> 01:22:38.320] going back to Nike
[01:22:38.320 --> 01:22:40.060] just going back to intention
[01:22:40.700 --> 01:22:42.320] it won't happen
[01:22:42.320 --> 01:22:43.760] unless you intend to happen
[01:22:43.760 --> 01:22:46.200] and as you take each step
[01:22:46.200 --> 01:22:48.160] in present time
[01:22:48.160 --> 01:22:49.760] until that book is completed
[01:22:50.360 --> 01:22:51.500] that means you just did
[01:22:51.500 --> 01:22:54.260] a whole complete cycle of action
[01:22:54.260 --> 01:22:56.800] you ever see somebody start a cycle of action
[01:22:56.800 --> 01:22:57.740] and give up halfway
[01:22:57.740 --> 01:22:58.980] does that happen
[01:22:58.980 --> 01:22:59.720] all the time
[01:22:59.720 --> 01:23:00.220] what happens
[01:23:00.220 --> 01:23:01.140] what it could be
[01:23:01.480 --> 01:23:03.020] that they decided to
[01:23:03.400 --> 01:23:04.820] but you can get into
[01:23:04.820 --> 01:23:07.160] what I call other determinant
[01:23:08.340 --> 01:23:10.120] and that's dangerous
[01:23:10.840 --> 01:23:12.500] what is other determinant
[01:23:13.000 --> 01:23:14.580] when something else
[01:23:14.580 --> 01:23:16.560] determines your actions
[01:23:17.220 --> 01:23:19.140] what makes it dangerous
[01:23:19.140 --> 01:23:21.780] is that you think you're doing it
[01:23:21.780 --> 01:23:22.860] when it's something else
[01:23:26.110 --> 01:23:27.350] I say this
[01:23:28.130 --> 01:23:29.190] you ever heard
[01:23:29.690 --> 01:23:31.870] that no man is an island
[01:23:31.870 --> 01:23:33.310] you ever heard that
[01:23:33.310 --> 01:23:34.110] no man is island
[01:23:34.110 --> 01:23:34.930] and most people
[01:23:34.930 --> 01:23:36.350] when you when you hear that
[01:23:36.350 --> 01:23:37.390] what do you think
[01:23:37.390 --> 01:23:39.370] that you don't live by yourself
[01:23:39.370 --> 01:23:40.350] no one is island
[01:23:40.350 --> 01:23:41.910] let me take it a little further
[01:23:42.930 --> 01:23:45.370] no person can live on this earth
[01:23:45.370 --> 01:23:47.010] without being an effect
[01:23:47.010 --> 01:23:49.230] of another person or another thing
[01:23:50.390 --> 01:23:52.190] so to say
[01:23:52.750 --> 01:23:55.070] that you live alone
[01:23:55.070 --> 01:23:56.010] and you're this
[01:23:56.010 --> 01:23:57.510] and you control of everything
[01:23:57.510 --> 01:23:58.930] and this that and the other
[01:23:58.930 --> 01:23:59.850] are you aware
[01:23:59.850 --> 01:24:01.010] when you take an effect
[01:24:01.750 --> 01:24:03.510] and that thing begins
[01:24:03.510 --> 01:24:05.430] to determine your actions
[01:24:05.430 --> 01:24:07.330] and you think it's you
[01:24:07.330 --> 01:24:09.530] just like I told you
[01:24:09.530 --> 01:24:12.870] God intended to do the airplane
[01:24:13.330 --> 01:24:15.530] but people kept saying you're crazy
[01:24:15.530 --> 01:24:18.970] he believed more in their reality
[01:24:18.970 --> 01:24:20.610] what happened to his intention
[01:24:21.350 --> 01:24:23.030] he got out created
[01:24:23.030 --> 01:24:25.870] by somebody saying you're crazy
[01:24:25.870 --> 01:24:27.110] lost his whole idea
[01:24:27.110 --> 01:24:29.370] he communicate communicated more
[01:24:29.370 --> 01:24:31.090] with that ideal of him
[01:24:31.090 --> 01:24:32.430] then he did his idea
[01:24:32.430 --> 01:24:33.790] that he wanted to create
[01:24:35.040 --> 01:24:36.320] am I right
[01:24:36.540 --> 01:24:37.420] it's true
[01:24:37.420 --> 01:24:39.360] let's let's break it down
[01:24:39.360 --> 01:24:42.180] where where it can be looked at
[01:24:42.180 --> 01:24:43.460] remember I said
[01:24:43.460 --> 01:24:44.900] when you look
[01:24:44.900 --> 01:24:46.700] is where you get certainty
[01:24:46.700 --> 01:24:49.060] not not guessing or figuring
[01:24:49.060 --> 01:24:50.280] we don't want to guess and figure
[01:24:50.280 --> 01:24:51.500] we don't want a mystery
[01:24:51.500 --> 01:24:53.600] that never comes to a conclusion
[01:24:53.600 --> 01:24:54.800] we need certainty
[01:24:54.800 --> 01:24:56.360] so we need to look
[01:24:56.360 --> 01:24:58.020] and you need always need
[01:24:58.020 --> 01:24:59.620] to have your eyes about you
[01:24:59.940 --> 01:25:01.280] in present time
[01:25:01.280 --> 01:25:04.020] if you plan on bringing something
[01:25:04.020 --> 01:25:05.700] into the physical existence
[01:25:05.700 --> 01:25:06.680] like I said
[01:25:08.560 --> 01:25:10.500] everything that you can turn around
[01:25:10.500 --> 01:25:11.400] and look at
[01:25:11.400 --> 01:25:14.880] it was once in a person's mind
[01:25:14.880 --> 01:25:17.120] before it appears
[01:25:17.120 --> 01:25:19.560] so how well you communicate
[01:25:19.560 --> 01:25:21.820] with the ideals in your mind
[01:25:22.220 --> 01:25:24.580] determines whether or not
[01:25:24.580 --> 01:25:26.620] your intention is going to go down
[01:25:30.610 --> 01:25:33.790] one must have intentions
[01:25:34.370 --> 01:25:37.050] because if one does not intend it
[01:25:37.050 --> 01:25:37.710] to happen
[01:25:37.710 --> 01:25:39.810] it will not happen
[01:25:40.810 --> 01:25:41.650] what would you say
[01:25:41.650 --> 01:25:42.670] to someone that's struggling
[01:25:42.670 --> 01:25:43.330] with intention
[01:25:43.330 --> 01:25:45.070] or you know don't know how to
[01:25:45.610 --> 01:25:46.470] get in the habit
[01:25:46.470 --> 01:25:48.210] if you're struggling with intention
[01:25:48.210 --> 01:25:49.690] you're not dealing with intention
[01:25:49.690 --> 01:25:50.490] if you're struggling
[01:25:50.490 --> 01:25:53.290] there again it goes back
[01:25:53.290 --> 01:25:57.130] to how well one communicates
[01:25:57.130 --> 01:26:00.090] how well you communicate with self
[01:26:00.090 --> 01:26:02.190] how well you communicate
[01:26:02.190 --> 01:26:03.450] is very important
[01:26:03.450 --> 01:26:05.890] because for you to get things done
[01:26:05.890 --> 01:26:08.450] you have to be able to communicate
[01:26:08.450 --> 01:26:10.390] with your own intentions
[01:26:13.050 --> 01:26:15.110] now understand this now
[01:26:15.110 --> 01:26:17.730] this is why I said
[01:26:17.730 --> 01:26:19.510] understand concepts
[01:26:19.510 --> 01:26:20.930] are very important
[01:26:20.930 --> 01:26:22.950] you say you're going to do something
[01:26:22.950 --> 01:26:25.530] but you don't know the concept of it
[01:26:25.530 --> 01:26:27.190] how are you going to do it
[01:26:28.500 --> 01:26:29.340] how are you going to do it
[01:26:29.340 --> 01:26:30.460] if you don't know the concept
[01:26:30.460 --> 01:26:32.000] you can easily give it up
[01:26:32.420 --> 01:26:34.700] or you may not even start
[01:26:34.700 --> 01:26:36.960] because you're foggy on the subject
[01:26:39.910 --> 01:26:41.630] you got to be clear
[01:26:41.630 --> 01:26:42.750] let me make it here
[01:26:42.750 --> 01:26:43.990] first of all
[01:26:43.990 --> 01:26:45.570] you got to be realistic
[01:26:46.110 --> 01:26:47.630] and you got to be clear
[01:26:47.630 --> 01:26:49.650] about what you can intend
[01:26:49.650 --> 01:26:51.290] this is why I said
[01:26:51.290 --> 01:26:53.270] a little bit at a time
[01:26:53.270 --> 01:26:54.990] because believe it or not
[01:26:54.990 --> 01:26:56.930] you create ability
[01:26:58.330 --> 01:26:59.450] create ability
[01:26:59.450 --> 01:27:00.910] you create ability
[01:27:04.350 --> 01:27:05.270] what are you doing
[01:27:05.270 --> 01:27:06.390] when you bring something
[01:27:06.390 --> 01:27:08.150] you created the ability
[01:27:08.150 --> 01:27:09.410] to bring something in
[01:27:09.410 --> 01:27:10.650] the ability to
[01:27:10.650 --> 01:27:12.650] it takes a certain amount of ability
[01:27:12.650 --> 01:27:13.850] to do certain things
[01:27:13.850 --> 01:27:15.790] so you are creating ability
[01:27:15.790 --> 01:27:17.130] as you are doing it
[01:27:22.160 --> 01:27:24.320] that is the marvel
[01:27:24.320 --> 01:27:26.600] of being the spirit in a human body
[01:27:29.500 --> 01:27:32.140] that's the marvel of being the spirit man
[01:27:32.140 --> 01:27:32.710] it is
[01:27:34.560 --> 01:27:36.980] I never heard it broken down that way
[01:27:36.980 --> 01:27:38.080] does it make sense
[01:27:38.080 --> 01:27:39.250] perfect sense
[01:27:40.300 --> 01:27:42.880] because if you intend to do something
[01:27:42.880 --> 01:27:44.520] it's going to happen
[01:27:44.520 --> 01:27:45.400] that's true
[01:27:45.400 --> 01:27:46.620] but if you don't
[01:27:46.620 --> 01:27:48.380] you got to know when you intend now
[01:27:48.380 --> 01:27:49.060] don't you
[01:27:49.060 --> 01:27:49.880] that's one thing
[01:27:49.880 --> 01:27:51.760] you can't play with yourself about
[01:27:53.520 --> 01:27:54.960] and like I said
[01:27:55.580 --> 01:27:57.040] if you say you're going to do something
[01:27:57.040 --> 01:27:59.240] others have talked you out of it
[01:27:59.240 --> 01:28:01.120] you didn't intend it
[01:28:01.120 --> 01:28:02.600] because you didn't communicate
[01:28:02.600 --> 01:28:04.060] with your intention well
[01:28:04.060 --> 01:28:05.380] you didn't communicate
[01:28:05.380 --> 01:28:06.740] with your own idea
[01:28:08.530 --> 01:28:10.650] you're playing with yourself
[01:28:11.530 --> 01:28:12.790] ain't no room for that
[01:28:14.580 --> 01:28:16.860] so going back to the branding
[01:28:17.640 --> 01:28:19.440] like people brand
[01:28:19.440 --> 01:28:21.620] rebrand themselves multiple times
[01:28:21.620 --> 01:28:22.560] why is that
[01:28:23.240 --> 01:28:23.760] well
[01:28:24.780 --> 01:28:26.680] if you're branding yourself
[01:28:27.080 --> 01:28:29.340] you want your brand to render what
[01:28:29.960 --> 01:28:31.280] what do you want it to render
[01:28:32.440 --> 01:28:33.080] customers
[01:28:33.720 --> 01:28:34.240] okay
[01:28:34.240 --> 01:28:35.000] product sales
[01:28:35.000 --> 01:28:35.800] so
[01:28:36.360 --> 01:28:37.520] if you keep doing
[01:28:38.120 --> 01:28:40.540] cycle upon cycle upon cycle
[01:28:40.540 --> 01:28:42.180] what happens there
[01:28:42.180 --> 01:28:44.360] you create it against yourself
[01:28:46.090 --> 01:28:48.190] you create it one thing
[01:28:48.190 --> 01:28:48.950] and then you say
[01:28:48.950 --> 01:28:50.330] let me jump over here
[01:28:50.330 --> 01:28:52.050] did you complete this cycle
[01:28:53.590 --> 01:28:53.910] huh
[01:28:54.230 --> 01:28:54.630] no
[01:28:54.630 --> 01:28:56.170] did you jump over here
[01:28:56.870 --> 01:28:58.490] did you complete this cycle
[01:28:58.810 --> 01:29:01.210] so now you got two incomplete cycles
[01:29:01.210 --> 01:29:03.050] how well are you communicating
[01:29:03.050 --> 01:29:04.090] wow
[01:29:04.090 --> 01:29:05.630] then you keep adding it on
[01:29:05.630 --> 01:29:07.990] what's happening with your communication in cycles
[01:29:07.990 --> 01:29:09.450] it's going away
[01:29:09.450 --> 01:29:10.530] you got confusion
[01:29:10.530 --> 01:29:12.230] because you created against yourself
[01:29:12.230 --> 01:29:14.170] you said you was going to create one thing
[01:29:14.170 --> 01:29:15.690] then you created against that
[01:29:15.690 --> 01:29:17.390] by saying you was going to do something else
[01:29:17.390 --> 01:29:19.510] now that whole rainbow can't find the color
[01:29:20.410 --> 01:29:20.950] look
[01:29:20.950 --> 01:29:22.790] so like I said
[01:29:22.790 --> 01:29:24.810] you have to be clear
[01:29:24.810 --> 01:29:26.450] about your intention
[01:29:26.450 --> 01:29:28.070] so if you're not clear
[01:29:28.070 --> 01:29:30.170] that's the first thing am I right
[01:29:30.170 --> 01:29:30.690] that's right
[01:29:30.690 --> 01:29:32.910] to be clear on your intention
[01:29:33.510 --> 01:29:36.210] because if you're not clear on your intention
[01:29:36.210 --> 01:29:37.950] how are you able to do it
[01:29:37.950 --> 01:29:39.730] you're going to face opposition
[01:29:40.390 --> 01:29:41.870] and if you're not clear
[01:29:42.630 --> 01:29:44.790] opposition can make you pull you dress down
[01:29:47.720 --> 01:29:48.280] so
[01:29:48.280 --> 01:29:49.700] what would you say is harder
[01:29:49.700 --> 01:29:50.460] building a brand
[01:29:50.460 --> 01:29:51.600] or maintaining one
[01:29:52.700 --> 01:29:54.060] coming up with a brand
[01:29:54.060 --> 01:29:55.340] coming up with a brand
[01:29:55.940 --> 01:29:57.000] why is that
[01:29:57.000 --> 01:29:58.680] because that is it
[01:29:59.400 --> 01:30:02.120] remember the brand answers the question
[01:30:02.120 --> 01:30:02.840] the foundation
[01:30:02.840 --> 01:30:05.380] the brand answers the question
[01:30:06.200 --> 01:30:09.840] why do I need what you have to offer in my life
[01:30:10.760 --> 01:30:12.760] and you want customers
[01:30:12.760 --> 01:30:14.320] you want people that
[01:30:14.860 --> 01:30:16.060] take your offering
[01:30:18.080 --> 01:30:20.400] if you're not clear how they're going to be
[01:30:23.530 --> 01:30:23.950] how
[01:30:25.460 --> 01:30:27.580] just look at it mathematically
[01:30:28.600 --> 01:30:30.260] if you're not clear
[01:30:30.540 --> 01:30:33.920] how are they going to be
[01:30:35.720 --> 01:30:37.480] they're not going to be
[01:30:37.480 --> 01:30:38.800] so it's building trust
[01:30:40.440 --> 01:30:42.880] the trust is the brand that you said
[01:30:43.400 --> 01:30:44.640] what you say you're about
[01:30:44.640 --> 01:30:46.560] I see it consistently
[01:30:46.560 --> 01:30:47.880] I trust you
[01:30:48.480 --> 01:30:49.700] because that what you said
[01:30:49.700 --> 01:30:50.980] I see it's just like
[01:30:50.980 --> 01:30:51.700] okay guys
[01:30:51.700 --> 01:30:53.900] I'm posting this up on Tuesday
[01:30:55.140 --> 01:30:56.520] you come on Tuesday
[01:30:56.520 --> 01:30:57.620] and it's not there
[01:30:59.690 --> 01:31:00.210] okay
[01:31:00.810 --> 01:31:02.670] I posted on Friday
[01:31:03.210 --> 01:31:04.790] then I come back again
[01:31:04.790 --> 01:31:06.190] and say I'm going to post something else
[01:31:06.190 --> 01:31:08.090] and I don't make the date
[01:31:08.590 --> 01:31:10.210] what are you going to feel about what I'm saying
[01:31:10.210 --> 01:31:11.670] every time I say I'm going to post something
[01:31:11.670 --> 01:31:12.710] even if it's
[01:31:12.710 --> 01:31:15.410] if it's in your reactive mind
[01:31:15.410 --> 01:31:16.360] you're going to be like
[01:31:17.130 --> 01:31:18.510] you always say you're going to do it
[01:31:18.510 --> 01:31:19.430] but you don't never do it
[01:31:19.430 --> 01:31:21.050] the time you say you're going to do it
[01:31:22.560 --> 01:31:24.230] so how I'm going to trust you
[01:31:28.080 --> 01:31:29.100] got to be consistent
[01:31:29.100 --> 01:31:31.380] people say word is bond
[01:31:31.380 --> 01:31:32.100] word is bond
[01:31:32.100 --> 01:31:33.580] word is really bond
[01:31:36.000 --> 01:31:37.560] dealing with brand
[01:31:38.540 --> 01:31:39.840] word is bond
[01:31:40.920 --> 01:31:43.320] see now you're going to get down to
[01:31:43.320 --> 01:31:45.300] who really knows what that means
[01:31:45.300 --> 01:31:48.060] and who hasn't just been acting in parrot fashion
[01:31:48.060 --> 01:31:49.880] like Polly want a cracker
[01:31:49.880 --> 01:31:51.160] Polly want a cracker
[01:31:51.160 --> 01:31:51.800] my brand
[01:31:51.800 --> 01:31:52.740] my brand
[01:31:52.740 --> 01:31:54.000] to sound chic
[01:31:56.120 --> 01:31:57.220] just like
[01:31:57.220 --> 01:31:58.400] like GoFundMe
[01:31:59.520 --> 01:32:00.960] that's a brand
[01:32:00.960 --> 01:32:02.000] how so
[01:32:02.600 --> 01:32:03.580] how so
[01:32:03.580 --> 01:32:05.100] how can I gauge
[01:32:05.100 --> 01:32:07.660] how much money I'm going to get
[01:32:07.660 --> 01:32:08.640] from a GoFundMe
[01:32:09.700 --> 01:32:11.740] it's going to be based off of my community
[01:32:13.100 --> 01:32:14.920] and the way it used to be
[01:32:14.920 --> 01:32:16.740] the way we used to try to operate
[01:32:16.740 --> 01:32:18.220] was to go on social media
[01:32:18.220 --> 01:32:20.780] and bring people to your website
[01:32:20.780 --> 01:32:22.760] that way you know
[01:32:22.760 --> 01:32:24.640] that those who came to your website
[01:32:24.640 --> 01:32:26.100] those are your customers
[01:32:26.100 --> 01:32:28.040] or to put it another way
[01:32:28.040 --> 01:32:31.420] those who have given you their email address
[01:32:31.420 --> 01:32:33.020] that's why email addresses
[01:32:33.020 --> 01:32:34.280] was so important
[01:32:34.280 --> 01:32:36.240] I remember I did something years ago
[01:32:36.240 --> 01:32:39.260] and I had to pay this guy to use his email bill
[01:32:39.260 --> 01:32:40.480] because he had numbers
[01:32:40.480 --> 01:32:41.240] that was awesome
[01:32:41.240 --> 01:32:43.820] I got this many I can drop it into my deal
[01:32:43.820 --> 01:32:44.920] power email list
[01:32:44.920 --> 01:32:46.460] okay okay that was it
[01:32:46.460 --> 01:32:48.100] so for us the thing was
[01:32:48.100 --> 01:32:49.540] to get you to my website
[01:32:49.540 --> 01:32:50.460] and see now
[01:32:50.460 --> 01:32:52.200] I'm looking at something a little different
[01:32:52.200 --> 01:32:53.360] this is getting ahead of us
[01:32:53.360 --> 01:32:54.940] but I'm looking at something a little different
[01:32:54.940 --> 01:32:56.880] but to me it's in the line with branding
[01:32:59.920 --> 01:33:01.540] that social media
[01:33:03.740 --> 01:33:05.200] is at a place
[01:33:06.280 --> 01:33:08.320] and whether you believe it or not
[01:33:09.900 --> 01:33:12.140] Facebook is also your competition
[01:33:14.300 --> 01:33:15.260] in branding
[01:33:15.940 --> 01:33:17.420] Facebook is your competition
[01:33:17.420 --> 01:33:19.360] Facebook is a brand
[01:33:21.540 --> 01:33:22.920] but they're smart
[01:33:24.020 --> 01:33:25.620] you know how
[01:33:26.060 --> 01:33:28.560] and this is something that I said well
[01:33:29.700 --> 01:33:31.460] God now they did
[01:33:31.460 --> 01:33:33.040] because they did an orientation
[01:33:33.620 --> 01:33:35.020] on your community
[01:33:35.020 --> 01:33:37.500] you got a community
[01:33:37.500 --> 01:33:40.280] a community already orientated by Facebook
[01:33:40.280 --> 01:33:41.480] and know what it is
[01:33:41.480 --> 01:33:44.280] man I'm used to being interactive over here
[01:33:44.280 --> 01:33:46.680] I'm used to saying this about myself
[01:33:46.680 --> 01:33:50.240] is my webpage interactive
[01:33:52.180 --> 01:33:56.570] no and people are orientated to that
[01:33:56.570 --> 01:33:58.690] how much time they want to spend on my page
[01:33:58.690 --> 01:34:00.230] or what is my page for
[01:34:00.230 --> 01:34:01.530] it's just to get tickets
[01:34:01.530 --> 01:34:02.890] how does that work
[01:34:02.890 --> 01:34:04.070] I don't want to what's the name
[01:34:05.310 --> 01:34:07.770] and my model for when I was starting out
[01:34:07.770 --> 01:34:08.710] was Ryan Leslie
[01:34:08.710 --> 01:34:10.430] you know Ryan Leslie is
[01:34:10.430 --> 01:34:12.710] because Ryan Leslie was doing what I was doing
[01:34:12.710 --> 01:34:16.270] but Ryan Leslie really had a big intention on his
[01:34:16.270 --> 01:34:17.990] but he was the only one that was doing
[01:34:17.990 --> 01:34:19.530] what I was doing with all that filming
[01:34:19.530 --> 01:34:20.590] and what have you
[01:34:20.590 --> 01:34:23.590] so I was inspired also by Ryan Leslie
[01:34:23.590 --> 01:34:26.070] because Ryan Leslie was the only one that I could see
[01:34:26.070 --> 01:34:27.370] that was doing what I was doing
[01:34:29.470 --> 01:34:31.770] but that book that I suggested
[01:34:32.370 --> 01:34:33.870] Epic Content Marketing
[01:34:33.870 --> 01:34:37.870] that's what put me ahead of the game
[01:34:37.870 --> 01:34:39.790] even though I got 50 years plus
[01:34:39.790 --> 01:34:42.130] I'm like 18 years old out here baby
[01:34:42.130 --> 01:34:43.410] you understand what I'm saying
[01:34:43.410 --> 01:34:44.010] you know
[01:34:44.810 --> 01:34:47.250] even going back to like 18, 19
[01:34:47.930 --> 01:34:50.030] you studied acting at Caramiel
[01:34:50.030 --> 01:34:52.710] yeah because Clay Anderson
[01:34:52.710 --> 01:34:56.270] Ben Vereen's road manager
[01:34:56.270 --> 01:34:58.230] he told me to lend myself
[01:34:58.230 --> 01:34:59.950] even if it didn't pay
[01:34:59.950 --> 01:35:03.110] to lend myself to things such as that
[01:35:03.110 --> 01:35:04.610] to develop my talent
[01:35:05.450 --> 01:35:07.810] yeah so in fact my father used to say
[01:35:07.810 --> 01:35:09.250] and other people have said it
[01:35:09.250 --> 01:35:12.510] and even the acting coaches that I had at Caramiel
[01:35:12.510 --> 01:35:14.630] Mike I want you to be an actor
[01:35:15.310 --> 01:35:17.190] but I wanted to sing
[01:35:17.710 --> 01:35:18.830] Lucia Colombi
[01:35:19.610 --> 01:35:21.330] she was my teacher
[01:35:21.330 --> 01:35:23.650] Audrey Cobb was my teacher
[01:35:23.650 --> 01:35:25.630] and Margaret Ford Taylor
[01:35:27.330 --> 01:35:31.250] and of course working with the infamous Reggie Kelly
[01:35:31.510 --> 01:35:33.190] my time at Caramiel
[01:35:33.190 --> 01:35:38.170] Glenda Dickerson out of Washington D.C.
[01:35:38.490 --> 01:35:39.170] Mike Malone
[01:35:39.810 --> 01:35:42.810] who actually that Duke Ellington school
[01:35:42.810 --> 01:35:45.810] that Dave Chappelle came from
[01:35:45.810 --> 01:35:48.010] and then Mike worked with Debbie Allen
[01:35:48.010 --> 01:35:49.030] the Howard sisters
[01:35:49.030 --> 01:35:50.810] you know just that environment
[01:35:50.810 --> 01:35:51.650] it's enriching
[01:35:52.190 --> 01:35:53.250] it's artistic
[01:35:53.250 --> 01:35:54.450] it feeds
[01:35:54.450 --> 01:35:55.810] it elevates
[01:35:56.390 --> 01:35:57.850] and that kind of energy
[01:35:57.850 --> 01:36:00.610] you transport that to other people
[01:36:01.130 --> 01:36:02.890] man art is a spirit
[01:36:02.890 --> 01:36:04.950] let me get down to the essence of it
[01:36:04.950 --> 01:36:07.430] beyond the marketing and the visibility
[01:36:07.430 --> 01:36:08.690] what it does
[01:36:08.690 --> 01:36:09.870] art art
[01:36:09.870 --> 01:36:11.790] and to me our revolution
[01:36:11.790 --> 01:36:13.030] I said it
[01:36:13.030 --> 01:36:14.450] no not preachers
[01:36:14.450 --> 01:36:15.390] not all that
[01:36:15.390 --> 01:36:16.790] but your artist
[01:36:18.210 --> 01:36:20.250] in the time that we're living in
[01:36:20.250 --> 01:36:20.810] the artist
[01:36:22.110 --> 01:36:23.290] true artists
[01:36:24.050 --> 01:36:25.950] I'm not talking about those
[01:36:25.950 --> 01:36:27.290] that want to be in the business
[01:36:27.290 --> 01:36:28.230] to get girls
[01:36:28.230 --> 01:36:29.670] to be in the business for attention
[01:36:29.670 --> 01:36:30.530] I'm talking about
[01:36:30.530 --> 01:36:32.610] those who want to serve
[01:36:33.330 --> 01:36:34.870] the people through art
[01:36:34.870 --> 01:36:37.230] those are your new revolutionaries
[01:36:37.230 --> 01:36:39.170] it's got to come through the arts
[01:36:39.890 --> 01:36:41.090] it's got to come
[01:36:42.440 --> 01:36:43.340] right now
[01:36:43.840 --> 01:36:45.460] look at the climate baby
[01:36:46.100 --> 01:36:47.680] look at your political climate
[01:36:47.680 --> 01:36:50.240] see a lot of us may not want to ask
[01:36:50.240 --> 01:36:51.440] is where we are
[01:36:51.440 --> 01:36:53.500] you a lot of people complain about Trump
[01:36:53.500 --> 01:36:55.320] why I won't complain about it
[01:36:55.320 --> 01:36:57.220] how much control I got over it
[01:36:57.220 --> 01:36:57.640] how much
[01:36:58.100 --> 01:36:59.480] it's silly for me to think
[01:36:59.480 --> 01:37:00.900] it's put my energy over there
[01:37:00.900 --> 01:37:03.000] what can I intend over there
[01:37:03.540 --> 01:37:04.060] nothing
[01:37:04.060 --> 01:37:06.840] I can only look and see what's before me
[01:37:06.840 --> 01:37:08.840] and what I need to intend
[01:37:08.840 --> 01:37:10.700] because in the beginning was the word
[01:37:10.700 --> 01:37:12.400] and the word will survive
[01:37:12.400 --> 01:37:13.120] survive
[01:37:13.120 --> 01:37:14.540] that was the word
[01:37:14.540 --> 01:37:15.760] in the beginning was the word
[01:37:15.760 --> 01:37:17.140] and the word will survive
[01:37:17.600 --> 01:37:18.900] that's where we're at
[01:37:19.440 --> 01:37:21.280] we're dealing with a social existence
[01:37:21.280 --> 01:37:22.540] spiritual beings
[01:37:22.540 --> 01:37:24.360] dealing with a social existence
[01:37:25.640 --> 01:37:27.680] how do you operate as a spirit
[01:37:27.680 --> 01:37:28.280] through this
[01:37:28.280 --> 01:37:30.020] that's what I'll be talking about
[01:37:30.020 --> 01:37:31.300] when I talk about everything
[01:37:31.300 --> 01:37:33.020] I'll be talking about the abilities
[01:37:33.020 --> 01:37:34.340] that we have as a spirit
[01:37:34.340 --> 01:37:36.040] that we can apply to the matter
[01:37:36.040 --> 01:37:37.980] energy space and time universe
[01:37:40.150 --> 01:37:41.210] so for someone
[01:37:41.210 --> 01:37:42.810] or maybe even an out of towner
[01:37:42.810 --> 01:37:44.290] that haven't been to caramoo house
[01:37:44.290 --> 01:37:45.410] what's that energy like
[01:37:45.410 --> 01:37:46.490] caramoo house
[01:37:49.830 --> 01:37:53.310] that's the oldest black community
[01:37:53.310 --> 01:37:54.650] theater in the world
[01:37:55.190 --> 01:37:56.970] what it was like for me
[01:37:56.970 --> 01:37:57.670] Cleveland, Ohio
[01:37:58.290 --> 01:37:59.990] what it was like for me
[01:38:00.910 --> 01:38:02.950] it was just awesome
[01:38:02.950 --> 01:38:04.630] because of the level of talent
[01:38:04.630 --> 01:38:05.810] in my class
[01:38:07.510 --> 01:38:08.890] well number classes
[01:38:08.890 --> 01:38:10.090] James Pickens
[01:38:10.090 --> 01:38:11.270] Jim Pickens
[01:38:11.270 --> 01:38:12.610] who's on the
[01:38:12.610 --> 01:38:14.150] what's the hospital series
[01:38:14.150 --> 01:38:14.910] that's big
[01:38:15.750 --> 01:38:18.510] he's the black head of it
[01:38:18.510 --> 01:38:19.850] I'm not sure I don't watch much tv
[01:38:19.850 --> 01:38:20.670] well he
[01:38:20.670 --> 01:38:21.110] James
[01:38:21.730 --> 01:38:23.910] people you may not have heard of
[01:38:23.910 --> 01:38:25.300] Marvin Bay Wright
[01:38:25.650 --> 01:38:26.990] Marvin Wright Bay
[01:38:26.990 --> 01:38:27.980] look him up
[01:38:28.170 --> 01:38:29.510] awesome talent
[01:38:29.510 --> 01:38:31.110] awesome talent
[01:38:31.110 --> 01:38:31.520] just
[01:38:33.310 --> 01:38:36.070] that kind of
[01:38:36.070 --> 01:38:37.130] where it's competition
[01:38:37.510 --> 01:38:38.590] you know
[01:38:38.590 --> 01:38:41.530] but it's that healthy competition
[01:38:41.530 --> 01:38:44.530] because everybody is coming in
[01:38:44.530 --> 01:38:45.570] trying to be
[01:38:45.570 --> 01:38:46.690] A 100
[01:38:46.690 --> 01:38:48.350] nobody wants to slack
[01:38:48.350 --> 01:38:50.050] because the level of talent
[01:38:50.050 --> 01:38:50.870] that's there
[01:38:50.870 --> 01:38:51.950] I want the part
[01:38:53.290 --> 01:38:55.330] so with that kind of thing
[01:38:55.330 --> 01:38:56.130] what do you think about
[01:38:56.130 --> 01:38:57.030] the level of talent
[01:38:57.030 --> 01:38:58.630] what is it going to do
[01:38:58.630 --> 01:38:59.670] you see
[01:38:59.670 --> 01:39:01.490] because everybody trying to be
[01:39:01.490 --> 01:39:02.410] on the A game
[01:39:04.790 --> 01:39:05.990] and helpful
[01:39:06.870 --> 01:39:08.870] a spirit of sharing
[01:39:08.870 --> 01:39:10.250] understanding
[01:39:10.250 --> 01:39:11.970] that hey it's a whole
[01:39:11.970 --> 01:39:13.250] it's not just one person
[01:39:13.250 --> 01:39:14.790] and it must happen together
[01:39:16.250 --> 01:39:18.490] it's a great feeling
[01:39:18.490 --> 01:39:21.690] and to feel that unity
[01:39:21.690 --> 01:39:23.350] was something
[01:39:23.350 --> 01:39:25.010] that wasn't there
[01:39:25.010 --> 01:39:25.890] is there
[01:39:25.890 --> 01:39:28.010] and the people with this talent
[01:39:28.010 --> 01:39:29.190] came together
[01:39:29.190 --> 01:39:31.150] and made it one
[01:39:31.150 --> 01:39:33.410] that's the beauty of life
[01:39:33.410 --> 01:39:34.190] as an artist
[01:39:34.190 --> 01:39:35.970] I wish life could be like that
[01:39:35.970 --> 01:39:37.910] I wish we as a people
[01:39:37.910 --> 01:39:39.710] could come together as one
[01:39:39.710 --> 01:39:41.870] oh what we could be able to do
[01:39:41.870 --> 01:39:42.690] you know
[01:39:42.690 --> 01:39:43.930] people talk about miracles
[01:39:43.930 --> 01:39:46.130] oh this would be a miracle
[01:39:46.130 --> 01:39:47.470] black unity
[01:39:47.470 --> 01:39:49.030] that would be a miracle
[01:39:49.030 --> 01:39:50.490] then talk to me baby
[01:39:50.490 --> 01:39:52.070] yeah art imitates life
[01:39:52.070 --> 01:39:54.210] art imitate life
[01:39:55.090 --> 01:39:56.230] they say that
[01:39:56.230 --> 01:39:57.790] I Dave Stewart
[01:39:57.790 --> 01:40:00.450] who I did hip hop for life
[01:40:00.450 --> 01:40:01.450] with Dave Stewart
[01:40:01.450 --> 01:40:02.830] that was the first film
[01:40:02.830 --> 01:40:04.090] the first hip hop film
[01:40:04.090 --> 01:40:05.750] to make it to Sundance
[01:40:05.970 --> 01:40:07.570] we couldn't compete
[01:40:07.570 --> 01:40:09.750] because we had already
[01:40:09.750 --> 01:40:10.570] previewed the film
[01:40:10.570 --> 01:40:12.590] in order to compete in the Sundance
[01:40:12.590 --> 01:40:14.590] you can't preview your film
[01:40:14.590 --> 01:40:16.210] they have to preview it
[01:40:16.210 --> 01:40:17.630] but they gave us a showing
[01:40:17.630 --> 01:40:18.970] it was hip hop
[01:40:18.970 --> 01:40:20.010] for life
[01:40:20.010 --> 01:40:21.090] Dave Stewart
[01:40:22.290 --> 01:40:23.510] did that film
[01:40:23.510 --> 01:40:25.090] I believed in it a lot
[01:40:25.090 --> 01:40:26.390] and then it made it
[01:40:26.390 --> 01:40:27.550] to Sundance
[01:40:27.550 --> 01:40:28.190] wow
[01:40:28.190 --> 01:40:28.690] yeah
[01:40:29.290 --> 01:40:30.030] what was that
[01:40:30.030 --> 01:40:31.550] the hip hop community
[01:40:31.550 --> 01:40:32.510] got together
[01:40:33.170 --> 01:40:34.370] the hip hop community
[01:40:34.370 --> 01:40:35.810] got together to make that film
[01:40:35.810 --> 01:40:36.810] represent Cleveland
[01:40:36.810 --> 01:40:38.670] now you asked me earlier
[01:40:38.670 --> 01:40:39.510] so let me digress
[01:40:39.510 --> 01:40:41.390] and let me tell you
[01:40:41.390 --> 01:40:42.430] what happened
[01:40:42.430 --> 01:40:43.390] that I think
[01:40:43.390 --> 01:40:45.750] hurt the live hip hop scene
[01:40:45.750 --> 01:40:47.550] you had to audition for me
[01:40:48.110 --> 01:40:50.130] then here comes the other promoters
[01:40:51.590 --> 01:40:54.230] based on how many tickets you sell
[01:40:54.230 --> 01:40:56.030] you can be on the show
[01:40:57.230 --> 01:40:58.990] what did that do for a show
[01:40:59.810 --> 01:41:00.330] visually
[01:41:01.090 --> 01:41:02.010] what did it do
[01:41:02.010 --> 01:41:03.430] if I can sell the tickets
[01:41:03.430 --> 01:41:04.610] I don't have to be a great act
[01:41:04.610 --> 01:41:05.750] I just sell the tickets
[01:41:05.810 --> 01:41:07.950] and the promoter has me on the show
[01:41:08.890 --> 01:41:09.910] to me
[01:41:10.230 --> 01:41:11.290] that hurt
[01:41:11.970 --> 01:41:13.330] live hip hop performers
[01:41:13.330 --> 01:41:14.530] and expectations
[01:41:15.170 --> 01:41:16.090] here in Cleveland
[01:41:18.170 --> 01:41:20.130] because what was the spot
[01:41:20.130 --> 01:41:21.430] that everybody was going to
[01:41:24.390 --> 01:41:26.770] after Don and Velma left
[01:41:26.770 --> 01:41:29.030] the original owner took over
[01:41:29.030 --> 01:41:30.750] and I ended up working
[01:41:31.270 --> 01:41:33.150] for who he brought in
[01:41:33.150 --> 01:41:34.110] but then
[01:41:34.110 --> 01:41:35.470] it was a person
[01:41:35.470 --> 01:41:37.090] there who felt like
[01:41:37.090 --> 01:41:38.530] they got stepped over
[01:41:38.530 --> 01:41:40.090] and they should have been the one
[01:41:40.090 --> 01:41:41.630] and so they undermined
[01:41:41.630 --> 01:41:42.410] what I was doing
[01:41:44.430 --> 01:41:45.350] downtown in the flats
[01:41:45.350 --> 01:41:46.270] where we were killing them
[01:41:46.270 --> 01:41:46.810] in the flats
[01:41:47.910 --> 01:41:48.970] footage all that
[01:41:48.970 --> 01:41:50.270] I'm not just talking
[01:41:50.270 --> 01:41:51.250] when we do this series
[01:41:51.250 --> 01:41:52.390] you got to see it
[01:41:52.390 --> 01:41:52.910] got to see it
[01:41:52.910 --> 01:41:54.510] you got to see the level of talent
[01:41:54.510 --> 01:41:55.830] you got to see it
[01:41:55.830 --> 01:41:57.030] and just a lot of things
[01:41:57.030 --> 01:41:57.410] we were doing
[01:41:57.410 --> 01:41:58.890] a lot of us doing a lot of recording
[01:41:58.890 --> 01:42:00.710] all that stuff
[01:42:00.710 --> 01:42:01.890] do you have a title
[01:42:01.890 --> 01:42:03.010] for their series already
[01:42:03.550 --> 01:42:04.870] my first one was called
[01:42:04.870 --> 01:42:06.830] I don't know what I want
[01:42:06.830 --> 01:42:08.010] to call this one yet
[01:42:08.010 --> 01:42:09.110] because I'm gonna have to keep
[01:42:09.110 --> 01:42:10.810] reviewing a lot of the footage
[01:42:10.810 --> 01:42:12.730] because not only
[01:42:12.730 --> 01:42:13.950] what I did for Cleveland
[01:42:13.950 --> 01:42:15.190] through the hip hop
[01:42:15.190 --> 01:42:16.970] I actually have footage
[01:42:16.970 --> 01:42:18.490] of some of the acts
[01:42:19.030 --> 01:42:20.470] that were in Cleveland
[01:42:20.470 --> 01:42:22.190] when I was coming up
[01:42:22.190 --> 01:42:23.690] at 14, 15, 16
[01:42:23.690 --> 01:42:24.950] I was fortunate enough
[01:42:24.950 --> 01:42:26.630] to put the entertains
[01:42:27.290 --> 01:42:28.330] back together
[01:42:28.330 --> 01:42:30.230] so you can hear them
[01:42:30.230 --> 01:42:32.330] talk about the Cleveland scene
[01:42:32.330 --> 01:42:33.530] you can hear them
[01:42:33.530 --> 01:42:35.690] talk about the level of talent
[01:42:35.690 --> 01:42:36.790] and you'll be able to
[01:42:36.790 --> 01:42:37.790] witness a performance
[01:42:37.790 --> 01:42:39.610] to see what I'm talking about
[01:42:40.890 --> 01:42:41.310] I can't wait for it
[01:42:41.310 --> 01:42:41.890] Cleveland
[01:42:41.890 --> 01:42:43.710] talking about proud
[01:42:43.710 --> 01:42:46.490] look this history you need
[01:42:46.770 --> 01:42:49.770] do you never document our history
[01:42:49.770 --> 01:42:50.550] you need to
[01:42:50.550 --> 01:42:50.970] you know
[01:42:50.970 --> 01:42:52.050] yeah you need to
[01:42:52.050 --> 01:42:53.350] because it's almost like
[01:42:53.350 --> 01:42:54.430] being here
[01:42:54.430 --> 01:42:56.710] and not connecting with Africa
[01:42:56.710 --> 01:42:58.450] you lost some of your history
[01:42:58.450 --> 01:42:59.670] to be in Cleveland
[01:42:59.670 --> 01:43:01.410] and not connect
[01:43:01.410 --> 01:43:02.690] with what was here
[01:43:02.690 --> 01:43:04.730] you're gonna lose some of your
[01:43:04.730 --> 01:43:06.490] history and your life force
[01:43:06.490 --> 01:43:07.490] you got to connect
[01:43:07.490 --> 01:43:08.070] with what was
[01:43:08.070 --> 01:43:09.030] so you can continue
[01:43:09.030 --> 01:43:09.890] and your goal
[01:43:09.890 --> 01:43:11.030] the youth's goal
[01:43:11.030 --> 01:43:11.970] is to take it
[01:43:12.450 --> 01:43:13.650] and continue it
[01:43:13.650 --> 01:43:15.510] but as always some
[01:43:15.510 --> 01:43:17.310] it gets cut
[01:43:18.110 --> 01:43:20.050] and the connection is broken
[01:43:20.050 --> 01:43:21.410] and then it always
[01:43:21.410 --> 01:43:22.270] end up sub
[01:43:24.280 --> 01:43:25.740] there's a TV show
[01:43:26.800 --> 01:43:28.080] on Tubi
[01:43:28.080 --> 01:43:29.560] that I want to recommend
[01:43:32.300 --> 01:43:33.580] on Tubi
[01:43:34.860 --> 01:43:37.060] go and watch this series
[01:43:37.860 --> 01:43:41.880] called S-O-U-L
[01:43:41.880 --> 01:43:42.340] Soul
[01:43:42.340 --> 01:43:44.340] there you're gonna get poetry
[01:43:45.060 --> 01:43:46.120] you're gonna get the
[01:43:46.120 --> 01:43:47.280] revolutionary music
[01:43:47.740 --> 01:43:49.200] and let me say this
[01:43:49.200 --> 01:43:50.160] while I'm at it
[01:43:50.160 --> 01:43:50.560] okay
[01:43:51.200 --> 01:43:51.960] Afrobeats
[01:43:54.540 --> 01:43:55.420] for some reason
[01:43:55.420 --> 01:43:57.420] I just tuned in to Afrobeats
[01:43:57.420 --> 01:43:59.540] 20 almost 15 years ago
[01:44:00.380 --> 01:44:01.180] but then
[01:44:01.560 --> 01:44:03.000] as it's circling around
[01:44:03.000 --> 01:44:04.580] I understand why
[01:44:05.080 --> 01:44:07.480] I was there in the 60s
[01:44:08.440 --> 01:44:10.220] when the musicians
[01:44:10.760 --> 01:44:12.240] all the African
[01:44:12.240 --> 01:44:13.780] like I told you the ancestors
[01:44:13.780 --> 01:44:14.860] was upon us
[01:44:15.200 --> 01:44:17.540] the music of that period
[01:44:17.540 --> 01:44:19.500] the jazz mostly
[01:44:19.500 --> 01:44:20.780] not I can't say mostly
[01:44:20.780 --> 01:44:22.600] because of the rhythms
[01:44:22.600 --> 01:44:23.660] and all that
[01:44:23.660 --> 01:44:25.140] oh it was straight Africa
[01:44:25.140 --> 01:44:26.600] and then
[01:44:28.200 --> 01:44:28.640] Fela
[01:44:29.580 --> 01:44:31.140] who's the father
[01:44:31.440 --> 01:44:33.080] of Afrobeats
[01:44:34.420 --> 01:44:36.500] comes to America
[01:44:36.500 --> 01:44:38.880] to try to make it in the business
[01:44:38.880 --> 01:44:40.800] I'm sure at that time
[01:44:41.200 --> 01:44:41.960] Africa
[01:44:42.580 --> 01:44:43.940] and America
[01:44:43.940 --> 01:44:45.560] came together
[01:44:46.640 --> 01:44:47.480] musically
[01:44:47.480 --> 01:44:48.760] and then
[01:44:50.320 --> 01:44:51.400] Fela hooked up
[01:44:51.400 --> 01:44:53.540] with a Black Panther sister
[01:44:54.100 --> 01:44:55.640] and it was that sister
[01:44:55.640 --> 01:44:57.120] that told Fela
[01:44:57.120 --> 01:44:58.860] take this music
[01:44:59.360 --> 01:45:01.660] and revolutionarily
[01:45:01.660 --> 01:45:03.020] rise this music
[01:45:03.020 --> 01:45:04.280] for your people
[01:45:04.280 --> 01:45:05.540] who is Fela
[01:45:05.540 --> 01:45:07.960] Fela's the father of Afrobeats
[01:45:07.960 --> 01:45:09.280] look him up
[01:45:09.280 --> 01:45:11.360] F-E-L-A
[01:45:11.360 --> 01:45:13.160] and Afrobeats was
[01:45:13.160 --> 01:45:14.940] revolutionary music
[01:45:15.780 --> 01:45:17.240] and in the 60s
[01:45:18.340 --> 01:45:20.140] that's what we were
[01:45:20.820 --> 01:45:22.560] Afrobeats baby
[01:45:24.020 --> 01:45:26.540] that's why it came back around to me
[01:45:26.540 --> 01:45:27.480] WizKid
[01:45:27.480 --> 01:45:28.760] Burner and all that
[01:45:29.100 --> 01:45:31.380] it was pulling me in
[01:45:32.360 --> 01:45:33.920] I see why
[01:45:33.920 --> 01:45:35.540] because actually
[01:45:36.080 --> 01:45:36.820] to me
[01:45:37.100 --> 01:45:37.780] like I said
[01:45:37.780 --> 01:45:39.560] they have a tendency to break things
[01:45:39.560 --> 01:45:42.020] creativity was broken here in America
[01:45:43.080 --> 01:45:44.280] it was broken
[01:45:45.560 --> 01:45:47.360] maybe after the 90s
[01:45:48.080 --> 01:45:49.080] but it was broken
[01:45:51.260 --> 01:45:51.980] and
[01:45:51.980 --> 01:45:52.800] Wiz
[01:45:54.220 --> 01:45:55.220] Burner Boy
[01:45:56.740 --> 01:45:58.180] that progression
[01:46:00.070 --> 01:46:02.730] of the Black music from the 60s
[01:46:02.730 --> 01:46:04.310] that we did
[01:46:04.310 --> 01:46:05.310] with the ancestors
[01:46:05.310 --> 01:46:07.010] the ancestors was on us
[01:46:07.010 --> 01:46:08.310] more than anywhere in Africa
[01:46:08.310 --> 01:46:10.670] because we influenced it
[01:46:10.670 --> 01:46:11.410] and now to me
[01:46:11.410 --> 01:46:13.570] it's coming back to me
[01:46:13.570 --> 01:46:13.890] huh
[01:46:14.710 --> 01:46:16.470] through that generation
[01:46:17.290 --> 01:46:19.110] so when you want to talk about
[01:46:19.650 --> 01:46:21.210] us being one people
[01:46:22.070 --> 01:46:23.710] look at my mindset
[01:46:24.950 --> 01:46:26.390] look at my mindset
[01:46:26.390 --> 01:46:27.330] that shows you
[01:46:27.330 --> 01:46:28.990] how it came back around
[01:46:28.990 --> 01:46:29.970] to me
[01:46:30.430 --> 01:46:31.830] that's one people
[01:46:31.830 --> 01:46:33.630] that we shout it out
[01:46:33.630 --> 01:46:34.830] Fela got it
[01:46:34.830 --> 01:46:37.710] that R&B soul blackness
[01:46:38.330 --> 01:46:39.610] that's not in us
[01:46:39.610 --> 01:46:40.770] because we popped out
[01:46:41.950 --> 01:46:43.890] now anybody can do R&B
[01:46:44.110 --> 01:46:47.070] R&B was soul music
[01:46:47.070 --> 01:46:47.710] soul music
[01:46:47.710 --> 01:46:49.410] we were known for soul
[01:46:49.750 --> 01:46:51.850] not manufactured music
[01:46:51.850 --> 01:46:52.730] soul
[01:46:52.730 --> 01:46:54.750] we free again y'all
[01:46:54.750 --> 01:46:55.710] the internet
[01:46:56.790 --> 01:46:57.870] quit following
[01:46:57.870 --> 01:46:59.370] and swallowing
[01:46:59.370 --> 01:47:01.170] being Polly wanna cracker
[01:47:01.170 --> 01:47:02.290] and get creative
[01:47:02.290 --> 01:47:04.350] we're creative people
[01:47:04.350 --> 01:47:06.010] and we've forgotten that
[01:47:06.010 --> 01:47:06.970] as a people
[01:47:07.860 --> 01:47:09.730] we are very creative people
[01:47:10.450 --> 01:47:12.270] and we're not that
[01:47:12.270 --> 01:47:13.390] we are miserable
[01:47:13.390 --> 01:47:14.310] that's why our hands
[01:47:14.310 --> 01:47:16.130] have been tied for so long here
[01:47:16.690 --> 01:47:17.710] that's why we
[01:47:17.710 --> 01:47:19.350] go against one another
[01:47:19.970 --> 01:47:21.290] because you can't
[01:47:21.290 --> 01:47:23.010] get kicked around so long
[01:47:23.010 --> 01:47:24.950] and that energy doesn't come out
[01:47:24.950 --> 01:47:26.690] but see we're not powerful enough
[01:47:26.690 --> 01:47:28.670] to aim at that which aims at us
[01:47:28.670 --> 01:47:30.630] so we aim at each other
[01:47:31.170 --> 01:47:32.670] and we can't unify
[01:47:32.670 --> 01:47:34.030] we can't create together
[01:47:34.030 --> 01:47:35.070] man I'm going on
[01:47:35.070 --> 01:47:35.890] you know like I tell you
[01:47:35.890 --> 01:47:36.930] this is other shows
[01:47:38.470 --> 01:47:40.270] so even with that
[01:47:40.270 --> 01:47:41.790] speak about the creativity
[01:47:41.790 --> 01:47:43.370] what's your thoughts on
[01:47:43.370 --> 01:47:45.130] the new AI and it's AI music
[01:47:45.790 --> 01:47:47.150] you still have to be creative
[01:47:47.150 --> 01:47:48.390] don't you
[01:47:48.390 --> 01:47:48.890] do
[01:47:48.890 --> 01:47:51.010] okay when does AI
[01:47:51.010 --> 01:47:51.910] become in our position
[01:47:53.990 --> 01:47:54.510] mindset
[01:47:54.510 --> 01:47:55.530] what did I say
[01:47:55.530 --> 01:47:57.650] what did I say you must be
[01:47:57.650 --> 01:47:58.610] objective
[01:47:59.190 --> 01:48:00.150] didn't I say
[01:48:00.150 --> 01:48:01.570] and you must as is
[01:48:01.570 --> 01:48:02.270] and say something
[01:48:02.270 --> 01:48:03.070] shouldn't just stand there
[01:48:03.070 --> 01:48:04.770] and you shouldn't say what it is
[01:48:04.770 --> 01:48:06.350] before you see it
[01:48:07.630 --> 01:48:09.110] if it hasn't happened
[01:48:09.110 --> 01:48:10.470] then you're trying to guess what it is
[01:48:10.470 --> 01:48:11.630] you're working on your guess
[01:48:11.630 --> 01:48:12.550] and you'll be sitting there
[01:48:12.550 --> 01:48:14.230] with your damn hands folded
[01:48:14.830 --> 01:48:16.590] wait till it shows up
[01:48:16.590 --> 01:48:18.430] and know that you have the ability
[01:48:18.430 --> 01:48:20.070] to deal with any opposition
[01:48:20.070 --> 01:48:20.650] AI
[01:48:21.350 --> 01:48:21.830] why
[01:48:23.910 --> 01:48:25.450] look we're spirit
[01:48:26.150 --> 01:48:27.130] and the AI
[01:48:27.130 --> 01:48:28.110] who did it come from
[01:48:28.750 --> 01:48:31.110] it came from somebody else didn't it
[01:48:31.510 --> 01:48:32.930] it got created by somebody
[01:48:32.930 --> 01:48:34.190] that didn't fall out of the sky
[01:48:35.110 --> 01:48:36.430] it's not an alien
[01:48:36.430 --> 01:48:38.010] somebody created it
[01:48:38.010 --> 01:48:38.590] I'm alien
[01:48:39.270 --> 01:48:40.650] that could be
[01:48:40.650 --> 01:48:42.630] and we can get into the definition of that
[01:48:42.630 --> 01:48:43.310] if you like
[01:48:44.770 --> 01:48:45.330] hey
[01:48:45.330 --> 01:48:45.890] hey
[01:48:45.890 --> 01:48:46.790] you see what I'm saying
[01:48:46.790 --> 01:48:49.470] so you either create
[01:48:50.150 --> 01:48:51.750] and you can be out created
[01:48:52.530 --> 01:48:53.630] you can create
[01:48:53.630 --> 01:48:55.030] and you can out create
[01:48:55.630 --> 01:48:57.190] it's an even flow
[01:48:57.190 --> 01:48:57.870] even flow
[01:48:57.870 --> 01:48:58.670] so it's about
[01:48:58.670 --> 01:48:59.710] what did I say
[01:48:59.710 --> 01:49:01.010] in my conversation
[01:49:02.470 --> 01:49:03.010] create
[01:49:03.010 --> 01:49:03.890] ability
[01:49:04.830 --> 01:49:06.570] you can't create enough ability
[01:49:06.570 --> 01:49:07.850] to out create an AI
[01:49:07.850 --> 01:49:09.570] you don't know it until it shows up
[01:49:09.570 --> 01:49:11.010] then it becomes opposition
[01:49:11.010 --> 01:49:12.770] but never fear opposition
[01:49:13.510 --> 01:49:14.630] you have the ability
[01:49:14.630 --> 01:49:16.650] to surmount any opposition
[01:49:17.730 --> 01:49:18.650] you do
[01:49:19.390 --> 01:49:20.230] that's why I said
[01:49:20.230 --> 01:49:21.570] you have to have faith in self
[01:49:21.570 --> 01:49:23.730] and nothing outside of yourself
[01:49:24.790 --> 01:49:26.970] because that which is outside of yourself
[01:49:26.970 --> 01:49:28.270] if they lead you to that
[01:49:28.270 --> 01:49:30.570] that dictates to you or it don't
[01:49:30.570 --> 01:49:31.950] and then if it doesn't
[01:49:31.950 --> 01:49:33.450] because see things like that
[01:49:33.450 --> 01:49:34.570] you'll deal with that
[01:49:34.570 --> 01:49:36.190] whether they're real or imagined
[01:49:36.190 --> 01:49:37.770] and if you're dealing with something
[01:49:37.770 --> 01:49:38.550] that's imagined
[01:49:38.550 --> 01:49:40.690] it ain't as your source
[01:49:40.690 --> 01:49:42.440] you're already out the game
[01:49:46.010 --> 01:49:47.610] because you take on that
[01:49:47.610 --> 01:49:48.610] which is imagined
[01:49:48.610 --> 01:49:49.430] that's true
[01:49:51.770 --> 01:49:54.390] what would you say to a young artist
[01:49:54.390 --> 01:49:56.230] like yourself as you was 14
[01:49:56.230 --> 01:49:57.310] to talk to young people today
[01:49:57.310 --> 01:49:58.310] you know
[01:49:58.840 --> 01:50:00.410] it's very interesting
[01:50:01.110 --> 01:50:03.410] because when you look at young people
[01:50:03.410 --> 01:50:05.550] they're different from when I was young
[01:50:06.270 --> 01:50:07.950] you understand what I'm saying
[01:50:08.590 --> 01:50:09.330] you're different
[01:50:09.330 --> 01:50:12.530] it's a different social orientation
[01:50:13.730 --> 01:50:16.710] see whether you like to believe
[01:50:16.710 --> 01:50:18.610] that we're free thinkers or not
[01:50:18.610 --> 01:50:20.230] but only a free thinker
[01:50:20.230 --> 01:50:22.290] to a degree that you can be free to think
[01:50:22.830 --> 01:50:24.290] that's that's that's
[01:50:24.290 --> 01:50:25.150] other than that
[01:50:25.150 --> 01:50:29.190] we're orientated into a social mechanism
[01:50:30.490 --> 01:50:32.330] and you hear people say
[01:50:32.730 --> 01:50:34.430] well when I was younger
[01:50:34.430 --> 01:50:36.290] the person down the street
[01:50:36.290 --> 01:50:38.010] even though they weren't related to you
[01:50:38.010 --> 01:50:38.610] related to you
[01:50:38.610 --> 01:50:39.450] could give you a whooping
[01:50:39.450 --> 01:50:40.860] or straighten you out
[01:50:41.390 --> 01:50:43.170] that stopped at a certain point
[01:50:43.170 --> 01:50:43.970] what happened
[01:50:43.970 --> 01:50:45.830] see things change socially
[01:50:45.830 --> 01:50:48.830] we affected by propaganda
[01:50:50.550 --> 01:50:51.330] all that
[01:50:51.330 --> 01:50:52.610] so to the youth
[01:50:53.350 --> 01:50:56.510] it goes back to what I said about
[01:50:57.050 --> 01:50:58.470] being objective
[01:50:59.830 --> 01:51:00.590] you're young
[01:51:00.590 --> 01:51:02.070] you're trying to discover
[01:51:02.610 --> 01:51:05.070] what it is you want to do
[01:51:05.950 --> 01:51:09.390] I say gravitate toward that
[01:51:10.370 --> 01:51:13.470] which you have the most affinity for
[01:51:13.470 --> 01:51:15.150] and when I say affinity
[01:51:15.150 --> 01:51:17.930] that means a willingness to share space
[01:51:17.930 --> 01:51:20.030] because that which you're willing
[01:51:20.030 --> 01:51:21.390] to share space with
[01:51:21.390 --> 01:51:23.050] you'll give over to
[01:51:24.650 --> 01:51:26.650] so find that
[01:51:27.110 --> 01:51:29.410] or some people will put it
[01:51:29.410 --> 01:51:31.190] in another wording would be
[01:51:31.190 --> 01:51:34.060] find that which you have a passion about
[01:51:34.590 --> 01:51:36.890] learn all you can about it
[01:51:36.890 --> 01:51:39.060] and see if you're able to pay the price
[01:51:39.550 --> 01:51:40.670] of that passion
[01:51:40.670 --> 01:51:42.510] if you're able to go
[01:51:42.510 --> 01:51:44.090] if you're willing
[01:51:44.090 --> 01:51:45.830] to go all the way
[01:51:45.830 --> 01:51:47.690] because you're definitely going to have to
[01:51:47.690 --> 01:51:49.040] need to look at it
[01:51:49.390 --> 01:51:51.660] you learn as you go
[01:51:52.010 --> 01:51:53.730] and apply yourself
[01:51:53.730 --> 01:51:55.110] as you go
[01:51:55.720 --> 01:51:56.890] is that clear enough
[01:51:56.890 --> 01:51:58.110] that is clear
[01:51:58.710 --> 01:52:00.190] and I want to go back to
[01:52:00.190 --> 01:52:01.390] remember you talked about
[01:52:03.630 --> 01:52:05.170] selling out shows
[01:52:05.170 --> 01:52:09.270] with bringing in 50 or 50 500 people
[01:52:09.270 --> 01:52:11.010] and most people nowadays
[01:52:11.010 --> 01:52:12.430] cannot even get 10
[01:52:12.430 --> 01:52:13.830] well let's go back
[01:52:13.830 --> 01:52:15.150] to what I said
[01:52:16.030 --> 01:52:17.970] most are lounge events
[01:52:17.970 --> 01:52:19.050] lounge events
[01:52:19.050 --> 01:52:23.240] so how do they step up
[01:52:23.240 --> 01:52:24.420] and become on the next level
[01:52:24.420 --> 01:52:25.620] your creation in marketing
[01:52:26.260 --> 01:52:28.080] I'm not gonna give people my ideas
[01:52:38.260 --> 01:52:43.460] that's why believing in self is so important
[01:52:45.620 --> 01:52:46.180] because
[01:52:46.720 --> 01:52:47.500] excuse me
[01:52:48.160 --> 01:52:49.240] like I said
[01:52:49.840 --> 01:52:52.240] we all have a reservoir of ideas
[01:52:52.240 --> 01:52:54.120] how many go in and out your head
[01:52:54.120 --> 01:52:55.120] that you don't connect with
[01:52:55.120 --> 01:52:56.140] and communicate with
[01:52:56.140 --> 01:52:57.880] oh so many so many
[01:52:57.880 --> 01:52:59.620] that's a proof of point
[01:53:02.560 --> 01:53:03.600] so communicate
[01:53:04.200 --> 01:53:05.600] with your own idea
[01:53:06.580 --> 01:53:07.400] because then
[01:53:07.400 --> 01:53:08.900] if you're not communicating with it
[01:53:08.900 --> 01:53:09.740] that tears you right there
[01:53:09.740 --> 01:53:11.280] that's something for you not to do
[01:53:11.280 --> 01:53:13.740] so you're not wasting any energy over there
[01:53:13.740 --> 01:53:14.240] yeah
[01:53:14.240 --> 01:53:15.940] that clears it up doesn't it
[01:53:15.940 --> 01:53:16.600] yeah
[01:53:17.940 --> 01:53:18.460] yeah
[01:53:18.460 --> 01:53:20.060] and that's what it's about
[01:53:20.780 --> 01:53:21.820] you know
[01:53:23.680 --> 01:53:24.200] identity
[01:53:24.960 --> 01:53:26.300] you have to remember
[01:53:26.300 --> 01:53:29.000] that we are not our identity
[01:53:29.000 --> 01:53:30.940] spirit assumes identities
[01:53:32.080 --> 01:53:34.220] and most often than not
[01:53:34.220 --> 01:53:35.840] if we've seen a person
[01:53:35.840 --> 01:53:37.320] that won something
[01:53:37.320 --> 01:53:38.500] we're going to assume
[01:53:38.500 --> 01:53:39.560] that same identity
[01:53:39.560 --> 01:53:40.560] that that person did
[01:53:40.560 --> 01:53:42.020] because don't we do that
[01:53:42.020 --> 01:53:43.720] because that means you know
[01:53:43.720 --> 01:53:44.520] we'll win
[01:53:45.080 --> 01:53:45.860] but you're gonna
[01:53:45.860 --> 01:53:47.220] when you do that though
[01:53:48.120 --> 01:53:49.360] there'll be a point
[01:53:49.360 --> 01:53:51.660] when maybe that person's not around anymore
[01:53:51.660 --> 01:53:53.500] and then you got to get creative
[01:53:53.500 --> 01:53:54.760] about your solutions
[01:53:55.800 --> 01:53:57.660] so let me say this
[01:53:59.320 --> 01:54:00.500] like I said
[01:54:00.500 --> 01:54:02.900] we have a reservoir of ideas
[01:54:02.900 --> 01:54:04.740] and we create ability
[01:54:06.180 --> 01:54:06.820] right
[01:54:06.820 --> 01:54:07.860] create ability
[01:54:07.860 --> 01:54:09.600] and we create ability
[01:54:11.140 --> 01:54:13.160] and you create your ability
[01:54:13.840 --> 01:54:15.420] along the lines of that
[01:54:15.420 --> 01:54:16.300] which you intend
[01:54:18.700 --> 01:54:20.400] we also accept the fact
[01:54:20.400 --> 01:54:22.260] that there would be opposition
[01:54:22.260 --> 01:54:23.300] and negativity
[01:54:23.300 --> 01:54:24.840] if you can't have opposition
[01:54:24.840 --> 01:54:26.600] you can't have negativity
[01:54:26.600 --> 01:54:28.920] you can't put a handle on it
[01:54:28.920 --> 01:54:30.360] that's when I hear people say
[01:54:30.360 --> 01:54:32.220] I don't want to be with negative people
[01:54:32.220 --> 01:54:33.620] man you might be a president
[01:54:33.620 --> 01:54:34.420] of a record company
[01:54:34.420 --> 01:54:35.600] and he's negative as hell
[01:54:35.600 --> 01:54:37.120] how you gonna deal with it
[01:54:37.120 --> 01:54:39.220] that's true but gotta have that flow
[01:54:40.460 --> 01:54:42.040] I remember Eddie
[01:54:42.040 --> 01:54:44.180] Eddie had a lawyer
[01:54:44.180 --> 01:54:45.340] Eddie Kendricks had a lawyer
[01:54:45.340 --> 01:54:47.240] that was handling his solo career
[01:54:47.240 --> 01:54:48.640] I had called and left a message
[01:54:49.240 --> 01:54:51.680] and I said Eddie how's the lawyer
[01:54:51.680 --> 01:54:53.380] he said Bell did you call me
[01:54:54.560 --> 01:54:56.220] I said yeah I called you
[01:54:56.220 --> 01:54:57.180] he said
[01:54:59.810 --> 01:55:02.210] did he know what you want to talk to me about
[01:55:02.210 --> 01:55:04.210] I said no I didn't say it
[01:55:05.050 --> 01:55:06.430] but I never got to call
[01:55:06.430 --> 01:55:08.290] so you tell me how good is he
[01:55:09.530 --> 01:55:10.970] he never told me you call
[01:55:10.970 --> 01:55:13.370] he didn't know what you need to talk to me about
[01:55:13.930 --> 01:55:15.110] he didn't know what it was
[01:55:15.110 --> 01:55:16.150] it could have been something major
[01:55:16.150 --> 01:55:18.010] so you tell me how good is he
[01:55:19.790 --> 01:55:20.190] fired
[01:55:21.890 --> 01:55:23.430] you got to be sharp out here
[01:55:23.430 --> 01:55:24.550] how many artists you hear about
[01:55:24.550 --> 01:55:25.830] losing money and all that
[01:55:25.830 --> 01:55:27.750] so what I'm telling you
[01:55:27.750 --> 01:55:29.170] from the very beginning
[01:55:29.170 --> 01:55:31.690] is going to get you taken care of
[01:55:31.690 --> 01:55:32.670] across the board
[01:55:32.670 --> 01:55:35.130] because that's you as life
[01:55:35.130 --> 01:55:36.690] in dealing with anything
[01:55:36.690 --> 01:55:37.910] it's not separate
[01:55:37.910 --> 01:55:40.410] that's you operating as a spirit
[01:55:40.410 --> 01:55:41.770] in this crazy world
[01:55:44.370 --> 01:55:46.250] accept the world for what it is
[01:55:46.250 --> 01:55:47.530] accept the world for what it is
[01:55:47.530 --> 01:55:49.830] you know from a religious point of view
[01:55:49.830 --> 01:55:50.610] people say you know
[01:55:50.610 --> 01:55:52.150] you're born in sin now
[01:55:52.150 --> 01:55:53.710] you're not born in sin
[01:55:54.350 --> 01:55:56.250] your nature is not that
[01:55:57.050 --> 01:56:00.070] but you're born on a criminal planet
[01:56:00.070 --> 01:56:02.390] where everything they do is sinful
[01:56:02.390 --> 01:56:04.150] and it may you just be careful
[01:56:04.150 --> 01:56:06.350] that you don't become the effect of it
[01:56:06.350 --> 01:56:08.010] by trying to get what they got
[01:56:08.010 --> 01:56:09.190] product of your vitamin
[01:56:10.010 --> 01:56:10.550] wow
[01:56:11.470 --> 01:56:14.690] is there a artist that you see nowadays
[01:56:15.370 --> 01:56:17.250] that's well branded themselves
[01:56:18.050 --> 01:56:19.080] are you kidding me
[01:56:22.460 --> 01:56:23.250] we as kids
[01:56:24.220 --> 01:56:24.760] international
[01:56:26.340 --> 01:56:27.420] burner boy
[01:56:27.420 --> 01:56:28.240] international
[01:56:28.240 --> 01:56:29.800] most all your African artists
[01:56:30.380 --> 01:56:31.380] Chris Brown
[01:56:31.380 --> 01:56:31.960] Chris Brown
[01:56:31.960 --> 01:56:32.880] Chris Brown was smart
[01:56:32.880 --> 01:56:34.060] I want to even touch
[01:56:34.060 --> 01:56:36.120] he jumped on afro beats
[01:56:36.120 --> 01:56:37.300] whenever he started to roll
[01:56:37.300 --> 01:56:37.960] he's smart
[01:56:37.960 --> 01:56:39.760] but I understand him and Wears
[01:56:39.760 --> 01:56:41.220] have been friends for the longest
[01:56:41.220 --> 01:56:42.320] trying to do something
[01:56:42.320 --> 01:56:43.580] so that kind of
[01:56:43.580 --> 01:56:44.880] and he's so creative
[01:56:44.880 --> 01:56:47.140] so he's open to a lot of things
[01:56:47.140 --> 01:56:49.140] and that that's really good
[01:56:49.140 --> 01:56:52.060] so most of mine are African
[01:56:52.060 --> 01:56:55.280] American music to me has had its day
[01:56:56.320 --> 01:56:58.840] it's like what Miles Davis
[01:56:58.840 --> 01:57:00.980] I remember he was asked
[01:57:00.980 --> 01:57:02.360] in this documentary
[01:57:02.920 --> 01:57:05.960] uh what about the new artists
[01:57:05.960 --> 01:57:07.520] I don't see nothing happening
[01:57:07.520 --> 01:57:08.560] because they're going to college
[01:57:08.560 --> 01:57:09.880] studying what we already played
[01:57:11.340 --> 01:57:11.880] that's true
[01:57:11.880 --> 01:57:13.100] what we already did
[01:57:13.100 --> 01:57:14.900] we're still talking about R. Kelly
[01:57:14.900 --> 01:57:16.220] the king of R&B
[01:57:16.220 --> 01:57:17.800] R&B never was
[01:57:18.620 --> 01:57:20.280] how you gonna say R&B
[01:57:20.280 --> 01:57:22.460] when you can be popped out now
[01:57:22.460 --> 01:57:23.780] see that was the whole thing
[01:57:23.780 --> 01:57:24.600] a lot of R&B
[01:57:24.600 --> 01:57:25.960] we need to get over to the pop
[01:57:26.480 --> 01:57:28.020] we need to get over to the pop
[01:57:28.020 --> 01:57:28.960] so we can sell
[01:57:28.960 --> 01:57:30.260] and we can keep our deal
[01:57:30.260 --> 01:57:31.300] and we can do shows
[01:57:31.300 --> 01:57:33.520] so your so-called R&B
[01:57:33.520 --> 01:57:34.880] kind of got warded down
[01:57:34.880 --> 01:57:35.740] even R. Kelly
[01:57:35.740 --> 01:57:36.520] I'm sorry
[01:57:38.800 --> 01:57:39.900] I'm sorry
[01:57:40.880 --> 01:57:43.980] he might be classified under R&B
[01:57:44.760 --> 01:57:45.940] but soul music
[01:57:46.540 --> 01:57:48.240] haven't heard it in a while
[01:57:49.140 --> 01:57:50.600] who was the last track you heard
[01:57:50.600 --> 01:57:51.240] that was Soulful
[01:57:51.240 --> 01:57:52.320] whoo man
[01:57:52.320 --> 01:57:54.080] but see I listen to a lot of underground
[01:57:54.720 --> 01:57:56.880] I was always an underground dude
[01:57:56.880 --> 01:57:57.560] same same
[01:57:57.560 --> 01:57:59.260] yeah I was always an underground dude
[01:57:59.260 --> 01:58:01.040] because interesting enough in Cleveland
[01:58:01.040 --> 01:58:04.220] you had a radio station called WMMS
[01:58:04.220 --> 01:58:07.220] later on it became mostly like rock
[01:58:07.220 --> 01:58:08.680] it was called a buzzer
[01:58:08.680 --> 01:58:10.320] but WMMS
[01:58:10.320 --> 01:58:13.000] their DJs didn't have a playlist
[01:58:13.580 --> 01:58:15.060] so in the 60s
[01:58:15.060 --> 01:58:17.040] you would hear R&B music
[01:58:17.040 --> 01:58:18.700] that you wouldn't hear
[01:58:18.700 --> 01:58:21.320] on your traditional R&B stations
[01:58:21.320 --> 01:58:22.960] which was WABQ
[01:58:22.960 --> 01:58:24.000] and WGMO
[01:58:24.000 --> 01:58:26.900] so there was a lot of black underground artists
[01:58:26.900 --> 01:58:29.080] that I got tuned into
[01:58:29.080 --> 01:58:31.760] whose music was far ahead
[01:58:31.760 --> 01:58:34.380] of what was being promoted commercially
[01:58:35.340 --> 01:58:37.660] Al Jarreau was a very interesting one
[01:58:37.660 --> 01:58:39.300] if I could speak of somebody
[01:58:39.300 --> 01:58:42.140] who was so far advanced artistically
[01:58:42.140 --> 01:58:43.400] that it took him so long
[01:58:43.400 --> 01:58:44.860] to the point that he didn't get signed
[01:58:44.860 --> 01:58:46.580] until he was 36 years old
[01:58:46.580 --> 01:58:49.060] because like Jarreau told me
[01:58:49.060 --> 01:58:51.420] I did a two hour interview
[01:58:51.420 --> 01:58:52.560] with Jarreau LaVert
[01:58:52.560 --> 01:58:54.140] that's going to be in the series
[01:58:55.060 --> 01:58:56.960] a year before he passed away
[01:58:56.960 --> 01:58:58.520] and Jarreau said this
[01:58:58.520 --> 01:58:59.560] you got to remember
[01:58:59.560 --> 01:59:01.740] the people that run the record companies
[01:59:02.360 --> 01:59:03.500] they're not creative
[01:59:03.500 --> 01:59:05.580] it could have been the janitor
[01:59:05.580 --> 01:59:07.800] who been around for the company for 40 years
[01:59:07.800 --> 01:59:09.360] their things are dollars
[01:59:09.360 --> 01:59:11.200] they don't deal with creativity
[01:59:11.200 --> 01:59:12.200] that's why I say
[01:59:12.200 --> 01:59:13.620] it's the greatest time in the world
[01:59:13.620 --> 01:59:14.580] to be an artist
[01:59:14.580 --> 01:59:16.700] because you can be creative
[01:59:17.240 --> 01:59:18.280] as you want to be
[01:59:18.280 --> 01:59:20.040] and I suggest that you do
[01:59:20.040 --> 01:59:21.720] so that you be distinguishable
[01:59:23.460 --> 01:59:25.100] brand yourself correctly
[01:59:25.840 --> 01:59:27.300] and it'll take care of you
[01:59:27.300 --> 01:59:28.980] because see you're talking about
[01:59:28.980 --> 01:59:29.920] making a living
[01:59:30.460 --> 01:59:31.960] and they tell me
[01:59:31.960 --> 01:59:33.960] you only get $4,000
[01:59:33.960 --> 01:59:35.620] off of a million streams
[01:59:39.040 --> 01:59:41.000] $4,000 from a million streams
[01:59:41.000 --> 01:59:42.500] how you going to live on that
[01:59:42.500 --> 01:59:45.580] hey and like what we used to say
[01:59:45.960 --> 01:59:48.020] and we had competition in our groups
[01:59:48.020 --> 01:59:49.760] don't bother us live
[01:59:49.760 --> 01:59:51.820] we'll smoke you off the stage
[01:59:51.820 --> 01:59:52.520] why?
[01:59:52.860 --> 01:59:53.900] because we want to come back
[01:59:53.900 --> 01:59:54.760] again and again
[01:59:54.760 --> 01:59:55.740] so our performance
[01:59:56.580 --> 01:59:58.240] is so important to us
[01:59:58.240 --> 01:59:59.480] that's why Charlie Wilson
[01:59:59.480 --> 02:00:00.940] that's why he's so popular
[02:00:00.940 --> 02:00:03.400] that era of entertainment
[02:00:03.400 --> 02:00:05.140] how popular is Charlie
[02:00:05.140 --> 02:00:06.820] because I'm telling you stuff
[02:00:06.820 --> 02:00:07.760] you can look at
[02:00:07.760 --> 02:00:08.740] that's why
[02:00:09.240 --> 02:00:10.480] that's why Charlie is
[02:00:10.480 --> 02:00:11.320] that's why
[02:00:11.320 --> 02:00:12.580] that's his appeal
[02:00:13.860 --> 02:00:15.960] he has that panache
[02:00:17.080 --> 02:00:18.540] you can sing all day
[02:00:18.540 --> 02:00:19.720] you can sing a billion runs
[02:00:19.720 --> 02:00:20.540] you know these kids
[02:00:20.540 --> 02:00:22.100] they go to the school of arts
[02:00:22.100 --> 02:00:23.480] I see singers stand up
[02:00:23.480 --> 02:00:24.560] I don't see performers
[02:00:27.790 --> 02:00:28.750] right again
[02:00:28.750 --> 02:00:30.650] I can stay home and listen to the real track
[02:00:31.650 --> 02:00:34.350] who was your favorite performer growing up?
[02:00:35.110 --> 02:00:35.450] now?
[02:00:36.370 --> 02:00:36.970] growing up
[02:00:37.410 --> 02:00:38.630] you know it had to be
[02:00:38.630 --> 02:00:41.310] Eddie Kendrick, Paul Williams, Al Jarreau
[02:00:41.310 --> 02:00:42.890] DJ Rogers
[02:00:42.890 --> 02:00:44.510] who else can I name
[02:00:44.510 --> 02:00:46.350] because there was a lot of underground people
[02:00:46.350 --> 02:00:47.750] that people may not know
[02:00:47.750 --> 02:00:48.990] Walter Heath
[02:00:48.990 --> 02:00:52.790] Walter Heath is actually a Facebook friend of mine
[02:00:53.250 --> 02:00:55.770] you know Walter Heath
[02:00:55.770 --> 02:00:57.810] I don't know if you ever heard of
[02:00:58.310 --> 02:00:59.550] Sills and Croft
[02:00:59.550 --> 02:01:00.330] no
[02:01:00.330 --> 02:01:00.970] they were big
[02:01:00.970 --> 02:01:03.030] they wrote Summer Breeze
[02:01:03.030 --> 02:01:04.870] Summer Breeze make me feel so good
[02:01:04.870 --> 02:01:05.590] and the Isley Brothers
[02:01:05.590 --> 02:01:05.950] we did
[02:01:05.950 --> 02:01:07.670] Sills and Croft had a bunch of
[02:01:07.670 --> 02:01:08.070] Diamond Girl
[02:01:08.070 --> 02:01:09.110] they had a bunch of music
[02:01:09.110 --> 02:01:11.190] I think Walter married one of their sisters
[02:01:11.190 --> 02:01:11.890] but Walter
[02:01:11.890 --> 02:01:12.970] like I was saying
[02:01:12.970 --> 02:01:13.730] consciousness
[02:01:13.730 --> 02:01:15.890] you know drugs was a big thing
[02:01:15.890 --> 02:01:17.130] in the 60s
[02:01:17.130 --> 02:01:17.810] in the writing
[02:01:17.810 --> 02:01:19.150] Walter had a song called
[02:01:19.150 --> 02:01:20.650] You Know You're Wrong Don't You Brother
[02:01:20.650 --> 02:01:22.530] you say you believe in the Bible
[02:01:22.530 --> 02:01:24.490] but you got to get down with survival
[02:01:24.490 --> 02:01:27.510] you say you're full of love for the human race
[02:01:27.510 --> 02:01:29.990] still you got to do your thing in the marketplace
[02:01:30.330 --> 02:01:33.470] you ride around in a brand new car
[02:01:33.470 --> 02:01:36.470] but anybody can see the sorry fool you are
[02:01:36.470 --> 02:01:39.710] and then you have the nerve enough to try and say
[02:01:39.710 --> 02:01:41.930] that your brother's just a junkie anyway
[02:01:41.930 --> 02:01:43.950] You Know You're Wrong Don't You Brother
[02:01:43.950 --> 02:01:46.510] you're dealing death for a dollar
[02:01:46.510 --> 02:01:49.030] see this kind of consciousness
[02:01:49.030 --> 02:01:51.170] to enhance our community
[02:01:51.170 --> 02:01:53.110] you see that writing
[02:01:53.110 --> 02:01:54.870] that all that was cut off
[02:01:55.270 --> 02:01:56.650] but I tell you
[02:01:57.210 --> 02:01:58.470] if we had that
[02:01:58.470 --> 02:01:59.750] that's what's funny
[02:01:59.750 --> 02:02:01.310] music feeds
[02:02:01.310 --> 02:02:02.330] words
[02:02:02.870 --> 02:02:03.790] and therefore
[02:02:03.790 --> 02:02:04.730] you know
[02:02:04.730 --> 02:02:05.630] well I gotta wait
[02:02:05.630 --> 02:02:07.070] to go to church on Sunday
[02:02:07.070 --> 02:02:07.770] to hear it
[02:02:07.770 --> 02:02:08.850] to be inspired
[02:02:08.850 --> 02:02:09.490] no
[02:02:09.490 --> 02:02:11.650] just in your everyday living
[02:02:11.650 --> 02:02:14.010] let us talk about those states
[02:02:14.010 --> 02:02:16.670] that we're capable of reaching
[02:02:16.670 --> 02:02:19.110] so that we're on the square with one another
[02:02:20.070 --> 02:02:20.710] frequency
[02:02:20.710 --> 02:02:22.130] that's what it's about
[02:02:22.130 --> 02:02:24.490] so we're on the square with one another
[02:02:24.490 --> 02:02:26.750] so that I'm trying to help you succeed
[02:02:26.750 --> 02:02:28.570] because I know where to help me
[02:02:28.570 --> 02:02:30.210] we have that bond
[02:02:30.210 --> 02:02:31.290] you understand
[02:02:31.290 --> 02:02:32.970] or if you cross me
[02:02:32.970 --> 02:02:34.010] I'm gonna come and talk to you
[02:02:34.010 --> 02:02:35.530] and we get where however that is
[02:02:35.530 --> 02:02:36.940] but what it is
[02:02:39.490 --> 02:02:41.390] accountable to one another
[02:02:41.390 --> 02:02:43.570] because I know this for a fact
[02:02:44.430 --> 02:02:46.300] you need people to make it
[02:02:46.750 --> 02:02:48.330] you don't make it by yourself
[02:02:49.570 --> 02:02:50.650] believe that
[02:02:52.220 --> 02:02:53.740] you gotta love people
[02:02:54.860 --> 02:02:57.360] to me you gotta love people to succeed
[02:02:58.500 --> 02:03:00.320] because you're gonna deal with all kinds
[02:03:03.260 --> 02:03:03.820] yeah
[02:03:04.920 --> 02:03:07.420] you want to speak about the importance of relationships
[02:03:07.420 --> 02:03:08.460] and business
[02:03:08.460 --> 02:03:09.860] the importance of relationships
[02:03:09.860 --> 02:03:12.360] well I have to get into
[02:03:12.780 --> 02:03:14.460] how you choose your people
[02:03:14.460 --> 02:03:15.740] it's very important
[02:03:15.740 --> 02:03:17.280] on how you choose your people
[02:03:17.280 --> 02:03:18.540] you see what I'm saying
[02:03:18.540 --> 02:03:19.880] a lot of times
[02:03:19.880 --> 02:03:21.180] we get people
[02:03:21.180 --> 02:03:22.780] because our circumstances
[02:03:22.780 --> 02:03:24.420] may choose them for us
[02:03:25.200 --> 02:03:25.660] you see
[02:03:25.660 --> 02:03:27.800] but how you choose your people
[02:03:27.800 --> 02:03:28.820] is very important
[02:03:28.820 --> 02:03:31.040] but how can you be correct
[02:03:31.040 --> 02:03:32.620] on choosing your people
[02:03:32.620 --> 02:03:34.220] when you gotta be correct
[02:03:34.220 --> 02:03:36.480] about being communicating with yourself
[02:03:36.480 --> 02:03:38.020] and what you intend
[02:03:38.540 --> 02:03:39.180] makes sense
[02:03:40.240 --> 02:03:41.460] communicate with yourself
[02:03:43.060 --> 02:03:44.240] communicate with yourself
[02:03:44.240 --> 02:03:45.580] it's very important
[02:03:45.580 --> 02:03:48.140] to be on the one with yourself
[02:03:49.020 --> 02:03:49.660] because
[02:03:50.620 --> 02:03:52.760] if you're not on the one with yourself
[02:03:52.760 --> 02:03:55.140] how are you gonna be that in a relationship
[02:03:56.320 --> 02:03:57.200] and then
[02:03:58.000 --> 02:03:59.900] let's move it further
[02:04:00.400 --> 02:04:02.740] and say if you're not on the one with yourself
[02:04:02.740 --> 02:04:05.960] and you're not good on the one in one
[02:04:05.960 --> 02:04:08.000] how you gonna be good in a group
[02:04:09.160 --> 02:04:09.660] huh
[02:04:09.660 --> 02:04:10.120] that's true
[02:04:10.120 --> 02:04:12.280] and then if you can't be good on those three
[02:04:12.280 --> 02:04:14.400] how you gonna be good for your race
[02:04:14.400 --> 02:04:16.720] and then you're not on those
[02:04:16.720 --> 02:04:18.920] how you gonna be good for mankind
[02:04:21.130 --> 02:04:21.630] relationships
[02:04:21.630 --> 02:04:23.060] that's all it's about
[02:04:24.730 --> 02:04:25.630] how many
[02:04:25.630 --> 02:04:26.270] I
[02:04:26.270 --> 02:04:29.030] to define
[02:04:31.990 --> 02:04:35.950] how well I get along
[02:04:35.950 --> 02:04:37.810] in this side of eternity
[02:04:37.810 --> 02:04:40.330] on this side of existence
[02:04:41.290 --> 02:04:43.750] is how well I dealt with what
[02:04:44.610 --> 02:04:45.850] relationships
[02:04:45.850 --> 02:04:47.250] and yourself here
[02:04:47.250 --> 02:04:47.870] right
[02:04:48.290 --> 02:04:49.550] me myself
[02:04:49.550 --> 02:04:51.390] and my integrity
[02:04:51.810 --> 02:04:53.770] when I say integrity
[02:04:53.770 --> 02:04:56.050] that's wholeness of self
[02:04:56.050 --> 02:04:59.670] that's my own self-created truth
[02:04:59.670 --> 02:05:01.450] that I must live by
[02:05:02.150 --> 02:05:02.990] regardless
[02:05:02.990 --> 02:05:06.670] or what somebody else says or done
[02:05:06.670 --> 02:05:09.390] my integrity may speak to me and say
[02:05:09.390 --> 02:05:11.110] no don't do that
[02:05:11.110 --> 02:05:13.810] even though that may advance you
[02:05:13.810 --> 02:05:15.930] but don't step on that person
[02:05:15.930 --> 02:05:17.430] to get ahead
[02:05:17.430 --> 02:05:18.990] that's integrity
[02:05:18.990 --> 02:05:19.670] why
[02:05:19.670 --> 02:05:22.310] because the faith in myself
[02:05:22.310 --> 02:05:24.570] I believe in my destiny
[02:05:25.220 --> 02:05:28.270] and who could bother my destiny if it's destiny
[02:05:29.050 --> 02:05:31.170] I make my decisions
[02:05:31.170 --> 02:05:33.710] or I'm the effect of something
[02:05:33.710 --> 02:05:35.090] that I'm not aware of
[02:05:35.090 --> 02:05:36.950] and it makes my decision for me
[02:05:36.950 --> 02:05:38.410] and I think it's me
[02:05:38.920 --> 02:05:40.290] then I'm in trouble
[02:05:41.910 --> 02:05:43.310] be objective
[02:05:43.310 --> 02:05:44.330] be clear
[02:05:44.330 --> 02:05:45.380] in all things
[02:05:45.990 --> 02:05:48.250] you know it's very easy
[02:05:48.250 --> 02:05:50.350] when you think about relationships
[02:05:50.350 --> 02:05:51.330] you go
[02:05:52.800 --> 02:05:53.720] do unto others
[02:05:55.360 --> 02:05:59.360] it sounds so preachy or churchy but
[02:05:59.360 --> 02:06:01.960] want for others what you want for yourself
[02:06:01.960 --> 02:06:03.140] it's enough
[02:06:05.800 --> 02:06:07.780] for me love is wisdom
[02:06:09.600 --> 02:06:11.080] wisdom is love
[02:06:11.080 --> 02:06:12.060] people think
[02:06:12.760 --> 02:06:14.100] that you're weak
[02:06:14.100 --> 02:06:15.380] but listen
[02:06:16.100 --> 02:06:18.000] if you put it all out there
[02:06:19.140 --> 02:06:20.780] it won't take you to loan
[02:06:20.780 --> 02:06:22.120] to find out who's who
[02:06:22.120 --> 02:06:23.620] appreciate and who don't
[02:06:23.620 --> 02:06:25.320] and then once you find that out
[02:06:25.320 --> 02:06:26.920] don't say what they should have done
[02:06:27.280 --> 02:06:28.540] say what they did
[02:06:28.540 --> 02:06:30.460] and then deal with it the way it is
[02:06:31.700 --> 02:06:33.120] love is wisdom
[02:06:34.280 --> 02:06:35.780] if you know you
[02:06:35.780 --> 02:06:36.920] periods you can be in love
[02:06:38.020 --> 02:06:40.640] it's easy to read that which is not about it
[02:06:42.320 --> 02:06:42.840] huh
[02:06:42.840 --> 02:06:43.920] because people say
[02:06:44.880 --> 02:06:45.920] so much
[02:06:47.680 --> 02:06:49.200] but we got to look at what you do
[02:06:50.600 --> 02:06:51.560] the actions
[02:06:54.800 --> 02:06:55.320] yeah
[02:06:56.240 --> 02:06:57.060] that's true
[02:06:57.060 --> 02:06:58.580] you want to do this again
[02:06:58.580 --> 02:06:59.780] then we cover it
[02:07:00.860 --> 02:07:02.560] no you got it all
[02:07:02.560 --> 02:07:04.020] I do want to speak about
[02:07:04.760 --> 02:07:06.380] I feel like Michael Jackson
[02:07:06.380 --> 02:07:08.560] one of the greatest entertainers
[02:07:08.560 --> 02:07:10.200] and business person
[02:07:10.200 --> 02:07:11.020] performers
[02:07:11.020 --> 02:07:11.780] yeah
[02:07:11.780 --> 02:07:13.000] and Kassang also
[02:07:13.000 --> 02:07:13.540] yeah
[02:07:13.540 --> 02:07:15.000] and to like modern times
[02:07:15.000 --> 02:07:15.980] I feel like Chris Brown
[02:07:15.980 --> 02:07:17.680] kind of engulfed that
[02:07:17.680 --> 02:07:19.660] and now he's charging BIP
[02:07:19.660 --> 02:07:21.480] a thousand dollars to take a picture
[02:07:21.480 --> 02:07:22.440] yeah
[02:07:22.440 --> 02:07:23.500] is that good Brandon?
[02:07:23.960 --> 02:07:25.200] of course it is
[02:07:25.940 --> 02:07:26.820] why wouldn't it be
[02:07:27.460 --> 02:07:29.820] okay because here's the thing about branding
[02:07:30.940 --> 02:07:33.760] that's when you find out how much your fans love you
[02:07:34.420 --> 02:07:36.560] if they pay a thousand dollars
[02:07:37.260 --> 02:07:38.760] he doesn't know whether or not
[02:07:38.760 --> 02:07:40.500] they took pop bottles to get the money
[02:07:40.500 --> 02:07:41.860] or they had to struggle
[02:07:41.860 --> 02:07:43.240] that's their last thousand
[02:07:43.240 --> 02:07:44.360] he doesn't know that
[02:07:44.360 --> 02:07:46.860] that's up to the individual to know that
[02:07:46.860 --> 02:07:49.080] can I afford that meet and greet?
[02:07:50.260 --> 02:07:52.440] can I afford a thousand dollar meet and greet?
[02:07:52.780 --> 02:07:54.720] depends on how fanatical you are
[02:07:56.980 --> 02:07:57.500] huh
[02:07:58.780 --> 02:08:01.280] depends on how fanatical you are
[02:08:01.280 --> 02:08:03.560] I'm gonna take my last thousand dollars
[02:08:03.560 --> 02:08:04.860] that I got in the bank
[02:08:04.860 --> 02:08:06.340] and do a meet and greet
[02:08:06.340 --> 02:08:07.480] with Chris Brown
[02:08:07.480 --> 02:08:08.700] I would say I'm fanatical
[02:08:10.020 --> 02:08:11.080] how about you?
[02:08:11.900 --> 02:08:12.880] that's the truth
[02:08:14.280 --> 02:08:16.900] I do want to build themselves up to be
[02:08:16.900 --> 02:08:19.720] or have that courage to charge a thousand dollars
[02:08:20.380 --> 02:08:20.940] how?
[02:08:21.540 --> 02:08:22.200] that's not a guess
[02:08:22.200 --> 02:08:22.920] before the show
[02:08:22.920 --> 02:08:24.020] that's not a guess
[02:08:24.700 --> 02:08:26.840] you got statistics in business
[02:08:26.840 --> 02:08:28.260] what's a guess?
[02:08:29.180 --> 02:08:30.300] what's a guess?
[02:08:31.200 --> 02:08:32.450] let's take a look at this
[02:08:33.260 --> 02:08:37.190] how broad is Chris Brown's fan base?
[02:08:38.400 --> 02:08:41.280] what are the ages who love Chris Brown?
[02:08:43.150 --> 02:08:43.930] what's his appeal?
[02:08:44.310 --> 02:08:45.090] all races?
[02:08:46.350 --> 02:08:47.910] so marketing says
[02:08:47.910 --> 02:08:50.050] you're gonna get seven percent
[02:08:50.050 --> 02:08:51.770] or whatever your crowd is
[02:08:52.490 --> 02:08:53.910] so if you're looking at a cat
[02:08:53.910 --> 02:08:54.970] with a billion dollar
[02:08:54.970 --> 02:08:56.690] billion people loving him
[02:08:56.690 --> 02:08:57.990] seven percent ain't bad
[02:08:57.990 --> 02:08:58.750] it's not
[02:09:02.880 --> 02:09:04.740] that's content marketing
[02:09:04.740 --> 02:09:05.560] content marketing
[02:09:05.560 --> 02:09:07.080] seven percent
[02:09:07.080 --> 02:09:08.550] that's when I was talking about
[02:09:10.380 --> 02:09:11.200] GoFundMe
[02:09:11.200 --> 02:09:12.510] and I was talking about
[02:09:12.840 --> 02:09:15.440] the email before I got sidetracked
[02:09:15.440 --> 02:09:17.740] so somebody said to you
[02:09:17.740 --> 02:09:21.680] how much money are you trying to raise
[02:09:21.680 --> 02:09:22.820] in the GoFundMe?
[02:09:23.180 --> 02:09:25.880] well I need ten thousand dollars
[02:09:26.440 --> 02:09:27.020] okay
[02:09:27.020 --> 02:09:29.680] my email is gonna dictate
[02:09:29.680 --> 02:09:31.640] how realistic that is
[02:09:31.640 --> 02:09:33.180] my email capture
[02:09:33.180 --> 02:09:34.380] I got all
[02:09:34.380 --> 02:09:35.420] I got 50 people
[02:09:37.350 --> 02:09:38.810] that know about me
[02:09:38.810 --> 02:09:41.290] that I can promote my GoFundMe to
[02:09:41.290 --> 02:09:43.530] it's ten thousand dollars realistic
[02:09:46.300 --> 02:09:47.520] look at your fan base
[02:09:47.520 --> 02:09:48.600] I got 50 people
[02:09:48.600 --> 02:09:49.720] you're not getting ten thousand
[02:09:49.720 --> 02:09:52.480] your crowd source dictates
[02:09:52.480 --> 02:09:56.870] what your advances are gonna be
[02:09:56.870 --> 02:09:57.730] so you got
[02:09:58.350 --> 02:09:59.110] and then
[02:09:59.110 --> 02:10:01.490] then when I remember when I did
[02:10:02.030 --> 02:10:02.990] money issues
[02:10:02.990 --> 02:10:05.530] was was my first release
[02:10:05.530 --> 02:10:07.610] I did that in the 90s
[02:10:08.190 --> 02:10:09.190] late 90s
[02:10:09.190 --> 02:10:11.470] and I remember going to get it pressed up
[02:10:12.790 --> 02:10:15.370] and the guy that was doing my art illustration
[02:10:16.050 --> 02:10:18.230] we were talking about likes and numbers
[02:10:18.230 --> 02:10:19.290] and all that
[02:10:19.290 --> 02:10:21.430] and he said let me show you something
[02:10:22.170 --> 02:10:25.290] and he showed me a guy in this city man
[02:10:25.290 --> 02:10:26.150] a artist
[02:10:26.150 --> 02:10:28.270] man he was the man
[02:10:29.170 --> 02:10:30.970] as far as followers
[02:10:30.970 --> 02:10:32.590] likes and whatever
[02:10:34.090 --> 02:10:35.810] it wasn't reflected by the people
[02:10:35.810 --> 02:10:37.030] who bought his merchandise
[02:10:41.000 --> 02:10:42.300] what bridge is that
[02:10:43.720 --> 02:10:44.200] branding
[02:10:47.160 --> 02:10:48.860] you can have a million followers
[02:10:48.860 --> 02:10:50.100] but you won't know who's who
[02:10:50.100 --> 02:10:51.240] until it's time to buy
[02:10:51.240 --> 02:10:52.620] it's like Facebook
[02:10:52.620 --> 02:10:53.780] oh you got a lot of followers
[02:10:53.780 --> 02:10:55.500] yeah but until it's time to buy
[02:10:55.500 --> 02:10:55.940] right
[02:10:55.940 --> 02:10:57.800] I appreciate it
[02:10:57.800 --> 02:10:59.400] but until it's time to buy
[02:11:02.320 --> 02:11:03.760] if they don't buy
[02:11:03.760 --> 02:11:05.700] who can I look at
[02:11:05.700 --> 02:11:07.920] me the brander
[02:11:07.920 --> 02:11:08.460] the brander
[02:11:11.020 --> 02:11:13.180] so so knowing what you know today
[02:11:13.180 --> 02:11:16.200] how would you brand yourself tomorrow
[02:11:16.200 --> 02:11:17.560] would it stay the same
[02:11:17.560 --> 02:11:18.480] or would you change some things
[02:11:18.480 --> 02:11:19.460] well see this is what
[02:11:19.460 --> 02:11:22.680] this is what you have to look at
[02:11:22.680 --> 02:11:24.840] Nike are they changing their brand
[02:11:24.840 --> 02:11:26.760] it's still just do it
[02:11:27.630 --> 02:11:29.920] and they're consistent with what they're selling
[02:11:29.920 --> 02:11:31.100] you're not changing
[02:11:31.100 --> 02:11:32.680] once you find your brand
[02:11:32.680 --> 02:11:34.970] you consistently give that
[02:11:37.060 --> 02:11:38.410] what you create
[02:11:39.420 --> 02:11:41.320] must be the visibility
[02:11:41.980 --> 02:11:43.040] of your brand
[02:11:43.180 --> 02:11:44.810] what you say you're about
[02:11:46.920 --> 02:11:47.420] remember
[02:11:47.940 --> 02:11:50.600] a brand answers the question
[02:11:51.360 --> 02:11:53.150] why should I have what you
[02:11:53.840 --> 02:11:54.940] have to offer
[02:11:55.500 --> 02:11:56.460] in my life
[02:11:56.460 --> 02:11:57.340] it's a million people
[02:11:57.340 --> 02:11:58.360] doing what you're doing
[02:11:59.320 --> 02:12:01.120] so how much thought you need to give
[02:12:01.120 --> 02:12:02.160] you got to get to give it
[02:12:02.160 --> 02:12:03.840] something that's close to what you're about
[02:12:03.840 --> 02:12:05.320] because it's only you about
[02:12:05.320 --> 02:12:06.740] that's that can be repeated
[02:12:06.740 --> 02:12:08.230] because that's what you know about
[02:12:09.180 --> 02:12:10.880] okay you can get to know about
[02:12:10.880 --> 02:12:12.700] more than anything else is you
[02:12:13.180 --> 02:12:15.140] it's almost like it's not
[02:12:16.120 --> 02:12:16.760] separate
[02:12:17.780 --> 02:12:19.600] and as a creative person
[02:12:19.600 --> 02:12:20.160] that's cool
[02:12:20.160 --> 02:12:23.320] the music what I'm about is all one
[02:12:23.320 --> 02:12:25.640] it's all a creative process
[02:12:26.300 --> 02:12:28.360] I have to dig in to know what I'm about
[02:12:29.730 --> 02:12:31.850] I can't be phony with it
[02:12:31.850 --> 02:12:33.150] I don't want to be
[02:12:33.150 --> 02:12:35.390] I can't consistently do phony
[02:12:36.490 --> 02:12:39.710] I can do the real Mike Bell
[02:12:39.710 --> 02:12:41.710] or the real peerless
[02:12:41.710 --> 02:12:43.010] being right wrong
[02:12:43.010 --> 02:12:43.670] mm-hmm
[02:12:45.620 --> 02:12:46.220] yeah
[02:12:46.220 --> 02:12:47.240] that's true
[02:12:47.240 --> 02:12:48.160] you have to be
[02:12:48.160 --> 02:12:49.380] you have to be
[02:12:49.380 --> 02:12:51.160] so faith in self
[02:12:51.160 --> 02:12:53.800] it always comes back down
[02:12:53.800 --> 02:12:54.620] to one doesn't it
[02:12:54.620 --> 02:12:56.340] out of everything that I've been saying
[02:12:56.340 --> 02:12:56.920] that's true
[02:12:56.920 --> 02:12:57.840] faith in self
[02:12:59.240 --> 02:13:00.440] be objective
[02:13:00.440 --> 02:13:02.740] be clear on your intentions
[02:13:02.740 --> 02:13:04.660] and get on with it
[02:13:09.910 --> 02:13:12.250] now 50 to 100 years from now
[02:13:13.250 --> 02:13:14.730] when people talk about
[02:13:14.730 --> 02:13:16.050] Mike Bell senior
[02:13:16.050 --> 02:13:17.370] what are some of those things
[02:13:17.370 --> 02:13:18.210] you want them to say
[02:13:18.210 --> 02:13:19.990] it depends on what I leave
[02:13:22.900 --> 02:13:24.960] I can't talk about that now
[02:13:24.960 --> 02:13:26.500] because I'm still in operation
[02:13:27.780 --> 02:13:30.400] and what I intend to leave
[02:13:31.120 --> 02:13:33.120] if I leave it
[02:13:33.820 --> 02:13:35.400] I know what they're going to say
[02:13:36.080 --> 02:13:38.560] or I know what they're going to feel
[02:13:38.560 --> 02:13:41.400] even if they don't say it
[02:13:43.120 --> 02:13:46.940] because that must be generated in me
[02:13:47.280 --> 02:13:49.340] even before it's expressed out
[02:13:49.340 --> 02:13:50.820] because that's what you feel
[02:13:50.820 --> 02:13:51.760] in all creations
[02:13:51.760 --> 02:13:53.820] whether you're conscious of it or not
[02:13:53.820 --> 02:13:55.220] you'll feel the vibrations
[02:13:55.220 --> 02:13:57.700] I had a
[02:13:57.700 --> 02:13:58.840] what people would call
[02:13:58.840 --> 02:14:00.100] psychic clairvoyant woman
[02:14:00.100 --> 02:14:01.480] came in my life when I was 19
[02:14:01.480 --> 02:14:02.380] I was supposed to have
[02:14:02.380 --> 02:14:03.300] she told me I was supposed
[02:14:03.300 --> 02:14:04.620] to have been with her
[02:14:05.240 --> 02:14:07.400] and she said to me
[02:14:07.400 --> 02:14:09.220] that you are
[02:14:09.220 --> 02:14:11.860] a celestial artist
[02:14:14.750 --> 02:14:15.590] you understand
[02:14:16.350 --> 02:14:17.490] of the spirit
[02:14:18.030 --> 02:14:18.650] so that's
[02:14:19.110 --> 02:14:21.310] and I must give things of the spirit
[02:14:21.310 --> 02:14:23.110] to enhance
[02:14:23.730 --> 02:14:25.410] others life force
[02:14:26.810 --> 02:14:28.270] because everyone needs
[02:14:28.270 --> 02:14:30.290] their life force enhanced
[02:14:30.290 --> 02:14:31.450] am I right
[02:14:31.790 --> 02:14:33.730] your life force is that
[02:14:33.730 --> 02:14:34.690] they keep you going
[02:14:34.690 --> 02:14:36.470] all of us need stuff
[02:14:36.470 --> 02:14:38.470] that keep us going truly
[02:14:38.470 --> 02:14:40.110] especially now
[02:14:41.740 --> 02:14:44.380] there's so much dysfunction
[02:14:46.260 --> 02:14:47.800] in the society that we live in
[02:14:47.800 --> 02:14:49.840] see my view as an artist
[02:14:50.580 --> 02:14:52.200] is broader than a record deal
[02:14:52.200 --> 02:14:53.680] and plus I'm 72
[02:14:54.780 --> 02:14:57.200] I'm not looking to be signed to a label
[02:14:59.400 --> 02:15:00.280] you know what I mean
[02:15:00.280 --> 02:15:01.680] I'm I'm youthful
[02:15:01.680 --> 02:15:03.300] and can probably do more things
[02:15:03.300 --> 02:15:05.160] than you people half my age
[02:15:05.160 --> 02:15:06.160] I know that for a fact
[02:15:06.160 --> 02:15:06.880] true true
[02:15:07.560 --> 02:15:08.560] you know what I'm saying
[02:15:08.560 --> 02:15:09.840] I know that for a fact
[02:15:10.800 --> 02:15:12.520] but at this age
[02:15:12.520 --> 02:15:15.020] don't want somebody controlling me
[02:15:17.100 --> 02:15:18.940] not unless the playing field is even
[02:15:20.540 --> 02:15:22.180] so to the youth
[02:15:22.180 --> 02:15:24.160] make sure your playing field
[02:15:24.160 --> 02:15:26.260] is even before you jump in
[02:15:26.900 --> 02:15:28.400] or don't jump in
[02:15:28.640 --> 02:15:30.580] because how many of you hear from the stories
[02:15:30.580 --> 02:15:32.120] that end up with no money
[02:15:32.120 --> 02:15:33.760] do for self
[02:15:33.760 --> 02:15:35.920] this is the greatest time in the world
[02:15:35.920 --> 02:15:37.260] to be anything
[02:15:37.260 --> 02:15:38.740] with the internet
[02:15:38.740 --> 02:15:40.780] everybody should have a brand
[02:15:41.800 --> 02:15:42.400] everybody
[02:15:42.400 --> 02:15:44.200] when jobs get up out the way
[02:15:44.200 --> 02:15:44.980] there's the internet
[02:15:44.980 --> 02:15:46.580] that's a global market
[02:15:46.580 --> 02:15:49.840] we we haven't even scratched the surface
[02:15:49.840 --> 02:15:51.300] when you want to talk about
[02:15:51.300 --> 02:15:53.000] the money that's on there
[02:15:53.000 --> 02:15:55.460] man I was in my studies
[02:15:56.460 --> 02:15:58.620] these guys they kept raising money
[02:15:58.620 --> 02:16:00.600] for something they were trying to get off
[02:16:01.360 --> 02:16:03.440] it was some kind of computer
[02:16:05.940 --> 02:16:07.680] program or something they were doing
[02:16:08.240 --> 02:16:09.840] and I kept reading about it
[02:16:09.840 --> 02:16:12.460] and they were able to raise millions
[02:16:12.460 --> 02:16:13.800] lose it
[02:16:13.800 --> 02:16:14.520] raise millions
[02:16:14.520 --> 02:16:15.960] in the private sector
[02:16:15.960 --> 02:16:17.580] until they had to go public
[02:16:17.580 --> 02:16:19.220] and what happened
[02:16:21.060 --> 02:16:22.700] they had already predicted
[02:16:22.700 --> 02:16:24.200] in five years
[02:16:24.200 --> 02:16:26.860] they would have three billion dollars
[02:16:27.940 --> 02:16:30.500] and he came home one day
[02:16:31.240 --> 02:16:33.719] and his wife was watching television
[02:16:33.719 --> 02:16:35.240] she was crying
[02:16:38.600 --> 02:16:40.600] and he said what's the matter
[02:16:40.600 --> 02:16:42.860] she was pointing to the television
[02:16:43.420 --> 02:16:46.370] the very thing that they were getting ready to sell
[02:16:47.340 --> 02:16:49.830] in the five years to make the three billion
[02:16:50.420 --> 02:16:53.860] Microsoft just came out with it for free
[02:16:56.510 --> 02:16:58.129] back to the drawing board
[02:16:59.049 --> 02:17:02.190] now that's enough to knock the wind out of your sails
[02:17:02.270 --> 02:17:03.709] but if you believe
[02:17:05.549 --> 02:17:07.030] and you have intention
[02:17:08.660 --> 02:17:10.799] you can surmount even that
[02:17:10.799 --> 02:17:13.120] because time is nothing but a consideration
[02:17:14.559 --> 02:17:15.860] why do I say that
[02:17:16.320 --> 02:17:17.200] take two people
[02:17:17.760 --> 02:17:19.320] come from the same environment
[02:17:19.320 --> 02:17:20.280] the same schooling
[02:17:20.280 --> 02:17:22.520] they both decide to be authors
[02:17:22.520 --> 02:17:23.340] they go to college
[02:17:23.340 --> 02:17:24.480] they get a deal
[02:17:24.480 --> 02:17:26.660] why is it that one can write
[02:17:26.660 --> 02:17:28.480] five books in 10 years
[02:17:28.480 --> 02:17:30.059] and let's say it's the same quality
[02:17:30.580 --> 02:17:32.840] why is it that one can write five
[02:17:32.840 --> 02:17:34.620] and one could write nine
[02:17:35.540 --> 02:17:37.420] you know what the difference is
[02:17:37.959 --> 02:17:39.160] the one that wrote nine
[02:17:39.160 --> 02:17:40.879] consider that he could write nine
[02:17:42.420 --> 02:17:46.719] your considerations are senior over time
[02:17:49.500 --> 02:17:50.760] because that's all it is
[02:17:50.760 --> 02:17:52.000] is a consideration
[02:17:53.420 --> 02:17:54.959] what you consider
[02:17:55.700 --> 02:17:57.360] is your own self-truth
[02:17:58.940 --> 02:18:00.280] believe in yourself
[02:18:00.280 --> 02:18:02.500] so you can believe in your intentions
[02:18:03.080 --> 02:18:04.820] and you can get on with it
[02:18:07.740 --> 02:18:10.070] so as we start to wrap up
[02:18:10.480 --> 02:18:11.940] I know you spoke about
[02:18:11.940 --> 02:18:14.520] Cleveland almost becoming a national act
[02:18:14.520 --> 02:18:15.740] what stopped that
[02:18:16.299 --> 02:18:17.360] like I said
[02:18:17.360 --> 02:18:19.120] we didn't work together
[02:18:19.660 --> 02:18:20.780] we didn't work together
[02:18:21.879 --> 02:18:23.400] that's the bottom line
[02:18:23.400 --> 02:18:24.879] we just it takes unity
[02:18:25.389 --> 02:18:26.540] I don't care
[02:18:27.340 --> 02:18:28.700] you can have an idea
[02:18:28.700 --> 02:18:30.180] just like me
[02:18:30.180 --> 02:18:31.600] I can have an idea
[02:18:31.600 --> 02:18:32.830] and I can know
[02:18:33.200 --> 02:18:35.500] every position that it takes
[02:18:35.500 --> 02:18:36.879] to get it done
[02:18:36.879 --> 02:18:38.700] but I can't do it all
[02:18:38.700 --> 02:18:41.040] so therefore you need people
[02:18:41.840 --> 02:18:43.020] if you could delegate
[02:18:43.020 --> 02:18:44.360] for lack of a better word
[02:18:44.360 --> 02:18:45.120] do this
[02:18:45.120 --> 02:18:47.100] you can't do everything
[02:18:47.100 --> 02:18:49.020] you need people
[02:18:49.740 --> 02:18:50.740] when they say
[02:18:51.280 --> 02:18:53.040] you can't make it by yourself
[02:18:54.620 --> 02:18:55.980] that's the truth
[02:18:58.000 --> 02:18:59.280] you can't
[02:18:59.280 --> 02:19:00.299] and if you're not good
[02:19:00.299 --> 02:19:01.440] with relationships
[02:19:02.160 --> 02:19:02.860] you won't
[02:19:05.719 --> 02:19:06.620] Paul told me that
[02:19:06.620 --> 02:19:08.320] Mike you're going to make it
[02:19:08.320 --> 02:19:09.459] but first you got to learn
[02:19:09.459 --> 02:19:10.639] how to talk to people
[02:19:10.639 --> 02:19:11.860] and I was like
[02:19:11.860 --> 02:19:12.900] I know he ain't talking to me
[02:19:12.900 --> 02:19:13.920] the way he talked to me
[02:19:13.920 --> 02:19:16.040] but I understood it
[02:19:17.580 --> 02:19:18.959] and I speak about legacy
[02:19:18.959 --> 02:19:21.059] what would you want your legacy to be
[02:19:24.290 --> 02:19:25.110] you better still continue
[02:19:25.110 --> 02:19:26.150] it's going to go back
[02:19:27.590 --> 02:19:29.870] to that which I create
[02:19:30.830 --> 02:19:32.549] and then I can do it no more
[02:19:32.549 --> 02:19:33.750] and that which I left
[02:19:36.209 --> 02:19:37.570] that will speak
[02:19:38.350 --> 02:19:39.870] instead of me saying
[02:19:41.950 --> 02:19:46.540] because for me
[02:19:46.540 --> 02:19:48.840] would I put it in words
[02:19:49.880 --> 02:19:51.600] I would want to leave
[02:19:51.600 --> 02:19:52.900] a certain spirit
[02:19:54.240 --> 02:19:55.880] you know what I mean
[02:19:56.520 --> 02:19:57.840] a certain spirit
[02:19:58.840 --> 02:20:00.500] who could I use that
[02:20:00.500 --> 02:20:01.760] as an example
[02:20:01.760 --> 02:20:02.800] to say
[02:20:02.800 --> 02:20:03.980] we love
[02:20:03.980 --> 02:20:05.440] just simple like this
[02:20:05.440 --> 02:20:07.770] we love the spirit of the man
[02:20:16.160 --> 02:20:18.250] anything that he had to offer
[02:20:18.620 --> 02:20:19.700] he offered
[02:20:21.750 --> 02:20:22.940] to help
[02:20:23.890 --> 02:20:25.230] along the way
[02:20:30.220 --> 02:20:31.130] a spirit
[02:20:31.770 --> 02:20:33.890] it may not tune into that spirit
[02:20:33.890 --> 02:20:35.550] but for me
[02:20:35.550 --> 02:20:37.230] my intentions
[02:20:37.850 --> 02:20:38.750] will speak
[02:20:39.370 --> 02:20:40.020] for me
[02:20:41.810 --> 02:20:42.710] because you know
[02:20:42.710 --> 02:20:43.540] people have different
[02:20:44.470 --> 02:20:45.050] perceptions
[02:20:45.050 --> 02:20:47.130] conclusions about things
[02:20:47.130 --> 02:20:48.110] but integrity
[02:20:48.110 --> 02:20:49.450] that's why I live with integrity
[02:20:49.450 --> 02:20:51.810] the closest I can now
[02:20:51.810 --> 02:20:52.310] right
[02:20:52.310 --> 02:20:53.490] so I have to worry about my
[02:20:53.490 --> 02:20:54.730] what the legacy would be like
[02:20:54.730 --> 02:20:55.870] because I know how I lived
[02:20:55.870 --> 02:20:58.010] I mean even saying that
[02:20:58.650 --> 02:21:00.010] going back to Brandon
[02:21:00.010 --> 02:21:02.370] people have different brands
[02:21:03.210 --> 02:21:04.170] what do you mean different brands
[02:21:04.890 --> 02:21:05.910] and in their head
[02:21:05.910 --> 02:21:06.810] every individual
[02:21:06.810 --> 02:21:08.510] has a different brand
[02:21:09.130 --> 02:21:09.710] of you
[02:21:09.710 --> 02:21:10.710] what is a brand
[02:21:11.850 --> 02:21:12.810] to me
[02:21:12.810 --> 02:21:13.810] it's identity
[02:21:13.810 --> 02:21:14.970] the reflection
[02:21:14.970 --> 02:21:15.870] communication
[02:21:15.870 --> 02:21:16.330] but in business
[02:21:17.030 --> 02:21:19.550] a brand answers the question
[02:21:20.090 --> 02:21:21.570] why do I need
[02:21:21.570 --> 02:21:23.050] what you have to offer
[02:21:23.050 --> 02:21:24.450] in my life
[02:21:24.450 --> 02:21:26.090] so a person that's branding
[02:21:26.090 --> 02:21:27.050] would have to know
[02:21:27.050 --> 02:21:28.190] what they have
[02:21:28.190 --> 02:21:29.990] that a person could define it
[02:21:30.730 --> 02:21:32.370] that takes some soul searching
[02:21:32.370 --> 02:21:33.030] doesn't it
[02:21:33.030 --> 02:21:33.430] it do
[02:21:33.430 --> 02:21:34.410] all right then
[02:21:34.410 --> 02:21:36.530] so even before you can speak on
[02:21:36.530 --> 02:21:37.630] that you have to know
[02:21:37.630 --> 02:21:38.570] that's branding
[02:21:39.110 --> 02:21:41.290] and that takes a minute to get to
[02:21:41.290 --> 02:21:43.270] and then once you get to it
[02:21:43.270 --> 02:21:44.610] then the light comes on
[02:21:44.610 --> 02:21:46.170] and then you follow that light
[02:21:46.750 --> 02:21:48.710] and create along that light
[02:21:49.350 --> 02:21:51.530] but that light must come to you first
[02:21:54.290 --> 02:21:55.890] it's a soul thing
[02:21:57.370 --> 02:21:59.350] you can look at it business-wise
[02:21:59.350 --> 02:22:00.930] but you have to go into your
[02:22:00.930 --> 02:22:02.390] inner self to pull it out
[02:22:02.390 --> 02:22:02.990] that's true
[02:22:03.550 --> 02:22:05.030] so let's say it's spiritual
[02:22:05.030 --> 02:22:06.510] let's say it's living
[02:22:07.170 --> 02:22:09.190] how close are you to your spirit
[02:22:09.190 --> 02:22:10.470] what your spirit about
[02:22:10.470 --> 02:22:11.410] what's it good about
[02:22:11.410 --> 02:22:13.650] I hear you what you're professing
[02:22:13.650 --> 02:22:15.370] what your brand is going to tell me
[02:22:15.370 --> 02:22:16.350] I hear what you're professing
[02:22:17.750 --> 02:22:20.030] what does your brand speak
[02:22:24.640 --> 02:22:26.360] this has been amazing
[02:22:27.740 --> 02:22:28.960] is there something
[02:22:28.960 --> 02:22:30.440] that I didn't ask
[02:22:30.440 --> 02:22:31.500] that I should have asked
[02:22:31.500 --> 02:22:32.920] no but you can always come back
[02:22:32.920 --> 02:22:34.880] if you find people want to know more
[02:22:34.880 --> 02:22:35.660] I'm coming back
[02:22:35.660 --> 02:22:36.760] you know we can talk
[02:22:36.760 --> 02:22:38.320] if you find that throughout this
[02:22:38.320 --> 02:22:39.500] it was a lot of questions
[02:22:39.500 --> 02:22:40.400] or whatever
[02:22:40.400 --> 02:22:41.760] or some people wanted some things
[02:22:41.760 --> 02:22:42.420] cleared up
[02:22:42.780 --> 02:22:43.780] you know we fan
[02:22:43.780 --> 02:22:44.840] you've been a strange
[02:22:44.840 --> 02:22:45.840] but I mean we fan
[02:22:48.640 --> 02:22:50.520] that is that is true
[02:22:50.520 --> 02:22:51.560] you know okay
[02:22:52.540 --> 02:22:53.940] I appreciate this
[02:22:53.940 --> 02:22:54.660] surely
[02:22:54.660 --> 02:22:56.200] as we've wrapped
[02:22:56.200 --> 02:22:57.500] I definitely want to
[02:22:57.500 --> 02:22:58.700] again give you your flowers
[02:22:58.700 --> 02:23:00.000] and thank you for sending down
[02:23:00.000 --> 02:23:00.880] spending this time
[02:23:01.720 --> 02:23:02.600] this has been a
[02:23:02.600 --> 02:23:03.400] still cultivating
[02:23:03.400 --> 02:23:04.340] I appreciate the flowers
[02:23:04.340 --> 02:23:05.640] I'm still planting seeds
[02:23:05.660 --> 02:23:06.980] still planting seeds
[02:23:06.980 --> 02:23:08.400] fruition yes
[02:23:08.400 --> 02:23:10.420] even with that it takes time to grow
[02:23:10.420 --> 02:23:11.280] yes sir
[02:23:12.220 --> 02:23:14.300] it's definitely been a master class
[02:23:14.300 --> 02:23:14.720] okay
[02:23:14.720 --> 02:23:15.780] only for me
[02:23:15.780 --> 02:23:16.640] but you know
[02:23:16.640 --> 02:23:17.780] I know the audience would definitely
[02:23:17.780 --> 02:23:19.420] well let's hope so that it is
[02:23:19.420 --> 02:23:20.400] there again
[02:23:20.400 --> 02:23:21.160] and we'll be back
[02:23:21.160 --> 02:23:22.780] what I had to offer
[02:23:22.780 --> 02:23:25.160] I hope it enhances their lives
[02:23:26.060 --> 02:23:26.500] wow
[02:23:27.300 --> 02:23:28.720] so this is
[02:23:29.280 --> 02:23:30.380] photographer Jackson
[02:23:30.380 --> 02:23:33.440] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media
[02:23:33.440 --> 02:23:37.160] bringing you Alien Eyes Photos Industry talk
[02:23:37.160 --> 02:23:38.060] with Peerless
[02:23:38.540 --> 02:23:39.840] or maybe
[02:23:39.840 --> 02:23:40.580] that's it
[02:23:40.580 --> 02:23:41.220] Michael Bell
[02:23:41.220 --> 02:23:42.060] say yes
[02:23:42.180 --> 02:23:42.880] right
[02:23:42.880 --> 02:23:44.120] so either or
[02:23:44.640 --> 02:23:46.580] but you can find this
[02:23:46.580 --> 02:23:48.980] on all streaming platforms
[02:23:48.980 --> 02:23:49.580] audio
[02:23:49.580 --> 02:23:51.420] and YouTube is being funky
[02:23:51.420 --> 02:23:53.320] but we're gonna be on YouTube soon
[02:23:54.160 --> 02:23:55.980] and you can find me over
[02:23:55.980 --> 02:23:59.140] at alieneyesphotos.com
[02:23:59.140 --> 02:24:01.920] that's alieneyesphotos.com
[02:24:01.920 --> 02:24:04.220] and follow me on all social media
[02:24:05.100 --> 02:24:05.820] alieneyesphotos
[02:24:05.820 --> 02:24:08.100] that's alieneyes with a Z
[02:24:08.100 --> 02:24:09.860] and photos with a S
[02:24:09.860 --> 02:24:11.300] and where can people find you
[02:24:11.300 --> 02:24:13.040] Facebook Michael Bell Senior
[02:24:13.040 --> 02:24:14.040] Instagram
[02:24:14.040 --> 02:24:15.620] yeah Peerless
[02:24:15.620 --> 02:24:16.600] TikTok
[02:24:16.600 --> 02:24:17.520] yeah Peerless
[02:24:18.140 --> 02:24:19.540] but right now
[02:24:19.540 --> 02:24:20.500] more to come
[02:24:20.500 --> 02:24:21.400] yes
[02:24:21.400 --> 02:24:22.940] any closing words
[02:24:22.940 --> 02:24:24.020] what would you want to lead the audience
[02:24:24.020 --> 02:24:25.900] my closing words is that
[02:24:25.900 --> 02:24:27.880] I want for you all
[02:24:27.880 --> 02:24:30.040] what I want for myself
[02:24:30.780 --> 02:24:32.840] be clear on what you want
[02:24:33.400 --> 02:24:34.500] be about it
[02:24:35.580 --> 02:24:37.080] get on with it
[02:24:38.770 --> 02:24:39.670] and that's it
[02:24:39.670 --> 02:24:40.470] that's a wrap

========================================================================
31. Erika & Paterson - Braid Connector
Season 2 · Episode 10
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/erika-paterson-braid-connector
========================================================================

[00:00:01.620 --> 00:00:07.160] Welcome, welcome, welcome to alienize photos industry talk.
[00:00:08.180 --> 00:00:10.000] I have a power couple here.
[00:00:10.740 --> 00:00:15.860] Ms. Patterson or Mr. Patterson and Ms. Erica.
[00:00:16.460 --> 00:00:17.760] First off, how y'all doing today?
[00:00:19.300 --> 00:00:19.800] Doing good.
[00:00:19.880 --> 00:00:21.380] Good, no complaints over you.
[00:00:22.280 --> 00:00:23.000] How about you?
[00:00:23.320 --> 00:00:24.980] I am great, it's amazing.
[00:00:25.180 --> 00:00:27.320] And you know, we just had a good meeting,
[00:00:27.400 --> 00:00:29.900] went over some systems and I appreciate that.
[00:00:30.320 --> 00:00:33.880] And just for the audience, the listeners,
[00:00:34.580 --> 00:00:36.400] can we talk a little about what y'all do?
[00:00:37.580 --> 00:00:40.480] Yeah, so my name is Patterson
[00:00:40.480 --> 00:00:44.060] and I am the co-founder of Braid Connector,
[00:00:44.420 --> 00:00:48.140] which is a company that helps hair stylists,
[00:00:48.340 --> 00:00:51.900] hair braiders to get found, to get more bookings.
[00:00:52.340 --> 00:00:57.900] So right now our goal is to give this skill
[00:00:57.900 --> 00:01:01.600] to many braiders, many other small business
[00:01:01.600 --> 00:01:05.980] so they can actually use AI and utilize AI to the max
[00:01:07.360 --> 00:01:09.300] to make the business grow.
[00:01:11.430 --> 00:01:11.750] Yeah.
[00:01:12.790 --> 00:01:13.370] That's amazing.
[00:01:13.990 --> 00:01:15.710] So how did y'all start this?
[00:01:15.950 --> 00:01:18.400] Like what was the initial idea for it?
[00:01:19.310 --> 00:01:19.970] Good, good.
[00:01:22.710 --> 00:01:27.010] So everything started back in 2015.
[00:01:27.750 --> 00:01:29.810] I'm originally from Burkina Faso.
[00:01:30.350 --> 00:01:32.790] I immigrated here in 2015.
[00:01:33.270 --> 00:01:35.750] I came here for school, F1 visa.
[00:01:36.190 --> 00:01:40.670] And then from that, I got interest into digital marketing
[00:01:40.670 --> 00:01:43.370] into building system for small businesses.
[00:01:43.810 --> 00:01:46.770] So I started by going to conferences,
[00:01:48.070 --> 00:01:50.950] meet other people that is in this type of space.
[00:01:51.470 --> 00:01:52.650] And then little by little,
[00:01:52.810 --> 00:01:55.370] I made my way to where I am right now.
[00:01:56.010 --> 00:01:56.610] Wow.
[00:01:57.290 --> 00:02:03.410] So my question would be, why salons?
[00:02:04.530 --> 00:02:05.770] That's a good question.
[00:02:07.070 --> 00:02:10.470] My first client ever that I got was a salons owner.
[00:02:11.570 --> 00:02:15.810] So how I got that salon was from Facebook.
[00:02:18.090 --> 00:02:21.310] When I've been in rooms where people was talking a lot
[00:02:21.310 --> 00:02:22.670] about digital marketing,
[00:02:22.670 --> 00:02:26.050] about how to help people be found online.
[00:02:26.730 --> 00:02:29.930] So the closest people around me was salons owner
[00:02:29.930 --> 00:02:31.290] because I'm African.
[00:02:31.710 --> 00:02:34.450] So there was a lot of ladies that do hair.
[00:02:34.810 --> 00:02:37.470] So that was the easiest niche to get started.
[00:02:37.930 --> 00:02:40.890] And then I also had my cousin that was doing hair.
[00:02:40.930 --> 00:02:44.870] So I literally help her to grow her own business.
[00:02:44.990 --> 00:02:46.970] Literally she was braiding in her kitchen.
[00:02:47.150 --> 00:02:49.590] So I helped her move from the kitchen
[00:02:49.590 --> 00:02:54.770] to open a new salon with more than 14 chairs and plus.
[00:02:55.130 --> 00:02:57.950] That's how I started helping salons owner.
[00:02:58.950 --> 00:03:02.510] So yeah, that's part of my initial question.
[00:03:02.850 --> 00:03:03.450] Why salons?
[00:03:03.490 --> 00:03:06.030] Because on the opposite end, we have barber shops.
[00:03:06.850 --> 00:03:08.930] So why salons over barber shops?
[00:03:09.710 --> 00:03:09.730] Yeah.
[00:03:11.410 --> 00:03:13.010] First, because I feel like
[00:03:14.310 --> 00:03:17.570] when it comes to hair treatment for ladies,
[00:03:18.190 --> 00:03:20.670] they pay more than the barber shop.
[00:03:20.990 --> 00:03:21.630] Is that true Erika?
[00:03:21.830 --> 00:03:24.070] Yes, to be a woman is expensive.
[00:03:25.050 --> 00:03:26.970] It is, it's more expensive than a man.
[00:03:27.550 --> 00:03:29.530] Just in comparison, he'll go to the barber
[00:03:29.530 --> 00:03:32.130] and get a haircut and it's like $40.
[00:03:33.790 --> 00:03:35.570] That's two braids in my head.
[00:03:36.230 --> 00:03:38.690] So I go to the salon, I get my hair done
[00:03:38.690 --> 00:03:40.010] and it's like $300.
[00:03:40.870 --> 00:03:43.670] And then on top of that, women get their nails done,
[00:03:43.790 --> 00:03:46.030] women get their eyebrows done, women wear makeup.
[00:03:46.030 --> 00:03:48.310] It's all these other things that women do.
[00:03:48.470 --> 00:03:51.950] So like the beauty industry is a thing
[00:03:51.950 --> 00:03:54.910] that is gonna never go away, especially for women
[00:03:54.910 --> 00:03:57.530] because most women care about how they look
[00:03:58.170 --> 00:04:00.370] and getting your hair done is a part of that.
[00:04:00.710 --> 00:04:01.730] And women like to feel good.
[00:04:01.770 --> 00:04:03.670] And the first thing they do is get their hair done
[00:04:04.290 --> 00:04:06.150] because you just wanna feel good,
[00:04:06.150 --> 00:04:07.070] you wanna look good.
[00:04:08.250 --> 00:04:10.730] And yeah, it's expensive to be a woman.
[00:04:11.290 --> 00:04:12.210] It's expensive to be a woman.
[00:04:12.210 --> 00:04:14.750] That might be the title, it's expensive to be a woman.
[00:04:15.910 --> 00:04:20.450] And also I felt like my service would provide
[00:04:20.450 --> 00:04:25.030] more benefit to the women because let's be real,
[00:04:25.050 --> 00:04:28.110] if I help a barbershop to get more booking,
[00:04:28.470 --> 00:04:29.570] at the end of the month,
[00:04:29.570 --> 00:04:33.030] you will still struggle to pay for the services
[00:04:33.030 --> 00:04:36.730] because the service that you offer to other people
[00:04:36.730 --> 00:04:40.970] might be a little bit low because they need
[00:04:40.970 --> 00:04:43.870] to actually cut more hair to make more money.
[00:04:43.870 --> 00:04:49.430] So that's why I'd rather work with ladies
[00:04:49.430 --> 00:04:53.650] that do hair, lup t-shirts, and yeah.
[00:04:54.710 --> 00:04:58.570] Wow, and you bring up a good point about the,
[00:04:58.850 --> 00:05:01.630] you need to cut more hair as a barber
[00:05:01.630 --> 00:05:04.130] to pay for the services.
[00:05:04.790 --> 00:05:09.190] And my thing is, I kinda said to myself
[00:05:09.190 --> 00:05:12.310] a few months ago, let me make a big goal.
[00:05:12.310 --> 00:05:13.670] I wanna make my first million.
[00:05:14.370 --> 00:05:17.190] And I know we was going over funnels and systems earlier
[00:05:17.190 --> 00:05:18.950] and I was like, I need to niche down.
[00:05:19.110 --> 00:05:21.310] But I also thought about it,
[00:05:21.750 --> 00:05:23.650] will photography make me my first million?
[00:05:24.410 --> 00:05:26.650] So it was like something that I was reflecting on
[00:05:26.650 --> 00:05:28.670] and questioning myself like, hmm.
[00:05:29.170 --> 00:05:31.510] Cause yeah, I could make a million through photography
[00:05:31.510 --> 00:05:33.650] but I'd be burnt out and tired.
[00:05:33.950 --> 00:05:35.550] So it was like, I don't wanna do that.
[00:05:35.570 --> 00:05:38.310] So it was kinda like I wanna be peaceful as I do it.
[00:05:38.610 --> 00:05:41.170] So I'm kinda looking more in the educational space
[00:05:41.170 --> 00:05:44.250] and building out courses, you know, so.
[00:05:44.370 --> 00:05:46.050] And teaching other people what you do.
[00:05:46.490 --> 00:05:46.890] Exactly.
[00:05:47.870 --> 00:05:50.350] So something I'm stumbling upon
[00:05:50.350 --> 00:05:52.890] and that's why I didn't niche down
[00:05:52.890 --> 00:05:54.870] or build out the systems like I'm supposed to
[00:05:54.870 --> 00:05:57.130] cause it's like, hmm, I could, hmm.
[00:05:57.530 --> 00:06:01.030] It's my business but will it make me my first million?
[00:06:03.450 --> 00:06:07.550] I believe yes, it's a great industry
[00:06:07.550 --> 00:06:10.270] because right now we're recording, so.
[00:06:10.270 --> 00:06:10.890] That's true.
[00:06:10.890 --> 00:06:12.810] Something that will not go away.
[00:06:13.130 --> 00:06:14.870] People will still need to be friendable.
[00:06:14.950 --> 00:06:17.270] People will still need to tell their story.
[00:06:17.930 --> 00:06:19.070] And then what you do,
[00:06:19.210 --> 00:06:20.730] it's something that is really needed.
[00:06:20.830 --> 00:06:23.510] You just gotta keep going up.
[00:06:23.890 --> 00:06:25.090] You're already there, man.
[00:06:25.170 --> 00:06:25.910] You're already there.
[00:06:25.930 --> 00:06:26.690] Oh yeah, I like it.
[00:06:26.690 --> 00:06:27.390] Thank you, thank you.
[00:06:27.410 --> 00:06:29.870] People love photos because photos are memories.
[00:06:30.370 --> 00:06:32.170] So you gotta see it as that.
[00:06:32.690 --> 00:06:35.630] Like who wouldn't have a photographer at their wedding?
[00:06:36.630 --> 00:06:37.890] Who's gonna take the pictures?
[00:06:37.990 --> 00:06:38.850] Somebody with the iPhone.
[00:06:38.850 --> 00:06:41.730] You're gonna want them to have those photos
[00:06:41.730 --> 00:06:43.110] for the rest of your life.
[00:06:43.750 --> 00:06:45.770] So that's how I look at it, photos are memories.
[00:06:45.830 --> 00:06:48.230] So I'm always like big on my take a picture,
[00:06:48.350 --> 00:06:49.050] take a picture.
[00:06:49.290 --> 00:06:50.770] Even if we're doing the smallest things,
[00:06:50.770 --> 00:06:52.570] I always take pictures because that's nice.
[00:06:52.730 --> 00:06:54.410] At one point in your life,
[00:06:54.450 --> 00:06:55.470] that might be all you have
[00:06:55.470 --> 00:06:58.290] of who you're taking a picture of too, so.
[00:06:58.510 --> 00:07:00.270] So when was y'all first picture?
[00:07:01.370 --> 00:07:02.690] Our first date.
[00:07:03.510 --> 00:07:04.310] Y'all first date?
[00:07:04.690 --> 00:07:06.790] Yeah, we took a picture the second day we met.
[00:07:06.830 --> 00:07:07.450] Like a selfie?
[00:07:08.030 --> 00:07:11.510] Yep, we still have that picture, so I remember 2015.
[00:07:13.250 --> 00:07:16.970] Yeah, yeah, we met through a mutual friend at the time.
[00:07:18.850 --> 00:07:21.610] Crazy because I was just like minding my business,
[00:07:21.610 --> 00:07:23.950] going home, I was not looking for nothing.
[00:07:24.490 --> 00:07:26.490] And my friend texted me like,
[00:07:26.550 --> 00:07:27.550] hey, you wanna meet this guy?
[00:07:27.590 --> 00:07:28.990] She was dating one of his friends.
[00:07:29.450 --> 00:07:30.330] And I was like, sure.
[00:07:30.470 --> 00:07:32.010] And it happened to be right up the block
[00:07:32.010 --> 00:07:33.050] from my mom's house.
[00:07:33.550 --> 00:07:35.110] It was crazy because I was like what?
[00:07:35.150 --> 00:07:36.190] But I was moving out.
[00:07:36.190 --> 00:07:38.650] So I wasn't really paying attention all around.
[00:07:39.810 --> 00:07:40.550] And literally I was like,
[00:07:40.550 --> 00:07:42.050] oh yeah, I'm coming, it's right up the block.
[00:07:42.070 --> 00:07:43.130] I just have to walk there.
[00:07:43.170 --> 00:07:45.690] I'm from Harlem, so New York City up the block
[00:07:45.690 --> 00:07:47.010] is literally up the block.
[00:07:48.050 --> 00:07:52.430] So yeah, we met and then we literally been together
[00:07:52.430 --> 00:07:53.790] ever since the first day we met.
[00:07:55.010 --> 00:07:57.530] So yeah, and our second date was when we took a selfie.
[00:07:57.970 --> 00:07:59.490] We went to go eat and we took a picture.
[00:08:00.090 --> 00:08:01.690] That's nice, wow.
[00:08:02.460 --> 00:08:07.230] So that sounds like a word of my referral.
[00:08:08.450 --> 00:08:11.350] So even going back to the salons,
[00:08:11.710 --> 00:08:14.390] like a lot of salons do word of mouth and referrals.
[00:08:14.910 --> 00:08:17.830] So how did you get them to find a value
[00:08:17.830 --> 00:08:19.350] in systems and like funnels?
[00:08:21.790 --> 00:08:24.070] Because let me start something.
[00:08:24.570 --> 00:08:26.310] Because a lot of businesses,
[00:08:26.830 --> 00:08:28.790] they only focusing on growing
[00:08:28.790 --> 00:08:30.630] without having the good foundation
[00:08:30.630 --> 00:08:34.110] and having a business is basically the foundation of your,
[00:08:34.710 --> 00:08:36.690] like having a system
[00:08:36.690 --> 00:08:38.770] is basically the foundation of your business.
[00:08:39.650 --> 00:08:42.010] Let's say if you build a house, right?
[00:08:42.010 --> 00:08:43.690] And then there is a leak on the roof,
[00:08:44.210 --> 00:08:47.810] but you now worrying about fixing the leak on the roof
[00:08:47.810 --> 00:08:50.950] and then you're trying to like change the paint inside.
[00:08:51.110 --> 00:08:53.410] You're trying to like maybe change the windows
[00:08:53.410 --> 00:08:54.050] and all that.
[00:08:54.250 --> 00:08:55.270] It doesn't really matter
[00:08:55.270 --> 00:08:57.510] because all these things will still get wet
[00:08:57.510 --> 00:08:58.710] when it rains, right?
[00:08:58.710 --> 00:09:01.790] So a lot of stylists, a lot of salons owner
[00:09:01.790 --> 00:09:04.650] don't really take the time to really
[00:09:05.350 --> 00:09:07.710] like do an assessment of their business.
[00:09:07.910 --> 00:09:10.070] The only thing that getting more clients
[00:09:10.070 --> 00:09:11.550] will make the business grow.
[00:09:11.930 --> 00:09:13.450] And then they're not really taking care
[00:09:13.450 --> 00:09:14.550] of like the foundation.
[00:09:14.850 --> 00:09:18.310] They need a proper way of contacting back those leads
[00:09:18.310 --> 00:09:22.490] when like let's say somebody working in your business,
[00:09:22.950 --> 00:09:24.470] like in your air salon.
[00:09:25.110 --> 00:09:28.370] You want to have this person phone number
[00:09:28.840 --> 00:09:31.130] so you can contact that person later.
[00:09:31.370 --> 00:09:33.390] Some of them do it manually.
[00:09:33.870 --> 00:09:37.670] That's why sometimes they end up burned out
[00:09:37.670 --> 00:09:40.270] because they have to like do everything manually.
[00:09:40.830 --> 00:09:43.870] They have to remind for the next appointment manually.
[00:09:45.530 --> 00:09:48.190] So a system is really needed for them.
[00:09:48.570 --> 00:09:51.630] So that's how we align our service.
[00:09:51.770 --> 00:09:54.210] So when people are finding them online
[00:09:54.210 --> 00:09:56.630] or they're just walking into their shop,
[00:09:56.630 --> 00:09:59.970] they can actually get those clients' data
[00:09:59.970 --> 00:10:03.110] so they can contact them back again and again.
[00:10:03.670 --> 00:10:04.290] Wow.
[00:10:04.690 --> 00:10:06.290] So what is the biggest mistake
[00:10:06.290 --> 00:10:08.370] most salon owners make with marketing?
[00:10:10.070 --> 00:10:10.770] With marketing?
[00:10:14.320 --> 00:10:18.420] I would say the bigger mistake that most salons make
[00:10:18.420 --> 00:10:21.140] is to do not nurture the client.
[00:10:21.920 --> 00:10:25.280] The only thing that this client came right now,
[00:10:25.380 --> 00:10:26.340] they did their hair,
[00:10:26.340 --> 00:10:29.180] they do not contact them back later.
[00:10:29.180 --> 00:10:32.880] They do not send them like a text message
[00:10:32.880 --> 00:10:35.280] two, three months later reminding them
[00:10:35.280 --> 00:10:38.360] that they can come to do their hair service.
[00:10:38.940 --> 00:10:41.260] Like let's say, for example, like Amazon,
[00:10:42.020 --> 00:10:44.040] how many times do you receive text messages
[00:10:44.040 --> 00:10:47.300] in your phone from Amazon or from Target?
[00:10:47.720 --> 00:10:48.500] You know, right, right.
[00:10:48.820 --> 00:10:52.760] Before those tools was expensive for small businesses
[00:10:52.760 --> 00:10:55.480] but nowadays with AI, everything is accessible.
[00:10:55.480 --> 00:11:00.980] So it's really not costly to have this type of system
[00:11:00.980 --> 00:11:01.880] for your business.
[00:11:02.620 --> 00:11:05.340] So that's one of the biggest mistakes that they do.
[00:11:05.400 --> 00:11:07.460] They do not really having,
[00:11:07.580 --> 00:11:09.520] they do not have like a proper system
[00:11:09.520 --> 00:11:11.880] to like nurture those clients
[00:11:11.880 --> 00:11:14.080] so they can become like lawyer clients
[00:11:14.080 --> 00:11:15.900] and stay with them forever.
[00:11:16.140 --> 00:11:17.340] I wanna add to that
[00:11:17.340 --> 00:11:20.540] because I went to get my hair done by someone.
[00:11:20.640 --> 00:11:21.760] I usually do my own hair.
[00:11:22.140 --> 00:11:23.880] So by this time I went to get my hair done
[00:11:23.880 --> 00:11:25.600] and I was like, let me see if I could like,
[00:11:25.600 --> 00:11:28.300] talk to her and tell her what I do and everything.
[00:11:28.860 --> 00:11:31.820] And she was just didn't wanna talk.
[00:11:31.860 --> 00:11:32.620] And I could get back
[00:11:32.620 --> 00:11:34.080] cause not everybody's having a good day.
[00:11:34.540 --> 00:11:37.440] But like she didn't ask where I found her.
[00:11:37.500 --> 00:11:39.140] She didn't ask like,
[00:11:39.560 --> 00:11:41.440] if she could follow me on Instagram
[00:11:41.440 --> 00:11:42.540] or anything like that,
[00:11:42.540 --> 00:11:44.340] just to wait for her to contact me back.
[00:11:44.660 --> 00:11:48.220] So I'm like, you just don't care about your business
[00:11:48.220 --> 00:11:50.400] cause she did a great job and I would go back.
[00:11:50.980 --> 00:11:53.800] But just like customer service plays a huge role
[00:11:53.800 --> 00:11:54.400] in it as well.
[00:11:54.840 --> 00:11:56.240] Like, how are you with your clients?
[00:11:56.420 --> 00:11:57.780] I get everyone has a bad day.
[00:11:57.860 --> 00:11:59.440] Everyone doesn't wanna talk all the time
[00:11:59.440 --> 00:12:02.620] but at least like small talk, acknowledging
[00:12:02.620 --> 00:12:04.880] like them coming to see you
[00:12:04.880 --> 00:12:06.380] like just asking certain questions.
[00:12:06.420 --> 00:12:07.580] Like, how did you find me?
[00:12:07.860 --> 00:12:09.840] Do you mind if I have your number
[00:12:09.840 --> 00:12:12.060] or a way to contact you back in the future?
[00:12:12.360 --> 00:12:14.360] Leaving me a five-star review on Google.
[00:12:14.860 --> 00:12:16.280] Like any of those things matter
[00:12:16.280 --> 00:12:18.160] because it shows that you care about your business.
[00:12:18.520 --> 00:12:19.680] If somebody doesn't do that,
[00:12:19.760 --> 00:12:21.040] it's like you don't even,
[00:12:21.100 --> 00:12:23.220] you're just doing hair to do hair, I guess.
[00:12:23.220 --> 00:12:24.480] You're just making money from it.
[00:12:24.740 --> 00:12:26.060] It could be that too.
[00:12:27.260 --> 00:12:29.600] But as me personally, I would have like,
[00:12:29.700 --> 00:12:31.000] you know, I would have told you where I found you
[00:12:31.000 --> 00:12:32.060] cause that's good for you to know.
[00:12:32.500 --> 00:12:34.860] Like, where did you, how did somebody just find you?
[00:12:34.920 --> 00:12:36.100] I don't, you don't know me.
[00:12:36.100 --> 00:12:36.720] I don't know you.
[00:12:36.740 --> 00:12:38.040] That's like the reverse question.
[00:12:38.240 --> 00:12:39.980] You should ask the customer coming in
[00:12:39.980 --> 00:12:41.120] is how did you find me?
[00:12:41.240 --> 00:12:42.120] And it did the ads.
[00:12:42.320 --> 00:12:43.840] It could be looking them up on Instagram.
[00:12:43.900 --> 00:12:44.980] It could be a Google search.
[00:12:45.140 --> 00:12:46.120] There's so many different ways.
[00:12:46.880 --> 00:12:49.320] But as a business owner, salon owner,
[00:12:49.420 --> 00:12:50.860] that is like, should be your first question.
[00:12:50.860 --> 00:12:54.140] Just so you know the data in your head, you know?
[00:12:55.640 --> 00:12:56.740] And this is wild.
[00:12:57.200 --> 00:12:58.640] And you said the nurture process
[00:12:58.640 --> 00:13:01.440] and you would think that it would be different
[00:13:01.440 --> 00:13:04.520] because females are nurturers, you know, naturally.
[00:13:05.000 --> 00:13:06.680] So that's, that's critical.
[00:13:06.740 --> 00:13:09.320] And like you said, the money's in the data.
[00:13:09.500 --> 00:13:11.140] Like you said, yeah.
[00:13:12.540 --> 00:13:14.740] So have you ever worked with anybody
[00:13:14.740 --> 00:13:18.820] outside the salon industry or tried a different industry?
[00:13:19.700 --> 00:13:22.640] Yes, right now we are working with dentists.
[00:13:22.940 --> 00:13:26.300] We do have some couple of accounts of dentists
[00:13:26.300 --> 00:13:27.260] that we are serving.
[00:13:27.920 --> 00:13:29.480] And it was our first try
[00:13:30.760 --> 00:13:33.580] trying this type of customer avatar.
[00:13:34.320 --> 00:13:35.660] So far it's doing great.
[00:13:35.920 --> 00:13:38.340] We're able to deliver them the good results
[00:13:38.340 --> 00:13:39.040] that they want.
[00:13:41.020 --> 00:13:43.720] We did, we did a Facebook, I mean,
[00:13:43.740 --> 00:13:45.560] the online presence audit.
[00:13:45.560 --> 00:13:49.220] Then we told them how we can help them,
[00:13:49.560 --> 00:13:52.420] which means by creating their online social media,
[00:13:52.420 --> 00:13:57.180] make them more content on Instagram and also Facebook
[00:13:57.180 --> 00:13:58.900] and also running ads for them.
[00:13:59.600 --> 00:14:01.460] So those clients, those doctors
[00:14:01.460 --> 00:14:02.860] are really happy at the moment.
[00:14:02.960 --> 00:14:06.100] So I'm still holding on that.
[00:14:06.420 --> 00:14:10.820] I want to see how it is,
[00:14:11.020 --> 00:14:13.780] like how it rolls out for the next two, three months.
[00:14:13.780 --> 00:14:15.960] And from that, I will see, okay,
[00:14:16.000 --> 00:14:18.500] if I can take more of them
[00:14:18.500 --> 00:14:21.700] or if I will still stick with the salons owner.
[00:14:22.340 --> 00:14:22.820] Wow.
[00:14:23.460 --> 00:14:25.560] And who do you think market their sales better?
[00:14:25.940 --> 00:14:26.440] Which industry?
[00:14:27.320 --> 00:14:27.840] Say that again?
[00:14:28.060 --> 00:14:30.060] Which industry do you think market themselves better?
[00:14:30.780 --> 00:14:31.980] Oh, definitely the dentists.
[00:14:32.000 --> 00:14:33.120] They got big money, really.
[00:14:33.240 --> 00:14:34.880] And then they don't even bother you.
[00:14:34.880 --> 00:14:36.280] They just pay you and they tell you,
[00:14:36.500 --> 00:14:37.500] hey, do the work.
[00:14:38.160 --> 00:14:39.380] And let's make a meeting.
[00:14:39.440 --> 00:14:40.420] You can show me the work.
[00:14:40.600 --> 00:14:41.240] Cause they're busy.
[00:14:41.340 --> 00:14:41.920] They're dentists.
[00:14:42.160 --> 00:14:42.980] They're doctors.
[00:14:42.980 --> 00:14:46.240] So they have clients and they have high paying clients
[00:14:46.240 --> 00:14:48.460] because fixing your teeth costs money.
[00:14:49.760 --> 00:14:52.640] So yeah, well, we working with them was just like.
[00:14:52.820 --> 00:14:54.480] Working with them is much easier.
[00:14:54.760 --> 00:14:58.040] And then, I mean, they're strict, I will say.
[00:14:58.240 --> 00:15:00.020] They know exactly what they want.
[00:15:00.360 --> 00:15:03.320] So if you're also able to deliver those results,
[00:15:03.520 --> 00:15:04.960] everything will run out smooth.
[00:15:05.600 --> 00:15:08.420] So I like the little experience that I had
[00:15:08.420 --> 00:15:11.420] working with dentists was really good.
[00:15:11.420 --> 00:15:15.480] Cause I mean, I see a lot of, you know,
[00:15:15.640 --> 00:15:17.560] here are photos, here are videos.
[00:15:18.500 --> 00:15:19.600] So I'm just curious.
[00:15:19.820 --> 00:15:21.080] That's very interesting.
[00:15:21.740 --> 00:15:23.020] And you said ads.
[00:15:23.720 --> 00:15:25.200] Do you currently run ads for your business?
[00:15:26.140 --> 00:15:28.400] Yes, we do run ads for our business
[00:15:28.400 --> 00:15:31.300] as we recommend our clients also run ads
[00:15:31.300 --> 00:15:34.620] because this is one of the fastest way to be found.
[00:15:35.020 --> 00:15:36.680] Like literally, I run my ad,
[00:15:36.780 --> 00:15:38.060] I see something that you like,
[00:15:38.100 --> 00:15:39.540] you click on it, then we meet.
[00:15:39.540 --> 00:15:43.240] And I also tell you how I can help you grow your business
[00:15:43.240 --> 00:15:45.940] or if I cannot help you, I also tell you,
[00:15:46.000 --> 00:15:47.580] hey, right now I cannot help you,
[00:15:47.580 --> 00:15:49.760] but here is some free resources.
[00:15:50.720 --> 00:15:52.140] Go read it.
[00:15:52.380 --> 00:15:55.260] And then, yeah, if you read it,
[00:15:55.260 --> 00:15:57.300] you can come back and then we can help you.
[00:15:57.480 --> 00:15:59.720] Because we met actually a lot of people.
[00:15:59.900 --> 00:16:02.640] There is some people that are like already there
[00:16:02.640 --> 00:16:03.520] that we can help.
[00:16:04.060 --> 00:16:06.560] And there is also people that contact us
[00:16:06.560 --> 00:16:09.460] that we cannot really help
[00:16:09.460 --> 00:16:10.940] because they're not at the level
[00:16:10.940 --> 00:16:13.280] where we can really serve them.
[00:16:13.680 --> 00:16:16.700] So we do not want to take nobody's phone
[00:16:16.700 --> 00:16:21.180] and then not being able to deliver the results.
[00:16:21.260 --> 00:16:24.200] And then it all comes to your personality
[00:16:24.200 --> 00:16:27.320] because before we even start to work together,
[00:16:27.780 --> 00:16:30.820] we do go to an assessment call.
[00:16:31.820 --> 00:16:34.840] I kind of like to work with people that I like.
[00:16:35.360 --> 00:16:38.440] So during that call, I really assess everything.
[00:16:38.440 --> 00:16:41.480] If you're cool in a thing that we can help you,
[00:16:41.520 --> 00:16:43.700] definitely we're taking you on.
[00:16:43.940 --> 00:16:46.820] But if I think that you're going to be difficult
[00:16:47.340 --> 00:16:50.580] or you expecting something that we cannot do
[00:16:50.580 --> 00:16:53.220] or you think that I will come and do all the work
[00:16:53.220 --> 00:16:54.080] for your business,
[00:16:54.520 --> 00:16:56.860] this is something that probably not going
[00:16:56.860 --> 00:16:57.880] to be a good fit.
[00:16:58.360 --> 00:17:03.340] So we also try to now work with those type of people
[00:17:03.340 --> 00:17:05.160] that expect magic.
[00:17:05.920 --> 00:17:06.520] Wow.
[00:17:08.119 --> 00:17:09.700] And I'm gonna shift gears a little bit.
[00:17:09.859 --> 00:17:11.040] I know I respect your time.
[00:17:11.140 --> 00:17:12.160] Y'all can get the babies.
[00:17:14.180 --> 00:17:17.319] Every power couple, there's roles, there's strengths,
[00:17:17.460 --> 00:17:18.160] there's weaknesses.
[00:17:19.540 --> 00:17:21.700] So how would you describe
[00:17:21.700 --> 00:17:23.839] y'all strengths, weaknesses, dynamics?
[00:17:25.160 --> 00:17:29.560] Well, we have noticed that I'm more of a planner person.
[00:17:30.100 --> 00:17:32.020] I was a teacher before we started
[00:17:32.020 --> 00:17:33.460] with Cisnes for eight years.
[00:17:33.460 --> 00:17:35.860] And as a teacher, you always have lesson plans.
[00:17:36.400 --> 00:17:37.620] You always have your things mapped up.
[00:17:37.700 --> 00:17:39.100] You always know what you're going to do
[00:17:39.100 --> 00:17:40.240] when you walk us to the classroom.
[00:17:40.560 --> 00:17:42.800] So, and just in my life, I just like planning things.
[00:17:43.000 --> 00:17:43.760] Like if we're going somewhere,
[00:17:43.760 --> 00:17:45.220] we're going on vacation, we're doing this.
[00:17:45.260 --> 00:17:47.880] I like to plan the week, the weekend,
[00:17:47.980 --> 00:17:49.560] the this, the that is just who I am.
[00:17:49.800 --> 00:17:51.460] And he's more of like a doer.
[00:17:51.740 --> 00:17:52.800] Like somebody calls him,
[00:17:52.800 --> 00:17:55.080] he just got to do what you have to do at that moment.
[00:17:55.600 --> 00:17:57.900] And it kind of stresses me a little bit,
[00:17:57.980 --> 00:18:01.000] but we noticed that whenever we sit down,
[00:18:01.120 --> 00:18:02.580] usually we do it Sunday nights,
[00:18:02.580 --> 00:18:04.860] we'll talk about what we have to do for the week.
[00:18:04.860 --> 00:18:06.280] And we write those things down,
[00:18:06.600 --> 00:18:08.940] then that's how we're able to execute it
[00:18:08.940 --> 00:18:10.680] is because we sit down, we talk,
[00:18:11.060 --> 00:18:12.540] and we've come up with that.
[00:18:12.540 --> 00:18:15.380] And that has helped us like move along with our business.
[00:18:15.960 --> 00:18:18.740] We're like, he's just fast moving.
[00:18:18.900 --> 00:18:20.240] Like something comes up, he's like,
[00:18:20.660 --> 00:18:22.120] all right, I got to do, I'm gonna take this call.
[00:18:22.380 --> 00:18:23.680] Like yesterday, it was Sunday,
[00:18:23.800 --> 00:18:25.520] he was handling business.
[00:18:26.060 --> 00:18:28.580] Like I'm running like, you know, like, and I get it.
[00:18:28.580 --> 00:18:29.260] I get it.
[00:18:29.420 --> 00:18:31.660] In some instances, it's like, why wait till Monday?
[00:18:31.660 --> 00:18:34.640] Why wait till the next day where you can get it done today?
[00:18:34.740 --> 00:18:36.480] And he's big on like, why wait?
[00:18:36.560 --> 00:18:37.000] Why wait?
[00:18:37.320 --> 00:18:39.060] And I'm like, I could do that.
[00:18:39.240 --> 00:18:40.860] I could, if it's not in the plan,
[00:18:41.100 --> 00:18:42.540] like how can it be done the next day?
[00:18:42.820 --> 00:18:44.640] But I like that he does that
[00:18:44.640 --> 00:18:46.660] because it takes it out of the way.
[00:18:47.120 --> 00:18:48.260] So if it's like a quick call,
[00:18:48.320 --> 00:18:49.960] he has to do with a client and it's on a Sunday,
[00:18:50.240 --> 00:18:52.020] he just does it because it doesn't matter.
[00:18:52.140 --> 00:18:52.800] Tomorrow's Monday.
[00:18:54.220 --> 00:18:57.520] Yeah, I kind of like to push back early in my meetings.
[00:18:57.740 --> 00:18:59.660] Like let's say if I set up a meeting with you
[00:19:00.240 --> 00:19:02.780] on Monday at 5 p.m.,
[00:19:02.780 --> 00:19:05.200] if by like, by like 1 p.m.,
[00:19:05.200 --> 00:19:06.380] I feel like I have free time,
[00:19:06.400 --> 00:19:07.860] I try to push the meeting up.
[00:19:08.040 --> 00:19:09.640] If then you're not available,
[00:19:09.840 --> 00:19:11.620] then I meet you at 5 p.m. is okay.
[00:19:11.960 --> 00:19:14.100] But I feel like this is something
[00:19:14.100 --> 00:19:15.480] that I've been doing a lot
[00:19:15.480 --> 00:19:17.680] and it's really helping me to free my time.
[00:19:18.760 --> 00:19:21.580] Because when you have a meeting with someone,
[00:19:21.580 --> 00:19:23.680] with someone, you're thinking about that.
[00:19:23.700 --> 00:19:25.320] So your head is not free.
[00:19:25.740 --> 00:19:28.460] And then you already cannot do a lot.
[00:19:28.460 --> 00:19:30.040] Like you cannot start a task
[00:19:30.040 --> 00:19:32.720] because you know that you're going to be busy soon.
[00:19:32.920 --> 00:19:35.360] So I'd rather like bring that task now,
[00:19:35.460 --> 00:19:37.240] get that task over right now
[00:19:37.240 --> 00:19:39.820] and then have my free time.
[00:19:39.940 --> 00:19:41.080] The free time. Free time keys
[00:19:41.080 --> 00:19:45.600] and learn something else or watch a podcast
[00:19:45.600 --> 00:19:46.760] or something like that.
[00:19:46.820 --> 00:19:48.400] And that's literally what he did yesterday.
[00:19:48.860 --> 00:19:50.060] He did your meetings in the morning
[00:19:50.060 --> 00:19:51.260] and then we went to the event
[00:19:51.260 --> 00:19:53.420] and then he just found a work.
[00:19:53.520 --> 00:19:54.160] So I get it.
[00:19:54.460 --> 00:19:55.460] It makes some sense.
[00:19:56.200 --> 00:20:00.280] And I wanted to add a really thank you
[00:20:00.280 --> 00:20:01.660] to Erica and my wife
[00:20:01.660 --> 00:20:04.720] because she's a really great person.
[00:20:04.900 --> 00:20:07.120] Because before she joined the company,
[00:20:07.820 --> 00:20:10.720] like it was like, I wouldn't say cows,
[00:20:11.020 --> 00:20:13.360] but he was like cows.
[00:20:13.820 --> 00:20:15.260] A cows? What's that?
[00:20:15.260 --> 00:20:16.040] Cows.
[00:20:16.740 --> 00:20:17.560] C-H-H-H-H.
[00:20:17.560 --> 00:20:18.840] Excuse my accent.
[00:20:19.420 --> 00:20:23.800] C-A-C-H-A-O-S.
[00:20:24.220 --> 00:20:24.620] Oh chaos.
[00:20:26.380 --> 00:20:26.900] Chaos.
[00:20:27.280 --> 00:20:28.480] So yes.
[00:20:30.200 --> 00:20:31.640] French is your first language.
[00:20:31.720 --> 00:20:33.260] Yeah, French is my first language.
[00:20:33.820 --> 00:20:34.360] It's okay.
[00:20:35.220 --> 00:20:37.060] So the company was like,
[00:20:37.060 --> 00:20:37.980] hoppin' down, hoppin' down,
[00:20:38.000 --> 00:20:39.820] but since she came then, listen,
[00:20:40.360 --> 00:20:42.100] it's going up and up and up.
[00:20:42.100 --> 00:20:47.580] So I really believe that she really was a big help.
[00:20:47.820 --> 00:20:51.100] She really helped when it comes to organization.
[00:20:51.380 --> 00:20:53.320] As she said, she was really good at it.
[00:20:53.480 --> 00:20:55.060] She organized our own wedding.
[00:20:55.600 --> 00:20:57.140] Even yesterday, she was a part
[00:20:57.140 --> 00:20:59.200] of like the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce.
[00:20:59.920 --> 00:21:02.420] And then she did help them with the event
[00:21:02.420 --> 00:21:05.000] because we just ran a two days event.
[00:21:05.500 --> 00:21:07.840] So we did help with the marketing over there.
[00:21:08.040 --> 00:21:10.400] We helped run ads in the local community.
[00:21:10.400 --> 00:21:12.720] We also set up the funnels
[00:21:12.720 --> 00:21:15.400] so people can actually register to come to the event.
[00:21:15.540 --> 00:21:17.120] And then we got over like, how many people?
[00:21:17.180 --> 00:21:18.580] Over 2,000 people here.
[00:21:18.580 --> 00:21:20.000] But I'd be more than that
[00:21:20.000 --> 00:21:21.760] because they ran out of wristbands.
[00:21:22.720 --> 00:21:27.020] So I'm like, I'm so proud of us for that
[00:21:27.020 --> 00:21:29.200] because they were kind of nervous
[00:21:29.200 --> 00:21:31.060] because it's a small community too.
[00:21:31.100 --> 00:21:33.140] So they were kind of nervous about the event,
[00:21:33.140 --> 00:21:34.400] but I'm like, it's going to be good
[00:21:34.400 --> 00:21:36.280] because I am on their social media.
[00:21:36.300 --> 00:21:38.180] So I post on their Facebook, Instagram.
[00:21:38.580 --> 00:21:39.880] We ran their ads.
[00:21:39.880 --> 00:21:41.220] We make their flyers.
[00:21:41.460 --> 00:21:42.820] We send emails for them.
[00:21:42.840 --> 00:21:43.680] We do all of that.
[00:21:44.320 --> 00:21:45.760] And I'm like, it's going to be good.
[00:21:45.800 --> 00:21:46.840] People were interacting.
[00:21:47.060 --> 00:21:48.680] And then when we were at the event,
[00:21:48.680 --> 00:21:49.760] we were going live.
[00:21:50.300 --> 00:21:51.860] So he was putting me on the spot
[00:21:51.860 --> 00:21:53.920] and they could be talking to all the vendors
[00:21:53.920 --> 00:21:55.540] and the people.
[00:21:55.900 --> 00:21:57.040] But it was a really great event.
[00:21:57.140 --> 00:21:58.120] It turned out amazing.
[00:21:58.480 --> 00:21:59.200] Everyone had fun.
[00:21:59.320 --> 00:21:59.960] The kids had fun.
[00:22:00.060 --> 00:22:01.960] Everyone was safe, happy.
[00:22:02.200 --> 00:22:03.740] Ended with a fireworks show.
[00:22:04.260 --> 00:22:05.440] So it was really nice.
[00:22:05.460 --> 00:22:07.420] And I'm so happy to be a part of that.
[00:22:07.440 --> 00:22:08.980] And they had a parade in the beginning.
[00:22:08.980 --> 00:22:11.960] So I'm happy to have been a part of that planning process
[00:22:11.960 --> 00:22:15.840] because it was the planner in me that had fun doing that.
[00:22:15.860 --> 00:22:18.620] And it was something that is a part of the community
[00:22:18.620 --> 00:22:20.300] that we live in and that we're a part of.
[00:22:20.720 --> 00:22:22.100] And that means a lot to me too,
[00:22:22.120 --> 00:22:23.860] like being a part of a community
[00:22:23.860 --> 00:22:27.660] and giving back and helping in ways that I can.
[00:22:28.440 --> 00:22:29.800] So yeah, it was great.
[00:22:30.220 --> 00:22:30.700] Amazing.
[00:22:31.080 --> 00:22:31.900] That's inspiring.
[00:22:32.840 --> 00:22:35.180] And as y'all speak about free time,
[00:22:36.420 --> 00:22:38.280] and it seems like y'all building towards
[00:22:38.280 --> 00:22:40.260] living life on your own terms.
[00:22:40.400 --> 00:22:42.660] So what it would ultimately look like
[00:22:42.660 --> 00:22:44.920] when y'all can live life on your own terms.
[00:22:45.000 --> 00:22:47.140] Y'all build off the business more
[00:22:47.140 --> 00:22:49.740] and can relax not to be in it so much.
[00:22:50.280 --> 00:22:51.500] What does it look like for you all?
[00:22:53.180 --> 00:22:55.260] I mean, we kind of do that now
[00:22:55.260 --> 00:22:56.740] in the way a little bit
[00:22:56.740 --> 00:22:59.100] where we kind of make our own schedule.
[00:23:00.860 --> 00:23:02.880] We work when the kids are in school
[00:23:03.460 --> 00:23:06.120] and we plan our days, we plan our weekends
[00:23:06.120 --> 00:23:08.520] where we can have that time with our kids.
[00:23:09.200 --> 00:23:11.380] And like Saturday or Sunday, we might go on a hike,
[00:23:12.000 --> 00:23:13.200] take them to the park.
[00:23:13.280 --> 00:23:14.760] Like we kind of do that.
[00:23:14.800 --> 00:23:17.740] And then I like that because,
[00:23:18.080 --> 00:23:20.020] like say for instance, to volunteer in my kid's school.
[00:23:20.400 --> 00:23:22.540] I couldn't do that if I had a nine to five
[00:23:22.540 --> 00:23:23.780] because when they're in school,
[00:23:23.780 --> 00:23:25.640] I would be at a nine to five working
[00:23:25.640 --> 00:23:27.380] where when you work for your own self,
[00:23:27.400 --> 00:23:29.520] I'm like, I can go volunteer for an hour
[00:23:29.520 --> 00:23:31.020] at her school during the book fair
[00:23:31.020 --> 00:23:33.180] because I want to be a part of that.
[00:23:33.480 --> 00:23:35.520] And if I worked at a nine to five,
[00:23:35.520 --> 00:23:36.520] I wouldn't be able to do that
[00:23:36.520 --> 00:23:38.140] because I'd be clocking in somewhere.
[00:23:39.440 --> 00:23:42.040] And yeah, so I think that
[00:23:43.400 --> 00:23:47.540] that sense of freedom of us planning our own schedule
[00:23:47.540 --> 00:23:48.600] and our own time,
[00:23:48.940 --> 00:23:51.540] I like that the best about entrepreneurship.
[00:23:52.380 --> 00:23:53.020] And yeah.
[00:23:53.420 --> 00:23:56.540] Yeah, me myself, I've never been a nine to five person.
[00:23:56.560 --> 00:23:58.560] I quit this job really quick.
[00:23:59.100 --> 00:24:01.320] So, because I felt like
[00:24:02.800 --> 00:24:05.320] going to a place and doing the same thing
[00:24:05.320 --> 00:24:07.860] over and over, I'm not this type of person.
[00:24:07.900 --> 00:24:09.800] It might be okay for someone else,
[00:24:09.800 --> 00:24:11.240] but I'm not this type of person.
[00:24:11.340 --> 00:24:12.720] I'm like, okay, what's next?
[00:24:13.380 --> 00:24:16.220] And then when I did work some nine to five,
[00:24:16.480 --> 00:24:18.760] which I didn't really last long
[00:24:19.580 --> 00:24:21.880] because I believe I'm a creative person.
[00:24:21.940 --> 00:24:25.120] I like to help you and see you succeed.
[00:24:25.360 --> 00:24:27.340] And then I see that, okay,
[00:24:27.380 --> 00:24:29.580] if I can help you and see you succeed,
[00:24:30.120 --> 00:24:32.240] why would you quit on me?
[00:24:32.260 --> 00:24:33.860] You will always want to work with me
[00:24:33.860 --> 00:24:35.880] because I helped you.
[00:24:36.100 --> 00:24:37.140] And I believe that
[00:24:38.440 --> 00:24:39.500] I rather
[00:24:40.980 --> 00:24:43.340] 1% of a hundred people
[00:24:43.340 --> 00:24:46.820] than 100% of one person.
[00:24:47.140 --> 00:24:48.540] Do you understand what I mean by that?
[00:24:48.640 --> 00:24:49.920] One more time, one more time.
[00:24:50.420 --> 00:24:54.000] I rather 1% of a hundred people
[00:24:54.000 --> 00:24:56.260] than 100% of myself.
[00:24:57.660 --> 00:24:59.460] That means I rather help other people
[00:24:59.460 --> 00:25:02.340] and get them succeed, get them the success they want
[00:25:02.340 --> 00:25:06.020] because I know that my fulfillment will come through it.
[00:25:06.020 --> 00:25:08.260] If they succeed, I will also make money.
[00:25:08.600 --> 00:25:10.440] So this is how I see it.
[00:25:10.440 --> 00:25:11.960] And then working in a nine to five,
[00:25:11.980 --> 00:25:14.440] definitely you able to do your task,
[00:25:14.480 --> 00:25:15.780] but at the end of the week
[00:25:15.780 --> 00:25:17.860] or at the end of the month, you're just a lumber.
[00:25:18.380 --> 00:25:19.520] They don't really,
[00:25:20.380 --> 00:25:22.820] they don't really care that much about you.
[00:25:23.080 --> 00:25:26.800] And then I've been in companies where literally
[00:25:26.800 --> 00:25:29.420] this guy was working there for like 12 years.
[00:25:29.600 --> 00:25:30.580] He did a small mistake.
[00:25:30.580 --> 00:25:33.260] They fired him just right from corporate,
[00:25:33.880 --> 00:25:36.780] not even knowing the real story and things like that.
[00:25:37.160 --> 00:25:39.020] So me going through all these things,
[00:25:39.240 --> 00:25:44.440] I'm like, is that really the good path to go in?
[00:25:45.460 --> 00:25:47.460] And yeah, so.
[00:25:47.640 --> 00:25:49.580] And that's also just what they teach you in America
[00:25:49.580 --> 00:25:51.460] is you're supposed to have a nine to five job
[00:25:51.460 --> 00:25:54.140] and you work hard and you get retirement
[00:25:54.140 --> 00:25:55.840] and you work for 30 years.
[00:25:56.840 --> 00:26:00.200] And it's just, it's what our parents did as well.
[00:26:00.200 --> 00:26:01.780] So it's what I saw growing up.
[00:26:02.020 --> 00:26:04.500] So you think that that is what you're supposed to do.
[00:26:04.640 --> 00:26:07.080] Go to college, get a good job, do all those things.
[00:26:07.320 --> 00:26:08.600] And I did all those things.
[00:26:08.800 --> 00:26:11.540] And when I was at my job, I was there for eight years.
[00:26:11.960 --> 00:26:14.880] I was just like, it was just tiring and exhausting.
[00:26:15.600 --> 00:26:19.000] And after a while I was like, this can't be life.
[00:26:19.240 --> 00:26:22.020] Like, this can't be our life forever
[00:26:22.020 --> 00:26:23.140] where we're just exhausted
[00:26:23.140 --> 00:26:25.440] that we can't even do anything together
[00:26:25.440 --> 00:26:27.360] or we can't do anything with our kids on the weekend
[00:26:27.360 --> 00:26:29.740] because we're tired working for someone else.
[00:26:30.400 --> 00:26:33.900] And I knew when I was praying to win my second kid
[00:26:33.900 --> 00:26:36.260] that I can't go back to this
[00:26:36.260 --> 00:26:38.480] because I'm tired and I don't even have a second kid.
[00:26:38.700 --> 00:26:40.160] So wait till the second kid come.
[00:26:40.820 --> 00:26:42.700] And since I was a teacher,
[00:26:42.960 --> 00:26:44.520] I know how much energy goes
[00:26:45.420 --> 00:26:47.400] into teaching other people's children.
[00:26:48.260 --> 00:26:49.780] And I love children.
[00:26:50.060 --> 00:26:52.020] That's always, it's still a passion of mine
[00:26:52.020 --> 00:26:53.660] of loving children and being your own kids.
[00:26:54.060 --> 00:26:56.260] But I wanted to give that energy to my own kids.
[00:26:56.700 --> 00:26:58.500] And I couldn't have this energy
[00:26:58.500 --> 00:27:00.600] for other people's kids and then come home
[00:27:00.600 --> 00:27:02.220] and do the same thing for my kids.
[00:27:02.420 --> 00:27:03.780] Like I was just too drained.
[00:27:04.540 --> 00:27:07.100] So these are my children that are gonna be my kids
[00:27:07.100 --> 00:27:08.920] for the rest of their life and my life.
[00:27:09.040 --> 00:27:12.400] And I wanted to put my energy towards them.
[00:27:12.480 --> 00:27:13.420] So now it's like,
[00:27:13.560 --> 00:27:15.520] we're doing what we have to do during the day.
[00:27:15.520 --> 00:27:16.640] And then when they come home,
[00:27:16.740 --> 00:27:18.300] it's like, boom, they have our attention.
[00:27:18.720 --> 00:27:19.540] We can play with you.
[00:27:19.540 --> 00:27:20.120] We could do this.
[00:27:20.180 --> 00:27:20.800] We could do homework.
[00:27:20.920 --> 00:27:22.400] We could go to the park if we want to.
[00:27:22.400 --> 00:27:25.660] We can do whatever because we're not drained from a job.
[00:27:25.660 --> 00:27:27.280] I'm not drained from teaching all day.
[00:27:27.940 --> 00:27:29.500] Yeah, don't get me wrong.
[00:27:29.540 --> 00:27:30.320] We're still working.
[00:27:30.440 --> 00:27:32.820] We still have some tasks to do,
[00:27:32.840 --> 00:27:34.560] but it's just on our time.
[00:27:34.900 --> 00:27:38.480] It's just that we can organize our days better.
[00:27:38.760 --> 00:27:43.040] And then we know that nobody puts a value on our time.
[00:27:43.100 --> 00:27:45.080] We can actually create our own money.
[00:27:45.720 --> 00:27:48.620] And then literally what I do
[00:27:48.620 --> 00:27:52.080] is actually what my kids see me doing.
[00:27:52.420 --> 00:27:55.360] And then as you said, we've been in,
[00:27:56.060 --> 00:27:59.140] we grow up in a household where we see parents
[00:27:59.140 --> 00:28:01.180] going to work, going to clock in.
[00:28:01.300 --> 00:28:03.240] So I will not do that.
[00:28:03.360 --> 00:28:05.140] So my kid will not see me do that.
[00:28:05.740 --> 00:28:08.700] So his wiring will be different.
[00:28:09.060 --> 00:28:10.620] So that's how I see it.
[00:28:10.740 --> 00:28:12.860] Kids literally copy what you do.
[00:28:13.380 --> 00:28:15.740] So right now my daughter, she see me on meetings.
[00:28:16.000 --> 00:28:18.740] When I go to those events, I go with her
[00:28:18.740 --> 00:28:20.860] because I want her to actually,
[00:28:22.340 --> 00:28:23.880] it needs to be her
[00:28:23.880 --> 00:28:27.060] because I learned that from one of my mentor.
[00:28:27.300 --> 00:28:28.760] I was talking to my mentor
[00:28:28.760 --> 00:28:31.140] and I asked him about his kid.
[00:28:31.480 --> 00:28:33.920] And then I was like,
[00:28:33.940 --> 00:28:36.260] oh, what about if your daughter or little one
[00:28:36.260 --> 00:28:39.900] to go get a job or something like that?
[00:28:40.320 --> 00:28:44.500] He was like, it's okay, but this is not who we are.
[00:28:44.940 --> 00:28:46.620] I was like, okay, what you mean,
[00:28:46.640 --> 00:28:47.920] this is not who you are.
[00:28:48.560 --> 00:28:51.400] And like, yeah, our family, we didn't grow up like that.
[00:28:51.400 --> 00:28:53.520] We was always entrepreneurs.
[00:28:53.520 --> 00:28:56.040] My dad was an entrepreneur, I'm an entrepreneur.
[00:28:56.400 --> 00:28:59.680] So my daughter, my wife, all our family
[00:28:59.680 --> 00:29:01.440] have this type of mindset.
[00:29:02.000 --> 00:29:06.020] So I'm like, oh, okay, definitely I'm doing this way.
[00:29:06.220 --> 00:29:08.060] I'm doing this way all in.
[00:29:08.240 --> 00:29:11.420] And I believe that it's great.
[00:29:11.620 --> 00:29:12.600] And then right now it's great.
[00:29:12.840 --> 00:29:14.540] That's what your kids see you doing.
[00:29:15.180 --> 00:29:18.280] We took our kid to the home days this weekend
[00:29:18.280 --> 00:29:20.320] and our daughter got to see us record
[00:29:20.320 --> 00:29:21.560] and be live and everything.
[00:29:21.560 --> 00:29:24.240] And at first she was like, another video?
[00:29:24.460 --> 00:29:26.560] Like she just kept, but we like, yep.
[00:29:26.700 --> 00:29:28.140] And you come with me and I can't bring her.
[00:29:28.160 --> 00:29:28.980] You want to stay with me?
[00:29:29.200 --> 00:29:30.720] You coming along, we got to go over here.
[00:29:30.760 --> 00:29:32.940] I got to take this video off to talk to the people.
[00:29:33.460 --> 00:29:35.540] So like, you know, like just give her a little heads up.
[00:29:35.580 --> 00:29:36.800] And she was just like, you know,
[00:29:36.800 --> 00:29:38.400] and I love her play and you have your fun,
[00:29:38.420 --> 00:29:40.860] but you got to see that mommy is working too.
[00:29:41.280 --> 00:29:43.960] And she saw that and yeah,
[00:29:43.960 --> 00:29:45.660] it was a good thing for her to see
[00:29:45.660 --> 00:29:47.660] because she's definitely still wrapped up
[00:29:47.660 --> 00:29:48.740] in me being a teacher.
[00:29:49.000 --> 00:29:50.720] Cause you know, she kid, she go to school
[00:29:50.720 --> 00:29:52.220] so she want me to teach at her school.
[00:29:52.340 --> 00:29:54.920] And I'm like, I teach, but this is in a different way.
[00:29:54.920 --> 00:29:55.400] That's right.
[00:29:55.780 --> 00:29:57.420] So, so yeah.
[00:29:57.940 --> 00:29:58.760] Yeah, that's amazing.
[00:29:59.260 --> 00:30:02.860] And even same here, I bring my daughter wherever I go,
[00:30:03.020 --> 00:30:04.900] different events, if it allows, you know,
[00:30:04.940 --> 00:30:05.840] depending on an event,
[00:30:06.300 --> 00:30:08.460] like I do more corporate work with entrepreneurs.
[00:30:08.520 --> 00:30:11.740] So it's more of that space versus the rowdy events.
[00:30:12.180 --> 00:30:14.560] So, and I do want to be conscious of time,
[00:30:14.580 --> 00:30:16.260] but I have so many questions.
[00:30:16.280 --> 00:30:17.800] So we gonna have to do a part two.
[00:30:18.280 --> 00:30:19.320] This is amazing.
[00:30:19.320 --> 00:30:22.380] And where can everybody follow you off
[00:30:22.380 --> 00:30:24.220] on your website, social media?
[00:30:26.220 --> 00:30:28.900] So Instagram, my personal Instagram
[00:30:28.900 --> 00:30:32.160] is underscore America one underscore.
[00:30:32.500 --> 00:30:35.480] And then the business Instagram is Bray Connector.
[00:30:36.540 --> 00:30:38.240] Simple Bray Connector, just like that.
[00:30:38.340 --> 00:30:39.220] You can find us there.
[00:30:40.420 --> 00:30:41.160] And then-
[00:30:42.000 --> 00:30:43.580] My name is on Instagram.
[00:30:43.840 --> 00:30:45.960] My name is Patterson Wadba.
[00:30:46.280 --> 00:30:49.160] And then the business is also Bray Connector.
[00:30:49.160 --> 00:30:51.060] And that's where you see it.
[00:30:51.500 --> 00:30:54.580] Nice, and y'all know me, the host,
[00:30:54.800 --> 00:30:56.560] photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson
[00:30:56.560 --> 00:30:59.720] of Alien Eyes Photos Media
[00:30:59.720 --> 00:31:02.360] and also Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:31:02.820 --> 00:31:05.060] This has been another great episode.
[00:31:05.560 --> 00:31:08.420] And you can follow me at Alien Eyes Photos
[00:31:08.420 --> 00:31:10.320] and check out more information
[00:31:10.320 --> 00:31:13.300] and book me at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:31:13.580 --> 00:31:15.660] That's Alien Eyes with a Z,
[00:31:15.820 --> 00:31:18.440] Photos with a S.com.
[00:31:18.440 --> 00:31:20.400] Stay tuned for the next one.
[00:31:20.920 --> 00:31:20.980] Peace.

========================================================================
32. From Attendee to Vendor My Podcast Summit 2026 Journey
Season 1 · Episode 38
Listen: https://youtu.be/q1M0pAPOdjs?si=BHt0MTtH9VyyDehq
========================================================================

[00:00:00.020 --> 00:00:04.880] Have you ever had an experience that blew you away?
[00:00:05.720 --> 00:00:10.860] That's what I experienced at Podcast Summit 26.
[00:00:11.200 --> 00:00:16.540] Yes, here, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
[00:00:17.300 --> 00:00:21.500] And with that being said, welcome, welcome, welcome
[00:00:21.500 --> 00:00:24.280] to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:24.280 --> 00:00:27.640] with your host, photographer Jackson Steve Jackson
[00:00:27.640 --> 00:00:30.120] of Alienize Photos Media.
[00:00:30.680 --> 00:00:31.900] Bring you another episode
[00:00:31.900 --> 00:00:34.760] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:35.580 --> 00:00:39.420] My experience here in Atlanta just blow me away
[00:00:39.420 --> 00:00:43.500] as I'm recording in the Creator Clubhouse,
[00:00:44.140 --> 00:00:47.100] home of David Shins and a lot of other creators
[00:00:47.100 --> 00:00:49.160] you may or may not know.
[00:00:49.940 --> 00:00:52.020] And usually I attend the summit.
[00:00:52.360 --> 00:00:56.440] I take in the information and take my notes,
[00:00:56.440 --> 00:00:59.880] apply some things, some things I don't apply
[00:00:59.880 --> 00:01:03.680] that I should or, you know, sometimes I forget.
[00:01:04.400 --> 00:01:06.940] But this year, I switched it up.
[00:01:07.240 --> 00:01:09.320] I bought a vendor booth,
[00:01:09.880 --> 00:01:15.200] something I never, ever, ever, ever, ever done before.
[00:01:15.660 --> 00:01:18.720] It was amazing, amazing experience.
[00:01:19.080 --> 00:01:21.200] It was nerve wracking at first,
[00:01:21.260 --> 00:01:22.980] but just making it through,
[00:01:22.980 --> 00:01:25.920] like just partnering with my partner,
[00:01:26.280 --> 00:01:28.520] Brianna Casanova with Overflow Studios,
[00:01:28.640 --> 00:01:31.040] shout out to her, shout out to her, shout out to her,
[00:01:31.220 --> 00:01:34.180] who got a lot of things on the back end
[00:01:34.180 --> 00:01:37.440] before we came down together.
[00:01:39.420 --> 00:01:41.960] Shout out to great partners,
[00:01:42.660 --> 00:01:45.100] great business partners, relationship partners,
[00:01:45.780 --> 00:01:47.040] all that good stuff.
[00:01:48.850 --> 00:01:50.870] Who's actually producing this episode?
[00:01:51.470 --> 00:01:53.690] And just to speak about our experience,
[00:01:53.690 --> 00:01:56.610] well, from my viewpoint, definitely get rest,
[00:01:57.070 --> 00:02:00.210] definitely stay hydrated, definitely have a lead magnet.
[00:02:01.170 --> 00:02:04.750] The lead magnet helps so, so much.
[00:02:05.230 --> 00:02:09.270] Like me as an introvert, an introvert creative at that,
[00:02:10.169 --> 00:02:13.310] I had to get creative, you know.
[00:02:13.970 --> 00:02:16.670] My biggest thing was just networking,
[00:02:17.510 --> 00:02:19.370] shaking hands, meeting new people.
[00:02:20.210 --> 00:02:22.690] The most fruitful thing out of it all
[00:02:22.690 --> 00:02:26.190] was just meeting new people,
[00:02:26.570 --> 00:02:29.070] the connections, the fruitful conversations.
[00:02:29.830 --> 00:02:32.690] You know, that paid for the slot itself.
[00:02:33.010 --> 00:02:35.390] The context that I made was just amazing.
[00:02:35.490 --> 00:02:38.410] Something that I don't get when I'm just
[00:02:38.410 --> 00:02:41.670] sitting in these workshops and classes and activations.
[00:02:42.230 --> 00:02:47.430] So that was something to look forward to in the future,
[00:02:47.490 --> 00:02:49.770] not just at the next podcast summit,
[00:02:49.770 --> 00:02:54.770] but for any event or if I become a vendor anytime soon.
[00:02:55.310 --> 00:02:56.950] Which I'm not thinking about
[00:02:56.950 --> 00:03:00.150] because we presented my first pod.
[00:03:00.250 --> 00:03:04.070] We had our first Redemption in Cleveland, Ohio,
[00:03:04.310 --> 00:03:07.830] where we tested it out, tested our offer,
[00:03:08.410 --> 00:03:10.450] tested our production skills.
[00:03:12.530 --> 00:03:13.870] And yeah, we loved it.
[00:03:13.890 --> 00:03:18.570] So we wanted to bring it here to podcast summit 26
[00:03:18.570 --> 00:03:20.610] and we did just that.
[00:03:20.910 --> 00:03:23.730] We were gonna buy a general admission ticket or a VIP,
[00:03:23.910 --> 00:03:27.810] but we was like, no, let's just buy a vendor booth.
[00:03:27.870 --> 00:03:28.450] Why not?
[00:03:28.470 --> 00:03:31.330] We could still attend the classes if we wanted to.
[00:03:31.470 --> 00:03:35.070] And then we also have space to market,
[00:03:35.410 --> 00:03:38.450] to make an offer, to sell and make money,
[00:03:39.150 --> 00:03:40.890] recuperate our travel funds,
[00:03:40.930 --> 00:03:42.170] because it's an investment.
[00:03:43.010 --> 00:03:46.630] And we definitely took, what was it?
[00:03:46.630 --> 00:03:52.110] 10, 11, like 11-ish, 12 hours on the road
[00:03:52.110 --> 00:03:57.270] because we had to transport so much equipment of our own.
[00:03:58.310 --> 00:04:00.030] And yeah, we're doing it.
[00:04:00.410 --> 00:04:03.930] We learned from some, walking around different booths,
[00:04:03.950 --> 00:04:05.270] we learned from some people
[00:04:05.270 --> 00:04:08.710] that have been doing it way longer than us.
[00:04:08.790 --> 00:04:13.490] I mean, five, 10, 20 years, their whole lifetime.
[00:04:13.490 --> 00:04:16.170] It's all they know, like real hustlers.
[00:04:17.709 --> 00:04:20.110] And me being passive, it was like,
[00:04:20.390 --> 00:04:22.890] man, I gotta pull it out of me.
[00:04:23.370 --> 00:04:25.510] Day one, that was more passive.
[00:04:25.730 --> 00:04:28.590] Me, day two, it's like, okay, we gotta grind
[00:04:28.590 --> 00:04:31.230] and really present our offer.
[00:04:31.950 --> 00:04:33.530] We didn't hit our quota,
[00:04:34.230 --> 00:04:36.990] but we still made those connections.
[00:04:37.530 --> 00:04:39.290] So we're going back to the drawing board
[00:04:39.290 --> 00:04:40.970] right after this episode
[00:04:42.330 --> 00:04:45.190] and figure out what can we do better,
[00:04:46.770 --> 00:04:49.110] what can change, what can stay the same,
[00:04:49.590 --> 00:04:53.110] what do we like, what do we didn't like, what worked.
[00:04:54.150 --> 00:04:56.990] And just, you know, take the feedback in
[00:04:56.990 --> 00:04:59.730] with each other, reflect,
[00:05:00.590 --> 00:05:01.990] and go back to the drawing board
[00:05:01.990 --> 00:05:03.430] and keep refining our offer.
[00:05:03.510 --> 00:05:05.530] And this is gonna be happening time after time
[00:05:05.530 --> 00:05:06.790] after time after time.
[00:05:07.570 --> 00:05:09.830] And this episode is not rehearsed,
[00:05:09.830 --> 00:05:12.070] I'm just simply sharing my thoughts.
[00:05:12.570 --> 00:05:16.450] Usually I have my notes, my written notes and everything.
[00:05:16.790 --> 00:05:19.670] Like last year, if you saw the recap of podcast
[00:05:19.670 --> 00:05:23.410] Summit 25, you know, I have my notes and everything.
[00:05:23.550 --> 00:05:27.930] But this year, no, I'm just going straight
[00:05:27.930 --> 00:05:30.750] from the heart, from the mind, from the soul.
[00:05:31.210 --> 00:05:33.290] I actually stepped out of my comfort zone.
[00:05:33.370 --> 00:05:35.070] You know, I don't do too many interviews,
[00:05:35.610 --> 00:05:38.610] but I sat down with Ashley Kirkwood,
[00:05:38.610 --> 00:05:43.770] the entrepreneur powerhouse that's so phenomenal at sales.
[00:05:46.090 --> 00:05:47.990] And so many other things, like wow,
[00:05:48.030 --> 00:05:52.590] just hearing her story too, like man, I did not know.
[00:05:53.310 --> 00:05:55.170] And throughout the whole Summit,
[00:05:55.350 --> 00:05:58.870] like she was live streaming like 13 hours straight
[00:05:58.870 --> 00:06:00.830] each day, like who does that?
[00:06:01.210 --> 00:06:04.170] The vendors and volunteers, everybody was saying,
[00:06:04.290 --> 00:06:06.330] she showed up before them,
[00:06:06.330 --> 00:06:09.270] before the doors even opened.
[00:06:09.990 --> 00:06:15.670] So that's something to admire, like wow, that's amazing.
[00:06:16.270 --> 00:06:19.950] 13 hours straight with a couple bathroom breaks,
[00:06:19.990 --> 00:06:22.950] even when I seen her walk past when I've been to her booth,
[00:06:23.610 --> 00:06:26.170] she's live like, oh, like, wow.
[00:06:27.230 --> 00:06:28.190] On the way to the bathroom,
[00:06:28.190 --> 00:06:29.730] I don't know what she did in the bathroom,
[00:06:30.330 --> 00:06:35.310] I hope she sat it down somewhere, but that's inspiring.
[00:06:36.030 --> 00:06:41.210] And we were positioned next to We're Jesus,
[00:06:41.250 --> 00:06:43.650] Samuel, that's his brand, We're Jesus.
[00:06:43.990 --> 00:06:46.430] And just seeing him just work the room
[00:06:46.430 --> 00:06:48.290] and even step away from his booth,
[00:06:48.890 --> 00:06:51.030] handing out business cards, shaking hands,
[00:06:51.210 --> 00:06:55.550] meeting new people, like wow, that's inspiring.
[00:06:55.930 --> 00:06:59.830] Like man, okay, I see how it's done a little bit.
[00:07:00.970 --> 00:07:02.430] So, you know, we're definitely gonna go back
[00:07:02.430 --> 00:07:05.830] to the drum board, and then me and Brianna
[00:07:05.830 --> 00:07:08.190] also being introverts was like, okay,
[00:07:09.070 --> 00:07:11.270] what can we do now?
[00:07:11.390 --> 00:07:14.970] And we always have our, you know, our hot moments,
[00:07:15.010 --> 00:07:17.390] you know, we trade off, okay, she's hot,
[00:07:17.570 --> 00:07:18.350] okay, I'm hot.
[00:07:18.630 --> 00:07:21.010] And then we see each other caught in conversations,
[00:07:21.010 --> 00:07:24.750] like how do we break away from those conversations
[00:07:25.390 --> 00:07:28.210] that's fruitful and engaging and enriching,
[00:07:28.210 --> 00:07:30.850] but we're not making the sale?
[00:07:30.850 --> 00:07:34.250] And then there's other people who's walking up to us,
[00:07:34.350 --> 00:07:37.130] it's like, okay, can we break away?
[00:07:37.950 --> 00:07:41.750] But, you know, that's just something to reflect on
[00:07:41.750 --> 00:07:43.330] and think about for next time
[00:07:43.330 --> 00:07:46.110] and what we can implement and do different.
[00:07:46.930 --> 00:07:50.710] Yeah, so you'll definitely see us back at podcast 27.
[00:07:52.610 --> 00:07:55.390] And wow, I ran into my guy,
[00:07:55.450 --> 00:07:58.170] who actually helped build this studio,
[00:07:58.170 --> 00:08:02.350] creator club house here in Atlanta, Mr. Tybo Audio.
[00:08:03.890 --> 00:08:06.110] And wow, I invited him on my podcast.
[00:08:06.530 --> 00:08:09.670] And it's just amazing that the willingness
[00:08:10.790 --> 00:08:14.950] and openness, no gatekeeping of everyone we met,
[00:08:14.990 --> 00:08:16.870] like I said, from Tybo,
[00:08:17.130 --> 00:08:18.570] even giving us different pointers,
[00:08:18.730 --> 00:08:21.450] even hearing him give different insights
[00:08:21.450 --> 00:08:23.770] and tips to other people.
[00:08:23.810 --> 00:08:25.250] Like, wow, even they're live,
[00:08:25.250 --> 00:08:28.310] I don't know how long it took him
[00:08:28.310 --> 00:08:31.070] and the team here in Atlanta,
[00:08:31.430 --> 00:08:32.909] at creative club house,
[00:08:33.830 --> 00:08:36.030] and David Shan's team with the podcast summit
[00:08:36.030 --> 00:08:39.530] to set up the before the summit, days before.
[00:08:40.570 --> 00:08:44.110] But it's just amazing to know the process
[00:08:44.110 --> 00:08:47.490] and hearing that people share the process
[00:08:47.490 --> 00:08:52.070] from Zell to, like I said, Tybo,
[00:08:52.070 --> 00:08:55.210] even Jay Scribe, who's now in Miami,
[00:08:55.930 --> 00:09:00.350] to Armani, like, wow, I feel for you all.
[00:09:00.670 --> 00:09:02.270] Like, y'all did amazing.
[00:09:02.510 --> 00:09:05.590] Like, just seeing the behind the scenes of that
[00:09:05.590 --> 00:09:08.770] and just to know what goes on behind the scenes.
[00:09:09.110 --> 00:09:12.230] Because I'm looking at the summit the previous years,
[00:09:12.370 --> 00:09:16.590] but to know and see the behind the scenes is amazing.
[00:09:17.390 --> 00:09:19.970] So another thing I would say is,
[00:09:19.970 --> 00:09:22.710] shout out to everybody that did book their session
[00:09:22.710 --> 00:09:24.770] with my first pod.
[00:09:25.010 --> 00:09:26.990] And shout out to our team in Cleveland,
[00:09:27.470 --> 00:09:29.310] the whole Pull Up Experience,
[00:09:29.970 --> 00:09:32.970] Brittany Knight with Beauty Toe,
[00:09:33.330 --> 00:09:35.890] Jess, What's Next, Jess,
[00:09:35.970 --> 00:09:38.410] starting and launching her podcast.
[00:09:38.970 --> 00:09:40.830] It's amazing, like,
[00:09:40.830 --> 00:09:42.790] and everybody else that booked the session.
[00:09:43.730 --> 00:09:46.630] And then I even had to book a session myself.
[00:09:47.250 --> 00:09:49.150] Like, I'm recording this episode, you know,
[00:09:49.150 --> 00:09:50.350] I don't really do video,
[00:09:50.770 --> 00:09:55.050] but I had to here at the Creators Clubhouse.
[00:09:55.630 --> 00:10:00.190] It's amazing, even from Cleveland all the way to Atlanta,
[00:10:00.450 --> 00:10:04.010] just hearing the constant feedback,
[00:10:04.290 --> 00:10:08.650] the good positive feedback that we hear that's fruitful.
[00:10:09.170 --> 00:10:12.270] Like, wow, we did a good job and they're blown away
[00:10:12.270 --> 00:10:16.430] that the work that we're doing is definitely showing up
[00:10:16.430 --> 00:10:19.810] and they accept it and they love it.
[00:10:20.150 --> 00:10:21.070] It's always good.
[00:10:21.190 --> 00:10:23.110] It's always good to hear that good feedback.
[00:10:23.670 --> 00:10:25.630] So we know we're doing something right.
[00:10:25.710 --> 00:10:27.090] Like, it's purposeful.
[00:10:27.490 --> 00:10:30.770] So we wanna keep bringing you my first pod.
[00:10:31.390 --> 00:10:35.250] That is like our primary staple offer at this moment.
[00:10:35.770 --> 00:10:37.930] So stay tuned for what we got next.
[00:10:38.470 --> 00:10:41.930] And I'm just proud of everybody that started
[00:10:41.930 --> 00:10:46.390] and launched their podcast, even if it was not with us
[00:10:46.390 --> 00:10:51.170] and the game and tips and insights that we got out of it
[00:10:51.170 --> 00:10:53.130] and we share with other people,
[00:10:53.150 --> 00:10:55.450] people that just wanted to pick our brain.
[00:10:55.830 --> 00:10:59.010] Like, we are open book because the people we meet
[00:10:59.010 --> 00:11:03.710] are open books and just share, share, share.
[00:11:04.110 --> 00:11:07.670] So what would it mean if we don't share?
[00:11:08.510 --> 00:11:09.510] It wouldn't be right.
[00:11:09.510 --> 00:11:14.250] So we must reciprocate that and share the wealth.
[00:11:15.050 --> 00:11:17.710] Just being here at the Creative Clubhouse,
[00:11:17.990 --> 00:11:21.790] home of David Shands, the social proof,
[00:11:22.130 --> 00:11:23.870] almost at the social proof circle
[00:11:23.870 --> 00:11:25.850] because we're in the social proof circle,
[00:11:26.690 --> 00:11:28.510] but social proof podcast.
[00:11:29.070 --> 00:11:32.270] David Shands always say, you know,
[00:11:32.450 --> 00:11:34.830] once you learn something, build something,
[00:11:35.370 --> 00:11:38.190] bring it back to the community, share it.
[00:11:38.190 --> 00:11:40.870] So I'ma leave you with that thought
[00:11:40.870 --> 00:11:44.230] and I will see you at podcast 27,
[00:11:44.770 --> 00:11:47.150] whether if I'm attendee, a vendor, a speaker,
[00:11:47.150 --> 00:11:52.430] we don't know yet, but we're bringing my first pod.
[00:11:53.010 --> 00:11:55.170] And we thinking about going on tour with this
[00:11:55.170 --> 00:11:57.390] because there's a lot of people that we met
[00:11:57.390 --> 00:11:59.470] that wanted to start their podcast
[00:11:59.470 --> 00:12:02.030] and that was messages after the fact,
[00:12:02.170 --> 00:12:03.630] like, oh, we didn't get to see you,
[00:12:03.630 --> 00:12:04.990] but we seen you at your booth
[00:12:04.990 --> 00:12:06.170] and this and this and that.
[00:12:06.170 --> 00:12:10.210] And we know, we know, we know,
[00:12:10.210 --> 00:12:13.670] we just gonna refine, refine and improve
[00:12:13.670 --> 00:12:15.950] and see how we can make this universal
[00:12:15.950 --> 00:12:18.790] where we can travel and still be profitable
[00:12:18.790 --> 00:12:20.670] because it is a cost to artists.
[00:12:22.170 --> 00:12:25.510] But Podcast Summit 2026 was amazing.
[00:12:25.870 --> 00:12:29.050] I'm looking forward to Podcast Summit 27,
[00:12:29.550 --> 00:12:31.730] see all the things that's gonna come about,
[00:12:31.790 --> 00:12:34.510] even the speakers, all the new connection.
[00:12:34.810 --> 00:12:36.710] And if you haven't got there,
[00:12:37.110 --> 00:12:40.290] it's a great, great, great, great room
[00:12:40.290 --> 00:12:41.850] to be in to network.
[00:12:42.210 --> 00:12:43.350] And I will see you again.
[00:12:43.370 --> 00:12:45.270] This is photographer Jackson,
[00:12:45.470 --> 00:12:48.550] Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos Media
[00:12:48.550 --> 00:12:50.230] bringing you another episode
[00:12:50.230 --> 00:12:52.790] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:12:53.210 --> 00:12:55.150] here at the Creators Clubhouse,
[00:12:55.310 --> 00:12:57.330] a special Atlanta edition.
[00:12:57.630 --> 00:12:59.570] And I am signing out.
[00:13:00.070 --> 00:13:01.410] But before I go,
[00:13:01.410 --> 00:13:05.750] make sure you follow me at Alienize Photos.
[00:13:05.950 --> 00:13:08.170] That's Alienize with a Z,
[00:13:08.630 --> 00:13:10.250] Photos with a S,
[00:13:10.730 --> 00:13:13.290] and alienizephotos.com.
[00:13:14.150 --> 00:13:16.010] But if you wasn't at Podcast Summit,
[00:13:17.030 --> 00:13:19.890] we did have a special offer.
[00:13:20.550 --> 00:13:22.250] Not just my first pod,
[00:13:22.550 --> 00:13:24.210] not just the real deal,
[00:13:24.690 --> 00:13:27.490] but me and Brianna with Overflow Studios
[00:13:27.490 --> 00:13:28.470] and that's with a S.
[00:13:28.470 --> 00:13:31.990] We created the Producer's Playbook.
[00:13:32.350 --> 00:13:33.670] So if you wasn't there,
[00:13:33.790 --> 00:13:35.690] we will share it to you as well.
[00:13:36.290 --> 00:13:38.850] So just make sure you DM one of us,
[00:13:39.130 --> 00:13:40.250] Producer's Playbook,
[00:13:40.270 --> 00:13:43.150] and we will send that over to you.
[00:13:43.330 --> 00:13:45.650] Podcast Summit 26, it's a wrap.
[00:13:45.730 --> 00:13:48.190] This is the recap from my perspective
[00:13:48.190 --> 00:13:49.630] this year as a vendor.
[00:13:50.130 --> 00:13:52.390] If you wanna check out last year's episode
[00:13:52.390 --> 00:13:54.430] where I broke down some of the speakers
[00:13:54.430 --> 00:13:55.670] and what they talked about,
[00:13:55.750 --> 00:13:56.830] some of the insights,
[00:13:57.370 --> 00:13:58.310] check that out.
[00:13:58.310 --> 00:14:02.210] Podcast Summit 25, part one and part two
[00:14:02.210 --> 00:14:04.230] for day one and day two.
[00:14:04.730 --> 00:14:07.690] And yeah, check out all our episodes
[00:14:07.690 --> 00:14:09.510] and we are out.

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33. Nicole D. Miller - NDMiller Publishing
Season 2 · Episode 9
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/nicole-d-miller-ndmiller-publishing
========================================================================

[00:00:01.100 --> 00:00:05.100] From bookkeeper to book writer, to book launcher,
[00:00:05.340 --> 00:00:09.420] to book publisher, my sister, my dear friend,
[00:00:09.800 --> 00:00:11.840] is Nicole D. Miller.
[00:00:12.240 --> 00:00:16.020] I'm talking six-time self-published author,
[00:00:17.220 --> 00:00:20.520] blogger, speaker, creator of Girl Talk,
[00:00:20.560 --> 00:00:23.680] and also the Indie Author Expo,
[00:00:23.780 --> 00:00:27.940] which is coming up in June, June 20th.
[00:00:27.940 --> 00:00:29.320] So stay tuned for that.
[00:00:30.200 --> 00:00:31.940] So, let's get into it.
[00:00:32.400 --> 00:00:35.560] How did you get started with book writing?
[00:00:36.360 --> 00:00:39.620] Like, bookkeeping is more structured,
[00:00:40.200 --> 00:00:42.560] it's true to form and solid,
[00:00:42.960 --> 00:00:46.360] but I think with writing, and fictional writing at that,
[00:00:46.360 --> 00:00:47.480] as you write novels,
[00:00:48.600 --> 00:00:51.760] it's a lot more distortion, creativity,
[00:00:52.340 --> 00:00:53.560] a lot of freeform.
[00:00:54.000 --> 00:00:55.880] So how did you come from structure
[00:00:55.880 --> 00:00:58.180] with bookkeeping to book writing?
[00:00:59.320 --> 00:01:01.620] It's interesting, Alien, because,
[00:01:01.740 --> 00:01:03.040] am I calling you Alien or Steven?
[00:01:05.720 --> 00:01:07.060] Everybody knows me as book.
[00:01:08.040 --> 00:01:12.320] It's interesting, Alien, because I started blogging
[00:01:12.320 --> 00:01:14.120] back in the day, when I was hot,
[00:01:15.160 --> 00:01:17.660] and never saw myself as a real writer
[00:01:17.660 --> 00:01:19.120] or an official writer.
[00:01:19.540 --> 00:01:23.660] Blogging was my gateway into being a creative
[00:01:23.660 --> 00:01:25.600] and a literary creative at that.
[00:01:26.160 --> 00:01:28.680] And I had written one particular blog,
[00:01:28.680 --> 00:01:30.480] How to Overcome Heartbreak,
[00:01:30.780 --> 00:01:32.420] Recovering from Misguided Love.
[00:01:33.200 --> 00:01:35.400] And I felt spiritually led, like,
[00:01:35.540 --> 00:01:37.200] this is the name of my first book.
[00:01:37.600 --> 00:01:38.860] I feel like that's what God said.
[00:01:39.460 --> 00:01:43.180] And so I wrote that book and published it in 2014,
[00:01:43.200 --> 00:01:46.080] but again, never saw myself as a writer,
[00:01:46.640 --> 00:01:48.260] was still working in finance,
[00:01:48.600 --> 00:01:49.860] had my MBA in accounting.
[00:01:51.060 --> 00:01:52.940] So, being a creative was something
[00:01:52.940 --> 00:01:54.760] that was off the grid for me.
[00:01:54.860 --> 00:01:57.320] It was something that was a hobby,
[00:01:57.320 --> 00:01:59.340] or it was something that was on the side.
[00:01:59.900 --> 00:02:01.420] And even though I had written and published
[00:02:01.420 --> 00:02:03.520] a second book in 2015,
[00:02:03.700 --> 00:02:06.860] I did not start taking the crap seriously
[00:02:06.860 --> 00:02:10.080] until 2020, in the midst of George Floyd,
[00:02:10.340 --> 00:02:12.240] the civil rights movement,
[00:02:12.340 --> 00:02:13.900] the Black Lives Matter movement,
[00:02:14.340 --> 00:02:17.700] and so many opportunities that emerged
[00:02:17.700 --> 00:02:19.960] to hear our stories, to hear Black stories.
[00:02:20.160 --> 00:02:23.380] I felt motivated to continue the short stories
[00:02:23.380 --> 00:02:26.120] I had started writing and compile them
[00:02:26.120 --> 00:02:28.360] and published stories for the urban soul.
[00:02:28.880 --> 00:02:31.940] And that was in 2021, and that's when I got serious.
[00:02:32.340 --> 00:02:33.340] That's when I said,
[00:02:33.400 --> 00:02:35.140] let me see what's on the other side of this.
[00:02:35.240 --> 00:02:36.200] I keep feeling this tug.
[00:02:36.360 --> 00:02:37.740] I keep feeling like God is saying,
[00:02:38.180 --> 00:02:39.060] this is your purpose.
[00:02:39.800 --> 00:02:41.800] Even though I had a lot of inhibitions,
[00:02:41.900 --> 00:02:43.120] I had a lot of fears, like,
[00:02:43.120 --> 00:02:44.100] who makes money writing?
[00:02:44.200 --> 00:02:45.640] Like, how am I gonna do this?
[00:02:46.060 --> 00:02:48.160] But I had the resources, I had the capital.
[00:02:48.300 --> 00:02:50.080] And so what I understood was that
[00:02:50.080 --> 00:02:51.820] I needed to build a network.
[00:02:52.300 --> 00:02:54.120] And then I started going hard,
[00:02:54.120 --> 00:02:57.040] building a network, showing up at events,
[00:02:57.280 --> 00:03:01.460] getting my marketing together and attacking it
[00:03:01.460 --> 00:03:04.560] and creating the brand of Nicole D. Miller.
[00:03:05.040 --> 00:03:07.000] And then once I said yes to that,
[00:03:07.560 --> 00:03:08.560] the floodgates opened.
[00:03:10.880 --> 00:03:13.520] So what was those initial moments
[00:03:13.520 --> 00:03:16.280] or initial feelings and emotions
[00:03:16.960 --> 00:03:19.140] as the floodgates started to open?
[00:03:19.280 --> 00:03:21.660] Was it more overwhelmed or it was like,
[00:03:21.880 --> 00:03:23.080] I'm ready for it?
[00:03:23.520 --> 00:03:25.080] It was, I'm ready for it.
[00:03:25.080 --> 00:03:30.660] It was so encouraging because it was being a creative.
[00:03:30.920 --> 00:03:33.500] And I feel like there was nothing else
[00:03:33.500 --> 00:03:34.600] like being a creative.
[00:03:34.680 --> 00:03:36.740] There is a fulfillment in it
[00:03:36.740 --> 00:03:38.740] that I never had with anything else.
[00:03:39.140 --> 00:03:41.200] And then you see it actually working.
[00:03:41.460 --> 00:03:42.860] You see the plan working.
[00:03:43.220 --> 00:03:45.760] The doors opening, the opportunities emerging.
[00:03:46.140 --> 00:03:47.580] You create your own lane.
[00:03:48.300 --> 00:03:50.280] There is no one that can do what you do
[00:03:50.280 --> 00:03:51.740] because you're originally made
[00:03:51.740 --> 00:03:52.920] in the image of the creator.
[00:03:53.540 --> 00:03:55.020] And that's what I discovered.
[00:03:55.020 --> 00:03:56.920] And then I fell in love with writing
[00:03:56.920 --> 00:03:58.860] in a way I had never fallen in love
[00:03:58.860 --> 00:03:59.860] with literature before.
[00:04:00.520 --> 00:04:01.920] So it was a high.
[00:04:02.200 --> 00:04:03.240] It's addictive.
[00:04:03.920 --> 00:04:06.040] It's like more, more, more.
[00:04:06.100 --> 00:04:07.220] Give me more, right?
[00:04:08.160 --> 00:04:11.540] And you start tapping into these parts of yourself
[00:04:11.540 --> 00:04:12.960] that you didn't even know existed.
[00:04:13.960 --> 00:04:17.200] So I would definitely say it was like a roller coaster
[00:04:17.200 --> 00:04:19.680] ride, like one you wanna just keep going on.
[00:04:20.260 --> 00:04:22.700] So during that roller coaster ride,
[00:04:23.140 --> 00:04:26.760] what parts of yourself did you discover or rediscover,
[00:04:26.800 --> 00:04:27.680] I would like to say?
[00:04:28.620 --> 00:04:30.680] Yeah, all of this has been new for me.
[00:04:34.220 --> 00:04:37.760] Being a creative or a fiction writer
[00:04:37.760 --> 00:04:40.140] was something I never thought I could do.
[00:04:40.280 --> 00:04:41.760] The first two books were nonfiction.
[00:04:42.060 --> 00:04:44.220] So I thought, yeah, that's easier.
[00:04:44.440 --> 00:04:45.540] I'm telling the truth.
[00:04:45.720 --> 00:04:47.800] I'm telling what I lived through, right?
[00:04:47.800 --> 00:04:51.620] But building worlds out of nothing
[00:04:51.620 --> 00:04:55.320] and using your imagination, that was brand new.
[00:04:55.740 --> 00:04:57.360] And nothing I ever thought I could do.
[00:04:57.480 --> 00:05:00.420] I literally was intimidated to write a whole novel.
[00:05:01.080 --> 00:05:03.740] And yet I started writing several
[00:05:03.740 --> 00:05:05.500] and started writing a series
[00:05:06.140 --> 00:05:08.640] and fell in love with the characters.
[00:05:09.300 --> 00:05:11.420] And so that was part of it.
[00:05:11.460 --> 00:05:13.120] Then there were these different aspects
[00:05:13.120 --> 00:05:13.980] of being a writer.
[00:05:14.300 --> 00:05:17.020] Being a freelance journalist is more technical.
[00:05:17.620 --> 00:05:20.400] It's more serious, but I learned
[00:05:20.400 --> 00:05:22.960] I love that too in a different way,
[00:05:23.180 --> 00:05:27.460] especially when it comes to underrepresented people groups
[00:05:27.460 --> 00:05:29.940] and oppressed people groups
[00:05:29.940 --> 00:05:34.460] that I can shine a light on our community
[00:05:34.460 --> 00:05:35.740] using that skill.
[00:05:36.340 --> 00:05:38.920] So that was something that was amazing.
[00:05:39.420 --> 00:05:42.660] And then I got into podcasting,
[00:05:42.660 --> 00:05:47.020] which was not something I ever saw myself doing.
[00:05:47.080 --> 00:05:48.660] I kind of dragged my feet with it
[00:05:48.660 --> 00:05:49.920] like I did with everything else
[00:05:50.540 --> 00:05:52.060] because I felt like it was saturated.
[00:05:52.060 --> 00:05:54.480] I felt like everybody's podcasting.
[00:05:54.500 --> 00:05:56.900] I personally don't like doing what everyone is doing.
[00:05:56.900 --> 00:05:57.420] That's right.
[00:05:57.600 --> 00:05:58.320] That's the eeriest thing.
[00:05:59.800 --> 00:06:02.560] But spiritually, I felt like God said,
[00:06:02.780 --> 00:06:04.620] but how many podcasts are mine?
[00:06:04.840 --> 00:06:10.180] And so you are creating a space for my agenda, right?
[00:06:11.360 --> 00:06:15.700] And even that getting birthed out was Girl Talk.
[00:06:16.000 --> 00:06:19.940] And Girl Talk initially was a panel discussion on Zoom.
[00:06:20.620 --> 00:06:23.040] So it's been a step-by-step process,
[00:06:23.100 --> 00:06:26.220] but Girl Talk really connected me with community building.
[00:06:26.820 --> 00:06:28.740] And that was another aspect of myself
[00:06:28.740 --> 00:06:30.400] that I just had no clue existed.
[00:06:30.520 --> 00:06:33.860] It was like, you have a gift to gather people.
[00:06:34.060 --> 00:06:37.600] You have a gift to draw people together and go deep
[00:06:37.600 --> 00:06:40.700] and have meaningful, life-changing conversations.
[00:06:41.660 --> 00:06:43.340] And so that was another thing.
[00:06:43.440 --> 00:06:47.240] And then the Indie Author Expo that birthed last year,
[00:06:47.240 --> 00:06:49.160] and we're doing our second one this year.
[00:06:50.340 --> 00:06:52.600] So the gift to gather,
[00:06:52.840 --> 00:06:56.720] I do see that it was hinting at me in college
[00:06:56.720 --> 00:06:58.860] because I did events in college,
[00:06:59.200 --> 00:07:02.820] but it was dormant because I was so focused
[00:07:02.820 --> 00:07:07.020] on the career path in business and finance.
[00:07:07.720 --> 00:07:10.400] And because I kept seeing myself as a business woman,
[00:07:10.480 --> 00:07:12.160] I was limiting myself.
[00:07:12.640 --> 00:07:15.880] I didn't understand that I wasn't just a business woman,
[00:07:15.960 --> 00:07:16.660] that I was both.
[00:07:16.980 --> 00:07:17.840] I was a hybrid.
[00:07:17.980 --> 00:07:20.560] I was a creative and a business woman.
[00:07:21.600 --> 00:07:22.880] Creative entrepreneur.
[00:07:23.320 --> 00:07:23.800] Exactly.
[00:07:26.080 --> 00:07:27.880] And I would like to ask,
[00:07:28.000 --> 00:07:31.160] do you have one, a favorite character,
[00:07:31.180 --> 00:07:34.060] and then two, what character,
[00:07:34.060 --> 00:07:37.360] as I'm looking at the cover of Devil's Cafe,
[00:07:38.020 --> 00:07:43.100] is there a character who has exponential business?
[00:07:45.880 --> 00:07:48.100] Do I have a favorite character?
[00:07:48.700 --> 00:07:51.620] I can't necessarily say I do.
[00:07:51.920 --> 00:07:55.240] I feel like I like writing all of them.
[00:07:55.400 --> 00:07:57.960] In all of my books, they're very different.
[00:07:58.540 --> 00:08:01.340] Sometimes I can get annoyed by certain characters
[00:08:02.030 --> 00:08:03.400] and like where they're at.
[00:08:03.560 --> 00:08:04.140] But they're needed.
[00:08:04.540 --> 00:08:06.000] Yeah, yeah, they are.
[00:08:06.000 --> 00:08:07.360] They need to grow.
[00:08:07.560 --> 00:08:09.420] We all have to go through our growing pains.
[00:08:10.360 --> 00:08:11.860] Devin is definitely the one
[00:08:11.860 --> 00:08:14.420] that has the strong business acumen.
[00:08:14.840 --> 00:08:17.080] And so even writing my latest novel,
[00:08:17.080 --> 00:08:19.220] Devin's Cafe, named after Devin,
[00:08:19.940 --> 00:08:21.740] I definitely channeled a lot
[00:08:21.740 --> 00:08:23.880] of my personal business experience,
[00:08:23.880 --> 00:08:25.660] as well as even my personal life
[00:08:25.660 --> 00:08:29.660] and romantic experiences through his character.
[00:08:30.640 --> 00:08:32.419] And it's pretty dope
[00:08:32.419 --> 00:08:35.940] that I get to use my business background
[00:08:35.940 --> 00:08:37.600] in my fiction writing.
[00:08:37.840 --> 00:08:39.360] So he actually is a TA.
[00:08:39.500 --> 00:08:43.000] He teaches a course, Management 202,
[00:08:43.000 --> 00:08:45.500] and we see a scene of him teaching the students.
[00:08:45.780 --> 00:08:48.920] And my experience being in academic
[00:08:48.920 --> 00:08:50.200] and being in business,
[00:08:50.280 --> 00:08:53.420] I'm able to use that world
[00:08:53.420 --> 00:08:55.340] and include it with my characters.
[00:08:55.600 --> 00:08:58.160] And it's natural and normal sounding.
[00:08:58.440 --> 00:09:00.880] It's not made up or Googled.
[00:09:00.880 --> 00:09:03.120] It's like, no, I know this by experience.
[00:09:04.980 --> 00:09:05.660] I like that.
[00:09:05.660 --> 00:09:08.160] And as you explain your books,
[00:09:08.160 --> 00:09:11.340] and I know the books that you have out,
[00:09:11.440 --> 00:09:16.660] do you foresee them becoming motion pictures, movies?
[00:09:17.160 --> 00:09:20.160] That's definitely the big picture, pun intended.
[00:09:21.000 --> 00:09:22.680] That's definitely the goal.
[00:09:23.380 --> 00:09:26.100] I feel like my books are really to reach
[00:09:26.100 --> 00:09:28.560] this generation, especially Devin's Cafe.
[00:09:29.160 --> 00:09:31.360] When Love Wins, they're written for college students.
[00:09:31.360 --> 00:09:33.340] That was a very impactful time in my life.
[00:09:33.380 --> 00:09:36.780] So the young 20 something scene classified as new adult.
[00:09:37.840 --> 00:09:39.900] And a lot of these younger people
[00:09:39.900 --> 00:09:41.860] are not quick to pick up a book.
[00:09:42.080 --> 00:09:45.940] And so I definitely think books being on film
[00:09:45.940 --> 00:09:49.480] is a benefit to draw them into the literary world.
[00:09:50.020 --> 00:09:52.120] I myself love documentaries,
[00:09:52.120 --> 00:09:57.320] and I've gotten to learn a lot about historical legends
[00:09:57.320 --> 00:09:59.180] in our community through documentaries.
[00:09:59.180 --> 00:10:03.700] And so I see the power of film educating you.
[00:10:05.180 --> 00:10:07.220] The power of film educating.
[00:10:07.280 --> 00:10:11.280] So you mean no entertainment, just pure education.
[00:10:12.060 --> 00:10:15.040] Well, I would say it's educating you
[00:10:15.040 --> 00:10:17.720] on a topic you're interested in and intrigued by.
[00:10:17.900 --> 00:10:20.280] So typical topics for me is I love music,
[00:10:20.440 --> 00:10:22.660] I love entrepreneurship, I love the black community.
[00:10:23.360 --> 00:10:25.280] I love character growth,
[00:10:25.280 --> 00:10:27.740] and especially people who make it
[00:10:27.740 --> 00:10:30.720] with this pipe dream that they have
[00:10:30.720 --> 00:10:33.840] and they coming from nothing or they grinding
[00:10:33.840 --> 00:10:35.940] and they going through all the things
[00:10:35.940 --> 00:10:38.140] and they make it over stories of inspiration,
[00:10:38.860 --> 00:10:42.660] which even with the publishing house that I have,
[00:10:42.800 --> 00:10:45.280] a lot of my authors typically have stories
[00:10:45.280 --> 00:10:46.920] of inspiration and resilience.
[00:10:47.120 --> 00:10:51.120] And so I'm always drawn to those types of movies
[00:10:51.120 --> 00:10:52.560] and films and documentaries.
[00:10:52.560 --> 00:10:54.640] So it's educating you,
[00:10:54.840 --> 00:10:57.500] but you're not feeling like you're trudging
[00:10:57.500 --> 00:10:58.560] through the information
[00:10:58.560 --> 00:11:01.160] because you're so engulfed and inspired by it
[00:11:01.160 --> 00:11:03.180] and you are changed from watching it.
[00:11:04.280 --> 00:11:04.840] Wow.
[00:11:06.680 --> 00:11:12.380] And you look about 20 and you talk about all of this
[00:11:12.380 --> 00:11:14.080] and even six books.
[00:11:14.220 --> 00:11:19.460] I know it takes a single person to write one book
[00:11:19.460 --> 00:11:22.900] just a few years, but you wrote six books.
[00:11:23.420 --> 00:11:26.040] How long did it take you to complete six books?
[00:11:26.820 --> 00:11:30.800] So I started writing When Love Wins.
[00:11:31.140 --> 00:11:33.040] I believe it was probably 2021
[00:11:33.040 --> 00:11:35.420] because I published Stories for the Urban Soul
[00:11:35.420 --> 00:11:37.600] and I started writing When Love Wins.
[00:11:37.940 --> 00:11:40.800] And that book, I had no idea what I was doing.
[00:11:41.700 --> 00:11:44.540] I just knew I'm a good storyteller,
[00:11:44.540 --> 00:11:47.280] but I didn't know the rules
[00:11:47.280 --> 00:11:49.900] of the literary community of the industry.
[00:11:50.760 --> 00:11:52.780] So I'm just writing to my heart's content,
[00:11:52.980 --> 00:11:55.200] willy-nilly writing to my heart's content.
[00:11:55.200 --> 00:11:58.740] Yeah, no outlining, just writing, free writing.
[00:11:59.080 --> 00:12:02.240] And so I worked on it for probably about two years
[00:12:02.800 --> 00:12:05.940] and then felt ready for my editor to look at it.
[00:12:06.220 --> 00:12:08.780] And her feedback was encouraging,
[00:12:08.780 --> 00:12:11.580] but it let me know I had work to do.
[00:12:11.800 --> 00:12:13.520] And so I had to sit with it
[00:12:13.520 --> 00:12:15.140] and work on it for a whole nother year.
[00:12:15.140 --> 00:12:17.280] So there was a lot of patience involved.
[00:12:18.220 --> 00:12:21.240] And after that, I published it in 2023.
[00:12:22.000 --> 00:12:24.740] Now I had started writing the second book,
[00:12:24.960 --> 00:12:26.000] Unfinished Business Lisa,
[00:12:26.160 --> 00:12:29.180] which is part two or book two in the series.
[00:12:29.460 --> 00:12:30.960] And that went faster.
[00:12:31.240 --> 00:12:35.760] And I will say I probably was able to write Lisa
[00:12:36.320 --> 00:12:39.340] and publish it within a year, year and a half.
[00:12:40.890 --> 00:12:45.670] But then Devin's Cafe Book 3 was just supernatural
[00:12:45.670 --> 00:12:48.950] because I was inspired by a good friend of mine
[00:12:48.950 --> 00:12:51.430] who was the editor for the publishing house,
[00:12:51.430 --> 00:12:53.310] Piper UC, shout out to Piper.
[00:12:54.130 --> 00:12:59.010] And she said, I just wrote my sophomore novel in a month.
[00:13:00.010 --> 00:13:01.430] And I'm like, what?
[00:13:02.270 --> 00:13:05.130] And she has a nine to five and a family
[00:13:05.130 --> 00:13:06.710] and all these other obligations.
[00:13:06.790 --> 00:13:08.110] I'm like, okay, Nicole,
[00:13:08.270 --> 00:13:10.390] if she could do this, you could do this.
[00:13:10.510 --> 00:13:12.070] And so I gave myself a challenge,
[00:13:12.310 --> 00:13:15.490] a self-induced challenge to write my book in a month.
[00:13:15.690 --> 00:13:18.730] And so I ended up writing Devin's Cafe in 25 days
[00:13:19.270 --> 00:13:21.130] and it poured out of me.
[00:13:21.130 --> 00:13:24.250] But I had to be very strategic, very intentional.
[00:13:24.290 --> 00:13:26.450] And it was a different experience for me
[00:13:26.450 --> 00:13:30.830] because writing for me was always whenever I felt like it.
[00:13:31.090 --> 00:13:34.150] It wasn't, you must complete this chapter today.
[00:13:34.150 --> 00:13:36.810] You must write this amount of words today.
[00:13:37.350 --> 00:13:38.750] So there were times I wanted,
[00:13:38.850 --> 00:13:40.830] I didn't feel like writing had a full day.
[00:13:40.830 --> 00:13:42.070] And it was like, but you haven't written
[00:13:42.070 --> 00:13:42.950] this chapter today.
[00:13:42.970 --> 00:13:44.090] I liked that, yeah.
[00:13:44.350 --> 00:13:47.350] So I would push myself to be like a chapter a day.
[00:13:47.410 --> 00:13:49.610] If you get a chapter a day done,
[00:13:49.610 --> 00:13:51.810] you'll have this book in 30 days.
[00:13:52.430 --> 00:13:56.270] Now the editing, especially since I'm a free writer
[00:13:56.270 --> 00:13:58.950] and not an outliner, that takes more time.
[00:13:59.090 --> 00:14:03.910] So I had this first draft manuscript done in 25 days
[00:14:04.570 --> 00:14:06.790] and gave it to my editor, same editor
[00:14:06.790 --> 00:14:07.810] from When Love Wins.
[00:14:08.670 --> 00:14:12.030] And thank God she's great, she's thorough.
[00:14:12.230 --> 00:14:14.030] So here I am in love with the story,
[00:14:14.270 --> 00:14:16.290] excited I wrote this book this fast,
[00:14:16.290 --> 00:14:20.470] but thankfully she helped draw so much more out of it.
[00:14:20.490 --> 00:14:22.050] So she gave me similar feedback
[00:14:22.050 --> 00:14:25.390] of the first one of like great story,
[00:14:25.830 --> 00:14:29.530] great first starts, now flesh this out.
[00:14:29.890 --> 00:14:30.970] And she doesn't even know,
[00:14:31.110 --> 00:14:32.730] like I wrote it really succinctly
[00:14:32.730 --> 00:14:33.930] because I wrote it so fast.
[00:14:34.830 --> 00:14:36.410] But sitting with her feedback,
[00:14:36.410 --> 00:14:39.170] I probably took another three months
[00:14:40.610 --> 00:14:43.250] and was like, okay, I'm ready.
[00:14:43.250 --> 00:14:49.190] And so overall, it probably took less than five months
[00:14:49.190 --> 00:14:52.190] for me to write the first draft
[00:14:52.190 --> 00:14:54.290] and edit it and publish,
[00:14:54.550 --> 00:14:58.230] which is the fastest book project I've ever completed.
[00:14:58.930 --> 00:15:01.870] But it's also my third project.
[00:15:02.090 --> 00:15:04.850] And of course, I've been an author even longer
[00:15:04.850 --> 00:15:06.590] for over 10 years.
[00:15:06.990 --> 00:15:08.950] So it takes time, it takes practice,
[00:15:08.950 --> 00:15:12.970] and I've learned so many tools and tricks along the way.
[00:15:13.310 --> 00:15:15.350] So I could see my progress,
[00:15:15.350 --> 00:15:18.370] I could see how I'm getting more skilled as a writer,
[00:15:18.470 --> 00:15:19.930] I'm developing as a writer,
[00:15:19.930 --> 00:15:21.750] and I can hit the mark faster
[00:15:21.750 --> 00:15:24.810] to publish quality stories quicker.
[00:15:26.150 --> 00:15:29.190] So what tips would you give someone
[00:15:29.790 --> 00:15:31.410] that's maybe new to writing
[00:15:31.410 --> 00:15:34.170] and it's taken years for them to complete a book
[00:15:34.170 --> 00:15:37.350] and maybe they want to write their book faster,
[00:15:37.350 --> 00:15:38.650] what tips would you give them?
[00:15:39.210 --> 00:15:41.890] And I think it's difficult for a lot of people
[00:15:41.890 --> 00:15:42.870] to complete their books
[00:15:42.870 --> 00:15:45.130] because you don't get paid for writing.
[00:15:45.370 --> 00:15:47.750] So more than likely, this is not your full-time.
[00:15:48.470 --> 00:15:50.630] You probably do have other obligations,
[00:15:51.110 --> 00:15:52.950] children, that sort of thing.
[00:15:53.370 --> 00:15:56.090] And I'm reminded of Toni Morrison's story
[00:15:56.090 --> 00:15:58.670] where she was a single mom.
[00:15:58.710 --> 00:16:00.370] She had two boys.
[00:16:00.530 --> 00:16:03.650] She had a full-time job in the publishing industry.
[00:16:04.110 --> 00:16:06.250] So she would wake up at 4.30 every morning.
[00:16:06.250 --> 00:16:09.690] She would close, well, she actually kept her door open
[00:16:09.690 --> 00:16:11.570] because she wanted the kids to know
[00:16:11.570 --> 00:16:12.910] that they still had access to her.
[00:16:13.430 --> 00:16:14.970] But she had to fight for it.
[00:16:15.450 --> 00:16:18.570] And so if you're serious about getting your book done,
[00:16:18.990 --> 00:16:24.110] allot yourself a timeframe each day to work on it
[00:16:24.110 --> 00:16:25.750] because eventually it's gonna get done
[00:16:25.750 --> 00:16:28.090] if you're diligent about working on it.
[00:16:28.170 --> 00:16:29.550] But you have to fight for that time.
[00:16:29.610 --> 00:16:32.610] Give yourself goals, give yourself word count goals,
[00:16:33.210 --> 00:16:35.490] take walks to stimulate your brain,
[00:16:35.490 --> 00:16:38.150] join writing communities to stimulate your gifts.
[00:16:38.430 --> 00:16:40.710] But you do have to be very intentional.
[00:16:40.930 --> 00:16:43.790] And it can happen, but you have to want it to happen.
[00:16:44.610 --> 00:16:47.010] Now you mentioned take walks to stimulate your brain.
[00:16:47.130 --> 00:16:49.430] Is there any other activities you do
[00:16:49.430 --> 00:16:51.990] or is there like music or songs
[00:16:51.990 --> 00:16:53.370] that get you in the mood for writing?
[00:16:54.290 --> 00:16:58.350] My typical experience is I have lo-fi jazz playing.
[00:16:59.130 --> 00:17:00.570] Yes, yes.
[00:17:00.710 --> 00:17:03.490] I could have a candle, I could have a glass of wine
[00:17:03.490 --> 00:17:05.130] or a cup of coffee.
[00:17:06.170 --> 00:17:10.210] And it really is this creative part of my brain.
[00:17:10.290 --> 00:17:11.490] I don't do it just for writing.
[00:17:11.609 --> 00:17:13.430] I do it for content creation.
[00:17:14.210 --> 00:17:17.109] Just even when I'm working, anything that's creating,
[00:17:17.369 --> 00:17:20.369] that's usually like my vibe that stimulates me
[00:17:20.369 --> 00:17:24.210] to be like, okay, this is my time to connect with God
[00:17:24.210 --> 00:17:28.030] and to just flow and to release whatever is in me
[00:17:28.030 --> 00:17:30.010] to flow out in this creative way.
[00:17:31.680 --> 00:17:32.660] That's beautiful.
[00:17:33.260 --> 00:17:36.460] And I know you spoke about your publishing house
[00:17:36.460 --> 00:17:39.860] and editor and I know you have beta readers.
[00:17:39.860 --> 00:17:41.880] So what's the importance of a team
[00:17:41.880 --> 00:17:43.140] when you're writing a book?
[00:17:43.400 --> 00:17:45.140] And I think that's a great question
[00:17:45.140 --> 00:17:49.380] because people view writers as being more solo, right?
[00:17:49.860 --> 00:17:52.600] But if you want to build your brand
[00:17:52.600 --> 00:17:55.500] and make it a business, you need a team.
[00:17:55.940 --> 00:17:59.460] And so the publishing house, I can't do it all.
[00:17:59.620 --> 00:18:01.340] I definitely need my editors.
[00:18:01.340 --> 00:18:03.580] I need the designers.
[00:18:03.780 --> 00:18:06.040] I actually do do the interior layouts
[00:18:06.040 --> 00:18:08.880] but I need like the right graphic cover designers.
[00:18:09.820 --> 00:18:12.780] And definitely beta readers are so key
[00:18:13.540 --> 00:18:16.280] because my thing is I don't just want to be an author.
[00:18:16.280 --> 00:18:17.880] I want to be a bestselling author.
[00:18:17.880 --> 00:18:21.640] So I want my work to receive accolades and credit
[00:18:21.640 --> 00:18:24.200] and respect from the literary community
[00:18:24.200 --> 00:18:25.280] and the literary industry,
[00:18:25.280 --> 00:18:27.660] which means I need to present top tier work.
[00:18:28.200 --> 00:18:30.600] So the process for me to go through that
[00:18:30.600 --> 00:18:32.560] with Win Love Winds was even more extensive
[00:18:33.320 --> 00:18:35.580] because my characters are younger
[00:18:35.580 --> 00:18:38.480] and I want to make sure it's relating to younger people.
[00:18:38.520 --> 00:18:40.580] So I had a focus group of younger people
[00:18:40.580 --> 00:18:42.500] and they are listening to these chapters
[00:18:42.500 --> 00:18:44.980] and they're giving me feedback on vernacular,
[00:18:46.600 --> 00:18:48.880] on clothing, on the music,
[00:18:48.880 --> 00:18:50.240] making sure it relates to them.
[00:18:50.720 --> 00:18:53.640] Then my characters are in a different city and state.
[00:18:53.680 --> 00:18:55.280] They're in New York, they're in New Jersey.
[00:18:55.660 --> 00:18:57.420] So I have to travel to New York.
[00:18:57.420 --> 00:18:59.160] I need to make sure this is authentic
[00:18:59.160 --> 00:19:03.340] to the New York environment and commuting from Jersey.
[00:19:04.340 --> 00:19:06.580] Then I have interviews with New Yorkers
[00:19:06.580 --> 00:19:09.120] because I want to make sure this is relatable for them
[00:19:09.120 --> 00:19:10.520] and this sounds like them.
[00:19:11.140 --> 00:19:15.040] So there's so much market research that I put into,
[00:19:15.280 --> 00:19:16.340] especially with Win Love Winds
[00:19:16.340 --> 00:19:18.220] because that was setting the tone.
[00:19:19.680 --> 00:19:21.240] And beta readers are key.
[00:19:21.440 --> 00:19:25.180] So with Devin's Cafe, this is my first male protagonist.
[00:19:25.180 --> 00:19:30.200] I have never written from the mind of a man in a novel.
[00:19:30.300 --> 00:19:32.100] Now I've done it in my short stories,
[00:19:32.620 --> 00:19:34.580] but never a full-blown novel.
[00:19:35.040 --> 00:19:38.000] So now I'm like, I need guys to read this book
[00:19:38.000 --> 00:19:40.360] and make sure that I am on point
[00:19:40.360 --> 00:19:45.480] with the bro language and the guy time,
[00:19:45.800 --> 00:19:48.100] what's happening when women are not around,
[00:19:48.300 --> 00:19:49.420] that sort of thing.
[00:19:50.440 --> 00:19:52.880] So definitely bringing in male beta readers was key.
[00:19:52.880 --> 00:19:56.460] Young black men are definitely my target market
[00:19:56.460 --> 00:19:57.820] for this book.
[00:19:58.200 --> 00:20:02.440] But again, if you really want a quality book,
[00:20:02.760 --> 00:20:03.480] you're gonna be doing
[00:20:03.480 --> 00:20:05.700] a lot of behind the scenes market research
[00:20:05.700 --> 00:20:09.260] for it to be respected in the literary community.
[00:20:09.800 --> 00:20:10.960] Wow, market research.
[00:20:11.200 --> 00:20:14.060] I think that's something a lot of people skip,
[00:20:14.060 --> 00:20:16.740] putting that time to research.
[00:20:17.200 --> 00:20:19.180] Even before this interview,
[00:20:19.840 --> 00:20:21.520] how long we've known each other,
[00:20:21.520 --> 00:20:23.560] I'm still doing research,
[00:20:24.320 --> 00:20:26.220] just to have talking points
[00:20:26.220 --> 00:20:30.260] and have it flow better and make it intriguing.
[00:20:30.980 --> 00:20:32.200] It's that preparation.
[00:20:32.440 --> 00:20:32.960] Preparation.
[00:20:33.020 --> 00:20:35.720] And I think I don't really think about it so natural
[00:20:35.720 --> 00:20:37.120] the way my brain works,
[00:20:37.120 --> 00:20:40.880] but I recognize the difference meeting other people
[00:20:40.880 --> 00:20:43.520] who are indie authors who may not be taking it seriously
[00:20:43.520 --> 00:20:44.700] or it's not a business.
[00:20:45.300 --> 00:20:48.920] But you do all of that just for the products
[00:20:48.920 --> 00:20:51.060] and then you actually do all that for your brand.
[00:20:51.620 --> 00:20:54.560] And then you do a lot of the marketing for the brand.
[00:20:54.940 --> 00:20:56.880] So to get the product seen,
[00:20:57.000 --> 00:20:59.260] to get the product known, right?
[00:20:59.320 --> 00:21:01.560] So it's definitely a lot of investment
[00:21:01.560 --> 00:21:04.120] of your time, creativity and resources.
[00:21:04.580 --> 00:21:06.500] But to your point, the network, right?
[00:21:06.960 --> 00:21:10.100] So not only did I create or find my team
[00:21:10.100 --> 00:21:11.280] for my publishing house,
[00:21:11.320 --> 00:21:12.840] I found it for the marketing.
[00:21:13.060 --> 00:21:15.780] I found it in the community that we're in.
[00:21:16.100 --> 00:21:18.060] And that was the word that God had given me.
[00:21:18.100 --> 00:21:19.420] Like I've given you the resources,
[00:21:19.420 --> 00:21:22.320] the time, the creativity, your job is to network.
[00:21:22.900 --> 00:21:25.200] And being an introvert, which most writers are,
[00:21:25.220 --> 00:21:26.720] that was uncomfortable for me.
[00:21:27.060 --> 00:21:28.980] So I would just go to networking events
[00:21:28.980 --> 00:21:33.760] and make one or two deep impactful connections.
[00:21:33.760 --> 00:21:36.520] And I didn't realize it, but I was building my tribe.
[00:21:37.100 --> 00:21:39.900] And then starting Girl Talk expanded that.
[00:21:40.760 --> 00:21:42.340] Let's speak about Girl Talk.
[00:21:42.760 --> 00:21:44.720] I know you say that you started on Zoom
[00:21:44.720 --> 00:21:46.860] and I was there part of the early days
[00:21:46.860 --> 00:21:50.700] and even seeing it be coming to fruition live
[00:21:50.700 --> 00:21:52.420] now as an event.
[00:21:53.180 --> 00:21:56.960] What was your thoughts when you first, first was like,
[00:21:59.670 --> 00:22:01.650] I wanna start Girl Talk.
[00:22:01.770 --> 00:22:04.110] Let me get my girls together and let's talk.
[00:22:04.770 --> 00:22:06.610] What was the origins of Girl Talk?
[00:22:07.370 --> 00:22:08.810] That's a good question.
[00:22:09.310 --> 00:22:12.130] I had a title and this is how God deals with me.
[00:22:12.230 --> 00:22:15.190] I get inspired, I get an idea with a title.
[00:22:15.330 --> 00:22:17.490] And that has happened even in undergrad.
[00:22:17.490 --> 00:22:20.270] I remember I had a title, Calling All Saints.
[00:22:21.030 --> 00:22:22.690] And what I didn't realize,
[00:22:22.930 --> 00:22:25.310] it was a student led organization
[00:22:25.310 --> 00:22:28.570] that hosted community events, events on campus.
[00:22:29.570 --> 00:22:31.910] So with Girl Talk, I had the title
[00:22:31.910 --> 00:22:33.550] and I had a close friend of mine
[00:22:33.550 --> 00:22:36.850] who I thought I was gonna do this experience with.
[00:22:36.990 --> 00:22:38.370] And so we had talked about it
[00:22:38.370 --> 00:22:40.830] and the way that the vision was cast,
[00:22:40.930 --> 00:22:44.250] it was more of us probably interviewing different women,
[00:22:44.250 --> 00:22:46.050] but it wasn't a panel discussion, right?
[00:22:46.050 --> 00:22:48.510] It was kind of like highlighting different women,
[00:22:49.610 --> 00:22:54.390] but it was pressing on my heart to do this Girl Talk
[00:22:54.390 --> 00:22:58.070] and she wasn't in a position in her life to move forward,
[00:22:58.070 --> 00:23:01.530] but I felt this urgency of you need to move forward.
[00:23:02.510 --> 00:23:04.790] And what came to me was the scripture
[00:23:04.790 --> 00:23:08.570] where God asked Moses, what's in your hand, right?
[00:23:08.610 --> 00:23:09.910] And so that's what came to me.
[00:23:09.930 --> 00:23:11.150] It was like, what's in my hand?
[00:23:11.690 --> 00:23:14.630] Women, I have so many women in my life
[00:23:14.630 --> 00:23:16.250] and these are amazing women.
[00:23:16.490 --> 00:23:19.390] They're all like high achieving and community impact
[00:23:19.390 --> 00:23:20.650] and leaders and all this stuff.
[00:23:21.170 --> 00:23:22.270] So that's what I did.
[00:23:22.290 --> 00:23:23.670] I was like, well, I'm moving forward.
[00:23:23.670 --> 00:23:24.490] This is on my heart.
[00:23:24.490 --> 00:23:26.630] I'm just gonna get a group of women on Zoom
[00:23:27.130 --> 00:23:28.710] and we're gonna talk about feminism.
[00:23:28.710 --> 00:23:30.770] So we're gonna talk about this hot topic,
[00:23:30.770 --> 00:23:33.490] especially in a faith-based community
[00:23:33.490 --> 00:23:35.870] of what this means to us.
[00:23:36.150 --> 00:23:37.850] And that really was the kickoff.
[00:23:37.890 --> 00:23:40.290] And I remember Alicia being on that platform
[00:23:40.290 --> 00:23:42.770] and she was like, this is gonna be a podcast.
[00:23:42.850 --> 00:23:44.330] And she just started speaking all this stuff.
[00:23:44.330 --> 00:23:46.050] And I'm like, okay, girl.
[00:23:46.370 --> 00:23:46.930] You know?
[00:23:48.550 --> 00:23:52.750] And then towards the probably second year,
[00:23:52.750 --> 00:23:54.090] they wanted it in person.
[00:23:54.690 --> 00:23:56.570] And it was the demand of the community.
[00:23:56.690 --> 00:23:58.270] It was the demand of the people
[00:23:58.270 --> 00:24:01.210] that keep bringing forth the elevation.
[00:24:01.570 --> 00:24:03.930] And they were like, we want this.
[00:24:04.270 --> 00:24:05.710] So we had it in person.
[00:24:06.130 --> 00:24:09.530] And then by the time we had our first mail discussion,
[00:24:10.390 --> 00:24:12.470] all mail panel discussion, which you were featured in,
[00:24:12.470 --> 00:24:14.350] it was really heavy on my heart.
[00:24:14.430 --> 00:24:15.590] Get this into a podcast.
[00:24:15.670 --> 00:24:16.950] Get this into a podcast.
[00:24:17.030 --> 00:24:19.610] And then I had to convert three years worth
[00:24:20.510 --> 00:24:23.690] of Zoom talks into a podcast.
[00:24:23.690 --> 00:24:25.810] I was like, okay, Lori, go help me do this.
[00:24:25.850 --> 00:24:26.890] But it was phenomenal.
[00:24:27.010 --> 00:24:28.770] And now there is no turning back.
[00:24:28.970 --> 00:24:30.290] Yeah, and you did it.
[00:24:30.310 --> 00:24:31.830] And like you said, no turning back.
[00:24:31.870 --> 00:24:35.850] And I was surely honored to be a part of that panel.
[00:24:36.450 --> 00:24:37.890] I believe the youngest members.
[00:24:38.090 --> 00:24:42.050] So just to see all that wisdom that I was surrounded by
[00:24:42.050 --> 00:24:45.670] and things that I have to look up to and work on myself.
[00:24:45.870 --> 00:24:47.150] It was just, it was just beautiful.
[00:24:47.190 --> 00:24:49.150] Just to witness and be a part of.
[00:24:49.910 --> 00:24:51.330] Well, thank you for saying that.
[00:24:51.450 --> 00:24:54.910] I definitely felt like those men were hand selected
[00:24:54.910 --> 00:24:56.850] and it was a divine connection.
[00:24:56.850 --> 00:24:58.790] And for me, you're a personal brother.
[00:24:58.950 --> 00:25:00.970] So it was just like, of course you're gonna be on it.
[00:25:01.090 --> 00:25:03.030] Oh, honored, yeah.
[00:25:03.710 --> 00:25:04.990] Yeah, I learned so much.
[00:25:05.150 --> 00:25:08.090] And it's actually a video that I'll review from time.
[00:25:09.850 --> 00:25:15.170] Just the rooms and panels and the platform
[00:25:15.170 --> 00:25:19.270] that you hold and bring and put together is just amazing.
[00:25:19.530 --> 00:25:20.770] It's surely divine.
[00:25:21.470 --> 00:25:23.430] Like there's no doubt about that.
[00:25:24.170 --> 00:25:24.730] Thank you.
[00:25:24.730 --> 00:25:26.750] And I would not be doing any of it
[00:25:26.750 --> 00:25:29.330] if I did not feel it was spiritually led
[00:25:29.330 --> 00:25:31.610] because it's nothing I ever saw myself doing.
[00:25:32.030 --> 00:25:34.090] Everything I do today, I never could have fathomed.
[00:25:44.210 --> 00:25:45.710] Do you know that it's spirit led?
[00:25:46.590 --> 00:25:47.870] I think for me,
[00:25:47.870 --> 00:25:50.510] that's why you have to have a relationship with the divine
[00:25:50.510 --> 00:25:52.430] and intimate relationship
[00:25:52.430 --> 00:25:54.750] because he talks in a lot of different ways.
[00:25:54.810 --> 00:25:56.310] But once you know his voice,
[00:25:56.510 --> 00:25:58.110] you know that he's speaking to you.
[00:25:58.110 --> 00:25:58.890] I like that, yeah.
[00:25:59.230 --> 00:26:01.550] And part of it is, in my journey,
[00:26:02.030 --> 00:26:04.670] no other open doors will happen
[00:26:04.670 --> 00:26:06.650] except for the door I'm supposed to go through.
[00:26:06.790 --> 00:26:09.370] So even when I felt called to be an entrepreneur
[00:26:09.370 --> 00:26:10.870] and I'm dragging my feet
[00:26:10.870 --> 00:26:12.590] and I'm trying to get this nine to five
[00:26:12.590 --> 00:26:14.350] and I'm not trying to be an entrepreneur,
[00:26:15.210 --> 00:26:17.690] I'm running into obstacles.
[00:26:17.890 --> 00:26:20.710] And I remember I was working at a temp company
[00:26:20.710 --> 00:26:22.470] for another small business
[00:26:23.070 --> 00:26:25.690] and the guy had hired me temporarily
[00:26:25.690 --> 00:26:26.890] and he says to me,
[00:26:26.990 --> 00:26:28.310] you should start your own business.
[00:26:28.330 --> 00:26:30.330] And I'm like, who tells you
[00:26:30.330 --> 00:26:31.890] to start your own business, right?
[00:26:31.910 --> 00:26:33.370] When they're hiring you.
[00:26:34.070 --> 00:26:37.150] But for me, it's a matter of feeling
[00:26:37.150 --> 00:26:40.430] an internal prompting and knowing in my heart,
[00:26:41.070 --> 00:26:43.150] I am supposed to be doing this
[00:26:43.150 --> 00:26:47.390] and no practical open doors will happen for me
[00:26:47.390 --> 00:26:48.890] until I do this.
[00:26:50.070 --> 00:26:51.750] So a lot of times it's that
[00:26:51.750 --> 00:26:54.130] or other people keep speaking something
[00:26:54.130 --> 00:26:58.570] like Alicia saying, this should be a podcast, right?
[00:26:58.630 --> 00:27:00.850] Or even with the publishing house,
[00:27:01.030 --> 00:27:02.470] her mother giving me the word,
[00:27:02.510 --> 00:27:04.050] you're gonna own a publishing house one day.
[00:27:04.070 --> 00:27:05.270] And I'm like, mm.
[00:27:05.470 --> 00:27:08.030] And then Alicia being like, publish me, you know?
[00:27:08.070 --> 00:27:10.450] So sometimes you hear something over and over
[00:27:10.450 --> 00:27:13.530] and you're like, okay, I think right now.
[00:27:15.070 --> 00:27:18.170] And it's just a testimony for that.
[00:27:18.530 --> 00:27:20.450] Alicia becoming your first publisher.
[00:27:20.710 --> 00:27:22.750] I'm like, that's amazing.
[00:27:23.450 --> 00:27:26.490] And yeah, I definitely have her book as well.
[00:27:27.430 --> 00:27:29.150] So it's amazing.
[00:27:29.390 --> 00:27:30.410] Even our whole journey
[00:27:30.410 --> 00:27:32.690] because she and I have known each other for so long
[00:27:32.690 --> 00:27:34.270] in a different capacity.
[00:27:34.610 --> 00:27:36.310] So to be in this space,
[00:27:36.350 --> 00:27:38.910] to be running alongside each other,
[00:27:39.010 --> 00:27:42.690] it just shows how God puts people in your path way ahead.
[00:27:42.690 --> 00:27:46.230] You don't understand the full reasoning.
[00:27:46.610 --> 00:27:49.390] You and I got closer in the last few years.
[00:27:49.630 --> 00:27:51.630] When I first met you, I couldn't have foresaw that.
[00:27:51.690 --> 00:27:53.870] There's so many people in my life
[00:27:54.570 --> 00:27:57.050] that were just kind of around
[00:27:57.050 --> 00:28:01.210] that when the time came, they drew closer.
[00:28:01.210 --> 00:28:04.170] And it was like, okay, we're running this race together.
[00:28:04.790 --> 00:28:06.590] We are surely running.
[00:28:06.590 --> 00:28:09.970] And even going back to what you said,
[00:28:10.450 --> 00:28:12.810] you watching documentaries now,
[00:28:13.170 --> 00:28:17.190] even having the privilege to work on your own documentary.
[00:28:17.710 --> 00:28:20.170] Like, what is the feeling like, first off?
[00:28:20.570 --> 00:28:23.330] I flashback, and I don't know if you remember
[00:28:23.330 --> 00:28:26.190] when we were at the event that JR had hosted.
[00:28:26.630 --> 00:28:28.890] And he's the one that said,
[00:28:29.330 --> 00:28:31.190] you should start, you should do a documentary.
[00:28:31.350 --> 00:28:33.890] Again, it's always somebody else saying something.
[00:28:34.790 --> 00:28:37.290] It's nothing I ever saw myself doing.
[00:28:37.290 --> 00:28:39.110] As much as I love documentaries,
[00:28:40.210 --> 00:28:42.730] because I was just like, maybe one day,
[00:28:43.330 --> 00:28:46.370] but I knew like, no, something's for this.
[00:28:46.730 --> 00:28:48.270] And you're sitting right there with me.
[00:28:48.450 --> 00:28:50.790] So I'm like, okay, let me talk to Aileen about this.
[00:28:52.410 --> 00:28:55.630] And now that we're in the weeds with this project
[00:28:55.630 --> 00:28:57.950] and kind of seeing it come alive,
[00:28:58.670 --> 00:29:01.710] I think the biggest impact it's making on me
[00:29:01.710 --> 00:29:03.710] is that God answered my prayer.
[00:29:03.730 --> 00:29:05.490] And I feel emotional talking about it
[00:29:05.490 --> 00:29:10.630] because in it, it starts off with me crying out to God.
[00:29:10.710 --> 00:29:11.470] What is my purpose?
[00:29:11.550 --> 00:29:15.950] I was in such a dark space with grieving my mother,
[00:29:16.930 --> 00:29:20.690] feeling like my origin was gone, feeling so alone.
[00:29:21.750 --> 00:29:24.750] And again, no open doors in my career.
[00:29:24.950 --> 00:29:27.270] I'm trying to get a job, no open doors.
[00:29:27.970 --> 00:29:31.170] Not understanding that my purpose was there all along.
[00:29:31.830 --> 00:29:34.750] I had already had two books published,
[00:29:34.750 --> 00:29:38.230] but I could not see it because my mindset had to switch.
[00:29:38.630 --> 00:29:41.410] So the documentary is such a testament to like,
[00:29:41.650 --> 00:29:44.710] man, look at what all transpired
[00:29:44.710 --> 00:29:48.010] after that moment of calling out to God.
[00:29:48.950 --> 00:29:50.710] And this was his answer.
[00:29:51.150 --> 00:29:52.990] That's what I see you watching.
[00:29:53.050 --> 00:29:54.970] And I'm like, man, you really answered that.
[00:29:59.980 --> 00:30:01.140] It's definitely touching.
[00:30:01.920 --> 00:30:04.160] So I kind of want to shift gears
[00:30:04.160 --> 00:30:07.900] and speak on the other side of entrepreneurship,
[00:30:07.900 --> 00:30:10.740] like the dark side, the dark moments.
[00:30:11.260 --> 00:30:13.080] What were some of those challenges like?
[00:30:14.400 --> 00:30:17.480] I think it's about doing it alone.
[00:30:17.760 --> 00:30:19.240] So even though I have community,
[00:30:19.440 --> 00:30:21.220] I still don't have that core family
[00:30:21.220 --> 00:30:22.900] that I've always longed for.
[00:30:23.480 --> 00:30:25.600] And my mother and grandmother not being here
[00:30:25.600 --> 00:30:26.900] are the natural to see it.
[00:30:26.920 --> 00:30:30.460] Like so much of what inspires me
[00:30:30.460 --> 00:30:32.420] is upholding their legacy,
[00:30:32.660 --> 00:30:34.460] incorporating them in my writing,
[00:30:34.460 --> 00:30:37.440] subtly honoring them in the documentary.
[00:30:38.100 --> 00:30:40.360] But you are so grieving
[00:30:40.360 --> 00:30:42.660] that they can't be here in the natural.
[00:30:43.140 --> 00:30:47.460] At my events, at every milestone that I make,
[00:30:47.780 --> 00:30:49.360] they're not physically here.
[00:30:49.560 --> 00:30:52.800] And so I have my community, thank God,
[00:30:52.940 --> 00:30:54.280] and my loved ones,
[00:30:54.620 --> 00:30:58.000] but I still carry that grief
[00:30:58.620 --> 00:31:02.400] that I have to do this on my own.
[00:31:02.400 --> 00:31:05.520] Whereas so much of their journeys they had,
[00:31:05.600 --> 00:31:06.700] we all had each other.
[00:31:07.480 --> 00:31:09.620] So even when my grandmother transitioned,
[00:31:09.980 --> 00:31:11.100] my mother still had me,
[00:31:11.420 --> 00:31:15.700] but I'm the one that has to do it alone without them.
[00:31:16.200 --> 00:31:19.300] And it's a cross, it's definitely difficult,
[00:31:20.020 --> 00:31:23.960] but I recognize how much love has been poured into me
[00:31:23.960 --> 00:31:25.880] and how much love still surrounds me
[00:31:25.880 --> 00:31:27.940] and the people that choose me.
[00:31:28.860 --> 00:31:30.580] But it's just a part of life.
[00:31:30.580 --> 00:31:33.860] There's always hard things in life, you know?
[00:31:33.880 --> 00:31:36.660] And what I was reflecting on earlier today was
[00:31:36.660 --> 00:31:39.540] what makes us different
[00:31:39.540 --> 00:31:43.160] is that we push through those hard times.
[00:31:43.960 --> 00:31:46.160] We're always going to have hard times,
[00:31:46.400 --> 00:31:48.800] but it's the ones who push through
[00:31:48.800 --> 00:31:50.940] and get to the next side,
[00:31:50.960 --> 00:31:53.020] the next day, the next moment.
[00:31:53.620 --> 00:31:55.380] Those are the ones with the testimonies.
[00:31:55.380 --> 00:31:57.020] Those are the ones who are resilient.
[00:32:00.140 --> 00:32:02.180] How powerful is a testimony?
[00:32:03.650 --> 00:32:09.330] People that may be afraid to share or share their story,
[00:32:09.370 --> 00:32:11.190] how powerful is a testimony?
[00:32:12.330 --> 00:32:14.450] I definitely think it's transformative.
[00:32:14.750 --> 00:32:17.130] And I was talking about this in a different interview
[00:32:17.130 --> 00:32:18.650] I had earlier today.
[00:32:19.510 --> 00:32:22.130] What motivated me to share vulnerably
[00:32:22.130 --> 00:32:24.390] in how to overcome heartbreak was
[00:32:24.390 --> 00:32:26.590] who was on the other side of this book
[00:32:26.590 --> 00:32:28.470] that this is going to help in their despair.
[00:32:28.490 --> 00:32:29.390] It's powerful.
[00:32:30.030 --> 00:32:32.830] And sometimes it's like writing to your former self
[00:32:32.830 --> 00:32:36.790] or writing to an older version of yourself.
[00:32:36.850 --> 00:32:39.090] What would you tell your older version?
[00:32:39.730 --> 00:32:42.350] Even sometimes for me, these books,
[00:32:42.550 --> 00:32:44.610] the Stubborn's Cafe series is like,
[00:32:44.610 --> 00:32:45.930] man, if I was in college,
[00:32:45.970 --> 00:32:49.470] this is what I would have wanted to read, you know?
[00:32:49.930 --> 00:32:54.170] So I think definitely the power of testimonies
[00:32:54.170 --> 00:32:56.330] is transformative, it's impactful,
[00:32:56.330 --> 00:32:58.030] and it can save someone's life.
[00:33:01.610 --> 00:33:04.970] Was there a time where someone came to you personally
[00:33:04.970 --> 00:33:08.110] and said your story, your book, your testimony,
[00:33:08.450 --> 00:33:09.410] like saved them?
[00:33:11.190 --> 00:33:15.030] I can't say saved them, but I can definitely say
[00:33:15.690 --> 00:33:18.370] it really inspired them and gave them hope
[00:33:18.370 --> 00:33:20.250] that they knew they can make it through
[00:33:20.250 --> 00:33:23.450] because we had had similar journeys, for sure.
[00:33:25.490 --> 00:33:29.230] So I know you are a part of many different things,
[00:33:29.390 --> 00:33:30.610] but I would like to talk
[00:33:30.610 --> 00:33:33.090] about the Greater Cleveland Association
[00:33:33.090 --> 00:33:35.050] of Black Journalists.
[00:33:35.050 --> 00:33:38.010] Like first, what does that mean to you?
[00:33:38.690 --> 00:33:43.430] Well, it's an organization that promotes literacy
[00:33:43.430 --> 00:33:45.530] in the black community first and foremost,
[00:33:46.350 --> 00:33:48.490] empowering black voices,
[00:33:49.710 --> 00:33:52.970] enlightening our audience and community.
[00:33:57.910 --> 00:34:02.390] And so it's an honor to be connected by this legacy
[00:34:02.390 --> 00:34:04.790] of writers that have went before me
[00:34:04.790 --> 00:34:06.950] that are still current day.
[00:34:06.950 --> 00:34:11.030] And Rhonda Crowder is the president
[00:34:11.030 --> 00:34:12.670] and she is a dear friend.
[00:34:12.770 --> 00:34:15.130] I love her spirit, I love her humility.
[00:34:15.770 --> 00:34:18.530] She's invested in me, she's invested in Girl Talk,
[00:34:18.630 --> 00:34:20.030] she's invested in my events.
[00:34:20.590 --> 00:34:22.090] She's at the Indy Author Expo.
[00:34:22.350 --> 00:34:26.110] And so having that type of support system
[00:34:26.650 --> 00:34:27.889] as an up and comer,
[00:34:28.090 --> 00:34:29.790] because I consider myself an up and comer.
[00:34:30.350 --> 00:34:30.830] Really?
[00:34:31.330 --> 00:34:32.510] Oh yeah, for sure.
[00:34:32.790 --> 00:34:35.989] I mean, for me, again, I didn't have a degree
[00:34:35.989 --> 00:34:37.590] in writing or creativity,
[00:34:38.010 --> 00:34:40.750] which I thought is what qualified you to be a real writer.
[00:34:41.790 --> 00:34:44.949] And I look at these people like, okay,
[00:34:45.310 --> 00:34:46.989] they got the real, they got the chops,
[00:34:47.290 --> 00:34:50.969] they have the actual credentials and things.
[00:34:51.370 --> 00:34:55.150] So for me to be in this network to write articles
[00:34:55.150 --> 00:34:58.530] that actually is respected by the community,
[00:34:58.850 --> 00:35:02.010] it's like, oh, I have an innate gift.
[00:35:03.250 --> 00:35:04.670] I have an innate gift.
[00:35:04.670 --> 00:35:07.070] Of course, I've cultivated my gift
[00:35:07.070 --> 00:35:09.150] with different workshops and practicing,
[00:35:09.950 --> 00:35:11.510] but I had an actual gift
[00:35:11.510 --> 00:35:13.890] and writers can go different paths.
[00:35:13.970 --> 00:35:15.370] That's what I didn't know is that
[00:35:15.370 --> 00:35:17.450] there's no one path to become a writer.
[00:35:18.630 --> 00:35:20.410] But yeah, the organization itself,
[00:35:20.570 --> 00:35:23.770] I definitely am blessed by the connections
[00:35:23.770 --> 00:35:26.650] that I've made and what they stand for.
[00:35:26.830 --> 00:35:31.830] And I think it also gave me more affirmation
[00:35:31.830 --> 00:35:34.250] as I pursue my journalism endeavors
[00:35:34.250 --> 00:35:36.550] for different platforms, such as Maseret,
[00:35:37.210 --> 00:35:41.510] that I have to shout out as a community partner, for sure.
[00:35:44.090 --> 00:35:45.890] And going back to that bookkeeping,
[00:35:46.090 --> 00:35:49.050] I see a lot of structuring and planning events
[00:35:49.050 --> 00:35:51.050] and being a part of these organizations.
[00:35:51.530 --> 00:35:53.550] It's a lot of structure.
[00:35:54.530 --> 00:35:59.250] So what was something when you first thought of
[00:35:59.250 --> 00:36:04.780] the Author Indie Expo or some of those
[00:36:04.780 --> 00:36:07.700] hard moments, those tough moments,
[00:36:08.720 --> 00:36:10.560] some chaotic, out of place moments,
[00:36:11.220 --> 00:36:13.140] like, oh, I don't see this getting done.
[00:36:13.580 --> 00:36:16.300] Even though it got done, but in the early stages,
[00:36:17.040 --> 00:36:20.580] what was those confusing, unstructured moments?
[00:36:21.420 --> 00:36:24.460] What I'll say is in the Indie Author Expo
[00:36:24.460 --> 00:36:27.080] was born out of a negative experience
[00:36:27.080 --> 00:36:29.680] I had years ago at a different expo.
[00:36:29.840 --> 00:36:31.600] And so my heart was,
[00:36:31.600 --> 00:36:33.740] I want to give indie authors
[00:36:33.740 --> 00:36:35.740] a better experience than what I had.
[00:36:36.400 --> 00:36:39.360] And my heart is always going to be for indie authors
[00:36:39.360 --> 00:36:41.440] because you're out there hustling.
[00:36:41.480 --> 00:36:43.340] You've already spent X amount of years
[00:36:43.340 --> 00:36:44.520] working on this book.
[00:36:45.280 --> 00:36:47.360] And now you're trying to get it visible
[00:36:47.360 --> 00:36:49.900] and you're spending so much money on vendor tables.
[00:36:50.040 --> 00:36:51.840] I've been in the rain, I've been in the heat,
[00:36:51.920 --> 00:36:55.040] I've been injured, and you're just out there grinding.
[00:36:55.340 --> 00:36:56.540] Right, you've been injured.
[00:36:57.600 --> 00:37:00.640] Yes, I've had people giving me rides
[00:37:00.640 --> 00:37:02.420] because I'm in a boot or I'm on crutches,
[00:37:03.140 --> 00:37:05.100] but I'm still like, I'm going to the...
[00:37:05.100 --> 00:37:06.580] That's perseverance, wow.
[00:37:07.420 --> 00:37:12.240] Yeah, and so all of that to say the Indie Author Expo
[00:37:12.240 --> 00:37:15.700] was inspired out of negative experiences
[00:37:15.700 --> 00:37:18.280] and empathy towards the grind,
[00:37:18.360 --> 00:37:20.220] because you're at events where people
[00:37:20.220 --> 00:37:22.280] necessarily don't buy books or don't read.
[00:37:22.300 --> 00:37:25.080] And so you're competing with the cute boutiques
[00:37:25.080 --> 00:37:27.660] or the jewelry or the makeup or whatever, right?
[00:37:27.660 --> 00:37:28.960] And you're like, I have this book.
[00:37:30.120 --> 00:37:32.160] So I wanted to give a space
[00:37:32.160 --> 00:37:35.180] where people actually are coming for you
[00:37:35.180 --> 00:37:37.700] and really to put money in the pockets of vendors.
[00:37:38.320 --> 00:37:40.940] Now what I'll say, one of the big hiccups
[00:37:40.940 --> 00:37:44.720] that happened with the first one was the venue.
[00:37:44.860 --> 00:37:46.600] So to your point, I am very structured.
[00:37:46.680 --> 00:37:47.760] I'm very much a planner.
[00:37:48.020 --> 00:37:49.640] That's how I do all the things.
[00:37:50.140 --> 00:37:52.820] And I'm kind of like line upon line,
[00:37:53.480 --> 00:37:56.140] dot my I's, cross my T's,
[00:37:56.140 --> 00:37:58.500] but you know, life be livin', so things happen.
[00:37:59.380 --> 00:38:02.040] And so I had locked in the venue months in advance
[00:38:02.040 --> 00:38:05.220] and probably within weeks before the event.
[00:38:06.540 --> 00:38:10.240] I learned that we can not sell books at that site
[00:38:10.240 --> 00:38:12.580] and I'm like, but that's the purpose of the event.
[00:38:12.760 --> 00:38:14.060] Right, right, whoa.
[00:38:14.780 --> 00:38:16.840] And so I had to pivot
[00:38:16.840 --> 00:38:19.060] and this is the blessing of being an entrepreneur.
[00:38:19.280 --> 00:38:21.040] I mean, you learn how to flow.
[00:38:21.240 --> 00:38:21.960] You learn how to pivot.
[00:38:22.120 --> 00:38:24.120] You know everything is not going according to plan.
[00:38:24.120 --> 00:38:28.060] So entrepreneurship trains you for these experiences
[00:38:28.060 --> 00:38:29.620] and you built your network.
[00:38:30.000 --> 00:38:32.740] So it's like, I know too many people
[00:38:32.740 --> 00:38:34.420] for me not to lock in the venue.
[00:38:34.460 --> 00:38:35.380] That was in my heart.
[00:38:35.440 --> 00:38:36.900] It's like, I know too many people.
[00:38:37.120 --> 00:38:39.760] So I started sending out text messages.
[00:38:40.500 --> 00:38:43.980] Thank God, Charles of Breakthrough Sounds came through
[00:38:43.980 --> 00:38:47.380] in a clutch and that was a big deal for me
[00:38:47.380 --> 00:38:50.620] because I don't consider myself a big visionary,
[00:38:50.620 --> 00:38:55.040] but that one was like all these pieces and parts to it.
[00:38:55.040 --> 00:38:58.440] Then you're leading over 20 people.
[00:38:58.940 --> 00:39:00.920] Then I had community partners
[00:39:00.920 --> 00:39:04.160] because I included the podcast also and my book launch
[00:39:04.160 --> 00:39:05.240] and I had decor.
[00:39:05.320 --> 00:39:07.640] It was like, okay, we're going to do the things, right?
[00:39:08.060 --> 00:39:08.900] And it was a win.
[00:39:08.920 --> 00:39:12.720] It was a success, but there was that moment of like,
[00:39:12.880 --> 00:39:13.960] am I supposed to be doing this?
[00:39:15.520 --> 00:39:19.780] But then what rose up in me was I know too many people.
[00:39:19.780 --> 00:39:24.300] And I think when you get to that stage,
[00:39:24.720 --> 00:39:27.940] whatever your industry is or your calling is,
[00:39:28.480 --> 00:39:30.080] there's a stage you're going to get to
[00:39:30.080 --> 00:39:31.220] where you're progressing,
[00:39:32.100 --> 00:39:34.300] where you're going to have that confidence
[00:39:34.300 --> 00:39:36.420] to navigate the harder obstacles.
[00:39:36.500 --> 00:39:38.600] You're going to have the network in place
[00:39:39.280 --> 00:39:41.640] because you've already been through some things.
[00:39:41.980 --> 00:39:43.200] By the time you get there,
[00:39:43.220 --> 00:39:45.280] you're like, I can make it over this
[00:39:45.280 --> 00:39:47.200] because I've made it over X, Y and Z.
[00:39:47.200 --> 00:39:50.900] Even if you've never necessarily faced that thing,
[00:39:51.380 --> 00:39:54.120] it's like, but I faced too many other things
[00:39:54.120 --> 00:39:56.320] not to overcome this thing.
[00:39:56.880 --> 00:39:58.940] So that's definitely one of them.
[00:39:59.140 --> 00:40:00.680] Hosting events in general,
[00:40:01.640 --> 00:40:05.040] it's always opportunity for things to happen.
[00:40:05.280 --> 00:40:06.660] I remember one in particular,
[00:40:07.020 --> 00:40:09.300] one girl talk that happened in particular
[00:40:10.320 --> 00:40:13.980] and we didn't realize this until like a couple days
[00:40:13.980 --> 00:40:16.400] before that the address was wrong on the flyer.
[00:40:16.400 --> 00:40:18.720] It's like stuff like that, it's like what?
[00:40:19.160 --> 00:40:20.940] And in the midst of that,
[00:40:21.420 --> 00:40:23.560] my goddaughter was having a really hard time
[00:40:23.560 --> 00:40:27.280] and I'm over their house for hours trying to console her
[00:40:27.280 --> 00:40:28.500] and then I'm getting her,
[00:40:28.580 --> 00:40:30.520] but we have, I'm getting texts
[00:40:30.520 --> 00:40:32.060] about people having the wrong address
[00:40:32.060 --> 00:40:34.080] and you just have fires.
[00:40:35.020 --> 00:40:36.340] You know, I've been through so much
[00:40:36.340 --> 00:40:37.640] with the publishing house,
[00:40:38.320 --> 00:40:40.880] with publishing these authors, they have deadlines.
[00:40:41.140 --> 00:40:42.680] I'm working with third parties.
[00:40:42.880 --> 00:40:44.140] They're not answering.
[00:40:44.780 --> 00:40:46.000] It's one thing after another.
[00:40:46.000 --> 00:40:49.320] And you just learn how to put off the fires.
[00:40:49.660 --> 00:40:51.580] And one thing I've learned even with my clients
[00:40:51.580 --> 00:40:52.800] is they can freak out
[00:40:52.800 --> 00:40:54.540] because they don't understand the process.
[00:40:54.680 --> 00:40:55.940] I know the process.
[00:40:56.440 --> 00:40:58.160] I've done this too many times.
[00:40:58.520 --> 00:40:59.700] We're gonna make the deadline.
[00:41:00.480 --> 00:41:02.280] I don't care what it takes.
[00:41:02.320 --> 00:41:03.500] I will figure it out.
[00:41:03.560 --> 00:41:04.660] And again, that's entrepreneurship.
[00:41:05.580 --> 00:41:06.820] It teaches you it's like,
[00:41:06.960 --> 00:41:08.280] nope, this is the goal.
[00:41:08.520 --> 00:41:10.620] These are the hurdles and there's a way.
[00:41:11.080 --> 00:41:13.400] I think when you develop an entrepreneurship mindset,
[00:41:13.400 --> 00:41:16.480] you develop a mindset of there's another way.
[00:41:16.740 --> 00:41:19.060] Find the other way to reach the goal.
[00:41:19.500 --> 00:41:21.680] Other way to reach the goal.
[00:41:22.040 --> 00:41:22.380] Wow.
[00:41:23.680 --> 00:41:23.920] Wow.
[00:41:24.300 --> 00:41:25.380] That's a good title.
[00:41:28.690 --> 00:41:32.150] And as I hear about these different challenges
[00:41:32.150 --> 00:41:33.890] and you overcoming them,
[00:41:34.530 --> 00:41:36.470] what are some of those challenges
[00:41:36.470 --> 00:41:39.310] and the lessons that you're taking
[00:41:39.310 --> 00:41:42.750] towards this year's author in the expo?
[00:41:43.440 --> 00:41:46.430] I definitely learned some things last year
[00:41:46.430 --> 00:41:49.350] about who I allow in this space
[00:41:49.350 --> 00:41:51.790] and that I can't partner with everyone.
[00:41:51.870 --> 00:41:53.230] So not even just with the expo,
[00:41:53.290 --> 00:41:56.230] but with my brand, with Andy Miller Publishing.
[00:41:56.870 --> 00:41:59.750] If our brand values are not in alignment,
[00:41:59.990 --> 00:42:00.950] we cannot work together.
[00:42:01.090 --> 00:42:03.570] And so I had to adapt that same.
[00:42:03.630 --> 00:42:04.530] What's your brand values?
[00:42:05.050 --> 00:42:09.990] Well, I'm a faith-based community related organization.
[00:42:10.670 --> 00:42:13.190] And so a lot of them have to do
[00:42:13.190 --> 00:42:16.010] with community transformation, impact, inspiration.
[00:42:16.370 --> 00:42:22.370] It can't be anything that is polluting our community,
[00:42:23.050 --> 00:42:24.530] degrading our community,
[00:42:24.730 --> 00:42:29.910] and it's not inspiring someone in a positive way.
[00:42:30.970 --> 00:42:33.110] So those are basic things,
[00:42:33.110 --> 00:42:36.290] but that is something that I had to learn.
[00:42:36.290 --> 00:42:41.530] So I've been very more intentional about vetting,
[00:42:41.710 --> 00:42:43.270] which I was intentional last year,
[00:42:43.270 --> 00:42:46.270] but I learned that I have to be more intentional.
[00:42:46.510 --> 00:42:47.670] Even more, yeah.
[00:42:48.750 --> 00:42:51.350] Even more, but I'm super excited
[00:42:51.350 --> 00:42:52.750] about this group of authors
[00:42:52.750 --> 00:42:55.270] and the connections that they're gonna make
[00:42:55.270 --> 00:42:56.890] and what they're bringing to the table
[00:42:56.890 --> 00:42:59.130] and some surprises I have for them as well.
[00:42:59.790 --> 00:43:01.350] Surprises, we love surprises,
[00:43:02.070 --> 00:43:05.550] but that reminds me of a situation
[00:43:05.550 --> 00:43:07.010] I had with a musician.
[00:43:07.450 --> 00:43:11.130] First, I don't really interview too many musicians,
[00:43:11.610 --> 00:43:13.670] especially that doesn't have the business structure
[00:43:13.670 --> 00:43:16.210] or just the business mindset,
[00:43:16.770 --> 00:43:18.790] so I kind of avoid them.
[00:43:18.830 --> 00:43:20.110] But like you said,
[00:43:20.770 --> 00:43:24.390] people that's polluting your brand
[00:43:24.390 --> 00:43:28.730] and tainting the population of negativity.
[00:43:29.590 --> 00:43:31.490] So it's important to vet
[00:43:32.630 --> 00:43:35.630] because yeah, that alignment is powerful.
[00:43:36.410 --> 00:43:38.210] And sometimes it takes years.
[00:43:38.350 --> 00:43:41.650] Sometimes you don't see aspects of people from a distance
[00:43:41.650 --> 00:43:43.250] and when you get close to you're like,
[00:43:43.350 --> 00:43:45.290] oh, we're not in alignment.
[00:43:45.330 --> 00:43:46.650] And I had to learn that too.
[00:43:51.500 --> 00:43:53.060] We'll talk later, we'll talk.
[00:43:55.020 --> 00:43:56.720] So what is something you're looking forward
[00:43:56.720 --> 00:43:58.640] to author any expo in?
[00:43:58.780 --> 00:44:00.720] It's like less than 20 days.
[00:44:01.040 --> 00:44:04.980] June 20th, 12 to 4 p.m. at Breakthrough Sound Studio.
[00:44:05.720 --> 00:44:08.440] I'm excited to feature Jill Justice,
[00:44:08.640 --> 00:44:12.060] who's a local poet and she's becoming a good friend.
[00:44:12.120 --> 00:44:13.900] So I'm excited to give her that space
[00:44:13.900 --> 00:44:15.240] to do what she does well.
[00:44:15.840 --> 00:44:17.280] But I think overall
[00:44:17.280 --> 00:44:20.020] is the connectivity and synergy of the people.
[00:44:20.260 --> 00:44:21.360] It feels like family.
[00:44:21.760 --> 00:44:24.120] It's a vibe, it's wholesome,
[00:44:24.660 --> 00:44:26.060] it's uplifting, it's encouraging.
[00:44:26.460 --> 00:44:28.120] We celebrate Juneteenth.
[00:44:28.300 --> 00:44:30.920] So we honor our ancestors.
[00:44:31.140 --> 00:44:32.080] We honor legacy.
[00:44:34.100 --> 00:44:37.760] And yeah, I had this moment last year where I looked up
[00:44:37.760 --> 00:44:40.860] and it was just like an organism.
[00:44:40.860 --> 00:44:43.460] It was so organic and there was just this flow
[00:44:43.460 --> 00:44:47.000] or even that people were waiting at the door at 12 sharp.
[00:44:47.100 --> 00:44:49.520] I just was like, okay.
[00:44:51.260 --> 00:44:53.900] So I think for me it feels a little overwhelming
[00:44:53.900 --> 00:44:59.240] because again, I feel like that small introverted girl
[00:44:59.240 --> 00:45:00.800] who was rejected and bullied
[00:45:00.800 --> 00:45:02.120] and didn't have friends growing up
[00:45:02.120 --> 00:45:07.440] and to see God just, I don't know,
[00:45:07.640 --> 00:45:09.400] turn all of that around.
[00:45:09.540 --> 00:45:11.900] The very area that I was attacked in
[00:45:11.900 --> 00:45:14.120] is my gift to gather.
[00:45:14.420 --> 00:45:16.280] And it blows my mind of like,
[00:45:16.420 --> 00:45:17.940] I can't believe all these people came here
[00:45:17.940 --> 00:45:20.020] because I said we're doing an event.
[00:45:21.060 --> 00:45:23.700] And books, that's a hard sell.
[00:45:25.700 --> 00:45:28.040] Sometimes literally, it's hard back.
[00:45:30.300 --> 00:45:33.180] I mean, Cleveland has a 66% illiteracy rate.
[00:45:33.740 --> 00:45:35.200] It's struggling in that way.
[00:45:35.320 --> 00:45:37.600] So for people to show up, it's like,
[00:45:37.740 --> 00:45:39.800] okay, we're really doing something in this space.
[00:45:43.560 --> 00:45:45.400] Definitely read that statistic
[00:45:45.400 --> 00:45:47.540] and just been around in youth
[00:45:47.540 --> 00:45:49.580] and it's like they don't, like you said,
[00:45:49.580 --> 00:45:52.420] they don't pick up books and they don't read
[00:45:52.420 --> 00:45:54.480] or they have struggled in reading
[00:45:54.480 --> 00:45:58.580] and I can only blame the parents and the teachers.
[00:45:59.660 --> 00:46:01.060] The teachers at these schools.
[00:46:01.180 --> 00:46:02.640] And I talked about this earlier,
[00:46:02.640 --> 00:46:05.860] it really is all of our responsibility
[00:46:05.860 --> 00:46:09.460] in the home, at the schools, in the community,
[00:46:09.680 --> 00:46:12.440] be the village, you know,
[00:46:12.720 --> 00:46:16.180] to equip them to combat their present day obstacles
[00:46:16.180 --> 00:46:18.300] and distractions such as social media,
[00:46:18.700 --> 00:46:20.540] to stimulate their creative minds.
[00:46:20.620 --> 00:46:23.380] Like we have to take that burden as a whole.
[00:46:25.840 --> 00:46:29.020] So how do you feel we could change that?
[00:46:29.060 --> 00:46:30.820] I know it's not gonna take a day,
[00:46:30.900 --> 00:46:34.320] maybe not a year, but over the course of time.
[00:46:34.320 --> 00:46:36.660] I think that if everyone had that mindset,
[00:46:36.780 --> 00:46:38.680] like I was watching a film called
[00:46:38.680 --> 00:46:41.560] Forever Free and the Literacy Playbook.
[00:46:41.760 --> 00:46:44.180] I just did an article from Macere
[00:46:44.180 --> 00:46:46.600] it'll be dropping the next week or two
[00:46:46.600 --> 00:46:49.020] and it's exposing the playbook
[00:46:49.020 --> 00:46:52.400] of using literacy as a tool to control
[00:46:52.400 --> 00:46:56.380] and how the inner city, people of color
[00:46:56.380 --> 00:46:59.220] have had historical oppression
[00:46:59.960 --> 00:47:01.440] using the tool of literacy
[00:47:01.440 --> 00:47:04.380] stemming from slaves not being able to read
[00:47:04.380 --> 00:47:07.260] or the enslaved not being able to read or prohibited
[00:47:08.000 --> 00:47:11.300] because they knew those in power understood
[00:47:11.300 --> 00:47:13.800] that once you understand how to read,
[00:47:14.060 --> 00:47:14.920] you're empowered.
[00:47:15.800 --> 00:47:19.500] And so sadly, the powers that be
[00:47:19.500 --> 00:47:21.960] are still using those tools
[00:47:21.960 --> 00:47:24.660] and we see it happening in impoverished communities.
[00:47:25.500 --> 00:47:29.580] So a lot of the film is explaining
[00:47:30.300 --> 00:47:31.760] what's happening behind the scenes
[00:47:31.760 --> 00:47:35.160] but the call is for the community to rise up
[00:47:35.160 --> 00:47:38.640] to create events and literary programs
[00:47:39.180 --> 00:47:42.140] and attack it from so many different sides
[00:47:42.140 --> 00:47:43.620] of who's in power,
[00:47:43.700 --> 00:47:45.780] who are you selecting as your representatives
[00:47:46.400 --> 00:47:48.260] but also boots on the ground,
[00:47:48.360 --> 00:47:50.600] connecting with educators, librarians,
[00:47:51.220 --> 00:47:52.260] that sort of thing.
[00:47:52.360 --> 00:47:55.280] And you have to have a lot of different things in play
[00:47:55.840 --> 00:47:59.980] for us to attack this experience, right?
[00:48:00.100 --> 00:48:02.680] This negative experience happening to our children
[00:48:02.680 --> 00:48:03.780] who are still suffering.
[00:48:04.280 --> 00:48:06.300] But one thing I talk about in my article
[00:48:06.300 --> 00:48:08.860] is what I'm inspired by is what happens
[00:48:08.860 --> 00:48:10.420] when community comes together
[00:48:10.960 --> 00:48:14.400] to face something such as the civil rights movement
[00:48:14.400 --> 00:48:18.220] for us to receive the freedoms that we have
[00:48:18.220 --> 00:48:19.380] and we're still in this fight
[00:48:19.380 --> 00:48:22.280] but I'm a recipient of their fight,
[00:48:22.640 --> 00:48:24.480] being a homeowner, being a business owner,
[00:48:24.480 --> 00:48:27.180] being able to do the things I do because of their fight,
[00:48:27.820 --> 00:48:29.660] what can we do when we come together?
[00:48:30.020 --> 00:48:31.740] So whatever the answers are,
[00:48:31.880 --> 00:48:34.440] I definitely think it relies on us coming together
[00:48:34.440 --> 00:48:37.740] but it is going to be a lot of different pockets,
[00:48:38.260 --> 00:48:39.440] movements that are happening
[00:48:40.120 --> 00:48:43.360] in the top tier levels of government, of education
[00:48:43.360 --> 00:48:45.420] but also in the boots on the ground,
[00:48:45.580 --> 00:48:46.620] community activism.
[00:48:48.040 --> 00:48:50.520] And as you speak on activism,
[00:48:50.860 --> 00:48:53.540] I wanna surely applaud you
[00:48:53.540 --> 00:48:55.840] for being an emerging leader.
[00:48:56.600 --> 00:49:00.220] How does it feel being honored in that way
[00:49:00.220 --> 00:49:01.560] and receiving that award?
[00:49:02.420 --> 00:49:03.900] That was extremely encouraging.
[00:49:04.180 --> 00:49:08.460] I got that award through Career Mastered
[00:49:08.460 --> 00:49:10.580] and their female-led magazine
[00:49:10.580 --> 00:49:14.080] and I got to interview Dr. Lisa Wicker on Girl Talk,
[00:49:14.120 --> 00:49:16.640] who's the founder and she is a trailblazer
[00:49:16.640 --> 00:49:18.740] and a heavy hitter, she's done so much.
[00:49:19.720 --> 00:49:23.700] And that award, I was the recipient in 2024.
[00:49:24.700 --> 00:49:26.960] So interestingly enough, I think it was so fitting
[00:49:26.960 --> 00:49:29.580] because I really was emerging in 2024.
[00:49:29.720 --> 00:49:33.620] I didn't have some of the opportunities I got,
[00:49:33.620 --> 00:49:34.660] even in that year.
[00:49:35.160 --> 00:49:36.540] In that year, I was featured
[00:49:36.540 --> 00:49:38.220] with Powerbrand, with Futureland,
[00:49:38.340 --> 00:49:40.560] it was like things just really took off that year
[00:49:41.700 --> 00:49:43.680] but it was a huge honor
[00:49:43.680 --> 00:49:45.160] because there were all of these women
[00:49:45.160 --> 00:49:49.220] with decades worth of impact.
[00:49:50.040 --> 00:49:51.940] And so it was a preview of the call.
[00:49:52.460 --> 00:49:54.900] It was like, this is the call, Nicole.
[00:49:55.020 --> 00:49:57.360] And I was surrounded by women leaders
[00:49:57.360 --> 00:49:59.000] and I felt like I was incubated
[00:49:59.000 --> 00:50:00.420] in a spirit of resiliency.
[00:50:01.360 --> 00:50:06.240] I felt like everyone there had faced so much,
[00:50:06.420 --> 00:50:08.480] yet they were still there
[00:50:08.480 --> 00:50:11.340] and they had brought so many with them
[00:50:11.340 --> 00:50:14.760] and I understood that that was the call of my life.
[00:50:17.440 --> 00:50:20.420] But yeah, even to kind of come full circle
[00:50:20.420 --> 00:50:23.920] and interview Dr. Lisa Wicker, who's the founder
[00:50:24.620 --> 00:50:27.240] and see the doors that opened up from that moment,
[00:50:27.360 --> 00:50:30.820] it confirmed like, yep, you were emerging
[00:50:31.340 --> 00:50:33.420] and now the torch has been passed.
[00:50:33.860 --> 00:50:37.480] Wow, and as you say, the torch has been passed
[00:50:37.480 --> 00:50:40.160] is like so many phenomenal women
[00:50:40.160 --> 00:50:43.260] that you attract and are networking with
[00:50:43.260 --> 00:50:45.540] and bringing a part of your community.
[00:50:46.080 --> 00:50:49.420] Is there someone else that you have not met
[00:50:49.420 --> 00:50:54.000] or is willing to meet and wanting to collaborate with?
[00:50:55.120 --> 00:50:56.640] That's a good question.
[00:50:58.520 --> 00:51:03.060] I can't say that there is any one individual.
[00:51:03.800 --> 00:51:07.220] What I'll say is my heart is being pulled
[00:51:07.220 --> 00:51:09.140] towards the entertainment industry
[00:51:09.740 --> 00:51:14.740] and my network is expanding with entertainment,
[00:51:15.720 --> 00:51:17.360] people affiliated with entertainment,
[00:51:17.640 --> 00:51:20.780] like filmmakers and directors and actors and actresses
[00:51:20.780 --> 00:51:24.500] and I see that shift happening where I'm like, okay,
[00:51:25.040 --> 00:51:27.320] but there's no one person,
[00:51:27.660 --> 00:51:30.620] but what I've learned is the need
[00:51:31.140 --> 00:51:33.700] for how they present themselves in the forefront,
[00:51:33.740 --> 00:51:36.960] it needs to match the behind the scenes.
[00:51:37.530 --> 00:51:38.960] The character needs to be there,
[00:51:39.080 --> 00:51:40.340] the maturity needs to be there,
[00:51:40.400 --> 00:51:41.580] the heart needs to be there.
[00:51:41.760 --> 00:51:45.500] It can't just be outwardly you look successful
[00:51:45.500 --> 00:51:48.600] and you're flourishing and you're helping others.
[00:51:49.060 --> 00:51:51.340] It has to be who are you behind the scenes
[00:51:51.340 --> 00:51:54.320] and that needs to match when I'm saying outwardly.
[00:51:55.970 --> 00:51:57.670] It is powerful
[00:51:58.220 --> 00:52:00.950] and I know the right people will continue to come.
[00:52:01.310 --> 00:52:03.630] Like you said, my spirit lad,
[00:52:06.890 --> 00:52:09.930] it's amazing, just being in the rooms,
[00:52:09.990 --> 00:52:12.850] being at these events that you curate,
[00:52:13.130 --> 00:52:16.310] like it's always a good time, always genuine connections,
[00:52:16.930 --> 00:52:22.070] always genuine vibes, just greatness and pure greatness.
[00:52:24.470 --> 00:52:26.530] I appreciate that and I do feel like
[00:52:26.530 --> 00:52:28.670] it's a reflection of my inner tribe.
[00:52:29.150 --> 00:52:31.230] I've been in the same spiritual community
[00:52:31.230 --> 00:52:32.770] for two decades.
[00:52:32.830 --> 00:52:34.830] We mentioned Alicia, she's a part of that.
[00:52:34.830 --> 00:52:36.290] I have a good group of girls
[00:52:36.290 --> 00:52:38.110] that I've been best friends with since college.
[00:52:38.190 --> 00:52:42.270] I've been loved and blessed by so many good people
[00:52:42.270 --> 00:52:45.650] and so my goal was to curate these spaces
[00:52:45.650 --> 00:52:48.050] that reflected that, my personal life.
[00:52:48.570 --> 00:52:50.650] I like that, like you said, the reflection.
[00:52:51.030 --> 00:52:53.130] I know you speak a lot on college.
[00:52:53.350 --> 00:52:55.370] I wanna touch more on your college.
[00:52:55.610 --> 00:52:58.870] Like what really happened in your college years,
[00:52:58.890 --> 00:53:01.690] like from freshmen all the way to graduation?
[00:53:04.510 --> 00:53:06.630] So, that's a meaty question.
[00:53:07.670 --> 00:53:09.330] When I went to college,
[00:53:10.050 --> 00:53:12.550] I was in a very serious relationship.
[00:53:13.870 --> 00:53:16.570] I thought I'm getting married right after college.
[00:53:17.070 --> 00:53:20.530] This is my boo, this is gonna be my man forever.
[00:53:22.210 --> 00:53:25.410] And I had no idea what was ahead of me.
[00:53:25.870 --> 00:53:27.790] So I ended up depressed,
[00:53:27.910 --> 00:53:29.190] didn't even know I was depressed.
[00:53:29.750 --> 00:53:31.510] You said you didn't know you were depressed.
[00:53:31.510 --> 00:53:33.310] Didn't know, didn't even know what that was.
[00:53:33.330 --> 00:53:34.450] So how did you find out?
[00:53:34.870 --> 00:53:36.790] So I had an administrator,
[00:53:36.870 --> 00:53:38.370] one of the few black administrators,
[00:53:39.030 --> 00:53:41.290] who said to me, you're depressed.
[00:53:41.790 --> 00:53:42.870] He gave me a word.
[00:53:43.710 --> 00:53:44.710] He said, what do you like to do?
[00:53:44.810 --> 00:53:45.770] I said, I love music.
[00:53:46.190 --> 00:53:47.670] He said, you should join the gospel choir.
[00:53:48.710 --> 00:53:51.230] So I joined the gospel choir my sophomore year
[00:53:52.210 --> 00:53:56.150] and in that choir, there were two young students
[00:53:56.150 --> 00:53:57.930] who announced that they had a Bible study.
[00:53:58.730 --> 00:54:00.550] And so I went to the Bible study
[00:54:00.550 --> 00:54:03.250] and some of my best friends from my dorm were there
[00:54:03.250 --> 00:54:05.010] and God started moving with us.
[00:54:05.010 --> 00:54:06.890] We started craving the word.
[00:54:07.950 --> 00:54:10.490] The supernatural started manifesting.
[00:54:10.690 --> 00:54:13.950] It was just signs and miracles and wonders
[00:54:13.950 --> 00:54:15.650] and God just took over.
[00:54:16.690 --> 00:54:19.090] And I had always had a relationship with God,
[00:54:19.530 --> 00:54:22.350] but I had never experienced anything like that.
[00:54:22.450 --> 00:54:25.050] And so God swept me off my feet.
[00:54:25.090 --> 00:54:27.530] And then right after that experience,
[00:54:27.530 --> 00:54:31.650] my then fiance cheated on me.
[00:54:32.090 --> 00:54:34.030] So I faced my first heartbreak ever.
[00:54:34.770 --> 00:54:37.210] And thankfully I had a strong community
[00:54:37.210 --> 00:54:38.990] and this new relationship with God,
[00:54:39.010 --> 00:54:40.690] but it was like heartbreak central.
[00:54:41.830 --> 00:54:44.310] And so I had to start doing the work
[00:54:44.310 --> 00:54:46.130] of healing from that,
[00:54:46.190 --> 00:54:48.690] but didn't really fully start healing
[00:54:48.690 --> 00:54:49.890] until after graduation.
[00:54:50.430 --> 00:54:53.110] But I also became very involved on campus.
[00:54:53.130 --> 00:54:53.890] Like I mentioned,
[00:54:53.930 --> 00:54:56.570] I had started an organization called Calling on Saints.
[00:54:56.570 --> 00:54:59.530] My friends were helping with that organization.
[00:55:00.390 --> 00:55:01.870] We did a dance ministry.
[00:55:01.990 --> 00:55:03.370] I became a resident assistant.
[00:55:03.490 --> 00:55:06.950] I became a leader and I couldn't have seen that then,
[00:55:06.950 --> 00:55:08.430] but that's what was happening.
[00:55:08.850 --> 00:55:11.170] And so I became very active
[00:55:11.170 --> 00:55:13.750] and with my relationship with God,
[00:55:13.830 --> 00:55:15.190] became active in ministry.
[00:55:16.190 --> 00:55:17.270] So for me,
[00:55:17.290 --> 00:55:19.510] college was not a typical experience
[00:55:19.510 --> 00:55:21.370] that you hear a lot of other people share about
[00:55:21.370 --> 00:55:25.110] because it was a revelation of my calling
[00:55:25.110 --> 00:55:28.030] and my identity and this group of people
[00:55:28.030 --> 00:55:29.410] who were gonna be my tribe
[00:55:29.410 --> 00:55:31.810] and I was gonna be doing life with for 20 years.
[00:55:32.490 --> 00:55:34.110] But it also was a huge blow.
[00:55:34.210 --> 00:55:37.430] One of my biggest first blows with that breakup
[00:55:38.090 --> 00:55:40.470] and my whole trajectory of life,
[00:55:41.230 --> 00:55:43.490] my plan, my life plan shifted,
[00:55:44.570 --> 00:55:46.070] but I made it through
[00:55:47.650 --> 00:55:49.710] and have been the better for it.
[00:55:53.170 --> 00:55:55.370] And I always love to hear the positivity
[00:55:55.370 --> 00:55:59.690] at the end of dark situations, negative situations,
[00:55:59.830 --> 00:56:01.750] like you said, overcoming a heartbreak
[00:56:01.750 --> 00:56:06.610] as all of us probably experience heartbreak over time
[00:56:06.610 --> 00:56:07.830] no matter what it was.
[00:56:07.890 --> 00:56:11.870] I know I have and I wrote some of my greatest songs,
[00:56:12.630 --> 00:56:13.830] some of them not released,
[00:56:13.930 --> 00:56:15.970] but I remember just writing it out,
[00:56:16.010 --> 00:56:18.050] writing my heart out, writing my pain out.
[00:56:18.430 --> 00:56:19.630] And it's like, wow,
[00:56:19.690 --> 00:56:23.350] I created this from this ugly situation,
[00:56:23.350 --> 00:56:28.070] this bad, hard, aching situation.
[00:56:29.490 --> 00:56:31.150] So being in college,
[00:56:32.190 --> 00:56:34.770] you didn't see yourself as a creative
[00:56:35.630 --> 00:56:37.570] as much as you do now.
[00:56:38.310 --> 00:56:41.650] So did you find yourself writing at all
[00:56:41.650 --> 00:56:42.550] during that challenging time?
[00:56:42.570 --> 00:56:43.670] You know what's interesting?
[00:56:43.890 --> 00:56:45.670] So I always loved music.
[00:56:45.870 --> 00:56:47.610] So music would have been my outlet
[00:56:48.150 --> 00:56:50.610] and that's why I was in the dance ministry
[00:56:50.610 --> 00:56:51.970] and the gospel choir.
[00:56:52.630 --> 00:56:54.190] My ex was a rapper.
[00:56:55.070 --> 00:56:57.530] I reconnected because I sang on his,
[00:56:57.690 --> 00:56:58.390] he needed a singer.
[00:56:58.930 --> 00:57:00.470] So that was the space
[00:57:00.470 --> 00:57:02.750] that I thought I would move in creatively.
[00:57:03.250 --> 00:57:04.890] But there was something in me
[00:57:04.890 --> 00:57:06.090] that knew I was a good writer.
[00:57:06.170 --> 00:57:08.290] So when I really struggled with calculus
[00:57:08.830 --> 00:57:10.210] in the business program,
[00:57:10.910 --> 00:57:13.150] I was like, I can't do this anymore.
[00:57:13.390 --> 00:57:14.850] I'm gonna be a journalism major.
[00:57:14.970 --> 00:57:16.950] So I declared myself a journalism major.
[00:57:17.170 --> 00:57:17.930] Switch gears.
[00:57:18.250 --> 00:57:21.510] I did because I really felt like intimidated
[00:57:21.510 --> 00:57:23.370] by the course, had been struggling
[00:57:23.370 --> 00:57:25.410] and knew I was a good writer.
[00:57:25.530 --> 00:57:28.290] But I felt very strongly God saying,
[00:57:28.490 --> 00:57:29.890] marketing, marketing.
[00:57:30.470 --> 00:57:32.610] Now at the time I'm like, why marketing?
[00:57:33.110 --> 00:57:35.210] Like at the time I would have thought management.
[00:57:36.010 --> 00:57:38.550] We didn't have entrepreneurship available back then.
[00:57:38.610 --> 00:57:40.090] These are the early 2000s,
[00:57:40.090 --> 00:57:44.850] but it took 15 years for me to get an answer.
[00:57:45.190 --> 00:57:45.990] Why marketing?
[00:57:46.290 --> 00:57:48.110] Because now that's what I do.
[00:57:48.370 --> 00:57:49.770] But back then,
[00:57:49.770 --> 00:57:51.650] academia couldn't have prepared me
[00:57:51.650 --> 00:57:53.190] for the type of marketing I do.
[00:57:53.350 --> 00:57:55.330] Email marketing, social media marketing,
[00:57:55.830 --> 00:57:57.010] branding, brand storytelling.
[00:57:57.730 --> 00:58:00.550] Like none of that existed back then,
[00:58:00.750 --> 00:58:01.790] let alone entrepreneurship.
[00:58:02.150 --> 00:58:04.790] So it's been a combination
[00:58:04.790 --> 00:58:09.150] of my faith journey and life instances
[00:58:09.150 --> 00:58:14.170] that have kind of helped me follow this path of purpose.
[00:58:14.690 --> 00:58:17.530] But the biggest major decisions
[00:58:17.530 --> 00:58:19.710] that I had to make in my life
[00:58:20.850 --> 00:58:22.730] were hearing the Spirit of God.
[00:58:23.090 --> 00:58:26.030] When I graduated college, I didn't have a job lined up.
[00:58:26.050 --> 00:58:27.470] I didn't know what I was gonna do.
[00:58:27.570 --> 00:58:28.970] I felt stressed.
[00:58:29.710 --> 00:58:33.030] But what I heard very clearly was go back to Cleveland,
[00:58:33.510 --> 00:58:35.770] move in with your mom, break up with your boyfriend.
[00:58:36.350 --> 00:58:38.410] And those are three things I didn't wanna do.
[00:58:38.710 --> 00:58:39.970] I didn't wanna come back to Cleveland.
[00:58:40.450 --> 00:58:41.590] Me and my mom were beefing.
[00:58:41.690 --> 00:58:42.670] I don't wanna live with her.
[00:58:42.910 --> 00:58:44.310] I don't wanna break up with my boyfriend.
[00:58:45.350 --> 00:58:47.690] So doing the hard thing,
[00:58:47.690 --> 00:58:50.390] and that's something I valued at a young age,
[00:58:51.270 --> 00:58:55.450] doing the hard thing rewarded me in the long run.
[00:58:56.130 --> 00:58:59.230] And I had an understanding of delayed gratification,
[00:58:59.550 --> 00:59:01.030] which is something a lot of young people
[00:59:01.030 --> 00:59:03.410] probably don't have, but I did value.
[00:59:04.050 --> 00:59:06.250] And I knew I'm gonna suffer now,
[00:59:06.250 --> 00:59:07.570] but I'm gonna reign later.
[00:59:07.610 --> 00:59:10.030] And I think I've always had that understanding.
[00:59:15.630 --> 00:59:17.610] As yourself, as a prolific writer,
[00:59:17.610 --> 00:59:20.910] what you are, but in those early stages,
[00:59:21.610 --> 00:59:24.270] how long did it take you to complete your first book?
[00:59:24.870 --> 00:59:26.730] So when I shared about when love wins,
[00:59:26.750 --> 00:59:29.450] that took three years, right?
[00:59:30.310 --> 00:59:33.430] So again, I value, I have perseverance.
[00:59:33.630 --> 00:59:35.470] I value the long-term.
[00:59:35.850 --> 00:59:38.390] It's like, I don't mind taking my time,
[00:59:38.450 --> 00:59:39.810] even though I do struggle with patience.
[00:59:40.310 --> 00:59:41.310] But I think spiritually,
[00:59:41.490 --> 00:59:43.190] God has cultivated that in me.
[00:59:43.910 --> 00:59:48.310] And so yeah, writing took me by surprise,
[00:59:49.290 --> 00:59:53.590] but once I fell in love with it, I couldn't get enough.
[00:59:55.780 --> 00:59:58.060] How did you overcome that heartbreak?
[00:59:59.300 --> 01:00:01.240] And that, you would have to read the book
[01:00:01.240 --> 01:00:03.000] because I share all of those tips.
[01:00:03.700 --> 01:00:04.440] What's the title?
[01:00:04.540 --> 01:00:05.560] But I'll give you,
[01:00:05.760 --> 01:00:07.320] the title is how to overcome heartbreak,
[01:00:07.380 --> 01:00:08.840] recovering from misguided love.
[01:00:09.820 --> 01:00:12.320] I'll give you some of the tips,
[01:00:12.320 --> 01:00:14.720] learning who you are outside of a relationship.
[01:00:15.020 --> 01:00:18.100] I was very young, I lost my identity,
[01:00:18.260 --> 01:00:20.680] didn't really know who I was, was codependent.
[01:00:21.560 --> 01:00:24.180] So one of the biggest things that God was doing
[01:00:24.180 --> 01:00:25.960] that I didn't realize was happening
[01:00:25.960 --> 01:00:29.500] was him giving me my own friends,
[01:00:29.880 --> 01:00:31.540] giving me my own interests,
[01:00:31.900 --> 01:00:34.620] finding things that I like to do
[01:00:34.620 --> 01:00:38.600] outside of the relationship was very healthy for me.
[01:00:39.320 --> 01:00:42.620] Another thing, I had to deal with my own childhood trauma.
[01:00:43.220 --> 01:00:45.100] What led me into that relationship?
[01:00:46.120 --> 01:00:48.220] What was working in me that was unhealthy
[01:00:48.220 --> 01:00:50.900] that caused me to attract someone unhealthy?
[01:00:52.790 --> 01:00:57.020] Those are some of the things that I had.
[01:00:57.060 --> 01:00:58.220] Learning who you are,
[01:00:58.400 --> 01:01:01.840] learning who you are outside of someone else defining you.
[01:01:02.840 --> 01:01:05.460] As you say, learning who you are,
[01:01:05.660 --> 01:01:10.400] I love to preach, so I love to ask,
[01:01:10.460 --> 01:01:12.940] how do you practice self love?
[01:01:15.220 --> 01:01:17.320] I really enjoy my life.
[01:01:17.520 --> 01:01:18.980] I love working out.
[01:01:19.020 --> 01:01:20.500] That's like one of my things.
[01:01:21.020 --> 01:01:22.020] I love shopping.
[01:01:22.740 --> 01:01:24.660] I love drinking red dry wine.
[01:01:25.820 --> 01:01:27.280] I love writing.
[01:01:27.820 --> 01:01:31.660] I love doing what I do with this business,
[01:01:31.900 --> 01:01:34.300] creating, doing events.
[01:01:34.840 --> 01:01:37.620] I don't do anything that I don't love to do.
[01:01:38.060 --> 01:01:41.000] Everything that I do in my life in this season,
[01:01:41.460 --> 01:01:42.480] I love it.
[01:01:42.700 --> 01:01:43.880] I love my cat.
[01:01:45.220 --> 01:01:47.200] I love taking pictures.
[01:01:47.620 --> 01:01:50.480] I love being cute and fashionable.
[01:01:51.480 --> 01:01:54.460] Like, yeah, I take bubble baths.
[01:01:54.460 --> 01:01:55.880] I get massages.
[01:01:56.500 --> 01:01:59.520] You know, I love me.
[01:01:59.680 --> 01:02:02.680] It's like, the women that I attract in Girl Talk
[01:02:02.680 --> 01:02:04.420] are a reflection of me.
[01:02:05.020 --> 01:02:08.020] And it's like, if I didn't,
[01:02:08.500 --> 01:02:10.260] if I wasn't myself,
[01:02:10.740 --> 01:02:13.140] like I would choose me to hang with.
[01:02:13.140 --> 01:02:15.880] I would choose somebody like me to be like,
[01:02:15.940 --> 01:02:17.120] you would be in my girl tribe.
[01:02:17.200 --> 01:02:18.620] Like, I would be in my girl tribe.
[01:02:19.380 --> 01:02:21.860] Yeah, I've said that before.
[01:02:22.080 --> 01:02:26.080] I'm like, if I was outside of my body, my spirit,
[01:02:26.120 --> 01:02:27.200] I would choose myself.
[01:02:27.260 --> 01:02:28.860] Like, I'm my own best friend.
[01:02:29.280 --> 01:02:32.500] Like, if I met a female version of myself,
[01:02:32.520 --> 01:02:34.780] I would choose, you know.
[01:02:34.960 --> 01:02:39.120] But I'll say, it has been my walk with God.
[01:02:39.220 --> 01:02:41.720] For me, it came out of,
[01:02:41.720 --> 01:02:45.280] I think he knew the woman that I wanted to be.
[01:02:45.720 --> 01:02:49.400] And so he led me through this journey of becoming her.
[01:02:49.720 --> 01:02:50.980] And a lot of it came through
[01:02:50.980 --> 01:02:53.180] making very, very hard decisions,
[01:02:53.220 --> 01:02:56.900] letting go of people that I didn't want to let go of,
[01:02:57.200 --> 01:02:59.720] doing the things that I didn't want to do,
[01:03:00.140 --> 01:03:03.260] and knowing that one day I'll be rewarded,
[01:03:03.660 --> 01:03:06.960] but not even understanding that it was molding me
[01:03:06.960 --> 01:03:10.140] into this version, the best version that I could be.
[01:03:12.630 --> 01:03:15.690] So as we speak about self-love,
[01:03:16.050 --> 01:03:20.700] how important is that when it comes to business?
[01:03:22.440 --> 01:03:25.520] Love yourself is just gonna overflow on your business.
[01:03:25.740 --> 01:03:26.920] And when you love in your business,
[01:03:26.920 --> 01:03:28.440] it's gonna overflow on your life.
[01:03:29.000 --> 01:03:30.080] So how important is that?
[01:03:31.100 --> 01:03:33.000] And as I touched on before,
[01:03:33.740 --> 01:03:35.880] I want the people I connect with
[01:03:35.880 --> 01:03:37.760] to be the same behind the scenes
[01:03:37.760 --> 01:03:39.360] as they are in the forefront.
[01:03:39.360 --> 01:03:41.460] And I think that that's connected.
[01:03:42.280 --> 01:03:44.440] Because with me, what you see is what you get.
[01:03:44.440 --> 01:03:46.140] And I think most people recognize
[01:03:46.140 --> 01:03:47.760] that I'm an authentic person.
[01:03:47.960 --> 01:03:52.520] And so when I'm presenting on Girl Talk or publicly,
[01:03:53.180 --> 01:03:57.040] it's like, yeah, I walk this stuff out behind the scenes.
[01:03:57.140 --> 01:03:59.860] And so I definitely think it's,
[01:03:59.860 --> 01:04:03.560] you need to be diligent about that character cultivation.
[01:04:04.140 --> 01:04:06.320] You need to be healing.
[01:04:06.860 --> 01:04:08.840] I'm a big advocate on inner healing.
[01:04:08.940 --> 01:04:12.400] And that's why Girl Talk is about inner healing,
[01:04:12.400 --> 01:04:13.620] because this is what I do.
[01:04:13.620 --> 01:04:15.840] A lot of the topics that I choose
[01:04:15.840 --> 01:04:17.700] are things I deal with,
[01:04:18.280 --> 01:04:20.680] dealing with loss at the holidays.
[01:04:21.420 --> 01:04:23.400] You know, the topic of feminism
[01:04:23.400 --> 01:04:25.920] was from a guy I was seeing,
[01:04:26.500 --> 01:04:27.980] dealing with colorism.
[01:04:28.400 --> 01:04:29.720] That's been a personal issue.
[01:04:29.800 --> 01:04:30.960] And a lot of those topics,
[01:04:31.040 --> 01:04:32.460] I'd be nervous to talk about.
[01:04:32.600 --> 01:04:33.560] Like, I don't know about this.
[01:04:34.160 --> 01:04:36.760] But what I learned is you're not alone.
[01:04:37.380 --> 01:04:37.900] That's true.
[01:04:38.080 --> 01:04:41.440] So many people have these experiences
[01:04:41.440 --> 01:04:42.840] and then we come together
[01:04:42.840 --> 01:04:47.380] and we're able to get healing, strength, and courage
[01:04:47.920 --> 01:04:50.620] on topics that were so difficult for us
[01:04:50.620 --> 01:04:51.980] to deal with our face.
[01:04:53.720 --> 01:04:57.000] So it's so important for you to do the inner work
[01:04:57.000 --> 01:04:59.880] or else it's going to bleed into your business.
[01:04:59.920 --> 01:05:01.900] It's going to bleed into your connections
[01:05:01.900 --> 01:05:02.920] with other people.
[01:05:03.380 --> 01:05:04.880] They are going to suffer
[01:05:04.880 --> 01:05:07.060] unless you're doing the inner work on yourself.
[01:05:07.980 --> 01:05:11.300] Wow, it brings me back to that airplane analogy
[01:05:11.300 --> 01:05:14.340] like you have to save yourself
[01:05:14.340 --> 01:05:15.680] before you can save someone else.
[01:05:20.760 --> 01:05:22.660] And you gotta get above water
[01:05:22.660 --> 01:05:24.860] before you can save somebody else
[01:05:24.860 --> 01:05:25.900] and bring them to shore
[01:05:25.900 --> 01:05:27.320] or bring them to the boat
[01:05:27.680 --> 01:05:29.200] or bring them to the other side.
[01:05:30.920 --> 01:05:32.220] I definitely could relate
[01:05:32.220 --> 01:05:34.220] being in some similar situations
[01:05:34.220 --> 01:05:38.240] and it's like that inner healing is needed
[01:05:38.240 --> 01:05:39.960] and it's powerful
[01:05:41.540 --> 01:05:43.740] because I've known so many people,
[01:05:43.920 --> 01:05:47.140] even exes, that we just broken up
[01:05:47.140 --> 01:05:49.820] and a couple days later they're in a new relationship
[01:05:49.820 --> 01:05:51.600] multiple times back to back.
[01:05:51.860 --> 01:05:54.540] It's unhealthy, it's toxic, it's like ugh.
[01:05:55.100 --> 01:05:58.240] Like I take time, even when dating, I take time.
[01:05:58.420 --> 01:06:00.540] Like people love jumping into relationships
[01:06:00.540 --> 01:06:04.640] or jumping into something new before going back to vetting
[01:06:04.640 --> 01:06:06.540] without vetting or even testing
[01:06:06.540 --> 01:06:08.520] or even seeing what it would be like
[01:06:08.520 --> 01:06:10.880] and it's just bad.
[01:06:11.520 --> 01:06:15.780] Like you said, it just bleeds over and over and over
[01:06:15.780 --> 01:06:21.560] without patching it up bad, bad, bad.
[01:06:25.890 --> 01:06:29.830] For someone that wants to start book writing
[01:06:29.830 --> 01:06:33.450] or be in business as an author
[01:06:33.450 --> 01:06:35.610] and maybe own their own publishing,
[01:06:35.770 --> 01:06:37.470] what are some tips you would give that person?
[01:06:38.410 --> 01:06:40.170] As far as being an author,
[01:06:40.510 --> 01:06:43.010] it's like use your craft,
[01:06:43.330 --> 01:06:45.250] develop your craft, practice your writing.
[01:06:45.330 --> 01:06:46.830] You only get better when you use it
[01:06:46.830 --> 01:06:47.690] when you use your gifts.
[01:06:48.050 --> 01:06:49.170] So to sharpen your gift,
[01:06:49.330 --> 01:06:50.870] plug into writing communities,
[01:06:51.510 --> 01:06:55.210] do the thing, don't make excuses, just do it.
[01:06:55.410 --> 01:06:56.970] It's gonna be at the level that it's at
[01:06:56.970 --> 01:06:58.030] and you're gonna see improvement.
[01:06:58.430 --> 01:07:01.710] If I read any of my old work, I could critique it.
[01:07:01.770 --> 01:07:04.190] We all can, but it's about the progress
[01:07:04.190 --> 01:07:05.210] and the improvement.
[01:07:06.410 --> 01:07:07.850] Starting a publishing house,
[01:07:07.970 --> 01:07:09.770] you have to have a business acumen
[01:07:09.770 --> 01:07:13.350] because now there's a lot of administration involved
[01:07:13.350 --> 01:07:15.610] that's not necessarily involved with writing a book
[01:07:16.350 --> 01:07:18.930] and you're leading others, you're leading a team.
[01:07:19.430 --> 01:07:24.870] You need to know the industry as far as legal information.
[01:07:25.790 --> 01:07:28.270] You need to know structure.
[01:07:28.830 --> 01:07:32.510] So don't just think you're gonna start a publishing house.
[01:07:33.130 --> 01:07:36.070] Do the research, know what you're getting into,
[01:07:36.370 --> 01:07:38.990] know the market, know the type of clients
[01:07:38.990 --> 01:07:40.210] that you wanna attract.
[01:07:40.490 --> 01:07:44.070] Like I said, I vet clients and know the structure.
[01:07:45.070 --> 01:07:46.110] Do your research.
[01:07:46.110 --> 01:07:46.990] Cool.
[01:07:47.770 --> 01:07:51.610] Is there benefits from somebody that wants
[01:07:51.610 --> 01:07:55.590] to start their own versus go the traditional route?
[01:07:56.570 --> 01:07:58.910] So there's a difference between being an indie author
[01:07:58.910 --> 01:08:00.770] and actually starting a publishing house.
[01:08:01.170 --> 01:08:04.370] So if you wanna publish your book yourself, you can,
[01:08:04.730 --> 01:08:06.870] but if you want to curate spaces
[01:08:06.870 --> 01:08:08.530] to publish other people's books,
[01:08:09.050 --> 01:08:10.590] that's starting a publishing house.
[01:08:11.310 --> 01:08:12.990] That's a whole different situation.
[01:08:13.370 --> 01:08:15.190] But there's definitely differences
[01:08:15.190 --> 01:08:17.029] between being a self-published author,
[01:08:17.290 --> 01:08:19.890] being a traditional author and being a hybrid,
[01:08:20.410 --> 01:08:23.189] publishing with a hybrid publisher such as myself.
[01:08:23.630 --> 01:08:25.370] And you have to read the fine print
[01:08:25.370 --> 01:08:26.930] and decide what works for you
[01:08:26.930 --> 01:08:28.569] because no path is necessarily bad.
[01:08:28.590 --> 01:08:31.189] It's just about what's best for you.
[01:08:32.310 --> 01:08:33.990] Well, I know in the music industry,
[01:08:34.430 --> 01:08:37.649] there's definitely bad, bad deals.
[01:08:38.430 --> 01:08:41.990] And I remember I was excited when I got the opportunity
[01:08:41.990 --> 01:08:50.020] to publish my first book on the time years ago, 2013.
[01:08:51.120 --> 01:08:54.880] And I'm like, oh, a traditional publisher reached out
[01:08:54.880 --> 01:08:58.380] to me, oh, they want to publish my book.
[01:08:58.960 --> 01:09:01.640] And just not knowing at that young age,
[01:09:03.830 --> 01:09:08.180] it was like an investment.
[01:09:08.880 --> 01:09:10.240] You had to pay them?
[01:09:11.060 --> 01:09:11.960] Exactly, not knowing.
[01:09:12.300 --> 01:09:13.760] At that time, I was just excited.
[01:09:14.380 --> 01:09:17.380] I'm like, I think it was,
[01:09:17.380 --> 01:09:19.880] so two years before, 2011,
[01:09:19.979 --> 01:09:22.359] a year after I graduated high school, I'm like,
[01:09:23.140 --> 01:09:25.560] as soon as I buy a laptop,
[01:09:26.560 --> 01:09:28.640] I'm going to publish my first book.
[01:09:29.020 --> 01:09:30.979] I bought a laptop, started typing away,
[01:09:31.140 --> 01:09:32.359] started editing all that,
[01:09:32.620 --> 01:09:36.800] and just did exactly what I said I was gonna do.
[01:09:37.080 --> 01:09:39.580] I published my book, 2013.
[01:09:40.340 --> 01:09:44.200] I went with them and figured something is off.
[01:09:53.000 --> 01:09:56.480] Saying they could publish four more additional books.
[01:09:56.480 --> 01:09:58.720] Now, I did not,
[01:09:59.540 --> 01:10:00.920] because since that book,
[01:10:01.200 --> 01:10:02.820] I just went to self-publish, Rob.
[01:10:03.640 --> 01:10:06.920] Just published my own books and just figured it out.
[01:10:06.940 --> 01:10:09.020] I'm like, this is not a good deal.
[01:10:09.180 --> 01:10:12.900] I'm like, I'm paying for them to publish my book
[01:10:12.900 --> 01:10:14.940] and they're not marketing it,
[01:10:15.300 --> 01:10:18.320] or how I see my books should be out there.
[01:10:18.740 --> 01:10:20.120] So I'm like, I don't need them.
[01:10:20.800 --> 01:10:22.260] Yeah, that was a huge red flag.
[01:10:22.260 --> 01:10:23.080] First and foremost,
[01:10:23.300 --> 01:10:26.120] you should never be paying a publisher to publish you
[01:10:26.120 --> 01:10:28.580] unless it is a hybrid publishing
[01:10:28.580 --> 01:10:30.920] and you're paying for services
[01:10:30.920 --> 01:10:33.040] and you're gonna be promoting it.
[01:10:33.440 --> 01:10:36.200] But a traditionally published company,
[01:10:36.820 --> 01:10:38.580] they're gonna give you an advance.
[01:10:39.220 --> 01:10:40.340] You're gonna sign a contract,
[01:10:40.360 --> 01:10:41.680] but you even need to read that
[01:10:41.680 --> 01:10:43.780] because it could be eaten up by marketing.
[01:10:44.060 --> 01:10:45.260] It could be eaten up by a lot.
[01:10:46.020 --> 01:10:48.560] Even when you're working with a hybrid publisher,
[01:10:49.080 --> 01:10:52.560] typically they will take 50% of royalties.
[01:10:52.900 --> 01:10:54.260] I actually don't.
[01:10:54.260 --> 01:10:56.240] I allow my clients to keep all their royalties
[01:10:56.880 --> 01:10:59.200] and you always own your own work.
[01:10:59.380 --> 01:11:00.960] Like you should have your copyright.
[01:11:01.260 --> 01:11:01.800] That's magic.
[01:11:03.280 --> 01:11:07.160] But yeah, so for you to pay them is interesting
[01:11:08.600 --> 01:11:10.900] and you have to read the fine print.
[01:11:11.080 --> 01:11:14.160] Like you have to know what you're getting.
[01:11:14.940 --> 01:11:19.520] The other thing is I specialize with using third parties
[01:11:19.520 --> 01:11:21.040] that print on demand.
[01:11:21.500 --> 01:11:24.740] And that is something that I speak passionately about
[01:11:24.740 --> 01:11:26.080] because I've heard horror stories
[01:11:26.080 --> 01:11:28.060] of authors working with publishers
[01:11:28.780 --> 01:11:30.840] who have forced them, the contract says,
[01:11:30.860 --> 01:11:34.920] they have to buy a thousand of their books
[01:11:34.920 --> 01:11:38.420] and then you have to store the book somewhere.
[01:11:39.220 --> 01:11:42.180] Publishing on demand allows you to keep track
[01:11:42.180 --> 01:11:44.440] of what you need when you need your inventory.
[01:11:44.520 --> 01:11:45.720] You want your inventory low.
[01:11:45.820 --> 01:11:48.860] You only wanna buy how many you're gonna sell.
[01:11:49.120 --> 01:11:50.600] You don't want all of these books
[01:11:50.600 --> 01:11:52.200] sitting around doing nothing.
[01:11:53.500 --> 01:11:54.680] So it's definitely a red flag.
[01:11:54.860 --> 01:11:58.460] I mean, paying for services, yes,
[01:11:58.860 --> 01:12:01.640] but even with paying for those services,
[01:12:02.840 --> 01:12:06.760] you are guaranteed exposure, marketing,
[01:12:07.560 --> 01:12:10.540] a level of something playing field with marketing
[01:12:11.100 --> 01:12:13.820] and you also have all of your rights
[01:12:13.820 --> 01:12:16.960] and you're in a position to push the book yourself
[01:12:16.960 --> 01:12:18.000] if you need to.
[01:12:19.140 --> 01:12:21.700] But yeah, that definitely sounded like a bad deal.
[01:12:21.960 --> 01:12:24.920] Oh, talk about translating it to music.
[01:12:25.080 --> 01:12:28.660] It was a 360 deals, it was just bad all around.
[01:12:29.260 --> 01:12:31.240] I was young and dumb.
[01:12:31.240 --> 01:12:32.900] Of course, you don't know when you're young.
[01:12:33.140 --> 01:12:35.020] Just wanting to do it, just like you said,
[01:12:35.060 --> 01:12:37.160] just do it and I got my book.
[01:12:37.300 --> 01:12:38.800] Yeah, I got my book all right.
[01:12:40.540 --> 01:12:44.640] And one of the things I do is I empower my authors
[01:12:44.640 --> 01:12:45.960] to be indie authors.
[01:12:45.960 --> 01:12:49.500] So I specialize in showing them the behind the scenes
[01:12:49.500 --> 01:12:52.360] so that if they don't wanna publish with me again,
[01:12:52.580 --> 01:12:53.780] they can do it themselves
[01:12:53.780 --> 01:12:55.320] because for me, it's not about the money,
[01:12:55.320 --> 01:12:57.160] it's about educating and empowering
[01:12:57.680 --> 01:13:00.180] and I want them to have the right information
[01:13:00.180 --> 01:13:01.720] so they're not taking advantage of.
[01:13:02.080 --> 01:13:03.360] Yeah, that's powerful.
[01:13:05.620 --> 01:13:06.360] Now, as you say,
[01:13:08.520 --> 01:13:10.380] honing your craft earlier
[01:13:10.380 --> 01:13:12.900] and just doing the work.
[01:13:14.080 --> 01:13:17.340] Are there any workshops that you personally conduct at all?
[01:13:18.300 --> 01:13:20.100] I did a workshop last year
[01:13:20.100 --> 01:13:21.820] for Large Tumor Arts Festival
[01:13:21.820 --> 01:13:23.060] and I'll be doing one
[01:13:23.060 --> 01:13:26.180] at the Great Lakes Fiction Writers Conference next month,
[01:13:26.440 --> 01:13:29.400] which is gonna be at the South Green
[01:13:29.400 --> 01:13:30.520] and Euclid Library.
[01:13:31.140 --> 01:13:32.520] I'm really looking forward to that.
[01:13:32.700 --> 01:13:34.340] Barbara Howard is the president
[01:13:34.340 --> 01:13:36.600] and she's actually gonna be a featured indie author
[01:13:36.600 --> 01:13:39.260] at the expo and she was a featured author last year,
[01:13:39.260 --> 01:13:40.620] which is very encouraging
[01:13:40.620 --> 01:13:42.580] because several of the authors are coming back.
[01:13:42.580 --> 01:13:44.200] So it's like, you know your event is dope
[01:13:44.200 --> 01:13:46.300] if the authors wanna come back and do it again.
[01:13:46.880 --> 01:13:47.040] Yeah.
[01:13:47.120 --> 01:13:48.500] But yeah, I'll be doing that,
[01:13:48.720 --> 01:13:51.220] manifesting your book and that's next month.
[01:13:51.220 --> 01:13:53.820] So I think it's the 25th, July 25th.
[01:13:56.520 --> 01:14:02.830] Is there any, I would say protection on your end
[01:14:02.830 --> 01:14:09.320] when you're writing your book to get it published.
[01:14:09.360 --> 01:14:12.400] Of course, you may start freehand,
[01:14:12.400 --> 01:14:15.540] pen and paper and then you translate it over
[01:14:16.200 --> 01:14:18.840] to computer to get it typed out.
[01:14:19.580 --> 01:14:23.420] Like I remember being wiped out from music,
[01:14:24.100 --> 01:14:30.400] poems, just random writings and notes to books.
[01:14:30.500 --> 01:14:32.580] Like I had so many books.
[01:14:32.880 --> 01:14:34.200] I was like, I'm about to be famous.
[01:14:34.260 --> 01:14:35.160] I'm about to be rich.
[01:14:35.300 --> 01:14:37.100] I'm about to be, you know.
[01:14:37.420 --> 01:14:41.900] I took that fuel from that bad publishing deal,
[01:14:41.900 --> 01:14:43.100] my first book.
[01:14:43.800 --> 01:14:46.140] And I'm like, oh, I'm about to start writing.
[01:14:46.320 --> 01:14:48.740] And then I caught a virus on my laptop
[01:14:48.740 --> 01:14:50.120] and lost everything.
[01:14:50.120 --> 01:14:50.740] So horrible.
[01:14:51.380 --> 01:14:54.940] Like one of my biggest books I was writing at the time,
[01:14:55.620 --> 01:14:58.100] which I was also writing a sequel, you know,
[01:14:58.100 --> 01:15:01.140] I was making it a trilogy to my first book.
[01:15:02.360 --> 01:15:06.320] But outside of that, my biggest book was
[01:15:06.320 --> 01:15:08.740] What Is Life?
[01:15:09.720 --> 01:15:11.760] I had so many questions about life.
[01:15:12.300 --> 01:15:16.460] What is the simple definition of life?
[01:15:16.660 --> 01:15:17.420] What is life?
[01:15:17.920 --> 01:15:19.960] Is it this, is that, is that, is this?
[01:15:19.980 --> 01:15:22.100] No, it's also this, is this, da, da, da, da.
[01:15:22.620 --> 01:15:23.780] So I like to ask you,
[01:15:23.840 --> 01:15:26.260] what is your personal definition?
[01:15:26.560 --> 01:15:32.340] I really think it is a journey
[01:15:32.340 --> 01:15:34.860] of discovering true identity,
[01:15:35.840 --> 01:15:37.600] which I don't think we can know outside
[01:15:37.600 --> 01:15:38.700] of knowing the creator,
[01:15:38.780 --> 01:15:40.120] because we're made in that image.
[01:15:41.580 --> 01:15:44.440] But it has been a journey of discovery
[01:15:44.440 --> 01:15:47.280] for me, and I'm still on it.
[01:15:47.780 --> 01:15:49.340] But it's been very rewarding.
[01:15:57.730 --> 01:15:59.110] Going back to the original question,
[01:15:59.270 --> 01:16:02.430] is there like any guidelines or protections
[01:16:02.430 --> 01:16:06.310] to saving your writing to avoid causes like that?
[01:16:06.590 --> 01:16:08.130] Well, thankfully these days,
[01:16:08.430 --> 01:16:13.610] we have Google Docs, we have online tools
[01:16:13.610 --> 01:16:16.030] that we can use that auto-drive things.
[01:16:16.130 --> 01:16:17.050] But I have backups.
[01:16:17.210 --> 01:16:21.130] Even when I work on Word, I'll email copies to myself.
[01:16:21.510 --> 01:16:24.510] I work on Word and Google Docs.
[01:16:25.210 --> 01:16:27.290] I don't necessarily handwrite.
[01:16:27.410 --> 01:16:28.690] I actually have horrible handwriting.
[01:16:29.310 --> 01:16:31.090] So I am a typer.
[01:16:31.130 --> 01:16:33.010] I'm a computer person.
[01:16:35.390 --> 01:16:36.710] But yeah, those are the basics.
[01:16:36.950 --> 01:16:39.870] I usually use Word and Google Docs.
[01:16:40.070 --> 01:16:42.110] And I have so many different versions
[01:16:42.750 --> 01:16:44.210] of my book everywhere.
[01:16:44.790 --> 01:16:47.430] Even I use a software called Vellum.
[01:16:47.810 --> 01:16:50.810] And so I have these different stages of my book
[01:16:50.810 --> 01:16:53.430] where I'm doing edits and things.
[01:16:53.750 --> 01:16:58.530] So I'm saving like multi-versions of the drafts.
[01:16:58.950 --> 01:17:01.450] And I have so many drafts in my book, like everywhere.
[01:17:04.780 --> 01:17:06.500] As I'm in visual media,
[01:17:06.520 --> 01:17:10.240] I know the importance of one video,
[01:17:10.240 --> 01:17:12.580] but also a great picture.
[01:17:13.080 --> 01:17:14.620] And if you're on social media,
[01:17:14.760 --> 01:17:18.400] it's powerful to have a great picture, a great headshot.
[01:17:19.280 --> 01:17:21.080] So translating that into the book,
[01:17:21.080 --> 01:17:23.340] how important is a cover?
[01:17:24.500 --> 01:17:25.660] You know, that saying,
[01:17:25.720 --> 01:17:27.360] you can't judge a book by its cover.
[01:17:28.740 --> 01:17:31.280] I think we use that in an interesting way
[01:17:31.280 --> 01:17:34.080] because we typically do judge by the outward appearance.
[01:17:34.180 --> 01:17:36.600] So there is some type of message
[01:17:36.600 --> 01:17:39.440] that you still wanna have with your book cover
[01:17:39.440 --> 01:17:42.480] that's gonna draw people in or the right people in,
[01:17:42.500 --> 01:17:44.820] or at least allude to what is the book about.
[01:17:45.460 --> 01:17:46.560] I'm really blessed
[01:17:46.560 --> 01:17:48.580] that I've connected with Sharita Karthon.
[01:17:48.680 --> 01:17:49.740] Shout out to Sharita,
[01:17:49.740 --> 01:17:53.860] who did Devon's Cafe and Unfinished Business Lisa.
[01:17:54.140 --> 01:17:56.400] And she's really nailing the series.
[01:17:57.000 --> 01:17:59.460] But even with working with a different designer
[01:17:59.460 --> 01:18:01.640] for When Love Wins, they still nailed it
[01:18:01.640 --> 01:18:03.880] because it was exactly a scene in the book
[01:18:03.880 --> 01:18:05.540] that I envisioned the cover to be.
[01:18:06.260 --> 01:18:08.740] And then even Lisa's book,
[01:18:08.940 --> 01:18:12.460] she was exactly how I saw her.
[01:18:12.720 --> 01:18:13.840] So as a visionary,
[01:18:14.100 --> 01:18:18.440] it's like I'm still getting this download of this idea
[01:18:18.440 --> 01:18:19.840] of what I want the image to be
[01:18:19.840 --> 01:18:21.240] and then connecting with the right people
[01:18:21.240 --> 01:18:23.180] who have the gift to make that come alive.
[01:18:24.080 --> 01:18:25.000] It's definitely important.
[01:18:25.160 --> 01:18:27.180] You don't wanna underestimate your book cover.
[01:18:27.960 --> 01:18:29.940] So is this Devon on the cover?
[01:18:31.040 --> 01:18:35.040] And I see the skyline in a lower background
[01:18:35.040 --> 01:18:36.740] and he's in the cafe.
[01:18:47.080 --> 01:18:51.980] Well, Devon is on the brink of his life changing.
[01:18:52.120 --> 01:18:53.760] He's about to graduate college,
[01:18:53.940 --> 01:18:57.160] but he finds himself engulfed and enthralled
[01:18:57.160 --> 01:18:59.080] in his first real love.
[01:19:00.580 --> 01:19:03.860] So unfortunately, some obstacles emerge
[01:19:03.860 --> 01:19:04.940] in his personal life,
[01:19:05.020 --> 01:19:06.820] several different obstacles actually.
[01:19:07.620 --> 01:19:12.000] And the book is really portraying him looking forward
[01:19:12.000 --> 01:19:15.920] into his future, him standing in purpose and identity,
[01:19:16.440 --> 01:19:18.820] but there are gonna be some hard choices
[01:19:18.820 --> 01:19:20.940] that he's gonna have to make, some hard sacrifices.
[01:19:23.590 --> 01:19:24.490] You know what they say,
[01:19:24.570 --> 01:19:28.890] and this is why kind of shift gears towards photography
[01:19:28.890 --> 01:19:31.470] they say a picture tells a thousand words
[01:19:31.470 --> 01:19:32.530] and I am a writer.
[01:19:32.530 --> 01:19:35.010] Like I will write my heart out.
[01:19:35.450 --> 01:19:38.010] But when I started picking up a camera more,
[01:19:38.750 --> 01:19:40.830] they say a picture tells a thousand words
[01:19:40.830 --> 01:19:44.190] and I get to tell a thousand words multiple times.
[01:19:50.380 --> 01:19:54.560] Very well thought out.
[01:19:54.560 --> 01:19:55.780] Shout out to Sharita.
[01:19:56.280 --> 01:19:58.200] Yeah, over power brand.
[01:19:58.760 --> 01:20:00.760] And I'll be talking to you next month.
[01:20:00.940 --> 01:20:03.640] So yeah, shout out to Sharita Karthon.
[01:20:05.210 --> 01:20:08.950] So I would like to end with a few more questions.
[01:20:09.670 --> 01:20:12.230] I know I kind of asked you this before,
[01:20:12.690 --> 01:20:17.650] but I get alive on a podcast as a creative.
[01:20:19.870 --> 01:20:23.370] How would you describe your creative process
[01:20:23.370 --> 01:20:25.110] if it was a weather forecast?
[01:20:28.850 --> 01:20:30.630] What did I say before?
[01:20:30.870 --> 01:20:35.850] Oh, I said quiet storm because it snuck up on me.
[01:20:35.850 --> 01:20:40.630] I'm like, oh, but then it's like,
[01:20:40.630 --> 01:20:42.150] once I get going, it's over.
[01:20:43.940 --> 01:20:45.120] I'll stick with that answer.
[01:20:45.540 --> 01:20:45.880] Okay.
[01:20:47.220 --> 01:20:49.960] And when you're in your creative process,
[01:20:50.720 --> 01:20:52.560] is there a time that you're constantly thinking
[01:20:52.560 --> 01:20:55.440] about the business side at all?
[01:20:55.460 --> 01:20:56.160] Oh, no.
[01:20:56.380 --> 01:20:59.400] It is such a side for me to let loose and be free.
[01:20:59.620 --> 01:21:01.900] That's why I don't create outlines or anything
[01:21:01.900 --> 01:21:05.460] because I can be so structured type A
[01:21:05.460 --> 01:21:06.600] and linear in my thinking.
[01:21:08.040 --> 01:21:10.800] So creating is like releasing, flowing,
[01:21:11.560 --> 01:21:14.340] not being hindered and just seeing what comes out
[01:21:14.340 --> 01:21:16.600] in this experience with the divine.
[01:21:17.620 --> 01:21:18.680] So, yeah.
[01:21:19.180 --> 01:21:21.280] And how do you balance that?
[01:21:21.660 --> 01:21:24.100] Like you said, it could be type A structure,
[01:21:24.900 --> 01:21:26.940] but when you're on your creative mode
[01:21:26.940 --> 01:21:29.500] and you're on that creative flow,
[01:21:30.760 --> 01:21:32.020] it's like it's going and going.
[01:21:32.140 --> 01:21:33.420] So how do you balance the two?
[01:21:34.560 --> 01:21:36.800] Well, you're gonna need editing,
[01:21:37.340 --> 01:21:39.280] a lot of editing on the backend.
[01:21:40.100 --> 01:21:42.640] It's not that I'm never type A,
[01:21:42.660 --> 01:21:44.640] it's just a time and a place for it.
[01:21:45.180 --> 01:21:47.040] And so learning to differentiate
[01:21:47.040 --> 01:21:50.340] when is it time to be administrative and structured?
[01:21:50.820 --> 01:21:53.100] When is it time to flow and be creative?
[01:21:53.540 --> 01:21:55.700] And I have an innate knowing of that,
[01:21:55.780 --> 01:21:59.160] which helps me do both and balance it
[01:21:59.160 --> 01:22:02.440] and be an entrepreneur and lead teams
[01:22:02.440 --> 01:22:04.140] and be a visionary and execute
[01:22:04.720 --> 01:22:07.860] because I can sense when it's time for either.
[01:22:10.650 --> 01:22:14.150] And I know you're also a speaker and coach
[01:22:14.150 --> 01:22:16.530] and is there one that you love more?
[01:22:18.210 --> 01:22:20.450] I love to inspire people.
[01:22:20.610 --> 01:22:27.330] I love getting to teach them the right path
[01:22:27.330 --> 01:22:30.230] so that they are equipped in that,
[01:22:30.870 --> 01:22:34.470] making the mistakes I've made or being taken advantage of.
[01:22:35.270 --> 01:22:37.010] But I think the speaking
[01:22:37.530 --> 01:22:39.910] is probably more of my wheelhouse
[01:22:40.410 --> 01:22:43.910] that I can see the open doors in that space
[01:22:44.710 --> 01:22:46.950] and the feedback that I've gotten
[01:22:46.950 --> 01:22:50.190] is how people feel when I'm presenting
[01:22:50.190 --> 01:22:52.590] and it's very natural for me.
[01:22:52.810 --> 01:22:55.930] I can experience a lot of nerves beforehand.
[01:22:55.930 --> 01:22:56.810] Oh yeah.
[01:22:57.550 --> 01:22:59.950] But it's like, just put the mic in my hand,
[01:22:59.950 --> 01:23:00.970] like that's how it feels.
[01:23:01.130 --> 01:23:03.050] It's like, if I can just get the mic in my hand,
[01:23:03.050 --> 01:23:03.790] like I'm good.
[01:23:03.870 --> 01:23:05.110] It's a different feeling, ain't it?
[01:23:05.110 --> 01:23:08.490] Yeah, it's just like, I need to just be moving in it.
[01:23:08.570 --> 01:23:10.330] It's that lead up and build up
[01:23:10.330 --> 01:23:12.230] that makes it more nerve wracking.
[01:23:12.330 --> 01:23:15.170] Even when I host events, I have to have downtime.
[01:23:15.170 --> 01:23:17.670] I have to have quiet time the day before,
[01:23:17.670 --> 01:23:19.790] the day after I need a nap, the day of.
[01:23:19.890 --> 01:23:22.530] I don't talk to many people the day of.
[01:23:22.550 --> 01:23:23.790] There's a whole process.
[01:23:23.810 --> 01:23:25.830] It's a process, trust me.
[01:23:25.890 --> 01:23:28.210] When I used to do music, that was my ritual.
[01:23:29.050 --> 01:23:31.790] Even before everything, I take a sip of water,
[01:23:31.870 --> 01:23:35.090] I leave the beverage just to refresh it.
[01:23:35.090 --> 01:23:36.510] My house needs to be clean.
[01:23:36.630 --> 01:23:38.270] I was talking to Jumar about that
[01:23:38.270 --> 01:23:39.550] before something for the fellas,
[01:23:39.570 --> 01:23:41.330] like, why am I like that?
[01:23:41.350 --> 01:23:42.610] Why does my house need to be clean?
[01:23:42.750 --> 01:23:43.590] And he was like, cause you.
[01:23:43.710 --> 01:23:43.930] Clarity.
[01:23:44.450 --> 01:23:46.650] Yeah, and you don't have control over the event.
[01:23:46.770 --> 01:23:47.630] You don't know what's gonna happen,
[01:23:47.630 --> 01:23:49.630] but you have control over your home environment.
[01:23:49.970 --> 01:23:51.630] And I was like, that makes perfect sense.
[01:23:51.630 --> 01:23:52.350] It's true.
[01:23:52.570 --> 01:23:55.010] I need my house clean, even before I go on my trip.
[01:23:55.190 --> 01:23:56.570] Like, my house needs to be clean.
[01:23:57.210 --> 01:23:59.830] It's like, you control what you can having that structure
[01:23:59.830 --> 01:24:01.990] cause you don't know what's gonna happen.
[01:24:02.870 --> 01:24:05.230] Yeah, that's true.
[01:24:05.490 --> 01:24:07.730] That's the clarity, that peace of mind.
[01:24:08.550 --> 01:24:10.130] Your thoughts is more organized.
[01:24:10.870 --> 01:24:11.210] Exactly.
[01:24:11.330 --> 01:24:13.550] And I write after writing that space too.
[01:24:13.630 --> 01:24:14.890] I write at home.
[01:24:15.090 --> 01:24:16.250] So I need my home environment
[01:24:16.250 --> 01:24:18.530] to be conducive to that as well.
[01:24:26.940 --> 01:24:30.000] At the expo, we're working on this documentary.
[01:24:30.320 --> 01:24:32.240] We're gonna present the pilots.
[01:24:33.460 --> 01:24:34.700] Devin's Cafe is out.
[01:24:34.700 --> 01:24:36.520] I already have ideas for the second
[01:24:36.520 --> 01:24:39.100] or the next book in the series,
[01:24:39.100 --> 01:24:40.540] which involves some traveling.
[01:24:43.100 --> 01:24:44.600] I have a conference I'm working on.
[01:24:44.720 --> 01:24:47.580] So there's gonna be more to be said about that.
[01:24:47.580 --> 01:24:50.340] And it's pivoting a little bit, which is exciting.
[01:24:50.400 --> 01:24:52.240] From expo to conference.
[01:24:52.360 --> 01:24:54.060] We'll let her hear more about this.
[01:24:54.980 --> 01:24:58.220] You're gonna have to wait, but stay tuned.
[01:24:58.700 --> 01:25:00.920] Definitely subscribe to NicoleDMiller.com.
[01:25:00.960 --> 01:25:02.620] That is where I give my audience
[01:25:02.620 --> 01:25:06.800] all of my current events and up-to-date information.
[01:25:07.540 --> 01:25:12.480] But yeah, I think I'm really just seeing what is next.
[01:25:12.660 --> 01:25:14.100] Even though I am a planner
[01:25:14.640 --> 01:25:16.820] and I have these visions and ideas,
[01:25:17.680 --> 01:25:20.360] I don't always know the big picture.
[01:25:20.400 --> 01:25:22.980] Sometimes I know three to six months.
[01:25:24.760 --> 01:25:28.560] But so right now I feel like I know up through September,
[01:25:28.580 --> 01:25:32.260] but then I always have things rolling in
[01:25:32.880 --> 01:25:34.620] that just kind of fill up my calendar
[01:25:34.620 --> 01:25:36.640] and I've never had to seek anything.
[01:25:36.640 --> 01:25:38.260] Since I've been doing this,
[01:25:38.440 --> 01:25:39.540] the events always come to me.
[01:25:39.620 --> 01:25:41.140] The opportunities always come to me.
[01:25:41.580 --> 01:25:43.640] So that's been a blessing of being like,
[01:25:43.640 --> 01:25:45.160] I don't look for it, it just comes.
[01:25:45.400 --> 01:25:46.500] But because I said yes,
[01:25:46.500 --> 01:25:48.020] and because I put myself out there
[01:25:48.020 --> 01:25:49.340] and have done the work.
[01:25:49.700 --> 01:25:50.700] That's very true.
[01:25:50.840 --> 01:25:52.820] Even when I called you last month,
[01:25:52.820 --> 01:25:54.380] a couple of days before the event.
[01:25:54.720 --> 01:25:57.220] And I'm like, yeah, it happens like that.
[01:25:57.240 --> 01:25:59.460] And you did that while I was at an event.
[01:25:59.620 --> 01:26:00.980] Like I was at an event.
[01:26:01.120 --> 01:26:02.100] I'm like, okay, I'm at an event.
[01:26:02.240 --> 01:26:03.060] You give me an event.
[01:26:03.160 --> 01:26:03.860] I was like, okay.
[01:26:03.980 --> 01:26:05.300] Trying to be a part of another event.
[01:26:05.300 --> 01:26:06.720] In two days.
[01:26:07.220 --> 01:26:07.620] Right.
[01:26:08.400 --> 01:26:11.060] But it's like I said, that community,
[01:26:11.060 --> 01:26:13.500] that trust and having that good network.
[01:26:15.260 --> 01:26:17.220] The foundation's already set.
[01:26:17.340 --> 01:26:21.720] I think for me it is that next level of the dream
[01:26:21.720 --> 01:26:25.240] manifesting in the connections
[01:26:25.240 --> 01:26:27.880] that are gonna come for that to happen
[01:26:27.880 --> 01:26:30.640] and being sensitive to those connections.
[01:26:32.080 --> 01:26:35.040] And yeah, that next level of progress.
[01:26:35.920 --> 01:26:38.400] So we'll see how that manifests.
[01:26:39.100 --> 01:26:42.460] Now I wanna leave on this note,
[01:26:43.320 --> 01:26:47.180] just thinking about the time we put into the documentary
[01:26:47.180 --> 01:26:50.620] and we still have a lot of work to go.
[01:26:51.480 --> 01:26:54.820] How much work and time is needed
[01:26:54.820 --> 01:26:56.600] to work on a project like this?
[01:26:57.040 --> 01:26:58.660] Like it doesn't happen overnight, right?
[01:26:58.780 --> 01:27:00.100] Clearly, you know,
[01:27:00.220 --> 01:27:02.760] a documentary is telling a story of a person's journey.
[01:27:02.760 --> 01:27:05.020] So you already know it's gonna take time.
[01:27:05.540 --> 01:27:08.000] Right now we're at the four year mark, I believe.
[01:27:08.220 --> 01:27:09.940] Four years in county.
[01:27:10.060 --> 01:27:11.000] Four years in.
[01:27:11.440 --> 01:27:13.760] And I still haven't gotten to where I know I'm going.
[01:27:14.400 --> 01:27:16.620] So who knows how much longer we have,
[01:27:16.620 --> 01:27:19.840] but I'm grateful I have somebody like you on the road
[01:27:19.840 --> 01:27:22.660] to say yes, to be committed, to be dedicated,
[01:27:22.820 --> 01:27:25.260] to have follow throughs, to have a skill set.
[01:27:26.260 --> 01:27:29.780] For us to piece this together and figure it out.
[01:27:30.000 --> 01:27:31.580] This is our first documentary,
[01:27:31.940 --> 01:27:35.000] but we're both storytellers and we clearly have,
[01:27:35.000 --> 01:27:38.380] you know, the gifts to do it and the belief.
[01:27:38.400 --> 01:27:39.680] We have the belief system
[01:27:39.680 --> 01:27:41.820] because we've already done so many things.
[01:27:42.040 --> 01:27:44.580] So all of that ensure success,
[01:27:45.340 --> 01:27:47.500] but we're committed to the long haul.
[01:27:47.680 --> 01:27:49.320] Anyone who's an entrepreneur, you have to be.
[01:27:49.500 --> 01:27:52.300] Anyone who's a literary entrepreneur, you have to be.
[01:27:52.480 --> 01:27:55.520] Anyone who's a creative entrepreneur, you have to be.
[01:27:55.660 --> 01:27:58.140] I feel like being an indie author,
[01:27:58.440 --> 01:28:00.420] you are, it's like having a double major
[01:28:00.420 --> 01:28:02.180] or being a creative entrepreneur.
[01:28:02.440 --> 01:28:03.640] It's like having a double major
[01:28:03.640 --> 01:28:06.440] because you have the business side,
[01:28:06.440 --> 01:28:09.580] but then you have the creative side and you're doing both.
[01:28:09.920 --> 01:28:11.220] Double major.
[01:28:11.820 --> 01:28:19.590] What is something you want someone watching
[01:28:19.590 --> 01:28:22.330] your documentary to take from this documentary?
[01:28:23.710 --> 01:28:28.770] I think the biggest thing is that you have purpose.
[01:28:29.170 --> 01:28:33.850] Cause that was my heart cry of what is my purpose.
[01:28:36.010 --> 01:28:37.850] And God revealed it.
[01:28:38.310 --> 01:28:41.790] And it was nothing I ever imagined.
[01:28:42.770 --> 01:28:45.370] It was exceedingly abundantly beyond
[01:28:45.370 --> 01:28:46.570] what I could ever imagine.
[01:28:46.890 --> 01:28:51.190] It's still unfolding and it touches other people's lives.
[01:28:52.150 --> 01:28:54.250] So that's the biggest thing,
[01:28:54.250 --> 01:28:58.870] message from the documentary is don't count yourself out.
[01:29:01.680 --> 01:29:02.720] You're here for a reason.
[01:29:05.750 --> 01:29:06.670] What would you say to someone
[01:29:06.670 --> 01:29:08.410] that is counting themself out?
[01:29:09.050 --> 01:29:10.710] I will say that.
[01:29:12.150 --> 01:29:13.770] Give God one more day.
[01:29:14.010 --> 01:29:17.630] Like don't let those moments take you under,
[01:29:18.150 --> 01:29:19.990] especially when you're an emotional person,
[01:29:20.150 --> 01:29:21.030] you're a sensitive person
[01:29:21.030 --> 01:29:22.790] or you're just dealing with a lot of trauma.
[01:29:23.690 --> 01:29:25.870] If you can get through it,
[01:29:25.950 --> 01:29:27.170] someone is on the other side
[01:29:27.170 --> 01:29:29.190] that's gonna be inspired by your resilience.
[01:29:29.630 --> 01:29:32.270] Like we're all here for a reason
[01:29:32.270 --> 01:29:34.110] and we're interconnected.
[01:29:41.670 --> 01:29:44.110] Closing words you would love to give
[01:29:44.110 --> 01:29:47.470] to an aspiring entrepreneur or youth
[01:29:47.470 --> 01:29:49.050] that is listening to this.
[01:29:49.930 --> 01:29:53.030] I would say do the thing that's in your heart.
[01:29:53.790 --> 01:29:56.930] Don't minimize whatever those things are,
[01:29:57.270 --> 01:29:58.890] those desires, those dreams.
[01:30:00.010 --> 01:30:03.490] Do it and be blown away by what comes out of you.
[01:30:07.600 --> 01:30:13.060] Follow you, purchase books, all that good stuff.
[01:30:13.580 --> 01:30:17.120] Well, I can be found at NicoleDMiller.com.
[01:30:17.120 --> 01:30:20.540] The publishing house is ndmiller.pub.
[01:30:21.340 --> 01:30:23.720] Instagram is H-T-O-H-B,
[01:30:24.080 --> 01:30:25.860] which stands for How to Overcome Heartbreak.
[01:30:26.780 --> 01:30:31.540] And Facebook.com slash backslash H-T-O-H-B.
[01:30:31.720 --> 01:30:37.260] LinkedIn and YouTube at Girl Talk CLE on Instagram.
[01:30:38.280 --> 01:30:40.280] So those are all of my spaces.
[01:30:45.580 --> 01:30:48.000] This is Mr. Steve Jackson,
[01:30:48.000 --> 01:30:51.520] photographer Jackson of Alienize Photos Media,
[01:30:51.840 --> 01:30:53.320] bringing you another episode
[01:30:53.320 --> 01:30:59.780] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk with Nicole D. Miller.
[01:31:01.670 --> 01:31:03.910] Check this full episode out.
[01:31:03.910 --> 01:31:06.970] Listen out on your long commutes.
[01:31:07.310 --> 01:31:08.830] Or break it up, you know.
[01:31:08.970 --> 01:31:11.970] Listen to half now, listen to the other half later.
[01:31:12.690 --> 01:31:14.530] But if you love this episode,
[01:31:14.750 --> 01:31:16.310] definitely give it some feedback.
[01:31:16.930 --> 01:31:19.830] Like, share, comment, all that good stuff.
[01:31:20.430 --> 01:31:22.590] Stay tuned to the next episode.
[01:31:23.050 --> 01:31:24.070] We are out.
[01:31:26.290 --> 01:31:27.150] We made it.
[01:31:27.730 --> 01:31:29.810] I was like, how long is this interview, Alien?
[01:31:30.770 --> 01:31:32.050] Oh, and I'll do you fine.
[01:31:33.450 --> 01:31:35.190] I was like, it's like three hours long.
[01:31:35.250 --> 01:31:36.470] Your camera cut off.
[01:31:37.090 --> 01:31:38.070] I'm sure it did.
[01:31:38.150 --> 01:31:39.330] I'm like, I don't got the storage space.
[01:31:40.350 --> 01:31:44.090] I was gonna ask, but you know, it's for a question.
[01:31:44.090 --> 01:31:45.670] We did it, we did it.
[01:31:51.870 --> 01:31:53.030] So when is it gonna drop?
[01:31:53.030 --> 01:31:57.580] Let's try to drop it before the expo.
[01:31:57.900 --> 01:31:59.520] I know it's a couple of people ahead of you,
[01:31:59.980 --> 01:32:01.260] but you know, they could wait.
[01:32:02.910 --> 01:32:04.970] Unless I just start dropping everything.
[01:32:06.610 --> 01:32:07.570] Appreciate it.

========================================================================
34. Why Every Business Should Have A Podcast In 2026 (Grow Faster Without Ads)
Season 1 · Episode 37
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/why-every-business-should-have-a-podcast-in-2026-grow-faster
========================================================================

[00:00:01.100 --> 00:00:10.900] 500 plus million global listeners, 80% listen in full,
[00:00:12.600 --> 00:00:19.680] 70% purchase from a recommendation of a podcast.
[00:00:21.800 --> 00:00:25.820] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alien Eyes,
[00:00:25.820 --> 00:00:27.860] Photos, Industry Talk.
[00:00:27.860 --> 00:00:32.200] Today we're talking about something simple, but powerful.
[00:00:33.280 --> 00:00:34.520] A podcast.
[00:00:35.980 --> 00:00:39.180] Not just for fun, not just for talking,
[00:00:39.960 --> 00:00:42.800] but growing your business.
[00:00:44.420 --> 00:00:48.640] Why should every business have a podcast,
[00:00:49.420 --> 00:00:51.160] even if you're just starting a business?
[00:00:52.800 --> 00:00:57.700] Now, a couple years ago I did this talk with my team,
[00:00:57.860 --> 00:00:58.880] and we had a couple of experience
[00:00:58.880 --> 00:01:02.320] on why every business should have a podcast.
[00:01:03.200 --> 00:01:04.980] You had to be at the conference
[00:01:04.980 --> 00:01:11.100] to check out our presentation, and it was amazing.
[00:01:11.940 --> 00:01:14.060] And I thought about it, I'm like, well,
[00:01:15.480 --> 00:01:20.200] let me kind of talk about what I talk about on stage
[00:01:20.200 --> 00:01:25.080] on a podcast for those who start in a podcast,
[00:01:25.580 --> 00:01:29.380] and shameless plug, but May 19th I am having
[00:01:29.860 --> 00:01:36.680] an exclusive, private, five slots only event
[00:01:37.640 --> 00:01:42.480] with Overflow Studios as Miss Brianna Casanova,
[00:01:43.300 --> 00:01:50.660] my partner, Sean, for one day only, May 19th, 2026.
[00:01:52.080 --> 00:01:54.700] We are slashing our prices.
[00:01:55.420 --> 00:01:59.500] We are filming, editing, getting behind the scenes,
[00:01:59.540 --> 00:02:05.400] content, show notes, distribution, all of the above.
[00:02:06.460 --> 00:02:07.740] And some more bonuses.
[00:02:08.340 --> 00:02:12.120] A 30 minute consultation on your brand, business,
[00:02:12.280 --> 00:02:14.540] and podcast to help elevate you
[00:02:14.540 --> 00:02:15.820] and get you in the right direction
[00:02:15.820 --> 00:02:17.480] and you know your next steps.
[00:02:18.860 --> 00:02:22.160] Let us help you, May 19th, one day only,
[00:02:22.660 --> 00:02:25.880] slashing our prices, and this is exclusive,
[00:02:27.420 --> 00:02:30.900] Cleveland exclusive, you heard it here first.
[00:02:32.800 --> 00:02:36.080] So May 19th, we only got a few slots left,
[00:02:36.660 --> 00:02:42.690] so book your slot for every business.
[00:02:44.510 --> 00:02:45.790] Should have a podcast.
[00:02:46.990 --> 00:02:48.770] If you're serious about your business,
[00:02:49.290 --> 00:02:51.570] if you sell something, if you teach something,
[00:02:51.770 --> 00:02:55.870] or if you want people to know your name, this matters.
[00:02:56.890 --> 00:03:00.770] And we could break it down so it's easier to understand.
[00:03:02.030 --> 00:03:04.070] Like, what is a podcast?
[00:03:04.750 --> 00:03:07.250] A podcast is your own radio show.
[00:03:08.310 --> 00:03:13.970] But better, because people choose to listen to you.
[00:03:13.970 --> 00:03:14.630] Who?
[00:03:16.070 --> 00:03:17.970] You or me?
[00:03:19.710 --> 00:03:20.570] You or me?
[00:03:21.910 --> 00:03:26.190] They can play it in the car, play it in the gym,
[00:03:27.230 --> 00:03:30.650] play it while cooking, play it at work.
[00:03:30.850 --> 00:03:32.770] Well, for some of y'all, y'all can play it at work.
[00:03:32.930 --> 00:03:36.550] Can't say everybody, but those are the things.
[00:03:36.690 --> 00:03:38.650] I listen to podcasts in my car.
[00:03:39.890 --> 00:03:42.070] I don't go to the gym as much,
[00:03:42.070 --> 00:03:44.310] but I know a lot of people do, and I used to.
[00:03:45.650 --> 00:03:47.750] But I'm playing basketball a lot more
[00:03:47.750 --> 00:03:49.470] when I go to the gyms.
[00:03:50.230 --> 00:03:55.010] So, can't really have headphones or things like that.
[00:03:55.730 --> 00:03:57.610] But if I'm working out at the gym,
[00:03:58.870 --> 00:04:01.410] I got a podcast on, I'm learning,
[00:04:01.770 --> 00:04:03.750] I'm getting different perspectives
[00:04:04.270 --> 00:04:06.710] while I'm getting the workout in, getting fit.
[00:04:08.070 --> 00:04:10.830] And I might have a cooking show,
[00:04:11.470 --> 00:04:15.030] or a cooking podcast on in the background
[00:04:15.030 --> 00:04:16.149] as I'm cooking.
[00:04:16.970 --> 00:04:21.110] Oh, stir it briskly, add more water.
[00:04:21.950 --> 00:04:24.870] It was like, oh yeah, let me do that.
[00:04:25.430 --> 00:04:30.330] So, I love to listen to business podcasts.
[00:04:30.630 --> 00:04:33.930] I rarely listen to music, and I'm a former musician.
[00:04:34.350 --> 00:04:38.130] So for me to say that, I take podcasts seriously,
[00:04:38.570 --> 00:04:42.050] not just for myself, but I am a consumer and a producer.
[00:04:42.720 --> 00:04:46.710] So yeah, I'm deeply rooted in podcasts,
[00:04:46.890 --> 00:04:49.530] and I'm proud to say it.
[00:04:51.620 --> 00:04:56.160] So if you start a podcast, you are in their air.
[00:04:56.240 --> 00:04:57.200] Who is there?
[00:04:57.820 --> 00:05:00.820] Your audience, you're in their air.
[00:05:01.920 --> 00:05:04.240] Week after week after week, day after day after day,
[00:05:04.360 --> 00:05:05.560] minute after minute after minute,
[00:05:05.860 --> 00:05:07.520] year after year after year.
[00:05:08.360 --> 00:05:09.780] And that's powerful.
[00:05:11.040 --> 00:05:13.520] Why podcasts help your business?
[00:05:15.060 --> 00:05:16.700] Let's get straight to it.
[00:05:16.940 --> 00:05:20.820] People trust voices more than ads.
[00:05:22.180 --> 00:05:25.580] People trust voices more than ads.
[00:05:25.660 --> 00:05:26.240] And guess what?
[00:05:26.340 --> 00:05:28.200] You can still do the ad.
[00:05:28.620 --> 00:05:29.840] So that's a bonus.
[00:05:30.980 --> 00:05:34.840] Have a platform so where you can put an ad,
[00:05:35.180 --> 00:05:38.760] your ad, your partner's ad, your company's ad.
[00:05:40.140 --> 00:05:47.700] Everybody you collaborate at, sell ads on your podcast.
[00:05:49.300 --> 00:05:52.720] And when someone hears your voice over time,
[00:05:52.960 --> 00:05:54.860] they feel like they know you.
[00:05:55.460 --> 00:05:56.860] People feel like they know me.
[00:05:57.140 --> 00:05:58.800] Or when I show up on social media
[00:05:58.800 --> 00:05:59.820] and they see me in person,
[00:05:59.860 --> 00:06:00.900] they feel like they know me.
[00:06:01.020 --> 00:06:02.620] Like, oh man, I've been watching you for years.
[00:06:02.700 --> 00:06:04.280] I've been listening to your music for years,
[00:06:04.580 --> 00:06:06.780] hearing your poetry, reading your books,
[00:06:06.860 --> 00:06:10.200] and now listening to my podcast.
[00:06:11.640 --> 00:06:14.160] This is called trust.
[00:06:15.120 --> 00:06:18.400] You showing up constantly.
[00:06:19.700 --> 00:06:22.180] That is called trust.
[00:06:22.480 --> 00:06:24.360] And trust leads to sales.
[00:06:24.980 --> 00:06:25.820] Think about it.
[00:06:26.060 --> 00:06:28.260] Would you rather buy from a random ad
[00:06:28.260 --> 00:06:32.480] or someone you've been listening to every week,
[00:06:32.980 --> 00:06:34.660] sometimes every day?
[00:06:36.740 --> 00:06:38.140] Exactly, right?
[00:06:38.360 --> 00:06:38.900] You get it?
[00:06:39.720 --> 00:06:41.140] You become the expert.
[00:06:41.800 --> 00:06:44.300] You speak on your topic often,
[00:06:44.780 --> 00:06:46.000] whatever your business is,
[00:06:46.240 --> 00:06:47.660] whatever your expertise is,
[00:06:47.720 --> 00:06:49.820] whatever you shine in, your special skill.
[00:06:50.660 --> 00:06:53.300] People see you as the go-to person.
[00:06:53.700 --> 00:06:55.260] You don't need to be perfect.
[00:06:55.640 --> 00:06:58.680] You just need to be helpful.
[00:07:00.440 --> 00:07:03.080] Example, you know, since I'm a photographer,
[00:07:04.140 --> 00:07:06.680] I got to talk about lighting, clients,
[00:07:06.680 --> 00:07:08.660] mistakes, prices.
[00:07:09.620 --> 00:07:12.540] How do I shoot photos and videos
[00:07:12.540 --> 00:07:14.780] at different events and conferences
[00:07:15.620 --> 00:07:19.580] and make it look seamlessly by myself?
[00:07:21.100 --> 00:07:24.560] Or if you're a coach and I do coaching as well,
[00:07:25.340 --> 00:07:27.120] help you with your ideation sessions
[00:07:27.120 --> 00:07:31.180] to build your strategy for your business or podcast.
[00:07:32.520 --> 00:07:35.380] We could talk about mindset and growth
[00:07:35.380 --> 00:07:37.380] and the wins and the lessons,
[00:07:37.960 --> 00:07:41.580] not only for you, but also your clients
[00:07:41.580 --> 00:07:43.540] and testimonials.
[00:07:44.060 --> 00:07:46.940] And over time, people will say,
[00:07:47.800 --> 00:07:50.980] this person knows their stuff,
[00:07:52.780 --> 00:07:55.740] in which I'm telling them about podcasts.
[00:07:55.980 --> 00:07:58.780] You are a business, are you in business?
[00:07:59.640 --> 00:08:01.360] Consider starting a podcast
[00:08:01.360 --> 00:08:03.940] and I could be a podcast producer
[00:08:03.940 --> 00:08:06.560] even if you film it yourself,
[00:08:07.000 --> 00:08:08.360] I can still assist.
[00:08:08.740 --> 00:08:11.080] I can still help and be of assistance.
[00:08:12.760 --> 00:08:15.840] It grows your brand without extra work.
[00:08:17.360 --> 00:08:21.140] And here's where we get crafty.
[00:08:21.400 --> 00:08:24.420] One podcast, many pieces of content.
[00:08:24.480 --> 00:08:26.340] That's how I always look at it.
[00:08:26.600 --> 00:08:29.160] When I film people's podcasts,
[00:08:29.940 --> 00:08:31.900] you have so many pieces of content,
[00:08:31.980 --> 00:08:33.320] so many different talking points,
[00:08:33.320 --> 00:08:34.860] so many leverage points,
[00:08:35.520 --> 00:08:36.640] especially if you do it right
[00:08:36.640 --> 00:08:38.559] and you're a great, eloquent speaker
[00:08:38.559 --> 00:08:39.780] and know how to deliver.
[00:08:40.700 --> 00:08:43.419] And I'm in training, I'm practicing.
[00:08:44.320 --> 00:08:47.500] Like this podcast is a testimony to that.
[00:08:48.120 --> 00:08:49.840] I'm just speaking my expertise
[00:08:49.840 --> 00:08:51.420] and my journey and my knowledge,
[00:08:51.660 --> 00:08:54.660] my lessons, my mistakes, my growth,
[00:08:56.080 --> 00:08:57.360] my wisdom,
[00:08:59.000 --> 00:09:00.500] giving it back.
[00:09:01.040 --> 00:09:06.340] And I've done like many master classes
[00:09:06.640 --> 00:09:08.700] on this podcast platform,
[00:09:08.880 --> 00:09:10.560] Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:09:11.520 --> 00:09:15.660] I gave many master classes
[00:09:16.800 --> 00:09:19.660] and some is me documenting my journey
[00:09:19.660 --> 00:09:22.180] and different events.
[00:09:23.060 --> 00:09:26.240] So it's like a well-rounded, well-oiled.
[00:09:26.660 --> 00:09:30.380] Anybody from any industry can take in
[00:09:30.380 --> 00:09:35.120] and dissect, and that's how we all grow.
[00:09:36.020 --> 00:09:38.000] And I love to listen to other people's podcasts
[00:09:38.000 --> 00:09:40.500] and other people's minds and perspectives
[00:09:40.500 --> 00:09:43.560] and their journey, their story,
[00:09:44.940 --> 00:09:48.000] how they grew, and it's amazing.
[00:09:48.720 --> 00:09:50.280] You can too.
[00:09:50.820 --> 00:09:54.320] You could turn one episode into clips
[00:09:54.320 --> 00:09:57.060] for social media, you know, quotes,
[00:09:57.740 --> 00:09:59.320] or you could do the carousels,
[00:09:59.320 --> 00:10:02.920] which are different quotes from your episode,
[00:10:03.980 --> 00:10:06.380] blog posts, emails.
[00:10:07.480 --> 00:10:09.040] I got a few ideas
[00:10:09.040 --> 00:10:10.820] that I'm not gonna share in this podcast,
[00:10:10.900 --> 00:10:12.500] but if you book a consultation,
[00:10:13.420 --> 00:10:16.820] I'm gonna just let loose and give you some great ideas.
[00:10:17.680 --> 00:10:19.740] Let's book an ideation session and tell you.
[00:10:22.180 --> 00:10:24.920] So instead of trying to create every day,
[00:10:26.160 --> 00:10:27.400] we'll create once
[00:10:28.380 --> 00:10:32.720] and share many times off that one episode.
[00:10:33.140 --> 00:10:35.740] So think about if you have many episodes,
[00:10:35.940 --> 00:10:38.800] now you're seeing the benefits of a podcast, no?
[00:10:39.640 --> 00:10:40.340] You don't?
[00:10:40.560 --> 00:10:43.120] Okay, well, let's talk about
[00:10:44.100 --> 00:10:47.580] how people could find you on Google.
[00:10:49.020 --> 00:10:53.460] And this is a big one, S-E-O.
[00:10:53.980 --> 00:10:55.560] And this is something I focus on
[00:10:55.560 --> 00:10:57.340] and been studying from the last few years
[00:10:58.080 --> 00:11:01.680] also bringing it to my clients and also my podcast.
[00:11:01.800 --> 00:11:03.920] That's how my podcast has been discovered
[00:11:03.920 --> 00:11:07.340] and not just U.S., but in other countries.
[00:11:08.840 --> 00:11:10.200] It's a big one, telling.
[00:11:10.960 --> 00:11:12.360] When your podcast,
[00:11:13.700 --> 00:11:16.120] you could transcript it,
[00:11:16.360 --> 00:11:18.780] turn it into a blog, that's something I do.
[00:11:19.220 --> 00:11:19.560] You know what I'm saying?
[00:11:19.600 --> 00:11:20.540] I'm giving you the sauce.
[00:11:20.660 --> 00:11:21.520] Is this too much?
[00:11:21.660 --> 00:11:22.820] Is this too much?
[00:11:24.140 --> 00:11:26.220] So I know I'm just getting started,
[00:11:26.220 --> 00:11:27.800] but it might be too much,
[00:11:27.860 --> 00:11:29.600] especially for somebody just beginning.
[00:11:29.700 --> 00:11:30.600] And I'm like, what?
[00:11:31.360 --> 00:11:32.800] You could do all this.
[00:11:32.800 --> 00:11:33.860] I can do all this.
[00:11:33.880 --> 00:11:35.300] I should do all this,
[00:11:36.080 --> 00:11:37.740] but you don't do all of this?
[00:11:37.860 --> 00:11:38.860] I can help you.
[00:11:38.880 --> 00:11:42.380] Let me help you with the right keywords
[00:11:43.820 --> 00:11:46.540] so people could find you when they search
[00:11:48.160 --> 00:11:50.720] like how to start a business.
[00:11:51.480 --> 00:11:53.200] If you talk about that on your podcast,
[00:11:53.460 --> 00:11:53.900] guess what?
[00:11:54.040 --> 00:11:55.660] You may pop up.
[00:11:56.220 --> 00:11:59.540] Or someone else who wrote about it or talked about it
[00:11:59.540 --> 00:12:00.700] may pop up,
[00:12:00.960 --> 00:12:04.240] but you are a valid candidate for that.
[00:12:05.240 --> 00:12:09.020] If your podcast talks just about that one thing
[00:12:09.020 --> 00:12:10.540] that you specialize in,
[00:12:10.760 --> 00:12:12.940] one thing that your business focus on,
[00:12:13.940 --> 00:12:15.620] you will show up.
[00:12:15.860 --> 00:12:17.840] And you will show up
[00:12:18.960 --> 00:12:21.160] by showing up for yourself first.
[00:12:22.180 --> 00:12:25.240] That means free traffic.
[00:12:25.240 --> 00:12:27.100] No ads needed.
[00:12:27.260 --> 00:12:28.440] And that's what I focus on.
[00:12:28.840 --> 00:12:29.500] No ads.
[00:12:29.680 --> 00:12:31.640] Do I run ads from time to time?
[00:12:33.420 --> 00:12:34.580] Not really.
[00:12:34.820 --> 00:12:36.660] I may boost posts,
[00:12:36.680 --> 00:12:39.200] but not really run an ad.
[00:12:39.860 --> 00:12:42.320] But that may be changing soon.
[00:12:42.340 --> 00:12:43.280] That may be changing,
[00:12:43.480 --> 00:12:48.580] especially as I get these products finalized
[00:12:48.580 --> 00:12:51.880] and I got my book finalized.
[00:12:52.380 --> 00:12:54.260] Know I've been working on it for some time,
[00:12:54.260 --> 00:12:56.640] but I wanted to make sure it was ready to go
[00:12:56.640 --> 00:13:00.340] before I release it to the public for you all
[00:13:00.340 --> 00:13:03.120] to make it an evergreen thing.
[00:13:03.220 --> 00:13:06.700] So I just make it one time in the whole world scene.
[00:13:08.940 --> 00:13:10.720] Well, let me share some stats.
[00:13:12.020 --> 00:13:13.860] Look at some real numbers.
[00:13:15.000 --> 00:13:20.180] Like I said, close to 500 million listeners
[00:13:20.180 --> 00:13:25.280] listen to podcasts worldwide.
[00:13:26.440 --> 00:13:28.600] And around 80% of the listeners stay
[00:13:28.600 --> 00:13:30.000] for most of the episode.
[00:13:30.500 --> 00:13:33.000] Podcast listeners are more likely to buy
[00:13:33.000 --> 00:13:36.900] after hearing about a product on the podcast.
[00:13:37.340 --> 00:13:41.920] Many people listen to one hour each day.
[00:13:42.060 --> 00:13:45.440] That's seven hours or seven plus hours,
[00:13:45.820 --> 00:13:47.700] excuse me, per week.
[00:13:49.500 --> 00:13:51.760] Seven plus hours per week.
[00:13:51.940 --> 00:13:54.220] Even if it was seven hours, that's one hour a day.
[00:13:54.440 --> 00:13:58.480] That's like a class, I call it, you took a class.
[00:13:59.460 --> 00:14:02.760] Think about that every day, every week.
[00:14:03.940 --> 00:14:06.500] What about people that listen to podcasts three
[00:14:07.960 --> 00:14:08.940] hours a day?
[00:14:09.960 --> 00:14:12.360] That's 21 hours a week.
[00:14:13.180 --> 00:14:15.320] And if you listen to the right podcast
[00:14:15.320 --> 00:14:18.360] or other podcasts in your industry,
[00:14:19.260 --> 00:14:21.680] you get to find out the news of what's going on,
[00:14:21.700 --> 00:14:24.920] the changes, the updates, what other companies are doing.
[00:14:25.180 --> 00:14:28.380] How can you collaborate with this other business
[00:14:28.380 --> 00:14:29.940] or entity or person?
[00:14:30.640 --> 00:14:33.780] Maybe they have a product that complements your product
[00:14:33.780 --> 00:14:39.060] and now you both went in and you're being a guest
[00:14:39.060 --> 00:14:41.580] on each other's podcast.
[00:14:42.220 --> 00:14:45.460] And you bring each other's audience
[00:14:45.460 --> 00:14:48.600] and you both build and grow through collaboration.
[00:14:50.520 --> 00:14:52.240] And what does that mean?
[00:14:53.280 --> 00:14:54.900] People are not just listening,
[00:14:56.280 --> 00:14:58.480] they are paying attention.
[00:14:58.900 --> 00:15:01.860] And attention equals opportunity.
[00:15:03.160 --> 00:15:05.700] It's easier than you think, a lot of people say.
[00:15:05.960 --> 00:15:07.800] I don't have the time.
[00:15:07.820 --> 00:15:09.980] I don't know what to say.
[00:15:09.980 --> 00:15:14.640] I don't know the right gear or what to buy.
[00:15:18.880 --> 00:15:20.920] That's the beauty of me.
[00:15:23.600 --> 00:15:26.160] Just being into media,
[00:15:27.160 --> 00:15:28.400] having media business,
[00:15:28.640 --> 00:15:31.100] I kind of had a head start on all of that.
[00:15:32.080 --> 00:15:34.620] Not saying that I don't know what to say every time.
[00:15:35.200 --> 00:15:38.360] I know y'all probably heard some episodes like,
[00:15:38.360 --> 00:15:39.760] he got a good point.
[00:15:39.980 --> 00:15:41.640] And then other times it's like,
[00:15:43.020 --> 00:15:45.900] let's talk about it a little more.
[00:15:49.040 --> 00:15:51.240] But it's all practice is repetition
[00:15:51.240 --> 00:15:55.300] and then the better you get is by showing up
[00:15:55.300 --> 00:15:56.540] and doing it.
[00:15:56.940 --> 00:15:57.900] Getting your reps,
[00:15:58.300 --> 00:16:00.380] that's creative frequencies biggest thing,
[00:16:01.640 --> 00:16:03.080] getting our reps.
[00:16:03.420 --> 00:16:04.440] Gotta get our reps in.
[00:16:04.500 --> 00:16:05.880] If we don't get our reps in,
[00:16:06.700 --> 00:16:07.640] then how are we gonna grow?
[00:16:09.740 --> 00:16:11.740] But let me simplify it.
[00:16:12.700 --> 00:16:13.940] Let's talk about gear.
[00:16:14.120 --> 00:16:20.540] What you need is a quiet space like this one,
[00:16:20.540 --> 00:16:21.940] a clear message,
[00:16:22.960 --> 00:16:27.680] a phone in or a simple microphone.
[00:16:27.800 --> 00:16:30.440] You may have a recorder.
[00:16:31.500 --> 00:16:33.560] Record yourself like that.
[00:16:34.240 --> 00:16:36.280] But everybody has a phone.
[00:16:37.080 --> 00:16:40.920] Like 99% of the world have a phone,
[00:16:41.060 --> 00:16:44.340] smartphone that you can record your audio.
[00:16:44.500 --> 00:16:47.720] These mics nowadays are decent,
[00:16:48.600 --> 00:16:50.040] especially for just getting started.
[00:16:51.060 --> 00:16:55.000] In fact, I'm recording this episode on my phone
[00:16:55.640 --> 00:16:58.320] with wireless mics hooked up to my phone.
[00:16:59.080 --> 00:17:00.440] That's just a little hack.
[00:17:01.280 --> 00:17:03.280] Nothing special, no bells and whistles.
[00:17:03.560 --> 00:17:05.200] And that's why I love audio.
[00:17:05.200 --> 00:17:07.480] People are like, oh, we should do video on this.
[00:17:07.680 --> 00:17:11.020] Like the time for me to put out audio
[00:17:11.020 --> 00:17:16.700] and handling other people's content and clients
[00:17:16.700 --> 00:17:20.740] and being at events and having coaching sessions
[00:17:20.740 --> 00:17:24.300] and being out with my daughter and in a relationship.
[00:17:24.460 --> 00:17:26.800] So I gotta spend time with the missus.
[00:17:27.280 --> 00:17:29.180] This is time.
[00:17:30.860 --> 00:17:33.440] But with audio, I accelerate that time
[00:17:33.440 --> 00:17:35.620] and I can pump out even more content
[00:17:35.620 --> 00:17:39.240] and be more discoverable on Google
[00:17:39.240 --> 00:17:41.040] and showing up for my business.
[00:17:42.260 --> 00:17:44.320] There will be videos from time to time,
[00:17:44.320 --> 00:17:45.940] but that's not my main focus.
[00:17:47.280 --> 00:17:48.560] See where I'm going with it?
[00:17:48.580 --> 00:17:49.460] Just get started.
[00:17:49.820 --> 00:17:50.520] And that's it.
[00:17:51.220 --> 00:17:52.760] You don't need to be fancy.
[00:17:53.100 --> 00:17:54.760] You just need to get started.
[00:17:55.280 --> 00:17:57.460] Your first episode won't be perfect.
[00:17:57.800 --> 00:18:00.280] By no means it won't be perfect.
[00:18:00.960 --> 00:18:01.880] And that's okay.
[00:18:02.620 --> 00:18:04.780] No one starts perfect.
[00:18:05.620 --> 00:18:07.440] At least that I know of.
[00:18:07.600 --> 00:18:09.060] I know I didn't start perfect.
[00:18:10.440 --> 00:18:11.700] You know, some real life examples.
[00:18:11.780 --> 00:18:14.420] Let's say you run a business, if you're not in business
[00:18:14.960 --> 00:18:16.880] and you are creative looking to be
[00:18:16.880 --> 00:18:18.740] an entrepreneur or business owner.
[00:18:19.320 --> 00:18:21.280] I call that a creative entrepreneur.
[00:18:21.460 --> 00:18:26.300] You gotta run your creative mind, just like a business.
[00:18:27.220 --> 00:18:29.610] And then you start a podcast
[00:18:29.900 --> 00:18:34.140] and you share your journey, your tips, your stories.
[00:18:35.440 --> 00:18:36.820] And after a few weeks,
[00:18:36.820 --> 00:18:40.080] people start recognizing your voice.
[00:18:40.480 --> 00:18:43.500] And after a few months, people start reaching out.
[00:18:43.760 --> 00:18:48.080] Year after year, you have a library of content
[00:18:48.080 --> 00:18:50.320] working for you and guess what?
[00:18:51.140 --> 00:18:55.740] 24 seven, working for you 24 seven.
[00:18:56.300 --> 00:19:00.300] Because it's evergreen, it's out there.
[00:19:01.540 --> 00:19:03.480] And that is the long game.
[00:19:03.720 --> 00:19:06.820] Podcasting is a long game strategy.
[00:19:08.480 --> 00:19:09.600] It's like SEO.
[00:19:11.020 --> 00:19:12.580] That's why you pair well together.
[00:19:15.390 --> 00:19:18.570] Let's talk about some more benefits.
[00:19:20.110 --> 00:19:22.950] Like most people don't just talk about it.
[00:19:22.970 --> 00:19:26.010] A podcast builds relationships.
[00:19:26.310 --> 00:19:29.830] And as I bring different people on from different industries,
[00:19:30.190 --> 00:19:34.570] I am building relationships, not just with them,
[00:19:34.950 --> 00:19:37.570] but my audience and also their audience.
[00:19:37.630 --> 00:19:41.850] People who support him or his clients
[00:19:41.850 --> 00:19:46.270] listening in to my podcast for his episode.
[00:19:46.770 --> 00:19:48.450] And we both build.
[00:19:51.840 --> 00:19:54.240] And you know, you could do a solo
[00:19:55.720 --> 00:19:59.520] or you can leverage other people's audiences,
[00:20:00.600 --> 00:20:02.740] help promote other people businesses
[00:20:02.740 --> 00:20:05.500] by interviewing other people,
[00:20:06.180 --> 00:20:08.180] connect with other business owners
[00:20:08.180 --> 00:20:11.900] and it opens up doors you wouldn't expect.
[00:20:12.480 --> 00:20:15.440] And when you invite someone on your show,
[00:20:16.240 --> 00:20:22.270] you create a connection that can lead to partnerships,
[00:20:22.590 --> 00:20:25.490] clients and opportunities, just to say the least.
[00:20:26.520 --> 00:20:28.030] So here's the truth.
[00:20:29.210 --> 00:20:31.470] A podcast is not just talking.
[00:20:32.790 --> 00:20:34.110] It's a tool.
[00:20:35.610 --> 00:20:39.990] A tool to build trust,
[00:20:40.530 --> 00:20:41.630] grow your brand,
[00:20:42.570 --> 00:20:46.090] reach more people and create real opportunities.
[00:20:47.670 --> 00:20:50.690] And the best part, you can start right now.
[00:20:51.610 --> 00:20:52.430] You can start when?
[00:20:52.710 --> 00:20:54.030] You can start right now.
[00:20:54.030 --> 00:20:56.130] Pick up that phone, hit record.
[00:20:56.830 --> 00:20:57.770] Do it for one minute.
[00:20:59.170 --> 00:21:01.890] Get past one minute.
[00:21:04.610 --> 00:21:05.610] Do it for one minute.
[00:21:05.730 --> 00:21:07.250] Test trial right now.
[00:21:09.230 --> 00:21:11.810] And if you thought about starting a podcast,
[00:21:12.350 --> 00:21:13.990] but don't know where to begin,
[00:21:15.070 --> 00:21:16.710] this is your moment.
[00:21:17.450 --> 00:21:19.330] May 19th.
[00:21:19.330 --> 00:21:22.010] Creator frequency, that's overflow studios
[00:21:22.010 --> 00:21:25.150] and alien eyes, photos, media.
[00:21:26.570 --> 00:21:30.550] Joining forces for one day.
[00:21:32.900 --> 00:21:34.100] Should I say one day only?
[00:21:36.040 --> 00:21:38.080] Should we do this later again in the year?
[00:21:38.180 --> 00:21:41.320] Maybe, maybe, maybe we'll see.
[00:21:41.760 --> 00:21:43.660] But I know May 19th,
[00:21:43.660 --> 00:21:46.760] we are slashing prices for this one day.
[00:21:47.840 --> 00:21:52.140] Like our rates is triple the price that we are providing
[00:21:52.980 --> 00:21:55.540] and all these bonuses as well.
[00:21:55.540 --> 00:21:56.840] You're not getting all these bonuses
[00:21:56.840 --> 00:21:58.180] on a regular booking,
[00:21:59.320 --> 00:22:03.300] but the value of what we want to give
[00:22:03.880 --> 00:22:06.900] for your first podcast episode
[00:22:08.300 --> 00:22:11.920] and give you the strategies and the tools you need,
[00:22:12.480 --> 00:22:14.920] even if you want to do it on your own,
[00:22:15.960 --> 00:22:19.740] we are going to help you and guide you
[00:22:19.740 --> 00:22:22.740] and do this for you.
[00:22:22.740 --> 00:22:25.700] Your first episode published.
[00:22:27.200 --> 00:22:28.140] Let's get it.
[00:22:28.420 --> 00:22:29.560] If you have a business
[00:22:29.560 --> 00:22:32.060] and you want to grow through podcasting,
[00:22:33.340 --> 00:22:35.800] tap in with creator frequency
[00:22:36.420 --> 00:22:38.020] on a creator frequency.
[00:22:38.040 --> 00:22:40.200] If you want to find us on social media,
[00:22:40.380 --> 00:22:41.760] especially Instagram,
[00:22:42.360 --> 00:22:46.660] and DM us pod, P-O-D,
[00:22:47.000 --> 00:22:49.100] P-O-D, pod,
[00:22:51.310 --> 00:22:52.710] to our DM.
[00:22:54.590 --> 00:22:57.450] On a creative frequency.
[00:22:58.610 --> 00:23:00.870] Oh, IG, if you want a slot,
[00:23:01.150 --> 00:23:02.790] and if you are in Cleveland
[00:23:02.790 --> 00:23:07.990] and you're listening to this before May 19th, 2026,
[00:23:09.350 --> 00:23:13.530] let's help you get your first episode published today
[00:23:13.530 --> 00:23:16.750] with all the bells and whistles and the show notes.
[00:23:17.030 --> 00:23:18.410] I'm going to help you get discovered.
[00:23:18.990 --> 00:23:20.750] I'm going to help you get set up on YouTube
[00:23:20.750 --> 00:23:22.690] and all the different platforms.
[00:23:23.250 --> 00:23:25.730] We're going to do it for you May 19th.
[00:23:27.190 --> 00:23:29.330] But if you listen to this after May 19th,
[00:23:29.330 --> 00:23:31.190] or you can't make it in May 19th,
[00:23:31.210 --> 00:23:32.430] or you're not in Cleveland,
[00:23:33.590 --> 00:23:35.370] you can still contact us.
[00:23:36.830 --> 00:23:40.270] DM us the full word podcast.
[00:23:40.970 --> 00:23:43.270] If you listen to this after May 19th,
[00:23:43.270 --> 00:23:44.630] or if you're not in Cleveland,
[00:23:44.690 --> 00:23:47.410] but still want to start your podcast,
[00:23:47.870 --> 00:23:51.110] or you're looking for a podcast producer,
[00:23:51.810 --> 00:23:53.890] or someone to film,
[00:23:54.690 --> 00:23:55.670] well, we're filming edit,
[00:23:55.730 --> 00:23:57.370] but we won't just edit it alone
[00:23:57.370 --> 00:23:59.550] like somebody else's content and footage
[00:23:59.550 --> 00:24:00.870] or that you recorded.
[00:24:01.530 --> 00:24:04.050] If we film it, yeah, we will edit it.
[00:24:05.690 --> 00:24:07.510] And behind the scenes,
[00:24:07.930 --> 00:24:09.930] or if you want photos added on,
[00:24:10.430 --> 00:24:11.550] get your show notes ready.
[00:24:11.630 --> 00:24:14.070] So all you have to do is send it out.
[00:24:14.170 --> 00:24:15.010] We'll publish it, please.
[00:24:15.070 --> 00:24:16.550] All you have to do is send it out.
[00:24:16.950 --> 00:24:17.790] Promote it.
[00:24:18.350 --> 00:24:21.790] We're going to do the hard and leg work for you.
[00:24:22.470 --> 00:24:24.920] So, and that's just what we're about.
[00:24:25.670 --> 00:24:26.830] Ms. Brianna Casanova,
[00:24:26.990 --> 00:24:28.810] all of Overflow Studios,
[00:24:29.910 --> 00:24:31.150] and you know, we're drawing forces,
[00:24:31.250 --> 00:24:32.430] we're creating frequency.
[00:24:33.310 --> 00:24:35.250] We're still building that out,
[00:24:35.330 --> 00:24:37.690] and it's like our community,
[00:24:38.270 --> 00:24:41.990] our community led empire
[00:24:42.670 --> 00:24:44.830] that we're still working on
[00:24:44.830 --> 00:24:45.930] and figuring out
[00:24:45.930 --> 00:24:49.490] and becoming more clear by the day.
[00:24:51.410 --> 00:24:52.790] You know, because we both in media,
[00:24:54.090 --> 00:24:54.630] but we're like,
[00:24:54.650 --> 00:24:57.430] we don't want to start another media company.
[00:24:57.710 --> 00:25:00.130] It's like, so like right now,
[00:25:00.370 --> 00:25:03.590] we're branding it as a community,
[00:25:04.250 --> 00:25:05.430] but it's our joint brand,
[00:25:05.550 --> 00:25:06.510] our joint venture,
[00:25:06.550 --> 00:25:09.550] and we're going to have a lot of
[00:25:09.550 --> 00:25:11.090] products and services
[00:25:11.090 --> 00:25:12.930] pumping through creator frequency.
[00:25:12.930 --> 00:25:15.770] We really want you to be on that
[00:25:15.770 --> 00:25:17.490] creator frequency frequently.
[00:25:18.350 --> 00:25:19.070] Be creative.
[00:25:21.050 --> 00:25:22.330] So, yeah,
[00:25:22.930 --> 00:25:24.190] you want a podcast,
[00:25:24.350 --> 00:25:25.570] and you're in business,
[00:25:26.490 --> 00:25:28.350] this is for you.
[00:25:28.970 --> 00:25:29.830] Check us out.
[00:25:31.430 --> 00:25:33.650] If you want to find me personally,
[00:25:35.190 --> 00:25:37.450] check me out at my website.
[00:25:38.390 --> 00:25:40.010] You can also book on there.
[00:25:40.050 --> 00:25:41.290] Just scroll to the bottom.
[00:25:41.850 --> 00:25:43.390] Or hit that booking link.
[00:25:47.130 --> 00:25:48.970] Alieneyesphotos.com
[00:25:48.970 --> 00:25:49.990] one more time.
[00:25:51.070 --> 00:25:52.290] Eyes with a Z,
[00:25:52.290 --> 00:25:54.010] photos with an S.
[00:25:56.190 --> 00:25:57.570] Alieneyesphotos.com
[00:25:58.030 --> 00:25:59.730] and on all social media
[00:25:59.730 --> 00:26:03.670] at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:26:04.450 --> 00:26:06.470] And this has been another episode
[00:26:06.470 --> 00:26:09.570] of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk
[00:26:09.570 --> 00:26:12.410] with your host photographer Jackson,
[00:26:12.650 --> 00:26:13.630] Steve Jackson,
[00:26:14.110 --> 00:26:16.270] of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:26:17.110 --> 00:26:18.910] One half of creator frequency.
[00:26:19.830 --> 00:26:21.250] And I am out.

========================================================================
35. Launch Your First Podcast in One Day: Done-For-You “My First Pod” Experience (Limited Spots)
Season 1 · Episode 36
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/launch-your-first-podcast-in-one-day-done-for-you-my-first-p
========================================================================

[00:00:00.660 --> 00:00:08.660] My First Pod, May 19th, 2026.
[00:00:10.260 --> 00:00:14.280] Partnering with Overflow Studios and Ruthie's List.
[00:00:15.740 --> 00:00:16.860] It's gonna be amazing.
[00:00:18.200 --> 00:00:20.500] We are bringing My First Pod,
[00:00:22.320 --> 00:00:25.860] helping you publish your first podcast,
[00:00:26.580 --> 00:00:31.300] doing the leg work, filming, recording, editing,
[00:00:32.340 --> 00:00:35.360] making one quality reel for you.
[00:00:35.700 --> 00:00:39.680] I have plenty of behind the scenes content, photos,
[00:00:40.600 --> 00:00:44.080] two head shots that you could use standalone,
[00:00:45.040 --> 00:00:47.900] and you could also use as your thumbnails
[00:00:47.900 --> 00:00:51.300] for you and your guests or your co-hosts,
[00:00:51.380 --> 00:00:52.400] however you wanna do it.
[00:00:53.040 --> 00:00:55.100] Two people, two mic,
[00:00:55.100 --> 00:00:58.620] two microphone covers with your logo.
[00:00:59.460 --> 00:01:01.700] Set design, you have a couple choices
[00:01:01.700 --> 00:01:03.080] that you could choose from,
[00:01:03.580 --> 00:01:05.720] or if you have your own already,
[00:01:06.240 --> 00:01:08.200] we would love to make that your background.
[00:01:09.240 --> 00:01:11.500] We have, again,
[00:01:13.320 --> 00:01:18.370] not just the behind the scenes content for myself,
[00:01:20.980 --> 00:01:23.800] but a 30 minute consultation.
[00:01:25.100 --> 00:01:29.760] That could be for your brand, your business, podcasts,
[00:01:31.280 --> 00:01:32.900] a combination of all.
[00:01:33.480 --> 00:01:35.960] We wanna leave you with the next steps
[00:01:35.960 --> 00:01:38.460] so you could do it on your own,
[00:01:38.560 --> 00:01:41.820] or you could hire us to just continue
[00:01:41.820 --> 00:01:43.220] to do your podcasts.
[00:01:44.960 --> 00:01:47.620] But we're slashing our prices.
[00:01:48.420 --> 00:01:51.200] This one day, May 19th,
[00:01:51.200 --> 00:01:52.560] my first pod.
[00:01:53.900 --> 00:01:58.380] You will never see these discounts again.
[00:02:00.000 --> 00:02:01.440] It's amazing.
[00:02:02.920 --> 00:02:05.200] And we love giving back to our community
[00:02:05.200 --> 00:02:06.580] as much as we can.
[00:02:07.580 --> 00:02:11.960] Of course, we have expenses and business expenses,
[00:02:13.400 --> 00:02:23.080] personal, so we like taking this day, May 19th.
[00:02:23.080 --> 00:02:24.580] Just giving back.
[00:02:24.860 --> 00:02:28.060] Giving back, but we have five slots, five slots only.
[00:02:29.950 --> 00:02:34.430] You could book more than one slot, two slots,
[00:02:34.950 --> 00:02:37.930] one slot, two slot, which one it's gonna be.
[00:02:38.750 --> 00:02:39.810] Take advantage.
[00:02:41.310 --> 00:02:42.830] What else we're gonna have?
[00:02:43.790 --> 00:02:46.130] Got your 30 minute consultation.
[00:02:47.330 --> 00:02:48.670] We're giving you feedback
[00:02:48.670 --> 00:02:51.170] and some actionable steps you could take.
[00:02:51.850 --> 00:02:56.010] We have up to one hour published,
[00:02:57.250 --> 00:03:00.290] fully edited and filmed by us.
[00:03:00.570 --> 00:03:05.790] Overflow Studios and Alienize Photos.
[00:03:06.350 --> 00:03:07.290] It's gonna be amazing.
[00:03:08.570 --> 00:03:11.870] Again, you got a couple choices of your set design,
[00:03:13.350 --> 00:03:17.670] two edited headshots that you could double
[00:03:17.670 --> 00:03:24.120] as your cover art, custom mic design,
[00:03:24.880 --> 00:03:30.060] your logo, a quality caption reel.
[00:03:32.070 --> 00:03:33.610] You're going viral, promise.
[00:03:34.610 --> 00:03:36.370] Just gotta be consistent, too.
[00:03:36.590 --> 00:03:38.970] We're gonna talk about that in consultation and more.
[00:03:39.770 --> 00:03:41.390] We got some bonuses for y'all.
[00:03:41.610 --> 00:03:42.730] We're not just getting the episode.
[00:03:43.230 --> 00:03:45.010] We're doing all the leg work
[00:03:45.010 --> 00:03:47.810] and I'm gonna take care of the show notes for you.
[00:03:48.110 --> 00:03:49.810] There's gonna be timestamps,
[00:03:49.810 --> 00:03:53.550] but then go back and pull additional clips yourself.
[00:03:53.870 --> 00:03:57.970] Watch us and learn the game.
[00:04:00.150 --> 00:04:02.850] This is like an amazing deal.
[00:04:04.250 --> 00:04:07.730] Like I said, we're slashing the prices for this one day
[00:04:09.030 --> 00:04:14.090] and only five people or a couple people
[00:04:14.090 --> 00:04:16.130] because they may book more slots.
[00:04:17.130 --> 00:04:21.269] We may do this one more time this year,
[00:04:21.269 --> 00:04:22.910] but it's not a guarantee.
[00:04:24.010 --> 00:04:29.130] And we're taking this to Atlanta Podcast Summit,
[00:04:29.770 --> 00:04:33.230] July 2nd and 3rd, 2026.
[00:04:34.310 --> 00:04:38.250] We're gonna bring our deal to Atlanta.
[00:04:39.370 --> 00:04:43.670] Yeah, so we're looking to partner with two
[00:04:43.670 --> 00:04:46.350] to three studios over down there.
[00:04:47.190 --> 00:04:50.270] So if you have a studio you want us to check out
[00:04:50.270 --> 00:04:52.630] or you feel you could partner with us,
[00:04:52.930 --> 00:04:58.790] definitely reach out to us on a creative frequency,
[00:04:59.930 --> 00:05:05.750] on a creative frequency on all media,
[00:05:06.010 --> 00:05:10.350] but you can catch us over in active more on Instagram.
[00:05:11.570 --> 00:05:17.250] And just DM us the word pod, P-O-D, pod.
[00:05:18.510 --> 00:05:21.330] And we'll send you the link to the application.
[00:05:21.610 --> 00:05:22.910] You can fill it out.
[00:05:23.730 --> 00:05:27.870] All the information you need, your podcast title,
[00:05:28.230 --> 00:05:29.890] whether you're doing a solo episode
[00:05:29.890 --> 00:05:32.550] or as you and a guest or you and a co-host
[00:05:33.370 --> 00:05:39.530] and choose your design for your first podcast.
[00:05:39.530 --> 00:05:42.930] And we're gonna take care of everything else for you.
[00:05:43.110 --> 00:05:45.450] We're gonna help get your brand discovered,
[00:05:45.630 --> 00:05:47.330] your business discovered.
[00:05:48.270 --> 00:05:51.650] Visibility is what we help with.
[00:05:52.750 --> 00:05:55.450] So if you wanna book us individually,
[00:05:56.290 --> 00:05:59.290] definitely check out Overflow Studios
[00:05:59.290 --> 00:06:06.010] and be Brianna Casanova on all media.
[00:06:06.850 --> 00:06:10.090] We're not gonna say all media, Facebook, Instagram.
[00:06:11.850 --> 00:06:12.470] Yeah.
[00:06:13.810 --> 00:06:16.090] We're trying to get better with the social media.
[00:06:16.330 --> 00:06:22.090] And then myself, Alien Eyes Photos on all media.
[00:06:22.610 --> 00:06:24.430] Now I can say that now.
[00:06:24.890 --> 00:06:27.310] Even fan base, check out fan base.
[00:06:27.910 --> 00:06:30.370] Again, Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:06:31.610 --> 00:06:35.570] And that's eyes with a Z, not the S, but a Z.
[00:06:37.350 --> 00:06:40.050] Again, May 19th, my first pod.
[00:06:40.230 --> 00:06:41.270] Check it out.
[00:06:41.630 --> 00:06:43.570] We only have five slots.
[00:06:44.090 --> 00:06:45.290] And once they're gone,
[00:06:45.350 --> 00:06:49.190] we're gonna update everybody and close it.
[00:06:49.690 --> 00:06:51.990] And you're gonna start seeing more ads
[00:06:51.990 --> 00:06:55.450] and advertisements and videos and photos
[00:06:55.450 --> 00:06:58.010] and all of our past work.
[00:06:58.730 --> 00:07:00.990] And yeah, we really wanna assist you
[00:07:00.990 --> 00:07:03.070] and we're really passionate about
[00:07:03.070 --> 00:07:04.910] getting people to take action.
[00:07:05.370 --> 00:07:06.910] And people always talk about
[00:07:06.910 --> 00:07:10.190] having a podcast or starting this or starting that.
[00:07:10.430 --> 00:07:12.030] We want to help you with that.
[00:07:12.590 --> 00:07:14.570] This go round, we're starting with podcasts.
[00:07:14.770 --> 00:07:18.090] We want to literally hold your hand,
[00:07:18.550 --> 00:07:21.670] sit you down in the chair, press record,
[00:07:22.210 --> 00:07:25.030] edit the whole podcast for you.
[00:07:26.330 --> 00:07:30.510] Do one amazing reel so you don't have to.
[00:07:32.470 --> 00:07:34.230] We're gonna do, take care of the show notes.
[00:07:34.250 --> 00:07:36.150] So you're gonna have your takeaways,
[00:07:36.830 --> 00:07:40.870] your key points and we want you to find those
[00:07:40.870 --> 00:07:42.930] and clip those yourself.
[00:07:43.510 --> 00:07:47.610] Clipping is the easiest way to get discovered.
[00:07:48.070 --> 00:07:51.730] If you put out a clip a couple of times a week,
[00:07:52.150 --> 00:07:53.450] practically every day,
[00:07:56.680 --> 00:07:59.800] do it every day, consistently.
[00:08:01.680 --> 00:08:03.200] Oh, you're gonna get discovered.
[00:08:03.480 --> 00:08:04.800] It's only a matter of time.
[00:08:05.320 --> 00:08:07.740] Just keep doing you, keep being great.
[00:08:07.740 --> 00:08:08.860] Keep recording.
[00:08:09.140 --> 00:08:12.540] We're gonna help get you a content schedule
[00:08:13.700 --> 00:08:19.020] so you can have this calendar for maybe 30 days, 90 days,
[00:08:19.200 --> 00:08:22.300] however we feel, excuse me,
[00:08:23.000 --> 00:08:27.200] that you could take it and really do it
[00:08:28.040 --> 00:08:31.040] because you're gonna dream and have these big goals
[00:08:31.040 --> 00:08:33.200] but if you don't actually do it,
[00:08:33.460 --> 00:08:34.919] it doesn't mean nothing.
[00:08:37.120 --> 00:08:38.960] It doesn't mean nothing.
[00:08:42.520 --> 00:08:46.660] And show notes is also how you get discovered.
[00:08:48.720 --> 00:08:52.880] Whatever you talk about, put it in the show notes.
[00:08:54.360 --> 00:08:56.500] The key points, the key takeaways.
[00:08:57.420 --> 00:08:58.860] What is the podcast about?
[00:09:00.340 --> 00:09:01.540] Put it in the show notes.
[00:09:01.740 --> 00:09:02.740] Put their links.
[00:09:04.500 --> 00:09:08.900] That's another way to get discovered, links.
[00:09:11.500 --> 00:09:12.940] If you don't have the links,
[00:09:14.900 --> 00:09:19.480] well, we'll talk about it if you book a session
[00:09:20.200 --> 00:09:21.260] for my first podcast.
[00:09:21.420 --> 00:09:23.740] I got a lot, trust me, I got a lot
[00:09:23.740 --> 00:09:27.160] and I'm constantly studying podcasts
[00:09:27.160 --> 00:09:29.880] and podcasting every week.
[00:09:30.860 --> 00:09:34.700] Maybe two times a week if I had the time
[00:09:34.700 --> 00:09:36.280] and I'm not fully booked.
[00:09:36.480 --> 00:09:37.300] Booked out.
[00:09:38.080 --> 00:09:40.160] But it's wedding season for me also,
[00:09:40.220 --> 00:09:44.100] so it's back-to-back weekends of weddings
[00:09:44.100 --> 00:09:45.420] and stuff like that.
[00:09:46.660 --> 00:09:54.510] So it's, yeah, that's why I want to give back
[00:09:54.510 --> 00:10:00.150] when me and Brianna can not mention her.
[00:10:00.270 --> 00:10:04.770] And she actually brought me the idea,
[00:10:04.850 --> 00:10:07.010] like, we should do this.
[00:10:07.010 --> 00:10:11.170] We were going back and forth about our different
[00:10:11.170 --> 00:10:13.830] event ideas and what should our first event be?
[00:10:14.050 --> 00:10:17.130] We should do this, who we should partner with,
[00:10:17.230 --> 00:10:18.050] boom, boom, boom.
[00:10:19.230 --> 00:10:21.850] We had 30 different ideas,
[00:10:23.070 --> 00:10:25.210] but when she brought me this one,
[00:10:25.210 --> 00:10:26.990] I'm like, yeah, this is the one.
[00:10:27.590 --> 00:10:32.730] We got the location, our tasks and what we're gonna do.
[00:10:33.770 --> 00:10:36.310] I'm like, okay, cool, let's do it.
[00:10:37.310 --> 00:10:39.590] And it's just been an amazing journey
[00:10:39.590 --> 00:10:42.910] just even promoting it and creating content
[00:10:42.910 --> 00:10:48.130] and seeing her create content and as her personality
[00:10:48.130 --> 00:10:52.630] and it's great for the world to see her personality more.
[00:10:52.710 --> 00:10:55.490] It's like, you so talented, do your thing,
[00:10:55.550 --> 00:10:56.630] do your thing.
[00:10:58.170 --> 00:11:03.330] So articulate and smart and crafty, beautiful.
[00:11:04.330 --> 00:11:06.010] Do your thing.
[00:11:07.010 --> 00:11:09.630] We want people to come to my first pod
[00:11:10.380 --> 00:11:12.370] and show them what we can do
[00:11:13.810 --> 00:11:17.370] and maybe become their producers long time.
[00:11:18.590 --> 00:11:19.390] Long term.
[00:11:20.350 --> 00:11:24.660] So yeah, if you wanna work with us,
[00:11:24.660 --> 00:11:27.020] even if you don't do my first pod,
[00:11:27.780 --> 00:11:30.040] definitely still contact us.
[00:11:30.520 --> 00:11:31.680] You know, send us a message,
[00:11:31.920 --> 00:11:34.060] even send us a message,
[00:11:36.560 --> 00:11:41.820] podcast to our DM on a creative frequency.
[00:11:43.400 --> 00:11:44.740] Hit us up on Instagram,
[00:11:45.380 --> 00:11:48.680] either pie for my first podcast application link
[00:11:48.680 --> 00:11:51.660] or podcast if you're interested
[00:11:52.540 --> 00:11:55.520] and maybe you already have a podcast
[00:11:55.520 --> 00:11:59.440] and you just need podcast producers or someone to film.
[00:12:02.240 --> 00:12:07.980] I'm not gonna say we edit other people's content,
[00:12:08.120 --> 00:12:11.020] but if we film it, we definitely edit it.
[00:12:11.800 --> 00:12:12.600] That's one thing.
[00:12:12.620 --> 00:12:16.620] It's just hard working with other people's footage
[00:12:16.620 --> 00:12:20.300] and people wanna hire you to edit their stuff.
[00:12:21.240 --> 00:12:24.280] But you never know still, we may do it
[00:12:24.280 --> 00:12:26.940] depending on what it is and the length and all that.
[00:12:28.160 --> 00:12:31.040] But that's just not something we focus on.
[00:12:31.360 --> 00:12:36.340] We love the whole process of setting up the scene
[00:12:36.340 --> 00:12:38.180] and getting the cameras right
[00:12:38.180 --> 00:12:41.000] and filming ourself and then editing it.
[00:12:41.340 --> 00:12:45.280] And it makes it much easier and a lot less stress.
[00:12:45.340 --> 00:12:46.060] Trust me.
[00:12:46.860 --> 00:12:50.340] All my filmmakers, producers, even photographers,
[00:12:50.560 --> 00:12:52.120] you know, I know you can relate.
[00:12:53.660 --> 00:12:57.420] It's hard to work with stuff that you didn't film
[00:12:57.420 --> 00:13:00.060] or if it wasn't on the same team,
[00:13:00.100 --> 00:13:01.360] because you know you have companies
[00:13:01.360 --> 00:13:02.980] where some people all they do is film
[00:13:02.980 --> 00:13:04.120] and they send it up to the editors.
[00:13:04.580 --> 00:13:06.380] So it just depends.
[00:13:06.820 --> 00:13:11.080] But like right now we're just a power couple.
[00:13:11.420 --> 00:13:13.060] We're power coupling this.
[00:13:13.540 --> 00:13:15.640] So it's just us two for the most part.
[00:13:16.460 --> 00:13:19.640] We're definitely actively looking for help
[00:13:20.100 --> 00:13:24.600] as far as interns and another editor
[00:13:25.260 --> 00:13:28.520] or at least a base editor to help us get started.
[00:13:31.220 --> 00:13:34.540] So yeah, just reach out to us, have a conversation.
[00:13:35.760 --> 00:13:37.440] You know, we're definitely good people,
[00:13:37.600 --> 00:13:41.340] especially when we talk about media or podcasts
[00:13:41.340 --> 00:13:43.160] and our business, like man,
[00:13:44.900 --> 00:13:46.720] you book us for a consultation.
[00:13:47.160 --> 00:13:48.400] It's $500.
[00:13:49.680 --> 00:13:51.780] We will get you right, trust me.
[00:13:52.040 --> 00:13:54.480] All right, spend a VIP day with us
[00:13:55.320 --> 00:13:57.040] and you know, ask about us.
[00:13:57.120 --> 00:14:00.260] You know, we'll give you eight to 10 hours
[00:14:00.260 --> 00:14:02.300] of our time during the day
[00:14:03.280 --> 00:14:05.320] and just pick our brain.
[00:14:05.760 --> 00:14:08.760] Let's help you get organized and strategized
[00:14:08.760 --> 00:14:14.040] and get a plan together and help you be actionable.
[00:14:15.660 --> 00:14:17.380] Like you could do it yourself
[00:14:18.440 --> 00:14:20.220] or we could do it for you.
[00:14:21.400 --> 00:14:25.820] But why not us just do it with you?
[00:14:26.520 --> 00:14:28.000] And that's like more of our motto,
[00:14:28.120 --> 00:14:32.500] just doing it with you versus, you know,
[00:14:32.600 --> 00:14:34.220] telling you what to do with you,
[00:14:34.420 --> 00:14:35.920] doing it on your own.
[00:14:36.300 --> 00:14:38.080] Cause that's probably something you're doing right now,
[00:14:38.080 --> 00:14:39.640] just doing it on your own,
[00:14:39.920 --> 00:14:41.940] researching, watching YouTube videos,
[00:14:42.040 --> 00:14:43.460] trying to figure it out.
[00:14:43.760 --> 00:14:45.120] Let us help you figure it out.
[00:14:45.620 --> 00:14:47.200] Let's walk through it together.
[00:14:47.200 --> 00:14:49.060] Let's go on this journey.
[00:14:49.480 --> 00:14:51.080] Go on a journey with creative frequency.
[00:14:51.780 --> 00:14:53.420] May 19th, my first pod.
[00:14:54.000 --> 00:14:54.720] Check us out.
[00:14:54.820 --> 00:14:57.580] DM is pod on Instagram.
[00:14:58.240 --> 00:15:02.760] Pod, P-O-D, pod to R-D-M
[00:15:02.760 --> 00:15:06.000] to get the link to register for my first pod.
[00:15:06.960 --> 00:15:08.060] Limited slots.
[00:15:08.960 --> 00:15:10.940] This is not an open networking event.
[00:15:12.360 --> 00:15:13.480] Must book slot.
[00:15:16.340 --> 00:15:19.140] All right, until next time y'all.
[00:15:19.140 --> 00:15:22.200] I appreciate y'all listening and considering my first pod.
[00:15:23.140 --> 00:15:26.220] May 19th, 2026, my first pod.
[00:15:26.820 --> 00:15:27.740] DMS pod.
[00:15:29.280 --> 00:15:30.120] On a creative frequency.
[00:15:31.140 --> 00:15:33.000] Cause we're always on the creative frequency.
[00:15:33.760 --> 00:15:35.320] Being creative, it's our frequency.
[00:15:36.960 --> 00:15:38.420] All right, y'all, it's photographer Jackson
[00:15:38.420 --> 00:15:40.140] with Alienize Photos Media,
[00:15:40.620 --> 00:15:43.280] bringing you Alienize Photos industry talk.
[00:15:43.440 --> 00:15:44.600] And I am out.
[00:15:45.340 --> 00:15:46.120] DMS pod.

========================================================================
36. Caught In A Hailstorm: Real-Life Lessons For Creative Entrepreneurs When Everything Hits At Once
Season 1 · Episode 35
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/caught-in-a-hailstorm-real-life-lessons-for-creative-entrepr
========================================================================

[00:00:01.170 --> 00:00:05.530] No way it is it is crazy. I
[00:00:05.530 --> 00:00:11.390] Didn't know where it started storming and hailing now the streets is flooded. I was
[00:00:12.290 --> 00:00:20.930] Underwater just got down picking up my daughter and I didn't know where it started storming and hailing
[00:00:21.390 --> 00:00:24.210] Like I'm talking about big rock
[00:00:24.210 --> 00:00:28.110] Pieces of ice and rocks it is crazy
[00:00:28.710 --> 00:00:36.370] My windshield is now cracked like it wasn't a sunny day
[00:00:37.670 --> 00:00:43.390] It wasn't necessarily raining either and then it started drizzling
[00:00:43.990 --> 00:00:46.950] Got out the umbrella and then out of nowhere
[00:00:47.450 --> 00:00:48.270] started
[00:00:48.910 --> 00:00:51.090] storming and hailing
[00:00:52.440 --> 00:00:55.260] big rock pieces of
[00:00:55.260 --> 00:00:55.840] ice
[00:00:55.840 --> 00:00:57.560] falling from the sky
[00:00:57.560 --> 00:00:59.460] Now people out here shovel
[00:01:00.900 --> 00:01:11.600] It's crazy. It is crazy and I know as an entrepreneur
[00:01:13.040 --> 00:01:16.400] It gets crazy it gets storming
[00:01:17.960 --> 00:01:29.050] Out of nowhere starts hailing got to do what you got to do. Let's get where you need to be
[00:01:33.080 --> 00:01:38.260] Got to do you got to do to get where you need to be
[00:01:39.000 --> 00:01:44.220] Like I'm currently driving in this is flooded. I'm sure you could hear the water
[00:01:45.580 --> 00:01:48.000] It was police sirens earlier
[00:01:48.660 --> 00:01:51.940] And I'm like I have to document
[00:01:52.880 --> 00:01:56.300] my journey my life my business
[00:01:57.120 --> 00:02:06.260] Now I have my daughter in the back seat and it's like the scariest day try to fire
[00:02:07.400 --> 00:02:08.600] shelter protection
[00:02:09.900 --> 00:02:14.060] and that's when it got worse and windshield crack, so
[00:02:15.460 --> 00:02:21.720] You know you could do all you need to do or feel like you're doing everything you need to do in your business
[00:02:23.000 --> 00:02:25.260] And it's still
[00:02:26.120 --> 00:02:28.420] Nothing happens
[00:02:29.480 --> 00:02:31.600] Or it feels like you're going backwards
[00:02:33.360 --> 00:02:38.240] Nothing's really changing and you're not growing it's actually getting worse
[00:02:42.110 --> 00:02:44.070] You're actually becoming a
[00:02:47.030 --> 00:02:47.910] bill pair
[00:02:47.910 --> 00:02:50.830] Just racking up
[00:02:50.830 --> 00:02:54.610] Expenses expenses up their expenses
[00:02:56.970 --> 00:02:58.110] Like I'm literally
[00:02:58.110 --> 00:03:00.210] driving in the flood
[00:03:03.890 --> 00:03:10.440] Like it's scary. I didn't want to be long-winded with all of this
[00:03:10.440 --> 00:03:18.320] But I definitely wanted to document of my journey and as I have a lot of work to speak a lot of work
[00:03:18.320 --> 00:03:24.580] I've been doing it this past couple days and the rest of the week have events weddings a lot of editing
[00:03:25.100 --> 00:03:31.430] We cast it is so much this week. I still got to get it done
[00:03:31.550 --> 00:03:35.310] I still had a call my insurance and take the car to the shop, but this
[00:03:36.330 --> 00:03:45.160] Work with safe light maybe to be my windshield replace with this spray. I don't know where
[00:03:47.060 --> 00:03:50.500] That's just like in business just like an entrepreneurship
[00:03:51.900 --> 00:04:00.210] Never know when a storm is don't come but you got to be ready. So I got to say
[00:04:00.750 --> 00:04:04.830] This is a lot more that I want to say but I want to be safe
[00:04:05.870 --> 00:04:07.910] So I'm gonna end this recording
[00:04:08.590 --> 00:04:14.570] This is photographer Jackson of alien eyes photos industry talk and alien eyes photos media
[00:04:15.390 --> 00:04:19.250] Be blessed they say are y'all peace

========================================================================
37. David Shands Comes Back To Cleveland With Donni Wiggins
Season 1 · Episode 34
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/david-shands-comes-back-to-cleveland-with-donni-wiggins
========================================================================

[00:00:02.290 --> 00:00:07.570] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:08.570 --> 00:00:16.250] And this episode is podcast summit, Cleveland edition.
[00:00:16.670 --> 00:00:18.670] Now, if you wasn't there last night,
[00:00:19.110 --> 00:00:24.910] April 9th, 2026 with David Shands, Donnie Wiggins,
[00:00:25.150 --> 00:00:28.670] plus Cleveland and all the Cleveland entrepreneurs,
[00:00:28.670 --> 00:00:32.870] creatives, podcasters, creative entrepreneurs,
[00:00:33.390 --> 00:00:37.070] photographers, videographers, creatives, business owners.
[00:00:37.610 --> 00:00:38.750] It was amazing.
[00:00:39.610 --> 00:00:42.610] Cleveland, you showed up and show out.
[00:00:43.010 --> 00:00:44.090] You did it.
[00:00:44.530 --> 00:00:48.630] There's some key takeaways from all the ambassadors
[00:00:49.230 --> 00:00:52.590] and Mr. Groupon, DeWayne Griffin,
[00:00:53.210 --> 00:00:55.230] and J.R. Fogel were local.
[00:00:56.730 --> 00:00:58.150] He'll bring it to life.
[00:00:58.670 --> 00:01:02.690] Well, David Shands and Donnie Wiggins to Cleveland.
[00:01:03.670 --> 00:01:06.290] David Shands again, Donnie Wiggins.
[00:01:06.490 --> 00:01:09.130] First time in the land with David.
[00:01:09.570 --> 00:01:11.850] Promoting the podcast summit,
[00:01:12.430 --> 00:01:16.250] and that's July 2nd and the 3rd.
[00:01:16.310 --> 00:01:17.950] Creative frequency will be in the building,
[00:01:18.210 --> 00:01:20.950] Alienize Photos, Overflow Studios.
[00:01:21.550 --> 00:01:23.270] We will be in the building.
[00:01:23.430 --> 00:01:28.650] Check out our booth at podcast summit 26.
[00:01:28.670 --> 00:01:34.330] And that's July 2nd and the 3rd, 2026.
[00:01:36.650 --> 00:01:37.810] Stay tuned.
[00:01:38.030 --> 00:01:39.810] We're gonna have a vendor booth.
[00:01:40.290 --> 00:01:42.150] Check us out, create some content.
[00:01:42.430 --> 00:01:44.350] Meet us, follow us.
[00:01:45.010 --> 00:01:46.470] Hey, it's gonna be lovely.
[00:01:48.350 --> 00:01:50.270] So my video to stop.
[00:01:51.490 --> 00:01:53.290] I'm gonna just run this in 1080.
[00:01:55.390 --> 00:01:57.050] I don't know why it stopped.
[00:01:57.570 --> 00:01:58.770] I'll just do it in 1080.
[00:02:04.550 --> 00:02:06.210] So I'm getting right into it.
[00:02:07.870 --> 00:02:10.130] I love Turdine DuBois.
[00:02:10.270 --> 00:02:11.430] Oh my goodness.
[00:02:12.390 --> 00:02:16.310] Amazing business strategist, AI consultant.
[00:02:17.070 --> 00:02:18.530] Just giving a game.
[00:02:19.650 --> 00:02:22.030] And I remember she was talking about
[00:02:22.030 --> 00:02:25.790] the difference between billionaires and millionaires
[00:02:25.790 --> 00:02:27.170] and like the gap.
[00:02:27.650 --> 00:02:33.290] And then also the time if she gave you a dollar a day,
[00:02:34.850 --> 00:02:37.630] one comparison without AI,
[00:02:38.910 --> 00:02:43.690] building about 60 businesses versus the speed
[00:02:43.690 --> 00:02:46.270] and the time it would take without AI.
[00:02:47.610 --> 00:02:52.740] So every business owner have to make that decision,
[00:02:52.940 --> 00:02:55.440] invest in tools, invest in marketing.
[00:02:55.800 --> 00:02:58.960] Just like podcast is marketing, it's time.
[00:03:00.120 --> 00:03:01.940] I'm even in front of the camera.
[00:03:02.120 --> 00:03:04.280] It's like, that's the type of work that I do
[00:03:04.280 --> 00:03:08.080] for other clients and I run an audio podcast
[00:03:08.080 --> 00:03:11.220] hence alienize photos, industry talk.
[00:03:11.780 --> 00:03:14.780] And it's amazing, it's amazing journey.
[00:03:17.390 --> 00:03:22.730] And she applied those same principles to podcasting.
[00:03:24.140 --> 00:03:29.560] And why it's important to pitch to your guests,
[00:03:31.140 --> 00:03:36.100] pitch to investors and also pitch to like sponsors.
[00:03:37.320 --> 00:03:40.540] It's all different and the importance of a brand kit.
[00:03:41.380 --> 00:03:43.760] And I know I'm briefly summarizing this,
[00:03:44.320 --> 00:03:52.120] but it was so much content, so much information,
[00:03:52.380 --> 00:03:55.780] so much insight, gain, wisdom in a room
[00:03:58.170 --> 00:03:59.350] like from everybody.
[00:04:00.230 --> 00:04:03.810] Even the handshakes to the person that's next to you.
[00:04:04.350 --> 00:04:07.210] And I wanna give it up for Miss Brianna Casanova
[00:04:07.210 --> 00:04:11.250] at Overflow Studio, my partner in creative frequency.
[00:04:12.290 --> 00:04:14.750] And we hope that you be accountable
[00:04:15.680 --> 00:04:20.070] with your creative endeavors, your business endeavors.
[00:04:21.010 --> 00:04:24.150] Make sure you have that sanity
[00:04:24.980 --> 00:04:26.710] and doing what you need to do.
[00:04:29.750 --> 00:04:31.950] So accomplish what you need to accomplish.
[00:04:36.110 --> 00:04:38.330] You have to accomplish what you need to accomplish.
[00:04:42.610 --> 00:04:47.740] And one thing, you know, sometimes it's frightening
[00:04:47.740 --> 00:04:53.520] being in a room of a hundred plus people,
[00:04:54.740 --> 00:04:56.840] not knowing who is who sometimes.
[00:04:56.980 --> 00:04:59.700] Luckily, I do know a lot of people.
[00:04:59.880 --> 00:05:01.000] I have a large network.
[00:05:01.040 --> 00:05:04.420] So when I go out, I'll meet at least a couple people,
[00:05:04.860 --> 00:05:07.860] one person maybe, and that's good.
[00:05:07.900 --> 00:05:10.860] But sometimes it's like 20, 30,
[00:05:11.000 --> 00:05:12.720] and it's like, okay, I feel comfortable.
[00:05:13.200 --> 00:05:15.320] We are homeless, this is family.
[00:05:15.320 --> 00:05:19.920] So it helps with, you know, meeting strangers.
[00:05:19.920 --> 00:05:22.500] It's like, okay, my people's here gave me that confidence
[00:05:22.500 --> 00:05:25.660] that I had that prep talk already talked.
[00:05:26.340 --> 00:05:28.520] And you know, getting my wheels running already talked.
[00:05:30.400 --> 00:05:32.240] So it's real good.
[00:05:33.460 --> 00:05:35.180] See my camera keep stopping.
[00:05:35.220 --> 00:05:37.140] And this is why I don't do video.
[00:05:38.060 --> 00:05:41.600] You know, that kind of gives to the hiccups.
[00:05:41.600 --> 00:05:45.320] And I'm looking at my monitor real time
[00:05:45.320 --> 00:05:46.480] and it's starting and stopping.
[00:05:46.700 --> 00:05:49.480] I had to start the camera four times now.
[00:05:50.140 --> 00:05:52.860] So this is why I don't do video.
[00:05:53.340 --> 00:05:54.720] And people ask me why,
[00:05:54.720 --> 00:05:56.780] oh, why don't you just do video?
[00:05:57.800 --> 00:06:01.160] Or I could hire somebody and invest in myself.
[00:06:01.300 --> 00:06:05.700] But right now, when the podcast is not making money,
[00:06:05.740 --> 00:06:07.560] it's hard to do that.
[00:06:07.880 --> 00:06:10.820] So I know every once in a while I prop up a camera,
[00:06:10.820 --> 00:06:11.760] I prop up my phone.
[00:06:11.900 --> 00:06:13.000] I should just have done my phone
[00:06:13.000 --> 00:06:14.760] already been a lot easier and smoother,
[00:06:15.300 --> 00:06:17.440] but I use it for my audio.
[00:06:18.000 --> 00:06:22.380] So yeah, I do have my background camera,
[00:06:24.720 --> 00:06:27.000] my icon in the back.
[00:06:28.540 --> 00:06:30.720] So it is getting something,
[00:06:31.200 --> 00:06:35.120] but that's the thing when you're started off a podcast
[00:06:35.120 --> 00:06:39.300] and whether you should choose video or audio
[00:06:39.300 --> 00:06:42.060] and if you catch me a podcast,
[00:06:42.120 --> 00:06:43.700] I'm in whatever booth,
[00:06:44.400 --> 00:06:48.200] vendor booth I will be at or location in the vendor area.
[00:06:48.720 --> 00:06:50.880] I will be at, definitely ask me.
[00:06:51.020 --> 00:06:52.680] You know, if you listen to this, ask me.
[00:06:52.980 --> 00:06:55.560] And we can kind of talk that out, work it out,
[00:06:55.860 --> 00:06:58.000] see what's best for you if you're just starting off.
[00:06:58.580 --> 00:07:00.840] And also my first pod,
[00:07:01.480 --> 00:07:05.820] my first pod coming May 19th,
[00:07:05.820 --> 00:07:11.600] that's gonna be an all day thing from 12 to 10.
[00:07:12.080 --> 00:07:14.240] I think we're capping it at 10, maybe eight,
[00:07:14.960 --> 00:07:18.620] but we'll see how many people pre-register and sign up.
[00:07:19.160 --> 00:07:24.180] But again, my first pod May 19th, 2026.
[00:07:26.060 --> 00:07:27.240] Yes, it's going down.
[00:07:27.400 --> 00:07:29.700] If you're struggling to get your podcast
[00:07:29.700 --> 00:07:31.800] off the ground, you need that production.
[00:07:32.240 --> 00:07:33.440] You need that guidance.
[00:07:33.640 --> 00:07:35.100] You want behind the scenes.
[00:07:35.100 --> 00:07:36.840] You want a professional reel cover.
[00:07:37.320 --> 00:07:39.100] You get in this big package.
[00:07:39.940 --> 00:07:41.720] It's one day only.
[00:07:41.780 --> 00:07:43.460] We may do it later in the year,
[00:07:43.900 --> 00:07:47.220] but right now, one day only May 19th,
[00:07:47.220 --> 00:07:48.880] Creator Frequency is hosting
[00:07:48.880 --> 00:07:52.400] their first My First Pie event.
[00:07:53.460 --> 00:07:54.960] If you need help with your podcast
[00:07:54.960 --> 00:07:56.100] and just getting started,
[00:07:56.100 --> 00:07:58.380] you just need that one episode to give you that confidence
[00:07:58.380 --> 00:08:00.480] like, oh, I did it.
[00:08:00.480 --> 00:08:01.380] I could do it.
[00:08:01.460 --> 00:08:02.640] Yes, let's keep going.
[00:08:03.400 --> 00:08:06.640] My First Pie is what you need to get into.
[00:08:07.200 --> 00:08:08.920] Follow at Creator Frequency,
[00:08:09.520 --> 00:08:12.340] and you will see more posts and engagement
[00:08:12.340 --> 00:08:14.040] and get your tickets.
[00:08:14.880 --> 00:08:16.100] And DM Creator Frequency,
[00:08:16.140 --> 00:08:18.780] if you want to get your tickets to reserve your slot,
[00:08:19.300 --> 00:08:22.960] because we only have five slots, so get yours.
[00:08:23.340 --> 00:08:25.400] Somebody said they want to have double slots,
[00:08:26.380 --> 00:08:27.360] so stay tuned.
[00:08:28.200 --> 00:08:29.280] All right.
[00:08:29.960 --> 00:08:34.390] And going back to the podcast on the Cleveland.
[00:08:36.380 --> 00:08:38.799] Donnie and Dave, man, like, man,
[00:08:38.940 --> 00:08:44.320] once I really get more structured
[00:08:45.120 --> 00:08:47.260] and where I want to be,
[00:08:48.340 --> 00:08:50.640] I definitely want to hire both of them
[00:08:50.640 --> 00:08:53.000] as one-on-one business coaches,
[00:08:53.740 --> 00:08:58.160] just for some other things besides media and podcasts.
[00:08:58.160 --> 00:08:59.200] And because,
[00:09:01.760 --> 00:09:03.060] and just watching them for years
[00:09:03.060 --> 00:09:05.000] and watching them just execute.
[00:09:05.620 --> 00:09:07.560] I mean, shout out to whole Atlanta, L.A.
[00:09:08.400 --> 00:09:11.080] There's a lot of great talent,
[00:09:11.160 --> 00:09:13.160] executors, business owners,
[00:09:14.280 --> 00:09:17.200] just the wealth and the insight and the wisdom
[00:09:17.740 --> 00:09:18.600] and the hustle.
[00:09:19.560 --> 00:09:23.040] And you have to be around like-minded people
[00:09:23.480 --> 00:09:24.720] in your community.
[00:09:26.080 --> 00:09:30.280] Just build that family, that ecosystem, business partners,
[00:09:31.300 --> 00:09:33.820] people that support you, people you support.
[00:09:35.740 --> 00:09:36.980] It's one big circle.
[00:09:38.060 --> 00:09:39.500] And that's one thing I learned,
[00:09:39.540 --> 00:09:41.640] just being in these different circles
[00:09:41.640 --> 00:09:43.520] and being in Cleveland,
[00:09:43.640 --> 00:09:47.220] like you have to be in the right community,
[00:09:47.360 --> 00:09:48.760] be in the right spaces.
[00:09:49.860 --> 00:09:52.240] And that's the thing, you have to be in that space.
[00:09:53.300 --> 00:09:56.660] So, there's some things to think about.
[00:09:58.500 --> 00:10:01.480] Let me see if I can check out my notes real quick,
[00:10:01.860 --> 00:10:05.260] because I know I had a wealth of notes,
[00:10:05.960 --> 00:10:09.160] like, man, I want to take a read through them all,
[00:10:10.100 --> 00:10:13.840] but, you know, David and Donnie together,
[00:10:16.240 --> 00:10:21.900] just powerful, entertaining and insightful.
[00:10:22.740 --> 00:10:25.640] They don't hold nothing back, and they're very authentic.
[00:10:27.380 --> 00:10:31.300] You know, your podcast is not just content,
[00:10:31.660 --> 00:10:34.060] it is your reputation at scale.
[00:10:34.880 --> 00:10:37.140] Your podcast is not just content,
[00:10:37.540 --> 00:10:40.720] it is your reputation at scale.
[00:10:41.260 --> 00:10:42.780] When Donnie Wiggins said that,
[00:10:44.420 --> 00:10:47.880] it reminded me why I got into the podcast,
[00:10:48.280 --> 00:10:49.740] and like started my own show,
[00:10:49.740 --> 00:10:52.800] because you know, I produce and film, direct,
[00:10:52.960 --> 00:10:55.700] and get show notes for other podcasts
[00:10:55.700 --> 00:10:58.400] and business owners that have a podcast.
[00:10:59.000 --> 00:11:01.980] And that's the thing, if you haven't checked out,
[00:11:02.820 --> 00:11:05.380] every business should have a podcast.
[00:11:06.420 --> 00:11:08.660] And shout out to the whole Pull Up Experience,
[00:11:09.060 --> 00:11:12.380] as we presented that at Future Land,
[00:11:12.880 --> 00:11:16.680] it was 2025, 2024, 2025,
[00:11:17.420 --> 00:11:20.860] we presented why every business should have a podcast
[00:11:21.680 --> 00:11:24.260] way ahead of our time, I think that was two years ago,
[00:11:24.480 --> 00:11:29.770] so 2024, every business should have a podcast.
[00:11:32.590 --> 00:11:35.610] And don't just have a podcast
[00:11:36.510 --> 00:11:39.330] if you don't have a business or anything to sell
[00:11:39.330 --> 00:11:41.490] or product or service.
[00:11:42.130 --> 00:11:47.410] And that's one thing Donnie Wiggins honed in on.
[00:11:47.410 --> 00:11:50.010] Stuff we've been talking about,
[00:11:50.430 --> 00:11:53.630] and they just put the icing on the cake and dance on,
[00:11:53.630 --> 00:11:54.970] they built a whole nother cake.
[00:11:55.470 --> 00:11:57.570] Of course, bigger than ours,
[00:11:58.050 --> 00:12:00.570] but those are mentors and our coaches,
[00:12:01.330 --> 00:12:02.410] people we look up to.
[00:12:02.910 --> 00:12:05.170] So if they're preaching the same things
[00:12:05.770 --> 00:12:08.090] that we've been preaching for years,
[00:12:08.470 --> 00:12:11.570] and I've been telling people personally for years,
[00:12:13.430 --> 00:12:15.990] then yeah, there's something to think about.
[00:12:16.510 --> 00:12:20.330] And just being in a room of my fellow creators,
[00:12:21.110 --> 00:12:27.450] business owners, entrepreneurs, podcasters, it's amazing.
[00:12:28.370 --> 00:12:31.250] I'm glad that taking it in and absorbing it
[00:12:31.250 --> 00:12:32.590] and asking the questions
[00:12:32.590 --> 00:12:35.650] and not being afraid to take that leap.
[00:12:37.150 --> 00:12:40.630] So much talent in Cleveland, so much talent in Cleveland,
[00:12:41.030 --> 00:12:44.690] so much wealth, so much gems and resources,
[00:12:44.690 --> 00:12:46.390] there's so much in Cleveland.
[00:12:47.450 --> 00:12:51.790] We have to recognize that, we really do.
[00:12:53.890 --> 00:12:56.690] And going back to David,
[00:12:57.510 --> 00:13:02.990] I love how he breaks that selling framework down that
[00:13:03.810 --> 00:13:08.650] I help X do Y by Z.
[00:13:08.750 --> 00:13:11.130] I help X do Y by Z.
[00:13:13.150 --> 00:13:18.290] And if you are new to business or new to podcasting,
[00:13:18.890 --> 00:13:20.850] that's what your podcasting is solved,
[00:13:20.870 --> 00:13:23.270] that's what your business should solve.
[00:13:23.830 --> 00:13:25.930] And they should be intertwined.
[00:13:25.990 --> 00:13:27.950] And that's another thing he talked about.
[00:13:28.370 --> 00:13:29.750] It should be one,
[00:13:29.910 --> 00:13:34.990] just like I use Alienize Photos industry talk
[00:13:34.990 --> 00:13:38.070] to help Alienize Photos media,
[00:13:38.730 --> 00:13:41.290] the media company, the photography brand.
[00:13:43.050 --> 00:13:45.530] Yes, it all ties together.
[00:13:45.910 --> 00:13:48.090] That was the biggest reason,
[00:13:48.290 --> 00:13:50.830] one of the biggest reasons why I started the podcast
[00:13:50.830 --> 00:13:53.090] because this is my biggest market in honor.
[00:13:53.170 --> 00:13:55.610] I'm not a extrovert.
[00:13:56.850 --> 00:13:59.370] I'm an introvert, I'm to myself.
[00:14:00.150 --> 00:14:04.210] And I could talk to a lens, I could be on audio,
[00:14:04.590 --> 00:14:07.550] I can write, I write so much.
[00:14:09.270 --> 00:14:18.110] I write so, so much, so much I write, so much.
[00:14:19.650 --> 00:14:25.510] From music, songs, blogs, website content,
[00:14:26.490 --> 00:14:32.450] copywriting, books, poetry, jingles,
[00:14:33.330 --> 00:14:35.570] so much, just a natural writer.
[00:14:37.850 --> 00:14:40.810] And one reason I became a photographer
[00:14:41.790 --> 00:14:47.250] is because if I'm writing these books,
[00:14:47.630 --> 00:14:49.610] writing these poems, the songs, the blog,
[00:14:49.870 --> 00:14:51.270] all this content,
[00:14:52.810 --> 00:14:56.110] and they say a picture is worth a thousand words.
[00:14:56.770 --> 00:15:00.250] And if I could take a picture and write a thousand words,
[00:15:00.930 --> 00:15:04.210] I could accelerate my growth.
[00:15:05.590 --> 00:15:07.050] And that's the power of pictures.
[00:15:07.050 --> 00:15:08.670] And then think about video,
[00:15:09.110 --> 00:15:10.890] and it's usually 24 frames per second.
[00:15:10.930 --> 00:15:14.970] So it was like 24 pictures in a second.
[00:15:16.090 --> 00:15:17.430] You see how I was compounding,
[00:15:17.430 --> 00:15:19.670] and that's the importance of video.
[00:15:21.880 --> 00:15:23.980] You need video for your business,
[00:15:25.800 --> 00:15:27.160] podcast for your business.
[00:15:28.100 --> 00:15:30.020] Well, I don't say you don't need,
[00:15:31.220 --> 00:15:32.440] but you should.
[00:15:32.980 --> 00:15:35.380] It should be something you could consider.
[00:15:36.220 --> 00:15:38.320] And everybody has their line,
[00:15:39.700 --> 00:15:43.120] but I highly suggest video,
[00:15:44.380 --> 00:15:47.860] having a podcast, a combination of both,
[00:15:49.420 --> 00:15:49.920] and AI.
[00:15:51.120 --> 00:15:54.120] I was like my top three that I preached,
[00:15:54.200 --> 00:15:55.340] that I vouched for,
[00:15:55.480 --> 00:15:57.740] stuff that I'm incorporating,
[00:15:57.920 --> 00:16:00.640] and me stepping in front of the camera even more.
[00:16:02.560 --> 00:16:04.440] And not just about my podcast,
[00:16:04.440 --> 00:16:05.760] and podcast content,
[00:16:05.940 --> 00:16:08.040] but more short form.
[00:16:08.120 --> 00:16:10.480] May do some long form on camera,
[00:16:10.840 --> 00:16:13.080] but I save it for the audio experience
[00:16:13.080 --> 00:16:15.500] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:16:16.480 --> 00:16:19.600] So stay tuned to everything I have.
[00:16:20.360 --> 00:16:22.380] And if you won't,
[00:16:23.880 --> 00:16:29.270] if you're not gonna be in Atlanta this year,
[00:16:29.510 --> 00:16:30.590] podcast summit,
[00:16:31.190 --> 00:16:34.330] July 2nd and the 3rd,
[00:16:35.430 --> 00:16:38.750] in ATL, Georgia, Atlanta, Georgia,
[00:16:40.190 --> 00:16:43.890] I think you should reconsider and get your ticket.
[00:16:44.710 --> 00:16:46.770] That's just my personal testimony,
[00:16:47.050 --> 00:16:48.130] like I say a lot.
[00:16:49.110 --> 00:16:52.650] I even have recaps of last year's podcast summit,
[00:16:52.830 --> 00:16:56.990] 2025, the two days of podcast summit day one,
[00:16:57.410 --> 00:16:58.530] podcast summit day two.
[00:16:58.890 --> 00:16:59.990] Check those out.
[00:17:00.070 --> 00:17:04.170] I also have an episode recapping my experience
[00:17:04.170 --> 00:17:07.849] when David Shands came to Cleveland the first time,
[00:17:07.849 --> 00:17:08.910] two years ago,
[00:17:08.970 --> 00:17:11.430] and being on the Pull Up Experience podcast,
[00:17:11.670 --> 00:17:13.150] episode 300.
[00:17:14.510 --> 00:17:16.650] Episode 300, we woo!
[00:17:17.770 --> 00:17:18.990] No, 200, I'm sorry.
[00:17:19.030 --> 00:17:21.089] But we're on episode,
[00:17:21.650 --> 00:17:22.970] I think 311,
[00:17:23.030 --> 00:17:26.450] so we are moving rapid and armed
[00:17:26.450 --> 00:17:29.630] on episode, what is it, 60 altogether?
[00:17:30.350 --> 00:17:31.950] I have some that I haven't released,
[00:17:31.990 --> 00:17:32.990] so I was like, man, what now?
[00:17:32.990 --> 00:17:34.570] I recorded all of these,
[00:17:35.590 --> 00:17:37.130] but what is in the public right now?
[00:17:37.150 --> 00:17:42.210] So it's hard kind of differentiating those statistics,
[00:17:43.190 --> 00:17:45.330] like what's recorded and what's published
[00:17:45.330 --> 00:17:49.430] and out on the internet and ethers and audio platforms.
[00:17:52.770 --> 00:17:54.050] Anything else?
[00:17:54.490 --> 00:18:03.340] Like, man, I might have to do another episode
[00:18:03.340 --> 00:18:07.260] giving like more of the goody insights,
[00:18:07.480 --> 00:18:12.040] like more of my takeaways from Dave and Donnie
[00:18:12.040 --> 00:18:13.880] and all the entrepreneurs in Cleveland,
[00:18:14.220 --> 00:18:17.560] the ambassador of podcast summit Cleveland edition.
[00:18:19.540 --> 00:18:22.380] Yeah, I think I may do a takeaway episode,
[00:18:22.440 --> 00:18:23.880] so stay tuned for that.
[00:18:25.660 --> 00:18:30.500] But again, be sure to check out my first pod
[00:18:31.260 --> 00:18:33.080] with creator Frequency,
[00:18:33.500 --> 00:18:35.220] partnering with Ruthie's List
[00:18:35.220 --> 00:18:38.100] and you have not been to Ruthie's List
[00:18:38.100 --> 00:18:43.600] out in Wycliffe, the great co-working space.
[00:18:46.120 --> 00:18:50.760] Wycliffe, Ohio, you have to check it out.
[00:18:50.920 --> 00:18:52.840] It's nice and versatile,
[00:18:54.320 --> 00:18:57.920] kind of talking with her to bring more podcast
[00:18:57.920 --> 00:19:00.420] experiences to her space,
[00:19:01.280 --> 00:19:03.980] bring more business owners and entrepreneurs,
[00:19:04.260 --> 00:19:05.860] mainly like solo entrepreneurs
[00:19:06.280 --> 00:19:07.920] where they could just hang out
[00:19:07.920 --> 00:19:10.820] or just get away and have meetings,
[00:19:11.780 --> 00:19:14.440] have small gathering and events as well.
[00:19:15.580 --> 00:19:18.320] So we're partnering with Ruthie's List
[00:19:18.320 --> 00:19:22.180] to help showcase and showcase her spot
[00:19:22.180 --> 00:19:24.660] and the uniqueness and versatility.
[00:19:25.380 --> 00:19:28.560] If you are interested in podcasting,
[00:19:28.600 --> 00:19:31.800] definitely check us out at my first pod.
[00:19:31.820 --> 00:19:33.440] We have five slots.
[00:19:35.000 --> 00:19:38.420] One is taken, but they're thinking about taking two.
[00:19:39.360 --> 00:19:42.580] We did an invite only with three people.
[00:19:43.220 --> 00:19:45.020] One person already booked,
[00:19:45.600 --> 00:19:48.360] so that's four, but she takes both.
[00:19:50.340 --> 00:19:51.700] Then there's only three slots left.
[00:19:52.160 --> 00:19:55.100] We may do six, like if we get a,
[00:19:55.100 --> 00:19:57.760] you know, a little feedback and they really want us,
[00:19:58.420 --> 00:20:02.420] we may do six slots, but right now five
[00:20:03.420 --> 00:20:05.580] and two may be already taken.
[00:20:06.220 --> 00:20:10.680] So if you get the invitation or if you listen to this,
[00:20:11.640 --> 00:20:13.460] message creator frequency
[00:20:13.460 --> 00:20:17.540] and we will send you the booking link to my first pod
[00:20:17.540 --> 00:20:21.740] to get your first podcast episode published
[00:20:21.740 --> 00:20:24.160] with the show notes, the cover art,
[00:20:24.160 --> 00:20:26.180] distributed on all platforms.
[00:20:26.580 --> 00:20:28.460] You're getting that premium reel
[00:20:29.520 --> 00:20:32.880] from Miss Real Deal herself,
[00:20:33.620 --> 00:20:37.740] Brianna Casanova with Overflow Studios.
[00:20:38.540 --> 00:20:41.700] And if you haven't checked out Beauty Toe,
[00:20:41.960 --> 00:20:45.340] who she is the director and film chopper,
[00:20:45.460 --> 00:20:47.100] all of that, beautiness.
[00:20:48.260 --> 00:20:52.240] Check out Beauty Toe on all platforms.
[00:20:52.240 --> 00:20:56.340] It was blown up on YouTube with Miss Brittany Knight,
[00:20:56.540 --> 00:20:58.460] who's also a member of the Pull Up Experience.
[00:20:58.600 --> 00:21:01.160] And if you have not checked out the Pull Up Experience,
[00:21:02.100 --> 00:21:05.970] whew, start there.
[00:21:07.750 --> 00:21:10.330] Episode one, The Cringes,
[00:21:10.750 --> 00:21:16.590] all the way to episode 311 to see the growth,
[00:21:17.410 --> 00:21:20.190] to see the journey of entrepreneurs
[00:21:20.190 --> 00:21:24.450] and our building of interviewing
[00:21:24.450 --> 00:21:30.820] and documenting great stories here in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:21:31.860 --> 00:21:35.960] We have some out of town interviews and out of towners,
[00:21:37.100 --> 00:21:38.410] but for the most part,
[00:21:40.100 --> 00:21:42.900] Cleveland, Ohio business owners,
[00:21:44.100 --> 00:21:47.220] Cleveland, Ohio entrepreneurs,
[00:21:48.010 --> 00:21:52.060] Cleveland, Ohio creatives, artists,
[00:21:53.780 --> 00:21:55.820] sometimes everyday people,
[00:21:56.660 --> 00:21:58.200] financial gurus, politics.
[00:22:01.030 --> 00:22:01.870] It's amazing.
[00:22:03.430 --> 00:22:06.890] And shout out to our biggest partner,
[00:22:07.590 --> 00:22:10.190] Miss Nakia Hudson with 2U Wines
[00:22:10.190 --> 00:22:12.430] over in South Uquid, Ohio.
[00:22:12.730 --> 00:22:14.810] If you have not been to 2U Wines,
[00:22:15.410 --> 00:22:18.490] it's the only line I recommend.
[00:22:19.170 --> 00:22:23.510] If you do, you make wines for others.
[00:22:26.270 --> 00:22:30.800] So I know, but at the end of the day,
[00:22:30.940 --> 00:22:33.960] it's still 2U Wines in my head and my eyes.
[00:22:35.320 --> 00:22:37.760] So if you're not drinking 2U Wines,
[00:22:38.320 --> 00:22:40.900] I don't know where other wines you should be drinking.
[00:22:41.940 --> 00:22:42.980] Like seriously, I mean,
[00:22:42.980 --> 00:22:46.140] I may drink other wines from time to time,
[00:22:46.160 --> 00:22:48.920] but if I'm buying a wine and wanna have a good time,
[00:22:48.920 --> 00:22:53.080] I'm buying 2U Wines every single time.
[00:22:55.060 --> 00:22:59.620] And be sure to follow me, Mr. Photographer Jackson
[00:23:00.040 --> 00:23:02.980] of Alienize Photos Media,
[00:23:03.700 --> 00:23:04.900] bringing you another episode
[00:23:04.900 --> 00:23:07.280] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:23:08.800 --> 00:23:09.960] This has been a blessing.
[00:23:10.480 --> 00:23:11.940] This has been a great one.
[00:23:13.780 --> 00:23:16.440] Like I said, I'm gonna do another episode of Takeaways,
[00:23:16.480 --> 00:23:18.100] but I just wanted to hop on here
[00:23:18.100 --> 00:23:21.800] and also try a quick video setup
[00:23:21.800 --> 00:23:25.660] with a two little panel light setup.
[00:23:25.800 --> 00:23:28.160] I got one in the front of me,
[00:23:28.160 --> 00:23:31.000] one directly to the side of me,
[00:23:31.160 --> 00:23:32.400] and one towards the back.
[00:23:33.620 --> 00:23:35.160] I got my audio running.
[00:23:35.840 --> 00:23:37.420] Got two cameras.
[00:23:37.520 --> 00:23:38.640] One keeps stopping.
[00:23:38.900 --> 00:23:40.740] I don't even know what the other one's doing,
[00:23:41.660 --> 00:23:42.900] even if it's picking up this.
[00:23:44.000 --> 00:23:45.180] I'm just creating.
[00:23:45.300 --> 00:23:46.020] I'm just doing.
[00:23:46.040 --> 00:23:46.960] I'm doing the work.
[00:23:46.960 --> 00:23:48.820] If not, it's another repetition.
[00:23:49.060 --> 00:23:50.260] If you know creative frequency,
[00:23:50.280 --> 00:23:51.980] you know we're about getting our reps.
[00:23:52.480 --> 00:23:54.060] Doing the work, just doing the work,
[00:23:54.080 --> 00:23:57.520] whether it's beautiful, ugly, or something in between,
[00:23:57.620 --> 00:24:01.720] or something amazing, immaculate, profound.
[00:24:03.520 --> 00:24:04.480] We're still gonna do it.
[00:24:04.520 --> 00:24:05.540] We're still gonna do the work.
[00:24:05.580 --> 00:24:06.440] Put in the effort.
[00:24:06.720 --> 00:24:07.860] Put in another rep.
[00:24:09.040 --> 00:24:10.280] Just do it.
[00:24:10.680 --> 00:24:12.320] It's like Nike say, just do it.
[00:24:12.460 --> 00:24:13.560] But we're getting our reps.
[00:24:13.660 --> 00:24:14.860] Doing it again and again and again.
[00:24:15.080 --> 00:24:16.480] Repetition replace doubts.
[00:24:16.480 --> 00:24:19.300] If you know creative frequency, you know that slogan.
[00:24:19.940 --> 00:24:22.420] Me and Brianna Casanova with Creative Frequency,
[00:24:22.920 --> 00:24:27.220] and follow us on all social media on ACreativeFrequency.
[00:24:27.860 --> 00:24:32.680] That's on ACreativeFrequency on all media.
[00:24:32.740 --> 00:24:35.160] And book us for my first pod.
[00:24:35.960 --> 00:24:37.800] All right, just egg and ice photos,
[00:24:37.940 --> 00:24:39.420] and I am out.
[00:24:40.260 --> 00:24:40.940] Peace.

========================================================================
38. 33 Minutes of Sleep Building While Tired
Season 1 · Episode 33
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/33-minutes-of-sleep
========================================================================

[00:00:00.940 --> 00:00:07.620] This is what 33 minutes of sleep look like.
[00:00:09.450 --> 00:00:11.790] 33 minutes of rest.
[00:00:13.090 --> 00:00:20.790] I'm talking about past nine a.m. still up filming,
[00:00:22.370 --> 00:00:26.900] photographing an event, come home,
[00:00:28.880 --> 00:00:32.420] made lunch, recording this podcast.
[00:00:34.580 --> 00:00:39.080] Cause I set alarms and I was supposed to take
[00:00:39.080 --> 00:00:43.320] a two hour, two hour sleep session, two hour nap.
[00:00:43.440 --> 00:00:47.140] I know it doesn't always, you know,
[00:00:47.280 --> 00:00:49.180] work out when you lay in the bed,
[00:00:49.220 --> 00:00:52.480] especially when you got a lot of things to do,
[00:00:52.520 --> 00:00:53.420] a lot on your mind.
[00:00:53.440 --> 00:00:58.040] Like I had an event that I'm very tired to
[00:00:58.040 --> 00:00:59.800] because of the work they do.
[00:01:03.340 --> 00:01:05.960] I see the passion, I see the dedication.
[00:01:06.580 --> 00:01:08.300] I genuinely want to help.
[00:01:12.890 --> 00:01:17.140] So just laying there, just thinking about it
[00:01:17.140 --> 00:01:19.640] and just thinking about my day, thinking about my week.
[00:01:20.060 --> 00:01:22.580] I'm like, I know I got to get this sleep,
[00:01:24.020 --> 00:01:25.080] but I just couldn't.
[00:01:26.340 --> 00:01:29.480] So by the time I tie myself,
[00:01:30.580 --> 00:01:33.180] it was like 34 minutes left.
[00:01:34.260 --> 00:01:37.680] So I take away that minute that I had to, you know,
[00:01:38.480 --> 00:01:42.420] really close my eyes tight and fall asleep.
[00:01:42.440 --> 00:01:43.940] I'll just say 33 minutes.
[00:01:44.300 --> 00:01:46.080] So there's maybe less than that, honestly.
[00:01:47.200 --> 00:01:51.740] You know, let's just say 33 minutes of rest or less
[00:01:52.660 --> 00:01:55.600] and still perform it at a high level.
[00:01:56.160 --> 00:01:57.400] And I'm gonna show you the picture
[00:01:57.400 --> 00:02:02.640] or if you look up alienized photos on all media,
[00:02:02.640 --> 00:02:07.140] mainly Instagram, alien eyes with a Z,
[00:02:07.260 --> 00:02:09.699] photos with a S, alienized photos.
[00:02:12.190 --> 00:02:13.170] I'ma post it.
[00:02:13.290 --> 00:02:15.770] Look out for the one that says Iris series.
[00:02:15.810 --> 00:02:19.230] Like if you see all the posts, Iris,
[00:02:21.450 --> 00:02:22.910] it's that next post.
[00:02:22.990 --> 00:02:24.770] The next post is gonna be that picture.
[00:02:26.770 --> 00:02:30.430] 33 minutes of rest or less,
[00:02:32.290 --> 00:02:35.030] but this is not a one-time thing.
[00:02:35.030 --> 00:02:39.290] Like there's many times, many days I've done this.
[00:02:39.550 --> 00:02:42.870] Like people wouldn't know I did a whole 12-hour wedding
[00:02:43.510 --> 00:02:48.570] of one or two hours of sleep, like 90 minutes.
[00:02:51.850 --> 00:02:58.320] And this season, I guess, of my life,
[00:02:59.340 --> 00:03:01.480] which has been going on for a while,
[00:03:02.340 --> 00:03:05.480] this period in my life,
[00:03:07.090 --> 00:03:10.230] someone was like, just go hard, do it.
[00:03:11.580 --> 00:03:13.620] And I'm surprised at myself
[00:03:13.620 --> 00:03:19.440] that I show up and perform the way that I do.
[00:03:21.750 --> 00:03:26.090] But it just goes back to the passion and hard work
[00:03:27.290 --> 00:03:29.410] that the people that I work with
[00:03:29.410 --> 00:03:30.990] and the people that I'm helping
[00:03:31.750 --> 00:03:37.630] documenting their work, their journey is powerful.
[00:03:40.760 --> 00:03:45.240] So what keeps me up is the hard work
[00:03:45.240 --> 00:03:46.920] that everyone else does.
[00:03:48.340 --> 00:03:51.000] And it's like, man, I have to go harder.
[00:03:51.760 --> 00:03:58.520] Even if that costs me sleep, I do a lot, you know,
[00:04:01.030 --> 00:04:09.620] having children, having one or two businesses managing
[00:04:11.770 --> 00:04:16.120] and co-managing different businesses,
[00:04:16.120 --> 00:04:19.519] whether if you're fully in or not.
[00:04:21.000 --> 00:04:22.840] Being a part of different brands,
[00:04:24.300 --> 00:04:29.340] just having that personal time, being in a relationship.
[00:04:30.940 --> 00:04:32.600] You know, I always say I'm writing a book.
[00:04:32.680 --> 00:04:33.980] I'm always writing a book.
[00:04:34.020 --> 00:04:37.320] I'm writing multiple books at the same time.
[00:04:37.840 --> 00:04:39.440] That's just how my brain operates.
[00:04:39.580 --> 00:04:42.500] Like, oh, this thought should go in this book
[00:04:42.500 --> 00:04:43.800] or this thing, this, this.
[00:04:44.000 --> 00:04:45.600] That's why I started this podcast.
[00:04:45.600 --> 00:04:48.200] Just so, or one of the reasons,
[00:04:49.220 --> 00:04:52.880] just so I could have a lot of these thoughts documented
[00:04:54.880 --> 00:04:59.140] and, you know, I cut out what I love the most
[00:04:59.140 --> 00:05:03.340] from these episodes and just telling you first.
[00:05:03.480 --> 00:05:04.700] I put it in the book.
[00:05:05.620 --> 00:05:10.160] I've already have a lot, like this is 60 plus episodes
[00:05:11.220 --> 00:05:14.320] and this is all in a book.
[00:05:14.320 --> 00:05:16.680] I'm doing my first 100 episodes
[00:05:17.320 --> 00:05:19.800] because we going to a million episodes.
[00:05:19.820 --> 00:05:21.560] We don't have a million episodes.
[00:05:21.840 --> 00:05:23.540] I don't think anybody ever done it,
[00:05:23.540 --> 00:05:26.200] but that's my big ambitious goal.
[00:05:26.280 --> 00:05:29.960] I'm not going to retire till I hit a million episodes.
[00:05:32.680 --> 00:05:34.980] So that's wild and ambitious, right?
[00:05:36.200 --> 00:05:38.400] But this type of stuff that keeps me up,
[00:05:38.740 --> 00:05:44.300] okay, I said I gonna do this, so let's do it.
[00:05:44.950 --> 00:05:50.020] Let's really make it happen and it can happen
[00:05:50.020 --> 00:05:53.000] because anything is possible.
[00:05:54.620 --> 00:05:55.900] Anything is possible.
[00:05:57.660 --> 00:06:00.050] But like I said, this is what keeps me up.
[00:06:01.600 --> 00:06:02.960] 33 minutes of rest.
[00:06:04.320 --> 00:06:10.140] They say you supposed to get six and a half
[00:06:10.140 --> 00:06:15.900] to nine hours, really just eight hours of rest each day.
[00:06:16.980 --> 00:06:27.120] You left with 16, probably working eight and a half hours.
[00:06:27.260 --> 00:06:29.580] You know, the little lunch break is kind of though
[00:06:29.580 --> 00:06:31.740] and add time or sometimes even nine,
[00:06:31.780 --> 00:06:36.320] but even a commute average 20 to 30 minutes away
[00:06:36.980 --> 00:06:42.240] from your employment or even your business.
[00:06:42.940 --> 00:06:48.340] Sometimes we are working in our business,
[00:06:48.580 --> 00:06:51.220] same like a job, you know, still clocking in,
[00:06:51.340 --> 00:06:54.840] clocking out, even though we have more ownership,
[00:06:57.580 --> 00:06:58.960] but in the beginning stages,
[00:06:59.420 --> 00:07:01.120] it's going to be like another job
[00:07:01.760 --> 00:07:04.480] until you can work on your business
[00:07:05.120 --> 00:07:08.880] and build your business, build a team,
[00:07:08.880 --> 00:07:14.140] grow a team, nourish a team, continue to build and grow.
[00:07:15.400 --> 00:07:17.640] You're not going to be working in it so much.
[00:07:17.660 --> 00:07:19.820] You're going to constantly be working on it
[00:07:19.820 --> 00:07:22.080] and molding it and multiplying it
[00:07:22.080 --> 00:07:24.900] and make sure everyone else is well
[00:07:25.960 --> 00:07:29.860] because if they're not, that team falls.
[00:07:30.500 --> 00:07:32.800] That's why I'm so big on teamwork
[00:07:32.800 --> 00:07:36.360] and I'm so thankful for the teams that I'm a part of
[00:07:36.360 --> 00:07:38.380] and the teams that I've built
[00:07:38.380 --> 00:07:40.120] and the teams that I'm building
[00:07:40.720 --> 00:07:43.000] and the people that want me on their team,
[00:07:45.280 --> 00:07:46.420] I value teamwork.
[00:07:46.980 --> 00:07:49.380] That's how you get a lot done, honestly.
[00:07:51.140 --> 00:07:54.320] Like basketball really showed me that
[00:07:56.040 --> 00:07:58.280] in middle school, high school,
[00:07:58.420 --> 00:08:02.300] even to this day as I am 33.
[00:08:05.260 --> 00:08:08.260] Yeah, actually my born day is coming up soon.
[00:08:09.180 --> 00:08:14.450] Iris, number 33, season 33.
[00:08:17.070 --> 00:08:23.170] But basketball showed me that teamwork is so valuable
[00:08:24.030 --> 00:08:27.410] critically and adding the communication part.
[00:08:27.990 --> 00:08:30.030] Like you got to communicate when you're out there.
[00:08:30.190 --> 00:08:34.730] There's just so many aspects that I apply to life
[00:08:34.730 --> 00:08:38.650] and also business, like basketball was that way.
[00:08:38.650 --> 00:08:42.650] Say basketball and chess, the game of chess.
[00:08:43.270 --> 00:08:45.650] Basketball and chess, those two, man.
[00:08:49.100 --> 00:08:50.500] That's life for me.
[00:08:52.570 --> 00:08:55.270] It helps me think in a more strategic way
[00:08:55.270 --> 00:08:59.650] and more calculated way versus just waking up,
[00:08:59.650 --> 00:09:00.670] oh, what's going on?
[00:09:00.750 --> 00:09:03.850] No, it's calculating and putting plans together,
[00:09:04.230 --> 00:09:07.630] agendas together and really following it
[00:09:07.630 --> 00:09:10.410] and really being in that and really doing it
[00:09:10.410 --> 00:09:11.790] and doing the work.
[00:09:12.850 --> 00:09:15.510] Sometimes you just got to sit down, relax,
[00:09:16.290 --> 00:09:19.370] recollect your mind, recollect your thoughts, focus.
[00:09:21.800 --> 00:09:22.860] Take a nap.
[00:09:23.400 --> 00:09:25.120] And I'm big on naps.
[00:09:25.640 --> 00:09:28.040] And after this, I'm definitely taking a nap.
[00:09:28.180 --> 00:09:30.660] I'm probably going to just go to sleep all together.
[00:09:32.020 --> 00:09:36.080] But I have an engagement, I had to be up at 9.30.
[00:09:37.440 --> 00:09:39.940] So let's see how far that goes.
[00:09:39.960 --> 00:09:41.120] It's currently five.
[00:09:43.310 --> 00:09:46.770] So four hours, I could do this, four hours, yeah.
[00:09:47.690 --> 00:09:49.930] Half days of sleep, see how I do that?
[00:09:49.970 --> 00:09:51.270] Eight, half of that is four.
[00:09:51.350 --> 00:09:52.470] So I kind of got half.
[00:09:53.610 --> 00:09:55.890] But tomorrow, I'm definitely resting.
[00:09:56.130 --> 00:09:57.190] I promise you all that.
[00:09:57.330 --> 00:09:58.030] I promise.
[00:09:58.510 --> 00:10:00.270] I know that everybody be concerned like,
[00:10:00.290 --> 00:10:01.390] oh, did you get your sleep?
[00:10:01.390 --> 00:10:02.050] Did you get your rest?
[00:10:02.090 --> 00:10:03.210] How much sleep you get today?
[00:10:03.690 --> 00:10:05.010] Because they know me.
[00:10:05.930 --> 00:10:07.190] Oh, I got two hours of sleep.
[00:10:07.550 --> 00:10:08.790] Go home, get your rest.
[00:10:09.170 --> 00:10:13.450] And that's how my circle, my community, my peers,
[00:10:13.630 --> 00:10:15.030] or people that just know me,
[00:10:15.470 --> 00:10:18.130] know how much I really be out here
[00:10:18.130 --> 00:10:20.530] and building and building and building.
[00:10:21.750 --> 00:10:23.250] I appreciate you all.
[00:10:23.410 --> 00:10:24.590] Appreciate the reminders
[00:10:24.590 --> 00:10:27.290] and encourage me to keep getting more rest.
[00:10:27.850 --> 00:10:29.610] Like, trust me, I have my seasons, y'all.
[00:10:30.530 --> 00:10:34.290] Like, I do not disturb and nine hours straight.
[00:10:34.890 --> 00:10:37.690] I'm talking about blackout room, blackout curtains,
[00:10:37.690 --> 00:10:39.130] no, nothing.
[00:10:40.170 --> 00:10:42.150] Just peace and sleep.
[00:10:43.710 --> 00:10:45.970] I try to do that at least twice a week.
[00:10:46.130 --> 00:10:48.890] Try to shoot for that eight, nine hours.
[00:10:49.370 --> 00:10:52.010] But sometimes, I get five, six,
[00:10:52.270 --> 00:10:55.050] which is decent, especially for me.
[00:10:56.310 --> 00:10:58.550] You know, I'm not getting 33 minutes of sleep.
[00:10:59.370 --> 00:11:01.130] Sometimes two hours.
[00:11:01.910 --> 00:11:04.570] Sometimes broken up an hour here,
[00:11:04.770 --> 00:11:06.250] a couple hours here.
[00:11:06.760 --> 00:11:10.950] You know, so, one day I will get it together, y'all.
[00:11:11.050 --> 00:11:12.670] And the day that I do,
[00:11:13.730 --> 00:11:17.050] I know I can give way much more to you.
[00:11:18.230 --> 00:11:21.490] But for right now, I'm gonna keep going.
[00:11:23.830 --> 00:11:27.530] And then after this episode, I'm getting some rest.
[00:11:28.150 --> 00:11:29.410] And I'm about to do that right now
[00:11:29.410 --> 00:11:31.110] and I feel my energy dropping.
[00:11:31.910 --> 00:11:36.250] So, I want to thank everyone that continues to listen
[00:11:36.250 --> 00:11:40.950] and follow my journey, my creative entrepreneur journey
[00:11:42.290 --> 00:11:44.510] as I do a lot.
[00:11:45.390 --> 00:11:49.590] I support a lot of initiatives and events
[00:11:50.080 --> 00:11:51.870] and people and businesses.
[00:11:53.350 --> 00:11:58.110] Sometimes I just coach them as they coach me.
[00:11:59.670 --> 00:12:01.770] Because the more I hear their story,
[00:12:01.830 --> 00:12:03.150] the more I'm inspired
[00:12:03.150 --> 00:12:06.070] and the more positive thoughts I think,
[00:12:06.290 --> 00:12:09.930] like, man, I never thought about this in this way.
[00:12:10.030 --> 00:12:12.550] Like, your story really inspired me
[00:12:12.550 --> 00:12:14.830] or helped me think in a different way,
[00:12:15.110 --> 00:12:18.210] like, a different perspective
[00:12:19.750 --> 00:12:23.850] that could be much easier for the human civilization.
[00:12:25.310 --> 00:12:28.310] So, I appreciate everyone that
[00:12:29.310 --> 00:12:32.450] was on Alienize Photos' industry talk.
[00:12:33.490 --> 00:12:37.110] I appreciate y'all, giving y'all stories,
[00:12:37.330 --> 00:12:39.530] y'all personality, y'all thoughts.
[00:12:40.770 --> 00:12:42.570] Just a conversation with me.
[00:12:43.710 --> 00:12:45.210] I appreciate that.
[00:12:46.030 --> 00:12:48.250] And I always wish you great success.
[00:12:49.030 --> 00:12:52.070] And those who listen, and I wish you success as well,
[00:12:52.530 --> 00:12:54.270] as you could be one of those people,
[00:12:54.410 --> 00:12:58.150] just like everyone I interview, are even better.
[00:12:59.050 --> 00:13:01.190] And reach out to them, connect with them.
[00:13:01.890 --> 00:13:05.010] You know, I had a lot of great guests on.
[00:13:05.590 --> 00:13:07.750] That's season two of my podcast.
[00:13:08.010 --> 00:13:10.390] So, season one, just for a reminder,
[00:13:11.110 --> 00:13:13.470] season one is mostly my solo episodes
[00:13:13.470 --> 00:13:16.410] and my personal journey and my business topics
[00:13:16.770 --> 00:13:20.930] that I talk about around creative entrepreneurs
[00:13:21.770 --> 00:13:25.950] and whom I serve the most, business owners.
[00:13:26.470 --> 00:13:29.170] Season two is more of my interviews,
[00:13:29.330 --> 00:13:33.130] where I do have that more long form,
[00:13:34.350 --> 00:13:38.670] an hour, hour and a half, two hours, sometimes three,
[00:13:40.950 --> 00:13:43.670] conversation with guests in my network
[00:13:43.670 --> 00:13:46.630] or who I feel's story needs to be heard.
[00:13:47.690 --> 00:13:49.230] And we talk business
[00:13:49.790 --> 00:13:52.370] and what business lessons can I learn.
[00:13:53.070 --> 00:13:56.870] I mean, we've been talking with people in the food
[00:13:56.870 --> 00:14:01.990] and agriculture realm, sector,
[00:14:03.090 --> 00:14:05.970] you know, because food and food justice is important.
[00:14:06.770 --> 00:14:08.570] So, I wanna get those stories
[00:14:08.570 --> 00:14:10.570] and how they look at it as a business
[00:14:10.570 --> 00:14:15.650] and how are they running their business operations
[00:14:16.150 --> 00:14:19.350] compared to, you know, someone that's like me,
[00:14:19.350 --> 00:14:23.410] that's in media and it's a different type of business
[00:14:23.410 --> 00:14:25.850] and different type of field.
[00:14:25.930 --> 00:14:29.250] So, I would love to have more of those conversations
[00:14:29.250 --> 00:14:30.850] as it's coming up soon.
[00:14:30.870 --> 00:14:34.090] So, look out for my series of that
[00:14:34.090 --> 00:14:35.610] and that's all in season two.
[00:14:36.290 --> 00:14:40.030] And I also decided to add season three.
[00:14:41.210 --> 00:14:42.750] It's gonna be a special one.
[00:14:44.930 --> 00:14:47.970] No, I'm not gonna, I was gonna hold it back,
[00:14:47.970 --> 00:14:49.570] but no, I'm gonna just tell you.
[00:14:50.710 --> 00:14:54.030] Season three is gonna be more of my research
[00:14:54.030 --> 00:15:00.550] on historical figures and pioneers in different sectors
[00:15:00.550 --> 00:15:06.590] whom I feel embodies the whole creative entrepreneur.
[00:15:07.370 --> 00:15:12.830] Like, a couple of mine would be like Walt Disney,
[00:15:15.160 --> 00:15:16.280] Steve Jobs.
[00:15:18.840 --> 00:15:26.880] I got a whole African-American list
[00:15:27.700 --> 00:15:29.600] that I wanna go through.
[00:15:29.780 --> 00:15:33.740] And on the top of that is Michael Jackson.
[00:15:35.620 --> 00:15:39.080] I feel like he embodied creative entrepreneurship
[00:15:39.540 --> 00:15:41.640] to a whole nother level
[00:15:41.900 --> 00:15:45.140] and that a lot of people was not aware of.
[00:15:47.680 --> 00:15:50.060] And I always say, joke around,
[00:15:50.060 --> 00:15:53.800] it may be true though, that Michael Jackson is my uncle.
[00:15:55.460 --> 00:15:59.920] Since I'm Steven Jackson, Steve Jackson,
[00:16:00.120 --> 00:16:05.000] photographer Jackson, alien, player Jackson.
[00:16:07.800 --> 00:16:11.240] Michael Jackson was my uncle, Tupac was my father.
[00:16:14.210 --> 00:16:15.650] And that's another person.
[00:16:15.790 --> 00:16:19.610] I'm gonna give y'all just the whole business aspect,
[00:16:19.610 --> 00:16:23.190] my thoughts and research all around
[00:16:23.190 --> 00:16:26.670] what they did as an entrepreneur in my eyes.
[00:16:27.950 --> 00:16:31.110] So look out, it's great.
[00:16:31.570 --> 00:16:33.830] I've started doing research.
[00:16:35.730 --> 00:16:38.130] I think Walt Disney may be that first.
[00:16:40.890 --> 00:16:46.130] Yeah, that's been a long time, like even as a child.
[00:16:46.730 --> 00:16:49.170] Wow, I've never been at Disney World
[00:16:49.170 --> 00:16:50.590] or I've never been to Disneyland,
[00:16:51.850 --> 00:16:54.350] but I do have stock in Disney.
[00:16:54.430 --> 00:16:58.310] So I definitely want to do even more research
[00:16:59.090 --> 00:17:03.830] and give that effort to the first episode.
[00:17:04.210 --> 00:17:05.710] And I want it to be well.
[00:17:06.970 --> 00:17:08.890] So just bear with me.
[00:17:08.910 --> 00:17:11.890] It's gonna take some time on each of these,
[00:17:12.710 --> 00:17:16.230] but that's why you have season one and season two,
[00:17:16.670 --> 00:17:20.589] my solo episodes, which I could do like this,
[00:17:20.810 --> 00:17:24.190] spit out rapidly, say my thoughts.
[00:17:24.230 --> 00:17:27.569] Sometimes I script it, sometimes I don't.
[00:17:27.710 --> 00:17:29.430] More of the business lessons
[00:17:29.430 --> 00:17:31.990] and the things that I teach and preach
[00:17:32.890 --> 00:17:34.250] and try to give insights.
[00:17:34.470 --> 00:17:37.910] I definitely script it, make sure I have some notes
[00:17:37.910 --> 00:17:40.790] or at least an outline or some buzz words
[00:17:40.790 --> 00:17:43.970] that keep me guided, keep me focused
[00:17:43.970 --> 00:17:45.790] and make sure that I'm touching on the points
[00:17:45.790 --> 00:17:48.350] that I need to teach you
[00:17:48.350 --> 00:17:50.370] and open up your mind and perspective.
[00:17:51.510 --> 00:17:54.370] Maybe you heard this concept, maybe you have not.
[00:17:54.790 --> 00:17:57.530] Maybe you heard business done this way,
[00:17:57.590 --> 00:17:58.650] maybe you have not.
[00:17:58.970 --> 00:18:03.910] And that's just my viewpoints on encouraging you
[00:18:04.610 --> 00:18:10.030] to just take a different look and different perspective
[00:18:10.030 --> 00:18:12.770] or at least be open to a different perspective
[00:18:12.770 --> 00:18:13.790] in which I'm doing.
[00:18:13.790 --> 00:18:19.110] So yeah, that's season one, season two and season three.
[00:18:19.870 --> 00:18:22.510] So if I ever hit like a season four or five,
[00:18:23.650 --> 00:18:25.630] just know that I'm constantly building,
[00:18:25.790 --> 00:18:29.330] I'm keeping it organized and organized for a reason
[00:18:29.990 --> 00:18:33.930] as I'm on these different platforms
[00:18:33.930 --> 00:18:36.090] as I'm being distributed out.
[00:18:36.550 --> 00:18:39.970] I know one day I may have my own platform.
[00:18:41.830 --> 00:18:44.530] Yeah, just because I just see the bigger picture,
[00:18:44.530 --> 00:18:47.410] especially coming from a music standpoint,
[00:18:47.470 --> 00:18:51.570] distribution is one of the key ingredients
[00:18:51.570 --> 00:18:53.370] for all my musicians out there.
[00:18:54.190 --> 00:18:58.370] I guess I woke up, I said I was going to take my nap
[00:18:58.370 --> 00:19:01.090] but I think I'm trying to hit 33 minutes now.
[00:19:01.410 --> 00:19:05.270] I'm like 18 minutes in or something like that.
[00:19:05.310 --> 00:19:06.190] Oh my goodness.
[00:19:06.990 --> 00:19:10.270] But no, I'm really about to go to sleep for real.
[00:19:10.650 --> 00:19:16.850] Get my rest and I got to hit this engagement tonight.
[00:19:17.950 --> 00:19:21.290] And then back editing and oh man,
[00:19:22.430 --> 00:19:25.730] I have to clean the studio out tomorrow too
[00:19:25.730 --> 00:19:27.170] so it's going to be interesting.
[00:19:28.110 --> 00:19:34.070] But I get to chat with my team over there tomorrow.
[00:19:34.570 --> 00:19:36.210] So it's going to be great.
[00:19:37.190 --> 00:19:39.910] All right y'all, peace, love and blessings.
[00:19:39.910 --> 00:19:45.290] This is photographer Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media
[00:19:45.830 --> 00:19:49.790] bringing you Alien Eyes Photos industry talk.
[00:19:50.930 --> 00:19:53.250] I appreciate you tuning in.
[00:19:53.410 --> 00:19:57.770] And to find me and more information or to book me,
[00:19:57.930 --> 00:20:03.230] visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:20:04.110 --> 00:20:07.850] That's alieneyes with a Z,
[00:20:07.850 --> 00:20:13.850] Photos with a S, alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:20:14.150 --> 00:20:17.190] And you can follow me on social media
[00:20:18.950 --> 00:20:23.490] at alieneyesphotos and make sure you tune in
[00:20:23.930 --> 00:20:29.130] to Creative Frequency on a Creative Frequency
[00:20:29.690 --> 00:20:32.230] on all social media, YouTube.
[00:20:32.610 --> 00:20:35.030] And you can catch us on Patreon,
[00:20:35.030 --> 00:20:38.770] especially if you want to enter our inner circle.
[00:20:39.010 --> 00:20:43.070] And that is me and Brianna Casanova
[00:20:43.070 --> 00:20:45.750] over with Overflow Studios.
[00:20:46.870 --> 00:20:49.990] She is putting work behind these videos.
[00:20:50.050 --> 00:20:52.070] She is the real deal.
[00:20:52.390 --> 00:20:54.030] No pun intended.
[00:20:55.450 --> 00:20:57.670] Knock you out like, oh, Holyfield.
[00:20:59.190 --> 00:21:02.050] But yeah, that's my partner in shine
[00:21:02.050 --> 00:21:06.010] as we are shining a light on creative entrepreneurs
[00:21:06.500 --> 00:21:11.030] and business owners, especially in the podcast space.
[00:21:11.790 --> 00:21:15.710] And she is doing her thing.
[00:21:16.630 --> 00:21:18.330] But if you want us both,
[00:21:19.070 --> 00:21:22.370] make sure you catch us in our inner circle.
[00:21:22.790 --> 00:21:24.810] Inner circle, I can't even say it right.
[00:21:24.910 --> 00:21:27.750] Inner circle on Patreon.
[00:21:28.710 --> 00:21:32.030] Yes, on a Creative Frequency.
[00:21:32.170 --> 00:21:33.310] It's Creative Frequency.
[00:21:34.750 --> 00:21:37.770] All right, again, this is Photographer Jackson
[00:21:38.270 --> 00:21:40.930] and I am out, peace.

========================================================================
39. Devin Moore - DJ Rev Dev
Season 2 · Episode 8
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/devin-moore-dj-rev-dev
========================================================================

[00:00:02.860 --> 00:00:07.760] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:08.440 --> 00:00:10.600] with your host, photographer Jackson.
[00:00:11.520 --> 00:00:14.980] And to my right, I have a special guest for you today.
[00:00:15.340 --> 00:00:17.760] It's the DJ Rev, Dev.
[00:00:18.240 --> 00:00:19.320] Man, how you doing today?
[00:00:19.460 --> 00:00:20.860] Man, I'm doing fantastic, man.
[00:00:20.900 --> 00:00:21.680] How about yourself?
[00:00:21.940 --> 00:00:23.900] I am well, blessed, and refreshed.
[00:00:23.980 --> 00:00:24.960] I'm recharged.
[00:00:25.120 --> 00:00:25.720] I'm pumped.
[00:00:26.460 --> 00:00:27.400] I appreciate you asking.
[00:00:27.880 --> 00:00:29.220] Oh man, I appreciate you heavily.
[00:00:29.420 --> 00:00:30.120] Glad to be here.
[00:00:30.460 --> 00:00:30.920] Yeah, yeah.
[00:00:31.080 --> 00:00:32.840] Man, I wanna just jump right into it.
[00:00:32.840 --> 00:00:34.700] I know we kinda pressed the time.
[00:00:35.160 --> 00:00:38.340] So how did you get the name Rev, Dev?
[00:00:38.360 --> 00:00:39.680] Was you a reverend?
[00:00:39.800 --> 00:00:40.960] Like, how did that come about?
[00:00:41.280 --> 00:00:42.300] Oh man, that's crazy.
[00:00:42.420 --> 00:00:43.700] I actually get that question a lot.
[00:00:44.120 --> 00:00:45.640] It actually came from high school.
[00:00:45.680 --> 00:00:48.700] So I went to prep school in Florida.
[00:00:48.720 --> 00:00:50.180] I grew up in Miami, Florida.
[00:00:51.640 --> 00:00:52.920] And before each game,
[00:00:52.920 --> 00:00:54.700] we would pray or do what we call chapel.
[00:00:55.400 --> 00:00:58.260] And a lot of times I'd be asked to lead chaplain
[00:00:58.980 --> 00:01:01.960] because of my strong position in my faith
[00:01:01.960 --> 00:01:03.180] and my beliefs.
[00:01:04.120 --> 00:01:05.940] I kinda got the nickname Reverend.
[00:01:06.780 --> 00:01:08.580] And then someone just kinda cracked the joke.
[00:01:08.820 --> 00:01:10.200] Like, man, we gonna call him Rev, Dev.
[00:01:11.120 --> 00:01:13.920] So Rev, Dev was just kinda like my nickname or moniker.
[00:01:14.300 --> 00:01:14.900] Excuse me.
[00:01:15.180 --> 00:01:16.920] When I played football in high school.
[00:01:17.500 --> 00:01:18.960] So when I got into DJing,
[00:01:18.980 --> 00:01:20.820] for me when I was trying to think of different names,
[00:01:20.900 --> 00:01:23.820] it was just kinda a natural flow to use it.
[00:01:24.060 --> 00:01:24.220] So yeah.
[00:01:24.540 --> 00:01:27.280] Wow, and then we first met at a wedding
[00:01:27.280 --> 00:01:30.920] and just seeing you get the wedding party together,
[00:01:30.920 --> 00:01:32.780] hyping up the bride and groom.
[00:01:33.100 --> 00:01:35.120] Almost like a football huddle, what I call it.
[00:01:35.400 --> 00:01:37.200] Being a leader of a football huddle.
[00:01:37.440 --> 00:01:39.300] So I could see that correlation.
[00:01:39.600 --> 00:01:41.760] It's a testament to your journey.
[00:01:42.840 --> 00:01:44.840] Not a traditional Reverend,
[00:01:45.020 --> 00:01:46.600] but a Reverend in a different way.
[00:01:46.600 --> 00:01:47.240] And I like that.
[00:01:47.620 --> 00:01:48.540] Appreciate it, appreciate it.
[00:01:48.640 --> 00:01:49.600] Yeah, I mean, I am a minister.
[00:01:49.740 --> 00:01:52.140] I mean, faith is still a strong part of my life.
[00:01:52.320 --> 00:01:54.980] I'm not a super Jesus Christ all-star
[00:01:54.980 --> 00:01:56.900] where I'm gonna be, you know, be your hand.
[00:01:57.380 --> 00:01:59.220] But I try to make sure I live my life right.
[00:01:59.300 --> 00:01:59.700] Right.
[00:02:00.860 --> 00:02:04.460] And shout out to DJ Ivan at Synapse Entertainment.
[00:02:05.140 --> 00:02:06.740] He kind of monocled the Rev Dev,
[00:02:06.900 --> 00:02:08.600] it's like you rev people up, I like your energy.
[00:02:09.360 --> 00:02:11.240] So that was kind of another dope, you know,
[00:02:11.380 --> 00:02:14.040] spin on the rev part I had never really thought about
[00:02:14.040 --> 00:02:17.060] was just the energy that I bring to the table.
[00:02:17.080 --> 00:02:19.460] And you think about, you know, the laws of physics,
[00:02:19.700 --> 00:02:22.600] the second law is energy can't be created, destroyed,
[00:02:22.740 --> 00:02:23.620] it can only be transferred.
[00:02:24.520 --> 00:02:25.480] And that's so true.
[00:02:25.800 --> 00:02:27.660] Not just in life, but at weddings and events
[00:02:27.660 --> 00:02:30.020] is that, you know, the energy that we see
[00:02:30.020 --> 00:02:32.460] and that we experience is energy that's being transferred
[00:02:32.460 --> 00:02:36.560] throughout people's positivity and disposition
[00:02:36.560 --> 00:02:37.880] or celebrating that day.
[00:02:38.640 --> 00:02:41.860] Yeah, I know you kind of touched on like high school.
[00:02:42.140 --> 00:02:43.760] What was the college life like for you?
[00:02:44.380 --> 00:02:45.480] Oh man, you know, college life
[00:02:45.480 --> 00:02:49.160] is actually kind of where I found DJing as a space.
[00:02:49.680 --> 00:02:53.940] For me, I came to the Midwest for school.
[00:02:54.260 --> 00:02:55.440] So I went to the University of Dayton,
[00:02:55.440 --> 00:02:56.800] shout out to the Flyers,
[00:02:57.660 --> 00:02:59.180] where I had a full academic scholarship.
[00:02:59.300 --> 00:03:01.140] And I'm actually an engineer by trade.
[00:03:01.200 --> 00:03:03.800] So I studied industrial engineering.
[00:03:04.320 --> 00:03:06.400] And while in school, I was trying to figure out a way
[00:03:06.400 --> 00:03:07.340] just to make some extra money.
[00:03:07.360 --> 00:03:09.540] So I went out to call home and ask my family for bread
[00:03:10.520 --> 00:03:12.340] and shout out to my boy, Kevin Richardson
[00:03:12.340 --> 00:03:13.440] out of Atlanta, Georgia.
[00:03:14.160 --> 00:03:16.160] I saw that there was a space, a gap on campus
[00:03:16.160 --> 00:03:17.740] every time we had parties or events.
[00:03:18.180 --> 00:03:19.540] They would bring in DJs off campus.
[00:03:19.700 --> 00:03:20.960] I'm like, man, why can't we do that?
[00:03:21.520 --> 00:03:25.420] And before I knew it, you know, I was kind of a,
[00:03:25.420 --> 00:03:26.940] I mean, I be illegally downloading music,
[00:03:27.060 --> 00:03:28.280] just kind of be a closet DJ.
[00:03:28.660 --> 00:03:31.140] And before I knew it, I got my first shot
[00:03:31.140 --> 00:03:32.620] at doing a campus event.
[00:03:32.720 --> 00:03:34.240] And before I knew that I was a campus DJ
[00:03:34.240 --> 00:03:36.780] at a local club DJing, it was kind of cool for me.
[00:03:37.280 --> 00:03:39.620] Yeah, that is like, you know,
[00:03:39.780 --> 00:03:41.560] why bring somebody from the outside
[00:03:41.560 --> 00:03:44.760] when someone that's here doing it?
[00:03:44.780 --> 00:03:45.140] Certainly.
[00:03:45.460 --> 00:03:46.460] Or at least want to do it.
[00:03:46.480 --> 00:03:49.340] So I mean, I'm glad you found that opportunity
[00:03:49.340 --> 00:03:50.040] for yourself.
[00:03:50.860 --> 00:03:53.660] And you know, it sounds like a true hustler for real.
[00:03:54.220 --> 00:03:55.280] 100%, man, 100%.
[00:03:56.000 --> 00:03:58.020] I share with my clients when I'm doing my intake
[00:03:58.020 --> 00:04:01.920] cause that essentially DJing for me came out of survival
[00:04:01.920 --> 00:04:03.740] as a way for me to make some extra money.
[00:04:04.540 --> 00:04:06.840] And then before I knew it, you know,
[00:04:06.840 --> 00:04:09.060] my mind and my exposure, you know,
[00:04:09.180 --> 00:04:11.280] brought into that the opportunity to be able to
[00:04:11.280 --> 00:04:12.600] find a way to provide for myself.
[00:04:13.160 --> 00:04:15.280] So, you know, in 2009, my roommate came in
[00:04:15.280 --> 00:04:16.560] and he was like, hey D, I'm getting ready to,
[00:04:16.560 --> 00:04:17.279] you know, propose.
[00:04:17.380 --> 00:04:18.420] I'm like, what they got to do with me?
[00:04:19.100 --> 00:04:21.200] He was like, nah, I want you to be my wedding DJ.
[00:04:21.279 --> 00:04:22.360] I was like, oh, that's dope.
[00:04:22.360 --> 00:04:24.480] So for me, it was like entering into corporate America,
[00:04:24.600 --> 00:04:26.120] having a full-time job during the week,
[00:04:26.720 --> 00:04:29.000] being a wedding DJ to me was like the perfect marriage
[00:04:29.000 --> 00:04:30.740] and me still being able to pursue my passion
[00:04:30.740 --> 00:04:32.580] of music and entertainment.
[00:04:33.120 --> 00:04:35.640] But I didn't want to be in like clubs and bars,
[00:04:35.640 --> 00:04:36.860] you know, late at night.
[00:04:37.060 --> 00:04:38.880] So it was a perfect fit.
[00:04:39.580 --> 00:04:39.980] Yeah.
[00:04:40.560 --> 00:04:43.000] So how important is it like finding your own lane
[00:04:43.000 --> 00:04:44.860] as a new entrepreneur or creative?
[00:04:46.400 --> 00:04:48.140] For me, it's still kind of like,
[00:04:48.280 --> 00:04:50.000] it kind of goes back to infancy.
[00:04:50.580 --> 00:04:52.220] Just like how I found the opportunity
[00:04:52.220 --> 00:04:53.900] of opening a gap on campus.
[00:04:54.500 --> 00:04:56.300] So same thing, you know, that I've done
[00:04:56.300 --> 00:04:58.460] with approaching and scaling and growing,
[00:04:59.000 --> 00:05:02.580] you know, my entertainment company or me as a wedding DJ
[00:05:02.580 --> 00:05:04.380] is to really find that gap.
[00:05:04.480 --> 00:05:06.660] And for me, it was, I saw a gap
[00:05:06.660 --> 00:05:08.460] or there was a lack of professionalism.
[00:05:09.900 --> 00:05:11.580] A lot of people, you know, and it's just society.
[00:05:11.700 --> 00:05:13.700] Things are starting to get a lot more casual,
[00:05:13.700 --> 00:05:14.560] so to speak, you know.
[00:05:14.560 --> 00:05:15.940] And do wedding or just DJing?
[00:05:16.460 --> 00:05:17.140] In general.
[00:05:17.320 --> 00:05:17.640] In general?
[00:05:17.660 --> 00:05:19.040] But specifically as far as weddings,
[00:05:19.740 --> 00:05:20.840] I wanted a niche down.
[00:05:20.900 --> 00:05:22.760] A lot of people say, oh, you need to diversify.
[00:05:22.860 --> 00:05:24.620] But for me, it was like, I love weddings.
[00:05:24.780 --> 00:05:25.640] I'm passionate for weddings.
[00:05:26.000 --> 00:05:28.120] And then for me, I use weddings to grow
[00:05:28.120 --> 00:05:29.580] into, you know, doing corporate events
[00:05:29.580 --> 00:05:32.220] and nonprofits and things like that and quinceañeras.
[00:05:32.820 --> 00:05:34.800] But for me, like my passion and my focus,
[00:05:34.900 --> 00:05:36.000] my niche is really weddings.
[00:05:36.540 --> 00:05:38.020] And everything just kind of branches off of that.
[00:05:38.680 --> 00:05:40.000] But for me, it was just really
[00:05:40.000 --> 00:05:41.780] bringing a high level of professionalism.
[00:05:42.380 --> 00:05:44.340] Nobody was really rocking suits and dressing up
[00:05:44.340 --> 00:05:45.620] and paying attention to details.
[00:05:45.860 --> 00:05:47.740] It's like anybody can go out and buy equipment
[00:05:47.740 --> 00:05:50.040] and get registered with the state
[00:05:50.040 --> 00:05:52.340] and get insurance and buy fancy equipment.
[00:05:53.680 --> 00:05:55.460] But clients look at those small details.
[00:05:55.620 --> 00:05:59.060] How intentional are you about how you present yourself?
[00:05:59.420 --> 00:06:00.380] How you communicate?
[00:06:00.540 --> 00:06:02.440] What is your ease of doing business with?
[00:06:02.880 --> 00:06:04.680] And for me, I kind of focus on all those things
[00:06:04.680 --> 00:06:06.260] to really kind of separate myself.
[00:06:07.060 --> 00:06:08.020] Yeah, nice.
[00:06:08.380 --> 00:06:09.620] How long you been DJing?
[00:06:09.800 --> 00:06:11.180] About 20 something years?
[00:06:11.320 --> 00:06:12.080] Yeah, it's crazy things.
[00:06:12.340 --> 00:06:14.820] So I started DJing in 2003.
[00:06:15.760 --> 00:06:18.420] And then I did my first wedding in 2009.
[00:06:19.340 --> 00:06:21.360] So it's crazy thing for 22 years.
[00:06:21.380 --> 00:06:22.680] I've been behind the decks.
[00:06:23.280 --> 00:06:25.460] Malcolm Grass said, that's definitely an honor.
[00:06:25.520 --> 00:06:28.280] I remember when I first touched turntables,
[00:06:28.480 --> 00:06:31.800] I was mainly a performing artist, recording artist.
[00:06:32.420 --> 00:06:34.200] But I always used to touch the turntable
[00:06:34.200 --> 00:06:37.220] and I even got the, what's that?
[00:06:37.760 --> 00:06:39.700] The mini, the Pioneer mini.
[00:06:39.900 --> 00:06:40.820] Okay, yeah, gotcha.
[00:06:41.340 --> 00:06:48.200] So, yeah, you know, I kind of have my little spark
[00:06:48.200 --> 00:06:50.140] at DJing and then keep up with it.
[00:06:50.640 --> 00:06:52.460] But every now and then I definitely, you know,
[00:06:52.620 --> 00:06:53.620] practice scratch, scratch.
[00:06:54.280 --> 00:06:57.800] Yeah, I mean, 20 years plus, that's definitely an honor
[00:06:57.800 --> 00:06:59.160] and I commend you for that.
[00:06:59.380 --> 00:07:00.200] I appreciate that.
[00:07:00.320 --> 00:07:02.200] It's been a blessing to have this longevity
[00:07:02.200 --> 00:07:05.040] and more and more I see it's bigger than just DJing.
[00:07:05.440 --> 00:07:06.780] You got to stay in shape.
[00:07:06.900 --> 00:07:08.400] You got to stay up on new,
[00:07:08.400 --> 00:07:10.160] I mean, music moves so much faster now
[00:07:10.160 --> 00:07:12.680] with social media and TikTok and things like that.
[00:07:13.220 --> 00:07:15.340] You still have to find a way to evolve
[00:07:15.340 --> 00:07:16.780] and to change and to grow.
[00:07:17.300 --> 00:07:20.340] Yeah, I would say, how do you search for new music
[00:07:20.340 --> 00:07:22.080] or come across new music
[00:07:22.080 --> 00:07:24.500] when there's music almost released every day?
[00:07:25.220 --> 00:07:28.460] I mean, that's the beautiful part about staying active.
[00:07:29.460 --> 00:07:32.260] I mean, it's either kind of a use or lose it.
[00:07:32.280 --> 00:07:33.400] When you're out of the game
[00:07:33.400 --> 00:07:34.920] and you're not staying close to the people,
[00:07:35.020 --> 00:07:38.500] it's so easy to not being able to understand
[00:07:38.500 --> 00:07:39.180] what music is.
[00:07:39.180 --> 00:07:40.100] But for me it's like,
[00:07:40.740 --> 00:07:43.080] I would say my cheat code is I love to travel.
[00:07:43.500 --> 00:07:45.080] So for me, I'm always inspired
[00:07:45.080 --> 00:07:46.820] by the different sights and sounds
[00:07:46.820 --> 00:07:48.360] and vibes that people do.
[00:07:48.520 --> 00:07:51.400] So like if I'm in Montreal or Quebec up in Canada
[00:07:51.400 --> 00:07:54.880] or if I'm down in Miami or if I'm in Mexico,
[00:07:54.960 --> 00:07:56.600] like I'm always trying to listen to see,
[00:07:56.740 --> 00:07:57.740] okay, what is the vibe?
[00:07:58.620 --> 00:08:00.400] The other part is just making sure
[00:08:00.400 --> 00:08:02.240] that you connect with different generations.
[00:08:02.820 --> 00:08:04.800] So of course, I have a touch point
[00:08:04.800 --> 00:08:06.880] of being raised by baby boomers and my grandparents
[00:08:06.880 --> 00:08:10.120] and then my mom kind of being Generation X
[00:08:10.120 --> 00:08:13.140] and then me kind of being this millennial.
[00:08:13.660 --> 00:08:14.660] But then I also have kids.
[00:08:14.740 --> 00:08:16.460] So I kind of like try to make sure I pay attention
[00:08:16.460 --> 00:08:18.460] to what they're consuming and how they consume music.
[00:08:19.020 --> 00:08:21.400] So for me, that's kind of how I like to stay
[00:08:22.540 --> 00:08:24.360] in touch with what's really new.
[00:08:24.780 --> 00:08:26.460] But the crazy thing about it is,
[00:08:27.400 --> 00:08:28.840] it seems that as of right now,
[00:08:29.040 --> 00:08:33.440] music is really stuck in the 2010s,
[00:08:33.620 --> 00:08:35.780] is that the new music that people are making now
[00:08:35.780 --> 00:08:37.940] is not really music that people can assume
[00:08:37.940 --> 00:08:38.860] in a party context.
[00:08:39.020 --> 00:08:41.440] So for instance, a lot of these TikTok trends,
[00:08:41.460 --> 00:08:43.520] the songs aren't long enough for a DJ to be able to play
[00:08:43.520 --> 00:08:44.940] and be able to transition to something else.
[00:08:45.660 --> 00:08:48.000] So that's why, even if you go to clubs
[00:08:48.000 --> 00:08:49.680] and you go to bars and you go to parties,
[00:08:50.200 --> 00:08:50.860] a lot of music, like man,
[00:08:50.920 --> 00:08:52.320] this old music is music from 12 years ago
[00:08:52.320 --> 00:08:54.880] because that music was really, you know what I'm saying,
[00:08:55.160 --> 00:08:58.420] created and curated to be able to get crowds moving.
[00:08:59.020 --> 00:09:00.660] There's new music and now it's just kind of like,
[00:09:00.720 --> 00:09:02.320] what can I do in order to get my streams
[00:09:02.320 --> 00:09:03.600] and get on to the next track?
[00:09:03.600 --> 00:09:05.300] Yeah, so wow.
[00:09:05.840 --> 00:09:08.880] You know, it's actually a key point you touched on.
[00:09:09.040 --> 00:09:12.620] Do you find a song or a group of songs
[00:09:12.620 --> 00:09:15.540] that's kind of universal, you know, beyond generations?
[00:09:16.460 --> 00:09:18.900] Yeah, so I mean, for me, like growing up in Miami,
[00:09:19.240 --> 00:09:21.260] I kind of have, I like to say I have a global year.
[00:09:21.860 --> 00:09:23.800] So my best friend out there, two doors down from me,
[00:09:23.820 --> 00:09:27.020] he was Cuban, his grandparents came over as refugees
[00:09:27.440 --> 00:09:29.960] in the 1960s on a raft to Miami.
[00:09:30.640 --> 00:09:31.780] So for me, it's like growing up,
[00:09:31.800 --> 00:09:33.180] they would bury a pig in the backyard
[00:09:33.180 --> 00:09:35.680] and they'd be playing different types of Spanish music,
[00:09:35.760 --> 00:09:37.380] whether salsa, merengue, bachata.
[00:09:38.320 --> 00:09:40.220] Next door to me, the family's Puerto Rican.
[00:09:40.880 --> 00:09:43.060] Four doors down from them, my best friend was Jamaican,
[00:09:43.100 --> 00:09:46.260] so I would get curry chicken and here a lot of reggae
[00:09:46.260 --> 00:09:47.280] and like deep reggae.
[00:09:47.520 --> 00:09:49.460] And then three doors down from him,
[00:09:49.700 --> 00:09:51.360] my best friends were Bahamian.
[00:09:51.580 --> 00:09:52.600] And then the car street from them
[00:09:52.600 --> 00:09:53.440] and the family was Haitian.
[00:09:53.620 --> 00:09:56.300] So I kind of grew up with so many different sounds,
[00:09:56.440 --> 00:09:59.380] whether it was house, hip hop, rap, R&B, gospel,
[00:09:59.780 --> 00:10:02.380] that I tend to lean on music
[00:10:03.360 --> 00:10:05.220] that kind of resonates with anybody.
[00:10:05.680 --> 00:10:07.240] So whether you speak English or not,
[00:10:07.680 --> 00:10:10.200] to me, music is a universal love language.
[00:10:10.260 --> 00:10:12.880] So if you're in Germany or, you know what I'm saying,
[00:10:13.020 --> 00:10:15.140] or even if you're in Flint, Michigan,
[00:10:15.620 --> 00:10:16.680] if someone drop a banger,
[00:10:16.860 --> 00:10:17.840] it's gonna resonate with you.
[00:10:17.920 --> 00:10:20.400] The beat catch you, or the vibe catch you.
[00:10:20.520 --> 00:10:22.400] So for me, I'm always listening to,
[00:10:23.140 --> 00:10:24.120] what's a track that I can play
[00:10:24.120 --> 00:10:25.780] that people didn't know that they wanted to hear?
[00:10:25.780 --> 00:10:28.900] Wow, I like that tagline.
[00:10:28.960 --> 00:10:30.220] And also what you just said,
[00:10:30.600 --> 00:10:32.240] music is a universal language,
[00:10:32.320 --> 00:10:33.600] or at least it should be.
[00:10:33.620 --> 00:10:34.220] Yeah, definitely.
[00:10:34.260 --> 00:10:35.680] That's how I used to create music
[00:10:35.680 --> 00:10:37.360] and record music and write music.
[00:10:37.920 --> 00:10:39.900] Mainly from me and my experiences,
[00:10:40.100 --> 00:10:41.080] or what I saw,
[00:10:42.080 --> 00:10:43.940] and then make it like Michael Jackson.
[00:10:44.180 --> 00:10:46.000] I think anybody can listen to Michael Jackson,
[00:10:46.160 --> 00:10:48.040] no matter what age you are,
[00:10:48.540 --> 00:10:49.480] and just love it.
[00:10:49.720 --> 00:10:50.300] Yeah, definitely.
[00:10:50.820 --> 00:10:51.160] Yeah, definitely.
[00:10:52.420 --> 00:10:54.940] So let's shift a little towards business.
[00:10:55.940 --> 00:10:57.640] Like when you get in that mode,
[00:10:58.140 --> 00:10:59.920] even before you're speaking with a client,
[00:11:00.060 --> 00:11:02.940] what are your go-to songs made the day before,
[00:11:03.000 --> 00:11:04.140] or right before that meeting?
[00:11:05.040 --> 00:11:06.380] So for me, it's like,
[00:11:08.600 --> 00:11:10.540] I really try to focus on making sure
[00:11:10.540 --> 00:11:12.680] that the experience is true for the client.
[00:11:13.140 --> 00:11:14.620] And I try to make sure
[00:11:15.220 --> 00:11:18.420] I always communicate that to my clients.
[00:11:18.520 --> 00:11:19.240] A lot of times they might say,
[00:11:19.260 --> 00:11:20.420] hey, can you send me a mix?
[00:11:20.740 --> 00:11:22.400] You know, I wanna hear this or hear that.
[00:11:23.200 --> 00:11:26.020] The crazy thing about being an event,
[00:11:26.120 --> 00:11:27.300] not necessarily like a club DJ,
[00:11:27.380 --> 00:11:28.680] but being like a wedding DJ
[00:11:28.680 --> 00:11:30.320] or focusing on private events.
[00:11:31.100 --> 00:11:32.440] A lot of times the music that you play
[00:11:32.440 --> 00:11:35.140] aren't necessary songs that you will play
[00:11:35.140 --> 00:11:37.600] based off your own general taste or conception.
[00:11:38.340 --> 00:11:39.920] You're basically playing
[00:11:39.920 --> 00:11:41.360] what that specific client may want.
[00:11:41.460 --> 00:11:42.440] So they might want house,
[00:11:42.820 --> 00:11:45.980] or they might want top 40 or hip hop or R&B.
[00:11:46.380 --> 00:11:47.440] So it might come across like,
[00:11:47.620 --> 00:11:49.220] dang, this dude was playing trap music all night.
[00:11:49.260 --> 00:11:50.960] That might be what the client wanted.
[00:11:51.440 --> 00:11:52.860] So for me, what I try to tell clients,
[00:11:52.980 --> 00:11:53.800] if I send you a mix,
[00:11:54.040 --> 00:11:57.820] don't necessarily listen to the songs that I'm playing,
[00:11:57.920 --> 00:11:59.280] but listen to the technique,
[00:12:00.380 --> 00:12:02.360] how I might interact with the crowd
[00:12:02.360 --> 00:12:03.500] or how I transition.
[00:12:03.560 --> 00:12:05.220] You wanna look at more so the skill
[00:12:05.220 --> 00:12:06.960] and the technique and the energy and the flow
[00:12:06.960 --> 00:12:08.140] versus the track.
[00:12:09.260 --> 00:12:10.560] The tracks for me, each event,
[00:12:11.280 --> 00:12:12.540] how I look at it is like
[00:12:12.540 --> 00:12:14.100] the Super Bowl kinda going back to football.
[00:12:14.820 --> 00:12:16.580] It's like each game
[00:12:17.500 --> 00:12:19.100] is gonna have a different game plan.
[00:12:19.100 --> 00:12:21.020] And the game plan might change
[00:12:21.020 --> 00:12:22.660] based off of who your opponent is.
[00:12:23.040 --> 00:12:24.160] So even though you might have played that team
[00:12:24.160 --> 00:12:24.860] early in the season,
[00:12:25.080 --> 00:12:26.100] if the quarterback hurt
[00:12:26.560 --> 00:12:27.880] or saying they made a trade
[00:12:27.880 --> 00:12:30.780] and they got a big box receiver or tight end,
[00:12:30.920 --> 00:12:32.140] your game plan gonna change.
[00:12:32.480 --> 00:12:34.000] So for me, it's like each event
[00:12:34.780 --> 00:12:36.380] or consultation when I sit down with the client,
[00:12:36.520 --> 00:12:38.320] I'm really more so trying to make sure
[00:12:38.320 --> 00:12:39.300] I understand the client.
[00:12:39.780 --> 00:12:40.480] And a lot of times,
[00:12:40.540 --> 00:12:42.540] I mean, there's been times where I turn down the vent.
[00:12:42.780 --> 00:12:44.140] I get asked a lot, man,
[00:12:44.220 --> 00:12:46.400] like, how do you have so many five-star reviews?
[00:12:46.980 --> 00:12:47.640] And the cheat code is
[00:12:47.640 --> 00:12:49.100] I work with people that wanna work with me.
[00:12:49.560 --> 00:12:51.900] A lot of times when I've had issues in my career
[00:12:51.900 --> 00:12:53.060] where I've gotten bad reviews,
[00:12:53.080 --> 00:12:54.620] I had issues because I work with a client
[00:12:54.620 --> 00:12:55.280] or I work with someone
[00:12:55.280 --> 00:12:56.900] that necessarily wasn't a good fit with,
[00:12:57.360 --> 00:12:58.320] you know what I'm saying, my skill set.
[00:12:58.400 --> 00:12:59.120] I might be,
[00:12:59.260 --> 00:13:00.660] they might want somebody that's a little more reserved
[00:13:00.660 --> 00:13:02.580] and not tend to be a little bit more high energy.
[00:13:02.920 --> 00:13:04.120] Or they might want somebody that
[00:13:04.840 --> 00:13:06.160] is a little bit more passive
[00:13:07.580 --> 00:13:08.660] with music and mixing.
[00:13:09.160 --> 00:13:10.820] And for me, I like to keep the energy up.
[00:13:10.860 --> 00:13:11.780] I'm going boom, boom, boom,
[00:13:11.840 --> 00:13:13.140] hitting the songs back to back to back.
[00:13:13.680 --> 00:13:14.940] So from that perspective is,
[00:13:15.160 --> 00:13:15.760] for me,
[00:13:15.760 --> 00:13:17.460] I always want to make sure
[00:13:17.460 --> 00:13:18.680] that I lead with listening
[00:13:19.320 --> 00:13:20.740] and really make sure I understand
[00:13:20.740 --> 00:13:21.920] what the client's vision is.
[00:13:22.360 --> 00:13:22.940] And then from there,
[00:13:22.940 --> 00:13:24.900] I'm able to kind of curate
[00:13:24.900 --> 00:13:26.680] where I want to go musically for that evening.
[00:13:27.200 --> 00:13:29.340] Yeah, you ever like freestyle something?
[00:13:29.400 --> 00:13:30.820] I don't like live at the wedding.
[00:13:31.000 --> 00:13:34.100] It was like just play something that'll just shock us.
[00:13:34.300 --> 00:13:35.400] That's not even on the playlist
[00:13:35.400 --> 00:13:36.320] or what we talked about.
[00:13:36.600 --> 00:13:39.740] Yeah, that's actually like the best part of like
[00:13:40.440 --> 00:13:42.100] the clients that I tend to attract
[00:13:42.660 --> 00:13:44.300] is there's a level of trust.
[00:13:44.300 --> 00:13:45.580] Of course they're going to give me some direction.
[00:13:45.800 --> 00:13:47.840] I always say, hey, give me 10 or 15 songs
[00:13:47.840 --> 00:13:50.300] that you absolutely positively want to hear.
[00:13:50.420 --> 00:13:51.100] And they're like, I don't know.
[00:13:51.480 --> 00:13:52.800] So I give them example, like, hey,
[00:13:52.880 --> 00:13:55.640] what's a song that you listen to on your deck?
[00:13:55.900 --> 00:13:58.800] Or what's some concerts that you and your fiance
[00:13:58.800 --> 00:14:01.000] or your partner went to?
[00:14:01.540 --> 00:14:02.260] Now what are some songs
[00:14:02.260 --> 00:14:03.740] if you had the aux that you would play?
[00:14:04.240 --> 00:14:06.440] What types of songs are going to be played
[00:14:06.440 --> 00:14:07.260] on your limo bus?
[00:14:08.180 --> 00:14:09.360] Once I'm able to get that line inside
[00:14:09.360 --> 00:14:10.560] of those different data points,
[00:14:11.060 --> 00:14:12.400] then for me, that kind of gives me an idea,
[00:14:12.980 --> 00:14:14.620] okay, they went to high school
[00:14:14.620 --> 00:14:17.040] in the early 2000s or 2010s or 2020.
[00:14:17.480 --> 00:14:19.160] Like most people, like their musical taste
[00:14:19.160 --> 00:14:21.120] comes from like their high school experience.
[00:14:21.540 --> 00:14:23.860] Whether you went out and you sourced your CDs
[00:14:23.860 --> 00:14:25.220] or your records or your tapes,
[00:14:25.980 --> 00:14:26.740] or, you know what I'm saying,
[00:14:26.800 --> 00:14:28.080] whether you start downloading music
[00:14:28.080 --> 00:14:29.820] onto your iPod or what have you.
[00:14:30.100 --> 00:14:31.600] Most people lens is like, you know,
[00:14:31.700 --> 00:14:34.160] between that, I would say 18 to 24,
[00:14:34.360 --> 00:14:36.120] between, you know, when I'm able to drive
[00:14:36.120 --> 00:14:38.640] in high school to when I'm able to graduate,
[00:14:38.640 --> 00:14:41.340] you know, from college or, you know, post high school.
[00:14:41.340 --> 00:14:43.460] So that lens will kind of give me an idea
[00:14:43.460 --> 00:14:44.720] of kind of what they taste is like,
[00:14:44.720 --> 00:14:46.500] oh, if I knew that you went to whatever,
[00:14:46.940 --> 00:14:48.480] let's say an Imagine Dragons concert
[00:14:48.480 --> 00:14:50.340] in San Francisco, okay, I'm going to drop that.
[00:14:50.380 --> 00:14:53.020] If I know that, okay, you just started JT in DC,
[00:14:53.540 --> 00:14:54.400] I'm okay, I'm going to see that.
[00:14:54.440 --> 00:14:56.560] Okay, cool, you going to see GZ
[00:14:57.000 --> 00:14:58.560] for his, you know, symphony performance?
[00:14:58.680 --> 00:14:59.680] Okay, that's going to give me a lens.
[00:14:59.760 --> 00:15:01.440] So all those different types of data points
[00:15:01.440 --> 00:15:03.200] and being able to make sure I understand
[00:15:03.200 --> 00:15:04.280] what the client lens is,
[00:15:04.300 --> 00:15:06.200] but also kind of what their music consumption is,
[00:15:06.660 --> 00:15:07.520] it'll give me a perspective.
[00:15:08.560 --> 00:15:10.240] And sometimes people, what people can assume
[00:15:10.240 --> 00:15:14.080] is not vibe worthy, but there is a fit.
[00:15:14.100 --> 00:15:15.400] Maybe I can play it during dinner.
[00:15:15.660 --> 00:15:17.220] Maybe I can play it during cocktail hour
[00:15:17.220 --> 00:15:18.900] or maybe I can remix it.
[00:15:19.020 --> 00:15:21.220] Okay, maybe I can put a different beat over the track
[00:15:21.220 --> 00:15:22.180] or maybe, you know what I'm saying,
[00:15:22.220 --> 00:15:23.560] I can speed it up or slow it down.
[00:15:23.940 --> 00:15:25.880] So from that perspective, I still want to make sure
[00:15:25.880 --> 00:15:29.360] that at the end of the day, I'm client facing.
[00:15:29.880 --> 00:15:31.640] Because the thing about it is when you had a wedding,
[00:15:32.620 --> 00:15:33.460] you know, let's say, you know,
[00:15:33.500 --> 00:15:35.480] average size of wedding is 100, 120 people,
[00:15:35.800 --> 00:15:38.620] you got roughly another 50, 60 potential clients,
[00:15:38.620 --> 00:15:40.240] whether it's their friends that's engaged
[00:15:40.240 --> 00:15:43.000] or it might be a parent there who child is,
[00:15:43.000 --> 00:15:43.740] you know what I'm saying, engaged
[00:15:43.740 --> 00:15:44.700] or about to get engaged.
[00:15:45.180 --> 00:15:47.240] So, you know, maybe it might be six months
[00:15:47.240 --> 00:15:48.040] or a year or two years later,
[00:15:48.040 --> 00:15:49.520] they might be like, hey, I was at a wedding there,
[00:15:49.520 --> 00:15:51.440] you know, wherever, at a bar room at Park Lane
[00:15:51.440 --> 00:15:52.760] and you was really dope
[00:15:52.760 --> 00:15:55.220] and I wanted to see if you were available for this date.
[00:15:56.000 --> 00:15:58.280] So you always want to make sure that, you know,
[00:15:58.300 --> 00:16:00.240] not just your specific client experience,
[00:16:00.500 --> 00:16:02.640] but that, you know, your optics is on point,
[00:16:02.640 --> 00:16:04.320] you know, for anybody that may be in the room.
[00:16:04.320 --> 00:16:05.040] Yeah.
[00:16:05.500 --> 00:16:08.640] So it sounds like a lot of prep work beforehand.
[00:16:09.140 --> 00:16:11.140] Like for me, you know, doing the wedding
[00:16:11.140 --> 00:16:14.200] is more post-production, you know, after the wedding.
[00:16:14.600 --> 00:16:17.380] So what are some of those pre,
[00:16:17.640 --> 00:16:20.160] almost like homework that you got to do?
[00:16:20.760 --> 00:16:23.040] Man, you asked me for the secret sauce,
[00:16:23.440 --> 00:16:25.720] but you know, my son worked closely with me.
[00:16:25.720 --> 00:16:26.960] That's my right hand, man.
[00:16:27.640 --> 00:16:28.960] Shout out to AJ on the ones.
[00:16:29.480 --> 00:16:30.840] But I always say prior preparation
[00:16:30.840 --> 00:16:32.040] prevents poor performance.
[00:16:32.600 --> 00:16:36.020] Is that in order to execute a five,
[00:16:36.100 --> 00:16:38.560] what I would deem to be a five star event for me,
[00:16:38.580 --> 00:16:41.100] because I can't speak for other DJs, other processes.
[00:16:41.700 --> 00:16:44.380] But for me, you get your tip
[00:16:44.380 --> 00:16:46.400] and you get your Raven review
[00:16:46.400 --> 00:16:47.700] before you even show up to the event.
[00:16:48.840 --> 00:16:49.740] So to me it's like,
[00:16:49.800 --> 00:16:51.620] how quickly do you respond to emails?
[00:16:52.120 --> 00:16:53.300] You know, do you have a presentation
[00:16:53.300 --> 00:16:54.480] when you meet with clients?
[00:16:56.540 --> 00:16:57.620] Do you have a timeline?
[00:16:57.880 --> 00:17:00.160] Are you making sure that you effectively communicate
[00:17:00.160 --> 00:17:00.740] with other vendors,
[00:17:00.740 --> 00:17:02.260] whether it be a photographer,
[00:17:03.140 --> 00:17:05.400] officiant, the venue, what have you, the planners,
[00:17:06.079 --> 00:17:08.420] all those things allow the customer
[00:17:08.420 --> 00:17:10.040] to feel more and more comfortable.
[00:17:10.300 --> 00:17:11.099] So for me it's like,
[00:17:11.200 --> 00:17:12.319] even if you gave me all the information,
[00:17:12.880 --> 00:17:15.319] I'm still meeting with you the week after,
[00:17:15.319 --> 00:17:16.660] say, hey, is all this still good?
[00:17:16.740 --> 00:17:17.960] You might say, hey, you know what?
[00:17:18.180 --> 00:17:19.619] One of the bridesmaids, the baby came early,
[00:17:19.680 --> 00:17:20.700] so she's not gonna be here.
[00:17:20.980 --> 00:17:22.160] Or you might say, hey, you know what?
[00:17:22.240 --> 00:17:23.400] My dad really ain't feeling doing
[00:17:23.400 --> 00:17:25.420] the father daughter dance, so he want to cut it short.
[00:17:26.480 --> 00:17:29.180] By being able to have those clear line of communication
[00:17:29.180 --> 00:17:31.280] and give your clients those assurances,
[00:17:31.760 --> 00:17:33.620] it just puts you in a lot better position
[00:17:33.620 --> 00:17:35.340] and it allows the data to go a lot smoother.
[00:17:36.260 --> 00:17:37.320] A lot, you know, what I tell people,
[00:17:37.340 --> 00:17:38.840] I still get nervous at events,
[00:17:39.280 --> 00:17:41.620] but the better prepared you are,
[00:17:43.140 --> 00:17:45.100] it gives you more of a ease
[00:17:45.100 --> 00:17:47.540] and more of a level of sense of calmness
[00:17:47.540 --> 00:17:48.700] because you're prepared.
[00:17:49.080 --> 00:17:52.280] So for me, I rely heavily on my preparation
[00:17:52.280 --> 00:17:54.720] just to make me a lot more calmer
[00:17:54.720 --> 00:17:55.940] because I ain't got to worry about it.
[00:17:56.140 --> 00:17:56.840] Hey, that's right.
[00:17:57.420 --> 00:18:00.140] One of my things I say, reps replaced doubt.
[00:18:00.540 --> 00:18:04.620] Even if I did millions of videos,
[00:18:05.800 --> 00:18:08.980] songs, photos, and it's like the more I do it,
[00:18:09.340 --> 00:18:11.580] the more confident you are, the more prepared you are,
[00:18:11.600 --> 00:18:14.600] the more internal checklist that you have.
[00:18:15.480 --> 00:18:16.840] You don't need a physical checklist
[00:18:16.840 --> 00:18:18.900] if you've already done it a million times
[00:18:18.900 --> 00:18:20.380] and kind of memorized it.
[00:18:20.880 --> 00:18:23.160] Now it's just like hitting those bullet points,
[00:18:23.160 --> 00:18:27.920] like, I know this song is gonna, you know,
[00:18:28.180 --> 00:18:30.900] rile them up because it's a little dry right now.
[00:18:31.100 --> 00:18:32.300] So I'm gonna play it.
[00:18:32.300 --> 00:18:34.200] It's dinner, all right, it's a little chaos.
[00:18:34.560 --> 00:18:36.340] All right, it's time for me to be vocal.
[00:18:36.820 --> 00:18:39.140] So it's like having those reps,
[00:18:39.540 --> 00:18:40.580] it really replaced the doubt.
[00:18:41.140 --> 00:18:41.900] Definitely, definitely.
[00:18:42.920 --> 00:18:44.740] Yeah, and to me, like, that's really what the art is.
[00:18:44.760 --> 00:18:46.100] I mean, it's easy just to say,
[00:18:46.200 --> 00:18:49.320] let me get out here and play a Spotify list.
[00:18:49.900 --> 00:18:52.020] But sometimes, to me, like, that level of curation
[00:18:52.020 --> 00:18:53.400] to really read the crowd and say,
[00:18:53.560 --> 00:18:56.280] hey, you know what, it's mostly 50 and 60 year olds
[00:18:56.280 --> 00:18:57.100] on this dance floor.
[00:18:57.200 --> 00:18:58.740] Let me drop Love Shack, or let me, you know what I'm saying,
[00:18:58.780 --> 00:19:00.680] let me drop Frankie Beverly and Mays.
[00:19:00.960 --> 00:19:01.900] Or you can say, hey, you know what,
[00:19:02.000 --> 00:19:04.120] damn, the whole bridal party is out here by 20 on.
[00:19:04.460 --> 00:19:04.600] Yeah.
[00:19:04.760 --> 00:19:06.160] You know, I'm going straight to the Young Dolph.
[00:19:06.300 --> 00:19:07.140] I'm gonna hit them with Preach.
[00:19:07.240 --> 00:19:09.900] It's just like, it's so easy to open up
[00:19:09.900 --> 00:19:11.600] the dance floor with the same stuff everywhere.
[00:19:11.740 --> 00:19:12.960] Oh, let me play, you know,
[00:19:13.040 --> 00:19:14.760] Whitney Houston on the dance floor somewhere there.
[00:19:15.280 --> 00:19:17.480] You know, let me play Apache or Uptown Funk.
[00:19:18.280 --> 00:19:19.680] But to be able to look at the crowd and say,
[00:19:19.700 --> 00:19:20.300] hey, you know what,
[00:19:20.300 --> 00:19:22.720] they got a couple of South Asian people in there.
[00:19:22.740 --> 00:19:24.300] Let me play a little bit of balling, is it?
[00:19:24.700 --> 00:19:26.880] Or, you know, I heard a little accent over there.
[00:19:26.960 --> 00:19:28.740] I think I might've heard somebody from Jamaica
[00:19:28.740 --> 00:19:30.460] or from Trinidad and Tobago.
[00:19:30.640 --> 00:19:30.940] You know what I'm saying?
[00:19:30.940 --> 00:19:31.900] We played a little bit of reggae.
[00:19:32.380 --> 00:19:33.160] So for me, it's like,
[00:19:33.160 --> 00:19:35.600] that's where the true art is and curation
[00:19:35.600 --> 00:19:37.760] and where you separate yourself from is
[00:19:37.760 --> 00:19:40.220] by being able to have a breadth of music knowledge,
[00:19:40.380 --> 00:19:41.460] by being able to read the crowd and say,
[00:19:41.640 --> 00:19:42.180] hey, you know what,
[00:19:43.000 --> 00:19:44.640] they didn't say this person was gonna be here.
[00:19:44.680 --> 00:19:45.820] I got so far.
[00:19:45.980 --> 00:19:47.040] Yeah, reading the room.
[00:19:48.020 --> 00:19:48.800] Yeah, that's important.
[00:19:49.280 --> 00:19:49.500] Yeah.
[00:19:49.500 --> 00:19:50.940] See, I know you talked about,
[00:19:51.680 --> 00:19:53.320] you know, your level of preparation
[00:19:53.320 --> 00:19:55.200] and where your money is really made,
[00:19:55.200 --> 00:19:56.280] kind of like post-production.
[00:19:57.020 --> 00:19:58.840] But I kind of want to touch on contingencies.
[00:19:59.340 --> 00:19:59.720] Like, you know,
[00:19:59.840 --> 00:20:02.120] what are some of the contingencies you put in place
[00:20:02.120 --> 00:20:04.160] as like a videographer or photographer,
[00:20:04.340 --> 00:20:06.400] whether it's extra cards or extra cameras,
[00:20:06.440 --> 00:20:07.120] what have you?
[00:20:09.020 --> 00:20:10.980] Like I kind of mentioned, checklists.
[00:20:11.860 --> 00:20:13.620] Like you said, that open communication.
[00:20:15.160 --> 00:20:16.840] That's the biggest thing, you know,
[00:20:16.980 --> 00:20:18.680] before, during, and after.
[00:20:21.700 --> 00:20:26.940] So communication, checklists, backups of everything.
[00:20:27.640 --> 00:20:33.520] The backups, I remember I had one battery and one camera.
[00:20:34.140 --> 00:20:36.000] It wasn't a wedding, it was just a regular event.
[00:20:36.280 --> 00:20:38.420] But that led me to, okay,
[00:20:38.820 --> 00:20:42.000] I know the value of this event or this wedding.
[00:20:42.440 --> 00:20:44.580] So I don't even care if I use the second camera
[00:20:44.580 --> 00:20:47.400] or the second battery, second flash, whatever.
[00:20:47.400 --> 00:20:49.420] I'm going to have backups or whatever.
[00:20:50.160 --> 00:20:53.300] So you always have multiple, no matter what,
[00:20:53.580 --> 00:20:56.580] or if a SD card fails, have someone.
[00:20:56.720 --> 00:20:58.840] That's why I love having assistants or second shooters.
[00:20:58.920 --> 00:21:00.240] Even if they don't, you know,
[00:21:00.940 --> 00:21:02.520] do as much work as I do,
[00:21:03.680 --> 00:21:05.440] if I need them to run to the store, they could.
[00:21:05.560 --> 00:21:06.620] Yeah, you know.
[00:21:06.980 --> 00:21:09.940] So having good relationships, good team members,
[00:21:10.460 --> 00:21:11.640] being a team player.
[00:21:12.280 --> 00:21:15.700] So those things kind of, kind of helped me.
[00:21:15.700 --> 00:21:16.740] It's happened, so.
[00:21:17.380 --> 00:21:19.800] I would say, what's your favorite piece of equipment?
[00:21:20.880 --> 00:21:21.640] Ooh, favorite?
[00:21:21.680 --> 00:21:23.000] Part of the 20 years.
[00:21:23.240 --> 00:21:24.100] 20, 22?
[00:21:24.380 --> 00:21:24.740] 22.
[00:21:24.840 --> 00:21:26.200] Yeah, 22 years.
[00:21:27.460 --> 00:21:28.360] 23 is 25.
[00:21:28.660 --> 00:21:29.480] Yeah, 22, yeah.
[00:21:29.840 --> 00:21:30.300] 22.
[00:21:30.420 --> 00:21:32.540] Favorite piece of equipment, mm.
[00:21:35.060 --> 00:21:37.780] I would definitely say piece of equipment,
[00:21:37.980 --> 00:21:39.740] like if it's like a tangible item.
[00:21:40.160 --> 00:21:41.220] Probably have to be the laptop, man.
[00:21:41.260 --> 00:21:42.560] Laptops really change the game.
[00:21:43.180 --> 00:21:46.820] You know, to go from, you know, records to CDJs.
[00:21:46.820 --> 00:21:51.120] I mean, laptops just allow you to have access
[00:21:51.120 --> 00:21:53.920] to so much music and so many tools
[00:21:53.920 --> 00:21:55.400] and you can get so creative with it.
[00:21:55.580 --> 00:21:56.060] Yeah.
[00:21:56.060 --> 00:21:58.700] But the downside is, is that it gives people
[00:21:58.700 --> 00:21:59.880] like a false sense of reality.
[00:21:59.880 --> 00:22:02.920] They feel like because you have access to the internet
[00:22:02.920 --> 00:22:05.020] and you have access to, you know, whatever,
[00:22:05.700 --> 00:22:06.900] five terabyte hard drive.
[00:22:07.320 --> 00:22:09.320] Is that just supposed to have any song
[00:22:09.320 --> 00:22:10.760] that people request at will?
[00:22:10.880 --> 00:22:12.860] And that's not always necessarily the case.
[00:22:13.260 --> 00:22:15.940] All right, that is true, and I witnessed that.
[00:22:16.580 --> 00:22:19.260] But how important is like equipment like that?
[00:22:19.960 --> 00:22:22.260] Like good quality DJing equipment,
[00:22:22.480 --> 00:22:24.420] a good laptop with, you know, RAM,
[00:22:24.440 --> 00:22:25.620] and then also a hard drive.
[00:22:25.740 --> 00:22:26.960] How important are those things?
[00:22:27.600 --> 00:22:30.180] To me, it's kind of like the heart
[00:22:30.180 --> 00:22:32.320] or the epicenter of your business,
[00:22:32.320 --> 00:22:33.940] because if you don't have music,
[00:22:34.720 --> 00:22:35.480] you don't have nothing.
[00:22:36.340 --> 00:22:38.220] So, I mean, for me, it's like,
[00:22:38.340 --> 00:22:40.660] it's probably like outside of like the vehicle
[00:22:40.660 --> 00:22:42.560] to transport all the gear that I have.
[00:22:43.100 --> 00:22:45.040] The computers, I have one, two, three,
[00:22:45.040 --> 00:22:46.100] I have five computers.
[00:22:46.860 --> 00:22:48.660] And those are like the biggest investments that I make.
[00:22:48.700 --> 00:22:51.280] So I have computers to be able to run my photo booths.
[00:22:51.300 --> 00:22:54.480] I have, of course, you know, a backup laptop,
[00:22:54.580 --> 00:22:56.600] my main laptop, and then a lot of times
[00:22:56.600 --> 00:22:58.700] I have a laptop just for ceremony.
[00:22:59.560 --> 00:23:03.000] So, you know, I've had instances where like,
[00:23:03.160 --> 00:23:05.060] let's say I'm doing like a rooftop wedding
[00:23:05.060 --> 00:23:06.280] and I'm in a direct sun,
[00:23:06.660 --> 00:23:08.800] and both my laptops are overheated.
[00:23:08.960 --> 00:23:10.500] You know, I've been blessed to where
[00:23:10.500 --> 00:23:12.540] I can Bluetooth off my phone
[00:23:12.540 --> 00:23:14.320] and be able to play some songs.
[00:23:14.680 --> 00:23:16.380] And seamlessly, I don't want to ever know
[00:23:16.380 --> 00:23:18.300] until, you know, the sun moved
[00:23:18.300 --> 00:23:20.500] or I'm able to get the laptops to cool down.
[00:23:20.960 --> 00:23:25.960] So to me, contingencies are the most critical things,
[00:23:26.220 --> 00:23:27.040] especially as far as weddings,
[00:23:27.140 --> 00:23:29.300] because everything is like very, very time-sensitive.
[00:23:29.480 --> 00:23:31.100] It ain't gonna be no extra 10, 15 minutes.
[00:23:31.760 --> 00:23:32.640] It's time to go.
[00:23:33.080 --> 00:23:35.880] So you always have to have that contingency plan.
[00:23:37.880 --> 00:23:39.760] I was gonna ask about that too.
[00:23:40.180 --> 00:23:43.040] Was there a moment or a wedding that,
[00:23:43.060 --> 00:23:44.340] you know, you had to pivot?
[00:23:44.720 --> 00:23:46.260] Like, oh man, this has really happened?
[00:23:46.340 --> 00:23:50.060] Then you really had to pivot right on the spot, live?
[00:23:50.540 --> 00:23:52.140] Man, it just recently happened, man,
[00:23:52.440 --> 00:23:54.300] as recently as Memorial Day weekend.
[00:23:54.860 --> 00:23:56.040] So I was blessed.
[00:23:56.160 --> 00:23:58.100] We were in three cities in three days.
[00:23:59.740 --> 00:24:01.620] So Friday, we had a prom in Cleveland.
[00:24:01.780 --> 00:24:03.840] Saturday had a wedding in Cincinnati.
[00:24:04.040 --> 00:24:05.900] And Sunday had a wedding in Pittsburgh.
[00:24:06.820 --> 00:24:09.060] So for me, like I normally always have an assistant,
[00:24:09.060 --> 00:24:10.160] which is my son, like you're saying,
[00:24:10.260 --> 00:24:12.740] like in case I need to get some food or, you know,
[00:24:12.780 --> 00:24:13.680] you forget a cord or something,
[00:24:13.720 --> 00:24:15.140] you can send somebody out to get it, my bad.
[00:24:15.580 --> 00:24:18.440] And then saying that, my contingency was,
[00:24:18.560 --> 00:24:19.000] I'm like, all right,
[00:24:19.040 --> 00:24:21.040] I'm gonna go to Cincinnati and do that myself.
[00:24:21.880 --> 00:24:23.580] On Sunday, I want you to go to Pittsburgh
[00:24:23.580 --> 00:24:24.300] and set up for me.
[00:24:24.320 --> 00:24:26.860] God forbid if I get in an accident or I hit traffic,
[00:24:27.340 --> 00:24:29.900] I at least know that the wedding that I'm headed to
[00:24:29.900 --> 00:24:31.680] is already set up and have somebody on site.
[00:24:32.540 --> 00:24:34.560] So like, that was like my first contingency.
[00:24:34.620 --> 00:24:36.120] So I drive down to Cincinnati
[00:24:39.160 --> 00:24:41.120] and they have me on the rooftop.
[00:24:42.300 --> 00:24:44.960] Beautiful, little hotel, beautiful hotel,
[00:24:45.400 --> 00:24:48.040] overlooking the whole city, city backdrop behind me.
[00:24:49.340 --> 00:24:50.440] And everything is cool.
[00:24:50.620 --> 00:24:53.660] You know, cocktail hour up there, music was cool.
[00:24:53.860 --> 00:24:55.160] As soon as we was getting like 10 minutes
[00:24:55.160 --> 00:24:57.640] before we was getting ready to do introductions,
[00:24:58.200 --> 00:25:00.140] my laptop started overheating.
[00:25:00.200 --> 00:25:02.460] I sat around, the button go from like,
[00:25:02.520 --> 00:25:03.740] the bar go from green to red.
[00:25:03.760 --> 00:25:05.120] I'm like, awesome, it's overheating.
[00:25:07.060 --> 00:25:09.560] So I take that down, pull out my backup laptop.
[00:25:09.940 --> 00:25:12.380] Five minutes later, that overheat, I'm like, yo.
[00:25:12.480 --> 00:25:14.920] So I take those laptops and I put them in the kitchen
[00:25:14.920 --> 00:25:16.100] because the kitchen had AC.
[00:25:16.820 --> 00:25:18.160] So I told the planner, I was like, look,
[00:25:18.380 --> 00:25:19.680] I know we're getting ready to go live.
[00:25:20.100 --> 00:25:22.120] I'm like, I'm gonna have to play
[00:25:22.120 --> 00:25:24.200] all the introduction songs off my cell phone.
[00:25:24.580 --> 00:25:26.120] And the way my speakers are set up,
[00:25:26.140 --> 00:25:27.200] I got Bluetooth for them.
[00:25:27.600 --> 00:25:29.460] So I was like, hey, until the sun go down,
[00:25:29.980 --> 00:25:30.560] this is what we're gonna do.
[00:25:30.620 --> 00:25:31.600] She's like, hey, do what you gotta do.
[00:25:31.640 --> 00:25:33.100] So I literally had to make a decision,
[00:25:33.100 --> 00:25:36.080] which I normally under these circumstances
[00:25:36.080 --> 00:25:38.000] would never encourage anybody to do Bluetooth,
[00:25:38.100 --> 00:25:39.760] but I had to do what I had to do.
[00:25:39.780 --> 00:25:40.800] I didn't have time to move.
[00:25:40.920 --> 00:25:43.380] I didn't have an umbrella or anything like that
[00:25:43.380 --> 00:25:44.800] to cover for me because it's just based off
[00:25:45.160 --> 00:25:47.040] the aesthetics that they wanted for that space.
[00:25:47.720 --> 00:25:47.960] Yeah.
[00:25:48.380 --> 00:25:49.700] But I was able to pull off, you know.
[00:25:50.540 --> 00:25:53.000] Mic was good, played the music off my phone.
[00:25:53.100 --> 00:25:55.480] So one thing I always do is make sure like,
[00:25:55.520 --> 00:25:56.980] all my formality is bare minimum.
[00:25:57.340 --> 00:25:59.500] I have on my cell phone like an Apple Playness.
[00:26:00.040 --> 00:26:01.620] So, you know, first day as father, daughter, mother,
[00:26:01.620 --> 00:26:03.360] God forbid if anything didn't happen,
[00:26:03.540 --> 00:26:04.880] boom, I could just hop right on my phone
[00:26:04.880 --> 00:26:06.100] and end up playing the song.
[00:26:06.960 --> 00:26:08.560] So, you know, that's kind of like my contingency
[00:26:08.560 --> 00:26:10.740] or a time where I had to pivot like literally
[00:26:10.740 --> 00:26:13.880] within minutes as the client never knew.
[00:26:15.080 --> 00:26:15.700] That's true.
[00:26:15.840 --> 00:26:18.600] I mean, that's just tales of a true professional
[00:26:18.600 --> 00:26:19.260] for real.
[00:26:19.500 --> 00:26:20.200] Appreciate it.
[00:26:20.500 --> 00:26:22.640] So I know you kind of had a good love
[00:26:22.640 --> 00:26:25.700] for music throughout your whole life.
[00:26:26.120 --> 00:26:28.440] So a little after college,
[00:26:28.640 --> 00:26:29.740] where did you kind of pick up
[00:26:29.740 --> 00:26:32.620] on like the entrepreneurship and business?
[00:26:33.760 --> 00:26:36.360] So for me, like my family always tell you like,
[00:26:36.940 --> 00:26:39.440] I've always been a hustler like since I was young.
[00:26:39.640 --> 00:26:40.660] Like I remember like,
[00:26:42.020 --> 00:26:43.320] I had to do middle school.
[00:26:44.360 --> 00:26:45.040] You know, we was always,
[00:26:45.080 --> 00:26:46.900] I always liked to say we was in between blessings.
[00:26:48.100 --> 00:26:50.100] I had what I needed, but you know,
[00:26:50.100 --> 00:26:51.300] it was barely that.
[00:26:52.000 --> 00:26:54.600] So I remember I used to go to 99 cent store
[00:26:54.600 --> 00:26:56.600] and buy like the little Kit Kats and Reese's Pieces.
[00:26:57.100 --> 00:26:58.200] And I'd go to school and flip those
[00:26:58.200 --> 00:27:01.020] and I was selling for 25 cent a piece and make money.
[00:27:01.100 --> 00:27:02.620] And then I would do the same thing in high school
[00:27:02.620 --> 00:27:04.480] until I got caught and got in trouble for it.
[00:27:05.160 --> 00:27:06.340] And then I started washing cars
[00:27:06.340 --> 00:27:08.200] because I went to school with a whole bunch of rich kids.
[00:27:08.780 --> 00:27:09.880] So I started washing their cars.
[00:27:09.980 --> 00:27:12.060] I started, you know, car washing business in high school.
[00:27:12.420 --> 00:27:13.920] And I did that all the way through college.
[00:27:14.180 --> 00:27:15.360] I was detailing cars.
[00:27:15.460 --> 00:27:17.680] But then saying that for me,
[00:27:18.560 --> 00:27:20.260] I come from a family, you know,
[00:27:20.360 --> 00:27:22.380] half of it is kind of preachers
[00:27:22.380 --> 00:27:23.660] and the other half is kingpins.
[00:27:24.220 --> 00:27:26.440] So I never wanted to go down the road
[00:27:26.440 --> 00:27:29.060] of being incarcerated or trying to sell drugs
[00:27:29.060 --> 00:27:29.740] and being like that.
[00:27:29.760 --> 00:27:32.300] So I was trying to find a way to make money,
[00:27:32.380 --> 00:27:32.660] you know what I'm saying?
[00:27:32.760 --> 00:27:34.400] A positive way to where I didn't have to look
[00:27:34.400 --> 00:27:35.060] over my shoulder.
[00:27:35.220 --> 00:27:36.940] So for me, that's what always kind of drove me
[00:27:36.940 --> 00:27:39.160] was that I knew I wanted more out of life.
[00:27:39.180 --> 00:27:41.360] And I knew that, you know,
[00:27:42.200 --> 00:27:43.660] the most admirable way to do it
[00:27:43.660 --> 00:27:45.520] was to get out here and get after it.
[00:27:45.880 --> 00:27:46.180] So.
[00:27:46.560 --> 00:27:46.920] Yeah.
[00:27:48.900 --> 00:27:50.380] So I remember he said,
[00:27:52.400 --> 00:27:53.880] you know, you're working with your son
[00:27:53.880 --> 00:27:56.540] and he started, you know, as a teenager, you know.
[00:27:59.500 --> 00:28:02.500] So how important is growth for the youth
[00:28:03.300 --> 00:28:06.120] with DJing, like, you know,
[00:28:06.300 --> 00:28:10.700] DJing from 20 years ago versus, you know,
[00:28:10.940 --> 00:28:11.720] 10 years later,
[00:28:12.420 --> 00:28:14.800] how important is that like instilling it to the youth?
[00:28:15.760 --> 00:28:16.720] I mean, there's a,
[00:28:16.720 --> 00:28:17.900] I think there's an African proverb that says
[00:28:17.900 --> 00:28:20.080] you can give a man a fish and he'll eat for a day.
[00:28:20.160 --> 00:28:21.280] Or you can teach him how to fish
[00:28:21.280 --> 00:28:22.440] and he'll eat for a lifetime.
[00:28:22.660 --> 00:28:23.060] Right.
[00:28:23.060 --> 00:28:24.620] So for me, it's like,
[00:28:24.880 --> 00:28:27.080] the unfortunate part of DJing
[00:28:27.080 --> 00:28:28.760] is that it keeps you out of the house.
[00:28:29.520 --> 00:28:30.760] Yeah. You know, you're on site.
[00:28:30.920 --> 00:28:34.020] You know, events are easily 10, 12 hour days.
[00:28:34.360 --> 00:28:34.760] Easy.
[00:28:35.320 --> 00:28:36.500] You know, from the time, you know,
[00:28:36.640 --> 00:28:38.160] you load up your van to the time
[00:28:38.740 --> 00:28:40.360] you get back home and you unload it.
[00:28:41.600 --> 00:28:43.780] So for me, it was kind of selfishly a way
[00:28:43.780 --> 00:28:46.120] for me to still be able to spend time with my kids.
[00:28:46.840 --> 00:28:48.880] But, you know, the most important thing was really-
[00:28:48.880 --> 00:28:49.540] That's genius.
[00:28:50.180 --> 00:28:50.980] That's genius.
[00:28:51.500 --> 00:28:53.720] I do it with my daughter, you know.
[00:28:53.960 --> 00:28:55.740] Seven years old, pull out a little camera.
[00:28:56.560 --> 00:28:57.940] Like it's, it's genius.
[00:28:58.220 --> 00:28:59.740] Yeah. I mean, they don't see it like that.
[00:28:59.740 --> 00:29:01.220] They just see they get to hang out with dad
[00:29:01.220 --> 00:29:03.400] and eat good and go to fancy events.
[00:29:03.960 --> 00:29:06.800] I mean, the other half is to really be able to show
[00:29:06.800 --> 00:29:10.600] him kind of like the ins and outs of like,
[00:29:10.600 --> 00:29:11.180] entrepreneurship.
[00:29:11.720 --> 00:29:14.080] So, you know, the thing that really changed
[00:29:14.080 --> 00:29:16.840] my perspective on being able to scale my business
[00:29:16.840 --> 00:29:19.960] is really understanding a lot of people might,
[00:29:19.960 --> 00:29:21.340] you know, clutch their pros out.
[00:29:21.440 --> 00:29:22.960] You really don't have to be that dope of a DJ
[00:29:22.960 --> 00:29:25.800] or dope of a photographer or florist
[00:29:25.800 --> 00:29:26.920] to really be at the top.
[00:29:27.000 --> 00:29:29.180] At some point in time, you have to say,
[00:29:29.240 --> 00:29:31.100] you know what, my craft is good enough.
[00:29:31.760 --> 00:29:33.600] I got to do all these other small things
[00:29:33.600 --> 00:29:35.500] that's gonna allow people to see it.
[00:29:35.780 --> 00:29:37.740] So, you know, in 2020, that's what really opened
[00:29:37.740 --> 00:29:40.660] my eyes was when New Royal shut down.
[00:29:40.780 --> 00:29:43.080] I was like, I'm dope, but nobody know it.
[00:29:44.080 --> 00:29:46.260] And it's like, kind of getting back to what you said
[00:29:46.260 --> 00:29:49.020] about these kids, the biggest advantage that they have
[00:29:49.020 --> 00:29:52.680] over generations previously is, you know, social media
[00:29:53.240 --> 00:29:55.320] and the internet is really a lot of kids
[00:29:55.320 --> 00:29:57.440] or people in general, anybody in general,
[00:29:57.860 --> 00:29:59.200] to have a level of exposure
[00:29:59.200 --> 00:30:00.840] without any type of gatekeepers.
[00:30:01.640 --> 00:30:03.260] It's really, you know, disrupted the market
[00:30:03.260 --> 00:30:05.060] to say, hey, you know, instead of me having to go
[00:30:05.060 --> 00:30:07.980] through a third-party company or the Yellow Pages
[00:30:07.980 --> 00:30:09.520] or something like that to advertise,
[00:30:10.220 --> 00:30:12.100] I can literally like start my own community.
[00:30:12.240 --> 00:30:14.200] You can look at, you know, some of these,
[00:30:14.340 --> 00:30:15.740] a lot of these streamers like Kai
[00:30:15.740 --> 00:30:17.500] and different things like that
[00:30:17.500 --> 00:30:20.380] where if you're able to create, build your own community
[00:30:20.920 --> 00:30:23.840] and your followers that be able to show value
[00:30:23.840 --> 00:30:25.480] to people that, you know, something
[00:30:25.480 --> 00:30:26.700] that they're willing to consume
[00:30:27.120 --> 00:30:29.340] is that you're really able to have the keys to the castle
[00:30:29.340 --> 00:30:32.840] is that you no longer have to go through a CBS
[00:30:32.840 --> 00:30:35.420] or, you know, a Fox or what have you.
[00:30:35.500 --> 00:30:38.040] You can literally create your own destiny
[00:30:38.500 --> 00:30:39.680] within that, so.
[00:30:41.420 --> 00:30:42.220] That's true.
[00:30:42.980 --> 00:30:44.360] Just thinking about the times,
[00:30:45.380 --> 00:30:49.600] like when I started music, it was a little before
[00:30:49.600 --> 00:30:51.460] high school, late middle school,
[00:30:52.500 --> 00:30:55.680] not really treating it as a business as I did
[00:30:55.680 --> 00:30:58.340] in my late teens and, you know, early adulthood.
[00:30:58.560 --> 00:31:01.380] But if I had the tools then, like,
[00:31:01.380 --> 00:31:02.340] oh, I got to get signed.
[00:31:02.420 --> 00:31:04.240] Oh, I got to do this record to get signed.
[00:31:04.280 --> 00:31:07.500] Like, I think the mindset then was just getting signed
[00:31:07.500 --> 00:31:10.780] until I'm like, oh, you know, I could use this group,
[00:31:10.920 --> 00:31:13.780] this your kid, our tune core to publish my music
[00:31:13.780 --> 00:31:15.500] and get it out to the world, to the masses
[00:31:16.040 --> 00:31:17.960] and, you know, monetize it through stream.
[00:31:18.400 --> 00:31:21.060] So, you know, I think that's essential
[00:31:21.060 --> 00:31:23.440] and technology is always involved in
[00:31:23.440 --> 00:31:26.360] and how do you stay updated on trends
[00:31:26.360 --> 00:31:28.680] as far as technology in the DJ industry?
[00:31:29.920 --> 00:31:32.220] So for me, I tend, I actually tend to lag.
[00:31:32.720 --> 00:31:36.320] So I kind of look at it like a vehicle,
[00:31:36.440 --> 00:31:37.520] a piece of technology.
[00:31:38.080 --> 00:31:39.820] Like you never want to get the first iPhone.
[00:31:39.940 --> 00:31:41.280] You want to wait until it's iPhone a little bit
[00:31:41.280 --> 00:31:43.000] and then work out the kinks if it's a recall.
[00:31:43.000 --> 00:31:45.180] So for me, I tend to observe.
[00:31:45.440 --> 00:31:48.680] So even like, for instance, like AI, chat, GBT
[00:31:49.440 --> 00:31:51.420] or even social media to this extent.
[00:31:51.780 --> 00:31:53.340] I always want to make sure I understand it,
[00:31:53.340 --> 00:31:56.120] understand how it impacts people more specifically.
[00:31:56.680 --> 00:31:57.840] How will it impact my life?
[00:31:57.960 --> 00:31:59.340] Like, will it make my life easier?
[00:31:59.540 --> 00:32:01.460] Will it, or will it consume more time?
[00:32:01.540 --> 00:32:03.000] You know, could it become addictive?
[00:32:03.620 --> 00:32:05.740] From that perspective, I kind of observe
[00:32:05.740 --> 00:32:06.880] and then I look like, okay,
[00:32:06.960 --> 00:32:09.420] how can I implement this in my day to day?
[00:32:09.480 --> 00:32:11.720] How can I make my life easier
[00:32:11.720 --> 00:32:15.060] or more streamlined before I truly embrace it?
[00:32:15.600 --> 00:32:17.540] So for me, instead of like just hopping on the wave
[00:32:17.540 --> 00:32:18.700] and like, hey, let me get on TikTok
[00:32:18.700 --> 00:32:19.720] and start doing dances.
[00:32:19.760 --> 00:32:22.040] I'm like, well, how can I utilize this tool
[00:32:22.040 --> 00:32:23.320] to really distinguish myself
[00:32:23.320 --> 00:32:24.580] but also to learn and to grow?
[00:32:24.760 --> 00:32:27.740] So for me, I really always try to find ways to grow.
[00:32:28.160 --> 00:32:29.820] So everything that I consume
[00:32:30.180 --> 00:32:32.420] or the majority of stuff that I expose myself to,
[00:32:32.520 --> 00:32:34.640] I'm always trying to look at an aspect
[00:32:34.640 --> 00:32:38.100] on how I can grow because, you know, the algorithm
[00:32:38.100 --> 00:32:39.320] or there's so many things out here
[00:32:39.320 --> 00:32:40.520] that can really kind of deter you
[00:32:40.520 --> 00:32:42.520] to take you off track or be, you know,
[00:32:42.560 --> 00:32:44.060] for lack of better words, distractions.
[00:32:44.700 --> 00:32:45.780] So, I mean, like, you know,
[00:32:45.780 --> 00:32:47.140] you can be easily scrolling on Instagram.
[00:32:47.540 --> 00:32:48.840] It's gonna start to show you all the stuff
[00:32:48.840 --> 00:32:49.680] you're stopping to look at.
[00:32:49.840 --> 00:32:52.520] You're like, man, oh, you like this or you like that.
[00:32:52.540 --> 00:32:53.640] Let me show her more of that.
[00:32:54.000 --> 00:32:56.480] And before you know it, you off target.
[00:32:56.560 --> 00:32:57.540] You done lost your focus.
[00:32:58.040 --> 00:33:00.840] So for me, not interested, not interested, delete.
[00:33:01.400 --> 00:33:03.200] You know, I really try to make sure that, you know,
[00:33:03.220 --> 00:33:06.240] I create an environment, not just based off the algorithm
[00:33:06.240 --> 00:33:08.300] but the people I surround myself with,
[00:33:08.300 --> 00:33:09.840] with things that are gonna hold me accountable
[00:33:09.840 --> 00:33:12.720] and help me to, you know, to get better as an individual.
[00:33:13.400 --> 00:33:13.520] Yeah.
[00:33:14.060 --> 00:33:16.120] Was there a moment in life you learned that from?
[00:33:16.240 --> 00:33:18.460] Like, I gotta really black out distractions
[00:33:18.460 --> 00:33:20.080] and really lock in and focus.
[00:33:20.780 --> 00:33:21.780] Man, for me, it's like,
[00:33:21.880 --> 00:33:23.240] I chose a really, really good partner, man.
[00:33:23.240 --> 00:33:25.660] Like, my wife, if she don't do nothing else, man,
[00:33:25.660 --> 00:33:26.740] she gonna tell me by myself.
[00:33:26.980 --> 00:33:27.340] Yeah.
[00:33:27.340 --> 00:33:28.680] And I'm really grateful for that.
[00:33:28.720 --> 00:33:30.540] I mean, as a man, like, with your ego,
[00:33:30.560 --> 00:33:33.100] it's kind of hard to accept that, you know,
[00:33:33.100 --> 00:33:34.760] out of all these things and people that's telling you
[00:33:34.760 --> 00:33:36.580] that you're the best and that you this,
[00:33:36.760 --> 00:33:38.740] that when you come home to your safe space,
[00:33:38.740 --> 00:33:41.880] a person is just like, hey, well, you're slipping right here.
[00:33:41.920 --> 00:33:42.620] You need to watch that.
[00:33:42.680 --> 00:33:43.640] Have you thought about this?
[00:33:44.120 --> 00:33:45.160] It's always great to have somebody
[00:33:45.160 --> 00:33:46.760] that's not just gonna stroke your ego,
[00:33:47.180 --> 00:33:48.960] but that's gonna like keep pushing you to be better.
[00:33:49.320 --> 00:33:50.720] And it's really those small things
[00:33:50.720 --> 00:33:52.620] that really help you to separate.
[00:33:52.780 --> 00:33:54.940] It's not always specifically the big things.
[00:33:55.100 --> 00:33:57.080] It's really focusing, and like I tell my son,
[00:33:57.840 --> 00:33:59.520] you gotta, you know, consistently do the small things
[00:33:59.520 --> 00:34:00.920] well and the big things gonna go.
[00:34:02.080 --> 00:34:02.480] Wow.
[00:34:02.980 --> 00:34:03.240] Man.
[00:34:03.980 --> 00:34:06.820] Was there any business challenge
[00:34:06.820 --> 00:34:08.960] that kind of propelled you to where you are now?
[00:34:09.699 --> 00:34:12.600] Yeah, I mean, for me, it probably was fear.
[00:34:13.000 --> 00:34:16.219] For a long time, I was in the Cleveland office.
[00:34:16.340 --> 00:34:18.540] I moved to Cleveland roughly about 10 years ago.
[00:34:20.840 --> 00:34:23.400] I tried to hide when I was like, you know what?
[00:34:24.040 --> 00:34:26.360] We located here to take a job,
[00:34:26.460 --> 00:34:28.139] you know, as far as like being an engineer.
[00:34:28.420 --> 00:34:29.920] And I didn't want to start over again.
[00:34:30.020 --> 00:34:31.679] So I was like, I'm just gonna be,
[00:34:31.960 --> 00:34:32.580] I'm not gonna DJ no more.
[00:34:32.600 --> 00:34:34.639] I'm just gonna focus on my corporate career.
[00:34:35.000 --> 00:34:37.679] And then I had one of my buddies, Jim Lee.
[00:34:38.679 --> 00:34:39.679] He asked me to sell all my equipment.
[00:34:39.780 --> 00:34:40.940] He's like, nah, bro, he can't do that.
[00:34:41.340 --> 00:34:42.580] He's like, man, you got a gift, man.
[00:34:42.600 --> 00:34:44.340] He's like, nah, invest in this thing.
[00:34:45.159 --> 00:34:48.340] So then my wife actually went out and she started,
[00:34:48.679 --> 00:34:50.280] you know, at the time, Craigslist was the thing.
[00:34:50.300 --> 00:34:52.139] She went on Craigslist and tried to find
[00:34:52.540 --> 00:34:53.600] opportunities for me to DJ.
[00:34:54.040 --> 00:34:55.739] So, you know, I did a step with Rock the House
[00:34:55.739 --> 00:34:57.760] and I did a step with Abrize DJ.
[00:34:58.440 --> 00:34:59.900] And then recently I did a step
[00:34:59.900 --> 00:35:01.760] with Selective Sound Entertainment.
[00:35:03.720 --> 00:35:07.000] And 2020 came and I was doing good.
[00:35:07.880 --> 00:35:10.320] You know, they kept my calendar full and, you know,
[00:35:10.420 --> 00:35:11.260] I was happy.
[00:35:11.820 --> 00:35:15.680] Then 2020 came and all those contracts
[00:35:15.680 --> 00:35:17.720] and all those dates was canceled
[00:35:17.720 --> 00:35:19.580] because clients pulled out.
[00:35:20.700 --> 00:35:22.880] And for me, the eye-opening part was
[00:35:22.880 --> 00:35:25.680] the ownership piece was that if I held those contracts,
[00:35:26.140 --> 00:35:27.380] if I was the business owner,
[00:35:27.480 --> 00:35:28.620] I would at least be able to hold on
[00:35:28.620 --> 00:35:30.000] to those retainers and deposits
[00:35:30.940 --> 00:35:32.800] or be able to reschedule.
[00:35:33.220 --> 00:35:35.600] So for me, it was like, man, I didn't like that feeling
[00:35:35.600 --> 00:35:38.260] to go from like, okay, your calendar's good,
[00:35:38.280 --> 00:35:39.960] you got a budget, you got some income
[00:35:39.960 --> 00:35:43.160] that you are looking to capture to nothing.
[00:35:44.460 --> 00:35:46.200] I was blessed that I was able to kind of go
[00:35:46.200 --> 00:35:48.620] underground and do weddings and events
[00:35:48.620 --> 00:35:50.220] at people's houses or private venues
[00:35:50.220 --> 00:35:51.900] and things like that, which, I mean, that's cool,
[00:35:51.920 --> 00:35:53.600] but it really opened my eyes
[00:35:53.600 --> 00:35:55.640] because ownership is really critical.
[00:35:56.300 --> 00:35:58.020] So for me, like, that's where I really started
[00:35:58.020 --> 00:36:01.220] to push social media and networking
[00:36:01.220 --> 00:36:02.800] and really being on the forefront
[00:36:02.800 --> 00:36:04.180] and establish relationships in the industry
[00:36:04.180 --> 00:36:05.140] to say, hey, you know what,
[00:36:05.800 --> 00:36:07.520] we're a standalone company
[00:36:07.520 --> 00:36:10.200] and we're really here to bring something different
[00:36:10.200 --> 00:36:13.300] as far as high value service to clients.
[00:36:14.000 --> 00:36:16.380] So to me, COVID was really what was mine.
[00:36:16.520 --> 00:36:18.840] Like a better word, it's catalyst, no pun intended
[00:36:19.720 --> 00:36:22.880] to really change and focus on the marketing piece.
[00:36:23.440 --> 00:36:27.240] Mm, and you speak about taking control
[00:36:27.780 --> 00:36:30.260] and then the business where, music business
[00:36:30.260 --> 00:36:34.480] where ownership is not educated as much.
[00:36:34.580 --> 00:36:38.140] It's getting better, but how important is ownership
[00:36:38.140 --> 00:36:40.400] in general in business and entrepreneurship?
[00:36:42.360 --> 00:36:43.600] I mean, it's critical.
[00:36:43.820 --> 00:36:45.140] I mean, shout out to DJ Lowkey,
[00:36:45.320 --> 00:36:46.740] but I remember him pulling me to the side
[00:36:46.740 --> 00:36:48.780] at one of today's bridal shows.
[00:36:49.380 --> 00:36:50.480] I was working for another company,
[00:36:50.640 --> 00:36:52.820] he looked at me like, bro, why you not?
[00:36:52.880 --> 00:36:53.980] I'm doing your own thing.
[00:36:54.040 --> 00:36:55.020] I was like, this, this, that.
[00:36:55.060 --> 00:36:57.380] He was like, you got everything you need.
[00:36:57.680 --> 00:36:58.880] It's like, you just gotta get after it.
[00:36:58.900 --> 00:37:01.000] And it was like, that was one of the
[00:37:01.000 --> 00:37:02.500] pivotal conversations on the side
[00:37:02.500 --> 00:37:03.680] that kind of stood out to me.
[00:37:04.200 --> 00:37:06.440] And then I remember, you know,
[00:37:06.440 --> 00:37:09.360] when I drew out like the business plan
[00:37:09.360 --> 00:37:11.240] and told my wife that I wanted to do it,
[00:37:11.380 --> 00:37:13.040] you know, it was a huge investment
[00:37:13.040 --> 00:37:15.460] as far as equipment and assets,
[00:37:15.860 --> 00:37:17.000] websites and things like that.
[00:37:17.020 --> 00:37:18.320] And she backed me 100%.
[00:37:18.320 --> 00:37:20.680] She was like, let's do what we gotta do
[00:37:20.680 --> 00:37:22.880] and we put our own money behind it.
[00:37:25.160 --> 00:37:26.200] It's a ton of money.
[00:37:27.780 --> 00:37:31.800] But, you know, when I look back at it now,
[00:37:31.840 --> 00:37:32.900] it's all worth it.
[00:37:33.000 --> 00:37:35.320] I mean, people just see the results,
[00:37:35.360 --> 00:37:36.880] but they don't always see the process.
[00:37:36.900 --> 00:37:38.180] It takes in order to build.
[00:37:38.520 --> 00:37:40.740] Like, you know, they look at the optics
[00:37:40.740 --> 00:37:43.700] of being considered a top DJ in the area
[00:37:44.220 --> 00:37:46.400] and we traveling and all those different types of things.
[00:37:46.460 --> 00:37:47.860] But there was a lot of sacrifice
[00:37:47.860 --> 00:37:49.680] and a lot of investment to even get to this point.
[00:37:50.660 --> 00:37:54.500] And now, you know, at this juncture, it's bigger than me.
[00:37:54.980 --> 00:37:57.980] You know, I have children that need to go to school
[00:37:57.980 --> 00:38:00.180] and things aren't getting any less expensive.
[00:38:00.400 --> 00:38:00.720] Right.
[00:38:00.980 --> 00:38:02.600] So for me, it's all about making sure
[00:38:02.600 --> 00:38:05.020] kind of like, almost like a surgery on the truth
[00:38:05.020 --> 00:38:07.940] type of thing is that I help other DJs,
[00:38:08.160 --> 00:38:10.360] other event pros to be able to scale
[00:38:10.360 --> 00:38:12.160] and be able to get to a place
[00:38:12.160 --> 00:38:13.820] where they feel comfortable where they want to be.
[00:38:14.400 --> 00:38:15.740] So that's just kind of where I'm at.
[00:38:15.820 --> 00:38:17.300] It's just like, I'm good, I'm comfortable,
[00:38:17.300 --> 00:38:19.920] but how can I bring other people with me?
[00:38:19.920 --> 00:38:20.740] How can I help others?
[00:38:21.220 --> 00:38:22.000] Yeah, that's true.
[00:38:22.140 --> 00:38:24.000] And then even tying in the youth, you know,
[00:38:24.480 --> 00:38:27.260] we're here at one of my media partner's location,
[00:38:27.440 --> 00:38:29.200] Launch Arts, and you know,
[00:38:29.280 --> 00:38:31.300] I think it was exactly almost last year
[00:38:31.300 --> 00:38:34.500] or a couple of days, almost going on.
[00:38:34.580 --> 00:38:36.120] I was probably over a year ago.
[00:38:37.260 --> 00:38:38.600] You know, you did a spin prep.
[00:38:38.980 --> 00:38:39.480] Yes, sir.
[00:38:39.840 --> 00:38:42.980] I mean, a DJ institution like that is big.
[00:38:43.180 --> 00:38:47.100] Is there any other education that kind of propels you
[00:38:47.100 --> 00:38:48.960] or that you're taking?
[00:38:49.180 --> 00:38:50.080] That I can find.
[00:38:50.280 --> 00:38:51.220] Minds, courses.
[00:38:51.940 --> 00:38:56.620] Yeah, so I tell clients that when I get asked a question,
[00:38:56.860 --> 00:39:00.100] like, how do you improve or how do you stay on top
[00:39:00.100 --> 00:39:01.340] of things as far as the DJ?
[00:39:02.100 --> 00:39:03.280] I would say it's three parts.
[00:39:03.300 --> 00:39:05.440] So the first part is going to conferences.
[00:39:06.160 --> 00:39:07.800] To me, conferences are the biggest investment.
[00:39:08.440 --> 00:39:11.500] So I do weather MBA, like every other year.
[00:39:12.540 --> 00:39:14.720] There's another good show in Milwaukee
[00:39:14.720 --> 00:39:16.440] called Midwest DJ Live.
[00:39:17.000 --> 00:39:18.680] And recently in January this year,
[00:39:18.780 --> 00:39:21.040] I went to the DJ Summit in Pittsburgh.
[00:39:21.960 --> 00:39:22.860] Shout out to them.
[00:39:24.100 --> 00:39:26.320] They do a really, really good job
[00:39:26.320 --> 00:39:30.220] with being able to rejoin and be able to
[00:39:31.280 --> 00:39:32.480] educate DJs in general.
[00:39:33.240 --> 00:39:34.560] But it was DJs from all over
[00:39:34.560 --> 00:39:35.960] that had came to the DJ Summit.
[00:39:36.680 --> 00:39:38.440] And I put in an atmosphere, hopefully,
[00:39:39.320 --> 00:39:41.000] I'm able to speak at that show next year.
[00:39:41.220 --> 00:39:42.300] I'm putting in an atmosphere right now.
[00:39:43.340 --> 00:39:44.120] So that's kind of next thing.
[00:39:44.280 --> 00:39:45.140] But yeah, that's how.
[00:39:45.140 --> 00:39:46.420] So conferences are one thing.
[00:39:46.460 --> 00:39:48.060] I try to go to one or two conferences a year.
[00:39:49.500 --> 00:39:52.820] The second part is kind of an online platform.
[00:39:52.920 --> 00:39:54.940] So I'm a part of the DJs Vault,
[00:39:55.080 --> 00:39:57.200] which is headed up by Joe Bunn
[00:39:57.200 --> 00:39:59.600] out of Raleigh, North Carolina.
[00:39:59.800 --> 00:40:01.500] So it's kind of like an online YouTube type
[00:40:01.500 --> 00:40:02.480] based learning where you go
[00:40:02.480 --> 00:40:04.620] and they have different videos updated there.
[00:40:05.240 --> 00:40:06.580] And last part, How I Grow,
[00:40:07.120 --> 00:40:08.440] it's called that Give Back piece.
[00:40:08.960 --> 00:40:10.720] And you kind of talked about the spin prep piece.
[00:40:11.320 --> 00:40:13.500] But I'm also the Director of Community Engagement
[00:40:13.500 --> 00:40:14.420] for WIPA, which is the
[00:40:14.420 --> 00:40:16.100] Wending Industry Professional Association.
[00:40:17.420 --> 00:40:21.000] And my title is just a fancy, fancy, fancy name
[00:40:21.000 --> 00:40:23.600] for I Find Ways for Event Professionals
[00:40:23.600 --> 00:40:25.060] to give back to the local community,
[00:40:25.260 --> 00:40:26.100] whether it's through service,
[00:40:26.240 --> 00:40:27.820] whether it's through donations, what have you.
[00:40:28.200 --> 00:40:29.540] So we've aligned ourselves
[00:40:29.540 --> 00:40:31.620] with various community partners,
[00:40:32.300 --> 00:40:33.440] such as the Phil House,
[00:40:33.500 --> 00:40:37.260] which is like a nonprofit for foster kids
[00:40:37.260 --> 00:40:38.300] when they're emancipated.
[00:40:38.420 --> 00:40:39.840] You know, as soon as you turn 18,
[00:40:40.460 --> 00:40:42.720] you know, you have to go into the world.
[00:40:42.720 --> 00:40:44.280] So you got to get your first apartment.
[00:40:44.300 --> 00:40:46.320] They need different things like bedding
[00:40:46.320 --> 00:40:48.560] and plates and sheets and things like that.
[00:40:48.560 --> 00:40:48.860] Wow.
[00:40:48.980 --> 00:40:50.580] So they collect all those types of gifts
[00:40:50.580 --> 00:40:52.140] for kids that are being emancipated.
[00:40:52.680 --> 00:40:53.780] And then the other partner,
[00:40:54.020 --> 00:40:56.280] which is really been near and dear to my heart,
[00:40:57.320 --> 00:41:00.780] which is the, it just left me.
[00:41:02.820 --> 00:41:04.140] But it's gracious.
[00:41:05.920 --> 00:41:07.120] It'll come back to me.
[00:41:07.240 --> 00:41:13.020] But it's saying that I lost it, but yeah.
[00:41:13.020 --> 00:41:15.380] So yeah, I know you're headed that out.
[00:41:15.900 --> 00:41:16.920] No, it's all good.
[00:41:17.160 --> 00:41:20.320] Well, let's kind of touch on WIPA,
[00:41:20.540 --> 00:41:22.760] the WETA International Professional Association.
[00:41:23.640 --> 00:41:26.460] How important is a professional in the industry
[00:41:26.460 --> 00:41:28.680] to get a part of an association as such?
[00:41:29.380 --> 00:41:30.540] Yeah, I mean, so just kind of
[00:41:30.540 --> 00:41:31.640] rewind it back two paragraphs.
[00:41:31.940 --> 00:41:34.080] I mean, the most critical thing
[00:41:34.080 --> 00:41:35.100] that you just kind of touched on
[00:41:35.100 --> 00:41:36.220] was the educational piece.
[00:41:36.240 --> 00:41:38.420] To me, the most important thing
[00:41:38.420 --> 00:41:41.420] or the value that WIPA brings is the educational piece,
[00:41:41.420 --> 00:41:43.680] is that once you join WIPA,
[00:41:43.860 --> 00:41:47.140] you're not able just to indulge
[00:41:47.140 --> 00:41:48.440] or participate in events
[00:41:48.440 --> 00:41:50.820] in your specific city or region,
[00:41:50.840 --> 00:41:53.000] which in our cases, we have a Cleveland chapter.
[00:41:53.700 --> 00:41:56.140] But I've been able to go to other chapter events.
[00:41:56.560 --> 00:41:59.380] So let's say I want to grow my DJ business
[00:41:59.380 --> 00:42:01.120] and I want to do events in other places.
[00:42:01.620 --> 00:42:03.400] So I've gone to South Florida,
[00:42:03.600 --> 00:42:04.940] events to Galen's.
[00:42:06.540 --> 00:42:09.660] Cincinnati has something coming up in August.
[00:42:09.760 --> 00:42:11.200] I think it was August 12th.
[00:42:11.200 --> 00:42:12.160] I plan on going to that,
[00:42:12.400 --> 00:42:14.680] because a lot of times I get called to other markets.
[00:42:16.460 --> 00:42:18.040] Philadelphia or Raleigh.
[00:42:19.080 --> 00:42:21.440] In Sanlin, let's say I get a call
[00:42:21.440 --> 00:42:23.820] and the bride wants me to DJ a wedding in Philadelphia.
[00:42:24.000 --> 00:42:26.680] I can make a phone call to another DJ and say,
[00:42:26.780 --> 00:42:29.820] hey, look, can you give me a price
[00:42:29.820 --> 00:42:30.940] for the production piece?
[00:42:31.340 --> 00:42:32.280] To where when I drive out there,
[00:42:32.280 --> 00:42:33.780] all I got to do is bring my laptop,
[00:42:34.380 --> 00:42:36.060] rock the event, they tear it down.
[00:42:37.040 --> 00:42:38.600] So it's good to always have those networks.
[00:42:38.600 --> 00:42:43.900] I mean, I'm booking a destination wedding
[00:42:44.560 --> 00:42:46.440] in Cancun, Mexico next to you.
[00:42:46.840 --> 00:42:48.560] So for me it's like, I have another DJ
[00:42:48.560 --> 00:42:51.100] that I'm in contact with at Atlanta.
[00:42:51.700 --> 00:42:52.920] He does a lot of destination weddings.
[00:42:53.040 --> 00:42:55.360] I was like, hey bro, I've done destination wedding,
[00:42:55.460 --> 00:42:59.060] but what's some of the verbiage in your contract?
[00:42:59.640 --> 00:43:00.720] What are some of the contingencies
[00:43:00.720 --> 00:43:01.760] that you put into place?
[00:43:02.180 --> 00:43:05.200] And before I knew it, eight of the things,
[00:43:05.520 --> 00:43:07.720] I know I'm doing really well, but I missed two things.
[00:43:07.720 --> 00:43:11.420] He was like, hey, make sure they pay for your flight
[00:43:11.420 --> 00:43:12.560] versus you pay for your flight.
[00:43:12.940 --> 00:43:14.720] That way they have access to that.
[00:43:15.540 --> 00:43:18.720] Make sure, different small things like,
[00:43:18.720 --> 00:43:20.560] okay, they get you a room for a couple of days after.
[00:43:20.640 --> 00:43:22.260] That way, if anything happens,
[00:43:22.420 --> 00:43:24.540] like let's say a hurricane comes and something crazy,
[00:43:24.860 --> 00:43:26.660] if they need to push it back, you're already on site.
[00:43:27.080 --> 00:43:28.040] So it was different things like that
[00:43:28.740 --> 00:43:30.620] that I didn't take into consideration.
[00:43:30.680 --> 00:43:32.640] I'm just trying to go there and do what I got to do
[00:43:32.640 --> 00:43:33.500] and then come back.
[00:43:34.040 --> 00:43:35.280] But there's other contingencies
[00:43:35.280 --> 00:43:36.500] that I know I need to put in place,
[00:43:36.930 --> 00:43:37.980] like travel with assistant.
[00:43:38.200 --> 00:43:39.980] God forbid you get food poisoning
[00:43:39.980 --> 00:43:40.960] or something like that crazy.
[00:43:41.020 --> 00:43:42.320] You got someone that could step in
[00:43:42.320 --> 00:43:44.240] and still make sure they write their events.
[00:43:44.420 --> 00:43:45.820] So all those different types of things
[00:43:45.820 --> 00:43:48.940] by being able to have a network of other DJs,
[00:43:49.680 --> 00:43:51.280] it's very critical, very important.
[00:43:52.760 --> 00:43:56.440] Yeah, we speak a lot about relationship and connections
[00:43:56.440 --> 00:43:59.580] and even putting me in touch with DJ Lowkey
[00:43:59.580 --> 00:44:03.820] over the shades, bridal, and I was very adamant
[00:44:03.820 --> 00:44:05.960] and growing in my wedding photography business.
[00:44:07.280 --> 00:44:11.220] Kind of cut down a little bit to focus more on live events,
[00:44:11.700 --> 00:44:13.960] but it's still one of my top services,
[00:44:14.260 --> 00:44:16.520] maybe number two behind just live events.
[00:44:17.000 --> 00:44:19.680] So I definitely appreciate you for that connection.
[00:44:22.000 --> 00:44:28.520] Man, so as a new entrepreneur, not even day one,
[00:44:29.020 --> 00:44:32.480] speaking to them, how important is contracts
[00:44:32.480 --> 00:44:34.140] when you're telling them that?
[00:44:36.020 --> 00:44:38.080] Man, I think it's like three to five things
[00:44:38.080 --> 00:44:40.080] that I always tell any new entrepreneur
[00:44:40.080 --> 00:44:41.020] that you need to have.
[00:44:41.900 --> 00:44:42.980] You definitely have to make sure
[00:44:42.980 --> 00:44:44.380] that you're registered with the state.
[00:44:44.600 --> 00:44:45.620] You have an EIN number.
[00:44:45.740 --> 00:44:48.240] I mean, that's business one-on-one.
[00:44:48.380 --> 00:44:50.780] You wanna make sure that you have a legitimate business.
[00:44:50.880 --> 00:44:52.280] You wanna be out here operating with a name
[00:44:52.280 --> 00:44:54.740] that belongs to somebody else and they come after you
[00:44:54.740 --> 00:44:57.460] or you operate with a dope name
[00:44:57.460 --> 00:44:58.740] and you starting to get some traction
[00:44:58.740 --> 00:44:59.920] and someone take your name.
[00:45:00.680 --> 00:45:01.620] So that's the first thing.
[00:45:01.620 --> 00:45:03.640] Before you launch anything, you wanna make sure
[00:45:03.640 --> 00:45:05.280] it's only a couple hundred bucks
[00:45:05.280 --> 00:45:06.820] just registered with the state.
[00:45:07.640 --> 00:45:09.460] The second thing, once you get your EIN,
[00:45:09.600 --> 00:45:11.200] you wanna make sure you get your business account.
[00:45:11.880 --> 00:45:13.140] So whatever your bank institution,
[00:45:13.360 --> 00:45:14.480] the credit union or what have you,
[00:45:15.040 --> 00:45:16.400] you wanna make sure you have a business account
[00:45:16.400 --> 00:45:18.360] because from that perspective as a new entrepreneur,
[00:45:19.020 --> 00:45:21.120] you probably gonna operate, you know what I'm saying,
[00:45:22.220 --> 00:45:23.640] as a business that's not making any money
[00:45:23.640 --> 00:45:24.680] for the first few years.
[00:45:25.380 --> 00:45:27.440] So from an accountant standpoint, not an accountant,
[00:45:27.520 --> 00:45:28.600] you wanna make sure you're able to get
[00:45:28.600 --> 00:45:30.320] all those write-offs as far as like you said,
[00:45:31.140 --> 00:45:33.300] whatever equipment, websites, transportation,
[00:45:34.020 --> 00:45:35.940] whatever supporting aspects you need
[00:45:35.940 --> 00:45:38.000] to support your business and its growth.
[00:45:38.240 --> 00:45:40.040] So I mean, that's number two.
[00:45:40.220 --> 00:45:41.960] And then three, if you're specifically
[00:45:41.960 --> 00:45:44.300] in the events industry like us,
[00:45:44.340 --> 00:45:46.220] you wanna make sure you have liability insurance.
[00:45:46.780 --> 00:45:47.380] That's important.
[00:45:47.560 --> 00:45:48.840] I mean, a lot of venues and places
[00:45:48.840 --> 00:45:51.380] won't even allow you in if you don't have a COI.
[00:45:51.620 --> 00:45:53.220] So I mean, that's very, very critical.
[00:45:54.240 --> 00:45:56.100] The fourth thing is definitely have a website.
[00:45:56.320 --> 00:45:57.840] I mean, it's just important that,
[00:45:58.160 --> 00:45:59.500] it's probably not as important as it was
[00:45:59.500 --> 00:46:01.240] at one point in time, but for me,
[00:46:01.260 --> 00:46:05.020] it shows a level of legitimacy if you have a website,
[00:46:05.080 --> 00:46:07.740] especially if it's a nice website, it's easy to use.
[00:46:09.180 --> 00:46:10.680] And then of course, the fifth part,
[00:46:10.900 --> 00:46:12.020] you gotta have social media.
[00:46:12.140 --> 00:46:15.780] I know a lot of people like to be kind of private
[00:46:15.780 --> 00:46:17.400] or what have you, I'm the same way too,
[00:46:17.900 --> 00:46:19.320] but it's important to have
[00:46:19.320 --> 00:46:20.980] some type of social media presence.
[00:46:21.660 --> 00:46:23.340] The more engaged, of course,
[00:46:24.140 --> 00:46:25.960] the more connected you are with other people.
[00:46:26.420 --> 00:46:27.460] Clients tend to look at that.
[00:46:27.460 --> 00:46:30.620] Oh, I see that you, like, you know, DJ Loki
[00:46:30.620 --> 00:46:34.100] or you know, whoever that person is.
[00:46:34.400 --> 00:46:35.680] It gives you a level of legitimacy
[00:46:36.540 --> 00:46:39.880] if you're in the network of working professionals.
[00:46:40.540 --> 00:46:42.680] So to me, those are the top five things
[00:46:42.680 --> 00:46:45.900] as a newbie or a kind of a novice entrepreneur
[00:46:46.680 --> 00:46:49.560] that you wanna have as far as investment.
[00:46:50.140 --> 00:46:52.460] You know, before you try to, you know,
[00:46:52.660 --> 00:46:55.820] get a chainmail with your logo and end up being crazy.
[00:46:55.820 --> 00:46:56.560] Oh, man.
[00:46:56.560 --> 00:46:58.380] You know, make sure you have those things in place
[00:46:58.380 --> 00:47:00.300] before you try to have the objects that you're borrowing
[00:47:00.300 --> 00:47:01.900] that you're renting out here, so.
[00:47:02.400 --> 00:47:05.300] Wow, man, that's big, that's major.
[00:47:06.040 --> 00:47:09.760] And even further, about the digital marketing website
[00:47:10.300 --> 00:47:13.840] and social media, which is critical.
[00:47:14.900 --> 00:47:16.320] I once heard this,
[00:47:17.280 --> 00:47:20.000] a sign with no business is a sign of no business.
[00:47:21.660 --> 00:47:24.960] So it is, I'm even beat myself up sometimes.
[00:47:24.960 --> 00:47:27.320] I'm not the best at posting on social media.
[00:47:27.480 --> 00:47:29.980] I'm good at creating content, getting all and everything,
[00:47:30.460 --> 00:47:32.720] but as far as posting and coming up
[00:47:32.720 --> 00:47:35.020] with a consistent schedule, you know,
[00:47:35.040 --> 00:47:37.640] I struggle a little bit because I do a lot
[00:47:37.640 --> 00:47:41.220] and I continue to get better each day, each week,
[00:47:41.220 --> 00:47:42.720] and I challenge myself, okay,
[00:47:43.220 --> 00:47:45.420] I'm gonna post at least once a day.
[00:47:46.000 --> 00:47:47.840] You know, I do it for about, you know,
[00:47:47.920 --> 00:47:49.520] a couple of days or a couple of weeks
[00:47:49.520 --> 00:47:53.580] and I kind of back down and don't post for a week.
[00:47:54.140 --> 00:47:55.420] Currently doing that.
[00:47:56.280 --> 00:48:00.820] But it's very critical to have that reminder.
[00:48:01.080 --> 00:48:02.760] Like people forget that I do photography
[00:48:03.220 --> 00:48:05.140] because I do so many other things,
[00:48:05.200 --> 00:48:06.380] but it's like, dang, really?
[00:48:06.500 --> 00:48:07.540] This is my main business
[00:48:07.540 --> 00:48:09.380] and they forgot I do photography?
[00:48:09.500 --> 00:48:12.840] Okay, let me start putting messaging around,
[00:48:12.840 --> 00:48:15.100] you know, photography and, you know,
[00:48:15.380 --> 00:48:17.120] okay, reminders that I do events,
[00:48:17.580 --> 00:48:19.720] reminders that I do weddings, headshots.
[00:48:20.060 --> 00:48:22.260] And those are my core and that's what I market.
[00:48:22.260 --> 00:48:24.760] Anything goes, it's a conversation
[00:48:24.760 --> 00:48:26.060] because I may, you know,
[00:48:26.180 --> 00:48:27.840] give off to someone else as a referral,
[00:48:28.640 --> 00:48:32.000] but it is critical to put yourself out there
[00:48:32.000 --> 00:48:33.600] even when you do not want to,
[00:48:33.620 --> 00:48:35.060] even at networking events.
[00:48:35.220 --> 00:48:37.200] And I want to speak to, you know,
[00:48:37.380 --> 00:48:40.720] the constant growth of any business,
[00:48:40.920 --> 00:48:42.640] how critical is networking?
[00:48:44.480 --> 00:48:47.720] It's very simple and I had to say it to myself as well.
[00:48:48.500 --> 00:48:50.440] Your net worth is your net worth.
[00:48:51.200 --> 00:48:53.060] Your net worth is your net worth.
[00:48:53.600 --> 00:48:56.560] So if you look at the people that are either, you know,
[00:48:56.640 --> 00:48:59.260] in your phone that you speak to on a consistent basis,
[00:48:59.400 --> 00:49:00.520] that you email or what have you,
[00:49:01.160 --> 00:49:02.840] you look at, you know, how much money they make
[00:49:02.840 --> 00:49:03.960] or the types of things they're doing,
[00:49:04.040 --> 00:49:05.040] types of conversation they have,
[00:49:05.040 --> 00:49:06.080] that's what really gonna determine.
[00:49:06.560 --> 00:49:08.000] You know, are you really hanging around the people
[00:49:08.520 --> 00:49:09.760] that are either going,
[00:49:10.060 --> 00:49:11.520] are at where you want to be at
[00:49:11.520 --> 00:49:12.820] or they're having a conversation
[00:49:12.820 --> 00:49:14.380] or having a mentality where you're gonna be at?
[00:49:14.740 --> 00:49:18.100] Because the reality is, is that it has to be a mindset.
[00:49:18.160 --> 00:49:19.360] You have to have a growth mindset.
[00:49:19.360 --> 00:49:21.560] And if you're around people that's complaining about
[00:49:21.560 --> 00:49:23.080] things that are really minuscule
[00:49:23.080 --> 00:49:25.300] and that's really going, for me,
[00:49:25.800 --> 00:49:27.080] you know, leave a mark on legacy.
[00:49:28.320 --> 00:49:29.600] For me, it's like, I will,
[00:49:29.820 --> 00:49:31.640] once you be around me, I don't have time for you.
[00:49:32.120 --> 00:49:34.320] And for me, like, as you're, you know,
[00:49:34.380 --> 00:49:35.300] as you grow, as you scale,
[00:49:35.340 --> 00:49:36.860] like that mental health piece
[00:49:37.360 --> 00:49:38.620] becomes more and more critical.
[00:49:38.640 --> 00:49:40.480] So having people that's really positive
[00:49:40.480 --> 00:49:42.880] and that's really locked in or, you know,
[00:49:42.980 --> 00:49:47.480] or family and creating experiences and bringing value
[00:49:48.280 --> 00:49:51.240] and staying in shape and staying grounded
[00:49:51.940 --> 00:49:53.680] and creating relationships with,
[00:49:53.680 --> 00:49:55.320] deeper relationships with family and friends.
[00:49:55.780 --> 00:49:57.180] To me, those are the people that you want to be around.
[00:49:57.260 --> 00:49:59.040] But if you're around people that's just,
[00:49:59.040 --> 00:50:00.940] you know, pill of the pulse and, you know,
[00:50:00.980 --> 00:50:03.080] just complaining and looking for, you know,
[00:50:03.320 --> 00:50:04.720] excuses versus creating solutions,
[00:50:05.460 --> 00:50:07.560] you know, that's gonna permeate, you know,
[00:50:07.680 --> 00:50:08.480] your thought process.
[00:50:08.560 --> 00:50:09.700] It'll become a distraction.
[00:50:11.220 --> 00:50:12.420] So for me, that perspective, like,
[00:50:12.420 --> 00:50:14.120] that's why networking is really, really critical
[00:50:14.980 --> 00:50:18.920] because man, you know, as I'm blessed to, you know,
[00:50:19.060 --> 00:50:20.160] to kind of grow and elevate
[00:50:20.160 --> 00:50:21.220] and be exposed to different people,
[00:50:21.280 --> 00:50:23.940] a lot of decisions, a lot of opportunities
[00:50:23.940 --> 00:50:26.560] are made before the beta or RFQ really come out.
[00:50:26.780 --> 00:50:29.200] It's really someone saying, like you said, you know,
[00:50:29.200 --> 00:50:30.660] you being on the forefront of somebody's mind.
[00:50:30.880 --> 00:50:33.120] They say, oh, yeah, I know a really dope photographer.
[00:50:33.320 --> 00:50:34.740] This is, you know, his or her style.
[00:50:35.140 --> 00:50:36.880] I really know a dope DJ or florist.
[00:50:36.940 --> 00:50:38.940] You know, whatever your thing is,
[00:50:39.740 --> 00:50:41.660] is being on the forefront of people's minds.
[00:50:41.660 --> 00:50:44.160] And if your business and your marketing
[00:50:44.160 --> 00:50:45.300] is not important to yourself,
[00:50:45.340 --> 00:50:47.920] how can you expect anybody else to take it seriously?
[00:50:48.400 --> 00:50:49.620] Man, that's very true.
[00:50:50.000 --> 00:50:51.300] You have to invest in yourself.
[00:50:52.080 --> 00:50:53.480] That's very critical,
[00:50:53.740 --> 00:50:55.880] especially speaking on the growth mindset.
[00:50:56.500 --> 00:50:58.200] And just to touch a little bit about that,
[00:50:58.260 --> 00:51:01.860] but as we wrap up, you know, you have a mentee
[00:51:01.860 --> 00:51:03.400] and you're kind of speaking to them
[00:51:03.400 --> 00:51:05.860] to, like, elevate themselves.
[00:51:07.260 --> 00:51:08.460] What are the steps you would take
[00:51:08.460 --> 00:51:10.640] to help them grow their growth mindset?
[00:51:12.240 --> 00:51:14.200] I mean, the first thing I would ask anybody to do
[00:51:14.200 --> 00:51:16.220] is read a book called Purpose Driven Life.
[00:51:18.180 --> 00:51:21.320] It's really to find something that you really want to do.
[00:51:22.460 --> 00:51:23.440] If you can find something
[00:51:23.440 --> 00:51:24.980] that don't nobody have to wake you up to do,
[00:51:25.140 --> 00:51:27.080] no one has to tell you to do it.
[00:51:27.360 --> 00:51:28.860] If you get any extra money,
[00:51:28.980 --> 00:51:30.420] that's what you want to spend your money on.
[00:51:30.420 --> 00:51:32.380] To me, that's how you know you're doing the right thing.
[00:51:33.720 --> 00:51:35.820] Generally where people tend to get the revs,
[00:51:35.860 --> 00:51:39.200] a lot of people are chasing the quote unquote the bag
[00:51:39.200 --> 00:51:41.200] or the money or the result or the optics
[00:51:41.200 --> 00:51:43.460] or something that makes them feel that look good
[00:51:43.460 --> 00:51:45.140] versus really trying to find something
[00:51:45.140 --> 00:51:46.660] that's really their passion or purpose.
[00:51:47.360 --> 00:51:48.540] And for me, it's like, you know,
[00:51:48.540 --> 00:51:50.620] I still do the engineering thing,
[00:51:50.620 --> 00:51:54.960] but to me, DJing is also like my passion or purpose too.
[00:51:55.580 --> 00:51:58.700] Like no one has to tell me to make sure
[00:51:58.700 --> 00:52:00.900] that I do my timeline and I follow up with a client
[00:52:00.900 --> 00:52:02.440] and did you do this or did you do that?
[00:52:02.460 --> 00:52:04.400] Like to me, it's like, I'm always,
[00:52:04.640 --> 00:52:05.760] it kind of consumes me.
[00:52:05.820 --> 00:52:06.940] I'm always thinking about it.
[00:52:07.480 --> 00:52:09.100] And I put my own money behind it.
[00:52:09.100 --> 00:52:10.800] That's how important I take it.
[00:52:10.800 --> 00:52:14.900] I was like, you know, no one's going to give me a handout.
[00:52:15.800 --> 00:52:17.040] So from that perspective,
[00:52:18.300 --> 00:52:19.860] that's what I would tell any entrepreneur,
[00:52:20.100 --> 00:52:21.900] like find something that you really,
[00:52:21.900 --> 00:52:24.060] you're passionate about and then find the gap
[00:52:24.060 --> 00:52:26.120] or find a shortcoming in the market,
[00:52:26.620 --> 00:52:28.060] you know, to where you can fulfill that.
[00:52:28.180 --> 00:52:29.700] So even if you're saying, hey, I'm in the healthcare,
[00:52:29.860 --> 00:52:32.120] yeah, you might not be able to be a doctor
[00:52:32.120 --> 00:52:33.680] or an LPN or something like that,
[00:52:33.680 --> 00:52:36.480] but hey, you might be able to create, you know,
[00:52:36.620 --> 00:52:38.420] a transportation company that, you know,
[00:52:38.440 --> 00:52:40.600] could kind of fill a gap for dementia patients
[00:52:40.600 --> 00:52:44.640] or, you know, the aging, you know, demographic
[00:52:44.640 --> 00:52:45.700] or maybe boomers.
[00:52:46.180 --> 00:52:47.800] So I mean, it's all kinds of opportunities out here.
[00:52:47.820 --> 00:52:49.060] You just really got to find something
[00:52:49.060 --> 00:52:49.980] that you're passionate about.
[00:52:50.060 --> 00:52:52.240] Like I got a dude that's in a group home.
[00:52:52.320 --> 00:52:54.680] So I mean, whatever your thing is, you know,
[00:52:54.680 --> 00:52:57.720] I just encourage you to learn as much about it,
[00:52:57.800 --> 00:52:59.440] niche down, grow it, scale it,
[00:52:59.440 --> 00:53:02.120] and then find other things that's adjacent to it
[00:53:02.120 --> 00:53:04.220] that you're passionate about, so.
[00:53:04.800 --> 00:53:07.020] Yes, and passion fulfills purpose.
[00:53:07.100 --> 00:53:08.480] You know, they go hand in hand.
[00:53:08.840 --> 00:53:12.240] You know, someone that's real passionate about what they do
[00:53:12.240 --> 00:53:14.580] and they're going to continue to fill out their purpose
[00:53:14.580 --> 00:53:18.280] and love it and enjoy it and really take it to heart.
[00:53:19.400 --> 00:53:21.420] So again, as we wrap up,
[00:53:22.700 --> 00:53:26.520] my audience is geared towards that beginning entrepreneur
[00:53:26.520 --> 00:53:29.360] or someone that's working a nine to five,
[00:53:29.380 --> 00:53:32.000] multiple jobs, but they kind of want to change their
[00:53:32.000 --> 00:53:33.320] life and become an entrepreneur.
[00:53:34.400 --> 00:53:36.060] What are some encouraging words
[00:53:36.060 --> 00:53:37.980] for that inspired entrepreneur?
[00:53:40.220 --> 00:53:42.500] Inspired entrepreneur, first thing, write it down.
[00:53:43.260 --> 00:53:44.040] Write it down.
[00:53:44.300 --> 00:53:47.080] You know, whatever you want to do, put it on paper.
[00:53:47.160 --> 00:53:48.980] To me, it doesn't exist if it's not on paper.
[00:53:50.060 --> 00:53:51.120] You know, once you write it down,
[00:53:51.160 --> 00:53:53.280] be discreet on who you share it with.
[00:53:54.580 --> 00:53:57.620] You know, your calling or your purpose,
[00:53:57.720 --> 00:53:58.360] you know what I'm saying?
[00:53:58.780 --> 00:53:59.620] It's just for you.
[00:53:59.660 --> 00:54:00.700] It wasn't a conference call.
[00:54:01.340 --> 00:54:03.260] So for me, like why you need to share it with everybody?
[00:54:04.240 --> 00:54:07.120] But, you know, guide your creator, you know,
[00:54:07.200 --> 00:54:08.860] whoever you look to as your higher pride,
[00:54:08.860 --> 00:54:10.920] guide your direction of, you know,
[00:54:11.100 --> 00:54:12.220] who you need to share it with.
[00:54:12.400 --> 00:54:13.540] And you need to ask like, okay,
[00:54:14.120 --> 00:54:15.880] what people do I need to have in my life
[00:54:16.240 --> 00:54:18.080] in order to grow this into the skeleton?
[00:54:18.360 --> 00:54:20.900] Just know that you're going to do everything on your own,
[00:54:21.300 --> 00:54:22.860] but you do need to take it seriously.
[00:54:24.060 --> 00:54:25.880] And it's not going to happen overnight.
[00:54:26.500 --> 00:54:28.540] So there's no way I'm going to plant a pear tree
[00:54:28.540 --> 00:54:31.540] or plant a cherry tree and expect that next year
[00:54:31.540 --> 00:54:33.260] or the year after that I'm going to have cherries
[00:54:33.260 --> 00:54:34.880] that I can eat or consume.
[00:54:35.640 --> 00:54:37.720] And sometimes it might take three, four, five years
[00:54:37.720 --> 00:54:39.200] for a tree to be able to bear fruit.
[00:54:39.720 --> 00:54:41.400] But you got to continue to nurture that gift.
[00:54:41.540 --> 00:54:43.920] You got to continue to nurture that idea.
[00:54:44.460 --> 00:54:45.020] You know what I'm saying?
[00:54:45.340 --> 00:54:47.460] That you were given that you know lies within you.
[00:54:48.400 --> 00:54:49.800] And, you know, it's a funny call
[00:54:49.800 --> 00:54:51.520] that took 10 years to become overnight success.
[00:54:51.640 --> 00:54:53.340] So it's just like, a lot of people say,
[00:54:53.600 --> 00:54:54.660] man, it seemed like you came out of nowhere.
[00:54:54.780 --> 00:54:56.160] It's just like, no, I was grinding.
[00:54:56.440 --> 00:54:57.580] You just start paying attention.
[00:54:58.520 --> 00:55:00.080] So from that perspective, like just,
[00:55:00.160 --> 00:55:02.220] you got to be willing to trust the process
[00:55:02.640 --> 00:55:03.980] and to be able to be patient,
[00:55:04.380 --> 00:55:05.160] give yourself grace.
[00:55:06.280 --> 00:55:08.640] Oh, trust the process.
[00:55:09.580 --> 00:55:11.580] Then end it with give yourself grace.
[00:55:12.040 --> 00:55:13.440] That's very important.
[00:55:13.680 --> 00:55:15.520] And, you know, having that self-love,
[00:55:15.580 --> 00:55:18.620] even the self-love within your own craft, your skills,
[00:55:18.620 --> 00:55:20.640] you have to trust within you
[00:55:20.640 --> 00:55:22.540] and your abilities to only get better.
[00:55:23.580 --> 00:55:25.060] But again, being conscious of your time.
[00:55:25.160 --> 00:55:27.180] I know you got a meeting in about 30 minutes.
[00:55:27.660 --> 00:55:30.460] And I just want to close out with letting
[00:55:30.920 --> 00:55:32.940] the audience know where they can find you at,
[00:55:33.060 --> 00:55:35.080] where can they find your website, social media,
[00:55:35.080 --> 00:55:36.120] where can they book you.
[00:55:36.520 --> 00:55:37.480] I appreciate that.
[00:55:37.900 --> 00:55:42.840] Yeah, website for booking or inquiries is djravdev.com.
[00:55:43.200 --> 00:55:47.760] So D-J-R-E-V-D-E-V.com.
[00:55:48.400 --> 00:55:49.300] And then on social media,
[00:55:49.400 --> 00:55:51.400] you can follow me everything at djravdev.
[00:55:51.520 --> 00:55:55.060] So that's Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok.
[00:55:55.780 --> 00:55:57.660] D-J-R-E-V-D-E-V.
[00:55:58.280 --> 00:56:00.340] And if I have any parting words,
[00:56:00.700 --> 00:56:01.820] is that quality is remembered
[00:56:01.820 --> 00:56:03.360] long after the price is forgotten.
[00:56:04.360 --> 00:56:07.380] Quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten.
[00:56:09.300 --> 00:56:12.500] Man, always a blessing, my brother.
[00:56:12.740 --> 00:56:13.380] Appreciate your boss.
[00:56:13.560 --> 00:56:14.120] For real, for real.
[00:56:14.180 --> 00:56:15.000] And I remember we,
[00:56:15.880 --> 00:56:17.920] I think it was an Instagram Live interview.
[00:56:17.920 --> 00:56:18.260] Yeah.
[00:56:18.760 --> 00:56:20.800] Again, when I was first getting off
[00:56:20.800 --> 00:56:23.660] in the wedding industry about like three years ago.
[00:56:24.280 --> 00:56:27.900] So man, have it full circle now interviewing you.
[00:56:28.320 --> 00:56:29.720] It's a blessing, man.
[00:56:29.880 --> 00:56:30.260] It is.
[00:56:30.360 --> 00:56:31.780] True icon, man.
[00:56:32.280 --> 00:56:34.660] I don't think we officially did another wedding together,
[00:56:34.680 --> 00:56:36.600] but that's coming soon.
[00:56:36.820 --> 00:56:37.500] Yeah, you can put it out.
[00:56:37.680 --> 00:56:38.040] It's fitting now.
[00:56:38.100 --> 00:56:38.960] I'll pass it across now.
[00:56:39.140 --> 00:56:39.600] Oh yeah.
[00:56:39.600 --> 00:56:40.280] It's gonna happen now.
[00:56:40.680 --> 00:56:41.920] Again, appreciate you.
[00:56:41.960 --> 00:56:42.940] I know you got to run.
[00:56:43.580 --> 00:56:44.820] But until next time, y'all.
[00:56:44.880 --> 00:56:45.940] Peace, love, and blessings.
[00:56:46.560 --> 00:56:47.740] And if you want to find me,
[00:56:47.760 --> 00:56:50.660] you can check me out at alienizephotos.com
[00:56:50.660 --> 00:56:54.360] or on social media at alienizephotos.
[00:56:55.000 --> 00:56:56.880] That's alien eyes with a Z,
[00:56:56.920 --> 00:56:59.280] photos with a S on all media.
[00:56:59.680 --> 00:57:00.900] Thank you, thank you, thank you.
[00:57:00.900 --> 00:57:01.880] Peace, love, and blessings.

========================================================================
40. Ned Sanders - PhotoCred Ned
Season 2 · Episode 7
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/ned-sanders-photo-cred-ned
========================================================================

[00:00:00.980 --> 00:00:06.900] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome to Alien Eyes Photos
[00:00:06.900 --> 00:00:11.480] Industry Talk with your host, photographer Jackson.
[00:00:12.420 --> 00:00:13.580] And man, I'm excited.
[00:00:13.620 --> 00:00:16.200] I have a legendary photographer with me.
[00:00:16.200 --> 00:00:17.040] I don't just say that.
[00:00:17.140 --> 00:00:22.680] It's about like five great video and camera operators
[00:00:23.210 --> 00:00:25.680] that I personally know, and I call them legends.
[00:00:26.040 --> 00:00:27.480] He's one of them.
[00:00:28.120 --> 00:00:28.540] Thank you.
[00:00:28.540 --> 00:00:32.600] I have next to me, photo cred man.
[00:00:32.960 --> 00:00:33.820] Oh, man.
[00:00:34.080 --> 00:00:34.560] Thank you.
[00:00:34.660 --> 00:00:35.440] Thank you, Steve.
[00:00:35.520 --> 00:00:36.720] Thank you, man.
[00:00:36.940 --> 00:00:38.540] Thank you so much, man.
[00:00:38.680 --> 00:00:40.300] Not legendary yet.
[00:00:40.680 --> 00:00:41.180] Not legendary?
[00:00:41.720 --> 00:00:42.700] No, man.
[00:00:42.880 --> 00:00:44.540] I'm so much of a student.
[00:00:45.100 --> 00:00:49.020] There's so much to learn to where it's like I haven't
[00:00:49.020 --> 00:00:49.700] achieved.
[00:00:50.980 --> 00:00:52.840] It's not even our colleagues.
[00:00:52.900 --> 00:00:55.920] It's like achieved a certain skill set just yet
[00:00:55.920 --> 00:01:01.060] to where I'm like, yeah, now I'm in like that space of like
[00:01:01.060 --> 00:01:03.640] where I ain't going to say you can't do no wrong,
[00:01:03.780 --> 00:01:07.300] but you in that like creative art form realm
[00:01:08.660 --> 00:01:10.280] where you're not by yourself,
[00:01:10.300 --> 00:01:12.800] but you kind of like in your own type of lane,
[00:01:12.800 --> 00:01:15.600] like where you just please with everything that you do,
[00:01:15.740 --> 00:01:18.120] that everything kind of makes sense to you.
[00:01:18.620 --> 00:01:21.820] So once I get in that realm, yeah, I'm legendary.
[00:01:22.080 --> 00:01:24.080] Or once you see people come from up under me
[00:01:24.080 --> 00:01:26.920] that I kind of taught and showed them some stuff,
[00:01:27.120 --> 00:01:30.200] then I think that's the legendary status stuff.
[00:01:31.000 --> 00:01:31.840] So I got a ways to go.
[00:01:31.880 --> 00:01:33.080] But I'm still a novice in this.
[00:01:33.100 --> 00:01:34.800] I'm still young in this photography.
[00:01:34.860 --> 00:01:36.000] How long you been doing photography?
[00:01:37.300 --> 00:01:41.180] I started in 2018 when my brother, my younger brother
[00:01:41.180 --> 00:01:43.400] got married in Dominican Republic.
[00:01:43.540 --> 00:01:46.580] But my older brother picked up photography as a hobby.
[00:01:48.020 --> 00:01:50.520] And if I could say it, my older brother
[00:01:50.520 --> 00:01:52.780] is better than me at photography even to this day.
[00:01:52.780 --> 00:01:54.260] He don't even do it as much.
[00:01:54.260 --> 00:01:57.860] But he learned from a creative and a technical end.
[00:01:57.880 --> 00:02:00.480] So he learned from an actual photographer
[00:02:00.480 --> 00:02:03.180] that was doing competitions and stuff like that.
[00:02:03.180 --> 00:02:05.180] So like how to hold your head a certain way
[00:02:05.180 --> 00:02:07.220] where you can't see the ear on head shots.
[00:02:07.560 --> 00:02:09.720] Like they was very technical on certain things.
[00:02:10.120 --> 00:02:14.180] Like he dialing in on every color part of it.
[00:02:14.720 --> 00:02:16.880] Like the dude, his name is like Jeremy something,
[00:02:16.980 --> 00:02:20.940] but he is man, like he is so good.
[00:02:20.940 --> 00:02:23.720] But my brother is a technician,
[00:02:24.020 --> 00:02:25.060] like a creative and technician.
[00:02:25.200 --> 00:02:27.900] He do music, colognes, everything.
[00:02:28.140 --> 00:02:30.680] Like whatever he touch, he's just phenomenal at it.
[00:02:30.840 --> 00:02:32.540] So he showed me photography.
[00:02:33.420 --> 00:02:36.060] And when I did photography, when I learned it,
[00:02:36.060 --> 00:02:37.540] when I went out to Dominican Republic,
[00:02:37.560 --> 00:02:39.120] I was like, man, this is amazing.
[00:02:39.460 --> 00:02:41.060] But the way he showed me, he was like,
[00:02:41.140 --> 00:02:43.920] look man, I could sell you one of my cameras
[00:02:45.320 --> 00:02:46.880] or I could sell you one of my cameras
[00:02:46.880 --> 00:02:49.000] and give it to you and you just put it on auto
[00:02:49.000 --> 00:02:51.240] and just be shooting.
[00:02:51.540 --> 00:02:54.120] Or I could show you the principles of photography.
[00:02:54.600 --> 00:02:56.560] So I was like, man, show me the principles of photography.
[00:02:57.060 --> 00:02:58.780] For three days we didn't shoot at all.
[00:02:59.040 --> 00:03:01.180] He just taught me exposure triangle,
[00:03:01.300 --> 00:03:03.480] this, that, that, just running it down.
[00:03:03.820 --> 00:03:05.760] The third day he sat me on his porch
[00:03:05.760 --> 00:03:07.060] and showed me motion.
[00:03:07.160 --> 00:03:09.360] He was like, look, we're gonna use the camera,
[00:03:09.680 --> 00:03:10.880] but I'm gonna show you how to get the motion
[00:03:10.880 --> 00:03:11.640] of the tires.
[00:03:12.080 --> 00:03:14.240] So I'm gonna do it like a longer exposure,
[00:03:14.240 --> 00:03:16.200] longer exposures to get the motion
[00:03:16.200 --> 00:03:17.680] and we're gonna stop time.
[00:03:17.680 --> 00:03:20.860] Once I understood that concept, it was a rap.
[00:03:21.140 --> 00:03:25.080] But it wasn't a rap as far as me not just,
[00:03:25.260 --> 00:03:26.200] me just going out there to shoot.
[00:03:26.300 --> 00:03:27.700] It was a rap to where it's like,
[00:03:27.700 --> 00:03:29.400] I knew this was something I love to do.
[00:03:29.880 --> 00:03:31.660] So it was dope, it was dope.
[00:03:32.000 --> 00:03:34.320] That's what kind of started everything for real, for real.
[00:03:35.100 --> 00:03:36.900] Let's talk about how you got the name
[00:03:36.900 --> 00:03:37.860] of PhotoCred Ned.
[00:03:37.860 --> 00:03:39.720] I think that's a great name by the way,
[00:03:39.780 --> 00:03:42.520] because you know, who took the picture?
[00:03:43.460 --> 00:03:45.140] PhotoCred's go to Ned.
[00:03:45.860 --> 00:03:46.460] There you go.
[00:03:46.460 --> 00:03:48.060] That's basically where it kind of started.
[00:03:48.500 --> 00:03:51.760] Cause I used to, like when I started photography,
[00:03:51.980 --> 00:03:53.220] I was like, I was thinking of like,
[00:03:53.300 --> 00:03:55.500] man, what's a cool little name for you, for yourself.
[00:03:55.720 --> 00:03:58.520] But my name is Ned, Ned Sanders.
[00:03:58.860 --> 00:04:00.520] Like Ned, everybody goes, Ned?
[00:04:00.660 --> 00:04:01.100] What is it?
[00:04:01.240 --> 00:04:02.080] It's just Ned.
[00:04:02.620 --> 00:04:04.740] But I used to see people,
[00:04:05.140 --> 00:04:07.340] like when I see my boy stretch shoot in the club
[00:04:07.340 --> 00:04:11.760] or I see people or used to put on their photography page
[00:04:11.760 --> 00:04:15.560] on the ground was the PhotoCred by stretch.
[00:04:15.560 --> 00:04:18.899] PhotoCred by Stefan Mitchell and Natasha Herbert
[00:04:18.899 --> 00:04:20.040] or something like that.
[00:04:20.040 --> 00:04:22.060] And so I was like, damn PhotoCred.
[00:04:22.120 --> 00:04:23.460] Then I was like, PhotoCred Ned.
[00:04:23.600 --> 00:04:25.600] I just was at work, like PhotoCred Ned.
[00:04:25.760 --> 00:04:26.820] I'm like, that's kind of fly.
[00:04:27.640 --> 00:04:29.560] Like that's stuck with me.
[00:04:29.660 --> 00:04:32.120] And then it just, I told my brother about it
[00:04:32.120 --> 00:04:35.040] and I'm like, man, we think about PhotoCred Ned.
[00:04:35.240 --> 00:04:36.400] And he was like, man, that's dope.
[00:04:36.460 --> 00:04:36.920] That's cool.
[00:04:36.960 --> 00:04:37.640] That fits you.
[00:04:37.700 --> 00:04:39.460] So I was like, hey, I'm gonna just go
[00:04:39.460 --> 00:04:40.480] with it like that way.
[00:04:42.350 --> 00:04:43.510] So it was cool.
[00:04:43.670 --> 00:04:44.710] It's stuck with me ever since.
[00:04:44.750 --> 00:04:46.450] So it was like, I like that.
[00:04:46.450 --> 00:04:48.430] Where it's like, now people,
[00:04:48.630 --> 00:04:51.970] people don't even use PhotoCred no more for their name.
[00:04:52.130 --> 00:04:56.930] It's just like, I like how people just identify me
[00:04:56.930 --> 00:04:59.250] as that, like PhotoCred Ned.
[00:04:59.470 --> 00:05:00.750] Like, I just like that.
[00:05:01.070 --> 00:05:01.450] Yeah.
[00:05:01.630 --> 00:05:01.950] Yeah.
[00:05:02.110 --> 00:05:03.290] Got a ring to it.
[00:05:03.550 --> 00:05:04.030] Yeah.
[00:05:05.490 --> 00:05:07.530] But, and the reason I call you Legendary
[00:05:07.530 --> 00:05:08.250] because I mean.
[00:05:08.250 --> 00:05:08.890] Appreciate it.
[00:05:08.910 --> 00:05:10.170] Your work after it.
[00:05:10.510 --> 00:05:12.370] I mean, you could pop up to the fence
[00:05:12.370 --> 00:05:14.070] and just start, bah, bah, bah, bah.
[00:05:14.070 --> 00:05:17.390] And it's like, to me, I say you never miss
[00:05:17.390 --> 00:05:21.410] because every, every photo I've seen that you took
[00:05:21.410 --> 00:05:25.550] and it's like, man, it's almost perfect if not perfect.
[00:05:25.970 --> 00:05:27.570] Oh, man, I appreciate that.
[00:05:27.570 --> 00:05:29.990] That's what a legendary status in my eyes come from.
[00:05:30.170 --> 00:05:31.350] You know, okay, looking at the keychain,
[00:05:31.410 --> 00:05:32.130] got the camera on.
[00:05:32.390 --> 00:05:34.850] Yeah, my girl mother gave this to me.
[00:05:34.850 --> 00:05:35.790] It was out of town.
[00:05:35.890 --> 00:05:36.950] It was just a little.
[00:05:39.030 --> 00:05:40.010] Oh, shit, it worked.
[00:05:41.350 --> 00:05:42.510] Ain't taking no pictures.
[00:05:43.270 --> 00:05:44.730] People looking at it like, boom.
[00:05:44.990 --> 00:05:47.450] So like even my brother, he made this for me
[00:05:48.170 --> 00:05:50.870] with the little thing on there too.
[00:05:50.870 --> 00:05:54.110] So it was just like little tidbits and stuff.
[00:05:54.210 --> 00:05:56.070] But I appreciate that too.
[00:05:56.450 --> 00:06:00.010] Like I love, one thing I am when it comes to photography
[00:06:00.590 --> 00:06:02.390] and it's never to take over space.
[00:06:02.490 --> 00:06:04.590] It's just like, I love photography.
[00:06:04.790 --> 00:06:06.710] I think people need to understand like
[00:06:06.710 --> 00:06:08.990] my perspective of photography
[00:06:08.990 --> 00:06:12.770] is that I absolutely love it beyond work.
[00:06:12.990 --> 00:06:14.010] If I told people, I was like, man,
[00:06:14.010 --> 00:06:15.170] if I hit the lottery today, tomorrow,
[00:06:15.290 --> 00:06:16.290] I'm gonna still be a photographer.
[00:06:16.470 --> 00:06:16.810] Exactly.
[00:06:17.110 --> 00:06:19.210] So it's just like, when I go into spaces,
[00:06:20.530 --> 00:06:21.850] I could be there just,
[00:06:21.930 --> 00:06:23.530] it could be a party for me to chill.
[00:06:23.830 --> 00:06:26.910] Like, man, I'd be like, man, I need my camera.
[00:06:27.310 --> 00:06:30.270] And it's not to, because it make me,
[00:06:30.570 --> 00:06:32.110] and I love the control of it.
[00:06:32.310 --> 00:06:35.590] It's like I get to control the space that I'm in.
[00:06:35.630 --> 00:06:37.670] I get to be more,
[00:06:37.670 --> 00:06:39.350] I could approach anybody,
[00:06:39.370 --> 00:06:41.570] but he give me access to approach people.
[00:06:41.670 --> 00:06:43.970] So it's like, when I grab my camera,
[00:06:44.430 --> 00:06:46.830] it's like, oh, I got all these people in here.
[00:06:46.830 --> 00:06:48.210] This is a networking event.
[00:06:48.970 --> 00:06:50.810] I'm taking full advantage of this.
[00:06:50.970 --> 00:06:53.670] It's like, and it's not to dismiss
[00:06:53.670 --> 00:06:55.790] any other photographer or anything like that.
[00:06:55.890 --> 00:06:58.450] It's just like, man, I go in with a mindset of like,
[00:06:58.490 --> 00:07:00.310] now I'm comfortable because I got my camera.
[00:07:00.530 --> 00:07:01.950] Now I can move high,
[00:07:02.290 --> 00:07:04.050] comfortably high, love to move
[00:07:04.050 --> 00:07:06.150] because I then did it so many places,
[00:07:06.150 --> 00:07:09.610] so many different situations or different city.
[00:07:09.610 --> 00:07:11.690] I then did that same exact thing.
[00:07:12.370 --> 00:07:14.470] So like, when I go in there in those places,
[00:07:15.130 --> 00:07:16.910] I look at the surroundings.
[00:07:17.210 --> 00:07:19.630] I look at everything and I look like, okay,
[00:07:19.850 --> 00:07:23.490] how do I wanna use my light to take these pictures?
[00:07:24.070 --> 00:07:25.970] So if I'm looking at things with high ceilings,
[00:07:26.150 --> 00:07:27.690] high white ceilings, faulty ceilings,
[00:07:27.710 --> 00:07:30.110] I'm looking at things that was black areas
[00:07:30.110 --> 00:07:31.010] or something like that.
[00:07:31.030 --> 00:07:32.250] What modifiers do I need?
[00:07:32.270 --> 00:07:35.190] How do I wanna take these shots
[00:07:35.190 --> 00:07:38.570] and make them all consistent with my brand?
[00:07:39.490 --> 00:07:42.750] And it's like a math or a video game to me
[00:07:42.750 --> 00:07:43.530] when I'm shooting.
[00:07:44.170 --> 00:07:45.650] So it's just, I love that.
[00:07:45.670 --> 00:07:46.550] I love that part of it.
[00:07:46.670 --> 00:07:47.530] So great analogy.
[00:07:47.630 --> 00:07:49.050] It's like a video game, wow.
[00:07:49.070 --> 00:07:50.110] Oh yeah, yeah.
[00:07:50.110 --> 00:07:50.990] A science experiment.
[00:07:51.370 --> 00:07:52.150] Yeah, absolutely.
[00:07:52.290 --> 00:07:53.530] And that's what, like I used to game
[00:07:53.530 --> 00:07:55.470] with my brothers and my cousins.
[00:07:55.750 --> 00:07:57.890] So it was like, when I got to doing photography,
[00:07:58.370 --> 00:08:01.390] I stopped gaming because this was my,
[00:08:01.390 --> 00:08:05.530] this stimulated me in the same space as a video game.
[00:08:05.550 --> 00:08:06.990] So it was like, when I go shoot
[00:08:06.990 --> 00:08:08.810] and come home and retouch,
[00:08:09.150 --> 00:08:12.230] oh man, this is like, it stimulates me the same exact way.
[00:08:12.630 --> 00:08:13.850] So it was just like,
[00:08:13.950 --> 00:08:15.750] that's why I don't mind spending hours
[00:08:15.750 --> 00:08:16.910] and hours on the computer
[00:08:16.910 --> 00:08:19.510] because I'm feeding the same,
[00:08:20.670 --> 00:08:22.750] that same beast of like gaming.
[00:08:23.130 --> 00:08:24.070] So it was just like,
[00:08:24.170 --> 00:08:25.770] hey, it's colors in front of my face.
[00:08:26.530 --> 00:08:27.290] So it's dope.
[00:08:28.030 --> 00:08:31.570] It's like math when you figuring that stuff out.
[00:08:32.950 --> 00:08:35.630] Sometimes here that's therapeutic, you know?
[00:08:36.030 --> 00:08:36.110] Yeah.
[00:08:36.110 --> 00:08:37.909] In your zone, it's like therapy.
[00:08:38.270 --> 00:08:39.830] Man, when you in there
[00:08:39.830 --> 00:08:41.750] and you know you doing something,
[00:08:43.270 --> 00:08:44.670] it's art, man.
[00:08:44.830 --> 00:08:48.750] It's like the best thing because it's gratifying, man.
[00:08:49.110 --> 00:08:50.650] Like somebody, what did the guy say?
[00:08:50.790 --> 00:08:54.690] He said, I think a photographer says something that,
[00:08:56.350 --> 00:09:00.130] something is vanity and sanity.
[00:09:00.590 --> 00:09:02.310] He was saying that,
[00:09:03.130 --> 00:09:04.530] I'm gonna figure out the quote,
[00:09:04.710 --> 00:09:06.930] but it was, it ain't even got nothing to do.
[00:09:06.990 --> 00:09:08.910] It ain't technically just photography.
[00:09:09.510 --> 00:09:14.810] He was saying that turnover is vanity
[00:09:15.450 --> 00:09:16.990] and profit is sanity,
[00:09:18.640 --> 00:09:21.820] which was on point because it's like,
[00:09:21.840 --> 00:09:23.540] as a photographer or creative,
[00:09:24.160 --> 00:09:29.060] our vanity is the turnover we give to our clients.
[00:09:30.000 --> 00:09:31.880] Taking these shots, coming in here,
[00:09:32.060 --> 00:09:33.080] giving this to our,
[00:09:33.120 --> 00:09:35.400] we're so vain because we love our work,
[00:09:35.540 --> 00:09:38.900] but people don't understand the work
[00:09:38.900 --> 00:09:40.840] that we put into what we do.
[00:09:41.160 --> 00:09:43.120] So the profit gotta keep us sane.
[00:09:43.760 --> 00:09:44.720] So when he said that,
[00:09:44.740 --> 00:09:47.920] I thought that was a very profound quote
[00:09:48.660 --> 00:09:52.120] because man, sometimes I just love what I do
[00:09:52.120 --> 00:09:53.580] and I do stuff for free.
[00:09:54.000 --> 00:09:55.240] Like, and people don't even know
[00:09:55.240 --> 00:09:58.240] how much stuff that I do do things for,
[00:09:59.080 --> 00:10:01.960] but like it gets to a point where it's like, man,
[00:10:01.960 --> 00:10:03.380] you still have to feed the beast.
[00:10:03.600 --> 00:10:05.260] You still, things have to be profitable.
[00:10:05.580 --> 00:10:07.420] Like all the stuff that we do,
[00:10:07.780 --> 00:10:09.840] people don't know like when they say
[00:10:09.840 --> 00:10:10.920] you put your $10,000 in,
[00:10:10.920 --> 00:10:12.260] and you're a master of your craft,
[00:10:12.620 --> 00:10:14.400] I don't even put about 25 in
[00:10:14.400 --> 00:10:15.900] and I still put stuff in.
[00:10:16.020 --> 00:10:17.400] I still don't feel I'm a master.
[00:10:17.860 --> 00:10:20.400] So like that has to be reciprocated.
[00:10:20.940 --> 00:10:23.500] And it's to my discretion of what I want.
[00:10:23.640 --> 00:10:26.620] That's why I love the business part of it,
[00:10:26.620 --> 00:10:27.980] like the profitable side.
[00:10:28.200 --> 00:10:31.180] Because it's like, I was doing this for a long time,
[00:10:31.460 --> 00:10:32.780] not understanding value,
[00:10:32.800 --> 00:10:36.340] but now I'm like, man, I get what I want
[00:10:36.340 --> 00:10:39.120] because this is what I want and it's not negotiable.
[00:10:40.040 --> 00:10:42.920] Or if it is negotiable, it's to my discretion.
[00:10:43.220 --> 00:10:44.700] So that's why I love it.
[00:10:44.900 --> 00:10:46.280] Man, that's amazing.
[00:10:46.280 --> 00:10:50.180] And, you know, I've learned something too.
[00:10:51.360 --> 00:10:53.800] There's definitely been events.
[00:10:54.040 --> 00:10:54.960] I mainly do events.
[00:10:55.440 --> 00:10:56.920] Brand myself as an event photographer.
[00:10:57.540 --> 00:11:00.080] So if there's an event or a video production
[00:11:00.080 --> 00:11:03.280] that, you know, either don't agree with me
[00:11:03.280 --> 00:11:04.760] or something that I just,
[00:11:04.820 --> 00:11:06.740] I know it's gonna be a headache at the end of the day.
[00:11:07.180 --> 00:11:09.280] You know, I price it accordingly
[00:11:09.280 --> 00:11:12.040] versus something I love or they have an impact
[00:11:12.040 --> 00:11:13.340] or a good message.
[00:11:13.340 --> 00:11:15.280] You know, I kinda, you know,
[00:11:15.340 --> 00:11:17.200] we can negotiate the price.
[00:11:17.600 --> 00:11:17.860] Yeah.
[00:11:18.480 --> 00:11:20.620] So let's take it back all the way to like
[00:11:20.620 --> 00:11:22.980] towards the beginning versus your first photo shoot
[00:11:22.980 --> 00:11:24.060] that you charged for.
[00:11:24.180 --> 00:11:25.440] What was that price?
[00:11:25.640 --> 00:11:27.160] Man, that probably was like $50, $75.
[00:11:27.500 --> 00:11:30.620] I think I looked at an old, something old.
[00:11:30.760 --> 00:11:32.780] It had to be in that $50, $75 round.
[00:11:34.720 --> 00:11:36.420] And this is the one thing,
[00:11:36.440 --> 00:11:39.760] if I could ever tell people, like upcoming photographers,
[00:11:40.300 --> 00:11:42.300] if you ever jump into photography,
[00:11:42.300 --> 00:11:47.360] please go with a studio of a seasoned photographer.
[00:11:47.980 --> 00:11:49.940] Like go into that Steph Midgett studio,
[00:11:50.120 --> 00:11:51.880] go into that Jordan Cage studio,
[00:11:52.240 --> 00:11:56.900] go into anybody who is offering studio time
[00:11:56.900 --> 00:11:58.900] that you have to pay a monthly fee for.
[00:11:59.780 --> 00:12:01.560] That will, you listen,
[00:12:01.700 --> 00:12:04.640] you will jump light years in front of people
[00:12:04.640 --> 00:12:06.280] when it comes to photography.
[00:12:06.400 --> 00:12:08.880] And I'm not saying it always have to be skill set,
[00:12:08.880 --> 00:12:13.580] but in photography, business is always the biggest word.
[00:12:14.560 --> 00:12:16.920] So like, I don't care what it is.
[00:12:17.020 --> 00:12:18.140] It's people that don't necessarily
[00:12:18.140 --> 00:12:19.620] have to have your skill set,
[00:12:19.940 --> 00:12:21.520] but if they understand the business,
[00:12:22.020 --> 00:12:24.680] they will jump light years ahead of people
[00:12:24.680 --> 00:12:27.380] because it's like they understand it.
[00:12:27.480 --> 00:12:30.240] And like when I was around like those,
[00:12:30.340 --> 00:12:36.100] like with Stretch or Natasha or Omar or Jordan Cage,
[00:12:36.840 --> 00:12:40.300] Steph Midgett, like those people and talking to them,
[00:12:40.920 --> 00:12:43.660] it was like they always used to be like,
[00:12:43.860 --> 00:12:46.000] hike your prices up, like hike your prices up.
[00:12:46.060 --> 00:12:49.380] Because we all in a, yeah, we all separate entities,
[00:12:49.440 --> 00:12:53.180] but we all in this pot together to where it's like,
[00:12:53.840 --> 00:12:57.500] if everybody shooting and the prices is fluctuating
[00:12:57.500 --> 00:13:00.240] so far, and that's the thing about like
[00:13:00.240 --> 00:13:01.600] the upcoming photographers,
[00:13:02.760 --> 00:13:05.660] that it's not necessarily a skill set
[00:13:05.660 --> 00:13:08.680] I would say like the upcoming photographers have,
[00:13:08.860 --> 00:13:11.000] it's like they understand the gear quicker.
[00:13:11.340 --> 00:13:14.320] They understand like gear is becoming so good
[00:13:14.320 --> 00:13:17.220] and the software is becoming so good.
[00:13:18.140 --> 00:13:20.480] Conceptionally, all you need to do is have truly an eye
[00:13:20.480 --> 00:13:24.420] because your cell phone is like,
[00:13:24.960 --> 00:13:28.800] that's if you got good composition with your cell phone,
[00:13:28.860 --> 00:13:29.980] anybody could take a good picture
[00:13:29.980 --> 00:13:31.640] if you just know how to take a picture.
[00:13:31.800 --> 00:13:33.440] If a person know how to pose correctly
[00:13:33.440 --> 00:13:35.040] or you know how light is,
[00:13:35.040 --> 00:13:37.940] a person could run laps with people around
[00:13:37.940 --> 00:13:39.480] with a cell phone if they just know
[00:13:39.480 --> 00:13:41.120] how to take a good picture.
[00:13:41.660 --> 00:13:44.400] But like now when they jump into photography,
[00:13:44.420 --> 00:13:45.580] now like the younger cats,
[00:13:45.900 --> 00:13:48.500] they don't understand like the actual value.
[00:13:48.700 --> 00:13:49.960] Like man, bro, you can pivot.
[00:13:50.300 --> 00:13:52.920] Just get around somebody who is seasoned,
[00:13:53.100 --> 00:13:55.220] who make money off of their photography.
[00:13:55.940 --> 00:13:59.600] You will be wealthy beyond your means
[00:14:00.320 --> 00:14:01.800] if you charge the right way.
[00:14:02.360 --> 00:14:04.820] And some things are, yeah, they are negotiable.
[00:14:05.440 --> 00:14:07.760] Yeah, you could go to events and all of that type of stuff.
[00:14:07.820 --> 00:14:10.420] It's been times where, man, I may hit an event
[00:14:11.160 --> 00:14:14.980] because I know what I just did for that one or two hours
[00:14:14.980 --> 00:14:19.340] or one hour is gonna make me $5,000
[00:14:19.340 --> 00:14:21.160] within the next three to four months.
[00:14:21.640 --> 00:14:23.780] And I'm just going in there, boom, boom, boom,
[00:14:23.840 --> 00:14:24.780] just in that word.
[00:14:25.200 --> 00:14:28.360] But I'm also knowing how to market my shots too.
[00:14:28.700 --> 00:14:29.700] So I'm looking for smiles.
[00:14:29.800 --> 00:14:31.200] I'm anticipating smiles.
[00:14:31.200 --> 00:14:36.460] So when I hit events, it took a while to learn how to market
[00:14:36.460 --> 00:14:39.540] because I know technically I could take a good shot,
[00:14:40.560 --> 00:14:43.600] but marketing wise, I need to know how to take what shot.
[00:14:43.920 --> 00:14:46.540] So I have to sit there, I'll ear hustle people
[00:14:46.540 --> 00:14:48.600] and I'll ear hustle surroundings.
[00:14:49.260 --> 00:14:51.960] And I watch things when I'm walking through.
[00:14:52.180 --> 00:14:54.320] So I'll look at people conversations
[00:14:54.960 --> 00:14:56.640] because I know somebody about to start laughing.
[00:14:57.440 --> 00:14:58.760] All I need to do is get that.
[00:14:58.760 --> 00:15:00.760] If I took a thread on Instagram
[00:15:00.760 --> 00:15:02.780] and my threads is 20 pictures,
[00:15:03.280 --> 00:15:05.280] or 10 to 20 pictures if you want to,
[00:15:05.940 --> 00:15:08.820] if I took a picture of this event
[00:15:08.820 --> 00:15:11.280] and had everybody, majority of the pictures,
[00:15:11.440 --> 00:15:12.700] they laughing and smiling.
[00:15:13.900 --> 00:15:15.760] Laughing and smiling is gonna make you feel good.
[00:15:15.860 --> 00:15:16.340] That's right.
[00:15:16.520 --> 00:15:18.000] You know, it's gonna make you feel good.
[00:15:18.040 --> 00:15:20.000] Then I had to learn the color temperatures.
[00:15:21.080 --> 00:15:23.760] They did a poll between warmer and cooler shots.
[00:15:24.380 --> 00:15:27.740] Cooler, more people, like 70 to 80% of people
[00:15:27.740 --> 00:15:30.320] tend to like the warmer shots than the cooler shots.
[00:15:30.620 --> 00:15:31.760] Cooler shots you can go with,
[00:15:31.800 --> 00:15:33.780] but it gotta be an artistic vision.
[00:15:33.880 --> 00:15:35.360] But our skin tones is all warm.
[00:15:35.540 --> 00:15:39.680] Everybody love that tan, that type of flavor, period.
[00:15:39.800 --> 00:15:41.940] So your warmer shots is gonna end up
[00:15:41.940 --> 00:15:43.320] kind of being the more favored.
[00:15:43.620 --> 00:15:45.500] So once I started learning certain things
[00:15:45.500 --> 00:15:46.920] and learning my camera,
[00:15:47.440 --> 00:15:49.100] man, events was like,
[00:15:49.260 --> 00:15:50.860] man, I could eat up an event quick,
[00:15:50.860 --> 00:15:54.220] like and know how to and be very personable
[00:15:54.220 --> 00:15:55.980] with people and get people to smile,
[00:15:55.980 --> 00:15:58.420] get people to give me the candidates that I want.
[00:15:58.840 --> 00:16:00.920] So it's a lot though.
[00:16:01.000 --> 00:16:02.540] I know I'm talking a lot, man.
[00:16:02.560 --> 00:16:04.740] No, man, that's why we here, you know?
[00:16:05.660 --> 00:16:07.500] We don't know, you know, don't get this often.
[00:16:07.840 --> 00:16:09.660] So it's good to hear this for real.
[00:16:09.660 --> 00:16:10.960] I appreciate it, man.
[00:16:11.500 --> 00:16:14.060] I mean, I'm glad you brought up the color temperature,
[00:16:14.120 --> 00:16:17.860] the warm and cool and the break it down
[00:16:17.860 --> 00:16:19.660] for people that don't understand photography.
[00:16:19.900 --> 00:16:24.500] That's more of the sunny orange, yellow tones
[00:16:24.500 --> 00:16:26.160] versus the cool blue.
[00:16:27.540 --> 00:16:30.560] I know a lot of people take it to heart in movies.
[00:16:31.280 --> 00:16:33.400] Oh yeah, yeah, absolutely, absolutely.
[00:16:33.560 --> 00:16:36.260] Like I look at it for different type of shots.
[00:16:36.440 --> 00:16:38.840] Like you can use it like the Kelvin meter.
[00:16:39.200 --> 00:16:42.380] Like Kelvin meters is on every camera,
[00:16:42.500 --> 00:16:44.640] but they're better when you shoot,
[00:16:44.940 --> 00:16:49.280] like for people who understand RAW and shooting in JPEG.
[00:16:49.520 --> 00:16:52.960] So your RAW files, like as a photographer,
[00:16:52.960 --> 00:16:56.120] you wanna always, as a novice or whatever the case is,
[00:16:56.540 --> 00:16:59.220] you have, I would always suggest to shoot in RAW.
[00:16:59.760 --> 00:17:03.360] Only time I say shooting JPEG is if you are,
[00:17:04.099 --> 00:17:06.420] let's say you're shooting a, I don't know,
[00:17:06.480 --> 00:17:09.099] I never shot a, like a football game
[00:17:09.099 --> 00:17:10.020] or something like that,
[00:17:10.200 --> 00:17:12.240] but I would think that they would tell you
[00:17:12.240 --> 00:17:14.119] to shoot kind of like more JPEG pics
[00:17:14.119 --> 00:17:16.000] because they need those quick
[00:17:16.000 --> 00:17:17.660] and to turn them around super quick.
[00:17:18.400 --> 00:17:19.319] Yeah, you're shooting thousands of photos.
[00:17:19.319 --> 00:17:20.859] Yeah, you're shooting thousands of photos
[00:17:20.859 --> 00:17:22.260] and you're shooting real quick.
[00:17:23.060 --> 00:17:26.380] But for the most part, I'm always shooting in RAW,
[00:17:26.740 --> 00:17:28.040] like every single time.
[00:17:28.460 --> 00:17:31.560] So the RAW files allow you to manipulate your files more.
[00:17:31.740 --> 00:17:34.160] So like, even if I shot something in a cooler tone,
[00:17:34.460 --> 00:17:36.480] I could bring those, I could pull those colors back
[00:17:36.480 --> 00:17:38.720] in my Kelvin meter or snatching a gray,
[00:17:39.060 --> 00:17:41.160] a neutral gray on there and color picking it
[00:17:41.160 --> 00:17:43.520] and getting it back to a neutral color.
[00:17:44.140 --> 00:17:47.440] So that's the thing, like with those color tones,
[00:17:47.600 --> 00:17:50.720] I'm really, but you can't be intentional
[00:17:50.720 --> 00:17:52.040] going a cooler way.
[00:17:52.040 --> 00:17:55.740] So like if I'm outside and I'm shooting in the winter,
[00:17:56.180 --> 00:18:00.820] I may go a cooler way because it's catered for the occasion
[00:18:00.820 --> 00:18:03.760] because it's outside, it's cool.
[00:18:04.240 --> 00:18:05.960] Like I'm looking for those types of,
[00:18:06.000 --> 00:18:09.460] I'm not so curious about those warmer tones.
[00:18:09.520 --> 00:18:12.440] I want to make the shot look cold intentionally.
[00:18:13.580 --> 00:18:14.320] So yeah.
[00:18:16.770 --> 00:18:19.290] And I know you brought up Jordan Cage.
[00:18:19.570 --> 00:18:20.650] I know him as Omar.
[00:18:21.530 --> 00:18:22.850] That's like my god brother.
[00:18:22.850 --> 00:18:25.110] That's my brother's best friend
[00:18:25.110 --> 00:18:26.650] that grew up with the Collin Wood.
[00:18:26.930 --> 00:18:27.410] Nice.
[00:18:27.690 --> 00:18:28.950] You know, he brought me under him.
[00:18:28.950 --> 00:18:30.690] He took that little sexy picture in the background.
[00:18:30.950 --> 00:18:31.950] You see that when he posted?
[00:18:34.590 --> 00:18:35.950] The R&B shit.
[00:18:36.730 --> 00:18:39.170] Yeah, that's when he was doing music, like.
[00:18:39.610 --> 00:18:40.470] He was singing?
[00:18:40.870 --> 00:18:41.650] No, he was doing rap.
[00:18:42.230 --> 00:18:42.730] Oh, what?
[00:18:43.330 --> 00:18:45.390] He actually got me into like the studio
[00:18:45.390 --> 00:18:46.990] he was going to with music.
[00:18:47.470 --> 00:18:48.710] I was recording myself.
[00:18:49.170 --> 00:18:50.510] Oh, get out of here.
[00:18:50.570 --> 00:18:52.630] I had a microphone from the PlayStation game.
[00:18:52.630 --> 00:18:53.670] It was a rap game.
[00:18:53.930 --> 00:18:55.630] I was like, wait, this is the same thing.
[00:18:55.630 --> 00:18:56.690] You plug in the computers.
[00:18:57.050 --> 00:18:57.930] I tried that.
[00:18:57.930 --> 00:18:59.570] I started recording myself.
[00:18:59.890 --> 00:19:01.010] And he was like, nah, man,
[00:19:01.010 --> 00:19:02.330] if you're going to take it seriously,
[00:19:02.550 --> 00:19:04.150] you need to take a crash test.
[00:19:04.210 --> 00:19:05.170] He saw my notebooks.
[00:19:05.270 --> 00:19:07.210] They was like holes, ripped papers.
[00:19:07.390 --> 00:19:11.310] You got to get you a good, bounded notebook.
[00:19:11.650 --> 00:19:13.070] You got to take your stuff seriously.
[00:19:13.150 --> 00:19:13.810] I'm like, okay.
[00:19:14.590 --> 00:19:15.890] It's just a notebook, but all right.
[00:19:16.170 --> 00:19:17.990] But you know, that stuck with me.
[00:19:18.130 --> 00:19:19.670] And then even now, like from music,
[00:19:19.730 --> 00:19:21.070] now we're both in photography.
[00:19:21.730 --> 00:19:23.410] He's stepping into the video more,
[00:19:23.510 --> 00:19:24.070] same with you.
[00:19:24.370 --> 00:19:24.930] Yeah, yeah.
[00:19:25.010 --> 00:19:26.150] I'm just loving to grow,
[00:19:26.290 --> 00:19:27.490] but I know him as O-One.
[00:19:29.430 --> 00:19:31.870] I'm calling him O-One next time I see him.
[00:19:32.690 --> 00:19:35.190] Yeah, that's my brother, man.
[00:19:35.530 --> 00:19:37.150] Yeah, that's good.
[00:19:37.410 --> 00:19:40.210] I haven't learned any skills with him
[00:19:41.450 --> 00:19:43.590] through photography, but like just, you know,
[00:19:43.590 --> 00:19:45.610] if I ever need something, he's always there.
[00:19:46.090 --> 00:19:47.570] Nice, that's dope.
[00:19:47.770 --> 00:19:50.310] Like, yeah, he's definitely, like he,
[00:19:50.310 --> 00:19:53.210] him and my boy Dave, Artful Panda,
[00:19:53.910 --> 00:19:55.570] they cool, they've been cool for a while.
[00:19:55.590 --> 00:19:57.550] So I knew him from him,
[00:19:57.590 --> 00:20:00.030] but then I ended up knowing him a little bit more
[00:20:00.030 --> 00:20:01.730] in the photography world.
[00:20:01.790 --> 00:20:03.370] And like, even when I first started,
[00:20:03.470 --> 00:20:04.530] it was just like,
[00:20:05.370 --> 00:20:07.330] I didn't know none of them at all.
[00:20:07.590 --> 00:20:08.270] You know what I'm saying?
[00:20:08.310 --> 00:20:12.230] Like the only person I really knew was Natasha Herbert.
[00:20:12.410 --> 00:20:16.870] And Natasha Herbert was my dog from after high school.
[00:20:16.970 --> 00:20:19.370] Like I graduated from John Hayden,
[00:20:19.370 --> 00:20:20.730] we ended up going to East Tech.
[00:20:21.190 --> 00:20:23.150] But I am getting cool with Natasha.
[00:20:23.670 --> 00:20:25.690] Like when me and Natasha been cool since like,
[00:20:26.070 --> 00:20:28.470] since I was like 19 on out,
[00:20:28.490 --> 00:20:30.890] but we like, that's my dog, that's my heart.
[00:20:30.990 --> 00:20:31.970] I love her to death.
[00:20:32.910 --> 00:20:34.730] So like, I didn't know nobody.
[00:20:34.830 --> 00:20:37.410] And then what made me kind of jump into photography
[00:20:37.410 --> 00:20:38.250] and start charging,
[00:20:38.390 --> 00:20:41.430] cause I seen her say this one time on the Gram.
[00:20:41.490 --> 00:20:43.710] She was like, she had a post where she was like,
[00:20:43.810 --> 00:20:46.990] man, look, photography is so wide open in Cleveland
[00:20:46.990 --> 00:20:49.830] that we all can eat.
[00:20:50.230 --> 00:20:52.450] And when she said that, it made me feel like,
[00:20:52.610 --> 00:20:55.210] oh, I'm not stepping on nobody toes if I charge.
[00:20:55.750 --> 00:20:58.270] You know, it's a lot of people,
[00:20:58.670 --> 00:21:00.730] it's a lot of people out here
[00:21:00.730 --> 00:21:02.390] that's shooting, that's charging.
[00:21:03.050 --> 00:21:05.790] So it's like, it's plenty of people,
[00:21:06.230 --> 00:21:08.050] it's plenty of money to go around.
[00:21:08.990 --> 00:21:11.810] And once I understood that it was like,
[00:21:11.890 --> 00:21:13.590] oh yeah, this is something I'm charging.
[00:21:13.810 --> 00:21:15.770] I'm investing in all my equipment.
[00:21:15.770 --> 00:21:17.830] I'm going, I'm about to do this.
[00:21:18.830 --> 00:21:20.850] So that's what made it just,
[00:21:21.170 --> 00:21:23.310] I appreciate her because she gave me the mindset
[00:21:23.310 --> 00:21:24.930] to like, yeah, go ahead and charge.
[00:21:25.610 --> 00:21:28.330] So you were one in $75.
[00:21:29.150 --> 00:21:32.550] It was, you glad to charge something.
[00:21:32.810 --> 00:21:34.370] So that's why I say like,
[00:21:34.570 --> 00:21:36.730] if the young photographers, if you can,
[00:21:38.010 --> 00:21:39.910] if they ever tell you anything,
[00:21:40.010 --> 00:21:44.430] hey, it costs $350 to $400 to be here for a month,
[00:21:44.430 --> 00:21:50.050] it is by far the best investment that you could ever make.
[00:21:50.210 --> 00:21:52.350] Mostly, they always have their lights there.
[00:21:52.390 --> 00:21:54.070] You probably could shoot 24 seven,
[00:21:54.610 --> 00:21:57.870] you make it, you gonna make the money back ASAP
[00:21:57.870 --> 00:22:00.550] and they gonna get you to charge correctly
[00:22:00.550 --> 00:22:03.450] and they gonna show you stuff on top of that.
[00:22:03.750 --> 00:22:05.470] So if a person just saying like,
[00:22:05.710 --> 00:22:07.810] okay, let's say, stepping into a spot,
[00:22:07.930 --> 00:22:08.590] let's say, I don't know,
[00:22:10.530 --> 00:22:13.470] maybe 400 something to go there a month.
[00:22:13.470 --> 00:22:16.890] What all you gaining and gathering,
[00:22:17.070 --> 00:22:20.410] going to these spaces, renting these places out,
[00:22:20.470 --> 00:22:22.210] you under a wing of photographers,
[00:22:22.790 --> 00:22:24.610] they're going to sharpen your skills.
[00:22:25.290 --> 00:22:26.770] Like within a year,
[00:22:26.830 --> 00:22:32.670] you're going to be able to do profitable shots.
[00:22:32.870 --> 00:22:36.870] Like you're gonna be able to make a good living
[00:22:36.870 --> 00:22:39.250] as a secondary or a primary income.
[00:22:39.330 --> 00:22:41.810] So I definitely encourage anybody.
[00:22:41.810 --> 00:22:44.470] That was the one thing I wish I would have did.
[00:22:44.930 --> 00:22:48.890] My thing was just that I felt like I had a better teacher
[00:22:48.890 --> 00:22:50.490] than everybody else.
[00:22:50.730 --> 00:22:53.990] Like my brother was my ultimate mentor
[00:22:53.990 --> 00:22:55.270] when it came to photography.
[00:22:55.350 --> 00:22:57.170] So like the stuff that he was telling me,
[00:22:57.170 --> 00:22:58.790] I wouldn't get in from nobody else,
[00:22:59.110 --> 00:23:01.790] but I never invested in anybody else neither,
[00:23:01.790 --> 00:23:04.690] but I never seen any other photographers
[00:23:05.370 --> 00:23:08.390] really do the different type of stuff.
[00:23:08.710 --> 00:23:10.610] So I used to see like within Cleveland,
[00:23:10.610 --> 00:23:14.090] it was just like, I used to look at people work
[00:23:14.090 --> 00:23:15.850] and I'm like, man, these pictures is dope.
[00:23:16.850 --> 00:23:18.610] But, and this ain't no not,
[00:23:19.850 --> 00:23:20.990] everybody's stuff look the same.
[00:23:21.150 --> 00:23:23.930] It looked like I seen four or five photographers
[00:23:23.930 --> 00:23:26.850] where they are all shooting like elite levels,
[00:23:27.390 --> 00:23:28.570] but it was like, man,
[00:23:28.630 --> 00:23:30.630] I can't tell the difference between each one,
[00:23:31.310 --> 00:23:32.970] even though everything looked great.
[00:23:33.650 --> 00:23:36.670] So my thing was like, man, I want to shoot different.
[00:23:37.120 --> 00:23:40.190] I want to be able to do how they shoot
[00:23:40.190 --> 00:23:42.770] with that high end retouch,
[00:23:42.770 --> 00:23:47.210] but I also want to find me in a sense with,
[00:23:47.490 --> 00:23:50.190] and I'm a figure out a way to find me
[00:23:50.190 --> 00:23:53.090] to where I can be slightly different.
[00:23:53.090 --> 00:23:57.090] And that's what I kind of tweak my craft
[00:23:57.090 --> 00:23:59.070] amongst my peers.
[00:23:59.750 --> 00:24:02.290] But in the same sense,
[00:24:02.490 --> 00:24:04.030] ain't none of this stuff new anyway,
[00:24:04.030 --> 00:24:06.430] because it's everybody taking from somebody.
[00:24:07.130 --> 00:24:09.630] So I just wanted to be what with in Cleveland
[00:24:09.630 --> 00:24:11.390] in this type of stuff,
[00:24:11.390 --> 00:24:14.490] I want to be slightly different with what I do.
[00:24:15.130 --> 00:24:16.590] So, yeah, I mean,
[00:24:16.910 --> 00:24:19.030] I couldn't even say I'm still finding my style.
[00:24:19.030 --> 00:24:20.570] Like I'll take great photos,
[00:24:20.750 --> 00:24:22.870] but all you take amazing photos is like,
[00:24:24.550 --> 00:24:28.290] this photo, I know that's alien, that's alien.
[00:24:28.810 --> 00:24:30.850] Yeah, yeah, but I love that though.
[00:24:30.850 --> 00:24:34.070] You know, listen, that's the thing.
[00:24:35.170 --> 00:24:37.690] I would rather somebody say that's alien,
[00:24:38.250 --> 00:24:41.270] or that could be about four or five, I don't know.
[00:24:41.470 --> 00:24:42.650] Well, I'm still finding that
[00:24:42.650 --> 00:24:43.970] to where people can say that.
[00:24:44.150 --> 00:24:47.170] Yeah, and that's, but you want to see,
[00:24:47.550 --> 00:24:50.530] I say like this, to dig into yourself
[00:24:50.530 --> 00:24:57.100] and find who you are, man, you can't be scared.
[00:24:57.140 --> 00:24:58.440] It's a trick to it though,
[00:24:58.460 --> 00:24:59.780] because like you said, being marketable
[00:24:59.780 --> 00:25:01.140] and taking those key shots,
[00:25:02.240 --> 00:25:04.460] being artistic and being,
[00:25:04.460 --> 00:25:06.320] having those photos marketable
[00:25:06.320 --> 00:25:08.260] for business to use it to market,
[00:25:09.000 --> 00:25:10.460] like that combination of both,
[00:25:10.700 --> 00:25:15.280] and like my brand is Alienize Photos Media,
[00:25:16.200 --> 00:25:18.620] more of the cooler tones, not always,
[00:25:18.680 --> 00:25:20.760] but it's branded under the cool tone.
[00:25:21.040 --> 00:25:22.160] Blue is one of my branded colors.
[00:25:22.880 --> 00:25:24.820] So I try to stay on that cool tone,
[00:25:25.500 --> 00:25:27.240] but I know, like you said,
[00:25:27.420 --> 00:25:29.600] what pictures are marketable and what to shoot for.
[00:25:29.640 --> 00:25:31.000] So I do those safe photos,
[00:25:31.000 --> 00:25:33.640] but I always try to experiment something,
[00:25:33.800 --> 00:25:35.280] especially on weddings, I love weddings.
[00:25:35.420 --> 00:25:36.520] I love them too, man.
[00:25:36.740 --> 00:25:41.120] Yeah, you definitely, you definitely want to,
[00:25:41.160 --> 00:25:44.140] you want to do it the most flattering way.
[00:25:44.540 --> 00:25:47.760] And that's where, and it's not like you just,
[00:25:48.060 --> 00:25:50.740] I'm catering to people needs and wants.
[00:25:50.780 --> 00:25:52.540] You're not trying to do that too much,
[00:25:52.680 --> 00:25:55.820] but you also know what's getting you referrals too.
[00:25:56.060 --> 00:25:57.920] So like, and that's the thing
[00:25:57.920 --> 00:25:59.600] that I'm always looking at.
[00:25:59.600 --> 00:26:02.060] I'm always paying attention to things.
[00:26:02.660 --> 00:26:04.760] Like for me, me personally,
[00:26:05.600 --> 00:26:07.400] when it came to events,
[00:26:08.340 --> 00:26:09.980] I liked Stretch to work the most.
[00:26:10.260 --> 00:26:12.480] And the only reason why I say I liked Stretch
[00:26:12.480 --> 00:26:14.060] to work the most when it came to events,
[00:26:14.620 --> 00:26:17.020] because Stretch was doing something
[00:26:17.020 --> 00:26:20.280] that I didn't see nobody else do.
[00:26:21.100 --> 00:26:22.380] So when it came to events,
[00:26:23.040 --> 00:26:24.360] if you pay attention,
[00:26:24.940 --> 00:26:28.160] I look at, and I'm real critical like on how,
[00:26:28.160 --> 00:26:30.220] like the technique of what people are doing.
[00:26:30.880 --> 00:26:32.840] So like, and that's what makes me,
[00:26:32.940 --> 00:26:35.380] so like I'll see something like,
[00:26:35.780 --> 00:26:37.760] okay, when it come to portrait work,
[00:26:37.760 --> 00:26:39.760] I want to do something close to Lindsay Allen.
[00:26:40.060 --> 00:26:42.360] She is a New York photographer, fashion photographer,
[00:26:42.800 --> 00:26:43.920] amazing, super dope.
[00:26:44.480 --> 00:26:46.400] But I want to, my brother always said like,
[00:26:46.400 --> 00:26:47.480] if you ever want to get better,
[00:26:47.500 --> 00:26:48.940] look at a picture and see how it's shot.
[00:26:49.000 --> 00:26:49.820] Just look at it.
[00:26:50.500 --> 00:26:52.820] Don't look at the BTS's,
[00:26:52.920 --> 00:26:54.220] just look at the shot
[00:26:54.220 --> 00:26:55.740] and see where the light is coming at,
[00:26:55.980 --> 00:26:57.840] where the highlights and the shadows lay at.
[00:26:57.840 --> 00:26:59.800] Look at everything about this picture
[00:26:59.800 --> 00:27:02.020] and you'll be able to kind of understand
[00:27:02.020 --> 00:27:03.040] like where the kick lights,
[00:27:03.060 --> 00:27:04.300] where the key light was at,
[00:27:04.680 --> 00:27:05.940] where all of those types of lights,
[00:27:06.000 --> 00:27:07.140] where the hair light is at.
[00:27:07.840 --> 00:27:11.600] So when I looked at Stretch's photography,
[00:27:13.220 --> 00:27:14.960] his was the hardest to figure out
[00:27:14.960 --> 00:27:16.940] because it was like,
[00:27:17.300 --> 00:27:21.300] man, how is he popping flash on people,
[00:27:22.240 --> 00:27:25.440] preserving the environment with strobes and everything,
[00:27:25.440 --> 00:27:26.740] like when he hit those clubs,
[00:27:27.280 --> 00:27:31.260] catching the moment where it's in a fast motion,
[00:27:32.220 --> 00:27:35.480] where they popping bottles and getting the sparkles.
[00:27:35.740 --> 00:27:37.620] Like when you sit there and break down
[00:27:37.620 --> 00:27:40.500] and analyze the actual shot, the way he shot,
[00:27:41.100 --> 00:27:42.220] you thinking like,
[00:27:42.840 --> 00:27:46.420] what settings on his camera that he got this at?
[00:27:46.680 --> 00:27:49.040] Like, I will always think of that.
[00:27:49.360 --> 00:27:51.160] Like, what is he doing?
[00:27:51.500 --> 00:27:54.000] And it took me, I knew I could take clean shots.
[00:27:54.000 --> 00:27:56.840] I knew I could do all of that stuff.
[00:27:57.240 --> 00:28:00.600] But the main thing was what shot,
[00:28:01.700 --> 00:28:04.500] what's more important, a technical shot or a good shot?
[00:28:05.220 --> 00:28:08.200] And once I understood like a good shot
[00:28:08.200 --> 00:28:10.080] is better than a technical shot,
[00:28:11.600 --> 00:28:14.540] it made more, photography made more sense.
[00:28:14.700 --> 00:28:15.860] It gave me more freedom
[00:28:15.860 --> 00:28:19.980] because I could technically shoot a clean shot in a club,
[00:28:20.420 --> 00:28:21.480] but that clean shot,
[00:28:21.480 --> 00:28:25.000] I might be trying to shoot a clean shot and miss the moment.
[00:28:26.540 --> 00:28:28.760] So you gotta, when I tell people,
[00:28:29.300 --> 00:28:31.160] if I could ever tell anybody anything,
[00:28:31.320 --> 00:28:32.540] when you're going to a club,
[00:28:33.720 --> 00:28:35.540] camera first, light second.
[00:28:36.600 --> 00:28:39.980] You exposing for the environment first.
[00:28:40.120 --> 00:28:41.360] That's why I say camera first.
[00:28:41.520 --> 00:28:44.080] So you set, I'm adjusting my camera
[00:28:44.080 --> 00:28:45.900] for the club, for the event.
[00:28:46.800 --> 00:28:49.160] And then I'm putting my flash on the back end.
[00:28:49.620 --> 00:28:51.920] So most people do flash first.
[00:28:51.960 --> 00:28:55.420] That's those paparazzi shots in camera second.
[00:28:55.720 --> 00:28:58.340] So they want to expose a certain type of way
[00:28:58.340 --> 00:28:59.260] with their light.
[00:29:00.020 --> 00:29:02.980] No, I'm exposing for the club
[00:29:02.980 --> 00:29:04.620] because most people don't know
[00:29:04.620 --> 00:29:06.200] your capabilities of your camera.
[00:29:06.740 --> 00:29:09.240] Like, and check what type of camera you have.
[00:29:09.620 --> 00:29:11.480] So if you're an event photographer,
[00:29:12.060 --> 00:29:15.060] go more of a camera that's good and low light.
[00:29:15.660 --> 00:29:17.600] That mean I can push my ISO higher.
[00:29:17.600 --> 00:29:20.020] If I could push my ISO higher,
[00:29:20.560 --> 00:29:22.120] like I shoot with Z6s.
[00:29:22.280 --> 00:29:26.020] So I know my native ISO is at 12,000.
[00:29:26.140 --> 00:29:28.000] So check where your native ISO is at.
[00:29:28.220 --> 00:29:30.680] So I could go push my camera to 12,000.
[00:29:30.720 --> 00:29:31.800] Do I ever do it?
[00:29:31.940 --> 00:29:32.460] No.
[00:29:33.240 --> 00:29:33.620] I'm hooked.
[00:29:34.100 --> 00:29:36.200] Sometimes I'll, 6,400.
[00:29:36.720 --> 00:29:39.540] I'll push it over there at 6,400 if I had to.
[00:29:40.120 --> 00:29:44.780] Shoot around maybe three, two, four, five in my shutter
[00:29:44.780 --> 00:29:47.140] and maybe 125 in my,
[00:29:48.760 --> 00:29:54.000] no, I'll shoot three, two, or three, five at my, my.
[00:29:54.020 --> 00:29:54.920] So high speed scene?
[00:29:55.540 --> 00:29:57.140] No, I ain't doing no high speed scene.
[00:29:57.200 --> 00:29:57.600] You said three, two?
[00:29:57.960 --> 00:30:02.120] I like, not in my shutter, in my, my f-stop.
[00:30:02.500 --> 00:30:03.480] Yeah, yeah, yeah, my aperture.
[00:30:03.580 --> 00:30:05.380] I'll shoot like three, two, or three, five.
[00:30:05.700 --> 00:30:11.020] And then in my shutter, I'll shoot around 125.
[00:30:11.200 --> 00:30:13.820] And if I just need to, I'll go to 80
[00:30:13.820 --> 00:30:16.460] because I got IBIS that is,
[00:30:16.540 --> 00:30:18.540] that stabilization inside my camera.
[00:30:18.780 --> 00:30:20.740] So I'm calculating everything
[00:30:20.740 --> 00:30:23.160] or I might have vibration reduction on my lens.
[00:30:23.580 --> 00:30:26.120] So I'm at, so I've been shot in the club
[00:30:26.120 --> 00:30:28.860] at 40 on my shutter if I had to.
[00:30:29.140 --> 00:30:31.820] You know, because I'm pulling in the,
[00:30:31.820 --> 00:30:33.340] the lower you go on your shutter,
[00:30:33.660 --> 00:30:36.200] the more ambient light you're bringing into your camera.
[00:30:36.600 --> 00:30:39.380] So it's like, I'm already calculating that
[00:30:39.380 --> 00:30:41.160] and I'll do so much research.
[00:30:41.160 --> 00:30:43.840] So when I edit, I'm always looking at YouTube,
[00:30:43.900 --> 00:30:44.600] learning stuff.
[00:30:44.860 --> 00:30:46.960] So I'm editing YouTube, looking at,
[00:30:47.440 --> 00:30:49.280] if I can't watch it, I'm listening to it.
[00:30:49.400 --> 00:30:51.380] So I'm thinking of every single thing.
[00:30:51.420 --> 00:30:53.700] That's why I say, like I put my hours in
[00:30:53.700 --> 00:30:54.660] but I'm still learning
[00:30:54.660 --> 00:30:58.960] because every situation you go in is totally different.
[00:30:59.380 --> 00:31:02.020] So it's like, I'm looking at every site, anything,
[00:31:02.100 --> 00:31:02.860] because I love this, man.
[00:31:02.880 --> 00:31:04.280] It's my passion, love it.
[00:31:04.720 --> 00:31:06.360] I kind of want to touch on it like that,
[00:31:06.620 --> 00:31:08.580] that education and that research and studying,
[00:31:09.200 --> 00:31:10.960] like you said, studying other people's work
[00:31:10.960 --> 00:31:12.880] and being on YouTube or even, you know,
[00:31:13.200 --> 00:31:15.220] consulting with other people in the industry,
[00:31:15.360 --> 00:31:16.240] mainly photographers.
[00:31:16.860 --> 00:31:19.560] So how important, because I know you're busy,
[00:31:20.880 --> 00:31:23.560] how, and you know, in a relationship,
[00:31:23.760 --> 00:31:24.500] on a married or not.
[00:31:25.100 --> 00:31:26.200] Yeah, I'm in a relationship now.
[00:31:26.300 --> 00:31:28.320] Relationship, so I know how that is, you know,
[00:31:28.480 --> 00:31:29.120] same boat.
[00:31:31.300 --> 00:31:33.500] How important is that for balance,
[00:31:33.760 --> 00:31:35.660] whether you know, being, you know,
[00:31:35.880 --> 00:31:38.320] quality time with the family and the loved ones
[00:31:38.320 --> 00:31:41.740] versus studying and, you know, taking the gigs and editing.
[00:31:42.380 --> 00:31:45.400] How do you allocate that time for self-improvement?
[00:31:47.480 --> 00:31:53.780] The way I try to use that time, I will,
[00:31:55.300 --> 00:31:56.420] like the one thing about it,
[00:31:56.420 --> 00:31:58.520] I got my girlfriend, she's super supportive.
[00:31:59.140 --> 00:32:01.260] She's like a really, like,
[00:32:01.260 --> 00:32:03.160] and she's her own entrepreneur too.
[00:32:03.560 --> 00:32:05.460] And she's a real estate agent as well.
[00:32:05.460 --> 00:32:08.800] So I love it because we both have things that,
[00:32:08.860 --> 00:32:11.040] we both respect each other's time and business.
[00:32:11.220 --> 00:32:13.340] So it's like, I'm more, I'm a very,
[00:32:13.500 --> 00:32:16.280] I'm more productive in the morning.
[00:32:16.360 --> 00:32:17.260] I'm a morning person.
[00:32:17.300 --> 00:32:19.620] I can get up like five o'clock in the morning
[00:32:19.620 --> 00:32:23.760] and like my old job was a six to two weekends off,
[00:32:23.840 --> 00:32:26.580] like six in the morning, two in the weekends off.
[00:32:26.620 --> 00:32:28.020] So I'm programmed for the morning.
[00:32:28.440 --> 00:32:31.100] So like now I'm just like,
[00:32:31.660 --> 00:32:34.580] I find times where I know I'm very productive at.
[00:32:34.580 --> 00:32:37.060] It's either in the morning or if I do an event
[00:32:37.060 --> 00:32:39.520] and I got my stuff with me and I can edit right then.
[00:32:39.800 --> 00:32:42.260] Because when I do an event, I'm on adrenaline.
[00:32:42.940 --> 00:32:45.120] Like, all right, I ain't tired.
[00:32:45.820 --> 00:32:48.360] Unless I done did like a wedding or something
[00:32:48.360 --> 00:32:50.340] around five and a half, six hours,
[00:32:50.520 --> 00:32:52.200] then I was like, hey, I'll see you tomorrow.
[00:32:52.500 --> 00:32:54.460] But if I did like a two hour event
[00:32:54.460 --> 00:32:55.940] and it was a turn up, oh yeah,
[00:32:55.940 --> 00:32:57.960] if I got my stuff with me, boom, boom, boom,
[00:32:57.980 --> 00:32:59.000] I could rock out.
[00:32:59.980 --> 00:33:03.460] But I balance things based off of,
[00:33:05.660 --> 00:33:08.100] I balance things based off of like how I,
[00:33:08.120 --> 00:33:09.560] like a few of my week.
[00:33:09.920 --> 00:33:12.280] So I'll see some things like, but I'm still like,
[00:33:12.300 --> 00:33:14.500] this isn't in a space where I'm still learning.
[00:33:14.820 --> 00:33:17.860] So I'm not, I'm not perfect.
[00:33:18.020 --> 00:33:18.740] You know what I'm saying?
[00:33:19.060 --> 00:33:20.700] Like I didn't miss time dates
[00:33:20.700 --> 00:33:21.960] and all of that type of stuff.
[00:33:22.180 --> 00:33:25.880] Just miscalculating life, you know?
[00:33:26.080 --> 00:33:27.380] But one thing about me,
[00:33:27.380 --> 00:33:30.860] if I have ever miscalculated something
[00:33:30.860 --> 00:33:32.920] or I didn't deliver on the timely frame,
[00:33:32.920 --> 00:33:34.740] I am the type of person, man,
[00:33:34.740 --> 00:33:36.400] I'll make it up 10 fold to somebody.
[00:33:36.980 --> 00:33:40.440] Like, and I will go out my way to make it up to somebody
[00:33:40.440 --> 00:33:45.200] because it's like, people invest in what we do.
[00:33:45.620 --> 00:33:48.740] And I do photography so much,
[00:33:49.100 --> 00:33:52.880] sometimes that gets away from us
[00:33:52.880 --> 00:33:55.060] as the owner or the entrepreneur
[00:33:55.060 --> 00:33:57.460] to where it's like, man,
[00:33:57.600 --> 00:34:01.900] somebody is truly investing $350
[00:34:01.900 --> 00:34:06.140] every session for a photo shoot.
[00:34:06.400 --> 00:34:08.320] We got a luxury expense.
[00:34:09.139 --> 00:34:11.760] So like, and when people come to me,
[00:34:12.679 --> 00:34:14.060] they're not coming regular.
[00:34:14.760 --> 00:34:15.860] They're getting their makeup done,
[00:34:15.960 --> 00:34:17.100] their hair done, their outfits.
[00:34:17.320 --> 00:34:21.139] So they might be a thousand yen on this photo shoot
[00:34:21.139 --> 00:34:23.460] just to put on social media.
[00:34:23.920 --> 00:34:25.719] They don't even frame it, half of this stuff.
[00:34:25.940 --> 00:34:27.560] They're just doing it for the gram.
[00:34:28.219 --> 00:34:28.280] And-
[00:34:28.280 --> 00:34:28.820] Our website.
[00:34:29.060 --> 00:34:30.520] Yeah, or a website or something.
[00:34:30.520 --> 00:34:33.080] Really, for social media, for real.
[00:34:33.480 --> 00:34:35.860] Like, it really boiled down to it.
[00:34:35.900 --> 00:34:37.000] You're a thousand yen on it,
[00:34:37.000 --> 00:34:38.719] so we're a luxury expense.
[00:34:39.800 --> 00:34:42.320] But I don't take that for granted.
[00:34:42.659 --> 00:34:44.659] Like, man, when those people come in
[00:34:44.659 --> 00:34:46.320] and they scared to death
[00:34:46.320 --> 00:34:48.340] and never took a picture in their life,
[00:34:49.320 --> 00:34:53.100] it's such an honor that I get to work with them
[00:34:53.100 --> 00:34:57.640] because of, man, the one thing people always tell you,
[00:34:57.780 --> 00:34:59.740] any review of any shoot I ever did,
[00:34:59.740 --> 00:35:02.820] people will tell you their comfort in me.
[00:35:02.900 --> 00:35:04.680] They'll be like, man, I love working with Ned
[00:35:04.680 --> 00:35:05.820] because I'm having fun.
[00:35:06.220 --> 00:35:08.700] I know, this is weird.
[00:35:08.980 --> 00:35:11.520] I know it's like, you ain't the person
[00:35:11.520 --> 00:35:13.200] taking your selfie today, girl.
[00:35:13.400 --> 00:35:14.380] I'm taking it.
[00:35:15.020 --> 00:35:17.900] Oh, it's like, I love that portion of it
[00:35:17.900 --> 00:35:20.520] to where it's like, I get to give you
[00:35:20.520 --> 00:35:23.940] a great experience that it's no preconceived notions,
[00:35:23.940 --> 00:35:26.080] or even if you did, I'd have broke
[00:35:26.080 --> 00:35:27.340] all those preconceived notions
[00:35:27.340 --> 00:35:29.400] because I'm here having fun with you.
[00:35:29.400 --> 00:35:31.760] I'm not even letting you think that we in a photo shoot.
[00:35:32.220 --> 00:35:34.180] We have a casual, fun conversation.
[00:35:34.320 --> 00:35:35.680] Oh, but I need this shot right here.
[00:35:35.880 --> 00:35:36.880] Oh, you little girl, girl.
[00:35:37.160 --> 00:35:38.700] Hey, I need you to do this turn real quick.
[00:35:38.720 --> 00:35:39.780] Let me get this little shot.
[00:35:39.920 --> 00:35:41.860] I already got all of the things I want to,
[00:35:41.860 --> 00:35:43.300] but I'm building a confidence
[00:35:44.200 --> 00:35:46.000] in this love for their self,
[00:35:46.020 --> 00:35:48.260] this liberation within the client
[00:35:48.260 --> 00:35:51.440] to where it's like, I like doing that with women
[00:35:51.440 --> 00:35:52.720] and I love doing that with men
[00:35:52.720 --> 00:35:55.040] because men are more standoffish
[00:35:55.040 --> 00:35:56.480] when it comes to photo shoots.
[00:35:56.600 --> 00:35:57.340] Especially weddings.
[00:35:57.340 --> 00:35:59.740] Man, they be like, and there it's like, man,
[00:35:59.740 --> 00:36:02.260] when you see the, you want them to preserve
[00:36:02.260 --> 00:36:04.360] their masculinity and still be cool.
[00:36:04.560 --> 00:36:05.860] And when you get that shot of them,
[00:36:05.980 --> 00:36:08.140] they be like, man, this was raw, brother.
[00:36:08.920 --> 00:36:11.140] Like, man, you dope, man, you the best ever.
[00:36:11.220 --> 00:36:14.640] Like, man, I ain't even got to the meat of this, man.
[00:36:15.740 --> 00:36:17.000] Nobody did this.
[00:36:19.100 --> 00:36:22.440] So, you know, speaking with a new photographer,
[00:36:22.900 --> 00:36:24.400] they're, you know, maybe went to college
[00:36:24.400 --> 00:36:26.220] and they kind of want to take it professional.
[00:36:26.220 --> 00:36:27.720] They never charged yet,
[00:36:27.720 --> 00:36:29.460] but they're looking too charged
[00:36:29.460 --> 00:36:31.880] and want to step into that full-time entrepreneurship.
[00:36:32.200 --> 00:36:32.680] Yeah.
[00:36:32.800 --> 00:36:35.640] How important is the client experience for them?
[00:36:36.680 --> 00:36:39.020] You saying like, as far as?
[00:36:39.460 --> 00:36:41.940] Making them comfortable, making sure, you know,
[00:36:42.140 --> 00:36:44.000] everything goes well, serving the customer.
[00:36:44.440 --> 00:36:45.620] Oh, yeah, that's number one.
[00:36:45.760 --> 00:36:47.160] You got to be able to do that.
[00:36:47.840 --> 00:36:50.160] Like, when I do photo shoots with people,
[00:36:50.340 --> 00:36:52.940] especially if they never did a photo shoot before,
[00:36:52.940 --> 00:36:55.840] I can tell them the light, my light could look good.
[00:36:56.360 --> 00:36:57.260] You could look good.
[00:36:57.280 --> 00:37:00.440] You can have on Gucci, Louis Vuitton, hair could be done.
[00:37:00.480 --> 00:37:02.900] You got the top makeup artists in the city do your stuff.
[00:37:03.140 --> 00:37:05.400] We could be in the most luxurious space.
[00:37:06.200 --> 00:37:07.300] Everything could look great.
[00:37:07.520 --> 00:37:08.880] But if you don't have no confidence,
[00:37:09.320 --> 00:37:10.700] I can see it on every picture.
[00:37:11.140 --> 00:37:14.020] So the thing that I beg of people
[00:37:14.020 --> 00:37:19.240] and I build up in clients is confidence.
[00:37:20.000 --> 00:37:21.700] Like, you have to smile with them.
[00:37:21.700 --> 00:37:23.100] You have to laugh at them.
[00:37:23.340 --> 00:37:25.620] You have to refrain from saying certain things.
[00:37:26.000 --> 00:37:27.520] You cannot show your emotions
[00:37:27.520 --> 00:37:29.860] when it comes to certain clients
[00:37:29.860 --> 00:37:34.920] if they did something that was maybe inappropriate
[00:37:34.920 --> 00:37:37.520] or if they did something that was not flattering.
[00:37:37.920 --> 00:37:40.540] So you have to walk them back into a space
[00:37:40.540 --> 00:37:42.760] because the thing about photography
[00:37:42.760 --> 00:37:46.200] is that even that they don't understand
[00:37:46.200 --> 00:37:51.420] about what we see the forest beyond the trees,
[00:37:51.420 --> 00:37:53.280] so we see everything.
[00:37:53.300 --> 00:37:56.220] I see everything of how this session need to go.
[00:37:56.740 --> 00:37:58.820] I see the shot that I need from you.
[00:37:58.820 --> 00:38:01.400] When you give me a reference picture, okay, cool.
[00:38:01.760 --> 00:38:03.400] You're not that person in that picture.
[00:38:04.280 --> 00:38:08.060] You might not be able capable of doing that type of move,
[00:38:08.280 --> 00:38:09.780] but this is our origin point.
[00:38:09.880 --> 00:38:10.860] This is our reference point.
[00:38:11.400 --> 00:38:13.860] So we gonna take that, use it as a reference,
[00:38:14.420 --> 00:38:16.160] but we gonna own the shot.
[00:38:16.360 --> 00:38:18.340] We gonna do what we wanna do with it.
[00:38:18.960 --> 00:38:21.100] So, and I sell that to people
[00:38:21.100 --> 00:38:23.500] and I get them going and get them to understand,
[00:38:24.120 --> 00:38:26.000] man, just trust me.
[00:38:26.440 --> 00:38:27.800] Just trust me.
[00:38:28.600 --> 00:38:30.300] Once I get to shoot with them
[00:38:30.300 --> 00:38:32.480] and they'll see those shots,
[00:38:33.180 --> 00:38:34.660] and usually I'll shoot to a point
[00:38:34.660 --> 00:38:36.200] where I get that shot
[00:38:36.200 --> 00:38:38.320] that I know where that shot look good.
[00:38:38.760 --> 00:38:40.220] Then once I show them that,
[00:38:40.500 --> 00:38:43.700] then it kinda like, oh, okay, I trust this guy.
[00:38:43.860 --> 00:38:44.980] I trust this guy.
[00:38:45.200 --> 00:38:50.060] So I say, with the new photographers,
[00:38:51.100 --> 00:38:54.840] man, you have to give them a grand sense of comfortability.
[00:38:55.260 --> 00:38:57.620] Because if they're not comfortable,
[00:38:58.360 --> 00:38:59.340] man, I have worked,
[00:38:59.420 --> 00:39:00.740] I probably worked with one client
[00:39:00.740 --> 00:39:04.520] that just was like, oh, she was like, ah.
[00:39:04.920 --> 00:39:09.400] But I needed that because it helped me to see
[00:39:09.400 --> 00:39:12.480] how important it was to get them comfortable.
[00:39:13.080 --> 00:39:15.360] So now, I go in there, man,
[00:39:15.360 --> 00:39:17.060] I turn out to be people's best friend.
[00:39:17.660 --> 00:39:19.660] Because I have, I just, I understand,
[00:39:19.660 --> 00:39:23.380] I never undermine how much that,
[00:39:23.620 --> 00:39:25.100] that's how vulnerable you are
[00:39:25.100 --> 00:39:28.420] when it comes to photography, man.
[00:39:28.500 --> 00:39:30.100] Like when somebody else is taking your picture.
[00:39:30.160 --> 00:39:30.920] I know for sure,
[00:39:30.940 --> 00:39:33.640] I had to take some naked pictures with a photographer.
[00:39:33.900 --> 00:39:36.800] So that was like, it was dope,
[00:39:37.020 --> 00:39:38.720] but it was, it was.
[00:39:38.720 --> 00:39:38.980] Different.
[00:39:39.360 --> 00:39:40.720] Yeah, because it gave me,
[00:39:40.920 --> 00:39:43.220] I had to understand what people went through.
[00:39:43.640 --> 00:39:45.240] It was with Steph Midgett for his birthday.
[00:39:45.400 --> 00:39:48.060] He took pictures of like 25 different photographers, nude.
[00:39:48.060 --> 00:39:51.440] But all we had was a piece of equipment over our cell.
[00:39:51.900 --> 00:39:53.660] And he didn't edit these pictures, neither.
[00:39:53.700 --> 00:39:55.140] He just put them in black and white.
[00:39:55.660 --> 00:39:57.540] Post, put them up in his studio
[00:39:58.580 --> 00:40:00.500] for people to see on his birthday.
[00:40:01.060 --> 00:40:02.800] It was the most live-est thing.
[00:40:03.500 --> 00:40:04.940] And I look, I'm like, all right.
[00:40:05.060 --> 00:40:06.440] When he told me about it, I'm like,
[00:40:06.640 --> 00:40:08.540] bro, this is one of the broadest ideas ever.
[00:40:08.660 --> 00:40:10.380] Like, I gotta be a part of this, this is art.
[00:40:11.400 --> 00:40:12.820] So I'm like, I mean, my whole time,
[00:40:12.880 --> 00:40:14.340] he was like, all right, bro, we gonna shoot this day.
[00:40:14.420 --> 00:40:15.240] I'm like, all right, cool.
[00:40:15.600 --> 00:40:17.280] So I'm like, full nervous.
[00:40:17.280 --> 00:40:19.600] But I'm like, all right, I'm gonna give him some stuff, too.
[00:40:19.680 --> 00:40:20.760] I'm gonna pose.
[00:40:20.940 --> 00:40:22.840] If I ain't gonna do nothing, I'm gonna pose today.
[00:40:23.100 --> 00:40:24.340] I remember hearing about that.
[00:40:24.440 --> 00:40:26.780] Actually, her mother, she was one of those photographers.
[00:40:26.860 --> 00:40:27.720] That's so dope.
[00:40:27.820 --> 00:40:28.500] It was dope.
[00:40:28.940 --> 00:40:30.280] And then look, I ran out of poses.
[00:40:30.660 --> 00:40:31.540] And he kept shooting.
[00:40:31.880 --> 00:40:33.620] I'm like, bro, I ain't got nothing else.
[00:40:34.020 --> 00:40:35.540] I'm like, he kept shooting.
[00:40:35.680 --> 00:40:36.720] I'm like, bro, stop.
[00:40:36.960 --> 00:40:37.760] He was like, no.
[00:40:38.140 --> 00:40:40.660] And then it made it made sense.
[00:40:40.980 --> 00:40:42.820] Because when he didn't stop shooting,
[00:40:43.000 --> 00:40:44.580] he kept shooting, it made me feel vulnerable.
[00:40:44.960 --> 00:40:47.000] And I was nervous and scared
[00:40:47.000 --> 00:40:49.400] because I was all out of ideas.
[00:40:50.020 --> 00:40:53.160] And I'm like, and it made me feel what my clients feel.
[00:40:53.520 --> 00:40:57.140] And it was just like, man, in this moment,
[00:40:57.180 --> 00:40:58.440] it just made more sense
[00:40:58.440 --> 00:41:01.600] to where I always have her appreciation for my clients
[00:41:01.600 --> 00:41:03.360] and making them feel comfortable.
[00:41:03.580 --> 00:41:05.580] Because you got to, you got to.
[00:41:05.740 --> 00:41:09.720] Because it's like, it's a, I can't even,
[00:41:09.800 --> 00:41:12.300] it's hard for me to even shoot a client
[00:41:12.300 --> 00:41:14.200] where they not talking to you,
[00:41:14.220 --> 00:41:15.760] where they just in here like, oh, okay.
[00:41:16.480 --> 00:41:17.120] It's like.
[00:41:17.500 --> 00:41:20.100] Yeah, I definitely been through that.
[00:41:20.300 --> 00:41:23.460] Sometimes it's hard, but like more of a portraits,
[00:41:23.460 --> 00:41:25.800] you know, photo sessions, you know,
[00:41:25.880 --> 00:41:27.640] music kind of alleviates that.
[00:41:27.680 --> 00:41:28.660] Well, what's your favorite song?
[00:41:29.140 --> 00:41:29.580] Yeah.
[00:41:29.880 --> 00:41:30.680] I don't have one.
[00:41:30.720 --> 00:41:32.140] Then I place in the, oh, can we play?
[00:41:32.480 --> 00:41:33.280] Oh, yes.
[00:41:33.520 --> 00:41:35.040] It take them a while to warm up.
[00:41:35.140 --> 00:41:36.880] That's the thing about clients, man.
[00:41:37.000 --> 00:41:38.340] It take them a little while.
[00:41:38.520 --> 00:41:42.360] Once they warm up, man, the electricity that you have,
[00:41:42.360 --> 00:41:45.860] it's like y'all on the planet by yourself
[00:41:45.860 --> 00:41:49.280] and y'all get to create and that's the thing that I love.
[00:41:49.300 --> 00:41:53.240] That's what I love about people who don't model.
[00:41:53.560 --> 00:41:56.220] But when you got those creators which you work with,
[00:41:57.180 --> 00:41:59.220] ain't a magic in the world like that
[00:41:59.220 --> 00:42:00.580] when two creators get together.
[00:42:01.060 --> 00:42:02.720] It's the greatest thing of all time.
[00:42:02.760 --> 00:42:04.120] It's like, you can't do no wrong.
[00:42:05.400 --> 00:42:07.940] Yeah, it's, yeah, that's what I love about it, man.
[00:42:08.200 --> 00:42:10.220] But I love it though, man, it's dope.
[00:42:10.540 --> 00:42:11.440] Yes, it is.
[00:42:12.140 --> 00:42:15.480] I know you kind of spoke on those early days,
[00:42:15.900 --> 00:42:16.960] working nine to five.
[00:42:16.960 --> 00:42:19.200] It wasn't nine to five, but it was started at six.
[00:42:19.520 --> 00:42:20.900] But nine to five grind.
[00:42:21.420 --> 00:42:22.920] I know you had to wake up early.
[00:42:23.200 --> 00:42:26.020] But how do you prevent burnout in a field
[00:42:26.020 --> 00:42:29.000] where you're often working evenings and weekends?
[00:42:31.240 --> 00:42:33.420] Are you talking about like when it comes to photography
[00:42:33.420 --> 00:42:35.440] or are you talking about photography and work?
[00:42:36.500 --> 00:42:38.400] Like when I was working my job.
[00:42:38.940 --> 00:42:41.960] Well, both are, you know, now photographers,
[00:42:42.540 --> 00:42:44.620] like mainly events are like in the evenings
[00:42:44.620 --> 00:42:46.240] or weekends, prime time.
[00:42:46.940 --> 00:42:48.680] Yeah, okay, all right.
[00:42:48.840 --> 00:42:50.500] With burnout, burnout is for real.
[00:42:50.520 --> 00:42:50.940] It is.
[00:42:50.940 --> 00:42:53.840] So it's like, and sometimes like you don't know that
[00:42:53.840 --> 00:42:55.660] until you really start,
[00:42:56.520 --> 00:42:58.240] until like the clientele start growing.
[00:42:58.740 --> 00:43:00.520] Then it's like, you can't,
[00:43:00.620 --> 00:43:02.640] you always got to treat your business
[00:43:02.640 --> 00:43:07.120] as if it's the top, like if it's the top business,
[00:43:07.120 --> 00:43:08.440] because you don't,
[00:43:08.440 --> 00:43:10.880] like I don't never like to say like small businesses.
[00:43:11.400 --> 00:43:12.880] Only time you want to say small business
[00:43:12.880 --> 00:43:14.220] is when you going for a grant.
[00:43:15.080 --> 00:43:17.660] But for the most part, if you,
[00:43:17.760 --> 00:43:18.580] business is business.
[00:43:19.180 --> 00:43:22.840] You competing with portrait innovations
[00:43:22.840 --> 00:43:24.220] with other photographers.
[00:43:24.580 --> 00:43:25.480] So guess what?
[00:43:25.920 --> 00:43:28.400] You got to think big.
[00:43:29.040 --> 00:43:31.300] So, and you got to think big for big occasions
[00:43:31.300 --> 00:43:33.600] because when it go the other way,
[00:43:33.940 --> 00:43:34.940] you better be ready.
[00:43:35.120 --> 00:43:36.740] Because when those floodgates come through,
[00:43:36.740 --> 00:43:38.760] man, them people, hey, I need you, I need you,
[00:43:38.760 --> 00:43:39.800] I need you, I need you.
[00:43:40.000 --> 00:43:42.000] Man, it's been so many times where I wasn't prepared
[00:43:42.000 --> 00:43:44.440] that I missed those DMs.
[00:43:44.620 --> 00:43:45.880] Man, I didn't miss probably,
[00:43:47.300 --> 00:43:48.940] I couldn't tell you how many thousand dollars
[00:43:48.940 --> 00:43:50.140] worth of DMs I didn't miss.
[00:43:50.220 --> 00:43:55.200] Just because I wasn't ready for that influx of people.
[00:43:55.320 --> 00:43:58.460] So I think like when it comes to balancing
[00:43:58.940 --> 00:44:00.820] all of that, of like that overflow,
[00:44:01.420 --> 00:44:04.700] you just have to, man, don't take on more.
[00:44:04.780 --> 00:44:05.880] It's okay to say no.
[00:44:05.880 --> 00:44:07.800] It's okay to say no.
[00:44:08.360 --> 00:44:11.300] Because like I used to say yes to everything.
[00:44:11.640 --> 00:44:15.120] And then just, and then I used to say yes
[00:44:15.120 --> 00:44:17.240] to everything and was undervalued.
[00:44:18.080 --> 00:44:20.060] And then you saying yes to things
[00:44:20.060 --> 00:44:21.380] where you not getting paid,
[00:44:21.980 --> 00:44:23.360] makes you dislike your passion.
[00:44:24.120 --> 00:44:27.260] You know, so I had to get to that point
[00:44:27.260 --> 00:44:31.100] where, hey, all right, y'all can use me,
[00:44:31.100 --> 00:44:32.080] but it's gonna cost you.
[00:44:32.220 --> 00:44:33.620] And this is what it's gonna cost you.
[00:44:33.620 --> 00:44:36.760] So if I'm this valued at this price
[00:44:36.760 --> 00:44:39.060] and y'all are cool with it, that's cool.
[00:44:39.420 --> 00:44:41.800] But at the point that I ever feel overwhelmed with that,
[00:44:41.980 --> 00:44:43.140] guess what, guess what's gonna happen?
[00:44:43.800 --> 00:44:45.160] My prices go up.
[00:44:45.360 --> 00:44:46.940] Now I ain't for everybody.
[00:44:47.320 --> 00:44:48.020] You know what I'm saying?
[00:44:48.600 --> 00:44:54.060] So I had to talk to God about hiking my prices up.
[00:44:54.400 --> 00:44:56.800] So when I talked to God about like a number
[00:44:56.800 --> 00:44:58.400] that I was comfortable with
[00:44:58.400 --> 00:45:00.800] and I said it out loud like 10 times,
[00:45:01.100 --> 00:45:02.660] oh yeah, this is my price point now.
[00:45:02.660 --> 00:45:04.900] So yeah, I'm not for everybody.
[00:45:04.920 --> 00:45:08.300] When I did that, it was people that was gonna pay it,
[00:45:08.380 --> 00:45:09.320] it was people that wasn't.
[00:45:09.320 --> 00:45:10.740] And I was cool with it either way.
[00:45:11.160 --> 00:45:14.240] I didn't care about missing out on the money.
[00:45:14.300 --> 00:45:16.700] And then too, I would always send that to other people.
[00:45:17.080 --> 00:45:18.920] So it's like, that's the community
[00:45:18.920 --> 00:45:20.460] of photographers that we in.
[00:45:20.960 --> 00:45:22.380] Even though I can't get it,
[00:45:22.440 --> 00:45:23.760] but I know good photographers
[00:45:23.760 --> 00:45:25.460] that can take care of you and do that.
[00:45:25.880 --> 00:45:28.700] Yeah, our stuff may not be the same,
[00:45:28.980 --> 00:45:31.120] but I want you to be taken care of
[00:45:31.120 --> 00:45:32.840] because this is your budget.
[00:45:33.340 --> 00:45:34.580] It's just when you had those people
[00:45:34.580 --> 00:45:37.320] with champagne tastes on a beer budget,
[00:45:38.860 --> 00:45:40.420] it's like, all right now,
[00:45:40.500 --> 00:45:42.740] I can't, that's why I give them plenty of options.
[00:45:42.960 --> 00:45:43.980] You can give me one hour.
[00:45:45.140 --> 00:45:46.680] Okay, you want to give me for multiple hours?
[00:45:46.820 --> 00:45:48.180] Well, this is the price for multiple hours.
[00:45:48.780 --> 00:45:50.820] So I had to think of it in a way
[00:45:50.820 --> 00:45:53.420] to where it made sense for me and the client, so.
[00:45:55.180 --> 00:45:57.640] How big is finding that happy medium?
[00:45:57.740 --> 00:46:00.740] Maybe it's like a client that you want to work with,
[00:46:00.740 --> 00:46:02.260] but you know they don't have a budget.
[00:46:03.140 --> 00:46:04.660] Oh, I missed out on some bread one time.
[00:46:04.780 --> 00:46:05.800] It was crazy you said that.
[00:46:06.280 --> 00:46:09.220] I had like, it was just one client that I worked with
[00:46:10.240 --> 00:46:12.580] and they had to have these headshots
[00:46:13.540 --> 00:46:15.760] and it was like maybe about 20 people.
[00:46:15.900 --> 00:46:17.560] So I had quote them for like,
[00:46:17.560 --> 00:46:19.880] maybe about four grand for the headshots.
[00:46:20.460 --> 00:46:22.480] I forgot, it was somewhere around there.
[00:46:22.620 --> 00:46:23.780] It was like four grand,
[00:46:24.280 --> 00:46:27.600] but then it was this other company that they were.
[00:46:27.920 --> 00:46:29.720] The other company was upstairs
[00:46:30.160 --> 00:46:36.970] and they had like 35 people,
[00:46:37.090 --> 00:46:39.610] but their budget was only at 1500,
[00:46:40.150 --> 00:46:42.130] but I really wanted that one.
[00:46:42.670 --> 00:46:44.010] Like I wanted both of them,
[00:46:44.070 --> 00:46:47.010] but I wanted both of them.
[00:46:47.410 --> 00:46:50.550] But it was hard for me to not quote these people
[00:46:50.550 --> 00:46:52.030] for this four grand and then say,
[00:46:52.070 --> 00:46:53.430] I can knock down these people,
[00:46:54.030 --> 00:46:58.850] which these people that had 35 plus people wanted 1500,
[00:46:59.890 --> 00:47:02.290] but they even wanted me to do more,
[00:47:02.290 --> 00:47:03.390] a little bit more work,
[00:47:03.390 --> 00:47:04.950] like headshots and portrait.
[00:47:05.570 --> 00:47:06.010] You know what I'm saying?
[00:47:06.010 --> 00:47:07.090] Like a full body portrait.
[00:47:07.410 --> 00:47:09.150] And I wanted to do them bad
[00:47:09.150 --> 00:47:12.310] because all of the people that I was doing
[00:47:12.310 --> 00:47:13.710] were prestigious people.
[00:47:13.910 --> 00:47:15.090] I knew there was gonna be clients.
[00:47:15.470 --> 00:47:18.370] I knew if I could get 10 of them people,
[00:47:18.370 --> 00:47:19.410] there was gonna be clients.
[00:47:19.670 --> 00:47:20.870] And then when I think of a client,
[00:47:20.990 --> 00:47:21.810] I think of a,
[00:47:21.850 --> 00:47:23.210] if I get you one person,
[00:47:23.290 --> 00:47:25.490] I'm gonna get you for life some type of way,
[00:47:26.110 --> 00:47:27.430] because whether I get you in business,
[00:47:27.630 --> 00:47:28.610] you gonna need family shoots,
[00:47:28.870 --> 00:47:29.970] you gonna need something, something, something,
[00:47:30.030 --> 00:47:30.630] something, something, something, something, something.
[00:47:30.630 --> 00:47:36.270] So, but I didn't get that shoot for the four grand
[00:47:36.270 --> 00:47:37.870] and I didn't get the shoot for the 15,
[00:47:37.910 --> 00:47:39.350] but the 15 was sitting in my lap,
[00:47:40.250 --> 00:47:44.210] but I just could not tell them
[00:47:44.210 --> 00:47:45.950] I was gonna accept the 15,
[00:47:45.970 --> 00:47:47.530] even though I wanted that one bad.
[00:47:47.690 --> 00:47:48.710] I wanted that one bad
[00:47:48.710 --> 00:47:51.670] because I knew that one was gonna give me
[00:47:51.670 --> 00:47:53.610] so much more than the four.
[00:47:53.730 --> 00:47:56.250] It's just that I worked with that company previously
[00:47:57.410 --> 00:47:59.630] and if I would have went down to there,
[00:47:59.630 --> 00:48:02.470] I could never have went back up to there.
[00:48:02.890 --> 00:48:07.090] So I was just trying to find a good negotiating way to say,
[00:48:07.970 --> 00:48:09.750] I can't do this, but I can do this.
[00:48:10.630 --> 00:48:12.590] But I would like to come back to this
[00:48:12.590 --> 00:48:13.970] at some point into my life,
[00:48:14.130 --> 00:48:15.490] if y'all can honor that.
[00:48:16.170 --> 00:48:18.810] But it was just one of those things.
[00:48:19.950 --> 00:48:22.110] But me sticking to my word,
[00:48:23.090 --> 00:48:26.370] missing out on that four grand and that 1500,
[00:48:26.990 --> 00:48:29.930] the next month I pulled in like 12 grand.
[00:48:30.890 --> 00:48:31.510] You know what I'm saying?
[00:48:31.930 --> 00:48:35.550] So some things ain't technically for you at that point,
[00:48:35.870 --> 00:48:37.450] like you gotta find out what's for you.
[00:48:37.990 --> 00:48:39.210] So yeah, it kinda hurt,
[00:48:39.270 --> 00:48:43.170] but I stood on what I felt that was right.
[00:48:43.610 --> 00:48:45.570] You know, like me, what I built,
[00:48:46.250 --> 00:48:47.950] what I said was etched in stone,
[00:48:48.070 --> 00:48:50.150] what's on that paper when I send it
[00:48:50.150 --> 00:48:54.530] or that digital file when I send those prices over.
[00:48:54.610 --> 00:48:55.430] This is what I stand on.
[00:48:55.430 --> 00:48:58.110] This is what it costs for this type of service.
[00:48:58.330 --> 00:49:01.510] So when I did that, man, it's like, come on, man,
[00:49:01.510 --> 00:49:03.750] I locked in bigger clients.
[00:49:03.830 --> 00:49:04.850] You know what I'm saying?
[00:49:05.030 --> 00:49:07.450] Sometimes we just, we don't be seeing
[00:49:07.450 --> 00:49:09.210] so far down the line,
[00:49:09.470 --> 00:49:12.450] but if you believe in what you believe in, man,
[00:49:12.510 --> 00:49:15.130] you're locking in those clients, man, I'm telling you.
[00:49:15.430 --> 00:49:15.910] Yeah.
[00:49:16.370 --> 00:49:20.750] So it kinda sounds like if you get a client
[00:49:20.750 --> 00:49:22.710] or it could be a friend or anybody,
[00:49:22.710 --> 00:49:25.930] but they like your work the first time,
[00:49:26.250 --> 00:49:28.010] going all the way back to the client experience
[00:49:28.010 --> 00:49:29.350] and you excelled in it.
[00:49:30.010 --> 00:49:32.470] You know, it's almost like a lifetime client.
[00:49:33.130 --> 00:49:33.230] Yeah.
[00:49:33.330 --> 00:49:34.470] Have you ever had a lifetime client?
[00:49:34.690 --> 00:49:36.810] Yeah, I got a girl that I shoot every,
[00:49:37.050 --> 00:49:39.050] like since, for five years,
[00:49:39.310 --> 00:49:42.250] I've been full-time, October would be five years.
[00:49:42.650 --> 00:49:44.470] So I'm a full-time photographer.
[00:49:45.030 --> 00:49:49.090] I shoot her and her son every year
[00:49:49.090 --> 00:49:50.330] at the end of the year.
[00:49:50.330 --> 00:49:55.270] That's, it is the most gratifying thing
[00:49:55.270 --> 00:49:56.750] because it's like, man,
[00:49:57.390 --> 00:50:01.070] I plan on seeing this kid grow up out of school.
[00:50:01.130 --> 00:50:03.390] I just seen her yesterday,
[00:50:03.390 --> 00:50:05.950] matter of fact, at a lounge
[00:50:06.490 --> 00:50:08.690] and she had a tragedy that happened with her
[00:50:08.690 --> 00:50:09.610] and it's just it,
[00:50:09.850 --> 00:50:12.190] like you feel it because it's not like a,
[00:50:12.310 --> 00:50:13.550] man, I'll take a picture, boom, boom.
[00:50:13.670 --> 00:50:15.510] It's like, man, you keeping up with people.
[00:50:15.730 --> 00:50:18.010] You keep, it ain't no different from a barber
[00:50:18.010 --> 00:50:20.750] to a kid sitting in a chair with him
[00:50:20.750 --> 00:50:22.450] and he just gonna cut his hair every,
[00:50:22.830 --> 00:50:23.870] he gonna know his family.
[00:50:24.250 --> 00:50:27.390] So it's just like, man, I get clients that,
[00:50:27.510 --> 00:50:30.590] man, I get this, I get them on a business shot.
[00:50:30.750 --> 00:50:31.910] Oh, I need family pictures.
[00:50:32.230 --> 00:50:33.150] Oh, I need this.
[00:50:33.450 --> 00:50:34.370] Oh, I need that.
[00:50:34.690 --> 00:50:36.070] Oh, we locked in for life.
[00:50:36.410 --> 00:50:39.290] And the more and more I deal with them,
[00:50:39.730 --> 00:50:42.790] the more situations I have,
[00:50:42.850 --> 00:50:44.450] I may have somewhere a deal come up
[00:50:44.450 --> 00:50:45.450] where I hit the client up,
[00:50:45.490 --> 00:50:47.470] hey, look, I don't know what you got going on
[00:50:47.470 --> 00:50:49.590] but I'm running this special for this month.
[00:50:50.170 --> 00:50:51.730] Like boom, boom, boom, boom, just catch you.
[00:50:51.870 --> 00:50:53.410] I don't have to tell nobody nothing.
[00:50:53.410 --> 00:50:55.530] I just let them see from promo
[00:50:55.530 --> 00:50:58.450] but those type of people, I just like,
[00:50:58.490 --> 00:51:00.390] I always kind of like,
[00:51:00.450 --> 00:51:01.670] hey, blah, blah, blah, blah,
[00:51:01.830 --> 00:51:02.790] this is what's going on.
[00:51:03.470 --> 00:51:04.610] So it's like,
[00:51:04.810 --> 00:51:06.490] and sometimes it don't even be about the bread.
[00:51:06.750 --> 00:51:07.810] Sometimes it'd be like,
[00:51:08.110 --> 00:51:10.230] we'd be locked in so deep to where it's just like,
[00:51:10.310 --> 00:51:12.030] man, I might pull up on them and just blast them.
[00:51:12.090 --> 00:51:12.990] Like boom, boom, boom.
[00:51:13.490 --> 00:51:15.190] Man, y'all take that, y'all take care.
[00:51:15.470 --> 00:51:16.050] You know what I'm saying?
[00:51:16.050 --> 00:51:18.170] Because we do so much business
[00:51:18.170 --> 00:51:19.270] to where it's like,
[00:51:19.270 --> 00:51:21.710] man, I'm always a person that remember
[00:51:21.710 --> 00:51:23.730] so much stuff with people.
[00:51:23.730 --> 00:51:25.230] You know, to where it's like,
[00:51:25.270 --> 00:51:26.950] man, thank you, thank you.
[00:51:26.990 --> 00:51:28.390] Like I love this business
[00:51:28.390 --> 00:51:30.850] but man, people will see me out there with my camera
[00:51:30.850 --> 00:51:31.450] and I'll just shoot.
[00:51:31.590 --> 00:51:33.350] I'll go out in these Cleveland events
[00:51:33.930 --> 00:51:35.730] and shoot and go shoot.
[00:51:36.650 --> 00:51:38.250] It's therapy for me.
[00:51:38.490 --> 00:51:39.950] It's perfect practice.
[00:51:40.310 --> 00:51:41.150] It's networking.
[00:51:41.290 --> 00:51:43.450] You gain so much stuff doing that, man.
[00:51:43.450 --> 00:51:46.910] So it's, and you build clientele.
[00:51:47.050 --> 00:51:48.370] You build clientele.
[00:51:48.670 --> 00:51:51.190] Like those networking events go out there.
[00:51:51.370 --> 00:51:53.770] You have to guerrilla market yourself,
[00:51:54.050 --> 00:51:57.070] put your feet on the ground and use your skillset.
[00:51:57.330 --> 00:52:02.370] And you never know what arena you will fall into
[00:52:02.950 --> 00:52:06.630] dealing with one person or just going.
[00:52:06.970 --> 00:52:09.350] Cause man, it will open you up.
[00:52:10.010 --> 00:52:13.090] And God will, I got something for you in the head.
[00:52:13.350 --> 00:52:14.910] Just keep doing what you're doing.
[00:52:15.110 --> 00:52:17.290] So I buy and listen.
[00:52:17.770 --> 00:52:22.400] So it sounds like marketing is important.
[00:52:22.920 --> 00:52:23.360] Yeah.
[00:52:24.200 --> 00:52:26.880] So what has been the most effective way
[00:52:26.880 --> 00:52:29.520] that you've marketed whether that's word of mouth
[00:52:29.520 --> 00:52:31.440] or referrals from other brands?
[00:52:31.440 --> 00:52:33.380] Gram, Instagram.
[00:52:34.540 --> 00:52:37.200] Instagram is really where I quit my job.
[00:52:37.260 --> 00:52:37.760] Okay.
[00:52:37.760 --> 00:52:39.460] And I was making good money there.
[00:52:39.460 --> 00:52:45.500] And it was just that I had a product that I was good at
[00:52:45.500 --> 00:52:48.660] to where it's like, boom.
[00:52:48.920 --> 00:52:50.840] Man, Instagram is the best way.
[00:52:51.020 --> 00:52:53.120] Man, people sell so much stuff,
[00:52:53.580 --> 00:52:56.160] whether it's TikTok, Instagram or anything like that.
[00:52:56.180 --> 00:52:57.140] And how much do it cost?
[00:52:57.700 --> 00:52:57.860] Nothing.
[00:52:58.300 --> 00:52:58.740] It's free.
[00:52:59.060 --> 00:52:59.460] It's free.
[00:53:00.340 --> 00:53:01.180] Instagram is free.
[00:53:01.800 --> 00:53:03.960] So it's like, man, I show my skillset,
[00:53:04.120 --> 00:53:06.480] but I have a, like before I jumped
[00:53:06.480 --> 00:53:08.140] into photography full time,
[00:53:08.140 --> 00:53:10.380] I wanted to make sure that I could do certain things.
[00:53:10.740 --> 00:53:13.660] Now I might not be the best portrait photographer in the city.
[00:53:14.060 --> 00:53:16.720] I might not be the best event photographer in the city.
[00:53:17.080 --> 00:53:19.600] I might not be the best wedding photographer in the city.
[00:53:19.920 --> 00:53:22.900] I might not be the best headshot photographer in the city.
[00:53:23.200 --> 00:53:25.920] I might not be the best product photographer in the city,
[00:53:26.040 --> 00:53:28.640] but I'm good at marketing all five of those.
[00:53:29.220 --> 00:53:31.320] And that's the difference between me
[00:53:31.320 --> 00:53:32.280] and most photographers.
[00:53:32.920 --> 00:53:34.400] Like I'm like a one-stop shop
[00:53:34.400 --> 00:53:35.480] when it comes to everything.
[00:53:35.900 --> 00:53:37.860] Anything that I do marketing on,
[00:53:37.860 --> 00:53:40.100] like as far as product, wedding,
[00:53:40.780 --> 00:53:43.460] I'm like all, like if it's a,
[00:53:43.800 --> 00:53:47.160] if you rate me five stars, I'm four on all of them.
[00:53:47.480 --> 00:53:51.020] Like I see my skillset in the fours on all of them.
[00:53:51.160 --> 00:53:52.400] Everybody know I shoot clean
[00:53:52.400 --> 00:53:55.620] and I'm very technical when it comes to lighting.
[00:53:56.040 --> 00:53:57.820] So like, and that was the thing
[00:53:57.820 --> 00:53:59.680] when it came to photography,
[00:54:00.100 --> 00:54:01.120] that I wanted to be,
[00:54:01.680 --> 00:54:03.440] I don't want you to go to that other photographer
[00:54:03.440 --> 00:54:05.960] for this marketing shot, like with your product.
[00:54:06.180 --> 00:54:07.300] Come to me, I do it.
[00:54:07.300 --> 00:54:09.820] But I'm gonna show you the proof is in the pudding.
[00:54:10.360 --> 00:54:11.480] So everything that I do,
[00:54:11.740 --> 00:54:14.500] especially when it comes to retouching,
[00:54:15.620 --> 00:54:18.280] most people send their stuff off now to retouchers.
[00:54:18.420 --> 00:54:19.200] I don't.
[00:54:19.460 --> 00:54:21.920] Everything I do, I may have sent two or three jobs
[00:54:21.920 --> 00:54:24.040] in my lifetime to a retoucher
[00:54:24.040 --> 00:54:25.620] just to see how I was gonna do.
[00:54:26.200 --> 00:54:28.620] And two of them was with two clients
[00:54:28.620 --> 00:54:31.040] and one of them was with somebody that wasn't a client.
[00:54:31.140 --> 00:54:33.980] And this might've been two years ago,
[00:54:34.320 --> 00:54:35.700] everything I do, I retouch myself.
[00:54:36.380 --> 00:54:38.440] And that's no knock against other people.
[00:54:38.800 --> 00:54:41.860] But my main thing when it comes to retouching,
[00:54:41.860 --> 00:54:45.600] this is my main thing with retouchers.
[00:54:46.360 --> 00:54:48.060] It's like a painter,
[00:54:49.080 --> 00:54:52.560] like a person who's drawing and a person who paint.
[00:54:53.160 --> 00:54:57.180] If you drew something on a canvas,
[00:54:57.500 --> 00:54:59.300] let's say it was etched in and you the artist
[00:54:59.300 --> 00:55:02.140] and you formulated this idea, boom.
[00:55:02.860 --> 00:55:07.620] Then somebody come in and paint what you drew.
[00:55:08.620 --> 00:55:09.740] Whose art is it now?
[00:55:14.130 --> 00:55:15.730] You may have came with the original idea,
[00:55:15.770 --> 00:55:16.830] but what do people see?
[00:55:17.150 --> 00:55:20.890] They're gonna see the retouch, the final look of it.
[00:55:21.150 --> 00:55:23.110] Man, retouchers take pictures too,
[00:55:23.130 --> 00:55:25.690] be taught to the upper top level.
[00:55:26.110 --> 00:55:27.550] Now, I'm not saying like, okay,
[00:55:28.550 --> 00:55:30.070] if Maybelline was on the line
[00:55:30.070 --> 00:55:33.750] and they gave me a, hey, Ned, I need you to shoot this.
[00:55:33.750 --> 00:55:35.290] Guess what I would be doing?
[00:55:35.950 --> 00:55:38.050] I'd be spending the top dollar
[00:55:38.050 --> 00:55:41.650] for the top retoucher to take this
[00:55:41.650 --> 00:55:43.490] because I need it to be taken to it
[00:55:43.490 --> 00:55:46.450] because I know they're a prestige top dollar.
[00:55:46.510 --> 00:55:48.250] We getting the top top dollar.
[00:55:48.690 --> 00:55:50.470] And I'm telling y'all,
[00:55:50.650 --> 00:55:53.330] this retoucher did this on my picture.
[00:55:53.610 --> 00:55:55.810] So the retoucher getting credit anyway.
[00:55:56.330 --> 00:55:57.570] And that'd be my main thing.
[00:55:57.850 --> 00:56:00.190] That's my main gripe when it comes to certain stuff
[00:56:00.190 --> 00:56:03.590] because it's like, yeah, y'all do it,
[00:56:03.750 --> 00:56:08.150] but I don't, I just, I respect the original idea of it.
[00:56:08.150 --> 00:56:09.330] And that's what makes me like,
[00:56:09.810 --> 00:56:12.790] and like now software, the way software is,
[00:56:12.810 --> 00:56:13.610] you can do it yourself.
[00:56:13.690 --> 00:56:14.810] You don't need a retoucher
[00:56:14.810 --> 00:56:17.290] unless you just don't have the time for it.
[00:56:17.310 --> 00:56:20.090] And you get like an unflunked volume of stuff
[00:56:20.090 --> 00:56:21.890] where you just need a retoucher.
[00:56:21.890 --> 00:56:23.110] I just be thinking like, man,
[00:56:23.170 --> 00:56:26.850] what if this retoucher blow up in India and Pakistan
[00:56:26.850 --> 00:56:30.530] and I need to knock this stuff out
[00:56:30.530 --> 00:56:33.110] for this client that's on my yams.
[00:56:34.130 --> 00:56:36.190] He needed in a couple of hours.
[00:56:36.590 --> 00:56:38.290] The retoucher ain't nowhere to be found.
[00:56:39.130 --> 00:56:40.970] I got to bust this edit down.
[00:56:41.410 --> 00:56:42.690] That's be my mentality.
[00:56:42.810 --> 00:56:43.830] So I always looked at it like,
[00:56:44.050 --> 00:56:45.430] with retouchers, it's just like,
[00:56:45.890 --> 00:56:49.230] I can never, I love what I do.
[00:56:49.450 --> 00:56:51.770] Remember like, I think to a certain degree like,
[00:56:51.950 --> 00:56:53.250] but it's depending on how you look at it.
[00:56:53.250 --> 00:56:54.590] If you're looking at a strict business,
[00:56:54.830 --> 00:56:55.870] I'm just here to make money.
[00:56:55.870 --> 00:56:57.970] I can care less about the creativity process.
[00:56:58.310 --> 00:56:59.870] I don't care about the creative stuff.
[00:56:59.930 --> 00:57:01.630] I never want to do exhibit.
[00:57:02.010 --> 00:57:02.950] I don't care.
[00:57:03.050 --> 00:57:04.790] I'm just here to run it up.
[00:57:05.370 --> 00:57:06.810] Then go get your reach.
[00:57:06.950 --> 00:57:09.030] You go have your business operation
[00:57:09.030 --> 00:57:10.730] the way you see fit.
[00:57:11.030 --> 00:57:12.990] But when I'm talking about pure purists,
[00:57:15.750 --> 00:57:17.890] that's the other side of it I don't talk about.
[00:57:18.470 --> 00:57:20.750] Like, because as humble as I am,
[00:57:20.870 --> 00:57:21.930] and I'm extremely humble,
[00:57:22.350 --> 00:57:23.990] like man, I got an arrogant side of me too
[00:57:23.990 --> 00:57:24.710] when it comes to this,
[00:57:24.730 --> 00:57:26.530] because I'm a competitor, you know?
[00:57:26.530 --> 00:57:28.650] So it's like, when it comes to like
[00:57:28.650 --> 00:57:29.990] the nitty gritty stuff of it,
[00:57:30.010 --> 00:57:40.280] it's like, that's the other side.
[00:57:40.420 --> 00:57:41.300] You ain't heard of me, Steve.
[00:57:42.000 --> 00:57:43.000] That's how I'm tucked.
[00:57:43.120 --> 00:57:46.000] I heard a lot of, quite a few photographers,
[00:57:46.240 --> 00:57:47.860] you know, they do have, you know,
[00:57:47.900 --> 00:57:48.900] retouchers, I mean,
[00:57:48.960 --> 00:57:51.240] not even people that work closely with them.
[00:57:51.260 --> 00:57:54.000] Like you said, maybe in India or somewhere overseas.
[00:57:54.240 --> 00:57:56.820] Yeah, and I ain't knocking it if they could do it.
[00:57:56.820 --> 00:57:58.600] Like, if you got a retoucher,
[00:57:58.600 --> 00:58:01.160] if you can retouch the way they retouch,
[00:58:02.020 --> 00:58:03.920] oh, I ain't knocking it, they ain't retouch.
[00:58:03.960 --> 00:58:05.020] I'll never knock it.
[00:58:05.020 --> 00:58:07.600] Like those type of people,
[00:58:08.100 --> 00:58:11.260] A, because I know your work,
[00:58:11.320 --> 00:58:13.100] but who am I at the end of the day
[00:58:13.100 --> 00:58:15.480] to really say anything about anybody?
[00:58:15.560 --> 00:58:17.220] As long as you're getting your money
[00:58:17.220 --> 00:58:18.520] and you're taking care of your family,
[00:58:18.740 --> 00:58:20.640] but when it comes to like a purist
[00:58:20.640 --> 00:58:22.800] or a certain person of like skill,
[00:58:23.440 --> 00:58:24.660] when I'm looking at skill,
[00:58:25.740 --> 00:58:27.500] like, man, it's like, it's a separation.
[00:58:27.760 --> 00:58:29.140] When I get to separating things,
[00:58:29.220 --> 00:58:30.300] I be looking like,
[00:58:30.700 --> 00:58:33.480] I can't put you in this class that,
[00:58:33.480 --> 00:58:35.140] like as much as I like Drake,
[00:58:35.620 --> 00:58:37.400] I can't put you in Kendrick class.
[00:58:37.840 --> 00:58:38.360] You know what I'm saying?
[00:58:38.480 --> 00:58:40.240] Because you got people that wrote for you.
[00:58:40.560 --> 00:58:43.500] Yeah, the product is, the song was dope,
[00:58:43.980 --> 00:58:45.900] but when we break it down,
[00:58:46.580 --> 00:58:49.040] you not a Kendrick, you know what I'm saying?
[00:58:49.180 --> 00:58:51.540] Like you are, but I like Drake though.
[00:58:51.660 --> 00:58:52.420] You know what I'm saying?
[00:58:52.640 --> 00:58:55.840] So it's just like, I guess at the end of the day,
[00:58:56.440 --> 00:58:58.760] that's amongst like your peers,
[00:58:59.320 --> 00:59:02.460] like the photographer's photographer
[00:59:02.460 --> 00:59:05.620] or the, that type of thing, or the rapper's rapper.
[00:59:06.260 --> 00:59:08.240] But at the end of the day, it's all for the client.
[00:59:08.400 --> 00:59:10.160] The client, the only person that care about anything.
[00:59:10.540 --> 00:59:10.960] You know what I'm saying?
[00:59:10.980 --> 00:59:12.180] The stuff they don't know on the back end.
[00:59:12.260 --> 00:59:14.300] Yeah, the back end where you know the other people,
[00:59:14.400 --> 00:59:15.520] the old school basketball,
[00:59:15.720 --> 00:59:18.060] he ain't like, man, get out of here.
[00:59:18.160 --> 00:59:19.400] Old school rappers like,
[00:59:19.720 --> 00:59:21.320] man, they got everybody right now.
[00:59:21.380 --> 00:59:22.760] They Milly Vanillies.
[00:59:24.560 --> 00:59:25.660] That's where, you know,
[00:59:25.740 --> 00:59:28.220] the business owner versus the true artist.
[00:59:28.620 --> 00:59:29.080] Yeah, yeah.
[00:59:29.080 --> 00:59:29.780] Kind of comparison.
[00:59:29.940 --> 00:59:31.380] Man, my brother told me something,
[00:59:31.380 --> 00:59:32.520] I always go quote my brother.
[00:59:32.640 --> 00:59:35.220] He was like, man, artists look for inspirations.
[00:59:36.420 --> 00:59:37.560] Professionals go to work.
[00:59:39.380 --> 00:59:41.100] You know, so it's like at the end of the day,
[00:59:41.140 --> 00:59:42.600] you still got to be a professional.
[00:59:43.640 --> 00:59:46.260] The client needs what the client needs.
[00:59:46.300 --> 00:59:46.980] I don't care.
[00:59:47.360 --> 00:59:48.520] They don't care about no peers.
[00:59:48.700 --> 00:59:51.240] They paid hundreds and hundreds of dollars,
[00:59:51.340 --> 00:59:52.880] probably a thousand dollars for a service.
[00:59:53.380 --> 00:59:57.080] They just want what you promote on your page.
[00:59:57.620 --> 00:59:59.060] The closest thing to it.
[00:59:59.060 --> 01:00:00.580] So let's actually touch on that.
[01:00:01.920 --> 01:00:04.100] Like, I mean, especially at weddings,
[01:00:04.380 --> 01:00:05.800] it may take me a while,
[01:00:05.820 --> 01:00:10.640] but like for clients that you may do an event or a wedding
[01:00:10.640 --> 01:00:13.400] and they text you like either the same day
[01:00:13.400 --> 01:00:14.080] or the next day,
[01:00:14.100 --> 01:00:15.480] can I have some pictures a little bit?
[01:00:15.900 --> 01:00:18.240] Like for people that don't know,
[01:00:18.420 --> 01:00:19.960] how long is usually the process
[01:00:19.960 --> 01:00:20.980] of editing and researching?
[01:00:21.380 --> 01:00:23.840] Okay, events take me one to three days.
[01:00:24.020 --> 01:00:26.200] Usually I can turn on an event in one day.
[01:00:26.440 --> 01:00:27.700] Like it just depends.
[01:00:27.700 --> 01:00:32.000] So like events is easy because we're doing global edits
[01:00:32.000 --> 01:00:35.060] and plus usually what I'm shooting on the camera
[01:00:35.060 --> 01:00:37.520] is kind of close to what I'm giving the client.
[01:00:37.700 --> 01:00:40.400] So I'm dialing in numbers so precise
[01:00:40.930 --> 01:00:43.620] to where I don't have to do so much back end.
[01:00:44.060 --> 01:00:46.560] I'm just doing bumping clarity up.
[01:00:46.680 --> 01:00:48.800] I got presets already set up for me
[01:00:48.800 --> 01:00:50.100] like in my Capture One
[01:00:50.100 --> 01:00:53.280] to where it's like I don't get those out quick.
[01:00:54.820 --> 01:00:57.600] So events, but it depends on the event.
[01:00:57.600 --> 01:00:59.560] I had a couple of events.
[01:00:59.640 --> 01:01:01.200] I had galas that I had to do.
[01:01:01.300 --> 01:01:02.180] I had one at the MOCA
[01:01:02.180 --> 01:01:06.080] then I had one for Cleveland Payhouse gala
[01:01:06.080 --> 01:01:09.960] like last weekend to where something, man,
[01:01:10.000 --> 01:01:12.480] that one I took like,
[01:01:12.640 --> 01:01:15.800] I gave them like a thousand pictures at the gala
[01:01:15.800 --> 01:01:19.900] because this was like just one of the top events
[01:01:19.900 --> 01:01:20.700] I ever did.
[01:01:21.140 --> 01:01:23.980] So it was like, I wanted to make sure that that one,
[01:01:24.000 --> 01:01:25.300] which I make sure all of them is,
[01:01:25.300 --> 01:01:27.680] but like the categorizing everything.
[01:01:27.980 --> 01:01:29.600] So I could do like a lounge or a club
[01:01:29.600 --> 01:01:30.960] or something like that.
[01:01:31.040 --> 01:01:33.240] Something quick, like an hour if I'm there for an hour,
[01:01:33.560 --> 01:01:35.740] nah, I knock that stuff off quick, boom, boom,
[01:01:35.740 --> 01:01:36.640] send it to them.
[01:01:37.000 --> 01:01:39.460] Not that saying I'm not taking the same type,
[01:01:40.260 --> 01:01:42.940] but it's like, I know it to the T
[01:01:42.940 --> 01:01:45.300] on how to retouch it, send it to them.
[01:01:45.320 --> 01:01:45.680] Process it.
[01:01:45.680 --> 01:01:48.740] Like, yeah, but if I'm taking like those galas
[01:01:48.740 --> 01:01:50.500] and I'm there for five and a half hours,
[01:01:50.900 --> 01:01:52.620] oh yeah, you about to get some,
[01:01:52.620 --> 01:01:56.040] I'm getting this and then this is gonna be categorized,
[01:01:56.120 --> 01:01:58.620] this time, this place, this part of the event,
[01:01:58.900 --> 01:02:01.680] this, this, the performance, the speakers, all of that.
[01:02:01.960 --> 01:02:05.720] So that'd be one thing, but it, it don't take long.
[01:02:06.100 --> 01:02:07.700] Weddings, that's another thing.
[01:02:07.800 --> 01:02:11.660] I tell people 30 days, 30 days, 30 days on weddings,
[01:02:11.680 --> 01:02:14.200] because like sometimes I had to sit there
[01:02:14.200 --> 01:02:16.540] and everything got to be clear.
[01:02:16.780 --> 01:02:18.880] It may take me a day and a half to do a wedding
[01:02:18.880 --> 01:02:20.340] or a day to do a wedding,
[01:02:21.600 --> 01:02:23.080] but everything had to be clear
[01:02:23.080 --> 01:02:24.580] because I got to bust these weddings down.
[01:02:24.760 --> 01:02:25.260] You know what I'm saying?
[01:02:25.760 --> 01:02:28.100] Like weddings is for real.
[01:02:28.360 --> 01:02:33.740] And plus like software has advanced so much.
[01:02:34.040 --> 01:02:36.820] So this is one thing, if I could ever tell anybody,
[01:02:36.920 --> 01:02:38.660] if you could bookmark this too,
[01:02:39.460 --> 01:02:42.880] it's a software that I told a lot of my capadres about.
[01:02:43.620 --> 01:02:45.560] And this will save you all's life
[01:02:45.560 --> 01:02:47.020] when it comes to retouching.
[01:02:47.020 --> 01:02:50.780] It's called EVOTO, E-V-O-T-O.
[01:02:51.240 --> 01:02:53.080] Take that with you, love it.
[01:02:53.220 --> 01:02:55.040] Y'all will appreciate that.
[01:02:55.440 --> 01:02:58.200] Y'all will probably pay my subscriptions
[01:02:58.200 --> 01:03:01.420] or give me more credits for EVOTO if you haven't done it.
[01:03:01.460 --> 01:03:05.540] EVOTO is, it's such, it's the dopest thing.
[01:03:05.720 --> 01:03:07.500] It allows you not to go to Photoshop.
[01:03:08.020 --> 01:03:11.480] So like the software that I use is Captra One,
[01:03:12.020 --> 01:03:15.000] and I use Captra One and Infinity Photo,
[01:03:15.000 --> 01:03:20.240] but I'll use Captra One, EVOTO,
[01:03:20.400 --> 01:03:23.760] Infinity Photo, Photoshop, like within those three, four.
[01:03:25.120 --> 01:03:27.620] But with Captra One is, Captra One is Lightroom,
[01:03:28.340 --> 01:03:30.720] but it's a different software, raw software.
[01:03:31.280 --> 01:03:34.540] And then EVOTO would be, I would say like this,
[01:03:34.560 --> 01:03:36.640] for the people who use Lightroom and Photoshop,
[01:03:37.080 --> 01:03:39.220] you would use Lightroom to bring it in
[01:03:39.220 --> 01:03:42.560] for color grading, and then you will take it to EVOTO.
[01:03:42.680 --> 01:03:44.160] Then you will take it to Photoshop
[01:03:44.160 --> 01:03:45.480] for any fine tuning.
[01:03:46.340 --> 01:03:48.800] But a lot of times now, you would go
[01:03:48.800 --> 01:03:50.040] from Lightroom to EVOTO.
[01:03:50.140 --> 01:03:53.620] It wouldn't even hit Photoshop because of what EVOTO does.
[01:03:53.840 --> 01:03:56.000] It does skin retouching.
[01:03:56.260 --> 01:03:57.840] It cleans the backdrop out.
[01:03:58.020 --> 01:04:01.680] It clean glare out the glass, fray hairs.
[01:04:02.720 --> 01:04:04.660] It cleans up everything for you.
[01:04:04.780 --> 01:04:08.380] It dodge and burns, and you scale it like Lightroom,
[01:04:08.700 --> 01:04:10.300] but everything is on a credit base.
[01:04:10.300 --> 01:04:13.800] So you may spend like $200 for 1,200 credits,
[01:04:14.240 --> 01:04:16.240] but one credit is for one picture.
[01:04:16.680 --> 01:04:18.280] So if you're giving people packages,
[01:04:18.680 --> 01:04:20.800] like well, all right, I'm charging,
[01:04:21.140 --> 01:04:23.180] let's say 300 for five edits.
[01:04:23.780 --> 01:04:24.260] Guess what?
[01:04:24.580 --> 01:04:26.480] Five edits, you know what I'm saying?
[01:04:26.880 --> 01:04:28.580] Like that's nothing.
[01:04:28.980 --> 01:04:31.020] Like EVOTO would eat up all of that type of stuff,
[01:04:31.220 --> 01:04:32.600] and it batches files.
[01:04:32.940 --> 01:04:35.100] So if I had to do 20 edits,
[01:04:35.840 --> 01:04:37.200] whatever I did to that one edit,
[01:04:37.240 --> 01:04:39.020] as far as cleaning the face, all of that stuff,
[01:04:39.020 --> 01:04:41.920] I could batch that over 20 files.
[01:04:42.380 --> 01:04:44.700] So it's like, you could be holding your hands like this,
[01:04:44.940 --> 01:04:48.920] and it'll create the whole entire edit for you still.
[01:04:49.440 --> 01:04:51.320] It's a, and I'm anti-AI,
[01:04:51.680 --> 01:04:53.780] but that program right there,
[01:04:54.600 --> 01:04:56.160] it'd have made so much bread off of that.
[01:04:56.300 --> 01:04:58.860] Just even when it comes to corporate hair shots
[01:04:58.860 --> 01:05:01.920] or school shots, EVOTO, top notch.
[01:05:02.540 --> 01:05:05.020] So please tap into that.
[01:05:05.220 --> 01:05:06.420] That is the best.
[01:05:07.060 --> 01:05:09.880] It preserved, it hid the backdrops for you.
[01:05:10.020 --> 01:05:11.040] Preserves the shadows.
[01:05:12.040 --> 01:05:13.660] So it cleaned up the whole backdrop for you.
[01:05:13.700 --> 01:05:15.900] You know how our backdrops, the white backdrops,
[01:05:16.060 --> 01:05:19.760] clean up the backdrops and preserve the backdrop for you.
[01:05:20.040 --> 01:05:22.160] So it is, man, come on, man.
[01:05:22.640 --> 01:05:23.600] I was saying them,
[01:05:23.780 --> 01:05:27.840] because I'm always at different masterminds,
[01:05:27.840 --> 01:05:29.160] conferences out the city.
[01:05:30.400 --> 01:05:31.480] Doze is one of the vendors.
[01:05:31.580 --> 01:05:32.760] I didn't get a chance to check them out,
[01:05:32.760 --> 01:05:34.000] but I'm familiar with them.
[01:05:34.000 --> 01:05:35.420] And then also Imagine.
[01:05:36.020 --> 01:05:37.780] I keep hearing about Imagine AI.
[01:05:38.000 --> 01:05:39.400] That's what I first heard before.
[01:05:39.680 --> 01:05:40.640] I'm gonna check it out though.
[01:05:40.700 --> 01:05:41.300] I'm gonna check it out.
[01:05:41.340 --> 01:05:43.760] I wanna upgrade my equipment first
[01:05:43.760 --> 01:05:47.100] before I go in and add more stuff into it.
[01:05:47.660 --> 01:05:49.460] Because my equipment is,
[01:05:49.480 --> 01:05:51.740] the software is so advanced
[01:05:51.740 --> 01:05:55.460] that you don't have to have crazy advanced equipment.
[01:05:55.800 --> 01:05:57.560] So I'm running with Apple M1,
[01:05:57.660 --> 01:05:59.840] an M1, my Apple Mini M1.
[01:06:00.240 --> 01:06:01.820] So it's handling everything,
[01:06:01.840 --> 01:06:04.280] but I'm starting to feel like,
[01:06:04.280 --> 01:06:05.980] and that's where I had to learn,
[01:06:06.080 --> 01:06:07.920] because when I first started out editing,
[01:06:08.100 --> 01:06:09.360] I wasn't editing on a computer.
[01:06:09.440 --> 01:06:10.820] I was editing on an iPad Pro.
[01:06:11.060 --> 01:06:13.080] So that's why I was dealing with Affinity Photo,
[01:06:13.140 --> 01:06:16.520] because it was the most advanced editing software
[01:06:16.520 --> 01:06:18.000] for photographers.
[01:06:18.480 --> 01:06:19.860] So that's why I was like,
[01:06:20.320 --> 01:06:22.240] I've never been a Photoshop person.
[01:06:23.060 --> 01:06:25.660] Do you feel like it's better than Lightroom Mobile?
[01:06:26.760 --> 01:06:28.180] Oh, Capture One is by far.
[01:06:28.200 --> 01:06:29.280] Capture, but not Affinity?
[01:06:29.960 --> 01:06:31.600] Well, Affinity is better,
[01:06:31.600 --> 01:06:34.080] because Affinity is like Photoshop.
[01:06:34.380 --> 01:06:37.900] It's more Capture One and Lightroom is for raw editing.
[01:06:38.080 --> 01:06:41.020] So I could batch hundreds and hundreds of files
[01:06:41.720 --> 01:06:43.480] in Capture One and Lightroom.
[01:06:44.020 --> 01:06:45.160] But with Capture One,
[01:06:45.280 --> 01:06:47.780] I could shoot tethered through Capture One
[01:06:48.620 --> 01:06:50.680] on the iPad on what's the name.
[01:06:51.000 --> 01:06:54.120] So Capture One is great for how those files
[01:06:54.120 --> 01:06:55.020] come through raw,
[01:06:55.420 --> 01:06:58.100] and you got layers you could play with layers,
[01:06:58.280 --> 01:07:00.040] and the tethering.
[01:07:00.040 --> 01:07:01.740] The tethering,
[01:07:02.000 --> 01:07:03.780] if you don't use Capture One for nothing else,
[01:07:03.820 --> 01:07:06.220] you're gonna use it just to tether through, period.
[01:07:06.680 --> 01:07:08.560] So it moves lightning quick on you.
[01:07:08.780 --> 01:07:12.860] So it's like, man, I can take my iPad Pro
[01:07:12.860 --> 01:07:16.520] and shoot Capture One and tether and shoot live
[01:07:16.520 --> 01:07:18.820] and tether live and it,
[01:07:18.840 --> 01:07:20.960] man, I ain't gonna get me started with Capture One.
[01:07:21.320 --> 01:07:21.980] That's what I tell people.
[01:07:22.080 --> 01:07:24.040] I was like, look, I know y'all like,
[01:07:25.480 --> 01:07:27.220] this is how if you have it,
[01:07:27.220 --> 01:07:28.840] because Capture One was with this company
[01:07:28.840 --> 01:07:29.720] called Phase One,
[01:07:29.720 --> 01:07:31.500] then they switched it to Capture One.
[01:07:31.900 --> 01:07:35.240] So if I ever had to compare Capture One and Lightroom,
[01:07:35.500 --> 01:07:36.760] like I think my brother said it best.
[01:07:36.920 --> 01:07:40.640] He was like, Lightroom felt like
[01:07:40.640 --> 01:07:43.320] a computer engineer made Lightroom.
[01:07:44.120 --> 01:07:48.640] Capture One felt like a photographer made Capture One.
[01:07:49.280 --> 01:07:49.960] You know what I'm saying?
[01:07:51.300 --> 01:07:55.440] They catered to the photographer on Capture One.
[01:07:55.620 --> 01:07:56.840] They knew the tweaks,
[01:07:56.840 --> 01:07:59.560] everything that a photographer needed
[01:07:59.560 --> 01:08:03.600] in a raw software editing program.
[01:08:03.780 --> 01:08:05.160] And that's where Capture One come in.
[01:08:05.220 --> 01:08:07.000] It just, man, it's just,
[01:08:07.120 --> 01:08:09.160] when you start playing with that clarity in the model,
[01:08:09.240 --> 01:08:12.460] it's just, it's like those little things
[01:08:12.460 --> 01:08:13.720] just make it so live.
[01:08:14.080 --> 01:08:15.540] So it's dope.
[01:08:16.979 --> 01:08:19.880] I do have a question I have been asked
[01:08:19.880 --> 01:08:22.200] and, you know, creative and artists,
[01:08:23.680 --> 01:08:27.640] if your creative process were a weather forecast,
[01:08:28.740 --> 01:08:30.000] how would you describe it?
[01:08:31.520 --> 01:08:33.960] Like for me, I would say mine is like
[01:08:33.960 --> 01:08:37.740] that light drizzle rain on a warm sunny day.
[01:08:38.620 --> 01:08:40.220] Going back to that cool and warm,
[01:08:40.319 --> 01:08:41.859] it's like a blue balance, you know?
[01:08:42.260 --> 01:08:43.800] Cause we know that too much heat, you know,
[01:08:43.819 --> 01:08:46.760] be sweating, but like the rain kind of cools it off,
[01:08:46.840 --> 01:08:49.180] but this is very light and subtle where it's refreshing.
[01:08:49.420 --> 01:08:52.000] And then golden hour, golden hour in the morning.
[01:08:52.000 --> 01:08:54.080] Or like in the early morning.
[01:08:54.520 --> 01:08:59.060] Like I love, like, I shoot Nikon.
[01:08:59.380 --> 01:09:03.760] So Nikon is, the way they render colors, man.
[01:09:04.140 --> 01:09:07.760] Cause it's like more of like a outdoor camera anyway.
[01:09:08.319 --> 01:09:10.680] It's more for like landscaping and stuff like that.
[01:09:10.880 --> 01:09:13.520] But I mean, we use it for portrait working events
[01:09:13.520 --> 01:09:19.560] and all of that, but it's truly how like it renders
[01:09:19.560 --> 01:09:21.580] with the colors with your reds, your blues,
[01:09:21.580 --> 01:09:25.479] your greens, like it's just a beautiful,
[01:09:26.180 --> 01:09:27.000] it's just beautiful.
[01:09:27.340 --> 01:09:31.439] So like when I, my style of photography
[01:09:31.439 --> 01:09:34.800] is more like rich colors.
[01:09:35.359 --> 01:09:38.439] You know, like I love my black and whites,
[01:09:38.660 --> 01:09:42.080] but like I love like, I don't know,
[01:09:42.399 --> 01:09:45.319] like a dark rich tone.
[01:09:45.359 --> 01:09:48.060] Like I love playing with shadows.
[01:09:48.060 --> 01:09:52.600] I love like low key editorial shots.
[01:09:53.240 --> 01:09:55.380] So like, I would say, I don't know,
[01:09:55.980 --> 01:09:59.880] it had to be maybe more so in the night, nighttime maybe.
[01:10:00.080 --> 01:10:02.940] Like I would go, if it was weather time,
[01:10:03.000 --> 01:10:05.660] it would be like, I don't know,
[01:10:05.780 --> 01:10:08.260] something that night, something like a,
[01:10:09.180 --> 01:10:11.280] what's the green stuff that'd be in the sky?
[01:10:11.740 --> 01:10:14.020] The Northern Lights or something like that.
[01:10:14.020 --> 01:10:15.720] Ooh, okay, that's different.
[01:10:15.720 --> 01:10:19.800] Yeah, it would probably be in that type of phenomenon.
[01:10:20.440 --> 01:10:22.740] And that's, yeah, that's usually where I go for, man.
[01:10:23.480 --> 01:10:26.440] Like my, like when I shoot,
[01:10:26.860 --> 01:10:28.580] it's the thing that when I do when I shoot
[01:10:28.580 --> 01:10:29.480] and I was thinking of this,
[01:10:29.560 --> 01:10:32.060] I was like, I don't shoot the same.
[01:10:32.340 --> 01:10:33.220] I don't have the same hookup
[01:10:33.220 --> 01:10:34.320] every single time I shoot.
[01:10:35.000 --> 01:10:41.910] I got like maybe six different modifiers I roll with
[01:10:41.910 --> 01:10:43.930] and none of my shoots is the same.
[01:10:43.930 --> 01:10:47.470] Like I don't place the lights every single,
[01:10:47.570 --> 01:10:51.550] like I know different type of setups,
[01:10:52.090 --> 01:10:54.990] but a lot of times, like man, they be different.
[01:10:55.130 --> 01:10:57.550] Like I'll see a person that I'm like,
[01:10:57.590 --> 01:10:59.290] I'm not gonna do this the same way.
[01:10:59.550 --> 01:11:00.670] I'm gonna do this this way.
[01:11:01.050 --> 01:11:02.410] So a lot of times it's like, man,
[01:11:02.410 --> 01:11:05.130] I'm changing up so much stuff when I'm shooting.
[01:11:05.450 --> 01:11:08.570] Like, and that's what helps me with photography.
[01:11:09.170 --> 01:11:11.450] Like, because all it is is just crafting light.
[01:11:12.190 --> 01:11:14.110] Photography means to paint with light.
[01:11:14.330 --> 01:11:17.470] So I'm not about to paint the same exact way
[01:11:17.470 --> 01:11:19.330] every time I see a client.
[01:11:20.110 --> 01:11:21.830] Like certain things pull me differently.
[01:11:23.370 --> 01:11:24.130] Like, I don't know.
[01:11:24.430 --> 01:11:25.710] I'll figure out so much stuff
[01:11:25.710 --> 01:11:27.610] or I'll see something like right when I'm shooting,
[01:11:27.690 --> 01:11:29.630] I'm like, oh no, we gonna switch this.
[01:11:29.730 --> 01:11:30.490] We gonna do this.
[01:11:30.790 --> 01:11:31.910] And then that's where it's like,
[01:11:31.950 --> 01:11:33.610] I get a lot of people who always ask me,
[01:11:33.730 --> 01:11:34.930] man, how do you do that with the light?
[01:11:35.170 --> 01:11:36.030] How do you do that?
[01:11:36.530 --> 01:11:37.330] What are you doing?
[01:11:37.670 --> 01:11:38.350] Like what's your light?
[01:11:38.610 --> 01:11:41.190] And I'm always here to show people,
[01:11:41.190 --> 01:11:42.630] but that's the next phase of me.
[01:11:42.750 --> 01:11:44.790] Like I wanna do like kind of like a,
[01:11:44.790 --> 01:11:45.910] I hate to call it master class.
[01:11:46.010 --> 01:11:48.010] I'm not a master, but just,
[01:11:48.250 --> 01:11:49.730] I wanna show people my perspective
[01:11:49.730 --> 01:11:51.730] on how I know how to craft light.
[01:11:52.030 --> 01:11:52.950] Yeah, we gonna make it happen.
[01:11:52.990 --> 01:11:54.570] I got some stuff in the works too, so.
[01:11:54.570 --> 01:11:55.510] My dog.
[01:11:55.770 --> 01:11:56.450] Yeah, we.
[01:11:57.510 --> 01:11:57.950] Yeah.
[01:11:58.270 --> 01:11:59.270] All about it.
[01:11:59.750 --> 01:12:00.190] Yeah.
[01:12:00.590 --> 01:12:02.930] But speaking of, you know, more about adjusting.
[01:12:03.130 --> 01:12:05.270] So let's kind of compare like your business
[01:12:05.270 --> 01:12:06.050] and the personal.
[01:12:06.710 --> 01:12:08.450] Was there a creative project
[01:12:08.450 --> 01:12:12.470] that was a commercial failure, but a personal triumph?
[01:12:14.330 --> 01:12:17.630] Commercial tre, commercial, commercial.
[01:12:18.030 --> 01:12:18.450] Failure.
[01:12:18.650 --> 01:12:20.270] Failure, but a.
[01:12:20.690 --> 01:12:21.490] Personal triumph.
[01:12:23.050 --> 01:12:25.330] Oh, did I do something that was.
[01:12:26.970 --> 01:12:30.620] Oh, I'ma tell you this.
[01:12:30.960 --> 01:12:32.720] And this was a while ago too.
[01:12:33.180 --> 01:12:35.280] And you, we gotta go through these things.
[01:12:35.360 --> 01:12:35.960] That's right.
[01:12:36.500 --> 01:12:36.980] The journey.
[01:12:37.520 --> 01:12:38.660] And I'ma, oh, listen.
[01:12:39.320 --> 01:12:42.400] One of my biggest teachers was the clubs.
[01:12:43.020 --> 01:12:44.680] And if people don't understand this, look.
[01:12:44.860 --> 01:12:45.720] I'ma tell you this.
[01:12:45.720 --> 01:12:46.400] That low light's been a low light.
[01:12:46.900 --> 01:12:49.040] This, no, it ain't just the low light.
[01:12:49.140 --> 01:12:49.520] Uh-oh.
[01:12:49.800 --> 01:12:52.580] The clubs is the most chaotic situation
[01:12:52.580 --> 01:12:53.700] you could ever shoot in.
[01:12:54.020 --> 01:12:57.420] So if you could ever shoot in a club,
[01:12:57.740 --> 01:12:59.980] effectively, marketably, and great,
[01:13:00.900 --> 01:13:04.680] you damn near could shoot in any situation.
[01:13:05.140 --> 01:13:07.040] And I remember it was this one time.
[01:13:07.040 --> 01:13:08.960] And I'm not the type of person,
[01:13:09.060 --> 01:13:12.340] I don't be crashing out or getting to my emotions
[01:13:12.340 --> 01:13:13.300] about certain stuff.
[01:13:13.420 --> 01:13:16.480] But this time, it just really, I didn't know.
[01:13:16.900 --> 01:13:19.160] Like when you, and this is how you,
[01:13:19.360 --> 01:13:22.460] this is how you know you're cold at photography.
[01:13:23.060 --> 01:13:25.180] And this was in my novice years.
[01:13:26.680 --> 01:13:27.900] And I'm still novice,
[01:13:27.900 --> 01:13:29.500] but this was truly in my beginning years.
[01:13:29.500 --> 01:13:32.800] This might've happened in 2019 before the pandemic.
[01:13:33.280 --> 01:13:34.140] I was at Medusa.
[01:13:34.780 --> 01:13:38.600] And for whatever our reason, my speed light wouldn't work.
[01:13:38.860 --> 01:13:41.460] And I'm in Medusa, and it's dark,
[01:13:41.500 --> 01:13:43.880] and they looking for another photographer
[01:13:43.880 --> 01:13:45.300] to shoot in clubs.
[01:13:45.820 --> 01:13:48.560] And I did good, I did decent the first time,
[01:13:48.580 --> 01:13:51.400] but they wanted me to come back out to do some more.
[01:13:51.800 --> 01:13:54.240] And I'm like trying to appease everybody,
[01:13:54.380 --> 01:13:55.300] all of that type of stuff.
[01:13:55.620 --> 01:13:57.620] I'm sorry, I can't.
[01:13:57.800 --> 01:14:00.540] My speed light, it's the source of my light.
[01:14:00.720 --> 01:14:01.640] I'm like, aw.
[01:14:02.740 --> 01:14:04.160] I left the club.
[01:14:04.160 --> 01:14:06.140] I'm like, man, I can't do this, man.
[01:14:06.320 --> 01:14:07.420] And they was like, man, where you go?
[01:14:07.520 --> 01:14:09.680] You know, like, man, we need you, bro.
[01:14:11.020 --> 01:14:14.160] I'm like, man, my light ain't registered
[01:14:14.160 --> 01:14:15.320] into my camera, bro.
[01:14:15.360 --> 01:14:17.680] Like, I can't do nothing, man.
[01:14:17.940 --> 01:14:20.240] And I like, and I went on the gram.
[01:14:20.420 --> 01:14:22.180] I put up a post, man, I'm sorry, man.
[01:14:22.220 --> 01:14:24.200] This got me crushed, blah, blah, blah, blah.
[01:14:24.820 --> 01:14:26.400] Stephen Midget hit me up in the DM.
[01:14:26.520 --> 01:14:30.160] He was just like on some like brick brother,
[01:14:30.160 --> 01:14:31.540] little brother type vibe.
[01:14:31.800 --> 01:14:34.860] Like on some, just schooling me.
[01:14:35.360 --> 01:14:37.180] Like, bro, you just get you something else.
[01:14:37.260 --> 01:14:39.140] You get you one of these little light ones
[01:14:39.140 --> 01:14:40.820] or you up your ice hole.
[01:14:40.960 --> 01:14:41.800] At the end of the day,
[01:14:41.820 --> 01:14:43.280] remember you still working for a client.
[01:14:43.300 --> 01:14:44.300] They gotta get something.
[01:14:44.620 --> 01:14:48.020] Whether it's bad or good, man, you can make it work.
[01:14:48.240 --> 01:14:49.580] You just gotta shoot.
[01:14:49.800 --> 01:14:50.560] You know what I'm saying?
[01:14:51.960 --> 01:14:54.340] And I got the little thing that he said
[01:14:54.340 --> 01:14:55.320] was like this little light thing
[01:14:55.320 --> 01:14:57.040] that you put on your camera just in case
[01:14:57.040 --> 01:14:59.640] if you just need light or whatnot.
[01:14:59.640 --> 01:15:04.140] And I made sure that I was well prepared.
[01:15:04.980 --> 01:15:08.800] So like any time, that was a personal triumph
[01:15:11.880 --> 01:15:17.780] because it reshifted like me serving the client correctly.
[01:15:19.160 --> 01:15:20.160] Like knowing what I know now,
[01:15:20.240 --> 01:15:21.480] I would have never, that night,
[01:15:21.480 --> 01:15:22.540] I would have never left the client.
[01:15:23.020 --> 01:15:24.420] You know, I would have stayed in
[01:15:24.420 --> 01:15:27.180] and just if I would have sent them all pictures
[01:15:27.180 --> 01:15:28.600] that was just high ice hole,
[01:15:28.600 --> 01:15:30.000] I would have sent them high.
[01:15:30.260 --> 01:15:33.560] Or I would have did some creative stuff now that I know.
[01:15:34.000 --> 01:15:36.320] But for the most part, that was, to me,
[01:15:36.460 --> 01:15:39.500] it was a personal triumph talking to him about that
[01:15:39.500 --> 01:15:41.280] because it just reshifted.
[01:15:41.300 --> 01:15:43.140] It was like, man, get out of your feelings, man.
[01:15:43.200 --> 01:15:44.620] Bro, just take care of business.
[01:15:44.860 --> 01:15:45.400] You know what I'm saying?
[01:15:46.080 --> 01:15:48.100] So like that was something that helped me.
[01:15:48.160 --> 01:15:52.320] But when it comes to photography or anything,
[01:15:53.040 --> 01:15:54.700] I'm gonna tell you,
[01:15:55.240 --> 01:15:57.480] that was the very last time that ever happened to me
[01:15:57.480 --> 01:16:01.430] when it comes to leaving.
[01:16:02.350 --> 01:16:04.190] Like that was the only time that ever happened
[01:16:04.190 --> 01:16:06.390] because now it's like, man,
[01:16:07.330 --> 01:16:11.310] you ain't a dope photographer till something go wrong.
[01:16:13.190 --> 01:16:14.870] Man, it's been plenty of times where,
[01:16:14.950 --> 01:16:16.430] man, I forgot a trigger
[01:16:16.430 --> 01:16:19.490] where I only had to work with my speed light
[01:16:20.030 --> 01:16:22.590] or I had to do something impromptu
[01:16:22.590 --> 01:16:24.230] where I only had a little bit of equipment
[01:16:24.230 --> 01:16:25.390] and I had to make it work.
[01:16:25.550 --> 01:16:27.790] And I had to make it work at a high level
[01:16:27.790 --> 01:16:29.850] to where it's like, man,
[01:16:30.690 --> 01:16:33.630] everything that you was taught gonna kick in.
[01:16:33.670 --> 01:16:36.770] It's gonna kick in because you get this anxiety
[01:16:36.770 --> 01:16:39.330] of like failing to where it's like,
[01:16:39.550 --> 01:16:41.750] you gotta, all right, let's get it together now.
[01:16:42.170 --> 01:16:43.810] All right, all right, what am I gonna use?
[01:16:43.930 --> 01:16:45.550] Okay, I ain't got this, oh, okay.
[01:16:46.350 --> 01:16:47.250] Oh, it's still light outside,
[01:16:47.470 --> 01:16:48.990] I'm gonna put them next to these big windows
[01:16:48.990 --> 01:16:50.890] and let that soft light come in
[01:16:50.890 --> 01:16:53.650] and get the shots that I need and kill them.
[01:16:53.930 --> 01:16:55.090] And now they love it.
[01:16:55.290 --> 01:16:57.370] Boom, when I knew I was gonna not,
[01:16:57.370 --> 01:16:58.930] when I knew I wasn't gonna kill this,
[01:16:59.070 --> 01:17:00.890] I gotta figure out any and every type of way
[01:17:00.890 --> 01:17:03.770] to make a soft box out of nothing
[01:17:04.610 --> 01:17:06.990] and finagle these type of shots.
[01:17:07.410 --> 01:17:08.730] Man, once it got to that point,
[01:17:08.750 --> 01:17:10.770] I don't care what situation I'm in.
[01:17:10.890 --> 01:17:13.250] The only thing I ever feel like,
[01:17:13.410 --> 01:17:15.430] if somebody flew me out and I forgot my batteries,
[01:17:16.030 --> 01:17:16.930] let's knock on some wood.
[01:17:17.450 --> 01:17:18.330] You know what I'm saying?
[01:17:18.530 --> 01:17:20.230] Like somebody flew me out and I forgot my batteries
[01:17:20.230 --> 01:17:21.830] and I gotta shoot right down in there.
[01:17:22.570 --> 01:17:24.830] Like, or I forgot memory cards or something,
[01:17:24.830 --> 01:17:27.350] I did that plenty of times where I had to turn around.
[01:17:27.890 --> 01:17:30.450] Man, I luckily sometimes have two,
[01:17:30.730 --> 01:17:31.810] I'd be like, oh, are y'all ready?
[01:17:33.930 --> 01:17:37.430] Yeah, but it make you double check your stuff now though.
[01:17:37.590 --> 01:17:38.270] You know what I'm saying?
[01:17:38.570 --> 01:17:40.250] So like, man, listen, yeah.
[01:17:40.250 --> 01:17:41.110] Oh my goodness.
[01:17:41.170 --> 01:17:44.270] Yeah, you know, that's treacherous, man.
[01:17:44.510 --> 01:17:46.350] But that's the importance of backups, you know?
[01:17:46.450 --> 01:17:48.090] Backups to everything, backup batteries,
[01:17:48.390 --> 01:17:49.610] backup SD. And experience.
[01:17:49.610 --> 01:17:51.170] And experience, my dad was just telling me,
[01:17:51.230 --> 01:17:52.330] he was like, man, I'm telling you, man,
[01:17:52.450 --> 01:17:53.870] nothing teach you like experience.
[01:17:53.870 --> 01:17:57.530] So it's like, as much as the advice I can give people,
[01:17:58.090 --> 01:18:00.530] man, experience is gonna be your best teacher, man.
[01:18:00.550 --> 01:18:02.670] Cause you know, if you passionate about something,
[01:18:03.050 --> 01:18:04.630] you're not so quick to give up,
[01:18:04.630 --> 01:18:06.810] you know you're not gonna do this again.
[01:18:06.950 --> 01:18:08.250] Or you're gonna try your best, dude.
[01:18:08.250 --> 01:18:11.830] It's gonna be in your mind to, hey, yeah, so.
[01:18:12.350 --> 01:18:14.110] Yeah, like going back to what you said earlier,
[01:18:14.110 --> 01:18:16.630] having that confidence, like, you know,
[01:18:16.650 --> 01:18:19.590] a lot of people are like younger shooters, you know,
[01:18:19.590 --> 01:18:23.050] under me that I kind of mentee or mentor, you know,
[01:18:23.050 --> 01:18:25.650] my mentees, you know, always invoke that confidence.
[01:18:25.850 --> 01:18:29.050] I'm like, just imagine, you know, we on the shoot
[01:18:29.050 --> 01:18:32.290] and I'm not even near, just, just do your best.
[01:18:32.470 --> 01:18:34.090] I mean, cause I mean, most of the time
[01:18:34.090 --> 01:18:35.630] we're in the heat of the moment, you know,
[01:18:35.650 --> 01:18:38.490] I'm hyper focused, I can't help you sometimes.
[01:18:39.150 --> 01:18:41.090] So you just do your best.
[01:18:41.150 --> 01:18:42.830] I'll be there to back you up when I can,
[01:18:43.130 --> 01:18:44.410] but just do your best.
[01:18:44.990 --> 01:18:46.590] Yeah. So, you know, having those,
[01:18:46.590 --> 01:18:49.490] I mean, there's things that happen to me on shoots
[01:18:49.490 --> 01:18:50.710] where I'll be like, what the?
[01:18:51.290 --> 01:18:51.690] Man.
[01:18:52.170 --> 01:18:54.050] And it's just like, the client would never know.
[01:18:54.090 --> 01:18:55.150] I'm like, hey, how you doing?
[01:18:55.230 --> 01:18:56.550] Yeah, they never know.
[01:18:56.730 --> 01:18:58.370] Never know. Man, like them clients
[01:18:58.370 --> 01:18:59.330] don't know nothing.
[01:18:59.690 --> 01:19:01.390] You have to keep your cool and confident.
[01:19:01.430 --> 01:19:04.430] Yeah, cause if they see you break, man.
[01:19:04.490 --> 01:19:05.950] Right. Especially on wedding.
[01:19:06.730 --> 01:19:08.950] Oh, man, I remember the first wedding I had,
[01:19:09.070 --> 01:19:11.510] the first wedding I had, 26 people.
[01:19:12.030 --> 01:19:17.250] It was 26 people and the wedding started at two.
[01:19:17.590 --> 01:19:19.970] The bride didn't get to the house until two.
[01:19:19.970 --> 01:19:25.670] The lights in the church was out and it was raining.
[01:19:26.090 --> 01:19:30.200] We had to have the service outside in the rain.
[01:19:31.580 --> 01:19:32.460] 26 people.
[01:19:34.140 --> 01:19:35.440] 26 people, man.
[01:19:41.800 --> 01:19:44.560] I did it, I knocked it out, that was cool.
[01:19:45.100 --> 01:19:46.220] Like weddings, I like weddings.
[01:19:46.400 --> 01:19:47.020] Weddings is dope.
[01:19:47.160 --> 01:19:48.580] I'm about to start promoting more weddings.
[01:19:48.700 --> 01:19:51.240] Cause most people don't see me promoting weddings,
[01:19:51.260 --> 01:19:52.600] but I do a lot of weddings though.
[01:19:53.240 --> 01:19:57.420] Yeah, like 50 was my first portrait for the shoot.
[01:19:57.420 --> 01:20:00.100] My first wedding was $800.
[01:20:00.300 --> 01:20:02.280] What I charged that, no, no.
[01:20:02.480 --> 01:20:03.280] Yeah, my first wedding was $600.
[01:20:03.280 --> 01:20:04.980] I had a team, I paid a team, you know.
[01:20:06.020 --> 01:20:07.920] I had a team of two.
[01:20:09.220 --> 01:20:12.500] And yeah, after doing all that and spending time editing,
[01:20:12.820 --> 01:20:15.360] that first wedding took me almost three months to edit.
[01:20:15.440 --> 01:20:16.920] Yeah, yeah.
[01:20:17.100 --> 01:20:21.400] Cause you doing your best to appease this client.
[01:20:21.980 --> 01:20:25.160] Like every, you probably just, man,
[01:20:25.160 --> 01:20:28.180] when I be editing, man, I'm not, no,
[01:20:28.400 --> 01:20:31.940] I'm not knocking pimples off your whole body
[01:20:31.940 --> 01:20:33.580] on every single client.
[01:20:33.620 --> 01:20:34.120] Right, right.
[01:20:34.260 --> 01:20:34.880] You know what I'm saying?
[01:20:35.380 --> 01:20:36.900] I'm giving you a thousand,
[01:20:37.680 --> 01:20:39.760] like at first I used to give like,
[01:20:39.760 --> 01:20:41.680] like close to 2,000 shots on weddings.
[01:20:41.760 --> 01:20:42.860] Not doing it no more.
[01:20:42.900 --> 01:20:46.020] Like I'm looking at people's packages now.
[01:20:46.500 --> 01:20:49.200] It's like they giving like around like
[01:20:49.200 --> 01:20:51.040] between 700 and 900 shots.
[01:20:51.780 --> 01:20:53.900] And once I start seeing that, I'm like,
[01:20:53.900 --> 01:20:55.460] man, that makes so much sense.
[01:20:55.740 --> 01:20:56.920] Like a lot of this stuff is overkill.
[01:20:56.980 --> 01:21:00.020] I'm shooting the same thing four or five times.
[01:21:00.440 --> 01:21:02.060] Even if they are four or five good shots,
[01:21:02.960 --> 01:21:04.920] like man, I'm here to present you a story.
[01:21:05.180 --> 01:21:06.000] That's right, yeah.
[01:21:06.120 --> 01:21:08.780] You know, so it's like I'm,
[01:21:08.960 --> 01:21:10.720] nobody's looking at 2,000 shots.
[01:21:11.260 --> 01:21:11.900] You know what I'm saying?
[01:21:12.140 --> 01:21:13.040] Like. We are.
[01:21:13.760 --> 01:21:14.900] We are. We are.
[01:21:15.120 --> 01:21:19.020] But no, like there's so much overkill with it
[01:21:19.020 --> 01:21:20.860] to where it's just like here.
[01:21:20.920 --> 01:21:23.240] I just want to give you this,
[01:21:23.240 --> 01:21:29.350] but they're going to be like this is going to make sense.
[01:21:29.730 --> 01:21:33.670] You know, so it's like once I start kind of scaling down
[01:21:33.670 --> 01:21:35.190] like that, because think about it,
[01:21:35.190 --> 01:21:36.310] when you do a wedding book,
[01:21:36.970 --> 01:21:39.070] it's not 900 shots in a wedding book, right?
[01:21:39.510 --> 01:21:41.710] But the story of the whole wedding is in a wedding book.
[01:21:42.050 --> 01:21:44.930] So you might get 40 to 60 shots in that wedding book.
[01:21:45.570 --> 01:21:46.150] You know what I'm saying?
[01:21:46.210 --> 01:21:47.550] But the wedding book looked great
[01:21:48.590 --> 01:21:50.350] because everything felt so good.
[01:21:50.750 --> 01:21:54.660] And that, yeah, that's something I had to learn.
[01:21:55.720 --> 01:21:57.520] Almost 3,000 collective.
[01:21:57.620 --> 01:22:00.420] We like, yeah, yeah, it's overkill.
[01:22:00.420 --> 01:22:02.260] It's overkill for 800.
[01:22:02.780 --> 01:22:03.840] Yeah, for 800.
[01:22:04.420 --> 01:22:07.200] And I like from the time I had to put in to that wedding
[01:22:07.200 --> 01:22:09.520] and even gave him a free wedding book.
[01:22:10.300 --> 01:22:13.720] But knowing what I know now at the pan style,
[01:22:14.080 --> 01:22:15.420] I came out of pocket.
[01:22:15.740 --> 01:22:16.940] Yeah, you did. You did.
[01:22:16.940 --> 01:22:18.400] But that's an investment for my future.
[01:22:18.580 --> 01:22:19.280] Yeah, absolutely.
[01:22:19.400 --> 01:22:21.360] So you needed to you.
[01:22:21.480 --> 01:22:22.460] But we got to go through.
[01:22:22.560 --> 01:22:23.680] It's all growing pains.
[01:22:24.200 --> 01:22:25.880] You got to go through that stuff.
[01:22:26.320 --> 01:22:28.300] Like, I didn't went through, so I go through stuff now.
[01:22:28.440 --> 01:22:33.100] But I know the amount of stuff I'm willing to go through
[01:22:33.100 --> 01:22:34.600] and what I'm not willing to go through.
[01:22:34.680 --> 01:22:36.800] It is so easy for me to say no now.
[01:22:36.940 --> 01:22:39.060] I don't care, even if I need it,
[01:22:39.280 --> 01:22:42.000] I'm not saying yes to certain things.
[01:22:42.140 --> 01:22:43.640] Like, no, I'm not doing that.
[01:22:43.780 --> 01:22:44.680] I'm not doing that.
[01:22:45.180 --> 01:22:47.660] But it's like, no, I'm not, no.
[01:22:47.880 --> 01:22:52.300] Because it's too much to come with those yeses.
[01:22:52.300 --> 01:22:55.580] Because if I say yes to you for this situation,
[01:22:56.240 --> 01:23:08.880] you got me four on pennies on the dollar
[01:23:08.880 --> 01:23:10.920] because most people don't value what we do for real.
[01:23:11.000 --> 01:23:11.500] That's true.
[01:23:11.920 --> 01:23:12.400] You know what I'm saying?
[01:23:12.460 --> 01:23:13.860] They don't know the real value of it
[01:23:13.860 --> 01:23:15.920] because I think to what we do,
[01:23:15.940 --> 01:23:17.620] we all under charging for real, for real.
[01:23:17.680 --> 01:23:19.700] If we really wanted to open the market up
[01:23:19.700 --> 01:23:23.780] and band together and just be a union for real, for real
[01:23:23.780 --> 01:23:27.180] like where the price ain't never going under this,
[01:23:28.040 --> 01:23:29.860] man, it's a luxury expense.
[01:23:30.120 --> 01:23:30.900] You know what I'm saying?
[01:23:31.420 --> 01:23:33.440] So we have to look at the market of Cleveland
[01:23:33.440 --> 01:23:35.820] and be like, okay, boom.
[01:23:36.480 --> 01:23:37.520] That's what I had to do
[01:23:37.520 --> 01:23:39.820] when I had to think about the money end of it.
[01:23:39.820 --> 01:23:42.440] I had to look at Cleveland market,
[01:23:42.520 --> 01:23:45.480] like, okay, I wanna up it to this,
[01:23:45.560 --> 01:23:47.100] but I also have to be careful
[01:23:47.100 --> 01:23:50.380] because I still want clients.
[01:23:51.000 --> 01:23:54.580] So I had to find that corporate price
[01:23:54.580 --> 01:23:56.260] and that customer price.
[01:23:57.060 --> 01:23:59.420] So I had one where I had corporate price
[01:23:59.420 --> 01:24:00.140] all the way up here,
[01:24:00.140 --> 01:24:02.560] but these people paying for that,
[01:24:05.220 --> 01:24:08.500] some corporates, you can't even charge low
[01:24:08.500 --> 01:24:09.780] what you think you would
[01:24:09.780 --> 01:24:11.240] because they wouldn't take you serious.
[01:24:11.380 --> 01:24:13.400] So you have to charge up here
[01:24:13.400 --> 01:24:14.360] because they got the budget
[01:24:14.360 --> 01:24:15.700] and they gotta spend it for this.
[01:24:18.450 --> 01:24:20.330] So, hey, this is why I charge you all for this.
[01:24:20.590 --> 01:24:22.410] I know what y'all using this all for.
[01:24:22.750 --> 01:24:23.430] So guess what?
[01:24:23.610 --> 01:24:24.610] This is price.
[01:24:26.410 --> 01:24:28.590] But I had to look at it other way
[01:24:28.590 --> 01:24:30.490] to where it's like everybody ain't got that budget
[01:24:30.490 --> 01:24:32.930] and I can't figure out if they do or they don't.
[01:24:33.010 --> 01:24:35.270] So let me hire my prices up,
[01:24:35.290 --> 01:24:37.650] but keep it a little lower so I can get everybody.
[01:24:38.230 --> 01:24:38.610] So.
[01:24:38.890 --> 01:24:40.570] I kinda wanna speak on that.
[01:24:41.090 --> 01:24:43.390] Like, how do you price for profit
[01:24:43.390 --> 01:24:44.710] but still be competitive?
[01:24:46.570 --> 01:24:49.190] Once I started seeing everybody prices,
[01:24:49.450 --> 01:24:50.750] I started looking at it.
[01:24:50.750 --> 01:24:52.110] I needed to find out something
[01:24:52.110 --> 01:24:54.010] that was comfortable for Ned
[01:24:54.010 --> 01:24:56.470] to where it's like, I feel like,
[01:24:57.450 --> 01:24:59.650] cause it got to a point where I was doing so much
[01:24:59.650 --> 01:25:02.650] and I wasn't fulfilled with what I was doing.
[01:25:02.930 --> 01:25:06.290] Cause I'm like, man, this is here doing a lot for you
[01:25:06.290 --> 01:25:07.410] and I'm so nice.
[01:25:07.690 --> 01:25:09.350] I'll just say yes to anything.
[01:25:10.190 --> 01:25:11.390] No, I'm not doing that.
[01:25:11.490 --> 01:25:13.090] You're going to either pay this
[01:25:13.090 --> 01:25:14.230] or you're not gonna pay this.
[01:25:15.230 --> 01:25:17.250] So when I found that out,
[01:25:17.250 --> 01:25:19.810] I was like, oh, okay, this is cool for me.
[01:25:19.850 --> 01:25:22.490] I was scared to say 354 photo shoot.
[01:25:22.950 --> 01:25:27.010] Like, no, I was like, this might be too much
[01:25:27.010 --> 01:25:28.890] or you probably can't afford this
[01:25:28.890 --> 01:25:31.830] or I'm gonna make this comfortable for you.
[01:25:32.130 --> 01:25:34.490] I'm gonna figure it out for you.
[01:25:35.010 --> 01:25:37.330] This all, whether they spent 200 or 350
[01:25:37.330 --> 01:25:39.150] or 500 is a luxury expense.
[01:25:39.750 --> 01:25:41.930] Nobody had to take cell phones so good.
[01:25:42.230 --> 01:25:43.970] Now, anybody can find good lighting
[01:25:43.970 --> 01:25:45.370] and just take a good picture of their family
[01:25:45.370 --> 01:25:46.290] and post it up.
[01:25:46.610 --> 01:25:51.070] You could get a poster or a canvas of 24 by 36
[01:25:51.070 --> 01:25:52.690] off of a cell phone image now.
[01:25:53.170 --> 01:25:55.550] So you don't technically need a photographer
[01:25:55.550 --> 01:25:58.290] but they ain't photographers.
[01:25:58.290 --> 01:26:00.210] So it's like, man, we crafting light.
[01:26:00.450 --> 01:26:00.990] We doing things.
[01:26:01.030 --> 01:26:02.890] We are specialists at what we do.
[01:26:03.950 --> 01:26:09.190] We not taking, we ain't taking pictures.
[01:26:09.330 --> 01:26:10.270] We creating moments.
[01:26:11.070 --> 01:26:13.470] So it's like, those is timeless.
[01:26:13.670 --> 01:26:15.110] So like now I approach it like,
[01:26:15.310 --> 01:26:16.190] I don't even want a cell phone
[01:26:16.190 --> 01:26:19.230] to even be able to take the capabilities
[01:26:19.230 --> 01:26:20.010] of what I'm doing.
[01:26:20.470 --> 01:26:22.710] So it's like, mine's had to be a certain type of way.
[01:26:23.630 --> 01:26:26.110] So, because this is catching up to us so fast.
[01:26:26.690 --> 01:26:29.230] So it's like, I got to a point, man,
[01:26:29.290 --> 01:26:30.350] where it was just like, man,
[01:26:30.350 --> 01:26:31.790] this is what I'm comfortable with.
[01:26:32.050 --> 01:26:34.070] This is what, I had to speak it.
[01:26:34.470 --> 01:26:37.270] Like I jumped my event prices up to,
[01:26:37.270 --> 01:26:40.010] what was it, 275 an hour with a two hour minimum.
[01:26:40.230 --> 01:26:41.230] And then there's people who's like,
[01:26:41.330 --> 01:26:42.430] well, I just need you for one hour.
[01:26:42.530 --> 01:26:43.090] Then it's 350.
[01:26:43.970 --> 01:26:44.770] You see what I'm saying?
[01:26:45.210 --> 01:26:47.590] So it was like, once I got that in my mind
[01:26:47.590 --> 01:26:48.810] and that's what I was comfortable with,
[01:26:49.550 --> 01:26:51.030] that's where I'm at right now.
[01:26:51.570 --> 01:26:52.970] Until I'm somewhere else.
[01:26:53.130 --> 01:26:53.710] You know what I'm saying?
[01:26:53.710 --> 01:26:56.030] Now there might be times where,
[01:26:56.290 --> 01:26:56.830] blah, blah, blah, blah,
[01:26:56.830 --> 01:27:00.050] I may do something and I might be charging this.
[01:27:00.230 --> 01:27:00.910] Blah, blah, blah, blah.
[01:27:01.170 --> 01:27:02.810] So everything I ain't gonna say,
[01:27:02.830 --> 01:27:04.130] that's what I stand on.
[01:27:04.490 --> 01:27:06.070] What I feel like doing is different.
[01:27:06.470 --> 01:27:07.190] You know what I'm saying?
[01:27:07.550 --> 01:27:10.530] So it's like, and I think people be,
[01:27:11.090 --> 01:27:12.850] I don't want people to get that confused.
[01:27:13.070 --> 01:27:14.910] It's like, man, I charge what I want to charge.
[01:27:15.210 --> 01:27:16.810] Like you don't have to deal with me.
[01:27:17.270 --> 01:27:17.930] You know what I'm saying?
[01:27:18.450 --> 01:27:20.190] So, but I charge accordingly,
[01:27:20.390 --> 01:27:22.230] but my base price is my base price.
[01:27:22.230 --> 01:27:24.490] Now you might catch me while I'm feeling happy today,
[01:27:24.490 --> 01:27:26.510] you know, just love people.
[01:27:26.770 --> 01:27:27.690] You know what I'm saying?
[01:27:27.950 --> 01:27:30.190] So we're here, take it.
[01:27:30.230 --> 01:27:31.730] This is a blessing, God bless you.
[01:27:31.890 --> 01:27:34.130] Because God has truly blessed me in every way.
[01:27:34.970 --> 01:27:37.730] So like, man, I got a big heart to do certain things,
[01:27:37.730 --> 01:27:39.830] but man, I stand on that.
[01:27:39.950 --> 01:27:43.090] I stand on who I am because you don't,
[01:27:43.450 --> 01:27:45.830] I give people the options, you know?
[01:27:45.890 --> 01:27:49.250] Like, and I'm not a greedy person when it comes to money.
[01:27:49.250 --> 01:27:53.810] Like I had to do a consultation with somebody
[01:27:53.810 --> 01:27:56.150] on a wedding joint, my bad, man.
[01:27:56.310 --> 01:27:57.250] This cage right here.
[01:27:57.570 --> 01:27:59.470] I had to do a consultation with somebody
[01:27:59.470 --> 01:28:02.810] on a wedding joint and they had to do,
[01:28:02.890 --> 01:28:04.430] they wanted me right then.
[01:28:04.470 --> 01:28:06.490] They was like, I'm not going to go to the next person.
[01:28:06.810 --> 01:28:08.630] But I'm like, man, that's my dog, go to her.
[01:28:09.050 --> 01:28:10.710] Go get your consultation with her.
[01:28:10.870 --> 01:28:11.830] Cause she might have the package
[01:28:11.830 --> 01:28:14.430] that you actually need for real.
[01:28:14.470 --> 01:28:16.270] Like we're coming with everything with it
[01:28:16.270 --> 01:28:17.670] and she's a great photographer.
[01:28:17.670 --> 01:28:19.770] So weigh out your options all the way.
[01:28:19.810 --> 01:28:21.410] Yeah, do I want that hat?
[01:28:21.610 --> 01:28:24.210] Cause now weddings, I asked for half.
[01:28:24.250 --> 01:28:27.210] So I was like, 14, 50, you know?
[01:28:28.190 --> 01:28:30.190] But man, I just believe what's right is right
[01:28:30.190 --> 01:28:31.270] and what's wrong is wrong.
[01:28:31.450 --> 01:28:33.670] So it's like, I'm never going to go against what's right
[01:28:33.670 --> 01:28:35.190] because that's going to eat away at me.
[01:28:35.670 --> 01:28:37.950] Go and do your due diligence with your people.
[01:28:38.530 --> 01:28:40.310] And if you want to come back to me,
[01:28:40.410 --> 01:28:41.770] I'm right here, you know?
[01:28:42.550 --> 01:28:43.970] So that's how I be feeling about things.
[01:28:44.450 --> 01:28:45.290] That's right, man.
[01:28:48.730 --> 01:28:50.890] Wealth and knowledge, man, great conversation.
[01:28:51.850 --> 01:28:53.670] Definitely appreciate you, right?
[01:28:53.910 --> 01:28:56.970] Man, cause I'm thinking like, man,
[01:28:58.010 --> 01:29:00.270] it's not being alone in this journey
[01:29:00.270 --> 01:29:02.090] and kind of, you know,
[01:29:02.190 --> 01:29:05.130] hearing like the same experiences and stories,
[01:29:05.130 --> 01:29:06.530] you know, that I had to go through.
[01:29:07.310 --> 01:29:08.550] So it's always good, man.
[01:29:09.430 --> 01:29:12.430] Like first photographer that I interviewed for real.
[01:29:12.870 --> 01:29:13.770] Oh, this is awesome.
[01:29:13.870 --> 01:29:16.050] It's actually my first male interview
[01:29:16.050 --> 01:29:17.450] since I've been doing interviews.
[01:29:17.590 --> 01:29:18.990] Hey, this is dope, man.
[01:29:19.830 --> 01:29:21.030] That's what I'm saying, man.
[01:29:22.250 --> 01:29:26.090] I currently charge for event photography, 250 hours.
[01:29:26.670 --> 01:29:27.150] Dope, yeah.
[01:29:27.770 --> 01:29:30.230] I kind of had, you know, like day rates
[01:29:30.870 --> 01:29:32.950] or half day rates and then also day rates
[01:29:32.950 --> 01:29:35.230] where you kind of, you know, get a discount,
[01:29:36.250 --> 01:29:37.130] but you know what I'm saying?
[01:29:37.350 --> 01:29:39.010] Like people always try to,
[01:29:39.910 --> 01:29:42.990] well, kind of get it, you know?
[01:29:43.370 --> 01:29:44.430] Or like even like a wedding,
[01:29:44.810 --> 01:29:47.450] like your price is more than a venue,
[01:29:48.170 --> 01:29:50.150] but also look at the venue.
[01:29:50.490 --> 01:29:52.530] Yeah, look at the venue that they at.
[01:29:53.010 --> 01:29:54.730] So I'm like, okay, it makes sense.
[01:29:55.150 --> 01:29:58.750] But this is the lowest I could go for this hour.
[01:29:58.890 --> 01:29:59.930] You know, I still got pay staff.
[01:30:00.250 --> 01:30:02.150] I even, you know, I told them,
[01:30:02.270 --> 01:30:04.250] I'm like working with two people.
[01:30:04.910 --> 01:30:06.730] You know, they're cutting back on price.
[01:30:06.890 --> 01:30:11.250] You know, I can only do a couple hours now
[01:30:11.250 --> 01:30:13.570] or you're like, man, I'm still down,
[01:30:13.610 --> 01:30:14.350] whatever you need.
[01:30:14.350 --> 01:30:17.850] So it's like having that team and people,
[01:30:18.210 --> 01:30:19.490] like they're both mentees.
[01:30:19.590 --> 01:30:21.570] So, you know, they're still learning as well,
[01:30:22.450 --> 01:30:24.950] but they're good and I trust them.
[01:30:24.950 --> 01:30:25.850] That's what I do.
[01:30:26.430 --> 01:30:30.230] And, you know, so I'm very thankful for, you know,
[01:30:30.330 --> 01:30:32.450] my network, people that trust in me
[01:30:32.450 --> 01:30:34.530] to, you know, do their events
[01:30:34.530 --> 01:30:37.890] or even if they need, you know, advice.
[01:30:38.450 --> 01:30:39.870] I will tell you this,
[01:30:39.990 --> 01:30:42.070] when it comes to negotiating your prices
[01:30:42.070 --> 01:30:44.510] for wedding photography, don't.
[01:30:46.230 --> 01:30:48.210] The DJ music is gonna be played.
[01:30:48.830 --> 01:30:49.750] That's music over.
[01:30:50.110 --> 01:30:51.570] The cake got eaten.
[01:30:52.330 --> 01:30:54.350] The venue, we already kicked it
[01:30:54.350 --> 01:30:55.490] to where we can kick it.
[01:30:55.530 --> 01:30:57.950] We can't feel that kick it no more.
[01:30:58.650 --> 01:31:00.170] The dress is already worn.
[01:31:00.730 --> 01:31:02.830] The tuxedos is already worn.
[01:31:03.410 --> 01:31:05.290] Them pictures is forever.
[01:31:06.490 --> 01:31:07.170] You know what I'm saying?
[01:31:07.550 --> 01:31:10.610] Your job is truly the most important job
[01:31:10.610 --> 01:31:11.870] out of everybody there
[01:31:11.870 --> 01:31:14.530] because they count on these memories
[01:31:14.530 --> 01:31:16.650] for the rest of their life.
[01:31:16.710 --> 01:31:17.370] That's true.
[01:31:17.490 --> 01:31:17.970] You know what I'm saying?
[01:31:18.010 --> 01:31:19.130] It's not like a videography
[01:31:19.130 --> 01:31:20.730] and I'm not knocking videographers,
[01:31:21.450 --> 01:31:24.570] but a videographer is five minutes.
[01:31:25.330 --> 01:31:27.190] These pictures, they could take each one
[01:31:27.190 --> 01:31:27.890] of these pictures.
[01:31:28.330 --> 01:31:30.490] Somebody in that wedding is gonna pass away.
[01:31:31.150 --> 01:31:31.670] You know what I'm saying?
[01:31:31.710 --> 01:31:32.670] These is memories.
[01:31:32.990 --> 01:31:34.530] That's why we take the pictures of the family.
[01:31:34.850 --> 01:31:36.270] We take all of these type of pictures.
[01:31:36.690 --> 01:31:38.270] Man, those, your wedding,
[01:31:38.430 --> 01:31:40.210] the job of the wedding photographer
[01:31:40.210 --> 01:31:42.910] is the most important job at the wedding
[01:31:43.630 --> 01:31:46.650] because we were responsible for forever.
[01:31:47.310 --> 01:31:51.270] So you have to be firming your pricing.
[01:31:51.670 --> 01:31:55.830] So you can't let up on individuals
[01:31:55.830 --> 01:31:57.410] or you can't let up on your business
[01:31:57.410 --> 01:32:00.710] because that's important, man.
[01:32:00.910 --> 01:32:01.930] Just don't do it
[01:32:01.930 --> 01:32:04.250] because we got too much responsibility
[01:32:05.270 --> 01:32:07.730] within that particular event.
[01:32:08.990 --> 01:32:10.690] That's true and that's amazing.
[01:32:11.750 --> 01:32:14.430] I appreciate you for coming out and doing this.
[01:32:14.830 --> 01:32:15.490] My pleasure, bro.
[01:32:15.650 --> 01:32:17.930] I know you just came from a shoot,
[01:32:18.070 --> 01:32:19.310] you know, getting it in.
[01:32:20.110 --> 01:32:22.590] Yeah, that's what we do, man.
[01:32:22.710 --> 01:32:23.230] That's right.
[01:32:24.150 --> 01:32:25.510] And last question,
[01:32:25.530 --> 01:32:27.990] I wanna close it out for all my business owners
[01:32:27.990 --> 01:32:30.010] and entrepreneurs that are starting their journey.
[01:32:30.950 --> 01:32:32.290] What advice would you give them
[01:32:32.290 --> 01:32:34.210] for a new entrepreneur starting out?
[01:32:35.610 --> 01:32:38.370] The main advice I would give you,
[01:32:38.370 --> 01:32:42.450] first, put everything to God.
[01:32:42.810 --> 01:32:44.450] Give everything to God first.
[01:32:44.970 --> 01:32:48.110] I can't move, I can't do none of this stuff
[01:32:48.110 --> 01:32:51.230] if God was not involved in this.
[01:32:51.350 --> 01:32:54.850] Like I would find another way to try to think of it,
[01:32:55.130 --> 01:32:56.790] but it's truly because I prayed on this
[01:32:56.790 --> 01:32:59.290] and I talked to God and asked him for this first.
[01:32:59.310 --> 01:33:00.510] That was the number one thing.
[01:33:00.850 --> 01:33:02.530] So I would say that's the first and foremost.
[01:33:02.690 --> 01:33:07.790] The second thing I would say is always have fun.
[01:33:09.630 --> 01:33:14.830] If you chasing money, it's not gonna be fun.
[01:33:15.670 --> 01:33:17.290] The money is gonna come.
[01:33:17.850 --> 01:33:22.190] Just keep constantly building your craft and having fun.
[01:33:22.890 --> 01:33:25.090] And if you keep doing that
[01:33:25.090 --> 01:33:26.730] and building your craft and having fun,
[01:33:27.290 --> 01:33:32.190] man, you'll be so prosperous no matter what.
[01:33:32.270 --> 01:33:33.650] And it might not even be the money
[01:33:33.650 --> 01:33:34.710] that make you prosperous.
[01:33:34.890 --> 01:33:37.230] It's just like the joy of people
[01:33:37.230 --> 01:33:40.370] helping people, being an asset to people.
[01:33:41.390 --> 01:33:45.050] Like that is truly like my heart's passion.
[01:33:45.130 --> 01:33:48.330] If I wasn't doing this, I would probably be a chef.
[01:33:48.710 --> 01:33:49.810] I just wanted to do something.
[01:33:49.830 --> 01:33:54.770] I jumped into photography mainly because I wanted to do,
[01:33:54.870 --> 01:33:56.890] I wanted to have a million conversations
[01:33:56.890 --> 01:33:57.970] with a million people.
[01:33:58.550 --> 01:34:01.270] And however I could have that, that's what I wanted.
[01:34:01.790 --> 01:34:04.510] So if this was an easy way for me to talk to people
[01:34:04.510 --> 01:34:07.650] and to find out something unique about people,
[01:34:08.430 --> 01:34:10.490] this was the career choice that was for me.
[01:34:10.750 --> 01:34:14.630] So I praise God that I had this opportunity
[01:34:15.190 --> 01:34:18.130] to be who I am at this point and still grow.
[01:34:18.610 --> 01:34:21.570] So just keep constantly being that student
[01:34:21.570 --> 01:34:25.470] and please keep God first and you'll be all right.
[01:34:28.530 --> 01:34:29.890] Appreciate you, thank you.
[01:34:29.950 --> 01:34:31.650] My dog, man, I appreciate you, man.
[01:34:31.750 --> 01:34:33.650] Yes, I'm just gonna close it out
[01:34:33.650 --> 01:34:37.750] with shouting out my business, Alienize Photos Media.
[01:34:38.350 --> 01:34:42.650] For more information, check out alienizephotos.com.
[01:34:43.530 --> 01:34:46.070] Check out some of my gallery work
[01:34:46.070 --> 01:34:49.310] or if you wanna book me or even chat on the phone.
[01:34:50.010 --> 01:34:53.990] I do do small business coaching for new entrepreneurs
[01:34:53.990 --> 01:34:56.330] or if you wanna have an ideation session,
[01:34:56.650 --> 01:34:59.810] bounce ideas off each other on a higher level.
[01:35:00.410 --> 01:35:04.310] And I definitely wanna be of gratitude
[01:35:04.310 --> 01:35:06.730] and appreciation to my media partners.
[01:35:07.310 --> 01:35:09.950] I'm here at LaunchArts, where we're recording,
[01:35:10.150 --> 01:35:13.410] LaunchArts Media and then also the Pull Up Experience
[01:35:13.410 --> 01:35:15.970] where we also interview a lot of entrepreneurs
[01:35:15.970 --> 01:35:19.590] around the city of Cleveland, but we've been traveling
[01:35:19.590 --> 01:35:21.850] so we're now global, well national,
[01:35:21.930 --> 01:35:23.870] I ain't gonna say global yet, national.
[01:35:24.470 --> 01:35:27.950] So again, this is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson
[01:35:27.950 --> 01:35:29.670] or most people know me as Alien
[01:35:30.290 --> 01:35:33.310] and I have PhotoCred, Ned, my dog.
[01:35:34.230 --> 01:35:37.790] Please tap in, tap in, man, we appreciate you.
[01:35:38.030 --> 01:35:39.650] And then right before we go,
[01:35:39.850 --> 01:35:40.970] where can the people find you?
[01:35:41.570 --> 01:35:45.050] I shoot over at, I'll give you my Instagram handle,
[01:35:45.230 --> 01:35:50.810] it's PhotoCred, Ned, P-H-O-T-O-C-R-E-D-N-E-D.
[01:35:50.970 --> 01:35:54.290] That's my Instagram and I shoot over
[01:35:54.290 --> 01:35:56.090] at LaunchArts Content Studio.
[01:35:56.090 --> 01:35:58.830] So that's where my studio is currently at.
[01:35:58.950 --> 01:36:03.690] That's over on 1547 St. Clair Avenue, 4414.
[01:36:05.170 --> 01:36:07.050] And yeah, that's where I'm at.
[01:36:07.410 --> 01:36:09.530] So, but I'm always all around.
[01:36:09.550 --> 01:36:12.810] So you will find me probably outside somewhere
[01:36:12.810 --> 01:36:16.170] at these WaitOval events and all of that taking sides
[01:36:16.170 --> 01:36:18.170] or having a drink with you all.
[01:36:18.530 --> 01:36:20.070] So, you know, hey, that's right.
[01:36:20.090 --> 01:36:22.850] And then also I wanna just pitch this,
[01:36:23.110 --> 01:36:25.290] Evoto, if you're listening, anybody from Evoto?
[01:36:25.290 --> 01:36:28.410] Get with my man for the affiliate link.
[01:36:28.530 --> 01:36:29.690] He need an affiliate link.
[01:36:30.370 --> 01:36:31.250] Thank you, please do,
[01:36:31.310 --> 01:36:32.630] because I gotta re-up all them credits.
[01:36:33.930 --> 01:36:36.330] Hey, man, we're gonna make it happen.
[01:36:36.650 --> 01:36:38.490] Again, for everybody that's tuning in,
[01:36:39.010 --> 01:36:40.450] we are signing out.
[01:36:40.810 --> 01:36:41.910] Peace. Peace.

========================================================================
41. India Su'Juan - Sujuans Decor
Season 2 · Episode 6
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/india-sujuan-sujuans-decor
========================================================================

[00:00:01.360 --> 00:00:06.460] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Ailey and I's Photos Industry
[00:00:06.460 --> 00:00:10.820] Talk with your host, photographer Jackson.
[00:00:11.760 --> 00:00:14.920] And I'm here today with a special, special guest,
[00:00:15.780 --> 00:00:20.640] fabulous interior designer, Miss India Suwan.
[00:00:21.620 --> 00:00:27.460] Suwan, interior decor design, even event space.
[00:00:27.800 --> 00:00:28.980] I don't want to kind of butcher that a little bit,
[00:00:28.980 --> 00:00:31.280] but also event space only include that.
[00:00:32.259 --> 00:00:33.820] So you want to introduce yourself?
[00:00:34.140 --> 00:00:36.140] Yes. So I'm India Suwan.
[00:00:36.180 --> 00:00:37.940] I'm the owner of Suwan's decor.
[00:00:39.100 --> 00:00:43.720] Suwan's decor was founded back in two thousand twenty one.
[00:00:44.020 --> 00:00:45.400] Yeah. Two thousand twenty one.
[00:00:46.180 --> 00:00:50.500] I not only do interior design, I also do home staging
[00:00:50.500 --> 00:00:54.100] and I also source materials for home flips.
[00:00:54.640 --> 00:00:57.700] And I also have an event space, but sadly,
[00:00:57.700 --> 00:00:59.840] well, not sadly, happy for me, sad for other people.
[00:00:59.880 --> 00:01:01.820] It will be closing very soon.
[00:01:04.440 --> 00:01:05.319] Oh, wow.
[00:01:05.800 --> 00:01:09.800] So and I also forgot the home stage and you told me that.
[00:01:10.580 --> 00:01:12.760] Oh, yeah, it's new.
[00:01:13.240 --> 00:01:14.820] It's a few things that I do.
[00:01:14.960 --> 00:01:17.400] So what would you say you like the most?
[00:01:18.580 --> 00:01:22.080] Um, I tend to gravitate towards the new stuff,
[00:01:22.180 --> 00:01:24.680] which is the home stage and I love home staging.
[00:01:24.840 --> 00:01:27.340] And I think the reason why I like home staging
[00:01:27.700 --> 00:01:30.260] even though there are limitations on like how much you can do
[00:01:30.260 --> 00:01:32.800] on a home stage and because it's just like staging.
[00:01:33.480 --> 00:01:36.640] But it it's more of what I want to see
[00:01:36.640 --> 00:01:39.380] versus what a client is asking me for.
[00:01:39.620 --> 00:01:43.280] So I get to express like, you know, how I would style something
[00:01:43.280 --> 00:01:46.760] or pull looks that I would want to do versus me going
[00:01:46.760 --> 00:01:50.100] based off of someone else's inspiration and what they want to do
[00:01:50.100 --> 00:01:52.840] and me creating based off of the realms of what they would like
[00:01:52.840 --> 00:01:53.800] to see in their space.
[00:01:54.720 --> 00:01:57.020] So I like home staging
[00:01:57.020 --> 00:02:02.420] because I get to be a creative and more free with what I decide to do.
[00:02:02.720 --> 00:02:06.860] But with home staging, you don't see often, like, you know,
[00:02:06.920 --> 00:02:11.000] go on in and have a wallpaper or accent walls or any of those things.
[00:02:11.020 --> 00:02:13.840] So you have to make art without
[00:02:14.800 --> 00:02:17.960] being able to hide behind like wallpapers and paint.
[00:02:18.020 --> 00:02:19.940] You have to still make the room look like a room
[00:02:19.940 --> 00:02:24.100] without being able to have all of these other elements
[00:02:24.100 --> 00:02:26.100] that could create fullness in the space.
[00:02:26.100 --> 00:02:30.460] So I like the I guess like the science behind it, too.
[00:02:30.980 --> 00:02:33.940] So, yeah, science and art go together. Yes.
[00:02:35.440 --> 00:02:38.280] Wow. Oh, wow. So.
[00:02:38.760 --> 00:02:42.020] It sounds like, in a sense, leadership, because you said,
[00:02:42.080 --> 00:02:46.580] you kind of do the design yourself and you kind of think it out
[00:02:46.580 --> 00:02:49.560] and what's in your brain, your imagination, bring it to life.
[00:02:50.240 --> 00:02:54.380] So would you say you more of a premium designer or
[00:02:55.320 --> 00:02:56.320] budget friendly?
[00:02:56.860 --> 00:03:02.980] Oh, I would say that I'm a little bit of both.
[00:03:03.480 --> 00:03:08.680] I would love like I feel like I haven't worked with any luxury homes just yet.
[00:03:08.680 --> 00:03:10.540] I feel like coming in my near future.
[00:03:10.600 --> 00:03:14.040] But I wouldn't like the homes that they're like, you know,
[00:03:14.180 --> 00:03:16.300] mid pricing and stuff like that.
[00:03:17.640 --> 00:03:21.280] And I even if I am in a luxury project,
[00:03:21.280 --> 00:03:24.420] I tend to still find things that are budget friendly
[00:03:24.420 --> 00:03:26.000] because just because people got money don't mean
[00:03:26.000 --> 00:03:29.620] that they want to spend a whole lot of money when they can find ways to save it.
[00:03:29.860 --> 00:03:31.500] So I would say that.
[00:03:32.540 --> 00:03:34.820] With art, you can always be budget friendly,
[00:03:34.820 --> 00:03:39.400] like I found pieces that were like dirt cheap and like different
[00:03:40.220 --> 00:03:43.120] unique art stores or like even
[00:03:43.800 --> 00:03:47.940] thrift stores that I have been able to like really highlight and look beautiful.
[00:03:49.120 --> 00:03:54.320] So honestly, it just depends on the designer and how artistic they are.
[00:03:57.520 --> 00:03:59.540] So let's kind of paint a picture.
[00:03:59.860 --> 00:04:03.780] We're in this this room, this box, of course, got four walls.
[00:04:03.800 --> 00:04:09.600] So you're looking at two corners kind of visually designed
[00:04:09.600 --> 00:04:14.520] a room if you step into a new house and let's just take it one room at a time.
[00:04:15.920 --> 00:04:20.260] Like you want me to describe the house room by room, like walking through a space.
[00:04:20.560 --> 00:04:23.340] Yeah, that's how you would like design it, almost like Sims.
[00:04:25.080 --> 00:04:30.060] Yeah. So I that's kind of hard for me to kind of do on the spot
[00:04:30.060 --> 00:04:31.420] if I'm not looking at the space.
[00:04:33.120 --> 00:04:36.440] But when I walk, I can give you an example of what it's like for me
[00:04:36.440 --> 00:04:40.460] when I do walk into spaces immediately when I walk into spaces,
[00:04:40.540 --> 00:04:43.060] I'm already envisioning like, oh, they could do this
[00:04:43.060 --> 00:04:46.940] or that couch should be moved there or they have that artwork placed too high up.
[00:04:47.080 --> 00:04:47.980] They need to lower it.
[00:04:48.240 --> 00:04:51.420] Or, oh, this room would actually pop if they added some wallpaper
[00:04:51.420 --> 00:04:55.680] or an accent wall of color or this area rug is too simple.
[00:04:55.700 --> 00:04:57.980] Like we need something that's a little bit more flamboyant.
[00:04:58.160 --> 00:05:01.400] Or this artwork has absolutely nothing to do
[00:05:01.400 --> 00:05:03.400] with the concept that they have going on in this space.
[00:05:03.740 --> 00:05:07.920] So I tend to like he'll be talking to me and I can multitask
[00:05:07.920 --> 00:05:09.660] in a way where they're talking to me, but I'm walking through
[00:05:09.660 --> 00:05:12.760] and I'm already visually putting the space together before I touch it.
[00:05:12.760 --> 00:05:17.940] So that's why I absolutely love the process
[00:05:17.940 --> 00:05:21.960] and the practice of creating a rendering
[00:05:22.640 --> 00:05:28.460] because you get to put what you have in your head into the computer system almost
[00:05:28.460 --> 00:05:32.140] and be able to walk people, not people walk your clients through
[00:05:32.140 --> 00:05:37.080] the space before you actually execute, because you could be all day like,
[00:05:37.200 --> 00:05:39.920] oh, yeah, I think you should do this and this and that sounds good.
[00:05:39.920 --> 00:05:43.860] But then I don't know if you've ever seen this episode on HGTV,
[00:05:44.120 --> 00:05:46.060] and I don't know if they did a rendering for this episode.
[00:05:46.500 --> 00:05:52.240] But this rendering is a three d computer generated room
[00:05:52.240 --> 00:05:56.380] where you create the actual room by measurement, by like, you know,
[00:05:56.380 --> 00:05:59.340] everything you set it up, how you would set it up,
[00:05:59.360 --> 00:06:01.340] like if you were going to execute it.
[00:06:01.340 --> 00:06:04.460] So based off of the concepts and the colors that you and your client
[00:06:04.460 --> 00:06:09.120] came up with, you would put it together in a space like that.
[00:06:10.100 --> 00:06:14.100] I'm kind of familiar with it, you know, coming from a photography background.
[00:06:14.260 --> 00:06:16.960] I don't do a lot of portraits, but I do a lot of weddings.
[00:06:17.220 --> 00:06:19.840] So prints do come in mind and like setting up,
[00:06:19.860 --> 00:06:22.740] like you said, those three D spaces of how we look on their wall
[00:06:22.740 --> 00:06:27.920] and which size is the frame is best for their wall of this wall.
[00:06:28.100 --> 00:06:29.940] I wish it even go. Yeah.
[00:06:29.940 --> 00:06:31.620] So yeah, I can see it.
[00:06:31.920 --> 00:06:34.880] OK. Yeah, absolutely.
[00:06:35.960 --> 00:06:39.720] But yeah, so I don't I don't know if that particular episode
[00:06:39.720 --> 00:06:43.200] they use a rendering I saw so long ago, but pretty much,
[00:06:43.240 --> 00:06:46.220] I guess she came up with a concept, described the concept clearly.
[00:06:46.680 --> 00:06:50.620] The couple walked in and they was like, what, what is this?
[00:06:50.760 --> 00:06:53.360] Like, this is not I don't like this.
[00:06:53.360 --> 00:06:54.740] I wouldn't want to live in this.
[00:06:54.880 --> 00:06:57.720] And that's like every designer is like worst nightmare.
[00:06:57.900 --> 00:07:00.040] It's where a client to walk in and be like, yo,
[00:07:00.180 --> 00:07:01.420] this is not what I asked for.
[00:07:01.720 --> 00:07:06.480] So with rendering, you're able to literally put in front of your client.
[00:07:06.600 --> 00:07:08.980] Like, hey, this is exactly what we're doing now.
[00:07:08.980 --> 00:07:11.940] There may be a differentiation and like decor,
[00:07:12.400 --> 00:07:14.820] like little trinkets that you find and stuff like that.
[00:07:15.840 --> 00:07:18.580] But bulk of things, it will look exactly like the rendering.
[00:07:19.740 --> 00:07:23.900] So, yeah, that's that's very important.
[00:07:24.260 --> 00:07:25.360] Digital blueprint.
[00:07:26.140 --> 00:07:28.780] Mm hmm. It's called floor mapping.
[00:07:29.060 --> 00:07:32.160] You can map out the floor plan and kind of show them
[00:07:32.160 --> 00:07:34.820] where the furniture is going to go, why it's going there,
[00:07:34.860 --> 00:07:38.080] why it makes sense, how it either opens up the room
[00:07:38.080 --> 00:07:41.300] or gives the room more of a coziness or quaintness.
[00:07:41.740 --> 00:07:42.120] So, yeah.
[00:07:43.020 --> 00:07:45.560] So even let's talk about floor plan, like
[00:07:46.160 --> 00:07:49.360] because even as an entrepreneur starting off, you may have a plan,
[00:07:49.420 --> 00:07:53.160] but sometimes they may not go to plan or you may have to adjust
[00:07:53.160 --> 00:07:55.420] because of the same situation.
[00:07:55.800 --> 00:07:58.800] So have you ever been given a floor plan
[00:07:58.800 --> 00:08:02.200] and you get there is like change somehow?
[00:08:03.280 --> 00:08:05.200] I'm never given a floor plan.
[00:08:05.260 --> 00:08:06.880] I normally create the floor plans.
[00:08:08.060 --> 00:08:10.220] I'm based off of like my walkthrough.
[00:08:10.480 --> 00:08:12.600] So in the consultation, I'll go and I walk through the space
[00:08:12.600 --> 00:08:15.220] and then I grab measurements and I kind of like draw out the space
[00:08:15.220 --> 00:08:16.940] and then I put it into the computer system.
[00:08:17.380 --> 00:08:20.700] But I have gone to a space where I've gone into execution
[00:08:20.700 --> 00:08:23.780] and I start to put this stuff out and I'm just like,
[00:08:24.700 --> 00:08:27.820] now that I'm in this, I don't like the way that this feels.
[00:08:27.860 --> 00:08:29.420] I don't like the way that this looks.
[00:08:29.800 --> 00:08:34.140] And so I'll, of course, address it with my client and tell them, like,
[00:08:34.140 --> 00:08:35.659] hey, I have this situated.
[00:08:35.659 --> 00:08:37.419] I don't like this couch here.
[00:08:37.480 --> 00:08:40.299] Like it happens often for me, like with one project.
[00:08:40.460 --> 00:08:41.539] Like, I'll be like, oh, yeah.
[00:08:41.559 --> 00:08:44.300] But then once you're in it, you have a feel for it.
[00:08:44.320 --> 00:08:47.860] And I when it comes to design, I have like a perfectionist
[00:08:47.860 --> 00:08:51.820] like mindset, like where everything has like, I won't leave the space
[00:08:51.820 --> 00:08:54.900] until I feel like I would want to live in this.
[00:08:56.940 --> 00:09:00.100] So I'll be like, hey, I don't like this couch here no more.
[00:09:00.160 --> 00:09:01.400] I need you to trust me on this.
[00:09:01.480 --> 00:09:02.880] And then I'll like move it.
[00:09:02.880 --> 00:09:07.320] And then almost every time they're like, oh, yeah, this actually looks way better.
[00:09:07.660 --> 00:09:11.640] But there have been situations where the floor plan that I originally created
[00:09:13.040 --> 00:09:14.420] didn't go as planned.
[00:09:14.900 --> 00:09:17.200] Yeah, not often, but it's happened.
[00:09:19.160 --> 00:09:20.500] OK, see things happen.
[00:09:20.960 --> 00:09:23.840] So what was your like biggest motivation
[00:09:24.440 --> 00:09:26.840] to kind of navigate through that process?
[00:09:28.640 --> 00:09:32.420] My biggest motivation to like get into design or
[00:09:32.420 --> 00:09:35.860] what, when you were in that process, like when you wanted to change
[00:09:35.860 --> 00:09:39.500] your like original plan or how you originally seen it.
[00:09:39.620 --> 00:09:40.940] Like you said, that couch
[00:09:40.940 --> 00:09:42.220] doesn't fit no more.
[00:09:42.760 --> 00:09:44.900] Like, what is your like motivation
[00:09:45.440 --> 00:09:47.460] behind your almost your decision making?
[00:09:48.460 --> 00:09:50.660] Um, I just don't like it.
[00:09:50.800 --> 00:09:55.400] Like, I I treat each and every last one of my clients spaces
[00:09:56.040 --> 00:09:58.840] as if it is this something that I would want to live in.
[00:09:58.900 --> 00:10:00.780] Is this something that is comfortable?
[00:10:00.780 --> 00:10:03.200] Is this something that is functionable?
[00:10:03.280 --> 00:10:07.380] And if I don't feel that way about the space or if I don't like it,
[00:10:08.280 --> 00:10:11.960] I will change it because they nine times out of ten,
[00:10:12.000 --> 00:10:14.240] the clients are like, oh, this looks fine.
[00:10:14.260 --> 00:10:15.020] That looks great.
[00:10:15.160 --> 00:10:17.100] Like, you know, they don't really know.
[00:10:17.100 --> 00:10:21.400] But then once I make that adjustment, they like, oh, now I get it.
[00:10:21.400 --> 00:10:22.240] Now I understand.
[00:10:22.380 --> 00:10:25.140] I understand exactly what you were like, you know, trying to say.
[00:10:25.540 --> 00:10:30.220] But I just I don't like to create spaces for people that I wouldn't live in.
[00:10:30.220 --> 00:10:31.680] That's amazing. Yeah.
[00:10:31.720 --> 00:10:34.300] So have you ever had a difficult client?
[00:10:34.720 --> 00:10:37.540] Oh, yes. Yes, I had one.
[00:10:37.700 --> 00:10:38.680] Like, what was the situation?
[00:10:39.760 --> 00:10:45.500] Um, the let's not say the worst one.
[00:10:45.640 --> 00:10:49.760] Let's say the one that I learned my biggest lesson from.
[00:10:50.100 --> 00:10:54.260] Right. Um, because everybody is everybody.
[00:10:54.300 --> 00:10:57.080] So I was I was fairly new into the design world.
[00:10:57.080 --> 00:10:58.100] I was learning a lot.
[00:10:58.100 --> 00:11:00.920] It was before I even had like other designers
[00:11:00.920 --> 00:11:04.100] that I chose to, like, you know, seek out mentorship from.
[00:11:05.460 --> 00:11:09.640] So I was like brand new, like just really trying to get my feet wet and stuff.
[00:11:09.680 --> 00:11:11.800] So I went out to this lady's house.
[00:11:11.820 --> 00:11:13.100] She had a beautiful house.
[00:11:13.320 --> 00:11:15.220] It was a new house to them.
[00:11:16.560 --> 00:11:18.340] And you know how you should say no.
[00:11:18.620 --> 00:11:21.320] Well, sometimes you should say no to certain projects
[00:11:21.320 --> 00:11:26.260] or to certain vibes or certain like clients that just don't.
[00:11:26.260 --> 00:11:27.760] If it's off, it's off.
[00:11:29.080 --> 00:11:32.120] Um, so this lady had just moved in her home.
[00:11:32.120 --> 00:11:33.500] And, you know, I guess
[00:11:34.640 --> 00:11:38.800] she has some other contractors working on another space in her home.
[00:11:39.900 --> 00:11:42.060] And she, you know, was just like kind of flustered.
[00:11:42.160 --> 00:11:43.620] I go, I'm just ready for me to be done.
[00:11:43.800 --> 00:11:46.860] Like, they've been here for months and like, you know, da da da da.
[00:11:48.040 --> 00:11:52.120] So right then, I should have been like, OK, maybe
[00:11:52.620 --> 00:11:55.920] if I was as seasoned as I am now, then I would have like
[00:11:56.360 --> 00:12:00.580] this might not be a good time for me to come in and start working
[00:12:01.360 --> 00:12:05.060] because she's already flustered with this other company
[00:12:05.060 --> 00:12:07.960] that's not doing or serving her the way that she wants to be served.
[00:12:09.040 --> 00:12:12.480] And she's ready for everything to kind of just be done quick,
[00:12:12.640 --> 00:12:15.680] fast and like out of here because she wants to live in her space.
[00:12:16.660 --> 00:12:18.960] And I'm going to tell you now, if you hire a designer,
[00:12:19.020 --> 00:12:21.800] you need to be patient because things that are done quickly
[00:12:21.800 --> 00:12:23.240] are not done properly.
[00:12:23.420 --> 00:12:24.040] One more time.
[00:12:24.040 --> 00:12:28.080] Things that are not that are done quickly are not done properly,
[00:12:28.780 --> 00:12:32.180] especially when you have someone who at that time I was newer.
[00:12:34.100 --> 00:12:37.520] So, you know, I I was like, OK, like, you know,
[00:12:37.620 --> 00:12:40.620] me trying to just land a project thirsty, like, oh, you know,
[00:12:40.620 --> 00:12:41.620] I got it. No problem.
[00:12:41.800 --> 00:12:42.420] This other third.
[00:12:42.480 --> 00:12:45.840] And I'm honestly I don't think that I did a bad job.
[00:12:45.880 --> 00:12:48.480] Like I was really, really excited about this project.
[00:12:48.800 --> 00:12:52.660] And so she it was like, oh, let's start in here.
[00:12:52.660 --> 00:12:54.980] And then it was like, oh, well, come look at the dining room.
[00:12:55.160 --> 00:12:56.340] Oh, well, come look at this.
[00:12:56.520 --> 00:12:57.800] And then look at what they're doing up there.
[00:12:57.800 --> 00:12:59.540] And she was complaining about their work.
[00:12:59.600 --> 00:13:02.500] And when I went to the bathroom that she was having a model,
[00:13:02.560 --> 00:13:04.160] I thought it was absolutely gorgeous.
[00:13:04.660 --> 00:13:08.460] But it was like little complaints about little things that I'm like,
[00:13:08.520 --> 00:13:09.500] OK, well, they're not even done.
[00:13:09.580 --> 00:13:10.920] It's not finished product yet.
[00:13:11.180 --> 00:13:13.620] So it's just like all of these red flags are like, girl,
[00:13:14.280 --> 00:13:15.640] you might want to walk away from this.
[00:13:15.640 --> 00:13:17.600] This might not be what you want to get yourself into.
[00:13:19.620 --> 00:13:21.720] And at this time, I did not have any contracts.
[00:13:22.980 --> 00:13:26.620] My processes were not solid at this time.
[00:13:26.800 --> 00:13:31.540] So there was no way for me to be like, OK, like this is my guideline.
[00:13:31.580 --> 00:13:34.720] Like I was having to have any processes, but the process I had,
[00:13:34.960 --> 00:13:38.160] I was not like I was it was trial and error for me.
[00:13:38.540 --> 00:13:41.720] But as I have always been with all of my clients,
[00:13:41.960 --> 00:13:45.760] even as a seasoned designer, like I try to be as transparent
[00:13:45.760 --> 00:13:48.640] with them about where I'm at, how I'm feeling about this project
[00:13:48.640 --> 00:13:51.860] or just in life so they can have an understanding of me.
[00:13:51.860 --> 00:13:53.120] I have an understanding of them.
[00:13:53.360 --> 00:13:55.340] So I explained to her, like, you know, I'm new, I'm learning.
[00:13:55.460 --> 00:13:56.360] This is on the third.
[00:13:56.760 --> 00:14:00.040] And I think that she took advantage of that,
[00:14:01.900 --> 00:14:05.680] which said, yes, which sucks, because it's like
[00:14:06.740 --> 00:14:10.160] she was someone who owned businesses
[00:14:10.160 --> 00:14:12.280] or like was entrepreneurs to some degree.
[00:14:12.280 --> 00:14:13.600] I'm not exactly sure what she did.
[00:14:13.820 --> 00:14:16.620] But it's just like you see this new entrepreneur coming in
[00:14:16.620 --> 00:14:18.780] and you see her like, you know, really trying to make a name
[00:14:18.780 --> 00:14:20.480] for herself and building herself up.
[00:14:20.480 --> 00:14:23.420] And the way that this particular client
[00:14:23.420 --> 00:14:27.120] handle these these situations I'm about to uncover.
[00:14:27.340 --> 00:14:30.700] I just feel like it could have been done in a better fashion. Right.
[00:14:31.200 --> 00:14:35.600] So. I had spent
[00:14:36.740 --> 00:14:38.460] timeless times and I had at this time,
[00:14:38.460 --> 00:14:39.740] I had created my little rendering.
[00:14:39.840 --> 00:14:42.860] It was one of my little older programs, but, you know,
[00:14:42.940 --> 00:14:44.480] it did what it needed to do.
[00:14:44.720 --> 00:14:48.060] I showed her exactly floor plan, where I plan on putting the couch
[00:14:48.060 --> 00:14:51.020] where I plan on doing this isn't third whole entire time.
[00:14:51.120 --> 00:14:52.860] This is like, oh, my God, this looks so good.
[00:14:52.860 --> 00:14:53.980] It looks so amazing. I'm so excited.
[00:14:53.980 --> 00:14:55.200] I can't wait till you're done.
[00:14:55.380 --> 00:14:57.880] Well, and I'm like, oh, like, you know, I'm hyped up.
[00:14:57.920 --> 00:14:58.780] But I'm really excited.
[00:15:00.220 --> 00:15:03.560] I get down to the very last day.
[00:15:03.800 --> 00:15:06.940] Mind you, we had discussed colors, everything.
[00:15:07.400 --> 00:15:10.160] She knew everything that I had got because I read it through like, hey,
[00:15:10.460 --> 00:15:12.260] I plan on getting this, this and the third.
[00:15:12.300 --> 00:15:14.260] These are the color schemes I'm going with.
[00:15:14.960 --> 00:15:17.340] I was coming there to grab my photos.
[00:15:18.820 --> 00:15:23.400] And as I walk in to take photos, she then decides like,
[00:15:23.540 --> 00:15:25.200] I'm done with the project, completely done.
[00:15:25.200 --> 00:15:27.300] I asked for approval. She said, yes, I love it.
[00:15:27.300 --> 00:15:28.820] It's amazing, blah, blah, blah.
[00:15:29.600 --> 00:15:30.260] So I'm like, great.
[00:15:30.380 --> 00:15:34.020] I'm going to come out and get photos the next day. So.
[00:15:34.500 --> 00:15:35.420] I come out, grab a photo.
[00:15:35.520 --> 00:15:36.460] I'm getting ready to grab photos.
[00:15:36.500 --> 00:15:40.580] She was like, yeah, you know, I think we should add another color.
[00:15:40.640 --> 00:15:43.300] I think we should add emerald green to this space.
[00:15:43.860 --> 00:15:44.820] What was the color originally?
[00:15:44.820 --> 00:15:49.820] I believe it was like black, gold and like creams.
[00:15:49.940 --> 00:15:52.760] And it had like a like a really pretty yellow.
[00:15:52.860 --> 00:15:53.900] That was kind of goldish looking.
[00:15:53.940 --> 00:15:55.260] It was a really gorgeous room.
[00:15:55.500 --> 00:15:58.340] Like it wasn't like a typical like, you know, black and gold, whatever.
[00:16:00.340 --> 00:16:02.360] So I told her I was just like, OK.
[00:16:02.520 --> 00:16:04.180] I was like, I absolutely will.
[00:16:04.320 --> 00:16:07.100] Like, you know, add emerald green if that's something that you want to do.
[00:16:07.360 --> 00:16:11.140] But it will be at additional cost because I have completed this project.
[00:16:11.180 --> 00:16:12.940] I'm here to take photos.
[00:16:12.940 --> 00:16:16.540] And like now I'm going to have to circle back through
[00:16:16.540 --> 00:16:20.260] who knows how many stores just to get the colors
[00:16:20.260 --> 00:16:22.700] and the elements that you want in the space or whatever.
[00:16:23.300 --> 00:16:26.160] So then here comes the.
[00:16:26.500 --> 00:16:27.880] I'm not paying you another dime.
[00:16:28.580 --> 00:16:30.200] I'm not doing this is that in the third.
[00:16:30.220 --> 00:16:32.360] And I'm just like, oh, OK.
[00:16:32.900 --> 00:16:36.300] I was like, well, you know, I don't think that is fair for,
[00:16:36.300 --> 00:16:39.180] you know, me to complete a project, me to get your stamp of approval.
[00:16:39.180 --> 00:16:43.220] It used to give me a closing agreement of, hey, this looks awesome.
[00:16:43.640 --> 00:16:47.040] But then you want me to go back, backtrack and do more work
[00:16:47.040 --> 00:16:51.020] after we have we went through this whole process of like colors.
[00:16:51.340 --> 00:16:52.380] This is what we're doing.
[00:16:53.060 --> 00:16:54.860] This is where everything is going.
[00:16:55.500 --> 00:16:58.400] And then at the last minute, once I closed out on this thing,
[00:16:58.420 --> 00:17:00.300] I'm about to move on to my next project.
[00:17:00.820 --> 00:17:03.020] And you're like, oh, well, I want to add this.
[00:17:03.140 --> 00:17:05.000] Well, that's going to cost you additional money.
[00:17:05.260 --> 00:17:09.160] So then it was a thing of at that time.
[00:17:09.180 --> 00:17:13.339] I didn't make people pay all of the money up front.
[00:17:13.619 --> 00:17:14.760] I was like, oh, I take a half.
[00:17:14.780 --> 00:17:16.079] And then once I'm done, I'm done.
[00:17:16.480 --> 00:17:20.280] I completely stopped doing that because one,
[00:17:20.880 --> 00:17:22.040] I don't play about my brand.
[00:17:22.240 --> 00:17:24.480] I don't play about my work.
[00:17:24.520 --> 00:17:27.740] Like if someone is not satisfied with the actual work that's in the space,
[00:17:27.880 --> 00:17:29.640] like, OK, yeah, I will do this in a third.
[00:17:29.860 --> 00:17:32.580] But once you've given a stamp of approval, like, yo, I love this.
[00:17:32.580 --> 00:17:33.360] This looks amazing.
[00:17:33.440 --> 00:17:34.960] Like I hear you on the phone with your friends,
[00:17:35.000 --> 00:17:37.720] telling them how amazing this and then the next day you're coming
[00:17:37.720 --> 00:17:39.580] and you like, well, I want this.
[00:17:39.760 --> 00:17:42.980] And actually, I don't even like after I told her that it would be additional
[00:17:42.980 --> 00:17:45.240] fee, she's like, well, actually, I don't even like this.
[00:17:45.340 --> 00:17:46.220] I don't like this.
[00:17:46.240 --> 00:17:49.800] And I'm just like, wow, like, you know,
[00:17:50.500 --> 00:17:52.700] and so I tried to customer service.
[00:17:52.740 --> 00:17:57.700] I tried to diffuse the situation and try to like make it right.
[00:17:57.760 --> 00:18:00.240] I even got to a point where I was like, you know what?
[00:18:00.360 --> 00:18:01.160] Don't worry about it.
[00:18:01.160 --> 00:18:02.760] I'll go get you exactly what you want.
[00:18:02.860 --> 00:18:04.040] Like I don't even worry about it.
[00:18:04.040 --> 00:18:07.360] Like I would rather the space look amazing for you to be happy.
[00:18:07.360 --> 00:18:11.320] Then to have a conflict with someone like that's not what I want.
[00:18:11.360 --> 00:18:14.180] That's not the solution that I want for this situation.
[00:18:14.380 --> 00:18:16.000] She was like, I don't even want to.
[00:18:16.060 --> 00:18:18.780] I don't even want you in my house and both like was going.
[00:18:18.780 --> 00:18:22.800] I was like, OK, like, all right.
[00:18:22.900 --> 00:18:24.640] Well, you know what? You got it.
[00:18:24.640 --> 00:18:27.720] I'm sorry to feel this way, even though I tried to like,
[00:18:27.720 --> 00:18:28.780] you know, create a solution.
[00:18:29.940 --> 00:18:33.360] But let's just close out some some things you just got to walk away from.
[00:18:33.360 --> 00:18:36.380] Because had I decided to, like, stand there,
[00:18:36.680 --> 00:18:39.600] go back and forth with this woman, like, how would that have made me look
[00:18:39.600 --> 00:18:40.560] as a business owner?
[00:18:40.920 --> 00:18:43.600] Like sometimes you just got to kind of like bite the bullet and just be like,
[00:18:44.100 --> 00:18:46.480] hey, that's your perception and move on.
[00:18:46.800 --> 00:18:51.000] Well, yeah, that was the time of a complicated situation.
[00:18:52.160 --> 00:18:55.220] Gratefully, outside of that experience,
[00:18:56.800 --> 00:19:02.100] I have not ran into too many other situations.
[00:19:02.100 --> 00:19:05.340] Like I literally love and really cherish all of my clients,
[00:19:05.380 --> 00:19:09.040] like all the support in the things that they have given me along the way.
[00:19:10.060 --> 00:19:13.060] And honestly, a lot of them come become like family
[00:19:14.400 --> 00:19:16.780] or I've worked with them on different things.
[00:19:16.840 --> 00:19:19.140] Like a lot of the real estate girlies that I've worked with,
[00:19:19.160 --> 00:19:21.120] I've worked in their homes before we worked together,
[00:19:21.120 --> 00:19:23.280] like with real estate and me doing home staging for them.
[00:19:23.320 --> 00:19:28.580] So like I literally like I love my clients, like love like I build solid,
[00:19:28.580 --> 00:19:30.420] I would think, relationships with them.
[00:19:30.420 --> 00:19:32.620] So outside of that one experience,
[00:19:33.780 --> 00:19:38.960] I think that overall I have had a pretty decent experience with design.
[00:19:39.820 --> 00:19:44.500] And with that, it taught me how to put stuff in writing
[00:19:44.500 --> 00:19:47.080] where you have to sign off, like, hey, I agreed to this.
[00:19:47.520 --> 00:19:50.160] This is what we're moving forward with as far as designs,
[00:19:50.220 --> 00:19:53.060] because once it's in writing, I'm not going to play this game with you
[00:19:53.060 --> 00:19:55.900] because I wanted them not getting paid half of that money for that project.
[00:19:55.900 --> 00:20:01.320] And yeah, I if I knew what I knew now,
[00:20:01.320 --> 00:20:03.580] I probably would have talked to Curtis small claims
[00:20:03.580 --> 00:20:11.240] because you just bring it off based off of no grounds. So, yeah.
[00:20:11.780 --> 00:20:13.660] Whoo, I had to take a couple of deep breaths.
[00:20:13.700 --> 00:20:17.280] Because like, you know, I've definitely been there, you know,
[00:20:17.940 --> 00:20:21.240] like you said, that portion of contracts and like,
[00:20:21.360 --> 00:20:24.040] this is our agreement, our expectation.
[00:20:24.040 --> 00:20:27.380] Like you said, you want something additional, it's going to cost.
[00:20:27.940 --> 00:20:30.740] And a lot of people try to take advantage of that,
[00:20:30.740 --> 00:20:34.420] and especially, like you say, newer, not doing a touch more on that.
[00:20:35.980 --> 00:20:40.620] But sometimes I look at these more experienced entrepreneurs
[00:20:40.620 --> 00:20:42.720] and they try to take advantage of certain things
[00:20:43.360 --> 00:20:46.700] or they would delay the contract purposely and then you do it.
[00:20:46.860 --> 00:20:48.460] And it's like, you know,
[00:20:48.460 --> 00:20:52.760] but I'm all about, you know, keeping my word and not trust other people.
[00:20:52.760 --> 00:20:55.740] You know, they keep their word. So, you know, OK.
[00:20:56.820 --> 00:21:01.560] Like you said, half up front and then the other half once the job is complete.
[00:21:02.500 --> 00:21:05.160] But then, you know, our goals are, you know,
[00:21:05.640 --> 00:21:08.340] then it's like, dang, I got to do small claims.
[00:21:08.500 --> 00:21:10.720] I got to go through this process. It's time out of my day.
[00:21:10.760 --> 00:21:11.880] I'm running the business.
[00:21:12.840 --> 00:21:17.300] And it's just, yeah, it's like, oh, and I, I,
[00:21:17.320 --> 00:21:22.220] I actually ran into another client of mine who was she's such a gem.
[00:21:22.220 --> 00:21:24.800] She was so sweet and I loved working with her.
[00:21:25.280 --> 00:21:27.260] She had a beautiful home and I was going out there
[00:21:27.260 --> 00:21:29.700] to do one of the geometric walls for her.
[00:21:30.360 --> 00:21:33.740] And I had told her about my policy, like, you know, it's half up front.
[00:21:33.780 --> 00:21:37.080] And then it's the second half, like before I start, like, you know, working.
[00:21:38.880 --> 00:21:41.420] And she was just like, well, like, you know,
[00:21:41.660 --> 00:21:43.640] I'm a little bit uncomfortable with that.
[00:21:43.940 --> 00:21:46.600] It's just like, because I mean, what if, like, you know,
[00:21:46.660 --> 00:21:49.480] you run off with my money or like, you know what I'm saying?
[00:21:49.580 --> 00:21:51.280] And don't finish the work or would not.
[00:21:51.280 --> 00:21:54.960] And I was like, well, I was like, one, I want you to trust me
[00:21:54.960 --> 00:21:56.400] until I understand how you feel.
[00:21:56.580 --> 00:21:59.560] Like, you know, I'm saying I was like, so I was like,
[00:21:59.660 --> 00:22:01.640] this is what I'm going to do. I'm going to get started.
[00:22:01.700 --> 00:22:03.140] I'm going to lay all of the groundwork.
[00:22:03.240 --> 00:22:06.600] I'm not going to finish it all, but I'm going to just finish the groundwork.
[00:22:06.660 --> 00:22:09.080] If you're not comfortable at that point, like,
[00:22:09.580 --> 00:22:11.520] I think that you would be comfortable at that point to know
[00:22:11.520 --> 00:22:12.700] I'm not going to run off on you.
[00:22:12.940 --> 00:22:14.860] I was like, and then let's meet in the middle and let's pay,
[00:22:14.860 --> 00:22:16.280] like, make the payment there.
[00:22:16.440 --> 00:22:18.960] I was like, because what I don't want is to come into your space
[00:22:18.960 --> 00:22:21.340] to feel like, like, first of all, you shouldn't have me in your space.
[00:22:21.460 --> 00:22:23.240] You feel like I'm going to run off on you and stuff like that.
[00:22:23.260 --> 00:22:27.500] But I understand when you are putting up these large amounts of money,
[00:22:27.600 --> 00:22:29.840] it's just like, no, like, I want it, blah, blah.
[00:22:29.860 --> 00:22:32.780] But I told her I was like, I don't take lightly on my brand.
[00:22:32.800 --> 00:22:34.400] Like, it's it's who I am.
[00:22:34.800 --> 00:22:38.600] It's like I need the the pictures of this wall
[00:22:38.600 --> 00:22:40.060] to go on market to do more stuff.
[00:22:40.200 --> 00:22:41.620] I was like, girl, I'm not running nowhere.
[00:22:42.120 --> 00:22:43.520] Like, I want it to look perfect.
[00:22:43.920 --> 00:22:47.780] But I also understand from a perspective of like a client
[00:22:47.780 --> 00:22:52.180] because I've heard horror stories of them hiring on people or contractors
[00:22:52.180 --> 00:22:55.580] and them just like dipping off on the work and not finishing it,
[00:22:55.720 --> 00:22:56.680] which sucks.
[00:22:56.860 --> 00:22:59.440] And it puts it puts everybody in a bad position. Right.
[00:22:59.740 --> 00:23:03.020] So it's just like, I think that I resolved that situation
[00:23:03.020 --> 00:23:05.440] well where we met in the middle and she was just like,
[00:23:05.440 --> 00:23:07.980] she was very, very happy and appreciative at the end.
[00:23:08.860 --> 00:23:11.040] So great. Yeah.
[00:23:13.260 --> 00:23:16.020] Sometimes this is not that easy.
[00:23:16.660 --> 00:23:22.500] But I do want to touch on more of you first starting off in 2001.
[00:23:23.200 --> 00:23:26.800] Do you have any fond memories of, you know, you being a beginner in the industry?
[00:23:27.660 --> 00:23:29.040] Oh, man. Yeah.
[00:23:30.140 --> 00:23:34.220] In the beginning, I wasn't even aiming to do interior design.
[00:23:34.340 --> 00:23:36.140] Well, hold on. But let's backtrack.
[00:23:36.860 --> 00:23:40.200] Technically, I was going to start
[00:23:40.200 --> 00:23:42.980] Sioux Wants to Core back in.
[00:23:45.550 --> 00:23:48.290] Hmm. What was that 2015?
[00:23:48.590 --> 00:23:50.750] And what were you doing before 2015?
[00:23:51.030 --> 00:23:53.690] I was working at Cleveland Clinic and yes.
[00:23:54.570 --> 00:23:55.350] Yes. OK.
[00:23:55.510 --> 00:23:59.730] So I had left retail and I went to Cleveland Clinic
[00:23:59.730 --> 00:24:04.450] and I was there in Cleveland Clinic, wasn't paying what I wasn't going to pay
[00:24:04.450 --> 00:24:07.590] because I went from management to like a secretary at the desk.
[00:24:07.590 --> 00:24:09.230] And it was just a pay cut.
[00:24:09.630 --> 00:24:13.050] But, you know, at that time in my mind, which is actual factual,
[00:24:13.890 --> 00:24:16.550] sometimes you got to take a decrease
[00:24:16.550 --> 00:24:20.670] or enough to make an increase in life and to get further, you know.
[00:24:20.890 --> 00:24:22.630] So I was like, OK, I'm going to take this pay cut
[00:24:22.630 --> 00:24:25.990] because there are more opportunities of growth at Cleveland Clinic
[00:24:25.990 --> 00:24:29.870] than there were at the company that I was working at prior to.
[00:24:31.710 --> 00:24:35.030] So with that being said, in 2015, I was sitting there
[00:24:35.030 --> 00:24:37.850] in my desk because I was bored because being a desk girl,
[00:24:37.950 --> 00:24:42.550] your secretary, admin, any of those things, it's just not it's not for me.
[00:24:42.550 --> 00:24:45.590] Like it's too too stationary.
[00:24:45.730 --> 00:24:49.470] Like, you know, and at that time, I didn't know exactly what a creative was.
[00:24:49.490 --> 00:24:52.190] But I just knew that, like, I had big ideas.
[00:24:52.190 --> 00:24:53.790] I had stuff I wanted to do.
[00:24:54.230 --> 00:24:55.410] And they wasn't with it.
[00:24:55.410 --> 00:24:57.890] Like, I'm being creative, trying to create stuff in the office.
[00:24:57.990 --> 00:25:01.910] And they like, why are you so happy at seven o'clock in the morning?
[00:25:01.950 --> 00:25:05.150] So, yeah, but neither here nor there.
[00:25:06.250 --> 00:25:08.850] I was sitting there and one day I was like, oh,
[00:25:09.070 --> 00:25:10.750] I would like making stuff look nice.
[00:25:10.750 --> 00:25:12.610] And me and this girl, we were talking.
[00:25:12.710 --> 00:25:15.710] She was a nurse and she was just like, you know,
[00:25:15.850 --> 00:25:19.770] all of this cute stuff and like, I just don't know what to do with it.
[00:25:19.770 --> 00:25:22.090] And she was like, well, since you like making stuff look nice,
[00:25:22.170 --> 00:25:24.330] like come over, can you look at it and like, you know,
[00:25:24.430 --> 00:25:25.950] maybe switch some stuff around or whatever.
[00:25:26.530 --> 00:25:27.710] I was like, yeah, girl, come over.
[00:25:27.790 --> 00:25:28.550] So I came over.
[00:25:28.570 --> 00:25:32.030] We had a little wine crackers and stuff because we were like coworkers.
[00:25:32.190 --> 00:25:33.690] We, you know, kicked it a little bit.
[00:25:33.750 --> 00:25:37.230] And so I was like switching her stuff around or whatever.
[00:25:37.230 --> 00:25:38.470] And it looks really cute.
[00:25:38.470 --> 00:25:43.390] Like it came out amazing at that time of design and what it looked like.
[00:25:44.070 --> 00:25:46.490] And so, like, you know, we went back to the office.
[00:25:46.530 --> 00:25:48.590] She was telling everybody about how cute I made her house
[00:25:48.590 --> 00:25:51.920] look with the things that she had and adding a few little other trinkets to it.
[00:25:54.350 --> 00:25:58.310] But at that time, I.
[00:25:58.690 --> 00:25:59.830] How do I say this?
[00:25:59.970 --> 00:26:03.990] I lacked the confidence, the drive,
[00:26:04.550 --> 00:26:09.790] the want to ask people or market myself
[00:26:09.790 --> 00:26:15.770] or bet on myself because I felt like marketing myself was almost
[00:26:15.770 --> 00:26:20.210] like begging people to want to roll with your company
[00:26:20.210 --> 00:26:23.530] or to allow you in a space is to do these things.
[00:26:24.090 --> 00:26:27.730] When did that mindset shift for you when I asked when I pray
[00:26:28.330 --> 00:26:32.990] to God to to align me into my divine purpose?
[00:26:32.990 --> 00:26:37.650] Like it's sometimes like what you were created to do, be right in front of you.
[00:26:37.670 --> 00:26:40.890] And sometimes it appears earlier in life, but you're not ready for it.
[00:26:40.890 --> 00:26:43.790] So I feel like it not to get all, you know, check, check.
[00:26:44.250 --> 00:26:47.210] I feel like sometimes I got to give you a little taste
[00:26:47.210 --> 00:26:50.230] of what you supposed to be doing, but letting you know,
[00:26:50.230 --> 00:26:51.270] you're not ready for this baby.
[00:26:51.290 --> 00:26:54.230] You got a lot more work to do. You got to go sit down.
[00:26:54.270 --> 00:26:56.670] You got to go through a couple more things before I allow you
[00:26:56.670 --> 00:26:58.430] into these spaces to do these things.
[00:26:58.690 --> 00:27:01.610] So like I was there and I was like, I ain't about to go begging nobody
[00:27:01.610 --> 00:27:04.110] like we're like, oh, I'm not a boaster.
[00:27:04.310 --> 00:27:07.170] I've always had to be like, you know, humble and don't be bragging
[00:27:07.170 --> 00:27:08.130] about the things that you got.
[00:27:08.470 --> 00:27:09.970] But to market yourself, you've got to brag.
[00:27:10.030 --> 00:27:11.110] You've got to pop your shirt.
[00:27:11.170 --> 00:27:13.350] Like you got to talk about how amazing you are.
[00:27:13.530 --> 00:27:16.230] And I'm like, I don't like this.
[00:27:16.250 --> 00:27:18.070] Like I've become really meek even now.
[00:27:18.170 --> 00:27:19.810] Like I've I've gotten better.
[00:27:19.890 --> 00:27:24.490] But even now, I kind of be like, oh, hey, yeah, I feel like that.
[00:27:24.630 --> 00:27:28.110] Yeah. So but you got to really like you got to step in there.
[00:27:28.130 --> 00:27:30.630] You got to be confident in it. And I was at all.
[00:27:31.890 --> 00:27:33.730] So I was just like, yeah, I'm not going to do this.
[00:27:33.730 --> 00:27:34.710] It takes too much.
[00:27:34.870 --> 00:27:36.210] I'm not about to be begging people.
[00:27:36.410 --> 00:27:39.510] And then like they like, oh, I don't know if I want like, no.
[00:27:39.650 --> 00:27:40.910] I was like, I'm done with it.
[00:27:41.010 --> 00:27:45.890] So that was actual beginning of me being introduced to
[00:27:45.890 --> 00:27:49.590] like design world and what that means.
[00:27:50.050 --> 00:27:54.390] Like I said, I've always like design stuff because even further back,
[00:27:54.670 --> 00:27:59.710] my mother loves like home decorate and that type of stuff.
[00:27:59.710 --> 00:28:04.030] Like we used to go look at model homes when like they would have open houses.
[00:28:04.050 --> 00:28:05.370] We would go when they were staged.
[00:28:05.510 --> 00:28:08.950] The staging back then was a thing like every house we went to was like stage.
[00:28:09.990 --> 00:28:14.190] So, um, yeah, that that whole thing.
[00:28:14.230 --> 00:28:16.970] But that that's kind of where it started.
[00:28:18.110 --> 00:28:19.510] Yeah. Thanks.
[00:28:20.050 --> 00:28:22.870] Well, let's take a deep breath on that one.
[00:28:26.470 --> 00:28:28.230] Incredible story and journey.
[00:28:28.230 --> 00:28:32.730] Thank you. And I want to kind of touch back on, like you said, those marketing
[00:28:32.730 --> 00:28:35.330] and, you know, almost felt like you was begging.
[00:28:36.010 --> 00:28:40.190] So like gaining those skills and wisdom.
[00:28:40.450 --> 00:28:42.790] And where did you learn that from?
[00:28:43.890 --> 00:28:49.870] Um, the second time I got back into like decorating
[00:28:50.870 --> 00:28:54.910] one of my older sorority sisters, who's Valen,
[00:28:54.910 --> 00:28:58.650] if you listen to this, her and her husband had just got married
[00:28:58.650 --> 00:29:00.090] and they have purchased a new home.
[00:29:00.790 --> 00:29:04.630] And so they she had called me like, hey, you still decorate homes
[00:29:04.630 --> 00:29:06.750] or like, you know, do this and third.
[00:29:06.750 --> 00:29:09.570] I was like, no, girl, like I felt alone a long time ago or whatever.
[00:29:10.070 --> 00:29:11.690] I was like, well, what's up what you need?
[00:29:11.750 --> 00:29:14.070] And she was just like, well, you know, we just purchased a home.
[00:29:14.390 --> 00:29:17.610] I'm interested in like, you know, having our master bedroom done
[00:29:17.610 --> 00:29:19.910] or, you know, just getting started in our home.
[00:29:20.350 --> 00:29:24.110] And so I was just like, oh, well, I'll come out there and look at it.
[00:29:24.110 --> 00:29:25.790] Like, you know, so I went out there, looked at it.
[00:29:25.810 --> 00:29:28.250] They gave me a little like, you know, a nice budget.
[00:29:28.610 --> 00:29:30.750] Sorry. Can you make it that out?
[00:29:36.530 --> 00:29:41.530] But she so she had me come over, gave me a nice budget
[00:29:41.530 --> 00:29:44.870] so I kind of decorate her master bedroom.
[00:29:44.970 --> 00:29:47.890] So I decorated it like, you know, put some stuff together quickly.
[00:29:48.770 --> 00:29:50.870] And I was so excited.
[00:29:51.030 --> 00:29:52.730] Like I was like, oh, let me post this on Instagram.
[00:29:52.730 --> 00:29:55.590] Like, I got to show people like, oh, this looks so good.
[00:29:56.490 --> 00:30:02.150] I posted it on Instagram and literally people like was like,
[00:30:02.150 --> 00:30:04.770] oh, this is really, really nice. I love this.
[00:30:05.310 --> 00:30:09.770] Like, I, I really, really like, you know, you got to come
[00:30:09.770 --> 00:30:11.230] do my home next or whatever.
[00:30:11.230 --> 00:30:14.530] And I'm like, shoot, OK, because I had so much fun doing it.
[00:30:14.530 --> 00:30:17.130] Like, and I was in that room for like hours and hours,
[00:30:17.170 --> 00:30:18.270] like putting stuff together.
[00:30:18.350 --> 00:30:21.730] But I really, really like enjoyed it or whatever.
[00:30:21.730 --> 00:30:25.550] So then fast forward, like a couple of weeks later,
[00:30:27.270 --> 00:30:31.870] one of my good friends, Brittany, her and her husband had a home.
[00:30:31.910 --> 00:30:35.510] They wanted me to come out and to, you know, revamp some stuff
[00:30:35.510 --> 00:30:37.530] and add some things to what they had going on.
[00:30:37.630 --> 00:30:40.210] I was like, OK, cool. Did that post that.
[00:30:40.430 --> 00:30:42.890] Everybody was, oh, my God, like, this looks so good.
[00:30:43.230 --> 00:30:48.310] And so by the time August had hit my sorority sister, Shalita,
[00:30:48.310 --> 00:30:50.770] we call her the boss because she like literally
[00:30:50.770 --> 00:30:51.970] be getting everybody together.
[00:30:52.290 --> 00:30:56.210] And so she was like, um, you need to get an LLC.
[00:30:56.550 --> 00:30:57.810] You work in these people's houses.
[00:30:57.830 --> 00:30:59.530] You need to make sure that you are covered.
[00:30:59.830 --> 00:31:01.890] Like, you know, OK, what if something go wrong this and that?
[00:31:01.970 --> 00:31:04.990] And I was like, oh, like me, I was like, I was decorating.
[00:31:05.070 --> 00:31:07.750] This is fun. Like, you know, I'm not thinking about the business aspect.
[00:31:07.850 --> 00:31:10.670] But again, the boss came in and was like, no, we got to regulate this.
[00:31:10.670 --> 00:31:11.910] We got to get this together.
[00:31:12.210 --> 00:31:13.470] So I'm like, OK.
[00:31:13.970 --> 00:31:17.210] So she, you know, set me up, helped me get my LLC
[00:31:17.210 --> 00:31:18.570] and, like, you know, start.
[00:31:18.670 --> 00:31:20.390] I was like, OK, well, if I got to have that,
[00:31:20.390 --> 00:31:23.990] then I need to have a whole bunch of other stuff that, like, you know,
[00:31:24.030 --> 00:31:26.330] like, let me get some processes together.
[00:31:26.330 --> 00:31:29.470] So I utilize my management skills, my admin skills
[00:31:29.470 --> 00:31:32.390] to, like, kind of pull together and organize like something.
[00:31:32.870 --> 00:31:37.070] So and then once I did that, that's when that whole situation happened.
[00:31:37.350 --> 00:31:41.510] Then I went out and I actually met with actual designers
[00:31:41.510 --> 00:31:45.570] who have been in the field and done like a whole lot of amazing work.
[00:31:45.570 --> 00:31:50.010] I've been on the cover of HGTV magazine, on the cover of Forbes,
[00:31:50.210 --> 00:31:52.090] like just doing showrooms.
[00:31:52.330 --> 00:31:53.950] Like I'm talking about bomb designers.
[00:31:54.030 --> 00:31:56.930] So once I got to, like, connect with them and talk to them
[00:31:56.930 --> 00:32:00.650] and kind of tell them about my experiences and the things that I had,
[00:32:00.650 --> 00:32:03.330] you know, encounter while trying to do design and stuff like that,
[00:32:03.590 --> 00:32:05.070] they were so supportive.
[00:32:05.410 --> 00:32:07.570] Like to this day, I still talk to a lot of them.
[00:32:09.250 --> 00:32:10.970] And they, like, gave me tips.
[00:32:11.130 --> 00:32:13.790] They showed me like their contracts and what I need to do,
[00:32:13.790 --> 00:32:18.230] just so helpful, like not a crab in a bucket mentality whatsoever.
[00:32:18.230 --> 00:32:19.830] And I was really grateful for that.
[00:32:19.990 --> 00:32:23.470] So they were able to help me, like, really organize or whatever.
[00:32:23.630 --> 00:32:26.270] But that's like kind of I've gotten to that.
[00:32:26.690 --> 00:32:30.610] Wow. And you mentioned, you know, utilizing your management
[00:32:30.610 --> 00:32:34.570] and secretary skills are the skills that you learned from that.
[00:32:35.050 --> 00:32:40.110] So how important is someone, you know, they're they're at a nine to five,
[00:32:40.210 --> 00:32:42.510] even working overtime on even multiple jobs.
[00:32:42.510 --> 00:32:44.850] But they want to, you know, step into that entrepreneurship.
[00:32:46.670 --> 00:32:51.270] How important is, you know, gaining those skills
[00:32:51.270 --> 00:32:55.330] and knowledge while they're on the job to become entrepreneurs?
[00:32:55.930 --> 00:32:59.270] Well, it is so important.
[00:33:00.010 --> 00:33:01.070] It's it's critical.
[00:33:01.330 --> 00:33:05.310] I think I had spoke to somebody else on another podcast about this.
[00:33:05.710 --> 00:33:09.310] I had pulled up to a McDonald's one day after a long shift.
[00:33:09.370 --> 00:33:11.670] And no, I shouldn't have been eating a McDonald's, but I was hungry.
[00:33:13.390 --> 00:33:15.790] Don't worry. I got stuck in McDonald's.
[00:33:16.150 --> 00:33:21.370] Right. So so this young lady, I heard her like kind of arguing,
[00:33:21.450 --> 00:33:24.310] not arguing, but like just talking back to her manager or whatever.
[00:33:24.570 --> 00:33:26.190] And she was like, this ain't my job.
[00:33:26.310 --> 00:33:27.710] This ain't my life. This your life.
[00:33:27.850 --> 00:33:29.330] Like, you know, I'm saying, boss, a blast.
[00:33:29.450 --> 00:33:30.370] So she was like, whatever.
[00:33:30.530 --> 00:33:34.030] So she leaned over. She's like, oh, your car is nice.
[00:33:34.090 --> 00:33:36.270] Like, you know, like just giving me compliments.
[00:33:36.390 --> 00:33:38.730] But she was such a sweet girl or whatever.
[00:33:38.730 --> 00:33:40.650] And I just I kind of told her, I was just like, you know,
[00:33:40.650 --> 00:33:44.030] I kind of was I heard you like, you know, saying like, you know,
[00:33:44.070 --> 00:33:45.350] this isn't your life or whatever.
[00:33:45.510 --> 00:33:49.150] I was like, I got this car in the things that I have
[00:33:49.150 --> 00:33:50.690] based off of the skills that I had.
[00:33:50.850 --> 00:33:53.170] I was 14 working at McDonald's like you.
[00:33:53.210 --> 00:33:54.930] Like, you know, that was my first job.
[00:33:55.210 --> 00:34:00.270] And so a lot of those skills that you learn while working in the small jobs
[00:34:00.270 --> 00:34:04.370] are skills that you literally will carry with you for the rest of your life.
[00:34:04.370 --> 00:34:07.890] And I think that. A lot of these young
[00:34:07.890 --> 00:34:10.449] the younger generation was like an auntie.
[00:34:12.270 --> 00:34:16.310] But a lot of these younger kids, I think that they lack that
[00:34:17.710 --> 00:34:18.929] that what is it called?
[00:34:19.090 --> 00:34:21.370] Like the move, like move with a purpose.
[00:34:21.630 --> 00:34:22.889] I used to say, like, move with a purpose.
[00:34:22.929 --> 00:34:24.710] Let's get going. Let's get this stuff going.
[00:34:24.730 --> 00:34:29.409] Like a lot of them are real life slow track or lacks a daisy or don't.
[00:34:29.409 --> 00:34:31.750] They don't have no urgency about them.
[00:34:32.630 --> 00:34:35.489] But they are also a generation of work smarter, not harder.
[00:34:35.530 --> 00:34:36.590] So I respect that.
[00:34:36.810 --> 00:34:39.590] But I told her, I was like, some of these skills
[00:34:39.590 --> 00:34:42.909] that you are learning right now that you don't even notice
[00:34:42.909 --> 00:34:45.750] that you're going to need later on, you're going to need.
[00:34:46.090 --> 00:34:48.790] I was like, so rather this is your forever job
[00:34:48.790 --> 00:34:51.650] or this is just a part time job to get you to where you want to go.
[00:34:51.929 --> 00:34:56.730] I said, you should treat it and value it like it is your future,
[00:34:57.390 --> 00:35:00.730] because one day you're going to want somebody to take your business
[00:35:00.730 --> 00:35:04.730] serious and to move it and love one it just as much as you do.
[00:35:05.130 --> 00:35:08.310] So that karma can come back to you
[00:35:08.310 --> 00:35:11.410] when you don't put that energy into other people's spaces
[00:35:11.410 --> 00:35:13.410] to help them grow their things. Right.
[00:35:13.790 --> 00:35:17.950] So, um, yeah, that that was a conversation. Yeah.
[00:35:19.090 --> 00:35:21.350] Even like you said, I was your first job
[00:35:21.350 --> 00:35:23.630] and actually to pour back into her.
[00:35:25.090 --> 00:35:27.410] It's a full circle moment, you know.
[00:35:27.650 --> 00:35:31.710] Yeah, you gave your give back, you know, like you gained skills
[00:35:31.710 --> 00:35:36.410] while you were there and now you give it back to the younger generation.
[00:35:37.130 --> 00:35:40.330] Even knowing and sensing that they may lack these skills
[00:35:40.330 --> 00:35:44.610] or may not want to learn or don't care about learning these skills
[00:35:44.610 --> 00:35:48.650] or don't just care about life in general.
[00:35:48.770 --> 00:35:51.070] Like even my daughter, who just walked in.
[00:35:51.930 --> 00:35:53.750] She is so adorable.
[00:35:55.030 --> 00:35:58.110] It's it's important, you know, that.
[00:35:59.810 --> 00:36:03.350] I would say our generation to properly teach,
[00:36:03.350 --> 00:36:07.670] maybe we're not teaching right or giving them what they need
[00:36:07.670 --> 00:36:10.590] or the motivation they need to succeed.
[00:36:10.610 --> 00:36:14.130] And I can even ask my daughter, is this chips on your face?
[00:36:14.390 --> 00:36:18.610] Is there something that you feel like you want to learn
[00:36:18.610 --> 00:36:20.490] that I'm not teaching you?
[00:36:22.830 --> 00:36:24.270] I'm writing back in a journal.
[00:36:24.910 --> 00:36:25.890] You're writing back in a journal.
[00:36:26.390 --> 00:36:29.670] OK, so that means stay tuned to the next episode. Right.
[00:36:31.170 --> 00:36:34.610] But yeah, it's important for us to continuously be those teachers,
[00:36:34.610 --> 00:36:36.450] even if we don't want to sometimes,
[00:36:36.650 --> 00:36:38.510] because this is the next generation.
[00:36:38.710 --> 00:36:41.370] Yes. You know, they're always looking up to you.
[00:36:42.230 --> 00:36:43.930] Yeah. It's important.
[00:36:44.730 --> 00:36:48.310] Any opportunity that I have, if I see the opportunity
[00:36:49.210 --> 00:36:52.310] to try to advise somebody so they don't make the same mistakes
[00:36:52.770 --> 00:36:55.970] or, you know, just try to guide them on things that like, shoot,
[00:36:56.110 --> 00:36:58.630] I know this now that it worked, like, let me share this
[00:36:58.630 --> 00:37:00.410] with somebody else or a younger person.
[00:37:00.450 --> 00:37:04.570] So any opportunity I have to share those moments, I always try to.
[00:37:05.110 --> 00:37:07.910] Yeah. So how important is mentorship?
[00:37:08.150 --> 00:37:11.110] I know you kind of mentioned that earlier, but how important is mentorship
[00:37:11.110 --> 00:37:12.730] for a new entrepreneur?
[00:37:13.450 --> 00:37:16.730] Oh, my goodness. I think it is so, so, so important,
[00:37:16.910 --> 00:37:19.550] not even just mentorship, but just having other friends
[00:37:19.550 --> 00:37:20.710] that are entrepreneurs.
[00:37:20.770 --> 00:37:23.130] They understand what you're experiencing more
[00:37:23.710 --> 00:37:27.150] versus like your friends that work, you know, a nine to five
[00:37:27.150 --> 00:37:29.310] and they're making great money and they're good with that.
[00:37:29.570 --> 00:37:32.090] Being an entrepreneur, it's a different beast.
[00:37:32.090 --> 00:37:36.450] Like it's it's a spiritual journey of like faith
[00:37:36.450 --> 00:37:39.070] because you're going to go through peaks and you're going to go
[00:37:39.070 --> 00:37:40.210] through a lot of valleys.
[00:37:41.050 --> 00:37:44.210] And sometimes you'll be like, why am I doing this?
[00:37:44.610 --> 00:37:47.470] So having mentors who have probably experienced
[00:37:47.470 --> 00:37:50.230] or been through those spaces that you're experiencing,
[00:37:50.230 --> 00:37:53.450] it's always good because they can help you or speak
[00:37:53.450 --> 00:37:55.710] to the moment that you are in and give you that courage
[00:37:55.710 --> 00:37:59.590] or motivation to pull yourself out of those those valleys
[00:37:59.590 --> 00:38:01.770] that you hit, like those peaks where you like, dang,
[00:38:01.770 --> 00:38:03.710] I just want to give up.
[00:38:03.830 --> 00:38:06.010] But then you see somebody else that's doing something
[00:38:06.010 --> 00:38:10.270] that you want to do or somebody who has a successful business
[00:38:10.270 --> 00:38:12.930] and you like, if they can do it, why can't I?
[00:38:13.490 --> 00:38:16.170] Like, why can't that be me?
[00:38:16.250 --> 00:38:18.130] Like, if I just push myself a little bit harder,
[00:38:18.270 --> 00:38:21.910] if I just try a little bit more, like, why can't that be me?
[00:38:22.390 --> 00:38:24.830] Like, and I have to that is something like currently
[00:38:24.830 --> 00:38:27.030] I'm telling myself, like I had a call,
[00:38:27.130 --> 00:38:29.790] like when I go through my little flat lines,
[00:38:29.790 --> 00:38:31.950] I'll be called, hey, can we hop on a call?
[00:38:32.070 --> 00:38:35.690] Let's talk, let's, you know, I need to get some advice
[00:38:35.690 --> 00:38:38.830] or whatever the case may be because it's like, yeah,
[00:38:38.830 --> 00:38:41.110] I'm in that space and I need to talk to people
[00:38:41.110 --> 00:38:43.410] that's that's making waves, that's doing stuff.
[00:38:43.450 --> 00:38:45.810] Like, I need that rub that juju on me.
[00:38:45.830 --> 00:38:49.250] Like, let me get motivated from what you got going on
[00:38:49.250 --> 00:38:51.370] just so I could stay encouraged.
[00:38:52.010 --> 00:38:54.850] It's very important to have other
[00:38:55.790 --> 00:38:58.070] like-minded people in your circle,
[00:38:58.070 --> 00:39:02.210] because if you have people that are doing not the same things
[00:39:02.210 --> 00:39:06.570] or less than what you are doing, it's hard to grow in those spaces.
[00:39:07.690 --> 00:39:09.310] It's absolutely true.
[00:39:10.010 --> 00:39:12.490] And even less than 24 hours, you know,
[00:39:12.550 --> 00:39:14.570] we saw each other and into each other.
[00:39:14.730 --> 00:39:16.670] Yeah, you know, like not even knowing.
[00:39:16.870 --> 00:39:19.850] So that's, you know, like you said, being in the right rooms
[00:39:19.850 --> 00:39:22.290] and circles and having those right relationships.
[00:39:23.010 --> 00:39:25.950] Like even OK, happy birthday to Natasha Herbert.
[00:39:25.970 --> 00:39:27.550] Yes. I call her a legend.
[00:39:27.550 --> 00:39:29.970] That's she is a legend.
[00:39:30.130 --> 00:39:33.870] Like you said, you know, with expertise or somewhere I want to be like,
[00:39:34.010 --> 00:39:36.230] yeah, because she even mentioned it last night.
[00:39:36.230 --> 00:39:39.950] I'm not just a wedding photographer, but she's known, you know,
[00:39:41.090 --> 00:39:45.110] magazine published award winning photographer.
[00:39:46.950 --> 00:39:51.830] And I've been following her before I knew her
[00:39:52.470 --> 00:39:55.570] back when I was doing music and to hear about her
[00:39:55.570 --> 00:39:58.250] and the work that she's doing, even the community work.
[00:39:58.370 --> 00:40:01.550] I think she was in like a certain neighborhood
[00:40:01.550 --> 00:40:05.790] and going house to house and photograph and I'm like, wow, yeah, project.
[00:40:05.790 --> 00:40:07.970] It was all over the news and stuff. Wow.
[00:40:08.210 --> 00:40:09.270] I'm like, who is this?
[00:40:09.410 --> 00:40:12.670] Yeah, I saw her very young before I even started
[00:40:12.670 --> 00:40:14.330] photography and video production.
[00:40:14.690 --> 00:40:17.530] So to even meet her now and speak with her.
[00:40:17.570 --> 00:40:20.990] And she gave me some great words last night.
[00:40:20.990 --> 00:40:25.270] I'm like, wow. She basically just said she was an all around dope person.
[00:40:25.570 --> 00:40:27.770] She has invited her.
[00:40:28.370 --> 00:40:29.210] What is it?
[00:40:29.290 --> 00:40:32.890] She has like connecting me with people that have really been
[00:40:32.890 --> 00:40:36.330] like powerhouses and lights to me as long as well as her,
[00:40:36.330 --> 00:40:37.770] because she's very successful.
[00:40:38.130 --> 00:40:41.570] So it's always like I said, to have people
[00:40:41.570 --> 00:40:45.050] that are around you or that you know that you can call or speak
[00:40:45.050 --> 00:40:49.350] to about certain things to help you get through that journey
[00:40:49.350 --> 00:40:51.750] to until you get to a point where you want to be.
[00:40:51.750 --> 00:40:55.270] And then also sometimes like sometimes the student becomes a teacher.
[00:40:55.570 --> 00:40:57.550] Just depending on where you go in life.
[00:40:58.210 --> 00:41:01.870] So you never know. So, yeah, I mean, even to speak to that,
[00:41:01.870 --> 00:41:05.290] I have two people on a wedding I'm doing
[00:41:06.590 --> 00:41:07.850] later this month.
[00:41:08.510 --> 00:41:11.270] It's June for those that's listening in.
[00:41:12.670 --> 00:41:16.010] And I'm basically training them and I trust them enough
[00:41:16.010 --> 00:41:19.270] and feel like they're good enough to bring them in on this wedding.
[00:41:19.470 --> 00:41:22.990] Otherwise, I wouldn't bring them in and I'm teaching them.
[00:41:22.990 --> 00:41:25.010] They still ask me questions like, look,
[00:41:25.830 --> 00:41:27.970] this this next project.
[00:41:28.730 --> 00:41:32.030] I want you to do it like you're the only one there
[00:41:32.030 --> 00:41:36.370] to practice during the wedding, because when I'm in my mode
[00:41:36.370 --> 00:41:39.470] and stuff, I'm not going to be able to teach you while we're there. So. Yeah.
[00:41:40.290 --> 00:41:43.350] You have to think on your own, just instilling those confidence
[00:41:43.350 --> 00:41:44.730] because I've seen that work.
[00:41:44.770 --> 00:41:47.070] Otherwise, I wouldn't constantly be working on it
[00:41:47.070 --> 00:41:50.390] if they're not improving or feel compelled to improve.
[00:41:51.190 --> 00:41:54.150] So I think it's big to pour back
[00:41:54.150 --> 00:41:58.050] into whoever comes to even if they're older and they just like, look,
[00:41:59.010 --> 00:42:02.590] I've been at this for years, but you really have it going on.
[00:42:03.970 --> 00:42:04.830] Teach me.
[00:42:04.930 --> 00:42:07.590] I know stuff that are advanced and technology advanced
[00:42:07.590 --> 00:42:10.370] and AI is coming out. Teach me.
[00:42:10.730 --> 00:42:12.150] Like you said, this younger generation.
[00:42:12.430 --> 00:42:15.690] They're smart. They're very smart when it comes to technology
[00:42:15.690 --> 00:42:18.430] and like that whole like work, work smarter, not harder.
[00:42:19.570 --> 00:42:21.630] Man, like obviously they're like,
[00:42:21.630 --> 00:42:23.970] now, I feel like one of the old ladies trying to learn
[00:42:23.970 --> 00:42:26.590] how to work the computer, like, you do that.
[00:42:27.730 --> 00:42:30.010] Yeah. And I don't want to be left behind.
[00:42:30.470 --> 00:42:32.690] I know that is the new wave. And like I'm.
[00:42:34.370 --> 00:42:35.210] I already feel myself
[00:42:35.210 --> 00:42:37.570] trying to keep up and catch up with all of the things,
[00:42:37.590 --> 00:42:40.030] even with like Instagram and creating these rules.
[00:42:40.030 --> 00:42:43.270] I'd be sitting there mad, like, I don't want to do this.
[00:42:43.650 --> 00:42:47.330] But it's got to you got to be involved, especially being an entrepreneur
[00:42:47.330 --> 00:42:50.650] when that's your way of marketing now, like creating these videos,
[00:42:50.650 --> 00:42:52.130] getting in front of the camera.
[00:42:52.730 --> 00:42:53.710] Like, yeah, sure.
[00:42:53.790 --> 00:42:55.730] And I know we had a conversation about that.
[00:42:55.850 --> 00:42:59.190] See, friends can become clients and vice versa.
[00:42:59.330 --> 00:43:01.190] And, you know, we refer to each other.
[00:43:01.850 --> 00:43:04.790] And yeah, I mean, I'm still often still there.
[00:43:04.890 --> 00:43:08.030] I'm definitely willing to help in that aspect. Yes. Yes.
[00:43:08.150 --> 00:43:09.570] I'm actually getting better posts.
[00:43:09.730 --> 00:43:12.150] I create all the content, record all the content,
[00:43:12.410 --> 00:43:14.570] you know, photograph, document all the content.
[00:43:14.590 --> 00:43:17.410] I have a lot of content even for myself.
[00:43:17.410 --> 00:43:20.130] But it's just the post and sometimes even
[00:43:20.590 --> 00:43:24.190] I just got back on Instagram because I've been so busy.
[00:43:24.490 --> 00:43:28.190] But even posting, I'm like, OK, let me just start with once a day.
[00:43:28.770 --> 00:43:30.930] I know I said this before, but let me actually do it.
[00:43:30.930 --> 00:43:32.430] So I did two yesterday.
[00:43:33.590 --> 00:43:36.830] One today, I'm probably going to post Natasha's
[00:43:36.830 --> 00:43:38.690] kind of recap that I put together.
[00:43:38.930 --> 00:43:39.670] So that'd be two.
[00:43:39.750 --> 00:43:43.070] So I'm even kind of ahead of what I even said, just start with one a day.
[00:43:43.070 --> 00:43:44.650] I'm doing two right now at this rate.
[00:43:44.650 --> 00:43:49.670] So even if selling on your goals and expectations of yourself,
[00:43:50.090 --> 00:43:51.570] that's the only way you get better.
[00:43:51.730 --> 00:43:53.070] Yeah. Yeah.
[00:43:53.330 --> 00:43:56.270] I don't know where that came from, but I said it. Yeah.
[00:43:56.270 --> 00:43:58.730] Somebody don't hear it. Right.
[00:43:59.070 --> 00:44:03.310] Oh, but I do have some questions I did, you know, wrote down.
[00:44:03.750 --> 00:44:04.970] I'll jot it down.
[00:44:05.490 --> 00:44:08.730] I do want to touch those and pull up my notes.
[00:44:09.610 --> 00:44:11.490] And by the way, it's not on paper, so you don't hear the crumbles.
[00:44:11.490 --> 00:44:12.730] This is digital.
[00:44:13.430 --> 00:44:17.310] I'm going to turn my low battery mode off so it doesn't cut off on me.
[00:44:18.610 --> 00:44:21.810] OK, so how was the design landscape for you
[00:44:21.810 --> 00:44:25.270] when you first started designing versus the world of design now?
[00:44:26.530 --> 00:44:32.980] Oh, I would say when I first started,
[00:44:33.320 --> 00:44:36.040] let's take it back to 2015, right?
[00:44:36.580 --> 00:44:40.620] When I first when I started doing that stuff, like everything was real.
[00:44:41.140 --> 00:44:45.160] I don't know if you know about like the whole Z Gallery
[00:44:46.500 --> 00:44:48.500] era, the gallery, the gallery.
[00:44:48.740 --> 00:44:52.180] So like that's that was the beginning of abstract,
[00:44:52.180 --> 00:44:54.520] at least for me, where I noticed it.
[00:44:54.520 --> 00:44:58.840] The gallery came out with these beautiful, like big canvases.
[00:44:58.840 --> 00:45:00.360] And it's just like a splatter.
[00:45:00.580 --> 00:45:03.320] And it's got like sprinkles and like different kind of colors.
[00:45:03.340 --> 00:45:06.060] And it was like, oh, my God, this is absolutely gorgeous.
[00:45:06.080 --> 00:45:07.620] And it gave this luxury feel.
[00:45:07.660 --> 00:45:10.140] And then you added a whole bunch of crystal things.
[00:45:10.140 --> 00:45:14.420] So that was that that was when I really like kind of fell in love
[00:45:14.420 --> 00:45:18.840] with like design for real for us. Oh, God, I need to do this. Whatever.
[00:45:19.840 --> 00:45:25.280] From all of the blingage that was seen in the core,
[00:45:25.420 --> 00:45:28.860] the pillows, pictures and all of the things to now,
[00:45:30.600 --> 00:45:34.180] we went through a whole phase of like the minimalist
[00:45:34.180 --> 00:45:38.700] and like the unique earthy shapes and that type of stuff.
[00:45:38.700 --> 00:45:44.080] And now we went through even more recently the black face
[00:45:44.080 --> 00:45:47.160] where everything is black accents, the black accent walls,
[00:45:47.460 --> 00:45:49.080] the rails on the stairs is black.
[00:45:49.760 --> 00:45:52.540] I'm so tired of black. I don't know what to do.
[00:45:53.360 --> 00:45:56.720] And no, this is like, you know, this keeps the sound out, right?
[00:45:56.920 --> 00:45:58.280] No, this is different. OK.
[00:45:58.360 --> 00:46:01.740] But like, I am so tired of using black.
[00:46:02.040 --> 00:46:04.280] But I know that's the thing. I know that's the trend.
[00:46:04.400 --> 00:46:07.100] I know that's what you all want to do. But black and gold.
[00:46:07.980 --> 00:46:13.120] You know what, you'll be black because with photography,
[00:46:13.740 --> 00:46:16.200] you know, you don't reflect light.
[00:46:16.220 --> 00:46:18.160] So you have to wear darker colors, mainly black.
[00:46:18.720 --> 00:46:21.060] Yeah, I just, you know, I was happy
[00:46:21.060 --> 00:46:22.300] we wasn't going to be on camera.
[00:46:22.300 --> 00:46:25.740] So I was like, let me just throw on a T T shirt and come on with it.
[00:46:26.760 --> 00:46:30.020] I think it's a visual media type of thing.
[00:46:30.100 --> 00:46:31.020] Black is always clean.
[00:46:31.080 --> 00:46:32.360] Black is always elegant.
[00:46:32.520 --> 00:46:33.920] Black is always like sharp.
[00:46:33.960 --> 00:46:35.900] So you can't go wrong with black.
[00:46:37.180 --> 00:46:38.500] But I'm tired.
[00:46:38.700 --> 00:46:42.460] Every home that I go into is just black everywhere.
[00:46:42.540 --> 00:46:46.420] And it's like, OK, this is how much gloom and doom.
[00:46:46.520 --> 00:46:48.580] Like, this is becoming like black and white.
[00:46:48.600 --> 00:46:51.700] Like, I feel like I'm at a tuxedo and bridal shop every day.
[00:46:51.760 --> 00:46:53.760] Like, so I'm just tired of it.
[00:46:53.760 --> 00:46:56.420] I would love to see, like, can we get some browns?
[00:46:56.580 --> 00:46:58.480] I don't even want to see gray no more because we went through
[00:46:58.480 --> 00:47:01.160] a whole phase of like gray.
[00:47:01.300 --> 00:47:02.320] The walls was gray.
[00:47:02.540 --> 00:47:03.360] I don't know.
[00:47:03.360 --> 00:47:08.160] Relators and home flippers, y'all know, agreeable gray or get that.
[00:47:08.580 --> 00:47:11.480] And then them ash gray floors that everybody was doing.
[00:47:11.900 --> 00:47:15.020] I am tired of seeing that, too.
[00:47:15.200 --> 00:47:19.760] So, yeah, I don't even know where the conversation was.
[00:47:19.980 --> 00:47:21.140] But I did. Yeah.
[00:47:21.580 --> 00:47:23.600] So even as you say that,
[00:47:25.970 --> 00:47:33.020] just thinking about that, what colors would you want to see?
[00:47:34.660 --> 00:47:37.780] Like, because even using that as a marketing piece,
[00:47:37.920 --> 00:47:41.480] like, OK, let's break away from the black and the gray.
[00:47:42.480 --> 00:47:44.080] Let's have a colorful home today.
[00:47:44.300 --> 00:47:47.120] Or, you know, something like this, like you can use that as a marketing piece.
[00:47:47.200 --> 00:47:48.740] But like, what colors would you see?
[00:47:48.840 --> 00:47:50.060] Or do you have like.
[00:47:51.220 --> 00:47:53.400] Almost like you say, you create your design and set it up
[00:47:53.400 --> 00:47:57.080] how you want it in your head, you make it come to life.
[00:47:57.080 --> 00:47:59.440] Is there certain colors that you gravitate to?
[00:48:00.520 --> 00:48:07.400] Right now, I am obsessed with warm colors,
[00:48:07.660 --> 00:48:13.340] but not the warm colors that have that yellow tone to it, that gives that like.
[00:48:14.240 --> 00:48:18.860] Yeah, like to what I like the earthy colors,
[00:48:18.900 --> 00:48:20.700] but it has like a coolness to it.
[00:48:20.860 --> 00:48:23.440] So you I'm obsessed with these cabinets.
[00:48:23.540 --> 00:48:26.380] They're like a brown color because everybody was doing the white.
[00:48:26.380 --> 00:48:29.080] There's another tree, white cabinets in every house.
[00:48:29.340 --> 00:48:31.420] Please do something else, please.
[00:48:31.740 --> 00:48:36.200] So I actually just stays at home and they did brown counter
[00:48:36.200 --> 00:48:40.120] or cabinets and stuff, and I was like, thank you, God.
[00:48:40.200 --> 00:48:44.300] I get to finally see what I've been wanting to do
[00:48:44.300 --> 00:48:46.260] and get to decorate in this space.
[00:48:46.740 --> 00:48:50.860] So I love a nice brown
[00:48:50.860 --> 00:48:56.360] that or would like look that has like a coolness element to it.
[00:48:56.360 --> 00:48:59.720] Versus like that yellowy wood that you saw back in like
[00:49:00.320 --> 00:49:03.680] oh, six or seven, like when they were building homes then.
[00:49:05.720 --> 00:49:12.080] I love to see texture in patterns with wallpaper
[00:49:12.080 --> 00:49:17.680] like wallpaper is so beautiful and it adds so much character to a home.
[00:49:18.520 --> 00:49:21.000] I even like a lot of the tally
[00:49:21.000 --> 00:49:24.900] and like how they sometimes will put it in a hair and bone fashion,
[00:49:24.900 --> 00:49:27.460] which is how do I make that sound simple?
[00:49:27.600 --> 00:49:31.220] A hair bone is like that triangle look where they like kind of overlap.
[00:49:31.480 --> 00:49:32.620] It's like that type of pattern.
[00:49:35.280 --> 00:49:40.020] Or no, this is like a hexagon, a honeycomb type of look.
[00:49:40.280 --> 00:49:42.100] OK, so more actual.
[00:49:42.520 --> 00:49:45.980] It's like so you would look at like a regular block like this.
[00:49:46.840 --> 00:49:47.880] Y'all can't see it, sorry.
[00:49:48.180 --> 00:49:50.460] But you would do like a regular piece of like tile
[00:49:50.460 --> 00:49:53.300] and you would connect them in a triangle.
[00:49:53.300 --> 00:49:55.520] But instead of connecting it at a triangle,
[00:49:55.520 --> 00:49:57.820] one would kind of overlap a little bit.
[00:49:58.040 --> 00:50:00.460] Yes. So you create like a like a pattern with it.
[00:50:00.460 --> 00:50:02.420] That's where I was kind of getting that with that intersection.
[00:50:03.420 --> 00:50:04.440] Yeah. OK. Yeah.
[00:50:04.540 --> 00:50:05.240] So yeah.
[00:50:05.920 --> 00:50:08.380] Um, what else do I love right now?
[00:50:08.520 --> 00:50:09.940] And to see the visual, you got it.
[00:50:09.940 --> 00:50:11.220] You got it. Yeah.
[00:50:11.400 --> 00:50:12.420] Yes. Follow my page.
[00:50:13.280 --> 00:50:15.180] I'll start. I'm going to start being on your guys.
[00:50:15.240 --> 00:50:17.380] I promise. I'm going to start putting more stuff up.
[00:50:17.380 --> 00:50:18.340] I'm going to text you. Yeah.
[00:50:18.420 --> 00:50:20.900] Because he don't be like, I ain't seen no post.
[00:50:20.900 --> 00:50:23.720] Oh, OK. We keep each other kind of.
[00:50:23.820 --> 00:50:24.980] Yes. Yeah.
[00:50:25.160 --> 00:50:29.520] I'm I when I get busy or like when I'm like not busy,
[00:50:29.600 --> 00:50:30.360] I finally get a break.
[00:50:30.480 --> 00:50:32.620] I'm like the last thing I want to do is go on social media.
[00:50:32.660 --> 00:50:34.780] It's like I just. Yeah, that's how I am.
[00:50:34.860 --> 00:50:37.180] Yeah. I just like I need a little breathing space.
[00:50:37.340 --> 00:50:41.240] I need a little bit of a time out so that I can regroup,
[00:50:41.520 --> 00:50:44.600] connect, get inspired again and then get back on there.
[00:50:44.780 --> 00:50:46.080] So that's all that is.
[00:50:46.220 --> 00:50:48.160] I love you all. I just need.
[00:50:48.160 --> 00:50:52.520] I mean, for the same thing, I could totally relate a thousand times.
[00:50:52.540 --> 00:50:56.380] Yeah. Even from when I was doing music and poetry to now,
[00:50:56.380 --> 00:51:01.140] you know, even having a company, it's like, oh, it feel like another job
[00:51:01.140 --> 00:51:02.820] or not, you know, task.
[00:51:02.900 --> 00:51:05.480] But like you mentioned before, I'm a perfectionist.
[00:51:05.740 --> 00:51:09.100] So it's like I'm not just about to have as oops.
[00:51:09.600 --> 00:51:11.100] My first time. Oh, OK.
[00:51:11.620 --> 00:51:13.280] That's how passionate I am. It's me.
[00:51:13.340 --> 00:51:15.060] I'm a potty mouse. So maybe it's me.
[00:51:15.280 --> 00:51:17.300] No, it's it's trust me.
[00:51:17.300 --> 00:51:19.920] Woo. That's how passionate I am about it.
[00:51:20.060 --> 00:51:22.860] You know, being a perfectionist, because I don't I don't like
[00:51:22.860 --> 00:51:26.820] have doing a job and putting it out there, even from the captions.
[00:51:27.020 --> 00:51:29.640] Like, I mean, had a content or edited and ready to go.
[00:51:29.840 --> 00:51:32.580] But then I got to I got to write something. OK.
[00:51:33.580 --> 00:51:36.240] And, you know, I put thought into what I say,
[00:51:36.480 --> 00:51:39.560] and especially as long as it's a footprint on the Internet.
[00:51:40.020 --> 00:51:42.180] Forever. You can look back at that.
[00:51:42.560 --> 00:51:45.320] And yeah, even as I grow, still,
[00:51:45.920 --> 00:51:50.340] I want somebody look back by even, you know, in the younger years
[00:51:50.340 --> 00:51:54.920] of the brand, it was still like concise to the point professional.
[00:51:56.040 --> 00:51:58.540] So I'm very strategic.
[00:51:58.600 --> 00:52:01.480] And, you know, like you said, being a perfectionist
[00:52:01.480 --> 00:52:05.020] has always been in my heart as I do art
[00:52:05.020 --> 00:52:11.520] or mediums, even translating that to cooking or,
[00:52:11.520 --> 00:52:15.120] you know, playing basketball is like just be the best.
[00:52:16.000 --> 00:52:17.820] That you can be like.
[00:52:18.720 --> 00:52:19.620] You can't be perfect.
[00:52:19.820 --> 00:52:21.860] People say perfection is not real.
[00:52:22.380 --> 00:52:24.640] But in my sense, yes, there's perfect.
[00:52:24.780 --> 00:52:28.140] So I've done it and I've been there and experienced it.
[00:52:28.200 --> 00:52:31.860] And seeing other people like there's nothing, nothing bad
[00:52:31.860 --> 00:52:33.140] that you could say or whatever.
[00:52:33.720 --> 00:52:34.600] Everything's perfect.
[00:52:34.620 --> 00:52:37.700] So I know perfect and perfection is real.
[00:52:38.060 --> 00:52:40.220] But it's like, OK, if I don't get to perfect,
[00:52:40.920 --> 00:52:44.300] but at least we're striving for that or try to be the best version
[00:52:44.300 --> 00:52:48.480] that we could be or be closest to perfect as we can.
[00:52:49.200 --> 00:52:52.500] And another thing that kind of forced me out of that
[00:52:52.500 --> 00:52:55.180] is just like, you just got to do it.
[00:52:55.280 --> 00:52:56.880] You know, you can't use that as a excuse.
[00:52:57.120 --> 00:52:59.420] I mean, at the end of the day, I just got to do it.
[00:52:59.720 --> 00:53:02.180] Yeah, that's the just do it part, though.
[00:53:04.440 --> 00:53:06.660] It's that lovely balance that I'm
[00:53:07.440 --> 00:53:09.940] coming accustomed to, like I just got to do it.
[00:53:10.420 --> 00:53:11.280] Yeah. Yeah.
[00:53:11.280 --> 00:53:13.940] If I don't do it, it may not ever get done.
[00:53:13.940 --> 00:53:18.360] Yeah. So it's been a time where I'll have an idea
[00:53:18.360 --> 00:53:19.920] and I'll be like, oh, I should do that.
[00:53:19.920 --> 00:53:20.600] That'd be dope.
[00:53:20.960 --> 00:53:22.320] And then I don't do it.
[00:53:22.340 --> 00:53:25.360] And then like a couple of months later, I'll see somebody else do it.
[00:53:25.380 --> 00:53:27.480] And they be going by, I was like, oh, I couldn't.
[00:53:27.640 --> 00:53:28.760] I should have just did it.
[00:53:28.900 --> 00:53:30.000] I'll be like sick.
[00:53:30.000 --> 00:53:31.480] And this happened to me a few times.
[00:53:31.820 --> 00:53:34.600] And I always had this thing where like I feel like God
[00:53:34.600 --> 00:53:37.340] be like trying to show me stuff like you had this idea.
[00:53:37.760 --> 00:53:38.760] It could have been yours.
[00:53:38.860 --> 00:53:40.980] But you kept sitting on it and being lazy
[00:53:40.980 --> 00:53:42.540] and not doing what you need to do.
[00:53:42.540 --> 00:53:45.540] So your blessing was given to somebody else.
[00:53:45.960 --> 00:53:51.320] So I was trying to like when I get these ideas, I'm going to do it.
[00:53:51.340 --> 00:53:52.860] Just do it. I have to.
[00:53:53.380 --> 00:53:53.940] Yeah. Yeah.
[00:53:54.360 --> 00:53:58.660] Even I started this last year was like, I'm going to do something.
[00:53:58.980 --> 00:54:00.800] I'm going to start this podcast.
[00:54:00.960 --> 00:54:03.660] I'm going to do it right now, like record the first episode.
[00:54:03.660 --> 00:54:05.340] And I did that. I test myself.
[00:54:05.380 --> 00:54:08.040] Yeah. So it's like that's that's why I'm still here to this day.
[00:54:08.040 --> 00:54:10.040] It's like I started. I got to keep it going.
[00:54:10.080 --> 00:54:11.940] Yeah. Like this is supposed to be
[00:54:11.940 --> 00:54:14.000] just a solo podcast.
[00:54:14.480 --> 00:54:17.800] Me going over business and, you know, shedding business tips.
[00:54:18.260 --> 00:54:19.980] But I'm like, I do got a big network.
[00:54:20.260 --> 00:54:24.620] I mean, practice my communication skills, my conversation skills,
[00:54:25.620 --> 00:54:29.700] general skills, interview my network,
[00:54:29.800 --> 00:54:33.580] you know, people that I know, people that I ran into, man. So.
[00:54:34.100 --> 00:54:36.980] And then sometimes just by holding conversations with people,
[00:54:37.160 --> 00:54:40.760] it'll help you or trigger a spark, a thing or you like, oh,
[00:54:41.620 --> 00:54:45.200] we talked about this or, dang, that made me think about this.
[00:54:45.220 --> 00:54:47.040] And that's more constant that you have created,
[00:54:47.100 --> 00:54:50.300] that you can go and talk about after this, the fact of the matter.
[00:54:51.180 --> 00:54:54.940] So, yeah, it's good to talk to other people sometimes.
[00:54:55.380 --> 00:54:57.680] Yeah. But when you're in that moment and you had that thought,
[00:54:57.760 --> 00:54:58.880] you just got to do it.
[00:54:58.880 --> 00:55:01.580] Yeah. It's as simple as that. Get it. Get it done.
[00:55:01.620 --> 00:55:04.640] That's my thing. If I could do it, it doesn't take that long.
[00:55:04.960 --> 00:55:07.540] I got to do it in this moment. Just get it done.
[00:55:07.980 --> 00:55:10.080] Oh, I told my daughter, I was going to make her something.
[00:55:10.080 --> 00:55:12.720] I just thought we're doing all right.
[00:55:12.800 --> 00:55:15.140] Give me two seconds. Make her something to eat.
[00:55:15.500 --> 00:55:17.900] Not let 30 minutes, an hour or so pass.
[00:55:18.460 --> 00:55:21.200] And then she's, you know, more fussier than she was.
[00:55:22.240 --> 00:55:24.660] I'm just get it done or, oh,
[00:55:25.600 --> 00:55:27.360] I'm about to write this book.
[00:55:27.600 --> 00:55:29.920] And I told myself when I was younger, I was
[00:55:31.180 --> 00:55:33.240] 16 at the time, but I wrote it at 17.
[00:55:33.440 --> 00:55:35.140] I said, I'm going to buy myself a laptop.
[00:55:35.700 --> 00:55:38.340] And when I buy myself a laptop, I'm going to write a book.
[00:55:38.340 --> 00:55:39.760] So when I was about that laptop,
[00:55:39.800 --> 00:55:42.740] I already had the manuscript written.
[00:55:44.060 --> 00:55:47.680] I started typing, typing it up, had my book.
[00:55:49.320 --> 00:55:50.360] So that's awesome.
[00:55:50.880 --> 00:55:52.280] You just have to take action.
[00:55:53.000 --> 00:55:55.360] And as I mentioned before, success, love, speed.
[00:55:55.900 --> 00:55:57.940] You know, if you wait too long on that thought,
[00:55:58.040 --> 00:55:59.180] it's going to go to somebody else.
[00:55:59.260 --> 00:56:00.160] Yeah. Yeah.
[00:56:00.540 --> 00:56:01.780] You know, I definitely.
[00:56:02.000 --> 00:56:04.040] You ain't the only creative person, child.
[00:56:04.280 --> 00:56:07.500] Everybody thinking about different ways and certain stuff.
[00:56:07.500 --> 00:56:11.420] Yeah. And I know a lot of people, they compare Michael Jackson
[00:56:11.420 --> 00:56:13.400] and French, the two legends.
[00:56:13.900 --> 00:56:17.540] I don't know who whose song was the first, but
[00:56:17.540 --> 00:56:21.680] somebody slept on the song or the idea and the other artists did it.
[00:56:21.860 --> 00:56:23.600] Like that really happens.
[00:56:24.300 --> 00:56:25.700] You know, creativity don't stop.
[00:56:26.120 --> 00:56:28.740] I mean, yeah, I mean, there are several songs
[00:56:28.740 --> 00:56:32.640] that have been made for certain artists
[00:56:32.640 --> 00:56:34.880] and then another artist to pass it up.
[00:56:34.880 --> 00:56:38.000] And then that's that one artist that come along and that's
[00:56:38.000 --> 00:56:39.700] they break out, that's a breakout song.
[00:56:39.820 --> 00:56:42.040] And another artist probably like, oh, I should have done.
[00:56:42.320 --> 00:56:45.060] But you know what, it's somebody's trash.
[00:56:45.180 --> 00:56:48.580] It's somebody else's golden ticket into where they want to go.
[00:56:48.860 --> 00:56:51.800] So, you know, it's like Walt Disney finding a golden ticket.
[00:56:52.160 --> 00:56:54.500] Yeah. You got to take it.
[00:56:55.680 --> 00:56:58.720] All right. And I know we kind of spoke on trends earlier,
[00:56:59.240 --> 00:57:02.220] but how do you stay updated on the latest trends?
[00:57:04.640 --> 00:57:11.100] So, um, I know I'm one of my other
[00:57:11.620 --> 00:57:12.860] interviews that I've done.
[00:57:13.380 --> 00:57:16.300] I was like, oh, I don't really look at other designers, which I don't.
[00:57:16.620 --> 00:57:21.840] But I to clear that up, I do look at other designers,
[00:57:22.040 --> 00:57:23.680] especially designers that are
[00:57:25.960 --> 00:57:28.900] at a higher, you know, level than I am.
[00:57:28.900 --> 00:57:31.440] They're doing the things that I aspire to do.
[00:57:32.080 --> 00:57:34.360] So I do take a look like I don't.
[00:57:34.360 --> 00:57:37.420] But I don't like be sitting there like, oh, she posted this.
[00:57:37.740 --> 00:57:40.260] Oh, I love this. Like, I'm I'm not or he did this.
[00:57:40.260 --> 00:57:42.520] Like, I'm not studying other designers.
[00:57:42.520 --> 00:57:44.320] Like, I'll look, take a glance.
[00:57:44.400 --> 00:57:45.700] And I'm like, oh, that looks dope.
[00:57:45.780 --> 00:57:48.380] And then I go back into what is India like,
[00:57:48.500 --> 00:57:50.280] because I feel like I'll get overly
[00:57:53.660 --> 00:57:55.240] inspired by somebody else.
[00:57:55.260 --> 00:57:57.840] And then I feel like I start creating work that looks like somebody else's stuff
[00:57:57.840 --> 00:57:59.340] versus my own.
[00:58:00.960 --> 00:58:04.080] But I go on Pinterest and I love Pinterest.
[00:58:04.080 --> 00:58:05.360] I live on Pinterest.
[00:58:05.780 --> 00:58:07.240] And that's other people's work.
[00:58:07.280 --> 00:58:09.760] Like, it probably is other designers that I just don't know of.
[00:58:11.040 --> 00:58:12.920] So everybody's going to be watching somebody's stuff.
[00:58:13.020 --> 00:58:15.140] Everybody's going to be looking at some other stuff.
[00:58:15.140 --> 00:58:17.340] But I kind of go and get a lot of my inspiration,
[00:58:17.340 --> 00:58:21.980] because if I have an idea in my brain and I type it into Pinterest
[00:58:21.980 --> 00:58:25.900] or into Google, I could pull up exactly what I'm thinking of sometimes.
[00:58:25.900 --> 00:58:27.840] Or sometimes nobody's done it yet.
[00:58:27.840 --> 00:58:28.720] And I'm like, oh, crap.
[00:58:28.840 --> 00:58:31.500] And I got to try to make what I got in my brain
[00:58:31.500 --> 00:58:33.920] make sense to somebody else or whatever.
[00:58:33.920 --> 00:58:38.400] So, um, Pinterest, I look at other designers.
[00:58:39.780 --> 00:58:47.580] I also I am inspired just by art and nature and things that are around me.
[00:58:47.640 --> 00:58:51.080] So I can go into a store and I can see a pillow.
[00:58:51.400 --> 00:58:53.420] And I'm like, oh, that pillow is dope.
[00:58:53.660 --> 00:58:55.820] And then from that one pillow, I'd be like,
[00:58:56.400 --> 00:58:59.840] that would look good with a throw like this.
[00:58:59.900 --> 00:59:03.900] And then if you added in this color to it, that would be really, really cool.
[00:59:03.900 --> 00:59:09.020] So prime example, a house that I just staged not too long ago.
[00:59:10.080 --> 00:59:11.200] Mind you, this is a staging project.
[00:59:11.320 --> 00:59:12.920] Most staging projects are neutrals.
[00:59:13.140 --> 00:59:14.300] I don't. That's boring.
[00:59:14.600 --> 00:59:18.220] So I have color and I'm like, well, you want to be able to use it
[00:59:18.220 --> 00:59:18.980] over and over again.
[00:59:19.260 --> 00:59:21.220] I'll be able to use these pieces over and over again.
[00:59:21.220 --> 00:59:23.600] I create different color palettes all the time like this.
[00:59:23.780 --> 00:59:27.300] So I saw this dope orange pillow
[00:59:27.820 --> 00:59:31.020] in the color scheme of the home was black, white and gold.
[00:59:31.380 --> 00:59:33.720] And so I was like, that sounds like I can't do neutrals.
[00:59:33.720 --> 00:59:35.740] I cannot do it. I got to add some color.
[00:59:35.900 --> 00:59:39.860] So I saw this bright orange, amberish color pillow.
[00:59:40.240 --> 00:59:42.440] And I was like, oh, I like that.
[00:59:42.760 --> 00:59:44.300] And then so I was shopping around more.
[00:59:44.460 --> 00:59:46.000] I picked up the pillow. I like that.
[00:59:46.280 --> 00:59:47.500] Shopping around some more.
[00:59:47.980 --> 00:59:49.600] Then I saw this.
[00:59:50.540 --> 00:59:53.000] It was like a marble green
[00:59:53.640 --> 00:59:59.120] in like cream type of like decorative bowl or whatever.
[00:59:59.720 --> 01:00:01.640] And I was like, yo, that's dope.
[01:00:01.680 --> 01:00:02.640] I love this.
[01:00:02.640 --> 01:00:05.100] So I saw that. Oh, that is so cute.
[01:00:05.400 --> 01:00:07.520] So I'm looking at the pillow and I'm looking at this thing.
[01:00:07.520 --> 01:00:12.100] I'm like, just like I care how I'm going to make this make sense.
[01:00:12.320 --> 01:00:13.880] I was like, I don't care how I'm going to make it make sense.
[01:00:13.940 --> 01:00:16.260] I'm about to get both of these and we're going to figure out
[01:00:16.260 --> 01:00:17.500] who wins for the design.
[01:00:18.420 --> 01:00:22.260] So I go home and like, you know, I'm just staring at the pieces.
[01:00:23.080 --> 01:00:24.660] And I'm like, hmm.
[01:00:25.480 --> 01:00:27.860] I was like, I want to find a pillow that's going to make this make sense.
[01:00:27.860 --> 01:00:31.800] I went to another store.
[01:00:32.000 --> 01:00:33.920] What store did I go to? I can't remember.
[01:00:34.280 --> 01:00:38.800] But I found a pillow, like one of the little covers or whatever.
[01:00:39.180 --> 01:00:43.060] And it was like this dope, like tribal green looking pillow.
[01:00:43.240 --> 01:00:45.520] And it had black and white in it.
[01:00:46.280 --> 01:00:48.600] And I was like, for some reason,
[01:00:48.620 --> 01:00:52.020] I think that cover is going to look dope against this orange pillow.
[01:00:52.420 --> 01:00:53.600] And so I took it home.
[01:00:53.760 --> 01:00:56.060] I put it against the other. Oh, that's it. That's it.
[01:00:56.060 --> 01:00:58.840] And then from there, I just started going through my inventory
[01:00:58.840 --> 01:01:02.380] and I'm like, styling up this room and I'm getting excited.
[01:01:02.420 --> 01:01:05.560] I'm hyped. Well, whenever I have a good idea and I love it,
[01:01:05.840 --> 01:01:06.860] I start I start taking pictures.
[01:01:06.860 --> 01:01:08.940] I start sending it to the realtor like, girl, look at this.
[01:01:09.060 --> 01:01:09.900] What do you think about this?
[01:01:09.900 --> 01:01:11.520] And she was like, I'm getting her all hyped up
[01:01:11.520 --> 01:01:13.360] because, you know, she about to make money off this house.
[01:01:14.580 --> 01:01:18.540] So, yeah, that I get inspiration from any and all things.
[01:01:19.240 --> 01:01:19.640] Yeah.
[01:01:19.800 --> 01:01:22.540] Well, whether was there ever a time that, you know,
[01:01:22.540 --> 01:01:27.800] like you said, you were stored at this store or seeing something
[01:01:27.800 --> 01:01:31.660] that's like, hmm, and kind of consulted or talked with the client
[01:01:31.660 --> 01:01:35.980] to maybe raise their budget to put that new thing in?
[01:01:36.400 --> 01:01:37.540] Yeah. Yeah.
[01:01:37.880 --> 01:01:38.800] What's that process like?
[01:01:40.700 --> 01:01:45.300] So when I do consultations with my people, I always tell them,
[01:01:45.560 --> 01:01:48.240] like, you know, I don't initially, I don't even give them
[01:01:48.240 --> 01:01:49.820] the estimate or budget because I'm like,
[01:01:49.820 --> 01:01:51.080] how much you think this going to cost?
[01:01:51.080 --> 01:01:53.140] Because everybody worried about how much it's going to cost.
[01:01:53.340 --> 01:01:54.680] Because it's like, how much you cost?
[01:01:54.960 --> 01:01:56.200] How much all this stuff will cost?
[01:01:56.240 --> 01:01:57.440] Like, they want to know the cost.
[01:01:57.480 --> 01:02:01.500] And I'm like, I honestly do not want to tell you a number
[01:02:01.500 --> 01:02:03.320] and then you get glued to this number.
[01:02:03.680 --> 01:02:05.120] And we ain't close to this number.
[01:02:06.340 --> 01:02:09.260] So I I do my rendering where at least I have a mapping
[01:02:09.260 --> 01:02:11.300] and idea of the things that I want to do.
[01:02:11.340 --> 01:02:13.720] And then I like will collectively like write out a budget
[01:02:13.720 --> 01:02:17.460] based off of the items that are in the rendering and how much
[01:02:19.120 --> 01:02:19.580] that's going to cost.
[01:02:20.940 --> 01:02:23.160] And so that's where I get like my estimates from.
[01:02:23.240 --> 01:02:29.060] So that's that's good of an example number for like per room.
[01:02:30.700 --> 01:02:33.200] I would say, OK, so depending on why I like the space,
[01:02:34.380 --> 01:02:37.800] if you have your own furniture, if it's funded furniture
[01:02:37.800 --> 01:02:41.360] that I will be willing to or wanting to work around,
[01:02:41.540 --> 01:02:43.280] that's a big thing.
[01:02:43.880 --> 01:02:46.460] I definitely always try to work around like the client
[01:02:46.460 --> 01:02:47.440] stuff because I want to say you need to be willing to work
[01:02:47.440 --> 01:02:47.940] money.
[01:02:48.020 --> 01:02:50.400] So if I could work around it or make magic out of what you
[01:02:50.400 --> 01:02:52.600] already have, I'm going to do it.
[01:02:53.400 --> 01:02:55.800] Sometimes I'll be like, I can't work with this.
[01:02:55.820 --> 01:02:56.480] I'm sorry.
[01:02:57.200 --> 01:02:58.480] I love you, but no.
[01:03:04.700 --> 01:03:07.940] So I kind of I will gently tell them,
[01:03:08.040 --> 01:03:12.080] like, I really think that you
[01:03:12.080 --> 01:03:13.100] need to make an investment.
[01:03:13.660 --> 01:03:15.360] How much are you willing to invest in the space
[01:03:15.360 --> 01:03:17.040] that you live in all the time?
[01:03:17.040 --> 01:03:17.920] This is your day to day life.
[01:03:18.120 --> 01:03:20.060] This is something that you have to come in and look at.
[01:03:20.660 --> 01:03:22.420] Like, and I tell people all the time
[01:03:22.420 --> 01:03:24.100] because sometimes I'm like, dang, that's expensive.
[01:03:24.500 --> 01:03:25.620] Well, why is that?
[01:03:26.020 --> 01:03:26.840] I'm like, one.
[01:03:26.940 --> 01:03:28.200] I was like, when you go shopping for stuff,
[01:03:28.320 --> 01:03:30.160] you normally probably get one or two little trinkets.
[01:03:30.220 --> 01:03:32.020] And it'd be like, oh, $9.99, $15.99,
[01:03:32.220 --> 01:03:33.440] oh, $30, or $50, or $100.
[01:03:33.580 --> 01:03:35.180] It doesn't it doesn't seem that expensive.
[01:03:35.500 --> 01:03:37.380] But then when you add all of these little trinket
[01:03:37.380 --> 01:03:39.280] things up, and you've got to fill up this whole entire
[01:03:39.280 --> 01:03:42.120] room with all of these things, yeah, babe,
[01:03:42.280 --> 01:03:44.020] it's going to cost you some money.
[01:03:44.780 --> 01:03:48.960] Um, if you have furniture already, that's a blessing.
[01:03:49.600 --> 01:03:52.180] That can save you, but you still might wind up
[01:03:52.180 --> 01:03:54.380] spinning around, shoot.
[01:03:54.860 --> 01:03:56.520] It honestly, it just depends.
[01:03:56.800 --> 01:03:58.340] It depends on how big the room is.
[01:03:58.400 --> 01:04:01.060] I can't even, I can't even give a generic quote of it.
[01:04:01.120 --> 01:04:01.800] Like, you know what I'm saying?
[01:04:02.460 --> 01:04:06.640] Well, I say prepare to spend, spend the money.
[01:04:06.780 --> 01:04:09.420] Be looking at about five, seven,
[01:04:09.420 --> 01:04:11.840] you know, I've had clients that have gotten up
[01:04:11.840 --> 01:04:14.520] to 10s and 20s, or thousands of dollars,
[01:04:14.920 --> 01:04:17.480] just depending on what's your quality of taste.
[01:04:17.860 --> 01:04:18.520] What do you like?
[01:04:18.520 --> 01:04:19.520] What do you want to invest in?
[01:04:19.560 --> 01:04:21.220] How much do you want to invest into your space?
[01:04:21.600 --> 01:04:23.820] And that's why I never, I try not to be like,
[01:04:23.820 --> 01:04:25.660] well, you know, how much, how much money
[01:04:25.660 --> 01:04:27.740] that or I like I, it's because it's not
[01:04:27.740 --> 01:04:28.760] necessarily about money.
[01:04:29.080 --> 01:04:29.900] It's an investment.
[01:04:30.380 --> 01:04:31.640] It's an investment in the space,
[01:04:31.720 --> 01:04:34.220] an investment where you have to be in this space.
[01:04:34.260 --> 01:04:35.580] How do you want to feel in this space?
[01:04:35.980 --> 01:04:37.300] How much are you willing to,
[01:04:37.820 --> 01:04:39.220] how much does that mean to you?
[01:04:39.900 --> 01:04:41.120] How much does that, like, you know,
[01:04:41.120 --> 01:04:43.400] if you want to come home and you want to come home
[01:04:43.400 --> 01:04:45.440] to chaos, or do you want to come home
[01:04:45.440 --> 01:04:46.800] to something that gives you peace
[01:04:46.800 --> 01:04:48.420] after going out into this world
[01:04:48.420 --> 01:04:49.420] and dealing with chaos?
[01:04:49.920 --> 01:04:52.940] So it's like making investment.
[01:04:53.760 --> 01:04:55.660] Like, ladies, y'all make investments in the weeds,
[01:04:55.660 --> 01:04:56.280] me too.
[01:04:56.940 --> 01:04:59.080] Y'all make investments and get your nails done.
[01:04:59.480 --> 01:05:02.100] Like you make investments on like, you know,
[01:05:02.180 --> 01:05:05.640] getting that nice car or having somebody to come in.
[01:05:06.680 --> 01:05:08.340] I don't know, shoot,
[01:05:08.460 --> 01:05:10.060] build something for you in your house.
[01:05:10.060 --> 01:05:13.700] Like, design is not just bluffing a couple pillows.
[01:05:14.040 --> 01:05:16.840] Like it's literally creating a mood,
[01:05:17.140 --> 01:05:19.360] a vibe in your space while making colors
[01:05:19.360 --> 01:05:21.520] make sense for your mental health.
[01:05:22.520 --> 01:05:24.620] So that's why I always tell people
[01:05:24.620 --> 01:05:26.120] to shop around for your right designer,
[01:05:26.220 --> 01:05:29.840] because sometimes I, my style might not be your style.
[01:05:30.660 --> 01:05:34.280] Even though I am very versed when it comes to styles,
[01:05:34.740 --> 01:05:36.220] but like, you know,
[01:05:36.340 --> 01:05:38.840] somebody else might be a better fit
[01:05:38.840 --> 01:05:41.380] or a better look for your vibe.
[01:05:41.500 --> 01:05:42.380] Like, go with your vibe.
[01:05:42.460 --> 01:05:43.900] Go with how you vibe with your designer.
[01:05:45.180 --> 01:05:46.680] But it's all an investment.
[01:05:46.880 --> 01:05:49.240] It's an investment of how you want to feel
[01:05:49.240 --> 01:05:50.320] in this certain space.
[01:05:50.320 --> 01:05:52.540] Like in your room, do you want it to be moody?
[01:05:52.780 --> 01:05:54.140] Do you want it to be like an airy?
[01:05:54.180 --> 01:05:55.440] Do you want to feel like you waking up
[01:05:55.440 --> 01:05:56.400] in freaking heaven,
[01:05:56.460 --> 01:05:58.840] like with all light nudes and stuff like that?
[01:05:58.860 --> 01:05:59.800] Or do you want to feel like,
[01:06:00.000 --> 01:06:00.800] oh, this is the vibe.
[01:06:01.180 --> 01:06:03.460] I'm edgy, this, like, how do you want to feel?
[01:06:03.700 --> 01:06:05.060] Because sometimes like how you,
[01:06:05.060 --> 01:06:07.280] what you wake up into will set the tone
[01:06:07.280 --> 01:06:08.160] of what kind of character
[01:06:08.160 --> 01:06:09.460] you're going to come out of that house being.
[01:06:09.960 --> 01:06:11.400] You want to be a main character,
[01:06:11.520 --> 01:06:13.280] or you want to be the one that's like sitting,
[01:06:13.420 --> 01:06:14.680] the one that turned into a super villain
[01:06:14.680 --> 01:06:17.660] because you depressed and sad and mad at the world.
[01:06:17.740 --> 01:06:18.460] Like, you know?
[01:06:18.740 --> 01:06:21.520] So I try to put it in that way.
[01:06:21.860 --> 01:06:23.460] When people have questions about like
[01:06:23.460 --> 01:06:25.540] the financial aspects and how much this is cost
[01:06:25.540 --> 01:06:26.960] and blah, blah, like you make,
[01:06:27.000 --> 01:06:28.600] people invest in what they want them to invest in.
[01:06:28.660 --> 01:06:29.380] That's true.
[01:06:29.540 --> 01:06:29.940] Yeah.
[01:06:30.460 --> 01:06:30.860] Yeah.
[01:06:32.060 --> 01:06:33.880] That's, that's, that's a home run.
[01:06:34.040 --> 01:06:35.760] I'm going to kind of let that breathe a little bit,
[01:06:35.760 --> 01:06:37.900] like, you know, a hot performance
[01:06:37.900 --> 01:06:39.200] and you about to get off the stage,
[01:06:39.260 --> 01:06:40.900] you got to let them like breathe a little bit.
[01:06:41.560 --> 01:06:42.000] Wow.
[01:06:43.480 --> 01:06:47.200] That's really, very real and inspiring.
[01:06:47.920 --> 01:06:48.300] Yeah.
[01:06:48.820 --> 01:06:53.540] I just, I really want people to get excited
[01:06:53.540 --> 01:06:55.400] about your homes.
[01:06:56.820 --> 01:06:58.780] Like, yeah, it's going to cost you money,
[01:06:58.780 --> 01:07:00.500] but you got to understand how many years,
[01:07:00.580 --> 01:07:02.900] how many seasons you going to be able to keep that.
[01:07:02.960 --> 01:07:05.500] Like, yo, your hair is going to last you
[01:07:05.500 --> 01:07:08.020] maybe a year if you got a good, you know,
[01:07:08.200 --> 01:07:09.580] vendor that you get your stuff from,
[01:07:09.780 --> 01:07:12.340] but like, and y'all be paying thousands of dollars.
[01:07:12.420 --> 01:07:15.300] Don't pay hundreds and thousands for hair and braids
[01:07:15.300 --> 01:07:16.700] and makeup and all of that stuff.
[01:07:17.100 --> 01:07:18.560] Like you about to live in this house,
[01:07:18.780 --> 01:07:19.600] invest in it.
[01:07:19.660 --> 01:07:20.940] What did you spend all this money for?
[01:07:20.980 --> 01:07:23.740] If you not going to make it your sanctuary
[01:07:23.740 --> 01:07:24.760] when you come home.
[01:07:24.800 --> 01:07:26.760] And if you can't do it,
[01:07:26.980 --> 01:07:28.120] hire somebody that can help you
[01:07:28.120 --> 01:07:29.380] create a space that you want.
[01:07:30.440 --> 01:07:31.920] So that's where I come in.
[01:07:31.920 --> 01:07:34.700] I literally love helping people
[01:07:36.200 --> 01:07:38.960] get their homes to look like what they want to look like.
[01:07:39.260 --> 01:07:41.880] And like, I sometimes have these very
[01:07:42.520 --> 01:07:44.220] like bonding moments sometimes.
[01:07:44.380 --> 01:07:46.420] When I go and I sit and I talk to a client,
[01:07:46.540 --> 01:07:47.760] like they kind of tell me a bit,
[01:07:47.780 --> 01:07:49.560] like I always ask them, like, you know,
[01:07:49.880 --> 01:07:51.680] tell me about you, tell me about your life.
[01:07:51.740 --> 01:07:54.080] Tell me about what you're experiencing right now in life.
[01:07:54.240 --> 01:07:54.820] Like, you know what I'm saying?
[01:07:55.000 --> 01:07:56.540] Like, it's almost like counseling.
[01:07:56.600 --> 01:07:58.060] Like when you go to see your hairdresser,
[01:07:58.140 --> 01:07:59.600] your nail tech and you sit down like,
[01:08:00.620 --> 01:08:02.340] I got all of this going on.
[01:08:02.960 --> 01:08:06.140] Like, yeah, your designer is your girl.
[01:08:06.200 --> 01:08:06.880] Like, you know what I'm saying?
[01:08:06.900 --> 01:08:08.860] Like, you got to lay it on and let me know what you,
[01:08:08.860 --> 01:08:09.900] what you got going on.
[01:08:10.220 --> 01:08:14.840] So how can I make this space feel amazing
[01:08:14.840 --> 01:08:19.100] to what you're going through or would rather good or bad?
[01:08:19.220 --> 01:08:20.819] Like, how can we keep this momentum
[01:08:20.819 --> 01:08:24.200] or how can we raise the vibrations of what you feeling?
[01:08:24.560 --> 01:08:27.859] Like, having this space done will make you feel good
[01:08:27.859 --> 01:08:29.160] walking into it all the time.
[01:08:29.160 --> 01:08:30.200] So, yeah.
[01:08:31.800 --> 01:08:35.960] I kind of want to, curious about like your sanctuary,
[01:08:36.880 --> 01:08:38.300] you know, your home.
[01:08:39.439 --> 01:08:41.800] How often do you change it up as a designer?
[01:08:42.660 --> 01:08:44.859] Well, I got to be honest with you, Fred.
[01:08:48.600 --> 01:08:51.220] I currently live with my parents,
[01:08:52.020 --> 01:08:53.380] but I did that for a reason.
[01:08:53.380 --> 01:08:55.840] It was a very smart financial move for me.
[01:08:55.939 --> 01:08:57.460] And then I made a dumb financial move,
[01:08:57.479 --> 01:08:58.500] but we don't get into it.
[01:08:58.500 --> 01:09:01.340] So I moved back with my parents
[01:09:01.340 --> 01:09:02.620] to pay off all of my student loans
[01:09:02.620 --> 01:09:05.979] because student loans have been a pain,
[01:09:06.359 --> 01:09:09.020] a thorn in my hindsight since I graduated.
[01:09:10.160 --> 01:09:12.620] And it was just, they was coming left and right
[01:09:12.620 --> 01:09:13.899] and they was trying to take me out of here
[01:09:13.899 --> 01:09:15.500] and it was, it was messing up my life.
[01:09:16.279 --> 01:09:18.560] So I took time, moved back with my parents
[01:09:18.560 --> 01:09:20.340] and I saved up money quick,
[01:09:20.720 --> 01:09:21.720] especially because of the pandemic.
[01:09:21.899 --> 01:09:23.580] That helped because I wasn't outside.
[01:09:23.760 --> 01:09:24.399] I wasn't spending money.
[01:09:24.439 --> 01:09:25.740] Like I was just stacking it.
[01:09:25.880 --> 01:09:28.080] And I, you know, paid off my stuff.
[01:09:28.080 --> 01:09:28.859] Thank goodness.
[01:09:30.460 --> 01:09:32.340] So I stayed with my parents and I was like,
[01:09:32.779 --> 01:09:34.420] oh, I got that done quick.
[01:09:34.560 --> 01:09:37.240] And that was a lot of money that I racked up like a lot.
[01:09:37.479 --> 01:09:39.040] But then I was like, well, what else can I do?
[01:09:39.200 --> 01:09:41.319] So then that's when I opened up the event space.
[01:09:42.279 --> 01:09:44.220] Bad investment for me.
[01:09:44.439 --> 01:09:45.279] Cause it was just,
[01:09:46.240 --> 01:09:48.180] it was never supposed to be necessarily
[01:09:48.180 --> 01:09:49.439] like an event space.
[01:09:49.460 --> 01:09:50.939] It was supposed to be a design studio,
[01:09:50.939 --> 01:09:54.520] but it was like oversized for what I was trying to do.
[01:09:54.600 --> 01:09:57.280] And then a lot of unfortunate events happened
[01:09:57.280 --> 01:09:58.180] in my personal life.
[01:09:58.200 --> 01:09:59.720] So it was just like,
[01:09:59.720 --> 01:10:01.320] it just didn't do what it needs to do.
[01:10:01.580 --> 01:10:05.540] But I learned more than I've ever learned in my life
[01:10:05.540 --> 01:10:06.620] about entrepreneurship.
[01:10:07.160 --> 01:10:10.100] I've connected with some of the most amazing people
[01:10:10.100 --> 01:10:11.400] that I've ever connected with
[01:10:11.400 --> 01:10:12.500] just by having that space.
[01:10:13.100 --> 01:10:16.240] So a blessing, but a bigger lesson.
[01:10:17.820 --> 01:10:22.100] So India will be purchasing her first home very soon.
[01:10:22.660 --> 01:10:25.720] I am now starting to look and educate myself
[01:10:27.180 --> 01:10:29.020] on getting my first space,
[01:10:29.040 --> 01:10:32.080] whether that's an investment property or whatever.
[01:10:32.360 --> 01:10:34.240] Cause I'm like, I ain't got no kids.
[01:10:34.500 --> 01:10:36.620] I don't like, you know, I could be at home.
[01:10:36.680 --> 01:10:37.380] I'm not bugging nobody.
[01:10:37.500 --> 01:10:39.560] I'm in my box and I'm going working most of the time.
[01:10:39.980 --> 01:10:43.200] But I will be making my first purchase of my home
[01:10:43.200 --> 01:10:43.700] really soon.
[01:10:43.920 --> 01:10:45.160] So I'm excited about that.
[01:10:46.060 --> 01:10:47.740] Congrats on the space as well.
[01:10:47.840 --> 01:10:49.660] I know it's like you said, it's unfortunate,
[01:10:50.140 --> 01:10:52.220] but still jumping out there and doing it.
[01:10:52.220 --> 01:10:56.120] A lot of people are afraid to even take that jump
[01:10:56.120 --> 01:10:57.820] or that risk or that leap.
[01:10:58.200 --> 01:10:59.840] So for you to do that, you know,
[01:10:59.840 --> 01:11:01.660] that's a testament and also an investment
[01:11:01.660 --> 01:11:03.100] for your future self.
[01:11:03.880 --> 01:11:05.860] Now you've seen and experienced those things.
[01:11:05.940 --> 01:11:08.400] Now you know what to look for or what you don't want.
[01:11:08.680 --> 01:11:09.080] Yes.
[01:11:09.460 --> 01:11:13.400] And you have gained a lot of education and knowledge
[01:11:13.400 --> 01:11:15.700] about owning a commercial space.
[01:11:16.120 --> 01:11:18.480] Cause it's not like owning a house or an apartment.
[01:11:18.660 --> 01:11:19.720] The bills is different.
[01:11:21.460 --> 01:11:24.640] So yeah, I think I bit off a little bit more than I could
[01:11:24.640 --> 01:11:26.640] chew, but that comes from, you know,
[01:11:26.660 --> 01:11:29.260] not having a mentor in that space.
[01:11:29.460 --> 01:11:34.240] If I had a mentor or I had been around other entrepreneurs
[01:11:34.240 --> 01:11:36.680] that were like doing the things that I was doing,
[01:11:36.720 --> 01:11:39.620] I probably would have thought about it
[01:11:39.620 --> 01:11:44.640] or maybe gained more of an audience with the event world
[01:11:45.380 --> 01:11:47.540] before jumping into this space.
[01:11:47.900 --> 01:11:49.200] Like I built a name for myself.
[01:11:49.200 --> 01:11:50.680] Like I think that I did very great
[01:11:50.680 --> 01:11:52.420] for the little time that I did.
[01:11:53.660 --> 01:11:55.320] But, excuse me again.
[01:11:55.720 --> 01:11:58.640] I also don't, I don't, I just,
[01:11:59.220 --> 01:12:01.480] I don't really care for the,
[01:12:04.210 --> 01:12:06.690] I don't care for the event world.
[01:12:07.310 --> 01:12:08.870] I just really love homes.
[01:12:09.030 --> 01:12:11.830] Homes are where it's at for me.
[01:12:12.550 --> 01:12:17.290] I wish we would have met sooner, like, oh.
[01:12:17.290 --> 01:12:17.830] Yeah.
[01:12:17.990 --> 01:12:18.890] Like you said, the event world,
[01:12:18.890 --> 01:12:21.570] that is where I, you know, rang.
[01:12:21.670 --> 01:12:23.950] I can even say I'm a planner to a extent
[01:12:23.950 --> 01:12:25.990] as I, you know, consult
[01:12:25.990 --> 01:12:28.750] and have these discovery calls on the phone.
[01:12:28.890 --> 01:12:30.550] I'm like helping them plan their whole event.
[01:12:30.730 --> 01:12:33.550] I'm like, wait, I gotta get back to work, you know?
[01:12:33.910 --> 01:12:34.390] Yeah.
[01:12:34.610 --> 01:12:37.770] Like, yeah, but I love that.
[01:12:37.850 --> 01:12:41.430] Even like last night, people don't know
[01:12:41.430 --> 01:12:42.310] I was in a kitchen.
[01:12:42.730 --> 01:12:43.430] Were you?
[01:12:44.050 --> 01:12:46.910] Yeah, I guess it was something with the punch.
[01:12:46.910 --> 01:12:49.690] I'm like, dang, the punch, they're coming out.
[01:12:49.830 --> 01:12:51.850] Let's get a spoon and kind of stir it, mix it in.
[01:12:52.030 --> 01:12:52.710] It just wouldn't come out.
[01:12:52.710 --> 01:12:54.210] So you stepped in, all right.
[01:12:54.670 --> 01:12:56.550] So they're like, can you carry this for me?
[01:12:56.630 --> 01:12:58.250] I know it was on turn to work.
[01:12:58.330 --> 01:12:59.870] And I'm like, but I don't mind that.
[01:12:59.990 --> 01:13:00.110] Yeah.
[01:13:00.110 --> 01:13:01.290] I actually appreciate that.
[01:13:01.290 --> 01:13:01.710] Yeah, yeah.
[01:13:01.770 --> 01:13:03.630] They're like, oh, you working for this punch.
[01:13:05.030 --> 01:13:05.470] Technically, yeah.
[01:13:05.490 --> 01:13:07.230] We want stuff to turn out right.
[01:13:07.370 --> 01:13:07.570] Yeah.
[01:13:07.570 --> 01:13:09.310] I know there was other people waiting
[01:13:09.310 --> 01:13:11.330] and like, I know who it's for, you know?
[01:13:11.630 --> 01:13:12.030] Yeah.
[01:13:13.870 --> 01:13:16.190] Giving that good energy towards this celebration.
[01:13:17.190 --> 01:13:17.910] Yeah, absolutely.
[01:13:17.910 --> 01:13:19.610] I don't look at it as work or a burden.
[01:13:20.090 --> 01:13:21.510] Like, shoot, let's get this punch going.
[01:13:21.690 --> 01:13:22.790] We got people outside waiting.
[01:13:23.310 --> 01:13:24.270] Show what you need me to do.
[01:13:24.610 --> 01:13:27.210] Grab an apron, chop up some whatever I need to do.
[01:13:28.530 --> 01:13:31.710] Now, I will say when I did host events at my building
[01:13:32.830 --> 01:13:34.730] and I'm like, yo, what y'all need?
[01:13:34.990 --> 01:13:35.350] You good?
[01:13:35.450 --> 01:13:36.190] You need some water?
[01:13:36.250 --> 01:13:36.810] You need some water?
[01:13:37.010 --> 01:13:37.370] Da da da.
[01:13:37.690 --> 01:13:39.610] They're like, I hear them like, oh,
[01:13:39.610 --> 01:13:40.230] we ran out of champagne.
[01:13:40.350 --> 01:13:41.050] I'll go to the store.
[01:13:41.190 --> 01:13:42.490] Y'all keep on doing what you do.
[01:13:42.510 --> 01:13:43.010] I got you.
[01:13:43.070 --> 01:13:44.530] I'm going to the store, grabbing the champagne.
[01:13:44.970 --> 01:13:45.950] Well, oh, we ran out of plates.
[01:13:45.950 --> 01:13:46.530] I got you.
[01:13:46.630 --> 01:13:46.910] I need ice.
[01:13:47.130 --> 01:13:47.490] I got you.
[01:13:47.770 --> 01:13:50.970] Like, I, because everybody, like,
[01:13:51.690 --> 01:13:54.090] people's things mean so much to me.
[01:13:54.250 --> 01:13:55.790] Like, whether it's a special day,
[01:13:56.130 --> 01:13:58.090] whether it's your home, like,
[01:13:58.550 --> 01:14:00.470] I just be trying to really make sure
[01:14:00.470 --> 01:14:04.010] that people are happy with the investments that they make.
[01:14:04.030 --> 01:14:06.190] So I will always go above and beyond
[01:14:06.190 --> 01:14:07.870] just to be like, oh, let me help you.
[01:14:07.890 --> 01:14:09.510] Let me, how can I, you know,
[01:14:09.730 --> 01:14:12.310] that's just, I guess that's just who I've grown to be.
[01:14:12.410 --> 01:14:13.790] I wouldn't say that I've always been that way.
[01:14:13.790 --> 01:14:14.490] Personality.
[01:14:14.810 --> 01:14:15.370] Yeah.
[01:14:15.630 --> 01:14:18.190] For the young folks or young entrepreneurs,
[01:14:18.570 --> 01:14:20.710] that's called customer service.
[01:14:21.030 --> 01:14:21.670] Yes.
[01:14:21.970 --> 01:14:23.730] You have to take lead on that.
[01:14:24.870 --> 01:14:28.050] Going back to your younger days,
[01:14:28.430 --> 01:14:30.350] when did you first hear about entrepreneurship?
[01:14:34.850 --> 01:14:37.670] When did I first hear about entrepreneurship?
[01:14:37.670 --> 01:14:38.210] Mm.
[01:14:39.250 --> 01:14:44.030] I had to be about 16, 17 years old in high school.
[01:14:44.210 --> 01:14:49.250] And I was informed that my cousin James
[01:14:49.770 --> 01:14:53.110] was opening up his first McDonald's franchise
[01:14:53.630 --> 01:14:56.010] out in Indianapolis.
[01:14:56.970 --> 01:15:03.650] And the whole family, like, rallied up in vans and cars
[01:15:03.650 --> 01:15:06.590] and we drove out hours at that time.
[01:15:06.590 --> 01:15:09.010] I was like, oh my God, I'm in this car forever.
[01:15:09.410 --> 01:15:11.750] But like, we all rallied up and we went out there
[01:15:11.750 --> 01:15:13.750] and he did the ribbon cut and the ceremony.
[01:15:14.790 --> 01:15:18.070] And like, I just remember being a kid and being like,
[01:15:18.270 --> 01:15:23.230] yo, this guy has his own freaking McDonald's.
[01:15:24.070 --> 01:15:24.670] Like, what?
[01:15:24.950 --> 01:15:26.550] And I used to, I worked at that place
[01:15:26.550 --> 01:15:28.230] like a couple years ago, right?
[01:15:28.250 --> 01:15:31.270] And I see how much money I'm putting in the register,
[01:15:31.330 --> 01:15:33.230] serving up and you know, all of the things.
[01:15:33.290 --> 01:15:35.090] So I'm like, yo, this is crazy.
[01:15:35.090 --> 01:15:36.630] And he already was an engineer.
[01:15:37.690 --> 01:15:41.390] So this particular family member is very, very well off,
[01:15:41.530 --> 01:15:44.450] has always just been successful, very successful.
[01:15:44.910 --> 01:15:48.930] Black man would be, family always just done the thing.
[01:15:49.170 --> 01:15:53.590] So like, that was one, I think,
[01:15:53.690 --> 01:15:55.670] of the pivotal moments that I was unconscious
[01:15:55.670 --> 01:15:57.930] was a humongous thing for me.
[01:15:58.010 --> 01:15:59.970] Actually, I didn't even remember that
[01:15:59.970 --> 01:16:01.770] until you just asked me this question.
[01:16:02.670 --> 01:16:03.130] Yeah.
[01:16:03.150 --> 01:16:04.010] I'm glad I did that.
[01:16:04.010 --> 01:16:06.250] Yeah, like, I just thought like I was like,
[01:16:06.250 --> 01:16:06.970] who was the first?
[01:16:07.010 --> 01:16:08.730] And it was my cousin James.
[01:16:09.370 --> 01:16:10.910] So kind of touching on that,
[01:16:11.530 --> 01:16:13.430] I know you say you don't have kids in this moment,
[01:16:14.950 --> 01:16:19.990] but you have younger cousins, nieces, nephews, maybe.
[01:16:20.290 --> 01:16:20.770] Well, I'm sure down the line.
[01:16:20.770 --> 01:16:21.950] I got 12 nieces and nephews.
[01:16:22.010 --> 01:16:22.870] Okay, so you do.
[01:16:23.430 --> 01:16:26.730] So how important is Impact Light, okay?
[01:16:27.150 --> 01:16:29.890] Like, you know, you know, you're shifting and closing
[01:16:30.570 --> 01:16:33.370] the event space, but still keeping your business alive.
[01:16:34.090 --> 01:16:36.730] You know, waking up each day,
[01:16:36.890 --> 01:16:40.590] creating an impact, even motivation, showing an example.
[01:16:40.790 --> 01:16:43.450] How important is that for you and your loved ones?
[01:16:43.710 --> 01:16:45.050] Oh, it's absolutely important.
[01:16:45.930 --> 01:16:48.190] Anytime that I have my nieces or my nephews,
[01:16:49.010 --> 01:16:53.090] I am pulling them with me to go on,
[01:16:53.370 --> 01:16:55.210] whether it's me going to stage a house,
[01:16:55.330 --> 01:16:57.530] whether it's me moving stuff in and out of the house,
[01:16:57.830 --> 01:16:59.490] whether it's them coming up to the building
[01:16:59.490 --> 01:17:02.070] and them like doing mopping, cleaning off chairs,
[01:17:02.070 --> 01:17:03.910] getting some stuff done.
[01:17:04.150 --> 01:17:06.770] Like, you know, I always try to walk them through
[01:17:06.770 --> 01:17:09.170] and tell them like, yo, you can do anything you want to do.
[01:17:09.290 --> 01:17:11.050] Like, you literally can put your mind,
[01:17:11.410 --> 01:17:12.130] if you put your mind to it,
[01:17:12.130 --> 01:17:14.210] you can do anything that you want to do
[01:17:14.210 --> 01:17:16.650] and never set a limitation for yourself
[01:17:16.650 --> 01:17:21.970] and don't let other people push their fears onto you.
[01:17:22.030 --> 01:17:24.770] You literally can do anything that you want to do.
[01:17:24.810 --> 01:17:26.550] I always tell them like, I never in my life
[01:17:26.550 --> 01:17:29.990] thought I would own like a event space.
[01:17:29.990 --> 01:17:32.890] Like, you could have told me that five years prior to,
[01:17:33.050 --> 01:17:33.810] like, I would have,
[01:17:33.890 --> 01:17:35.370] that would have been the chapter of my life.
[01:17:35.710 --> 01:17:39.970] So, or just having a successful interior design company,
[01:17:39.990 --> 01:17:40.650] you couldn't have told me
[01:17:40.650 --> 01:17:41.970] that that was going to be a portion of my life.
[01:17:41.990 --> 01:17:43.770] I thought I was going to be at Cleveland Clinic,
[01:17:44.170 --> 01:17:45.430] hopefully working my way to the top,
[01:17:45.450 --> 01:17:46.850] like in the office somewhere.
[01:17:47.610 --> 01:17:50.010] But that wasn't, my portion guy had other plans.
[01:17:51.650 --> 01:17:55.910] So, with the kids, I like to keep them involved
[01:17:56.450 --> 01:17:58.390] or bring them on those journeys
[01:17:58.390 --> 01:18:02.490] so they can see hands on, like, yo, you literally can,
[01:18:02.510 --> 01:18:04.510] you literally can do anything that you want to do.
[01:18:04.750 --> 01:18:06.250] Or like, if I have them around,
[01:18:06.310 --> 01:18:08.130] like I'll bring them around my sorority sisters
[01:18:08.890 --> 01:18:10.670] or like my nephews,
[01:18:10.930 --> 01:18:12.890] like I would love to get them around
[01:18:12.890 --> 01:18:14.850] some of like my frat brothers and stuff like that,
[01:18:14.850 --> 01:18:17.470] just to put them around people that are successful,
[01:18:17.550 --> 01:18:18.450] that are doing things,
[01:18:18.470 --> 01:18:20.530] just to put them into rooms
[01:18:20.530 --> 01:18:23.830] of different types of people outside of like,
[01:18:23.850 --> 01:18:25.130] oh yeah, be successful.
[01:18:25.190 --> 01:18:26.950] You got to be a doctor or a lawyer
[01:18:26.950 --> 01:18:29.110] or even though those jobs are amazing,
[01:18:29.170 --> 01:18:31.870] those are not the only ways or the only ways
[01:18:31.870 --> 01:18:32.830] to be successful.
[01:18:34.870 --> 01:18:37.510] So yeah, them kids, they know.
[01:18:37.770 --> 01:18:40.490] And even in the summertime when they come and stay,
[01:18:40.810 --> 01:18:42.010] ain't no just, we going to play
[01:18:42.010 --> 01:18:43.030] and this and that, we going to get up,
[01:18:43.070 --> 01:18:44.410] we going to have our chores,
[01:18:44.550 --> 01:18:45.670] we going to have some structure
[01:18:45.670 --> 01:18:47.950] and then we going to learn about some stuff
[01:18:47.950 --> 01:18:49.190] and then you get to go and play.
[01:18:49.190 --> 01:18:50.710] You have to earn play time.
[01:18:50.790 --> 01:18:51.830] This is not just summertime
[01:18:51.830 --> 01:18:54.050] where you just throwing your life away, wasting time.
[01:18:54.170 --> 01:18:55.450] Like we about to be learning stuff,
[01:18:55.450 --> 01:18:57.650] even if it's like going out into nature
[01:18:57.650 --> 01:18:58.670] and learning something new,
[01:18:58.770 --> 01:19:02.130] like I make sure that I keep them involved in things.
[01:19:02.730 --> 01:19:06.090] I'm a very hands-on auntie, okay, then it's my kids.
[01:19:06.330 --> 01:19:08.110] Yeah, we need more examples like that.
[01:19:08.110 --> 01:19:11.370] That is powerful, like even to the people under me,
[01:19:11.510 --> 01:19:13.730] you know, nieces, nephews, and daughters.
[01:19:14.850 --> 01:19:18.210] And it's powerful, even having my daughter here is like,
[01:19:18.350 --> 01:19:21.010] you know, I'm like, well, got another podcast,
[01:19:21.150 --> 01:19:23.870] so you know, got to get to it.
[01:19:23.870 --> 01:19:25.970] And even bringing her to even some
[01:19:25.970 --> 01:19:27.190] of the pull-up experience podcast.
[01:19:27.410 --> 01:19:28.550] Shout out to you as a guest on the pull-up experience podcast.
[01:19:28.550 --> 01:19:29.690] Yes, I was.
[01:19:30.410 --> 01:19:33.210] You know, even I want live shoots
[01:19:33.210 --> 01:19:34.990] and you know, I better always make sure
[01:19:34.990 --> 01:19:37.130] that I'm able to bring her before.
[01:19:37.730 --> 01:19:39.010] I'm like, well, I'm going to have my daughter.
[01:19:39.090 --> 01:19:39.670] Is that okay?
[01:19:39.850 --> 01:19:40.810] Oh, that's fine.
[01:19:41.250 --> 01:19:43.610] You know, it'd be beautiful
[01:19:43.610 --> 01:19:46.850] and she even have cameras that she use.
[01:19:46.890 --> 01:19:48.010] I love it.
[01:19:48.070 --> 01:19:49.390] You're like, oh, she's so our girl.
[01:19:49.670 --> 01:19:50.550] You give.
[01:19:50.830 --> 01:19:52.830] Yeah, she's always been here with the camera.
[01:19:52.830 --> 01:19:54.530] So I was like, what is she doing with that?
[01:19:54.730 --> 01:19:55.950] Okay, she's mocking her dad.
[01:19:56.030 --> 01:19:56.870] I love that.
[01:19:56.870 --> 01:19:59.710] So that really shows that you're making such a positive,
[01:19:59.870 --> 01:20:02.050] like your positive influence in her life.
[01:20:02.050 --> 01:20:03.210] Like she admires you.
[01:20:03.290 --> 01:20:04.970] She admires what you do.
[01:20:05.330 --> 01:20:06.870] If that ain't motivation within itself,
[01:20:06.870 --> 01:20:08.750] like for you to keep doing what you're doing,
[01:20:08.810 --> 01:20:10.690] cause she's literally watching you.
[01:20:11.190 --> 01:20:13.570] Yeah, so that's, that's, that's dope.
[01:20:13.850 --> 01:20:16.110] Yeah, she's like, I'm a photographer.
[01:20:16.330 --> 01:20:18.690] I'm like, you haven't worked in three months.
[01:20:18.890 --> 01:20:20.950] I'd be like, you want to use the camera today?
[01:20:20.950 --> 01:20:24.330] You know, all of a sudden, you know, you can take the time.
[01:20:24.530 --> 01:20:25.590] Yeah, that's so cute.
[01:20:25.590 --> 01:20:26.450] It's cool though.
[01:20:26.730 --> 01:20:28.510] Like she understands it a bit more
[01:20:28.510 --> 01:20:31.570] and she kind of teaches my younger nephew
[01:20:32.090 --> 01:20:34.850] who's a year and a half younger than her.
[01:20:35.530 --> 01:20:37.030] And you know, she was like, well,
[01:20:37.070 --> 01:20:38.530] he does this and this and this and that.
[01:20:38.530 --> 01:20:39.850] So she kind of coached him.
[01:20:40.550 --> 01:20:41.050] I love it.
[01:20:41.050 --> 01:20:41.930] Okay, I see you.
[01:20:42.170 --> 01:20:43.250] Yeah, so it's like,
[01:20:43.410 --> 01:20:45.090] I'm not just holding this information.
[01:20:45.150 --> 01:20:48.410] I'm also sharing it and passing on this information
[01:20:48.410 --> 01:20:49.530] so that other people can learn.
[01:20:49.570 --> 01:20:50.730] That's a great sign.
[01:20:50.730 --> 01:20:53.530] Honestly, even like you, we talked about investing,
[01:20:53.530 --> 01:20:56.450] like, okay, I could buy you these new shoes now.
[01:20:57.130 --> 01:21:01.330] Or if you keep the ones you have, I know, you know,
[01:21:01.490 --> 01:21:03.370] you don't have to buy the ones you want.
[01:21:03.390 --> 01:21:06.230] We could buy something else and we could put that money
[01:21:06.230 --> 01:21:09.410] towards stocks and you own part of the company.
[01:21:09.490 --> 01:21:09.970] Yeah.
[01:21:10.110 --> 01:21:13.310] So every time somebody buys a shoe of this brand,
[01:21:13.330 --> 01:21:14.250] you getting paid.
[01:21:14.250 --> 01:21:15.050] You getting a piece of that.
[01:21:15.370 --> 01:21:15.570] Yeah.
[01:21:15.970 --> 01:21:17.770] So even teaching them that aspect,
[01:21:17.770 --> 01:21:19.190] the power of investing.
[01:21:20.150 --> 01:21:23.310] Not always wanting to try to have everything right now,
[01:21:23.470 --> 01:21:25.450] but think about longevity.
[01:21:26.990 --> 01:21:27.130] Yeah.
[01:21:27.590 --> 01:21:28.930] And that's great that you, you know,
[01:21:29.070 --> 01:21:32.430] bring your nieces and nephews with you
[01:21:32.430 --> 01:21:34.810] and kind of showing them the process.
[01:21:35.230 --> 01:21:37.710] I think that the reason why I'm the auntie
[01:21:37.710 --> 01:21:40.510] that I am now, in future period,
[01:21:40.690 --> 01:21:41.950] okay, because I'm speaking into existence.
[01:21:42.330 --> 01:21:45.090] But I think that the reason why I am the way that I am
[01:21:45.090 --> 01:21:48.550] is because I had a cousin who was how I,
[01:21:49.010 --> 01:21:50.410] oh, you know how you got your older cousins.
[01:21:50.570 --> 01:21:51.870] They like auntie to you, but they older,
[01:21:51.990 --> 01:21:52.890] they take me to your cousins.
[01:21:53.410 --> 01:21:55.590] But so I had a cousin, her name was Sherry
[01:21:56.570 --> 01:21:58.670] and Sherry was like super woman to me.
[01:21:58.790 --> 01:22:02.390] Like she was involved in every program you can think of.
[01:22:02.570 --> 01:22:04.030] She was doing all kinds of stuff
[01:22:04.030 --> 01:22:06.010] for like Cleveland Clinic, the American Heart Society.
[01:22:06.050 --> 01:22:06.890] She was an accountant.
[01:22:07.210 --> 01:22:09.470] Like she, she had it going on.
[01:22:09.470 --> 01:22:11.810] Like I used to be like, oh, I wouldn't be Sherry.
[01:22:12.190 --> 01:22:12.550] So bad.
[01:22:12.670 --> 01:22:14.670] She was just so, she was just such a dope person
[01:22:14.670 --> 01:22:16.110] that she used to come and get me.
[01:22:16.250 --> 01:22:17.390] We were going to get ice cream.
[01:22:17.390 --> 01:22:18.890] She would bring me to like, you know,
[01:22:19.090 --> 01:22:20.490] her little events and stuff like that,
[01:22:20.490 --> 01:22:21.930] that she was involved in.
[01:22:22.230 --> 01:22:24.270] And also when I turned of age,
[01:22:24.290 --> 01:22:26.210] like when I was, I think 16 years old,
[01:22:26.210 --> 01:22:28.150] I came and I was like a secretary to her
[01:22:28.150 --> 01:22:29.050] at her accountant firm.
[01:22:29.430 --> 01:22:32.190] So it was just like, she was just so dope
[01:22:32.190 --> 01:22:34.530] and she exposed me to so many different things.
[01:22:34.550 --> 01:22:36.710] So it was just so many different pieces
[01:22:36.710 --> 01:22:40.410] that helped me to become the entrepreneur
[01:22:40.410 --> 01:22:42.290] and just the person that I am right now.
[01:22:42.590 --> 01:22:46.490] Like, so she inspired me to be the type of aunt
[01:22:46.490 --> 01:22:49.710] that shows up in that fashion to these kids
[01:22:49.710 --> 01:22:50.990] because they need it.
[01:22:51.470 --> 01:22:51.590] Wow.
[01:22:51.670 --> 01:22:52.210] Yeah.
[01:22:53.190 --> 01:22:55.630] That's almost amazing to hear.
[01:22:55.770 --> 01:22:59.730] And it kind of, you know, makes me wonder.
[01:23:01.790 --> 01:23:03.410] Like you're almost like hyper-focused.
[01:23:03.450 --> 01:23:06.150] So it's like, you had to learn these things
[01:23:06.150 --> 01:23:08.850] and now you're like knowing the path you want to
[01:23:08.850 --> 01:23:11.730] and you know more about business and how to navigate.
[01:23:12.310 --> 01:23:14.850] So in a sense, like you have this focus,
[01:23:14.970 --> 01:23:15.910] almost tunnel vision.
[01:23:15.910 --> 01:23:19.310] So like, how do you block out distractions?
[01:23:20.350 --> 01:23:20.890] Block.
[01:23:23.330 --> 01:23:25.790] Block and delete, go on here about your business.
[01:23:27.790 --> 01:23:33.470] I don't, I think that once God showed me who I was
[01:23:33.470 --> 01:23:36.370] and the things that I could have
[01:23:36.370 --> 01:23:37.970] if I really applied myself,
[01:23:39.570 --> 01:23:44.230] I stopped allowing nonsense into my world.
[01:23:44.230 --> 01:23:46.950] Whether that's nonsense of like friends
[01:23:46.950 --> 01:23:48.250] or different relationships
[01:23:48.250 --> 01:23:50.750] or just people that you have around you,
[01:23:50.930 --> 01:23:53.890] whether that's coworkers that try to make you feel like
[01:23:53.890 --> 01:23:57.150] crap or, you know, running into bad clients or whatever.
[01:23:59.210 --> 01:24:04.010] I really think that I just kind of
[01:24:04.010 --> 01:24:05.290] leave people where they at.
[01:24:06.570 --> 01:24:08.130] Like either you are going,
[01:24:08.470 --> 01:24:09.770] either you gonna come with me
[01:24:09.770 --> 01:24:11.630] and you gonna be an asset to my world
[01:24:11.630 --> 01:24:15.310] and we gonna pour into one another, pick each other up.
[01:24:15.610 --> 01:24:18.070] But all of that drama, the nonsense,
[01:24:19.810 --> 01:24:22.230] I let that go a long time ago.
[01:24:22.970 --> 01:24:26.390] Like I really have, India today is not the India
[01:24:26.390 --> 01:24:27.590] as she was before, okay?
[01:24:27.590 --> 01:24:28.810] Let's just say that.
[01:24:29.230 --> 01:24:33.470] But like I really, I start kicking into the curve
[01:24:33.470 --> 01:24:35.790] because it didn't serve me, it didn't, yeah.
[01:24:38.610 --> 01:24:42.490] And I also want to touch on
[01:24:42.490 --> 01:24:46.450] what we kind of touched on before about the abstract.
[01:24:47.250 --> 01:24:49.570] I know you mentioned, you know,
[01:24:49.690 --> 01:24:52.150] almost like minimalistic things.
[01:24:52.530 --> 01:24:58.890] So are you more of a minimalist or more abstract type of?
[01:24:59.370 --> 01:25:00.550] Or a maximist.
[01:25:01.010 --> 01:25:01.430] Maximist.
[01:25:01.490 --> 01:25:03.330] Yeah, a maximist is like when you see,
[01:25:03.410 --> 01:25:04.390] I don't know if you've ever like
[01:25:04.390 --> 01:25:06.070] picked up a magazine for homes
[01:25:06.070 --> 01:25:07.870] and you see like they're really, really colorful
[01:25:07.870 --> 01:25:09.970] and they've got different little cute pots here,
[01:25:10.130 --> 01:25:11.150] there, pictures everywhere.
[01:25:11.150 --> 01:25:13.950] And it's like really busy, but it all makes sense.
[01:25:13.970 --> 01:25:14.970] That's a maximist.
[01:25:16.330 --> 01:25:18.250] I would say I'm somewhere in between.
[01:25:18.510 --> 01:25:19.210] Of all of that.
[01:25:19.530 --> 01:25:21.690] I can do a balance.
[01:25:22.250 --> 01:25:24.670] I sometimes have trouble being a minimalist.
[01:25:26.030 --> 01:25:29.070] Being a minimalist is not as simple as people think
[01:25:29.070 --> 01:25:31.290] because even being a minimalist,
[01:25:31.290 --> 01:25:33.290] you have to fill up that space
[01:25:33.850 --> 01:25:35.250] and make it look like a room
[01:25:35.250 --> 01:25:37.870] and not just like a, like, what is this?
[01:25:37.950 --> 01:25:38.670] Like, you know what I'm saying?
[01:25:38.670 --> 01:25:41.310] And so like there's still a math and a science
[01:25:41.310 --> 01:25:42.530] to even being a minimalist
[01:25:42.530 --> 01:25:44.030] and having minimum clutter,
[01:25:44.370 --> 01:25:48.170] but still having enough to make it look like,
[01:25:48.170 --> 01:25:49.590] wow, somebody touched this room.
[01:25:49.690 --> 01:25:52.130] This room is a piece of art.
[01:25:52.370 --> 01:25:54.230] It is crafted well.
[01:25:55.350 --> 01:25:57.230] That would be an area that I'm like,
[01:25:57.230 --> 01:25:58.510] ooh, I don't know about that.
[01:25:58.550 --> 01:26:00.150] But that's the thing about home staging
[01:26:00.150 --> 01:26:02.190] because it's kind of being a minimalist
[01:26:02.190 --> 01:26:03.770] because you don't get to use a lot of colors.
[01:26:03.850 --> 01:26:05.690] You don't get to use a lot of patterns and textures
[01:26:05.690 --> 01:26:08.070] even though I be throwing my own stuff in here.
[01:26:08.070 --> 01:26:13.830] But like, that's kind of what minimalistic beauty is
[01:26:13.830 --> 01:26:17.610] where you do minimal and letting the house speak for itself.
[01:26:18.630 --> 01:26:19.710] That's amazing.
[01:26:20.610 --> 01:26:22.750] And as you say that, and I'm thinking like,
[01:26:22.890 --> 01:26:25.750] dang, it is Men's Mental Health Week.
[01:26:26.190 --> 01:26:27.050] Oh, it is.
[01:26:27.870 --> 01:26:29.290] Somebody come do a man cave.
[01:26:29.490 --> 01:26:30.750] I've been wanting to do one forever.
[01:26:32.110 --> 01:26:34.890] Well, let's, we could probably set that up
[01:26:35.790 --> 01:26:37.130] through different programs.
[01:26:37.130 --> 01:26:38.930] I'm thinking about the veterans and people
[01:26:38.930 --> 01:26:40.730] that come out of the military,
[01:26:41.390 --> 01:26:43.770] know they have the funding, they have the money to do it.
[01:26:43.770 --> 01:26:45.610] And they have this trauma.
[01:26:46.510 --> 01:26:49.230] Like, have you ever worked with a client such as that
[01:26:49.230 --> 01:26:52.130] and try to get them together mentally
[01:26:52.130 --> 01:26:54.710] and have their sanctuary be therapeutic or therapeutic?
[01:26:56.530 --> 01:26:59.150] Not a veteran per se,
[01:26:59.310 --> 01:27:01.090] or someone that has, I guess,
[01:27:01.170 --> 01:27:02.950] like a clinical diagnosis of some sort.
[01:27:02.950 --> 01:27:09.130] But I have worked in homes where there was a woman
[01:27:09.130 --> 01:27:10.670] who had just went through a divorce.
[01:27:11.550 --> 01:27:13.310] And she was really emotional about it.
[01:27:13.310 --> 01:27:15.370] She was a new mom and a new divorcee,
[01:27:15.430 --> 01:27:16.730] and she had moved to a new city.
[01:27:16.870 --> 01:27:18.710] And she was trying to like,
[01:27:18.710 --> 01:27:22.130] create a space that she loved and to start over.
[01:27:22.830 --> 01:27:28.530] I've worked with people who are just single
[01:27:28.530 --> 01:27:29.970] and trying to make the best out of it
[01:27:29.970 --> 01:27:35.510] and having their homes and being okay in their loneliness
[01:27:35.510 --> 01:27:37.910] because their house is somewhere
[01:27:37.910 --> 01:27:39.870] that they find happiness in.
[01:27:40.190 --> 01:27:44.650] So not necessarily veterans or something of that nature,
[01:27:44.690 --> 01:27:46.190] but people that are going through things
[01:27:46.190 --> 01:27:50.110] that would make anyone depressed experiencing it.
[01:27:50.430 --> 01:27:53.310] So I have created happy spaces
[01:27:53.310 --> 01:27:57.230] for people that are trying to escape hardships.
[01:27:58.110 --> 01:27:58.830] Yeah.
[01:28:00.550 --> 01:28:01.150] Wow.
[01:28:02.250 --> 01:28:04.010] Like people don't really understand
[01:28:04.010 --> 01:28:06.530] how impactful design work is sometimes.
[01:28:07.370 --> 01:28:09.930] Like it's definitely, and also like,
[01:28:11.150 --> 01:28:12.450] my degree is in psychology.
[01:28:13.050 --> 01:28:15.670] So like color therapy and theory
[01:28:15.670 --> 01:28:18.290] and all of those things, I do use certain colors
[01:28:18.290 --> 01:28:20.930] because they do certain things for the mind
[01:28:20.930 --> 01:28:24.010] and put you in certain mindsets and frames of things.
[01:28:24.030 --> 01:28:28.490] So there is so much of a science to design work.
[01:28:28.490 --> 01:28:30.650] And that's why I said what I said earlier about,
[01:28:31.170 --> 01:28:34.070] don't try to rush it, like enjoy that process
[01:28:34.070 --> 01:28:36.030] because at the end you're gonna have a space
[01:28:36.030 --> 01:28:37.230] that you absolutely love.
[01:28:37.770 --> 01:28:39.870] Rush projects are not, some of them are amazing.
[01:28:40.110 --> 01:28:41.110] I've had rush projects
[01:28:41.110 --> 01:28:42.850] and they come out absolutely bomb.
[01:28:43.090 --> 01:28:45.390] But I know that some of the projects
[01:28:45.390 --> 01:28:47.010] that I really took my time on,
[01:28:47.870 --> 01:28:49.470] they came out so amazing.
[01:28:49.850 --> 01:28:50.970] Like so amazing.
[01:28:52.790 --> 01:28:53.750] So yeah.
[01:28:54.930 --> 01:28:55.410] Wow.
[01:28:55.410 --> 01:28:59.010] Well, that's maybe something we can work on
[01:28:59.010 --> 01:29:01.190] and reaching out to the VA and the veterans
[01:29:01.730 --> 01:29:05.050] and getting government funding to do these projects.
[01:29:06.090 --> 01:29:08.330] Yeah, I definitely see a benefit
[01:29:08.330 --> 01:29:11.030] and I know people in certain places.
[01:29:11.270 --> 01:29:11.610] Yeah.
[01:29:11.610 --> 01:29:12.630] And people that are veterans
[01:29:12.630 --> 01:29:14.170] and the things they talk about
[01:29:14.170 --> 01:29:17.130] or they don't have support that they need
[01:29:17.130 --> 01:29:18.610] or don't know where to find it.
[01:29:18.690 --> 01:29:20.350] I think that's the first place to start
[01:29:20.350 --> 01:29:22.890] is at home, you know?
[01:29:23.270 --> 01:29:24.750] Or maybe they don't know.
[01:29:24.750 --> 01:29:29.630] They're just in a black and white or gray,
[01:29:29.770 --> 01:29:32.850] a very dull space and they're satisfied
[01:29:32.850 --> 01:29:34.970] or think they're satisfied with it.
[01:29:35.050 --> 01:29:36.550] And if you're sitting in a space
[01:29:36.550 --> 01:29:38.790] that's got a lot of blues,
[01:29:38.890 --> 01:29:40.270] but not the right shade of blue.
[01:29:40.770 --> 01:29:44.230] Or you in a lot of grays or white walls everywhere.
[01:29:44.630 --> 01:29:45.670] That's depressing.
[01:29:45.990 --> 01:29:46.590] It can be.
[01:29:47.290 --> 01:29:50.650] It gives no kind of character or energy.
[01:29:50.770 --> 01:29:52.610] There's no energy in some of those colors,
[01:29:52.610 --> 01:29:55.150] depending on the shade and the placement of it
[01:29:55.150 --> 01:29:57.170] and how it's put into the space.
[01:29:58.230 --> 01:30:01.930] So yeah, there is a science behind design.
[01:30:02.090 --> 01:30:02.610] Wow.
[01:30:03.470 --> 01:30:04.990] And even as you say that,
[01:30:05.070 --> 01:30:06.690] I'm like, damn, the dullness.
[01:30:06.850 --> 01:30:08.410] I'm like, man, that's how jail is
[01:30:08.410 --> 01:30:10.130] because they want these people to feel miserable
[01:30:10.130 --> 01:30:10.770] and then-
[01:30:10.770 --> 01:30:12.170] They be depressed.
[01:30:12.490 --> 01:30:13.350] And then, yeah.
[01:30:13.570 --> 01:30:14.470] Even classrooms.
[01:30:15.010 --> 01:30:17.450] Younger classrooms, elementary mainly,
[01:30:17.670 --> 01:30:19.610] can't really speak for middle schools
[01:30:19.610 --> 01:30:21.050] because that's when they start to change.
[01:30:21.810 --> 01:30:24.250] But they're so colorful.
[01:30:24.710 --> 01:30:25.850] They're so amazing.
[01:30:26.130 --> 01:30:27.130] Like little kindergarten rooms.
[01:30:27.970 --> 01:30:28.950] But you're right.
[01:30:29.030 --> 01:30:30.390] I never even thought about that.
[01:30:30.730 --> 01:30:32.290] When I went to middle school and high school,
[01:30:32.350 --> 01:30:33.270] everything kind of changed.
[01:30:33.290 --> 01:30:34.650] It wasn't really as colorful.
[01:30:35.250 --> 01:30:37.650] Things started getting very flat.
[01:30:38.190 --> 01:30:39.950] Lockers were all militants.
[01:30:40.290 --> 01:30:42.590] And it was not as much color.
[01:30:43.250 --> 01:30:44.550] The higher grades you went up,
[01:30:44.670 --> 01:30:47.090] the more, I guess they would say is more maturing,
[01:30:47.090 --> 01:30:51.870] but it actually took away colors of inspiration, I feel.
[01:30:52.710 --> 01:30:53.990] Colors of inspiration.
[01:30:54.270 --> 01:30:54.470] Yeah.
[01:30:54.590 --> 01:30:56.310] But I did go back to,
[01:30:56.470 --> 01:30:58.410] we had our 15 year class,
[01:30:58.410 --> 01:31:00.570] or our 15 class reunion child
[01:31:00.570 --> 01:31:01.870] because we didn't do the tea yet.
[01:31:02.090 --> 01:31:04.310] So we were back for our 15.
[01:31:04.330 --> 01:31:06.050] And when I did walk through my old high school,
[01:31:06.130 --> 01:31:09.930] I did see a lot of art and paintings
[01:31:09.930 --> 01:31:11.930] that they had allowed the students to do.
[01:31:11.950 --> 01:31:13.110] And I thought it was so dope.
[01:31:13.550 --> 01:31:16.010] And it added so much character and color
[01:31:16.010 --> 01:31:19.730] and kind of gave you a feeling
[01:31:19.730 --> 01:31:21.930] of what type of environment you're walking into
[01:31:21.930 --> 01:31:22.630] in this school.
[01:31:22.970 --> 01:31:24.390] It was in the library, I think.
[01:31:24.430 --> 01:31:25.250] And I was like, whoa,
[01:31:25.390 --> 01:31:26.630] this looks nothing like the library
[01:31:26.630 --> 01:31:28.010] I went to high school with.
[01:31:28.150 --> 01:31:30.250] Like I would actually want to be here.
[01:31:31.390 --> 01:31:32.110] That's amazing.
[01:31:34.630 --> 01:31:37.990] So is there a specific color that inspired you
[01:31:37.990 --> 01:31:39.310] or inspires you every day?
[01:31:40.030 --> 01:31:40.830] Every day, no.
[01:31:42.190 --> 01:31:44.250] I know I was talking mess about black,
[01:31:44.270 --> 01:31:45.210] but I like black.
[01:31:45.430 --> 01:31:47.210] I like to wear black.
[01:31:47.210 --> 01:31:48.370] I like to wear nudes.
[01:31:48.490 --> 01:31:50.950] I'm not really a color color person.
[01:31:51.170 --> 01:31:51.870] And every now and again,
[01:31:51.970 --> 01:31:53.290] you'll catch me as some colors.
[01:31:54.010 --> 01:31:56.850] I actually, let me stop lying.
[01:31:57.030 --> 01:31:58.570] There is a color that I really do like,
[01:31:58.690 --> 01:32:00.350] and I find myself gravitating towards
[01:32:00.350 --> 01:32:02.270] a lot more often, green.
[01:32:03.070 --> 01:32:06.730] And it's like either it's like a lime color green,
[01:32:07.590 --> 01:32:09.430] or it's like a mustard olive green,
[01:32:10.130 --> 01:32:11.430] or it's olive green.
[01:32:11.690 --> 01:32:13.090] But I like green.
[01:32:13.410 --> 01:32:15.450] I love green a lot.
[01:32:16.370 --> 01:32:16.850] Okay.
[01:32:17.010 --> 01:32:17.490] Yeah.
[01:32:17.650 --> 01:32:21.030] Wow, I would have never suspect that.
[01:32:21.210 --> 01:32:21.830] Yeah, green.
[01:32:22.190 --> 01:32:23.110] All last year, I was like,
[01:32:23.110 --> 01:32:24.550] girl, you gotta stop buying green stuff.
[01:32:24.950 --> 01:32:27.630] Like I had a nice chunk in my closet.
[01:32:27.690 --> 01:32:30.230] I was like, this all green and it all looks the same.
[01:32:30.250 --> 01:32:32.030] Like you gotta switch up a little bit.
[01:32:32.510 --> 01:32:32.970] But green.
[01:32:33.210 --> 01:32:33.950] Is green your favorite color?
[01:32:34.290 --> 01:32:36.130] No, my favorite color is red.
[01:32:36.370 --> 01:32:38.470] Like a ruby, a rich ruby red.
[01:32:39.930 --> 01:32:40.930] Mine as well.
[01:32:41.010 --> 01:32:41.390] Yeah.
[01:32:41.650 --> 01:32:45.430] I like, I love reds, deep reds.
[01:32:45.430 --> 01:32:46.710] I don't like them bright colored reds.
[01:32:46.710 --> 01:32:47.070] Right.
[01:32:47.630 --> 01:32:48.710] And I do like green.
[01:32:48.990 --> 01:32:52.530] Green is very beautiful in a lot of different colors,
[01:32:52.670 --> 01:32:54.470] whether it's like sage or like a,
[01:32:54.470 --> 01:32:55.610] even a pastel green.
[01:32:55.810 --> 01:32:58.690] Like all greens are really, really beautiful
[01:32:58.690 --> 01:33:01.130] and earthy sometimes.
[01:33:01.770 --> 01:33:02.130] Greens.
[01:33:02.770 --> 01:33:05.450] I actually been liking yellows a lot lately.
[01:33:06.450 --> 01:33:08.590] Kind of spoke on some yellows earlier.
[01:33:09.150 --> 01:33:10.690] Yeah, yellow.
[01:33:11.070 --> 01:33:12.310] Yellow has been speaking to me.
[01:33:12.330 --> 01:33:14.490] And I love, I say red, orange.
[01:33:15.010 --> 01:33:17.850] Orange is another color that I really, really like.
[01:33:19.190 --> 01:33:20.990] Orange, I think is like that good in between,
[01:33:21.010 --> 01:33:22.030] between pink and red.
[01:33:22.230 --> 01:33:24.430] And it's like that, I don't know, I love it.
[01:33:24.710 --> 01:33:25.710] Yeah, I love orange.
[01:33:26.470 --> 01:33:27.030] So yeah.
[01:33:28.750 --> 01:33:28.770] Wow.
[01:33:28.770 --> 01:33:28.910] Yep.
[01:33:29.970 --> 01:33:32.750] So even as you mentioned the color green,
[01:33:34.010 --> 01:33:36.550] do you associate different objects
[01:33:37.470 --> 01:33:38.970] with different colors?
[01:33:40.030 --> 01:33:42.050] Like cabbage is green.
[01:33:42.050 --> 01:33:44.430] Banana yellow are different shapes.
[01:33:44.830 --> 01:33:45.810] Like an egg is oval.
[01:33:46.050 --> 01:33:47.010] So everything's oval.
[01:33:47.210 --> 01:33:49.670] Like think about an egg when I'm putting this
[01:33:49.670 --> 01:33:50.730] or doing the rendering.
[01:33:51.450 --> 01:33:51.990] Oh, yeah.
[01:33:52.150 --> 01:33:55.090] So like colors, like explaining them to clients.
[01:33:56.590 --> 01:33:59.590] Yeah, so I do that when I do like walkthroughs
[01:33:59.590 --> 01:34:00.270] and stuff like that.
[01:34:00.270 --> 01:34:02.070] But normally when I'm sitting down with clients
[01:34:02.070 --> 01:34:04.190] and I'm reviewing like a rendering that I've created,
[01:34:04.930 --> 01:34:06.450] I have the color selected.
[01:34:07.950 --> 01:34:09.150] So, Sharon Williams,
[01:34:09.970 --> 01:34:13.050] when I first like really got into the design world,
[01:34:13.230 --> 01:34:14.630] I had like messaged them and told them like,
[01:34:14.630 --> 01:34:16.390] hey, I'm a designer, like da da da.
[01:34:16.470 --> 01:34:18.730] They sent me this human against a kid, like huge.
[01:34:19.090 --> 01:34:21.890] Like, I mean, the thing was, they can't see me.
[01:34:22.030 --> 01:34:23.370] It was like big.
[01:34:23.430 --> 01:34:28.790] Like it was like, I would say about seven feet tall,
[01:34:29.170 --> 01:34:31.370] or no, seven, what am I trying to say?
[01:34:31.570 --> 01:34:34.370] Like about 12 inches tall, let's say 12 inches tall.
[01:34:34.530 --> 01:34:36.910] And about seven inches wide or whatever.
[01:34:36.990 --> 01:34:39.130] And it had all of like these little booklets
[01:34:39.130 --> 01:34:42.390] and these little binders full of like all of the colors
[01:34:42.390 --> 01:34:43.090] that they have.
[01:34:43.530 --> 01:34:46.170] And then also they had an exclusive designer's colors
[01:34:46.170 --> 01:34:48.650] where it's like only designers can get these colors.
[01:34:50.670 --> 01:34:52.870] So yeah, we get a lot of exclusives to design.
[01:34:53.730 --> 01:34:55.590] But it was so much.
[01:34:55.770 --> 01:35:00.190] So like when I go to show like a rendering,
[01:35:00.990 --> 01:35:02.630] or even if it's a virtual rendering,
[01:35:02.690 --> 01:35:05.430] I'm able to like identify the colors that I want to do.
[01:35:05.450 --> 01:35:06.990] So I don't have to try to explain it
[01:35:06.990 --> 01:35:07.950] because I can show it to them.
[01:35:07.950 --> 01:35:10.750] Or I'll tell them like, hey, go on Pinterest, look up,
[01:35:10.750 --> 01:35:13.190] what's a common color there by the child?
[01:35:15.010 --> 01:35:16.770] Agreeable gray, go look at agreeable gray.
[01:35:17.210 --> 01:35:18.870] Or in like, they can go pull it up on Pinterest
[01:35:18.870 --> 01:35:21.070] and be able to look at agreeable gray everywhere.
[01:35:22.010 --> 01:35:23.530] Or look at tricorn black.
[01:35:23.850 --> 01:35:25.310] This is, that's my favorite black color.
[01:35:25.350 --> 01:35:27.270] So they go look and see what that looks like.
[01:35:27.290 --> 01:35:28.790] They can get an example of what it looks like.
[01:35:29.170 --> 01:35:31.610] Have you ever thought about like almost integrating
[01:35:32.370 --> 01:35:34.670] a color palette, like how you describe
[01:35:34.670 --> 01:35:35.830] and all of this on your website?
[01:35:36.770 --> 01:35:41.710] So we do do a collaboration of like different colors
[01:35:41.710 --> 01:35:42.710] and stuff like that.
[01:35:43.150 --> 01:35:45.130] Most interior designs or decorators,
[01:35:45.130 --> 01:35:47.130] we create things called a mood board.
[01:35:47.710 --> 01:35:51.070] So a mood board is a collage of different pictures,
[01:35:51.270 --> 01:35:54.250] inspirations, vibes, things that you could find
[01:35:54.250 --> 01:35:58.030] to kind of paint a picture to your client
[01:35:58.030 --> 01:36:01.010] of what your, how are we gonna vibe out this room,
[01:36:01.030 --> 01:36:02.410] what this room is gonna look like.
[01:36:02.630 --> 01:36:04.950] And oftentimes it has the color scheme
[01:36:04.950 --> 01:36:06.590] that you're going for in this space.
[01:36:07.070 --> 01:36:09.290] And then us as designers, we'll do a color match.
[01:36:09.710 --> 01:36:12.150] Like, okay, so this color looks like this.
[01:36:12.210 --> 01:36:14.770] Let me get a swatch of this color, put it up to it.
[01:36:14.790 --> 01:36:15.610] This looks like this.
[01:36:15.690 --> 01:36:17.310] Or they also have like little tools.
[01:36:17.330 --> 01:36:19.050] Like I have a little tool that you could put it up to
[01:36:19.050 --> 01:36:21.370] and might get a, tell you a color that matches it.
[01:36:21.690 --> 01:36:22.430] So yeah.
[01:36:22.990 --> 01:36:23.350] Yeah.
[01:36:23.350 --> 01:36:24.410] This is amazing.
[01:36:25.110 --> 01:36:25.470] Yeah.
[01:36:25.910 --> 01:36:29.110] So I know you have kind of like your own themes
[01:36:29.470 --> 01:36:30.010] and stuff.
[01:36:30.230 --> 01:36:31.410] Do you go to like different conferences?
[01:36:31.990 --> 01:36:32.350] Yeah.
[01:36:32.350 --> 01:36:32.970] Your own shows?
[01:36:33.950 --> 01:36:36.410] I've gone to a few different showrooms,
[01:36:36.910 --> 01:36:40.010] a few different, just like classes
[01:36:40.010 --> 01:36:43.190] and just things or whatever for designers.
[01:36:43.390 --> 01:36:43.550] Yep.
[01:36:43.650 --> 01:36:44.690] I've gone to those.
[01:36:44.830 --> 01:36:45.530] Have any designs?
[01:36:45.530 --> 01:36:46.790] It's been a while now.
[01:36:47.130 --> 01:36:49.550] So yeah, but I've gone to some.
[01:36:50.130 --> 01:36:52.490] They have any designs popped out to you?
[01:36:55.990 --> 01:36:58.270] When you go to those showrooms,
[01:36:58.850 --> 01:37:01.350] like it's like a candy shop.
[01:37:01.350 --> 01:37:03.290] Like you, you turn this way.
[01:37:03.730 --> 01:37:06.110] Oh, these are, oh my God, that looks amazing.
[01:37:06.490 --> 01:37:06.630] Like.
[01:37:07.010 --> 01:37:07.450] Real quick.
[01:37:07.590 --> 01:37:09.230] Is it salesy?
[01:37:09.250 --> 01:37:10.890] Like the vendors, they're salesy.
[01:37:11.010 --> 01:37:12.330] Are they more like, oh, check it out.
[01:37:12.330 --> 01:37:12.790] They chill.
[01:37:13.030 --> 01:37:13.770] They real chill.
[01:37:13.870 --> 01:37:15.830] Cause the art speaks for itself, baby.
[01:37:16.050 --> 01:37:18.290] Lord, I went to a home show.
[01:37:18.370 --> 01:37:19.510] I was talking about getting in.
[01:37:19.550 --> 01:37:21.750] We almost like the only guest.
[01:37:21.770 --> 01:37:22.450] Uh-huh.
[01:37:22.450 --> 01:37:23.330] It's like just.
[01:37:23.330 --> 01:37:25.210] You must be talking about like the IH center
[01:37:25.210 --> 01:37:27.910] where they have like the vendors home show type of thing.
[01:37:27.930 --> 01:37:28.370] No, no, no.
[01:37:28.390 --> 01:37:29.230] I don't go to the IH center.
[01:37:29.630 --> 01:37:30.070] Okay.
[01:37:30.070 --> 01:37:31.010] I was like.
[01:37:31.030 --> 01:37:33.150] I was talking about attack and volume.
[01:37:33.430 --> 01:37:34.770] I'm a introvert naturally.
[01:37:34.830 --> 01:37:36.230] And it's early for me, bro.
[01:37:36.350 --> 01:37:37.770] I'm like, let me just step out of my box.
[01:37:37.850 --> 01:37:39.310] Cause I was interested,
[01:37:39.530 --> 01:37:41.550] kind of still them get into whole selling.
[01:37:41.550 --> 01:37:42.430] Uh-huh.
[01:37:43.610 --> 01:37:44.010] So.
[01:37:44.250 --> 01:37:46.170] Connect you if that's what you want to do.
[01:37:46.850 --> 01:37:46.910] Okay.
[01:37:47.050 --> 01:37:48.010] That's definitely tough.
[01:37:48.670 --> 01:37:51.730] And so I'm like, little, let me try the home show.
[01:37:51.750 --> 01:37:53.030] At least kind of see what's there.
[01:37:53.150 --> 01:37:55.610] Cause if I got a stage or see what's out,
[01:37:55.750 --> 01:37:57.010] what type of vendors out there.
[01:37:57.890 --> 01:37:59.530] So kind of getting the idea.
[01:37:59.530 --> 01:38:01.810] But I'm like getting so poor.
[01:38:02.250 --> 01:38:04.410] So I'm not gonna have a conversation with these people,
[01:38:04.410 --> 01:38:06.650] but I'm also asking them valid questions too.
[01:38:06.850 --> 01:38:07.930] Or like, oh, how did it?
[01:38:08.530 --> 01:38:09.570] And then, okay.
[01:38:09.710 --> 01:38:09.950] All right.
[01:38:10.030 --> 01:38:10.450] Thank you.
[01:38:10.610 --> 01:38:11.270] Oh, wait.
[01:38:11.390 --> 01:38:12.570] No, no, no, no, no.
[01:38:12.610 --> 01:38:13.490] Oh, oh, oh.
[01:38:13.490 --> 01:38:15.030] Just going around to like.
[01:38:15.050 --> 01:38:16.850] Where, what show did you go to?
[01:38:17.690 --> 01:38:20.050] It was at the Huntington convention.
[01:38:20.290 --> 01:38:20.750] I'm not sure.
[01:38:20.750 --> 01:38:21.090] Okay.
[01:38:21.190 --> 01:38:22.570] I think I know what you're talking about.
[01:38:22.850 --> 01:38:26.590] Those are when they're set up like vendors.
[01:38:27.010 --> 01:38:30.690] The show room, show rooms are different than that.
[01:38:30.950 --> 01:38:32.710] Show rooms are like, it would be a room
[01:38:32.710 --> 01:38:33.750] like we're sitting in.
[01:38:34.230 --> 01:38:36.530] Well, they had those, but it was just on the other side.
[01:38:36.630 --> 01:38:39.750] But it was like, I had to go through this maze of like.
[01:38:39.950 --> 01:38:42.310] Vendors and them trying to sell their product to you.
[01:38:42.750 --> 01:38:43.070] Yeah.
[01:38:43.110 --> 01:38:45.610] I found an opening, a gateway.
[01:38:45.990 --> 01:38:48.950] I saw a person's art that I know.
[01:38:49.110 --> 01:38:51.150] I'm like, that is, I didn't see them at their booth.
[01:38:51.230 --> 01:38:52.710] I'm like, wait, there's an opening.
[01:38:52.770 --> 01:38:54.430] So it's almost like a movie.
[01:38:54.430 --> 01:38:55.970] And it's like, all right, cut.
[01:38:55.970 --> 01:38:57.170] I could breathe again.
[01:38:57.170 --> 01:38:58.670] It was just so overwhelming.
[01:38:58.710 --> 01:38:59.030] Wow.
[01:38:59.270 --> 01:39:03.030] I mean, I'm mainly to myself and it was early.
[01:39:03.450 --> 01:39:05.150] It was cold as heck that day.
[01:39:05.270 --> 01:39:06.170] I was on my nose running.
[01:39:06.250 --> 01:39:07.990] I had to get myself together to walk in.
[01:39:08.890 --> 01:39:13.290] It was just a wow day just to walk into that.
[01:39:13.450 --> 01:39:14.690] It was like.
[01:39:15.190 --> 01:39:18.250] Yeah, for me, I have a different experience
[01:39:18.250 --> 01:39:23.350] with show rooms because they're designed so eloquently
[01:39:23.350 --> 01:39:25.470] and then they also pick like the best of
[01:39:25.470 --> 01:39:28.230] the best designers to showcase these spaces.
[01:39:28.970 --> 01:39:32.090] They don't have to come up to you and ask you nothing.
[01:39:32.090 --> 01:39:34.250] You're going to be trying to find them to figure out
[01:39:34.250 --> 01:39:35.390] where do I get this?
[01:39:35.650 --> 01:39:39.610] And also they have like tags that have the information
[01:39:39.610 --> 01:39:42.450] or scan things that you can scan right to get to that.
[01:39:42.550 --> 01:39:44.210] Yeah, for designer conferences.
[01:39:44.610 --> 01:39:46.870] So like, you don't really have to go and find people.
[01:39:46.930 --> 01:39:48.610] Like you just scan what you're interested in.
[01:39:48.830 --> 01:39:51.050] And then they have an area where they're like,
[01:39:51.050 --> 01:39:52.470] do they have you sign up?
[01:39:52.590 --> 01:39:54.630] Or do they like, yeah, they collect your email
[01:39:54.630 --> 01:39:55.930] or your name and stuff like that.
[01:39:56.010 --> 01:39:58.210] No, email you like to follow up and things of that nature.
[01:39:58.430 --> 01:40:01.210] But like, no, it's a little bit different,
[01:40:01.230 --> 01:40:04.450] a different culture than like what you sound
[01:40:04.450 --> 01:40:08.610] like you went to was more of like where they do
[01:40:08.610 --> 01:40:10.250] like bathrooms or kitchens.
[01:40:10.690 --> 01:40:13.170] And like there is so many different companies
[01:40:13.170 --> 01:40:14.950] that do the restructuring of this and that.
[01:40:15.130 --> 01:40:16.090] Oh yeah, come with us.
[01:40:16.230 --> 01:40:17.110] We have these kind of cabinets.
[01:40:17.750 --> 01:40:18.190] Replication.
[01:40:18.350 --> 01:40:19.610] Yeah, yeah, yes.
[01:40:19.990 --> 01:40:22.530] So that's a little bit different.
[01:40:22.550 --> 01:40:24.050] Those are normally contractors.
[01:40:24.690 --> 01:40:27.370] Who are trying to, you know, design and re-contract
[01:40:27.370 --> 01:40:29.570] like your kitchen or construct your kitchen.
[01:40:30.630 --> 01:40:32.850] I ain't even gonna speak on gutter girl.
[01:40:34.390 --> 01:40:35.930] Woo, first date too.
[01:40:36.050 --> 01:40:36.910] I'm in tears.
[01:40:37.390 --> 01:40:38.550] I had to walk away.
[01:40:38.710 --> 01:40:41.130] Cause I don't like laughing people face like it's rude.
[01:40:41.690 --> 01:40:45.610] But it was just like, man, that was a day for me.
[01:40:45.870 --> 01:40:48.130] I was not to speak on that on a letter day,
[01:40:48.150 --> 01:40:50.290] but that was a day.
[01:40:51.010 --> 01:40:52.590] But I know you said like,
[01:40:52.810 --> 01:40:54.290] during those shows that get emails,
[01:40:54.290 --> 01:40:55.890] what do you do for like lead generation?
[01:40:58.300 --> 01:41:00.660] You always trying to put my business out there.
[01:41:00.820 --> 01:41:02.240] That's what we talk about.
[01:41:02.340 --> 01:41:06.660] No, I be collecting the information.
[01:41:07.340 --> 01:41:09.980] But then I, I mean, I collect information,
[01:41:09.980 --> 01:41:13.060] but then I get so busy that I never send out
[01:41:13.060 --> 01:41:15.020] the things I'm supposed to send out.
[01:41:15.680 --> 01:41:18.700] Cause I'm, I need to start hiring people.
[01:41:18.880 --> 01:41:20.180] It's just as simple as that.
[01:41:20.180 --> 01:41:23.040] And I haven't because I'm a one man show
[01:41:23.040 --> 01:41:24.620] and I do everything.
[01:41:24.620 --> 01:41:27.580] And you can't, if you want to grow as a business,
[01:41:27.620 --> 01:41:29.100] you cannot do everything by yourself.
[01:41:30.120 --> 01:41:31.900] So for those that are listening,
[01:41:32.100 --> 01:41:33.580] I will be hiring soon,
[01:41:33.720 --> 01:41:35.160] probably within the next three months.
[01:41:36.700 --> 01:41:38.560] So, cause I'm, yeah.
[01:41:38.920 --> 01:41:39.820] I'm ready to say.
[01:41:39.880 --> 01:41:41.580] We definitely have to talk more and collab
[01:41:41.580 --> 01:41:43.780] cause I see different things in pockets.
[01:41:44.340 --> 01:41:45.280] Yeah, yeah.
[01:41:45.680 --> 01:41:48.540] Opportunities for me to be doing stuff that I like,
[01:41:48.660 --> 01:41:50.860] anything and everything I probably have thought of
[01:41:50.860 --> 01:41:51.580] a lot of stuff.
[01:41:51.580 --> 01:41:54.220] And I just have not had the time to execute it
[01:41:54.220 --> 01:41:56.720] because it's hard to be your own.
[01:41:56.740 --> 01:41:57.540] You're the designer.
[01:41:57.740 --> 01:41:58.620] You're the shopper.
[01:41:58.880 --> 01:42:00.460] You are the accountant.
[01:42:00.660 --> 01:42:01.500] You are the bookkeeper.
[01:42:01.640 --> 01:42:02.760] You are the photographer.
[01:42:02.920 --> 01:42:03.860] You are the videographer.
[01:42:04.040 --> 01:42:06.420] You are the person that's not a clean.
[01:42:06.640 --> 01:42:07.640] You, you're the person that paints.
[01:42:07.740 --> 01:42:09.380] You're the person that does the contour.
[01:42:09.800 --> 01:42:11.660] I do a lot of stuff.
[01:42:11.720 --> 01:42:15.600] So it's like, and I take on so much
[01:42:15.600 --> 01:42:18.720] because I really be trying to save people money
[01:42:18.720 --> 01:42:20.040] because it is expensive.
[01:42:20.580 --> 01:42:23.640] On average, the prices that I quote to people
[01:42:23.640 --> 01:42:27.220] are way lower than most designers would quote.
[01:42:27.580 --> 01:42:30.400] On average, most designers outside of like a bathroom,
[01:42:30.880 --> 01:42:35.080] you're looking at 20 to $25,000 out the gate per room.
[01:42:35.820 --> 01:42:38.620] So, yeah.
[01:42:39.340 --> 01:42:42.180] And I'm talking about seven, five, seven, 10.
[01:42:42.980 --> 01:42:46.520] These other designers talking about 20, 25, the more.
[01:42:46.660 --> 01:42:49.040] So it's almost like education is needed
[01:42:50.000 --> 01:42:52.740] for the clients before they even step in.
[01:42:52.740 --> 01:42:57.600] I just know what area I live in and who my audience is.
[01:42:57.840 --> 01:42:59.520] And I think that that's really important.
[01:42:59.880 --> 01:43:03.860] And for me, that's okay.
[01:43:04.120 --> 01:43:07.840] Like, I don't mind like cutting those corners
[01:43:07.840 --> 01:43:10.120] so that I could make a name for myself.
[01:43:10.460 --> 01:43:11.380] One, number two.
[01:43:11.760 --> 01:43:16.080] Also, I don't mind because for me,
[01:43:16.120 --> 01:43:19.660] what I'm doing is building up communities
[01:43:19.660 --> 01:43:21.340] of people that look like me.
[01:43:22.020 --> 01:43:27.680] And a lot of homes, especially black communities
[01:43:27.680 --> 01:43:29.300] and black homes and black areas
[01:43:29.300 --> 01:43:32.840] are not always the most well-kept.
[01:43:33.700 --> 01:43:37.380] So for me to go in into some of these spaces
[01:43:37.380 --> 01:43:40.380] and to give them face lifts and bring life
[01:43:40.380 --> 01:43:43.780] into our community, into our spaces, our beauty shops,
[01:43:43.900 --> 01:43:45.500] our barber shops, our, you know,
[01:43:45.520 --> 01:43:48.000] like that means a lot to me.
[01:43:49.060 --> 01:43:51.560] So sometimes when you love what you do,
[01:43:51.740 --> 01:43:53.240] it don't, the money is gonna come.
[01:43:53.360 --> 01:43:55.180] Like I'm not money hungry over it.
[01:43:55.180 --> 01:43:56.340] I do it because I love it.
[01:43:56.340 --> 01:43:59.060] And I love the outcome that it brings.
[01:43:59.580 --> 01:44:00.020] Yeah.
[01:44:00.020 --> 01:44:01.160] So yeah.
[01:44:01.520 --> 01:44:04.100] Wow, that is a wealth of information.
[01:44:04.260 --> 01:44:06.420] Is there anybody specifically that you wanted
[01:44:06.420 --> 01:44:07.280] to collab with?
[01:44:07.800 --> 01:44:10.500] Like, cause I could see, you know, like you say,
[01:44:10.540 --> 01:44:11.620] I'm making a name for yourself.
[01:44:11.780 --> 01:44:14.480] Your name on pillows and different accents
[01:44:14.480 --> 01:44:16.300] and designs and decorate.
[01:44:16.300 --> 01:44:20.240] I have a few business ventures
[01:44:20.240 --> 01:44:22.460] that I would like to branch off into that
[01:44:24.920 --> 01:44:26.200] once I get rid of this build
[01:44:26.200 --> 01:44:27.560] and stuff's gonna start moving.
[01:44:28.640 --> 01:44:29.780] I'm excited for it.
[01:44:29.860 --> 01:44:30.600] That's like, huh.
[01:44:30.660 --> 01:44:33.300] I know it's like one chapter ends
[01:44:33.300 --> 01:44:35.600] and you can't wait for the next one to leave.
[01:44:35.720 --> 01:44:37.300] Yeah, I can't wait for that chapter to leave.
[01:44:38.780 --> 01:44:38.880] Oh, okay.
[01:44:39.160 --> 01:44:41.760] It's just, I was doing something that
[01:44:42.580 --> 01:44:43.500] I'm the type of person,
[01:44:43.500 --> 01:44:45.020] you could put me into a lot of spaces
[01:44:45.020 --> 01:44:46.960] and I can be successful.
[01:44:47.140 --> 01:44:48.480] I can do the job great,
[01:44:48.800 --> 01:44:51.460] but it's me deciding what I love
[01:44:52.460 --> 01:44:55.760] and how I show up for that space that I love.
[01:44:57.140 --> 01:44:58.640] I can do events,
[01:44:58.640 --> 01:45:00.640] but I don't think that I would show up
[01:45:00.640 --> 01:45:02.080] in the same way that I show up
[01:45:02.080 --> 01:45:04.280] or have the same passion and love
[01:45:04.280 --> 01:45:05.740] as I have for designing homes.
[01:45:06.200 --> 01:45:07.800] Like I know some event designers
[01:45:07.800 --> 01:45:11.840] who are just phenomenal women, right?
[01:45:13.220 --> 01:45:15.860] And you can hear just from talking to them,
[01:45:15.960 --> 01:45:17.240] it's a different type of fashion.
[01:45:17.760 --> 01:45:19.360] Whether they are the best at it
[01:45:19.360 --> 01:45:20.140] or they mediocre,
[01:45:21.720 --> 01:45:22.900] it's just a different,
[01:45:23.280 --> 01:45:24.120] it's a difference.
[01:45:25.500 --> 01:45:26.960] I don't see that in me,
[01:45:27.160 --> 01:45:27.860] not for events.
[01:45:28.740 --> 01:45:30.000] Even though I know I can do it,
[01:45:30.080 --> 01:45:32.720] I probably would be really, really good at it.
[01:45:33.300 --> 01:45:35.000] Like, I don't want to.
[01:45:35.400 --> 01:45:36.100] I like houses.
[01:45:37.220 --> 01:45:38.660] That's the decor that I like.
[01:45:38.940 --> 01:45:39.920] I don't like events.
[01:45:40.240 --> 01:45:41.460] I mean, I like event decor.
[01:45:41.460 --> 01:45:43.340] I think that is beautiful, the art that they create,
[01:45:43.520 --> 01:45:44.700] especially in the amount of hours
[01:45:44.700 --> 01:45:46.300] that they have to make it happen.
[01:45:48.000 --> 01:45:50.020] But no, I don't like that.
[01:45:51.060 --> 01:45:51.340] Yeah.
[01:45:51.340 --> 01:45:53.680] I'm gonna wrap it up with some final questions.
[01:45:53.880 --> 01:45:54.880] I kind of thought of this.
[01:45:55.680 --> 01:45:57.860] Like if you had an unlimited budget,
[01:45:58.720 --> 01:46:00.040] you had a client there,
[01:46:00.080 --> 01:46:00.820] you know, Google Boom,
[01:46:00.860 --> 01:46:03.420] they got this pristine mansion.
[01:46:04.660 --> 01:46:06.360] If they had an unlimited budget,
[01:46:07.040 --> 01:46:09.540] how would you begin to shape that for them?
[01:46:10.740 --> 01:46:11.300] Boom.
[01:46:14.900 --> 01:46:17.100] I think the first thing that I would do
[01:46:17.100 --> 01:46:19.920] would be calling my mentors
[01:46:19.920 --> 01:46:22.180] or people that I look at as mentors.
[01:46:24.040 --> 01:46:27.580] And because most of my mentors have worked with
[01:46:27.580 --> 01:46:29.000] celebrities, been in magazines
[01:46:29.000 --> 01:46:30.580] and done all of these things
[01:46:30.580 --> 01:46:32.800] that I haven't yet advanced to.
[01:46:33.940 --> 01:46:39.780] So I would be calling them on how to navigate this space
[01:46:40.380 --> 01:46:42.820] because it would be foreign territory for me
[01:46:42.820 --> 01:46:44.300] to have an unlimited budget
[01:46:44.300 --> 01:46:46.040] or to have somebody who's a multimillionaire.
[01:46:46.180 --> 01:46:47.860] I'm like, yeah, let's go where it all starts.
[01:46:48.060 --> 01:46:51.360] Like, you know, I would know where to start.
[01:46:51.420 --> 01:46:52.640] Like I would know where to look,
[01:46:52.640 --> 01:46:55.760] but also it's nothing like having someone
[01:46:55.760 --> 01:46:58.100] that you can have for you
[01:46:58.980 --> 01:47:00.620] that has been at that,
[01:47:00.680 --> 01:47:04.760] everybody has had their first multimillion dollar client
[01:47:04.760 --> 01:47:06.060] where they have these budgets
[01:47:06.060 --> 01:47:08.480] that were out of their normal tax bracket
[01:47:08.480 --> 01:47:11.340] and they know how that feels and what that space is like.
[01:47:11.400 --> 01:47:13.460] So it's always great to have someone
[01:47:13.460 --> 01:47:15.000] that can help you navigate through that.
[01:47:15.040 --> 01:47:17.220] So the first call to action would be for me to be like,
[01:47:17.360 --> 01:47:20.500] okay, now I need y'all to hold, hey, line up, help me.
[01:47:21.740 --> 01:47:23.600] So, and just asking them, like, you know,
[01:47:23.720 --> 01:47:24.920] where would they shop, blah, blah.
[01:47:25.040 --> 01:47:26.780] But like me, I'm a visual person.
[01:47:26.820 --> 01:47:27.840] So once I walk this space,
[01:47:27.840 --> 01:47:30.360] I already have an idea of what I want to do.
[01:47:31.760 --> 01:47:33.760] Calling them, getting whatever advice or gems
[01:47:33.760 --> 01:47:34.760] they could drop on me.
[01:47:34.760 --> 01:47:36.760] And then from there, it's like, it's go time.
[01:47:37.100 --> 01:47:37.720] I'm ready.
[01:47:37.720 --> 01:47:40.860] Like you just, you say the word, I'm ready.
[01:47:41.580 --> 01:47:44.820] I'm about to create what I would love to see in your space
[01:47:44.820 --> 01:47:45.640] given this budget.
[01:47:45.780 --> 01:47:48.000] I don't think that I would max out bank either
[01:47:48.000 --> 01:47:49.420] if it didn't require that.
[01:47:50.860 --> 01:47:53.320] But I would definitely be customizing some pieces,
[01:47:53.480 --> 01:47:57.040] making some unique things to go in their space.
[01:47:57.480 --> 01:48:00.480] I definitely would probably even work
[01:48:00.480 --> 01:48:01.580] with like a furniture company
[01:48:01.580 --> 01:48:03.820] to create my own furniture or something
[01:48:03.820 --> 01:48:06.320] that was uniquely customized just for them
[01:48:06.320 --> 01:48:09.080] if I had that type of budget to do it.
[01:48:09.160 --> 01:48:11.560] Because now with your unlimited budget,
[01:48:11.640 --> 01:48:13.940] I have unlimitedness to my creativity.
[01:48:14.320 --> 01:48:15.740] So now I get to really show out.
[01:48:15.840 --> 01:48:17.640] So I'm about to show y'all how it's really done.
[01:48:18.580 --> 01:48:19.860] So yeah, if I had that,
[01:48:19.980 --> 01:48:21.200] I feel like it would land me
[01:48:21.200 --> 01:48:23.760] in a whole lot of different spaces
[01:48:23.760 --> 01:48:25.060] if I had that opportunity.
[01:48:25.920 --> 01:48:27.480] Wow, you really hit it on the head
[01:48:27.480 --> 01:48:29.700] because that's kind of what I tell customers.
[01:48:29.920 --> 01:48:32.680] Like, oh, how much you charge for it?
[01:48:33.460 --> 01:48:35.480] Well, this is the,
[01:48:36.920 --> 01:48:37.940] but if you, like you said,
[01:48:37.980 --> 01:48:39.420] you bring me a bigger budget
[01:48:39.420 --> 01:48:41.700] and we can do X, Y, and Z and all of that.
[01:48:41.860 --> 01:48:44.480] It's like even set up your whole event for you.
[01:48:44.480 --> 01:48:46.560] You just show up today, we got you.
[01:48:48.100 --> 01:48:52.580] So, it's important to invest in these projects
[01:48:52.580 --> 01:48:54.480] or what do you want complete.
[01:48:55.060 --> 01:48:56.420] And before you hire someone,
[01:48:57.880 --> 01:48:59.660] you have to pay people at the end of the day
[01:48:59.660 --> 01:49:00.740] if you want something.
[01:49:01.500 --> 01:49:01.800] So.
[01:49:02.640 --> 01:49:03.060] Absolutely.
[01:49:04.140 --> 01:49:05.780] Is there any gym or tip
[01:49:05.780 --> 01:49:09.060] that you would want to leave an aspiring entrepreneur?
[01:49:09.560 --> 01:49:14.100] Oh, y'all podcasters love to close with these tips.
[01:49:14.700 --> 01:49:15.920] Okay, let me think.
[01:49:17.700 --> 01:49:19.380] Or what is something you learned like,
[01:49:19.400 --> 01:49:22.200] man, if I could go back, I would change this.
[01:49:22.320 --> 01:49:23.860] I would do this differently.
[01:49:27.030 --> 01:49:30.250] Honestly, I wouldn't change anything.
[01:49:30.370 --> 01:49:31.430] And I'm gonna tell you why.
[01:49:32.530 --> 01:49:37.310] Because my life, my story was perfectly crafted for me
[01:49:37.310 --> 01:49:38.530] when I got here.
[01:49:40.370 --> 01:49:43.370] So, trying to change what God created for me,
[01:49:43.750 --> 01:49:45.110] I wouldn't want to change that.
[01:49:46.290 --> 01:49:48.590] Yeah, I don't think I would try to change that
[01:49:48.590 --> 01:49:49.490] because there's a purpose
[01:49:49.490 --> 01:49:51.770] and the reason why he set it up the way he set it up.
[01:49:51.770 --> 01:49:54.090] And I haven't even reached the amount
[01:49:54.090 --> 01:49:57.050] or opened the doors that I know that are in store for me.
[01:49:57.690 --> 01:50:00.850] So, but if I made that one change or an adjustment
[01:50:00.850 --> 01:50:02.790] and it shifted my whole entire future,
[01:50:03.070 --> 01:50:03.630] you know what I'm saying?
[01:50:04.290 --> 01:50:07.310] So, no, I would keep it exactly how it is
[01:50:07.310 --> 01:50:08.770] and keep it at this one pace.
[01:50:09.150 --> 01:50:12.310] I would probably try to do more research
[01:50:12.310 --> 01:50:13.170] about certain things.
[01:50:13.190 --> 01:50:16.250] So, I'm more educated versus just jumping in,
[01:50:16.590 --> 01:50:18.650] but I still wouldn't change it.
[01:50:18.910 --> 01:50:19.210] Yeah.
[01:50:19.450 --> 01:50:20.950] Wow, but experience is the best teacher.
[01:50:21.250 --> 01:50:21.650] Yes.
[01:50:22.450 --> 01:50:25.270] So, I love how you said that though
[01:50:25.270 --> 01:50:26.830] you wouldn't change anything
[01:50:26.830 --> 01:50:30.590] because of the person you are today.
[01:50:31.030 --> 01:50:33.790] Yeah, I love how it has helped me grow.
[01:50:33.890 --> 01:50:38.090] I've grown so much personally and professionally.
[01:50:39.630 --> 01:50:42.490] And I think that even with doing my business
[01:50:42.490 --> 01:50:45.410] it's shown me what I'm capable of,
[01:50:45.550 --> 01:50:47.590] things that I didn't think that I was capable of doing.
[01:50:48.470 --> 01:50:52.110] So, yeah, I love this space and where I'm at in it
[01:50:52.110 --> 01:50:54.270] and the things that it's taught me to get in the bed.
[01:50:56.810 --> 01:50:58.730] I appreciate you for coming out today.
[01:50:58.730 --> 01:51:01.190] I know we had some rescheduling multiple times.
[01:51:01.290 --> 01:51:03.130] Yeah, we got it together though.
[01:51:04.850 --> 01:51:06.490] Yeah, I'm very grateful for this.
[01:51:06.530 --> 01:51:07.610] It was a great conversation.
[01:51:07.910 --> 01:51:09.170] Yes, I enjoyed speaking with you.
[01:51:09.250 --> 01:51:10.070] Thank you for having me.
[01:51:10.390 --> 01:51:10.550] Thank you.
[01:51:10.670 --> 01:51:13.310] I wonder if everyone finds you or looks you up.
[01:51:14.370 --> 01:51:15.410] Oh, yeah.
[01:51:15.710 --> 01:51:20.490] Y'all can find me on IG at suwands.underscoredecor.
[01:51:22.450 --> 01:51:26.310] That's my name across all, I guess.
[01:51:26.530 --> 01:51:27.050] Platforms.
[01:51:27.050 --> 01:51:28.790] Platforms of social media.
[01:51:29.230 --> 01:51:32.810] From Facebook to YouTube, it's always gonna be Suwan.
[01:51:32.870 --> 01:51:36.390] So you type in Suwan, which is S-U-J-U-A-N,
[01:51:36.390 --> 01:51:40.610] and then S, it'll pop up, I'm sure.
[01:51:41.050 --> 01:51:43.050] Okay, I didn't know about the YouTube channel,
[01:51:43.050 --> 01:51:43.770] I'm not that...
[01:51:43.770 --> 01:51:46.670] Whoo, I only got like two videos on there.
[01:51:46.750 --> 01:51:47.670] I'm gonna do better,
[01:51:47.790 --> 01:51:48.630] because I know that's coming.
[01:51:48.730 --> 01:51:49.190] I'm gonna do better.
[01:51:49.250 --> 01:51:51.570] Oh, you sound like that client we presented to today
[01:51:51.570 --> 01:51:53.630] when we was doing our research and auditing.
[01:51:53.670 --> 01:51:55.470] We had three videos on YouTube.
[01:51:55.490 --> 01:51:55.990] Yeah.
[01:51:56.590 --> 01:51:57.050] Yeah.
[01:51:57.710 --> 01:51:59.430] So I was like, yeah, that's...
[01:51:59.430 --> 01:51:59.950] I gotta do better.
[01:51:59.970 --> 01:52:00.630] Something we can help on.
[01:52:00.790 --> 01:52:01.910] Yeah, yeah.
[01:52:02.290 --> 01:52:04.550] Okay, thank you, Ms. Andrea Suwan,
[01:52:04.750 --> 01:52:05.950] Suwan Decor.
[01:52:05.950 --> 01:52:06.430] Thank you.
[01:52:07.750 --> 01:52:09.710] No longer event space, but home staging.
[01:52:10.130 --> 01:52:13.290] Yes, home staging and sourcing materials
[01:52:13.290 --> 01:52:14.170] for our home flippers.
[01:52:14.410 --> 01:52:17.130] So when y'all get tired of trying to pick out
[01:52:17.130 --> 01:52:19.630] y'all own stuff and flipping all of these homes,
[01:52:19.850 --> 01:52:23.310] come and talk to me so I could do the work for you
[01:52:23.310 --> 01:52:24.950] so you can move on to your next property
[01:52:24.950 --> 01:52:26.110] and be making more money.
[01:52:26.410 --> 01:52:27.570] That is right.
[01:52:28.010 --> 01:52:30.890] And like you said, you're able to work
[01:52:30.890 --> 01:52:31.810] with unlimited budget.
[01:52:32.430 --> 01:52:33.930] So everyone that's listening
[01:52:33.930 --> 01:52:37.790] and wants home staging, interior design and decorating,
[01:52:39.230 --> 01:52:41.470] if you got that unlimited budget, she's ready for it.
[01:52:41.490 --> 01:52:44.590] She has a team and mentors that help guide her
[01:52:44.590 --> 01:52:46.490] with support and the knowledge.
[01:52:47.190 --> 01:52:48.910] So you have to reach out to her.
[01:52:49.070 --> 01:52:49.950] Don't be afraid.
[01:52:50.190 --> 01:52:54.810] And don't be afraid to also come to India upfront,
[01:52:54.810 --> 01:52:57.750] like this is my budget, this is, you know,
[01:52:57.810 --> 01:53:01.390] it helps us, especially as creators and designers,
[01:53:02.870 --> 01:53:06.830] visual artists to help, you know,
[01:53:07.010 --> 01:53:10.390] craft what you need and want with your budget.
[01:53:10.550 --> 01:53:12.710] I actually do have like different packages
[01:53:12.710 --> 01:53:14.810] for different financial needs.
[01:53:15.210 --> 01:53:19.350] And I also have a, I haven't even introduced this,
[01:53:19.410 --> 01:53:21.790] so hey, I have payment plans.
[01:53:21.790 --> 01:53:26.430] So don't be intimidated by the costs to get it done
[01:53:26.430 --> 01:53:27.730] because you can do payment plans
[01:53:27.730 --> 01:53:31.170] and we can still get your home to look absolutely amazing.
[01:53:31.350 --> 01:53:32.810] So just reach out to me.
[01:53:33.030 --> 01:53:34.530] I would love to work with you.
[01:53:34.630 --> 01:53:36.130] Okay, I'm glad you said that
[01:53:36.130 --> 01:53:38.730] because I did this interview with like,
[01:53:38.870 --> 01:53:41.350] she got higher, but you said payment plans.
[01:53:41.450 --> 01:53:44.150] No, I feel more comfortable approaching you,
[01:53:44.250 --> 01:53:46.890] like, okay, let's work on this home project.
[01:53:47.130 --> 01:53:48.170] So I'm glad you mentioned that.
[01:53:48.170 --> 01:53:48.570] Yes.
[01:53:48.890 --> 01:53:50.230] So with that being said,
[01:53:50.230 --> 01:53:52.630] what type of payment plans do you do
[01:53:52.630 --> 01:53:54.430] or like with software programs?
[01:53:55.890 --> 01:53:58.250] There's one program, well, it's the same program.
[01:53:58.310 --> 01:54:00.930] So you can either pay like half upfront
[01:54:01.550 --> 01:54:03.650] and then half at a different time.
[01:54:03.690 --> 01:54:05.970] I think they give you like a six month span
[01:54:05.970 --> 01:54:06.630] type of thing,
[01:54:07.050 --> 01:54:08.730] or you could break it up into two payments,
[01:54:08.830 --> 01:54:09.770] you could break it up to four
[01:54:09.770 --> 01:54:11.110] or you could break it up into six.
[01:54:11.110 --> 01:54:13.970] And I guess the program will like speak to you
[01:54:13.970 --> 01:54:15.790] on when the payments will have, I don't know.
[01:54:15.850 --> 01:54:18.590] They generate it based off of how much the thing is,
[01:54:18.590 --> 01:54:21.210] but they will break up the payments for you.
[01:54:21.410 --> 01:54:23.050] And you also, I think, can customize
[01:54:23.050 --> 01:54:24.590] how you wanna make the payments too.
[01:54:25.250 --> 01:54:27.770] Now with the program, I'm not sure,
[01:54:28.190 --> 01:54:29.650] because I have not utilized it yet,
[01:54:29.650 --> 01:54:30.870] but I do have the program.
[01:54:31.330 --> 01:54:33.990] I'm not exactly sure if they add on interest rates.
[01:54:34.790 --> 01:54:38.450] However, there is a program.
[01:54:38.710 --> 01:54:40.530] I'm actually gonna get more information about that
[01:54:40.530 --> 01:54:41.490] and I'll post it on my Instagram.
[01:54:41.630 --> 01:54:43.010] So therefore, if you listen to this,
[01:54:43.250 --> 01:54:46.290] you can reference to my Instagram page or my TikTok,
[01:54:46.290 --> 01:54:48.350] because my friend has forced me to get TikTok.
[01:54:49.670 --> 01:54:52.330] I'll have the information ready in a hand.
[01:54:55.510 --> 01:54:57.430] Once again, I appreciate you.
[01:54:57.550 --> 01:55:00.630] And I wanna close out by telling everyone that's listening,
[01:55:01.430 --> 01:55:05.690] thank you for tuning in to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[01:55:06.270 --> 01:55:10.450] with India, which has been an amazing conversation.
[01:55:10.850 --> 01:55:12.810] I thank you for allowing me to pick your brain
[01:55:12.810 --> 01:55:15.490] and get more insight on your journey
[01:55:15.490 --> 01:55:18.970] and also the interior design
[01:55:18.970 --> 01:55:21.910] and more so interior decorating world.
[01:55:22.370 --> 01:55:23.210] Yes, thank you.
[01:55:23.330 --> 01:55:24.170] So that's been fun.
[01:55:25.030 --> 01:55:28.330] And this will be released very, very soon.
[01:55:28.450 --> 01:55:31.370] I know I have a lot of things to catch up on,
[01:55:32.530 --> 01:55:36.890] but everybody can always find me at Alienize Photos.
[01:55:37.070 --> 01:55:40.470] That's Alienize with a Z, Photos with a S,
[01:55:40.490 --> 01:55:43.970] and check out the website alienizephotos.com
[01:55:43.970 --> 01:55:45.310] for more information.
[01:55:45.730 --> 01:55:47.290] And also for my booking link,
[01:55:47.450 --> 01:55:50.550] if you need an event photographer, video production,
[01:55:51.430 --> 01:55:54.230] podcast consulting, even business coach,
[01:55:54.430 --> 01:55:56.510] who I love to bounce ideas off of you
[01:55:56.510 --> 01:55:58.930] so you can gain more traction.
[01:56:00.010 --> 01:56:00.950] Thank you again.
[01:56:01.230 --> 01:56:03.010] Thank you all for tuning in.
[01:56:03.150 --> 01:56:04.250] This has been a blessing.
[01:56:05.290 --> 01:56:05.530] Peace.

========================================================================
42. Motivational Encouragement Keep Going
Season 1 · Episode 32
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/motivational-encouragement-keep-going
========================================================================

[00:00:01.520 --> 00:00:04.620] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome
[00:00:05.260 --> 00:00:08.700] to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:10.180 --> 00:00:13.360] And this will be a little encouragement,
[00:00:15.770 --> 00:00:17.050] a lot of motivation.
[00:00:18.230 --> 00:00:19.930] And again, my personal journey
[00:00:20.530 --> 00:00:22.490] on this entrepreneurship road
[00:00:22.490 --> 00:00:24.590] and just live it life in general.
[00:00:25.390 --> 00:00:27.070] It's a human being and
[00:00:28.570 --> 00:00:31.110] we are in the age of AI
[00:00:31.110 --> 00:00:36.230] and it's best to be your authentic self
[00:00:38.560 --> 00:00:41.520] and your brand should represent that as well.
[00:00:42.240 --> 00:00:43.740] You should have an identity.
[00:00:44.900 --> 00:00:46.820] Your brand should have an identity.
[00:00:48.100 --> 00:00:52.420] The messaging should both kind of be the same,
[00:00:54.410 --> 00:00:58.160] you know, just something to think about.
[00:00:58.900 --> 00:01:00.020] And I've had.
[00:01:01.460 --> 00:01:02.860] I mean, I could say
[00:01:03.720 --> 00:01:05.840] a tough few weeks in a row.
[00:01:08.440 --> 00:01:11.520] From transportation issues with vehicles
[00:01:12.260 --> 00:01:14.960] and getting that squared away and
[00:01:16.180 --> 00:01:19.340] quote unquote, speed and tick the egg.
[00:01:19.640 --> 00:01:23.760] Which I'm looking at the car as a liability now, you know.
[00:01:24.500 --> 00:01:25.840] Is it really an asset?
[00:01:26.380 --> 00:01:28.920] Yeah, it's getting me from point A to point B
[00:01:28.920 --> 00:01:32.480] and also quicker and warmer, I should say.
[00:01:33.300 --> 00:01:37.020] As everybody knows, it's very cold here in Cleveland, Ohio,
[00:01:37.980 --> 00:01:39.780] up north, Midwest.
[00:01:41.640 --> 00:01:43.720] But, you know, that
[00:01:44.640 --> 00:01:47.480] I was an unexpected setback.
[00:01:47.760 --> 00:01:50.840] And then things just started trickling down almost
[00:01:50.840 --> 00:01:54.760] like I was in this negative cycle over and over and over again.
[00:01:55.460 --> 00:01:59.000] Like it even took me a few weeks just to
[00:02:00.520 --> 00:02:05.120] stay back from the podcast and not record an episode, a new episode.
[00:02:08.120 --> 00:02:11.460] And this is finally me getting back on the mic.
[00:02:11.920 --> 00:02:16.620] There's so many negative things that I could talk about, but I'm not.
[00:02:16.700 --> 00:02:19.480] And then I didn't want to record that.
[00:02:19.880 --> 00:02:23.800] In a sense, negative energy and throw that back.
[00:02:23.940 --> 00:02:28.240] But this is me kind of recapping the last few weeks,
[00:02:28.240 --> 00:02:30.340] which was tough, which was challenging.
[00:02:30.500 --> 00:02:33.100] And it just reminds me to stay humble
[00:02:33.800 --> 00:02:36.280] and keep your head up and keep persevering.
[00:02:36.540 --> 00:02:40.240] Like, yeah, this is this is just a phase, just like the moon
[00:02:40.240 --> 00:02:41.660] has different phases.
[00:02:43.930 --> 00:02:45.910] So I take it with a grain of salt.
[00:02:46.850 --> 00:02:49.390] I just want to remind you to also
[00:02:50.010 --> 00:02:54.570] take it as a small incline that this will
[00:02:56.970 --> 00:02:58.670] bypass and pass over.
[00:02:59.990 --> 00:03:02.110] Never take it too much to heart,
[00:03:02.750 --> 00:03:05.490] because when our feelings and emotions get involved,
[00:03:06.370 --> 00:03:08.550] especially in business, I say don't mix it.
[00:03:08.570 --> 00:03:11.410] People say don't mix
[00:03:12.710 --> 00:03:14.910] love and business together.
[00:03:16.370 --> 00:03:20.310] Many people say that because the emotion and feelings behind it.
[00:03:22.310 --> 00:03:24.930] But I know a lot of successful couples,
[00:03:25.990 --> 00:03:30.410] married couples, and it can work.
[00:03:31.170 --> 00:03:34.170] So you just have to be aware of those emotions
[00:03:34.170 --> 00:03:37.370] and those feelings that are attached and are involved.
[00:03:37.950 --> 00:03:40.590] And sometimes you have to set them aside.
[00:03:43.220 --> 00:03:45.240] And that's what I did.
[00:03:45.320 --> 00:03:46.920] I just set it aside.
[00:03:48.940 --> 00:03:52.640] So I know being in my feelings, being in this negative loop,
[00:03:53.480 --> 00:03:59.270] almost like a hamster wheel in this negative loop,
[00:03:59.410 --> 00:04:04.090] this negative cycle is going around and around and around
[00:04:04.090 --> 00:04:05.490] and around and around.
[00:04:05.890 --> 00:04:09.590] It's the same exact thing, the continuation of it.
[00:04:10.430 --> 00:04:14.930] So by me, in a sense, breaking from it, by kind of just
[00:04:14.930 --> 00:04:18.329] shifting my energy towards, OK,
[00:04:19.010 --> 00:04:20.970] take it as a take away the grain of salt.
[00:04:22.990 --> 00:04:24.730] You know, you don't need a lot of salt in your food.
[00:04:24.830 --> 00:04:29.010] Just take it a little bit, a little pinch, break a little round.
[00:04:30.770 --> 00:04:31.670] Yeah, it happened.
[00:04:32.570 --> 00:04:34.350] Yeah, you're going to feel this.
[00:04:36.050 --> 00:04:37.170] Emotionally, especially.
[00:04:38.970 --> 00:04:40.750] Like, dang, I don't know what.
[00:04:41.030 --> 00:04:43.310] Dang, dang, what is that?
[00:04:43.510 --> 00:04:49.270] Oh, man, dang, ah, you know, you want to scream.
[00:04:50.890 --> 00:04:54.650] But instead of screaming and being in the emotions
[00:04:54.650 --> 00:05:05.140] behind it all is best to live life.
[00:05:06.100 --> 00:05:14.080] Live life one moment at a time, live each business day.
[00:05:14.980 --> 00:05:21.390] One moment at a time, live life one day at a time.
[00:05:26.290 --> 00:05:27.570] And with your business,
[00:05:29.210 --> 00:05:34.420] just start with one thing, one thing.
[00:05:37.100 --> 00:05:43.840] Like, there's no better feeling when I pick up a camera
[00:05:44.840 --> 00:05:47.480] and photograph, document
[00:05:48.540 --> 00:05:55.840] a great event, those sacred moments,
[00:05:56.100 --> 00:06:01.360] those marketing moments, those key moments,
[00:06:01.440 --> 00:06:07.080] those one in a lifetime moments, those selling points
[00:06:07.080 --> 00:06:11.560] and memories, the photos that you can relive,
[00:06:12.300 --> 00:06:17.300] that you can re-see over and over again.
[00:06:17.340 --> 00:06:20.500] Just see it, visualize it,
[00:06:21.120 --> 00:06:24.620] whether if you're using it for marketing or to sell
[00:06:25.200 --> 00:06:28.400] or if it's just something personal for you to have
[00:06:28.400 --> 00:06:30.960] and for you to look at upon
[00:06:31.760 --> 00:06:35.680] and for it to be history, a historical moment,
[00:06:36.480 --> 00:06:39.960] because there's no other time like a moment in time like that.
[00:06:39.960 --> 00:06:42.360] Even if you do the same thing over and over,
[00:06:43.480 --> 00:06:46.620] nothing else happened on that day like this.
[00:06:46.660 --> 00:06:49.020] And this moment will never happen again,
[00:06:49.040 --> 00:06:52.620] even if it's the same tomorrow or the next day.
[00:06:53.220 --> 00:06:56.500] It's still something different about it each day.
[00:06:57.200 --> 00:06:59.760] You may be feeling something different each day.
[00:07:00.260 --> 00:07:02.540] The people around you in attendance may be feeling,
[00:07:02.800 --> 00:07:06.940] the presenters, whoever may be feeling
[00:07:07.640 --> 00:07:10.540] or acting a different way
[00:07:11.300 --> 00:07:13.560] the next day, the next day
[00:07:14.580 --> 00:07:18.540] or a stage play or a presentation, whatever.
[00:07:18.740 --> 00:07:21.620] And maybe the same words, maybe the same actions,
[00:07:22.440 --> 00:07:26.140] but something that's different and also the time is different,
[00:07:26.240 --> 00:07:28.580] the space may be even different.
[00:07:28.940 --> 00:07:30.960] So just something to think about.
[00:07:33.430 --> 00:07:34.890] That was deep, like, wow.
[00:07:35.750 --> 00:07:40.550] But again, I want you to use all the fuel that's given to you,
[00:07:40.550 --> 00:07:45.770] whether it's positive or negative, use it as fuel, as jetpacks.
[00:07:46.510 --> 00:07:48.670] Take it in. Have a moment.
[00:07:48.910 --> 00:07:55.040] Take a deep breath. Let it out.
[00:07:55.760 --> 00:07:57.240] Do it again if you have to repeat.
[00:07:57.580 --> 00:07:58.760] It's good to take that moment.
[00:07:58.920 --> 00:08:04.800] Take that deep breath because, whoo, boy, I tell you,
[00:08:04.880 --> 00:08:06.740] I wanted to not life the...
[00:08:09.280 --> 00:08:12.300] You know, it's like, ah, what the...
[00:08:12.300 --> 00:08:14.180] What is going on? Like, man.
[00:08:15.100 --> 00:08:18.600] Just really feeling it and really being in it.
[00:08:19.900 --> 00:08:25.080] And it's good to be around others and moments like that
[00:08:25.080 --> 00:08:29.000] or even just having that dialogue and taking a nap,
[00:08:29.160 --> 00:08:30.780] you know, going to bed early.
[00:08:32.220 --> 00:08:36.000] Hang it up for the day and start fresh tomorrow, you know.
[00:08:36.720 --> 00:08:38.659] Sometimes those moments are needed.
[00:08:39.780 --> 00:08:42.220] Just want to go to sleep, you know.
[00:08:43.679 --> 00:08:47.700] Mine is doing too many gymnastics and Olympic tricks.
[00:08:48.620 --> 00:08:51.580] Like, man, the monkey mine is real.
[00:08:54.160 --> 00:09:01.510] So sometimes I get up early, go to bed early,
[00:09:02.650 --> 00:09:06.710] go to sleep, take a nap, you know, 20 minute nap, wake up.
[00:09:07.590 --> 00:09:11.830] OK. What just happened?
[00:09:13.530 --> 00:09:14.930] Wow, I can't believe that happened.
[00:09:14.930 --> 00:09:17.950] What happened to me? Well, I get it done.
[00:09:18.030 --> 00:09:20.350] Got to get it taken care of, whatever it may be,
[00:09:20.390 --> 00:09:22.190] whatever the situation may be.
[00:09:22.470 --> 00:09:26.810] And just like in your business, you just have to get it done.
[00:09:27.250 --> 00:09:31.790] And that's something I'm being big on myself this year.
[00:09:32.310 --> 00:09:39.200] And this will be the year I leave my nine to five.
[00:09:40.960 --> 00:09:43.660] It is 2026.
[00:09:46.900 --> 00:09:50.420] By the end of January 2027,
[00:09:54.070 --> 00:09:58.250] I will no longer be nine to five.
[00:09:59.550 --> 00:10:02.570] Well, I'm going to say I never will, but because I may go back,
[00:10:02.570 --> 00:10:04.010] you know, you know how it is.
[00:10:04.010 --> 00:10:12.240] So I will be running Alienize Photos Media
[00:10:13.300 --> 00:10:16.500] and also Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:10:17.740 --> 00:10:21.140] This lovely podcast, talk show,
[00:10:21.780 --> 00:10:28.750] radio, whatever you want to call it, educational piece.
[00:10:30.650 --> 00:10:33.290] Whatever you want to call it.
[00:10:33.870 --> 00:10:38.790] But I am doing it full time and serving my audience,
[00:10:38.790 --> 00:10:45.350] my network, my people, my clients, my tribe, my team.
[00:10:46.710 --> 00:10:48.490] And also being more involved
[00:10:49.050 --> 00:10:51.790] with LaunchArts as we continue to grow.
[00:10:52.170 --> 00:10:54.210] Eleven years, y'all.
[00:10:54.570 --> 00:10:55.490] That is major.
[00:10:56.390 --> 00:11:00.250] So I'm happy to be a part of LaunchArts Media.
[00:11:00.410 --> 00:11:04.530] It gets you noticed. So tap in with the brand.
[00:11:05.510 --> 00:11:09.530] One of the best in Ohio
[00:11:09.530 --> 00:11:16.090] when it comes to digital marketing and video production,
[00:11:18.300 --> 00:11:20.660] like me being a part of that team.
[00:11:21.500 --> 00:11:23.800] And everybody knows what I bring.
[00:11:24.560 --> 00:11:28.560] But man, the team that's in place
[00:11:28.560 --> 00:11:31.740] is just elevates it to another level.
[00:11:32.800 --> 00:11:36.420] And shout out to my mentor, Jamar, who's the CEO
[00:11:37.020 --> 00:11:39.300] and lead creative director.
[00:11:40.640 --> 00:11:43.000] I might as well just say every director
[00:11:44.420 --> 00:11:45.940] of LaunchArts Media.
[00:11:46.340 --> 00:11:49.560] And it's just it's amazing to see sometimes.
[00:11:51.220 --> 00:11:55.180] You know, what what can be done, especially with a team as,
[00:11:55.700 --> 00:12:00.440] you know, Alienize Photos, believe it or not, is a personal brand,
[00:12:00.440 --> 00:12:03.480] even though I run it as a business.
[00:12:04.440 --> 00:12:10.580] And I serve B2B clients, business to business, businesses.
[00:12:11.380 --> 00:12:15.340] That's like my business, my niche event photography
[00:12:15.340 --> 00:12:19.360] for B2B, business to business,
[00:12:20.020 --> 00:12:23.460] because I am business and I love doing businesses with other businesses
[00:12:23.460 --> 00:12:29.620] because what I learned that individuals do not necessarily
[00:12:30.800 --> 00:12:34.660] have the proper budget, especially for what you want to do.
[00:12:34.880 --> 00:12:39.760] Yeah, they're throwing an event, but they may only have a two hundred
[00:12:39.760 --> 00:12:43.160] three hundred dollar budget for an event.
[00:12:44.560 --> 00:12:48.860] When you already ran your costs, you ran your expenses.
[00:12:49.020 --> 00:12:52.440] Of course, you've been doing it for years.
[00:12:52.900 --> 00:12:56.820] You have that experience, that that technical skill,
[00:12:57.400 --> 00:13:00.360] that that knowledge that you could bring, even the insight,
[00:13:00.440 --> 00:13:05.100] even if you're not even, you know, filming or doing photography for the event.
[00:13:06.140 --> 00:13:11.620] You can't consult and say, well, OK, well, you don't have the budget.
[00:13:11.860 --> 00:13:12.840] You could do it yourself.
[00:13:13.200 --> 00:13:16.360] I have someone take pictures on the phone, but make sure you have
[00:13:16.360 --> 00:13:18.520] good lighting and this and this and that.
[00:13:18.620 --> 00:13:23.540] Like you can still provide through knowledge and not even be there.
[00:13:23.540 --> 00:13:24.920] It's almost like coaching.
[00:13:27.360 --> 00:13:30.180] But if you want professionals
[00:13:30.180 --> 00:13:36.400] tap in with alienized photos, media and also launched arts media
[00:13:36.400 --> 00:13:39.900] and anything with marketing or media.
[00:13:40.460 --> 00:13:42.120] Tap into brands.
[00:13:43.720 --> 00:13:47.100] And also the pull up experience.
[00:13:47.760 --> 00:13:51.300] Yes, if you have not heard the pull up experience podcast,
[00:13:52.420 --> 00:13:55.180] the number one entrepreneur.
[00:13:58.000 --> 00:14:02.840] Podcasts, not only in Cleveland, Ohio, but Ohio abroad.
[00:14:04.020 --> 00:14:06.320] And we are coming.
[00:14:07.640 --> 00:14:16.040] For the whole nation, for the whole US and then the whole world, we are.
[00:14:17.740 --> 00:14:23.200] Going on five plus years, and I've been in it
[00:14:24.000 --> 00:14:25.740] minus the plus.
[00:14:26.670 --> 00:14:32.240] But five years, you know, as.
[00:14:33.340 --> 00:14:38.280] I entered in like month two, month three, I believe.
[00:14:39.540 --> 00:14:43.440] So not in a full existence, but.
[00:14:43.440 --> 00:14:45.800] Mid is instance ongoing existence.
[00:14:47.320 --> 00:14:51.660] It's going on almost five years,
[00:14:51.760 --> 00:14:54.900] as distance this summer will be five years.
[00:14:58.290 --> 00:15:01.470] And it's amazing to see also just the things
[00:15:01.470 --> 00:15:05.130] we accomplish and accomplish as a team and the things we do
[00:15:05.130 --> 00:15:13.710] as a team, as a unit with all the brands I'm attached to
[00:15:13.710 --> 00:15:17.070] or all the brands that I work with, like anybody I work with,
[00:15:17.190 --> 00:15:18.750] my creative entrepreneurs.
[00:15:19.710 --> 00:15:22.510] I have room for you. I really do.
[00:15:24.260 --> 00:15:28.860] Like if I could attend your event, even if you don't have the budget.
[00:15:30.240 --> 00:15:33.840] For my services or my team or my expertise.
[00:15:36.100 --> 00:15:40.740] Sometimes it's just best for me to attend, I'll take the night off.
[00:15:42.360 --> 00:15:46.280] I'll pay that $20 ticket to a good event.
[00:15:47.720 --> 00:15:50.900] $50 ticket for a good event.
[00:15:51.920 --> 00:15:52.400] VIP.
[00:15:54.000 --> 00:15:56.980] Extra services, OK, maybe tickets for $10.
[00:15:57.220 --> 00:15:58.540] OK, let me support the vendors.
[00:15:59.260 --> 00:16:01.200] I have a little extra. Let me support the vendors.
[00:16:01.400 --> 00:16:02.880] I know vendors need love.
[00:16:04.360 --> 00:16:08.280] I always got to like that, you know, when the bills hits,
[00:16:08.460 --> 00:16:09.560] the purchase of the money.
[00:16:10.480 --> 00:16:12.600] Catch me on the third.
[00:16:14.280 --> 00:16:17.640] So that's good networking and to still shake hands
[00:16:17.640 --> 00:16:21.800] and still introduce yourself, still hear their story, their brand story.
[00:16:22.540 --> 00:16:25.940] You know, even if you don't buy it, you know, sometimes they just need
[00:16:25.940 --> 00:16:29.960] that exposure to talk to people and feel good about themselves.
[00:16:30.400 --> 00:16:32.020] That morale boost.
[00:16:32.820 --> 00:16:37.180] You know, that juice, that fuel pack.
[00:16:37.480 --> 00:16:41.560] Maybe you talking to them gave them different perspectives.
[00:16:42.680 --> 00:16:46.260] Well, how they could say, well, maybe you're not the customer or client.
[00:16:47.920 --> 00:16:52.260] But you can still get the business card information or social media.
[00:16:52.520 --> 00:16:54.580] Follow them, support them.
[00:16:55.020 --> 00:16:57.640] You know, you can help them in any way.
[00:16:59.440 --> 00:17:00.840] Let them know that.
[00:17:00.840 --> 00:17:04.160] Or say you could do it in advance at a later time.
[00:17:06.060 --> 00:17:08.000] And if they could do the same for you.
[00:17:09.560 --> 00:17:11.500] And I'll start to build that relationship.
[00:17:12.859 --> 00:17:16.000] Every month, maybe, hey, how you been? How's business?
[00:17:17.400 --> 00:17:18.319] You never know.
[00:17:18.800 --> 00:17:22.260] Maybe it could be partners someday down the line.
[00:17:22.440 --> 00:17:25.119] You never know. Maybe each other's clients.
[00:17:26.020 --> 00:17:27.400] You never know.
[00:17:28.520 --> 00:17:33.140] And that's why I always keep that hope, keep that faith,
[00:17:35.010 --> 00:17:38.930] because I've been hurt.
[00:17:40.210 --> 00:17:41.810] So badly.
[00:17:43.630 --> 00:17:51.140] So badly in my life, like trauma so much.
[00:17:53.800 --> 00:17:59.420] And I know a lot of people, other people have to like everybody goes through it.
[00:17:59.660 --> 00:18:02.600] Some people on deeper degrees or higher degrees,
[00:18:02.600 --> 00:18:07.320] and I don't know how my ass up or compared to other people's.
[00:18:07.320 --> 00:18:12.540] But I know we all feel this and all feel that hurt, all feel that pain.
[00:18:13.720 --> 00:18:16.660] That pain sometime in your heart.
[00:18:17.880 --> 00:18:19.340] It's like, oh, man.
[00:18:20.860 --> 00:18:24.700] Really? Why do I got to have a day like this?
[00:18:27.560 --> 00:18:33.680] And it hurts, you know, especially when.
[00:18:34.600 --> 00:18:37.360] You have loved ones that.
[00:18:37.400 --> 00:18:43.600] Do not know what's going on or do not understand or feel
[00:18:43.600 --> 00:18:49.180] you feel like you don't think they understand to the way you want them
[00:18:49.180 --> 00:18:52.680] to understand, they can have understanding, but not to the degree
[00:18:53.460 --> 00:18:57.140] are specific ality that you will want them to.
[00:18:58.640 --> 00:18:59.820] And it's interesting.
[00:19:01.260 --> 00:19:03.200] So we can never force
[00:19:03.200 --> 00:19:05.400] we can't force anything on anybody.
[00:19:05.760 --> 00:19:07.480] That's not even your services.
[00:19:07.720 --> 00:19:11.600] I know it's good to be aggressive is good to.
[00:19:12.360 --> 00:19:15.600] And I'll be assertive and be passionate about your brand,
[00:19:15.600 --> 00:19:19.380] the services and whatever you do, even if it's a physical product
[00:19:19.960 --> 00:19:26.080] or digital, but you can't force anything on anyone.
[00:19:27.620 --> 00:19:30.460] Go to the people who wants
[00:19:31.020 --> 00:19:33.560] your services, your products,
[00:19:33.560 --> 00:19:35.760] what you offer.
[00:19:38.150 --> 00:19:42.010] If someone's allergic to chocolate milk or milk in general,
[00:19:42.930 --> 00:19:45.930] why would you try to sell the milk?
[00:19:47.010 --> 00:19:49.390] If they cannot drink it.
[00:19:50.630 --> 00:19:53.270] Now, are there other uses of milk?
[00:19:54.230 --> 00:19:56.050] I'm sure there's thousands.
[00:19:56.730 --> 00:19:58.310] You would take a milk bath.
[00:19:58.530 --> 00:20:01.590] I've never done that, but I've seen photo shoots.
[00:20:03.310 --> 00:20:08.490] But, you know, it's depending on your message and your angle, so
[00:20:08.490 --> 00:20:10.970] but nine times out of ten, people drink milk.
[00:20:12.770 --> 00:20:16.250] So why sell to that 10 percent?
[00:20:18.620 --> 00:20:21.800] When you have people that buy cereal, most people
[00:20:22.800 --> 00:20:24.520] pour milk and cereal.
[00:20:25.820 --> 00:20:27.620] And cereal with milk.
[00:20:29.260 --> 00:20:31.540] Cookies with milk, so don't
[00:20:31.540 --> 00:20:34.160] have somebody get cookie crisps, the cereal,
[00:20:36.740 --> 00:20:38.280] and think they're not going to buy milk.
[00:20:38.720 --> 00:20:41.560] You might even get 99 percent.
[00:20:43.280 --> 00:20:45.100] Versus that 10 percent.
[00:20:46.480 --> 00:20:48.660] So that's just something to look at,
[00:20:49.040 --> 00:20:50.140] something to think about.
[00:20:52.620 --> 00:20:55.020] Just want to give everybody that encouragement.
[00:20:55.420 --> 00:20:59.200] My creative entrepreneurs, my business owners,
[00:20:59.920 --> 00:21:02.160] my artists, creatives,
[00:21:03.380 --> 00:21:06.160] media producers, content creators,
[00:21:07.420 --> 00:21:10.120] photographers, event photographers specifically.
[00:21:11.280 --> 00:21:14.840] But all my photographers, all my camera users,
[00:21:15.660 --> 00:21:18.640] videographers, media producers, podcasters.
[00:21:19.280 --> 00:21:22.400] I see y'all, I hear y'all, I feel y'all, I'm there.
[00:21:24.200 --> 00:21:27.700] And whatever I need to create to help you get through that,
[00:21:27.880 --> 00:21:28.660] let me know.
[00:21:28.720 --> 00:21:31.620] I need to build a course, make a course,
[00:21:31.620 --> 00:21:34.060] film it, do all this stuff, I will.
[00:21:35.140 --> 00:21:37.560] I know I say I have a lot of things
[00:21:38.140 --> 00:21:41.140] that I want to do and could do and should be doing.
[00:21:43.000 --> 00:21:44.080] And dream about.
[00:21:47.810 --> 00:21:52.410] I can only do one thing at a time most times, maybe two, but
[00:21:52.970 --> 00:21:54.230] one thing at a time.
[00:21:56.500 --> 00:22:00.280] But if you let me know and analyze to what I am
[00:22:00.280 --> 00:22:04.120] agreeing with and feeling and what's already going to do,
[00:22:04.120 --> 00:22:08.880] that's just confirmation that I really need to focus on this,
[00:22:08.900 --> 00:22:11.360] make this priority versus another thing.
[00:22:12.360 --> 00:22:13.700] So your feedback helps.
[00:22:13.900 --> 00:22:18.040] Even the feedback for this show is podcast,
[00:22:18.660 --> 00:22:20.580] alienized photos, industry talk.
[00:22:23.140 --> 00:22:24.220] Like, this is my baby.
[00:22:24.520 --> 00:22:27.100] This is this is something special.
[00:22:28.100 --> 00:22:30.020] And I love it.
[00:22:30.580 --> 00:22:31.740] I love you.
[00:22:32.680 --> 00:22:34.620] I know you are great.
[00:22:35.380 --> 00:22:37.380] Stay true to you.
[00:22:37.760 --> 00:22:38.880] Keep elevating.
[00:22:39.440 --> 00:22:40.320] Keep evolving.
[00:22:40.900 --> 00:22:41.880] Keep growing.
[00:22:42.660 --> 00:22:43.580] Stay calm.
[00:22:43.860 --> 00:22:45.360] Take those deep breaths.
[00:22:46.060 --> 00:22:48.600] You're wise, you're powerful, you're great.
[00:22:50.340 --> 00:22:52.900] So there's greatness within you.
[00:22:54.100 --> 00:22:56.500] When we come from the greatest source.
[00:22:57.840 --> 00:22:59.260] So always remember that.
[00:23:00.220 --> 00:23:01.580] Times get hard.
[00:23:02.060 --> 00:23:04.060] It's only a phase, just like the moon.
[00:23:05.100 --> 00:23:07.520] Let it carry over to the next day.
[00:23:08.120 --> 00:23:10.400] Go to sleep, get your rest.
[00:23:11.680 --> 00:23:13.200] No longer words to say.
[00:23:15.740 --> 00:23:21.080] And this is alienized photos, industry talk with your host,
[00:23:21.320 --> 00:23:27.920] photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alienized Photos Media.
[00:23:30.100 --> 00:23:35.100] And if you want to find more information on me, on the podcast,
[00:23:35.100 --> 00:23:38.980] on my event photography and video production services.
[00:23:39.560 --> 00:23:41.500] I want to talk and chat.
[00:23:42.340 --> 00:23:43.520] Or book me.
[00:23:44.800 --> 00:23:50.340] Follow me on all social media at Alienized Photos.
[00:23:51.800 --> 00:23:55.220] Or I could say our end.
[00:23:55.560 --> 00:24:00.520] Follow me on creative frequency.
[00:24:01.640 --> 00:24:06.180] On a creative frequency or media and also
[00:24:06.180 --> 00:24:10.460] Patreon where I do have an inner circle.
[00:24:10.860 --> 00:24:13.280] And that's the entry level right now.
[00:24:13.780 --> 00:24:17.240] Come be involved in our inner circle with me and Brie.
[00:24:18.440 --> 00:24:20.680] And to me, it's free game.
[00:24:20.740 --> 00:24:27.200] But to get in our inner circle, $10 and you can read what we have attached.
[00:24:29.440 --> 00:24:35.280] And then last but not least, visit Alienized Photos dot com.
[00:24:35.280 --> 00:24:37.180] And there's a booking link.
[00:24:37.560 --> 00:24:40.020] That you can book me directly.
[00:24:41.120 --> 00:24:43.760] You want to have a quick.
[00:24:44.260 --> 00:24:48.200] No, consulting car, maybe if we can align.
[00:24:48.720 --> 00:24:56.000] Or how I could help you, you know, visit Alienized Photos dot com.
[00:24:56.280 --> 00:25:01.220] That's Alienized Photos with a Z, Photos with an S.
[00:25:02.880 --> 00:25:05.760] Alienized Photos dot com.
[00:25:06.480 --> 00:25:08.820] And again, Alienized Photos of normal media.
[00:25:10.140 --> 00:25:17.900] And this is again, Alienized Photos in the street talk with photographer Jackson.
[00:25:19.080 --> 00:25:21.160] And I appreciate you for listening.
[00:25:22.340 --> 00:25:24.540] This has been another great episode.
[00:25:25.180 --> 00:25:27.200] And catch you on the next one.
[00:25:27.760 --> 00:25:28.880] Let's go.
[00:25:29.580 --> 00:25:32.340] Share this out to a friend and need that encouragement.
[00:25:32.940 --> 00:25:41.420] Especially if they're creative entrepreneur, run a business or even organize and curate events.
[00:25:42.420 --> 00:25:44.580] This is the perfect episode for them.
[00:25:45.020 --> 00:25:46.060] Share with them.
[00:25:46.860 --> 00:25:48.380] Have conversations about it.
[00:25:49.720 --> 00:25:54.120] And continue to keep listening to Alienized Photos in the street talk.
[00:25:55.320 --> 00:25:56.120] All right, peace.
[00:25:57.000 --> 00:25:57.540] Thank you.

========================================================================
43. Forever Grateful — Gratitude When the Bills Come Due
Season 1 · Episode 31
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/forever-grateful-gratitude-when-the-bills-come-due
========================================================================

[00:00:01.390 --> 00:00:09.450] I am forever grateful you know I had a few things that happened to me and he
[00:00:09.450 --> 00:00:15.570] would say that's bad you know listening to the previous episode about the car
[00:00:16.270 --> 00:00:24.290] upsells I had to get car maintenance the car salesman tried to sell me
[00:00:24.290 --> 00:00:30.410] another car upsell me on the different services while my car was getting
[00:00:30.410 --> 00:00:43.960] maintenance tires this is the follow-up for that the next day so today I end up
[00:00:43.960 --> 00:01:03.690] getting pulled over by the police speed limit change 25 to 35 25 20 so I end up
[00:01:03.690 --> 00:01:12.460] taking my car into service to the car shop and then the following day get
[00:01:12.460 --> 00:01:24.160] pulled over now got a speeding ticket now many would say that is a liability your
[00:01:24.160 --> 00:01:28.120] car is a liability it's costing you money it's not making you money two
[00:01:28.120 --> 00:01:38.630] days in a row that's collectively over a grand just for having a car now I'm
[00:01:38.630 --> 00:01:44.790] forever grateful you know car getting me around and I look at it as taxes you
[00:01:44.790 --> 00:01:49.970] know gotta pay the taxes gotta pay the dues gotta pay to play so it's
[00:01:49.970 --> 00:01:59.830] better than walking and it's cold weather or catching a bus you know
[00:01:59.830 --> 00:02:06.570] cost it sucks yes but I'm forever grateful I'm in a warm car I don't have
[00:02:06.570 --> 00:02:16.670] to wait for nobody I got a good running car so I'm forever grateful no
[00:02:16.670 --> 00:02:23.350] matter the circumstances and to top that off you know just just seeing
[00:02:23.350 --> 00:02:28.150] another driver just sleep at the wheel like they were going like two
[00:02:28.150 --> 00:02:33.070] three miles per hour literally on the street and it looked like they were
[00:02:33.070 --> 00:02:37.990] hunched over like they would sleep at the wheel but foot off the pedal and
[00:02:38.930 --> 00:02:44.330] you know I'm honking my horn honking my horn thank God there was no
[00:02:44.330 --> 00:02:49.570] accidents person that had the green light kind of pulled up on the side
[00:02:49.570 --> 00:02:54.750] of him I guess it was a passenger because one was out the window knocking
[00:02:54.750 --> 00:03:00.590] they pulled up next to him knocking on their window trying to wake them up so
[00:03:00.590 --> 00:03:04.070] it looks like they were sleeping they must have been asleep had to be
[00:03:04.070 --> 00:03:09.990] sleeping up I'm forever grateful because I had moments like that even in a
[00:03:09.990 --> 00:03:16.430] blizzard being sleep at the wheel after working two three jobs at a time
[00:03:16.430 --> 00:03:23.970] and you know finally getting off and being asleep at the wheel getting off
[00:03:23.970 --> 00:03:30.690] the freeway almost basically I was in a ditch right off the freeway off the
[00:03:30.690 --> 00:03:39.490] exit so I didn't even make it off the freeway and I was blessed because
[00:03:39.490 --> 00:03:42.810] anything could have happened and I wouldn't be here so I'm blessed to be
[00:03:42.810 --> 00:03:49.430] alive so to kind of see that same thing again and you know for the
[00:03:49.430 --> 00:03:56.310] city the community to help out and be there and be a concern because that car
[00:03:56.310 --> 00:04:01.570] could have caused the accident being sleep at a wheel and I understand and
[00:04:01.570 --> 00:04:07.510] we all work these jobs sometimes two and three and even four jobs at a
[00:04:07.510 --> 00:04:13.010] time sometimes just to make ends meet when at the end of the day it's not
[00:04:13.010 --> 00:04:17.390] worth it and sacrificing your sleep is not worth it and even in a
[00:04:17.390 --> 00:04:24.190] previous episode I talked about you know your health you got to take care of your health and be healthy just like you got to take care of
[00:04:24.190 --> 00:04:30.290] your car health and be healthy and also wealthy just like you have to be
[00:04:30.290 --> 00:04:39.150] healthy and wealthy health as well so get your sleep be grateful and this
[00:04:39.150 --> 00:04:44.390] is just a reminder to me especially on my entrepreneur journey forever be
[00:04:44.390 --> 00:04:50.350] look at everything as an investment and everything happens for a reason so
[00:04:50.890 --> 00:04:56.850] that's just my reminder to forever be grateful yeah only got a hundred
[00:04:56.850 --> 00:05:01.670] dollars when usually it's three hundred dollars just be grateful I'm
[00:05:01.670 --> 00:05:09.790] getting paid you know maybe it's a wedding or a large event that's like
[00:05:09.790 --> 00:05:16.370] ten hours but they only got the budget for four just be grateful still do it
[00:05:16.370 --> 00:05:22.590] you know so there's little things like that no reminders to keep me grateful
[00:05:22.590 --> 00:05:29.170] I'm forever grateful forever will be grateful and also a reminder to you be
[00:05:29.170 --> 00:05:32.990] grateful and what are things that you're ungrateful about that you can't
[00:05:32.990 --> 00:05:39.050] be grateful for that's my little spill my reminders for you and also
[00:05:39.050 --> 00:05:47.590] myself to forever be grateful and this is your host photographer Jackson Steve
[00:05:47.590 --> 00:05:53.830] Jackson of alien eyes photos media and this is another episode of alien eyes
[00:05:53.830 --> 00:06:00.550] photos industry talk thank you for tuning in if you want to book me as
[00:06:00.550 --> 00:06:05.330] an event photographer or a business coach and do some ideation sessions
[00:06:05.330 --> 00:06:14.830] business sessions you can visit alien eyes photos dot-com as alien eyes with
[00:06:14.830 --> 00:06:21.890] a z photos with s alien eyes photos dot-com and if you want to follow me
[00:06:21.890 --> 00:06:33.030] on all social media also at alien eyes photos at alien eyes photos thank you
[00:06:33.030 --> 00:06:41.130] another episode of alien eyes photos industry talk again I am photographer
[00:06:41.130 --> 00:06:47.410] Jackson I appreciate you listening to my journey and my personal entrepreneur
[00:06:47.410 --> 00:06:56.720] journal on my journey remember to be grateful so I gotta say for today
[00:06:57.240 --> 00:06:59.160] peace love and blessings

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44. From Flat Tires to Business Upsells: Lessons on Preparation, Protection, and Profit
Season 1 · Episode 30
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/from-flat-tires-to-business-upsells-lessons-on-preparation-p
========================================================================

[00:00:00.780 --> 00:00:07.240] Now this is gonna be a quick episode of reflections of my early
[00:00:09.060 --> 00:00:09.920] 2026
[00:00:09.920 --> 00:00:12.140] It's mid-january
[00:00:12.740 --> 00:00:14.460] last night
[00:00:14.460 --> 00:00:16.980] I'll call the flat
[00:00:16.980 --> 00:00:22.340] Now it's the middle of the winter in Cleveland, Ohio
[00:00:22.860 --> 00:00:26.850] And when I get cold it gets cold and we're by the lake
[00:00:27.460 --> 00:00:30.320] Lake Erie to be exact
[00:00:31.540 --> 00:00:36.200] And call the flat on the freeway with my daughter in the backseat
[00:00:37.240 --> 00:00:40.300] So, you know, I
[00:00:40.300 --> 00:00:41.880] Have to get
[00:00:41.880 --> 00:00:47.020] another tire end up changing
[00:00:47.020 --> 00:00:54.840] Tire, but always call roadside just in case or if anything and I'm glad I did so they could fill up my spare tire
[00:00:55.780 --> 00:00:58.600] I've already had the jack and the other tire off
[00:00:59.540 --> 00:01:04.319] And I one little lug nut just wanted to stick in there there's a so stuck
[00:01:04.980 --> 00:01:11.900] It was cold, but I wanted to move quickly because I had my daughter in my car
[00:01:13.860 --> 00:01:16.620] But I made arrangements for her to get picked up
[00:01:17.700 --> 00:01:18.260] because
[00:01:18.260 --> 00:01:23.600] Yeah, I don't want her to go through that especially being on the freeway
[00:01:23.600 --> 00:01:28.700] It's just yeah, but long story short the next day
[00:01:29.360 --> 00:01:31.360] Of course, I made an appointment
[00:01:31.580 --> 00:01:34.680] That night since it was the evening late evening
[00:01:34.680 --> 00:01:37.600] made an appointment for
[00:01:37.600 --> 00:01:38.840] Today
[00:01:39.880 --> 00:01:45.640] to get it done at the earliest time and
[00:01:46.180 --> 00:01:48.880] On the way to the appointment
[00:01:49.660 --> 00:01:51.660] Caught another flat
[00:01:52.560 --> 00:01:57.680] Like is it that cold that I just catch flats and you know last night
[00:01:57.680 --> 00:02:02.820] I was riding on the rim and I just I just pulled over I didn't yeah
[00:02:02.820 --> 00:02:04.160] That's unsafe
[00:02:04.160 --> 00:02:14.350] so on the way to the appointment get another flat like well come on now what is going on and
[00:02:17.150 --> 00:02:17.990] I
[00:02:17.990 --> 00:02:22.810] Just decided to get all new tires in I
[00:02:22.810 --> 00:02:23.270] came
[00:02:23.950 --> 00:02:26.870] into the dealership or
[00:02:26.870 --> 00:02:27.770] car shop
[00:02:28.830 --> 00:02:33.620] Knowing you know what I wanted
[00:02:34.440 --> 00:02:40.940] Exactly and I was new tires I actually came in there so they couldn't sell me on that but just the
[00:02:41.540 --> 00:02:43.620] quality and brand of tires
[00:02:44.220 --> 00:02:49.280] that was the only thing I knew I could have sold me on or
[00:02:49.280 --> 00:02:53.180] Try to upsell you know how it would be and
[00:02:53.180 --> 00:02:53.680] sales
[00:02:54.520 --> 00:02:58.800] But you know as a business owner. I was just thinking like wow
[00:02:58.800 --> 00:03:05.460] When we try to upsell it's it applies for almost every business, so I
[00:03:05.460 --> 00:03:11.480] Just want to give a reminder. I bring awareness, but you have upsells in your business
[00:03:12.760 --> 00:03:15.680] Like I'm still working on more upsells
[00:03:17.180 --> 00:03:22.200] But I just want to be genuine, and I don't want to be too salesy
[00:03:23.040 --> 00:03:25.780] But you know it's business
[00:03:27.410 --> 00:03:31.670] But just hearing the options and the quality is like hmm
[00:03:31.670 --> 00:03:36.710] I also did my research you know do research before you go into any meeting
[00:03:36.710 --> 00:03:43.850] Even going to the tire shop or the dealership is a meeting and treat it just like such do your research
[00:03:43.850 --> 00:03:46.310] You're not going to a
[00:03:46.310 --> 00:03:50.970] Deal with another business partner or another CEO business owner
[00:03:52.830 --> 00:03:53.550] Sponsor
[00:03:53.550 --> 00:04:01.430] Without doing your research, so even when you go on to these tire shops or whatever it may be do your research beforehand
[00:04:02.050 --> 00:04:07.410] It will save you a lot of time a lot of worry a lot of headache
[00:04:08.050 --> 00:04:09.690] and less anxiety
[00:04:10.950 --> 00:04:18.029] Gonna already know where the price is gonna be or average or ballpoint so you walk in there, and I did and
[00:04:18.029 --> 00:04:20.950] You know of course the upsells all
[00:04:21.589 --> 00:04:27.310] The wheel alignment all the oil change and this and this and then when you get the oil change the cabin filter
[00:04:27.310 --> 00:04:29.930] Oh, you're gonna get another filter two filters
[00:04:29.930 --> 00:04:36.950] And it's just so much and it's like dang added this and added that and added this oh you may need
[00:04:36.950 --> 00:04:42.890] Coverage oh you may need new bright. Oh you may need this. Oh, it's a little oily. Oh
[00:04:42.890 --> 00:04:48.870] So many things now, but it's always good to check on it and have that wellness check
[00:04:48.870 --> 00:04:52.850] Not only for yourself because you know health is well
[00:04:53.290 --> 00:04:56.650] But your cars wealth and health
[00:04:59.100 --> 00:05:02.360] Definitely you have it as an asset and not a liability
[00:05:03.260 --> 00:05:07.880] So you want to keep it healthy? You know what's its wellness and?
[00:05:09.480 --> 00:05:14.500] You know I try to get it checked out as much as possible, but always do my
[00:05:15.780 --> 00:05:16.980] little daily
[00:05:17.600 --> 00:05:19.500] checks and weekly checks
[00:05:19.500 --> 00:05:20.440] So
[00:05:21.380 --> 00:05:26.360] I'm always checking myself, but it's also good to bring it into a professional
[00:05:26.900 --> 00:05:33.700] quite often like every few months, you know I do three to six months, but
[00:05:33.700 --> 00:05:36.180] Every few months is even better
[00:05:36.700 --> 00:05:42.040] You know just like a trusted friend that is a mechanic or something like that just to
[00:05:42.420 --> 00:05:47.020] give it that outside opinion before you give it to a
[00:05:47.540 --> 00:05:49.900] Corporation or bigger business
[00:05:51.060 --> 00:05:51.900] Yeah
[00:05:52.540 --> 00:05:54.800] Do you have upsells in your business?
[00:05:56.480 --> 00:05:57.220] but
[00:05:57.220 --> 00:06:01.380] That's just something I wanted to ponder on and kind of reflect
[00:06:01.380 --> 00:06:05.040] Going back to my previous episodes of offers
[00:06:05.040 --> 00:06:07.220] Make that offer
[00:06:07.220 --> 00:06:12.620] But now we're talking about upsells, so what are you upselling in your business?
[00:06:14.630 --> 00:06:15.990] This has been
[00:06:15.990 --> 00:06:18.730] Alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:06:18.730 --> 00:06:24.770] With your host photographer Jackson Steve Jackson of alien eyes photos media
[00:06:24.770 --> 00:06:30.790] And this is another episode of alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:06:30.790 --> 00:06:32.990] And if you want to book me
[00:06:34.030 --> 00:06:38.430] Or check out the website for more information that is
[00:06:39.230 --> 00:06:41.630] alien eyes photos
[00:06:41.630 --> 00:06:48.070] Com that's alien eyes with a z photos with a s calm
[00:06:48.850 --> 00:06:54.670] Alien eyes photos calm and you could follow me at alien eyes photos
[00:06:55.270 --> 00:06:58.170] That's alien eyes photos on all
[00:06:58.170 --> 00:06:58.990] media
[00:06:59.990 --> 00:07:03.870] Alright y'all take care get those upsells peace

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45. David Shands In Cleveland
Season 1 · Episode 29
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/david-shands-in-cleveland
========================================================================

[00:00:00.980 --> 00:00:05.680] Yo, this episode,
[00:00:07.760 --> 00:00:12.000] it's my reflection when David Shans came to Cleveland.
[00:00:13.340 --> 00:00:16.820] Man, I remember it like it was yesterday.
[00:00:18.340 --> 00:00:20.680] I know I had to work the previous night,
[00:00:22.220 --> 00:00:24.860] but it was an early day
[00:00:24.860 --> 00:00:26.900] because he wanted to speak at his school.
[00:00:28.970 --> 00:00:30.910] And just a little backstory,
[00:00:32.810 --> 00:00:39.730] my team was responsible for getting David Shans here
[00:00:39.730 --> 00:00:40.250] in Cleveland.
[00:00:41.290 --> 00:00:45.090] Like I wasn't a part of the deal necessarily,
[00:00:45.210 --> 00:00:51.760] but I was there helping with the organization
[00:00:52.080 --> 00:00:55.360] of the day, the flow of events,
[00:00:55.460 --> 00:00:58.480] and also doing the capturing,
[00:00:58.480 --> 00:01:02.360] the documentary capturing for the day.
[00:01:03.860 --> 00:01:10.120] But originally, David Shans was doing
[00:01:10.120 --> 00:01:14.520] a podcast summit promotion tour
[00:01:14.740 --> 00:01:17.500] and he was going to different cities
[00:01:18.480 --> 00:01:23.020] and he was offering deals
[00:01:23.020 --> 00:01:27.360] for getting him in your city
[00:01:27.360 --> 00:01:31.040] and my team here in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:01:32.440 --> 00:01:35.800] The pull-up experience was a big part of that deal.
[00:01:36.700 --> 00:01:38.420] You know, there was other factors,
[00:01:38.480 --> 00:01:44.430] but we were responsible for getting him in Cleveland
[00:01:45.370 --> 00:01:47.810] and speaking to our audience,
[00:01:48.610 --> 00:01:53.670] our collective audience of entrepreneurs and podcasters.
[00:01:55.970 --> 00:01:57.770] Like the room was packed
[00:02:01.220 --> 00:02:05.020] and going back to the beginning of the day,
[00:02:06.100 --> 00:02:07.380] you know, meeting up my team
[00:02:07.380 --> 00:02:10.699] and meeting David Shans in person for the first time.
[00:02:12.820 --> 00:02:15.320] Cool man, cool guy, oh my man.
[00:02:18.060 --> 00:02:21.400] I see why he is a successful in business
[00:02:22.100 --> 00:02:24.080] and just how he carried himself
[00:02:24.080 --> 00:02:28.820] and a God-fearing man, a faithful man,
[00:02:28.820 --> 00:02:32.640] man of faith, a great entrepreneur,
[00:02:33.800 --> 00:02:37.740] brilliant talent, amazing interviewer.
[00:02:39.900 --> 00:02:47.130] And got to the school, took some pictures,
[00:02:48.930 --> 00:02:50.550] and then we got the day started.
[00:02:53.170 --> 00:02:58.840] You know, I'm speaking to a young man.
[00:02:59.260 --> 00:03:00.640] It was an all-boys school.
[00:03:04.490 --> 00:03:11.510] And just the, man, it's so much.
[00:03:12.090 --> 00:03:19.550] Just the moments leading up to it is wow.
[00:03:20.610 --> 00:03:26.050] But he gave the students the encouragement
[00:03:26.430 --> 00:03:29.450] and even the game on entrepreneurship
[00:03:30.950 --> 00:03:37.410] a practical and tactical, actionable step to take
[00:03:37.410 --> 00:03:41.950] to make money right that day.
[00:03:44.920 --> 00:03:49.280] He even gave out money to some of the students
[00:03:49.580 --> 00:03:56.220] that took action, quick action, invested in the students.
[00:03:57.100 --> 00:04:02.140] And also the knowledge and encouragement
[00:04:02.140 --> 00:04:06.140] or entrepreneurship, which he is big
[00:04:06.140 --> 00:04:09.360] and preaching entrepreneurship, especially to the youth
[00:04:09.360 --> 00:04:14.610] and giving back excellent motivational speakers.
[00:04:17.579 --> 00:04:18.980] And just all the things.
[00:04:18.980 --> 00:04:21.779] And the things he's into and the things he do.
[00:04:22.700 --> 00:04:23.740] Very successful.
[00:04:26.180 --> 00:04:30.220] I'm pretty sure if he was wanted to pursue
[00:04:30.220 --> 00:04:32.440] that rapping career again, you know,
[00:04:32.440 --> 00:04:34.600] he'd be successful doing music.
[00:04:36.420 --> 00:04:39.980] But yeah, man, just an amazing talent, excellent guy.
[00:04:41.640 --> 00:04:44.360] And then after we left the school,
[00:04:46.460 --> 00:04:50.440] that's kind of when we did the interview.
[00:04:53.150 --> 00:04:55.390] Of course, I'm filming, I'm setting up,
[00:04:55.710 --> 00:04:58.010] setting up lights, I'm setting up mics.
[00:04:59.110 --> 00:05:00.930] You know, getting ready for my team,
[00:05:01.110 --> 00:05:02.610] you know, to pull up experience,
[00:05:03.730 --> 00:05:08.690] to interview David Shands of the Social Proof Podcast.
[00:05:10.590 --> 00:05:11.690] It was amazing.
[00:05:14.310 --> 00:05:17.510] It was like a dream come true for a lot of our team.
[00:05:20.590 --> 00:05:23.010] Getting him to Cleveland was still a dream.
[00:05:23.010 --> 00:05:24.790] Like, yeah, we got to do business,
[00:05:24.930 --> 00:05:26.170] but we got to get you here in Cleveland
[00:05:26.170 --> 00:05:28.970] some way somehow and get you on the podcast.
[00:05:28.990 --> 00:05:31.050] And we did all of that.
[00:05:35.520 --> 00:05:38.560] And just going back to episode, what was that?
[00:05:39.000 --> 00:05:42.100] 200, episode 200 of the pull-up experience
[00:05:42.100 --> 00:05:43.520] of Mr. David Shands.
[00:05:47.050 --> 00:05:49.070] Man, I listen to it often.
[00:05:49.290 --> 00:05:53.650] One of the pull-up experience podcast episodes
[00:05:53.650 --> 00:05:54.850] I listen to often.
[00:05:58.090 --> 00:06:02.270] And just the wisdom and authenticity,
[00:06:03.830 --> 00:06:04.950] the transparency.
[00:06:06.490 --> 00:06:08.250] And shout out to Donnie Wiggins too,
[00:06:09.090 --> 00:06:10.750] for Transparency Podcast,
[00:06:11.530 --> 00:06:14.010] his co-partner on the Social Proof Podcast.
[00:06:14.450 --> 00:06:16.310] It'd have been amazing to get them both out,
[00:06:17.470 --> 00:06:19.990] but you know, start small.
[00:06:21.150 --> 00:06:22.930] And it was a blessing to have David Shands
[00:06:22.930 --> 00:06:25.390] here in Cleveland and show him around
[00:06:25.390 --> 00:06:28.970] and have him speak to our network, our audience.
[00:06:30.350 --> 00:06:33.430] And after the podcast was the live event
[00:06:33.430 --> 00:06:36.910] where he did speak more to our audience.
[00:06:37.050 --> 00:06:40.610] Now we had a live audience for the podcast as well.
[00:06:42.150 --> 00:06:43.350] And you know, lunch.
[00:06:44.870 --> 00:06:46.830] And then the main event.
[00:06:47.710 --> 00:06:51.630] And he spoke more about podcasting himself.
[00:06:52.930 --> 00:06:55.730] He spoke more about the podcast summit.
[00:06:55.970 --> 00:06:57.610] I think it was what, year two?
[00:07:00.250 --> 00:07:01.950] And even made an offer.
[00:07:03.490 --> 00:07:06.250] I think it was like a Cleveland exclusive offer.
[00:07:13.010 --> 00:07:15.330] And I knew I had to be there.
[00:07:17.150 --> 00:07:18.630] I knew I had to be there.
[00:07:18.690 --> 00:07:20.530] I didn't have a podcast at the time,
[00:07:20.550 --> 00:07:24.210] but of course I was working with a couple podcasts
[00:07:26.230 --> 00:07:27.650] a few years ago.
[00:07:28.320 --> 00:07:30.490] And now I have my own podcast.
[00:07:30.570 --> 00:07:34.570] So it was like, maybe you're planting a seed
[00:07:34.570 --> 00:07:39.490] somewhere down the line or even just the content
[00:07:39.490 --> 00:07:41.870] and Social Proof Podcast itself,
[00:07:42.570 --> 00:07:43.310] somewhere down the line,
[00:07:43.430 --> 00:07:46.310] planting that seed to start a podcast, start a podcast.
[00:07:46.690 --> 00:07:48.530] Really start another podcast.
[00:07:48.630 --> 00:07:52.750] This is my second podcast as I had another podcast
[00:07:52.750 --> 00:07:56.270] called Lyrical Logic when I was a musician.
[00:07:58.230 --> 00:08:05.090] Interviewing different spoken word artists, poets, writers,
[00:08:05.950 --> 00:08:10.130] and musicians, breaking down different lyrics
[00:08:10.130 --> 00:08:16.570] of songs, poems, and also their body of work
[00:08:16.570 --> 00:08:18.090] and have them perform.
[00:08:19.430 --> 00:08:21.370] It was also an audio podcast.
[00:08:21.450 --> 00:08:23.270] That's why I'm so big on audio.
[00:08:23.350 --> 00:08:25.110] Cause it's like, I got to do it right there
[00:08:25.110 --> 00:08:26.850] in a moment, we don't got to worry about the lights
[00:08:26.850 --> 00:08:28.810] and is it filming, is it still recording?
[00:08:29.010 --> 00:08:33.830] It cuts off at 30 minutes, really 29 and 59 seconds.
[00:08:34.270 --> 00:08:36.190] So I was like, yeah, I don't even worry about that.
[00:08:37.010 --> 00:08:40.870] Just set up a nice clean microphone and speak.
[00:08:43.570 --> 00:08:46.990] It's a beauty, it's more authentic this way to me,
[00:08:46.990 --> 00:08:49.930] at least like that old school radio
[00:08:49.930 --> 00:08:51.590] and having those interviews.
[00:08:52.970 --> 00:08:54.790] Video was good too and I do a lot of video.
[00:08:54.790 --> 00:08:57.590] I have a production company, media company.
[00:08:58.790 --> 00:09:01.490] So I mean, video is important.
[00:09:01.550 --> 00:09:03.950] I just don't focus on it.
[00:09:04.250 --> 00:09:06.770] But I do have clips here and there.
[00:09:07.850 --> 00:09:12.530] But yeah, I knew when David Shams made that offer though
[00:09:14.070 --> 00:09:15.770] it was something I had to get on.
[00:09:15.790 --> 00:09:17.250] I'm glad I did.
[00:09:19.010 --> 00:09:21.690] And not only a lot of our team,
[00:09:22.170 --> 00:09:24.570] I think everybody from our team went
[00:09:24.570 --> 00:09:30.490] except for one person that year, year or two.
[00:09:32.690 --> 00:09:42.780] And not only that me and the team went,
[00:09:42.980 --> 00:09:47.100] which is amazing to have a whole team in another city.
[00:09:47.720 --> 00:09:51.220] I'm talking about it was like eight, nine of us.
[00:09:52.340 --> 00:09:56.580] But like, man, we also had a lot of people
[00:09:56.580 --> 00:09:59.600] from Cleveland come out and show out.
[00:09:59.600 --> 00:10:06.020] And that's just the testimony of build your community
[00:10:06.440 --> 00:10:08.000] and invite people in.
[00:10:08.900 --> 00:10:12.540] If we didn't have a network or a good community
[00:10:12.540 --> 00:10:15.580] or supporting community and people that believed in us,
[00:10:17.680 --> 00:10:23.460] he wouldn't have a lot of Clevelanders in Atlanta
[00:10:24.280 --> 00:10:28.900] for the podcast summit and giving him the opportunity
[00:10:28.900 --> 00:10:30.320] to speak to our audience.
[00:10:31.180 --> 00:10:35.580] And that just was a big trade-off for
[00:10:36.600 --> 00:10:38.420] us coming to the podcast summit
[00:10:38.420 --> 00:10:41.380] and he introducing us to his audience
[00:10:41.380 --> 00:10:44.600] and people that follow him as well.
[00:10:45.440 --> 00:10:49.400] So it's just amazing to invest in yourself.
[00:10:50.600 --> 00:10:52.140] I think that's the biggest thing.
[00:10:53.660 --> 00:10:55.620] I know he invested in himself.
[00:10:56.300 --> 00:10:58.760] So again, invest in yourself.
[00:11:00.140 --> 00:11:03.920] It's a critical thing for you, your life, your business,
[00:11:04.400 --> 00:11:07.120] your family, it's important.
[00:11:09.140 --> 00:11:11.060] But yeah, I just want to announce that
[00:11:11.700 --> 00:11:14.460] this podcast summit 2026,
[00:11:15.700 --> 00:11:17.780] man, you can find the whole team
[00:11:17.780 --> 00:11:18.960] with a pull-up experience
[00:11:18.960 --> 00:11:24.040] and also creative frequency at the podcast summit 2026.
[00:11:25.620 --> 00:11:29.800] We're going to be vendors this year, so stay tuned to that.
[00:11:30.340 --> 00:11:33.280] Don't know which booth, but that's just us
[00:11:33.280 --> 00:11:36.300] being a testimony of investing in yourself.
[00:11:37.420 --> 00:11:38.680] This is important.
[00:11:38.860 --> 00:11:43.340] And even if we're attending the podcast summit itself
[00:11:44.270 --> 00:11:48.220] and just attending and going to the workshops and sessions,
[00:11:49.200 --> 00:11:50.660] we're still investing in ourselves.
[00:11:51.360 --> 00:11:53.940] So either way, we're investing in ourselves,
[00:11:53.940 --> 00:11:58.060] taking that bet on us and trusting the process
[00:11:58.060 --> 00:12:02.320] and what David Shands has built and continue to build
[00:12:02.320 --> 00:12:04.060] and everything he do.
[00:12:04.640 --> 00:12:09.480] Man, he deserve all the flowers that I have.
[00:12:10.500 --> 00:12:13.800] Looking up to him as an entrepreneur and leader
[00:12:14.370 --> 00:12:20.240] and what he's done with the entrepreneur community
[00:12:20.240 --> 00:12:24.180] and non-podcast community and beyond,
[00:12:25.520 --> 00:12:26.620] it's amazing.
[00:12:26.760 --> 00:12:32.260] And just seeing his journey in the fitness,
[00:12:33.020 --> 00:12:36.780] not even had a chance to have a run with him
[00:12:36.780 --> 00:12:40.780] before day two of the podcast summit 2025.
[00:12:43.160 --> 00:12:44.740] It was supposed to be a walk,
[00:12:45.400 --> 00:12:48.220] but it ended up being whoever wanted to walk,
[00:12:48.220 --> 00:12:50.540] and whoever wanted to run, run.
[00:12:51.920 --> 00:12:54.700] He started off running, but 20 seconds in,
[00:12:54.700 --> 00:12:57.320] he was up there with us with the runners
[00:12:57.320 --> 00:12:59.380] and had a good time, man.
[00:12:59.400 --> 00:13:01.760] I think he was like top three or who all.
[00:13:01.900 --> 00:13:07.000] It was like 150 of us between walking and running.
[00:13:07.400 --> 00:13:09.760] So just to see all that in the community
[00:13:09.760 --> 00:13:12.380] between other podcasters and entrepreneurs,
[00:13:13.020 --> 00:13:14.020] it was amazing.
[00:13:14.500 --> 00:13:17.740] It's just to have the opportunity and get that sweat in
[00:13:17.740 --> 00:13:19.480] before the day has started.
[00:13:19.620 --> 00:13:21.420] We started writing early,
[00:13:22.080 --> 00:13:24.380] and I had a chance to take a shower, eat,
[00:13:24.720 --> 00:13:26.940] talk to my lady before the summit.
[00:13:27.720 --> 00:13:29.680] So it was just an amazing day,
[00:13:29.820 --> 00:13:32.340] amazing experience and getting the bluffs on
[00:13:32.340 --> 00:13:35.020] and the motivation rocking.
[00:13:36.540 --> 00:13:40.640] Man, just an amazing entrepreneur,
[00:13:41.620 --> 00:13:45.860] amazing builder, community-driven faith,
[00:13:49.420 --> 00:13:53.220] man, so many things, like I say,
[00:13:53.760 --> 00:13:57.760] just motivator to this resilience and curiosity,
[00:13:58.000 --> 00:14:04.220] which is kind of funny because everybody asking them.
[00:14:05.060 --> 00:14:07.240] To me, it was like deep questions,
[00:14:07.860 --> 00:14:10.380] but I had a chance to ask them a question.
[00:14:10.640 --> 00:14:14.180] I'm like, man, I've never seen a bad interview from you.
[00:14:14.560 --> 00:14:15.840] What are some of the things that you've done
[00:14:15.840 --> 00:14:17.540] or some of the things that you do
[00:14:17.540 --> 00:14:19.520] to prepare for these interviews
[00:14:19.520 --> 00:14:21.780] or how you always ask good questions?
[00:14:22.200 --> 00:14:23.220] Like, what's the secret?
[00:14:24.860 --> 00:14:27.780] It was like, just stay curious.
[00:14:28.180 --> 00:14:32.280] It was like, just stay curious.
[00:14:33.700 --> 00:14:36.640] So that was definitely well-received.
[00:14:37.620 --> 00:14:43.640] Just the curiosity of the things to help you build.
[00:14:43.640 --> 00:14:49.060] Like a lot of the greats were curious and asked questions.
[00:14:49.940 --> 00:14:52.620] And maybe that is a testimony of why
[00:14:52.620 --> 00:14:54.960] I started another podcast.
[00:14:55.040 --> 00:14:57.080] Like I had a podcast, Lyrical Logic,
[00:14:57.720 --> 00:14:59.840] back in the day when I was a musician,
[00:15:00.860 --> 00:15:04.420] interviewing poets, spoken word artists and musicians.
[00:15:04.800 --> 00:15:06.800] And it's often from time to time.
[00:15:07.400 --> 00:15:10.980] And we break down different lyrics and songs and poems
[00:15:11.700 --> 00:15:15.880] and have them share their body of work and perform.
[00:15:16.100 --> 00:15:19.360] And then we break down one of their songs or poems.
[00:15:20.340 --> 00:15:23.680] So yeah, that was a great moment in time for me,
[00:15:24.280 --> 00:15:27.200] but I didn't publicly publish it.
[00:15:27.540 --> 00:15:29.780] I just had a lot of recorded episodes,
[00:15:29.860 --> 00:15:34.000] which I may even drop very soon,
[00:15:34.600 --> 00:15:36.840] just as extra content.
[00:15:37.960 --> 00:15:40.200] It could be like my little science experiment.
[00:15:42.960 --> 00:15:46.040] But just like the little seeds and nuggets,
[00:15:46.960 --> 00:15:51.300] he planned it to help me be where I'm at now
[00:15:51.300 --> 00:15:53.360] and even start my own podcast.
[00:15:54.000 --> 00:15:58.720] As the director or film in the behind the scenes
[00:15:58.720 --> 00:16:00.080] of a couple podcasts.
[00:16:01.560 --> 00:16:05.540] So it is just a testimony of the little things
[00:16:06.420 --> 00:16:11.120] that David Shands do and help motivate others
[00:16:11.120 --> 00:16:13.120] and encourage others.
[00:16:14.680 --> 00:16:16.660] And like I said,
[00:16:17.080 --> 00:16:19.340] you deserve the flowers and there's the flowers.
[00:16:19.960 --> 00:16:22.020] And keep doing what you got to do
[00:16:22.020 --> 00:16:27.080] to be who you got to be because you are doing that.
[00:16:28.580 --> 00:16:29.700] Keep being amazing.
[00:16:30.120 --> 00:16:31.260] Keep being phenomenal.
[00:16:32.360 --> 00:16:33.460] Keep being inspiring.
[00:16:34.240 --> 00:16:35.400] Keep being powerful.
[00:16:35.660 --> 00:16:36.320] Keep leading.
[00:16:38.000 --> 00:16:39.300] Keep doing big things.
[00:16:40.760 --> 00:16:45.640] So I see everyone at Podcast Summit 2026.
[00:16:47.220 --> 00:16:49.960] Check out one of the later episodes
[00:16:50.640 --> 00:16:53.840] about where we're going to be located for Vending.
[00:16:55.140 --> 00:16:59.020] Cause yeah, we're besting ourselves this year even more.
[00:16:59.740 --> 00:17:01.900] We're like, yeah, let's talk to the community.
[00:17:01.940 --> 00:17:03.060] Let's talk to the people.
[00:17:03.900 --> 00:17:06.960] Let's engage and let's help them as well.
[00:17:07.240 --> 00:17:08.060] Share our knowledge.
[00:17:09.220 --> 00:17:12.680] So yeah, we'll be at the Podcast Summit 2026.
[00:17:13.319 --> 00:17:17.400] Looking forward to it and follow Podcast Summit on IG
[00:17:17.940 --> 00:17:21.420] and Facebook and wherever they're posted up at.
[00:17:22.500 --> 00:17:23.599] Get your ticket.
[00:17:24.220 --> 00:17:25.359] Get your ticket.
[00:17:25.420 --> 00:17:28.200] I may have a code for you.
[00:17:28.339 --> 00:17:29.840] So stay tuned to that.
[00:17:29.840 --> 00:17:33.060] But go get your ticket, Podcast Summit.
[00:17:33.580 --> 00:17:34.860] You don't want to miss it.
[00:17:34.980 --> 00:17:36.080] They sell out quick.
[00:17:37.200 --> 00:17:41.660] And then follow Mr. David Shands on David Shands
[00:17:41.660 --> 00:17:44.080] on IG and Facebook.
[00:17:47.360 --> 00:17:49.220] Most, most platforms.
[00:17:50.060 --> 00:17:53.420] But IG is where I follow the G.
[00:17:54.960 --> 00:17:59.300] My guy and then also Social Proof Podcast.
[00:17:59.300 --> 00:18:01.960] You've got to check out the Social Proof Podcast,
[00:18:02.140 --> 00:18:04.660] especially if you're a business owner or entrepreneur,
[00:18:04.820 --> 00:18:05.680] it is a must.
[00:18:06.660 --> 00:18:08.740] Follow them on IG as well.
[00:18:09.540 --> 00:18:12.920] And then follow my team, the Pull Up Experience.
[00:18:14.220 --> 00:18:19.280] The Pull Up EXP on IG and also our YouTube channel,
[00:18:20.240 --> 00:18:22.980] which we have over a million views
[00:18:22.980 --> 00:18:28.300] and counting 20 plus, 20,000 plus subscribers.
[00:18:28.300 --> 00:18:30.940] So the community is building.
[00:18:31.660 --> 00:18:34.140] So check out the Pull Up Experience Podcast
[00:18:34.140 --> 00:18:38.020] and they'll be with us as I'm part of this team as well,
[00:18:38.240 --> 00:18:41.340] creative director and a lot of behind the scenes,
[00:18:41.480 --> 00:18:45.860] especially on interview days with the Pull Up Experience
[00:18:45.860 --> 00:18:49.940] and then creative frequency on a creative frequency
[00:18:49.940 --> 00:18:52.780] that's me and Brie and I, Casanova
[00:18:54.080 --> 00:18:56.300] and of Overflow Studios, by the way,
[00:18:56.300 --> 00:18:58.720] which is our own production company.
[00:18:59.680 --> 00:19:03.340] But we come together and we started this journey
[00:19:04.020 --> 00:19:08.600] with creative frequency and on a creative frequency
[00:19:08.860 --> 00:19:13.420] is a movement and also accountability hub
[00:19:13.420 --> 00:19:15.920] for creative entrepreneurs,
[00:19:16.540 --> 00:19:19.600] helping you to stay creative through different challenges
[00:19:19.600 --> 00:19:23.320] and also inspiration through our community.
[00:19:23.320 --> 00:19:27.680] So if you wanna get in, get into our inner circle,
[00:19:28.280 --> 00:19:31.680] visit us on Patreon on a creative frequency
[00:19:32.200 --> 00:19:35.960] and go check out our creative frequency page
[00:19:36.440 --> 00:19:39.100] and tune into our inner circle.
[00:19:39.220 --> 00:19:43.660] I think it's like $10, so invest in for the win.
[00:19:44.220 --> 00:19:47.620] And it's a lot of things that we're gonna help you
[00:19:47.620 --> 00:19:49.960] with and keep you accountable for.
[00:19:50.480 --> 00:19:54.800] So yeah, get in while you can, pay the 10 to win.
[00:19:55.520 --> 00:19:59.140] Visit us on Patreon, creative frequency
[00:20:00.060 --> 00:20:09.380] and then you can follow me on IG, at alien eyes photos.
[00:20:09.740 --> 00:20:14.600] That's at alien eyes with a Z, photos with a S.
[00:20:15.600 --> 00:20:18.540] And if you want more information on our finest podcast,
[00:20:18.540 --> 00:20:26.900] visit alien eyes photos.com, alien eyes photos.com.
[00:20:27.080 --> 00:20:30.720] Book in or check out more information
[00:20:30.720 --> 00:20:35.920] about my photography services and video production
[00:20:37.780 --> 00:20:39.200] and also coaching.
[00:20:40.980 --> 00:20:44.220] So stay tuned to a lot and where Booth
[00:20:44.220 --> 00:20:46.860] we're gonna be at while we're at podcast summit
[00:20:47.400 --> 00:20:50.800] and we'll see you at the future podcast summit.
[00:20:52.100 --> 00:20:54.940] We haven't missed a beat yet since we've been
[00:20:54.940 --> 00:20:58.660] to the first podcast summit that we've been to,
[00:20:58.740 --> 00:20:59.920] which was year two.
[00:21:00.520 --> 00:21:03.680] Year three was amazing and now we're looking forward
[00:21:03.680 --> 00:21:06.020] to year four and now we're vendors.
[00:21:06.860 --> 00:21:09.480] So it's gonna be an amazing journey,
[00:21:09.720 --> 00:21:13.180] amazing experience and we'll see y'all soon.
[00:21:14.000 --> 00:21:16.220] All right, peace.

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46. Mastermind Inner Circle - Creative Frequency
Season 1 · Episode 28
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/mastermind-inner-circle-creative-frequency
========================================================================

[00:00:01.230 --> 00:00:06.670] do what you have to do to get where you need to be.
[00:00:08.450 --> 00:00:17.270] Do what you have to do to get where you need to be.
[00:00:19.760 --> 00:00:21.060] And that is real.
[00:00:23.000 --> 00:00:30.200] You know, I just came off this multi-day mastermind
[00:00:32.479 --> 00:00:34.700] and my ideas is just rolling.
[00:00:34.820 --> 00:00:38.260] I'm always bringing good ideas.
[00:00:39.280 --> 00:00:41.060] And I love, you know, the more that I talk
[00:00:41.060 --> 00:00:43.740] and other people's talk and bring their ideas
[00:00:43.740 --> 00:00:45.460] and we share ideas.
[00:00:45.580 --> 00:00:48.200] And I get even more ideas from their ideas.
[00:00:48.540 --> 00:00:50.980] Like, wow, I never thought of it like this
[00:00:50.980 --> 00:00:52.120] and change the angle.
[00:00:52.200 --> 00:00:57.000] Like, man, we all have these ideas.
[00:00:57.500 --> 00:01:01.700] Are we always around someone who has a lot of ideas?
[00:01:02.540 --> 00:01:05.000] But those ideas are nothing.
[00:01:06.280 --> 00:01:09.540] They're nothing if we don't do anything,
[00:01:10.180 --> 00:01:13.400] if we don't put the action behind it and execute.
[00:01:16.430 --> 00:01:21.390] Now, everybody that knows me and my circles,
[00:01:21.690 --> 00:01:23.150] not just circles, circles,
[00:01:24.290 --> 00:01:28.170] and also my inner community, my inner circle,
[00:01:28.850 --> 00:01:33.770] shout out to Creative Frequency on a Creator Frequency.
[00:01:34.270 --> 00:01:37.750] Act on a Creator Frequency on all social media.
[00:01:37.810 --> 00:01:41.270] Follow us, that's me and Brie.
[00:01:42.170 --> 00:01:46.930] Lady B, R, Brie, Anna, Kassa, Nova.
[00:01:48.070 --> 00:01:51.530] Man, two talented creative entrepreneurs
[00:01:52.050 --> 00:01:55.050] really living our dream.
[00:01:57.680 --> 00:01:59.280] Really living our dream.
[00:01:59.280 --> 00:02:04.540] And people in my inner circles know that I love teaching.
[00:02:06.120 --> 00:02:08.080] That is how I got the name Sensei.
[00:02:11.180 --> 00:02:13.560] And I hear like, oh, you should do classes.
[00:02:13.660 --> 00:02:14.780] Oh, you should do masterminds.
[00:02:14.780 --> 00:02:16.120] Oh, you should do this, do that, do that.
[00:02:17.460 --> 00:02:19.200] There's a lot of things I wanna do
[00:02:19.200 --> 00:02:22.580] and have ideas for, of doing and building
[00:02:22.580 --> 00:02:27.180] and creating and developing and partnering with.
[00:02:29.940 --> 00:02:33.180] But one step at a time, one thing at a time,
[00:02:34.040 --> 00:02:36.000] and I don't like doing multiple things,
[00:02:36.140 --> 00:02:37.920] new things at a time.
[00:02:39.140 --> 00:02:41.860] And I've been in my photography business for,
[00:02:42.740 --> 00:02:44.300] well, officially three years,
[00:02:44.380 --> 00:02:47.040] but I've been filming and doing photography
[00:02:47.040 --> 00:02:50.680] for about seven years now.
[00:02:53.520 --> 00:02:55.220] And I took my time with it
[00:02:55.220 --> 00:02:57.060] because I was doing music and poetry,
[00:02:57.060 --> 00:03:00.680] you know, writing, creating, performing, recording.
[00:03:01.940 --> 00:03:03.660] And I made that shift.
[00:03:06.400 --> 00:03:08.400] Got training, self-training.
[00:03:09.540 --> 00:03:11.720] Bought courses, bought books,
[00:03:12.420 --> 00:03:14.000] invested in myself, bought a camera,
[00:03:14.080 --> 00:03:15.140] professional camera.
[00:03:15.460 --> 00:03:17.960] I'm like, yeah, I gotta go all in now.
[00:03:18.420 --> 00:03:19.960] I was using an iPhone,
[00:03:20.080 --> 00:03:22.620] like I'm a wizard with the iPhone, don't get me wrong.
[00:03:22.940 --> 00:03:24.240] Still to this day,
[00:03:24.440 --> 00:03:28.300] I create some great content on the phone.
[00:03:30.140 --> 00:03:33.040] On the phone, iPhone, let me correct, iPhone.
[00:03:34.120 --> 00:03:36.280] Give me no Android, no other stuff.
[00:03:36.940 --> 00:03:38.780] I heard they're pretty good though,
[00:03:38.900 --> 00:03:41.460] but give me iPhone because that's what I know,
[00:03:41.640 --> 00:03:43.620] that's what I use, and that's how I started.
[00:03:45.320 --> 00:03:47.220] You know, I used a little windup camera,
[00:03:47.340 --> 00:03:50.460] the little 12-shot film cameras
[00:03:50.460 --> 00:03:52.020] back in the day when I was little.
[00:03:54.860 --> 00:03:56.440] You know, my mother brought me two,
[00:03:56.720 --> 00:03:58.260] so I had 24 shots.
[00:03:59.000 --> 00:04:00.320] When I went on a field trip,
[00:04:00.320 --> 00:04:01.800] she always got me two cameras.
[00:04:02.780 --> 00:04:04.800] Well, she stopped giving me two
[00:04:04.800 --> 00:04:06.300] and started just buying me one.
[00:04:06.640 --> 00:04:08.140] So I really had 12 shots,
[00:04:08.140 --> 00:04:10.720] and it was a time that, you know,
[00:04:10.720 --> 00:04:12.620] we didn't have the money at the time.
[00:04:13.880 --> 00:04:15.720] You know how it is growing up.
[00:04:16.920 --> 00:04:18.440] Priorities, you know, do you wanna eat
[00:04:18.440 --> 00:04:19.339] or do you want this camera?
[00:04:20.399 --> 00:04:23.700] You know, I chose some snacks over the camera,
[00:04:23.840 --> 00:04:24.860] so I'm like, all right.
[00:04:25.220 --> 00:04:27.180] So I only got one camera at the time.
[00:04:27.760 --> 00:04:29.240] So I only had 12 shots.
[00:04:29.240 --> 00:04:31.460] Went to the zoo, you know,
[00:04:31.540 --> 00:04:33.460] seeing different animals I've never seen before.
[00:04:33.600 --> 00:04:36.980] I'm like six, six, seven, six or seven,
[00:04:37.100 --> 00:04:38.760] or maybe even, no, I don't think I was eight.
[00:04:39.140 --> 00:04:41.320] I was like six or seven, six, seven.
[00:04:41.540 --> 00:04:44.540] But anyway, I was around that young age
[00:04:44.540 --> 00:04:46.360] going on a field trip to the zoo,
[00:04:46.780 --> 00:04:47.660] seeing these new animals.
[00:04:47.760 --> 00:04:48.720] I'm just clicking the button.
[00:04:48.860 --> 00:04:50.420] I'm like, I wanna remember all this.
[00:04:51.540 --> 00:04:54.660] We didn't even get 10 minutes into the zoo.
[00:04:55.620 --> 00:04:58.740] I see a number in the bottom corner that says two.
[00:04:59.580 --> 00:05:06.960] I'm like, ooh, is this the number of photos
[00:05:06.960 --> 00:05:09.200] I'm able to take that's left?
[00:05:10.140 --> 00:05:14.580] Well, I used it on a random thing, a test shot.
[00:05:14.940 --> 00:05:17.120] Let me test, let me just press this button.
[00:05:17.520 --> 00:05:19.520] I'm like, no, let me just wait for something
[00:05:19.520 --> 00:05:21.700] I really wanna take a picture of before I click it.
[00:05:21.880 --> 00:05:24.980] Like I was very intuitive and it's back in the day,
[00:05:25.340 --> 00:05:28.060] like young, just imagine me now.
[00:05:29.820 --> 00:05:32.920] And it wasn't something I really wanted to take a picture of,
[00:05:33.040 --> 00:05:35.580] but I'm like, if I take a picture of this, it's decent.
[00:05:36.240 --> 00:05:38.900] Enough for me to want to remember it.
[00:05:39.380 --> 00:05:40.960] I clicked it, I seen that number change.
[00:05:41.120 --> 00:05:46.040] I'm like, oh, I only have one picture left.
[00:05:47.840 --> 00:05:51.080] One photo left, oh my goodness.
[00:05:52.840 --> 00:05:55.200] We just got in the zoo.
[00:05:55.540 --> 00:05:57.740] We just started, I only got one photo left.
[00:05:57.740 --> 00:06:00.820] So I'm like, I'm putting this thing in my coat pocket.
[00:06:01.080 --> 00:06:04.940] I'm not taking it out until I really wanna take a picture.
[00:06:05.000 --> 00:06:06.840] I see something just amazing.
[00:06:07.700 --> 00:06:09.120] You know, I'm saying this all in my head,
[00:06:09.240 --> 00:06:10.360] not allowed to, you know,
[00:06:10.400 --> 00:06:12.520] the other students or teachers or chaperones.
[00:06:12.980 --> 00:06:14.400] I'm just saying this all in my head.
[00:06:15.640 --> 00:06:18.660] I said that little shot thing, like to somebody else,
[00:06:18.820 --> 00:06:20.680] one other person, like, do you think
[00:06:20.680 --> 00:06:23.340] if I press this button, a little thing,
[00:06:23.360 --> 00:06:25.280] they ain't really understand.
[00:06:25.280 --> 00:06:28.200] It was like, they never really operated a camera,
[00:06:28.220 --> 00:06:29.280] so they didn't know.
[00:06:30.300 --> 00:06:33.380] But I was just trying to get a second pair of eyes
[00:06:33.380 --> 00:06:36.920] or a second, you know, thoughts on this
[00:06:36.920 --> 00:06:38.700] because I wasn't sure.
[00:06:39.740 --> 00:06:42.560] But when I found that I only had one photo left, man,
[00:06:45.630 --> 00:06:46.990] I ended up pulling that thing out.
[00:06:46.990 --> 00:06:49.370] A couple of minutes later, I couldn't resist.
[00:06:49.910 --> 00:06:50.930] Click it!
[00:06:51.370 --> 00:06:53.470] And then it says zero.
[00:06:54.150 --> 00:06:55.770] And then I pressed it again.
[00:06:56.330 --> 00:06:58.730] It said, devil's ear.
[00:06:58.750 --> 00:07:01.750] I'm like, wait, they gave me an extra shot?
[00:07:02.050 --> 00:07:03.190] Because I was able to click it
[00:07:03.190 --> 00:07:04.370] because then I tried to click it,
[00:07:04.370 --> 00:07:05.430] it just did nothing.
[00:07:06.170 --> 00:07:07.750] Just like, okay, I'm really out of film.
[00:07:07.830 --> 00:07:09.630] I really can't take any pictures, okay.
[00:07:10.070 --> 00:07:12.290] I felt better because I had an extra shot
[00:07:12.290 --> 00:07:14.390] because I used it on a test shot.
[00:07:14.730 --> 00:07:16.730] So it was like, hmm, it works out in good karma.
[00:07:17.970 --> 00:07:21.130] So all of that to say, you know,
[00:07:21.230 --> 00:07:24.150] people that know me and my circles and inner circle,
[00:07:24.930 --> 00:07:28.930] my community, know that I love teaching.
[00:07:31.480 --> 00:07:34.300] Know that Sensei is here for you.
[00:07:35.900 --> 00:07:37.500] And I would like to introduce y'all
[00:07:37.500 --> 00:07:40.280] to the inner circle of creative frequency.
[00:07:41.740 --> 00:07:44.200] You need to join our inner circle right now.
[00:07:44.220 --> 00:07:49.500] I believe it's like $10, $10 a month just to get in.
[00:07:51.060 --> 00:07:55.420] And I'll be jumping in, you know, randomly,
[00:07:55.420 --> 00:07:57.800] give me y'all just free game, free wisdom.
[00:07:58.360 --> 00:08:01.060] Chances to win free strategy calls
[00:08:01.060 --> 00:08:02.920] that help build your business,
[00:08:03.160 --> 00:08:05.300] help grow out what you need to grow.
[00:08:05.420 --> 00:08:06.680] If you feeling stuck,
[00:08:07.600 --> 00:08:09.880] this is what these strategy calls are for.
[00:08:09.940 --> 00:08:12.940] And I know a lot of people use strategy calls
[00:08:14.060 --> 00:08:16.720] to kind of sell stuff.
[00:08:17.120 --> 00:08:18.740] Like I've been on a lot of quote unquote
[00:08:18.740 --> 00:08:20.180] strategy calls, but no,
[00:08:20.460 --> 00:08:23.380] I'm talking about really getting in there,
[00:08:24.240 --> 00:08:27.140] helping you for an hour or two
[00:08:28.280 --> 00:08:31.340] and help you get unstuck and help you grow
[00:08:31.340 --> 00:08:33.000] and help you drive revenue.
[00:08:34.600 --> 00:08:36.600] Whatever you need help in,
[00:08:37.059 --> 00:08:39.020] we have the resources for you.
[00:08:40.220 --> 00:08:43.539] Let's help get you unstuck and continue to grow.
[00:08:45.320 --> 00:08:47.040] But just to be candid,
[00:08:47.040 --> 00:08:49.420] if you want to work with this even further
[00:08:49.420 --> 00:08:51.060] outside of the strategy call,
[00:08:51.520 --> 00:08:55.440] then we also have other programs and things
[00:08:55.440 --> 00:08:58.380] that you could enter and book us for.
[00:08:58.760 --> 00:09:00.500] If you need a little more attention,
[00:09:00.560 --> 00:09:01.920] a little more detail,
[00:09:02.000 --> 00:09:03.660] if this is gonna take a little more time,
[00:09:04.040 --> 00:09:06.200] like six months or a year or two years
[00:09:06.200 --> 00:09:07.260] or even ongoing,
[00:09:07.880 --> 00:09:10.360] if you want us to be in your back pocket,
[00:09:12.770 --> 00:09:15.030] have that direct access.
[00:09:17.270 --> 00:09:20.510] Oh, you definitely can if the price is right.
[00:09:21.530 --> 00:09:24.150] If you want to book us on stages,
[00:09:24.930 --> 00:09:28.770] we talk a lot about our creative endeavors
[00:09:28.770 --> 00:09:30.890] or entrepreneurship journey,
[00:09:33.170 --> 00:09:35.310] our battles as a couple,
[00:09:35.690 --> 00:09:37.370] as we have creative differences,
[00:09:37.890 --> 00:09:40.310] even business differences at times.
[00:09:40.770 --> 00:09:42.130] Well, we're more aligned with the business,
[00:09:42.210 --> 00:09:46.910] but our creative styles are so slightly different,
[00:09:47.010 --> 00:09:48.150] I ain't gonna say so different.
[00:09:48.150 --> 00:09:49.990] We get the business right
[00:09:49.990 --> 00:09:52.290] and we agree a lot of things business-wise,
[00:09:52.870 --> 00:09:55.250] but our creative tastes, man.
[00:09:57.090 --> 00:09:59.690] And we got a lot of that behind the scenes
[00:09:59.690 --> 00:10:02.150] in the community, us going back and forth.
[00:10:02.470 --> 00:10:03.510] No, not arguing,
[00:10:03.610 --> 00:10:05.850] but just having a civil debate
[00:10:07.630 --> 00:10:09.630] where we always come to a happy medium.
[00:10:09.670 --> 00:10:14.390] I always like to say two styles, one vision.
[00:10:14.550 --> 00:10:15.610] Two styles, one vision.
[00:10:15.710 --> 00:10:17.010] Two stories, one vision.
[00:10:17.820 --> 00:10:19.770] Two creators, one vision.
[00:10:20.330 --> 00:10:21.790] We still got the mission,
[00:10:21.830 --> 00:10:24.110] but we do things a little different.
[00:10:24.130 --> 00:10:25.730] We grew up differently also.
[00:10:26.550 --> 00:10:29.030] We just like different things, you know?
[00:10:30.050 --> 00:10:33.750] Even the food, she likes savory.
[00:10:33.870 --> 00:10:35.930] I like more sweet.
[00:10:37.410 --> 00:10:42.450] I love potatoes, so if anybody wanna treat me,
[00:10:42.650 --> 00:10:44.510] give me some nice potatoes.
[00:10:45.410 --> 00:10:46.010] Wink, wink.
[00:10:47.090 --> 00:10:50.670] But yes, do what you have to do
[00:10:51.290 --> 00:10:53.310] to get where you need to be.
[00:10:53.390 --> 00:10:54.730] You gotta get the stuff done.
[00:10:54.790 --> 00:10:56.590] You have to execute.
[00:10:58.010 --> 00:10:59.810] And if you need help with this,
[00:11:00.470 --> 00:11:05.590] be sure to follow at on a creative frequency.
[00:11:06.730 --> 00:11:09.670] Yes, we're helping you to be on this creative frequency
[00:11:09.670 --> 00:11:14.470] as a creative entrepreneur is essential.
[00:11:15.190 --> 00:11:17.470] We're also gonna help you be consistent
[00:11:17.470 --> 00:11:21.190] and help guide you to create this nice content
[00:11:22.390 --> 00:11:25.910] because it's important and important for your growth.
[00:11:28.010 --> 00:11:32.210] So jump in, follow us at on a creative frequency.
[00:11:33.210 --> 00:11:36.110] I will have our direct link to our inner circle.
[00:11:36.390 --> 00:11:38.290] It's through Patreon right now.
[00:11:38.650 --> 00:11:41.130] It may be changed and we may be getting our own interface.
[00:11:41.570 --> 00:11:44.490] So right now it's on Patreon for $10
[00:11:44.850 --> 00:11:46.510] and that's just the founder price.
[00:11:46.530 --> 00:11:49.930] The price is gonna go up very, very soon
[00:11:49.930 --> 00:11:51.510] once these spots fill up.
[00:11:52.890 --> 00:11:54.290] We're gonna raise the price.
[00:11:54.350 --> 00:11:56.710] So get in while you can, $10 a month.
[00:11:56.830 --> 00:11:58.950] I'm telling you, this price is going up.
[00:12:01.060 --> 00:12:04.500] Hey, we could document this episode, $10.
[00:12:04.660 --> 00:12:07.160] You can be like, wow, we could've got this for $10?
[00:12:08.080 --> 00:12:11.260] Wow, $10, man, I should've got in early.
[00:12:11.780 --> 00:12:14.320] Just like the whole Bitcoin, should've got in early.
[00:12:14.920 --> 00:12:18.740] Look, get in early while you can
[00:12:20.470 --> 00:12:22.450] because we are in demand.
[00:12:24.810 --> 00:12:29.590] Again, on a creative frequency,
[00:12:30.230 --> 00:12:33.210] on a creative frequency on all social media
[00:12:33.210 --> 00:12:35.730] and also Patreon for our inner circle.
[00:12:36.810 --> 00:12:41.470] But you can also still follow us on Patreon for free.
[00:12:41.890 --> 00:12:43.510] Get in free, get a little taste,
[00:12:43.650 --> 00:12:44.970] get to know us a little more
[00:12:44.970 --> 00:12:47.390] and then when you're ready, get to $10
[00:12:47.880 --> 00:12:51.030] and then also our higher tier packages
[00:12:51.030 --> 00:12:55.870] that are still in process.
[00:12:56.450 --> 00:12:57.750] We got some goodies in there.
[00:12:57.770 --> 00:13:02.610] So just be ready, be in tune and invest in yourself.
[00:13:03.010 --> 00:13:05.790] And that's with time, money and relaxation.
[00:13:07.810 --> 00:13:11.050] But if you wanna follow me directly,
[00:13:12.310 --> 00:13:19.010] follow me on all social media at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:13:19.450 --> 00:13:24.550] That's Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with a S.
[00:13:24.890 --> 00:13:27.150] And for booking and for more information,
[00:13:27.290 --> 00:13:30.310] even check out the podcast now on the website.
[00:13:31.410 --> 00:13:33.310] Yes, check out the latest episodes
[00:13:33.310 --> 00:13:36.010] of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk
[00:13:36.010 --> 00:13:39.510] over at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:13:40.070 --> 00:13:47.050] That's alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:13:47.550 --> 00:13:50.930] And this is your host, photographer Jackson,
[00:13:51.410 --> 00:13:54.670] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media
[00:13:55.180 --> 00:13:58.790] bringing you Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:13:59.590 --> 00:14:03.890] And this is another episode in the books.
[00:14:04.530 --> 00:14:07.490] I appreciate y'all always tuning in,
[00:14:07.810 --> 00:14:09.490] learning with me, growing with me,
[00:14:09.490 --> 00:14:12.790] getting my insights, being on my journey,
[00:14:13.010 --> 00:14:15.290] my entrepreneurship journey,
[00:14:16.110 --> 00:14:17.230] and just growing with me.
[00:14:17.270 --> 00:14:19.550] Let's continue to grow together
[00:14:20.150 --> 00:14:21.610] and hold each other accountable.
[00:14:22.570 --> 00:14:23.710] It's the only way we grow.
[00:14:24.770 --> 00:14:25.570] Let's keep going.
[00:14:26.070 --> 00:14:27.890] Peace, love and blessings.
[00:14:28.410 --> 00:14:30.210] We'll talk about Jackson's side now.
[00:14:31.210 --> 00:14:31.570] Peace.

========================================================================
47. Daily Routine Personal Journey Weekly
Season 1 · Episode 27
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/daily-routine-personal-journey-weekly
========================================================================

[00:00:01.140 --> 00:00:15.710] Walk on, walk on, walk on, walk on back to alien eyes, photos, industry talk, and this
[00:00:15.710 --> 00:00:21.270] will be my personal journal of my personal journey.
[00:00:23.340 --> 00:00:27.340] And let's dig into my weekly habits.
[00:00:28.300 --> 00:00:36.720] Now, some of the weekly habits return into daily habits, but to be at your maximum level,
[00:00:37.540 --> 00:00:44.840] at your maximum capabilities, at your maximum focus, you want to be hyper focused with things
[00:00:44.840 --> 00:00:48.560] you have to do and get done and executed.
[00:00:49.320 --> 00:00:54.860] Like, I do not do anything outside of my calendar, which is on my schedule.
[00:00:54.860 --> 00:00:58.720] If it's not on the calendar, I'm most likely not doing it.
[00:00:58.780 --> 00:01:00.060] I'm not going to do it.
[00:01:00.800 --> 00:01:07.600] I like to pre-plan and plan ahead, know what my days and weeks are looking like,
[00:01:07.660 --> 00:01:11.620] even my whole month, and that trickles into the year.
[00:01:12.240 --> 00:01:18.840] Sometimes I'm not going to know what the whole year entails as I leave some gaps and some
[00:01:18.840 --> 00:01:24.840] openings, but I like to know how my week is going to flow, how my days are going to be.
[00:01:25.740 --> 00:01:33.320] Now, I love my sleep, and as a person that loves sleep, I really don't get much sleep,
[00:01:33.560 --> 00:01:34.440] many hours.
[00:01:34.600 --> 00:01:42.680] I average about four and a half, maybe five hours a day, but some of those days,
[00:01:42.700 --> 00:01:44.180] it really be two hours.
[00:01:44.660 --> 00:01:50.240] So I'm making up with other days with, you know, six and seven hours of rest
[00:01:50.640 --> 00:01:52.520] of a good night's sleep.
[00:01:53.860 --> 00:02:01.560] But I've also worked third shift, so, you know, my sleep schedule is kind of everywhere,
[00:02:03.660 --> 00:02:07.560] which I can say is a bad thing.
[00:02:08.320 --> 00:02:14.220] Running the business, have children, you know, also with my nephew,
[00:02:16.980 --> 00:02:31.040] daughter, and in the relationship, director, producer of another podcast outside of my own,
[00:02:31.140 --> 00:02:39.740] The Pull Up Experience, Vice President of Launch Arts Media, the main photographer,
[00:02:40.900 --> 00:02:46.360] the event photography brand, Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:02:47.060 --> 00:02:53.240] And this is Alien Eyes Photos industry talk, by the way, if you may not know.
[00:02:54.860 --> 00:03:03.750] So doing all these things, giving my attention and focus and energy to all these things and
[00:03:03.750 --> 00:03:09.650] showing up, I mean, constantly showing up and never giving up, and also other people.
[00:03:11.840 --> 00:03:15.920] Like, I just came back from supporting my brother,
[00:03:18.060 --> 00:03:24.680] De La Maze, as he completed a hundred stages and a hundred days.
[00:03:25.620 --> 00:03:32.360] In a hundred days, he completed performing on a hundred different stages of venues.
[00:03:33.140 --> 00:03:34.100] That is amazing.
[00:03:34.200 --> 00:03:36.140] A hundred stages, a hundred days.
[00:03:36.140 --> 00:03:38.940] And salute to De La Maze.
[00:03:40.020 --> 00:03:44.840] It was an incredible performance for his grand finale, the hundredth day.
[00:03:45.740 --> 00:03:47.620] A hundred days, that is amazing.
[00:03:48.180 --> 00:03:50.620] Consistency, performing, doing what you love,
[00:03:51.160 --> 00:03:54.440] doing what you're good at, passionate about, what you care about,
[00:03:55.360 --> 00:03:57.240] and treating it as a movement.
[00:03:57.360 --> 00:04:00.000] And that movement turns to bigger business.
[00:04:00.740 --> 00:04:04.340] And I already told him we have to talk and discuss some things,
[00:04:04.340 --> 00:04:06.420] because I have some things up my sleeves.
[00:04:07.000 --> 00:04:14.780] Also, being a former musician and artist, performing artist, also recording artist, poet,
[00:04:15.480 --> 00:04:18.060] songwriter, book writer, author, all this stuff.
[00:04:20.160 --> 00:04:23.980] I know how you take this to a whole other level.
[00:04:24.520 --> 00:04:31.100] And me being big in marketing, I just see so much and know so much.
[00:04:31.300 --> 00:04:34.700] I'm like, yeah, let's strategize.
[00:04:34.700 --> 00:04:35.680] Let's bang plans.
[00:04:35.820 --> 00:04:38.300] Let's go to the drawing table.
[00:04:38.900 --> 00:04:40.060] It will be needed.
[00:04:40.860 --> 00:04:49.290] I know it will, because we're both intellectual creatives.
[00:04:51.090 --> 00:05:01.630] Everybody loves AI, but intellectual creatives that I see, that is amazing.
[00:05:03.530 --> 00:05:05.150] Intellectual creatives.
[00:05:06.890 --> 00:05:07.350] Yes.
[00:05:09.130 --> 00:05:20.560] So I want to start with, when I wake up each day, I take that time for myself,
[00:05:22.710 --> 00:05:24.170] you know, gather my thoughts.
[00:05:24.450 --> 00:05:27.010] I like to slowly ease into my day.
[00:05:27.210 --> 00:05:30.170] I don't like a hundred things early in the day,
[00:05:31.430 --> 00:05:33.930] powered up with chaos, me waking up to chaos.
[00:05:34.710 --> 00:05:39.950] I like to take that time or that moment to myself, the moments to myself.
[00:05:40.710 --> 00:05:42.230] I'm able to get more rest.
[00:05:42.450 --> 00:05:48.010] I try to get more rest because I know there will be days that I won't get a lot of rest.
[00:05:49.790 --> 00:05:56.950] So I get as much rest as I can, but I also don't be lazy and lollygag.
[00:05:57.310 --> 00:06:05.630] If I need to take some time to myself, sometimes I cut into my sleeping time
[00:06:05.630 --> 00:06:07.350] and take that time for myself.
[00:06:07.590 --> 00:06:12.410] If I know I'm not going to have any time for myself the rest of the day,
[00:06:13.190 --> 00:06:18.150] then I will wake up a little earlier and take that time, get my mental together,
[00:06:18.210 --> 00:06:21.850] look over my schedule, look over my things to do.
[00:06:21.870 --> 00:06:26.910] I like to keep my to-do list five things or under.
[00:06:27.010 --> 00:06:32.230] I don't do more than five things a day because I don't want to get burnt out,
[00:06:32.230 --> 00:06:32.990] overload.
[00:06:33.950 --> 00:06:41.450] Do I do six, seven, eight, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven things in one day?
[00:06:42.170 --> 00:06:50.530] Yes, or even more sometimes, but I try to focus most of my days on five things or less.
[00:06:51.310 --> 00:06:56.510] If I'm filming a podcast and doing a photo shoot, have a podcast interview,
[00:06:57.050 --> 00:06:59.770] I may just leave it at that because that is a lot
[00:06:59.770 --> 00:07:06.830] because I'm pretty sure I'm going to have to also go to work or get my daughter
[00:07:06.830 --> 00:07:12.650] and her being in school, she has homework and checking that, looking over that,
[00:07:12.670 --> 00:07:19.390] helping her with that, like reading books before she go to bed and that takes time.
[00:07:20.610 --> 00:07:28.150] So there's also so much I do outside of the other things, outside of business.
[00:07:28.930 --> 00:07:37.350] My personal life, but I schedule my me time, my personal time,
[00:07:38.190 --> 00:07:43.410] and that could be where it's self-development, like waking up and journaling,
[00:07:43.670 --> 00:07:47.950] getting my thoughts out, getting that release, getting that freedom,
[00:07:48.950 --> 00:07:52.170] taking different thoughts and reconstructing them like, wow,
[00:07:53.110 --> 00:07:56.530] let me get this plan out of my head, write it down,
[00:07:56.530 --> 00:08:03.350] that way I can edit it and change it and morph it into the way I need it to be
[00:08:03.350 --> 00:08:07.990] and to fully execute and dominate whatever I need to do.
[00:08:09.250 --> 00:08:12.950] And the same with the book, you don't keep it all in your head, you write it,
[00:08:13.130 --> 00:08:17.910] get a paper and pen, write it out, and then from the written transcription,
[00:08:18.210 --> 00:08:23.850] type it out and continue to be edited from each process, from when you wrote it,
[00:08:23.850 --> 00:08:29.930] edit it, type it, edit it, send it to an editor, get it edited again, checked over,
[00:08:30.950 --> 00:08:37.130] beta readers, like there's processes, but you start with that idea and get that idea
[00:08:37.130 --> 00:08:41.590] out of your head and write it. I like writing with pen and paper.
[00:08:41.690 --> 00:08:47.970] I don't like pencils, nothing against pencils, but I love the fluidity of a pen,
[00:08:47.970 --> 00:08:55.390] the flow of emotion, because I let my words just flow and glide through the pages,
[00:08:55.830 --> 00:08:59.030] just like how I talk, it's the flow, it's the rhythm.
[00:08:59.290 --> 00:09:02.090] I like gliding, something that's smooth, peaceful,
[00:09:02.810 --> 00:09:10.930] and that's why I like pens over pencil and I also love pens and paper over,
[00:09:11.590 --> 00:09:15.690] you know, typing on your phone. We always attach to these phones
[00:09:15.690 --> 00:09:21.790] and that gives me time away from my phone, not having my head down, hurting my neck,
[00:09:22.190 --> 00:09:28.410] being in my phone, being so much over and attached to technology,
[00:09:29.570 --> 00:09:36.390] not on my laptop, not on my phone, nothing. Pen and paper, you and your thoughts,
[00:09:37.090 --> 00:09:41.010] it's you and you at this point. You're the author of your life.
[00:09:41.810 --> 00:09:46.110] Don't put it into a phone, put it on pen and paper and make it come to life.
[00:09:46.530 --> 00:09:51.470] You are the life, be the life, act like you own your life.
[00:09:52.270 --> 00:09:58.210] And that's what I do each week, each day. I go over my schedule,
[00:09:59.590 --> 00:10:05.270] I work out once or twice a week, I may play a few hours of basketball,
[00:10:05.990 --> 00:10:13.410] may do a home workout another day, then I'm also taking that recovery time,
[00:10:14.330 --> 00:10:19.530] you know, warm Epsom salt baths because I just can't do the cold. I know there's a whole
[00:10:19.530 --> 00:10:26.870] bunch of benefits to the cold and immersing yourself, your body in cold water, but no,
[00:10:27.230 --> 00:10:33.430] that ain't for me. The ice and stuff, no. I love the warm water, I love relaxing, I love
[00:10:34.650 --> 00:10:43.990] the warmth. Okay. So that's a little bit about me, my daily and weekly routines, some things
[00:10:43.990 --> 00:10:54.970] that are effective to me. Like I do not encourage you to wake up to your messages, wake up to
[00:10:54.970 --> 00:11:03.110] your emails, wake up to social media and all these phone calls. I do not encourage it,
[00:11:03.110 --> 00:11:12.650] no. Take that first 30 minutes to hours of the day that you wake up to yourself.
[00:11:14.580 --> 00:11:23.880] Take a 15, 20 minute shower just relaxing, fill in the water, hit your skin, you and your
[00:11:23.880 --> 00:11:28.860] thoughts. I get some of my best thoughts when I'm in the shower. I wrote some of my greatest
[00:11:28.860 --> 00:11:37.000] songs, my greatest hits in this shower when I was younger. Like the shower is amazing. I got
[00:11:37.000 --> 00:11:44.940] some of my best thoughts and best visions for books and videos and content. Like, wow,
[00:11:44.980 --> 00:11:50.260] that's a great business idea. This is a great product. Me being both a creative
[00:11:50.260 --> 00:11:58.740] and an entrepreneur, creative entrepreneur, like man, my imagination is so wow and magical.
[00:11:59.240 --> 00:12:04.380] And next day, intertwine it with business, put a business engine behind it. Oh my goodness,
[00:12:04.420 --> 00:12:15.770] I am just getting started by the way. And it's amazing. But again, it's my kind of daily
[00:12:15.770 --> 00:12:23.330] routine, weekly routine that works for me. Maybe in the future, I'll kind of break down
[00:12:23.330 --> 00:12:28.950] my monthly routine, how I like to set up my months and also like my content calendar
[00:12:30.090 --> 00:12:37.390] and the structure that I have behind like everything I do, also servicing clients
[00:12:37.390 --> 00:12:42.710] and building a business and building a podcast and working with other podcasters
[00:12:42.710 --> 00:12:49.810] and other organizations and collaborations. Like it's a lot, but I'm doing it.
[00:12:50.410 --> 00:12:57.470] You could do it too. And this is not for the faint or the weak hearted. You have to put
[00:12:57.470 --> 00:13:06.070] your all into this. It is a life decision. I know we make so many decisions a day,
[00:13:07.490 --> 00:13:13.390] entrepreneurship, you're making so many decisions left and right. And me as a parent
[00:13:13.390 --> 00:13:22.110] doing the same thing, making so many decisions. And you get decision fatigue and get burnt out
[00:13:22.110 --> 00:13:30.650] with just making decisions, so many decisions. So that's why I limit my days to five things is
[00:13:30.650 --> 00:13:35.710] I don't want to make a whole bunch of decisions in one day. I like to break it up.
[00:13:36.070 --> 00:13:41.230] You know, deal with it later if I could, but if I do have to make a decision right then and there,
[00:13:41.250 --> 00:13:48.190] I do. But we need to, again, take that time for ourselves and also reflect on it,
[00:13:48.670 --> 00:13:54.130] reflect on our decisions before we even make a decision to take that time to ourselves.
[00:13:55.210 --> 00:14:02.710] That is the biggest thing, self love, self peace, self gratitude, gratitude as a whole.
[00:14:04.470 --> 00:14:14.030] You have to take that personal time for yourself. All right. This is Photographer Jackson,
[00:14:14.270 --> 00:14:21.470] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media. And this has been another episode of Alien
[00:14:21.470 --> 00:14:29.790] Eyes Photos Industry Talk. The biggest marketing arm for Alien Eyes Photos Media,
[00:14:30.330 --> 00:14:36.730] the event photography brand, making you look right at your events and also creating video
[00:14:36.730 --> 00:14:44.470] content. We'll polish doing event recaps, partnering with my partner
[00:14:46.210 --> 00:14:58.170] with Overflow Studio, Ms. B. Casanova, and we are Creative Frequency. So check us out on
[00:14:58.970 --> 00:15:07.310] Creative Frequency. That's on a, on a, on a Creative Frequency on all media.
[00:15:07.850 --> 00:15:14.750] And check out our Patreon. Yes, we are on Patreon. Creative Frequency is not on Patreon. Check
[00:15:14.750 --> 00:15:23.710] us out. Yes. Again, this is Photographer Jackson, dual event photographer. This is
[00:15:23.710 --> 00:15:30.590] episode of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk. And if you want to follow me, you can follow me
[00:15:30.590 --> 00:15:41.330] at Alien Eyes Photos. That's Alien Eyes Photos. And that's eyes with a Z, photos with a S.
[00:15:42.430 --> 00:15:51.670] And also check out alieneyesphotos.com for more information or to book me. And I'm about
[00:15:51.670 --> 00:15:58.670] to get the podcast on the website very soon. So you can just head over to alieneyesphotos.com
[00:15:58.670 --> 00:16:04.970] for the latest episodes of the podcast. So yeah, I'm trying to make it easy for everybody,
[00:16:05.310 --> 00:16:10.430] streamline everything, just catch me in one central place, all my updates,
[00:16:11.310 --> 00:16:16.430] shows, events that I'm going to be at. Like I'm trying to make it easy for everybody.
[00:16:16.430 --> 00:16:23.050] And also myself. Like I said, if I'm in the calendar, I can do it. And I can help you put
[00:16:23.050 --> 00:16:27.610] what I'm doing and some great events that I'm covering on your calendar.
[00:16:28.210 --> 00:16:36.450] So you can network with the people that I'm with and meet. So let's do it. As a partner,
[00:16:36.790 --> 00:16:42.930] if you want to become a sponsor of the podcast, contact me at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:16:42.930 --> 00:16:46.790] All the info is going to be in there. A lot of quick detail,
[00:16:47.010 --> 00:16:53.790] shoot me a message. And yeah, let's make it happen. Peace, peace, peace, peace and love everyone.

========================================================================
48. Rest In Peace ( raw recording / unedited ) - DS
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/rest-in-peace
========================================================================

[00:00:02.130 --> 00:00:03.290] so
[00:00:04.030 --> 00:00:06.030] this would be a
[00:00:06.830 --> 00:00:20.890] Tough episode for me. I definitely want to document this. I just lost a
[00:00:20.890 --> 00:00:26.350] Coworker of mine great great co-worker great person great
[00:00:26.350 --> 00:00:27.870] spirited person
[00:00:27.870 --> 00:00:29.770] kind hearted person
[00:00:29.770 --> 00:00:31.490] always there's
[00:00:32.549 --> 00:00:33.550] selflessness
[00:00:33.550 --> 00:00:35.610] lazy henna being
[00:00:40.850 --> 00:00:47.150] You know, it's hard for a lot of us and to still kind of pull through and still
[00:00:47.840 --> 00:00:49.710] Work at work to do
[00:00:50.680 --> 00:00:52.120] It's tough
[00:00:53.560 --> 00:00:55.680] found out
[00:00:55.680 --> 00:00:57.420] at heart attack
[00:00:57.420 --> 00:00:59.670] In her trying to do CPR
[00:01:02.480 --> 00:01:04.040] Was it response?
[00:01:05.780 --> 00:01:11.420] 30 minutes. It's tough tough to hear
[00:01:11.420 --> 00:01:17.160] You know, it's just bad things to take the year and especially first gave in
[00:01:18.280 --> 00:01:25.600] And uh over the years each year of my high school year from freshman all the way to senior
[00:01:26.260 --> 00:01:28.260] and that produced yourself
[00:01:29.540 --> 00:01:32.080] Somebody you know classmate
[00:01:32.080 --> 00:01:35.340] each year that was hard
[00:01:36.720 --> 00:01:37.520] us
[00:01:37.520 --> 00:01:39.940] co-workers has
[00:01:40.580 --> 00:01:41.540] For
[00:01:45.340 --> 00:01:46.740] Life
[00:01:47.860 --> 00:01:49.680] You've been at the same
[00:01:50.180 --> 00:01:50.920] appointment
[00:01:51.540 --> 00:01:54.660] This this is the second person's
[00:01:58.000 --> 00:02:00.160] It's tough
[00:02:01.140 --> 00:02:03.340] Hi, baby
[00:02:03.340 --> 00:02:05.220] picture wall
[00:02:05.220 --> 00:02:08.300] wall the the transition
[00:02:09.100 --> 00:02:10.120] fellows
[00:02:10.120 --> 00:02:11.620] soldiers
[00:02:14.920 --> 00:02:23.000] Stuffed is and then I look at or even walk past good. I wanted to take this time to
[00:02:23.960 --> 00:02:25.820] commemorate and honor
[00:02:26.560 --> 00:02:30.420] You know all those who I've been Connor
[00:02:31.240 --> 00:02:37.460] The beautiful lives whether that's school whether that's work whether that's in the business
[00:02:37.980 --> 00:02:39.260] entrepreneur around
[00:02:39.260 --> 00:02:44.720] Or even the art, you know frame as I spent a lot of time my art
[00:02:45.580 --> 00:02:47.560] Days back today
[00:02:49.230 --> 00:02:56.210] My heart goes out. So the families the friends the loved ones to supporters
[00:02:56.970 --> 00:03:01.010] Selected by guys taking bow daughter in love one day
[00:03:01.750 --> 00:03:03.350] They lost sorry
[00:03:03.350 --> 00:03:05.530] People that I know that lost parents
[00:03:06.750 --> 00:03:09.330] Already should we go out you?
[00:03:11.110 --> 00:03:15.230] Feel you I feel you feel you at last hard keeping head up
[00:03:15.790 --> 00:03:23.260] You know, it is something that is tough for me that I'm internally processing and have to deal with and
[00:03:24.070 --> 00:03:30.970] Just had to be strong for others as I seen a lot of emotion a lot of tears, but you know
[00:03:30.970 --> 00:03:34.350] I've always been that that strong one
[00:03:34.350 --> 00:03:36.410] But they always say
[00:03:37.290 --> 00:03:42.270] Who will be there for the strong friends? So?
[00:03:42.270 --> 00:03:44.810] Will be there for me, but
[00:03:44.810 --> 00:03:48.350] Until I wait or to that time come I can't wait
[00:03:48.350 --> 00:03:52.910] I have to be there for others who's not that strong and you know
[00:03:52.910 --> 00:03:57.470] They're there feel it a lot more to me and more emotional or even closer
[00:03:58.510 --> 00:04:00.810] No to ever maybe I
[00:04:02.210 --> 00:04:04.070] Don't there was a lot of people I was
[00:04:05.550 --> 00:04:06.750] So sure
[00:04:06.750 --> 00:04:08.550] I could work
[00:04:08.550 --> 00:04:11.830] Then I was but he was a great person. I don't
[00:04:12.270 --> 00:04:14.800] know what he did and outside or
[00:04:18.060 --> 00:04:19.110] burnt, but
[00:04:19.459 --> 00:04:24.410] What I with this great person ready be always kind
[00:04:25.180 --> 00:04:30.840] Always who to for others here for others. So it's just like I
[00:04:30.840 --> 00:04:37.420] Can't you not be a supporter aren't sure sure for that person aren't sure but someone like that
[00:04:37.420 --> 00:04:40.720] So it hurts hurts deeply
[00:04:41.720 --> 00:04:46.180] No, it can happen to any of any one of us man, but
[00:04:47.840 --> 00:04:48.760] Also
[00:04:50.100 --> 00:04:52.820] Also take in the fact
[00:04:55.940 --> 00:04:59.840] We're working to be ie
[00:05:01.360 --> 00:05:05.000] Workings it's just like a good working
[00:05:05.720 --> 00:05:06.720] transition
[00:05:06.720 --> 00:05:07.700] I
[00:05:08.400 --> 00:05:14.160] That's hard. That's tough that nobody should have to go with that like it's
[00:05:16.380 --> 00:05:18.080] The hardest thing
[00:05:18.800 --> 00:05:20.980] Touches for that person
[00:05:21.440 --> 00:05:25.000] Put those around a throw. We witness it
[00:05:25.740 --> 00:05:28.160] That is too much
[00:05:28.680 --> 00:05:33.780] Don't see people dead. She's got shot
[00:05:34.460 --> 00:05:36.620] First shop ourselves
[00:05:37.930 --> 00:05:40.650] Be a way for
[00:05:43.150 --> 00:05:45.970] Coming to school the next day to hear
[00:05:46.590 --> 00:05:47.290] someone
[00:05:47.870 --> 00:05:50.450] Play the game and they hung themselves
[00:05:53.260 --> 00:05:54.100] someone
[00:05:54.100 --> 00:06:01.720] transition cancer like this high school and now my adult life, you know, I'm able to
[00:06:02.020 --> 00:06:07.520] Process it a little more and process it, you know death felt a lot better
[00:06:07.520 --> 00:06:15.240] You know, it's always hard I don't know the words to say especially in the moment getting told this in the moment
[00:06:15.240 --> 00:06:22.160] I'm it's hard to find the right words to say and I try to say something
[00:06:22.160 --> 00:06:25.200] Right, you know, I feel it there
[00:06:25.200 --> 00:06:27.180] You know, it's hard
[00:06:28.360 --> 00:06:29.020] tough
[00:06:29.020 --> 00:06:31.180] Heart goes out but
[00:06:31.940 --> 00:06:34.290] You know other than those words
[00:06:38.310 --> 00:06:44.860] It's hard. It's always been a tough thing for me
[00:06:45.540 --> 00:06:47.120] as you know, you can't
[00:06:47.780 --> 00:06:49.640] Bring somebody back to life
[00:06:50.320 --> 00:06:58.220] At least not that I know of and not in these years. It's year 2025 and
[00:06:58.220 --> 00:07:04.700] You know, I never witnessed someone coming back to life. I know one day will be possible right now
[00:07:06.020 --> 00:07:13.440] It's not so it's hard. It's hard. Like I said witness. It's hard to go through
[00:07:14.880 --> 00:07:23.790] It's hard enough get my heart goes out to his family all the families
[00:07:25.450 --> 00:07:27.770] Around the situation
[00:07:27.770 --> 00:07:29.730] birth family
[00:07:32.580 --> 00:07:34.800] something tough tough
[00:07:35.080 --> 00:07:37.500] tough cut wise
[00:07:38.340 --> 00:07:40.480] Tempt process
[00:07:42.820 --> 00:07:44.580] It's very very tough
[00:07:46.500 --> 00:07:47.800] but
[00:07:48.320 --> 00:07:51.820] wanted to show my respect you
[00:07:51.820 --> 00:08:00.890] Just reflect this is not business, but this is life like I said this happens to anybody
[00:08:00.890 --> 00:08:02.750] one of us
[00:08:02.750 --> 00:08:08.260] You know, it's all I'm gonna say
[00:08:09.220 --> 00:08:13.580] Just close out just peace love and blessings

========================================================================
49. The Right Opportunity
Season 1 · Episode 26
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/the-right-opportunity
========================================================================

[00:00:00.690 --> 00:00:04.890] Welcome, welcome, welcome back
[00:00:04.890 --> 00:00:08.250] to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:08.580 --> 00:00:11.210] with your host photographer Jackson,
[00:00:11.830 --> 00:00:15.930] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:00:16.790 --> 00:00:20.070] And I am bringing you an episode about
[00:00:20.070 --> 00:00:23.210] take the right opportunity.
[00:00:24.810 --> 00:00:28.610] Now, sometimes we may feel obligated to say yes
[00:00:28.610 --> 00:00:31.330] and I will do a much longer episode later.
[00:00:32.509 --> 00:00:35.970] But, you know, we feel obligated to say yes
[00:00:36.590 --> 00:00:37.930] at a lot of things,
[00:00:38.190 --> 00:00:40.810] especially when things are not going
[00:00:41.370 --> 00:00:42.970] to the best of their abilities
[00:00:42.970 --> 00:00:45.690] in our businesses or in our life.
[00:00:50.170 --> 00:00:52.150] Saying yes to everything,
[00:00:53.350 --> 00:00:55.310] saying yes to everything
[00:00:56.450 --> 00:01:01.590] means you're saying no to a whole lot of other things,
[00:01:02.770 --> 00:01:04.910] especially the right thing.
[00:01:06.110 --> 00:01:08.910] And there may be things that you really like
[00:01:08.910 --> 00:01:13.930] and want to do, but is it the right thing to do?
[00:01:15.070 --> 00:01:16.390] And you think about your brand
[00:01:16.390 --> 00:01:17.870] and you think about your business
[00:01:17.870 --> 00:01:19.690] and what you stand for.
[00:01:21.230 --> 00:01:22.930] What are some of those things?
[00:01:25.480 --> 00:01:27.630] Is it worth it?
[00:01:28.130 --> 00:01:32.370] Not only financially, but physically, mentally,
[00:01:34.370 --> 00:01:36.170] just showing up, spending that time,
[00:01:36.350 --> 00:01:38.690] spending that attention, being in that environment.
[00:01:43.740 --> 00:01:45.520] Is it the right opportunity?
[00:01:48.160 --> 00:01:52.980] Now, sometimes we actually need extra revenue.
[00:01:53.840 --> 00:01:57.420] So we may do things at a discount
[00:01:57.420 --> 00:01:58.840] or say yes to something
[00:01:59.450 --> 00:02:01.660] we normally wouldn't say yes to.
[00:02:04.650 --> 00:02:08.300] But, you know, use your best judgment.
[00:02:10.539 --> 00:02:12.640] There won't always be the right opportunities,
[00:02:12.700 --> 00:02:15.860] but we always seek the right opportunities.
[00:02:16.680 --> 00:02:19.240] And sometimes we can do things for practice.
[00:02:20.380 --> 00:02:21.260] You know, practice.
[00:02:21.520 --> 00:02:25.060] Do it at a discount and try a new technique.
[00:02:26.200 --> 00:02:28.660] But let the client know.
[00:02:30.860 --> 00:02:33.340] Just let them know, be honest, be candid
[00:02:33.340 --> 00:02:35.940] that I want to try this.
[00:02:35.960 --> 00:02:37.500] I've never done this before.
[00:02:39.660 --> 00:02:42.780] So I'll do this at a discount or price.
[00:02:44.420 --> 00:02:46.660] You know, you could accept it or you don't.
[00:02:48.820 --> 00:02:52.160] But practice, whatever you do, practice.
[00:02:53.620 --> 00:02:56.380] Like as a photographer, videographer,
[00:02:57.200 --> 00:03:01.760] media producer, director, you know,
[00:03:01.960 --> 00:03:04.020] those tangible things that I could just go out
[00:03:04.020 --> 00:03:05.300] and practice on my own.
[00:03:06.640 --> 00:03:10.400] Go out in nature, try to photograph a bird.
[00:03:10.960 --> 00:03:12.080] That's movement.
[00:03:12.660 --> 00:03:15.360] So if I was doing fashion photography,
[00:03:15.980 --> 00:03:20.140] when I have a high energy model walking down a runway,
[00:03:21.120 --> 00:03:23.440] I'm able to capture that same essence
[00:03:23.440 --> 00:03:27.560] like catching a bird through a camera lens.
[00:03:29.340 --> 00:03:30.800] What is the right lens?
[00:03:31.940 --> 00:03:33.760] What is the right focus?
[00:03:33.760 --> 00:03:36.520] Shutter speed, all of this, just practice.
[00:03:37.140 --> 00:03:39.120] The different light, look at different lights,
[00:03:39.320 --> 00:03:41.960] add more light, take out different lights.
[00:03:42.620 --> 00:03:44.120] The color of the lights,
[00:03:46.730 --> 00:03:48.430] a lot of things you have to consider.
[00:03:50.070 --> 00:03:52.150] And again, that's just me as a photographer,
[00:03:52.870 --> 00:03:54.530] even though I focus more on events.
[00:03:54.590 --> 00:03:58.090] So it's like, okay, go to a nightclub
[00:03:58.090 --> 00:03:59.230] where it's low light.
[00:04:00.090 --> 00:04:02.350] So when I'm at a conference
[00:04:02.350 --> 00:04:05.750] and they have these parties and receptions,
[00:04:06.910 --> 00:04:09.150] I'm able to capture that same essence
[00:04:09.150 --> 00:04:10.790] and be a professional.
[00:04:11.450 --> 00:04:12.770] Already have that wisdom,
[00:04:13.150 --> 00:04:17.050] have that muscle built for moments like this.
[00:04:18.350 --> 00:04:20.250] Being in venues where it's mixed lighting,
[00:04:20.430 --> 00:04:22.750] where it's window lighting and overhead lighting
[00:04:22.750 --> 00:04:24.350] and the color's just wonky
[00:04:24.350 --> 00:04:29.730] and then it makes people's skin tones funky.
[00:04:29.730 --> 00:04:32.290] Like not the right color.
[00:04:33.170 --> 00:04:36.730] And you add flash and trying to balance it all out,
[00:04:36.750 --> 00:04:40.750] the colors, the light, it's just so much going on
[00:04:41.570 --> 00:04:43.490] that you have to be prepared for.
[00:04:43.570 --> 00:04:46.650] And then a lot of the venue owners
[00:04:46.650 --> 00:04:50.050] or event organizers don't know about this
[00:04:50.050 --> 00:04:52.310] or don't have that in mind.
[00:04:52.910 --> 00:04:56.590] So it's up to us to control these situations.
[00:04:57.510 --> 00:05:00.690] Again, that's just me as a photographer,
[00:05:00.910 --> 00:05:01.750] being a photographer.
[00:05:04.090 --> 00:05:06.030] But whatever your craft is,
[00:05:06.170 --> 00:05:09.590] if it's basketball, which is another love of mine,
[00:05:11.550 --> 00:05:14.370] practice bouncing the basketball outside of gym,
[00:05:14.570 --> 00:05:16.190] outside of practice, outside of the games,
[00:05:16.310 --> 00:05:17.950] outside of the sprimmages.
[00:05:18.790 --> 00:05:22.870] Practice shooting, practice free throws,
[00:05:23.690 --> 00:05:27.490] do workouts tailored to what you wanna improve
[00:05:27.490 --> 00:05:29.090] if it's defense, okay?
[00:05:29.290 --> 00:05:31.130] What do you need to do in defense?
[00:05:31.510 --> 00:05:35.110] Put on some ankle weights and drag your feet side to side.
[00:05:36.430 --> 00:05:37.850] Don't let them overlap.
[00:05:39.290 --> 00:05:40.610] Practice your technique.
[00:05:41.810 --> 00:05:44.330] Practice squats to be able to jump higher,
[00:05:45.150 --> 00:05:45.970] actually jump.
[00:05:48.190 --> 00:05:51.510] Do these things without being hired
[00:05:51.510 --> 00:05:55.190] or before that game or whatever it is.
[00:05:56.310 --> 00:06:01.190] Read, read about the craft, the history,
[00:06:01.350 --> 00:06:05.890] how it even got started or even got thought about.
[00:06:08.390 --> 00:06:12.590] The history of things is so much more important.
[00:06:13.250 --> 00:06:16.530] Currently right now I'm studying the history of money.
[00:06:17.350 --> 00:06:21.810] You know, I could say I want more money in my life.
[00:06:23.150 --> 00:06:26.390] I want to increase my prices, increase my worth,
[00:06:26.390 --> 00:06:30.650] increase my value, but I have to work on myself first, right?
[00:06:31.250 --> 00:06:32.330] And that's what I'm doing.
[00:06:33.110 --> 00:06:37.870] But also want to know where money came from,
[00:06:37.870 --> 00:06:40.010] how money was even thought about.
[00:06:40.950 --> 00:06:43.370] I want to get to learn money much more
[00:06:43.370 --> 00:06:45.950] before I can even ask for much more money.
[00:06:46.770 --> 00:06:47.570] Feel what I'm saying?
[00:06:48.970 --> 00:06:50.910] And do that with your relationships.
[00:06:51.290 --> 00:06:53.570] Get to know the people that you work with more.
[00:06:54.250 --> 00:06:57.610] Have those conversations, not just, you know,
[00:06:57.890 --> 00:07:01.350] on the job or at work, you know, behind the scenes,
[00:07:01.390 --> 00:07:04.190] you know, if you are a drinker, go get a drink.
[00:07:04.530 --> 00:07:06.390] You know, I don't have to be a lot of drinks
[00:07:06.390 --> 00:07:09.630] or a long time, maybe 20 minutes,
[00:07:09.770 --> 00:07:12.870] have a cocktail or sip of wine.
[00:07:13.050 --> 00:07:16.710] I prefer to you wines if you want to have a drink with me
[00:07:16.710 --> 00:07:20.430] or a humble morning's coffee.
[00:07:21.090 --> 00:07:21.830] Oh my goodness.
[00:07:23.230 --> 00:07:27.570] Those two brands, wine, coffee, I definitely support,
[00:07:27.730 --> 00:07:32.270] I definitely recommend, and they're in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:07:35.850 --> 00:07:38.770] But pick up the phone, have a quick chat,
[00:07:39.450 --> 00:07:43.430] a quick text message exchange, catch up,
[00:07:43.550 --> 00:07:45.510] or how's the fam, or this and this and that.
[00:07:46.290 --> 00:07:48.030] You know, what do you like doing with the fam?
[00:07:48.110 --> 00:07:49.110] Oh, I never thought about that.
[00:07:49.130 --> 00:07:50.310] Let me try that with my family.
[00:07:50.310 --> 00:07:53.950] Did it like, you never know if you don't communicate
[00:07:53.950 --> 00:07:56.610] and then you could do that together and build that bond
[00:07:56.610 --> 00:07:57.730] and like, you know what?
[00:07:58.550 --> 00:08:00.290] We should try this on our next shoot
[00:08:00.290 --> 00:08:02.630] or we should try this on our next gig
[00:08:02.630 --> 00:08:05.910] or we should try this on this next building
[00:08:05.910 --> 00:08:08.370] that we have to construct and build.
[00:08:09.510 --> 00:08:11.230] And that's for the construction workers,
[00:08:11.510 --> 00:08:15.310] construction teams, project managers, stuff like that.
[00:08:16.150 --> 00:08:19.650] But whatever it is, practice.
[00:08:22.640 --> 00:08:24.240] That's how you build your worth
[00:08:24.770 --> 00:08:28.680] and that's how you keep ready for the right opportunity.
[00:08:29.520 --> 00:08:33.700] You can't just seek and hope for the right opportunity.
[00:08:34.159 --> 00:08:36.299] You have to prepare yourself, prepare your mom,
[00:08:36.539 --> 00:08:40.880] prepare your skillset, prepare your life,
[00:08:41.400 --> 00:08:44.780] your career for the right opportunities.
[00:08:45.900 --> 00:08:47.860] You have to be great,
[00:08:49.160 --> 00:08:51.140] but you have to practice being great.
[00:08:51.820 --> 00:08:53.020] Practice being excellent.
[00:08:53.160 --> 00:08:56.500] You can't just demand excellence or say you excellent
[00:08:56.500 --> 00:08:59.700] without even practicing being excellent,
[00:09:02.250 --> 00:09:05.370] pretending to be excellent
[00:09:06.410 --> 00:09:09.730] before you even call yourself excellent
[00:09:11.430 --> 00:09:15.510] to perform excellence and to be excellent and great.
[00:09:18.510 --> 00:09:19.690] It starts with practice
[00:09:19.690 --> 00:09:22.530] and then you bring that same practice principles
[00:09:22.530 --> 00:09:26.450] and habits, perfect practice, not just practice,
[00:09:26.630 --> 00:09:32.000] perfect practice so you can begin to be
[00:09:32.000 --> 00:09:33.040] where you wanna be.
[00:09:33.980 --> 00:09:37.240] Again, this is just encouragement
[00:09:37.240 --> 00:09:40.120] for you to take that right opportunity.
[00:09:40.680 --> 00:09:43.200] Only you know what is that right opportunity.
[00:09:43.700 --> 00:09:48.320] Don't let anyone influence you or sway you
[00:09:48.960 --> 00:09:51.000] any direction that you don't wanna go
[00:09:51.000 --> 00:09:55.400] or be, you only know what's the right opportunity.
[00:09:56.060 --> 00:09:59.740] So again, remember to take the right opportunity
[00:10:00.950 --> 00:10:02.800] and I'm closing out.
[00:10:03.000 --> 00:10:06.400] This is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson
[00:10:06.400 --> 00:10:08.700] of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:10:09.680 --> 00:10:11.800] And this is another episode
[00:10:11.800 --> 00:10:15.440] of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk
[00:10:15.730 --> 00:10:18.440] as we discuss the right opportunity.
[00:10:19.130 --> 00:10:23.220] And if you wanna book me or find more information
[00:10:23.650 --> 00:10:25.480] on Alien Eyes Photos Media,
[00:10:26.400 --> 00:10:29.360] visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:10:29.660 --> 00:10:31.940] That's alieneyes with a Z,
[00:10:32.440 --> 00:10:35.080] photos with a S.com.
[00:10:35.380 --> 00:10:39.820] And on all social media and also Instagram now,
[00:10:40.960 --> 00:10:42.900] well, Instagram and YouTube.
[00:10:43.640 --> 00:10:46.940] Coming to TikTok soon, but I still have a page.
[00:10:47.860 --> 00:10:52.240] Follow me on all media at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:10:53.240 --> 00:10:56.180] And again, this is Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:10:57.240 --> 00:10:59.920] Like, share, subscribe, all that good talk.
[00:11:00.760 --> 00:11:02.240] Make a review if you can.
[00:11:02.320 --> 00:11:04.440] Let me know how you like these episodes.
[00:11:05.300 --> 00:11:07.340] Until the next one, we are out.
[00:11:07.880 --> 00:11:08.080] Peace.

========================================================================
50. Jessica Williams - Jess Juiced
Season 2 · Episode 5
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/jessica-williams-jess-juiced
========================================================================

[00:00:00.940 --> 00:00:07.840] Walk on, walk on, walk on to Alienize Photos industry talk.
[00:00:08.060 --> 00:00:12.780] Yes, yes, yes, and I've got a very special guest.
[00:00:13.560 --> 00:00:19.160] Miss Jess, Jessica Williams, a power connector,
[00:00:19.860 --> 00:00:26.420] big in the community, world class juicer, civic engagement.
[00:00:27.200 --> 00:00:27.820] Collaborative.
[00:00:27.980 --> 00:00:28.720] Collaborative.
[00:00:28.720 --> 00:00:31.220] See, it's so much, she had to help me out.
[00:00:31.520 --> 00:00:34.020] But I'm gonna let you introduce yourself to the people.
[00:00:34.720 --> 00:00:35.460] Thank you.
[00:00:35.480 --> 00:00:36.700] Thank you for having me.
[00:00:36.740 --> 00:00:38.600] Greatly appreciated to be here.
[00:00:39.040 --> 00:00:43.100] Yep, the girl, Jess Williams, in the flesh here.
[00:00:44.120 --> 00:00:47.200] One, like you said, the world class juice connoisseur.
[00:00:47.200 --> 00:00:49.160] I like to call myself that now from now on.
[00:00:49.220 --> 00:00:50.160] So that's the tag line.
[00:00:50.360 --> 00:00:51.860] That's the tag line, yes.
[00:00:52.720 --> 00:00:55.080] But I've been juicing for a couple of years now,
[00:00:55.220 --> 00:00:57.300] making fresh fruit and vegetable juices
[00:00:57.300 --> 00:00:59.500] with zero sugar, zero additives,
[00:00:59.580 --> 00:01:01.500] so nothing but the greatest qualities.
[00:01:02.200 --> 00:01:03.260] I mean, we had some today.
[00:01:03.700 --> 00:01:06.480] Yeah, my cup's a little empty now, you know.
[00:01:07.200 --> 00:01:09.240] And what did we have in this juice?
[00:01:09.320 --> 00:01:11.660] We had a little bit of watermelon, beet.
[00:01:11.700 --> 00:01:12.260] Mm-hmm.
[00:01:12.880 --> 00:01:17.180] So it was watermelon, beet, carrot, yellow pepper,
[00:01:17.360 --> 00:01:19.760] bell pepper, lemon, and mint.
[00:01:20.160 --> 00:01:20.600] Oh.
[00:01:20.740 --> 00:01:21.300] And that's it.
[00:01:21.300 --> 00:01:21.800] That's delicious.
[00:01:22.000 --> 00:01:23.340] My daughter had some.
[00:01:23.340 --> 00:01:23.960] She loved it.
[00:01:24.320 --> 00:01:25.580] Yeah, yeah.
[00:01:25.580 --> 00:01:27.200] So we take what you have in the refrigerator,
[00:01:27.380 --> 00:01:29.620] nothing too crazy, nothing fancy, very simple.
[00:01:30.260 --> 00:01:31.360] Put it together in a juice.
[00:01:31.880 --> 00:01:33.480] So where did you get started in the juices?
[00:01:33.740 --> 00:01:35.080] What inspired you?
[00:01:35.860 --> 00:01:38.420] It really, I think that, so like I said,
[00:01:38.420 --> 00:01:39.440] I'm a people connector,
[00:01:39.660 --> 00:01:42.080] connector of a variety of things, right?
[00:01:42.360 --> 00:01:46.700] So I worked for the city of Cleveland, Ward 5.
[00:01:46.840 --> 00:01:49.140] Shout out to my boss, Councilman Richard Starr.
[00:01:49.960 --> 00:01:53.160] So that is where some of this actually started from.
[00:01:53.420 --> 00:01:54.920] Being connected in the community,
[00:01:54.920 --> 00:01:57.680] being around the organization is right in the heart
[00:01:57.680 --> 00:02:00.740] of an area that can be identified as a space,
[00:02:01.140 --> 00:02:02.260] as a food desert.
[00:02:03.140 --> 00:02:06.360] So with that, there's still beauty in it
[00:02:06.360 --> 00:02:08.180] because there are farms down there.
[00:02:08.500 --> 00:02:10.280] There are food pantries down there.
[00:02:10.539 --> 00:02:13.380] So I was exposed to Red All Green Partnership,
[00:02:13.860 --> 00:02:15.500] as well as Farmer Jones Market.
[00:02:15.780 --> 00:02:18.640] And with that exposure came the opportunity
[00:02:18.640 --> 00:02:20.340] for me to go to an actual farm,
[00:02:20.540 --> 00:02:23.680] get a seeded watermelon, not seedless.
[00:02:23.680 --> 00:02:24.700] Seed it, y'all.
[00:02:24.700 --> 00:02:26.880] Seed it, make sure they have seeds.
[00:02:27.000 --> 00:02:28.620] It's gonna consume fruit in general.
[00:02:29.100 --> 00:02:30.940] Yes, so it was through that exposure
[00:02:30.940 --> 00:02:34.120] that one day during COVID, I just started seeing stuff.
[00:02:34.160 --> 00:02:35.380] You know, you talk about one thing,
[00:02:35.420 --> 00:02:36.180] if I don't pick it up.
[00:02:36.360 --> 00:02:39.280] And so everyone's social media was stuff about juicers,
[00:02:39.520 --> 00:02:40.820] smoothies, eating clean.
[00:02:41.020 --> 00:02:42.480] I was working out a lot.
[00:02:42.780 --> 00:02:45.320] So it just kind of fell into my lap, if you will.
[00:02:45.360 --> 00:02:47.120] So my family was trying to figure out a way
[00:02:47.120 --> 00:02:49.400] to consume vegetables more.
[00:02:50.120 --> 00:02:52.280] I'm a summer baby, so I love to be outside.
[00:02:52.420 --> 00:02:54.200] So being around fruits and vegetables
[00:02:54.200 --> 00:02:56.380] and all of that, that's what I like in the summertime.
[00:02:56.620 --> 00:02:59.040] So it was summer, I bought a juicer,
[00:02:59.280 --> 00:03:01.100] and the family loved it.
[00:03:01.240 --> 00:03:05.920] Oddly enough, we just listed carrots, beets, bell peppers.
[00:03:06.460 --> 00:03:08.340] Who picking that up and just munching on it?
[00:03:08.980 --> 00:03:10.800] I mean, I would, you know.
[00:03:10.960 --> 00:03:12.940] I mean, people do, and that's a great thing.
[00:03:13.080 --> 00:03:14.640] Exactly, you gotta be a little bit different.
[00:03:15.100 --> 00:03:18.160] But it was through that that I started being able
[00:03:18.160 --> 00:03:20.820] to play with whatever I had in the refrigerator.
[00:03:21.340 --> 00:03:23.320] So yes, I would go purchase items,
[00:03:23.320 --> 00:03:26.020] but maybe I had bought a three-pack of bell pepper
[00:03:26.020 --> 00:03:28.400] and one still left over, right?
[00:03:28.440 --> 00:03:30.660] So I just started buying things here and there,
[00:03:30.680 --> 00:03:31.680] rinsing them through the refrigerator,
[00:03:32.060 --> 00:03:34.400] and started coming up with these different concoctions.
[00:03:35.060 --> 00:03:37.520] Okay, I got a new name for you now
[00:03:38.340 --> 00:03:40.580] that you're kind of re-enlightening me
[00:03:40.580 --> 00:03:41.060] with the stories.
[00:03:41.160 --> 00:03:42.880] I haven't heard your story before,
[00:03:43.640 --> 00:03:46.460] but world-class kitchen sciences.
[00:03:47.320 --> 00:03:48.320] I'ma take it.
[00:03:49.300 --> 00:03:50.980] Because it's a science to this.
[00:03:50.980 --> 00:03:52.080] It really is.
[00:03:52.180 --> 00:03:53.480] Knowing the acidity levels,
[00:03:54.100 --> 00:03:56.600] knowing how long that once these vegetables
[00:03:56.600 --> 00:03:59.780] are broken down into a juice and exposed to air,
[00:04:00.300 --> 00:04:02.420] how long, now that they have that air contact,
[00:04:02.520 --> 00:04:04.380] are they fresh and considered drinkable?
[00:04:04.920 --> 00:04:07.660] Because the juice only has a fresh shelf life
[00:04:07.660 --> 00:04:08.760] of three days.
[00:04:09.260 --> 00:04:11.760] Wow, okay, so maybe that's why I made some juice
[00:04:11.760 --> 00:04:13.720] and was stuffing with bubble in it that night.
[00:04:13.860 --> 00:04:15.660] Well, okay, all right.
[00:04:15.800 --> 00:04:17.440] It was working, it was working.
[00:04:17.820 --> 00:04:19.380] And you taste it when it's fresh,
[00:04:19.380 --> 00:04:21.640] without that sugar, without those extra additives,
[00:04:21.980 --> 00:04:23.540] things don't last as long.
[00:04:23.600 --> 00:04:24.920] That's why you can buy your juice
[00:04:24.920 --> 00:04:26.560] and leave it in the refrigerator for three weeks.
[00:04:27.000 --> 00:04:29.260] Yeah, I had to get my Jess juice on
[00:04:29.260 --> 00:04:30.860] and I effed it up, y'all.
[00:04:31.800 --> 00:04:34.200] But I was doing something, like, sheesh.
[00:04:34.280 --> 00:04:36.200] Real quick, real quick, it works.
[00:04:36.520 --> 00:04:37.240] It works.
[00:04:38.200 --> 00:04:39.880] Man, my stomach was like.
[00:04:41.320 --> 00:04:42.860] But that's helping you out.
[00:04:43.120 --> 00:04:45.140] That's getting all of those things that's in the body
[00:04:45.140 --> 00:04:47.780] that need to be filtered out, filtering them out.
[00:04:47.780 --> 00:04:48.560] So that's a good thing.
[00:04:48.560 --> 00:04:50.320] Well, I had it a little longer than.
[00:04:50.960 --> 00:04:52.180] You did not.
[00:04:52.780 --> 00:04:54.460] I love juice, I'm not drinking that anymore.
[00:04:54.500 --> 00:04:55.200] But you know what?
[00:04:55.460 --> 00:04:56.860] Hey, I'm not mad at you.
[00:04:56.920 --> 00:04:57.280] You can take it.
[00:04:57.280 --> 00:04:59.220] You twisted and it sounded like pop.
[00:04:59.520 --> 00:05:01.360] I'm like, maybe I shouldn't be drinking it,
[00:05:01.360 --> 00:05:01.780] but I'm gonna do it.
[00:05:01.780 --> 00:05:02.680] I've used that.
[00:05:02.920 --> 00:05:03.760] I didn't drink at all,
[00:05:03.780 --> 00:05:06.180] because I kind of felt like something ain't right.
[00:05:06.660 --> 00:05:09.320] Right, I was thirsty too, so.
[00:05:09.540 --> 00:05:11.960] Hey, you live and you learn.
[00:05:12.120 --> 00:05:12.780] You learn that day.
[00:05:12.820 --> 00:05:16.300] To the world-class kitchen sciences, you know,
[00:05:16.400 --> 00:05:16.960] for now on.
[00:05:17.540 --> 00:05:19.300] I got you, I got you.
[00:05:19.620 --> 00:05:21.960] But yeah, having that quick shelf life,
[00:05:22.220 --> 00:05:23.020] it keeps you on the grind.
[00:05:23.140 --> 00:05:24.380] It keeps you in the process.
[00:05:24.700 --> 00:05:28.160] So I was in the process of juicing for me and my family,
[00:05:28.300 --> 00:05:30.240] and we were trying to juice every day.
[00:05:30.280 --> 00:05:31.340] So that's every few days,
[00:05:31.360 --> 00:05:33.200] you're making another batch of juice.
[00:05:33.640 --> 00:05:34.480] So it flew.
[00:05:34.640 --> 00:05:35.220] It went crazy.
[00:05:35.260 --> 00:05:36.200] We started drinking it.
[00:05:36.300 --> 00:05:37.380] The family loved it.
[00:05:37.440 --> 00:05:39.680] In the minute we took it outside to work,
[00:05:40.600 --> 00:05:41.780] I started just testing it out.
[00:05:41.780 --> 00:05:42.380] Girl, try this.
[00:05:42.460 --> 00:05:43.340] Hey, you want some of this?
[00:05:43.340 --> 00:05:43.860] Try this.
[00:05:43.900 --> 00:05:45.380] And before I knew it, orders started flowing.
[00:05:45.380 --> 00:05:47.780] And just juice was born.
[00:05:49.660 --> 00:05:52.940] So I know a lot of people that drink smoothies
[00:05:52.940 --> 00:05:58.120] and go to smoothies as a way of consumption,
[00:05:58.240 --> 00:05:59.360] especially for protein.
[00:05:59.520 --> 00:06:03.020] How would you say juicing compares to smoothies?
[00:06:03.380 --> 00:06:04.460] That's a good question.
[00:06:04.700 --> 00:06:05.680] That really is.
[00:06:06.720 --> 00:06:08.980] For me, I would think the biggest difference
[00:06:08.980 --> 00:06:11.840] would be number one, how it's prepared.
[00:06:12.020 --> 00:06:13.900] So when you think about a smoothie,
[00:06:13.900 --> 00:06:15.720] the smoothie and the juice are very similar.
[00:06:15.920 --> 00:06:18.060] It's just the thickness consistency of it.
[00:06:18.300 --> 00:06:20.440] So the smoothie tends to be a little bit thicker,
[00:06:22.040 --> 00:06:25.970] but it really depends on the ingredients.
[00:06:26.710 --> 00:06:31.830] So in a smoothie, the fiber content is still intact.
[00:06:32.310 --> 00:06:34.410] You're not breaking down those ingredients
[00:06:34.410 --> 00:06:36.290] to a different consistency.
[00:06:36.430 --> 00:06:39.210] You're not turning a solid into a liquid all the way.
[00:06:39.590 --> 00:06:40.870] You're turning it,
[00:06:41.210 --> 00:06:44.310] but it's not as liquefied as a juice.
[00:06:44.790 --> 00:06:46.730] And so then when you think about the ingredients,
[00:06:46.930 --> 00:06:48.450] if you were to make a smoothie
[00:06:48.450 --> 00:06:50.450] out of the exact same ingredients as a juice,
[00:06:50.990 --> 00:06:53.130] your body is still gonna consume that as a juice.
[00:06:53.150 --> 00:06:54.610] So you might not be that full
[00:06:54.610 --> 00:06:56.510] as you think you might be from a smoothie.
[00:06:57.170 --> 00:06:59.230] It depends on the protein content within that.
[00:06:59.890 --> 00:07:03.070] So with juicing, the only thing people think about
[00:07:03.070 --> 00:07:05.450] negatively, if you will, when it comes to juice,
[00:07:05.510 --> 00:07:07.010] is that you break it down so much
[00:07:07.010 --> 00:07:09.670] that you lose some of those nutrients
[00:07:10.210 --> 00:07:12.770] that would be maintained if you were to bite it.
[00:07:12.770 --> 00:07:14.610] Because you are taking that solid object
[00:07:14.610 --> 00:07:15.930] and you're crushing it down,
[00:07:16.250 --> 00:07:18.770] and the crushing and the juicing process,
[00:07:18.930 --> 00:07:25.010] some of those nutrients are broken down
[00:07:25.010 --> 00:07:28.470] a little bit too much to be digested by us.
[00:07:28.930 --> 00:07:31.350] So that's the only, the true difference.
[00:07:31.530 --> 00:07:33.130] And but if you think about your orange juice,
[00:07:33.230 --> 00:07:36.390] the pulp, the pulp is where some of that nutrients
[00:07:36.390 --> 00:07:36.970] are found.
[00:07:37.030 --> 00:07:39.050] So when you juice it and you get rid of that pulp,
[00:07:39.390 --> 00:07:41.170] you get rid of some of the nutrients in a sense,
[00:07:41.170 --> 00:07:44.030] but you just cater that by drinking a little bit more.
[00:07:44.150 --> 00:07:45.850] So you don't have to drink as much smoothies,
[00:07:45.850 --> 00:07:49.050] but if you have more protein-based ingredients in that,
[00:07:49.150 --> 00:07:50.730] your green leafy vegetables,
[00:07:52.030 --> 00:07:54.330] some of your other vegetables as well,
[00:07:54.330 --> 00:07:56.630] if you have that in that smoothie mix,
[00:07:56.950 --> 00:07:59.150] then it's gonna stick to your ribs a little bit better,
[00:07:59.590 --> 00:08:00.850] but it's just how you break it down.
[00:08:00.890 --> 00:08:02.690] So I tend to like my juices
[00:08:02.690 --> 00:08:05.110] with as little pulp as possible.
[00:08:05.110 --> 00:08:05.510] Okay.
[00:08:05.910 --> 00:08:07.150] Because I don't like that taste.
[00:08:07.850 --> 00:08:09.970] But I know that I'm doing that there
[00:08:09.970 --> 00:08:11.290] that some people think about that
[00:08:11.290 --> 00:08:12.550] as losing some of the nutrients.
[00:08:13.210 --> 00:08:14.290] So when people think about that,
[00:08:14.410 --> 00:08:15.410] I said, we'll just drink two.
[00:08:16.110 --> 00:08:16.790] Double it up.
[00:08:16.850 --> 00:08:18.190] Drink two, okay.
[00:08:18.670 --> 00:08:19.510] Now, like when,
[00:08:21.050 --> 00:08:22.130] like you said, the oranges.
[00:08:22.230 --> 00:08:23.490] So we speak about oranges.
[00:08:23.690 --> 00:08:25.670] I like orange, turmeric,
[00:08:26.890 --> 00:08:28.690] turmeric and ginger type of blend.
[00:08:28.790 --> 00:08:29.370] Oh yeah.
[00:08:29.610 --> 00:08:31.210] Like those are my go-to.
[00:08:31.470 --> 00:08:34.289] So what's some of your favorite juices that you made?
[00:08:35.010 --> 00:08:37.610] My go-to, my original juice.
[00:08:38.250 --> 00:08:40.030] And I'll tell you this.
[00:08:40.450 --> 00:08:42.809] I'm not a recipe blogger.
[00:08:43.030 --> 00:08:45.150] Think of me as like the new age grandma, right?
[00:08:45.310 --> 00:08:46.830] Grandma might've had a recipe,
[00:08:46.950 --> 00:08:50.190] but I might've said a pinch instead of a tea spoon.
[00:08:51.030 --> 00:08:51.890] That's how I am.
[00:08:52.270 --> 00:08:52.690] Right?
[00:08:52.810 --> 00:08:55.890] So I bring those into the kitchen
[00:08:55.890 --> 00:08:57.630] and into the juice making process.
[00:08:58.430 --> 00:09:00.090] But in reality,
[00:09:01.430 --> 00:09:04.130] my best juice came from ingredients
[00:09:04.130 --> 00:09:07.930] that were the most juice yielding.
[00:09:08.850 --> 00:09:10.070] So we was balling on the budget.
[00:09:10.990 --> 00:09:12.150] So when we thinking about that,
[00:09:12.150 --> 00:09:14.150] I'm thinking of what are ingredients
[00:09:14.150 --> 00:09:15.670] that's gonna give me the most juice?
[00:09:16.310 --> 00:09:17.270] Number one, my pineapple.
[00:09:17.810 --> 00:09:18.010] Okay.
[00:09:18.370 --> 00:09:20.330] One pineapple can give me,
[00:09:21.030 --> 00:09:23.370] I don't wanna say the exact measurements of a juice,
[00:09:23.430 --> 00:09:26.770] but it gives me enough to be able to provide juice
[00:09:26.770 --> 00:09:28.150] with a family of three.
[00:09:29.510 --> 00:09:30.930] So that strong pineapple base,
[00:09:30.990 --> 00:09:32.430] if you break that down in a juice,
[00:09:32.430 --> 00:09:34.730] I need a few more ingredients on top of that
[00:09:34.730 --> 00:09:36.850] to make it a full well-rounded juice.
[00:09:36.890 --> 00:09:40.370] So I always did a pineapple because of the juice content,
[00:09:40.570 --> 00:09:42.630] a bag of oranges that typically come
[00:09:42.630 --> 00:09:44.250] with about eight oranges.
[00:09:44.710 --> 00:09:47.910] So that's another juice field product or ingredient.
[00:09:48.550 --> 00:09:49.770] And then from that,
[00:09:49.770 --> 00:09:53.410] I just try to add a couple of matching vegetables.
[00:09:53.750 --> 00:09:55.910] So your turmeric, your ginger.
[00:09:56.290 --> 00:09:58.570] I just started playing around with bell peppers,
[00:09:58.610 --> 00:10:00.370] but I've always played with beets.
[00:10:00.370 --> 00:10:02.490] And beets can be your traditional red
[00:10:03.390 --> 00:10:06.890] or it can be a golden beet that's orange.
[00:10:07.050 --> 00:10:08.630] I don't think I had a golden beet before.
[00:10:08.910 --> 00:10:09.830] You did in my juice.
[00:10:11.150 --> 00:10:11.670] Oh.
[00:10:13.010 --> 00:10:13.530] Okay.
[00:10:13.590 --> 00:10:15.090] You did in the juice,
[00:10:16.210 --> 00:10:20.210] but it came off of what was affordable in the colors.
[00:10:20.850 --> 00:10:22.910] So I was playing around with your beets,
[00:10:23.070 --> 00:10:25.830] your oranges, your pineapples, your ginger,
[00:10:26.430 --> 00:10:27.310] your mint,
[00:10:27.430 --> 00:10:28.990] because the mint really didn't give a color,
[00:10:28.990 --> 00:10:32.230] but that mint flavor would really help out
[00:10:32.230 --> 00:10:34.110] if I was struggling to match stuff up together.
[00:10:34.990 --> 00:10:37.390] So that was my base in carrots.
[00:10:38.530 --> 00:10:40.110] I wear glasses.
[00:10:40.350 --> 00:10:41.690] So when you think about that,
[00:10:41.890 --> 00:10:43.490] carrots is always known to help with eyesight.
[00:10:43.990 --> 00:10:44.970] So I always threw them there,
[00:10:44.990 --> 00:10:47.070] but they were all about the same color anyway.
[00:10:47.190 --> 00:10:50.330] So that's really how I thought about my ingredients
[00:10:50.330 --> 00:10:51.290] for each juice.
[00:10:51.650 --> 00:10:54.650] That was easy, cheap, affordable way to make a juice.
[00:10:54.690 --> 00:10:56.770] So that was the number one thing I made
[00:10:56.770 --> 00:10:58.650] and everyone loved it.
[00:11:00.490 --> 00:11:04.050] So the color of this juice that she had me sample,
[00:11:04.170 --> 00:11:05.410] which I had a lot of her juice
[00:11:05.410 --> 00:11:08.430] we got back in the day over the years,
[00:11:08.930 --> 00:11:09.790] it was red.
[00:11:10.350 --> 00:11:12.310] So I feel like it was good in my heart
[00:11:12.310 --> 00:11:14.610] and my heart dancing right now and it's thanking you.
[00:11:14.810 --> 00:11:15.610] So appreciate it.
[00:11:15.730 --> 00:11:17.530] And you see how you make that connection.
[00:11:18.130 --> 00:11:18.450] Absolutely.
[00:11:18.970 --> 00:11:20.830] Every, a lot of vegetables,
[00:11:20.910 --> 00:11:22.070] and I'm still reading this,
[00:11:22.470 --> 00:11:24.330] so quote me, but not to the T,
[00:11:24.890 --> 00:11:27.290] but a lot of fruits and vegetables,
[00:11:27.350 --> 00:11:28.510] when you look at their shape,
[00:11:28.510 --> 00:11:31.610] they appear like something in the body.
[00:11:33.290 --> 00:11:34.390] And so-
[00:11:34.390 --> 00:11:34.870] Color as well.
[00:11:35.130 --> 00:11:36.390] Color as well.
[00:11:36.470 --> 00:11:39.170] So when you think about issues or symptoms
[00:11:39.170 --> 00:11:41.410] that you wanna fix, the beets,
[00:11:41.730 --> 00:11:42.890] you talked about your heart.
[00:11:43.170 --> 00:11:46.510] Beets also help with your iron level as well.
[00:11:46.750 --> 00:11:47.370] A lot of circulation.
[00:11:47.570 --> 00:11:48.590] There you go.
[00:11:48.630 --> 00:11:49.510] There you go.
[00:11:49.990 --> 00:11:52.370] So it's that simple education too
[00:11:52.370 --> 00:11:53.450] that started to come with it
[00:11:53.450 --> 00:11:54.310] and had me to think,
[00:11:54.330 --> 00:11:56.750] all right, I have real bad sinuses.
[00:11:56.750 --> 00:12:00.330] What can I do to help alleviate that?
[00:12:01.150 --> 00:12:02.510] What are some actually?
[00:12:03.050 --> 00:12:04.550] So in drinking the juices,
[00:12:04.710 --> 00:12:08.010] part of the benefit of drinking a natural juice,
[00:12:08.490 --> 00:12:10.030] a raw juice, if you will,
[00:12:10.490 --> 00:12:12.210] is once it comes into your body,
[00:12:12.590 --> 00:12:14.670] it's immediately going into your bloodstream,
[00:12:14.810 --> 00:12:16.210] immediately going into your system
[00:12:16.210 --> 00:12:18.170] and it's helping to attack whatever it is
[00:12:18.170 --> 00:12:19.530] in your body it needs to attack.
[00:12:20.190 --> 00:12:22.450] So your beets help out with your blood,
[00:12:22.550 --> 00:12:24.270] the carrots help out with your eyes,
[00:12:24.270 --> 00:12:26.910] the orange helps out with your immune system.
[00:12:27.270 --> 00:12:30.170] It's going into attack mode immediately.
[00:12:30.770 --> 00:12:33.650] And some of that stuff wouldn't come into your body
[00:12:33.650 --> 00:12:36.290] because when would you sit and just cheer it out a beat?
[00:12:38.070 --> 00:12:39.770] So with that being said,
[00:12:39.970 --> 00:12:42.430] I'm stepping into the coach and business coaching.
[00:12:44.870 --> 00:12:46.150] Having ideology,
[00:12:47.950 --> 00:12:52.850] basically strategizing with ideas, ideation sessions.
[00:12:54.410 --> 00:12:58.590] So a lot of people are stuck with their mindset.
[00:12:59.710 --> 00:13:04.750] So as far as these nutrients and minerals
[00:13:04.750 --> 00:13:07.770] from their fruits and vegetables attacking,
[00:13:07.870 --> 00:13:09.610] like you said, the inner,
[00:13:09.810 --> 00:13:12.350] let's just say thought, so mindset.
[00:13:12.510 --> 00:13:15.310] Is there anything that kind of tweaks
[00:13:15.310 --> 00:13:16.490] or sharpen the brain?
[00:13:19.250 --> 00:13:21.170] Almost like a power juice.
[00:13:22.230 --> 00:13:24.930] And honestly, any juice,
[00:13:24.970 --> 00:13:26.950] people get weirded when I say that
[00:13:26.950 --> 00:13:27.950] because it's that simple.
[00:13:28.350 --> 00:13:30.170] It's just that simple.
[00:13:31.150 --> 00:13:32.650] I like the whole just too
[00:13:32.650 --> 00:13:35.290] because it's just, there you go,
[00:13:35.410 --> 00:13:37.430] just juice, just that simple, right?
[00:13:38.050 --> 00:13:39.530] I was a teenage mom.
[00:13:40.270 --> 00:13:42.770] So when you think about 16 year old having a baby,
[00:13:43.430 --> 00:13:46.630] how much money do you think I was making, right?
[00:13:46.850 --> 00:13:48.110] I was going to say another one.
[00:13:48.110 --> 00:13:51.190] Is it anything to fight poverty or?
[00:13:52.850 --> 00:13:53.970] Okay, okay.
[00:13:54.250 --> 00:13:56.130] So the resources were slim.
[00:13:56.630 --> 00:13:59.770] And so the base of all of this came from
[00:13:59.770 --> 00:14:00.510] what do I have?
[00:14:00.990 --> 00:14:03.030] What do I have access to in the community?
[00:14:03.330 --> 00:14:05.730] And what do I have at home readily available?
[00:14:06.810 --> 00:14:09.090] And it's really anything, any juice,
[00:14:09.270 --> 00:14:11.030] any fruit concoction that you make,
[00:14:11.090 --> 00:14:14.550] whether it's with pineapples, oranges,
[00:14:14.550 --> 00:14:17.790] gingers, watermelon, whatever you have available,
[00:14:18.490 --> 00:14:19.430] that's helpful.
[00:14:19.890 --> 00:14:22.930] There isn't a science to say drink this only
[00:14:22.930 --> 00:14:24.790] and this is going to heal everything, right?
[00:14:25.330 --> 00:14:27.750] Every ingredient has a different power.
[00:14:28.590 --> 00:14:31.750] So when you think about it, whatever you got,
[00:14:32.070 --> 00:14:33.590] if all you have is a bag of apples
[00:14:33.590 --> 00:14:35.250] and you're going to go buy a pineapple,
[00:14:35.630 --> 00:14:36.830] apple and pineapple juice is.
[00:14:37.710 --> 00:14:39.110] Dang, don't tell me it's vice.
[00:14:39.590 --> 00:14:40.770] And it's just that simple
[00:14:40.770 --> 00:14:44.290] because you're drinking it the freshest way possible
[00:14:44.290 --> 00:14:46.010] and your body is ingesting it
[00:14:46.010 --> 00:14:48.490] one of the freshest ways possible.
[00:14:48.610 --> 00:14:50.110] It's going to be a benefit to you.
[00:14:50.330 --> 00:14:51.710] And it's just that over time.
[00:14:51.790 --> 00:14:54.190] So if all you have is some stamps
[00:14:54.190 --> 00:14:56.630] and on them stamps at the end of all your grocery shopping,
[00:14:56.690 --> 00:14:57.870] you got $10 left.
[00:14:58.170 --> 00:14:59.970] With that $10, you're going to go buy you
[00:14:59.970 --> 00:15:00.750] a bag of oranges.
[00:15:01.150 --> 00:15:03.030] You're going to buy you a pineapple for 250
[00:15:03.030 --> 00:15:04.730] and then you're going to figure out
[00:15:04.730 --> 00:15:07.810] what other vegetable can go with those last couple of dollars.
[00:15:07.830 --> 00:15:09.450] So a three pack of bell pepper
[00:15:09.450 --> 00:15:10.990] running you around $5 or so.
[00:15:11.610 --> 00:15:13.790] Bell pepper, pineapple, oranges.
[00:15:13.790 --> 00:15:14.950] It's a juice.
[00:15:16.210 --> 00:15:16.510] $10.
[00:15:16.670 --> 00:15:17.930] You might be in the kitchen and it's like.
[00:15:19.890 --> 00:15:22.190] And juicers aren't as loud as blenders.
[00:15:23.490 --> 00:15:24.770] Another, another good thing.
[00:15:25.610 --> 00:15:27.330] Yeah, buy me a new juicer, y'all.
[00:15:28.030 --> 00:15:29.470] Any juicers you recommend?
[00:15:32.680 --> 00:15:35.400] Okay, so juicing is more expensive
[00:15:35.400 --> 00:15:37.540] than your smoothie making.
[00:15:42.120 --> 00:15:43.060] You're at a cost.
[00:15:43.640 --> 00:15:44.100] Okay.
[00:15:44.640 --> 00:15:46.980] Once again, it's the teenage mom coming into play.
[00:15:47.000 --> 00:15:48.460] So I didn't start with a juicer.
[00:15:48.640 --> 00:15:50.320] I started with a blender.
[00:15:50.320 --> 00:15:52.260] Once again, using what you had.
[00:15:52.640 --> 00:15:54.260] So I had a blender in the house.
[00:15:54.460 --> 00:15:55.780] Wasn't really using it.
[00:15:56.160 --> 00:15:57.680] Hopped on YouTube University.
[00:15:58.420 --> 00:16:02.380] Found a few really good tutorial videos on the process.
[00:16:02.540 --> 00:16:03.620] It's a little longer.
[00:16:04.180 --> 00:16:06.000] But before you can go to the point
[00:16:06.000 --> 00:16:10.160] of where you spending $500 for a top of the line juicer,
[00:16:10.500 --> 00:16:11.380] start with what you got.
[00:16:11.380 --> 00:16:16.480] So I was blending my ingredients down in the blender
[00:16:16.480 --> 00:16:18.160] and using the cheese cloth
[00:16:18.780 --> 00:16:21.760] to strain the juice from the smoothie.
[00:16:22.860 --> 00:16:25.060] Now that process is very extended.
[00:16:25.840 --> 00:16:28.140] But when you don't have what you don't have,
[00:16:28.160 --> 00:16:29.360] you make way with what you got.
[00:16:29.360 --> 00:16:29.880] Right.
[00:16:30.160 --> 00:16:31.020] And that's what I did.
[00:16:31.120 --> 00:16:33.920] So I really did not start juicing
[00:16:33.920 --> 00:16:39.340] through an actual juicer for at least six months.
[00:16:39.760 --> 00:16:40.820] Because it costs so much.
[00:16:40.820 --> 00:16:43.140] And I didn't know at the time
[00:16:43.140 --> 00:16:44.340] that this was gonna be something
[00:16:44.340 --> 00:16:46.100] I can talk about two years later.
[00:16:46.600 --> 00:16:48.380] So the blender held me down.
[00:16:48.480 --> 00:16:50.320] And it was just as simple as that.
[00:16:50.480 --> 00:16:52.180] Blending everything up together.
[00:16:54.320 --> 00:16:58.480] I think when I was doing the smoothie version though,
[00:16:59.000 --> 00:17:02.460] I think I might've been adding a little water with it.
[00:17:02.480 --> 00:17:04.040] Cause you can't blend everything dry.
[00:17:04.440 --> 00:17:07.180] I've definitely done that little water little.
[00:17:07.180 --> 00:17:07.720] Yeah.
[00:17:08.140 --> 00:17:08.720] I'll be pressing here.
[00:17:08.720 --> 00:17:11.579] And he said, look, we gonna parade this.
[00:17:11.619 --> 00:17:12.540] We gonna crush it.
[00:17:12.540 --> 00:17:13.119] He gonna, look.
[00:17:13.780 --> 00:17:15.660] So you have to play around a little bit more.
[00:17:15.819 --> 00:17:17.280] Once again, it's scientific.
[00:17:17.940 --> 00:17:19.180] Keyboard, piano or something.
[00:17:19.819 --> 00:17:21.240] It's a sign of the world.
[00:17:21.760 --> 00:17:23.260] Look, I'm making sure to pause.
[00:17:23.260 --> 00:17:24.579] But it's the science.
[00:17:24.819 --> 00:17:26.260] But for a person, like I said,
[00:17:26.260 --> 00:17:29.060] thinking about coming home, making $200 checks
[00:17:29.620 --> 00:17:31.100] when my child was little,
[00:17:31.320 --> 00:17:32.380] in the back of my mind,
[00:17:32.440 --> 00:17:35.440] everything that I do starts from a simple idea.
[00:17:35.840 --> 00:17:37.480] So if simple is meaning
[00:17:37.480 --> 00:17:39.420] all you have is a bag of apples
[00:17:39.420 --> 00:17:41.860] and an old blender from who knows when,
[00:17:42.100 --> 00:17:42.860] just take your time.
[00:17:43.020 --> 00:17:44.560] It won't take you a little bit more time,
[00:17:44.740 --> 00:17:46.060] but you can do it.
[00:17:46.320 --> 00:17:49.380] And I actually wanna just piggyback off what you said.
[00:17:50.280 --> 00:17:51.140] Start simple.
[00:17:51.500 --> 00:17:52.900] So like writing a book,
[00:17:53.420 --> 00:17:55.680] you know all the steps or you may not.
[00:17:56.200 --> 00:17:59.380] You got a pen, you got a pencil or a paper.
[00:17:59.540 --> 00:18:00.440] Start with that.
[00:18:00.560 --> 00:18:02.780] Start with a notebook and then a laptop.
[00:18:02.940 --> 00:18:04.700] I said, once I get a laptop,
[00:18:05.420 --> 00:18:06.540] I'm gonna write a book.
[00:18:07.480 --> 00:18:08.260] I got a laptop.
[00:18:08.380 --> 00:18:10.080] Six months later, I published my book.
[00:18:10.740 --> 00:18:11.300] That's wild.
[00:18:11.440 --> 00:18:13.080] But it starts with a step
[00:18:13.080 --> 00:18:15.000] and it also starts with your mind.
[00:18:15.100 --> 00:18:15.540] Yes.
[00:18:15.720 --> 00:18:16.960] You have to put it in like,
[00:18:17.080 --> 00:18:18.060] okay, yes, I could do this.
[00:18:18.100 --> 00:18:19.360] I don't really know what,
[00:18:19.380 --> 00:18:20.420] but I'm gonna just write.
[00:18:20.720 --> 00:18:21.780] We're gonna format it later.
[00:18:21.840 --> 00:18:23.760] We're gonna do the research and everything later,
[00:18:23.800 --> 00:18:24.900] but just start.
[00:18:25.100 --> 00:18:26.420] Start with a word.
[00:18:26.960 --> 00:18:29.220] A sentence a day, a page a day,
[00:18:29.300 --> 00:18:31.380] a chapter, a week.
[00:18:31.820 --> 00:18:32.660] Start short.
[00:18:33.380 --> 00:18:33.820] Absolutely.
[00:18:33.860 --> 00:18:34.220] Easy.
[00:18:34.800 --> 00:18:35.440] Make it simple.
[00:18:36.300 --> 00:18:36.960] Just start.
[00:18:37.760 --> 00:18:38.760] Just start.
[00:18:39.200 --> 00:18:39.500] Ooh, Jess.
[00:18:39.560 --> 00:18:41.040] I'm not a whole just thing.
[00:18:41.220 --> 00:18:41.740] Yes.
[00:18:43.640 --> 00:18:45.660] So, you said like two years later.
[00:18:45.840 --> 00:18:47.920] So how did you know or when did you know
[00:18:47.920 --> 00:18:49.860] you wanted to turn this into like a business?
[00:18:52.780 --> 00:18:57.620] I think that because of the position that I was in
[00:18:57.620 --> 00:19:01.040] being so in the mix of the community.
[00:19:02.120 --> 00:19:03.460] Let's rewind back.
[00:19:04.340 --> 00:19:06.700] So when you speak about community,
[00:19:06.700 --> 00:19:10.000] like you said, civic engagement.
[00:19:10.760 --> 00:19:11.320] Collaborative.
[00:19:11.760 --> 00:19:12.120] Collaborative.
[00:19:12.340 --> 00:19:12.660] Mm-hmm.
[00:19:12.960 --> 00:19:16.100] I better say, oh, commuter chaos, son.
[00:19:17.140 --> 00:19:20.420] So, civic engagement, collaborative.
[00:19:20.600 --> 00:19:21.900] Let's speak a little bit about that.
[00:19:22.500 --> 00:19:26.060] So essentially all worlds lead back to War Five.
[00:19:27.740 --> 00:19:29.160] War Five in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:19:29.200 --> 00:19:29.920] There you go.
[00:19:29.980 --> 00:19:31.800] Shout out to Councilman Richard Starr.
[00:19:31.940 --> 00:19:34.200] So all worlds lead back to that.
[00:19:34.780 --> 00:19:37.180] I was introduced to the Red Rock Green Partnership
[00:19:37.180 --> 00:19:37.860] through that.
[00:19:38.140 --> 00:19:39.900] And then work, right?
[00:19:39.920 --> 00:19:40.740] So I took the juices.
[00:19:40.860 --> 00:19:42.080] I started juices at home.
[00:19:42.400 --> 00:19:44.620] Took them out and started giving them out to friends,
[00:19:44.920 --> 00:19:46.960] places I were at, every event I would go to.
[00:19:47.000 --> 00:19:48.800] I would just have a couple on me
[00:19:48.800 --> 00:19:51.360] or I was trying to really get the name out there.
[00:19:51.620 --> 00:19:56.420] And so the reaction was great immediately.
[00:19:57.300 --> 00:19:59.040] Like I was bringing small,
[00:19:59.040 --> 00:20:00.800] I would have small little bottles on me,
[00:20:00.820 --> 00:20:02.340] maybe four ounce bottles to give out
[00:20:02.340 --> 00:20:03.220] as samples everywhere.
[00:20:03.220 --> 00:20:05.040] I had a couple of those samples.
[00:20:05.420 --> 00:20:06.200] Oh, you know, juice.
[00:20:07.020 --> 00:20:11.340] And so through those connections with the community,
[00:20:12.200 --> 00:20:13.580] people were telling me like,
[00:20:13.780 --> 00:20:15.100] this is a business.
[00:20:15.140 --> 00:20:15.960] This is a need.
[00:20:16.360 --> 00:20:19.340] And then the opportunities for funding
[00:20:19.340 --> 00:20:21.200] were starting to trickle in.
[00:20:21.280 --> 00:20:23.240] And I say trickle because funding is always hard.
[00:20:23.300 --> 00:20:24.120] It's always a need.
[00:20:24.580 --> 00:20:25.160] Yes, yes.
[00:20:25.220 --> 00:20:27.360] But once those financial opportunities
[00:20:27.360 --> 00:20:28.520] started to come about
[00:20:28.520 --> 00:20:31.560] and I made the actual business structure,
[00:20:32.020 --> 00:20:33.400] I knew I was in the business.
[00:20:33.500 --> 00:20:35.580] And so for me, it was a little bit hard at first
[00:20:35.580 --> 00:20:37.640] because it takes money to make money.
[00:20:37.960 --> 00:20:40.860] And I wasn't sure how much money was going to be made
[00:20:40.860 --> 00:20:44.480] considering that I'm serving underserved populations
[00:20:44.480 --> 00:20:47.780] and individuals who barely got a dollar to buy a pop,
[00:20:48.500 --> 00:20:50.360] let alone $5 to buy a juice.
[00:20:51.120 --> 00:20:53.180] So the math part was a little bit tricky,
[00:20:53.180 --> 00:20:54.300] but the need was there.
[00:20:54.380 --> 00:20:55.880] People start asking for it.
[00:20:55.900 --> 00:20:58.500] So I started tending pop-up shops.
[00:20:58.500 --> 00:21:00.920] And before you know it,
[00:21:00.920 --> 00:21:03.400] I was on a podcast like this.
[00:21:04.300 --> 00:21:06.680] So you said the need was there,
[00:21:06.720 --> 00:21:09.340] but also it was a conversation with the pricing.
[00:21:09.600 --> 00:21:11.560] Like how did you determine your pricing?
[00:21:12.000 --> 00:21:15.580] Was it based off the ingredients, market research?
[00:21:15.920 --> 00:21:17.080] How did that come about?
[00:21:17.560 --> 00:21:19.860] So I definitely want to shout out partners
[00:21:19.860 --> 00:21:25.240] who made it accessible for me to be able to purchase
[00:21:25.240 --> 00:21:27.420] all of the ingredients needed
[00:21:27.420 --> 00:21:28.740] when it comes to juicing.
[00:21:29.280 --> 00:21:33.320] And it was through that that I was able to,
[00:21:33.340 --> 00:21:34.980] like I said, have the ingredients.
[00:21:35.880 --> 00:21:38.040] So Farmer Jones Market, right?
[00:21:38.380 --> 00:21:41.620] I was going to that bad boy every week.
[00:21:42.120 --> 00:21:43.680] Start going out, yeah.
[00:21:44.080 --> 00:21:45.860] I was in there like clockwork
[00:21:45.860 --> 00:21:47.760] because I mean, juices only last three days.
[00:21:47.760 --> 00:21:49.980] So I'm making juices the day of events.
[00:21:50.000 --> 00:21:53.020] And if I have an event on a Friday of this week
[00:21:53.020 --> 00:21:54.120] and a Tuesday of next week,
[00:21:54.120 --> 00:21:57.300] that's two different shopping trips, just that easy.
[00:21:59.280 --> 00:22:02.000] So one, the ingredients were made
[00:22:02.640 --> 00:22:04.280] a little bit more affordable, right?
[00:22:04.280 --> 00:22:06.260] It's always better to go to your local market
[00:22:06.260 --> 00:22:08.960] rather than a franchise grocery store.
[00:22:09.420 --> 00:22:13.280] And then the way that I was presenting myself,
[00:22:13.800 --> 00:22:16.280] knowing that the people who I wanted to face,
[00:22:16.320 --> 00:22:18.360] so I almost, if you think about it,
[00:22:18.640 --> 00:22:20.000] the first year in business
[00:22:20.000 --> 00:22:21.940] is never your best financial year.
[00:22:23.100 --> 00:22:25.040] So was I fulfilling the need
[00:22:25.040 --> 00:22:27.680] and not getting all of the financial gains
[00:22:27.680 --> 00:22:28.420] back afterwards?
[00:22:28.740 --> 00:22:29.300] Absolutely.
[00:22:30.300 --> 00:22:33.400] But at the time, it wasn't so much out of my control
[00:22:33.400 --> 00:22:36.340] that I was essentially losing, if you will.
[00:22:37.380 --> 00:22:39.160] For me being able to provide that
[00:22:39.160 --> 00:22:41.520] for whether it was a youth group,
[00:22:41.560 --> 00:22:43.680] a girl group or a community event,
[00:22:44.100 --> 00:22:46.020] that exposure at that time
[00:22:46.020 --> 00:22:48.440] allowed me to kind of bring it down a notch
[00:22:48.440 --> 00:22:49.700] just a little bit.
[00:22:50.380 --> 00:22:52.160] So thinking about the pricing,
[00:22:52.320 --> 00:22:55.360] I had to pivot the way that I handle my business
[00:22:55.360 --> 00:22:56.820] a little bit, because you're right.
[00:22:57.400 --> 00:22:59.640] For some reason, and who knows why,
[00:22:59.660 --> 00:23:00.540] I'm leaning on the government.
[00:23:00.660 --> 00:23:02.560] But for some reason, healthier options
[00:23:02.560 --> 00:23:05.460] are a little bit more expensive.
[00:23:06.400 --> 00:23:07.720] So knowing that,
[00:23:07.740 --> 00:23:09.520] I knew that I couldn't come into the game
[00:23:09.520 --> 00:23:12.180] just selling juices person to person.
[00:23:13.760 --> 00:23:16.100] So I started to pivot,
[00:23:16.140 --> 00:23:18.040] and this is where the beauty of being
[00:23:18.040 --> 00:23:20.220] in constant contact with community,
[00:23:20.600 --> 00:23:22.460] I was able to pivot and say, you know what,
[00:23:22.480 --> 00:23:25.160] I want to provide these juices to this group of people,
[00:23:25.520 --> 00:23:28.320] but maybe if I angle it through organizations,
[00:23:28.780 --> 00:23:30.560] and I'm talking to the organizations
[00:23:30.560 --> 00:23:32.160] for them to provide the need,
[00:23:32.480 --> 00:23:34.580] now I'm going business to business.
[00:23:37.500 --> 00:23:40.120] That is a great business.
[00:23:40.360 --> 00:23:42.240] Because we don't want to charge the people.
[00:23:43.340 --> 00:23:44.740] But we know business to business,
[00:23:44.760 --> 00:23:45.740] we can make moves.
[00:23:46.600 --> 00:23:49.540] So now, instead of me trying to sell
[00:23:49.540 --> 00:23:51.520] almost door to door, if you will.
[00:23:51.840 --> 00:23:52.300] True.
[00:23:53.180 --> 00:23:56.300] Now I'm going to these larger scale events,
[00:23:57.460 --> 00:24:00.880] positioning myself to sell juices either at their events
[00:24:01.740 --> 00:24:03.520] and they're given to the people,
[00:24:04.760 --> 00:24:07.360] or positioning for them to purchase something
[00:24:07.360 --> 00:24:08.480] from me directly.
[00:24:09.960 --> 00:24:12.360] Because they have an event that I want to attend,
[00:24:12.440 --> 00:24:14.820] so either you will afford the cost upfront
[00:24:14.820 --> 00:24:17.540] for me to come to your event and give out juices for free,
[00:24:17.980 --> 00:24:20.360] or we can work something out
[00:24:20.360 --> 00:24:22.340] where you have an event and you want me to pop up,
[00:24:22.340 --> 00:24:26.260] but we need to think about how can we both make this.
[00:24:26.300 --> 00:24:27.000] That's right.
[00:24:27.320 --> 00:24:28.160] Right, right?
[00:24:28.180 --> 00:24:31.480] So it's just realigning your actual target.
[00:24:31.820 --> 00:24:34.500] My target audience is always going to be the community,
[00:24:34.700 --> 00:24:38.580] but how do I access them is through partnerships
[00:24:39.480 --> 00:24:43.040] with the resources putting on these community-led events.
[00:24:43.040 --> 00:24:44.920] So it's just, you know,
[00:24:45.240 --> 00:24:46.620] once again, going back to that community.
[00:24:47.120 --> 00:24:48.120] The need is there.
[00:24:48.340 --> 00:24:50.220] The partnerships had to become available
[00:24:50.220 --> 00:24:51.460] for me to meet that need.
[00:24:51.820 --> 00:24:53.700] So just connecting with the people
[00:24:53.700 --> 00:24:56.240] and the partners that are out there
[00:24:56.240 --> 00:24:59.520] organizing these events so that we can
[00:24:59.520 --> 00:25:03.060] make it affordable for the people attending those events.
[00:25:03.060 --> 00:25:04.020] So I'm still learning.
[00:25:04.600 --> 00:25:06.140] I'm still figuring it out,
[00:25:06.660 --> 00:25:09.080] but I just had to think if my target audience
[00:25:09.080 --> 00:25:11.220] is the people, how do I get to the people?
[00:25:11.220 --> 00:25:14.120] And that's through organizations
[00:25:14.120 --> 00:25:17.380] who are hosting people, essentially.
[00:25:19.080 --> 00:25:21.460] So with that being said,
[00:25:23.600 --> 00:25:25.080] as far as like events,
[00:25:25.440 --> 00:25:27.140] have you ever been to like trade shows
[00:25:27.140 --> 00:25:28.920] and kind of market through trade shows?
[00:25:29.400 --> 00:25:30.860] I have not yet.
[00:25:31.300 --> 00:25:32.160] Have not yet.
[00:25:32.880 --> 00:25:37.880] I've done some youth engagement with Queen I Am.
[00:25:38.040 --> 00:25:40.460] Big shout out to Queen I Am.
[00:25:40.460 --> 00:25:43.660] Yeah, she was my first youth group
[00:25:43.660 --> 00:25:45.620] that I did a presentation for.
[00:25:46.860 --> 00:25:48.360] And that was beautiful.
[00:25:48.540 --> 00:25:51.140] That was something that I really won't ever forget.
[00:25:51.180 --> 00:25:51.560] Cause like I said,
[00:25:51.560 --> 00:25:54.580] that was my first presentation to a youth group.
[00:25:54.680 --> 00:25:56.100] And kids are different than adults.
[00:25:56.980 --> 00:25:59.480] I just got down from, coming from the school,
[00:25:59.800 --> 00:26:00.780] man, so bad.
[00:26:02.040 --> 00:26:03.900] They're just, you know, full of energy.
[00:26:04.640 --> 00:26:07.600] Well, yeah, full of energy.
[00:26:10.840 --> 00:26:13.780] So it was through those partnerships,
[00:26:14.140 --> 00:26:15.440] and this is where I can start rambling.
[00:26:15.740 --> 00:26:17.880] So please divert me back on the right track
[00:26:17.880 --> 00:26:20.740] if I go too far off.
[00:26:23.760 --> 00:26:25.880] But through those community partnerships,
[00:26:26.640 --> 00:26:30.160] I was able to kind of expose myself to different groups
[00:26:30.160 --> 00:26:32.540] that I might not be able to do so on my own.
[00:26:33.440 --> 00:26:35.560] So now current events coming up,
[00:26:36.120 --> 00:26:38.620] I'm a part of the Civic Engagement Collaborative.
[00:26:38.880 --> 00:26:41.880] That's a group, a collective of myself
[00:26:41.880 --> 00:26:43.980] and three other women came together.
[00:26:44.120 --> 00:26:46.380] Once again, all roads lead to Ward 5.
[00:26:47.980 --> 00:26:51.360] So we either live in the area, work in the area,
[00:26:51.660 --> 00:26:54.080] or we are invested in the area.
[00:26:54.660 --> 00:26:55.780] And we came together,
[00:26:55.820 --> 00:26:57.920] we've been working together now for a few years
[00:26:57.920 --> 00:27:02.100] and the need there was the voter engagement.
[00:27:02.800 --> 00:27:04.800] And voting can be a scary topic
[00:27:05.320 --> 00:27:07.400] because either you live down the way
[00:27:07.400 --> 00:27:09.440] and you don't think it affects you directly
[00:27:09.440 --> 00:27:12.860] or you live up the way and you don't see the need
[00:27:12.860 --> 00:27:17.440] in the same distractions or the same disadvantages
[00:27:18.060 --> 00:27:21.300] of those who are directly impacted
[00:27:21.300 --> 00:27:23.180] but don't understand the importance of voting.
[00:27:24.060 --> 00:27:25.220] So it was a double-edged sword.
[00:27:25.280 --> 00:27:27.360] Some people like, oh, I moved out of that
[00:27:27.360 --> 00:27:29.740] because I didn't want to be around that anymore.
[00:27:29.880 --> 00:27:31.560] So now it no longer affects me.
[00:27:31.960 --> 00:27:34.160] And then there's others that this is where I'm at,
[00:27:34.160 --> 00:27:36.660] live here, die here, this is home.
[00:27:37.500 --> 00:27:39.280] But I've been down here forever
[00:27:39.280 --> 00:27:42.180] and I've never seen anything good for me from voting.
[00:27:43.060 --> 00:27:43.620] Why vote?
[00:27:46.040 --> 00:27:49.860] Ooh, what about samples at the voting?
[00:27:52.350 --> 00:27:52.990] What you mean?
[00:27:54.230 --> 00:27:55.650] Passing out samples at the voting.
[00:27:55.650 --> 00:27:58.190] Yeah, so the civic engagement collaborative,
[00:27:58.270 --> 00:28:01.050] we were able to think about those two
[00:28:01.050 --> 00:28:03.750] very opposing sides and think of a way
[00:28:03.750 --> 00:28:05.810] to how do we bring everybody into a room
[00:28:05.810 --> 00:28:08.290] to get everybody to understand whether you are
[00:28:08.290 --> 00:28:10.190] up the way, down the way, out the way, right?
[00:28:10.850 --> 00:28:12.950] Politics affects you directly.
[00:28:13.710 --> 00:28:15.730] So we thought of these ideas and we came up
[00:28:15.730 --> 00:28:19.570] with the karaoke and conversations events, right?
[00:28:19.850 --> 00:28:21.030] Gotta ring to it right there.
[00:28:21.270 --> 00:28:22.350] It does, wow.
[00:28:22.510 --> 00:28:24.790] And that's because we had to find a way
[00:28:24.790 --> 00:28:28.350] to bring people who didn't see the need,
[00:28:28.610 --> 00:28:31.070] who didn't realize the importance of it
[00:28:31.070 --> 00:28:33.810] or who maybe they are interested,
[00:28:34.190 --> 00:28:37.250] but they don't have the right people in front of them
[00:28:37.250 --> 00:28:38.930] giving them the knowledge that they need
[00:28:38.930 --> 00:28:42.430] or they don't have the spaces available to them
[00:28:42.430 --> 00:28:45.750] to express their want to know more.
[00:28:46.490 --> 00:28:48.770] So we came up with karaoke and conversation
[00:28:48.770 --> 00:28:51.850] and it's events that are catered to the community.
[00:28:52.190 --> 00:28:54.110] So for all adults, we're working on some things
[00:28:54.110 --> 00:28:55.730] for kids as well, because we really need
[00:28:55.730 --> 00:28:57.930] to make these 18 year olds know
[00:28:57.930 --> 00:29:00.790] and 17 too, your opportunity to vote,
[00:29:00.790 --> 00:29:04.450] your time now as an adult, it really starts then, 18,
[00:29:04.670 --> 00:29:07.470] but you can really register to get ready to vote at 17.
[00:29:08.970 --> 00:29:11.470] So karaoke and conversation, we kick off the event
[00:29:11.470 --> 00:29:14.030] with networking, we have free food available.
[00:29:14.510 --> 00:29:17.090] If we're at a space that has beverages,
[00:29:17.450 --> 00:29:20.150] alcoholic beverages, we accommodate that as well,
[00:29:20.270 --> 00:29:21.790] depending on the space that's available.
[00:29:22.070 --> 00:29:24.650] And then we have a variety of guest speakers
[00:29:24.650 --> 00:29:27.770] to help you understand the power of your vote,
[00:29:28.030 --> 00:29:29.630] the importance of your vote,
[00:29:29.630 --> 00:29:31.970] what current things are available
[00:29:32.880 --> 00:29:35.070] for you to vote on at that time.
[00:29:35.390 --> 00:29:37.550] So we've had a lot of guest speakers,
[00:29:38.090 --> 00:29:40.410] a couple of our familiar speakers
[00:29:40.410 --> 00:29:42.230] who try to come out as much as possible,
[00:29:42.670 --> 00:29:44.110] Congresswoman Shantel Brown,
[00:29:45.390 --> 00:29:47.690] State Rep Darnell Brewer,
[00:29:48.610 --> 00:29:51.310] State Rep Terrence Upchurch,
[00:29:52.210 --> 00:29:54.750] Callie Hall, the County President, Pernell Jones.
[00:29:55.510 --> 00:29:59.890] So we definitely try to keep it local, right?
[00:29:59.970 --> 00:30:02.210] These are folks who are from the area,
[00:30:02.930 --> 00:30:05.890] who live in the area, work in the area,
[00:30:05.890 --> 00:30:08.490] and they're very dedicated to it.
[00:30:08.510 --> 00:30:09.910] So they're, and they're us,
[00:30:10.150 --> 00:30:11.790] they look like me and you,
[00:30:12.070 --> 00:30:15.950] they understand the same problems or concerns
[00:30:15.950 --> 00:30:19.970] and issues we might have as black people.
[00:30:20.830 --> 00:30:24.350] And so they're able to take that high political knowledge
[00:30:24.350 --> 00:30:27.370] and break it down into a way that we can understand.
[00:30:28.770 --> 00:30:30.670] Because that's the most important part.
[00:30:30.810 --> 00:30:32.050] Me and you could have a conversation,
[00:30:32.270 --> 00:30:34.030] but I can't take it always to the top
[00:30:34.030 --> 00:30:35.650] like Congresswoman Brown will do.
[00:30:36.430 --> 00:30:38.750] But she'll break it down and get you to understand
[00:30:38.750 --> 00:30:40.950] why current events right now,
[00:30:41.210 --> 00:30:42.930] why you need to pay attention to them
[00:30:42.930 --> 00:30:45.490] and how some of these current cuts
[00:30:45.490 --> 00:30:47.390] that are being taken by the administration
[00:30:47.390 --> 00:30:49.510] are immediately impacting.
[00:30:50.010 --> 00:30:52.770] And once again, my disclaimer,
[00:30:53.650 --> 00:30:56.490] all roads leads to Ward 5, right?
[00:30:56.630 --> 00:30:58.410] So working in an environment
[00:30:58.410 --> 00:31:01.970] where people who depend on the food bank,
[00:31:03.050 --> 00:31:05.530] they depend on it every month, every week,
[00:31:05.570 --> 00:31:06.950] whatever they may need,
[00:31:06.990 --> 00:31:08.590] they go to these food pantries.
[00:31:08.950 --> 00:31:10.790] And recently the current administration
[00:31:10.790 --> 00:31:14.230] made budget cuts to the food bank.
[00:31:15.050 --> 00:31:17.010] So if you were one of those people
[00:31:17.010 --> 00:31:18.390] who were going to the food bank,
[00:31:19.710 --> 00:31:20.750] every week,
[00:31:21.890 --> 00:31:24.190] you may have already felt that impact
[00:31:24.190 --> 00:31:25.410] of those budget cuts.
[00:31:25.850 --> 00:31:29.690] So did they make cuts to the food stamps as well?
[00:31:29.990 --> 00:31:31.970] Absolutely, that's all down the pipeline.
[00:31:32.410 --> 00:31:34.070] All of that is what's coming down
[00:31:34.070 --> 00:31:35.930] and that if we don't,
[00:31:35.930 --> 00:31:38.690] number one, are interested in watching the news,
[00:31:38.690 --> 00:31:39.850] we might not get it.
[00:31:40.470 --> 00:31:43.030] And then even if we do watch the news,
[00:31:43.210 --> 00:31:44.990] we still don't get a full understanding
[00:31:44.990 --> 00:31:48.730] of just how quickly things can impact us.
[00:31:49.670 --> 00:31:50.470] Because the news stories
[00:31:50.470 --> 00:31:52.230] will always make a little special twist
[00:31:52.230 --> 00:31:53.970] and you can only get five minutes.
[00:31:55.030 --> 00:31:56.910] Or they give what they want.
[00:31:57.010 --> 00:31:59.130] Very short, very short.
[00:31:59.330 --> 00:32:01.350] So it's good that you're aware of issues,
[00:32:01.410 --> 00:32:03.250] but where do you get the opportunity
[00:32:03.250 --> 00:32:05.190] to learn more about that?
[00:32:05.470 --> 00:32:07.010] And some people are on the fence, right?
[00:32:07.170 --> 00:32:09.930] Some grandparents, they've been around for decades.
[00:32:10.610 --> 00:32:12.930] Wama vo vo, what it's gonna help me do?
[00:32:13.370 --> 00:32:15.850] All these years I've been down here, 30, 40 years,
[00:32:16.190 --> 00:32:17.430] and now you want me to vote?
[00:32:18.170 --> 00:32:18.570] Why?
[00:32:19.090 --> 00:32:19.490] Right?
[00:32:19.490 --> 00:32:20.810] And that's a valid question.
[00:32:21.630 --> 00:32:22.430] Valid question.
[00:32:22.550 --> 00:32:23.910] You done lived through this, been through this,
[00:32:23.950 --> 00:32:26.250] you may have voted every year you could of your life.
[00:32:26.910 --> 00:32:28.970] And now you like, you want me to vote again for what?
[00:32:29.070 --> 00:32:31.910] And I'm still down here, nothing's changed,
[00:32:32.110 --> 00:32:35.350] school's still underfunded, food pantry's getting cut,
[00:32:35.710 --> 00:32:36.710] and you want me to vote?
[00:32:37.690 --> 00:32:38.410] Make it make sense.
[00:32:39.050 --> 00:32:42.770] And I'm a big believer of the underdog,
[00:32:43.630 --> 00:32:45.890] and I kind of lose to the story you're telling.
[00:32:46.810 --> 00:32:49.370] I mean, I've kind of been an underdog all myself,
[00:32:49.530 --> 00:32:50.830] that's why I always root for the underdog.
[00:32:51.730 --> 00:32:53.310] Because at the end of the day,
[00:32:53.870 --> 00:32:55.930] as long as you try, what do you have to lose?
[00:32:55.990 --> 00:32:57.630] Yeah, as long as you try.
[00:32:58.090 --> 00:32:59.970] And now we're not even trying for us,
[00:33:00.230 --> 00:33:02.150] we're trying for the next generation.
[00:33:02.770 --> 00:33:03.730] Which is important.
[00:33:04.950 --> 00:33:08.110] And along with the food, even the house
[00:33:08.110 --> 00:33:09.530] is getting cut.
[00:33:10.050 --> 00:33:15.210] A lot of programs have already been cut from nonprofits.
[00:33:15.710 --> 00:33:18.090] So when you think about your after-school programming,
[00:33:18.570 --> 00:33:19.890] you think about your Micom,
[00:33:20.210 --> 00:33:22.130] you think about the programs for kids
[00:33:22.130 --> 00:33:23.810] that have been around for years.
[00:33:24.430 --> 00:33:26.410] Now, we're all trying to figure out
[00:33:26.410 --> 00:33:29.450] where does funding come from to maintain.
[00:33:32.510 --> 00:33:34.970] So, all roads leading back to war five,
[00:33:35.010 --> 00:33:37.290] those were some of the pressing issues
[00:33:37.290 --> 00:33:39.990] that were always in my ear, in my face,
[00:33:40.250 --> 00:33:41.450] right in front of me every day.
[00:33:41.810 --> 00:33:43.330] So the Civic Engagement Collaborative,
[00:33:43.350 --> 00:33:44.510] we were able to come together
[00:33:44.510 --> 00:33:47.370] and kind of try to tie up some of those loose ends.
[00:33:47.470 --> 00:33:48.710] We're activating the community,
[00:33:48.830 --> 00:33:49.790] we're getting them engaged,
[00:33:49.910 --> 00:33:51.510] we're mobilizing the community.
[00:33:51.930 --> 00:33:53.390] So yes, we want you to vote,
[00:33:53.590 --> 00:33:55.630] but then we want you to also know that
[00:33:55.630 --> 00:33:56.930] within that power of that vote,
[00:33:57.250 --> 00:33:58.130] not as you voted,
[00:33:58.550 --> 00:33:59.870] now let's work on some of the issues
[00:33:59.870 --> 00:34:00.830] that you voted on.
[00:34:01.630 --> 00:34:05.610] So, healthcare, medical coverage, right?
[00:34:05.650 --> 00:34:06.870] They're kind of hand in hand.
[00:34:06.870 --> 00:34:10.050] If we know that things are getting cut,
[00:34:10.370 --> 00:34:11.949] budget cuts have happened with food,
[00:34:12.250 --> 00:34:13.870] then guess what we think is gonna happen next?
[00:34:14.150 --> 00:34:16.010] Medical, right?
[00:34:16.170 --> 00:34:18.770] A lot of things, social, security, stamps,
[00:34:19.050 --> 00:34:21.170] all that stuff that we're used to.
[00:34:21.310 --> 00:34:23.270] Once one thing started getting cut in my mind,
[00:34:23.370 --> 00:34:25.050] I'm like, all right, let's prepare.
[00:34:25.989 --> 00:34:29.550] So, what they think is gonna happen?
[00:34:29.690 --> 00:34:31.190] Robots taking over us all?
[00:34:31.290 --> 00:34:33.310] Look, so that's why it's important
[00:34:33.310 --> 00:34:35.770] for us to take care of us, right?
[00:34:35.770 --> 00:34:38.070] Thinking about those backyard gardens,
[00:34:38.889 --> 00:34:41.330] community gardens, bartering, right?
[00:34:41.590 --> 00:34:44.030] It may sound far off and scary,
[00:34:44.370 --> 00:34:46.389] but if we looking out for us,
[00:34:46.670 --> 00:34:48.210] then the one way we gonna look out for us
[00:34:48.210 --> 00:34:49.489] and make sure we got food,
[00:34:50.110 --> 00:34:52.110] make sure we know how to take care of each other,
[00:34:52.330 --> 00:34:54.590] and make sure that we can maintain ourselves.
[00:34:55.150 --> 00:34:57.110] So, I mean, you really just have to make sure
[00:34:57.110 --> 00:35:00.610] that you are knowledgeable of a lot of stuff.
[00:35:01.010 --> 00:35:02.710] So, the karaoke conversation
[00:35:02.710 --> 00:35:04.310] helps you to learn a little bit,
[00:35:04.310 --> 00:35:05.810] have a fun at the same time,
[00:35:05.830 --> 00:35:06.550] because there's a lot,
[00:35:06.590 --> 00:35:07.810] and it can be a little depressing,
[00:35:07.890 --> 00:35:09.590] but we don't wanna end off on that note.
[00:35:10.030 --> 00:35:12.490] So, through the conversation, we learn,
[00:35:12.830 --> 00:35:15.370] then we transition into the karaoke spot.
[00:35:15.470 --> 00:35:18.250] So, we started doing some line dancing,
[00:35:18.390 --> 00:35:20.450] because that's the hottest thing out here now, right?
[00:35:20.910 --> 00:35:22.450] So, we got our boots on the ground
[00:35:22.450 --> 00:35:23.530] and our fans clapping.
[00:35:24.510 --> 00:35:25.390] Okay, okay.
[00:35:26.010 --> 00:35:27.790] So, we go from the conversation
[00:35:27.790 --> 00:35:29.550] and making sure that we leave
[00:35:29.550 --> 00:35:31.390] a little bit better than how we came.
[00:35:31.850 --> 00:35:33.990] We lighten it up a little bit, have some fun,
[00:35:33.990 --> 00:35:35.570] because remember, we're going into the places
[00:35:35.570 --> 00:35:38.930] where people don't typically go for this knowledge.
[00:35:39.190 --> 00:35:40.490] So, we don't wanna bore them out.
[00:35:40.490 --> 00:35:43.350] We wanna have some fun, engage the people, right?
[00:35:43.350 --> 00:35:45.210] So, we do the karaoke,
[00:35:45.410 --> 00:35:47.290] and it's a great time for everybody.
[00:35:47.390 --> 00:35:52.230] So, this is an event for all ages 18 and up,
[00:35:52.330 --> 00:35:54.010] but we're working on the youth,
[00:35:54.250 --> 00:35:56.850] getting them involved and getting them activated as well.
[00:35:57.750 --> 00:35:59.490] Not sure when this podcast will air,
[00:35:59.510 --> 00:36:03.230] but our next event is Friday, June 1st.
[00:36:03.230 --> 00:36:07.590] We are working on our Friday, June 6th.
[00:36:07.590 --> 00:36:09.310] Okay. Let me clarify that.
[00:36:10.330 --> 00:36:14.590] Friday, June 6th is the first Saturday in June.
[00:36:15.350 --> 00:36:17.150] So, first Friday in June.
[00:36:17.230 --> 00:36:18.430] Let me make it make sense,
[00:36:18.630 --> 00:36:20.050] because I just butchered that.
[00:36:20.670 --> 00:36:21.990] No, no, you're fine, I love it.
[00:36:22.290 --> 00:36:24.190] So, our karaoke and conversation,
[00:36:24.650 --> 00:36:27.150] the next karaoke conversation event
[00:36:27.150 --> 00:36:30.770] will be held Friday, June 6th.
[00:36:30.770 --> 00:36:33.110] The event will be at Platform 13.
[00:36:33.190 --> 00:36:36.050] It's a new event space on Cedar.
[00:36:36.210 --> 00:36:38.610] So, it's 7500 Cedar Ave.
[00:36:39.010 --> 00:36:40.190] We're there at 530.
[00:36:40.510 --> 00:36:43.150] Kicks off the networking and the conversation flows
[00:36:43.150 --> 00:36:44.510] and start at six,
[00:36:44.870 --> 00:36:49.830] with karaoke kicking off around 715-ish, 730-ish.
[00:36:51.250 --> 00:36:52.910] So, yeah, this is,
[00:36:52.910 --> 00:36:55.770] it will probably release a little after the date.
[00:36:55.910 --> 00:36:56.510] Oh, no problem.
[00:36:56.550 --> 00:37:00.250] We're gonna promote before then on social media.
[00:37:01.210 --> 00:37:04.670] Yeah, I had a chance to attend that venue.
[00:37:05.750 --> 00:37:07.650] It's a nice space.
[00:37:08.190 --> 00:37:11.190] All roads lead to Ward 5, so there we have it.
[00:37:12.590 --> 00:37:14.150] It was a unique space
[00:37:14.150 --> 00:37:17.750] and they are a community-focused venue.
[00:37:18.570 --> 00:37:21.190] So, we're blessed enough to have in a space like that
[00:37:21.190 --> 00:37:23.850] right in Ward 5, where you have to go, right?
[00:37:23.850 --> 00:37:25.710] You have to go somewhere far
[00:37:25.710 --> 00:37:28.570] to be seen like you are not where you're at.
[00:37:29.130 --> 00:37:32.230] Last year, we also were at the Box Spot, right on Kansman.
[00:37:32.870 --> 00:37:35.470] And that is a very unique outdoor space.
[00:37:35.590 --> 00:37:39.510] If you have not seen that space, ride down Kansman.
[00:37:41.130 --> 00:37:42.650] Take a ride down Kansman,
[00:37:42.810 --> 00:37:44.930] right down the bridge, down the hill,
[00:37:45.310 --> 00:37:47.730] across the street from the CMHA headquarters.
[00:37:48.150 --> 00:37:49.990] A beautiful outdoor space.
[00:37:49.990 --> 00:37:50.550] It is.
[00:37:50.650 --> 00:37:52.690] Made of storage containers.
[00:37:53.110 --> 00:37:54.750] So, it's a sustainable space
[00:37:55.290 --> 00:37:57.450] because it's not a regular brick and mortar,
[00:37:57.450 --> 00:37:59.570] but it's made with containers.
[00:37:59.810 --> 00:38:01.810] There is an outdoor stage area
[00:38:01.810 --> 00:38:05.270] and there may even be opportunities to set up for vending.
[00:38:05.670 --> 00:38:06.550] So, who knows?
[00:38:06.630 --> 00:38:08.770] If you are looking, if you are an entrepreneur,
[00:38:08.930 --> 00:38:10.130] I'm a connector of people.
[00:38:10.170 --> 00:38:11.790] So, I'm connecting people right now.
[00:38:12.050 --> 00:38:13.450] And how can I connect with you?
[00:38:13.990 --> 00:38:17.610] So, if you are looking to connect with me directly,
[00:38:17.830 --> 00:38:22.810] you can follow me on Instagram, Jessica Williams,
[00:38:22.810 --> 00:38:29.570] on social media or Facebook, Jessica Williams as well.
[00:38:30.010 --> 00:38:31.810] I'm also can be reached
[00:38:31.810 --> 00:38:35.830] on our Civic Engagement Collaborative pages.
[00:38:35.910 --> 00:38:37.970] So, the Civic Engagement collab
[00:38:37.970 --> 00:38:42.130] that's on Facebook and Instagram.
[00:38:42.870 --> 00:38:46.550] If you are a community advocate,
[00:38:46.890 --> 00:38:49.330] if you are a community resource
[00:38:49.330 --> 00:38:51.970] and you are looking to attend upcoming events
[00:38:51.970 --> 00:38:54.690] and you want to partner to attend,
[00:38:54.810 --> 00:38:57.970] whether it's our award five back to school resource fair
[00:38:58.570 --> 00:39:02.530] or it is our community cleanups
[00:39:02.530 --> 00:39:03.930] that we have throughout the year,
[00:39:04.030 --> 00:39:06.690] any of our award five events,
[00:39:07.370 --> 00:39:12.290] feel free to reach me via email,
[00:39:13.650 --> 00:39:17.810] jwilliams at clevelandcitycouncil.org,
[00:39:20.370 --> 00:39:23.730] 216-664-2309.
[00:39:24.110 --> 00:39:27.630] And pretty much that's a good way to connect with me.
[00:39:27.830 --> 00:39:30.530] Like I said, if you're a community-based organization
[00:39:30.530 --> 00:39:34.030] and you are looking to find ways to partner with us
[00:39:34.030 --> 00:39:36.950] for events, to attend events, to provide a service,
[00:39:37.030 --> 00:39:39.350] to talk about the programs that you have available,
[00:39:39.950 --> 00:39:40.970] connect with me.
[00:39:41.050 --> 00:39:43.730] We have award meetings that you can attend
[00:39:43.730 --> 00:39:45.010] and be a vendor at.
[00:39:45.270 --> 00:39:47.430] We have a variety of events throughout the year.
[00:39:47.430 --> 00:39:49.850] So whether you're looking to connect with me
[00:39:49.850 --> 00:39:51.870] through our civic engagement collaborative
[00:39:52.510 --> 00:39:54.190] directly through award five
[00:39:54.190 --> 00:39:55.910] or you wanted to reach out to me directly
[00:39:55.910 --> 00:39:57.430] to talk more about juices,
[00:39:57.870 --> 00:39:59.650] you can find me on any platform,
[00:39:59.770 --> 00:40:00.730] really at Jessica Williams,
[00:40:01.010 --> 00:40:04.530] but you have my social medias, handles,
[00:40:05.090 --> 00:40:06.770] and yeah, I'm available.
[00:40:06.850 --> 00:40:07.390] I'm around.
[00:40:07.470 --> 00:40:08.670] You might see me out in the streets.
[00:40:08.730 --> 00:40:10.390] If you see me, say hey.
[00:40:11.270 --> 00:40:12.930] So again, I'm gonna ask you that
[00:40:12.930 --> 00:40:16.350] at the end of the podcast episode,
[00:40:17.130 --> 00:40:18.910] but I kind of want to shift gears
[00:40:18.910 --> 00:40:21.830] and since you know me, I'm big into media
[00:40:21.830 --> 00:40:24.610] and all different facets of media.
[00:40:25.130 --> 00:40:29.890] So how has media affected more of the political side,
[00:40:29.890 --> 00:40:32.330] but also your business and just juice?
[00:40:32.970 --> 00:40:33.750] Oh my goodness.
[00:40:33.810 --> 00:40:37.070] Media has really taken it to the next level,
[00:40:37.070 --> 00:40:39.450] if you will, because you're able to reach
[00:40:39.450 --> 00:40:42.250] so many people and even the way
[00:40:42.250 --> 00:40:45.410] that I present myself in my videos.
[00:40:45.410 --> 00:40:48.170] So because I am on the go so much,
[00:40:48.950 --> 00:40:52.210] I try to kind of vlog it, if you will,
[00:40:52.210 --> 00:40:53.810] and put it back out there in the space
[00:40:53.810 --> 00:40:55.790] just to showcase because a lot of times
[00:40:55.790 --> 00:40:58.510] I'm at events where I feel like
[00:40:58.510 --> 00:40:59.690] if someone was to see this,
[00:40:59.690 --> 00:41:01.810] they could learn something from it as well.
[00:41:02.450 --> 00:41:05.970] So if, and it was actually through vlogging
[00:41:05.970 --> 00:41:08.330] me attending different events,
[00:41:08.350 --> 00:41:10.950] I was able to connect with people.
[00:41:12.090 --> 00:41:13.170] People were able to see themselves
[00:41:13.170 --> 00:41:14.210] in some of my videos that,
[00:41:14.210 --> 00:41:15.570] oh, I was there, I seen you there.
[00:41:15.630 --> 00:41:17.030] It was nice seeing you from back then.
[00:41:17.070 --> 00:41:21.510] So it really just keeps me in tune with everyone.
[00:41:21.870 --> 00:41:25.990] I've even been able to receive different type of,
[00:41:27.190 --> 00:41:30.130] I don't want to say like gifts,
[00:41:30.630 --> 00:41:33.790] but connections have been made through social media
[00:41:33.790 --> 00:41:35.530] and sometimes it's with people
[00:41:35.530 --> 00:41:37.990] who I would never been able to connect with
[00:41:37.990 --> 00:41:41.130] had it not been for us connecting virtually.
[00:41:41.970 --> 00:41:44.310] So it's given me confidence
[00:41:44.310 --> 00:41:45.970] because behind the camera,
[00:41:46.090 --> 00:41:48.310] it's way easier to take the photos
[00:41:48.310 --> 00:41:50.650] than it is to be the one in.
[00:41:51.910 --> 00:41:53.590] So that boost of confidence
[00:41:53.590 --> 00:41:56.690] because you are so in tune with what you're doing.
[00:41:56.950 --> 00:41:59.510] You're so passionate about what you're passionate about
[00:41:59.510 --> 00:42:01.170] that sometimes you don't know
[00:42:01.170 --> 00:42:02.990] how big of an impact you have
[00:42:02.990 --> 00:42:05.250] until people start coming back and telling you,
[00:42:05.250 --> 00:42:07.770] you encouraged me, seeing you in the gym,
[00:42:08.090 --> 00:42:09.370] I've gotten up now.
[00:42:09.370 --> 00:42:11.370] And I don't get up as often or as early,
[00:42:11.390 --> 00:42:12.810] but I get up and I work out.
[00:42:13.030 --> 00:42:15.290] So for me posting my workout journey
[00:42:15.290 --> 00:42:16.870] and my videos from that,
[00:42:16.910 --> 00:42:19.670] I never really understood why people would post
[00:42:19.670 --> 00:42:24.690] some things that were a little bit intimate or personable,
[00:42:24.730 --> 00:42:27.010] but for me doing that,
[00:42:27.250 --> 00:42:28.870] and I didn't think it was that personal,
[00:42:29.110 --> 00:42:31.390] but for me doing that and getting the feedback
[00:42:31.390 --> 00:42:33.050] and response from other people
[00:42:33.050 --> 00:42:35.290] who may be trying to figure out
[00:42:35.290 --> 00:42:36.590] how to start working out
[00:42:36.590 --> 00:42:40.530] or trying to gain that encouragement to even start,
[00:42:41.650 --> 00:42:43.990] that was something that I didn't expect to get
[00:42:43.990 --> 00:42:44.810] and I got it.
[00:42:45.010 --> 00:42:46.890] So that helped me out tremendously
[00:42:46.890 --> 00:42:49.090] because sometimes you want yourself so bad,
[00:42:49.210 --> 00:42:52.010] you don't even think about the good that's being done
[00:42:52.010 --> 00:42:53.250] or that you're doing.
[00:42:53.430 --> 00:42:55.750] So it's definitely a journey.
[00:42:56.610 --> 00:42:59.310] It's something that I've learned to love.
[00:42:59.530 --> 00:43:01.070] I didn't know that I loved it,
[00:43:01.330 --> 00:43:03.650] but through those hard trials
[00:43:03.650 --> 00:43:05.270] and trying to figure things out
[00:43:05.270 --> 00:43:07.090] and late nights on YouTube University,
[00:43:07.110 --> 00:43:08.070] trying to learn something,
[00:43:08.970 --> 00:43:12.870] it kind of really brought out the public relations in me.
[00:43:13.590 --> 00:43:14.830] So it's been a great benefit.
[00:43:14.890 --> 00:43:15.450] I love it.
[00:43:15.450 --> 00:43:16.130] I'm here to learn.
[00:43:16.230 --> 00:43:17.490] I'm watching you everywhere we go.
[00:43:17.550 --> 00:43:18.950] Every time I see you out in the streets,
[00:43:18.950 --> 00:43:20.210] I'm looking at how you're moving,
[00:43:20.290 --> 00:43:21.270] how you're taking pictures,
[00:43:21.370 --> 00:43:22.550] the angles you get in.
[00:43:22.890 --> 00:43:25.690] Yeah, yeah, you're doing well as, you know,
[00:43:25.950 --> 00:43:29.410] like oh, I guess we get you on a team.
[00:43:29.610 --> 00:43:31.790] Oh yeah, oh yeah, so.
[00:43:32.610 --> 00:43:34.350] But I'm glad you mentioned that,
[00:43:34.350 --> 00:43:36.790] especially with the fitness journey.
[00:43:36.910 --> 00:43:39.950] Like I just started back playing basketball once,
[00:43:39.950 --> 00:43:41.250] sometimes twice a week.
[00:43:41.790 --> 00:43:43.470] So my favorite sport,
[00:43:43.470 --> 00:43:45.330] but it's also a full body worker.
[00:43:45.450 --> 00:43:47.210] So I'm working out every muscle
[00:43:47.210 --> 00:43:49.090] and sore the next couple of days.
[00:43:50.150 --> 00:43:52.930] But that's also good for the mental,
[00:43:53.570 --> 00:43:55.550] especially as an entrepreneur and, you know,
[00:43:55.850 --> 00:43:56.630] business owner,
[00:43:57.910 --> 00:44:00.490] gotta be sharp mentally, physically as well,
[00:44:00.630 --> 00:44:03.050] especially these heavy equipments and tripods.
[00:44:03.050 --> 00:44:05.850] It's like, it's just perfect.
[00:44:06.070 --> 00:44:08.050] And you know, I stepped away from the fitness,
[00:44:08.330 --> 00:44:09.730] you know, just being so busy.
[00:44:09.850 --> 00:44:11.210] Life was lifin'.
[00:44:11.210 --> 00:44:14.330] Oh yeah, kids, business, partnerships,
[00:44:15.130 --> 00:44:16.670] multiple podcasts, products.
[00:44:17.150 --> 00:44:18.210] I do a lot.
[00:44:18.470 --> 00:44:20.870] That's just, you know, a little tad bit of what I do,
[00:44:21.030 --> 00:44:23.690] but you know, I kind of lost sight of it,
[00:44:23.690 --> 00:44:25.710] but I'm glad to be back on that fitness.
[00:44:25.910 --> 00:44:28.270] Yeah, big ups to you for being back.
[00:44:28.290 --> 00:44:29.790] The hardest thing is getting started.
[00:44:30.110 --> 00:44:31.210] Getting started, yeah.
[00:44:32.350 --> 00:44:35.010] And a plus, the lock journey.
[00:44:37.030 --> 00:44:41.970] I had no clue the community was an entire community.
[00:44:42.310 --> 00:44:43.470] So even, and that was something
[00:44:43.470 --> 00:44:44.830] that just by chance happened.
[00:44:45.610 --> 00:44:47.150] Even going back through your posts
[00:44:47.150 --> 00:44:50.170] and seeing your hair a year ago, two years ago,
[00:44:50.270 --> 00:44:51.490] you know, I don't got the length you got.
[00:44:51.610 --> 00:44:52.670] I'm coming for you.
[00:44:54.630 --> 00:44:57.250] But I mean, that alone right there,
[00:44:57.550 --> 00:44:59.030] entering that lock community,
[00:44:59.030 --> 00:45:02.250] learning about it online, being visible to others.
[00:45:02.470 --> 00:45:06.090] I mean, it's crazy to see the positive side
[00:45:06.090 --> 00:45:09.290] of social media, because we hear so much of the negative.
[00:45:09.350 --> 00:45:11.370] You see so much of the negative.
[00:45:11.610 --> 00:45:13.690] Yeah, so, so much.
[00:45:14.510 --> 00:45:16.450] And you know, you get caught up with scrolling,
[00:45:17.850 --> 00:45:19.470] like, whoosh, whoosh.
[00:45:19.910 --> 00:45:22.110] And then the whole, it's a whole gamut of it,
[00:45:22.170 --> 00:45:24.330] and I can see, like, how did I get caught up in this?
[00:45:25.410 --> 00:45:28.050] Like, I had to start unfollowing people.
[00:45:28.870 --> 00:45:32.350] But the way to get over that, and I've learned,
[00:45:32.430 --> 00:45:36.210] and it happened by mistake, is even on social media,
[00:45:36.330 --> 00:45:39.410] keeping yourself around a certain group of people.
[00:45:39.930 --> 00:45:40.530] Influencing you.
[00:45:40.630 --> 00:45:43.570] Man, if you are around people who are like-minded,
[00:45:43.650 --> 00:45:46.590] if you are around people who are interested in juicing
[00:45:46.590 --> 00:45:50.450] and working out in the lock journey, in media,
[00:45:50.570 --> 00:45:53.390] I mean, if you are into that and you focus on that
[00:45:53.390 --> 00:45:55.150] and that's what you're looking at in your social media,
[00:45:55.150 --> 00:45:58.250] it's exposing you to even more of that.
[00:45:58.290 --> 00:46:00.770] So, I really had to kind of make
[00:46:00.770 --> 00:46:02.290] my social media work for me.
[00:46:03.170 --> 00:46:05.350] You can say that again, because even, you know,
[00:46:05.350 --> 00:46:07.130] with our phones and stuff around us,
[00:46:07.170 --> 00:46:10.170] we want to start circulating that in different advertisements
[00:46:10.170 --> 00:46:13.870] and how all the algorithm picks up in our social media.
[00:46:14.390 --> 00:46:16.570] You don't pull up a website like, oh.
[00:46:16.930 --> 00:46:18.550] I had to make it work for me,
[00:46:18.550 --> 00:46:20.590] because I was on the move so much,
[00:46:20.650 --> 00:46:22.830] but I really think that was the blessing in it.
[00:46:23.190 --> 00:46:24.390] You're on the move so much,
[00:46:24.390 --> 00:46:27.750] I'm posting all these events, I'm researching,
[00:46:28.030 --> 00:46:29.110] because as soon as I meet somebody,
[00:46:29.250 --> 00:46:31.950] I'm going to LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, so.
[00:46:32.770 --> 00:46:34.930] Oh yeah, oh yeah, because time is of the essence.
[00:46:35.270 --> 00:46:36.790] So, before I meet somebody, I'm trying to look up
[00:46:36.790 --> 00:46:38.430] what I gotta say, what are they into?
[00:46:38.690 --> 00:46:39.950] Let me see a little bit about them,
[00:46:40.110 --> 00:46:41.910] because I know that if my time is tight,
[00:46:42.390 --> 00:46:43.330] theirs may be tighter.
[00:46:44.350 --> 00:46:48.110] So, I had to really get the social media
[00:46:48.110 --> 00:46:50.970] to make sense for me, so, because of my job,
[00:46:51.750 --> 00:46:54.810] I'm constantly looking up pages for resources.
[00:46:54.930 --> 00:46:57.550] So now, my social media is really no longer
[00:46:58.090 --> 00:47:00.890] just a lazy, boring, rabbit hole scroll.
[00:47:01.570 --> 00:47:05.050] Literally, my social media is now is full of,
[00:47:05.050 --> 00:47:07.550] whether it's county resources, city resources,
[00:47:07.850 --> 00:47:10.170] women-led events, networking events,
[00:47:10.690 --> 00:47:11.910] civic engagement events.
[00:47:12.010 --> 00:47:15.110] I mean, I'm so deep dive into what I do,
[00:47:15.110 --> 00:47:17.270] and I just listed off, you know, the three elements,
[00:47:17.590 --> 00:47:19.110] juicing, civic engagement collaborative,
[00:47:19.110 --> 00:47:20.610] and working in Ward 5.
[00:47:21.190 --> 00:47:24.330] Those are so heavy into my lifestyle now,
[00:47:24.330 --> 00:47:25.170] that's all I see.
[00:47:25.730 --> 00:47:26.170] So.
[00:47:26.230 --> 00:47:28.670] Now, you've just changed a whole life, see?
[00:47:28.930 --> 00:47:31.990] Yeah, I put my mindset, I made everything that I do
[00:47:31.990 --> 00:47:34.450] kind of what I do, so.
[00:47:34.550 --> 00:47:37.710] I hear about baddies, but it ain't on my timeline.
[00:47:40.590 --> 00:47:41.190] Holy.
[00:47:41.970 --> 00:47:44.890] I actually got approached to do some filming for,
[00:47:45.550 --> 00:47:47.230] and their budget wasn't there,
[00:47:47.230 --> 00:47:49.050] but it's not my target audience anyway.
[00:47:49.210 --> 00:47:50.510] You gotta go to the gym for that.
[00:47:50.930 --> 00:47:52.930] If I'm gonna do that, I mean,
[00:47:53.030 --> 00:47:54.810] y'all gotta have the right budget, it's not.
[00:47:54.930 --> 00:47:55.530] Number one.
[00:47:55.610 --> 00:47:56.730] Would I advertise anyway?
[00:47:56.930 --> 00:47:57.690] Number one.
[00:47:58.450 --> 00:48:00.890] I work with corporations and, you know,
[00:48:01.510 --> 00:48:03.010] nonprofits mainly, so yeah.
[00:48:03.750 --> 00:48:05.210] Y'all really, really want me,
[00:48:05.350 --> 00:48:06.850] then y'all gotta have the money, right?
[00:48:06.870 --> 00:48:07.870] They didn't, so.
[00:48:07.970 --> 00:48:08.410] Yeah.
[00:48:08.590 --> 00:48:09.170] God bless them.
[00:48:09.210 --> 00:48:09.730] They lost.
[00:48:10.090 --> 00:48:15.210] But, I mean, my word of advice and encouragement
[00:48:15.210 --> 00:48:18.030] to those thinking about everything we talked about
[00:48:18.030 --> 00:48:19.550] over this whole podcast, you know,
[00:48:19.630 --> 00:48:20.590] think about living simple.
[00:48:21.210 --> 00:48:24.250] I will always revert back to that
[00:48:24.250 --> 00:48:25.990] because I'm still too close, right?
[00:48:25.990 --> 00:48:29.070] Very humbled and very close to where I came from.
[00:48:29.570 --> 00:48:32.910] So if you don't have a dollar to your name,
[00:48:33.230 --> 00:48:34.010] you have a phone.
[00:48:34.530 --> 00:48:35.050] Okay.
[00:48:35.250 --> 00:48:36.210] With Instagram.
[00:48:37.430 --> 00:48:38.430] Start searching.
[00:48:38.950 --> 00:48:40.830] Start looking up the things that you wanna become.
[00:48:41.030 --> 00:48:42.830] If you are interested in juicing,
[00:48:42.830 --> 00:48:45.570] type in juice in the search bar.
[00:48:45.670 --> 00:48:47.250] Do you follow hashtags at all?
[00:48:48.210 --> 00:48:49.610] I don't know if they took that feature away,
[00:48:49.610 --> 00:48:50.350] but I know those.
[00:48:50.410 --> 00:48:52.250] I didn't know you could follow hashtags.
[00:48:53.070 --> 00:48:54.370] Wow, see, there you go.
[00:48:54.530 --> 00:48:55.650] But it's just the knowledge.
[00:48:56.650 --> 00:49:00.430] Use what you have to get to where you want to be.
[00:49:00.530 --> 00:49:02.750] So if you don't have enough money just yet,
[00:49:03.290 --> 00:49:04.510] start researching recipes.
[00:49:05.390 --> 00:49:07.390] Start pulling up YouTube shorts.
[00:49:08.130 --> 00:49:09.390] Have that around you.
[00:49:09.410 --> 00:49:12.010] The more I had that information around me,
[00:49:12.010 --> 00:49:14.750] the more I felt encouraged to actually get up
[00:49:14.750 --> 00:49:15.590] and do what I saw.
[00:49:16.410 --> 00:49:18.770] So I saved a lot of workout videos
[00:49:18.770 --> 00:49:20.590] because I'm gonna do that workout routine one day.
[00:49:20.670 --> 00:49:21.570] What's your favorite workout?
[00:49:22.310 --> 00:49:23.650] My favorite workout.
[00:49:24.790 --> 00:49:26.950] It's not my favorite, but it's the easiest.
[00:49:27.090 --> 00:49:27.570] Okay.
[00:49:27.850 --> 00:49:28.230] Walking.
[00:49:29.650 --> 00:49:29.890] Perfect.
[00:49:29.990 --> 00:49:32.530] I just actually read an article about that.
[00:49:32.530 --> 00:49:36.530] That's why a lot of older people,
[00:49:37.170 --> 00:49:39.550] mainly older, white women, do it a lot.
[00:49:40.150 --> 00:49:41.210] And I see it a lot too,
[00:49:41.210 --> 00:49:43.630] but after reading certain articles,
[00:49:43.650 --> 00:49:46.430] I'm like, okay, it's more powerful than you think.
[00:49:46.870 --> 00:49:48.370] And it's actually calming and relaxing.
[00:49:48.790 --> 00:49:49.510] And it's free.
[00:49:49.950 --> 00:49:51.110] And it's free.
[00:49:51.150 --> 00:49:53.270] You can do it anytime, anywhere.
[00:49:53.590 --> 00:49:54.570] It is free.
[00:49:54.570 --> 00:49:56.170] If it's free, it's for me.
[00:49:56.590 --> 00:49:56.950] So walking.
[00:49:57.550 --> 00:49:58.230] One more time.
[00:49:58.410 --> 00:50:01.230] If it's free, it is for me.
[00:50:01.310 --> 00:50:01.830] Okay.
[00:50:02.270 --> 00:50:03.330] If you don't have a car,
[00:50:03.550 --> 00:50:04.330] walk around the neighborhood.
[00:50:04.610 --> 00:50:04.870] Walk around.
[00:50:05.450 --> 00:50:06.250] Repository everywhere.
[00:50:08.130 --> 00:50:11.090] I've seen and witnessed some free BS.
[00:50:12.070 --> 00:50:12.150] Yeah.
[00:50:12.190 --> 00:50:12.990] No, no, no, no, no.
[00:50:13.190 --> 00:50:13.750] Quality free.
[00:50:13.950 --> 00:50:14.450] There you go.
[00:50:14.650 --> 00:50:15.190] There you go.
[00:50:15.510 --> 00:50:17.690] Free and quality is for me.
[00:50:17.770 --> 00:50:19.850] So no car, no problem.
[00:50:20.030 --> 00:50:21.330] Walk around the block.
[00:50:21.670 --> 00:50:22.490] Block isn't safe.
[00:50:22.610 --> 00:50:23.470] Walk during the day.
[00:50:23.730 --> 00:50:27.130] I used to, when I was 16,
[00:50:27.330 --> 00:50:31.470] I used to walk from Mayfield all the way to Lakeshore.
[00:50:31.850 --> 00:50:32.270] Ain't nowhere.
[00:50:33.050 --> 00:50:33.690] Oh, yes.
[00:50:33.710 --> 00:50:34.270] No car.
[00:50:34.270 --> 00:50:36.190] So this is before I was driving.
[00:50:37.050 --> 00:50:38.090] I had to go to work, so.
[00:50:38.250 --> 00:50:38.730] Yeah.
[00:50:38.930 --> 00:50:40.050] My mother ended up moving.
[00:50:40.070 --> 00:50:41.130] We used to stay by Commonwealth,
[00:50:41.210 --> 00:50:43.030] so that walk used to be a little different
[00:50:44.130 --> 00:50:46.530] than Mayfield all the way to Lakeshore.
[00:50:46.610 --> 00:50:47.210] But I did it.
[00:50:47.270 --> 00:50:49.110] But hey, it still was a walk.
[00:50:49.330 --> 00:50:50.690] I was guaranteed a ride,
[00:50:50.830 --> 00:50:53.630] but last minute I ain't dropping you off, so.
[00:50:53.870 --> 00:50:55.290] That's how we grew up.
[00:50:55.670 --> 00:50:56.650] The fundamentals.
[00:50:56.790 --> 00:50:57.670] It was raining.
[00:50:58.130 --> 00:51:01.730] The foundation character was built on those walks.
[00:51:02.450 --> 00:51:04.250] No excuses for me, you know.
[00:51:04.790 --> 00:51:06.550] And then I don't mind walking in, you know.
[00:51:06.950 --> 00:51:10.350] I'm an athlete, so that was just another challenge.
[00:51:10.910 --> 00:51:13.310] Like, you know, it's all about mindset
[00:51:13.310 --> 00:51:14.250] and getting it done.
[00:51:14.370 --> 00:51:17.250] You know, it was like a three and a half hour walk,
[00:51:17.330 --> 00:51:20.430] but I did it, and it rained, it was cold.
[00:51:20.890 --> 00:51:21.810] But I made it happen.
[00:51:22.230 --> 00:51:23.830] And that was the foundation for you
[00:51:23.830 --> 00:51:27.210] to be able to sustain the hard times that you have now.
[00:51:27.490 --> 00:51:29.110] Now it's left of you to pick up a bag,
[00:51:29.110 --> 00:51:32.710] go across town, unpack, set up, do what you got to do,
[00:51:32.710 --> 00:51:34.350] and then pack up and go back home.
[00:51:34.770 --> 00:51:36.170] Because in them three hour walks.
[00:51:38.530 --> 00:51:41.410] I mean, I was still actually doing it, you know.
[00:51:41.550 --> 00:51:45.430] Kids nowadays, you know, I have two daughters, you know.
[00:51:45.650 --> 00:51:47.190] I was on a lazier sass.
[00:51:47.250 --> 00:51:48.270] They're not like this.
[00:51:49.870 --> 00:51:52.750] But with me, we walking.
[00:51:53.330 --> 00:51:54.630] My legs hurt.
[00:51:55.030 --> 00:51:56.990] Yeah, we got to build them up,
[00:51:57.070 --> 00:51:58.450] because they don't have what we got,
[00:51:58.450 --> 00:52:00.870] but we can expose them to it a little bit.
[00:52:00.890 --> 00:52:01.530] It doesn't hurt.
[00:52:02.270 --> 00:52:04.770] But walking, walking was the easiest thing to do.
[00:52:05.350 --> 00:52:06.250] And throwing the headphones,
[00:52:06.390 --> 00:52:09.910] that's how I learned or learned to love podcasts.
[00:52:10.250 --> 00:52:12.650] Because after a while, I can only listen to so many songs.
[00:52:12.890 --> 00:52:15.090] And sometimes the songs may be too hype,
[00:52:15.870 --> 00:52:17.490] too sad, too mad.
[00:52:18.230 --> 00:52:21.230] I mean, you know, the songs we used to listen to
[00:52:21.230 --> 00:52:23.390] back in the day, I can't listen to anymore.
[00:52:24.910 --> 00:52:25.810] But yeah.
[00:52:25.950 --> 00:52:27.490] It helps to mellow me out.
[00:52:27.990 --> 00:52:30.630] And so it was, it turned into my me time.
[00:52:31.090 --> 00:52:33.990] And so then thinking about, you know, being simple,
[00:52:34.570 --> 00:52:36.850] then I was able to elevate once funds became more
[00:52:36.850 --> 00:52:39.530] available to membership, a gym membership.
[00:52:40.050 --> 00:52:41.270] Cheapest membership out there,
[00:52:41.470 --> 00:52:42.750] Planet Fitness, Big Ups.
[00:52:44.150 --> 00:52:45.590] But they're accessible.
[00:52:46.370 --> 00:52:47.290] They're cheap.
[00:52:47.590 --> 00:52:50.610] And now for summers, your kids can go for free.
[00:52:51.270 --> 00:52:54.290] June 1st through August, up to year 18,
[00:52:54.650 --> 00:52:56.490] they can go to the gym and workout for free.
[00:52:57.330 --> 00:52:57.810] Wow.
[00:52:59.270 --> 00:53:00.450] So that's amazing.
[00:53:00.530 --> 00:53:01.330] I did not know that.
[00:53:01.590 --> 00:53:01.810] And then-
[00:53:01.810 --> 00:53:02.650] Every summer.
[00:53:02.810 --> 00:53:04.870] As you mentioned, Planet Fitness,
[00:53:05.550 --> 00:53:08.590] if you'd like to be a sponsor of any kind.
[00:53:08.590 --> 00:53:11.150] Come on now, I got plenty of videos in there.
[00:53:11.670 --> 00:53:15.330] But also like, what about getting your juices
[00:53:15.330 --> 00:53:16.690] in Planet Fitness?
[00:53:16.910 --> 00:53:18.370] That's a franchise, you know.
[00:53:18.470 --> 00:53:18.670] Yeah.
[00:53:18.670 --> 00:53:20.170] So I like the way you think.
[00:53:20.190 --> 00:53:22.110] So that's why I'm taking those little sample bottles
[00:53:22.110 --> 00:53:23.010] everywhere I go.
[00:53:23.670 --> 00:53:25.890] Everywhere I go, I was pulling out that phone,
[00:53:25.890 --> 00:53:27.190] pulling out the little four ounce bottle.
[00:53:27.230 --> 00:53:28.330] Do you mind giving a little testimony?
[00:53:28.530 --> 00:53:29.250] You taking the juice?
[00:53:29.710 --> 00:53:30.990] Not since I was 10, it was sure.
[00:53:32.470 --> 00:53:33.990] So it's an exposure.
[00:53:35.610 --> 00:53:37.430] Everything that I do is intentional.
[00:53:37.910 --> 00:53:39.270] Cause we only got 24 hours.
[00:53:39.450 --> 00:53:42.270] And somebody demanding, my job demanding, eight.
[00:53:43.290 --> 00:53:44.130] Right, sleep.
[00:53:44.230 --> 00:53:45.130] You gotta sleep.
[00:53:45.390 --> 00:53:45.790] Yeah.
[00:53:46.210 --> 00:53:48.410] I'm a mother, gotta take care of home.
[00:53:49.090 --> 00:53:51.770] And I wanna have a business and be on boards
[00:53:51.770 --> 00:53:53.030] and be a part of collaborative.
[00:53:53.030 --> 00:53:56.370] So anything that I do, it makes sense.
[00:53:56.490 --> 00:53:58.570] Being here today, it makes sense.
[00:53:58.590 --> 00:54:00.430] This is my time, right?
[00:54:00.430 --> 00:54:02.410] My time to relax, let my hair down,
[00:54:03.170 --> 00:54:04.870] communicate, have some good vibes,
[00:54:04.990 --> 00:54:07.210] good conversation, connect, collaborate.
[00:54:07.370 --> 00:54:07.890] That's right.
[00:54:08.070 --> 00:54:08.410] Right?
[00:54:08.490 --> 00:54:10.230] We working, but we chilling at the same time.
[00:54:10.250 --> 00:54:11.270] It makes sense.
[00:54:11.330 --> 00:54:12.710] So when you start thinking about things
[00:54:12.710 --> 00:54:15.350] that make sense, if you are a busy person
[00:54:15.350 --> 00:54:17.230] and you feel like a workout routine
[00:54:17.230 --> 00:54:19.250] isn't something you can add to your day,
[00:54:19.890 --> 00:54:22.510] then in that day, what can be replaced?
[00:54:23.950 --> 00:54:24.470] Wow.
[00:54:24.830 --> 00:54:26.310] Never heard someone say that.
[00:54:26.530 --> 00:54:27.650] What can be replaced?
[00:54:27.690 --> 00:54:28.550] Your lunch break.
[00:54:28.890 --> 00:54:29.370] Yeah.
[00:54:29.850 --> 00:54:30.250] Right?
[00:54:30.350 --> 00:54:30.810] Yeah.
[00:54:31.110 --> 00:54:34.430] Or do you force yourself to get that five minutes away
[00:54:34.430 --> 00:54:35.710] from whatever you're doing?
[00:54:35.890 --> 00:54:36.690] I definitely do.
[00:54:36.870 --> 00:54:40.390] To reflect, to be still, to be quiet,
[00:54:40.510 --> 00:54:43.270] to gather your thoughts, to pray, to walk.
[00:54:43.710 --> 00:54:44.690] What time?
[00:54:44.910 --> 00:54:45.670] We got it.
[00:54:45.670 --> 00:54:47.610] We just gotta find it to make it make sense.
[00:54:48.070 --> 00:54:51.690] So when I'm walking, I might be listening to a podcast.
[00:54:51.690 --> 00:54:53.930] I might be listening to a song.
[00:54:54.030 --> 00:54:58.050] I might be voicing and taking voice notes
[00:54:58.050 --> 00:55:00.110] of things that I need to do for the next day
[00:55:00.110 --> 00:55:01.150] and organize my day.
[00:55:01.150 --> 00:55:02.650] I started doing voice notes a lot.
[00:55:02.930 --> 00:55:04.110] I love voice notes.
[00:55:04.130 --> 00:55:07.690] I got a whole list on every phone that I have.
[00:55:08.510 --> 00:55:11.090] I have multiple phones, old phones,
[00:55:11.830 --> 00:55:13.830] all voice notes, and actual notes.
[00:55:13.950 --> 00:55:15.110] It's just so cool.
[00:55:15.770 --> 00:55:18.170] Like, man, there's some jewels in there for sure.
[00:55:18.210 --> 00:55:19.170] Yeah, for sure.
[00:55:19.530 --> 00:55:21.390] And lyrics and poems, like.
[00:55:21.730 --> 00:55:25.050] I have meeting events, meeting notes, ideas, thoughts.
[00:55:25.910 --> 00:55:28.830] A lot, a lot that I don't have necessarily the time
[00:55:28.830 --> 00:55:31.390] to sit down and just map it out.
[00:55:31.510 --> 00:55:33.990] So if I'm walking, if I'm on a treadmill,
[00:55:34.190 --> 00:55:35.730] if I'm on a stair stepper,
[00:55:36.530 --> 00:55:38.530] that's five minutes doing, listening to something.
[00:55:39.710 --> 00:55:40.950] I mean, even in a car,
[00:55:40.990 --> 00:55:43.530] like I don't typically put on music anymore.
[00:55:43.970 --> 00:55:44.870] For road trips, I do,
[00:55:44.890 --> 00:55:46.770] cause you gotta stay out to be a little more upbeat.
[00:55:47.470 --> 00:55:50.010] I've turned that into a university, you know?
[00:55:50.050 --> 00:55:52.650] Stuff I wanna learn or catch up on.
[00:55:53.170 --> 00:55:54.270] You know, I might put on YouTube.
[00:55:54.470 --> 00:55:56.670] I purchased so many courses.
[00:55:56.990 --> 00:56:00.090] Probably some, you know, I ain't get around,
[00:56:00.190 --> 00:56:02.190] so I just been throwing people money.
[00:56:03.070 --> 00:56:04.490] Couple hundred, couple thousand.
[00:56:04.670 --> 00:56:07.310] The most I spent on a course or a master
[00:56:07.310 --> 00:56:09.190] was a little over a thousand.
[00:56:10.690 --> 00:56:13.610] And yeah, I even get through all those courses.
[00:56:13.710 --> 00:56:14.790] So it's like,
[00:56:14.790 --> 00:56:16.890] I'm gonna get through one of these days.
[00:56:16.990 --> 00:56:20.170] I'm gonna put that on or even an ebook, audio book.
[00:56:20.250 --> 00:56:22.230] I love audio books now.
[00:56:25.270 --> 00:56:27.930] So that's kind of highlight spending my time
[00:56:27.930 --> 00:56:29.130] or my quiet time.
[00:56:29.730 --> 00:56:31.190] I need to get back to meditating.
[00:56:31.490 --> 00:56:34.650] And then if you are listening to this,
[00:56:35.050 --> 00:56:37.050] check out episode 10,
[00:56:37.190 --> 00:56:39.810] where I do dive into some meditation
[00:56:39.810 --> 00:56:43.810] that mindset calmness for entrepreneurs.
[00:56:43.810 --> 00:56:45.210] Cause we need it.
[00:56:45.650 --> 00:56:48.930] So yes, every 10 episodes or my solo episodes,
[00:56:49.230 --> 00:56:51.550] I'm gonna dive into like meditation work.
[00:56:52.210 --> 00:56:52.690] Nice.
[00:56:53.470 --> 00:56:55.690] And I also have a meditation track.
[00:56:58.430 --> 00:56:59.390] Forgot what it's called,
[00:56:59.490 --> 00:57:02.890] but if you look up on YouTube, Alien Odd Player,
[00:57:06.820 --> 00:57:08.060] I think it's something meditation,
[00:57:08.180 --> 00:57:10.300] but if you put in meditation, the shit pop up.
[00:57:10.360 --> 00:57:14.880] But I will also link it in episode 10 as well.
[00:57:15.580 --> 00:57:16.100] Nice.
[00:57:17.100 --> 00:57:18.700] This was nice.
[00:57:21.560 --> 00:57:25.300] I'm always on the go and I definitely appreciate
[00:57:26.120 --> 00:57:27.980] every conversation we've had.
[00:57:28.580 --> 00:57:29.600] Every single one.
[00:57:29.840 --> 00:57:31.900] And you said you wanted to start a podcast.
[00:57:32.440 --> 00:57:34.340] And we on the right track.
[00:57:34.360 --> 00:57:37.420] We on the right track with that too, yes.
[00:57:37.820 --> 00:57:39.500] And I know you took a break from juice
[00:57:39.500 --> 00:57:41.660] and I'm like, you starting it back up?
[00:57:41.880 --> 00:57:42.400] Yeah.
[00:57:43.260 --> 00:57:44.060] Okay, okay.
[00:57:44.060 --> 00:57:45.960] And I am, I am.
[00:57:45.960 --> 00:57:46.680] All right.
[00:57:46.780 --> 00:57:47.420] Absolutely.
[00:57:47.940 --> 00:57:48.700] It's amazing.
[00:57:48.800 --> 00:57:50.460] I'm definitely gonna have to get another,
[00:57:51.100 --> 00:57:53.620] the doses after this, like, oh.
[00:57:53.940 --> 00:57:55.640] So this a plug for the community.
[00:57:56.120 --> 00:57:57.960] If you have upcoming events
[00:57:57.960 --> 00:58:00.500] and you are looking for an interesting way
[00:58:00.500 --> 00:58:03.700] to encourage people to live a healthier lifestyle,
[00:58:04.300 --> 00:58:05.700] eat a little bit healthier,
[00:58:06.220 --> 00:58:07.860] learn how to become a little bit healthier,
[00:58:08.340 --> 00:58:09.160] let's connect.
[00:58:09.580 --> 00:58:10.020] You know what?
[00:58:10.020 --> 00:58:12.460] I do a lot of weddings.
[00:58:12.460 --> 00:58:13.140] Mm-hmm.
[00:58:13.140 --> 00:58:14.580] Kind of slowing down with weddings,
[00:58:15.080 --> 00:58:20.660] but have you ever provided juice at a wedding?
[00:58:21.460 --> 00:58:22.940] I like the way you think.
[00:58:23.040 --> 00:58:23.460] Yeah.
[00:58:23.680 --> 00:58:24.960] I love the way you think.
[00:58:25.200 --> 00:58:26.740] Change people's, you know.
[00:58:27.120 --> 00:58:29.080] Let's have a healthy shot.
[00:58:29.980 --> 00:58:31.260] Cause we gonna take some shots.
[00:58:32.580 --> 00:58:35.340] But let's take the healthiest shot you've ever taken.
[00:58:35.520 --> 00:58:36.460] Take it with me.
[00:58:37.900 --> 00:58:38.620] Healthy shot.
[00:58:38.620 --> 00:58:39.080] Uh-huh.
[00:58:39.100 --> 00:58:39.460] Woo!
[00:58:39.760 --> 00:58:43.020] Cause think about the whole camera.
[00:58:43.020 --> 00:58:44.780] Camera and shots.
[00:58:44.920 --> 00:58:45.040] Oh.
[00:58:46.200 --> 00:58:48.380] And then healthy shots like a double dose.
[00:58:48.760 --> 00:58:50.140] I did not think of that.
[00:58:50.940 --> 00:58:54.740] I love the way you thinking that the mind is flowing.
[00:58:55.020 --> 00:58:56.220] Yeah, shots, let's do it.
[00:58:56.720 --> 00:58:57.940] Let's do it.
[00:58:58.600 --> 00:58:59.760] Don't play with me now.
[00:58:59.860 --> 00:59:01.820] Cause you know the event planning with me
[00:59:01.820 --> 00:59:03.420] to put those dots together.
[00:59:03.460 --> 00:59:04.080] Let's do it.
[00:59:04.080 --> 00:59:07.140] After this, let's look.
[00:59:07.960 --> 00:59:09.420] Juice and head shots.
[00:59:09.760 --> 00:59:11.700] I am down for that.
[00:59:12.000 --> 00:59:12.480] Oof.
[00:59:12.480 --> 00:59:14.360] And we can do a variety, right?
[00:59:14.480 --> 00:59:16.040] So sometimes when you think of juice
[00:59:16.040 --> 00:59:17.000] and you think of shots,
[00:59:17.080 --> 00:59:19.680] you think of those heavy hitter ginger shots.
[00:59:20.020 --> 00:59:21.340] So it might be a little bit rougher.
[00:59:21.360 --> 00:59:22.120] I love them.
[00:59:22.280 --> 00:59:23.360] But they wake you up.
[00:59:23.420 --> 00:59:24.460] They start the day.
[00:59:24.580 --> 00:59:26.880] So we can have shots for anybody, right?
[00:59:26.880 --> 00:59:29.100] Whether you need that good morning power punch.
[00:59:29.840 --> 00:59:31.520] That mid afternoon pick me up.
[00:59:32.040 --> 00:59:33.380] Just something a little sweet.
[00:59:33.700 --> 00:59:35.860] Maybe you party too much the night before.
[00:59:37.520 --> 00:59:38.680] Wanna liven up again.
[00:59:38.820 --> 00:59:41.080] Get the juices flowing back in your body again.
[00:59:41.880 --> 00:59:43.040] Why take your Asper?
[00:59:43.300 --> 00:59:43.920] Take a shot.
[00:59:44.140 --> 00:59:44.580] Exactly.
[00:59:44.740 --> 00:59:47.740] I am not big on pills at all.
[00:59:48.000 --> 00:59:51.460] Like even people that's bipolar and depressed.
[00:59:51.780 --> 00:59:55.100] I try to weave them away from medication and pills.
[00:59:55.320 --> 00:59:57.040] That's just, you know.
[00:59:57.520 --> 00:59:57.960] Absolutely.
[00:59:58.260 --> 01:00:00.160] Cause there's a holistic remedy for a lot.
[01:00:00.340 --> 01:00:00.780] Everything.
[01:00:01.300 --> 01:00:03.020] If you just open your body up to it
[01:00:03.020 --> 01:00:04.440] and get your body used to it.
[01:00:05.160 --> 01:00:06.740] Cause your body had to get used to medicine.
[01:00:07.800 --> 01:00:09.580] And it's gonna have to get used to these juices too
[01:00:09.580 --> 01:00:11.060] if you give it to them, right?
[01:00:11.060 --> 01:00:11.760] If you give it.
[01:00:12.100 --> 01:00:12.460] Yes.
[01:00:12.480 --> 01:00:16.240] Knowing me, knowing that the whole medical industry
[01:00:16.240 --> 01:00:17.780] is a business in itself.
[01:00:17.880 --> 01:00:19.120] A big business.
[01:00:19.560 --> 01:00:20.420] Especially hospitals.
[01:00:20.500 --> 01:00:21.280] Bigger hospitals.
[01:00:23.260 --> 01:00:25.480] Please just listen to me sometime.
[01:00:25.640 --> 01:00:27.120] I know some people will be like, no.
[01:00:27.760 --> 01:00:29.440] If I don't take any of that.
[01:00:29.800 --> 01:00:31.200] No, listen.
[01:00:31.920 --> 01:00:33.040] Listen, listen, listen.
[01:00:33.560 --> 01:00:34.520] And I even have backup.
[01:00:34.660 --> 01:00:36.000] I didn't pay her to say that.
[01:00:38.020 --> 01:00:38.340] Yeah.
[01:00:38.340 --> 01:00:42.120] I'ma take my meds, but I'ma also make sure
[01:00:42.120 --> 01:00:45.880] that I increase my juice intake,
[01:00:46.080 --> 01:00:48.640] my fruit intake, my vegetable intake.
[01:00:49.100 --> 01:00:51.320] So I can eventually eliminate that.
[01:00:51.440 --> 01:00:52.340] That's the goal.
[01:00:52.420 --> 01:00:56.520] To eliminate all those unnecessary medications.
[01:00:57.000 --> 01:00:58.540] Manmade medications.
[01:00:59.260 --> 01:01:00.920] When you got everything you need to heal yourself.
[01:01:01.440 --> 01:01:03.240] And some of these are not even, you know.
[01:01:03.420 --> 01:01:04.360] They're just fillers.
[01:01:04.380 --> 01:01:05.040] Mm-hmm.
[01:01:05.380 --> 01:01:07.420] So that's just my thoughts on it.
[01:01:07.420 --> 01:01:08.180] I don't know what y'all gonna do with y'all.
[01:01:08.240 --> 01:01:12.580] We're at the end of the day, but hey, this is free game.
[01:01:12.840 --> 01:01:17.340] I've been around 30 plus years, so hey.
[01:01:17.340 --> 01:01:17.500] Okay.
[01:01:17.620 --> 01:01:18.840] Like I'm saying, what works for me?
[01:01:19.060 --> 01:01:21.080] I'm just saying, my locks didn't, you know,
[01:01:21.480 --> 01:01:22.840] take off the way they did.
[01:01:23.380 --> 01:01:24.560] From a relaxer.
[01:01:26.480 --> 01:01:27.240] I like that.
[01:01:27.560 --> 01:01:28.980] So what are some of the juices
[01:01:28.980 --> 01:01:31.500] that kind of became fan favorites?
[01:01:32.240 --> 01:01:34.240] So I have an orange pineapple.
[01:01:35.100 --> 01:01:36.640] That was like a sunshine.
[01:01:36.640 --> 01:01:38.000] That was like a sunshine burst like that.
[01:01:38.000 --> 01:01:39.040] And the color again.
[01:01:40.020 --> 01:01:42.460] So, but between that and then my beet juice.
[01:01:43.180 --> 01:01:44.220] Those are the two.
[01:01:44.360 --> 01:01:46.860] Because a lot of people are shocked
[01:01:47.700 --> 01:01:50.180] when they hear they're drinking beets.
[01:01:51.840 --> 01:01:53.460] And so those were the main two.
[01:01:53.560 --> 01:01:55.320] Very simple ingredients.
[01:01:56.060 --> 01:01:58.840] But either you want something light and sweet
[01:01:58.840 --> 01:02:01.220] or you want something with a little bit more
[01:02:01.220 --> 01:02:02.720] of a powerful punch.
[01:02:03.720 --> 01:02:04.600] But those are the two.
[01:02:04.920 --> 01:02:05.760] My two top.
[01:02:05.760 --> 01:02:06.800] Fan favorites.
[01:02:06.980 --> 01:02:08.980] So when you see me with that red color,
[01:02:09.160 --> 01:02:10.980] know I threw some beets in there.
[01:02:11.580 --> 01:02:15.300] You see me with that shiny yellow orange.
[01:02:16.720 --> 01:02:17.980] Know that there are a few
[01:02:17.980 --> 01:02:21.300] shiny orange colored ingredients.
[01:02:21.860 --> 01:02:24.140] Whether it's fruits or vegetables.
[01:02:24.240 --> 01:02:25.320] It's power packed.
[01:02:27.020 --> 01:02:28.660] And you gonna love it.
[01:02:29.200 --> 01:02:30.100] I love it.
[01:02:30.840 --> 01:02:34.120] So I also like to talk about different trends
[01:02:34.120 --> 01:02:35.140] in the podcast.
[01:02:35.860 --> 01:02:39.480] So is there any trends from when you started juicing
[01:02:39.480 --> 01:02:40.840] versus like now?
[01:02:42.100 --> 01:02:44.320] Even on social media you see different trends
[01:02:44.320 --> 01:02:45.400] that's been popular.
[01:02:50.970 --> 01:02:51.610] Trends.
[01:02:52.290 --> 01:02:55.830] So maybe a few years ago,
[01:02:57.330 --> 01:02:58.170] probably during COVID,
[01:02:58.250 --> 01:03:01.390] I feel like COVID heightened people's need
[01:03:01.390 --> 01:03:03.010] or want to work out.
[01:03:03.010 --> 01:03:06.730] But people were taking like apple cider vinegar.
[01:03:09.690 --> 01:03:13.670] And people were taking it either like first thing
[01:03:13.670 --> 01:03:15.190] in the morning on an empty stomach.
[01:03:15.290 --> 01:03:17.030] And it's a hard thing to get down.
[01:03:17.410 --> 01:03:18.910] Like you can get it down.
[01:03:19.030 --> 01:03:20.170] Just raw in the water.
[01:03:20.550 --> 01:03:21.030] Yeah.
[01:03:21.250 --> 01:03:22.070] A shot though.
[01:03:22.070 --> 01:03:23.810] Not a lot because it's very acidic.
[01:03:24.150 --> 01:03:25.130] I got to mix it with water.
[01:03:25.350 --> 01:03:25.830] Yeah.
[01:03:27.090 --> 01:03:30.830] And then they had the Braggs,
[01:03:30.830 --> 01:03:35.010] apple cider vinegar, whatever drink
[01:03:35.010 --> 01:03:37.770] or whatever that's supposed to be the best one to take.
[01:03:38.710 --> 01:03:38.870] So.
[01:03:38.870 --> 01:03:39.350] It's expensive.
[01:03:39.870 --> 01:03:40.350] Yeah.
[01:03:41.110 --> 01:03:42.090] When all in reality,
[01:03:42.090 --> 01:03:44.570] you can just make you a ginger shot
[01:03:44.570 --> 01:03:47.090] with some turmeric and some lemon.
[01:03:47.250 --> 01:03:48.010] Throw a little mint in there
[01:03:48.010 --> 01:03:49.290] to help you out a little bit.
[01:03:49.630 --> 01:03:51.470] And if you need some extra juice,
[01:03:51.990 --> 01:03:53.210] mix it with the pineapple.
[01:03:53.690 --> 01:03:53.970] Boom.
[01:03:55.150 --> 01:03:57.850] So just seeing the crazy fads that people was into,
[01:03:58.190 --> 01:04:00.530] that was one thing that really stuck out to me the most
[01:04:00.530 --> 01:04:01.730] was that apple cider vinegar.
[01:04:02.130 --> 01:04:03.250] And when you think about it,
[01:04:03.250 --> 01:04:05.490] it might do a little bit more damage than good
[01:04:05.490 --> 01:04:07.310] if you're not drinking it properly
[01:04:07.730 --> 01:04:09.370] because it is so concentrated.
[01:04:10.210 --> 01:04:11.870] If you chug a bottle of vinegar,
[01:04:11.870 --> 01:04:13.370] I don't know what happened to you,
[01:04:13.370 --> 01:04:14.710] but I don't think it's the best thing.
[01:04:16.290 --> 01:04:18.370] So just fads because people thought
[01:04:18.370 --> 01:04:20.310] that it was on the empty stomach
[01:04:20.310 --> 01:04:22.050] help clear out the stomach a little bit better
[01:04:22.050 --> 01:04:23.970] or break down anything that was left in there
[01:04:23.970 --> 01:04:26.110] that might take a long time to digest.
[01:04:26.570 --> 01:04:28.710] So that was something a little, now that I look back,
[01:04:28.710 --> 01:04:31.350] yeah, was that the greatest advice?
[01:04:32.330 --> 01:04:33.810] I don't think so.
[01:04:35.290 --> 01:04:37.290] I would have never, never known.
[01:04:37.550 --> 01:04:41.690] I mean, I haven't actually taken apple cider vinegar
[01:04:41.690 --> 01:04:42.810] in a long while.
[01:04:43.310 --> 01:04:44.650] It kind of like popped up overnight.
[01:04:45.030 --> 01:04:46.330] Yeah, I used to drink it with water.
[01:04:48.430 --> 01:04:50.870] Maybe now and then, but yeah, I kind of stopped.
[01:04:51.510 --> 01:04:53.190] Yeah, it's rough on you.
[01:04:53.830 --> 01:04:57.690] Well, that too, but I mean, I used to take it.
[01:04:57.690 --> 01:04:59.310] I actually enjoy the taste.
[01:04:59.490 --> 01:05:03.350] I don't mind it, but like you said, it was a fad.
[01:05:05.510 --> 01:05:08.270] So what are some things that you do
[01:05:08.270 --> 01:05:10.030] to keep your mindset sharp?
[01:05:14.960 --> 01:05:19.520] I wanna do so much that I really just try
[01:05:19.520 --> 01:05:23.460] to put myself around people who are doing a lot
[01:05:24.320 --> 01:05:25.760] as motivating for me.
[01:05:25.840 --> 01:05:28.660] So I really dived in deep
[01:05:28.660 --> 01:05:33.280] on the podcast shows, YouTube shows,
[01:05:33.360 --> 01:05:33.680] because I love-
[01:05:33.680 --> 01:05:34.540] Favorite podcast.
[01:05:36.080 --> 01:05:36.540] Okay.
[01:05:37.040 --> 01:05:37.800] Uh-oh.
[01:05:39.980 --> 01:05:42.060] Right now, I don't know if you know,
[01:05:42.560 --> 01:05:47.920] but Living Single, the show has a podcast
[01:05:48.400 --> 01:05:52.020] and it's called Re-Living Single.
[01:05:52.920 --> 01:05:53.320] Wow.
[01:05:53.820 --> 01:05:57.160] And it's with, I don't wanna mess their names up,
[01:05:57.540 --> 01:06:01.760] but it's with the characters who play Maxine
[01:06:03.540 --> 01:06:07.140] and Kim Coles is her name,
[01:06:07.400 --> 01:06:09.500] the cousin of Kadeep Sinclair.
[01:06:10.100 --> 01:06:10.780] Sinclair.
[01:06:11.040 --> 01:06:15.380] So it's with Maxine and Sinclair
[01:06:15.380 --> 01:06:18.860] and they go over the episodes of Living Single.
[01:06:19.520 --> 01:06:20.460] So other episodes.
[01:06:20.700 --> 01:06:22.280] It's really good though,
[01:06:22.320 --> 01:06:25.160] because I mean, that's just a go-to show for me.
[01:06:25.240 --> 01:06:26.620] When you wanna have something on TV,
[01:06:26.620 --> 01:06:27.500] but don't know what to put on,
[01:06:27.520 --> 01:06:28.580] you put on something old.
[01:06:28.940 --> 01:06:29.840] Nine songs out of 10,
[01:06:29.920 --> 01:06:31.560] you replaying something just to throw it on.
[01:06:31.940 --> 01:06:33.420] Even with music, you throw on something.
[01:06:33.420 --> 01:06:34.460] Even with music.
[01:06:35.040 --> 01:06:37.000] So Living Single, that's my show.
[01:06:37.160 --> 01:06:39.160] So when I seen the episodes come out,
[01:06:39.160 --> 01:06:41.780] I'm like, oh my gosh.
[01:06:41.840 --> 01:06:42.460] Check that out.
[01:06:42.700 --> 01:06:44.080] If you like the show,
[01:06:44.460 --> 01:06:46.820] then you're gonna think it's interesting
[01:06:46.820 --> 01:06:51.420] and even coming more so from a production standpoint.
[01:06:51.900 --> 01:06:54.140] They talk about the background of the show.
[01:06:54.200 --> 01:06:55.820] They talk about the producers.
[01:06:55.820 --> 01:06:57.540] They talk about how it was managed,
[01:06:57.600 --> 01:07:01.080] how the production was something similar to that of Friends.
[01:07:01.860 --> 01:07:04.420] But the TV show Friends got the accolades,
[01:07:04.640 --> 01:07:06.380] the acknowledgement, the awards.
[01:07:06.600 --> 01:07:07.920] Friends bit off Living Single.
[01:07:08.380 --> 01:07:08.860] Exactly.
[01:07:09.040 --> 01:07:10.340] Living Single came first.
[01:07:10.740 --> 01:07:11.740] So yeah.
[01:07:11.860 --> 01:07:14.380] And then it was a spin from Martin
[01:07:15.340 --> 01:07:17.540] because some of the characters came from Martin.
[01:07:18.420 --> 01:07:19.420] So it was just interesting.
[01:07:19.560 --> 01:07:20.260] I love it.
[01:07:20.360 --> 01:07:23.540] And it's led by women and seeing them
[01:07:23.540 --> 01:07:27.160] following, I need to memorize her name.
[01:07:27.740 --> 01:07:28.780] Maxine is the character.
[01:07:28.900 --> 01:07:30.280] I think her name is Erica.
[01:07:31.420 --> 01:07:32.640] I'm so sorry about that,
[01:07:32.640 --> 01:07:33.540] but I'm gonna get that right
[01:07:33.540 --> 01:07:34.360] because I love the show.
[01:07:34.620 --> 01:07:37.300] But seeing her and seeing her from then to now
[01:07:37.300 --> 01:07:38.800] and being a part of, I don't know if you know,
[01:07:38.820 --> 01:07:41.540] she was in the series Wultang.
[01:07:42.900 --> 01:07:43.320] Wow.
[01:07:44.240 --> 01:07:48.180] Maxine, the lady who played Maxine in Living Single
[01:07:48.740 --> 01:07:53.320] was the mom to one of the Wultang members in the show.
[01:07:53.740 --> 01:07:57.520] The Wultang, it was a series on Netflix, Hulu.
[01:07:57.980 --> 01:07:59.160] It was really good.
[01:07:59.280 --> 01:08:00.140] Didn't I know that.
[01:08:00.180 --> 01:08:01.080] Yeah, really good.
[01:08:01.120 --> 01:08:02.560] So I've been seeing her here and there.
[01:08:02.820 --> 01:08:05.500] So that's right now an ultimate fave.
[01:08:05.700 --> 01:08:10.580] But Kiki Palmer, her podcast to die for.
[01:08:10.860 --> 01:08:12.280] Cause I feel like me and Kiki Prince.
[01:08:13.520 --> 01:08:15.980] Man, she been doing her thing.
[01:08:16.060 --> 01:08:17.660] Doing it since a kid.
[01:08:18.380 --> 01:08:21.600] So, and seeing her life story and her being a mom now
[01:08:21.600 --> 01:08:23.000] and going through her trials and tribulations
[01:08:23.000 --> 01:08:23.800] with that as well.
[01:08:24.399 --> 01:08:26.100] So encouraging her guests, phenomenal.
[01:08:26.540 --> 01:08:29.859] Her style, it grabs your attention.
[01:08:30.160 --> 01:08:31.979] I think she's a dope person anyway.
[01:08:32.620 --> 01:08:33.800] So that's another one.
[01:08:33.899 --> 01:08:36.399] And then, you know, the ever so classic,
[01:08:36.859 --> 01:08:37.580] Shannon Sharp.
[01:08:37.979 --> 01:08:38.760] Ha ha.
[01:08:38.979 --> 01:08:39.779] Club shay shay.
[01:08:40.740 --> 01:08:42.260] Yes, wow.
[01:08:43.300 --> 01:08:43.840] Okay.
[01:08:44.390 --> 01:08:46.240] So yeah, I mean, you know,
[01:08:46.380 --> 01:08:49.880] can't forget the one and only Pull Up Experience.
[01:08:50.060 --> 01:08:53.000] Pull Up Experience, my media partners.
[01:08:53.580 --> 01:08:53.899] Yes.
[01:08:54.399 --> 01:08:56.040] Shout out to the Pull Up Experience
[01:08:56.040 --> 01:08:59.680] who actually got me back into podcasting.
[01:09:00.240 --> 01:09:03.060] I used to have a podcast when I used to do music,
[01:09:03.660 --> 01:09:04.939] breaking down different lyrics
[01:09:04.939 --> 01:09:08.140] and dissecting different songs and poems
[01:09:08.140 --> 01:09:09.260] with other artists.
[01:09:09.960 --> 01:09:12.700] So yeah, this is me back in the podcast
[01:09:12.700 --> 01:09:16.180] but more geared to entrepreneurs and business owners.
[01:09:16.600 --> 01:09:18.920] So, and then also my other media partners
[01:09:18.920 --> 01:09:22.100] who studio, we are at Launch Artists Media.
[01:09:22.920 --> 01:09:24.920] So big shout outs to the Pull Up Experience
[01:09:24.920 --> 01:09:27.020] and Launch Artists Media,
[01:09:27.479 --> 01:09:30.500] my media partners who keeps me going.
[01:09:31.100 --> 01:09:32.939] I ain't gonna say weekly, but daily.
[01:09:33.380 --> 01:09:33.740] Daily.
[01:09:33.840 --> 01:09:36.979] You know, my biggest partners when it comes to media.
[01:09:37.479 --> 01:09:38.720] So yes.
[01:09:39.880 --> 01:09:42.060] I love social proof.
[01:09:42.560 --> 01:09:44.120] Social proof podcast.
[01:09:45.279 --> 01:09:49.660] One of the best business podcasts I've witnessed.
[01:09:50.300 --> 01:09:51.840] Shout out to Donnie and Davin,
[01:09:52.000 --> 01:09:55.900] who's getting back to coaching on their podcast.
[01:09:56.120 --> 01:09:57.880] Oh, okay.
[01:09:58.100 --> 01:09:59.400] Let me get back into it.
[01:10:00.460 --> 01:10:01.200] I love them.
[01:10:01.720 --> 01:10:04.260] I'll be seeing them again in August
[01:10:04.260 --> 01:10:05.160] for the podcast.
[01:10:06.440 --> 01:10:07.720] In Atlanta?
[01:10:08.460 --> 01:10:09.460] Yeah, yeah.
[01:10:09.560 --> 01:10:11.140] I'm gonna make it there one day.
[01:10:11.140 --> 01:10:12.400] I'm gonna make it.
[01:10:12.580 --> 01:10:13.120] That's the goal.
[01:10:13.700 --> 01:10:15.920] For real, I think I'm gonna be driving.
[01:10:16.180 --> 01:10:18.860] Last year I flown down in this year, I might drive.
[01:10:20.580 --> 01:10:21.700] That's not that.
[01:10:22.660 --> 01:10:24.580] Man, what the event last year?
[01:10:24.840 --> 01:10:27.020] Oh yeah, Davin came to Cleveland.
[01:10:27.620 --> 01:10:28.520] Yeah, that was-
[01:10:28.520 --> 01:10:29.480] Iconic.
[01:10:29.860 --> 01:10:31.400] We bringing them to the city.
[01:10:31.500 --> 01:10:33.820] We packed out the whole room.
[01:10:33.880 --> 01:10:35.780] It was full of like, man.
[01:10:36.360 --> 01:10:37.900] And they say, what's in Cleveland?
[01:10:38.660 --> 01:10:39.640] We support-
[01:10:39.640 --> 01:10:40.260] We are.
[01:10:40.260 --> 01:10:41.260] Support.
[01:10:42.020 --> 01:10:42.900] Right, we are.
[01:10:43.260 --> 01:10:43.940] That's a start.
[01:10:46.220 --> 01:10:50.620] Got the kitchen scientists and the media wizard.
[01:10:50.740 --> 01:10:51.500] There we go.
[01:10:51.860 --> 01:10:52.920] And we're just getting started.
[01:10:53.000 --> 01:10:55.920] We got a big network and we're power connectors
[01:10:55.920 --> 01:10:57.760] and love plugging and playing
[01:10:57.760 --> 01:11:00.220] with different people that we meet.
[01:11:01.120 --> 01:11:03.860] So I think that's what we have in common.
[01:11:04.020 --> 01:11:05.500] We're big on connecting
[01:11:05.500 --> 01:11:07.900] and connecting other people with others.
[01:11:08.680 --> 01:11:09.080] Absolutely.
[01:11:09.620 --> 01:11:11.240] We don't always have to be in the forefront
[01:11:11.240 --> 01:11:14.780] and we don't mind being in the shadows.
[01:11:14.980 --> 01:11:17.560] It's like, as long as our community is thriving
[01:11:17.560 --> 01:11:19.900] and people around us are thriving and we're growing,
[01:11:20.660 --> 01:11:21.620] that means a lot.
[01:11:21.800 --> 01:11:23.060] That means everything.
[01:11:23.480 --> 01:11:24.280] That's the purpose.
[01:11:24.720 --> 01:11:26.160] That is the purpose.
[01:11:27.440 --> 01:11:29.980] So not to make it all high and mighty
[01:11:29.980 --> 01:11:31.760] or like everything is golden
[01:11:31.760 --> 01:11:33.780] because we have those dark days.
[01:11:35.780 --> 01:11:37.700] So what were some of the dark times?
[01:11:37.700 --> 01:11:40.860] Even when you were on the civic side,
[01:11:41.720 --> 01:11:43.200] what were some hardships
[01:11:43.200 --> 01:11:44.900] or some things you had to overcome?
[01:11:47.990 --> 01:11:48.590] Okay.
[01:11:49.310 --> 01:11:51.570] Deep, I can feel it.
[01:11:53.190 --> 01:11:56.490] But that's important in having that transparency.
[01:11:56.910 --> 01:11:58.930] I was just talking to somebody earlier
[01:11:58.930 --> 01:12:01.850] about large scale events that they had hosted
[01:12:01.850 --> 01:12:04.290] and kind of some of the things they learned,
[01:12:04.870 --> 01:12:05.970] lessons they had to take.
[01:12:06.170 --> 01:12:08.930] And that right there, that alone is encouraging
[01:12:08.930 --> 01:12:10.230] because sometimes you feel like
[01:12:10.230 --> 01:12:13.210] you only want this down and out when you're going through.
[01:12:16.650 --> 01:12:19.290] So thinking of that,
[01:12:20.070 --> 01:12:21.570] because I got stories for days.
[01:12:21.610 --> 01:12:24.630] Let me find the most fitting story.
[01:12:29.050 --> 01:12:31.390] Well, I wouldn't say it was down and out,
[01:12:31.390 --> 01:12:34.590] but it was a huge lesson that I had to learn
[01:12:34.590 --> 01:12:38.430] with positioning myself as the executive assistant
[01:12:38.430 --> 01:12:40.310] for Councilman Richard Starr.
[01:12:41.310 --> 01:12:44.190] And it's crazy to say it, but I just have to, right?
[01:12:44.230 --> 01:12:46.150] All roads lead to Ward 5.
[01:12:47.050 --> 01:12:50.550] That was a starting point, walking into a role
[01:12:50.550 --> 01:12:54.390] that does not have a training manual.
[01:12:55.690 --> 01:12:58.530] So every connection that I have now
[01:12:58.530 --> 01:13:00.630] standing almost four years later
[01:13:00.630 --> 01:13:03.990] was built primarily in that first year.
[01:13:04.930 --> 01:13:07.310] So we built everything that we have now
[01:13:07.310 --> 01:13:10.330] and as community partners, that's events,
[01:13:10.790 --> 01:13:13.370] that's relationships, that's resources.
[01:13:14.150 --> 01:13:19.290] And that was tough because brand spanking new job,
[01:13:20.110 --> 01:13:22.510] brand new council person,
[01:13:22.950 --> 01:13:25.130] and we have to kind of lean on each other
[01:13:25.130 --> 01:13:26.070] to figure it out.
[01:13:26.170 --> 01:13:26.850] Boots on the ground.
[01:13:26.870 --> 01:13:29.330] Boots on the ground, certainly.
[01:13:29.870 --> 01:13:30.830] That wasn't easy.
[01:13:31.050 --> 01:13:33.530] It wasn't easy learning residents of an area
[01:13:33.530 --> 01:13:34.590] that you didn't grow up in.
[01:13:34.610 --> 01:13:37.110] I didn't grow up in Ward 5.
[01:13:37.110 --> 01:13:40.830] I knew of it, been around it, but it isn't my home.
[01:13:41.710 --> 01:13:44.510] So the disparities that they faced,
[01:13:45.130 --> 01:13:47.170] to some extent I had to learn what they were.
[01:13:47.630 --> 01:13:49.650] How long have they been facing them?
[01:13:50.010 --> 01:13:52.670] But it was through those hard, tough conversations
[01:13:52.670 --> 01:13:56.070] that a connection was made, an opportunity was made,
[01:13:56.330 --> 01:14:00.930] a donation was given, an event became available
[01:14:00.930 --> 01:14:04.010] because of the connections from those tough conversations.
[01:14:04.010 --> 01:14:06.790] So that was hard.
[01:14:07.250 --> 01:14:10.230] Learning my way through that, navigating through that,
[01:14:10.390 --> 01:14:13.450] being able to have large scale events
[01:14:13.450 --> 01:14:16.970] like our back to school resource fair and day of.
[01:14:17.050 --> 01:14:18.650] You know what the day of goes
[01:14:18.650 --> 01:14:20.470] and how that looks for a large event.
[01:14:21.150 --> 01:14:25.870] Anything that can go wrong will go up.
[01:14:26.670 --> 01:14:29.890] And learning how to pivot on the spot in the middle.
[01:14:30.250 --> 01:14:31.750] Things not arriving on time,
[01:14:31.830 --> 01:14:33.330] people not arriving on time,
[01:14:33.330 --> 01:14:37.150] food not arriving on time, weather being bad, right?
[01:14:37.150 --> 01:14:40.450] You have to learn how to pivot right then and there.
[01:14:40.810 --> 01:14:45.190] So that entire first year was a lesson learned.
[01:14:45.630 --> 01:14:47.890] And during that time was when I was playing around
[01:14:47.890 --> 01:14:52.470] with my juices and buying food is expensive
[01:14:52.470 --> 01:14:55.130] no matter what avenue or alley you're buying it.
[01:14:55.150 --> 01:14:58.010] So learning and trying to figure out how to juice
[01:14:58.010 --> 01:14:59.950] and messing it up and.
[01:15:01.030 --> 01:15:02.250] Well, practicing.
[01:15:02.530 --> 01:15:03.090] Practicing.
[01:15:03.090 --> 01:15:05.810] Because I learned with like with doctors
[01:15:05.810 --> 01:15:07.990] and in the medical field, they call it a practice.
[01:15:08.250 --> 01:15:09.770] Me practicing on me.
[01:15:10.610 --> 01:15:13.130] But practicing, you still gotta, yeah, get it right.
[01:15:13.410 --> 01:15:14.250] Practicing versus playing.
[01:15:14.730 --> 01:15:15.110] Practicing.
[01:15:15.110 --> 01:15:17.030] I love that you said that I was practicing.
[01:15:17.250 --> 01:15:18.970] But when you practice and make a juice
[01:15:18.970 --> 01:15:20.070] that don't taste good.
[01:15:20.130 --> 01:15:20.730] You perfect.
[01:15:21.190 --> 01:15:22.810] You throw it away, you still chug it.
[01:15:23.010 --> 01:15:23.950] I was still chugging.
[01:15:24.030 --> 01:15:27.010] It was like I was talking about, I still chug it.
[01:15:27.490 --> 01:15:29.790] I was chugging them nasty juices.
[01:15:31.430 --> 01:15:32.690] Right, you know.
[01:15:32.690 --> 01:15:36.110] But I mean, the benefit of that is I didn't realize
[01:15:36.110 --> 01:15:38.470] that I was drinking so much juice
[01:15:39.050 --> 01:15:41.030] and they might not have tasted the best,
[01:15:41.170 --> 01:15:44.650] but a month later, skin clearing up, hair growing thicker.
[01:15:45.570 --> 01:15:46.770] Energy levels higher.
[01:15:47.030 --> 01:15:49.510] With that being said, everything you do
[01:15:49.510 --> 01:15:52.030] is not gonna be lovely or fruitful.
[01:15:52.030 --> 01:15:53.970] You know, no pun to that.
[01:15:55.090 --> 01:15:57.190] It's not gonna taste good or feel good,
[01:15:57.210 --> 01:15:59.310] but you gotta push through to make it to the.
[01:15:59.450 --> 01:16:00.830] You gotta get uncomfortable.
[01:16:00.930 --> 01:16:01.490] Yes.
[01:16:01.490 --> 01:16:03.270] To the benefits that you want to see.
[01:16:03.450 --> 01:16:04.590] Yeah, and that's for life.
[01:16:05.090 --> 01:16:06.390] That is perfect for life.
[01:16:06.470 --> 01:16:07.430] You gotta sow that seed.
[01:16:08.830 --> 01:16:10.110] And sowing seeds ain't easy.
[01:16:10.390 --> 01:16:11.430] It ain't quick.
[01:16:11.430 --> 01:16:12.210] And it takes time.
[01:16:12.650 --> 01:16:15.470] That seed, it takes, what they say,
[01:16:15.590 --> 01:16:18.730] an apple tree, it takes months before you see the fruit.
[01:16:19.030 --> 01:16:20.250] Don't give me no less time.
[01:16:20.550 --> 01:16:22.250] I see those fruits of labor, you know.
[01:16:22.410 --> 01:16:23.210] Yeah, so.
[01:16:23.210 --> 01:16:24.850] Did you say four years in the making?
[01:16:25.290 --> 01:16:27.350] Four years in the making.
[01:16:27.470 --> 01:16:29.410] And we are still learning and growing.
[01:16:29.410 --> 01:16:31.250] We've gotten some things together,
[01:16:31.530 --> 01:16:35.130] and some things are streamlined, but that's hard.
[01:16:35.770 --> 01:16:37.010] And you know, the job that I have,
[01:16:37.030 --> 01:16:38.090] I don't have a nine to five.
[01:16:38.550 --> 01:16:40.170] I have a nine to five plus.
[01:16:40.510 --> 01:16:42.050] Plus the evening event.
[01:16:42.330 --> 01:16:43.450] Plus a weekend event.
[01:16:43.610 --> 01:16:44.690] Plus the evening meeting.
[01:16:45.110 --> 01:16:48.530] Plus, now people came to your events.
[01:16:49.750 --> 01:16:51.410] How dare you not return the favor?
[01:16:52.610 --> 01:16:53.810] Support, yeah.
[01:16:54.830 --> 01:16:57.810] So, you know, it's around the clock,
[01:16:57.810 --> 01:16:59.390] but when you love what you do,
[01:17:00.670 --> 01:17:02.910] some people call it a job, some people call it a passion.
[01:17:03.690 --> 01:17:04.130] Ooh.
[01:17:06.300 --> 01:17:06.740] Wow.
[01:17:07.340 --> 01:17:08.720] Some people call it a job,
[01:17:08.800 --> 01:17:10.020] some people call it a passion.
[01:17:10.100 --> 01:17:10.520] Yeah.
[01:17:12.240 --> 01:17:14.400] And what if I were something like
[01:17:14.400 --> 01:17:17.120] those tougher conversations you had to have?
[01:17:19.700 --> 01:17:21.860] You got a topic, it could be a person
[01:17:21.860 --> 01:17:24.400] navigating their company, organization.
[01:17:24.840 --> 01:17:27.240] So this the part of the club shay-shay?
[01:17:27.820 --> 01:17:28.520] Where they take a shot.
[01:17:29.320 --> 01:17:31.500] Okay, well, I think Junko ought to do.
[01:17:32.940 --> 01:17:34.580] Gotta re-up after this.
[01:17:35.080 --> 01:17:38.860] But some of those tough conversations,
[01:17:39.120 --> 01:17:41.460] for example, abandoned buildings.
[01:17:43.200 --> 01:17:47.920] How do you have kids walking to school
[01:17:47.920 --> 01:17:49.540] past abandoned buildings
[01:17:49.540 --> 01:17:52.860] where you know stuff going down in the mills?
[01:17:55.660 --> 01:17:57.180] Or transportation?
[01:17:57.940 --> 01:18:02.140] How do we tell our black men to go to the doctor?
[01:18:02.800 --> 01:18:04.500] They don't have a car to get to the doctor.
[01:18:07.560 --> 01:18:09.160] Or home repairs?
[01:18:10.080 --> 01:18:12.220] How do we love on our elderly?
[01:18:12.980 --> 01:18:14.760] How do we respect our elderly?
[01:18:15.540 --> 01:18:18.280] And they don't even have a decent home to live in
[01:18:18.280 --> 01:18:21.900] because their one month, once a month paycheck
[01:18:23.100 --> 01:18:25.440] doesn't cover roof repair,
[01:18:25.920 --> 01:18:30.040] plumbing, porch repair, tree removal, right?
[01:18:30.180 --> 01:18:32.140] And that's just a short condense
[01:18:32.140 --> 01:18:35.940] because the need is there, right?
[01:18:35.940 --> 01:18:36.840] That's hard and heavy.
[01:18:37.080 --> 01:18:39.220] How do you help a family call in the phone
[01:18:39.220 --> 01:18:40.860] because they don't have nobody else to call?
[01:18:41.580 --> 01:18:44.240] And on a hot summer day, refrigerator went out.
[01:18:46.170 --> 01:18:49.190] So by the grace of God, you done found myself.
[01:18:50.810 --> 01:18:51.650] Yeah, wow.
[01:18:51.870 --> 01:18:54.130] And we putting boots on the ground right in the near
[01:18:54.130 --> 01:18:55.630] connecting you with food pantries,
[01:18:55.630 --> 01:18:59.910] connecting you with appliance resale shops,
[01:19:00.270 --> 01:19:02.870] connecting you with family support services
[01:19:02.870 --> 01:19:04.850] to help the kiddos out, right?
[01:19:05.590 --> 01:19:09.010] So every day is a different day and a different struggle.
[01:19:09.690 --> 01:19:12.370] But it's through these community partners,
[01:19:12.610 --> 01:19:14.370] relationships and resources
[01:19:14.950 --> 01:19:20.270] that I'm able to gear myself better and accordingly.
[01:19:21.170 --> 01:19:24.390] It's like a story my pastor once said,
[01:19:25.150 --> 01:19:26.510] when you're out and about,
[01:19:26.570 --> 01:19:29.530] and you know you're going to run across
[01:19:29.530 --> 01:19:33.030] old dude on the corner, you know we gonna be there.
[01:19:33.310 --> 01:19:35.330] Do you prepare yourself with a couple of dollars
[01:19:35.330 --> 01:19:38.110] or a change or a quarter or something in advance
[01:19:38.110 --> 01:19:40.370] or you always act like you don't see him?
[01:19:40.910 --> 01:19:42.510] So sometimes I walk into spaces
[01:19:42.510 --> 01:19:45.150] not knowing what's gonna go down or what's needed
[01:19:45.150 --> 01:19:47.050] or what the problem is,
[01:19:47.170 --> 01:19:49.110] but I know I gotta come prepared with something.
[01:19:50.110 --> 01:19:51.990] So taking it back to the juices,
[01:19:51.990 --> 01:19:56.230] juicing that juice prepares me for the next.
[01:19:56.510 --> 01:19:58.150] Having that clear thought of mine,
[01:19:58.170 --> 01:20:01.090] drinking that this week prepares me for next week
[01:20:01.090 --> 01:20:02.730] to give me the energy for then.
[01:20:02.770 --> 01:20:05.070] So we know sowing that seed take time
[01:20:05.070 --> 01:20:06.230] and with the time that you have,
[01:20:06.290 --> 01:20:07.450] what are you doing today?
[01:20:08.150 --> 01:20:11.290] That's gonna better your future for tomorrow,
[01:20:11.310 --> 01:20:13.970] next week, the next 30 minutes.
[01:20:14.570 --> 01:20:15.350] A lifetime.
[01:20:15.490 --> 01:20:17.890] A lifetime, the next generation.
[01:20:18.130 --> 01:20:19.150] Wow, yes.
[01:20:20.670 --> 01:20:21.230] Legacy.
[01:20:21.230 --> 01:20:22.070] Yes.
[01:20:24.390 --> 01:20:28.370] So if someone wanted me to follow in your footsteps
[01:20:28.370 --> 01:20:31.590] and create impact, what advice would you give them?
[01:20:33.450 --> 01:20:37.580] Start with what you're lacking.
[01:20:38.860 --> 01:20:39.380] Your weakness.
[01:20:39.600 --> 01:20:42.120] Your weakness, something that you're missing, right?
[01:20:42.140 --> 01:20:44.100] Because you can't pour from an empty cup.
[01:20:46.060 --> 01:20:47.920] Okay, all right, now.
[01:20:49.100 --> 01:20:50.480] Wanna drink from an empty cup too.
[01:20:50.720 --> 01:20:51.720] I had a drop, I had a drink.
[01:20:51.720 --> 01:20:52.820] You had a drop, right?
[01:20:53.160 --> 01:20:54.840] And sometimes that's all you got to give yourself,
[01:20:55.060 --> 01:20:57.280] drop by drop, but you have to give yourself
[01:20:57.280 --> 01:21:00.000] something first, so as a teenage mom,
[01:21:00.160 --> 01:21:01.220] I didn't have the money.
[01:21:01.660 --> 01:21:03.500] I may have been close to a grocery store
[01:21:03.500 --> 01:21:05.240] but really couldn't afford it.
[01:21:06.640 --> 01:21:09.080] I figured out how to get a car
[01:21:10.320 --> 01:21:12.520] but gas may not have still been there.
[01:21:12.880 --> 01:21:14.560] So back to that element, we still walking.
[01:21:16.000 --> 01:21:19.500] We still making the best of what's around us.
[01:21:19.500 --> 01:21:23.060] So thinking about what you need,
[01:21:23.220 --> 01:21:24.960] what you could have benefited from,
[01:21:25.020 --> 01:21:26.580] looking back at that younger you,
[01:21:26.700 --> 01:21:28.040] what were you missing then?
[01:21:28.140 --> 01:21:28.960] Now that you're an adult,
[01:21:29.540 --> 01:21:32.180] what things that you may have lacked
[01:21:32.180 --> 01:21:34.820] that you see now are important to have.
[01:21:35.160 --> 01:21:37.160] So just figuring out what's important to you
[01:21:37.160 --> 01:21:39.340] and then figuring out how do you give that to the next.
[01:21:39.680 --> 01:21:42.180] I can't tell people what they should do
[01:21:42.180 --> 01:21:44.800] and I can't tell people to try to be like me
[01:21:44.800 --> 01:21:47.240] because Lord knows, what's in it.
[01:21:48.080 --> 01:21:51.780] But thinking about yourself, you know what you missing
[01:21:51.780 --> 01:21:55.400] and if you don't know, you know that there's a hole there.
[01:21:55.640 --> 01:21:57.100] How do you feel that hole?
[01:21:57.620 --> 01:21:59.660] How do you make yourself feel whole
[01:21:59.660 --> 01:22:02.060] so then you are able to give something to the next.
[01:22:02.640 --> 01:22:06.120] So I was a good talker from a young age
[01:22:06.560 --> 01:22:08.900] and I knew something I didn't mind doing.
[01:22:09.460 --> 01:22:10.500] So through research,
[01:22:10.500 --> 01:22:13.840] that's how I came upon public relations.
[01:22:14.620 --> 01:22:16.000] While I was getting that degree,
[01:22:16.000 --> 01:22:19.380] I knew that that was something that I could use anywhere.
[01:22:19.620 --> 01:22:21.700] I just had to figure out how to get there.
[01:22:22.600 --> 01:22:24.780] So I kept using my gift of gab.
[01:22:24.960 --> 01:22:26.500] I kept perfecting my craft.
[01:22:26.660 --> 01:22:30.140] I started speaking publicly wherever I could.
[01:22:30.280 --> 01:22:32.040] When I was working in spaces
[01:22:32.040 --> 01:22:34.320] that had opportunities to speak,
[01:22:34.480 --> 01:22:36.060] I would take advantage of those.
[01:22:37.800 --> 01:22:39.740] So I knew I couldn't afford
[01:22:39.740 --> 01:22:41.820] to pay for a lot of professional development.
[01:22:42.020 --> 01:22:44.680] Plus I got a degree, so I'm gonna use that.
[01:22:44.740 --> 01:22:45.320] Right, right.
[01:22:46.500 --> 01:22:47.760] Did you have your degree in?
[01:22:48.120 --> 01:22:49.700] My degree is in public relations.
[01:22:50.420 --> 01:22:53.200] A big shout out to Baldwin Wallace University now.
[01:22:53.620 --> 01:22:55.460] It was college when I attended,
[01:22:55.520 --> 01:22:56.820] but they flipped the game up.
[01:22:57.420 --> 01:23:00.080] But big ups to that because that exposure
[01:23:00.560 --> 01:23:02.080] is the reason why I'm here today.
[01:23:02.360 --> 01:23:03.200] You're doing amazing.
[01:23:04.080 --> 01:23:04.920] Thank you.
[01:23:05.640 --> 01:23:08.540] So think about what do you wish you had
[01:23:08.540 --> 01:23:11.700] and figure out how do you now turn it into some money.
[01:23:12.440 --> 01:23:14.720] Well, you said what would you feel your hole with?
[01:23:14.720 --> 01:23:15.900] I would kind of answer that.
[01:23:16.400 --> 01:23:17.100] Just juice.
[01:23:18.560 --> 01:23:19.920] I love it.
[01:23:20.400 --> 01:23:23.020] Like literally, I used to be a big juice drinker.
[01:23:23.040 --> 01:23:26.380] Oh my gosh, all of them, every color.
[01:23:26.400 --> 01:23:27.200] I slowed down.
[01:23:27.360 --> 01:23:28.660] I mean, I'm a lot more water.
[01:23:28.760 --> 01:23:30.640] I drink a lot of smoothies here and there too,
[01:23:31.660 --> 01:23:34.120] but I used to drink juice night and day.
[01:23:34.660 --> 01:23:36.260] All of it, because that's the cheapest thing to get.
[01:23:37.080 --> 01:23:38.740] So if you got a dollar,
[01:23:39.300 --> 01:23:42.240] you can't go buy anything out of Trader Joe's.
[01:23:42.760 --> 01:23:43.000] Ooh.
[01:23:43.660 --> 01:23:45.400] Anything out of Whole Foods.
[01:23:46.560 --> 01:23:47.440] But the corner store.
[01:23:47.900 --> 01:23:48.720] Right, right, ooh.
[01:23:48.800 --> 01:23:50.020] Now back in the day with a dollar,
[01:23:50.140 --> 01:23:52.500] you can get some chips, juices.
[01:23:52.680 --> 01:23:53.700] Grams of sugar.
[01:23:54.780 --> 01:23:55.260] Candies.
[01:23:55.560 --> 01:23:58.420] Right, 25 cents bags of chips, where that at?
[01:23:58.900 --> 01:23:59.780] Well, where is it?
[01:23:59.780 --> 01:24:00.640] Bring it back.
[01:24:00.780 --> 01:24:01.860] Bring it back.
[01:24:02.240 --> 01:24:04.740] But yeah, so juicing for me
[01:24:04.740 --> 01:24:06.120] just gave me a different outlook,
[01:24:06.360 --> 01:24:09.320] a different outlook on life
[01:24:09.320 --> 01:24:12.780] and it's been a different way to continue life.
[01:24:14.080 --> 01:24:16.120] Ooh, I got kind of a two part question
[01:24:16.120 --> 01:24:17.880] because I like how you said juicing
[01:24:17.880 --> 01:24:19.860] gave you a different outlook on life.
[01:24:20.400 --> 01:24:23.520] But kind of bringing it back as a young teenage mom,
[01:24:24.240 --> 01:24:27.620] how did you not fall in line,
[01:24:27.620 --> 01:24:31.780] being black teenage mother and become a statistic?
[01:24:31.900 --> 01:24:33.220] Yep, being that statistic.
[01:24:33.620 --> 01:24:35.460] So from the time I found out I was pregnant,
[01:24:35.660 --> 01:24:36.860] I said, now look girl,
[01:24:37.560 --> 01:24:39.340] we gotta get it together.
[01:24:39.560 --> 01:24:42.480] So that was the ultimate kind of
[01:24:44.000 --> 01:24:47.080] internal boost I needed to get myself together.
[01:24:48.380 --> 01:24:49.600] You need to lead the odds against you.
[01:24:49.600 --> 01:24:50.500] I was a straight A student.
[01:24:51.300 --> 01:24:52.140] Straight A's.
[01:24:52.220 --> 01:24:53.360] So when that came up,
[01:24:53.540 --> 01:24:54.880] everybody was like, wait, what?
[01:24:55.600 --> 01:24:56.340] Surprising you.
[01:24:56.980 --> 01:24:59.220] So I didn't like those looks,
[01:24:59.300 --> 01:25:00.540] but I knew they were coming.
[01:25:00.600 --> 01:25:01.960] I think that's when I realized
[01:25:01.960 --> 01:25:03.320] I had to always stay ready.
[01:25:03.320 --> 01:25:06.100] Because I knew any room I went into,
[01:25:06.520 --> 01:25:09.840] church, school, grocery store,
[01:25:10.520 --> 01:25:12.940] anywhere you are the center of attention.
[01:25:13.220 --> 01:25:16.000] Being 16 years old, what a bump.
[01:25:18.240 --> 01:25:20.660] So I kind of blessed that, what a blessing.
[01:25:21.160 --> 01:25:21.840] What a blessing.
[01:25:21.940 --> 01:25:23.980] 18 years later now I can say, what a blessing.
[01:25:25.100 --> 01:25:28.360] But no, I just, I didn't like the look.
[01:25:28.740 --> 01:25:30.240] I knew the questions was coming.
[01:25:30.360 --> 01:25:31.940] I knew the thoughts was behind it.
[01:25:31.940 --> 01:25:36.060] So at that moment, 16 year old me
[01:25:36.060 --> 01:25:37.380] just started having it together.
[01:25:38.180 --> 01:25:39.180] Did not have nothing,
[01:25:39.780 --> 01:25:41.900] but in my mind, I had it together.
[01:25:42.320 --> 01:25:44.960] So I positioned myself differently from that day,
[01:25:45.000 --> 01:25:46.420] from the moment I found out I was pregnant.
[01:25:47.320 --> 01:25:48.600] Hold me to change overnight.
[01:25:49.220 --> 01:25:50.440] Cause I knew I like day by day,
[01:25:50.580 --> 01:25:52.140] my stomach gonna start getting bigger.
[01:25:52.520 --> 01:25:54.500] These old broads gonna keep talking about me.
[01:25:55.840 --> 01:25:57.160] People looking at me crazy.
[01:25:57.260 --> 01:25:58.880] Everybody got a story to tell me.
[01:25:58.960 --> 01:26:00.160] Everybody got a lesson.
[01:26:00.160 --> 01:26:02.260] Everybody, I don't wanna hear none of that.
[01:26:02.680 --> 01:26:05.040] So I got myself together,
[01:26:05.180 --> 01:26:10.200] graduated high school on time in a great state.
[01:26:10.400 --> 01:26:13.920] I think I was top percentile of some percentage
[01:26:13.920 --> 01:26:16.700] when I graduated, went straight to college,
[01:26:16.940 --> 01:26:18.240] took my child with me,
[01:26:18.320 --> 01:26:20.000] found a program that allowed me
[01:26:20.000 --> 01:26:22.540] to have my son live with me on campus
[01:26:22.540 --> 01:26:26.660] at a private school to receive a private education.
[01:26:26.760 --> 01:26:28.100] So he was on a college campus,
[01:26:28.100 --> 01:26:29.800] but well before his time.
[01:26:30.220 --> 01:26:31.600] And remembers it.
[01:26:33.040 --> 01:26:35.640] So immediately I'm positioning myself better.
[01:26:36.120 --> 01:26:37.320] I knew I had to do it.
[01:26:37.420 --> 01:26:40.140] I knew 18, graduated high school.
[01:26:40.220 --> 01:26:41.660] I don't wanna sit around this house no more,
[01:26:41.700 --> 01:26:42.780] but I can't afford rent.
[01:26:43.720 --> 01:26:44.880] So I gotta go to school.
[01:26:45.300 --> 01:26:46.540] And if I gotta go to school,
[01:26:46.700 --> 01:26:48.640] I'm gonna make the best out of that time.
[01:26:49.220 --> 01:26:49.620] Wow.
[01:26:49.840 --> 01:26:51.280] So being resourceful out in your head.
[01:26:51.480 --> 01:26:53.000] Being resourceful.
[01:26:53.120 --> 01:26:54.800] Well, you don't have it all you can do.
[01:26:55.360 --> 01:26:56.500] Just be resourceful.
[01:26:56.740 --> 01:26:58.620] Tell me you're messing to a message.
[01:26:59.080 --> 01:26:59.480] Immediately.
[01:26:59.480 --> 01:27:02.620] And being tested, turning that to a testimony.
[01:27:04.040 --> 01:27:04.680] Like wow.
[01:27:04.900 --> 01:27:05.540] All of that.
[01:27:06.380 --> 01:27:07.320] But like I was saying,
[01:27:07.660 --> 01:27:10.800] you said like juice changed your outlook for life.
[01:27:11.100 --> 01:27:14.540] So if you would have had juicing back then
[01:27:14.540 --> 01:27:15.900] as a teenage parent,
[01:27:15.940 --> 01:27:17.800] how you think you would have been accelerated?
[01:27:18.080 --> 01:27:20.160] Or how do you think that would affect your mindset?
[01:27:20.980 --> 01:27:24.000] I think it would have had a tremendous impact.
[01:27:24.540 --> 01:27:26.180] Because when you deep down
[01:27:26.180 --> 01:27:27.920] and you're going through what you're going through,
[01:27:27.920 --> 01:27:30.360] you not picking up anything healthy.
[01:27:31.240 --> 01:27:33.380] You picking up fried this and that,
[01:27:34.060 --> 01:27:36.260] saturated fat this, sugary that,
[01:27:36.740 --> 01:27:38.940] and that right there when you think about
[01:27:38.940 --> 01:27:41.920] the simplicity of juicing, right?
[01:27:42.360 --> 01:27:45.880] If I'm depressed and I have one or two options,
[01:27:46.480 --> 01:27:49.160] either I can eat it out in a sugary, fat,
[01:27:49.280 --> 01:27:51.920] nasty mess that tastes good in the moment,
[01:27:53.160 --> 01:27:56.280] but gonna leave me bloated, greasy,
[01:27:56.880 --> 01:27:59.620] all types of nasty, gaining weight,
[01:28:00.020 --> 01:28:01.340] acne prone face,
[01:28:03.160 --> 01:28:05.420] or if I'm deep down and depressed,
[01:28:05.680 --> 01:28:08.040] I'm like dang, let me go ahead and make this juice.
[01:28:08.100 --> 01:28:08.980] I already got the ingredients.
[01:28:09.040 --> 01:28:09.980] Let me juice this.
[01:28:10.260 --> 01:28:13.260] And now I'm juicing and juicing and juicing.
[01:28:13.400 --> 01:28:15.940] So instead of me and my body
[01:28:16.920 --> 01:28:19.840] getting all this extra mess, it's getting good.
[01:28:20.240 --> 01:28:21.780] It's getting fruits and vegetables.
[01:28:21.820 --> 01:28:24.900] So day by day I'm drinking juice, juice, juice.
[01:28:24.900 --> 01:28:27.220] Now my thoughts are immediately becoming clear.
[01:28:27.220 --> 01:28:29.860] I don't wanna say immediately, but they're clearing up.
[01:28:31.020 --> 01:28:34.260] In one week, if you juice for one week,
[01:28:34.280 --> 01:28:35.320] you're gonna see a difference.
[01:28:35.900 --> 01:28:36.680] You're gonna feel a difference.
[01:28:36.960 --> 01:28:38.780] Something's gonna change major,
[01:28:39.400 --> 01:28:42.540] whether it's your skin, whether it's your urine,
[01:28:43.080 --> 01:28:44.140] whether it's your energy.
[01:28:44.380 --> 01:28:46.720] In one week, something's changing.
[01:28:47.580 --> 01:28:49.260] One week of eating all that fat stuff,
[01:28:49.840 --> 01:28:51.080] you tell me what you feel like.
[01:28:51.800 --> 01:28:52.700] Dang, I heard that.
[01:28:52.700 --> 01:28:57.980] So if I would have been in the mindset that I'm in now,
[01:29:00.450 --> 01:29:01.790] the health would have been a little bit better.
[01:29:02.450 --> 01:29:04.270] My mindset would have been a little bit clearer.
[01:29:04.830 --> 01:29:07.430] My parenting ways may have changed up just a little bit.
[01:29:07.690 --> 01:29:10.650] What I'm giving my child, right?
[01:29:10.890 --> 01:29:12.310] The popsicle I brought in today.
[01:29:12.870 --> 01:29:16.210] Imagine if I'd have been giving popsicles to a kid
[01:29:16.210 --> 01:29:19.470] like clockwork with fresh fruits and vegetables
[01:29:19.470 --> 01:29:23.430] versus full of artificial coloring dyes, all of that.
[01:29:23.430 --> 01:29:25.950] Simple, simple things, right?
[01:29:26.130 --> 01:29:28.870] Not saying juicing would have made me the best mom
[01:29:28.870 --> 01:29:30.370] on the planet or the Earth,
[01:29:30.990 --> 01:29:32.910] but it's all about what we do,
[01:29:32.910 --> 01:29:35.190] the small little things that we do
[01:29:35.190 --> 01:29:37.230] that then add up over time, right?
[01:29:37.230 --> 01:29:39.850] Those small seeds that might have been sown
[01:29:40.750 --> 01:29:42.770] that juicing that much,
[01:29:42.990 --> 01:29:45.030] if you replaced all the sugary stuff,
[01:29:45.090 --> 01:29:46.850] which I'm just saying hypothetically,
[01:29:47.350 --> 01:29:51.110] if you did, then the results would be day and night.
[01:29:51.170 --> 01:29:53.130] It'd be crazy, but that's all we know.
[01:29:53.130 --> 01:29:55.310] That's all I had the money to get was...
[01:29:55.310 --> 01:29:56.050] That part, yeah.
[01:30:00.030 --> 01:30:02.190] McDonald's meal off the dollar menu
[01:30:03.550 --> 01:30:06.490] was, if you want to keep it all the way 100,
[01:30:07.070 --> 01:30:09.010] Dollar Tree when it popped out with food items.
[01:30:10.250 --> 01:30:11.790] Yeah, ain't a dollar nothing wrong with it.
[01:30:12.010 --> 01:30:12.410] Right?
[01:30:12.550 --> 01:30:14.270] Dollar 25 or five now,
[01:30:14.290 --> 01:30:17.570] but if we want to keep it all the way to what it was,
[01:30:17.790 --> 01:30:19.570] $200 is gonna only take you so far.
[01:30:20.090 --> 01:30:22.410] So wow, if I had the knowledge,
[01:30:22.410 --> 01:30:23.330] could I?
[01:30:23.490 --> 01:30:25.250] Maybe, but if I couldn't afford it,
[01:30:25.290 --> 01:30:26.490] I did the best of what I had.
[01:30:27.230 --> 01:30:28.230] So it definitely could have helped,
[01:30:28.510 --> 01:30:30.410] but hey, now that I look back,
[01:30:30.430 --> 01:30:32.010] all you can do now is do better for the future.
[01:30:32.410 --> 01:30:33.510] That is amazing.
[01:30:34.170 --> 01:30:35.550] What a journey and what a story.
[01:30:36.330 --> 01:30:36.770] Right?
[01:30:37.730 --> 01:30:39.290] Oh my gosh.
[01:30:39.570 --> 01:30:41.810] I kind of want to hit it on a more positive note.
[01:30:41.930 --> 01:30:43.070] Coming back to the juices,
[01:30:43.170 --> 01:30:44.990] which is fruitful and flavorful.
[01:30:45.630 --> 01:30:48.370] So we talked about ginger shots and juice shots.
[01:30:49.350 --> 01:30:52.190] Is there any favorite food parents
[01:30:52.190 --> 01:30:53.630] that you make with the juices?
[01:30:55.210 --> 01:30:57.270] I'm still playing around with that.
[01:30:58.250 --> 01:31:02.270] And that idea came to me one day,
[01:31:02.390 --> 01:31:03.730] actually when I was drinking wine.
[01:31:04.430 --> 01:31:05.370] What's your favorite wine?
[01:31:08.120 --> 01:31:08.520] Okay.
[01:31:08.620 --> 01:31:09.980] I love real wine by the way.
[01:31:10.420 --> 01:31:13.760] Now I got into wine because of the TV show Scandal
[01:31:14.340 --> 01:31:17.120] and Olivia Pope, always.
[01:31:17.500 --> 01:31:20.320] And at some point that glass of wine.
[01:31:20.420 --> 01:31:22.120] Yes, yes, yes.
[01:31:22.540 --> 01:31:23.220] So, okay.
[01:31:23.440 --> 01:31:23.820] Silence.
[01:31:27.120 --> 01:31:28.380] So watching that,
[01:31:28.680 --> 01:31:31.340] I was kind of feeling like my little Olivia Pope era.
[01:31:31.380 --> 01:31:33.620] So I started really getting in tune with it.
[01:31:34.640 --> 01:31:35.820] I don't know if I have a favorite.
[01:31:35.940 --> 01:31:38.820] I like red wine, but I don't think it's sweet.
[01:31:40.280 --> 01:31:41.200] Well, I like red wine
[01:31:41.200 --> 01:31:42.600] because I know it's good for the heart
[01:31:42.600 --> 01:31:43.900] and it has antioxidants.
[01:31:44.000 --> 01:31:44.860] That's what they say.
[01:31:45.860 --> 01:31:46.140] So I don't have any benefits.
[01:31:46.140 --> 01:31:47.300] Mine are so sweet.
[01:31:47.580 --> 01:31:48.560] I don't have no benefits.
[01:31:49.300 --> 01:31:50.100] Well, you had a sweet.
[01:31:50.720 --> 01:31:53.100] I love sweet like Sangria, I love.
[01:31:53.160 --> 01:31:54.960] Yeah, give me a red.
[01:31:55.060 --> 01:31:57.140] If I'm gonna drink wine, it has to be red, mainly.
[01:31:57.320 --> 01:31:58.460] But I love a Moscato.
[01:31:58.960 --> 01:32:00.140] I love a Moscato.
[01:32:00.180 --> 01:32:02.660] I'm learning a little bit by little bit about Riesling.
[01:32:03.220 --> 01:32:03.960] So I'm learning.
[01:32:04.560 --> 01:32:07.160] I like my wineries.
[01:32:08.440 --> 01:32:12.040] Huff, there's a winery in Huff.
[01:32:13.640 --> 01:32:16.080] I mean, I'm a fan of Tuyul wines.
[01:32:16.460 --> 01:32:17.220] There we go.
[01:32:17.420 --> 01:32:17.980] There we go.
[01:32:18.100 --> 01:32:19.720] Oh no, I've even heard dry wines.
[01:32:19.720 --> 01:32:22.760] I'm not a fan of dry, but her dry wines is durable.
[01:32:23.820 --> 01:32:25.120] No flavorful as well.
[01:32:25.600 --> 01:32:26.300] Local, too.
[01:32:26.820 --> 01:32:28.220] Yes, all her wines is good.
[01:32:28.580 --> 01:32:33.260] So whatever you may not like in a different brand,
[01:32:33.800 --> 01:32:35.760] just try hers, I'm telling you.
[01:32:35.820 --> 01:32:38.500] Shout out to Nakia Tuyul wines in Southpawid, Ohio.
[01:32:39.540 --> 01:32:40.120] My favorite.
[01:32:41.020 --> 01:32:43.820] Has to do some production and media for her as well.
[01:32:44.220 --> 01:32:44.740] Nice.
[01:32:45.660 --> 01:32:47.560] See, you record a lot of her episodes
[01:32:47.560 --> 01:32:50.280] that are full of experience in Tuyul wines.
[01:32:51.020 --> 01:32:53.540] And she just moved it to a new location, bigger location.
[01:32:53.560 --> 01:32:55.000] Big shout out to her.
[01:32:56.400 --> 01:32:58.760] And give back to the community as well.
[01:32:59.080 --> 01:32:59.540] Beautiful.
[01:33:00.300 --> 01:33:06.620] Oh, she has a wine and dine wine fest, August 2nd.
[01:33:07.320 --> 01:33:09.660] So if anybody listen to this,
[01:33:09.800 --> 01:33:12.160] that be coming out in it's face sign,
[01:33:12.280 --> 01:33:13.040] both of us there.
[01:33:13.320 --> 01:33:15.200] Yes, put that on my calendar.
[01:33:15.900 --> 01:33:16.900] Here, I'm putting it on my calendar
[01:33:16.900 --> 01:33:18.980] because if it's a wine event, I'm there.
[01:33:19.200 --> 01:33:19.900] Yes, yes.
[01:33:20.120 --> 01:33:21.280] Will I be working?
[01:33:22.400 --> 01:33:23.260] A little bit.
[01:33:23.400 --> 01:33:24.320] We always working.
[01:33:24.360 --> 01:33:25.100] Always working.
[01:33:25.640 --> 01:33:26.540] Even when we're not.
[01:33:27.820 --> 01:33:29.040] I'm like, I ain't going to do it,
[01:33:29.040 --> 01:33:30.140] but I end up doing it.
[01:33:30.300 --> 01:33:32.180] Even when we are not.
[01:33:32.360 --> 01:33:35.320] You know, in my sleep, I was like, what the hell?
[01:33:36.020 --> 01:33:37.660] Waking up, like, dang, what the?
[01:33:38.420 --> 01:33:39.940] Be like, damn, what a phone number, right?
[01:33:40.140 --> 01:33:41.620] Man, yeah, might as well.
[01:33:41.620 --> 01:33:42.640] Let me knock this out right quick.
[01:33:42.700 --> 01:33:44.140] I don't hear, well, I'm thinking about it.
[01:33:44.160 --> 01:33:44.360] Yep.
[01:33:44.820 --> 01:33:45.120] Yeah.
[01:33:45.120 --> 01:33:48.380] So what can we see in the future for just juice
[01:33:48.380 --> 01:33:49.900] and Miss Jessica Williams?
[01:33:50.720 --> 01:33:53.800] So in the future, hopefully sooner than later,
[01:33:53.800 --> 01:33:56.100] yes, we did at once talk about a podcast,
[01:33:56.120 --> 01:33:58.740] although that is definitely in the makes
[01:33:58.740 --> 01:34:00.240] and in the working.
[01:34:00.840 --> 01:34:03.760] Coming back out officially with the juices as well.
[01:34:04.180 --> 01:34:05.800] And like we were talking about earlier,
[01:34:05.880 --> 01:34:08.240] the approach may have changed just a little bit.
[01:34:08.320 --> 01:34:10.880] So you may not be able to, you know,
[01:34:10.880 --> 01:34:14.520] consistently purchase an individual juice just yet,
[01:34:15.580 --> 01:34:18.880] but I will be attending community events.
[01:34:19.240 --> 01:34:21.800] So like the civic engagement collab,
[01:34:22.020 --> 01:34:23.940] those karaoke and conversations events,
[01:34:23.940 --> 01:34:27.620] we will be popping out with popsicles and politics.
[01:34:27.880 --> 01:34:30.440] So trying to get the kids a little bit more engaged
[01:34:30.440 --> 01:34:33.280] or more family friendly feel to it.
[01:34:33.300 --> 01:34:37.460] So those events are going to be coming out very soon.
[01:34:38.920 --> 01:34:42.300] And then just being more involved
[01:34:42.300 --> 01:34:44.220] in connecting with programs.
[01:34:44.860 --> 01:34:47.660] So if you once again have a program
[01:34:47.660 --> 01:34:51.380] and you're looking to add a healthy component to it,
[01:34:51.660 --> 01:34:53.960] definitely available to connect and collaborate
[01:34:53.960 --> 01:34:55.220] to see what that looks like.
[01:34:56.080 --> 01:34:58.800] But you're going to be seeing me do more partnerships
[01:34:58.800 --> 01:35:01.180] and collaborations with organizations
[01:35:01.180 --> 01:35:04.400] so we can together impact, you know,
[01:35:04.480 --> 01:35:06.040] the broader community.
[01:35:06.040 --> 01:35:08.140] I'm not trying to sell one juice at a time.
[01:35:08.140 --> 01:35:10.980] I'm trying to impact as many people as possible.
[01:35:11.200 --> 01:35:12.600] Communities, neighborhoods at a time.
[01:35:12.660 --> 01:35:13.100] I love it.
[01:35:13.380 --> 01:35:13.820] Yes.
[01:35:16.100 --> 01:35:17.480] Wow, that's amazing.
[01:35:17.480 --> 01:35:18.180] That's incredible.
[01:35:18.580 --> 01:35:19.580] Thank you.
[01:35:19.860 --> 01:35:22.860] Have you ever thought about or reached out to Myers?
[01:35:24.960 --> 01:35:27.480] So at one point I do have to give a shout out.
[01:35:27.520 --> 01:35:29.160] We just shout out everybody at this point.
[01:35:29.800 --> 01:35:30.860] That's what we do, right?
[01:35:31.220 --> 01:35:35.460] But big shout out to Cleveland Central Kitchen.
[01:35:37.380 --> 01:35:40.020] So they're located on Euclid,
[01:35:40.820 --> 01:35:43.380] but it's a community kitchen.
[01:35:44.640 --> 01:35:46.720] So it's a space where-
[01:35:46.720 --> 01:35:46.860] Ghost kitchen.
[01:35:47.120 --> 01:35:48.500] A ghost kitchen, there we go.
[01:35:48.520 --> 01:35:49.280] I lost the word.
[01:35:49.360 --> 01:35:51.580] It's a ghost kitchen right there.
[01:35:51.920 --> 01:35:54.240] I want to say it is in Ward 5 as well,
[01:35:54.560 --> 01:35:58.780] but right on Euclid, close to like 40th and Euclid,
[01:35:59.680 --> 01:36:00.960] the ghost kitchen is there
[01:36:00.960 --> 01:36:02.820] and it's available for entrepreneurs
[01:36:02.820 --> 01:36:05.880] if you need a space, right, to prepare your food.
[01:36:05.880 --> 01:36:09.640] No matter what it is, they have ovens available,
[01:36:11.100 --> 01:36:12.140] refrigeration, storage,
[01:36:12.360 --> 01:36:15.340] and like I said, it's a legit kitchen space
[01:36:15.340 --> 01:36:17.040] for you to use to prep your food.
[01:36:17.300 --> 01:36:19.860] So we were talking at some point,
[01:36:19.900 --> 01:36:23.760] they have workshops available for entrepreneurs to learn
[01:36:23.760 --> 01:36:27.980] how to get their business up and running and together.
[01:36:28.300 --> 01:36:31.760] And so they were the ones who initially had,
[01:36:31.760 --> 01:36:33.560] I had small conversations with
[01:36:33.560 --> 01:36:35.020] about what does that look like?
[01:36:35.620 --> 01:36:39.600] Because going through the central kitchen
[01:36:39.600 --> 01:36:41.160] and going through their workshops,
[01:36:41.480 --> 01:36:44.800] they have partnerships available with grocery stores.
[01:36:45.140 --> 01:36:49.080] So some folks that were in the kitchen,
[01:36:49.960 --> 01:36:53.500] there was a Squash the Beef.
[01:36:54.160 --> 01:36:57.800] They originally were working in throughout that kitchen
[01:36:57.800 --> 01:37:00.480] and there are a lot of local vendors
[01:37:00.480 --> 01:37:03.940] who may not have their own space
[01:37:03.940 --> 01:37:05.740] to sell out of just yet
[01:37:06.420 --> 01:37:09.160] or their own restaurant space or whatever.
[01:37:09.300 --> 01:37:12.860] So they come there and they create whatever they create.
[01:37:12.980 --> 01:37:14.980] I mean, there are people that are making cookies
[01:37:14.980 --> 01:37:19.500] and hot sauces and ice creams
[01:37:19.500 --> 01:37:21.620] and whatever you can think of,
[01:37:21.620 --> 01:37:22.400] you make in the kitchen,
[01:37:22.480 --> 01:37:25.600] they were making in the Cleveland central kitchen.
[01:37:26.180 --> 01:37:29.000] So I thought about it, it's a lot,
[01:37:29.580 --> 01:37:31.700] it's a lot of manpower behind it.
[01:37:31.700 --> 01:37:35.540] So that is definitely a goal down the line.
[01:37:35.660 --> 01:37:39.740] But I think right now I'm just gonna keep it local
[01:37:39.740 --> 01:37:42.920] for the moment being, yeah, keep it local.
[01:37:43.500 --> 01:37:44.500] I love that.
[01:37:45.200 --> 01:37:46.320] Keep it in the community.
[01:37:48.360 --> 01:37:49.500] Wow, that's amazing.
[01:37:51.180 --> 01:37:53.000] I'm trying, one juice at a time.
[01:37:53.260 --> 01:37:53.880] Juice at a time.
[01:37:54.020 --> 01:37:54.940] Well, we said.
[01:37:56.340 --> 01:37:57.300] One community at a time.
[01:37:57.340 --> 01:37:59.560] There we go, here we go, more broader.
[01:37:59.560 --> 01:38:02.380] One community at a time, yeah.
[01:38:02.580 --> 01:38:04.340] They drink one juice at a time.
[01:38:04.520 --> 01:38:06.020] I'll drink about three or four, but.
[01:38:08.840 --> 01:38:11.040] So yeah, just to wrap it up,
[01:38:11.240 --> 01:38:13.320] any advice you would give a young entrepreneur?
[01:38:15.560 --> 01:38:16.900] Advice of the day.
[01:38:17.880 --> 01:38:18.940] Keep it simple.
[01:38:21.080 --> 01:38:22.780] Keep it simple.
[01:38:23.700 --> 01:38:26.840] Whether it is learning how to connect with people,
[01:38:27.400 --> 01:38:31.120] figuring out what you want to build,
[01:38:31.120 --> 01:38:35.800] grow, develop, produce, sell, keep it simple.
[01:38:36.260 --> 01:38:40.220] Keep it simple so that way you're staying close
[01:38:40.220 --> 01:38:42.380] to your roots, close to where you came from.
[01:38:42.400 --> 01:38:44.540] Like I said, the humbling experience
[01:38:44.540 --> 01:38:46.700] of being a teenage mother is something
[01:38:46.700 --> 01:38:49.740] that 18 years later is still right there with me.
[01:38:50.320 --> 01:38:51.760] Never can get too far away from it
[01:38:51.760 --> 01:38:53.200] because that's kind of what shaped me
[01:38:53.200 --> 01:38:54.420] into the woman that I am now.
[01:38:54.840 --> 01:38:57.360] So keep it simple, use what you have,
[01:38:57.360 --> 01:39:00.520] use that thousand dollar phone.
[01:39:01.920 --> 01:39:03.780] You've already made the investment,
[01:39:03.900 --> 01:39:05.780] use your social media pages,
[01:39:06.240 --> 01:39:08.300] use the connections you already have,
[01:39:08.520 --> 01:39:11.840] get into the community, meet new people, simple.
[01:39:12.360 --> 01:39:14.200] Mostly everything I just said was free.
[01:39:14.880 --> 01:39:16.900] Keep it simple, keep to your passion,
[01:39:17.960 --> 01:39:18.640] keep making it happen.
[01:39:19.280 --> 01:39:20.460] I love that.
[01:39:21.120 --> 01:39:23.000] I thank you, thank you, thank you.
[01:39:23.200 --> 01:39:24.000] I thank you.
[01:39:24.300 --> 01:39:26.020] And again, I know you said it before,
[01:39:26.020 --> 01:39:28.240] but where can the people reach you from?
[01:39:28.740 --> 01:39:31.320] Yes, so feel free to reach out to me,
[01:39:31.340 --> 01:39:36.120] LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Jessica Williams,
[01:39:37.280 --> 01:39:38.660] on all platforms.
[01:39:39.240 --> 01:39:44.020] Feel free to reach me through the Civic Engagement Collab
[01:39:45.520 --> 01:39:47.520] or like I said, that community.
[01:39:47.760 --> 01:39:49.060] If you are looking to do anything
[01:39:49.060 --> 01:39:50.560] within the Ward 5 community
[01:39:50.560 --> 01:39:52.520] and you want to get contacted that way,
[01:39:52.520 --> 01:39:59.980] feel free to email me, jwilliams at clevelandcitycouncil.org
[01:40:01.680 --> 01:40:04.660] 216-664-2309.
[01:40:05.640 --> 01:40:06.760] Thank you.
[01:40:07.120 --> 01:40:09.240] Yeah, you can send me all that information
[01:40:09.240 --> 01:40:10.920] and I'll put it in the show notes
[01:40:10.920 --> 01:40:14.400] so there's no excuses for anybody to like,
[01:40:14.520 --> 01:40:15.480] what did she say?
[01:40:15.960 --> 01:40:18.400] Or if they're driving and they need to go back to it
[01:40:18.400 --> 01:40:22.420] they can reference and contact Ms. Jessica Williams.
[01:40:22.640 --> 01:40:23.420] Thank you.
[01:40:23.520 --> 01:40:25.000] I appreciate you.
[01:40:25.160 --> 01:40:25.720] Oh.
[01:40:25.940 --> 01:40:29.460] This is a long time coming, I'm like, we can't wait.
[01:40:29.540 --> 01:40:30.560] And it's just the beginning.
[01:40:30.800 --> 01:40:31.540] It is.
[01:40:32.140 --> 01:40:33.900] You'll be going to have to sit down again,
[01:40:34.940 --> 01:40:38.920] update the people and drink some more juice.
[01:40:40.260 --> 01:40:42.380] So with closing, I want to thank everyone
[01:40:42.380 --> 01:40:46.920] for tuning in to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[01:40:47.380 --> 01:40:50.960] The introspective business podcast
[01:40:50.960 --> 01:40:53.840] as we break down everything in media
[01:40:53.840 --> 01:40:57.800] and different industries and how it all collide.
[01:40:58.720 --> 01:41:01.680] So again, thank you for tuning in
[01:41:01.680 --> 01:41:04.400] for Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[01:41:04.980 --> 01:41:08.120] You can find this on all audio platforms.
[01:41:09.200 --> 01:41:13.700] You can find my website at alieneyesphotos.com.
[01:41:13.940 --> 01:41:16.600] You can check that out for more information
[01:41:16.600 --> 01:41:19.160] and book me, all that good stuff.
[01:41:19.880 --> 01:41:21.360] And if I'm missing anything,
[01:41:21.980 --> 01:41:24.640] hey, it's gonna be in the show notes as well.
[01:41:25.220 --> 01:41:27.080] This has been a great episode.
[01:41:27.460 --> 01:41:29.180] Thank you, thank you, thank you.
[01:41:29.780 --> 01:41:31.360] Until next time, everyone.
[01:41:32.240 --> 01:41:32.480] Peace.

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51. Brandon Gates Speaks To Euclid High Entrepreneur Students (TPUE)
Season 1 · Episode 25
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/brandon-gates-speaks-to-euclid-high-entrepreneur-students-tp
========================================================================

[00:00:01.360 --> 00:00:07.440] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:07.900 --> 00:00:11.880] with your host, photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson
[00:00:11.880 --> 00:00:15.040] of Alienize Photos Media.
[00:00:15.180 --> 00:00:18.240] Alienize Photos Media, portfolios.
[00:00:18.520 --> 00:00:21.760] Thinking about portfolios as I'm adding
[00:00:22.280 --> 00:00:27.300] another high school to my speaking portfolio.
[00:00:28.160 --> 00:00:30.240] I had the honor to
[00:00:31.700 --> 00:00:36.520] be alongside with my Pull Up Experience counterpart,
[00:00:37.880 --> 00:00:40.940] the host with the most, Mr. Brandon Gates,
[00:00:42.380 --> 00:00:45.400] the head over of Pull Up Experience,
[00:00:45.420 --> 00:00:48.160] the Pull Up Experience, TPUE,
[00:00:48.700 --> 00:00:52.040] as we are a collective of entrepreneurs
[00:00:52.040 --> 00:00:56.420] and we help other entrepreneurs and business owners
[00:00:56.420 --> 00:00:59.300] and also non-profits elevate
[00:00:59.300 --> 00:01:04.280] your entrepreneur elevation group here in Cleveland, Ohio
[00:01:04.280 --> 00:01:09.620] as we visited Ohio School, Euclid, Ohio.
[00:01:10.580 --> 00:01:13.220] Shout outs to Euclid High School.
[00:01:13.980 --> 00:01:16.760] As he had that honor to speak
[00:01:17.320 --> 00:01:20.860] and I kinda put some two cents in
[00:01:20.860 --> 00:01:23.600] but I captured the moment,
[00:01:23.880 --> 00:01:27.100] captured the moment he presented.
[00:01:27.100 --> 00:01:30.360] Like soon we got to the students,
[00:01:30.360 --> 00:01:33.820] we had to basically present no setup, no nothing like,
[00:01:34.160 --> 00:01:35.180] all right, they're all yours.
[00:01:36.000 --> 00:01:38.860] So, you know, we had to run and gun
[00:01:38.860 --> 00:01:40.140] and definitely pivot.
[00:01:40.360 --> 00:01:42.380] If anybody know the Pull Up Experience,
[00:01:42.980 --> 00:01:45.900] we are the artists of pivoting.
[00:01:46.800 --> 00:01:50.940] We know how to pivot on a die and we do each time
[00:01:51.620 --> 00:01:53.720] but it was very fruitful
[00:01:54.680 --> 00:01:59.100] and documenting this journey is always good
[00:01:59.100 --> 00:02:05.280] as we spoke on entrepreneurship as well as podcasting
[00:02:05.280 --> 00:02:07.600] and even did a podcasting opportunity
[00:02:08.699 --> 00:02:11.020] as some money was given away.
[00:02:12.620 --> 00:02:14.960] And shout outs to Brandon Gates for that.
[00:02:15.300 --> 00:02:18.140] Like that's just so honorable,
[00:02:18.560 --> 00:02:21.720] encouraging the young students,
[00:02:21.720 --> 00:02:24.200] the youth, the next generation,
[00:02:24.760 --> 00:02:28.920] help propel them to feel their entrepreneur journey,
[00:02:29.540 --> 00:02:31.920] their podcast and media journey,
[00:02:32.500 --> 00:02:33.840] content creation journey.
[00:02:35.500 --> 00:02:39.200] We taught them a little bit about business and marketing
[00:02:39.860 --> 00:02:42.220] as well as the basic of podcast
[00:02:43.100 --> 00:02:46.560] and how to make money from podcast.
[00:02:47.660 --> 00:02:49.300] So it was very fruitful.
[00:02:49.760 --> 00:02:54.200] When we had like 30, 35 minutes with the students,
[00:02:55.000 --> 00:02:56.260] some time was cut off,
[00:02:56.300 --> 00:02:58.980] but we made the most out of it.
[00:02:59.260 --> 00:03:01.140] We got the most out of it
[00:03:01.140 --> 00:03:03.000] and we're gonna keep it going.
[00:03:03.700 --> 00:03:06.600] You know, we're gonna put together some programs,
[00:03:07.320 --> 00:03:09.760] especially for the afterschool programs
[00:03:10.700 --> 00:03:12.720] to see what we can do to help
[00:03:12.720 --> 00:03:15.260] and push the entrepreneurship ballot,
[00:03:17.390 --> 00:03:18.950] especially in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:03:19.850 --> 00:03:22.470] It's critical, it's major, it's important.
[00:03:23.630 --> 00:03:26.270] It's purposeful, it's needed.
[00:03:27.770 --> 00:03:32.770] And we got a tour of Euclid High School.
[00:03:33.250 --> 00:03:35.010] Shout outs to Euclid High School again.
[00:03:36.530 --> 00:03:39.330] Just showing us some of the programs they have,
[00:03:39.910 --> 00:03:41.430] how we could be involved
[00:03:41.430 --> 00:03:43.270] and what the students are doing.
[00:03:44.050 --> 00:03:47.130] Like from robotics to culinary arts,
[00:03:47.490 --> 00:03:52.230] they have chefs and the students work with the chefs
[00:03:52.230 --> 00:03:55.970] selling meals at the school, culinary meals at the school.
[00:03:56.770 --> 00:04:00.370] I think it was about like $16, $17 for a plate.
[00:04:00.770 --> 00:04:02.710] It was like, wow, it's amazing.
[00:04:02.790 --> 00:04:05.670] I'm gonna have to come here for lunch a couple days,
[00:04:05.790 --> 00:04:06.470] couple times.
[00:04:07.350 --> 00:04:08.650] So it's amazing.
[00:04:09.970 --> 00:04:12.590] Robotics, like I said, culinary arts,
[00:04:13.250 --> 00:04:15.850] music production, music recording.
[00:04:15.850 --> 00:04:21.410] I got studio at the school podcasting,
[00:04:21.510 --> 00:04:24.970] which we spoke on entrepreneurship,
[00:04:25.310 --> 00:04:27.310] so many different programs.
[00:04:27.490 --> 00:04:31.910] Like I had a fraction of this when I was growing up
[00:04:31.910 --> 00:04:33.710] or at the schools that I attended.
[00:04:34.370 --> 00:04:37.570] So it's amazing to see and amazing to hear
[00:04:37.570 --> 00:04:39.790] what the different schools have going on,
[00:04:40.030 --> 00:04:43.970] just opportunities these schools have going on.
[00:04:43.970 --> 00:04:47.290] So again, shout outs to Euclid High School.
[00:04:48.110 --> 00:04:51.170] We appreciate you for letting us in your doors,
[00:04:51.930 --> 00:04:54.750] treating us well, welcoming us,
[00:04:54.970 --> 00:04:58.030] encouraging us to give some great insights
[00:04:58.030 --> 00:05:01.730] to the students, also encouraging them,
[00:05:02.290 --> 00:05:03.570] motivating them, showing them
[00:05:03.570 --> 00:05:05.410] that there is opportunities
[00:05:05.890 --> 00:05:08.550] that they can take in entrepreneurship,
[00:05:09.410 --> 00:05:12.850] being what they wanna be and also podcasting,
[00:05:12.910 --> 00:05:13.830] if that's their route.
[00:05:13.830 --> 00:05:16.210] But even if they don't,
[00:05:16.330 --> 00:05:18.430] they still know how to set up one
[00:05:18.430 --> 00:05:21.270] or how to be on another person's podcast
[00:05:21.770 --> 00:05:23.750] to help promote their business.
[00:05:24.310 --> 00:05:27.710] But the most important thing podcasting
[00:05:27.710 --> 00:05:30.690] is a marketing vehicle for your business.
[00:05:31.230 --> 00:05:36.050] Like alienized photos, media is my business.
[00:05:36.770 --> 00:05:38.630] Alienized photos industry talk
[00:05:38.630 --> 00:05:41.590] is the marketing arm of my business.
[00:05:42.200 --> 00:05:44.990] And that's the main reason I started the podcast
[00:05:44.990 --> 00:05:47.270] and also expand my network
[00:05:48.070 --> 00:05:50.750] and show off my network with different guests
[00:05:50.750 --> 00:05:53.430] as we kind of create master classes
[00:05:53.430 --> 00:05:54.550] through our conversation.
[00:05:55.770 --> 00:05:58.110] So it was very important.
[00:06:00.150 --> 00:06:01.790] And my solo episodes,
[00:06:01.790 --> 00:06:04.930] I could make it very salesy and preachy.
[00:06:05.590 --> 00:06:08.910] I haven't, I haven't yet, maybe one day,
[00:06:08.910 --> 00:06:12.070] but right now it's just, you know, free game,
[00:06:12.290 --> 00:06:15.350] as you could say, or many will call it.
[00:06:15.730 --> 00:06:17.250] So take the free game,
[00:06:18.050 --> 00:06:20.070] but you got to start somewhere.
[00:06:20.190 --> 00:06:21.570] You always got to give back.
[00:06:21.610 --> 00:06:23.370] And this is my give back,
[00:06:23.410 --> 00:06:27.370] as well as me marketing myself in exchange for that.
[00:06:27.910 --> 00:06:32.230] You know, help me to help me to help you.
[00:06:33.010 --> 00:06:34.510] You know, I got to help myself first,
[00:06:34.630 --> 00:06:36.130] got to help my business first.
[00:06:36.430 --> 00:06:37.890] I got to get it out here
[00:06:37.890 --> 00:06:41.470] and I felt podcasting is the best way,
[00:06:41.510 --> 00:06:43.330] the best method to do that.
[00:06:43.890 --> 00:06:46.950] You know, I'm always in a car driving like I am now,
[00:06:47.010 --> 00:06:48.870] but I'm able to record audio.
[00:06:49.290 --> 00:06:52.410] I'm not heavy on video, but with audio,
[00:06:52.470 --> 00:06:55.370] I feel like I can do it almost any and anywhere.
[00:06:56.010 --> 00:06:57.750] You know, I can find a quiet place,
[00:06:57.750 --> 00:07:01.190] you know, plug my mics into my phone and hit record.
[00:07:02.370 --> 00:07:04.390] So that's been working for me.
[00:07:04.390 --> 00:07:08.790] So audio, podcasting works for me.
[00:07:09.250 --> 00:07:11.750] I know sometimes I will incorporate video
[00:07:11.750 --> 00:07:13.910] or have some video clips,
[00:07:14.630 --> 00:07:16.870] but I'm not big on it,
[00:07:16.870 --> 00:07:18.710] especially right now in this moment.
[00:07:19.190 --> 00:07:22.550] But as I continue to grow out and continue to get funding
[00:07:22.550 --> 00:07:25.710] and continue to have more time to sit down
[00:07:25.710 --> 00:07:28.290] and actually spend time in front of the camera,
[00:07:28.590 --> 00:07:32.910] well polish productions, I would do that.
[00:07:32.910 --> 00:07:34.970] But right now, straight audio,
[00:07:35.450 --> 00:07:38.350] find so many audio episodes.
[00:07:38.430 --> 00:07:41.230] You can find 50 plus in this current day.
[00:07:41.550 --> 00:07:43.670] It's December, 2025.
[00:07:45.510 --> 00:07:47.870] So, you know, I'm not stopping.
[00:07:48.530 --> 00:07:49.810] I hit a thousand,
[00:07:50.330 --> 00:07:52.470] whether that's solo episodes
[00:07:52.470 --> 00:07:56.970] or a combination with solo episodes with guests
[00:07:58.280 --> 00:08:02.150] or even, you know, live interviews at conferences.
[00:08:03.610 --> 00:08:05.430] A thousand, I promise.
[00:08:05.670 --> 00:08:07.650] I stop until I reach a thousand.
[00:08:08.030 --> 00:08:09.330] Even after I hit a thousand,
[00:08:09.330 --> 00:08:11.730] I'm probably gonna still be going.
[00:08:13.490 --> 00:08:18.130] But I may be compelled to move in another direction.
[00:08:18.730 --> 00:08:22.490] You know, maybe my photography business is thriving
[00:08:22.490 --> 00:08:24.610] where I really don't have much time
[00:08:24.610 --> 00:08:25.930] for the podcast anymore.
[00:08:26.630 --> 00:08:28.210] So, you know, anything can happen,
[00:08:28.210 --> 00:08:31.090] but I promised myself a thousand episodes.
[00:08:31.090 --> 00:08:34.190] So, I'm promising you all a thousand episodes,
[00:08:34.429 --> 00:08:37.890] a thousand educational episodes,
[00:08:39.030 --> 00:08:42.409] inspirational episodes, motivational episodes,
[00:08:43.830 --> 00:08:46.230] mindset, perspective episodes
[00:08:46.230 --> 00:08:48.270] that you could take in, digest.
[00:08:48.790 --> 00:08:50.510] But most of my solo episodes
[00:08:51.510 --> 00:08:54.010] is definitely 30 minutes or less.
[00:08:54.790 --> 00:08:56.930] You know, I aim for the 23 mark,
[00:08:57.110 --> 00:08:59.190] you know, the old school TV shows.
[00:08:59.520 --> 00:09:01.150] Most of my old heads know,
[00:09:01.750 --> 00:09:06.010] you know, the 23 minute programs on TV.
[00:09:06.470 --> 00:09:08.230] You know, that's counted commercials.
[00:09:08.290 --> 00:09:12.690] That's how you get your like 28 to 30 minute TV shows.
[00:09:13.770 --> 00:09:18.370] But most of it is about 22 to 23 minutes
[00:09:18.370 --> 00:09:21.190] if you watch a lot of old school sitcoms
[00:09:21.190 --> 00:09:24.130] like Martin, Fresh Prince,
[00:09:24.490 --> 00:09:26.110] and then your favorite cartoons.
[00:09:28.990 --> 00:09:32.870] It's 20 to about 25 minutes.
[00:09:34.150 --> 00:09:36.790] Cause they got to have, you know,
[00:09:36.910 --> 00:09:39.730] the shows paid for and everything paid for.
[00:09:39.790 --> 00:09:40.750] They got to make money.
[00:09:40.950 --> 00:09:45.170] So they run ads and you see that a lot on YouTube,
[00:09:45.530 --> 00:09:47.290] which we kind of told the students
[00:09:47.290 --> 00:09:51.990] about how to generate money from YouTube is through ads.
[00:09:51.990 --> 00:09:56.350] But you have to have a certain number of subscribers,
[00:09:56.550 --> 00:09:57.990] a certain number of views,
[00:09:58.110 --> 00:10:00.330] a certain number of watch hours,
[00:10:01.510 --> 00:10:02.770] and you know, just teaching them
[00:10:02.770 --> 00:10:06.150] and walking through them in the process
[00:10:06.150 --> 00:10:09.310] and how the Pull Up Experience podcast
[00:10:10.070 --> 00:10:13.910] has met all those requirements on YouTube
[00:10:14.690 --> 00:10:17.650] and is able to be monetized.
[00:10:18.890 --> 00:10:22.190] And you know, we're still strategizing our method
[00:10:22.190 --> 00:10:24.630] because we don't want to run a lot of ads
[00:10:25.210 --> 00:10:26.950] or the ads that we do,
[00:10:26.950 --> 00:10:30.450] we want to film ourself and place them in episodes,
[00:10:31.370 --> 00:10:35.550] but a lot of outside, you know, pre-recorded ads.
[00:10:36.850 --> 00:10:39.250] That's something we're kind of talking through.
[00:10:39.650 --> 00:10:43.230] But we also want to offer this for free,
[00:10:43.530 --> 00:10:46.630] but we also don't want to keep, you know,
[00:10:46.630 --> 00:10:49.270] working at a discounted price or for free.
[00:10:50.070 --> 00:10:52.430] You know, we're going to need monies to sustain ourselves.
[00:10:52.490 --> 00:10:54.950] We have family, we have little children,
[00:10:55.490 --> 00:10:57.070] and some of us older children.
[00:10:58.690 --> 00:11:00.030] Like I said, we have our family,
[00:11:00.170 --> 00:11:01.270] we have our businesses,
[00:11:01.550 --> 00:11:02.750] we got to take care of ourselves,
[00:11:02.910 --> 00:11:04.270] our wellbeing, our health.
[00:11:04.990 --> 00:11:09.450] So if you want more of us, then kind of pitch in,
[00:11:09.450 --> 00:11:12.090] you know, see how you can help out,
[00:11:12.570 --> 00:11:15.630] maybe get us funding, maybe just pay us directly.
[00:11:16.230 --> 00:11:20.210] But, you know, we're here, we're here living on a purpose
[00:11:20.730 --> 00:11:23.430] and we want to do more of it, but you know,
[00:11:23.430 --> 00:11:31.370] we do what we can, but we got to have a balance.
[00:11:31.490 --> 00:11:33.710] And that's what we teach entrepreneurs
[00:11:33.710 --> 00:11:34.890] to have that balance.
[00:11:35.330 --> 00:11:38.250] Like, yeah, we do free work all the time.
[00:11:38.350 --> 00:11:40.770] A lot of times we say yes a lot.
[00:11:42.170 --> 00:11:45.470] And this is one of the opportunities we say yes,
[00:11:46.210 --> 00:11:49.110] mainly for Brandon, but, you know,
[00:11:49.150 --> 00:11:53.450] we opened it up to the team, came out, you know,
[00:11:53.450 --> 00:11:56.670] just for moral support and also to document the moment,
[00:11:57.490 --> 00:11:59.130] end up giving a few words.
[00:11:59.970 --> 00:12:02.290] So it's always good to have that support
[00:12:02.290 --> 00:12:03.690] and that support system
[00:12:04.210 --> 00:12:06.050] and just be ready for opportunities.
[00:12:07.630 --> 00:12:09.450] Yeah, that's my spiel.
[00:12:09.870 --> 00:12:12.490] And again, thank you, Euclid High School
[00:12:12.490 --> 00:12:16.370] over in Euclid, Ohio, right outside of Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:12:17.250 --> 00:12:20.990] Well, I still call it Cleveland, but Euclid, Ohio.
[00:12:22.650 --> 00:12:23.610] Think it's the Panthers.
[00:12:24.530 --> 00:12:26.310] Don't beat me up if it's not.
[00:12:26.630 --> 00:12:27.950] But yeah, shout out to the Panthers,
[00:12:28.130 --> 00:12:29.710] Euclid High School.
[00:12:30.170 --> 00:12:31.390] All right, y'all.
[00:12:31.810 --> 00:12:34.390] Peace, this has been photographer Jackson.
[00:12:34.910 --> 00:12:38.130] Steve Jackson, the Alienize Photos Media,
[00:12:38.770 --> 00:12:41.610] bringing you the marketing arm.
[00:12:43.190 --> 00:12:47.610] Alienize Photos in the talk podcast.
[00:12:48.250 --> 00:12:50.430] It's gonna be much bigger than that
[00:12:50.430 --> 00:12:53.070] as I continue to build this out
[00:12:53.070 --> 00:12:55.950] and have more education
[00:12:55.950 --> 00:12:58.670] and build it to an educational platform.
[00:12:59.670 --> 00:13:02.590] Yeah, so stay tuned for that and some e-books.
[00:13:02.910 --> 00:13:06.890] I got the 10-day social media sabbatical.
[00:13:07.170 --> 00:13:10.410] I did a 10-day fast with all social media,
[00:13:10.930 --> 00:13:13.790] even YouTube, if you look at it as a social media.
[00:13:14.610 --> 00:13:18.070] I did not use none of it, rarely was on my phone.
[00:13:18.650 --> 00:13:21.610] Ended up going 10 and a half, almost 11 days.
[00:13:21.950 --> 00:13:26.210] So I beat my 10-day sabbatical away from social media.
[00:13:26.890 --> 00:13:28.030] And yeah, it felt good.
[00:13:28.050 --> 00:13:29.370] I got a lot accomplished.
[00:13:29.690 --> 00:13:31.330] I document it each day.
[00:13:31.370 --> 00:13:33.130] So go check out that series.
[00:13:33.770 --> 00:13:36.210] 10-day social media sabbatical,
[00:13:36.290 --> 00:13:39.170] day one through 11, 11 days to recap.
[00:13:39.170 --> 00:13:41.190] If you don't wanna listen to all of them,
[00:13:41.270 --> 00:13:43.470] I encourage you to listen to the recap
[00:13:43.470 --> 00:13:45.370] as you will get some nuggets
[00:13:45.370 --> 00:13:49.450] and summarize versions of the episode.
[00:13:50.390 --> 00:13:52.990] So look out for that in the e-book
[00:13:52.990 --> 00:13:55.890] and I'm gonna have a course around it as well.
[00:13:56.650 --> 00:13:59.590] But if you wanna book me for event photography
[00:13:59.590 --> 00:14:01.230] or photography in general,
[00:14:02.030 --> 00:14:04.170] but event photography is my specialty
[00:14:04.170 --> 00:14:08.970] as well as video production and podcast productions
[00:14:08.970 --> 00:14:10.690] on behind the scenes.
[00:14:11.190 --> 00:14:12.670] Or if you want coaching,
[00:14:13.150 --> 00:14:16.170] either or to book me as a photographer
[00:14:16.570 --> 00:14:18.850] or both to help you with coaching,
[00:14:19.170 --> 00:14:20.210] marketing, ideation,
[00:14:20.370 --> 00:14:23.870] to help build out your blueprint for your business.
[00:14:24.670 --> 00:14:25.390] So let's talk.
[00:14:25.950 --> 00:14:27.990] We're gonna catch my information over
[00:14:27.990 --> 00:14:32.870] at alienisphotos.com.
[00:14:32.870 --> 00:14:36.110] And that's alien eyes like your eyeballs,
[00:14:36.490 --> 00:14:41.710] eyes with a Z, photos with a S.
[00:14:42.090 --> 00:14:43.810] alienisphotos.com
[00:14:43.810 --> 00:14:45.870] and on all social media,
[00:14:46.750 --> 00:14:56.610] A-L-I-E-N-E-Y-E-Z-P-H-O-T-O-S.
[00:14:57.090 --> 00:15:00.390] Alien eyes photos on all social media.
[00:15:00.390 --> 00:15:03.050] And I'm starting to post a little more on YouTube.
[00:15:03.110 --> 00:15:06.890] So check out our YouTube channel alien eyes photos.
[00:15:07.350 --> 00:15:10.530] And again, this is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson
[00:15:10.530 --> 00:15:12.730] of alien eyes photos media.
[00:15:13.130 --> 00:15:15.750] Bringing you alien eyes photos industry talk.
[00:15:16.110 --> 00:15:17.630] Shout out to Brandon Gates,
[00:15:18.170 --> 00:15:18.990] the Pull Up Experience,
[00:15:19.130 --> 00:15:20.890] the whole Pull Up Experience team.
[00:15:21.310 --> 00:15:24.490] Go check out our end of the year episode
[00:15:25.070 --> 00:15:26.470] over on YouTube.
[00:15:27.130 --> 00:15:29.290] And again, special shout outs to
[00:15:30.470 --> 00:15:36.590] the Euclid High School staff team, Mr. Webster.
[00:15:38.550 --> 00:15:39.770] All the great, you know,
[00:15:39.990 --> 00:15:42.490] staff members that's running these programs
[00:15:42.490 --> 00:15:43.630] and the teachers as well.
[00:15:43.730 --> 00:15:44.910] Can't forget about the teachers.
[00:15:46.830 --> 00:15:48.130] Oh man, I love it.
[00:15:48.150 --> 00:15:49.050] I'm loving what I'm seeing.
[00:15:49.190 --> 00:15:50.250] I love what I'm hearing.
[00:15:50.670 --> 00:15:51.810] This has been a journey.
[00:15:52.430 --> 00:15:54.150] Thank you, thank you, thank you.
[00:15:54.330 --> 00:15:56.450] Always tuning in, always supporting.
[00:15:57.290 --> 00:15:58.910] God bless, peace.

========================================================================
52. Be Like A Chameleon
Season 1 · Episode 24
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/be-like-a-chameleon
========================================================================

[00:00:00.880 --> 00:00:08.380] Wow, just got down doing a father walk father walk your child to school
[00:00:09.220 --> 00:00:14.480] And I was it was nice and the amount of fathers father figures
[00:00:15.320 --> 00:00:17.830] Grandfathers uncles that showed up
[00:00:18.960 --> 00:00:21.140] Man, it was a great turnout
[00:00:21.140 --> 00:00:23.400] It's great to see
[00:00:23.400 --> 00:00:25.300] great to have
[00:00:25.300 --> 00:00:28.240] great fellowship a great community
[00:00:30.000 --> 00:00:37.180] It's great for our children to see that and for fathers and father figures cousins uncles
[00:00:37.820 --> 00:00:38.420] brothers
[00:00:38.420 --> 00:00:40.340] all that to come together
[00:00:41.380 --> 00:00:44.280] the unity and
[00:00:44.280 --> 00:00:49.200] It's good to meet some of the school staff teachers that you may not
[00:00:49.200 --> 00:00:51.460] You know even the counselors
[00:00:51.460 --> 00:00:57.160] You know some of the staff you may not meet on the regular. So it was good all around
[00:00:59.390 --> 00:01:03.930] And now that I'm down with the father walking child to school
[00:01:05.150 --> 00:01:07.690] and now my daughter wanted me to
[00:01:09.990 --> 00:01:13.830] Walk all the way to class with of course, you know, they're real strict with
[00:01:15.170 --> 00:01:22.730] You know allowing people in this school. So and that's good for the safety and I appreciate that aspect as well
[00:01:23.530 --> 00:01:30.910] I don't this episode probably has nothing to do with business, but just a reflection and now
[00:01:30.910 --> 00:01:34.220] that it's over the real work starts and
[00:01:35.870 --> 00:01:40.160] You know, sometimes you have to adjust your schedule for
[00:01:40.910 --> 00:01:44.170] Important things to me. This is important. So
[00:01:44.170 --> 00:01:49.170] You know things don't always go your way and business and life
[00:01:49.170 --> 00:01:50.530] so
[00:01:50.530 --> 00:01:56.550] Learning to navigate knowing how to navigate is always good be like a chameleon
[00:01:56.910 --> 00:02:03.070] adapt to their environment the changes in their environment just the changes
[00:02:03.070 --> 00:02:07.010] around them they able to change and adapt and
[00:02:08.310 --> 00:02:09.070] I
[00:02:09.070 --> 00:02:14.090] Want you to think about that take that on I know going in different places
[00:02:15.230 --> 00:02:16.750] different industries
[00:02:16.750 --> 00:02:20.510] sometimes you have to be a chameleon and
[00:02:20.530 --> 00:02:22.970] you know, I
[00:02:22.970 --> 00:02:27.610] You know coin myself going to different industry since the name of this podcast
[00:02:28.250 --> 00:02:36.770] alienize photos industry talk as I you know that one talk with different industry leaders and
[00:02:37.710 --> 00:02:40.390] I was good to you know
[00:02:40.390 --> 00:02:48.210] Have that chameleon mindset being able to adapt and reflect and that's how we all grow, you know
[00:02:48.210 --> 00:02:55.750] Maybe somebody's doing something in real estate that could apply to my you know visual media brand
[00:02:55.750 --> 00:03:02.110] You know in band photography and video production and podcast production
[00:03:04.090 --> 00:03:07.490] Maybe it's a gas electric company
[00:03:07.490 --> 00:03:12.450] That they build a certain way or maybe huh? I should build a certain way
[00:03:12.950 --> 00:03:15.590] It good the way somebody markets, you know
[00:03:15.930 --> 00:03:17.770] these race car drivers
[00:03:18.210 --> 00:03:22.710] You know with the sponsors, huh? Maybe I could get sponsors like that. I never thought about this sponsor
[00:03:22.710 --> 00:03:23.990] Oh, they do this do that
[00:03:24.830 --> 00:03:27.970] You could learn from different industries and that was the whole
[00:03:28.650 --> 00:03:31.750] premise of this podcast and also how
[00:03:32.510 --> 00:03:35.450] Media affects your industry directly
[00:03:36.770 --> 00:03:41.830] So again real estate how has media shaped the outcome of your
[00:03:42.830 --> 00:03:48.310] Your industry, you know now we get high quality visuals
[00:03:48.310 --> 00:03:55.390] You know photography and video now people want to buy it because we do a great job with it
[00:03:55.990 --> 00:03:58.290] You know now celebrities
[00:03:59.350 --> 00:04:06.150] Get more attention because of Instagram and these shorts and reels
[00:04:06.970 --> 00:04:07.890] so
[00:04:08.530 --> 00:04:13.790] How has media affect your industry in the last ten years
[00:04:13.790 --> 00:04:18.769] You know with the advancements of AI and technology in general
[00:04:19.529 --> 00:04:22.790] It's getting wild. So again
[00:04:23.410 --> 00:04:30.350] How is this affecting your industry? There's always changes and it's always room to adapt
[00:04:30.970 --> 00:04:33.050] It's great to adapt
[00:04:33.050 --> 00:04:34.530] It's needed
[00:04:35.350 --> 00:04:40.250] But yeah, that's a little short message I wanted to leave you all with today I
[00:04:41.010 --> 00:04:47.890] Am your host photographer Jackson Steve Jackson of alien eyes photos media
[00:04:47.890 --> 00:04:52.530] Bringing you alien eyes photos industry talk the industry
[00:04:54.070 --> 00:04:56.410] Introspective business podcast
[00:04:57.170 --> 00:05:00.330] Here in Cleveland, Ohio, but I'm global baby
[00:05:01.030 --> 00:05:03.710] Okay national but soon to be global
[00:05:05.230 --> 00:05:11.790] Yes, I am an event photographer wedding photographer headshot photographer
[00:05:12.410 --> 00:05:19.310] But people know me for the man with the events do a lot of podcast production video production
[00:05:19.310 --> 00:05:22.930] a lot of things with the camera, but you know
[00:05:22.930 --> 00:05:28.740] Events is my focus. I'm also a business coach. I like the coach
[00:05:29.330 --> 00:05:34.010] Creatives that are starting their entrepreneur journey
[00:05:34.530 --> 00:05:40.010] And they just need a little guidance and push a whole ideation sessions
[00:05:40.010 --> 00:05:44.010] Let's bounce ideas build your strategy to build your brand
[00:05:44.530 --> 00:05:47.590] Again, I am photographer Jackson
[00:05:47.590 --> 00:05:49.990] also known as alien
[00:05:50.570 --> 00:05:56.150] Yes, this has been a great one impactful. Don't forget to be like a chameleon
[00:05:57.070 --> 00:05:58.850] All right, y'all my peace

========================================================================
53. Justine Johnson Of Just Designs
Season 2 · Episode 4
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/justine-johnson-of-just-designs
========================================================================

[00:00:01.360 --> 00:00:04.400] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome
[00:00:04.400 --> 00:00:07.720] to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:08.320 --> 00:00:11.300] I'm here with a special guest to my right.
[00:00:11.320 --> 00:00:13.240] I know y'all can't see or see us.
[00:00:13.660 --> 00:00:14.880] This is straight audio.
[00:00:15.600 --> 00:00:18.660] But to my right, I have Miss Justine,
[00:00:18.860 --> 00:00:22.560] an excellent interior designer with Just Designs.
[00:00:22.840 --> 00:00:23.680] How are you doing today?
[00:00:23.960 --> 00:00:25.240] I'm good, how are you?
[00:00:25.500 --> 00:00:27.220] I don't know, I can't complain.
[00:00:27.300 --> 00:00:28.000] We got started.
[00:00:28.100 --> 00:00:30.080] We're both introverts, but we're making it happen.
[00:00:30.870 --> 00:00:31.240] Yes.
[00:00:31.700 --> 00:00:33.960] So would you like to tell the audience about yourself?
[00:00:34.940 --> 00:00:36.720] So I am Justine Johnson.
[00:00:36.900 --> 00:00:40.440] I'm the owner and lead designer of Just Designs.
[00:00:40.520 --> 00:00:42.820] I'm an interior designer and a resin artist.
[00:00:43.260 --> 00:00:46.200] So I started my business back in 2020.
[00:00:46.720 --> 00:00:51.040] I began offering initially resin decor for people spaces.
[00:00:51.040 --> 00:00:53.880] So the custom resin products, tables,
[00:00:54.660 --> 00:00:58.280] offering to do floors, refurbishing furniture,
[00:00:58.280 --> 00:01:00.820] just to offer decor pieces for people spaces.
[00:01:01.120 --> 00:01:04.239] And now I am offering interior design services,
[00:01:04.420 --> 00:01:05.720] all-encompassing services
[00:01:05.720 --> 00:01:08.400] for residential and commercial work.
[00:01:08.900 --> 00:01:09.980] Wow, that's amazing.
[00:01:10.220 --> 00:01:10.600] Dang.
[00:01:10.720 --> 00:01:11.820] We said 2020?
[00:01:12.180 --> 00:01:12.680] 2020.
[00:01:13.240 --> 00:01:17.660] So how was it in 2020 coming up in the game,
[00:01:17.660 --> 00:01:21.160] I like to call it, versus now, five years later?
[00:01:24.700 --> 00:01:27.520] So elaborate, I'm sorry, before I answer.
[00:01:27.520 --> 00:01:30.740] It could be different trends that people utilize
[00:01:30.740 --> 00:01:37.740] or different designs people had in the early 2000s
[00:01:37.740 --> 00:01:39.740] or 2020 versus now,
[00:01:39.760 --> 00:01:42.300] which is more modern or technology-based.
[00:01:42.900 --> 00:01:43.100] Yes.
[00:01:44.240 --> 00:01:46.740] So actually, I guess from my business personally,
[00:01:47.060 --> 00:01:50.340] in 2020, I did a lot more resin work
[00:01:50.340 --> 00:01:52.300] than I did interior design work.
[00:01:52.660 --> 00:01:56.400] It took me a little while actually
[00:01:56.400 --> 00:01:59.100] to start getting clients that weren't family and friends.
[00:01:59.520 --> 00:02:02.480] I didn't really have a huge portfolio
[00:02:02.480 --> 00:02:04.460] of work from my business,
[00:02:04.540 --> 00:02:05.760] which is what people wanna see
[00:02:05.760 --> 00:02:07.240] before they wanna come trust you
[00:02:07.240 --> 00:02:09.440] to do work in their space.
[00:02:10.639 --> 00:02:13.720] So initially it was a lot of getting my name out there,
[00:02:14.080 --> 00:02:17.660] doing pop-up shops, selling coasters, trays,
[00:02:17.920 --> 00:02:20.440] little tables, things of that nature,
[00:02:21.060 --> 00:02:22.300] meeting people, networking.
[00:02:22.620 --> 00:02:25.400] Whereas now I have more clients
[00:02:25.400 --> 00:02:28.900] and am doing more of the opposite,
[00:02:28.900 --> 00:02:31.460] which is where I wanted to go with my business.
[00:02:31.740 --> 00:02:34.560] I even offered resin dominoes at one point,
[00:02:35.060 --> 00:02:38.640] and I felt like I became the domino girl
[00:02:38.640 --> 00:02:39.580] for a little bit.
[00:02:39.920 --> 00:02:42.720] And while that was nice, I was like, wait, no,
[00:02:42.780 --> 00:02:45.500] that's not what I was trying to start this to do.
[00:02:46.180 --> 00:02:49.520] I was trying to be doing interior design services,
[00:02:49.520 --> 00:02:52.100] so I have gotten away from the domino girl thing.
[00:02:52.240 --> 00:02:53.440] You bring it back at some point.
[00:02:53.440 --> 00:02:56.200] I would definitely still make dominoes for people.
[00:02:56.240 --> 00:02:57.160] I'm not against it.
[00:02:57.180 --> 00:02:59.720] It's just that at one point that was a lot of my business,
[00:02:59.920 --> 00:03:02.100] which was great, and I'm not mad about it.
[00:03:02.100 --> 00:03:03.080] I'm not complaining.
[00:03:03.900 --> 00:03:06.840] It sustained me for a while, and I loved that,
[00:03:06.840 --> 00:03:08.880] but I definitely wanted to make sure
[00:03:08.880 --> 00:03:11.920] that the focus and the heart of what I was doing
[00:03:11.920 --> 00:03:13.460] was in interior design.
[00:03:13.820 --> 00:03:16.300] The focus and the heart, wow.
[00:03:16.980 --> 00:03:20.460] So how important is marketing yourself
[00:03:20.460 --> 00:03:23.040] and branding yourself as an artist,
[00:03:23.040 --> 00:03:24.180] or as an entrepreneur?
[00:03:25.420 --> 00:03:26.460] Very important.
[00:03:27.500 --> 00:03:29.940] Because that was so much of what I did
[00:03:29.940 --> 00:03:32.880] and so much of what I was offering at the time,
[00:03:33.500 --> 00:03:34.760] that's what people saw.
[00:03:35.480 --> 00:03:38.720] And so a lot of what I had to do was shift
[00:03:39.500 --> 00:03:41.160] the focus of what I was posting,
[00:03:41.220 --> 00:03:42.940] how I was marketing myself,
[00:03:43.280 --> 00:03:45.220] the spaces that I entered,
[00:03:45.680 --> 00:03:48.200] the people that I networked with.
[00:03:48.440 --> 00:03:50.120] I'm grateful for everybody that I met
[00:03:50.120 --> 00:03:51.380] along the way, of course,
[00:03:51.380 --> 00:03:53.120] but just trying to enter more,
[00:03:53.460 --> 00:03:55.400] enter into spaces that aligned more
[00:03:55.400 --> 00:03:58.060] with what it was that I wanted to do.
[00:03:58.760 --> 00:04:00.140] So marketing is very important.
[00:04:00.260 --> 00:04:02.520] What you show people is what they're gonna know you for.
[00:04:03.400 --> 00:04:05.840] That is, that's very true, you know.
[00:04:07.320 --> 00:04:09.780] Especially in this world of social media now,
[00:04:10.080 --> 00:04:13.040] people, they go to your Instagram or, you know,
[00:04:13.300 --> 00:04:14.940] Facebook or whatever versus your website.
[00:04:17.459 --> 00:04:21.260] So this is, I could speak on it a lot,
[00:04:21.260 --> 00:04:24.320] but it's a double-edged sword, you know.
[00:04:24.420 --> 00:04:25.300] It is.
[00:04:25.340 --> 00:04:27.660] You could get caught up in it and start scrolling
[00:04:27.660 --> 00:04:29.180] and be like, I'll post what we posting.
[00:04:29.840 --> 00:04:31.500] So how do you balance that?
[00:04:31.700 --> 00:04:32.400] That's true.
[00:04:32.920 --> 00:04:34.420] That's a very good question, too.
[00:04:34.420 --> 00:04:35.740] How do I balance it?
[00:04:36.480 --> 00:04:40.960] I actually am going to try a new technique here recently,
[00:04:41.520 --> 00:04:42.720] or here soon.
[00:04:43.040 --> 00:04:45.080] My schedule is changing a little bit,
[00:04:45.640 --> 00:04:49.060] so whereas before I kind of would create content
[00:04:49.060 --> 00:04:50.280] more so on the fly,
[00:04:50.280 --> 00:04:53.040] I'm gonna try to do better with scheduling my content.
[00:04:53.380 --> 00:04:54.380] Okay, and like trying to be,
[00:04:54.380 --> 00:04:56.540] I know people that are a month ahead, you know,
[00:04:56.540 --> 00:04:57.460] on their content.
[00:04:57.600 --> 00:05:01.220] And so if I can at least get two posts a week,
[00:05:01.220 --> 00:05:03.140] you know, scheduled out for the month,
[00:05:03.500 --> 00:05:06.520] I wanna try to, you know, use that as my first goal
[00:05:08.800 --> 00:05:09.960] to stay steady.
[00:05:10.040 --> 00:05:11.500] It can be hard, you know,
[00:05:11.500 --> 00:05:14.460] to stay steady with posting and content
[00:05:14.460 --> 00:05:16.700] and remembering like, oh, I should be recording this.
[00:05:16.780 --> 00:05:18.540] Oh, I should be getting a picture of this
[00:05:18.540 --> 00:05:20.280] because you get so caught up in the moment.
[00:05:20.420 --> 00:05:22.480] Like, I'm really big on, you know,
[00:05:22.860 --> 00:05:24.380] genuine and organic connections
[00:05:24.380 --> 00:05:25.780] with people that I work with.
[00:05:26.020 --> 00:05:29.340] And sometimes you don't remember to take your camera out
[00:05:29.340 --> 00:05:32.240] to record or to get a picture or something.
[00:05:33.220 --> 00:05:35.360] There also could be a way we collab, you know,
[00:05:35.380 --> 00:05:36.800] so I'm in the media space.
[00:05:37.060 --> 00:05:38.280] That's my specialty,
[00:05:38.860 --> 00:05:40.580] and I can help with the social media.
[00:05:41.020 --> 00:05:43.160] I appreciate that, I'm gonna need you.
[00:05:43.600 --> 00:05:44.500] Oh, thank you, thank you.
[00:05:44.560 --> 00:05:45.520] We'll talk afterwards.
[00:05:45.660 --> 00:05:46.040] Yes.
[00:05:46.860 --> 00:05:49.580] But still being on the lines of all the market
[00:05:49.580 --> 00:05:51.740] and how do you stay updated with the latest trends?
[00:05:52.480 --> 00:05:53.740] That's a good question too.
[00:05:54.740 --> 00:05:56.920] I subscribe to Architectural Digest.
[00:05:57.960 --> 00:06:00.340] I've been subscribed to the magazine
[00:06:01.260 --> 00:06:03.760] on and off since I was in college,
[00:06:05.240 --> 00:06:09.620] reading that, following different pages on social media.
[00:06:09.880 --> 00:06:12.840] So I'm really particular about my algorithms
[00:06:12.840 --> 00:06:14.300] on my social media accounts.
[00:06:14.760 --> 00:06:15.780] All the time, Khadijree,
[00:06:15.900 --> 00:06:18.320] because I think, oh, that is important, wow.
[00:06:18.360 --> 00:06:20.680] It is so important what you interact with.
[00:06:20.820 --> 00:06:22.440] Really, that's what your feed
[00:06:22.440 --> 00:06:24.440] and your for you will show you more of.
[00:06:24.920 --> 00:06:28.000] So, you know, of course I have like my personal pages
[00:06:28.000 --> 00:06:30.500] and then I have my business page.
[00:06:30.840 --> 00:06:33.640] My business explorer page looks totally different
[00:06:33.640 --> 00:06:34.680] from my personal page.
[00:06:34.760 --> 00:06:36.820] My personal page has like a bunch of food
[00:06:36.820 --> 00:06:38.400] because I love to cook.
[00:06:38.680 --> 00:06:39.360] What you like to cook?
[00:06:40.140 --> 00:06:41.580] Anything, I just cook.
[00:06:42.060 --> 00:06:43.720] Like, if I wanna make it, I gonna make it.
[00:06:43.720 --> 00:06:45.240] I don't mean to sound like that,
[00:06:45.280 --> 00:06:46.380] but like that's really me.
[00:06:46.620 --> 00:06:48.400] Cause I like to cook too.
[00:06:48.660 --> 00:06:50.520] I mean, I'm not so much on the look,
[00:06:50.820 --> 00:06:53.300] but I'm more so on the taste and texture.
[00:06:53.760 --> 00:06:56.000] So I know you as an interior designer,
[00:06:56.000 --> 00:07:00.340] designer artist, are you more so on the look
[00:07:00.340 --> 00:07:02.640] when you cook or you focus on the taste?
[00:07:03.240 --> 00:07:04.120] All of the above.
[00:07:04.280 --> 00:07:06.520] I think that's one of the nice things
[00:07:06.520 --> 00:07:09.840] about interior design is it blends a lot of
[00:07:11.600 --> 00:07:13.580] aspects of art, I guess I can say,
[00:07:13.580 --> 00:07:16.580] because you can't leave out look.
[00:07:16.800 --> 00:07:17.920] You can't leave out color.
[00:07:18.020 --> 00:07:19.260] You can't leave out texture.
[00:07:19.460 --> 00:07:22.040] Like all of that plays into the space.
[00:07:22.940 --> 00:07:25.780] You know, do you want to have varying textures?
[00:07:27.660 --> 00:07:29.240] Again, colors, like my plate,
[00:07:29.240 --> 00:07:31.700] I try to make it look colorful, you know?
[00:07:31.840 --> 00:07:35.160] So like, I try not to have two things
[00:07:35.160 --> 00:07:36.700] that are the same color on the plate.
[00:07:36.700 --> 00:07:39.720] You know, try to like make it have variety a little bit
[00:07:39.720 --> 00:07:41.380] and you can do the same thing in spaces.
[00:07:41.380 --> 00:07:45.500] So it kind of, and I know other artists that are,
[00:07:45.500 --> 00:07:46.900] you know, and creators that are out there listening
[00:07:46.900 --> 00:07:49.780] and I'm sure you can too, like art is everywhere.
[00:07:50.000 --> 00:07:51.960] So it's all in just how you look at things.
[00:07:52.160 --> 00:07:53.640] Like I used to want to be a hairstylist
[00:07:53.640 --> 00:07:54.560] when I was a kid.
[00:07:55.000 --> 00:07:57.820] I looked at, and I still do look at hair as art.
[00:07:58.120 --> 00:08:00.520] And my mom would just look at me like I was so crazy.
[00:08:00.560 --> 00:08:01.440] She's in medicine.
[00:08:01.680 --> 00:08:02.960] And I'd be like, you know, like,
[00:08:03.000 --> 00:08:04.440] oh, do you like this hairstyle I did
[00:08:04.440 --> 00:08:05.560] on my breast dog head?
[00:08:05.560 --> 00:08:07.100] And she'd be like, oh, okay.
[00:08:08.080 --> 00:08:09.220] I'm like, it's art.
[00:08:09.240 --> 00:08:10.860] And she's like, okay, you think so?
[00:08:10.860 --> 00:08:14.000] But like it was to me, like, and you know,
[00:08:14.020 --> 00:08:16.460] even from a young age, I was able to see art
[00:08:16.460 --> 00:08:17.500] in a lot of different ways.
[00:08:17.500 --> 00:08:19.440] So even in food, like, you know,
[00:08:20.440 --> 00:08:22.580] I feel like they mirror each other a little bit.
[00:08:22.720 --> 00:08:25.140] That brings up a good thought and question.
[00:08:25.420 --> 00:08:27.440] Have you ever thought about blending into maybe,
[00:08:28.420 --> 00:08:31.100] you know, a new real estate agent,
[00:08:31.280 --> 00:08:34.320] they just got a house and they hired you
[00:08:34.320 --> 00:08:35.679] to do their interior design
[00:08:35.679 --> 00:08:40.179] and they have a house woman or open house.
[00:08:40.860 --> 00:08:43.960] And, you know, you make the palette cooking
[00:08:43.960 --> 00:08:46.000] almost to match the interior design.
[00:08:46.680 --> 00:08:47.560] Have you thought about something like that?
[00:08:47.640 --> 00:08:51.560] I haven't, but I have seen,
[00:08:52.820 --> 00:08:56.960] like on Facebook, people do kind of,
[00:08:56.980 --> 00:08:59.320] like there are culinary artists
[00:08:59.320 --> 00:09:03.340] that pull from architecture and design for their dishes.
[00:09:03.360 --> 00:09:05.940] And they even create 3D,
[00:09:06.160 --> 00:09:10.340] when I was doing work in Boston, 23 and 24,
[00:09:10.340 --> 00:09:12.700] and when I was out there, I think in 23,
[00:09:12.800 --> 00:09:17.700] there was a restaurant that created 3D printed pastries.
[00:09:18.180 --> 00:09:18.580] Pastries?
[00:09:18.720 --> 00:09:19.100] Yeah.
[00:09:21.620 --> 00:09:22.200] That you can eat?
[00:09:22.260 --> 00:09:23.160] That you can eat.
[00:09:23.800 --> 00:09:25.360] I don't know exactly how,
[00:09:25.400 --> 00:09:26.660] but they said they were 3D printed.
[00:09:26.760 --> 00:09:28.020] I know how to 3D print.
[00:09:28.180 --> 00:09:29.300] I learned how to do that in school.
[00:09:29.380 --> 00:09:30.920] You know, I have a little mini 3D printer,
[00:09:31.320 --> 00:09:33.320] but I don't know how they work,
[00:09:33.520 --> 00:09:36.000] but they would create like 3D printed pastries.
[00:09:36.240 --> 00:09:37.860] And then I've seen culinary chefs
[00:09:37.860 --> 00:09:39.740] like just create like these forms
[00:09:39.740 --> 00:09:43.960] that almost look like, what did they used to call them?
[00:09:43.980 --> 00:09:45.580] Like the prototypes or the models
[00:09:45.580 --> 00:09:47.340] that we used to create in school
[00:09:47.340 --> 00:09:50.180] of just like balsa wood or balsa,
[00:09:50.240 --> 00:09:51.260] is it balsa or balsa?
[00:09:51.360 --> 00:09:51.980] I can't remember.
[00:09:52.280 --> 00:09:52.820] It's okay.
[00:09:53.120 --> 00:09:57.240] But just of like wood and like card stock paper.
[00:09:57.300 --> 00:10:00.380] Like we would just create like these free form
[00:10:01.880 --> 00:10:04.020] skeletal models that were like, you know,
[00:10:04.020 --> 00:10:06.800] to get inspiration or kind of,
[00:10:06.800 --> 00:10:09.420] could be molded into a building, essentially.
[00:10:09.420 --> 00:10:11.880] And so they create like these dishes
[00:10:11.880 --> 00:10:13.520] that almost look like the models
[00:10:13.520 --> 00:10:14.900] that we created in school.
[00:10:15.500 --> 00:10:17.520] So people do do that to your point,
[00:10:17.520 --> 00:10:19.200] but I've never thought about it
[00:10:19.200 --> 00:10:21.180] in the sense that you just brought it up,
[00:10:21.360 --> 00:10:22.760] like, you know, in an open house
[00:10:22.760 --> 00:10:25.240] and drawing inspiration from the space.
[00:10:25.240 --> 00:10:26.100] Cause I'll beat her.
[00:10:26.760 --> 00:10:28.120] That's a thought.
[00:10:29.400 --> 00:10:30.980] Like you really, you got my wheels turning there.
[00:10:31.040 --> 00:10:33.480] Cause like I said, I do love to cook, so.
[00:10:33.620 --> 00:10:34.840] Yeah, blend it together.
[00:10:35.060 --> 00:10:37.580] Yeah, it's like cooking is peaceful to me.
[00:10:37.580 --> 00:10:40.100] Hmm, cooking is peaceful.
[00:10:41.700 --> 00:10:43.360] Cooking is, I ain't gonna say chaotic.
[00:10:43.860 --> 00:10:47.120] It's more creative and like I said, it is peaceful.
[00:10:47.260 --> 00:10:49.280] Now I think about it, cause I'm honestly in my zone.
[00:10:49.300 --> 00:10:51.440] I could spend eight hours on a dish.
[00:10:51.460 --> 00:10:53.340] I know it don't take that long sometimes, but.
[00:10:53.340 --> 00:10:54.140] Some dishes do.
[00:10:54.280 --> 00:10:55.640] I take my time, you know.
[00:10:56.220 --> 00:10:57.760] Like I'll sit there in the kitchen
[00:10:57.760 --> 00:11:00.860] with that 10,000 bag of shrimp
[00:11:00.860 --> 00:11:02.540] and literally cut them little shrimp
[00:11:02.540 --> 00:11:04.120] and make sure it's clean to the.
[00:11:04.320 --> 00:11:05.140] Well you got to,
[00:11:05.240 --> 00:11:06.860] cause it be veins all up in the shrimp,
[00:11:06.860 --> 00:11:09.460] even if it say de-veined, you got to look.
[00:11:10.100 --> 00:11:12.940] Cause yeah, cooking can be meditative.
[00:11:14.040 --> 00:11:16.840] It can be like when I would be overwhelmed in school
[00:11:16.840 --> 00:11:19.080] with projects and deadlines,
[00:11:19.520 --> 00:11:21.180] sometimes I would just stop and cook
[00:11:21.180 --> 00:11:24.860] because it took my mind off of work.
[00:11:25.780 --> 00:11:27.580] And I was able to just kind of like
[00:11:27.580 --> 00:11:29.860] do something for myself for a couple of hours.
[00:11:30.160 --> 00:11:32.080] Work for you or work for someone else?
[00:11:32.240 --> 00:11:33.660] Like when I was in school, both.
[00:11:33.960 --> 00:11:34.960] So like when I was in school,
[00:11:34.960 --> 00:11:37.620] like school work and work,
[00:11:37.660 --> 00:11:39.000] cause I was working in school too.
[00:11:39.040 --> 00:11:42.840] But like now I work for myself and I work elsewhere.
[00:11:43.180 --> 00:11:43.580] Okay.
[00:11:43.720 --> 00:11:44.460] So both.
[00:11:45.320 --> 00:11:47.060] So more so like an outlet
[00:11:47.060 --> 00:11:49.020] to where you could kind of shut it off.
[00:11:49.200 --> 00:11:50.660] But it's still creative.
[00:11:50.780 --> 00:11:51.880] And it's something that, you know,
[00:11:51.880 --> 00:11:54.600] like I'm doing it for me and whoever it is that I'm,
[00:11:54.600 --> 00:11:56.000] cause I love to cook for people too.
[00:11:56.020 --> 00:11:57.860] Like that's like one of my ways
[00:11:57.860 --> 00:11:59.140] to show that I care about people.
[00:11:59.160 --> 00:12:00.260] Like I will cook for you.
[00:12:00.400 --> 00:12:02.020] And the first time I cook for people,
[00:12:02.020 --> 00:12:03.600] I'm always nervous cause it's like,
[00:12:03.600 --> 00:12:05.020] ooh, I hope they like my food.
[00:12:06.040 --> 00:12:08.620] So like, you know, it's a way to,
[00:12:08.920 --> 00:12:11.020] like I'm getting something out of it,
[00:12:11.020 --> 00:12:13.080] whether I'm doing it for somebody else or like,
[00:12:13.080 --> 00:12:14.900] you know, directly for myself or both.
[00:12:15.320 --> 00:12:17.240] So it's also like a feel good moment.
[00:12:17.940 --> 00:12:18.180] Yeah.
[00:12:18.840 --> 00:12:21.500] I'm still tripping about this pastries, like.
[00:12:21.860 --> 00:12:23.280] Yeah, I have to show you pictures.
[00:12:24.440 --> 00:12:26.060] What was the nutritional facts that you know?
[00:12:26.160 --> 00:12:28.340] No, I didn't get that deep,
[00:12:28.640 --> 00:12:31.600] but I just was like, okay, cool.
[00:12:32.260 --> 00:12:33.900] I didn't get that deep with it.
[00:12:33.900 --> 00:12:36.400] I don't even know if the ladies
[00:12:36.400 --> 00:12:37.960] that were working at the bakery,
[00:12:37.960 --> 00:12:40.240] I'm not even sure if they have all those answers,
[00:12:40.240 --> 00:12:43.060] you know, because there's probably somebody who,
[00:12:44.520 --> 00:12:46.680] and maybe they did, maybe they did,
[00:12:46.860 --> 00:12:48.360] but you know, there's probably somebody
[00:12:48.360 --> 00:12:50.340] that engineered it and you know,
[00:12:50.620 --> 00:12:51.960] got all the kinks and stuff out
[00:12:51.960 --> 00:12:54.240] and they just kind of, you know,
[00:12:54.440 --> 00:12:56.440] trained them on what maybe they felt like they should be.
[00:12:56.540 --> 00:12:58.440] So I don't even know if they knew all of it.
[00:12:58.440 --> 00:13:02.280] So technically, it's genetically modified, GMO.
[00:13:02.940 --> 00:13:04.880] I wouldn't say it was genetic.
[00:13:05.220 --> 00:13:06.680] I ain't trying to call it a model in there.
[00:13:06.760 --> 00:13:09.180] I mean, maybe if you look at it that way,
[00:13:09.180 --> 00:13:10.560] but it was just.
[00:13:10.780 --> 00:13:12.700] Cause if you do the same thing for like farming,
[00:13:13.140 --> 00:13:14.640] it would be genetically modified.
[00:13:14.740 --> 00:13:15.860] It would be modified, yeah.
[00:13:16.920 --> 00:13:19.240] I'm not really sure the science behind it.
[00:13:19.240 --> 00:13:19.620] Yeah.
[00:13:19.760 --> 00:13:22.080] And what made it 3D printed, I'm really not sure,
[00:13:22.220 --> 00:13:23.920] but that's how it was described.
[00:13:24.740 --> 00:13:25.800] Might have to go to Boston now.
[00:13:25.960 --> 00:13:27.500] Yeah, but it's a very cool city.
[00:13:28.880 --> 00:13:29.520] Okay.
[00:13:31.420 --> 00:13:33.100] So can you explain a little bit
[00:13:33.100 --> 00:13:35.100] about your style and process?
[00:13:36.440 --> 00:13:38.520] Hmm, like my personal design style?
[00:13:38.860 --> 00:13:40.920] Yes, just designs.
[00:13:41.800 --> 00:13:42.640] Just designs.
[00:13:44.100 --> 00:13:48.420] Actually, and I don't know if it'll sound crazy or not
[00:13:48.420 --> 00:13:51.020] just because I am like, you know, relatively young.
[00:13:51.640 --> 00:13:55.920] I appreciate traditional design
[00:13:56.240 --> 00:13:58.680] a lot more than modern design.
[00:13:58.740 --> 00:14:01.100] For the younger artists, what is a traditional design?
[00:14:02.840 --> 00:14:07.460] Ornamental design, gilded, like pieces,
[00:14:08.060 --> 00:14:09.500] things that are timeless,
[00:14:09.980 --> 00:14:12.680] things that you may see in your grandparents' house,
[00:14:13.260 --> 00:14:16.540] but like heirloom quality pieces that can be passed down.
[00:14:16.900 --> 00:14:20.560] So like the timelessness of it is what I appreciate.
[00:14:22.680 --> 00:14:25.460] And design goes hand in hand with art in which,
[00:14:26.120 --> 00:14:29.820] what was going on at the time in the world
[00:14:29.820 --> 00:14:34.200] is reflected in art and design also and architecture.
[00:14:34.820 --> 00:14:36.140] And so I've done a,
[00:14:36.140 --> 00:14:38.300] was in like history classes and stuff
[00:14:38.300 --> 00:14:40.060] and I'm kinda into history a little bit.
[00:14:40.320 --> 00:14:42.940] I'm not gonna say I'm a buff, but a little bit.
[00:14:43.160 --> 00:14:48.140] And so I appreciate the history behind certain things
[00:14:48.980 --> 00:14:50.860] like the art deco movement.
[00:14:50.980 --> 00:14:54.660] For instance, I believe, don't quote me if I'm wrong.
[00:14:54.660 --> 00:14:56.540] I'm sorry, y'all, but from what I remember,
[00:14:56.980 --> 00:15:01.820] it came about around like maybe after the Great Depression,
[00:15:01.920 --> 00:15:03.320] like after the 20s.
[00:15:03.480 --> 00:15:06.280] And you know, since people were so deprived
[00:15:06.280 --> 00:15:08.860] of so much during that time,
[00:15:09.100 --> 00:15:11.180] there was a lot of excess after that.
[00:15:11.560 --> 00:15:14.060] So, you know, it was around like that time
[00:15:14.060 --> 00:15:16.880] where people, lots of gold, lots of patterns,
[00:15:17.060 --> 00:15:19.280] lots of excess in design.
[00:15:19.640 --> 00:15:21.680] Like I like rooms to feel full.
[00:15:21.680 --> 00:15:25.400] I like spaces to feel warm and inviting.
[00:15:26.120 --> 00:15:29.520] A lot of modern design can feel that way,
[00:15:29.520 --> 00:15:34.040] but a lot of it is cold and down to the colors.
[00:15:34.760 --> 00:15:36.940] A lot of people want neutral.
[00:15:37.040 --> 00:15:38.720] They wanna play it safe.
[00:15:39.960 --> 00:15:42.800] And that's understandable, you know, but.
[00:15:44.000 --> 00:15:47.480] So just taking this small area that we're in,
[00:15:47.520 --> 00:15:50.000] this space, what are some things
[00:15:50.000 --> 00:15:51.360] that you're gonna be like, huh,
[00:15:51.360 --> 00:15:53.680] I'll just add this and make it stand out,
[00:15:53.900 --> 00:15:56.800] or I wanted to see it this color.
[00:15:57.200 --> 00:15:59.560] This is more so like an audio space,
[00:15:59.700 --> 00:16:01.280] more of a meeting room.
[00:16:02.020 --> 00:16:03.780] What are some things you would do to enhance it?
[00:16:04.620 --> 00:16:08.760] So actually, as far as sound boards and things go,
[00:16:08.880 --> 00:16:10.020] they have a lot of,
[00:16:10.280 --> 00:16:12.040] like you have a cool design on yours too,
[00:16:12.120 --> 00:16:12.900] they're hexagonal,
[00:16:12.900 --> 00:16:16.320] but there are a lot of different designs and patterns
[00:16:16.320 --> 00:16:18.340] that you can get on soundproofing boards
[00:16:18.340 --> 00:16:19.700] and a lot of different colors.
[00:16:20.060 --> 00:16:21.800] So I would like bring some of that in,
[00:16:21.800 --> 00:16:24.740] but I would probably pull the colors from your branding
[00:16:25.240 --> 00:16:27.360] because since it is a business, you know,
[00:16:27.360 --> 00:16:30.080] you wanna make sure that it's reflecting.
[00:16:30.920 --> 00:16:33.620] Well, for this black and yellow, bubble bee.
[00:16:34.200 --> 00:16:35.420] And then maybe pull in,
[00:16:35.480 --> 00:16:36.820] since it's just black and yellow,
[00:16:36.900 --> 00:16:41.360] maybe pull in like another accompanying color,
[00:16:41.940 --> 00:16:43.960] probably maybe more of a little bit of a neutral color
[00:16:43.960 --> 00:16:45.040] to like throw in there,
[00:16:45.040 --> 00:16:48.120] depending on what shade of yellow we were working with.
[00:16:49.280 --> 00:16:51.780] So yeah, definitely start there.
[00:16:51.840 --> 00:16:53.840] I love rugs and spaces.
[00:16:53.980 --> 00:16:57.300] I think they make them look very cozy and feel cozy.
[00:16:57.760 --> 00:16:59.660] I love that you have a sofa in here.
[00:16:59.860 --> 00:17:01.900] That's very inviting as well.
[00:17:03.060 --> 00:17:04.060] If I could,
[00:17:04.119 --> 00:17:06.319] I would get like some really cool lights in here
[00:17:06.319 --> 00:17:08.119] to help like with mood lighting.
[00:17:08.619 --> 00:17:09.920] Also, depending on like, you know,
[00:17:09.920 --> 00:17:12.440] who you were speaking with and what the topic was about,
[00:17:12.560 --> 00:17:13.680] maybe you would need,
[00:17:14.280 --> 00:17:15.140] I don't know, you know,
[00:17:15.280 --> 00:17:17.880] different light brings about different moods.
[00:17:18.180 --> 00:17:20.160] Yeah, that's actually one of our ideas for this,
[00:17:20.560 --> 00:17:22.560] bringing RGB lights, what we have.
[00:17:23.619 --> 00:17:24.980] You know, for this, it's straight audio,
[00:17:25.000 --> 00:17:26.079] so I didn't do it today.
[00:17:26.220 --> 00:17:26.619] Yeah.
[00:17:27.420 --> 00:17:29.200] Yeah, I appreciate that insight.
[00:17:30.280 --> 00:17:31.680] That's good, and now I've got something
[00:17:31.680 --> 00:17:32.680] to bring to the table.
[00:17:34.640 --> 00:17:37.680] Maybe even shelving, like wall shelving,
[00:17:37.920 --> 00:17:41.460] if you needed to like store certain things
[00:17:41.460 --> 00:17:42.660] and you kind of want them out the way,
[00:17:42.660 --> 00:17:44.500] but you didn't want it to take up floor space.
[00:17:45.960 --> 00:17:48.840] Okay, I'm taking mental notes.
[00:17:49.620 --> 00:17:52.020] Listen back to this, like, wow,
[00:17:52.440 --> 00:17:53.720] definitely give you your credit.
[00:17:54.400 --> 00:17:55.700] Because I'm looking at this,
[00:17:56.880 --> 00:17:58.640] I don't want to say what percentage is done,
[00:17:59.140 --> 00:17:59.860] but you know.
[00:17:59.900 --> 00:18:01.020] Yeah, but you didn't hear.
[00:18:01.040 --> 00:18:01.980] It's a work in progress.
[00:18:02.120 --> 00:18:02.560] Yeah.
[00:18:03.800 --> 00:18:06.140] A lot of different hands touch this, so it's like.
[00:18:06.320 --> 00:18:08.360] It's a collaborative effort, yeah.
[00:18:08.540 --> 00:18:11.060] And we're not creative designers, as you can see.
[00:18:11.980 --> 00:18:14.820] You're creative in the way that you create.
[00:18:16.260 --> 00:18:17.300] I'll take that.
[00:18:19.080 --> 00:18:19.680] But tell the tale.
[00:18:19.820 --> 00:18:20.820] She loved our design.
[00:18:22.200 --> 00:18:22.720] Absolutely.
[00:18:23.900 --> 00:18:24.180] Yeah, yeah.
[00:18:24.180 --> 00:18:25.960] Shout out to my media partners,
[00:18:26.220 --> 00:18:27.460] Launch Arts Media,
[00:18:27.940 --> 00:18:30.180] whom we are recording in this space today,
[00:18:30.180 --> 00:18:32.500] and also my other media partners,
[00:18:33.240 --> 00:18:36.060] Pull Up Experience, the Pull Up Experience podcast.
[00:18:37.020 --> 00:18:37.860] We're big on YouTube,
[00:18:37.920 --> 00:18:40.540] so if you have not checked out an episode,
[00:18:40.540 --> 00:18:44.940] head over to YouTube and type in the Pull Up Experience.
[00:18:46.400 --> 00:18:47.240] Yes, yes.
[00:18:48.520 --> 00:18:52.660] So continuing on the art form,
[00:18:53.620 --> 00:18:56.400] is there a difference between representational art
[00:18:56.400 --> 00:18:57.580] and abstract art?
[00:19:01.690 --> 00:19:03.110] That's a good question.
[00:19:03.490 --> 00:19:04.470] Yeah, a lot of good questions.
[00:19:06.090 --> 00:19:09.590] I want to say yes,
[00:19:09.710 --> 00:19:11.770] but I also want to say no.
[00:19:13.290 --> 00:19:16.510] There is some representational art
[00:19:18.510 --> 00:19:24.870] that is, I don't want to say,
[00:19:24.890 --> 00:19:26.970] more direct in what it's saying.
[00:19:27.250 --> 00:19:28.070] You know what I mean?
[00:19:28.310 --> 00:19:31.550] Like you see it, and like any art,
[00:19:31.570 --> 00:19:32.970] you can ponder on it,
[00:19:33.190 --> 00:19:37.070] and uncover what it was that you interpret from it,
[00:19:37.090 --> 00:19:38.930] and what you think the artist wanted you to feel
[00:19:38.930 --> 00:19:39.970] or get from it.
[00:19:40.450 --> 00:19:45.090] But I do think that there is a level of abstract art
[00:19:45.090 --> 00:19:46.610] that does the same thing.
[00:19:46.990 --> 00:19:49.210] A lot of people look at abstract art,
[00:19:50.770 --> 00:19:52.910] and they're kind of like, what is this?
[00:19:54.330 --> 00:19:55.930] I'll give you a great example.
[00:19:56.310 --> 00:19:58.530] One of my favorite, favorite, favorite,
[00:19:58.530 --> 00:20:01.570] favorite artists ever, Jean-Michel Basquiat.
[00:20:02.610 --> 00:20:04.750] When you initially look at Basquiat's work,
[00:20:04.870 --> 00:20:07.930] I learned about Basquiat my freshman year in college.
[00:20:08.550 --> 00:20:10.390] And even, I'm gonna be honest with you,
[00:20:10.430 --> 00:20:12.070] even when I initially looked at it,
[00:20:12.070 --> 00:20:14.230] I wasn't all the way sure of what I was looking at.
[00:20:14.230 --> 00:20:17.970] But the more we learned about him and his work,
[00:20:18.350 --> 00:20:21.190] and I really appreciate how my professor described it,
[00:20:21.190 --> 00:20:25.050] is as his work, a lot of it was to capture the essence
[00:20:25.050 --> 00:20:29.010] and the soul of New York, and where it was at the time.
[00:20:29.150 --> 00:20:31.770] And that, I feel like that line alone
[00:20:32.470 --> 00:20:34.570] made his work make a lot more sense,
[00:20:34.570 --> 00:20:36.550] and it made me appreciate it a lot more.
[00:20:36.950 --> 00:20:39.450] So a lot of what he has done,
[00:20:39.510 --> 00:20:42.370] you could potentially classify as abstract art.
[00:20:42.370 --> 00:20:45.330] He worked very closely with Andy Warhol,
[00:20:45.490 --> 00:20:50.830] who also is known for more pop art or abstract art as well.
[00:20:51.270 --> 00:20:53.750] So you could classify it as that a little bit,
[00:20:53.770 --> 00:20:56.610] but it still has a meaning behind it.
[00:20:57.270 --> 00:20:59.670] Jackson Pollock is a very famous
[00:20:59.670 --> 00:21:01.310] abstract artist as well.
[00:21:01.630 --> 00:21:06.010] He's known for those splatter paint paintings.
[00:21:07.790 --> 00:21:09.370] Some people can look at that,
[00:21:09.370 --> 00:21:13.010] and they'll say, that's just a bunch of dots and dribbles.
[00:21:13.150 --> 00:21:14.230] My kid could have done that.
[00:21:14.230 --> 00:21:15.110] Not one of those.
[00:21:15.130 --> 00:21:17.790] I love abstract art, but they're bad, yeah.
[00:21:18.010 --> 00:21:20.850] Yeah, or you can look at it as
[00:21:21.330 --> 00:21:23.450] there was energy put behind it,
[00:21:23.450 --> 00:21:25.190] and that energy came from somewhere.
[00:21:25.430 --> 00:21:26.070] You know what I'm saying?
[00:21:26.170 --> 00:21:27.810] So if he was really angry,
[00:21:28.350 --> 00:21:31.430] and there was like, this is representing anger,
[00:21:31.770 --> 00:21:33.850] or this is representing heartbreak,
[00:21:33.970 --> 00:21:37.070] depending on how he wanted to manipulate the colors
[00:21:37.070 --> 00:21:38.770] in that moment, so.
[00:21:39.330 --> 00:21:40.530] Well, speaking on that,
[00:21:40.650 --> 00:21:43.350] is there like a certain type of client that you go for?
[00:21:43.370 --> 00:21:45.550] Like you said, the energy behind it.
[00:21:45.630 --> 00:21:47.450] So to be positive, to be negative.
[00:21:47.890 --> 00:21:50.530] Like, you know, me, I elevate positive stories,
[00:21:50.590 --> 00:21:51.970] and people get positive things.
[00:21:52.010 --> 00:21:54.150] So is there like a certain demographic
[00:21:54.150 --> 00:21:57.070] or target client that you reach or try to reach?
[00:21:58.690 --> 00:22:01.510] So right now I'm working more residentially,
[00:22:02.690 --> 00:22:04.790] and I did have one commercial project
[00:22:04.790 --> 00:22:06.750] I finished up earlier this year.
[00:22:06.750 --> 00:22:08.290] I worked with Bedford High School.
[00:22:08.570 --> 00:22:09.990] I did their senior lounge,
[00:22:10.190 --> 00:22:12.890] and I worked with the students there on like repainting,
[00:22:12.910 --> 00:22:15.550] and they got to give their input and things like that,
[00:22:15.550 --> 00:22:16.810] which I thought was really cool.
[00:22:17.150 --> 00:22:19.530] Where I want to go is more so into that,
[00:22:19.650 --> 00:22:20.870] and like historical preservation.
[00:22:21.070 --> 00:22:22.410] Cleveland's a very historical city.
[00:22:22.510 --> 00:22:23.390] I love my city.
[00:22:23.750 --> 00:22:27.090] I know everybody don't, but I love my city,
[00:22:27.090 --> 00:22:30.190] and I'm here for the development
[00:22:30.190 --> 00:22:31.750] and the revamping of the city,
[00:22:31.790 --> 00:22:33.250] because it's old, you know what I mean?
[00:22:33.730 --> 00:22:35.170] And everything is in a cycle.
[00:22:35.170 --> 00:22:37.430] So, you know, we've been in a cycle
[00:22:37.430 --> 00:22:40.530] where we kind of have a lot of outdated things going on.
[00:22:40.630 --> 00:22:42.110] It's time to kind of bring it back around.
[00:22:42.350 --> 00:22:45.050] And I want to help preserve the integrity
[00:22:45.870 --> 00:22:47.990] of the historicalness of the city,
[00:22:48.350 --> 00:22:51.230] but also, I hate to say modernize,
[00:22:51.250 --> 00:22:52.590] because I don't want to make it modern,
[00:22:52.770 --> 00:22:54.570] but like, you know, bring it a little up to speed
[00:22:54.570 --> 00:22:55.390] in some ways.
[00:22:57.090 --> 00:22:58.850] So that's really where I want to go.
[00:22:58.890 --> 00:23:00.550] I would love to work in schools,
[00:23:00.710 --> 00:23:03.730] working, you know, I did my senior thesis on the school
[00:23:03.730 --> 00:23:07.990] and how like the infrastructure of a school
[00:23:07.990 --> 00:23:09.790] directly affects children's learning.
[00:23:09.950 --> 00:23:10.830] I love kids.
[00:23:10.890 --> 00:23:12.010] Let's just put that out there.
[00:23:12.670 --> 00:23:14.390] How it affects their learning,
[00:23:15.030 --> 00:23:16.790] their efficiency in school,
[00:23:16.990 --> 00:23:19.830] and how they feel about themselves, first and foremost.
[00:23:20.290 --> 00:23:23.230] You know, if you're in an area where you don't,
[00:23:23.310 --> 00:23:24.530] it doesn't look good,
[00:23:24.950 --> 00:23:26.310] sometimes you don't really feel good
[00:23:26.310 --> 00:23:27.770] when you're in that space either.
[00:23:28.190 --> 00:23:32.650] And, you know, certain areas don't get as many updates
[00:23:32.650 --> 00:23:36.590] or, you know, the buildings aren't touched on as much
[00:23:36.590 --> 00:23:40.890] and maybe the kids don't think about it consciously.
[00:23:41.410 --> 00:23:43.070] But subconsciously, it's like, you know,
[00:23:44.370 --> 00:23:46.090] nobody comes to check us out
[00:23:46.090 --> 00:23:47.690] and like, you know, help us update things.
[00:23:47.790 --> 00:23:48.930] Like, do we really matter?
[00:23:49.070 --> 00:23:49.790] You know what I mean?
[00:23:49.830 --> 00:23:52.110] And so like, that's like a subconscious thing
[00:23:52.110 --> 00:23:55.010] that I know I only design,
[00:23:55.090 --> 00:23:58.790] but if I can use my expertise to help in that area
[00:23:58.790 --> 00:24:00.830] as much as possible, like I would love to.
[00:24:00.830 --> 00:24:03.590] But again, right now, mostly residential,
[00:24:03.690 --> 00:24:04.910] which I'm okay with that.
[00:24:05.190 --> 00:24:08.810] It's very personal experiences that you have with people.
[00:24:09.650 --> 00:24:11.770] I think I'm a people person a little bit.
[00:24:11.930 --> 00:24:14.550] So I'm open to different styles
[00:24:14.550 --> 00:24:16.270] and I actually was really excited.
[00:24:16.330 --> 00:24:18.150] I had a client last year who was going,
[00:24:18.210 --> 00:24:19.910] who wanted to do a very modern,
[00:24:20.190 --> 00:24:22.490] sleek, minimalistic bathroom,
[00:24:22.490 --> 00:24:24.530] but he decided to pause the project
[00:24:24.530 --> 00:24:25.850] for unforeseen reasons.
[00:24:25.870 --> 00:24:28.370] I'm not really sure why, but I understand.
[00:24:28.730 --> 00:24:30.210] But I was so excited
[00:24:30.210 --> 00:24:32.350] because that was gonna be something totally different
[00:24:32.350 --> 00:24:34.730] from a lot of the other work that I've done so far.
[00:24:34.870 --> 00:24:35.310] Challenging.
[00:24:35.570 --> 00:24:36.250] Yeah, challenging.
[00:24:36.350 --> 00:24:38.330] So I'm always up for a challenge
[00:24:38.330 --> 00:24:39.550] and to learn something, though.
[00:24:41.030 --> 00:24:42.770] That was a long answer, I'm sorry.
[00:24:43.470 --> 00:24:45.730] Got my head spinning because I took a,
[00:24:45.870 --> 00:24:47.830] you know, I'm usually driving when I go downtown,
[00:24:48.090 --> 00:24:50.170] but I see walking the streets downtown
[00:24:51.130 --> 00:24:53.650] and you see a lot of negative imagery,
[00:24:53.770 --> 00:24:55.490] even the statues there, you know,
[00:24:55.590 --> 00:24:58.130] full of war, grief, or sadness, or poorness,
[00:24:58.910 --> 00:25:00.190] which kind of reflects the city
[00:25:00.190 --> 00:25:01.030] and why they actually do it.
[00:25:01.030 --> 00:25:01.910] That's a good point.
[00:25:01.990 --> 00:25:03.370] I've never even thought about that.
[00:25:03.390 --> 00:25:04.210] That's a great point.
[00:25:04.530 --> 00:25:05.350] Oh, yeah.
[00:25:05.810 --> 00:25:06.990] Even the side of buildings.
[00:25:08.450 --> 00:25:09.650] I'm like, really?
[00:25:10.330 --> 00:25:12.970] So, just the energy that's downtown.
[00:25:13.170 --> 00:25:14.870] I always say, there's something about downtown
[00:25:14.870 --> 00:25:17.410] that's just different from the rest of the city.
[00:25:17.610 --> 00:25:18.530] You go down there, you feel...
[00:25:18.530 --> 00:25:18.770] Heavy.
[00:25:19.990 --> 00:25:20.450] Negative.
[00:25:20.730 --> 00:25:21.010] Yeah.
[00:25:21.350 --> 00:25:23.790] Like, a lot of negative things happen to me downtown.
[00:25:23.890 --> 00:25:26.110] Like, even, you know, getting my car in town.
[00:25:26.490 --> 00:25:27.250] Oh, yeah.
[00:25:27.330 --> 00:25:28.990] You know, it's a lot of things,
[00:25:28.990 --> 00:25:29.970] I could go down the list,
[00:25:30.010 --> 00:25:33.530] but I'm not gonna bring that to this part of the space.
[00:25:35.050 --> 00:25:37.410] So, yeah, we could definitely touch on that
[00:25:37.410 --> 00:25:40.990] and change the culture, the imagery around the city,
[00:25:40.990 --> 00:25:42.730] because that's big.
[00:25:42.810 --> 00:25:43.230] Yeah.
[00:25:43.870 --> 00:25:48.390] And you said your environment, you know,
[00:25:48.810 --> 00:25:53.650] having a positive, a colorful, inviting environment.
[00:25:53.810 --> 00:25:58.090] How big and important is that to one's development,
[00:25:58.090 --> 00:25:59.150] mainly children?
[00:26:00.250 --> 00:26:01.770] I think it's super important.
[00:26:02.650 --> 00:26:05.790] Like I said, it affects their learning.
[00:26:06.330 --> 00:26:10.130] You know, it's very hard to concentrate
[00:26:10.130 --> 00:26:12.690] or really care about, you know,
[00:26:13.690 --> 00:26:15.350] what's going on in the classroom
[00:26:15.350 --> 00:26:18.510] when the building around you is dark.
[00:26:19.230 --> 00:26:19.790] You know what I'm saying?
[00:26:19.810 --> 00:26:22.530] Like, it's cold, the lights are...
[00:26:22.530 --> 00:26:25.750] These, like, really whacked out fluorescent lights
[00:26:25.750 --> 00:26:27.330] that are, you know, it's not a lot of...
[00:26:27.330 --> 00:26:29.510] I'm really big on natural light.
[00:26:29.690 --> 00:26:32.510] Not a lot of natural light, sidebar,
[00:26:32.730 --> 00:26:36.350] but I don't know if you know, but like maybe you do.
[00:26:36.410 --> 00:26:37.690] So if I'm telling you something that you know,
[00:26:37.690 --> 00:26:38.390] I apologize.
[00:26:38.610 --> 00:26:41.090] But in Europe, actually,
[00:26:42.410 --> 00:26:45.530] any building that they design that people work in,
[00:26:45.890 --> 00:26:50.450] there is a law that you have to be in eye shot
[00:26:50.450 --> 00:26:52.870] from where you work of a window.
[00:26:53.730 --> 00:26:54.610] That's intentional.
[00:26:55.150 --> 00:26:57.930] Because if you're just in a cubicle all day,
[00:26:58.070 --> 00:26:59.310] like how people here are,
[00:26:59.550 --> 00:27:01.530] that you're so closed in, that's depressing.
[00:27:02.630 --> 00:27:03.410] That's so depressing.
[00:27:03.510 --> 00:27:06.130] Some classrooms, a lot of classrooms
[00:27:06.130 --> 00:27:08.410] and some schools don't have, you know, windows.
[00:27:08.530 --> 00:27:10.390] Like, that's not good.
[00:27:11.590 --> 00:27:15.370] You know, you hone in on the vitamin D
[00:27:15.370 --> 00:27:17.730] that you get from the sun to, you know,
[00:27:18.030 --> 00:27:19.410] increase your energy.
[00:27:19.670 --> 00:27:21.970] And we already only get like 70-something days
[00:27:21.970 --> 00:27:24.210] of pure sunlight in Cleveland as it is.
[00:27:24.210 --> 00:27:27.510] So we're already, you know, being worked against
[00:27:27.510 --> 00:27:30.090] by just geographical location.
[00:27:30.090 --> 00:27:32.810] But then you go ahead and you put young kids
[00:27:32.810 --> 00:27:35.990] in a space where they can't even go look outside.
[00:27:36.270 --> 00:27:37.190] Like they can't even,
[00:27:37.370 --> 00:27:40.110] and I think that's so interesting that in Europe,
[00:27:40.150 --> 00:27:42.970] you know, they prioritize that amongst other things
[00:27:42.970 --> 00:27:45.990] that they prioritize surrounding work that we don't.
[00:27:46.190 --> 00:27:48.410] Like, you know, going home for lunch
[00:27:48.410 --> 00:27:49.610] and eating with your children.
[00:27:49.890 --> 00:27:51.950] And they come home to eat with you too.
[00:27:51.950 --> 00:27:53.610] Like, they prioritize, you know,
[00:27:53.810 --> 00:27:56.250] like not having an amount of sick days.
[00:27:56.290 --> 00:27:58.110] If you're sick, you just call off work.
[00:27:58.230 --> 00:27:59.290] Like stay home, it's okay.
[00:28:00.890 --> 00:28:02.290] But neither here nor there.
[00:28:02.730 --> 00:28:04.470] Gather, Marata. All of those things matter.
[00:28:04.570 --> 00:28:06.590] You know, the colors that are in a space matter,
[00:28:06.710 --> 00:28:07.890] especially with kids.
[00:28:08.290 --> 00:28:11.690] Kids don't want to be in a room that's so drab
[00:28:11.690 --> 00:28:12.910] and dark and bland.
[00:28:13.550 --> 00:28:16.570] Even down to the furniture that's used in these spaces.
[00:28:16.870 --> 00:28:20.050] I think a lot of like,
[00:28:20.130 --> 00:28:21.750] I'm pretty sure I've read this too,
[00:28:21.750 --> 00:28:23.670] that statistics show that a lot of, you know,
[00:28:23.810 --> 00:28:27.030] black and brown kids learn better kinesthetically.
[00:28:27.990 --> 00:28:31.770] And, you know, more than they do just sitting at a desk
[00:28:31.770 --> 00:28:33.890] listening to somebody talk at them all day.
[00:28:33.910 --> 00:28:34.750] They have to do it.
[00:28:34.750 --> 00:28:35.850] They have to work with people.
[00:28:35.910 --> 00:28:36.710] They have to learn.
[00:28:36.770 --> 00:28:39.670] Like, you know, we are very collaborative people
[00:28:41.130 --> 00:28:46.310] having furniture in the spaces that can be made to,
[00:28:47.530 --> 00:28:48.590] what's that I'm looking for?
[00:28:49.270 --> 00:28:51.490] That's conducive to collaborative learning.
[00:28:52.130 --> 00:28:53.610] I think is very important.
[00:28:53.990 --> 00:28:55.870] So, you know, like they have those things now
[00:28:55.870 --> 00:28:59.050] where you can embed for the desk that I put in there.
[00:28:59.750 --> 00:29:01.030] You can separate them.
[00:29:01.290 --> 00:29:03.690] You can put them together because the way that they're
[00:29:03.690 --> 00:29:05.550] shaped, they can all kind of be like,
[00:29:05.550 --> 00:29:07.490] not put together, like literally,
[00:29:07.770 --> 00:29:10.910] but brought together to where they,
[00:29:11.070 --> 00:29:14.970] the shape is the way that it is to invite that more.
[00:29:14.970 --> 00:29:17.850] So they also had dry erase tops on the desk.
[00:29:18.070 --> 00:29:19.930] So that if they are in there and they're working
[00:29:19.930 --> 00:29:21.770] and they're doing like math and everything,
[00:29:22.010 --> 00:29:23.990] or they're, you know, trying to sound out a word
[00:29:23.990 --> 00:29:25.870] or whatever, I mean, these were high schoolers.
[00:29:25.870 --> 00:29:27.770] So they're probably not sounding out words that much,
[00:29:27.910 --> 00:29:29.090] but you get what I mean.
[00:29:30.310 --> 00:29:32.570] You know, that they're able to work on those
[00:29:32.570 --> 00:29:35.810] dry erase desk as well and do their work on there
[00:29:35.810 --> 00:29:38.350] before they bring it to their homework.
[00:29:38.750 --> 00:29:39.610] But, you know, of course,
[00:29:39.890 --> 00:29:41.610] tests are a part of our curriculum.
[00:29:41.610 --> 00:29:43.450] So you want to be able to pull it apart
[00:29:43.450 --> 00:29:45.190] for when it's time for that.
[00:29:45.590 --> 00:29:49.410] But I think even the collaborative furniture
[00:29:49.410 --> 00:29:53.750] can even open the door for maybe a different way
[00:29:53.750 --> 00:29:57.730] that we administer tests and that we look at test taking.
[00:29:58.410 --> 00:30:01.530] Maybe, you know, it's not a piece of paper
[00:30:01.530 --> 00:30:03.930] where you have to memorize all of these things.
[00:30:03.970 --> 00:30:07.270] Maybe the teacher comes around to different groups
[00:30:07.270 --> 00:30:09.410] of students and starts talking to them
[00:30:09.410 --> 00:30:12.290] and asking questions to see where they are, you know?
[00:30:12.810 --> 00:30:14.290] Because that's what tests are for,
[00:30:14.330 --> 00:30:17.870] to see where the children are in their curriculum
[00:30:17.870 --> 00:30:18.850] and their understanding.
[00:30:19.490 --> 00:30:22.330] So, I mean, having a conversation with a kid
[00:30:22.330 --> 00:30:23.790] can also tell you that.
[00:30:24.470 --> 00:30:27.710] Wow, that's unique and also powerful.
[00:30:28.110 --> 00:30:28.530] Yeah.
[00:30:28.770 --> 00:30:30.630] Well, how did that collaboration come about?
[00:30:30.670 --> 00:30:33.450] How did you get the contract with-
[00:30:33.450 --> 00:30:34.050] With Befrit?
[00:30:34.310 --> 00:30:34.570] Yeah.
[00:30:34.650 --> 00:30:36.750] One of my really good friends from college,
[00:30:37.410 --> 00:30:38.330] she's from here too.
[00:30:38.330 --> 00:30:39.150] She went to Shaw.
[00:30:39.550 --> 00:30:40.270] I went to Euclid,
[00:30:40.310 --> 00:30:42.110] so we didn't meet until our freshman year.
[00:30:42.270 --> 00:30:44.030] But, you know, we're really good friends.
[00:30:44.090 --> 00:30:45.510] She works for College Now.
[00:30:46.290 --> 00:30:48.810] And it was actually a College Now project,
[00:30:49.330 --> 00:30:52.110] but for their College Now office at Bedford.
[00:30:52.170 --> 00:30:53.950] So the senior lounge is connected
[00:30:53.950 --> 00:30:56.090] to the College Now office there.
[00:30:56.410 --> 00:31:00.310] So it's really for the, really all students,
[00:31:00.430 --> 00:31:02.590] but mostly seniors to be able to come in,
[00:31:02.950 --> 00:31:04.670] to have a space to do their homework,
[00:31:05.110 --> 00:31:08.270] have the space to fill out college applications,
[00:31:09.110 --> 00:31:11.530] scholarships, to work with the College Now advisors
[00:31:11.530 --> 00:31:14.530] there on these scholarships, on their applications,
[00:31:15.210 --> 00:31:18.770] to come like just relax, different things like that.
[00:31:18.790 --> 00:31:20.730] So that's what the purpose of the space was.
[00:31:21.550 --> 00:31:24.530] Have you ever been to Richmond Heights High School?
[00:31:25.230 --> 00:31:25.710] Yes.
[00:31:26.290 --> 00:31:27.450] The new remodel?
[00:31:27.650 --> 00:31:28.470] Not the new one.
[00:31:28.610 --> 00:31:28.950] Okay.
[00:31:29.670 --> 00:31:32.790] Yeah, I had a chance to actually work in that space.
[00:31:33.030 --> 00:31:37.190] It was, it was interesting.
[00:31:37.690 --> 00:31:39.630] And, you know, you talk about more relaxed spaces
[00:31:39.630 --> 00:31:42.710] and more, you know, unified spaces,
[00:31:42.710 --> 00:31:46.050] which is unique and also needed to me
[00:31:46.050 --> 00:31:47.430] because I'm big on collaboration.
[00:31:48.590 --> 00:31:50.110] Yeah, everybody can't know everything.
[00:31:51.630 --> 00:31:53.890] Like I love, I used to love group projects,
[00:31:53.970 --> 00:31:54.990] still do, you know.
[00:31:55.730 --> 00:32:00.410] I'll call myself a creative entrepreneur
[00:32:00.990 --> 00:32:02.470] that is collaborative,
[00:32:02.910 --> 00:32:05.310] or collaborative creative entrepreneur.
[00:32:05.550 --> 00:32:05.910] Okay.
[00:32:07.750 --> 00:32:10.430] So, you know, everything is not about me,
[00:32:10.970 --> 00:32:14.750] especially with media, me elevating positive stories.
[00:32:15.170 --> 00:32:18.210] It's not about me, it's a story that's positive
[00:32:18.210 --> 00:32:20.470] or what I think is positive
[00:32:20.470 --> 00:32:22.330] and need to be, you know, shown more like.
[00:32:22.950 --> 00:32:24.450] But what did you think about,
[00:32:24.870 --> 00:32:27.450] what was interesting about your experience at Richmond?
[00:32:28.070 --> 00:32:28.750] At Richmond?
[00:32:30.210 --> 00:32:33.030] Well, just being in the midst of the construction itself.
[00:32:33.090 --> 00:32:33.670] Oh, okay.
[00:32:33.830 --> 00:32:37.350] Your whole brand colors, white and blue mostly.
[00:32:37.450 --> 00:32:38.950] So they brought that out a lot.
[00:32:38.950 --> 00:32:39.530] Okay.
[00:32:40.230 --> 00:32:44.030] It really transformed this, you know, to something big
[00:32:44.030 --> 00:32:47.010] because they had another old building
[00:32:47.010 --> 00:32:50.410] and then the newer building for the high school students
[00:32:51.010 --> 00:32:52.090] and also a library.
[00:32:52.410 --> 00:32:54.630] And it was just to see it all come into fruition.
[00:32:55.150 --> 00:32:56.910] And, you know, everything they talked about
[00:32:56.910 --> 00:33:01.210] in a blueprint meetings, it's like, wow, okay.
[00:33:01.710 --> 00:33:03.850] So just to see the behind the scenes for me
[00:33:03.850 --> 00:33:07.210] and like, wow, you can have more open spaces.
[00:33:07.210 --> 00:33:09.330] Because I went to Collingwood and St. Martin
[00:33:09.330 --> 00:33:12.210] which is more like walking through the hall.
[00:33:12.370 --> 00:33:14.990] It wasn't no hall or even like you said, art.
[00:33:15.250 --> 00:33:16.550] Like it was art on the walls.
[00:33:16.590 --> 00:33:17.390] I'm like, wow.
[00:33:17.490 --> 00:33:17.890] Yeah.
[00:33:18.290 --> 00:33:18.770] So.
[00:33:18.890 --> 00:33:22.110] And that promotes creativity, encouraging.
[00:33:22.910 --> 00:33:22.930] Yeah.
[00:33:23.250 --> 00:33:23.730] Imagination.
[00:33:24.290 --> 00:33:25.430] Imagination, yeah.
[00:33:27.810 --> 00:33:30.450] So, I mean, just to be in a space
[00:33:30.450 --> 00:33:33.230] of the whole process was just, you know,
[00:33:33.510 --> 00:33:34.410] encouraging for me.
[00:33:35.350 --> 00:33:36.030] That's what's up.
[00:33:36.030 --> 00:33:37.770] That's what's up.
[00:33:38.370 --> 00:33:39.850] Shout out to these schools, you know,
[00:33:39.930 --> 00:33:43.910] actually taking the time to remodel and do those things
[00:33:43.910 --> 00:33:45.510] because there are a lot of schools, you know,
[00:33:45.570 --> 00:33:48.430] that have been here as lately and it's needed.
[00:33:48.610 --> 00:33:50.690] A lot of these schools is oh, oh, oh.
[00:33:53.270 --> 00:33:55.070] I mean, we got to get you some more schools then.
[00:33:55.230 --> 00:33:56.710] Yeah, I would love to.
[00:33:56.810 --> 00:33:58.190] That's definitely a goal.
[00:33:58.910 --> 00:33:59.370] Yeah.
[00:34:00.930 --> 00:34:04.450] So how would you internalize abstraction?
[00:34:05.510 --> 00:34:10.070] Like how do you view abstract art?
[00:34:12.679 --> 00:34:16.320] I mean, kind of like, kind of what I said.
[00:34:16.600 --> 00:34:19.139] There are times where I look at abstract art
[00:34:19.139 --> 00:34:21.139] and I don't all the way get it,
[00:34:21.940 --> 00:34:24.520] but even if I don't all the way get it
[00:34:24.520 --> 00:34:26.239] and it just looks like a bunch of colors,
[00:34:27.520 --> 00:34:30.159] there probably was some thought or feeling
[00:34:30.159 --> 00:34:33.080] behind those colors coming together the way that they did.
[00:34:33.080 --> 00:34:36.020] So I just look at it as a different way of expressing.
[00:34:38.460 --> 00:34:39.719] Different way of expressing.
[00:34:40.620 --> 00:34:41.179] That's unique.
[00:34:41.179 --> 00:34:43.500] You say that like as a writer,
[00:34:44.699 --> 00:34:47.340] you know, as a farmer, poet and musician.
[00:34:47.880 --> 00:34:50.940] Like a haiku poet is almost like an abstract poem
[00:34:50.940 --> 00:34:52.020] in a sense.
[00:34:52.320 --> 00:34:55.000] Yeah, because some people, they write to the,
[00:34:55.139 --> 00:34:56.780] this is a black gun in a circle.
[00:34:57.180 --> 00:35:00.960] I'm more so like, you know, you know,
[00:35:02.300 --> 00:35:07.080] this is a speaking device that comes from,
[00:35:07.920 --> 00:35:10.460] you know, just bringing the story into it.
[00:35:10.460 --> 00:35:12.260] But then at the end, you kind of like,
[00:35:12.340 --> 00:35:13.340] oh, I'm talking about microphone.
[00:35:13.560 --> 00:35:13.960] Yeah.
[00:35:14.340 --> 00:35:15.920] Or a pop filter for a microphone.
[00:35:16.720 --> 00:35:17.940] So that's just me.
[00:35:18.500 --> 00:35:21.400] Like I'm known for my poem, Frequency,
[00:35:22.580 --> 00:35:23.960] which I kind of retired on.
[00:35:24.160 --> 00:35:26.140] I used to perform that poem before,
[00:35:26.660 --> 00:35:28.380] you know, I took a step back from poetry.
[00:35:29.280 --> 00:35:32.640] I start off frequency.
[00:35:33.560 --> 00:35:35.840] Your frequency is what you frequently see.
[00:35:36.500 --> 00:35:39.620] Vibration all in the universe and also inside of me.
[00:35:39.920 --> 00:35:41.740] Alien to the world, society.
[00:35:42.140 --> 00:35:45.020] Shooting stars consciously, righteously.
[00:35:45.400 --> 00:35:47.400] You know, I could go on, but you know,
[00:35:47.620 --> 00:35:49.840] I forgot the whole cover was on the microphone
[00:35:49.840 --> 00:35:52.340] the whole time, but I ended up, you know,
[00:35:52.540 --> 00:35:53.100] back up audio.
[00:35:54.400 --> 00:35:57.280] So, you know, just painting that picture.
[00:35:57.420 --> 00:35:57.940] Yeah.
[00:35:57.940 --> 00:36:01.200] Versus just, you know, spoon feeding people.
[00:36:07.320 --> 00:36:08.620] I get you.
[00:36:09.300 --> 00:36:11.000] I'm especially refreshing that you say that
[00:36:11.000 --> 00:36:13.400] because a lot of people don't, you know,
[00:36:13.540 --> 00:36:14.520] appreciate abstract art.
[00:36:14.660 --> 00:36:15.660] They be like, what is this?
[00:36:16.040 --> 00:36:18.780] Or I don't get it and they kind of give up on it
[00:36:18.780 --> 00:36:20.120] or like discard it.
[00:36:20.220 --> 00:36:21.260] They're like, oh yeah.
[00:36:21.580 --> 00:36:23.380] Or even like a foreign language, you know,
[00:36:23.480 --> 00:36:26.540] you ain't gonna know it unless you take time with it
[00:36:26.540 --> 00:36:27.460] and practice it.
[00:36:27.480 --> 00:36:28.540] Study it, yeah.
[00:36:29.010 --> 00:36:32.540] And I think sometimes too, like I said,
[00:36:32.620 --> 00:36:36.200] I think a lot of artists, specifically abstract artists
[00:36:38.820 --> 00:36:40.820] create from emotion.
[00:36:42.780 --> 00:36:45.820] And I think what they're trying to evoke
[00:36:45.820 --> 00:36:50.020] from other people with their pieces is an emotion.
[00:36:50.860 --> 00:36:53.300] And sometimes, you know, it's really funny
[00:36:53.850 --> 00:36:57.200] when you read history books and stuff, you know,
[00:36:57.200 --> 00:36:58.920] they'll tell you like, oh, this artist,
[00:36:58.920 --> 00:37:00.540] this is what they meant by this.
[00:37:01.940 --> 00:37:03.920] You don't know what they meant by that.
[00:37:04.800 --> 00:37:06.800] That's how somebody interpreted it
[00:37:06.800 --> 00:37:08.660] unless the artist told you themselves.
[00:37:08.980 --> 00:37:11.440] That's how like, you know, we're interpreting it today.
[00:37:11.500 --> 00:37:13.520] But in a hundred years, who's to say
[00:37:13.520 --> 00:37:15.200] that the textbooks won't say something different
[00:37:15.200 --> 00:37:16.160] about that same piece
[00:37:16.160 --> 00:37:18.460] because somebody else interpreted it a whole nother way.
[00:37:21.930 --> 00:37:24.310] Sometimes there is an intended interpretation.
[00:37:24.410 --> 00:37:26.450] Sometimes there really is, but sometimes,
[00:37:26.750 --> 00:37:28.110] and sometimes there is one,
[00:37:28.110 --> 00:37:30.530] but then there's also an open-endedness to it too.
[00:37:30.530 --> 00:37:32.850] Like, you know, there's a story there,
[00:37:32.850 --> 00:37:34.550] but they don't finish it
[00:37:34.550 --> 00:37:36.430] because they want you to figure out.
[00:37:37.790 --> 00:37:40.830] I could say I wrote a lot of things like that,
[00:37:41.130 --> 00:37:42.450] created a lot of things like that,
[00:37:42.530 --> 00:37:44.890] even stuff that I really didn't finish.
[00:37:45.290 --> 00:37:48.030] Like, so, you know, years has passed,
[00:37:48.390 --> 00:37:50.650] so, I mean, it's, you know, open-ended.
[00:37:50.830 --> 00:37:51.850] Who have hangers?
[00:37:53.690 --> 00:37:54.890] Universe was town.
[00:37:56.870 --> 00:38:01.530] But have you ever experienced a design
[00:38:01.530 --> 00:38:05.210] or any type of art that made you physically
[00:38:05.210 --> 00:38:06.190] unable to speak?
[00:38:15.130 --> 00:38:15.910] Yes.
[00:38:20.870 --> 00:38:25.450] Visiting St. Paul's Cathedral in England
[00:38:25.450 --> 00:38:27.270] a couple of years ago.
[00:38:28.330 --> 00:38:28.570] Mm-hmm.
[00:38:28.810 --> 00:38:29.250] Okay.
[00:38:29.970 --> 00:38:33.950] Visiting Stonehenge also in England on that same trip.
[00:38:34.350 --> 00:38:34.950] Mm-hmm.
[00:38:34.950 --> 00:38:40.290] Um, the castle in Edinburgh, Scotland that we went to.
[00:38:40.670 --> 00:38:40.810] Mm-hmm.
[00:38:41.010 --> 00:38:42.470] Like, these are like massive.
[00:38:42.770 --> 00:38:46.090] I learned about St. Paul's Cathedral in school.
[00:38:46.150 --> 00:38:48.010] I learned about Stonehenge in school,
[00:38:48.050 --> 00:38:49.410] so it was kind of like, wow,
[00:38:49.410 --> 00:38:53.530] like to see these things in person took me aback.
[00:38:53.890 --> 00:38:56.270] You don't realize how massive things are
[00:38:56.270 --> 00:38:57.690] until you see them in person
[00:38:57.690 --> 00:38:58.990] or you've just seen them in pictures.
[00:38:59.430 --> 00:39:00.450] You don't realize.
[00:39:00.990 --> 00:39:04.130] Pictures, and I'm kind of into photography too.
[00:39:04.130 --> 00:39:05.810] I took a few photography classes
[00:39:06.710 --> 00:39:09.890] and I think I'm like an amateur photographer sometimes.
[00:39:11.130 --> 00:39:13.430] So, you know, I'm a little bit into that.
[00:39:13.850 --> 00:39:18.750] And I, pictures don't ever do justice
[00:39:18.750 --> 00:39:21.470] to what I'm, like to what the eyeball can see.
[00:39:21.890 --> 00:39:23.330] It does not matter.
[00:39:23.650 --> 00:39:25.550] Like you can get a very beautiful picture,
[00:39:25.730 --> 00:39:26.910] but, and it's funny,
[00:39:26.910 --> 00:39:29.270] like I'll send somebody a picture of like the sunset
[00:39:29.270 --> 00:39:30.430] like that I took.
[00:39:30.870 --> 00:39:32.590] And they'll be like, oh, this is a great picture.
[00:39:32.590 --> 00:39:35.370] And it's like, no, you had to have seen it in person though.
[00:39:35.810 --> 00:39:38.210] Like, and capturing the moon is one of those things too.
[00:39:38.230 --> 00:39:39.470] It's so hard to capture it.
[00:39:39.770 --> 00:39:41.450] So seeing things in person,
[00:39:41.470 --> 00:39:43.510] being able to see the detail in them,
[00:39:44.710 --> 00:39:45.670] totally different.
[00:39:46.410 --> 00:39:50.070] Seeing a Mondrian painting in person for the first time.
[00:39:50.770 --> 00:39:55.010] Seeing the size of Basquiat's work in person.
[00:39:55.070 --> 00:39:58.350] They had an exhibit, the, was it the Guggenheim?
[00:39:58.950 --> 00:40:02.010] Let Us Borrow, or it was, I think it was a Guggenheim.
[00:40:02.010 --> 00:40:05.550] Let Us Borrow some of his pieces for an exhibit here
[00:40:05.550 --> 00:40:06.650] back in 2017.
[00:40:07.030 --> 00:40:10.610] And I went, I didn't realize how big
[00:40:10.610 --> 00:40:12.790] some of those canvases were
[00:40:12.790 --> 00:40:14.950] until I had to stand in front of them.
[00:40:14.950 --> 00:40:16.570] And I was like, whoa, okay.
[00:40:17.310 --> 00:40:18.510] Oh yeah, I would have seen pictures.
[00:40:18.870 --> 00:40:21.430] So yeah, this, and listen up.
[00:40:22.070 --> 00:40:23.610] I wish they bring it back.
[00:40:24.970 --> 00:40:26.930] Or something, if we can get something
[00:40:26.930 --> 00:40:28.970] in the Cleveland Museum of Art that's his,
[00:40:28.970 --> 00:40:32.090] like in like just days, that would be great.
[00:40:32.190 --> 00:40:35.410] I think they did feature him one year.
[00:40:36.570 --> 00:40:38.630] Cause I know a lot of people was talking about it
[00:40:38.630 --> 00:40:39.630] two years ago.
[00:40:41.230 --> 00:40:43.330] Yeah, they had like his notebooks and everything.
[00:40:43.430 --> 00:40:44.170] It was cool.
[00:40:45.610 --> 00:40:46.130] I'm getting this,
[00:40:46.310 --> 00:40:48.750] I haven't been to a good museum in so long.
[00:40:49.010 --> 00:40:50.870] Oh, we have such good museums here.
[00:40:51.850 --> 00:40:53.850] The Cleveland Museum of Art is one of my favorite,
[00:40:53.970 --> 00:40:57.290] like when I'm like a little down in the dumps,
[00:40:57.290 --> 00:40:58.290] like that's where I go.
[00:40:59.010 --> 00:41:00.190] When was the last time you been?
[00:41:01.690 --> 00:41:03.190] I haven't been this year yet.
[00:41:04.190 --> 00:41:06.050] So that's a good thing you ever been down in the dumps.
[00:41:06.770 --> 00:41:08.710] I mean, I go when I'm feeling good too.
[00:41:09.290 --> 00:41:11.990] But like that's for sure a place that I go
[00:41:11.990 --> 00:41:13.610] when I just want to like clear my head
[00:41:13.610 --> 00:41:14.810] or I have a lot on my mind.
[00:41:14.830 --> 00:41:16.330] But I also go when I'm feeling good
[00:41:16.330 --> 00:41:17.890] or if there's like a really good exhibit
[00:41:17.890 --> 00:41:19.170] that I want to go to,
[00:41:19.310 --> 00:41:21.490] I'm sorry I missed the Picasso on paper.
[00:41:21.950 --> 00:41:23.170] So I haven't gone this year,
[00:41:23.290 --> 00:41:24.710] but last time I went was last year.
[00:41:25.590 --> 00:41:26.310] Okay. Yeah.
[00:41:26.430 --> 00:41:28.010] I'll say for me last year too,
[00:41:28.010 --> 00:41:29.270] I do a lot of weddings there.
[00:41:29.330 --> 00:41:31.050] Everybody want to get married and take pictures there.
[00:41:31.110 --> 00:41:33.230] I want to get married at the Cleveland Museum of Art too.
[00:41:33.290 --> 00:41:35.210] So I'm one of them people, I'm corny.
[00:41:37.790 --> 00:41:40.090] I'm sure you would make it even spectacular
[00:41:40.090 --> 00:41:41.670] and customized to your wedding.
[00:41:43.010 --> 00:41:43.450] True.
[00:41:44.190 --> 00:41:46.050] And if you ever need a wedding photographer,
[00:41:47.110 --> 00:41:47.750] I am here.
[00:41:47.890 --> 00:41:48.490] I got you.
[00:41:50.030 --> 00:41:53.190] So yeah, speaking more on like clients
[00:41:54.030 --> 00:41:55.470] and more collaborations,
[00:41:55.470 --> 00:41:58.370] is there a certain artist or entrepreneur
[00:41:58.370 --> 00:42:00.090] you would like to work with?
[00:42:04.400 --> 00:42:05.520] Besides me.
[00:42:05.880 --> 00:42:07.160] Besides you, of course.
[00:42:09.000 --> 00:42:12.720] I actually am really fairly cool
[00:42:12.720 --> 00:42:15.180] with the owner of lounges downtown.
[00:42:16.460 --> 00:42:16.860] Okay.
[00:42:17.160 --> 00:42:18.060] You know what I'm talking about?
[00:42:20.100 --> 00:42:22.820] And I would love to do more work with them
[00:42:22.820 --> 00:42:25.840] and like just more collaborative, yeah, pieces there.
[00:42:26.440 --> 00:42:27.660] I love Lacey.
[00:42:27.820 --> 00:42:28.720] Shout out to Lacey.
[00:42:28.900 --> 00:42:30.500] Everybody in the city knows Lacey.
[00:42:31.100 --> 00:42:32.540] Yeah, she did my logo.
[00:42:32.640 --> 00:42:33.700] She's so amazing.
[00:42:34.340 --> 00:42:37.440] She, I actually was in, in 2021,
[00:42:37.660 --> 00:42:40.200] she hosted her and another artist
[00:42:40.200 --> 00:42:42.380] hosted a Cleveland collab art show
[00:42:42.380 --> 00:42:44.140] and I was a part of her art show.
[00:42:44.240 --> 00:42:45.660] Then that's how I met her.
[00:42:45.860 --> 00:42:46.340] Yeah.
[00:42:46.900 --> 00:42:49.860] Well back in 22, but we started the process in 21.
[00:42:50.480 --> 00:42:52.640] So she actually needs to be a part of the launch artists team.
[00:42:53.360 --> 00:42:54.040] So yeah, it's like-
[00:42:54.040 --> 00:42:54.740] She's amazing.
[00:42:54.740 --> 00:42:55.420] Wow.
[00:42:55.700 --> 00:42:58.260] When I first met Lacey, it was like, man,
[00:42:58.480 --> 00:43:01.580] I'm like, I know we're gonna work together
[00:43:01.580 --> 00:43:05.060] and she did my logo and you know,
[00:43:05.160 --> 00:43:07.320] I drew out some sketches, my bad sketches
[00:43:07.320 --> 00:43:08.420] and she brought it to life.
[00:43:09.600 --> 00:43:11.100] She blown up.
[00:43:11.420 --> 00:43:13.500] Yeah, I'm so happy for her.
[00:43:13.520 --> 00:43:13.940] Yeah.
[00:43:15.060 --> 00:43:16.040] So happy for her.
[00:43:16.060 --> 00:43:16.380] You can go.
[00:43:18.300 --> 00:43:20.580] That's from the old Cleveland, go Lacey.
[00:43:21.500 --> 00:43:21.620] Yeah.
[00:43:21.800 --> 00:43:23.000] Even having like, you know,
[00:43:23.440 --> 00:43:24.700] we used to talk about downtown,
[00:43:24.960 --> 00:43:26.760] like having her art display downtown.
[00:43:26.980 --> 00:43:27.900] Yes, yeah.
[00:43:28.800 --> 00:43:30.480] So, you know, I think we need more of that
[00:43:30.480 --> 00:43:32.840] and not just something that's, you know,
[00:43:32.920 --> 00:43:34.320] for a couple of months or a year,
[00:43:34.740 --> 00:43:35.800] but you know, everlasting.
[00:43:37.000 --> 00:43:39.680] Lacey, your point about the statues that are downtown
[00:43:39.680 --> 00:43:42.860] and you mentioned how they are reflective of,
[00:43:42.860 --> 00:43:45.300] you know, maybe sadder times or war times.
[00:43:45.680 --> 00:43:47.400] Having installations and sculptures
[00:43:47.400 --> 00:43:49.940] that are reflective of happiness, of positivity.
[00:43:49.940 --> 00:43:53.120] And a lot of, shoot, all of her work
[00:43:53.120 --> 00:43:55.460] pretty much is reflective of that,
[00:43:55.740 --> 00:43:59.520] which I think was so amazing about her.
[00:43:59.600 --> 00:44:01.540] One of the things that are so amazing about her
[00:44:01.540 --> 00:44:03.180] because a lot of the times, you know,
[00:44:03.320 --> 00:44:05.880] artists are taught or like, you know,
[00:44:06.060 --> 00:44:09.520] historically create from other feelings.
[00:44:09.720 --> 00:44:12.060] Like, you know, heartbreak kind of led me here
[00:44:12.060 --> 00:44:15.080] or like, you know, depression or sadness
[00:44:15.080 --> 00:44:17.740] or, you know, grief or, you know,
[00:44:17.820 --> 00:44:19.680] all of these things that are real and true
[00:44:19.680 --> 00:44:23.660] and deserve to be expressed and shown also.
[00:44:24.040 --> 00:44:26.080] But what about happy times?
[00:44:26.660 --> 00:44:28.840] Like, you know, like what about positivity
[00:44:28.840 --> 00:44:30.500] and wanting to foster more of that?
[00:44:30.580 --> 00:44:33.040] So I think that's great that that's what a lot
[00:44:33.040 --> 00:44:34.880] of her works around, is uplifting.
[00:44:35.260 --> 00:44:37.360] Yeah, I mean, it's about heartbreak
[00:44:37.360 --> 00:44:39.720] as we, you know, all encountering,
[00:44:39.740 --> 00:44:42.640] like you said, some downtimes, depression.
[00:44:43.220 --> 00:44:46.160] So what are some things that kind of get you
[00:44:46.160 --> 00:44:47.560] out of that mode to create?
[00:44:47.560 --> 00:44:50.600] Working, yeah.
[00:44:51.840 --> 00:44:56.260] Like, I just, my locus of control,
[00:44:57.160 --> 00:44:58.940] which is me and what I can do.
[00:44:59.320 --> 00:45:01.960] You know, you can't control somebody else.
[00:45:01.980 --> 00:45:03.800] You can't control how they feel about you.
[00:45:03.800 --> 00:45:05.620] You can't control what goes on in their life.
[00:45:05.680 --> 00:45:07.620] You can't control how that, you know,
[00:45:07.720 --> 00:45:11.360] may make them react or respond or whatever the case.
[00:45:11.540 --> 00:45:15.380] And I just dive straight into what I can control
[00:45:15.380 --> 00:45:17.680] and dive more into focusing on what I can,
[00:45:17.720 --> 00:45:19.140] which is me and my work.
[00:45:20.160 --> 00:45:22.740] So, you know, it helps you take your mind off of things.
[00:45:24.060 --> 00:45:26.660] So what helps you get into like your creative space
[00:45:26.660 --> 00:45:27.420] and mode?
[00:45:28.720 --> 00:45:30.400] Ironically enough, my space.
[00:45:30.540 --> 00:45:32.980] Like I have always been like this.
[00:45:33.120 --> 00:45:38.140] I cannot function in like excessive clutter
[00:45:38.140 --> 00:45:41.280] and like disarray.
[00:45:41.860 --> 00:45:44.940] Ooh, I cannot do it.
[00:45:44.940 --> 00:45:49.440] Like I will like clean things out periodically
[00:45:49.440 --> 00:45:52.140] because I start to feel, people will come in my house
[00:45:52.140 --> 00:45:53.800] and be like, what do you mean something is wrong?
[00:45:53.860 --> 00:45:55.500] And I'm like, no, it's too much stuff in here.
[00:45:55.720 --> 00:45:57.720] Like it's clutter, like there's too many papers
[00:45:57.720 --> 00:46:01.720] on my desk or like, not really necessarily.
[00:46:01.720 --> 00:46:03.520] I guess maybe a little bit.
[00:46:03.840 --> 00:46:06.280] I guess a little bit, a little bit,
[00:46:08.580 --> 00:46:12.220] but not necessarily in terms of design, I should say,
[00:46:12.220 --> 00:46:14.960] because minimalist design is like,
[00:46:15.040 --> 00:46:16.660] like I said, it can be kind of cold.
[00:46:16.800 --> 00:46:18.840] Like, you know, I like patterns, I like color,
[00:46:18.960 --> 00:46:22.200] I like rugs, I like decor, things like that.
[00:46:22.340 --> 00:46:25.400] But I don't want it to be too much
[00:46:25.400 --> 00:46:27.580] to where I feel like I'm,
[00:46:27.620 --> 00:46:29.540] maybe it's more of a claustrophobic thing.
[00:46:29.560 --> 00:46:30.560] I don't know.
[00:46:31.660 --> 00:46:37.160] But yeah, so I definitely have to have my space clean.
[00:46:37.480 --> 00:46:40.980] Like I like to have Sundays off from working,
[00:46:40.980 --> 00:46:43.780] like, you know, because I like to prep for my week,
[00:46:45.120 --> 00:46:47.420] sometimes prep food for the week and like, you know,
[00:46:47.520 --> 00:46:50.500] cook like a couple of meals or whatever, clean my house,
[00:46:50.720 --> 00:46:52.960] clean my space, write my to-do list out,
[00:46:53.660 --> 00:46:55.700] figure out what I have to focus on for the week,
[00:46:55.940 --> 00:46:57.420] clean my working area.
[00:46:59.200 --> 00:47:00.680] Shoot, clean the whole place actually.
[00:47:01.380 --> 00:47:04.540] And that helps me to clear my mind
[00:47:04.540 --> 00:47:07.100] to be able to get a good start
[00:47:07.100 --> 00:47:08.160] on where I wanna start.
[00:47:08.160 --> 00:47:11.600] Okay, I broke my checklist down into this client
[00:47:11.600 --> 00:47:13.360] needs these things done this week,
[00:47:13.380 --> 00:47:16.020] this client that this is miscellaneous things
[00:47:16.020 --> 00:47:17.080] that I need to do.
[00:47:17.380 --> 00:47:20.820] Now I can like prioritize from there and I can sit down.
[00:47:20.860 --> 00:47:23.580] Like I really like to start my Mondays if I can,
[00:47:23.700 --> 00:47:25.420] waking up at like the crack of dawn.
[00:47:25.700 --> 00:47:29.120] So like sometimes like four, 4.30 in the morning,
[00:47:29.200 --> 00:47:31.560] like getting like a really good night's rest on Sunday,
[00:47:31.560 --> 00:47:35.460] waking up early on Monday, making tea.
[00:47:35.460 --> 00:47:38.460] I have this yogi tea that I really like to drink.
[00:47:39.120 --> 00:47:41.220] It's called positive something,
[00:47:42.140 --> 00:47:43.740] but it has ashwagandha in it.
[00:47:44.000 --> 00:47:45.140] And so like, you know,
[00:47:45.140 --> 00:47:49.020] it really helps with like focusing and good thoughts.
[00:47:49.300 --> 00:47:51.340] Something I like to light incense sometimes
[00:47:51.340 --> 00:47:54.300] and just kind of like sit and start to go,
[00:47:54.400 --> 00:47:56.760] maybe play a little music or a show or a movie
[00:47:56.760 --> 00:47:59.640] that I've seen a million times in the background,
[00:47:59.940 --> 00:48:01.080] just background at least.
[00:48:01.860 --> 00:48:02.840] That kind of, you know,
[00:48:02.980 --> 00:48:05.080] brings me to a good question as you say,
[00:48:05.080 --> 00:48:06.460] light incense and music.
[00:48:07.240 --> 00:48:09.380] What sensory systems do you use?
[00:48:10.480 --> 00:48:11.800] Like you said, music.
[00:48:11.980 --> 00:48:13.040] I love music.
[00:48:13.560 --> 00:48:14.420] Love music.
[00:48:14.520 --> 00:48:16.960] I played the violin growing up.
[00:48:17.000 --> 00:48:21.140] So I played from fifth grade to 12th grade.
[00:48:22.720 --> 00:48:24.240] So I love music.
[00:48:24.360 --> 00:48:24.860] Like, I don't know.
[00:48:24.900 --> 00:48:26.200] Like I know so many songs.
[00:48:26.660 --> 00:48:29.620] I have one of my line sisters nicknamed me Juke
[00:48:29.620 --> 00:48:31.660] because like I know so many songs.
[00:48:32.120 --> 00:48:33.120] So who was your favorite artist?
[00:48:33.320 --> 00:48:33.780] Music artist.
[00:48:35.260 --> 00:48:37.660] Yeah, that's a great question.
[00:48:38.880 --> 00:48:40.900] I actually really love Sade.
[00:48:42.520 --> 00:48:43.920] Very calming music.
[00:48:44.340 --> 00:48:46.460] Like I've always liked her music even as a kid,
[00:48:47.480 --> 00:48:49.860] but her music is music that I like to play
[00:48:49.860 --> 00:48:51.200] when I'm working too.
[00:48:51.580 --> 00:48:52.400] Because it is,
[00:48:52.600 --> 00:48:54.700] I actually made a playlist to like of music
[00:48:54.700 --> 00:48:57.420] that I like to play when I want to feel positive
[00:48:57.420 --> 00:48:58.600] and get my day started.
[00:48:59.040 --> 00:49:03.340] Music that's not about like love or, you know,
[00:49:03.340 --> 00:49:06.120] a heartbreak or a man, or like, you know,
[00:49:06.140 --> 00:49:06.820] nothing like that.
[00:49:06.820 --> 00:49:10.020] Like it's just music about life and experiences
[00:49:11.020 --> 00:49:12.100] and positivity.
[00:49:12.500 --> 00:49:14.920] So like optimistic by sounds of blackness.
[00:49:14.980 --> 00:49:16.240] Of course that's in there.
[00:49:16.440 --> 00:49:18.200] I miss some Sade in there.
[00:49:18.440 --> 00:49:21.040] Earth, Wind and Fire, like Cleo's Soul.
[00:49:21.080 --> 00:49:24.080] Cause she has a lot of songs that are about love,
[00:49:24.080 --> 00:49:26.360] but also a lot of songs that are just about like
[00:49:26.360 --> 00:49:30.340] overcoming in life and positivity and yeah.
[00:49:31.160 --> 00:49:32.520] Those types of things.
[00:49:32.520 --> 00:49:34.460] Give me a nice little snack.
[00:49:35.920 --> 00:49:36.500] Drink some tea.
[00:49:36.780 --> 00:49:37.780] Oh, what you cookin' on?
[00:49:37.900 --> 00:49:38.700] What's your favorite snack?
[00:49:42.420 --> 00:49:44.360] Maybe yogurt and granola fruit.
[00:49:45.160 --> 00:49:47.240] I'm just, just helping you out.
[00:49:47.600 --> 00:49:49.200] So, you know, people listen to you
[00:49:49.200 --> 00:49:50.300] that want to hire you.
[00:49:50.760 --> 00:49:52.220] All right, they know what to bring me.
[00:49:52.800 --> 00:49:54.740] Yeah, and the music to play to get you, you know,
[00:49:55.120 --> 00:49:56.400] have it all set up for you.
[00:49:56.500 --> 00:49:58.700] Yeah, but I like all types of music.
[00:49:59.060 --> 00:50:01.200] So, but that's just what came to mind.
[00:50:02.740 --> 00:50:03.420] Cleo.
[00:50:03.560 --> 00:50:06.800] So, I know we, you know, spoke earlier
[00:50:06.800 --> 00:50:08.160] about being introverted.
[00:50:09.600 --> 00:50:12.700] So how important is networking and relationship building?
[00:50:12.980 --> 00:50:14.260] Ooh, so important.
[00:50:16.140 --> 00:50:19.840] And honestly more important than I wished it was sometimes.
[00:50:20.060 --> 00:50:20.740] Yeah.
[00:50:22.780 --> 00:50:25.060] Between me, you and whoever's listening.
[00:50:25.600 --> 00:50:28.320] More important than I wished it was sometimes.
[00:50:28.340 --> 00:50:29.480] And it took me,
[00:50:30.080 --> 00:50:32.320] like when I first started my business in 2020,
[00:50:32.880 --> 00:50:34.960] I know I wasn't networking as much as I should.
[00:50:35.020 --> 00:50:37.140] I mean, and for other obvious reasons,
[00:50:37.200 --> 00:50:39.980] the world was shut down, so to speak.
[00:50:40.280 --> 00:50:42.860] But like, you know, I would go like in 21
[00:50:42.860 --> 00:50:44.440] when things are to open back up,
[00:50:44.460 --> 00:50:47.080] like I would go to pop-up shops and, you know,
[00:50:47.200 --> 00:50:49.620] things like that and do that for a few hours
[00:50:49.620 --> 00:50:51.400] and then just be so happy it was over with.
[00:50:51.480 --> 00:50:53.520] But as far as like going to other events
[00:50:53.520 --> 00:50:55.860] and, you know, meeting other people,
[00:50:55.880 --> 00:50:57.440] like I would meet some people there,
[00:50:57.440 --> 00:50:59.580] but outside of that,
[00:50:59.580 --> 00:51:01.420] I didn't really do a whole lot of networking.
[00:51:01.860 --> 00:51:03.240] But it is very important.
[00:51:03.280 --> 00:51:06.160] It can open up a lot of doors to open up other doors.
[00:51:06.500 --> 00:51:11.100] It really, you know, it's true when they say
[00:51:11.100 --> 00:51:15.320] that you should, it's about who you know and not,
[00:51:16.060 --> 00:51:17.160] it's about who you know.
[00:51:17.440 --> 00:51:20.180] Because there are, you might think that something is
[00:51:20.180 --> 00:51:22.680] well above what you can do
[00:51:22.680 --> 00:51:25.360] and then you realize who's doing it.
[00:51:25.420 --> 00:51:26.800] And that's like no shame,
[00:51:26.800 --> 00:51:28.360] but you'd be like, oh.
[00:51:28.680 --> 00:51:31.560] Like, you know, and it's like, well, if.
[00:51:32.800 --> 00:51:36.140] Surely I could do that too, because I have,
[00:51:36.560 --> 00:51:38.560] and you know, sometimes you have more experience
[00:51:38.560 --> 00:51:40.240] than somebody that's doing it.
[00:51:40.240 --> 00:51:42.420] You have more knowledge behind something
[00:51:42.420 --> 00:51:45.260] and you might even have more talent sometimes.
[00:51:45.260 --> 00:51:47.140] And again, that's no shade, but like, you know,
[00:51:47.160 --> 00:51:50.200] but they have more goal than you do.
[00:51:50.600 --> 00:51:53.060] They went after it in a different way than you did.
[00:51:53.060 --> 00:51:57.200] And so, you know, you can't just sit behind your computer
[00:51:57.740 --> 00:52:00.280] and try to put out posts here and there
[00:52:00.280 --> 00:52:01.820] and say like, oh, the clients will come.
[00:52:01.880 --> 00:52:03.800] Like, no, you have to go after them.
[00:52:04.520 --> 00:52:05.000] Yeah.
[00:52:05.240 --> 00:52:06.000] That's true.
[00:52:06.880 --> 00:52:11.640] So speaking more on, you know, finding your dream client
[00:52:11.640 --> 00:52:13.580] or even your first client for, you know,
[00:52:13.700 --> 00:52:17.320] new entrepreneurs or a new interior designer,
[00:52:17.880 --> 00:52:19.980] would you recommend pop-up shops first
[00:52:19.980 --> 00:52:21.740] or like just from your experience,
[00:52:21.740 --> 00:52:22.840] how would you start off?
[00:52:23.640 --> 00:52:26.700] The pop-up shop scene definitely was cool.
[00:52:26.720 --> 00:52:28.700] That was when I was doing a lot more
[00:52:28.700 --> 00:52:31.520] of like my resin work also.
[00:52:32.200 --> 00:52:34.240] So, you know, but it's all about
[00:52:34.240 --> 00:52:36.620] how you give your pitch to people too.
[00:52:37.020 --> 00:52:38.980] So when people will come to my table
[00:52:38.980 --> 00:52:40.740] instead of just being like, you know,
[00:52:40.840 --> 00:52:42.960] oh, hey, I do resin art.
[00:52:43.140 --> 00:52:44.260] Oh, I make coasters.
[00:52:44.280 --> 00:52:46.220] Like, you know, I can do a resin canvas,
[00:52:46.400 --> 00:52:46.960] whatever, whatever.
[00:52:47.060 --> 00:52:48.240] I would also say, hey, like,
[00:52:48.360 --> 00:52:50.200] I also do interior design services.
[00:52:50.200 --> 00:52:51.940] So, you know, take my card.
[00:52:52.360 --> 00:52:53.540] So how would you pitch?
[00:52:53.620 --> 00:52:56.060] If I came up to you, how are you doing?
[00:52:56.640 --> 00:52:57.900] Hi, I'm Justine.
[00:52:57.940 --> 00:53:00.180] This is my company, Just Designs.
[00:53:00.300 --> 00:53:02.100] So here today, I'm showcasing, you know,
[00:53:02.120 --> 00:53:03.620] some of my resin products here.
[00:53:03.640 --> 00:53:05.780] I make resin decor for people's homes,
[00:53:06.240 --> 00:53:08.160] but I'm also an interior designer.
[00:53:08.440 --> 00:53:10.060] So I can come into your space.
[00:53:10.060 --> 00:53:11.640] I can help you renovate it.
[00:53:11.640 --> 00:53:14.160] And then I can also furnish it
[00:53:14.160 --> 00:53:16.860] with one of my lovely pieces here
[00:53:16.860 --> 00:53:18.740] that I have on display and for sale today.
[00:53:18.740 --> 00:53:20.180] Y'all know something along those lines.
[00:53:20.380 --> 00:53:21.600] I be top of the dome.
[00:53:21.760 --> 00:53:22.500] I just be rolling.
[00:53:24.440 --> 00:53:26.020] I don't know if I'll say I'm a pro.
[00:53:26.180 --> 00:53:27.780] I think I just kind of like,
[00:53:28.900 --> 00:53:30.640] go into like a different space.
[00:53:30.780 --> 00:53:32.080] Like I'd be like, okay, I know I'm here
[00:53:32.080 --> 00:53:33.020] and I have to do this.
[00:53:33.040 --> 00:53:35.580] So let me, and then I just,
[00:53:36.280 --> 00:53:37.920] and sometimes whoever you're talking to,
[00:53:38.040 --> 00:53:39.000] you can bounce off of them
[00:53:39.000 --> 00:53:41.640] to things come out in different ways.
[00:53:43.360 --> 00:53:45.520] So is it like a bandwidth,
[00:53:45.640 --> 00:53:48.500] maybe like at a networking event?
[00:53:48.500 --> 00:53:50.840] Like, okay, I got to talk to at least three people
[00:53:50.840 --> 00:53:53.760] before I leave or I'm gonna get this speaker
[00:53:53.760 --> 00:53:55.820] or I know this person will be there.
[00:53:55.840 --> 00:53:56.740] I'm gonna network with them.
[00:53:56.880 --> 00:53:57.880] Okay, I can leave.
[00:53:58.040 --> 00:54:00.100] I'm not leaving till these things happen.
[00:54:00.160 --> 00:54:01.740] Or it's just like the kind of
[00:54:01.740 --> 00:54:02.880] go with the flow type of thing.
[00:54:07.910 --> 00:54:10.810] I guess it depends because I don't think
[00:54:10.810 --> 00:54:12.230] I've ever sat and thought like,
[00:54:12.250 --> 00:54:14.670] okay, I want to make sure I talk to X amount of people.
[00:54:14.690 --> 00:54:18.650] That's actually a big strategy to help somebody like me.
[00:54:19.430 --> 00:54:23.010] I usually do have a reason why I'm going to an event.
[00:54:23.130 --> 00:54:26.030] Either I want to support whoever's hosting it
[00:54:26.670 --> 00:54:29.070] or there's something that's really cool about it,
[00:54:29.070 --> 00:54:30.590] the information that I want to get.
[00:54:31.010 --> 00:54:32.030] So when it comes to that,
[00:54:32.030 --> 00:54:34.930] I definitely want to make sure I get the information
[00:54:34.930 --> 00:54:37.410] or talk to whoever it is that I intended
[00:54:37.410 --> 00:54:38.790] on talking to for sure.
[00:54:38.930 --> 00:54:41.650] But I probably should implement more of,
[00:54:41.690 --> 00:54:43.710] let me make sure that I talk to three
[00:54:43.710 --> 00:54:44.950] or four other people.
[00:54:46.710 --> 00:54:49.570] I usually end up talking to other people anyway,
[00:54:49.610 --> 00:54:53.350] but I never keep like a quantitative track.
[00:54:54.210 --> 00:54:56.630] So that might be good to do.
[00:54:57.510 --> 00:54:59.330] What was like the most you ever had?
[00:54:59.370 --> 00:55:02.970] And I appreciate to support some of my recent events
[00:55:02.970 --> 00:55:04.290] that I was a part of.
[00:55:04.550 --> 00:55:04.970] Of course.
[00:55:06.030 --> 00:55:07.630] I love the creative scene in Cleveland.
[00:55:07.890 --> 00:55:11.210] I feel like from what I've experienced
[00:55:11.210 --> 00:55:12.310] is very welcoming.
[00:55:13.030 --> 00:55:15.470] People are willing to work with other people.
[00:55:15.630 --> 00:55:16.470] I think that's great.
[00:55:18.790 --> 00:55:22.210] Well, it grew to that and I'm glad to be,
[00:55:22.790 --> 00:55:24.470] I'm glad to be part of that change.
[00:55:24.950 --> 00:55:25.550] Yeah, that's good.
[00:55:25.910 --> 00:55:26.670] Conscious community.
[00:55:29.210 --> 00:55:30.970] Oh yeah, it's like a war zone.
[00:55:31.210 --> 00:55:31.690] Really?
[00:55:31.970 --> 00:55:33.170] Not just creative community,
[00:55:33.310 --> 00:55:36.410] but just the city in general or business in general.
[00:55:36.490 --> 00:55:36.970] Yeah.
[00:55:37.270 --> 00:55:39.010] I'm glad the culture has changed
[00:55:39.010 --> 00:55:40.190] and the art scene has changed
[00:55:40.190 --> 00:55:41.630] and we have some talents of people.
[00:55:41.630 --> 00:55:42.630] We do.
[00:55:42.790 --> 00:55:43.290] We do.
[00:55:43.490 --> 00:55:46.730] Yeah, I've met a lot of talented people over the years.
[00:55:47.170 --> 00:55:47.710] Definitely.
[00:55:49.850 --> 00:55:53.730] Yeah, that's always keep a good artist in my back pocket
[00:55:53.730 --> 00:55:59.450] because we're the real leaders in this community.
[00:56:00.550 --> 00:56:03.150] We're the first people people see,
[00:56:03.150 --> 00:56:06.250] like the designs and what people hear from music
[00:56:06.250 --> 00:56:08.730] and poetry and so on.
[00:56:09.670 --> 00:56:12.610] We're speaking for the climate of the world
[00:56:12.610 --> 00:56:15.350] and the culture and society at the time too,
[00:56:15.730 --> 00:56:16.710] which is really cool.
[00:56:16.870 --> 00:56:18.390] I'd be interested to see
[00:56:19.250 --> 00:56:21.130] what the kids are gonna read about
[00:56:21.830 --> 00:56:24.250] in the books and reference this time.
[00:56:24.710 --> 00:56:26.070] I'm curious to see,
[00:56:26.230 --> 00:56:28.630] with everything being so simplistic
[00:56:28.630 --> 00:56:30.510] and streamlined and modern,
[00:56:30.970 --> 00:56:34.030] I'm interested to see how they will describe
[00:56:34.030 --> 00:56:35.590] where we are as a society
[00:56:35.590 --> 00:56:37.430] and how that was reflected in design.
[00:56:37.430 --> 00:56:41.590] Because it's kind of void of warmth at times.
[00:56:42.810 --> 00:56:45.030] And maybe that's reflective of some of the things
[00:56:45.030 --> 00:56:47.170] that we've been going through in the past few years.
[00:56:49.210 --> 00:56:53.250] Yeah, I'm very interested with 50 years from now,
[00:56:53.250 --> 00:56:57.310] even now with robots that's emerged.
[00:56:57.310 --> 00:56:58.090] Oh God.
[00:56:59.550 --> 00:57:01.110] Are you a fan of AI?
[00:57:01.730 --> 00:57:02.230] Huh?
[00:57:03.970 --> 00:57:08.170] So, a little joke, or maybe not.
[00:57:09.510 --> 00:57:10.610] My name is AI.
[00:57:12.510 --> 00:57:14.290] You know, a lot of people know me as Alien Eyes.
[00:57:15.390 --> 00:57:17.070] Okay, but those are your initials.
[00:57:17.310 --> 00:57:18.490] Yeah, photography business,
[00:57:18.650 --> 00:57:23.010] but my actual artist name, Alien Eye Player,
[00:57:23.290 --> 00:57:25.850] I like iPhone, so AI.
[00:57:26.390 --> 00:57:28.430] And then also being on the basketball court,
[00:57:28.570 --> 00:57:30.050] they used to say I used to look like AI.
[00:57:30.050 --> 00:57:30.690] Oh, really?
[00:57:30.970 --> 00:57:31.990] Yeah, when I was in there,
[00:57:32.090 --> 00:57:35.630] because I used to have braids and had the little hair.
[00:57:35.630 --> 00:57:41.610] And so, but as far as artificial intelligence,
[00:57:44.830 --> 00:57:46.330] again, it's a double-edged sword.
[00:57:47.910 --> 00:57:50.650] You know, it's good for certain tasks and automations
[00:57:50.650 --> 00:57:55.430] and, you know, to maximize your productivity
[00:57:55.430 --> 00:57:56.530] and also revenue.
[00:57:57.870 --> 00:58:00.490] But as far as like where it's going,
[00:58:00.650 --> 00:58:03.350] and like I said, robots, like iRobot,
[00:58:03.530 --> 00:58:04.890] have anybody seen that movie?
[00:58:05.650 --> 00:58:07.130] I would say 10 years,
[00:58:07.130 --> 00:58:09.150] because that's what they want to develop
[00:58:09.150 --> 00:58:12.990] and kind of turn the world, too, which can be scary.
[00:58:16.170 --> 00:58:18.230] You know, we just have to embrace it.
[00:58:18.310 --> 00:58:19.550] And kind of like with music,
[00:58:21.490 --> 00:58:24.750] you know, a lot of things were like Ed and Flo
[00:58:25.630 --> 00:58:29.650] and even with how music was recorded
[00:58:29.650 --> 00:58:31.950] and even released and published,
[00:58:33.390 --> 00:58:36.610] like we had sometimes 10 minute songs,
[00:58:36.610 --> 00:58:37.610] five minute songs.
[00:58:37.910 --> 00:58:40.770] Now TikTok made it, you know, nine seconds.
[00:58:41.790 --> 00:58:46.370] So even the thought behind it is becoming more simple
[00:58:46.370 --> 00:58:48.510] and, you know, less work, less talent.
[00:58:48.790 --> 00:58:49.550] They have mumble rap.
[00:58:49.810 --> 00:58:50.450] Less thought.
[00:58:54.090 --> 00:58:55.910] And like you said, yeah, less thought
[00:58:55.910 --> 00:58:58.350] and even artificial intelligent music.
[00:58:58.770 --> 00:58:59.510] Like what? Yeah.
[00:59:00.290 --> 00:59:02.490] They got some apps and websites,
[00:59:02.670 --> 00:59:05.730] you could just type in a prop and you got a song.
[00:59:06.930 --> 00:59:09.750] It's taking the human hand out of a lot of things
[00:59:09.750 --> 00:59:13.070] that the human hand needs to be in, I think.
[00:59:13.270 --> 00:59:14.930] Do you use AI for it? No.
[00:59:15.390 --> 00:59:15.830] Okay.
[00:59:16.270 --> 00:59:17.030] Except for it, okay.
[00:59:17.410 --> 00:59:17.930] No.
[00:59:18.570 --> 00:59:20.030] Would you like to, Johnna Ly?
[00:59:20.450 --> 00:59:21.590] I don't know.
[00:59:22.790 --> 00:59:25.470] I don't want to be totally negative about it.
[00:59:25.490 --> 00:59:30.990] I really don't because it is where things are headed.
[00:59:33.750 --> 00:59:36.410] Or like, okay, let's say if you
[00:59:36.410 --> 00:59:39.010] have a client on a call with them virtually,
[00:59:40.030 --> 00:59:43.210] you have a way to kind of put together the room
[00:59:43.210 --> 00:59:44.610] before you actually put it together.
[00:59:45.630 --> 00:59:47.990] Yeah, but we have rendering programs for that.
[00:59:48.370 --> 00:59:49.230] You see what I'm saying?
[00:59:50.010 --> 00:59:53.170] Like I can, yes, it'll be quicker,
[00:59:53.170 --> 00:59:55.290] but what I don't like about it
[00:59:55.290 --> 00:59:57.130] is it can show you anything,
[00:59:57.130 --> 01:00:04.820] whether it's functional or doable or not.
[01:00:05.440 --> 01:00:08.460] You know, like people, I have had people say like,
[01:00:08.460 --> 01:00:11.280] I just did this on AI really quickly.
[01:00:11.840 --> 01:00:13.700] I have them do my home to make me like,
[01:00:13.980 --> 01:00:15.380] and they'll show it to you.
[01:00:15.400 --> 01:00:17.060] And it's kind of like some of this stuff
[01:00:17.060 --> 01:00:19.160] is not even physically possible.
[01:00:20.160 --> 01:00:23.940] So now it's like you have this idea of what you want,
[01:00:23.940 --> 01:00:26.060] but maybe that's not possible for your space
[01:00:26.060 --> 01:00:28.400] because there are other things that need to be looked at.
[01:00:28.740 --> 01:00:31.960] You don't know if there are studs behind your wall
[01:00:31.960 --> 01:00:34.360] that can support that, or you know what I mean?
[01:00:34.380 --> 01:00:36.120] Like you don't even know if that can be,
[01:00:36.720 --> 01:00:38.560] you don't know if that soffit
[01:00:38.560 --> 01:00:40.500] has plumbing and electrical in it,
[01:00:40.520 --> 01:00:41.580] but this is showing you
[01:00:41.580 --> 01:00:43.080] that you could just get rid of that to do.
[01:00:43.100 --> 01:00:44.920] You can do that technically though.
[01:00:45.320 --> 01:00:47.580] And so that's why you need people.
[01:00:47.680 --> 01:00:51.200] And I feel like we have rendering software
[01:00:51.200 --> 01:00:52.320] that does that.
[01:00:52.620 --> 01:00:54.100] Like that's why you pay an artist.
[01:00:54.260 --> 01:00:54.960] You know what I'm saying?
[01:00:55.260 --> 01:00:57.400] Like I'm into paying people for their craft,
[01:00:57.480 --> 01:00:59.260] not just artists, but mechanics.
[01:00:59.760 --> 01:01:00.540] Like, you know what I mean?
[01:01:01.020 --> 01:01:03.800] Like culinary chefs, bakers, that's your craft.
[01:01:04.640 --> 01:01:07.720] Maybe it's because I have a specialty craft
[01:01:07.720 --> 01:01:08.660] and I have a business,
[01:01:08.720 --> 01:01:10.640] like I understand it from a different level.
[01:01:10.660 --> 01:01:11.200] Right.
[01:01:12.420 --> 01:01:17.000] You put time and energy and money
[01:01:17.000 --> 01:01:19.480] into gaining this knowledge
[01:01:19.480 --> 01:01:21.580] and you're an expert at this
[01:01:21.580 --> 01:01:25.140] in a way that AI, in a sense,
[01:01:25.200 --> 01:01:26.540] in my opinion, can't be.
[01:01:26.880 --> 01:01:29.680] Like you've touched this, you've worked with this.
[01:01:30.340 --> 01:01:31.580] I appreciate that.
[01:01:31.580 --> 01:01:34.000] That's how you keep money flowing.
[01:01:35.780 --> 01:01:37.380] You pay somebody for their specialty,
[01:01:37.440 --> 01:01:39.700] they pay you for yours, you know?
[01:01:40.000 --> 01:01:43.120] Yeah, like you said, like expertise
[01:01:43.120 --> 01:01:45.840] and putting the time in at 10,000 hours,
[01:01:45.920 --> 01:01:46.840] a lot of people say.
[01:01:48.060 --> 01:01:51.380] And AI just popped up on the scene, you know?
[01:01:52.340 --> 01:01:55.140] So I mean, I guess, you know,
[01:01:55.240 --> 01:01:58.960] I'm still trying to figure out how I would use it,
[01:01:59.100 --> 01:02:00.440] I guess is what I'm trying to say.
[01:02:00.440 --> 01:02:03.040] I don't really trust it at this point,
[01:02:03.100 --> 01:02:06.000] at least enough to do like room renderings,
[01:02:06.340 --> 01:02:08.940] but maybe just for inspirational purposes.
[01:02:09.520 --> 01:02:11.200] Maybe it could be useful for, you know,
[01:02:11.220 --> 01:02:12.140] just things like that.
[01:02:12.180 --> 01:02:14.260] Like, you know, hey, show me how you would do this room.
[01:02:15.320 --> 01:02:17.560] Maybe I can get inspiration from that
[01:02:17.560 --> 01:02:19.940] and then like, you know, then continue to create.
[01:02:21.120 --> 01:02:23.800] But I'm trying to figure it out, child, I don't know.
[01:02:24.500 --> 01:02:26.580] I don't wanna be totally against it.
[01:02:26.580 --> 01:02:28.560] I don't wanna be totally negative about it,
[01:02:28.560 --> 01:02:32.180] but I definitely think that there is something to be said
[01:02:32.180 --> 01:02:35.420] about a human brain being behind something.
[01:02:36.320 --> 01:02:40.060] And also, we spoke on earlier the emotion behind it.
[01:02:40.300 --> 01:02:40.680] Exactly.
[01:02:41.320 --> 01:02:46.600] There is no emotional side with these robots
[01:02:46.600 --> 01:02:49.720] that's being built and also the AI.
[01:02:50.380 --> 01:02:51.740] But with humans, like you said,
[01:02:51.800 --> 01:02:53.060] you know, we can feel that.
[01:02:53.360 --> 01:02:54.820] You want that human touch.
[01:02:55.620 --> 01:02:57.700] And it's funny because while there are
[01:02:57.700 --> 01:03:01.560] still a lot of people who like and think that like,
[01:03:01.680 --> 01:03:06.120] you know, they're more robotic or AI operations are cool,
[01:03:06.260 --> 01:03:09.700] there are still a lot of people that will surprise you
[01:03:09.700 --> 01:03:12.260] and say, actually, I would prefer for this
[01:03:12.260 --> 01:03:13.020] to be handmade.
[01:03:13.660 --> 01:03:16.020] You know, there are still people that do prefer that.
[01:03:16.120 --> 01:03:20.640] So it's just all about finding your audience, I guess.
[01:03:21.820 --> 01:03:23.040] Nice, nice, nice.
[01:03:25.660 --> 01:03:30.620] So how would you brace yourself for what's to come?
[01:03:30.860 --> 01:03:33.340] Because like, it's here, I'm still evolving,
[01:03:33.460 --> 01:03:35.600] evolving every day, every week, you know.
[01:03:35.920 --> 01:03:37.140] Right now as we speak.
[01:03:38.880 --> 01:03:43.000] So how would you say you would kinda navigate that space
[01:03:43.000 --> 01:03:44.780] because, you know, they could be like,
[01:03:44.820 --> 01:03:48.360] oh, I may just hire this robot and, you know.
[01:03:48.900 --> 01:03:50.420] How would you navigate things?
[01:03:53.900 --> 01:03:55.120] That's a good question.
[01:03:55.120 --> 01:03:55.980] I mean.
[01:03:57.860 --> 01:04:00.300] Could it be that somebody could make a clone Justine?
[01:04:00.620 --> 01:04:01.520] Oh, God.
[01:04:02.460 --> 01:04:05.120] Like I could just, you know, build a bot.
[01:04:05.160 --> 01:04:06.760] Like if I had to build a bear, build a bot.
[01:04:06.980 --> 01:04:07.680] Build a bot.
[01:04:07.780 --> 01:04:08.660] Lord have mercy.
[01:04:09.260 --> 01:04:10.960] And then this is on recording,
[01:04:11.340 --> 01:04:12.820] somebody gonna make that one.
[01:04:13.340 --> 01:04:14.240] Oh, they're building an AI robot.
[01:04:14.640 --> 01:04:14.920] Dang.
[01:04:21.430 --> 01:04:22.310] It's a loaded question.
[01:04:22.450 --> 01:04:26.070] A robot can't, while it can be efficient,
[01:04:26.270 --> 01:04:28.030] it can be told what to do.
[01:04:28.030 --> 01:04:30.670] But as far as, I don't know though,
[01:04:30.710 --> 01:04:32.390] cause AI does come up with stuff.
[01:04:32.590 --> 01:04:34.570] Cause I was gonna say, as far as coming up with ideas,
[01:04:35.130 --> 01:04:37.310] AI does come up with things, but.
[01:04:37.730 --> 01:04:39.650] We come up with the ideas and then come.
[01:04:39.650 --> 01:04:41.450] And we feed it to AI.
[01:04:41.690 --> 01:04:42.310] That's true.
[01:04:42.670 --> 01:04:43.330] That's true.
[01:04:43.910 --> 01:04:44.490] That's true.
[01:04:45.190 --> 01:04:48.050] So yeah, I mean, going along those lines,
[01:04:48.190 --> 01:04:49.970] you know, there's only one of me,
[01:04:50.230 --> 01:04:51.710] just like there's only one of you.
[01:04:52.130 --> 01:04:54.810] I mean, there are people, you know,
[01:04:54.810 --> 01:04:56.890] who feel like there are certain archetypes of people
[01:04:56.890 --> 01:04:57.930] and maybe there are,
[01:04:58.790 --> 01:05:02.330] but under all of those archetypes are still individual people
[01:05:02.330 --> 01:05:05.030] who have their own thoughts and their own experiences
[01:05:05.030 --> 01:05:07.010] that have shaped who they've become as a person,
[01:05:07.030 --> 01:05:08.270] how they deal with things,
[01:05:08.490 --> 01:05:11.590] how they see things and how they choose to express
[01:05:11.590 --> 01:05:13.050] or showcase those things.
[01:05:14.170 --> 01:05:15.690] And I don't think that's something
[01:05:15.690 --> 01:05:20.490] that can be replicated through any artificial intelligence
[01:05:20.490 --> 01:05:24.970] or, you know, through a robot.
[01:05:24.970 --> 01:05:29.470] I mean, you know, even being able to sit with a client,
[01:05:29.850 --> 01:05:32.410] like I'm very big on client-based design,
[01:05:32.930 --> 01:05:36.950] like so functionality and also aesthetic,
[01:05:37.490 --> 01:05:40.370] aesthetically pleasing, aesthetically functional spaces.
[01:05:41.150 --> 01:05:44.230] I guess you can say, I have a client in Twinsburg.
[01:05:44.590 --> 01:05:47.510] We're on his third full project,
[01:05:47.770 --> 01:05:50.650] technically his like fourth or fifth with me,
[01:05:50.770 --> 01:05:52.790] but like full room project.
[01:05:53.430 --> 01:05:53.910] And-
[01:05:53.910 --> 01:05:54.750] Like a real estate?
[01:05:55.250 --> 01:05:56.390] No, in his home.
[01:05:57.550 --> 01:05:59.570] So like we did his master bedroom suite.
[01:05:59.650 --> 01:06:00.990] We did his hall bath.
[01:06:01.550 --> 01:06:05.370] We did some touches of stuff in his living room.
[01:06:06.790 --> 01:06:09.790] We're now working on his basement bathroom.
[01:06:11.210 --> 01:06:15.130] And I know him because I've worked with him since 23.
[01:06:15.210 --> 01:06:16.410] It's been almost two years now.
[01:06:16.490 --> 01:06:18.070] Oh, we did some lighting fixtures.
[01:06:18.130 --> 01:06:19.650] That was the first project that we did
[01:06:19.650 --> 01:06:21.970] was replacing some lighting fixtures.
[01:06:22.790 --> 01:06:24.410] He was actually my first client
[01:06:24.410 --> 01:06:26.110] that I didn't know personally.
[01:06:26.170 --> 01:06:27.290] He found me on Facebook.
[01:06:27.370 --> 01:06:29.430] I was like, he took a chance on a young girl.
[01:06:30.010 --> 01:06:35.230] I appreciate him more than he know, but I really do.
[01:06:35.410 --> 01:06:38.450] He's a great client, but I use him as an example
[01:06:38.450 --> 01:06:41.070] because I've worked with him for two years now.
[01:06:41.070 --> 01:06:42.070] Like I know him.
[01:06:42.570 --> 01:06:45.930] I know things that I can look at something and say,
[01:06:45.930 --> 01:06:47.150] oh, he probably wouldn't like that.
[01:06:47.150 --> 01:06:49.230] Or I can say, oh no, he would love this.
[01:06:49.450 --> 01:06:51.150] Like, you know, and he'll be like, yeah, you know,
[01:06:51.150 --> 01:06:53.790] I do really like that because we have that relationship
[01:06:53.790 --> 01:06:55.110] where I've gotten to know him.
[01:06:55.210 --> 01:06:56.830] Like, you know, we go to showrooms.
[01:06:57.130 --> 01:06:58.390] We go to different stores.
[01:06:58.470 --> 01:06:59.370] We look at things.
[01:06:59.430 --> 01:07:00.650] We talk about things.
[01:07:01.850 --> 01:07:04.050] I can tell based upon his body language
[01:07:04.050 --> 01:07:06.010] if he really likes something or not.
[01:07:06.290 --> 01:07:09.930] Like, you know, if he pauses and kind of like,
[01:07:09.930 --> 01:07:12.970] you know, turns his head a couple ways, yeah.
[01:07:13.410 --> 01:07:15.490] He doesn't like, he might think it's okay,
[01:07:15.550 --> 01:07:16.890] but he doesn't like it that much.
[01:07:16.970 --> 01:07:18.230] If he likes it, he'll go now.
[01:07:18.410 --> 01:07:19.990] I really like that.
[01:07:19.990 --> 01:07:21.610] And like, you know, his eyes get big.
[01:07:21.870 --> 01:07:23.490] I know that he really likes this.
[01:07:24.110 --> 01:07:26.490] You can't get, like, you can't replace that.
[01:07:26.910 --> 01:07:30.530] Like, I have connections with my clients.
[01:07:30.650 --> 01:07:32.850] I know the things that he needs in his spaces.
[01:07:34.250 --> 01:07:35.550] You know, he's an older gentleman.
[01:07:35.850 --> 01:07:38.230] So like, you know, he, while he's renovating,
[01:07:38.270 --> 01:07:40.870] he also wants to make sure that he's keeping in mind
[01:07:40.870 --> 01:07:44.170] for the future and like accessibility portions also.
[01:07:44.230 --> 01:07:46.430] So there are things that I'm able to think about
[01:07:47.490 --> 01:07:49.870] because I know, you know, these things about him
[01:07:49.870 --> 01:07:51.410] that maybe he won't think about,
[01:07:51.730 --> 01:07:53.350] but we've talked about it.
[01:07:53.530 --> 01:07:56.110] And so, okay, me as the expert and the designer,
[01:07:56.450 --> 01:07:58.470] I'm gonna tell you about these options
[01:07:58.470 --> 01:08:00.070] that you have to help with this.
[01:08:01.010 --> 01:08:03.090] Oh, I'm kind of curious.
[01:08:03.630 --> 01:08:06.270] Like, I wanna kind of hear your thought process
[01:08:06.270 --> 01:08:07.730] on your process.
[01:08:08.330 --> 01:08:11.470] Like, someone's books with just designs
[01:08:11.950 --> 01:08:13.410] kind of walk me through the process.
[01:08:13.690 --> 01:08:17.350] Okay, if somebody reaches out, you know,
[01:08:17.350 --> 01:08:21.770] and they want to see what I'm talking about.
[01:08:23.430 --> 01:08:25.170] I like to start with the consultation.
[01:08:25.229 --> 01:08:26.729] I like to go meet with them in person,
[01:08:26.770 --> 01:08:30.590] even though I really am introverted at heart,
[01:08:30.630 --> 01:08:32.830] I swear I am, like all my life.
[01:08:33.130 --> 01:08:35.890] But I understand the importance of human connection
[01:08:35.890 --> 01:08:38.529] and the importance of meeting with people
[01:08:38.529 --> 01:08:39.970] who want to do business with you
[01:08:39.970 --> 01:08:41.050] and give you their money.
[01:08:41.310 --> 01:08:42.810] I need to meet with you in person.
[01:08:42.870 --> 01:08:44.029] I need to come talk to you
[01:08:44.029 --> 01:08:45.990] because like this is a serious transaction
[01:08:45.990 --> 01:08:47.290] and I don't take that lightly.
[01:08:48.450 --> 01:08:50.470] So I did just have a client.
[01:08:50.569 --> 01:08:52.450] I did just gain a new client recently.
[01:08:52.930 --> 01:08:55.430] I met her at my old part-time job.
[01:08:55.529 --> 01:08:56.810] I gave her one of my cards.
[01:08:56.850 --> 01:08:57.729] She needed help.
[01:08:58.109 --> 01:08:59.470] She finally reached out to me.
[01:08:59.470 --> 01:09:00.210] She called me.
[01:09:00.229 --> 01:09:01.529] We scheduled a consultation.
[01:09:02.430 --> 01:09:03.529] I went over there.
[01:09:03.810 --> 01:09:05.410] I spoke with her and her daughter.
[01:09:06.689 --> 01:09:09.609] We talked about, you know, where she's come,
[01:09:09.630 --> 01:09:11.649] like, you know, with her space,
[01:09:11.750 --> 01:09:13.270] what she wants to see from it.
[01:09:13.609 --> 01:09:14.710] I measured the space.
[01:09:14.710 --> 01:09:16.510] I actually, something new that I developed
[01:09:16.510 --> 01:09:17.870] was a consultation checklist
[01:09:17.870 --> 01:09:21.010] to make sure I don't forget things when I'm there.
[01:09:21.490 --> 01:09:22.490] And then, systems.
[01:09:22.649 --> 01:09:24.290] And then I can check some balances.
[01:09:24.609 --> 01:09:26.430] And then I can like, you know,
[01:09:28.210 --> 01:09:30.170] draft her floor plan, like on that.
[01:09:30.250 --> 01:09:32.790] I made a space to be able to like draft the floor plan
[01:09:32.790 --> 01:09:35.210] on that paper too, so everything is like right there.
[01:09:35.689 --> 01:09:37.370] I take notes from there.
[01:09:38.050 --> 01:09:41.330] I ask whatever questions I have to ask about the space,
[01:09:41.350 --> 01:09:43.050] what they're looking for, what they need,
[01:09:43.050 --> 01:09:45.050] what they like, what their style is.
[01:09:45.670 --> 01:09:48.210] I let them pick my brain about different things.
[01:09:48.470 --> 01:09:52.729] I also, because I am, you know, like relatively new,
[01:09:52.890 --> 01:09:54.710] you know, like on the scene to design,
[01:09:55.010 --> 01:09:58.430] I like to send people my portfolio, my resume.
[01:09:59.150 --> 01:10:00.450] I technically have two resumes,
[01:10:00.590 --> 01:10:02.790] a business one and like a career one
[01:10:02.790 --> 01:10:04.070] for outside of my business.
[01:10:05.410 --> 01:10:07.550] I like to tell them like, you know,
[01:10:07.550 --> 01:10:08.890] just like about my credentials
[01:10:08.890 --> 01:10:10.770] so that they can look at that in their own time.
[01:10:10.830 --> 01:10:12.010] Send them my website.
[01:10:13.570 --> 01:10:17.630] Give them all my contact info and I send them a contract.
[01:10:18.750 --> 01:10:20.450] It has my rate on there.
[01:10:20.670 --> 01:10:23.430] It has like my terms and conditions for myself
[01:10:23.430 --> 01:10:24.930] and to protect the client.
[01:10:25.910 --> 01:10:29.190] And as soon as they sign it, we can get started.
[01:10:29.650 --> 01:10:31.430] So, you know, from there,
[01:10:32.810 --> 01:10:34.130] again, client-based design.
[01:10:34.130 --> 01:10:36.630] I do make sure that I'm still the one driving,
[01:10:37.970 --> 01:10:40.270] but I wanna make sure that we're doing it
[01:10:40.270 --> 01:10:41.970] at the pace that they wanna do it at.
[01:10:41.970 --> 01:10:45.290] Like my Twinsburg client will have a meeting.
[01:10:45.450 --> 01:10:46.630] Okay, this is what we're looking for.
[01:10:46.870 --> 01:10:51.470] I'll go, I'll start looking for everything concurrently,
[01:10:51.690 --> 01:10:53.190] like for the space, like, you know, everything.
[01:10:53.590 --> 01:10:55.010] My new client, she was kind of like,
[01:10:55.010 --> 01:10:56.550] well, let's just start with, you know,
[01:10:56.550 --> 01:10:58.530] just this thing in the space
[01:10:58.530 --> 01:11:00.150] and then we can move from there.
[01:11:00.550 --> 01:11:01.750] Okay, I understand.
[01:11:02.090 --> 01:11:03.090] Some people, you know,
[01:11:03.110 --> 01:11:05.270] like she just wants to go step-by-step with it.
[01:11:05.270 --> 01:11:07.050] So she wants to start, one of the biggest things
[01:11:07.050 --> 01:11:08.770] she wants to look at is her window treatments.
[01:11:09.050 --> 01:11:10.690] So we'll start with the window treatments.
[01:11:10.690 --> 01:11:12.210] And after we figure that out,
[01:11:12.210 --> 01:11:13.510] then we can move on from there.
[01:11:13.850 --> 01:11:16.210] I really like to meet with people in person though.
[01:11:16.490 --> 01:11:18.570] I did have somebody who tried to do more
[01:11:18.570 --> 01:11:19.770] of like the virtual thing.
[01:11:20.190 --> 01:11:22.270] It drew the process out way longer.
[01:11:22.310 --> 01:11:23.510] And he had the nerve to ask me
[01:11:23.510 --> 01:11:24.690] why it was taking so long.
[01:11:25.170 --> 01:11:27.110] I was like, well, I can tell you.
[01:11:27.690 --> 01:11:30.250] Because you don't wanna meet with me in person
[01:11:30.250 --> 01:11:32.770] and go to these showrooms and look at things together.
[01:11:32.850 --> 01:11:35.290] We can quickly make decisions
[01:11:35.290 --> 01:11:38.010] and I can learn you and your style more.
[01:11:38.010 --> 01:11:40.650] You want me to keep finding stuff online,
[01:11:41.030 --> 01:11:42.650] sending it to you, emailing it,
[01:11:42.690 --> 01:11:44.070] then you email me back and tell me
[01:11:44.070 --> 01:11:45.370] what you liked or didn't like.
[01:11:45.790 --> 01:11:48.030] And I didn't care for that as much.
[01:11:48.150 --> 01:11:49.310] I mean, I'm open to it,
[01:11:49.310 --> 01:11:53.790] but I prefer to just get a better sense of my client.
[01:11:53.850 --> 01:11:54.890] So, you know, we go from there.
[01:11:54.890 --> 01:11:56.930] If a contractor has to be brought in,
[01:11:57.250 --> 01:12:00.270] I try to have the plans and everything laid out
[01:12:00.270 --> 01:12:02.650] for the contractor so that way
[01:12:02.650 --> 01:12:04.650] they're literally just coming in and doing.
[01:12:05.190 --> 01:12:06.470] That is not, I try to do it
[01:12:06.470 --> 01:12:08.670] where there's the least amount of decision making
[01:12:08.670 --> 01:12:10.070] that has to be done by them
[01:12:10.070 --> 01:12:11.850] because they really prefer to just come in
[01:12:11.850 --> 01:12:12.550] and knock it out.
[01:12:12.810 --> 01:12:15.050] Like they're not designers and they'll tell you that.
[01:12:15.350 --> 01:12:18.650] Like, hey, I can recommend things that I've seen,
[01:12:18.650 --> 01:12:20.270] but like, I don't really do that.
[01:12:20.450 --> 01:12:23.090] So if a contractor or architect
[01:12:23.090 --> 01:12:24.690] or you know, whoever has to be brought in,
[01:12:24.730 --> 01:12:27.550] I try to do as much of all of that work
[01:12:27.550 --> 01:12:30.870] and get everything on order before they come in
[01:12:30.870 --> 01:12:33.110] so they can just kind of like knock the process out.
[01:12:33.110 --> 01:12:36.170] But I still stay on the project with the client
[01:12:36.170 --> 01:12:38.850] to see it through from beginning to end
[01:12:38.850 --> 01:12:40.330] just in case something comes up
[01:12:40.330 --> 01:12:43.050] because things have where maybe I had a plan
[01:12:43.050 --> 01:12:44.430] for a pattern for something,
[01:12:44.430 --> 01:12:47.370] but the tile wasn't exactly four by 12.
[01:12:47.410 --> 01:12:51.550] It was really three and three eighths by 11 and a half.
[01:12:51.790 --> 01:12:54.910] So the pattern that I created, you know,
[01:12:54.990 --> 01:12:58.030] isn't gonna work with those sizing with that size.
[01:12:58.030 --> 01:12:59.550] So I have to go to the drawing board
[01:12:59.550 --> 01:13:00.790] and create something else.
[01:13:01.090 --> 01:13:01.890] Okay, boom.
[01:13:01.890 --> 01:13:03.350] Then here's a new solution.
[01:13:03.550 --> 01:13:05.890] Like, you know, so we're still problem solving,
[01:13:05.970 --> 01:13:07.390] still helping to troubleshoot.
[01:13:07.610 --> 01:13:10.830] And also people have a lot of interesting interactions
[01:13:10.830 --> 01:13:13.330] with contractors, unfortunately.
[01:13:13.810 --> 01:13:16.090] So I like to be able to be that person,
[01:13:16.290 --> 01:13:17.370] point person there too,
[01:13:17.370 --> 01:13:21.070] to be able to go to bat for the client if necessary.
[01:13:21.430 --> 01:13:24.670] Well, what type of interesting interactions?
[01:13:26.110 --> 01:13:28.250] You know, you hear a lot of horror stories
[01:13:28.250 --> 01:13:30.650] from people and contractors that they've worked with
[01:13:30.650 --> 01:13:33.370] and how they've been flaked on or the contractor,
[01:13:33.370 --> 01:13:34.830] you know, ghosted them or,
[01:13:35.350 --> 01:13:36.650] oh, I gave them half of the money,
[01:13:36.790 --> 01:13:38.490] you know, like just like things like that
[01:13:38.490 --> 01:13:41.830] that are just not great or they cut corners on things.
[01:13:42.830 --> 01:13:42.890] And-
[01:13:42.890 --> 01:13:44.210] Even with a contract in place?
[01:13:47.220 --> 01:13:47.640] Yeah.
[01:13:49.280 --> 01:13:50.860] Yeah, like people will.
[01:13:51.120 --> 01:13:54.240] So like, if it's just a client to contractor,
[01:13:54.500 --> 01:13:57.340] you know, a lot of clients don't necessarily
[01:13:57.340 --> 01:13:59.480] have a lot of trade or industry knowledge.
[01:13:59.480 --> 01:14:04.120] So they might not realize or see that something
[01:14:04.120 --> 01:14:08.400] that you did wasn't done right until well after the fact.
[01:14:08.740 --> 01:14:11.580] But you cut those corners in those ways because,
[01:14:11.980 --> 01:14:16.140] and luckily I have not worked with contractors like that.
[01:14:16.380 --> 01:14:19.000] The contractor that I work with, he is great.
[01:14:19.180 --> 01:14:20.200] Like I recommend him.
[01:14:20.700 --> 01:14:22.160] I would always recommend him.
[01:14:22.220 --> 01:14:23.740] But I've heard of these stories,
[01:14:23.800 --> 01:14:25.560] people having gone through these things
[01:14:25.560 --> 01:14:28.160] and it's because they didn't know any better.
[01:14:28.160 --> 01:14:29.920] And sometimes people are just shady.
[01:14:30.340 --> 01:14:31.420] You don't know any better.
[01:14:31.480 --> 01:14:33.340] And so they'll take you for a little ride.
[01:14:34.660 --> 01:14:37.000] And, you know, cut corners to save time,
[01:14:37.340 --> 01:14:40.420] maybe to save money on material cost from their cut.
[01:14:40.620 --> 01:14:41.340] You know what I mean?
[01:14:42.940 --> 01:14:45.600] So things like that where I can kind of,
[01:14:45.720 --> 01:14:46.680] I don't know everything.
[01:14:46.900 --> 01:14:48.640] I'm never trying to make it seem like I do,
[01:14:48.640 --> 01:14:51.520] but I have enough knowledge to be able to say,
[01:14:52.020 --> 01:14:54.060] that doesn't seem right, you know?
[01:14:54.260 --> 01:14:55.000] Intuition tool.
[01:14:55.280 --> 01:14:55.640] Yeah.
[01:14:55.840 --> 01:14:57.740] And to help hold them accountable.
[01:14:57.740 --> 01:15:00.880] Make sure that what the client needs is what's happening.
[01:15:00.880 --> 01:15:03.740] You know, be like that point of contact too.
[01:15:03.900 --> 01:15:05.560] If anything has to be returned,
[01:15:05.740 --> 01:15:06.940] if anything gets damaged,
[01:15:06.980 --> 01:15:08.320] but you have a warranty on it
[01:15:08.320 --> 01:15:09.400] and we ordered it together.
[01:15:09.900 --> 01:15:10.900] I'll help you with that.
[01:15:10.920 --> 01:15:12.640] Like I've had to do that before too.
[01:15:13.420 --> 01:15:14.860] If you need help decorating,
[01:15:15.000 --> 01:15:15.780] like I can even,
[01:15:15.800 --> 01:15:17.640] I'll help you with those types of things.
[01:15:18.200 --> 01:15:18.800] So yeah.
[01:15:19.740 --> 01:15:20.180] Wow.
[01:15:20.700 --> 01:15:22.400] So you mentioned decorator.
[01:15:23.180 --> 01:15:24.380] So, you know, a lot of people are like,
[01:15:24.380 --> 01:15:27.240] I'm good at decoration or decorating.
[01:15:27.800 --> 01:15:30.480] What's the key differences between a decorator
[01:15:30.480 --> 01:15:31.620] and an interior designer?
[01:15:32.180 --> 01:15:33.540] That's a very good question.
[01:15:33.620 --> 01:15:35.480] And I'm so happy that you asked that.
[01:15:36.760 --> 01:15:38.980] When you say that you're an interior designer,
[01:15:39.100 --> 01:15:40.940] people think interior decorator.
[01:15:41.620 --> 01:15:43.860] A lot of people automatically are like,
[01:15:43.860 --> 01:15:45.500] oh, okay, yeah, I'm into that.
[01:15:45.840 --> 01:15:48.200] And a lot of people are into interior design.
[01:15:48.340 --> 01:15:50.780] Like, you know, we have a whole channel surrounded
[01:15:51.460 --> 01:15:53.140] by interior design.
[01:15:54.700 --> 01:15:59.980] But designers typically are a little more trained.
[01:16:00.280 --> 01:16:02.740] Like I said, I can create a construction document set.
[01:16:03.040 --> 01:16:04.520] Like I've learned how to do those things.
[01:16:04.720 --> 01:16:07.640] I worked a year for Joann Fabric.
[01:16:07.760 --> 01:16:08.960] RIP, so sad.
[01:16:09.060 --> 01:16:10.220] What's going on with the company.
[01:16:11.220 --> 01:16:13.460] But I worked there for a year.
[01:16:13.720 --> 01:16:15.580] I designed stores.
[01:16:15.700 --> 01:16:16.980] I was an assistant store designer.
[01:16:17.040 --> 01:16:18.320] So I helped design different stores
[01:16:18.320 --> 01:16:20.680] around the country at different scope levels.
[01:16:20.680 --> 01:16:22.220] So remodels, new stores,
[01:16:22.220 --> 01:16:23.380] and then at different levels
[01:16:23.380 --> 01:16:24.740] of what that store was getting.
[01:16:25.660 --> 01:16:28.360] You would probably think I was sitting around
[01:16:28.360 --> 01:16:31.800] looking at colors and no, it was all in AutoCAD.
[01:16:31.940 --> 01:16:33.860] It was all technical work,
[01:16:34.200 --> 01:16:36.220] all like construction document sets.
[01:16:37.640 --> 01:16:39.500] Yeah, that was it.
[01:16:39.820 --> 01:16:41.260] So like lighting placement.
[01:16:42.420 --> 01:16:44.940] I can't do anything as far as the exterior
[01:16:44.940 --> 01:16:45.680] of a building,
[01:16:45.680 --> 01:16:48.520] but I can help with remodels and renovations
[01:16:48.520 --> 01:16:50.800] with like a shell of a building.
[01:16:51.260 --> 01:16:53.540] So like, even if we wanted to knock this wall down,
[01:16:53.600 --> 01:16:55.420] I can help create the plans for that.
[01:16:55.780 --> 01:16:59.000] But architects are who do everything exterior.
[01:17:00.780 --> 01:17:03.260] And foundational architects and then engineers,
[01:17:03.520 --> 01:17:06.720] civil engineers, structural engineers.
[01:17:09.080 --> 01:17:10.440] Well, I know on my half,
[01:17:12.000 --> 01:17:13.440] people may hit me up like,
[01:17:13.600 --> 01:17:16.260] yo, how much for a photo shoot or how much for a video?
[01:17:16.980 --> 01:17:18.220] You know, it varies.
[01:17:18.220 --> 01:17:20.960] So have you ever had people or potential clients
[01:17:20.960 --> 01:17:22.120] that reach out to you like that?
[01:17:22.260 --> 01:17:23.740] Like just want a price and not even,
[01:17:24.020 --> 01:17:26.720] like you said, having that consultation and sit down.
[01:17:26.800 --> 01:17:28.680] Well, how much would it cost you to do my kitchen?
[01:17:28.840 --> 01:17:30.080] And it's like, whoa.
[01:17:31.260 --> 01:17:33.080] So in my business,
[01:17:33.700 --> 01:17:35.860] unless it's like a project like that
[01:17:35.860 --> 01:17:36.940] of Bedford High School,
[01:17:36.980 --> 01:17:39.120] where it was kind of like more cut and dry
[01:17:39.120 --> 01:17:40.520] of what they were looking for,
[01:17:41.340 --> 01:17:42.300] I bill hourly.
[01:17:42.660 --> 01:17:45.300] I have a design hour rate because.
[01:17:46.400 --> 01:17:47.140] Well, sure.
[01:17:47.600 --> 01:17:48.760] You don't have to say it if you don't,
[01:17:48.820 --> 01:17:50.240] but give me like a ballpark.
[01:17:51.940 --> 01:17:54.580] Oh, I'm not gonna say my rate, but.
[01:17:54.700 --> 01:17:55.140] Ballpark.
[01:17:56.740 --> 01:17:58.500] But I think it's fair.
[01:17:58.700 --> 01:18:01.620] A lot of people charge way more than what I'm charging.
[01:18:02.780 --> 01:18:04.300] And I'm gonna work my way up to that,
[01:18:04.300 --> 01:18:06.640] but I'm okay with working my way up to that.
[01:18:06.680 --> 01:18:08.800] Because you know, I know that again, relatively,
[01:18:09.380 --> 01:18:11.960] I'm newer to the game and I'm building,
[01:18:12.120 --> 01:18:13.820] I'm still building my portfolio.
[01:18:14.580 --> 01:18:16.860] So I do have a consultation fee.
[01:18:17.580 --> 01:18:22.180] Like I interned in 2018 when I was in college.
[01:18:22.320 --> 01:18:23.380] I interned for a lady.
[01:18:23.400 --> 01:18:25.760] She has her own business, great designer,
[01:18:26.440 --> 01:18:27.200] family-owned business.
[01:18:27.220 --> 01:18:29.000] It was her mom's before it was hers.
[01:18:30.700 --> 01:18:33.100] And whew, but she was charging for a consultation.
[01:18:33.520 --> 01:18:35.040] Like I think at the time,
[01:18:35.720 --> 01:18:36.720] and this is 2018,
[01:18:36.740 --> 01:18:38.900] so I know her prices are higher than this now.
[01:18:38.940 --> 01:18:42.660] I think it was what, 250 for a two-hour consultation.
[01:18:42.660 --> 01:18:45.860] And then it was like maybe 175 a design hour.
[01:18:46.200 --> 01:18:47.720] Like she was charging, you know what I'm saying?
[01:18:47.760 --> 01:18:50.040] I'm not charging anywhere near that yet,
[01:18:50.040 --> 01:18:52.620] but I could get to the point where I could.
[01:18:52.960 --> 01:18:55.100] I wanna get to the point where I do, you know,
[01:18:55.180 --> 01:18:56.720] for like higher-end clients.
[01:18:58.300 --> 01:19:03.080] But I bill hourly because people can take a long time
[01:19:03.080 --> 01:19:04.500] to figure things out.
[01:19:04.600 --> 01:19:05.720] And if you tell somebody,
[01:19:05.980 --> 01:19:09.600] oh, I'll only charge you 10,000 or 5,000
[01:19:09.600 --> 01:19:12.520] or you know, whatever to do your kitchen,
[01:19:12.520 --> 01:19:15.940] like for my work, not including like the materials,
[01:19:16.000 --> 01:19:18.860] because they never take that into account either.
[01:19:19.160 --> 01:19:20.640] Like it depends on like, you know,
[01:19:20.740 --> 01:19:23.200] what your budget is and how custom
[01:19:23.200 --> 01:19:24.740] really you want things to be
[01:19:24.740 --> 01:19:26.640] because the prices do vary.
[01:19:26.700 --> 01:19:28.460] Like I hate to sound like that,
[01:19:28.460 --> 01:19:30.860] but like they just do, it depends on, you know,
[01:19:30.860 --> 01:19:34.420] I can take you the highest of the highs for custom.
[01:19:34.860 --> 01:19:37.680] That's like, you know, anything you want, they can do it.
[01:19:37.680 --> 01:19:38.980] But I can also, you know,
[01:19:39.120 --> 01:19:41.560] keep you more budget-friendly, but still good quality.
[01:19:42.520 --> 01:19:44.640] So it just kind of depends on like where you are.
[01:19:44.700 --> 01:19:47.560] But as far as my services, like if I tell somebody,
[01:19:47.880 --> 01:19:51.540] oh, I'll only charge you whatever, whatever for to do this,
[01:19:52.440 --> 01:19:55.820] then you look up and really you've charged them
[01:19:57.080 --> 01:20:00.880] maybe 2,500 or so for your time
[01:20:00.880 --> 01:20:02.980] because you thought it would only take that long,
[01:20:03.000 --> 01:20:06.760] but they've used $5,000 worth of your time in actuality.
[01:20:06.920 --> 01:20:09.560] And I just don't wanna be caught there, respectfully.
[01:20:09.560 --> 01:20:13.420] Yeah, that sounds like my first wedding that I took on.
[01:20:13.680 --> 01:20:16.260] And you have to learn sometimes, yeah.
[01:20:16.700 --> 01:20:20.740] Way under, like they got a good, good, good price,
[01:20:20.760 --> 01:20:24.300] you know, in a higher staff.
[01:20:24.520 --> 01:20:28.220] So it was like paying them and the editing behind the scenes.
[01:20:28.940 --> 01:20:31.300] Like, and especially with photography, oh my gosh,
[01:20:31.380 --> 01:20:36.560] the editing on one picture alone can take a long time.
[01:20:36.580 --> 01:20:38.900] Like that's your time, yeah.
[01:20:39.980 --> 01:20:40.540] Yes.
[01:20:42.680 --> 01:20:44.000] Then you learn like, okay,
[01:20:44.040 --> 01:20:46.740] I'll edit this many photos for this price.
[01:20:48.120 --> 01:20:50.860] So I actually had to add a clause like that.
[01:20:51.120 --> 01:20:53.780] I just redid my contract where it's like, okay,
[01:20:54.880 --> 01:20:59.200] how many different iterations of a plan and renderings
[01:20:59.200 --> 01:21:03.080] I'll do before I start to say it'll be an additional
[01:21:03.080 --> 01:21:05.620] X amount of money for anything outside of that.
[01:21:05.620 --> 01:21:07.660] Cause I did have a client one time
[01:21:08.260 --> 01:21:11.760] and it was like, every time we picked out one thing,
[01:21:12.120 --> 01:21:14.020] they wanted me to redo every,
[01:21:14.140 --> 01:21:16.700] like to re put it in the plan and show them what it looks.
[01:21:17.160 --> 01:21:19.480] And it's like, well, I have a toilet in there.
[01:21:19.520 --> 01:21:20.940] It's just not this exact one,
[01:21:20.940 --> 01:21:22.620] but they wanted to see that exact one.
[01:21:22.780 --> 01:21:25.220] And it's like, okay, how about we pick out
[01:21:25.220 --> 01:21:27.440] a lot of things and I'll update it all together
[01:21:27.440 --> 01:21:29.480] and show you, but no, they would want like
[01:21:29.480 --> 01:21:32.980] for every piece updated and show it to me.
[01:21:33.940 --> 01:21:36.700] Wow, so it's like, okay, that's a lot of time.
[01:21:37.800 --> 01:21:39.940] When we could do it how I'm saying,
[01:21:40.100 --> 01:21:41.720] which is like, let's pick out a lot of things
[01:21:41.720 --> 01:21:44.120] and then we'll update some of the generic things
[01:21:44.120 --> 01:21:46.720] that I put in there just for, you know,
[01:21:46.840 --> 01:21:48.420] showing spatial planning and everything
[01:21:48.420 --> 01:21:50.640] or whatever ideas, we'll update it
[01:21:50.640 --> 01:21:53.940] with your exact cabinet and like, you know,
[01:21:54.000 --> 01:21:56.680] your exact toilet, your exact shower system.
[01:21:57.800 --> 01:21:58.820] Yeah. Yeah.
[01:21:58.820 --> 01:22:00.800] Which makes more sense for me.
[01:22:02.280 --> 01:22:05.160] True, you know, time is everything.
[01:22:05.160 --> 01:22:07.740] I mean, that's one of our biggest commodities
[01:22:07.740 --> 01:22:08.680] besides energy.
[01:22:11.510 --> 01:22:14.010] So how do you navigate with, you know,
[01:22:14.170 --> 01:22:16.150] difficult clients or like you said,
[01:22:16.230 --> 01:22:18.130] people that want to draw out the process?
[01:22:21.610 --> 01:22:26.410] So luckily I've only really had that issue
[01:22:26.410 --> 01:22:28.770] with maybe one or two clients that I've had.
[01:22:29.950 --> 01:22:30.490] Excuse me.
[01:22:30.570 --> 01:22:33.210] I haven't had that issue, you know,
[01:22:33.750 --> 01:22:35.750] I thank God I haven't, you know, too much.
[01:22:36.530 --> 01:22:39.530] I guess every time I learn something,
[01:22:40.450 --> 01:22:43.210] it's like, okay, I need to apply this in some way.
[01:22:43.550 --> 01:22:45.370] So like, that was why it was time
[01:22:45.370 --> 01:22:47.010] for me to update my contract again.
[01:22:47.010 --> 01:22:50.310] Like I learned a lot in 2024.
[01:22:51.830 --> 01:22:55.070] I had really high highs and I had some lows last year,
[01:22:55.070 --> 01:22:57.290] but I'm at the point, like, you know,
[01:22:57.290 --> 01:22:59.970] I'm not mad about any of them
[01:22:59.970 --> 01:23:01.710] because it taught me a lot
[01:23:01.710 --> 01:23:04.010] and it taught me a lot for the future
[01:23:04.010 --> 01:23:05.890] and things that I'm able to, you know,
[01:23:05.890 --> 01:23:09.230] protect myself and or the client or, you know,
[01:23:09.350 --> 01:23:11.710] my business from in other ways or, you know,
[01:23:11.810 --> 01:23:14.730] my time or my energy, you know, in other ways
[01:23:14.730 --> 01:23:16.950] by implementing certain stipulations.
[01:23:16.950 --> 01:23:19.090] And it's not because I ever want to
[01:23:19.090 --> 01:23:20.610] make things difficult for anybody,
[01:23:20.630 --> 01:23:22.990] but I want to make sure that we are clear on things.
[01:23:22.990 --> 01:23:25.010] And the clearer that you are in the beginning,
[01:23:26.170 --> 01:23:29.010] usually the less issues that you have down the line
[01:23:29.010 --> 01:23:31.810] because when you signed this contract
[01:23:31.810 --> 01:23:33.310] that said all of these things,
[01:23:33.410 --> 01:23:35.870] like you read this and even if you didn't read it,
[01:23:36.450 --> 01:23:40.350] you said you did, so, and it's in there.
[01:23:40.450 --> 01:23:43.370] I mean, it's the same thing when we agree to these terms
[01:23:43.370 --> 01:23:44.850] and conditions for everything.
[01:23:45.750 --> 01:23:47.970] Even if we don't read them, we said we did.
[01:23:48.050 --> 01:23:48.750] Right, yeah.
[01:23:48.830 --> 01:23:51.210] And so you're on the hook for that, unfortunately.
[01:23:52.570 --> 01:23:52.950] Yeah.
[01:23:53.310 --> 01:23:54.670] Unfortunately and fortunately
[01:23:54.670 --> 01:23:56.730] because it's something to refer back to
[01:23:56.730 --> 01:23:58.030] when things get muddy.
[01:23:58.710 --> 01:23:59.110] True.
[01:24:00.390 --> 01:24:02.810] So, well, first off,
[01:24:03.150 --> 01:24:05.150] how often do you update your contracts?
[01:24:05.870 --> 01:24:06.690] Is it yearly?
[01:24:07.870 --> 01:24:09.890] I'll probably start doing it yearly.
[01:24:09.970 --> 01:24:12.250] Like this year I updated it.
[01:24:12.510 --> 01:24:15.350] I think the last time I updated it before that
[01:24:15.350 --> 01:24:16.530] was maybe 23.
[01:24:17.250 --> 01:24:20.070] And the last time before that was maybe 21.
[01:24:21.230 --> 01:24:22.550] Or maybe 20 or 21.
[01:24:23.130 --> 01:24:25.110] So I don't really have a cadence,
[01:24:26.710 --> 01:24:30.010] but I felt like I had learned enough last year
[01:24:30.010 --> 01:24:31.610] that it was like, okay.
[01:24:31.990 --> 01:24:33.670] It's still more so experience-based.
[01:24:34.510 --> 01:24:34.890] Got you.
[01:24:34.890 --> 01:24:36.250] Need-based.
[01:24:38.310 --> 01:24:40.510] And how important,
[01:24:40.910 --> 01:24:44.490] especially for newer creative entrepreneurs
[01:24:44.490 --> 01:24:45.950] or entrepreneurs in general,
[01:24:46.950 --> 01:24:49.150] how important are contracts?
[01:24:49.910 --> 01:24:51.130] They're so important.
[01:24:51.370 --> 01:24:53.110] I mean, especially for creatives,
[01:24:53.390 --> 01:24:54.170] like we're,
[01:24:55.750 --> 01:24:58.670] I had a professor in college who used to say,
[01:24:58.790 --> 01:24:59.750] like, you know, it's funny.
[01:24:59.830 --> 01:25:02.310] People say, oh, I don't pay you to think
[01:25:02.310 --> 01:25:03.450] to some people.
[01:25:03.450 --> 01:25:06.230] And he's like, but actually as creatives and designers,
[01:25:06.370 --> 01:25:07.950] like we are getting paid to think.
[01:25:08.690 --> 01:25:11.110] So like, you know, your knowledge is everything.
[01:25:11.250 --> 01:25:15.070] Like your ideas are very important
[01:25:15.070 --> 01:25:20.250] and you have to find ways to,
[01:25:20.770 --> 01:25:21.910] A, protect that,
[01:25:21.930 --> 01:25:24.130] but also like just keep things clear
[01:25:24.130 --> 01:25:26.170] about what the process will be.
[01:25:26.830 --> 01:25:29.630] You know, I think contracts are very important
[01:25:29.630 --> 01:25:31.370] to keep things more cut and dry
[01:25:31.370 --> 01:25:34.010] where sometimes things can get muddy
[01:25:34.010 --> 01:25:36.110] or like, you know, that gray area comes in.
[01:25:36.310 --> 01:25:39.230] Like our intellectual,
[01:25:39.430 --> 01:25:40.470] what do they call it?
[01:25:40.490 --> 01:25:40.810] Property.
[01:25:41.710 --> 01:25:42.350] There we go.
[01:25:44.150 --> 01:25:46.770] Our intellectual property is what we have.
[01:25:48.750 --> 01:25:52.010] And everybody unfortunately, you know,
[01:25:52.150 --> 01:25:53.710] isn't going to value that.
[01:25:53.710 --> 01:25:55.210] Just like in life in general,
[01:25:55.410 --> 01:25:57.870] you have to teach people how to treat you.
[01:25:58.350 --> 01:25:59.730] Even if people don't do what intent,
[01:25:59.730 --> 01:26:01.770] I don't think everybody sets out
[01:26:01.770 --> 01:26:03.670] to intentionally hurt people.
[01:26:03.910 --> 01:26:05.750] Like I'm not from that mindset.
[01:26:06.150 --> 01:26:08.170] Maybe it's because I'm not like that.
[01:26:08.510 --> 01:26:09.910] Self-help is the best law.
[01:26:10.190 --> 01:26:12.990] Yeah, like, you know, I think that you view people
[01:26:12.990 --> 01:26:14.990] from where you coming from a lot of the times.
[01:26:15.390 --> 01:26:17.970] So I don't like to just default
[01:26:17.970 --> 01:26:19.590] to thinking people are like that.
[01:26:19.630 --> 01:26:20.970] I think that a lot of the times
[01:26:20.970 --> 01:26:23.090] it's a lot of misunderstandings
[01:26:23.090 --> 01:26:27.650] and people don't intentionally, you know, misuse you.
[01:26:27.650 --> 01:26:32.590] It's just that you're not standing on what you have enough
[01:26:32.590 --> 01:26:34.570] to make somebody think about it
[01:26:35.130 --> 01:26:37.230] or think twice about what they're doing.
[01:26:38.110 --> 01:26:41.470] They're not necessarily always trying to get over on you,
[01:26:41.470 --> 01:26:43.610] but because you are so easygoing
[01:26:43.610 --> 01:26:45.950] and you're so, you know, go with the flow
[01:26:45.950 --> 01:26:48.090] and laid back, you know, how a lot of artists are.
[01:26:48.210 --> 01:26:50.450] Like, you know, we're very like, you know,
[01:26:50.610 --> 01:26:53.470] chill, open people, open to a lot of different things,
[01:26:53.790 --> 01:26:54.650] which is great.
[01:26:54.650 --> 01:26:55.810] Never lose that,
[01:26:56.530 --> 01:26:59.470] but never let somebody play with you either.
[01:27:00.590 --> 01:27:00.890] Yeah.
[01:27:01.830 --> 01:27:04.170] Wow, I got a special question I know.
[01:27:06.050 --> 01:27:08.050] Okay, let me kind of process this one.
[01:27:08.050 --> 01:27:09.650] Yeah, I'm scared.
[01:27:11.530 --> 01:27:13.990] So with visual stimuli,
[01:27:14.150 --> 01:27:16.590] is there a certain object or decorations
[01:27:16.590 --> 01:27:19.610] you correlate with other objects or shapes?
[01:27:20.130 --> 01:27:22.070] You know, like a banana is yellow,
[01:27:22.070 --> 01:27:23.970] egg is white, egg white,
[01:27:24.610 --> 01:27:27.870] but someone's head may also be shaped like an egg
[01:27:28.370 --> 01:27:30.770] or a banana, you know,
[01:27:30.870 --> 01:27:33.490] mainly because the angle you see it in or perspective.
[01:27:34.430 --> 01:27:38.470] Do you compartmentalize anything of such?
[01:27:43.480 --> 01:27:45.100] Man, this is a stumper.
[01:27:47.360 --> 01:27:51.560] And I honestly feel like this is one of those questions
[01:27:51.560 --> 01:27:54.420] that even after I answer it here today,
[01:27:54.440 --> 01:27:56.100] I'm gonna continue to ponder on
[01:27:56.100 --> 01:28:00.740] and I try to pride myself on being self-aware,
[01:28:00.840 --> 01:28:03.280] but we can all only be so self-aware.
[01:28:04.420 --> 01:28:08.780] So, you know, it'll start to make me really look at
[01:28:08.780 --> 01:28:11.480] myself as a designer in a way that I don't know
[01:28:11.480 --> 01:28:14.200] that I have really sat and thought about.
[01:28:19.550 --> 01:28:27.230] I definitely like to look at things as shapes.
[01:28:27.790 --> 01:28:32.350] So I don't know if I really have a one way
[01:28:32.350 --> 01:28:35.750] that I like to do things or I correlate things,
[01:28:36.130 --> 01:28:40.350] but it's more of a project-based thing.
[01:28:40.910 --> 01:28:43.090] Like I working in furniture sales
[01:28:43.990 --> 01:28:45.110] and like, you know,
[01:28:45.230 --> 01:28:47.290] helping people with layouts of their rooms.
[01:28:48.430 --> 01:28:50.870] I can kind of like sometimes break furniture down
[01:28:50.870 --> 01:28:52.430] into shapes and like movement.
[01:28:52.510 --> 01:28:53.850] So it was kind of like, okay.
[01:28:54.190 --> 01:28:56.430] And sometimes like my mind will just like move
[01:28:56.430 --> 01:28:57.750] and I'll say, oh no, do this.
[01:28:57.890 --> 01:28:59.430] And then that and da da da put that there
[01:28:59.430 --> 01:29:03.570] and put this here because for whatever reason in my mind,
[01:29:03.790 --> 01:29:06.930] like that makes the most sense aesthetically.
[01:29:06.950 --> 01:29:09.970] And I'll try to like describe it to the customer
[01:29:09.970 --> 01:29:12.550] and like they'll like it and they'll be like, oh yeah.
[01:29:12.630 --> 01:29:14.730] But I'm trying to like describe how I got there.
[01:29:14.730 --> 01:29:17.770] Like, you know, because you have these hard lines here.
[01:29:17.770 --> 01:29:19.630] You want to kind of soften that a little more
[01:29:19.630 --> 01:29:22.730] with some curvature here or, you know,
[01:29:23.570 --> 01:29:25.290] you have this L shape here.
[01:29:25.290 --> 01:29:27.410] So let's put something over here on the other side
[01:29:27.410 --> 01:29:29.270] in this corner that's smaller.
[01:29:29.430 --> 01:29:31.710] Like, you know, you need something to balance this side.
[01:29:31.810 --> 01:29:33.430] Like I'm really, I like balance,
[01:29:33.450 --> 01:29:36.810] but I also think that sometimes imbalance is balance.
[01:29:37.410 --> 01:29:41.290] Like, if I have like, as far as decorating,
[01:29:41.390 --> 01:29:44.410] if there's like a small cluster of like three things
[01:29:44.410 --> 01:29:46.490] of something that's either skinny or small.
[01:29:47.590 --> 01:29:49.650] And then there's something like on a mantle.
[01:29:49.830 --> 01:29:52.410] People asked about help with their mantle all the time
[01:29:52.410 --> 01:29:55.610] when I worked at my old job and like decorating it
[01:29:55.610 --> 01:29:58.730] and wanting to balance it, but wanting to like shake it up.
[01:29:58.790 --> 01:30:00.170] Okay, well, you can do a small group
[01:30:00.170 --> 01:30:01.610] of three of this over here.
[01:30:01.610 --> 01:30:03.490] And then one big thing over here.
[01:30:03.490 --> 01:30:04.710] To me, that's still balance.
[01:30:04.850 --> 01:30:07.630] Even though it's not the same exact object
[01:30:08.370 --> 01:30:12.270] on either side is balance and weight, I guess.
[01:30:12.530 --> 01:30:13.090] Contrast.
[01:30:13.390 --> 01:30:16.230] Yeah, but I, and I'm really big on contrast.
[01:30:16.370 --> 01:30:19.670] Like I love the concept of contrast.
[01:30:19.810 --> 01:30:21.210] I love color theory.
[01:30:21.830 --> 01:30:23.870] I'm reading a color theory book right now
[01:30:23.870 --> 01:30:28.130] that I got from the Museum of Art in DC,
[01:30:28.310 --> 01:30:30.230] the National Gallery of Art last year.
[01:30:30.310 --> 01:30:31.650] I bought this book on color theory
[01:30:31.650 --> 01:30:34.710] and I've been reading it just like about color
[01:30:34.710 --> 01:30:36.210] over the years.
[01:30:38.190 --> 01:30:39.970] I love complimentary colors.
[01:30:40.470 --> 01:30:43.450] So if I can like pop in, like, even if it's not,
[01:30:43.690 --> 01:30:46.070] like, you know, blue and orange
[01:30:46.070 --> 01:30:48.650] is probably my favorite complimentary color set.
[01:30:48.650 --> 01:30:56.570] But even if it's blue and like yellow,
[01:30:57.030 --> 01:31:01.450] or like, you know, like, I understand the color wheel too.
[01:31:01.630 --> 01:31:03.590] And like, you know, how anagolis colors
[01:31:03.590 --> 01:31:06.090] can also be kind of pulled, like, you know,
[01:31:06.090 --> 01:31:09.210] in ways to make the, it doesn't have to be exactly
[01:31:09.210 --> 01:31:11.550] across on the color wheel, but if it's like,
[01:31:12.170 --> 01:31:14.730] you know, in that range, like it can work.
[01:31:14.970 --> 01:31:17.630] And like, yeah, that's like my thing.
[01:31:19.670 --> 01:31:22.690] Yeah, so I don't know if that answered that question,
[01:31:25.230 --> 01:31:28.050] but there are things where I'll say like,
[01:31:28.230 --> 01:31:30.310] okay, I think I kind of, like, if you have
[01:31:30.310 --> 01:31:32.610] like certain textures, like, you know, I don't,
[01:31:34.310 --> 01:31:36.310] you just want to like have enough of,
[01:31:36.410 --> 01:31:37.970] I don't know, I don't know.
[01:31:38.170 --> 01:31:39.330] You was trying to have everything
[01:31:39.330 --> 01:31:41.170] promised in your, your mind.
[01:31:41.350 --> 01:31:43.690] Yeah, it makes sense to me.
[01:31:45.190 --> 01:31:46.690] True, okay.
[01:31:46.690 --> 01:31:49.590] So I like to ask a lot of artists this question,
[01:31:51.030 --> 01:31:53.630] but you're a unique artist and also entrepreneur.
[01:31:54.470 --> 01:31:55.990] So it may be a little different for you,
[01:31:56.030 --> 01:31:59.210] but you know, we live in Cleveland, you know,
[01:31:59.290 --> 01:32:02.310] there's days we may experience the rain,
[01:32:02.450 --> 01:32:06.930] the sunshine, snows, warm, cold all in one day.
[01:32:08.090 --> 01:32:09.870] So taking that in mind,
[01:32:10.730 --> 01:32:14.370] how would you explain your creative process
[01:32:14.370 --> 01:32:16.650] if it was a weathercast, forecast?
[01:32:19.510 --> 01:32:22.550] Like if it was one of those days, you know?
[01:32:22.790 --> 01:32:25.750] Well, just your creative mindset, a process.
[01:32:27.070 --> 01:32:31.450] Like for mine, it's like gentle rain,
[01:32:31.530 --> 01:32:34.950] like a drizzle on a warm sunny day to like refresh you.
[01:32:35.450 --> 01:32:36.650] And you know, I'm always in motion.
[01:32:36.790 --> 01:32:38.630] So the rain is always in motion.
[01:32:38.890 --> 01:32:41.350] And the thing about the puddles is collaborating
[01:32:41.350 --> 01:32:43.350] and building and building and growing and growing.
[01:32:43.790 --> 01:32:46.570] So that's how I explain my creative process.
[01:32:48.540 --> 01:32:50.680] Oh, I see what you're saying.
[01:32:51.260 --> 01:32:54.140] Okay, okay, okay, okay.
[01:32:54.440 --> 01:32:56.900] What weather forecast would I give?
[01:33:03.390 --> 01:33:04.490] Partially sunny.
[01:33:05.570 --> 01:33:07.490] Partially sunny, so cloudy or sunny?
[01:33:08.550 --> 01:33:09.570] Mm-hmm, mm-hmm.
[01:33:09.830 --> 01:33:14.170] Because I think like there's balance there.
[01:33:14.290 --> 01:33:16.530] Like, you know, it's not complete sunshine,
[01:33:16.670 --> 01:33:18.690] but it's not complete overcast either.
[01:33:18.690 --> 01:33:22.690] And so there's that contrast, you go with contrast.
[01:33:23.210 --> 01:33:25.170] There's that contrast of those two things
[01:33:25.170 --> 01:33:27.510] that are kind of opposite, but working together.
[01:33:28.510 --> 01:33:30.050] So kind of like bringing,
[01:33:31.190 --> 01:33:33.230] and like, you know, a lot of the times aesthetic
[01:33:33.230 --> 01:33:37.530] and aesthetically pleasing things or spaces
[01:33:37.530 --> 01:33:40.490] and functionality, sometimes they don't always
[01:33:40.490 --> 01:33:41.350] go hand in hand.
[01:33:41.690 --> 01:33:44.770] Something can look really cool and look really good,
[01:33:44.770 --> 01:33:46.910] but it's not functional,
[01:33:47.010 --> 01:33:54.630] or it's not really able to be done or built.
[01:33:55.670 --> 01:33:56.330] So I don't-
[01:33:56.330 --> 01:33:57.630] That's what you mean by functional?
[01:33:58.190 --> 01:33:58.730] Yeah.
[01:33:58.750 --> 01:34:02.030] Like it's not structurally sound.
[01:34:02.070 --> 01:34:04.630] Like it's not something that can actually be done
[01:34:04.630 --> 01:34:08.050] because of all of these other things that may,
[01:34:08.450 --> 01:34:09.310] it can be anything.
[01:34:09.490 --> 01:34:11.370] Like, you know, something is behind that wall,
[01:34:11.390 --> 01:34:13.150] or, you know, this is rotted out,
[01:34:13.150 --> 01:34:15.150] or that's not gonna be stable.
[01:34:15.230 --> 01:34:16.490] It'll cancel either.
[01:34:16.490 --> 01:34:18.790] Like, you know, we can't do that.
[01:34:18.890 --> 01:34:20.530] Or, you know, you won't have enough space
[01:34:20.530 --> 01:34:21.690] to operate around.
[01:34:22.130 --> 01:34:23.450] Like, you know, when you have an island,
[01:34:23.510 --> 01:34:25.270] you're supposed to have 36 inches
[01:34:25.270 --> 01:34:26.630] around the island of nothing.
[01:34:26.870 --> 01:34:28.710] So that people can move about
[01:34:28.710 --> 01:34:30.250] around the island in the kitchen.
[01:34:30.350 --> 01:34:30.690] Yeah.
[01:34:31.310 --> 01:34:33.270] And everybody doesn't know that, you know,
[01:34:33.470 --> 01:34:34.330] understandably so.
[01:34:34.670 --> 01:34:38.230] So, you know, you can't get that size island in here
[01:34:38.230 --> 01:34:39.050] because it's not gonna work.
[01:34:39.110 --> 01:34:41.670] It might look good, but it won't work.
[01:34:43.850 --> 01:34:45.330] So it's like-
[01:34:46.290 --> 01:34:49.930] Sunshine, in the sense of, you know,
[01:34:50.050 --> 01:34:52.550] it's bright, it's cheery, it's what you wanna do.
[01:34:53.230 --> 01:34:55.350] And then, you know, clouds are usually associated
[01:34:55.350 --> 01:34:57.290] with like more drab feelings.
[01:34:57.530 --> 01:34:59.430] I'm like, you know, sunshine is more like, you know,
[01:34:59.530 --> 01:35:00.990] good days, happiness, whatever.
[01:35:01.110 --> 01:35:03.290] That's like your creativity at its peak
[01:35:03.290 --> 01:35:04.930] with your dream, whatever.
[01:35:05.390 --> 01:35:08.090] And then, you know, clouds are, you know,
[01:35:08.130 --> 01:35:09.990] a lot of the times often looked at
[01:35:09.990 --> 01:35:11.250] as like not a great thing.
[01:35:11.390 --> 01:35:13.890] Oh, it's cloudy, it's drab today, you know, whatever.
[01:35:13.890 --> 01:35:17.330] But they're realistic because they have to come.
[01:35:17.450 --> 01:35:18.790] Like the rain has to come.
[01:35:19.790 --> 01:35:23.810] You know, sometimes the sun can't shine that way,
[01:35:23.910 --> 01:35:25.830] you know, the same, the way that it did
[01:35:25.830 --> 01:35:29.450] a couple of days ago today because of whatever reason.
[01:35:29.510 --> 01:35:31.330] Like the grass needs this water.
[01:35:31.790 --> 01:35:34.470] You know, the trees need it, the animals need it.
[01:35:34.630 --> 01:35:36.230] And if we don't have the grass,
[01:35:36.370 --> 01:35:37.710] then, you know, cows can't eat.
[01:35:37.930 --> 01:35:39.550] And, you know, it's a trickle effect.
[01:35:39.770 --> 01:35:41.550] So like, you know, there's all of these things that,
[01:35:41.550 --> 01:35:44.690] so that's kind of more of like the realism,
[01:35:45.470 --> 01:35:46.850] I guess, I would say.
[01:35:47.090 --> 01:35:49.290] And it's me bringing both of those together.
[01:35:49.610 --> 01:35:50.490] Partially simo.
[01:35:51.190 --> 01:35:52.330] 36 inches, okay.
[01:35:52.510 --> 01:35:56.530] So that's and neurology, that's the divine nine.
[01:35:56.850 --> 01:35:59.050] So, oh, completion, wait for that.
[01:36:00.930 --> 01:36:01.610] Is that okay?
[01:36:02.730 --> 01:36:04.930] So kind of wrapping up the interview.
[01:36:06.510 --> 01:36:09.490] How would you say, you know, me being the media,
[01:36:10.150 --> 01:36:14.470] you know, I'm big on a lot of things
[01:36:14.470 --> 01:36:16.370] that's being shown and seen.
[01:36:16.550 --> 01:36:17.110] Mm-hmm.
[01:36:17.130 --> 01:36:19.090] You know, also having a marketing background.
[01:36:20.710 --> 01:36:24.550] But how important is media influence
[01:36:25.130 --> 01:36:26.610] for interior designers?
[01:36:30.550 --> 01:36:31.410] Like you said, you know,
[01:36:31.410 --> 01:36:33.990] you may forget to set up a camera or take pictures
[01:36:33.990 --> 01:36:35.610] because you'd be in the process.
[01:36:35.770 --> 01:36:36.950] But how important is it?
[01:36:37.150 --> 01:36:38.170] It's very important.
[01:36:38.230 --> 01:36:40.070] You have to show people what you can do.
[01:36:40.570 --> 01:36:41.870] And rightfully so.
[01:36:41.870 --> 01:36:44.750] That's why I'm so big on sending my clients
[01:36:45.270 --> 01:36:47.930] all of my deliverables so that they can see.
[01:36:48.010 --> 01:36:50.570] I want people to feel comfortable coming to me.
[01:36:50.890 --> 01:36:51.930] I don't want them to be like,
[01:36:51.930 --> 01:36:53.590] ooh, I'm taking my chance on this girl.
[01:36:53.750 --> 01:36:55.710] And baby, I don't know what she about to do in here.
[01:36:56.270 --> 01:37:00.850] I don't want them to be like on edge or not sure.
[01:37:01.050 --> 01:37:05.270] I wanna build my portfolio and continue to do that
[01:37:05.270 --> 01:37:08.870] so that I can build my clientele
[01:37:08.870 --> 01:37:11.490] and showcase what I can do off of integrity,
[01:37:12.150 --> 01:37:13.570] off of what I've actually done,
[01:37:13.710 --> 01:37:16.010] off of what I actually can do, off of the truth.
[01:37:16.310 --> 01:37:18.390] Like that's very important to me.
[01:37:19.870 --> 01:37:21.490] Like I have a conscience, I swear.
[01:37:21.630 --> 01:37:22.810] Like I know some people go,
[01:37:23.010 --> 01:37:25.210] oh Lord, no, mine will beat me up.
[01:37:27.310 --> 01:37:29.430] So like, you know, it's very important
[01:37:29.430 --> 01:37:31.270] to be able to honestly show what it is
[01:37:31.270 --> 01:37:32.270] that you can do for people
[01:37:32.270 --> 01:37:33.650] to be able to wanna come to you.
[01:37:34.170 --> 01:37:34.830] That's art.
[01:37:35.070 --> 01:37:36.850] You know, people are drawn to you
[01:37:36.850 --> 01:37:38.310] based upon what you can show them,
[01:37:38.310 --> 01:37:40.430] what you can see, what they can see,
[01:37:40.610 --> 01:37:44.050] how you can use your expertise
[01:37:44.050 --> 01:37:47.350] to create something that they wouldn't have thought of.
[01:37:49.730 --> 01:37:51.870] Something I never even thought of.
[01:37:53.550 --> 01:37:55.950] Not to reflect on that myself,
[01:37:56.150 --> 01:37:59.550] just as a creative artist and entrepreneur.
[01:38:00.650 --> 01:38:01.390] Yes, yes.
[01:38:01.550 --> 01:38:03.930] But if we had to sum this interview up
[01:38:03.930 --> 01:38:07.970] with three to five key takeaways,
[01:38:07.970 --> 01:38:10.570] maybe it's something you mentioned we spoke about
[01:38:10.570 --> 01:38:13.610] or something that you, you know, didn't get to say
[01:38:13.610 --> 01:38:15.490] or something that's on your mind,
[01:38:16.130 --> 01:38:19.630] but you want someone to take away from this interview.
[01:38:19.730 --> 01:38:20.910] Maybe they listened to it
[01:38:20.910 --> 01:38:22.550] or they're about to listen to it
[01:38:22.550 --> 01:38:23.750] and kind of heard this.
[01:38:24.430 --> 01:38:27.190] What are three to five key takeaways you'd say?
[01:38:29.470 --> 01:38:31.330] I would say,
[01:38:32.110 --> 01:38:33.970] so I'm gonna start with like my entrepreneurs
[01:38:33.970 --> 01:38:35.550] and my fellow creatives.
[01:38:36.190 --> 01:38:39.570] I think it's very important to always remember
[01:38:39.570 --> 01:38:41.630] that there's something that you can learn.
[01:38:43.210 --> 01:38:45.770] Stay open to learning always.
[01:38:46.190 --> 01:38:47.990] I know a lot of the times, like, you know,
[01:38:48.070 --> 01:38:50.030] especially when you get to like a quote unquote
[01:38:50.030 --> 01:38:51.550] expert level of something,
[01:38:52.410 --> 01:38:54.430] you might start to feel like you,
[01:38:54.590 --> 01:38:55.570] can't nobody tell me nothing.
[01:38:57.990 --> 01:39:00.310] I'd be a liar if I said that I've never had moments
[01:39:00.310 --> 01:39:01.330] where I felt like that.
[01:39:01.350 --> 01:39:03.010] Like, you know, you can't, you know, whatever,
[01:39:03.010 --> 01:39:06.550] but that's about, you know, whatever the case is,
[01:39:06.550 --> 01:39:08.270] but you can always learn something.
[01:39:08.570 --> 01:39:10.150] There's always a different perspective
[01:39:10.150 --> 01:39:11.550] that you can get from somebody.
[01:39:11.930 --> 01:39:15.310] I think it's very important to either apprentice
[01:39:15.310 --> 01:39:17.350] or intern under people.
[01:39:17.590 --> 01:39:19.450] So that's like one of my biggest takeaways
[01:39:19.450 --> 01:39:21.670] that I always try to leave interviews
[01:39:21.670 --> 01:39:23.290] or like talks or whatever with
[01:39:23.290 --> 01:39:26.410] is like how important it is to apprentice under
[01:39:26.410 --> 01:39:29.490] and learn from somebody that does what you're doing.
[01:39:29.490 --> 01:39:34.010] I, in my four and a half years in college,
[01:39:34.130 --> 01:39:36.110] I was most grateful for my internship.
[01:39:37.090 --> 01:39:40.410] I learned, I went back to school after that summer
[01:39:40.410 --> 01:39:42.970] and I literally told my professor,
[01:39:43.230 --> 01:39:44.790] like the last thing y'all should have did
[01:39:44.790 --> 01:39:46.190] was have me get an internship
[01:39:46.190 --> 01:39:47.850] because I feel like I learned more there
[01:39:47.850 --> 01:39:50.030] than I've been learning here in the past few years.
[01:39:50.990 --> 01:39:51.730] Oh, cool.
[01:39:52.450 --> 01:39:54.530] And, you know, not for not, like, you know,
[01:39:54.550 --> 01:39:55.930] I learned a lot in school too,
[01:39:55.930 --> 01:39:58.330] but it was, I was able to apply a lot more
[01:39:58.330 --> 01:40:00.710] when I was working under somebody like that.
[01:40:00.730 --> 01:40:03.150] She was able to show me the ropes in a lot of ways.
[01:40:03.950 --> 01:40:06.350] Never be too big to ask for help.
[01:40:06.770 --> 01:40:08.390] I think it's great, like, you know,
[01:40:08.390 --> 01:40:11.110] you said that we're in an environment in Cleveland here
[01:40:11.110 --> 01:40:13.210] with creatives where we are more collaborative.
[01:40:13.450 --> 01:40:14.850] I hate to hear that it wasn't like that,
[01:40:14.850 --> 01:40:17.690] but I'm happy to hear that it's grown to that
[01:40:17.690 --> 01:40:20.850] because you learn so much even just from your peers,
[01:40:20.950 --> 01:40:22.990] or even if you guys are learning together,
[01:40:23.250 --> 01:40:27.070] you know, like how they may decide to decode something
[01:40:27.070 --> 01:40:29.250] and you decide to do it are two different ways
[01:40:29.250 --> 01:40:30.610] and you learn different things
[01:40:30.610 --> 01:40:32.910] because you decided to decode it in different ways
[01:40:32.910 --> 01:40:34.870] or approach it in different ways.
[01:40:38.120 --> 01:40:40.980] Something else to leave people with.
[01:40:41.600 --> 01:40:44.800] Figure out your why I think is really important,
[01:40:44.960 --> 01:40:47.980] like what drives you because like I,
[01:40:48.280 --> 01:40:50.320] people always ask like, oh, what have you been up to?
[01:40:50.360 --> 01:40:52.960] And I'm like working and they're like,
[01:40:53.040 --> 01:40:54.320] you know, what else have you been doing?
[01:40:54.560 --> 01:40:56.940] Like, and I'll do fun things here and there too.
[01:40:56.940 --> 01:40:58.620] I've grown to learn,
[01:40:58.660 --> 01:41:00.160] I guess I could say as a takeaway too,
[01:41:00.700 --> 01:41:02.420] if you are a workaholic like me,
[01:41:02.420 --> 01:41:04.480] definitely make sure that you're taking care of yourself
[01:41:04.480 --> 01:41:06.480] and doing things for yourself that are also fun
[01:41:06.480 --> 01:41:08.480] and having a sort of a social life.
[01:41:09.300 --> 01:41:12.860] But I really do enjoy working on my business.
[01:41:13.060 --> 01:41:14.560] Like I just, I enjoy it.
[01:41:14.560 --> 01:41:15.980] Like it's days that I get up
[01:41:15.980 --> 01:41:17.460] and I'll forget to even eat
[01:41:17.460 --> 01:41:19.240] because I just, I'm ready to hop up
[01:41:19.240 --> 01:41:20.100] and just start working.
[01:41:20.780 --> 01:41:23.360] Like that's when you have a why and a purpose
[01:41:23.360 --> 01:41:25.200] and a passion behind what you're doing,
[01:41:25.540 --> 01:41:26.740] it sounds so cliche,
[01:41:26.740 --> 01:41:27.960] but it's really not work.
[01:41:28.400 --> 01:41:31.560] It's just like, you're just doing.
[01:41:31.740 --> 01:41:34.400] Like I don't know how to describe it.
[01:41:34.500 --> 01:41:35.880] It doesn't feel like work.
[01:41:35.980 --> 01:41:37.240] It just feels like you're doing,
[01:41:38.040 --> 01:41:41.340] I guess like your life's mission in a sense.
[01:41:41.360 --> 01:41:42.940] Like this is what I do.
[01:41:42.980 --> 01:41:45.500] Like this is what makes me feel these ways.
[01:41:45.540 --> 01:41:47.240] Like this is what makes me feel happy.
[01:41:49.000 --> 01:41:49.980] Stay organized.
[01:41:50.020 --> 01:41:53.000] It can be a lot to be an entrepreneur,
[01:41:53.160 --> 01:41:54.980] especially starting out if you're on your own.
[01:41:54.980 --> 01:41:56.900] So figure out how you got to organize
[01:41:56.900 --> 01:42:00.020] and stay organized and to-do list all your friend.
[01:42:02.180 --> 01:42:03.760] I'm glad you mentioned that too
[01:42:03.760 --> 01:42:06.520] because like I've definitely had days
[01:42:06.520 --> 01:42:10.020] where I haven't eaten, did anything,
[01:42:10.200 --> 01:42:12.040] but what I was focused on,
[01:42:13.360 --> 01:42:15.240] I know there was a few writers,
[01:42:15.460 --> 01:42:18.820] famous writers that had that same kind of mindset
[01:42:18.820 --> 01:42:21.800] or routine where they wasn't getting up
[01:42:21.800 --> 01:42:22.940] from their desk sitting there
[01:42:22.940 --> 01:42:24.980] and then 18 hours straight until they finished
[01:42:24.980 --> 01:42:29.460] that chapter or whatever they was working on for that day.
[01:42:29.560 --> 01:42:30.660] And since I was done,
[01:42:31.660 --> 01:42:33.260] they wasn't getting up or whatever.
[01:42:33.700 --> 01:42:35.960] And like I've definitely had days like that
[01:42:35.960 --> 01:42:38.740] where it's been almost 24 hours,
[01:42:39.000 --> 01:42:42.380] like even no sleep, nothing to eat.
[01:42:42.400 --> 01:42:43.360] You're just focused.
[01:42:43.840 --> 01:42:45.760] I was even like that as a kid though.
[01:42:45.900 --> 01:42:47.580] My grandma used to hate it
[01:42:47.580 --> 01:42:49.240] because I would come in from school
[01:42:49.240 --> 01:42:51.080] and be at my grandma's house
[01:42:51.080 --> 01:42:53.500] and I would try to get all my homework done
[01:42:53.500 --> 01:42:54.400] before I did anything.
[01:42:54.740 --> 01:42:57.080] Now I was allowed to watch TV while I did homework
[01:42:57.080 --> 01:42:58.520] because I still got everything done.
[01:42:58.580 --> 01:43:00.040] So I mean, I had a little bit of outlet,
[01:43:00.040 --> 01:43:02.060] but like I would just sit down
[01:43:02.060 --> 01:43:03.380] and she'd be like, do you want a snack?
[01:43:03.500 --> 01:43:04.220] Do you want to eat?
[01:43:04.300 --> 01:43:05.840] And I'd be like, nope, not until I'm done.
[01:43:06.260 --> 01:43:08.040] Like I want to finish this first one I'm done.
[01:43:08.080 --> 01:43:09.580] Then I'll sit and I'll eat a snack.
[01:43:10.600 --> 01:43:11.660] But you got to give me a minute.
[01:43:11.700 --> 01:43:13.900] She'll be like, she hated it.
[01:43:16.200 --> 01:43:17.540] Yeah, okay, okay, okay.
[01:43:18.320 --> 01:43:23.020] Definitely appreciate it and always like to ask
[01:43:25.710 --> 01:43:29.450] something that's motivating and encouraging for the audience.
[01:43:29.990 --> 01:43:31.310] It could be a quote that you heard
[01:43:31.310 --> 01:43:34.390] or maybe even some of your personal words.
[01:43:34.870 --> 01:43:40.190] What would you give an inspiring and new entrepreneur?
[01:43:41.930 --> 01:43:44.650] The saying about things being brick by brick
[01:43:45.210 --> 01:43:47.710] and not focusing on each brick
[01:43:47.710 --> 01:43:53.310] and laying that properly and not the whole wall at once.
[01:43:55.130 --> 01:43:57.090] Because once the wall is built,
[01:43:58.090 --> 01:44:01.210] you can tell what had a good foundation and what didn't.
[01:44:01.390 --> 01:44:05.550] You can tell where time was spent and where it wasn't
[01:44:05.550 --> 01:44:08.190] and where detail was placed and where it wasn't.
[01:44:08.510 --> 01:44:11.050] The other thing about that too is
[01:44:11.750 --> 01:44:14.550] it can be overwhelming looking at the bigger picture
[01:44:14.550 --> 01:44:16.190] and you don't know where to start.
[01:44:16.190 --> 01:44:18.890] So, that's why it's really good to sit down
[01:44:18.890 --> 01:44:22.070] and strategize and think about the bigger picture
[01:44:22.070 --> 01:44:23.230] and then go backwards.
[01:44:23.470 --> 01:44:24.950] And then, okay, how do I get to that?
[01:44:25.030 --> 01:44:26.110] Okay, well, how do I do that?
[01:44:26.130 --> 01:44:27.030] Well, how do I do that?
[01:44:27.050 --> 01:44:29.310] Until you get to that first step, that first brick.
[01:44:30.090 --> 01:44:35.470] And it's just about little deposits every day.
[01:44:35.750 --> 01:44:37.910] And every day your deposits won't look the same.
[01:44:38.010 --> 01:44:39.650] Some days you'll deposit 100%,
[01:44:39.650 --> 01:44:41.150] some days you'll deposit 10.
[01:44:41.350 --> 01:44:44.350] But that 10% works towards the bigger picture.
[01:44:44.350 --> 01:44:46.890] Even if you just lay one brick that day
[01:44:46.890 --> 01:44:50.090] as opposed to laying 100 like you did a couple days ago,
[01:44:51.030 --> 01:44:54.810] that's still a part of your journey and enjoy the journey.
[01:44:54.910 --> 01:44:56.110] Yeah, it's still progress.
[01:44:58.130 --> 01:45:02.790] And I think Steve Jobs' quote,
[01:45:03.150 --> 01:45:05.070] like you gotta connect the dots backwards.
[01:45:05.750 --> 01:45:07.570] For success, you gotta connect the dots backwards
[01:45:07.570 --> 01:45:09.450] and go backwards to move forward.
[01:45:10.810 --> 01:45:12.590] I mean, sometimes it can be scary
[01:45:12.590 --> 01:45:14.910] and I used to write like that,
[01:45:15.070 --> 01:45:16.430] like kind of write the end in first
[01:45:16.430 --> 01:45:18.970] and then kind of wrap it around
[01:45:18.970 --> 01:45:20.870] towards the middle and beginning like, okay,
[01:45:20.910 --> 01:45:23.150] once I got the end or how I want it to end,
[01:45:23.590 --> 01:45:25.270] I could tell the story better
[01:45:25.270 --> 01:45:26.790] and craft the story better,
[01:45:27.410 --> 01:45:29.330] whether it's as fictional or non-fiction.
[01:45:32.390 --> 01:45:34.150] I always tell people to plan
[01:45:34.150 --> 01:45:37.510] and map out what they wanna do and put it on paper.
[01:45:37.830 --> 01:45:39.890] Yeah, people come in with so many ideas.
[01:45:39.910 --> 01:45:41.010] I have so many ideas.
[01:45:41.070 --> 01:45:41.870] I tell them.
[01:45:41.870 --> 01:45:43.610] All right, write it down, write it down.
[01:45:43.730 --> 01:45:45.870] They even think I'm joking or I'm serious.
[01:45:46.650 --> 01:45:48.770] Write it down, get it out your head,
[01:45:49.370 --> 01:45:51.750] make it come to life because you're really doing that
[01:45:51.750 --> 01:45:53.910] when you write it down and you journal
[01:45:53.910 --> 01:45:56.970] and you self-reflect and really, you're like, okay.
[01:45:57.550 --> 01:46:00.150] It's a step forward to what you really wanna do.
[01:46:01.230 --> 01:46:02.790] Like I always like to say,
[01:46:03.250 --> 01:46:04.630] done is better than perfect
[01:46:04.630 --> 01:46:07.950] and as an artist and being a perfectionist,
[01:46:08.230 --> 01:46:09.270] it can be hard sometimes,
[01:46:09.350 --> 01:46:11.410] but you gotta get out your head
[01:46:11.410 --> 01:46:13.010] and you gotta complete.
[01:46:13.250 --> 01:46:14.390] You gotta start somewhere.
[01:46:14.470 --> 01:46:14.910] You gotta be smarter.
[01:46:15.750 --> 01:46:15.990] So.
[01:46:17.110 --> 01:46:18.310] And you learn as you go.
[01:46:18.830 --> 01:46:19.810] Yes, yes, yes.
[01:46:20.310 --> 01:46:21.750] And we're telling the audience
[01:46:21.750 --> 01:46:23.910] and everybody listening in,
[01:46:24.210 --> 01:46:26.410] find you if they wanna book you,
[01:46:26.690 --> 01:46:28.930] look you up, contact you, all that good stuff.
[01:46:29.450 --> 01:46:32.110] Yes, so on my social media accounts,
[01:46:32.490 --> 01:46:35.930] my Instagram is at JustDesigns underscore LLC.
[01:46:37.390 --> 01:46:39.570] Facebook is JustDesigns LLC.
[01:46:40.090 --> 01:46:45.630] You can also go on www.JustDesigns.net and find me
[01:46:45.630 --> 01:46:48.110] and then on there, you'll be able to see
[01:46:48.110 --> 01:46:50.670] all of my contact information like my email,
[01:46:50.930 --> 01:46:54.750] Justine at JustDesigns.net or my phone number
[01:46:54.750 --> 01:46:56.510] so you can contact me that way.
[01:46:57.170 --> 01:46:58.070] Okay, okay.
[01:46:58.490 --> 01:47:00.730] And I will have everything in the show notes.
[01:47:00.750 --> 01:47:04.510] So if you're driving, cooking with Justine
[01:47:04.510 --> 01:47:06.550] or you know, doing something
[01:47:06.550 --> 01:47:08.330] but you have this in the background,
[01:47:08.330 --> 01:47:13.110] you're not able to write it down or find her on social,
[01:47:13.610 --> 01:47:15.950] it will be in the show notes for you to reference.
[01:47:16.930 --> 01:47:18.670] And as we wrap this up,
[01:47:19.210 --> 01:47:22.670] remember this is Alienize Photos Industry Talk,
[01:47:23.390 --> 01:47:26.430] the podcast for creative entrepreneurs.
[01:47:27.510 --> 01:47:31.690] I am the founder and director of Alienize Photos,
[01:47:31.810 --> 01:47:34.570] Mr. Photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson
[01:47:34.570 --> 01:47:36.950] or most people know me as Alien.
[01:47:38.610 --> 01:47:42.950] And you know, you can book me for event photography,
[01:47:43.650 --> 01:47:46.910] media coaching, you know, strategy if you want to,
[01:47:47.230 --> 01:47:52.730] idea, I call it ideology, not aliology,
[01:47:53.850 --> 01:47:55.950] but I'm tug-twisted right now.
[01:47:56.430 --> 01:47:59.690] Ideation sessions, you know, bouncing off ideas
[01:47:59.690 --> 01:48:03.110] and you know, having strategy behind it all
[01:48:04.290 --> 01:48:06.850] and all my social media contacts
[01:48:06.850 --> 01:48:08.370] will also be in the show notes.
[01:48:08.870 --> 01:48:10.270] But if you want to take it down now,
[01:48:10.350 --> 01:48:13.950] you can follow me at Alienize Photos
[01:48:13.950 --> 01:48:17.330] and find me and book me for more information.
[01:48:18.350 --> 01:48:21.330] Visit alienizephotos.com
[01:48:21.330 --> 01:48:25.790] as Alienize with a Z, Photos with a S.com.
[01:48:26.470 --> 01:48:29.790] And if you haven't downloaded the social media app,
[01:48:30.350 --> 01:48:34.310] fan base, oh, this is strictly for creators
[01:48:34.310 --> 01:48:37.410] and to help you get monetized with everything you do.
[01:48:38.230 --> 01:48:40.210] So go to your media store.
[01:48:40.370 --> 01:48:43.850] If you got Apple, Android, go to your app store
[01:48:43.850 --> 01:48:45.770] and download fan base.
[01:48:45.910 --> 01:48:48.310] And I had a good time, you know,
[01:48:48.430 --> 01:48:50.370] meeting a good brother, Isaac Hayes,
[01:48:50.470 --> 01:48:55.130] who is the founder of fan base over in Atlanta.
[01:48:55.890 --> 01:48:58.210] And yeah, I actually have some equity in that.
[01:48:58.330 --> 01:49:01.210] So, you know, help us both out and download it.
[01:49:01.290 --> 01:49:02.230] Give us some feedback.
[01:49:02.230 --> 01:49:04.530] Tell us how you like it and enjoy it.
[01:49:05.330 --> 01:49:07.270] I'm not sure if I'm missing anything,
[01:49:07.270 --> 01:49:10.150] but I definitely want to shout out my media partners again,
[01:49:10.770 --> 01:49:12.630] Launch Arts Media,
[01:49:13.750 --> 01:49:16.630] who are recording this podcast episode here today,
[01:49:17.250 --> 01:49:19.350] and also The Pull Up Experience.
[01:49:19.690 --> 01:49:23.130] Yes, the top elevation entrepreneur group
[01:49:23.130 --> 01:49:24.410] in Cleveland, Ohio.
[01:49:25.570 --> 01:49:28.250] And yeah, I'm your host, photographer Jackson.
[01:49:28.550 --> 01:49:29.690] This has been a great interview.
[01:49:29.690 --> 01:49:30.810] I agree.
[01:49:31.170 --> 01:49:33.870] Shout out Alien Eyes, shout out Just Designs.
[01:49:34.110 --> 01:49:34.950] Yes, yes, yes.
[01:49:35.110 --> 01:49:38.670] And until next time, I'll talk to you soon.
[01:49:38.910 --> 01:49:40.250] Peace, love, and blessings.

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54. Lai Lai - Melting Magnets Photography
Season 2 · Episode 3
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/lai-lai-melting-magnets-photography
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[00:00:01.740 --> 00:00:09.890] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos industry talk with your host
[00:00:10.380 --> 00:00:20.380] photographer Jackson, alien Steven Jackson, the author, the photographer, which we share a common
[00:00:20.380 --> 00:00:28.000] entrance where we first met being each other's models and photographers and shooting together
[00:00:28.000 --> 00:00:33.320] really learning together and growing together. I gotta say at one point you were my coach,
[00:00:33.700 --> 00:00:40.060] you know, you're younger than me. So it was also an honor to do so many great things together.
[00:00:40.520 --> 00:00:48.180] What said, oh my goodness, going out of the state, flying. I commend you for that. That was all.
[00:00:52.220 --> 00:00:57.040] Well, yeah, definitely wouldn't expect all that, but thank you.
[00:00:59.040 --> 00:01:14.320] Unpack it, but want to introduce yourself to the audience here. My name is. All right.
[00:01:14.980 --> 00:01:17.520] My name is Lay. All right. Hold on one more time.
[00:01:20.040 --> 00:01:25.760] But yeah, thank you so much. Definitely appreciate that. And yeah, my name is Lay Lay,
[00:01:29.330 --> 00:01:37.610] freelance photographer. I go to Kent State now and yeah, we did a hell of a lot of stuff.
[00:01:37.610 --> 00:01:44.650] Oh my goodness, we went to San Diego, pulled the 360 booth across that San Diego beach.
[00:01:45.390 --> 00:01:50.250] That was the experience. That was the whole experience. And I needed my partner.
[00:01:50.670 --> 00:01:53.410] I had to. I needed my partner. That was a lot.
[00:01:59.050 --> 00:02:07.980] The emotion that we captured that day is like, man, just a experience like everybody
[00:02:07.980 --> 00:02:14.720] experience because sometimes we hold in that hurt and that pain. And it's like,
[00:02:14.780 --> 00:02:18.100] you know, I got through my own stuff, but just to see it on another level,
[00:02:18.100 --> 00:02:23.680] you know, someone's family member, you know, son, brother, sister,
[00:02:24.540 --> 00:02:33.540] auntie, mother, like go through this and heavy and you can really feel it.
[00:02:35.250 --> 00:02:42.390] And like, I'm looking at that, like this flash, that wave, the sea of emotions,
[00:02:43.030 --> 00:02:52.470] energy, emotion. And I'd like to ask a lot of the creators this question describing
[00:02:52.470 --> 00:02:57.790] your creator process. How would you describe it as a weather forecast?
[00:02:59.510 --> 00:03:15.940] Describing my creative process as a weather would be a little bit over all over the place,
[00:03:15.940 --> 00:03:24.040] honestly. Like I would describe it like Cleveland weather. Anything can happen tomorrow.
[00:03:25.380 --> 00:03:31.300] It'd be the hottest days, it'd be the coldest days, it'd be the warmest days,
[00:03:31.360 --> 00:03:38.060] the coolest days. Anything can happen. Like anything, like whether the storm,
[00:03:38.340 --> 00:03:45.340] like the storm come, it rain, it pours my emotions. I put my emotions into my projects too.
[00:03:45.340 --> 00:03:52.380] So I do get myself into it. It do be the tears pouring. It do be the
[00:03:54.420 --> 00:04:01.080] cries and the hurting and trying to actually get things perfect. But really interesting to
[00:04:01.080 --> 00:04:04.840] compare it to the weather. Let's say just like how Cleveland weather is,
[00:04:04.940 --> 00:04:09.280] like why are we right there by the lake? Like yes, we get everything. We get the
[00:04:10.400 --> 00:04:18.060] hail, snow, rain, wind blowing, then the sun come out. That's me all in the day, honestly. I mean
[00:04:18.060 --> 00:04:22.660] it might sound a little bipolar, it probably is, but it really sounds a little bit over all
[00:04:22.660 --> 00:04:28.800] over the place. But yes, in a day I could do three photo shoots. I say three because they
[00:04:28.800 --> 00:04:34.520] still got time to take to get across town, but I can do it. How long are your photo shoots?
[00:04:34.520 --> 00:04:41.360] At least two hours at the least. So two. So, you know, so six hours. Yeah. Yeah. And working
[00:04:41.360 --> 00:04:48.280] that out. You got to sleep sometimes. Drive time, eight hours. Yeah. So I'm driving all
[00:04:48.280 --> 00:04:52.680] across Ohio. Sometimes I go to Michigan. Hell, we'll see about Pennsylvania, but.
[00:04:55.200 --> 00:05:06.160] Well, it sounds like you travel a lot. What's your favorite place to travel? Sandusky.
[00:05:06.900 --> 00:05:12.100] Um, the drive there is pretty much straight from Cleveland where I'm at, just straight.
[00:05:12.440 --> 00:05:17.100] Like that's pretty, that's not bad at all. I don't mind getting on the toll. I don't mind
[00:05:17.100 --> 00:05:23.620] taking the streets. I don't, that's cool. Um, but yeah, Sandusky got my favorite stores out
[00:05:23.620 --> 00:05:27.380] there. Same stores we got in Cleveland, same store they got out there, but they got more
[00:05:27.380 --> 00:05:33.440] stores out there. Great. Love it. Yeah. And no, I don't do the Cedar Point stuff. I go to
[00:05:33.440 --> 00:05:39.300] Kalahari. We go to Kalahari all the time though. Yeah. Oh yeah. I've definitely been
[00:05:42.610 --> 00:05:49.390] with E-Rock. You know, my life partner, you know, encouraged me, wanted me for a while.
[00:05:49.750 --> 00:05:55.490] Finally got it. And we shot a music video for E-Rock. I don't know if you heard
[00:05:55.490 --> 00:06:05.550] Higher. But yeah, we shot that out and yeah, Cedar Point. It was, it was wild. It was
[00:06:06.150 --> 00:06:15.160] awesome. Like, oh, well you can't get your camera on the rollercoaster. Yeah. I mean,
[00:06:16.440 --> 00:06:23.420] I got glasses that record, you know, that's nice. Meta glasses. Yeah. Can't wait to see
[00:06:23.420 --> 00:06:28.340] that. I need to talk to the big company so that they can give me the sponsor. Yeah. I gotta
[00:06:28.340 --> 00:06:34.120] show examples of my work, but with the teamwork, I love teamwork and you know,
[00:06:34.760 --> 00:06:38.480] we've done a lot of projects together. What would you say was your favorite project
[00:06:38.480 --> 00:06:49.270] as your partner? With you specifically, I'll show y'all. We can still talk. I'm actually
[00:06:49.270 --> 00:06:52.810] reaching into my camera bag. I'm not too far from it. I'm actually grabbing it right here.
[00:06:52.910 --> 00:07:04.960] I actually keep it as a portfolio, but yeah, where was this taken? You see this? I mean,
[00:07:04.960 --> 00:07:10.860] honestly, I would call it the Bonnie and Clyde type of theme deal here. Yeah. But I mean,
[00:07:10.860 --> 00:07:14.960] honestly, yes, I did print mostly pictures of me. Let's be honest here. I did, but you,
[00:07:14.960 --> 00:07:20.640] I got some pictures of you in here too. Yes, I did. And yes, I like to print out pictures.
[00:07:22.020 --> 00:07:30.170] Yes. I like to print out pictures. I like to have physical copies. Yes. I love it. I will
[00:07:30.770 --> 00:07:34.590] re-edit them though. Like, yeah, we could. Oh my goodness. No, we need to post them.
[00:07:34.630 --> 00:07:37.410] First off, everybody, we ain't never posted them. Y'all don't even know.
[00:07:39.370 --> 00:07:48.000] But I printed them out. Yeah. This is part of my portfolio. Our theme was to,
[00:07:48.000 --> 00:07:56.340] I guess, wear something red. I wore a red velvet dress. The green and the grass pop with the blue
[00:07:56.340 --> 00:08:01.820] in the background and the sky. And some of the pictures came out black and white too,
[00:08:01.820 --> 00:08:06.100] but you know, that works out. I love the black and white. That could be the contrast.
[00:08:06.280 --> 00:08:10.860] You know, it's very well. I love it. So definitely had to print out these pictures.
[00:08:13.220 --> 00:08:15.530] Hopefully we'll be posting these soon. We'll see.
[00:08:16.450 --> 00:08:23.360] Wow. Look out for the project. We definitely had to.
[00:08:23.500 --> 00:08:28.040] You already know. We should actually be recording you looking through it. How about that?
[00:08:29.400 --> 00:09:02.850] Right. Mm hmm. Oh, where the flag at? Yes.
[00:09:04.070 --> 00:09:10.250] Where that flag at? We need it. I need another shoot. I need another shoot. Hold on. I need
[00:09:10.250 --> 00:09:14.530] another shoot. Where that flag at? Then we put it on the time. I had to jump in there. Look
[00:09:15.370 --> 00:09:23.150] love it. Oh, y'all. I love using the timer. Y'all will see me out shooting by myself. I'm an
[00:09:23.150 --> 00:09:28.570] actress, model, photographer, videographer. I will shoot. I wanted to be behind the scenes
[00:09:28.570 --> 00:09:33.930] that day. Like that's crazy. We do the timer. The timer helps. I will buy one by the way.
[00:09:34.070 --> 00:09:43.470] Just let me know how much. How you put together a little thing. Where is it? Oh,
[00:09:43.470 --> 00:09:50.190] shit. Take it back. Y'all can't even see this. Yeah. Love that. Love that. That was beautiful.
[00:09:50.430 --> 00:09:53.550] Merging the brands. That was beautiful. That was really nice, y'all.
[00:09:53.910 --> 00:09:59.390] That was a day. Oh, that's funny how I got the camera.
[00:10:01.370 --> 00:10:07.930] I just saw that. Oh, my God. No, that's terrible. But this bow. But why your head
[00:10:07.930 --> 00:10:16.500] turned around? You're taking the picture. Come on. You see it. Oh,
[00:10:16.500 --> 00:10:22.220] when it showed my face, that is hilarious. That's hilarious. I didn't do that on purpose.
[00:10:23.900 --> 00:10:27.340] Only peeps of women. I mean, do you want an actual copy of this? You can have this.
[00:10:28.880 --> 00:10:32.060] Yes, you can have that. I've shown a million people by now.
[00:10:32.420 --> 00:10:39.340] I need another billion. Another billion. But yeah, I love that. Yes, I keep that in my
[00:10:39.340 --> 00:10:50.980] bag, right? They'd be like, let me see a picture. Hey, this is crazy. I am gorgeous.
[00:10:57.080 --> 00:11:03.600] I love this. So crazy. How long ago was this? 2020. I should have put the year on.
[00:11:04.380 --> 00:11:11.560] Pre-Covid. I should have put the year on. But we don't like pictures with the timestamps
[00:11:11.560 --> 00:11:14.280] no more. We was like, we know this is probably going to be our last photo shoot.
[00:11:14.280 --> 00:11:19.900] We're about to do it up. We can't go outside. Can't see nobody. But hey, we did it. Yeah,
[00:11:19.900 --> 00:11:27.020] we had the whole. It was crazy. I remember. Oh, let me show you another one. You know,
[00:11:27.140 --> 00:11:31.480] you know what? That's crazy. I mean, that was my favorite one. Yes, I think I answered
[00:11:31.480 --> 00:11:43.580] your question. Yes, that was my favorite one. Oh, tuesday. Melton Magnus. 20. Yeah,
[00:11:43.580 --> 00:11:53.520] that wasn't too far off, though. Now, the first picture in this book is one of my
[00:11:53.520 --> 00:11:57.720] my very first photo shoot like ever. I asked a bunch of my friends to go to an abandoned
[00:11:57.720 --> 00:12:02.940] building. And we did like our little Black Lives Matter theme type poses pictures. And
[00:12:02.940 --> 00:12:09.830] this picture got into a gallery and we actually called it breaking. But yeah,
[00:12:09.830 --> 00:12:15.550] and I called it breaking, got into a gallery about 2016. Love it. The rest of this book,
[00:12:15.550 --> 00:12:26.800] protest day, 2020. I believe May pictures. Plenty of these bury me in the ocean with
[00:12:26.800 --> 00:12:40.550] the ancestors who jumped from the ships because they knew death was better than bondage. I
[00:12:40.550 --> 00:12:45.670] actually went out with alien. He got a little bit closer than me when getting that close.
[00:12:45.850 --> 00:12:50.710] It's not getting that close to the riots. Now they started throwing tear gas. It's time
[00:12:50.710 --> 00:13:10.230] I definitely did. Um, shooting without bullets was a youth activism program where we
[00:13:10.770 --> 00:13:19.290] expressed our social where we shoot. All right. Shooting without bullets is a social justice
[00:13:19.290 --> 00:13:26.890] youth arts program where I express my photography using our Black Lives Matter theme,
[00:13:28.870 --> 00:13:34.690] using more of our abandoned buildings for photo shoots, using more real life people
[00:13:34.690 --> 00:13:41.670] in walking through our neighborhoods. So lots of pictures like that. That book is our protest day
[00:13:41.670 --> 00:13:51.790] here in Cleveland. We've done a project like that, but that's definitely something, you know,
[00:13:51.950 --> 00:13:56.750] merging reality and what you see in your environment and making art out of it.
[00:13:56.750 --> 00:14:04.240] Definitely better way to say that. So you're artists. What does art mean to you?
[00:14:04.600 --> 00:14:09.920] I mean, art means everything to me. Art is creativity. Art is science. Art is mass.
[00:14:10.060 --> 00:14:17.880] Art is everything. I chose to go to school to be a director to think I would be just
[00:14:17.880 --> 00:14:27.680] doing art. What did I really think art was? Not hard work. Okay. Not precise measurements.
[00:14:29.750 --> 00:14:41.040] Uh, you know, not having to be precise, but that's okay. So I'm taking theater classes.
[00:14:41.760 --> 00:14:49.420] I'm thinking I'm just acting. No, I get sewing because I can make costumes from scratch,
[00:14:49.980 --> 00:14:58.480] period costumes from different eras. I got to learn how to do the diff do saw sanders and
[00:14:59.420 --> 00:15:05.020] constructing building a set with screws, nails, staple crown, staples and
[00:15:05.020 --> 00:15:15.260] difference in staples and saws. Well rounded, right? So art is everything to me. When I get up,
[00:15:15.260 --> 00:15:18.960] I got to cook something to eat. I got to think of something created to eat. I want
[00:15:18.960 --> 00:15:24.840] strawberry, something sweet with something else, right? I want to, oh my goodness,
[00:15:24.840 --> 00:15:32.160] don't get me started on germs. Okay. Cause I do carry around disinfectant wipes with me.
[00:15:32.220 --> 00:15:37.480] You ever wipe some and you see it change the color. Oh my God. Don't start with me.
[00:15:42.800 --> 00:15:47.120] To literally the things I see. I'm a photographer. I see details. I see dirt.
[00:15:47.500 --> 00:15:52.890] I keep disinfectant wipes with me. Period. I'm not going to go into that,
[00:15:53.070 --> 00:15:56.250] but I see things. I see different things that people don't see.
[00:15:56.990 --> 00:16:00.690] I'll tell you to fix your necklace. Cause your clasp is in the front, you know,
[00:16:01.070 --> 00:16:06.350] I'll tell you to like, um, pick up your shirt. It's tucked in your pants the wrong way. I'm just,
[00:16:06.450 --> 00:16:12.670] Hey, this is, this is true. And these probably examples about me. I'm like, oh yeah,
[00:16:13.110 --> 00:16:18.310] I'm not picking with you. Fix it. I'm some of these examples.
[00:16:20.170 --> 00:16:24.350] Yeah. Definitely attention to detail. And you know, that's the beauty of a team,
[00:16:24.350 --> 00:16:29.370] you know, having each other's back. And especially if you're not keen to those
[00:16:29.370 --> 00:16:35.290] specific details, you know, let me focus on one thing. It's always good to have somebody to
[00:16:35.870 --> 00:16:40.830] have your back and take care of those details and point them out.
[00:16:43.510 --> 00:16:47.770] And many times, even, uh, setting up a tripod, the base of the legs.
[00:16:47.950 --> 00:16:53.570] And I'm telling everybody, no. They better be parallel.
[00:16:54.250 --> 00:16:57.270] Yeah. And that's a tripod for the phone. Nobody care about that.
[00:16:57.270 --> 00:17:01.030] But this camera, this camera better be right.
[00:17:01.850 --> 00:17:06.390] Them lights. Oh, them lights better be right. My phone tripod, that ring light.
[00:17:06.410 --> 00:17:11.790] I don't care about that. Yeah. Just yeah. I'm like, yeah. Okay.
[00:17:13.050 --> 00:17:17.869] It's details is very much. There's a lot of details. I enjoy the details. I'm a Virgo.
[00:17:17.990 --> 00:17:23.250] So I think I'm a detailed type of person. All in the detail.
[00:17:24.010 --> 00:17:27.089] All in the detail. That's crazy.
[00:17:28.990 --> 00:17:35.830] Have you ever seen those books before? Those like, have you ever seen those?
[00:17:37.690 --> 00:17:41.790] I've seen the pictures, nothing. Right. I've seen this book. Yeah.
[00:17:41.870 --> 00:17:44.250] Okay. That's all I was about to say. I was like, have I ever showed you?
[00:17:44.290 --> 00:17:46.650] I don't think I've ever showed you. I don't remember. All right. Cool.
[00:17:47.070 --> 00:18:10.070] Yeah. So that's what should like three top art forms.
[00:18:11.310 --> 00:18:14.470] Three top art forms. That's a good question.
[00:18:15.310 --> 00:18:19.110] I mean, what do you really mean though? Like just be a little bit more specific
[00:18:19.110 --> 00:18:21.430] because I mean, I love art, but be a little bit more specific.
[00:18:21.450 --> 00:18:25.010] Well, you dance, you act, photography. Right.
[00:18:26.390 --> 00:18:31.670] I can say a lot of, you know, even doing off stage stuff and behind the scenes,
[00:18:32.890 --> 00:18:38.350] you know, woodwork, like you said, setting up stages, costume, wardrobe.
[00:18:38.990 --> 00:18:44.270] So diverse. I don't want to limit your creativity because, you know, everybody
[00:18:44.270 --> 00:18:50.370] called me alien because I'm so multifaceted, talented, creative, imaginative
[00:18:51.110 --> 00:18:56.790] out of this world, higher level thinking, you know, genius level
[00:18:58.450 --> 00:19:02.710] speaker, thinker, strategist. So I definitely get it.
[00:19:04.030 --> 00:19:09.090] So with you doing a lot, what's your top three things?
[00:19:09.210 --> 00:19:16.350] Whether creativity, behind the scenes, maybe it's financial, being a financial
[00:19:16.350 --> 00:19:23.890] banker, manager, investor. Or it could be something creative.
[00:19:23.890 --> 00:19:28.190] Yeah, I'm about to say them sound like categories. So it just got to be
[00:19:28.190 --> 00:19:31.890] a little bit more specific to me because like you said, what's my favorite book?
[00:19:32.710 --> 00:19:36.890] You know, not even my favorite book, my favorite photo shoot that we did.
[00:19:37.090 --> 00:19:42.310] Cool. That's specific. I can find that. But like that, I could find that.
[00:19:42.990 --> 00:19:46.650] But I have more pictures, though. You know, I have plenty more photo shoots,
[00:19:47.330 --> 00:19:51.250] thousands of fucking pictures and all that. But my favorite, I mean,
[00:19:51.270 --> 00:19:55.650] I can't really narrow it because I do everything at once.
[00:19:56.470 --> 00:19:59.950] Like I said, art is everything. So like that full control.
[00:20:01.250 --> 00:20:03.470] Oh, no, you got to still be more specific.
[00:20:04.150 --> 00:20:06.750] You like full control over whatever you create?
[00:20:08.030 --> 00:20:14.370] I mean, I want a team. I don't like doing this stuff by myself.
[00:20:15.050 --> 00:20:16.710] I don't want to do everything by myself.
[00:20:16.990 --> 00:20:20.710] I'm completely capable of doing entirely everything by myself,
[00:20:20.830 --> 00:20:22.670] but I don't want to do it by myself.
[00:20:24.400 --> 00:20:28.280] So what would you say is the first thing that comes to mind as far as creating?
[00:20:28.880 --> 00:20:32.220] Like, I want to I want to be behind the camera.
[00:20:32.260 --> 00:20:34.540] I want to be in front of the camera. I want to be dancing.
[00:20:34.720 --> 00:20:35.940] I want to.
[00:20:36.180 --> 00:20:38.800] It was like the first thing that like I want to do this first
[00:20:38.800 --> 00:20:41.660] and then everything could work around me doing this.
[00:20:41.820 --> 00:20:43.600] Well, then that's just bringing out my camera.
[00:20:43.680 --> 00:20:46.700] Like, now we're going we're going to do a little behind the scenes
[00:20:46.700 --> 00:20:47.800] and shoot there real quick.
[00:20:49.040 --> 00:20:49.820] All right. Now we back.
[00:20:50.120 --> 00:20:53.560] So like all this stuff right here, this is what I do.
[00:20:53.560 --> 00:20:56.320] This is me. I keep a tripod on me.
[00:20:56.320 --> 00:20:59.960] I keep it on a whole pole.
[00:21:00.020 --> 00:21:01.000] Now, keep it on me.
[00:21:01.000 --> 00:21:05.460] Right. I keeps my camera on me, whether my phone and all that.
[00:21:05.540 --> 00:21:08.820] Right. Within my old little programs, we used to have a little joke
[00:21:08.820 --> 00:21:10.620] like we were shooters for real.
[00:21:10.780 --> 00:21:13.060] You keep it. You keep all your little magazines.
[00:21:13.280 --> 00:21:16.440] You know, you keep your little SD cards and magazine little clip.
[00:21:16.680 --> 00:21:19.440] Right. Keep camera loaded with a little SD card.
[00:21:19.760 --> 00:21:20.880] Keep battery charged.
[00:21:21.060 --> 00:21:22.440] All that. Like, I love it.
[00:21:23.000 --> 00:21:24.880] But we had a little pack like that was awesome.
[00:21:26.320 --> 00:21:27.800] But it was great.
[00:21:28.460 --> 00:21:30.280] Always have my camera on me.
[00:21:30.300 --> 00:21:31.800] Always keep the little pole on me.
[00:21:32.000 --> 00:21:32.380] All that.
[00:21:32.580 --> 00:21:34.660] Always have my camera on me.
[00:21:35.260 --> 00:21:36.380] So I go to school.
[00:21:36.520 --> 00:21:39.100] I will put my tripod down with my phone on it.
[00:21:39.100 --> 00:21:39.580] Walk away.
[00:21:39.620 --> 00:21:41.120] Come back to my little walk in.
[00:21:41.520 --> 00:21:41.960] All that.
[00:21:43.560 --> 00:21:44.300] Content. All that.
[00:21:44.480 --> 00:21:45.800] Y'all ain't even seen it yet.
[00:21:46.120 --> 00:21:47.040] I like it though.
[00:21:48.580 --> 00:21:52.980] Even speaking about content, how important is content as a newer photographer?
[00:21:52.980 --> 00:21:58.040] Want to start off and kind of get their work monetized
[00:21:58.040 --> 00:22:00.480] or get hired and get paid for it.
[00:22:00.580 --> 00:22:02.140] What would you say to a new photographer?
[00:22:02.880 --> 00:22:03.940] I say just do it.
[00:22:04.080 --> 00:22:06.780] Like literally, I keep my camera on me.
[00:22:06.900 --> 00:22:09.160] I'd be like, oh, that was stupid.
[00:22:09.180 --> 00:22:10.580] I should have recorded that.
[00:22:10.920 --> 00:22:13.060] Like, that'd be seriously a moment.
[00:22:13.740 --> 00:22:15.460] And my life is a moment.
[00:22:15.940 --> 00:22:17.160] Like everything is a moment.
[00:22:17.720 --> 00:22:21.060] Being the reason I do everything is to capture the moment.
[00:22:21.080 --> 00:22:22.900] Whether I wrote it down, created it.
[00:22:22.900 --> 00:22:24.420] Put the actors in places.
[00:22:24.900 --> 00:22:24.940] Cool.
[00:22:26.220 --> 00:22:28.260] But sometimes real life be better.
[00:22:28.260 --> 00:22:30.160] So in the moment, you know?
[00:22:31.480 --> 00:22:32.880] Keep your tripod on you.
[00:22:32.880 --> 00:22:34.460] Keep your ring light on you.
[00:22:34.460 --> 00:22:37.300] Hey, go to Five Below and get your little vlog set.
[00:22:37.540 --> 00:22:38.520] It ain't that hard.
[00:22:39.680 --> 00:22:40.580] It ain't that hard.
[00:22:40.960 --> 00:22:42.980] Be like, oh, that's stupid.
[00:22:43.400 --> 00:22:43.760] Yes.
[00:22:43.940 --> 00:22:44.570] Post it.
[00:22:45.020 --> 00:22:45.600] iPhone.
[00:22:45.980 --> 00:22:48.400] Even if you do the selfie, which I don't recommend
[00:22:48.400 --> 00:22:52.240] because the, you know, the rear camera is the best camera.
[00:22:52.240 --> 00:22:54.740] Always tell people to have it just, you know.
[00:22:54.780 --> 00:22:55.500] Remember that.
[00:22:55.860 --> 00:22:57.940] I have a mirror on the back of my phone.
[00:22:58.480 --> 00:22:58.720] All right.
[00:22:58.880 --> 00:23:00.360] We're going to skip to grab that.
[00:23:03.340 --> 00:23:04.520] And bring it back.
[00:23:04.700 --> 00:23:07.480] Yes, I have a mirror on the back of my phone.
[00:23:09.920 --> 00:23:10.320] OK.
[00:23:12.000 --> 00:23:13.340] So is that something?
[00:23:14.220 --> 00:23:15.140] We got to talk about that.
[00:23:15.440 --> 00:23:16.020] We got to make our own.
[00:23:16.020 --> 00:23:16.860] We're going to bring it in then.
[00:23:16.960 --> 00:23:17.900] We got to make our own.
[00:23:18.480 --> 00:23:19.420] Can we make these?
[00:23:25.170 --> 00:23:26.570] Got it from Shane for like $2.
[00:23:26.730 --> 00:23:28.670] We could go buy a whole bunch of these for $2.
[00:23:28.670 --> 00:23:29.610] We could sell them for $20.
[00:23:30.710 --> 00:23:31.190] That ain't shit.
[00:23:31.290 --> 00:23:31.530] We could do that.
[00:23:31.530 --> 00:23:32.750] Y'all heard that live.
[00:23:33.170 --> 00:23:34.290] So this is our deal.
[00:23:34.430 --> 00:23:35.490] We made right on the spot.
[00:23:35.650 --> 00:23:36.390] That ain't shit.
[00:23:36.410 --> 00:23:38.970] This is a, this is a, this is a everyday though.
[00:23:39.070 --> 00:23:40.390] We going on, Shane.
[00:23:40.530 --> 00:23:41.130] Keep cool.
[00:23:42.370 --> 00:23:44.850] We think of a lot of products, you know.
[00:23:44.850 --> 00:23:47.410] And tell me, that's how my brain works, y'all.
[00:23:47.450 --> 00:23:48.970] Yeah, that's how we get all the time.
[00:23:48.970 --> 00:23:50.270] Being just plain easy.
[00:23:50.530 --> 00:23:51.450] What you mean?
[00:23:51.790 --> 00:23:54.730] That's why I was like, yeah, we got to, we got to bring
[00:23:54.730 --> 00:23:56.070] something unique to the people.
[00:23:56.070 --> 00:23:59.450] I know this would be like a overdue conversation.
[00:23:59.450 --> 00:24:00.190] It's been a while.
[00:24:00.210 --> 00:24:02.890] Like you said, you in school, you doing your thing.
[00:24:03.130 --> 00:24:06.130] I'm, you know, finding my way in business
[00:24:06.130 --> 00:24:07.090] and entrepreneurship.
[00:24:08.650 --> 00:24:11.870] And this is overdue.
[00:24:12.350 --> 00:24:13.190] Very overdue.
[00:24:13.370 --> 00:24:14.790] I'm like, I appreciate you.
[00:24:14.950 --> 00:24:16.030] We be busy though.
[00:24:16.270 --> 00:24:17.670] I think that is crazy.
[00:24:18.510 --> 00:24:18.910] Yeah.
[00:24:19.250 --> 00:24:20.350] What's the biggest thing you've learned
[00:24:20.350 --> 00:24:21.430] in school so far?
[00:24:21.830 --> 00:24:23.030] Like how to read a ruler.
[00:24:24.350 --> 00:24:26.430] How to read all y'all artists out there.
[00:24:26.430 --> 00:24:27.290] Do y'all know how to read a ruler?
[00:24:27.290 --> 00:24:28.030] I'm just asking.
[00:24:28.550 --> 00:24:29.310] I'm just asking.
[00:24:29.350 --> 00:24:29.990] I don't know.
[00:24:30.130 --> 00:24:31.770] I went to art school all my life.
[00:24:31.850 --> 00:24:33.590] Second grade, graduating high school,
[00:24:33.690 --> 00:24:35.010] right back at it, Kent State.
[00:24:35.230 --> 00:24:35.730] Love it.
[00:24:37.290 --> 00:24:38.870] All my life, I ain't know I had to know
[00:24:38.870 --> 00:24:39.610] how to read a ruler.
[00:24:39.670 --> 00:24:41.470] You know, the little itsy bitsy dots
[00:24:42.870 --> 00:24:45.130] between the inch, like the inch in the,
[00:24:49.020 --> 00:24:52.760] I feel like public school was a waste of time.
[00:24:54.020 --> 00:24:57.400] I feel like I didn't learn what I was supposed to learn.
[00:24:58.540 --> 00:24:59.400] I said it.
[00:24:59.880 --> 00:25:03.200] But what I learned in college is how to read a ruler.
[00:25:03.420 --> 00:25:05.040] Why do you need to know how to read a ruler
[00:25:05.040 --> 00:25:08.600] to build costumes from like literal clothes,
[00:25:09.440 --> 00:25:10.840] like measurements, right?
[00:25:11.840 --> 00:25:15.860] Building a set, architecture, construction.
[00:25:17.340 --> 00:25:17.740] Cool.
[00:25:18.100 --> 00:25:19.040] These are things I have to do
[00:25:19.040 --> 00:25:20.820] as a director cinematographer now.
[00:25:21.000 --> 00:25:22.360] I learned how to read a ruler
[00:25:22.920 --> 00:25:25.260] and I didn't know I actually had to.
[00:25:29.310 --> 00:25:30.410] How long was that process?
[00:25:30.590 --> 00:25:31.370] Yo, I cried.
[00:25:31.550 --> 00:25:32.590] Me and my teacher, she was like,
[00:25:32.590 --> 00:25:35.090] I cried in front of my teacher.
[00:25:35.370 --> 00:25:35.750] I had to.
[00:25:35.810 --> 00:25:37.290] I'm like, what do you mean?
[00:25:38.130 --> 00:25:39.250] What do you mean, right?
[00:25:39.970 --> 00:25:43.170] I'm like, first off, I felt bad for myself.
[00:25:44.430 --> 00:25:45.870] And that was an experience right there.
[00:25:45.910 --> 00:25:47.190] I'm like, wait, I never learned this.
[00:25:47.410 --> 00:25:47.750] Never knew.
[00:25:48.150 --> 00:25:49.910] She just said, this is, this, this.
[00:25:50.210 --> 00:25:52.370] No, I don't get anything you're saying.
[00:25:53.030 --> 00:25:54.430] No, I'm breaking down this.
[00:25:55.470 --> 00:25:55.870] What?
[00:25:56.210 --> 00:25:56.630] No.
[00:26:02.960 --> 00:26:03.740] Popang, right?
[00:26:05.520 --> 00:26:06.320] Eighth of an inch.
[00:26:06.600 --> 00:26:09.100] One little nine sixteenth of an inch.
[00:26:09.100 --> 00:26:11.300] Mess up the entire project.
[00:26:11.540 --> 00:26:12.160] Wow.
[00:26:13.820 --> 00:26:15.060] What is a nine sixteenth?
[00:26:15.800 --> 00:26:16.940] Why is the details?
[00:26:17.420 --> 00:26:19.960] Now I'm back in it, looking at every inch.
[00:26:21.580 --> 00:26:27.880] What they say, 2.5 centimeters are an estimated inch.
[00:26:29.280 --> 00:26:33.300] Yes, 2.5 centimeters are within an inch.
[00:26:33.360 --> 00:26:33.980] Estimated.
[00:26:34.080 --> 00:26:34.880] Not even exactly.
[00:26:35.480 --> 00:26:36.640] So now I got to work with that.
[00:26:36.800 --> 00:26:38.040] Like, I never knew that.
[00:26:38.420 --> 00:26:38.960] That's crazy.
[00:26:38.960 --> 00:26:40.480] But that's something, that's actually that.
[00:26:40.560 --> 00:26:42.320] And that will help me with everything.
[00:26:42.540 --> 00:26:43.740] Y'all ain't even ready for this.
[00:26:43.800 --> 00:26:44.800] Y'all ain't ready for this.
[00:26:45.440 --> 00:26:46.520] It was such an experience.
[00:26:46.680 --> 00:26:47.360] I'm about to get a tattoo.
[00:26:48.840 --> 00:26:51.120] Yeah, I just want the little, I just want the little marks.
[00:26:51.380 --> 00:26:54.420] Like, I want it absolutely exactly to the T.
[00:26:55.940 --> 00:26:57.140] Nine sixteenths of an inch.
[00:26:57.200 --> 00:26:57.760] Like, quit playing.
[00:26:57.960 --> 00:26:59.660] Like, yes, I want the whole ruler mark,
[00:26:59.740 --> 00:27:01.060] but it's going to look like stitches.
[00:27:01.840 --> 00:27:04.440] Y'all, I have a scary movie tattoo arm.
[00:27:04.540 --> 00:27:05.320] Okay, cool.
[00:27:05.940 --> 00:27:08.280] But it's going to look like stitches on my arm.
[00:27:08.280 --> 00:27:10.080] It ain't going to look like no goofy ass ruler.
[00:27:10.300 --> 00:27:10.940] All right.
[00:27:10.960 --> 00:27:11.900] It's going to look lit.
[00:27:12.160 --> 00:27:13.020] Y'all got to see it later.
[00:27:14.340 --> 00:27:15.500] Coming way later.
[00:27:16.560 --> 00:27:18.720] So is it like technology to measure it?
[00:27:18.720 --> 00:27:20.200] Because I know, like.
[00:27:20.280 --> 00:27:20.340] Yep.
[00:27:20.420 --> 00:27:22.500] And your skin going to grow a little stupid stuff like that.
[00:27:22.520 --> 00:27:23.780] That's why it's going to look like stitches.
[00:27:25.660 --> 00:27:27.680] So, but yes, exactly measures.
[00:27:27.780 --> 00:27:30.420] I want to be able to be an artist, put my arm down.
[00:27:30.740 --> 00:27:36.080] Like, I am a whole puzzle.
[00:27:36.160 --> 00:27:39.080] I'm the whole piece to every, every missing program.
[00:27:39.240 --> 00:27:40.380] Like all that.
[00:27:40.380 --> 00:27:41.660] I fit in.
[00:27:41.700 --> 00:27:42.080] Cool.
[00:27:42.340 --> 00:27:43.040] Everybody love me.
[00:27:43.040 --> 00:27:43.940] I love everybody.
[00:27:45.000 --> 00:27:45.820] I do that.
[00:27:45.860 --> 00:27:48.680] So if I put myself into, into it, right,
[00:27:48.700 --> 00:27:50.700] I put myself into my arts.
[00:27:52.260 --> 00:27:52.940] Schooler on me.
[00:27:52.960 --> 00:27:53.260] I don't care.
[00:27:53.440 --> 00:27:53.960] I learned that.
[00:27:54.080 --> 00:27:54.480] Can't nobody.
[00:27:54.960 --> 00:27:56.100] I'll be, I'll be sitting here like.
[00:27:58.020 --> 00:27:59.740] Y'all, I am the goofiest person.
[00:28:00.840 --> 00:28:02.800] But it's okay because I'm successful.
[00:28:03.180 --> 00:28:05.180] But goofy is, I am very goofy.
[00:28:05.240 --> 00:28:05.880] Yes, I am.
[00:28:06.600 --> 00:28:07.460] But I enjoy it.
[00:28:07.540 --> 00:28:08.120] I enjoy everything.
[00:28:10.140 --> 00:28:14.780] What was some of your biggest, like starting your business?
[00:28:15.960 --> 00:28:16.460] First business.
[00:28:19.390 --> 00:28:20.830] Milk to Magnet's first business.
[00:28:21.690 --> 00:28:24.230] Well, my first LLC.
[00:28:24.970 --> 00:28:25.310] What do you mean?
[00:28:25.630 --> 00:28:26.550] What is my first business?
[00:28:26.670 --> 00:28:27.190] Like what are you asking?
[00:28:27.570 --> 00:28:28.090] Yeah.
[00:28:32.530 --> 00:28:35.770] My first business was cleaning my granny's house.
[00:28:36.410 --> 00:28:38.410] Like literally cleaning her house.
[00:28:40.380 --> 00:28:42.140] I just went over there and cleaned glasses
[00:28:42.140 --> 00:28:44.460] and wiped her glasses, wiped her windows,
[00:28:44.460 --> 00:28:47.980] wiped her tables, all the glass vacuum, like cleaning.
[00:28:48.660 --> 00:28:50.280] Did that for a couple of other people.
[00:28:50.340 --> 00:28:51.140] That was actually cool.
[00:28:52.100 --> 00:28:53.680] Like something simple I could do.
[00:28:53.900 --> 00:28:55.500] I'm very detail oriented.
[00:28:56.040 --> 00:28:59.180] And like I said, I keep disinfecting wipes with me.
[00:28:59.820 --> 00:29:06.440] So that's a different type of a different type of business.
[00:29:06.620 --> 00:29:09.160] And then from there, it did get creative.
[00:29:09.260 --> 00:29:12.400] So from there, my grandma bought me my first sewing machine.
[00:29:12.420 --> 00:29:13.680] Not gonna say that was a business,
[00:29:13.680 --> 00:29:15.480] but got creative, right?
[00:29:16.200 --> 00:29:20.040] But I started making duct tape wallets and selling them.
[00:29:21.760 --> 00:29:26.180] So actually made the wallets.
[00:29:26.680 --> 00:29:29.020] My mama, my family be having card games.
[00:29:29.020 --> 00:29:32.040] I go down there when all the grown folks playing and all that.
[00:29:32.420 --> 00:29:34.120] They got money on the table.
[00:29:34.760 --> 00:29:36.220] I had some to sell.
[00:29:36.300 --> 00:29:37.520] Sold them little wallets
[00:29:37.520 --> 00:29:39.180] so they could put their little money all in there
[00:29:39.180 --> 00:29:39.820] and some little stuff.
[00:29:40.000 --> 00:29:41.080] Everybody bought them off the table.
[00:29:41.280 --> 00:29:42.660] They like, oh, I love your hustle.
[00:29:43.260 --> 00:29:44.240] Like a natural hustle.
[00:29:44.240 --> 00:29:45.440] Natural hustle.
[00:29:45.580 --> 00:29:46.980] My mom was like, oh, okay.
[00:29:47.140 --> 00:29:48.940] Well, to the school of arts, you go.
[00:29:48.980 --> 00:29:49.840] She was like, you know,
[00:29:49.920 --> 00:29:51.260] that's the place she knew I was gonna belong.
[00:29:52.340 --> 00:29:55.300] What is something you would say to a new photographer
[00:29:55.300 --> 00:29:58.000] that doesn't have that hustle or that ambition
[00:29:58.000 --> 00:30:04.060] that fuel under them to get them to their success?
[00:30:05.320 --> 00:30:06.640] What would I say to get,
[00:30:07.420 --> 00:30:08.740] what would I say to motivate them?
[00:30:08.800 --> 00:30:11.940] I mean, it'd be different situations, but like just.
[00:30:12.440 --> 00:30:14.000] Would have had a hustler mentality
[00:30:14.000 --> 00:30:15.900] because not everybody, you know, got it.
[00:30:17.200 --> 00:30:18.400] Oh, just do it.
[00:30:18.440 --> 00:30:19.680] Get up and do it.
[00:30:19.720 --> 00:30:21.680] You wearing Nike, just do it.
[00:30:21.760 --> 00:30:23.100] Just like Nike, just do it.
[00:30:23.400 --> 00:30:25.360] You really just got to do it.
[00:30:25.400 --> 00:30:25.800] Simple.
[00:30:26.460 --> 00:30:29.220] It's not, it's easier said than done.
[00:30:29.460 --> 00:30:29.840] Right.
[00:30:29.980 --> 00:30:32.880] But the more you practice, the better you get.
[00:30:33.220 --> 00:30:35.120] You miss every shot you take.
[00:30:35.400 --> 00:30:36.380] You don't take, right?
[00:30:36.480 --> 00:30:38.000] You miss every shot you don't take.
[00:30:38.140 --> 00:30:38.420] True.
[00:30:39.080 --> 00:30:40.040] Just do it.
[00:30:40.580 --> 00:30:43.340] Literally, like, okay, that don't look right.
[00:30:43.340 --> 00:30:44.000] Good.
[00:30:44.220 --> 00:30:46.000] Edit it.
[00:30:46.700 --> 00:30:47.100] Okay.
[00:30:47.460 --> 00:30:48.800] I don't like the way this look.
[00:30:49.960 --> 00:30:50.760] Edit it.
[00:30:51.140 --> 00:30:51.800] Oh, my God.
[00:30:51.900 --> 00:30:52.800] Some people be like,
[00:30:53.120 --> 00:30:54.620] I don't like the way my face look.
[00:30:58.210 --> 00:30:58.990] Love yourself.
[00:30:59.130 --> 00:30:59.890] What do you mean?
[00:31:00.010 --> 00:31:00.930] Love yourself.
[00:31:01.350 --> 00:31:01.930] This is you.
[00:31:02.130 --> 00:31:03.090] Say what you want to say.
[00:31:03.270 --> 00:31:04.330] Be who you want to be.
[00:31:09.670 --> 00:31:10.150] Pictures of people.
[00:31:10.290 --> 00:31:12.390] They be like, whoa, I ain't feeling.
[00:31:13.150 --> 00:31:13.690] What you mean?
[00:31:13.830 --> 00:31:14.230] You out.
[00:31:14.350 --> 00:31:14.950] You can't dress.
[00:31:15.130 --> 00:31:15.610] You look good.
[00:31:15.930 --> 00:31:17.190] You are okay.
[00:31:17.910 --> 00:31:18.730] This is for you.
[00:31:18.750 --> 00:31:19.730] I'm not about to post this.
[00:31:20.470 --> 00:31:24.770] Hey, if you go back, how much how much time goes into the editing process?
[00:31:28.570 --> 00:31:30.510] It's never clients don't understand.
[00:31:30.810 --> 00:31:31.510] It's never done.
[00:31:31.530 --> 00:31:32.830] People don't understand in general.
[00:31:33.150 --> 00:31:35.830] Sometimes it takes time.
[00:31:36.390 --> 00:31:37.370] It's never done.
[00:31:38.190 --> 00:31:41.230] And then when you when you know, when you go watch a movie in the theater,
[00:31:41.250 --> 00:31:44.430] you'll be like, no, no, no, this is from an editor's perspective.
[00:31:44.950 --> 00:31:48.990] When you be watching a movie in the real thing like this, the final cut,
[00:31:48.990 --> 00:31:51.790] you'll be looking like this ain't the final cut.
[00:31:51.890 --> 00:31:52.950] Yeah, you have to.
[00:31:52.950 --> 00:31:54.090] Do better than that.
[00:31:54.090 --> 00:31:54.450] We could.
[00:31:54.830 --> 00:31:57.190] Oh, I could have did or looking from an actor's point of view.
[00:31:57.190 --> 00:31:57.570] You look.
[00:31:57.950 --> 00:31:59.690] Oh, I could have did it.
[00:31:59.690 --> 00:32:00.610] It's not all the time.
[00:32:00.710 --> 00:32:01.550] It's never done.
[00:32:01.570 --> 00:32:03.830] So you ask the client when I give you your product.
[00:32:03.850 --> 00:32:04.470] I understand.
[00:32:04.590 --> 00:32:06.330] Yes, you do want extra tweaks.
[00:32:06.570 --> 00:32:07.950] It's never done.
[00:32:10.350 --> 00:32:13.130] So, yes, that's why we charge so much for editing.
[00:32:13.930 --> 00:32:14.070] Yeah.
[00:32:14.070 --> 00:32:17.130] That's why I like to push projects up ahead because, you know,
[00:32:17.230 --> 00:32:20.010] they they have in their head, you know, two weeks.
[00:32:20.570 --> 00:32:22.590] But yeah, we still got to work on the video.
[00:32:22.590 --> 00:32:26.490] Like we need, you know, planning time to even go over,
[00:32:26.650 --> 00:32:30.810] even to make revisions, like you say, at the editing process to edit.
[00:32:31.130 --> 00:32:35.970] Actually, you go there and you shoot or you get the footage
[00:32:35.970 --> 00:32:37.170] and you didn't shoot it.
[00:32:37.170 --> 00:32:37.330] Right.
[00:32:37.610 --> 00:32:42.750] But if you shot it, you have to go back twice to rewatch it.
[00:32:42.970 --> 00:32:48.390] You have to watch it over and over and over going to the detail.
[00:32:48.530 --> 00:32:50.690] You look at this.
[00:32:50.930 --> 00:32:51.730] Cut it out.
[00:32:52.290 --> 00:32:52.970] Cut it out.
[00:32:52.970 --> 00:32:54.310] That's actually what it's called.
[00:32:54.310 --> 00:32:56.370] You have to split and cut in editing.
[00:32:56.530 --> 00:32:57.730] Cut it out.
[00:32:58.010 --> 00:33:02.050] When we were very, very first starting making film.
[00:33:02.050 --> 00:33:05.610] No, literally when film was first ever made,
[00:33:05.610 --> 00:33:10.570] you had to cut the physical film, take a piece of tape,
[00:33:10.790 --> 00:33:14.590] tape it together, put it on the reel and slide it like a slideshow.
[00:33:14.630 --> 00:33:15.230] Wow.
[00:33:15.350 --> 00:33:18.930] That's what you and you had 24 frames per second.
[00:33:19.570 --> 00:33:27.350] And then frame this picture, picture, picture editing process.
[00:33:28.610 --> 00:33:29.050] It's a lot.
[00:33:29.090 --> 00:33:30.170] And it's always been a lot.
[00:33:30.270 --> 00:33:31.870] We try to upgrade it, get it easier.
[00:33:32.230 --> 00:33:33.150] But it's interesting, though.
[00:33:33.210 --> 00:33:37.290] Have you ever blended it to like where you
[00:33:37.290 --> 00:33:41.150] film digital, but they had the film also
[00:33:41.150 --> 00:33:48.990] and then tailored the time that the timeline with the film pictures.
[00:33:48.990 --> 00:33:54.610] I'm going to say no, but I can edit it basically like a template and edit it.
[00:33:54.650 --> 00:33:55.050] The digital.
[00:33:56.230 --> 00:33:58.110] Anything film can be scanned.
[00:33:59.890 --> 00:34:00.570] You know what I'm saying?
[00:34:01.210 --> 00:34:01.330] OK.
[00:34:01.330 --> 00:34:02.750] Film is physical.
[00:34:03.070 --> 00:34:06.210] You're not about to easily do too much with that
[00:34:06.210 --> 00:34:08.170] because now everything is digital.
[00:34:08.370 --> 00:34:11.190] So for film, you're going to scan it like a printer,
[00:34:11.370 --> 00:34:15.310] like a piece of paper, like, and then get that image into the computer.
[00:34:17.710 --> 00:34:22.370] So after that, then, you know, do whatever you want to scan it.
[00:34:22.489 --> 00:34:24.370] Told you it's my first coach, y'all.
[00:34:26.330 --> 00:34:27.350] Still coaching.
[00:34:27.610 --> 00:34:27.969] You see that?
[00:34:29.510 --> 00:34:33.449] Yeah, it film photography.
[00:34:33.810 --> 00:34:36.330] So actual black and white film photography.
[00:34:36.630 --> 00:34:37.370] That was awesome.
[00:34:38.949 --> 00:34:40.449] I did that with the Cleveland Print Room
[00:34:41.110 --> 00:34:43.969] and that experience was awesome in a dark room
[00:34:44.929 --> 00:34:49.590] in the pitch black dark, sometimes maybe with a red light on.
[00:34:49.590 --> 00:34:55.010] But working with chemicals right to before you go in the dark room,
[00:34:55.270 --> 00:34:57.710] like literally practice blindfolding.
[00:34:57.710 --> 00:34:58.970] I thought that was hilarious.
[00:34:59.190 --> 00:35:02.550] But once you walked in there, it ain't no turning on no lights.
[00:35:02.590 --> 00:35:03.070] Yeah.
[00:35:03.130 --> 00:35:05.410] You can't see when you walk in.
[00:35:06.130 --> 00:35:07.610] You feel for your desk.
[00:35:07.750 --> 00:35:08.810] You feel for your tools.
[00:35:08.890 --> 00:35:09.150] Cool.
[00:35:09.170 --> 00:35:09.670] I love that.
[00:35:09.690 --> 00:35:11.390] That was actually a great experience.
[00:35:11.890 --> 00:35:13.650] So it's literally a dark room.
[00:35:13.730 --> 00:35:15.110] It's literally a dark room.
[00:35:15.130 --> 00:35:16.550] You maybe get a little red light.
[00:35:17.450 --> 00:35:21.140] Maybe the red light come from.
[00:35:22.580 --> 00:35:25.300] You know, it's a chemical.
[00:35:25.360 --> 00:35:27.720] No, no, it's like a reflection of the chemicals.
[00:35:28.120 --> 00:35:30.020] It does help in the reflection.
[00:35:30.460 --> 00:35:33.140] But I am not specifically sure on the science.
[00:35:33.200 --> 00:35:34.620] It does help the reflection.
[00:35:36.430 --> 00:35:41.170] I'm really thinking you might get a red light.
[00:35:41.170 --> 00:35:42.020] That's about it.
[00:35:42.470 --> 00:35:44.990] But otherwise, it was a dark room for the chemicals.
[00:35:45.970 --> 00:35:47.990] So yeah, because you can't carry no light.
[00:35:48.010 --> 00:35:48.470] Yeah.
[00:35:51.540 --> 00:35:52.940] Now, that's a whole other conversation.
[00:35:52.940 --> 00:35:54.420] So we're getting to that.
[00:35:54.500 --> 00:35:55.980] So how do you be?
[00:35:55.980 --> 00:35:58.920] How do you get real precise or how do you?
[00:35:59.020 --> 00:36:00.640] Because like you say, you're dealing with chemicals.
[00:36:00.660 --> 00:36:02.380] You don't want to have a chemical.
[00:36:02.680 --> 00:36:03.680] Oh, you're right.
[00:36:03.860 --> 00:36:04.440] Right, right.
[00:36:04.680 --> 00:36:07.020] Now, like I said, that's another whole conversation.
[00:36:07.220 --> 00:36:08.900] Because let me tell you, they will forever say,
[00:36:08.940 --> 00:36:10.240] don't put your hands in it.
[00:36:10.280 --> 00:36:12.460] I put my hands in it and my nails grew.
[00:36:12.800 --> 00:36:14.480] That's all I'm telling you.
[00:36:15.520 --> 00:36:15.860] Well.
[00:36:17.660 --> 00:36:20.300] My nose was popping the whole program long.
[00:36:20.440 --> 00:36:22.260] OK, natural nails to this day.
[00:36:22.260 --> 00:36:23.040] Lovely.
[00:36:25.160 --> 00:36:26.700] Photography at that point, too.
[00:36:26.700 --> 00:36:28.060] Oh, is that what you're trying to see?
[00:36:28.060 --> 00:36:30.380] Is that my rain nails or making pictures?
[00:36:30.560 --> 00:36:32.600] Cutting pictures like you DJ.
[00:36:32.860 --> 00:36:35.460] Like, you know, yes, yes, absolutely.
[00:36:35.560 --> 00:36:37.100] You're going to shake your picture a little bit.
[00:36:37.620 --> 00:36:38.040] Yes, you are.
[00:36:38.080 --> 00:36:40.360] I put my hand in the chemicals with my picture.
[00:36:41.300 --> 00:36:43.020] Move around a little bit.
[00:36:43.140 --> 00:36:43.480] Pick it up.
[00:36:43.560 --> 00:36:44.140] Take it out.
[00:36:44.140 --> 00:36:44.560] Oh, man.
[00:36:44.700 --> 00:36:45.820] If I dance with it.
[00:36:45.860 --> 00:36:46.660] You know, get my hair.
[00:36:47.520 --> 00:36:48.920] Hey, singing with it.
[00:36:48.920 --> 00:36:51.000] Oh, see doing my thing.
[00:36:51.640 --> 00:36:53.060] Shake it up a little bit.
[00:36:53.060 --> 00:36:53.700] Keep them going.
[00:36:53.880 --> 00:36:54.600] And it's a process.
[00:36:54.780 --> 00:36:57.200] It's a very, very long process to make a picture.
[00:36:58.240 --> 00:36:59.800] But y'all go to Walgreens for that.
[00:36:59.820 --> 00:37:01.540] I like to do it in the dark room.
[00:37:03.140 --> 00:37:05.400] OK, so we have creativity.
[00:37:06.300 --> 00:37:07.000] We have science.
[00:37:08.320 --> 00:37:09.380] What about spirituality?
[00:37:09.720 --> 00:37:13.900] So creativity, spirituality and science.
[00:37:13.960 --> 00:37:17.820] How do you balance the three within your art?
[00:37:19.610 --> 00:37:22.030] Literally, like everything is art to me.
[00:37:22.650 --> 00:37:24.770] True artists in my spirituality.
[00:37:24.990 --> 00:37:27.630] Like I said, my mama put me in the Cleveland School of the Arts
[00:37:27.630 --> 00:37:29.190] because she knew that's where I belong.
[00:37:29.870 --> 00:37:30.990] And that's where I belong.
[00:37:31.250 --> 00:37:33.290] That's where I got along with everybody.
[00:37:34.010 --> 00:37:35.930] I think that was, you know, meant to be.
[00:37:36.010 --> 00:37:38.230] I think I get a lot of coincidences in life.
[00:37:38.470 --> 00:37:41.470] I think I think everything I get
[00:37:41.470 --> 00:37:43.170] really is an interesting coincidence.
[00:37:43.170 --> 00:37:46.170] I can think of it in my head and I can make it happen.
[00:37:46.690 --> 00:37:49.270] So to my sewing, right, when I was first a kid,
[00:37:49.270 --> 00:37:50.330] I never used a pattern.
[00:37:50.710 --> 00:37:51.550] Nope, never did.
[00:37:51.550 --> 00:37:56.010] I got to be able to think of it and make it great.
[00:37:56.130 --> 00:37:56.530] Beautiful.
[00:37:56.750 --> 00:37:57.370] I mean, I'm a kid.
[00:37:57.530 --> 00:38:00.250] I don't know about measurements and all that extra stuff.
[00:38:00.310 --> 00:38:01.710] But yes, I did make it awesome.
[00:38:13.050 --> 00:38:17.750] Then creativity, spirituality and science within your art.
[00:38:17.850 --> 00:38:20.150] Oh, yeah, that's literally everything I do.
[00:38:20.490 --> 00:38:22.350] Like whenever I get a thought in my head,
[00:38:22.470 --> 00:38:23.210] I got to make it happen.
[00:38:23.270 --> 00:38:24.330] I'm going to map it out.
[00:38:24.370 --> 00:38:26.490] I'm going to create a blueprint in here,
[00:38:26.490 --> 00:38:30.510] do the whole pattern blueprint measurements.
[00:38:31.130 --> 00:38:35.340] And I get to doing it like a behind this wall right here.
[00:38:36.510 --> 00:38:37.570] It's a lot of creation.
[00:38:38.810 --> 00:38:41.150] Okay, as a matter of fact,
[00:38:41.150 --> 00:38:43.250] my camera is not even on a real tripod.
[00:38:43.250 --> 00:38:46.590] It's on my mate, my phone, my phone tripod.
[00:38:46.610 --> 00:38:48.730] I put two different pieces together.
[00:38:48.970 --> 00:38:49.350] You did.
[00:38:49.890 --> 00:38:53.050] So honestly, I didn't know this for a long time.
[00:38:53.450 --> 00:38:54.550] Somebody else do it.
[00:38:54.870 --> 00:38:55.270] That's an emergency.
[00:38:55.270 --> 00:38:57.750] So don't be doing that.
[00:38:58.050 --> 00:38:58.550] I don't know.
[00:38:58.550 --> 00:38:59.990] That's emergencies only.
[00:39:01.270 --> 00:39:07.770] But yes, I have a lot of goofy things about me
[00:39:08.130 --> 00:39:09.750] that I'm very clumsy.
[00:39:11.250 --> 00:39:15.230] So even with my arts, I make everything work for me, right?
[00:39:15.850 --> 00:39:18.610] So I got a lot of pillows in my room.
[00:39:18.670 --> 00:39:20.510] For if I fall, literally, I will.
[00:39:21.670 --> 00:39:22.690] Little goofy stuff.
[00:39:22.690 --> 00:39:25.790] So keep my lights on me, keep my tripod on me,
[00:39:25.810 --> 00:39:27.830] whatever I feel like I'm doing in class.
[00:39:27.930 --> 00:39:30.650] Sometimes I will post what I'm doing in class.
[00:39:31.110 --> 00:39:32.950] I enjoy everything I do.
[00:39:33.730 --> 00:39:36.630] So every day I wake up, I am an artist.
[00:39:37.070 --> 00:39:41.070] I wake up and think of something creative to do.
[00:39:41.210 --> 00:39:44.330] When I'm bored, I think of something creative to do.
[00:39:44.590 --> 00:39:48.670] When I'm shopping, I look for something creative.
[00:39:48.670 --> 00:39:51.590] You know, something fashionable, different.
[00:39:55.690 --> 00:39:57.070] Burning sage every day, surely.
[00:39:59.810 --> 00:40:01.770] Like a wake up routine?
[00:40:02.270 --> 00:40:03.430] No, I don't even have a routine.
[00:40:03.710 --> 00:40:04.510] It's get creative.
[00:40:07.130 --> 00:40:09.030] All natural products, for sure.
[00:40:10.430 --> 00:40:11.710] All natural everything.
[00:40:12.670 --> 00:40:13.950] Y'all rarely see me with makeup.
[00:40:14.030 --> 00:40:15.890] Y'all rarely see me with my hair done.
[00:40:15.970 --> 00:40:17.410] And that's perfectly fine with me
[00:40:17.410 --> 00:40:20.690] because I'm literally me being me every day.
[00:40:20.710 --> 00:40:21.590] I'm an artist.
[00:40:22.070 --> 00:40:23.450] The clothes I put on are art.
[00:40:23.450 --> 00:40:25.750] The hairstyle I choose is art.
[00:40:26.170 --> 00:40:29.470] Food I eat is colorful like the rainbow, you know?
[00:40:38.220 --> 00:40:39.960] I think art goes with everything with me.
[00:40:46.250 --> 00:40:48.210] What are some projects you're working on now?
[00:40:51.820 --> 00:40:54.660] What project do you want to work on now?
[00:40:54.880 --> 00:40:58.180] Because sometimes both is different.
[00:40:58.780 --> 00:41:00.880] I right now am working on finally
[00:41:00.880 --> 00:41:04.640] ending the school year 2025.
[00:41:06.920 --> 00:41:11.780] I'm taking a wood shop building the sets type of class.
[00:41:11.780 --> 00:41:13.660] So I'm building a pencil holder
[00:41:13.660 --> 00:41:15.700] as a four by four piece of lumber.
[00:41:16.460 --> 00:41:18.940] And I'm gonna drill some holes in it
[00:41:18.940 --> 00:41:20.900] and try to make the holes big enough
[00:41:20.900 --> 00:41:24.220] for my little lip gloss, pencils and little stuff.
[00:41:24.380 --> 00:41:26.160] Just a little thing I'm gonna paint paint.
[00:41:26.560 --> 00:41:27.160] Keep it simple.
[00:41:28.660 --> 00:41:32.320] Then I am making a romantic vest.
[00:41:32.960 --> 00:41:36.880] I've already finished my 19th century pair of trousers
[00:41:36.880 --> 00:41:39.180] which were a 32 size male.
[00:41:39.180 --> 00:41:42.820] And I am making a vest to go with it
[00:41:42.820 --> 00:41:45.420] for my class costume technology.
[00:41:47.770 --> 00:41:49.410] Then I have to learn projection.
[00:41:49.890 --> 00:41:51.110] So actual like, you know,
[00:41:51.190 --> 00:41:54.090] projecting things onto the stage during a performance.
[00:41:55.010 --> 00:41:58.830] So my idea for my final project is to just do the weather.
[00:41:58.910 --> 00:42:02.570] Like how would the weather look in a window of a performance?
[00:42:02.650 --> 00:42:04.650] You know, if I'm getting storm and lightning,
[00:42:04.770 --> 00:42:06.870] I want more dramatic effects like that.
[00:42:07.810 --> 00:42:10.010] But projections are very hard to do.
[00:42:10.010 --> 00:42:11.710] So we're gonna get into that.
[00:42:14.580 --> 00:42:15.580] And I just wanna keep sewing.
[00:42:15.740 --> 00:42:19.460] I think I'm gonna keep sewing for the most part of this year.
[00:42:19.520 --> 00:42:20.420] I will keep sewing.
[00:42:21.360 --> 00:42:24.560] And I want to get into more scary movies.
[00:42:26.300 --> 00:42:27.520] So scary movies.
[00:42:27.740 --> 00:42:29.620] Yes, that is my goal here.
[00:42:29.760 --> 00:42:32.220] I really want to make a scary movie.
[00:42:32.240 --> 00:42:33.440] So if I'm gonna write it
[00:42:34.400 --> 00:42:35.860] or if I'm gonna do short reels.
[00:42:39.270 --> 00:42:40.530] What's your favorite scary movie?
[00:42:40.670 --> 00:42:41.970] Oh, that is so funny.
[00:42:42.690 --> 00:42:43.470] That is hilarious.
[00:42:43.470 --> 00:42:45.250] How dare you say such a thing?
[00:42:48.010 --> 00:42:49.650] You don't even know what I'm doing, do you?
[00:42:50.130 --> 00:42:51.510] You don't know what I'm doing, do you?
[00:42:52.290 --> 00:42:52.570] It's scary.
[00:42:52.770 --> 00:42:53.170] Yes.
[00:42:53.470 --> 00:42:54.090] You're hilarious.
[00:42:55.870 --> 00:42:56.850] How dare you ask me that?
[00:42:56.850 --> 00:42:57.950] You think that's a scary movie?
[00:42:58.110 --> 00:42:59.910] No, I think that's more comedy.
[00:43:00.530 --> 00:43:00.970] Absolutely.
[00:43:01.230 --> 00:43:01.870] Those are hilarious.
[00:43:02.050 --> 00:43:03.730] All scary movies are funny to me.
[00:43:04.070 --> 00:43:04.990] That's just me.
[00:43:05.070 --> 00:43:05.370] Really?
[00:43:05.670 --> 00:43:05.890] Yes.
[00:43:06.550 --> 00:43:07.750] I can't watch them all day.
[00:43:07.990 --> 00:43:09.330] Oh, I could watch them all day.
[00:43:09.750 --> 00:43:11.530] All day, any day throughout the day.
[00:43:13.890 --> 00:43:18.990] But my favorite scary movie of all time ever is Chucky.
[00:43:20.510 --> 00:43:21.810] Everybody should know that.
[00:43:22.410 --> 00:43:23.130] Chucky is a weird.
[00:43:23.130 --> 00:43:24.810] I feel like everybody should know that.
[00:43:25.170 --> 00:43:26.970] But honestly, I do have the Chucky doll.
[00:43:27.070 --> 00:43:28.690] So I got the whole family finally.
[00:43:32.550 --> 00:43:35.270] So what would be your style or like directing style
[00:43:35.270 --> 00:43:36.930] with the horror movies?
[00:43:37.250 --> 00:43:39.870] Oh, I love Tim Burton movies
[00:43:39.870 --> 00:43:43.310] and I love his horror gothic style, right?
[00:43:43.990 --> 00:43:45.990] Love that from, you know,
[00:43:46.090 --> 00:43:48.750] Winona Ryder and Johnny Depp.
[00:43:48.970 --> 00:43:51.230] Love, love, love that style.
[00:43:52.110 --> 00:43:54.670] So definitely want to go there, right?
[00:43:55.990 --> 00:44:01.670] But also loving Jordan Peele, right?
[00:44:02.170 --> 00:44:02.590] Okay.
[00:44:02.650 --> 00:44:03.290] Is that his name?
[00:44:06.770 --> 00:44:07.850] Yes, love that.
[00:44:08.310 --> 00:44:09.150] Yes, love that.
[00:44:10.130 --> 00:44:12.430] Um, Stephen King and the way he writes.
[00:44:14.610 --> 00:44:15.730] So horrifying.
[00:44:17.630 --> 00:44:19.310] It's so detailed.
[00:44:19.670 --> 00:44:21.530] You know, love that.
[00:44:25.600 --> 00:44:26.620] My senior year,
[00:44:28.300 --> 00:44:30.600] I had to stop being scared of scary movies, you know?
[00:44:30.600 --> 00:44:36.430] And I wrote a monologue that had the whole audience
[00:44:36.430 --> 00:44:38.030] rolling laughing, right?
[00:44:38.550 --> 00:44:39.670] And to this day,
[00:44:39.810 --> 00:44:42.750] y'all be rolling laughing when y'all see it.
[00:44:42.870 --> 00:44:44.070] And I be loving it.
[00:44:44.090 --> 00:44:46.250] That is the exact reaction
[00:44:46.250 --> 00:44:48.790] I want you to see out of my horror films.
[00:44:48.810 --> 00:44:51.110] I want you to see me being a cute little,
[00:44:51.170 --> 00:44:56.880] cute little girl, but just cute, just nice
[00:44:56.880 --> 00:44:59.380] in different type of way though, right?
[00:44:59.800 --> 00:45:01.740] So like Beetlejuice, right?
[00:45:01.740 --> 00:45:05.440] She said, I too am strange and unusual.
[00:45:18.290 --> 00:45:19.010] Something different.
[00:45:20.090 --> 00:45:22.510] And that would be like your niche.
[00:45:23.090 --> 00:45:24.150] Like once you're done with school,
[00:45:24.150 --> 00:45:26.650] you're going to dive straight into that.
[00:45:26.990 --> 00:45:27.150] Okay.
[00:45:27.250 --> 00:45:27.530] Yeah.
[00:45:27.550 --> 00:45:29.150] I need to work on it while I'm in school.
[00:45:30.490 --> 00:45:33.150] So every different project needs to add to that.
[00:45:33.350 --> 00:45:34.450] I need to be doing stuff.
[00:45:36.290 --> 00:45:38.330] So I have a genre analysis pro,
[00:45:38.610 --> 00:45:40.590] yeah, genre analysis paper
[00:45:40.590 --> 00:45:42.410] that I have to write for a film class.
[00:45:43.670 --> 00:45:44.850] With that intel.
[00:45:45.130 --> 00:45:45.610] Right.
[00:45:45.610 --> 00:45:47.930] Who thought you had the right for a film class?
[00:45:49.650 --> 00:45:52.370] Anyways, genre analysis.
[00:45:53.130 --> 00:45:55.910] So basically I chose horror, right?
[00:45:56.370 --> 00:45:58.190] But then we have sub genres,
[00:45:58.270 --> 00:46:00.110] which are taking two different things
[00:46:00.110 --> 00:46:02.890] and combining them such as horror and comedy.
[00:46:04.510 --> 00:46:07.010] Then we get old scary movie pairings, right?
[00:46:08.290 --> 00:46:10.870] So I chose to do horror,
[00:46:10.930 --> 00:46:13.790] got more specific into Dracula, right?
[00:46:14.510 --> 00:46:18.810] The analysis is to see the difference
[00:46:18.810 --> 00:46:20.730] in our Dracula movies, right?
[00:46:20.870 --> 00:46:23.410] So I chose three different Dracula movies.
[00:46:27.930 --> 00:46:29.610] This is live, y'all.
[00:46:32.910 --> 00:46:33.910] Interview right now.
[00:46:33.990 --> 00:46:35.030] I'm going to call you right back.
[00:47:02.710 --> 00:47:03.870] Am I supposed to hit the button or something?
[00:47:04.490 --> 00:47:04.790] Huh?
[00:47:05.030 --> 00:47:06.130] Do you want me to hit the button or something?
[00:47:06.510 --> 00:47:07.010] Oh, you're good.
[00:47:07.050 --> 00:47:07.570] It's still going.
[00:47:07.670 --> 00:47:08.230] Okay, cool.
[00:47:08.530 --> 00:47:08.770] All right.
[00:47:08.770 --> 00:47:09.210] Back to it.
[00:47:09.250 --> 00:47:09.490] Ready?
[00:47:09.810 --> 00:47:10.330] What was the question?
[00:47:15.230 --> 00:47:16.150] We can reset.
[00:47:16.310 --> 00:47:16.590] We're good.
[00:47:21.090 --> 00:47:32.270] I kind of want to shift gears to a question.
[00:47:33.170 --> 00:47:36.950] No one asked you that you want someone to ask you
[00:47:36.950 --> 00:47:45.750] about your work or not work art.
[00:47:45.850 --> 00:47:48.930] I want to call it more art, art work, art work, art work.
[00:47:48.930 --> 00:47:49.490] Put it together.
[00:47:49.750 --> 00:47:49.970] Art work.
[00:47:50.230 --> 00:47:53.990] Yeah, but it still be I got so many things
[00:47:53.990 --> 00:47:55.390] y'all don't even know.
[00:47:55.590 --> 00:47:57.170] I don't know how to even tell y'all
[00:47:57.170 --> 00:47:59.170] what I don't know how to tell y'all.
[00:47:59.170 --> 00:48:00.570] You know what I'm saying?
[00:48:01.410 --> 00:48:04.470] Like I really get ideas in my head
[00:48:04.470 --> 00:48:08.590] and I just do like if I was to say something
[00:48:08.590 --> 00:48:11.610] motivational to somebody, just do it.
[00:48:11.690 --> 00:48:13.530] Like I'm not even sure.
[00:48:15.870 --> 00:48:16.270] See the question.
[00:48:16.490 --> 00:48:20.430] What was the question?
[00:48:23.070 --> 00:48:31.290] It was a good one.
[00:48:31.290 --> 00:48:36.910] It was a good one.
[00:48:36.910 --> 00:48:37.670] Let me get off track.
[00:48:37.790 --> 00:48:38.930] That was a good one.
[00:48:42.590 --> 00:48:44.590] Oh, if what is it?
[00:48:44.590 --> 00:48:45.070] What is it?
[00:48:45.070 --> 00:48:48.290] What is the question that I want somebody to ask me?
[00:48:48.470 --> 00:48:48.770] Yeah.
[00:48:48.770 --> 00:48:51.430] What's the question I want somebody to ask?
[00:48:51.530 --> 00:48:52.210] I got excited.
[00:48:52.730 --> 00:48:57.330] I was waiting.
[00:48:57.330 --> 00:48:58.690] I was waiting so hard on the answer.
[00:48:58.830 --> 00:49:00.230] I'm like, what was the question?
[00:49:00.450 --> 00:49:01.370] I was I was waiting.
[00:49:01.690 --> 00:49:05.290] I was I'm trying to think too because then it'd be like,
[00:49:05.430 --> 00:49:07.710] okay, because I can do a million things
[00:49:07.710 --> 00:49:10.330] and then it'd be like, I really be wanting people.
[00:49:10.330 --> 00:49:11.630] I don't know what I want people to ask.
[00:49:11.810 --> 00:49:16.630] Someone if a little kid came up to you to ask you.
[00:49:23.940 --> 00:49:26.160] Yeah, I don't like people asking me for shit.
[00:49:26.200 --> 00:49:26.880] What are you?
[00:49:29.700 --> 00:49:31.420] May sound harsh, though.
[00:49:31.460 --> 00:49:32.300] Kids give it to you.
[00:49:32.360 --> 00:49:33.320] You're not going to say it like that,
[00:49:33.340 --> 00:49:35.500] but they ain't got no filter neither.
[00:49:35.520 --> 00:49:36.200] They don't have no filter.
[00:49:37.180 --> 00:49:38.700] But yeah, no, I don't.
[00:49:38.940 --> 00:49:40.160] What would you want to ask them?
[00:49:41.220 --> 00:49:42.700] What do you do?
[00:49:43.320 --> 00:49:46.100] But a kid, if I ask that, what is that thing over there?
[00:49:46.480 --> 00:49:49.040] Yeah, I'd be like, I do a lot.
[00:49:49.100 --> 00:49:50.640] Like I'm the artist of all things.
[00:49:51.000 --> 00:49:53.020] Like I sew, I make things.
[00:49:53.020 --> 00:49:54.220] Okay, a teenage kid.
[00:49:56.060 --> 00:49:57.080] Don't you want a job?
[00:49:58.920 --> 00:50:00.940] I need you to carry these bags.
[00:50:03.020 --> 00:50:04.720] You want them to approach you like that?
[00:50:04.900 --> 00:50:05.420] Can I have a job?
[00:50:06.200 --> 00:50:06.920] Oh, I guess.
[00:50:11.680 --> 00:50:12.900] And then it'd be like that.
[00:50:12.960 --> 00:50:13.360] Oh my gosh.
[00:50:13.460 --> 00:50:14.540] People have done that to me.
[00:50:15.400 --> 00:50:16.180] Oh, don't don't get me started.
[00:50:16.240 --> 00:50:17.100] People have done that.
[00:50:20.730 --> 00:50:22.270] What about interns since you?
[00:50:22.370 --> 00:50:24.650] I can intern because I don't have enough money to pay nobody.
[00:50:25.290 --> 00:50:25.990] That's just that.
[00:50:26.330 --> 00:50:28.830] I can intern all I want, but I ain't got no time.
[00:50:30.490 --> 00:50:31.690] Interns to work under you.
[00:50:31.690 --> 00:50:33.610] Yeah, I can have somebody intern under me.
[00:50:33.690 --> 00:50:34.750] I have no problem mentoring.
[00:50:34.790 --> 00:50:35.850] I have no problem tutoring.
[00:50:36.010 --> 00:50:41.210] I have no problem, you know, having somebody to really help at that point.
[00:50:41.270 --> 00:50:45.750] Like I got a lot of bags to bring in to set up this 360 booth.
[00:50:46.670 --> 00:50:49.690] And I just need you to carry 360 before I get these bags.
[00:50:50.050 --> 00:50:52.630] How much is your mentoring program?
[00:50:53.650 --> 00:50:55.940] We'll get there when I'm out of school.
[00:50:56.970 --> 00:50:57.250] Get there.
[00:50:57.470 --> 00:50:57.550] Okay.
[00:50:57.730 --> 00:50:57.870] Yeah.
[00:50:58.830 --> 00:51:00.030] Focus, stay focused.
[00:51:00.030 --> 00:51:03.070] Definitely got to learn a lot before I go helping everybody else.
[00:51:03.070 --> 00:51:04.450] Can't help nobody until you help yourself.
[00:51:05.290 --> 00:51:05.850] That's right.
[00:51:06.810 --> 00:51:09.750] Self love is the biggest, you know.
[00:51:09.890 --> 00:51:11.710] Yeah, I'm out here learning for the both of us.
[00:51:12.250 --> 00:51:14.710] Yeah, true, true facts.
[00:51:16.330 --> 00:51:20.750] You know, that's why I love being around other high level people in the industry
[00:51:20.750 --> 00:51:24.770] because it's not about competitions, more about collaboration,
[00:51:25.450 --> 00:51:28.150] you know, supporting each other, clapping for each other,
[00:51:28.150 --> 00:51:32.410] you know, being there for each other, even even on the emotional side.
[00:51:32.910 --> 00:51:34.030] Like, you good?
[00:51:34.250 --> 00:51:38.710] It's been a while, you know, checking in, checking in your friends, you know.
[00:51:38.890 --> 00:51:40.990] They say who check in on the strongest ones?
[00:51:42.870 --> 00:51:44.770] Oh, don't get started there.
[00:51:45.250 --> 00:51:45.930] Yeah, yep, yep.
[00:51:46.070 --> 00:51:47.070] It's lonely at the top.
[00:51:48.250 --> 00:51:49.030] Lonely at the top.
[00:51:50.810 --> 00:51:57.570] That's what I said, like when we chase this and we get this success or whatever we
[00:51:58.370 --> 00:52:02.030] want in life, it's like, is it ever enough?
[00:52:02.770 --> 00:52:03.150] Nope.
[00:52:03.450 --> 00:52:04.150] Remember Squid Game?
[00:52:05.390 --> 00:52:05.790] Nope.
[00:52:06.910 --> 00:52:08.910] Because you like to do it.
[00:52:08.910 --> 00:52:09.810] So what about money?
[00:52:09.850 --> 00:52:10.810] Like, what is it?
[00:52:10.970 --> 00:52:12.430] How much money you want to know?
[00:52:12.570 --> 00:52:14.530] Is it really a number or is it like?
[00:52:14.530 --> 00:52:14.670] It's a million.
[00:52:14.710 --> 00:52:16.030] I really want to be a billionaire.
[00:52:16.230 --> 00:52:17.170] Like, that's it.
[00:52:17.690 --> 00:52:19.390] I don't need, I don't got to be famous to be a million.
[00:52:19.470 --> 00:52:20.410] I just want to have millions.
[00:52:20.910 --> 00:52:27.630] So is 99, is it 99,000 enough?
[00:52:27.630 --> 00:52:32.910] If you don't reach the million, 99,000 enough?
[00:52:33.230 --> 00:52:33.710] Sure.
[00:52:34.330 --> 00:52:35.110] So when is it enough?
[00:52:35.350 --> 00:52:36.070] I ain't never gonna stop.
[00:52:36.390 --> 00:52:36.810] Exactly.
[00:52:36.990 --> 00:52:37.910] Enough is never enough.
[00:52:38.030 --> 00:52:39.850] The glass is never full.
[00:52:40.110 --> 00:52:41.270] It ain't half full either.
[00:52:41.430 --> 00:52:42.210] It ain't never full.
[00:52:42.430 --> 00:52:43.130] I ain't got enough.
[00:52:43.650 --> 00:52:43.870] Let go.
[00:52:43.990 --> 00:52:44.450] Keep moving.
[00:52:45.970 --> 00:52:48.310] So even with art or the work we do.
[00:52:48.510 --> 00:52:49.170] Ain't never done.
[00:52:49.850 --> 00:52:50.630] It's never enough.
[00:52:50.870 --> 00:52:51.150] Never done.
[00:52:52.130 --> 00:52:52.990] What about love?
[00:52:53.970 --> 00:52:54.450] Love.
[00:52:55.730 --> 00:52:56.210] Relationships.
[00:52:57.810 --> 00:52:58.550] Never enough.
[00:52:58.550 --> 00:52:59.750] It ain't never enough.
[00:53:01.170 --> 00:53:01.470] Parenting.
[00:53:01.750 --> 00:53:02.070] Never enough.
[00:53:02.370 --> 00:53:03.110] It ain't never enough.
[00:53:03.290 --> 00:53:04.870] What our parents, we could say we,
[00:53:04.950 --> 00:53:06.470] what our parents didn't do for us.
[00:53:06.650 --> 00:53:07.950] And then, you know, they did a lot.
[00:53:07.950 --> 00:53:08.290] I definitely.
[00:53:08.290 --> 00:53:10.390] We try to make up and be in our own kids' head.
[00:53:10.630 --> 00:53:12.010] I don't want kids.
[00:53:12.010 --> 00:53:13.490] Then what's, what's ever enough?
[00:53:14.310 --> 00:53:14.730] Exactly.
[00:53:14.830 --> 00:53:15.570] Ain't nothing enough.
[00:53:15.750 --> 00:53:16.650] Ain't enough food.
[00:53:16.750 --> 00:53:17.350] Ain't enough water.
[00:53:17.550 --> 00:53:18.190] Ain't enough outfits.
[00:53:18.330 --> 00:53:18.970] Ain't enough clothes.
[00:53:19.130 --> 00:53:20.030] Ain't enough knowledge.
[00:53:20.350 --> 00:53:21.010] Ain't enough power.
[00:53:21.250 --> 00:53:24.130] But for someone like me, that's a perfectionist.
[00:53:24.130 --> 00:53:25.190] Like, how do we?
[00:53:25.410 --> 00:53:25.830] Right.
[00:53:25.970 --> 00:53:27.770] Now what is, what's perfect though?
[00:53:28.330 --> 00:53:30.070] It is what it is.
[00:53:30.310 --> 00:53:31.470] It's the eye of the beholder.
[00:53:32.550 --> 00:53:33.850] I am who I am.
[00:53:34.130 --> 00:53:35.950] I can't be who you want me to be.
[00:53:36.130 --> 00:53:37.650] You got to accept me for who I am.
[00:53:38.670 --> 00:53:39.650] Life goes on.
[00:53:39.950 --> 00:53:40.690] You do what you don't.
[00:53:43.260 --> 00:53:45.320] So when is the product ever finished?
[00:53:45.600 --> 00:53:46.060] It ain't.
[00:53:47.180 --> 00:53:48.120] Ain't never finished.
[00:53:48.340 --> 00:53:48.800] It's life.
[00:53:49.120 --> 00:53:49.500] It's life.
[00:53:49.580 --> 00:53:50.280] It's a segment.
[00:53:50.560 --> 00:53:50.900] Yeah.
[00:53:51.140 --> 00:53:52.660] So when the segment is done.
[00:53:53.540 --> 00:53:53.840] The frame.
[00:53:53.920 --> 00:53:54.540] It's chapters.
[00:53:54.660 --> 00:53:54.880] The frame.
[00:53:54.880 --> 00:53:55.360] Oh, it's chapters.
[00:53:55.360 --> 00:53:56.660] Going back to the film, the frame.
[00:53:58.120 --> 00:53:58.900] Oh, yeah.
[00:53:58.900 --> 00:54:01.500] When one thing ends, something else begins.
[00:54:02.760 --> 00:54:05.400] When one life is taken, another life begins.
[00:54:06.540 --> 00:54:07.880] Don't shut it down.
[00:54:08.920 --> 00:54:10.820] There are, there is always room for improvements.
[00:54:18.120 --> 00:54:19.820] What are some things you're improving in now?
[00:54:20.440 --> 00:54:24.200] Every day I become a better me, better than I was yesterday.
[00:54:25.460 --> 00:54:27.020] Every day I wake up, I make art.
[00:54:27.820 --> 00:54:29.500] A good girl, yeah.
[00:54:31.320 --> 00:54:37.200] Though incremental progress, as long as it's forward progress
[00:54:37.200 --> 00:54:40.220] and positive progress, that's what matters.
[00:54:41.080 --> 00:54:42.140] Like that incremental growth.
[00:54:42.140 --> 00:54:45.280] Sometimes it jumps, compounds.
[00:54:47.060 --> 00:54:48.240] But you got to be consistent.
[00:54:49.540 --> 00:54:50.960] That's how you get the things you want
[00:54:50.960 --> 00:54:52.480] and the success you want in life.
[00:54:53.700 --> 00:54:56.540] Like, I'm always adding networking events now.
[00:54:56.540 --> 00:54:57.300] Yeah.
[00:54:57.640 --> 00:54:59.100] Would you be wearing a suit now?
[00:55:01.250 --> 00:55:02.770] Are you old enough to be wearing a suit?
[00:55:04.190 --> 00:55:04.990] At most.
[00:55:08.750 --> 00:55:11.210] But, you know, getting out of my shell.
[00:55:12.150 --> 00:55:12.550] Yeah.
[00:55:13.870 --> 00:55:16.170] You know, I'm usually to myself behind the scenes.
[00:55:16.310 --> 00:55:17.950] You don't want to sit on the couch and think about anything.
[00:55:17.950 --> 00:55:18.590] Doing work.
[00:55:19.170 --> 00:55:22.950] But, you know, relationships matter.
[00:55:26.530 --> 00:55:27.530] That's my biggest thing.
[00:55:27.610 --> 00:55:28.370] You got to meet people.
[00:55:28.390 --> 00:55:29.590] You got to shake hands.
[00:55:31.400 --> 00:55:32.500] Let people know who you are.
[00:55:32.560 --> 00:55:33.760] Let people know what you do.
[00:55:36.850 --> 00:55:37.890] How can we help each other?
[00:55:37.930 --> 00:55:38.670] How can we build?
[00:55:38.670 --> 00:55:39.730] How can we grow?
[00:55:40.470 --> 00:55:41.090] What do you need?
[00:55:41.210 --> 00:55:42.450] Oh, I know somebody that do that.
[00:55:44.190 --> 00:55:48.830] I need someone who can write horror movies.
[00:55:49.430 --> 00:55:49.590] Oh.
[00:55:50.330 --> 00:55:51.430] Set design.
[00:55:52.430 --> 00:55:53.830] Oh, I got the whole list right there.
[00:55:54.010 --> 00:55:54.690] Your cheat code.
[00:55:57.030 --> 00:56:00.270] But just meeting people and just knowing, like,
[00:56:00.350 --> 00:56:06.090] even what I showed you before the call about the departments.
[00:56:07.150 --> 00:56:11.290] And yeah, so it's just finding new ways and being creative.
[00:56:11.310 --> 00:56:16.020] Like, okay, who are the people I want to serve
[00:56:16.020 --> 00:56:20.520] and have the budget that I, you know,
[00:56:21.420 --> 00:56:23.980] I don't want to say demand, but, you know,
[00:56:24.160 --> 00:56:27.620] your work, the value that you provide and can provide
[00:56:27.620 --> 00:56:31.960] and tie a lot of services together to maximize,
[00:56:31.960 --> 00:56:33.780] you know, the results.
[00:56:34.200 --> 00:56:36.020] Yeah, definitely look for your target audience.
[00:56:36.020 --> 00:56:39.120] That's when you narrow it down.
[00:56:41.480 --> 00:56:43.920] But just being creative for how I find these people, you know,
[00:56:45.900 --> 00:56:48.460] I got denied for my first event.
[00:56:49.160 --> 00:56:52.200] Like, no, you got to take you off the list.
[00:56:53.740 --> 00:56:55.860] Yeah, registered for events, free event.
[00:56:56.140 --> 00:56:58.840] It's for murders and acquisitions.
[00:57:00.000 --> 00:57:02.780] And the minimum qualification to get in this room
[00:57:02.780 --> 00:57:03.780] was a million dollars.
[00:57:04.160 --> 00:57:07.240] And yeah, I'm not a millionaire yet.
[00:57:07.960 --> 00:57:09.960] So they took me off the list.
[00:57:09.960 --> 00:57:11.240] There's like excess denied.
[00:57:12.960 --> 00:57:15.800] You had to have money for a free event.
[00:57:19.750 --> 00:57:21.770] You know, just think about that gut wrench punch,
[00:57:21.890 --> 00:57:25.190] like, oh, okay, I'll get you.
[00:57:26.250 --> 00:57:28.550] You know, having that feeling like, man,
[00:57:28.550 --> 00:57:30.750] that was like a shot, like, oh, okay.
[00:57:31.610 --> 00:57:33.810] And I respect it though, because, you know,
[00:57:34.430 --> 00:57:37.910] I like doing business with people that got it right now.
[00:57:37.910 --> 00:57:41.430] You know, can you hand me a million dollars right now
[00:57:41.430 --> 00:57:42.210] and about it?
[00:57:42.570 --> 00:57:43.430] I get that.
[00:57:43.430 --> 00:57:44.300] I respect it.
[00:57:44.910 --> 00:57:45.990] Anyone take a room?
[00:57:46.710 --> 00:57:47.730] I get it.
[00:57:47.870 --> 00:57:51.730] So when I bought a whole room, you know, okay.
[00:57:51.730 --> 00:57:53.230] You got to come back stronger.
[00:57:53.230 --> 00:57:53.870] It's okay.
[00:57:58.820 --> 00:58:00.810] Having that motivation that will like that.
[00:58:01.880 --> 00:58:03.300] Like I asked you the question,
[00:58:03.440 --> 00:58:05.100] like, how do you give someone a hustle?
[00:58:05.120 --> 00:58:07.160] Sometimes you have to find it in the pain.
[00:58:07.680 --> 00:58:08.620] Yes, also.
[00:58:08.620 --> 00:58:10.400] Yes, definitely agree with you.
[00:58:10.680 --> 00:58:12.660] You could find love through the pain.
[00:58:14.200 --> 00:58:15.040] Pain through love.
[00:58:15.700 --> 00:58:16.180] I feel you.
[00:58:16.180 --> 00:58:17.040] Well, not necessarily.
[00:58:17.160 --> 00:58:18.740] You know, don't build no trauma bonds.
[00:58:19.720 --> 00:58:21.980] Yeah, don't build no trauma bonds, y'all.
[00:58:22.080 --> 00:58:22.900] Don't do that.
[00:58:23.440 --> 00:58:26.220] But use art as therapy.
[00:58:26.340 --> 00:58:27.800] Don't use other people.
[00:58:28.240 --> 00:58:29.360] Use art.
[00:58:31.590 --> 00:58:32.130] Okay.
[00:58:35.360 --> 00:58:37.420] How important is emotion in art?
[00:58:38.200 --> 00:58:39.280] Oh, very, very, very.
[00:58:39.520 --> 00:58:43.140] So I'll tell you, I got my chakras tattooed down my back
[00:58:43.140 --> 00:58:46.560] every color of the rainbow has a very specific meaning
[00:58:46.560 --> 00:58:48.360] to each and every person.
[00:58:48.600 --> 00:58:52.220] Very specific to you and how you feel about it.
[00:58:57.260 --> 00:58:58.020] Another conversation.
[00:58:58.480 --> 00:59:02.860] But to me, yes, I love every color of the rainbow.
[00:59:03.120 --> 00:59:06.020] You will see me wear every color of the rainbow.
[00:59:06.720 --> 00:59:09.620] Like your logo, your branding.
[00:59:09.880 --> 00:59:11.560] Yes, my branding is rainbows.
[00:59:12.280 --> 00:59:15.300] Maybe majority black, maybe accent pink.
[00:59:15.700 --> 00:59:19.220] But for the most part, there is a lot of rainbows
[00:59:19.880 --> 00:59:23.040] and black is all color.
[00:59:23.720 --> 00:59:25.000] So that's why I like that.
[00:59:26.480 --> 00:59:28.860] So how do you come up with Milton Magnets?
[00:59:28.860 --> 00:59:29.580] I heard it in the song.
[00:59:29.740 --> 00:59:31.800] With the blended rainbow thing?
[00:59:32.260 --> 00:59:33.220] I always heard it in the song.
[00:59:33.400 --> 00:59:33.840] I like it.
[00:59:34.840 --> 00:59:35.660] I just like the way it sounds.
[00:59:38.180 --> 00:59:38.760] Like magnets?
[00:59:40.280 --> 00:59:41.160] Connecting with people.
[00:59:41.580 --> 00:59:42.660] See, you can use it as branding.
[00:59:42.680 --> 00:59:43.820] It's so many ways you can say it.
[00:59:43.820 --> 00:59:44.480] All right, now I'm coaching you now.
[00:59:44.640 --> 00:59:45.240] It's just hot.
[00:59:45.760 --> 00:59:46.980] It's a hot, it's hot.
[00:59:46.980 --> 00:59:48.700] You know, melting shit.
[00:59:50.870 --> 00:59:51.650] I like it.
[00:59:51.770 --> 00:59:53.450] I can make a lot of things out of it.
[00:59:53.490 --> 00:59:54.370] I like the connection.
[00:59:54.610 --> 00:59:55.610] You can utilize that.
[00:59:55.630 --> 00:59:57.770] We're going to play some stuff on camera.
[00:59:59.710 --> 01:00:02.910] But magnets, we could break it down.
[01:00:03.170 --> 01:00:03.490] We connect.
[01:00:04.890 --> 01:00:07.390] You know, I can see the whole branding campaign.
[01:00:07.610 --> 01:00:08.210] Look at them.
[01:00:08.210 --> 01:00:09.310] We're going to be selling you now.
[01:00:09.310 --> 01:00:10.470] Yeah, I was about to say you trying to sell me.
[01:00:10.570 --> 01:00:12.750] I already got everything branded from shirts,
[01:00:13.010 --> 01:00:15.570] wristbands, jewelry, everything already.
[01:00:16.210 --> 01:00:19.490] This video audience, but, you know,
[01:00:19.770 --> 01:00:21.710] never telling off the creative mind.
[01:00:21.910 --> 01:00:27.030] Like, oh, but yeah, they call it a copy.
[01:00:27.730 --> 01:00:29.550] Copy language, copyright.
[01:00:32.360 --> 01:00:34.580] And it's the message behind your brand.
[01:00:38.380 --> 01:00:39.040] That's nice, though.
[01:00:39.040 --> 01:00:41.480] And then the photogenic collection.
[01:00:42.980 --> 01:00:45.380] Is that part of notes and magnets?
[01:00:45.620 --> 01:00:45.880] Is that?
[01:00:45.940 --> 01:00:47.560] Yes, that's right up under it.
[01:00:47.560 --> 01:00:52.880] Really, what it is is everything else I do in a collection.
[01:00:53.380 --> 01:00:55.860] When I started making clothes, yes,
[01:00:56.060 --> 01:00:59.780] the tag on the clothes will say photogenic collection.
[01:01:00.900 --> 01:01:04.240] When I start building sets and making paintings,
[01:01:04.780 --> 01:01:07.980] yes, I will sign my signature photogenic collection.
[01:01:08.240 --> 01:01:10.120] The brand, yes.
[01:01:11.140 --> 01:01:15.060] When I do yoga and we're stretching
[01:01:16.020 --> 01:01:24.080] and we are at the park and the forest like outside,
[01:01:24.300 --> 01:01:27.530] you know, creeks, ponds, lakes, all that.
[01:01:28.200 --> 01:01:30.760] When we go outside doing yoga, yes,
[01:01:31.240 --> 01:01:33.500] we are a part of the photogenic collection.
[01:01:34.660 --> 01:01:39.200] To be photogenic just means that this is our shoot.
[01:01:40.080 --> 01:01:45.720] Everything I do will have melting magnets, LLC photography.
[01:01:47.220 --> 01:01:50.860] But what we will be doing in front of the camera
[01:01:50.860 --> 01:01:53.300] will be for photogenic collection
[01:01:53.300 --> 01:01:55.640] because we will be photogenic people.
[01:01:56.300 --> 01:02:00.060] And that is always going to be my collection
[01:02:00.560 --> 01:02:03.240] of, you know, everything else I do.
[01:02:03.240 --> 01:02:09.660] So that will be the brand name for my other subconscious.
[01:02:14.720 --> 01:02:18.100] Everything you, everything that you capture,
[01:02:18.440 --> 01:02:19.020] then like everything else is.
[01:02:19.020 --> 01:02:21.180] Yes, what I capture is melting magnets,
[01:02:21.680 --> 01:02:23.960] but everything else I do with a photogenic collection.
[01:02:33.270 --> 01:02:33.830] I see.
[01:02:35.030 --> 01:02:36.610] So yeah, photogenic collection
[01:02:36.610 --> 01:02:40.990] definitely is a baby from melting magnets.
[01:02:43.330 --> 01:02:46.230] But yes, you will see both logos at times.
[01:02:46.230 --> 01:02:49.670] But yes, my yoga, my sewing, my clothes
[01:02:50.750 --> 01:02:53.770] will be photogenic collection.
[01:02:55.130 --> 01:02:56.170] Photogenic collection.
[01:02:56.450 --> 01:02:57.930] Love it, love it, love it.
[01:03:00.390 --> 01:03:01.950] So it's going to be public, you know.
[01:03:04.250 --> 01:03:05.190] Are you going to showcase
[01:03:05.190 --> 01:03:06.970] or are you going to offer it to the public?
[01:03:07.550 --> 01:03:08.910] Oh, it'll be a part of my services.
[01:03:11.320 --> 01:03:13.080] Yes, it is a service.
[01:03:13.440 --> 01:03:16.740] Yeah, it's a service type program from melting magnets.
[01:03:26.680 --> 01:03:29.730] Definitely got to give it a little bit later.
[01:03:33.570 --> 01:03:37.010] What are some things you studying right now
[01:03:37.010 --> 01:03:39.930] as far as like self-education, self-development?
[01:03:40.150 --> 01:03:41.510] Self-development, editing.
[01:03:41.670 --> 01:03:43.370] I got to always teach myself how to edit.
[01:03:43.450 --> 01:03:45.390] Always got to find new editing effects
[01:03:45.390 --> 01:03:46.870] and tips and tricks.
[01:03:47.210 --> 01:03:48.730] So definitely with that,
[01:03:49.010 --> 01:03:51.150] especially going into this horror genre.
[01:03:51.610 --> 01:03:54.410] So definitely got to get more into that.
[01:03:54.430 --> 01:03:57.290] Teaching myself more to stay on genre.
[01:03:57.970 --> 01:03:59.910] Like, yes, my favorite color is pink.
[01:04:00.010 --> 01:04:01.790] Yes, I am all rainbows.
[01:04:02.670 --> 01:04:05.470] But now let's turn that into a horror genre.
[01:04:06.710 --> 01:04:09.070] So how do you turn rainbows into horror?
[01:04:09.690 --> 01:04:11.430] Oh, my goodness, that is crazy.
[01:04:11.490 --> 01:04:14.070] So like literally the first thing I ever wrote
[01:04:14.070 --> 01:04:16.790] was You Can't Hide From Me,
[01:04:17.070 --> 01:04:22.390] which was a monologue for my senior recital, 2018.
[01:04:24.590 --> 01:04:28.270] And I performed it at a monologue one-woman show,
[01:04:28.270 --> 01:04:33.790] you know, and basically I was a six-year-old kid
[01:04:33.790 --> 01:04:38.350] who was bullied and I got my revenge on my bully.
[01:04:42.370 --> 01:04:44.170] Quite a monologue.
[01:04:47.750 --> 01:04:48.910] Yes, I had a tendency.
[01:04:51.190 --> 01:04:55.290] So that's where we take our rainbows and cues well.
[01:05:00.900 --> 01:05:02.940] So even that's like blending.
[01:05:02.940 --> 01:05:04.300] Or a Chucky.
[01:05:04.740 --> 01:05:05.740] Which just start with photography,
[01:05:06.040 --> 01:05:08.500] like because it's light and dark contrast.
[01:05:09.560 --> 01:05:11.620] Definitely got to get better on my niche.
[01:05:11.760 --> 01:05:13.820] I know what I like, but I haven't shown that.
[01:05:14.040 --> 01:05:16.280] I'm definitely working more for my clients
[01:05:16.280 --> 01:05:17.680] to give them what they want.
[01:05:19.650 --> 01:05:25.270] But I definitely will start working on my horror genre soon.
[01:05:25.930 --> 01:05:28.110] You know, someone told me at a conference once,
[01:05:28.550 --> 01:05:32.010] it might have been the same conference we went to
[01:05:32.010 --> 01:05:35.210] for Imogen like years ago.
[01:05:35.690 --> 01:05:37.530] Yeah, but I say you went once without me.
[01:05:38.690 --> 01:05:39.570] I went once.
[01:05:39.690 --> 01:05:40.730] I went one time.
[01:05:42.890 --> 01:05:45.470] So the first year I went, I was like, man.
[01:05:45.930 --> 01:05:47.310] Oh, yeah, you must have went before me.
[01:05:47.330 --> 01:05:48.450] I only went one time.
[01:05:48.610 --> 01:05:49.850] Yeah, I was saying you only went one time.
[01:05:49.990 --> 01:05:50.790] I went three times.
[01:05:50.830 --> 01:05:52.770] Okay, so I must have went that second time you went
[01:05:52.770 --> 01:05:55.310] because you went once before and after then.
[01:05:55.930 --> 01:05:57.870] Or you, yeah, it was before or after.
[01:05:58.190 --> 01:05:59.670] Yeah, I was about to say, I know I went once.
[01:05:59.730 --> 01:06:01.310] So you went after or before,
[01:06:01.310 --> 01:06:03.230] but I don't remember exactly and it could have been both.
[01:06:04.010 --> 01:06:11.560] But they told me you have to work on your projects,
[01:06:11.720 --> 01:06:12.760] do what you love.
[01:06:13.440 --> 01:06:17.240] Otherwise, your portfolio, your work you have to show
[01:06:17.240 --> 01:06:20.660] is basically your clients control what they want.
[01:06:20.880 --> 01:06:21.260] Right.
[01:06:21.520 --> 01:06:24.740] What you want to show and the work that you want to do.
[01:06:25.960 --> 01:06:26.480] Definitely.
[01:06:26.700 --> 01:06:29.380] You know, so I always had it back in my mind
[01:06:29.380 --> 01:06:30.780] and the people that I work with,
[01:06:30.880 --> 01:06:33.040] like is this getting to the goal?
[01:06:33.800 --> 01:06:36.500] I mean, I had a conversation, you know,
[01:06:36.780 --> 01:06:37.820] the other day about that.
[01:06:38.200 --> 01:06:46.350] So encouraging and being there for each other
[01:06:46.350 --> 01:06:47.750] is always mind and mental
[01:06:47.750 --> 01:06:50.030] because sometimes we do need that reminder.
[01:06:50.350 --> 01:06:52.590] And, you know, we have off days
[01:06:52.590 --> 01:06:55.510] and we just need that nudge like, dang.
[01:06:56.510 --> 01:06:58.390] Like, oh, remember you did X, Y, and Z?
[01:06:58.710 --> 01:07:00.570] Like, you know, you never know how
[01:07:00.570 --> 01:07:02.130] it could change a person's day.
[01:07:02.830 --> 01:07:06.310] And from that day, I created this that it sparked up
[01:07:07.690 --> 01:07:11.940] like the support is everything.
[01:07:14.410 --> 01:07:16.230] Peace and love is everything.
[01:07:18.990 --> 01:07:21.110] That's what I portray with my art, even with
[01:07:22.610 --> 01:07:25.890] from poems, books, music, photography,
[01:07:27.410 --> 01:07:29.510] peaceful pictures that are out of this world.
[01:07:35.790 --> 01:07:38.610] I do, I just want to have that vibrate
[01:07:39.090 --> 01:07:42.170] the atmosphere, the universe,
[01:07:43.050 --> 01:07:46.630] this positive energy, peace,
[01:07:47.790 --> 01:07:51.010] elevation, constant elevation, constant progression,
[01:07:52.690 --> 01:08:00.030] for elevation, always aberration.
[01:08:07.240 --> 01:08:11.340] That's how you get farther in where you want to be
[01:08:11.340 --> 01:08:14.520] in your career and life as a village,
[01:08:14.740 --> 01:08:17.460] as a family, as friends,
[01:08:18.960 --> 01:08:21.359] no matter what relationship or business,
[01:08:26.529 --> 01:08:28.290] and also take time for yourself.
[01:08:30.170 --> 01:08:34.050] Love yourself, meditate, pray,
[01:08:35.870 --> 01:08:37.330] do what you got to do.
[01:08:38.029 --> 01:08:40.430] Wake up, take that time for you.
[01:08:40.970 --> 01:08:42.210] See, I'm a poor dame, you know.
[01:08:44.950 --> 01:08:46.950] Really take that time, that silent time,
[01:08:49.510 --> 01:08:53.569] journal right out, make a plan,
[01:08:53.630 --> 01:08:54.729] how you want your day to be,
[01:08:54.910 --> 01:08:55.930] where's your goal for the day.
[01:08:56.210 --> 01:08:57.490] Yeah, you're telling me that?
[01:08:59.720 --> 01:09:00.160] Journal.
[01:09:00.600 --> 01:09:02.700] I got three full journals, pages,
[01:09:03.300 --> 01:09:05.220] back to back since I was 16.
[01:09:06.260 --> 01:09:08.560] I map out my day every day.
[01:09:08.700 --> 01:09:10.279] I know exactly what I got to do until
[01:09:10.279 --> 01:09:11.840] somebody call me what they do.
[01:09:12.560 --> 01:09:14.660] I always keep a journal, yeah,
[01:09:14.760 --> 01:09:15.479] wherever I go.
[01:09:20.569 --> 01:09:22.630] But meditate, get a sage, and all that.
[01:09:29.319 --> 01:09:33.590] So it's been a good conversation.
[01:09:33.930 --> 01:09:35.170] Definitely appreciated.
[01:09:35.490 --> 01:09:37.270] Definitely gave me a lot more to think on.
[01:09:37.830 --> 01:09:40.130] Yeah, like this is, this is refreshing
[01:09:40.130 --> 01:09:42.450] because like, you know,
[01:09:42.450 --> 01:09:43.870] I do work with a lot of entrepreneurs,
[01:09:44.109 --> 01:09:47.270] but like, I know you like the arts in there, artists.
[01:09:48.189 --> 01:09:49.810] Well, what do you mean by that?
[01:09:50.870 --> 01:09:52.130] Well, I call myself alien,
[01:09:52.430 --> 01:09:53.970] not player, the ultimate creator,
[01:09:54.210 --> 01:09:56.910] because like, I create everything,
[01:09:57.130 --> 01:09:59.130] and done everything, done a lot,
[01:10:02.240 --> 01:10:03.260] and do that a lot.
[01:10:10.800 --> 01:10:14.100] How can I reach you, find you, book you?
[01:10:14.960 --> 01:10:17.580] Well, you guys can follow me on Instagram
[01:10:17.580 --> 01:10:22.340] at laylai underscore melting underscore magnets.
[01:10:30.390 --> 01:10:31.890] Well, there's some encouraging words
[01:10:31.890 --> 01:10:34.070] you can leave for creative entrepreneurs.
[01:10:34.810 --> 01:10:37.490] A hundred percent effort, a hundred percent of the time.
[01:10:38.090 --> 01:10:40.690] A hundred percent effort, a hundred percent of the time.
[01:10:42.370 --> 01:10:43.470] Enjoy what you do.
[01:10:43.590 --> 01:10:44.050] I love it.
[01:10:45.130 --> 01:10:51.260] I'm glad to use that, and I'm glad to do your best.
[01:10:52.880 --> 01:10:53.920] I appreciate you.
[01:10:55.080 --> 01:10:56.860] I'm going to close with some words.
[01:10:57.700 --> 01:10:59.120] As I always say,
[01:10:59.220 --> 01:11:02.460] you can find me at alienizephotos.com.
[01:11:03.940 --> 01:11:05.860] Subscribe to the mailing list.
[01:11:05.860 --> 01:11:08.440] Subscribe to the podcast.
[01:11:09.540 --> 01:11:12.580] Follow all social media at alienizephotos.
[01:11:12.820 --> 01:11:16.760] Also on fan base, which I actually have equity in.
[01:11:17.580 --> 01:11:20.780] I'm working with Mr. Isaac Hayes over at fan base,
[01:11:21.900 --> 01:11:23.880] and building out the platform is going to be amazing.
[01:11:24.000 --> 01:11:24.780] Stay tuned.
[01:11:25.660 --> 01:11:27.980] Get on the platform while you can.
[01:11:28.640 --> 01:11:29.800] And if you want to book me,
[01:11:30.660 --> 01:11:32.740] you can find my contact information and email
[01:11:33.780 --> 01:11:38.040] on alienoplayer.com, and until next time.

========================================================================
55. Photographer's Guidance
Season 1 · Episode 23
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/photographers-guidance
========================================================================

[00:00:00.590 --> 00:00:07.230] This is a podcast episode for photographers.
[00:00:08.610 --> 00:00:10.590] Oh, all right, I'm about to get started.
[00:00:10.750 --> 00:00:14.210] This is background, we could cut this out by keep it.
[00:00:14.210 --> 00:00:15.590] Now you're getting a treat.
[00:00:16.950 --> 00:00:19.450] Let's do it, meet up my lady.
[00:00:20.990 --> 00:00:22.870] I kind of got here a little early.
[00:00:24.230 --> 00:00:27.450] So decided to record and get back
[00:00:27.450 --> 00:00:30.750] and I'll talk to my photographers for once.
[00:00:31.950 --> 00:00:34.490] I ain't gonna say for once, but just directly.
[00:00:34.930 --> 00:00:37.450] I'm usually speaking into a general population
[00:00:37.450 --> 00:00:39.590] of artists and entrepreneurs.
[00:00:40.750 --> 00:00:43.350] So that'd be refreshing to talk to my photographers.
[00:00:43.470 --> 00:00:45.830] And this is what this episode is gonna be about.
[00:00:46.690 --> 00:00:47.830] I'm about to get a sip of water.
[00:00:47.910 --> 00:00:49.510] I'm about to jump right into it.
[00:00:53.810 --> 00:00:56.250] Like I said, if this part's still in there
[00:00:56.250 --> 00:00:59.330] and I edit it out, well, you got a treat.
[00:00:59.330 --> 00:01:00.490] Yeah.
[00:01:02.740 --> 00:01:04.400] Cut myself down.
[00:01:04.400 --> 00:01:06.040] Talk to my deep breath.
[00:01:17.280 --> 00:01:18.840] And three, two, one.
[00:01:19.840 --> 00:01:22.980] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome
[00:01:24.170 --> 00:01:27.880] to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:01:28.100 --> 00:01:29.580] Yes, yes, yes.
[00:01:30.480 --> 00:01:31.280] Welcome back.
[00:01:32.240 --> 00:01:34.760] This episode will be for the photographers.
[00:01:35.240 --> 00:01:38.180] Yes, my photography community, how you doing?
[00:01:38.180 --> 00:01:41.120] And I know it's been a while
[00:01:41.120 --> 00:01:44.860] and I definitely wanna give you all that you need
[00:01:44.860 --> 00:01:46.460] and some lessons that I learned.
[00:01:47.320 --> 00:01:49.440] So let me speak to you real quick.
[00:01:50.300 --> 00:01:53.580] Now, if you are not a professional photographer
[00:01:53.580 --> 00:01:55.400] and would like to get a photography,
[00:01:56.280 --> 00:01:58.240] this episode is surely for you.
[00:01:58.580 --> 00:02:01.140] But for those that are photographers
[00:02:02.100 --> 00:02:04.220] and definitely wanna take it to the next level,
[00:02:04.280 --> 00:02:05.720] I just need that motivation.
[00:02:06.100 --> 00:02:09.479] I want this episode to be for you as well.
[00:02:10.060 --> 00:02:12.180] Now, if you're just getting in photography
[00:02:12.580 --> 00:02:15.540] and I love coaching new photographers,
[00:02:15.900 --> 00:02:21.640] new business owners, new entrepreneurs, new artists,
[00:02:22.600 --> 00:02:29.040] first beginning, I love helping and guiding
[00:02:30.160 --> 00:02:34.040] them to their own light skin.
[00:02:34.780 --> 00:02:36.560] You have to live in your own skin
[00:02:36.560 --> 00:02:41.700] and I love navigating people to that part of their career.
[00:02:42.080 --> 00:02:45.380] They finally themselves, they're finally maturing
[00:02:45.380 --> 00:02:49.680] in their craft or their entrepreneurship journey.
[00:02:50.820 --> 00:02:52.800] I just, I love that the most.
[00:02:55.580 --> 00:03:00.120] As far as knowledge and the things and experiences
[00:03:00.120 --> 00:03:03.720] I can invoke or tell or talk about,
[00:03:05.320 --> 00:03:10.310] I always love like that early stage growth,
[00:03:11.780 --> 00:03:15.120] even like in preschool or kindergarten, even first grade,
[00:03:15.700 --> 00:03:19.780] like those are some vital building blocks
[00:03:19.780 --> 00:03:23.780] that we need before we even get to four or fifth
[00:03:23.780 --> 00:03:26.420] and then even a high school, college,
[00:03:26.840 --> 00:03:28.700] and even later in adulthood.
[00:03:31.750 --> 00:03:34.630] It builds from that foundation.
[00:03:36.150 --> 00:03:38.030] Let me help you build that foundation.
[00:03:40.090 --> 00:03:42.710] I can get you to success or at least the success
[00:03:42.710 --> 00:03:47.310] that you want or a better plan in general.
[00:03:50.250 --> 00:03:55.870] But just starting off, practice, practice, practice.
[00:03:57.130 --> 00:04:01.190] I could not emphasize that the most or anymore.
[00:04:02.190 --> 00:04:07.050] We have to practice, whether that's practicing your craft,
[00:04:07.810 --> 00:04:10.950] practicing sales, practicing conversations,
[00:04:11.830 --> 00:04:13.450] practicing relationship building.
[00:04:14.170 --> 00:04:18.470] I feel like if you're gonna do it and practice,
[00:04:19.670 --> 00:04:22.770] you might as well do it.
[00:04:24.320 --> 00:04:28.140] For example, instead of practicing networking,
[00:04:29.620 --> 00:04:32.300] actually network, meet people, you know,
[00:04:32.300 --> 00:04:34.680] shake hands, develop relationships,
[00:04:35.600 --> 00:04:37.560] build your community, build your tribe,
[00:04:37.660 --> 00:04:42.140] build your network, why not just do it?
[00:04:42.260 --> 00:04:44.900] So that has always been my motto.
[00:04:45.040 --> 00:04:47.720] Of course, if I'm trying something new,
[00:04:51.870 --> 00:04:55.570] I try not to practice on the spot or on a job.
[00:04:56.430 --> 00:05:00.190] If I have to pivot, that's a different story.
[00:05:00.870 --> 00:05:05.570] But if I have a brilliant idea all of a sudden a day of,
[00:05:06.190 --> 00:05:08.070] and that's not with me and the client
[00:05:08.070 --> 00:05:11.230] or whoever I'm shooting for,
[00:05:11.350 --> 00:05:13.070] whether that's photography or video,
[00:05:14.030 --> 00:05:15.490] I'm not gonna go against the grain.
[00:05:15.630 --> 00:05:18.310] Maybe if we have all the dedicated shots
[00:05:18.310 --> 00:05:19.790] and we have time left over
[00:05:19.790 --> 00:05:23.330] or I have a period where I can experiment,
[00:05:24.350 --> 00:05:26.470] I hope best believe I am going to.
[00:05:26.940 --> 00:05:31.310] So it's also good to have your own shoots,
[00:05:31.530 --> 00:05:38.070] not just, you know, practice or on the job type of shoot,
[00:05:39.730 --> 00:05:43.150] but develop your own shoot, like your own event,
[00:05:43.290 --> 00:05:46.990] I want to do this, I have this in my head.
[00:05:47.430 --> 00:05:48.610] Actually do that.
[00:05:49.890 --> 00:05:53.830] I want to have a wedding on the mountains
[00:05:53.830 --> 00:05:56.450] with no clothes on.
[00:05:58.400 --> 00:06:01.920] Well, I'm sure you will find someone
[00:06:01.920 --> 00:06:04.420] that would be willing to do that.
[00:06:07.730 --> 00:06:08.910] Will I do that?
[00:06:09.250 --> 00:06:09.770] No.
[00:06:10.230 --> 00:06:12.470] But if you want to go to the extreme,
[00:06:12.850 --> 00:06:14.810] like I said, that is something you could try
[00:06:14.810 --> 00:06:17.930] on your own, set it up, however you want.
[00:06:21.200 --> 00:06:23.060] Always have a dream in mind,
[00:06:23.140 --> 00:06:27.300] your passion, project, at least once a year.
[00:06:27.940 --> 00:06:31.060] I know of my early stages, I did not do that at all.
[00:06:32.040 --> 00:06:33.620] And I was building whatever.
[00:06:35.680 --> 00:06:38.340] And I didn't have a portfolio,
[00:06:38.520 --> 00:06:40.400] like an actual portfolio back then,
[00:06:40.400 --> 00:06:41.500] I had a bunch of pictures.
[00:06:43.730 --> 00:06:45.990] But if I had made a portfolio
[00:06:46.630 --> 00:06:49.390] out of these bunch of pictures that I've taken,
[00:06:53.180 --> 00:06:55.520] it would just show what the client wanted
[00:06:55.520 --> 00:06:56.960] or how the atmosphere wanted,
[00:06:56.960 --> 00:07:03.200] not what I want to portray myself as one artist
[00:07:03.200 --> 00:07:06.920] and this is my work as a business owner.
[00:07:07.980 --> 00:07:13.850] So you have to have that passion project
[00:07:13.850 --> 00:07:17.490] or things you like to shoot and show that off.
[00:07:17.710 --> 00:07:21.330] Otherwise, what people see of your work
[00:07:21.330 --> 00:07:25.990] is what others want, not what you want and desire.
[00:07:25.990 --> 00:07:29.570] Yeah, there's a happy medium in some places
[00:07:29.570 --> 00:07:34.910] or some situations, but that's not always the case.
[00:07:35.990 --> 00:07:39.550] So if you want to build your dream client
[00:07:39.550 --> 00:07:41.590] and do the work that you love to do,
[00:07:42.310 --> 00:07:44.550] you have to do more of that specifically.
[00:07:45.650 --> 00:07:49.810] And sometimes it takes your own time and money
[00:07:50.510 --> 00:07:53.130] and resources to put that together first
[00:07:53.130 --> 00:07:55.290] or a couple of times just so you build
[00:07:55.290 --> 00:07:58.890] that momentum and you have something to display and show.
[00:07:59.390 --> 00:08:00.810] You have to show examples.
[00:08:01.810 --> 00:08:04.370] Most people are visual creatures,
[00:08:04.510 --> 00:08:07.590] at least us humans are.
[00:08:08.050 --> 00:08:11.490] So show them what you want to do.
[00:08:11.890 --> 00:08:13.830] But if you keep doing what you don't want to do,
[00:08:13.890 --> 00:08:15.390] you're gonna be stuck in a loop.
[00:08:17.050 --> 00:08:21.850] It's like if you want to be a basketball player,
[00:08:22.990 --> 00:08:27.630] but you're going to a psychology school,
[00:08:29.050 --> 00:08:31.570] well, you have to go to a basketball camp
[00:08:31.570 --> 00:08:34.530] and be around other basketball players
[00:08:34.530 --> 00:08:36.750] and the basketball community,
[00:08:38.350 --> 00:08:41.309] but you're gonna be a great psychologist maybe.
[00:08:42.470 --> 00:08:44.390] But is that something you want to do?
[00:08:46.670 --> 00:08:48.430] Will that help in basketball?
[00:08:48.710 --> 00:08:50.530] Yeah, but will that help you
[00:08:50.530 --> 00:08:52.350] to become a basketball player
[00:08:52.350 --> 00:08:54.230] or even a coach one day?
[00:08:56.010 --> 00:08:59.530] Maybe coaching, but a basketball player, no.
[00:09:00.270 --> 00:09:03.010] So you have to find the right community,
[00:09:04.110 --> 00:09:06.290] find a mentor or a coach,
[00:09:06.790 --> 00:09:08.730] someone that can help pull you up,
[00:09:09.150 --> 00:09:10.390] help show you the resources,
[00:09:10.530 --> 00:09:12.010] help you learn your camera,
[00:09:13.150 --> 00:09:16.030] help you figure out what equipment that you need
[00:09:16.030 --> 00:09:18.090] and help you learn that as well.
[00:09:19.940 --> 00:09:22.500] Have them allow them to shadow.
[00:09:23.340 --> 00:09:26.240] You know, you get to see it, like you said,
[00:09:27.740 --> 00:09:32.060] or like I said, you have to show people are visual.
[00:09:32.100 --> 00:09:34.860] So if you are able to shadow someone else
[00:09:34.860 --> 00:09:37.060] that's doing something that you like to do,
[00:09:38.540 --> 00:09:41.320] you're viewing that, you're witnessing that,
[00:09:41.680 --> 00:09:44.380] because it's a great visual representation
[00:09:44.380 --> 00:09:46.980] of what you want to do and you get to see it
[00:09:46.980 --> 00:09:48.800] and you get to feel it and believe it,
[00:09:48.800 --> 00:09:50.300] like, okay, I could really do this.
[00:09:50.500 --> 00:09:51.820] Okay, now I'm seeing this happen.
[00:09:51.820 --> 00:09:54.940] Okay, they do it like this.
[00:09:55.200 --> 00:10:00.180] I like it, but I also like adding this element of it.
[00:10:00.780 --> 00:10:06.610] So in those beginning stages, it's good to define yourself.
[00:10:06.830 --> 00:10:08.150] And on this podcast,
[00:10:08.850 --> 00:10:10.450] on Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk,
[00:10:10.630 --> 00:10:16.010] I love talking about and preaching.
[00:10:17.570 --> 00:10:20.350] Sit with yourself, sit in silence,
[00:10:20.610 --> 00:10:22.530] be with yourself, be with your thoughts.
[00:10:22.930 --> 00:10:24.310] You have to take that time.
[00:10:24.310 --> 00:10:27.790] It is critical, especially in this loud world.
[00:10:29.510 --> 00:10:31.950] You almost will hear me say that every episode.
[00:10:31.990 --> 00:10:34.730] That's like my underlining message for this podcast.
[00:10:35.590 --> 00:10:38.190] For ultimate growth, sit with yourself,
[00:10:38.590 --> 00:10:41.350] sit with your thoughts, sit with your decisions.
[00:10:42.090 --> 00:10:44.510] Sometimes you have to take that time to yourself.
[00:10:46.860 --> 00:10:49.420] I say at least 10 minutes a day,
[00:10:49.980 --> 00:10:51.480] that quiet time to yourself,
[00:10:53.160 --> 00:10:55.060] but an hour is vital.
[00:10:57.720 --> 00:10:59.080] An hour to yourself.
[00:11:00.120 --> 00:11:01.800] And that's not even including sleep.
[00:11:02.860 --> 00:11:05.480] It's the hour to yourself, whether it's writing,
[00:11:06.000 --> 00:11:10.240] sitting in silence, meditating, praying,
[00:11:12.820 --> 00:11:15.000] self-reflecting, whatever that may be,
[00:11:15.320 --> 00:11:16.920] even if it's just sitting in a car,
[00:11:16.980 --> 00:11:18.540] listening to music for an hour,
[00:11:19.780 --> 00:11:23.200] and woof-sah breathing, deep breathing, I should say.
[00:11:24.900 --> 00:11:26.600] And you're in a way from the world,
[00:11:26.600 --> 00:11:30.920] but also have that silent time after the music,
[00:11:31.120 --> 00:11:33.420] just to hear your own thoughts.
[00:11:36.770 --> 00:11:42.960] So I also like to say,
[00:11:44.060 --> 00:11:46.180] if you're new to photography,
[00:11:47.780 --> 00:11:49.800] make sure you're buying the right equipment,
[00:11:49.980 --> 00:11:53.520] the right camera, because not all cameras
[00:11:54.120 --> 00:11:55.400] are built the same.
[00:11:56.880 --> 00:11:59.240] So don't be afraid to reach out to
[00:11:59.240 --> 00:12:03.000] any of your camera manufacturers,
[00:12:04.480 --> 00:12:06.900] and tell me about your camera,
[00:12:07.080 --> 00:12:09.320] or I want to get into sports photography.
[00:12:10.000 --> 00:12:12.580] What is the best camera you have for,
[00:12:13.700 --> 00:12:16.200] you have to develop your relationships?
[00:12:17.340 --> 00:12:19.600] Even as an experienced photographer,
[00:12:20.160 --> 00:12:23.440] I still have to develop relationships,
[00:12:24.920 --> 00:12:27.060] nourish and nurture relationships,
[00:12:28.460 --> 00:12:31.680] maintain relationships and build relationships.
[00:12:32.940 --> 00:12:36.040] And together within those relationships,
[00:12:36.860 --> 00:12:38.370] we're building other relationships,
[00:12:38.780 --> 00:12:40.840] and building a network and a community,
[00:12:41.540 --> 00:12:43.460] so it's forever going.
[00:12:46.040 --> 00:12:47.720] Maybe one day you will meet
[00:12:47.720 --> 00:12:49.380] every single person in the world.
[00:12:49.600 --> 00:12:53.120] I feel like I've definitely took a picture
[00:12:53.120 --> 00:12:55.880] of half the people in Cleveland.
[00:12:59.060 --> 00:13:02.240] Like, I've photographed so many people,
[00:13:02.820 --> 00:13:04.960] whether they're at an event,
[00:13:05.260 --> 00:13:07.620] whether that's a personal portrait,
[00:13:07.980 --> 00:13:12.100] headshot, whatever, a conference,
[00:13:13.220 --> 00:13:16.840] I've probably took a picture of you,
[00:13:17.680 --> 00:13:18.440] if you're in Cleveland.
[00:13:20.140 --> 00:13:23.520] And I'll probably have a few more minutes
[00:13:23.520 --> 00:13:26.820] because I've seen my lady filling up,
[00:13:26.820 --> 00:13:30.380] so she's probably going to wave at me while she's,
[00:13:31.020 --> 00:13:32.360] she just parked dramatically.
[00:13:33.200 --> 00:13:35.080] But, so yeah, I'm going to have to wrap up
[00:13:35.080 --> 00:13:37.240] this episode real quick,
[00:13:38.520 --> 00:13:40.120] and yeah, because we've got so much
[00:13:40.120 --> 00:13:42.000] needed work to do on Catcher Born,
[00:13:43.200 --> 00:13:46.500] and yeah, some personal time within that.
[00:13:47.360 --> 00:13:50.500] So, as you can hear, it's like we're building up.
[00:13:51.580 --> 00:13:55.420] But, you really have to build relationships,
[00:13:56.820 --> 00:14:00.000] you really have to know your purpose with it all,
[00:14:01.960 --> 00:14:03.260] and there will be some point
[00:14:03.260 --> 00:14:05.740] that you may just do it just to do it,
[00:14:05.840 --> 00:14:09.740] especially for free, or okay, I can do it.
[00:14:10.840 --> 00:14:13.920] It's not something, like I said,
[00:14:14.000 --> 00:14:16.260] that you may not want to do,
[00:14:16.540 --> 00:14:18.360] or that you're passing by the desire.
[00:14:20.840 --> 00:14:22.460] But, do a pay the bills,
[00:14:22.980 --> 00:14:24.640] sometimes that's an issue too.
[00:14:24.640 --> 00:14:27.160] But, like I said, getting stuck in that loop
[00:14:27.160 --> 00:14:29.200] is not the best thing to do.
[00:14:30.340 --> 00:14:33.720] Again, practice, study the craft,
[00:14:35.100 --> 00:14:39.580] study business, and the best way to excel with that
[00:14:39.580 --> 00:14:43.380] and accelerate the process is to hire a coach,
[00:14:44.220 --> 00:14:49.760] hire a mentor, be great, and do great.
[00:14:50.680 --> 00:14:53.540] Keep learning, like I am an avid learner,
[00:14:53.540 --> 00:14:57.900] like the amount that I spend on conferences
[00:14:59.220 --> 00:15:03.920] and just self-development, e-books, coaching,
[00:15:05.060 --> 00:15:09.800] and that's where all my revenue basically go.
[00:15:10.820 --> 00:15:13.540] I'm not at the point where I'm profiting,
[00:15:14.000 --> 00:15:17.780] and even facility fees and software,
[00:15:18.600 --> 00:15:21.300] or even travel, it all adds up.
[00:15:21.300 --> 00:15:25.600] And that's not even accounting for the editing time.
[00:15:26.040 --> 00:15:30.500] A lot of people do not see the time behind the closed doors.
[00:15:31.060 --> 00:15:33.980] We show up on a shoot, or at an event,
[00:15:34.000 --> 00:15:36.660] we film it, we take these photos,
[00:15:37.280 --> 00:15:39.320] and we have to look through them all.
[00:15:39.760 --> 00:15:43.540] We have to make specific tweaks to them.
[00:15:45.120 --> 00:15:46.180] Speaking of my lady,
[00:15:46.180 --> 00:15:50.940] we just spent 10 hours yesterday editing, 10 hours.
[00:15:52.080 --> 00:15:53.680] And we usually do work with me
[00:15:53.680 --> 00:15:55.800] so you can see the behind-the-scenes process,
[00:15:55.940 --> 00:15:58.340] but we're just talking about it like,
[00:15:58.820 --> 00:16:00.820] yeah, we can be filming right now.
[00:16:01.300 --> 00:16:04.240] And we decided not to, just decided to have personal time
[00:16:04.240 --> 00:16:06.880] and spend time with the family while we edit.
[00:16:09.000 --> 00:16:12.100] Yeah, but it's so much dynamic,
[00:16:12.700 --> 00:16:14.800] and be patient, take your time with it.
[00:16:17.620 --> 00:16:22.220] Even to this day, it's currently 2025.
[00:16:23.880 --> 00:16:26.500] So if you listen to this after the fact,
[00:16:26.880 --> 00:16:30.420] this may not be true, but I still work at nine to five.
[00:16:30.460 --> 00:16:32.040] It's not full-time, it's part-time,
[00:16:33.340 --> 00:16:35.420] but with me saying that,
[00:16:36.660 --> 00:16:40.370] don't quit your daily grind, your job, your career,
[00:16:41.500 --> 00:16:42.850] just to pursue photography
[00:16:43.180 --> 00:16:45.380] if you're not in that space to do it.
[00:16:45.380 --> 00:16:48.820] So be patient with yourself,
[00:16:49.680 --> 00:16:51.900] continue to learn, continue to practice.
[00:16:52.400 --> 00:16:54.060] Like I said, build relationships
[00:16:54.060 --> 00:16:57.420] and do the passion projects that you want.
[00:16:58.340 --> 00:17:01.400] And I would do a follow-up episode
[00:17:01.400 --> 00:17:03.940] to dive a little more in detail,
[00:17:04.020 --> 00:17:06.540] especially for the newer photographers.
[00:17:07.980 --> 00:17:11.680] And I apologize if you are an experienced photographer
[00:17:12.200 --> 00:17:15.520] and you feel like you didn't get much out of this episode.
[00:17:17.280 --> 00:17:20.220] Then I kind of geared it and dedicated it
[00:17:20.220 --> 00:17:24.359] to the beginners, but I hope you did.
[00:17:24.500 --> 00:17:27.760] But in the future, there will definitely be more
[00:17:27.760 --> 00:17:31.320] higher-level stuff for you all as well.
[00:17:31.780 --> 00:17:35.900] But I do have to run, I have to get.
[00:17:37.280 --> 00:17:40.000] Yeah, she's looking at me now, waiting on me.
[00:17:40.000 --> 00:17:43.740] So yeah, when she hear this, she's gonna smile a laugh.
[00:17:44.600 --> 00:17:46.280] But yeah, we gotta get going
[00:17:46.280 --> 00:17:47.920] and I appreciate you tuning in
[00:17:47.920 --> 00:17:51.900] for another episode of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:17:52.560 --> 00:17:57.740] This is Steven Jackson, AKA Photographer Jackson,
[00:17:57.880 --> 00:18:02.460] also known as Alien of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:18:03.500 --> 00:18:04.780] Thank you again.
[00:18:04.960 --> 00:18:08.700] And all my show notes and links will be below
[00:18:09.330 --> 00:18:12.180] if you want more information with me
[00:18:12.180 --> 00:18:13.960] or any of my booking contact,
[00:18:14.100 --> 00:18:17.880] visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:18:18.200 --> 00:18:22.500] Yes, alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:18:22.700 --> 00:18:27.740] And follow me on all social media at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:18:28.220 --> 00:18:32.560] And that's Alien Eyes with an S, Photos.
[00:18:32.660 --> 00:18:35.760] Whoa, my first time in history, I did that backwards.
[00:18:36.720 --> 00:18:40.320] Alien Eyes Photos, Alien with a Z,
[00:18:40.960 --> 00:18:44.380] or Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with an S,
[00:18:44.580 --> 00:18:45.640] Lord have mercy.
[00:18:46.420 --> 00:18:50.280] Alien Eyes Photos on all media,
[00:18:50.640 --> 00:18:53.100] and even fan-based checkout fan base
[00:18:53.100 --> 00:18:55.580] with Mr. Isaac Hayes, who's the founder
[00:18:55.580 --> 00:18:59.640] of fan-based social media platform for creators.
[00:19:00.280 --> 00:19:03.780] You can find me as well as Alien Eyes
[00:19:03.780 --> 00:19:06.460] with a Z, Photos with an S.
[00:19:06.900 --> 00:19:10.660] Again, on all media, including fan base.
[00:19:11.680 --> 00:19:13.700] Yeah, that's pretty much it.
[00:19:14.780 --> 00:19:16.480] And I'll get to y'all next time.
[00:19:17.120 --> 00:19:17.640] Peace.

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56. Origins Of A Creative Entrepreneur
Season 1 · Episode 22
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/origins-of-a-creative-entrepreneur
========================================================================

[00:00:01.360 --> 00:00:09.320] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:10.960 --> 00:00:13.640] And this one is for the creative entrepreneurs.
[00:00:14.940 --> 00:00:23.720] So if you are creative or if you're an entrepreneur or if you're both a creative entrepreneur
[00:00:24.560 --> 00:00:32.580] or inspired to be a creative entrepreneur or have no idea what that is, this episode is for you.
[00:00:33.680 --> 00:00:38.980] This is your host, photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos Media
[00:00:38.980 --> 00:00:42.540] and host of Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:43.320 --> 00:00:45.340] Welcome if this is your first time.
[00:00:46.440 --> 00:00:50.800] But this is for creative entrepreneurs or anyone of interest.
[00:00:50.800 --> 00:00:57.150] You know, one may say, what is a creative entrepreneur?
[00:00:58.670 --> 00:01:05.050] It's a creative, it's an artist who loves to create, freely create,
[00:01:07.050 --> 00:01:10.330] experiencing creating, love creating, passion about creating,
[00:01:13.130 --> 00:01:19.640] and creative problem solving, who is also an entrepreneur,
[00:01:20.740 --> 00:01:28.750] who has a sense of business, who has a sense of entrepreneurship, vision,
[00:01:30.270 --> 00:01:35.190] executing and bringing services or products to the market.
[00:01:40.560 --> 00:01:48.360] But putting it together, you're creatively problem solving, a creative problem solving.
[00:01:49.830 --> 00:01:55.830] So, as an entrepreneur, you problem solve, you troubleshoot, you put out fires,
[00:01:56.010 --> 00:02:06.130] you're managing as a creative, using your imagination, your vision,
[00:02:07.030 --> 00:02:13.010] your creative mind and talents and capabilities, artistic expression
[00:02:13.010 --> 00:02:21.520] to come up with new ideas, be innovative, and to fuel your creative problem solving.
[00:02:23.890 --> 00:02:33.870] Now, I've been a creative most of my life, if not all.
[00:02:36.510 --> 00:02:40.710] That's probably the longest running thing and fuel in my body
[00:02:40.710 --> 00:02:42.790] that I've been a creative more than anything,
[00:02:43.810 --> 00:02:49.190] more than me playing basketball at a young age, weather, fish,
[00:02:49.770 --> 00:02:53.550] maybe even walking maybe, because I was probably, you know,
[00:02:54.830 --> 00:02:58.410] before I was walking, before crawling, I was probably wiggling,
[00:02:58.510 --> 00:03:00.850] dancing to music or something.
[00:03:01.670 --> 00:03:06.950] So, I would say, yeah, it's being creative, using my imagination.
[00:03:08.230 --> 00:03:13.030] It's the longest running bone in my body that fuels my soul,
[00:03:13.350 --> 00:03:14.730] that's been with me forever.
[00:03:16.650 --> 00:03:21.750] All the other bones and structures of my body had to find their way.
[00:03:21.750 --> 00:03:25.030] They'd been there, but they didn't find their way.
[00:03:28.540 --> 00:03:29.920] And I love being a creative.
[00:03:31.000 --> 00:03:37.260] I've done poetry, I've done music, even dabbled in painting a little bit.
[00:03:38.980 --> 00:03:42.880] Not the best, like my other things that I'm a part of,
[00:03:42.980 --> 00:03:48.620] like writing and filming, photography, music, poetry.
[00:03:48.620 --> 00:03:53.720] But, you know, when I paint, I know that's strictly for me.
[00:03:57.180 --> 00:04:03.040] I may get back into painting, I may even have some for sale,
[00:04:04.560 --> 00:04:15.270] but most of my life I was a writer, just writing, writing stories,
[00:04:15.650 --> 00:04:21.610] writing poems, writing books, writing music, choruses,
[00:04:24.490 --> 00:04:35.340] unofficial scripts, ideas, in a sense, speeches and speeches to myself.
[00:04:35.820 --> 00:04:41.560] And now that I'm older, I remember just looking at myself in the mirror,
[00:04:41.580 --> 00:04:43.360] like, man, you've been through a lot.
[00:04:44.680 --> 00:04:46.400] You've been through a tough time.
[00:04:47.620 --> 00:04:49.100] You continue to push and through.
[00:04:50.020 --> 00:04:53.340] You continue to push through, man, you're really doing it.
[00:04:54.060 --> 00:04:55.400] And you're showing up for you.
[00:04:55.400 --> 00:04:58.520] I'm talking to myself in the mirror, you know?
[00:04:59.400 --> 00:05:01.820] I'm like, man, one day I'm going to be a speaker.
[00:05:01.920 --> 00:05:04.620] One day I'm going to write speeches and, you know,
[00:05:04.740 --> 00:05:07.960] help other people write speeches and deliver their speech.
[00:05:09.340 --> 00:05:12.820] Just being that creative mind, because I was already doing music,
[00:05:13.880 --> 00:05:18.220] not performing so much, but, you know, do performances here and there.
[00:05:21.520 --> 00:05:30.220] I remember talking to myself in the mirror and really having that honest conversation,
[00:05:31.340 --> 00:05:42.610] that tough conversation, a candid conversation that I needed, you know?
[00:05:42.850 --> 00:05:45.530] And I'm glad I had that moment with myself, you know,
[00:05:45.610 --> 00:05:48.590] myself in the mirror, that reflection, that reflecting time.
[00:05:50.750 --> 00:05:55.150] And, you know, years later I end up included in my song,
[00:05:55.950 --> 00:06:05.510] Lifetime, Lifetime by Alien iPlayer, as Alien I-P-L-A-Y-A, Alien iPlayer.
[00:06:05.870 --> 00:06:09.150] Check out the song, Lifetime, if you want to hear it.
[00:06:09.730 --> 00:06:20.210] You know, I had a song, you know, kind of wrote it coming out of depression, you know,
[00:06:20.790 --> 00:06:25.930] doubt, self-doubt, and just a lot of negativity around me.
[00:06:27.090 --> 00:06:31.870] But I found the way to make it positive and reflect on it, too, you know?
[00:06:32.390 --> 00:06:39.250] Just being honest, like, you know, who can you go to?
[00:06:40.890 --> 00:06:46.070] And then, you know, even in the bad moments, you know, you got to find the good.
[00:06:47.650 --> 00:06:49.990] Boo-hoo, they need a chicken soup.
[00:06:51.470 --> 00:06:53.130] So it's the last verse.
[00:06:53.310 --> 00:06:56.050] I could give you that hint if you want to listen to the whole song.
[00:06:56.190 --> 00:06:57.450] It's the last verse.
[00:06:58.170 --> 00:07:01.850] So check out the last verse of Lifetime by Alien iPlayer.
[00:07:05.020 --> 00:07:12.660] But, you know, creative entrepreneurs, we solve problems creatively, you know,
[00:07:12.660 --> 00:07:24.040] using our artistic expressions to create and bring content to the market.
[00:07:25.640 --> 00:07:32.040] And then I may add, for me, you know, I create visual solutions for clients.
[00:07:34.520 --> 00:07:39.260] You know, marketing, coaching them, and especially on the visual side.
[00:07:40.800 --> 00:07:42.740] How do you want to position yourself?
[00:07:44.500 --> 00:07:55.520] So I know with myself, I had to get creative in how I market myself,
[00:07:55.580 --> 00:07:59.760] because I'm not a traditional social media person.
[00:08:00.500 --> 00:08:08.880] Like, maybe back then when I was like 15, 16, you know, having the time and the energy.
[00:08:10.440 --> 00:08:16.260] But, you know, running a business, operating a business, being a partner in other businesses,
[00:08:16.260 --> 00:08:26.320] and, you know, groups and collaborations, projects, the time isn't the same.
[00:08:26.440 --> 00:08:28.000] The energy isn't the same.
[00:08:28.560 --> 00:08:32.860] I still let it spend time with myself and to myself.
[00:08:33.760 --> 00:08:40.440] One of those people that just need that pure silence, that time with yourself,
[00:08:40.539 --> 00:08:46.070] that pure silence, you know, you know, light.
[00:08:47.990 --> 00:08:53.390] It don't have to be pure darkness, but maybe a candle or something, candle or two.
[00:08:55.050 --> 00:08:56.850] But just silence.
[00:08:57.990 --> 00:09:04.680] I'm not a fan of, you know, headphones and everything.
[00:09:06.040 --> 00:09:13.010] You know, frequencies and different things, even though I loved it and enjoyed it,
[00:09:13.010 --> 00:09:18.820] especially when I did music, but, you know, if I do have music on,
[00:09:18.820 --> 00:09:26.780] it's like meditation music, elevator music, frequencies, you know, white noise.
[00:09:28.940 --> 00:09:33.680] But I've even been trying without it, just pure silence, even going to sleep,
[00:09:34.180 --> 00:09:37.400] just pure silence, no, you know, background music.
[00:09:39.360 --> 00:09:45.660] I may go back, you know, I'm sure if I feel a big difference,
[00:09:47.920 --> 00:09:56.180] but, you know, having that quiet time, the isolation, the isolation from the world
[00:09:56.180 --> 00:10:00.460] and really just, you know, being my own best friend,
[00:10:00.500 --> 00:10:05.160] having that time with myself like I did in the mirror, you know,
[00:10:06.000 --> 00:10:09.740] I got to have these sit downs with myself.
[00:10:10.420 --> 00:10:13.920] It's quiet time to myself and my thoughts and my head
[00:10:13.920 --> 00:10:17.560] and even just to relax, you know.
[00:10:18.660 --> 00:10:22.480] I don't think a lot of people take that time to rest and relax nowadays.
[00:10:24.750 --> 00:10:31.410] Everybody want to be on a hundred miles per hour all the time, you know.
[00:10:31.550 --> 00:10:35.750] But if you can do it, you know, go ahead and do it.
[00:10:35.750 --> 00:10:41.090] Don't let me discourage you, but also if you're not able to,
[00:10:41.150 --> 00:10:43.730] just be realistic with yourself, you know.
[00:10:43.730 --> 00:10:48.350] I'm always, you know, encouraging the will and the talent
[00:10:48.350 --> 00:10:50.370] and the push through, the breakthrough,
[00:10:51.390 --> 00:10:54.250] but also be real with yourself and, you know,
[00:10:54.910 --> 00:10:58.170] I'm an optimist, but I'm also a realist, you know.
[00:11:00.270 --> 00:11:03.970] I'm probably 55 optimists, 45 realists.
[00:11:09.320 --> 00:11:12.260] I'm very grateful for the journey that I've been on.
[00:11:13.040 --> 00:11:16.720] As I continue to document my journey, my entrepreneur journey,
[00:11:16.720 --> 00:11:18.540] my creative entrepreneur journey,
[00:11:20.020 --> 00:11:24.460] I thank the ones that have been a part of my creative journey
[00:11:25.300 --> 00:11:29.080] when I was just focusing on, you know, music and poetry.
[00:11:30.740 --> 00:11:34.760] I appreciate everyone listening to all my music, all my poems,
[00:11:34.980 --> 00:11:37.280] reading my books, my poetry books,
[00:11:38.120 --> 00:11:40.860] and every future thing that I come out with
[00:11:40.860 --> 00:11:46.700] and even, you know, live events, speaking engagements,
[00:11:47.680 --> 00:11:50.100] workshops, networking events.
[00:11:52.040 --> 00:11:56.360] I appreciate you all for always showing up, supporting, showing out.
[00:11:57.100 --> 00:12:00.280] Thank you for listening to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:12:01.220 --> 00:12:05.780] Each episode, or if this your first episode you listen to,
[00:12:06.520 --> 00:12:09.280] I appreciate you continue on this journey with me.
[00:12:09.280 --> 00:12:12.660] I promise you you're going to learn something you'll take away.
[00:12:13.300 --> 00:12:15.200] It's always going to be something for you
[00:12:15.200 --> 00:12:21.360] because I'm always thinking about the topics that I wanted to know
[00:12:21.360 --> 00:12:25.960] first starting my entrepreneur journey, especially as a creative.
[00:12:27.020 --> 00:12:30.460] You know, as a creative, how I should think or how I should have thought
[00:12:30.460 --> 00:12:33.360] or how I should have navigated.
[00:12:36.060 --> 00:12:40.180] And, you know, continue this elevation with me, you know.
[00:12:41.680 --> 00:12:48.180] I appreciate everyone, all the support, all the concerns,
[00:12:48.380 --> 00:12:52.240] all the feedback, all the collaborations, all the money,
[00:12:54.420 --> 00:12:57.360] all the good energy, all the good vibes.
[00:12:59.120 --> 00:13:05.000] And if anything you're doing good, let's hear about it.
[00:13:06.000 --> 00:13:09.120] We need to hear about good stories, good moments in our life.
[00:13:10.480 --> 00:13:14.200] So, yeah, I'll leave you with that, you know.
[00:13:14.200 --> 00:13:18.340] The Origins of a Creative Entrepreneur.
[00:13:20.420 --> 00:13:27.170] Again, I am Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos,
[00:13:30.080 --> 00:13:36.620] Alienize Photos Media and Host of Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:13:37.880 --> 00:13:42.860] You can find me at alienizephotos.com
[00:13:45.780 --> 00:13:47.940] alienizephotos.com
[00:13:52.000 --> 00:13:54.200] alienizephotos.com
[00:13:54.750 --> 00:14:00.380] and on all social media at Alienize Photos
[00:14:00.380 --> 00:14:03.720] at Alienize Photos
[00:14:03.720 --> 00:14:08.880] and be sure to check out Creative Frequency on YouTube
[00:14:08.880 --> 00:14:11.380] on a Creative Frequency
[00:14:11.940 --> 00:14:15.420] and then follow us also on a Creative Frequency
[00:14:15.420 --> 00:14:19.280] to keep you on that creative path
[00:14:19.280 --> 00:14:23.540] as you follow the journey of me and Brianna Casanova
[00:14:23.540 --> 00:14:25.460] of Overflow Studios
[00:14:25.460 --> 00:14:28.180] as we are both creative entrepreneurs.
[00:14:28.640 --> 00:14:31.640] Like, man, and we're just getting started
[00:14:31.640 --> 00:14:34.360] and I'm excited for the future.
[00:14:35.660 --> 00:14:38.600] And so many projects we have,
[00:14:38.680 --> 00:14:41.000] so much potential ahead of us,
[00:14:41.460 --> 00:14:43.920] so much knowledge, so much creativity.
[00:14:43.920 --> 00:14:47.200] You know, we both film,
[00:14:47.820 --> 00:14:50.860] you know, do photography, music,
[00:14:51.380 --> 00:14:54.360] we're both writers, we're both just ultimate creators, you know.
[00:14:55.460 --> 00:15:00.940] So she is way better painting that, you know, than I am.
[00:15:01.800 --> 00:15:03.200] A better painter than I am.
[00:15:04.560 --> 00:15:08.400] And that's probably the thing she has me in, so.
[00:15:08.640 --> 00:15:09.900] And graphic designer.
[00:15:11.040 --> 00:15:17.280] But just together, the talent and stuff,
[00:15:18.220 --> 00:15:20.560] we haven't done yet, but want to do,
[00:15:20.600 --> 00:15:23.240] but we're definitely planning to do.
[00:15:24.120 --> 00:15:26.460] Oh, be sure to check out Creative Frequency
[00:15:26.920 --> 00:15:28.520] on a Creative Frequency.
[00:15:29.180 --> 00:15:33.200] And, you know, we're really breaking down our journey
[00:15:33.200 --> 00:15:37.920] and documenting the process with work with Weez.
[00:15:37.920 --> 00:15:43.960] That's like a dual work with me as you work with, you know, us.
[00:15:46.620 --> 00:15:50.480] You know, we're doing more education, you know,
[00:15:50.700 --> 00:15:55.720] partnering with, you know, organizations
[00:15:56.480 --> 00:15:59.020] and teaming up with the Pull Up Experience,
[00:15:59.340 --> 00:16:02.400] who's also our media partner and my media partner directly.
[00:16:03.120 --> 00:16:04.840] Also Launch Artist Media.
[00:16:05.720 --> 00:16:08.280] You know, continuing doing the work, showing up,
[00:16:08.280 --> 00:16:11.220] and, you know, we all elevate and rise together.
[00:16:12.760 --> 00:16:15.880] So be sure to follow the Pull Up Experience,
[00:16:16.520 --> 00:16:18.620] the Pull Up EXP,
[00:16:19.000 --> 00:16:21.780] and then also Launch Artist Media,
[00:16:22.460 --> 00:16:23.820] at Launch Artist Media.
[00:16:26.990 --> 00:16:29.110] And then also, again, myself,
[00:16:29.450 --> 00:16:33.810] I alienize photos and Creative Frequency
[00:16:33.810 --> 00:16:35.910] on a Creative Frequency.
[00:16:36.850 --> 00:16:38.790] And then you can book me as a coach,
[00:16:38.790 --> 00:16:41.750] or if you want to find more information,
[00:16:42.190 --> 00:16:44.750] check out alienizephotos.com.
[00:16:45.410 --> 00:16:48.490] If you could find my email on the website,
[00:16:48.750 --> 00:16:50.730] you know, shoot me an email.
[00:16:51.230 --> 00:16:54.870] You know, any business endeavors you have in mind, collaborations,
[00:16:56.190 --> 00:16:58.850] or if you want to potentially jump on a podcast,
[00:16:59.550 --> 00:17:01.870] you know, send a donation, we can make it happen.
[00:17:02.610 --> 00:17:03.590] All right, peace.

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57. FutureLAND Cleveland Ai Forward Summit at MOCA
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/futureland-cleveland-ai-forward-summit-at-moca
========================================================================

[00:00:00.750 --> 00:00:08.410] Walk on, walk on, walk on back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:09.150 --> 00:00:12.550] This episode is about future land.
[00:00:12.870 --> 00:00:24.750] Yes, future land 2025. Futureland AI Forward Summit 2025.
[00:00:25.750 --> 00:00:40.990] A Cleveland, a Cleveland conference of 5,000 plus attendees, over 80 plus speakers.
[00:00:42.170 --> 00:00:52.170] And I happened to be one of those speakers last year's workshop on the importance of podcasts and why every business should have a podcast.
[00:00:53.520 --> 00:01:02.520] Over 20,000 panels, workshops, sessions since the year 2022.
[00:01:05.379 --> 00:01:08.820] College students, high school students also attended.
[00:01:09.660 --> 00:01:19.000] So there's no limit to who can receive the information, the connections, shake different hands, network.
[00:01:20.000 --> 00:01:34.500] And this year is about tech and AI as most of them encourage business owners, entrepreneurs, creative change makers.
[00:01:36.400 --> 00:01:47.790] This year is about AI and the integration of tech, the destination for innovation.
[00:01:49.270 --> 00:01:50.830] Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:01:52.870 --> 00:01:55.830] Now, is Cleveland becoming the next Silicon Valley?
[00:01:58.230 --> 00:02:08.229] Welcome to AI Forward Summit 2025 at MOCA, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Cleveland, Ohio, November 20th.
[00:02:10.280 --> 00:02:15.520] See more information and get your tickets at Futureland CLE.
[00:02:15.520 --> 00:02:22.860] Futureland CLE. Yes, that's Futureland CLE.com.
[00:02:23.200 --> 00:02:30.160] And also follow Futureland over at Futureland CLE on Instagram.
[00:02:31.720 --> 00:02:37.920] Now, Austin, Austin, Texas became the tech capital for Texas.
[00:02:37.920 --> 00:02:46.540] It's Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio, the tech capital for Ohio.
[00:02:50.080 --> 00:03:02.310] Now, the tech industry has billion dollar, multibillion dollar evaluations and billion dollar, million dollar exits.
[00:03:05.220 --> 00:03:08.340] It's unlike any other industry.
[00:03:08.340 --> 00:03:21.900] And now that AI is thriving these past few years, it is important to stay on it and all the updates and the industry players.
[00:03:24.520 --> 00:03:26.860] Maybe you can invest in an AI company.
[00:03:28.260 --> 00:03:29.560] Get this capital.
[00:03:29.560 --> 00:03:39.880] Be one of those investors, entrepreneurs that have that million dollar, billion dollar exit.
[00:03:40.980 --> 00:03:43.260] It's possible. It's doable.
[00:03:45.220 --> 00:03:47.300] And it's here in Cleveland.
[00:03:50.980 --> 00:03:58.080] We have keynotes from regional leaders in AI, companies like Google.
[00:03:59.140 --> 00:04:03.240] Like that alone, just Google.
[00:04:06.450 --> 00:04:08.290] This event is powered by Google.
[00:04:09.370 --> 00:04:10.230] Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:04:12.470 --> 00:04:13.890] Is that not enough?
[00:04:16.380 --> 00:04:20.640] But get the insights or innovation policy and opportunity.
[00:04:20.760 --> 00:04:29.640] Hear how Ohio is building and connected an AI ecosystem through research and equitable growth.
[00:04:30.640 --> 00:04:34.400] They have immersive 3D art exhibits.
[00:04:35.820 --> 00:04:37.180] Augmented reality.
[00:04:39.180 --> 00:04:40.540] 3D art exhibits.
[00:04:42.320 --> 00:04:50.260] Giving you the freedom to explore visionary artists, digital art with the collaboration of AI and 3D technology.
[00:04:51.780 --> 00:05:00.290] Experience interactive elements through sound, project mapping, audience interaction, real time movement.
[00:05:01.710 --> 00:05:10.210] Now, if you missed last year, which I've been there all the years of Futureland's existence.
[00:05:11.870 --> 00:05:12.890] I'm a conference junkie.
[00:05:13.010 --> 00:05:16.290] If anybody know me, I'm a conference junkie, especially in my hometown.
[00:05:17.770 --> 00:05:22.370] Futureland is the premier conference in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:05:25.090 --> 00:05:27.350] I have creative entrepreneurs.
[00:05:28.650 --> 00:05:30.190] Tech industry.
[00:05:30.970 --> 00:05:31.970] But a culture.
[00:05:32.710 --> 00:05:33.910] Bipod culture.
[00:05:35.590 --> 00:05:36.490] Black and brown.
[00:05:38.270 --> 00:05:39.770] Inner city businesses.
[00:05:40.750 --> 00:05:47.000] Entrepreneurs, creatives, change makers, leaders.
[00:05:50.220 --> 00:05:53.580] Futureland is the premier conference in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:05:56.200 --> 00:05:59.260] It has my stamp, my backing, my approval.
[00:06:01.050 --> 00:06:02.690] And guess what?
[00:06:05.070 --> 00:06:10.890] I'll be giving away a few tickets to Futureland because I believe in the movement.
[00:06:13.240 --> 00:06:16.640] I believe in the insights, the connections, the relationships.
[00:06:18.840 --> 00:06:21.840] So I'll be giving away a few tickets.
[00:06:23.540 --> 00:06:27.280] Send me a message over at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:06:27.460 --> 00:06:29.960] That's Alien Eyes with a Z.
[00:06:30.700 --> 00:06:32.580] Photos with an S.
[00:06:34.120 --> 00:06:37.940] Or visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:06:42.510 --> 00:06:44.070] But yeah, check the show notes.
[00:06:44.350 --> 00:06:45.410] That might be easier.
[00:06:46.710 --> 00:06:49.570] But yeah, I've given away a few tickets, so stay tuned.
[00:06:51.600 --> 00:07:03.580] And each year, Futureland has some music or entertainment element of the conference.
[00:07:05.440 --> 00:07:07.080] Usually the last day.
[00:07:07.460 --> 00:07:08.600] The closing hours.
[00:07:09.880 --> 00:07:11.840] You got the connections.
[00:07:12.860 --> 00:07:23.030] You got the information, the insights, the tools, the software, the mindset, the community.
[00:07:24.970 --> 00:07:28.870] Let's bring it all together and celebrate.
[00:07:30.930 --> 00:07:31.890] Celebrate each other.
[00:07:31.950 --> 00:07:33.170] Celebrate our success.
[00:07:34.110 --> 00:07:35.550] Celebrate what we just learned.
[00:07:35.810 --> 00:07:38.650] Celebrate what we are about to apply.
[00:07:39.470 --> 00:07:43.690] Celebrate our connections, our growth, our community, our network.
[00:07:44.870 --> 00:07:49.870] Celebrate the collaboration between human and AI and 3D technology.
[00:07:52.350 --> 00:07:59.190] In Cleveland, Ohio, November 20th, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
[00:07:59.190 --> 00:08:03.530] 12 hours of focus on AI.
[00:08:04.870 --> 00:08:09.030] One day only, November 20th, 8 to 8.
[00:08:09.030 --> 00:08:12.030] 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
[00:08:12.230 --> 00:08:13.030] November 20th.
[00:08:14.310 --> 00:08:15.170] Futureland.com.
[00:08:16.190 --> 00:08:18.530] Futureland CLE.com.
[00:08:19.970 --> 00:08:26.170] Futureland CLE.com.
[00:08:29.610 --> 00:08:41.630] I'm looking to afford Fusion Forward and their AI integrations into art and live music and entertainment.
[00:08:41.630 --> 00:08:44.530] That they will be hosting.
[00:08:47.800 --> 00:08:50.540] But don't forget about Futureland 365.
[00:08:52.160 --> 00:08:53.760] Futureland 365.
[00:08:54.800 --> 00:08:57.620] That's 365 days.
[00:08:59.000 --> 00:09:05.600] And this year, next year, years after that and to become in the light years ahead.
[00:09:06.820 --> 00:09:09.140] Futureland 365 podcast.
[00:09:09.400 --> 00:09:13.620] They update it all day, every day.
[00:09:13.620 --> 00:09:18.960] Everything Futureland, upcoming events, conferences.
[00:09:20.160 --> 00:09:21.620] Anything Futureland.
[00:09:22.560 --> 00:09:25.620] 365 podcast.
[00:09:26.860 --> 00:09:32.960] All platforms.
[00:09:37.400 --> 00:09:45.040] So I remember Futureland had central themes each year like thrive and evolve.
[00:09:46.320 --> 00:09:53.460] To actually evolve is a great reflection of what Cleveland, Ohio is doing.
[00:09:55.580 --> 00:09:56.340] Evolving.
[00:09:57.040 --> 00:09:59.360] Futureland is the place for collaboration.
[00:09:59.940 --> 00:10:03.880] Connecting with the change makers and builders in the city.
[00:10:05.040 --> 00:10:07.760] And also those passing by the city.
[00:10:09.870 --> 00:10:11.710] Many want to be part of the story.
[00:10:13.410 --> 00:10:16.350] So many great speakers.
[00:10:18.330 --> 00:10:20.130] We had Rich Paul.
[00:10:21.090 --> 00:10:22.830] LeBron James Aging.
[00:10:24.730 --> 00:10:31.070] Now he's one of the top sports agents in sports history.
[00:10:31.730 --> 00:10:34.430] Not just basketball but sports history.
[00:10:36.330 --> 00:10:37.210] He's from Cleveland.
[00:10:37.270 --> 00:10:41.670] He came back to Cleveland to pour that knowledge to first year of Futureland.
[00:10:42.790 --> 00:10:44.870] And also Don Dixon.
[00:10:46.430 --> 00:10:50.970] I got to shake hands and even ask spectacular, pretty Ricky a question.
[00:10:51.890 --> 00:11:01.740] After he gave some knowledge and had great conversation and dialogue with the crowd.
[00:11:02.820 --> 00:11:03.840] Like what?
[00:11:04.760 --> 00:11:14.330] At Futureland, we had so many great dynamic speakers.
[00:11:15.430 --> 00:11:18.030] I can name so many.
[00:11:20.140 --> 00:11:22.380] Like my peers met their idols.
[00:11:24.360 --> 00:11:26.840] Their mentors, their distant mentors.
[00:11:29.770 --> 00:11:30.410] And that's the thing.
[00:11:30.430 --> 00:11:33.070] You may find your mentor at Futureland.
[00:11:34.850 --> 00:11:38.790] I mentee and recommend people at Futureland.
[00:11:38.910 --> 00:11:39.990] People know that.
[00:11:41.190 --> 00:11:45.150] Any tech gear or camera equipment that I'm using, software that I'm using.
[00:11:46.390 --> 00:11:52.570] My network, even outside of Futureland, I'm doing that.
[00:11:52.670 --> 00:11:57.390] So at Futureland and I'm in a good mood and you had the right conversation.
[00:11:58.510 --> 00:12:00.230] Know I'm there to help.
[00:12:01.530 --> 00:12:04.670] Know I'm not always available and I'm busy.
[00:12:07.350 --> 00:12:09.150] Are you going to run into me at Futureland?
[00:12:09.290 --> 00:12:13.030] It's your time to ask me the questions you want to answer.
[00:12:15.890 --> 00:12:17.410] Just shake my hand again.
[00:12:18.650 --> 00:12:26.010] Ask me a question because you know I'm helpful and resourceful.
[00:12:27.190 --> 00:12:30.130] We're going to make you get to where you want to be.
[00:12:30.190 --> 00:12:34.770] Your business or your creative entrepreneur journey or your AI journey.
[00:12:36.150 --> 00:12:37.210] Let's do this together.
[00:12:38.610 --> 00:12:40.290] And that's what Futureland is about.
[00:12:40.350 --> 00:12:40.990] Community.
[00:12:41.750 --> 00:12:42.610] It's about building.
[00:12:42.770 --> 00:12:44.010] It's about growth.
[00:12:45.770 --> 00:12:47.850] It's about money too.
[00:12:47.850 --> 00:12:56.010] I'm not sure if they're doing a pitch competition this year but there's been some surprise pitch competitions.
[00:12:56.570 --> 00:12:58.250] Just like my man Chad Justin.
[00:12:58.630 --> 00:13:01.730] He won the first year with the Wear Pack.
[00:13:02.170 --> 00:13:06.530] And you know people see me a lot around wearing the Wear Pack.
[00:13:07.370 --> 00:13:08.810] You know it definitely helped me a lot.
[00:13:08.910 --> 00:13:12.150] I keep my business cards or collect business cards, put it in there.
[00:13:12.990 --> 00:13:14.330] It's very helpful.
[00:13:15.130 --> 00:13:16.970] The Wear Pack by Chad Justin.
[00:13:17.750 --> 00:13:23.650] Man, he's doing it big and he's going to be on a podcast very soon.
[00:13:23.850 --> 00:13:26.970] Alien Arms Photos, Industry Talk, Shameless Club.
[00:13:27.910 --> 00:13:28.390] Yes.
[00:13:29.550 --> 00:13:31.950] But so much I can say.
[00:13:32.310 --> 00:13:33.110] But just be there.
[00:13:34.430 --> 00:13:36.390] Be there or be square.
[00:13:38.030 --> 00:13:39.470] At Futureland.
[00:13:39.670 --> 00:13:40.270] AI.
[00:13:40.450 --> 00:13:41.410] Forward Summit.
[00:13:41.410 --> 00:13:43.470] 2025.
[00:13:45.230 --> 00:13:50.570] At MOCA Museum of Contemporary Art in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:13:53.090 --> 00:13:55.470] November 20th.
[00:13:55.470 --> 00:13:56.550] 2025.
[00:13:57.910 --> 00:13:58.310] Futureland.
[00:13:58.970 --> 00:14:00.210] Forward Summit.
[00:14:01.410 --> 00:14:02.510] That's AI.
[00:14:02.790 --> 00:14:03.450] Forward Summit.
[00:14:04.470 --> 00:14:05.730] 2025.
[00:14:06.090 --> 00:14:07.150] And for tickets,
[00:14:07.150 --> 00:14:13.370] visit futurelandcle.com.
[00:14:13.630 --> 00:14:14.990] That's Futureland.
[00:14:15.010 --> 00:14:17.250] C-L-E.
[00:14:17.450 --> 00:14:19.190] Sure for Cleveland.
[00:14:20.250 --> 00:14:21.610] C-L-E.
[00:14:21.930 --> 00:14:22.690] .com.
[00:14:24.210 --> 00:14:28.370] Or you can visit Eventbrite and search Futureland.
[00:14:29.890 --> 00:14:31.150] That's Futureland.
[00:14:31.950 --> 00:14:35.550] F-U-T-U-R-E.
[00:14:35.550 --> 00:14:38.550] L-A-N-D.
[00:14:39.570 --> 00:14:41.810] Futureland and C-L-E.
[00:14:41.830 --> 00:14:42.470] Cleveland.
[00:14:44.370 --> 00:14:44.990] All right, y'all.
[00:14:45.310 --> 00:14:47.290] This is photographer Jackson.
[00:14:47.590 --> 00:14:51.430] Steve Jackson of Alien Arms Photos Industry Talk.
[00:14:52.810 --> 00:14:54.630] Talking all about Futureland.
[00:14:55.190 --> 00:14:57.710] The conference is less than a month away.
[00:14:58.390 --> 00:15:00.390] And yeah, I got to get some tickets away.
[00:15:01.630 --> 00:15:02.470] But no, seriously.
[00:15:02.470 --> 00:15:05.510] If you want to visit this year's Summit,
[00:15:07.950 --> 00:15:08.870] AIForce Summit,
[00:15:09.530 --> 00:15:11.150] Futureland doing it again.
[00:15:11.270 --> 00:15:11.990] Come on now.
[00:15:12.930 --> 00:15:13.890] You got it, team.
[00:15:15.330 --> 00:15:16.270] All right, I'm just rhyming.
[00:15:16.450 --> 00:15:17.390] So I'm going to stop.
[00:15:18.450 --> 00:15:20.390] So I'm going to give y'all a whole freestyle.
[00:15:20.530 --> 00:15:23.370] And I'm not trying to be all night.
[00:15:24.990 --> 00:15:27.230] I got to get some rest before this flight.
[00:15:27.430 --> 00:15:28.790] Oh, man, I did it again.
[00:15:28.790 --> 00:15:32.790] Because I got to get back before November 20th
[00:15:33.350 --> 00:15:38.430] to beat you at Futureland AIForce Summit 2025
[00:15:38.430 --> 00:15:42.010] at MOCA, the Museum of Contemporary Art
[00:15:42.010 --> 00:15:43.310] in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:15:44.190 --> 00:15:46.670] 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
[00:15:46.870 --> 00:15:48.790] Futureland, CLE.com.
[00:15:49.410 --> 00:15:50.070] All right, y'all.
[00:15:50.290 --> 00:15:50.890] I'm out.
[00:15:51.210 --> 00:15:52.930] Alien Arms Photos Industry Talk.
[00:15:53.570 --> 00:15:55.090] This is photographer Jackson.
[00:15:55.210 --> 00:15:57.830] Steve Jackson of Alien Arms Photos Media.
[00:15:57.830 --> 00:15:59.610] And we're signing off.

========================================================================
58. Eric Stephens “Beyond The Walls 2” Presented by  Redwood Ministry Powered by Rooted In Christ Podcast (Full Episode)
Season 2 · Episode 2
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/eric-stephens-beyond-the-wall-2-presented-by-redwood-ministr
========================================================================

[00:00:02.080 --> 00:00:11.520] Welcome, welcome, welcome back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk with your host,
[00:00:12.100 --> 00:00:21.550] Stephen D. Jackson, aka Photographer Jackson of Alienize Photos Media, bringing you Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:21.940 --> 00:00:27.430] And I am here with Mr. Eric Stevens with Redwood Christian Ministries.
[00:00:27.820 --> 00:00:28.640] How are you doing today?
[00:00:28.640 --> 00:00:33.240] Bro, I'm smooth. Thank you for having me on here today. This is fire. This is dope, man.
[00:00:33.780 --> 00:00:39.840] You know, we had a chance to reconnect at Podcast United Five a couple weeks ago.
[00:00:40.420 --> 00:00:44.640] You know, we had a brief interview. I'm like, let's get this full length interview as needed.
[00:00:44.720 --> 00:00:49.080] And then also want to hear more about the concert that you're promoting.
[00:00:49.840 --> 00:00:55.140] Christian hip hop concert, Beyond the Walls 2. Part 2. Let's go.
[00:00:55.140 --> 00:00:59.100] Working on three, four or five single games being three, four or five.
[00:00:59.100 --> 00:01:00.600] We're going to talk about the future, bro.
[00:01:02.300 --> 00:01:06.600] You say you kind of new to the concert and promoting concerts.
[00:01:07.060 --> 00:01:10.300] Where did it all come from? Like the idea that spark?
[00:01:11.580 --> 00:01:17.980] Yeah, I mean, I'm going to tell everybody like from from the beginning, you know, this is this is all a God thing.
[00:01:17.980 --> 00:01:22.200] This is all a Jesus thing. That's this was not on my radar.
[00:01:22.200 --> 00:01:26.620] What I don't get on a the young people tell you now, like this wasn't on a bingo card.
[00:01:26.620 --> 00:01:28.540] Like, you know what I'm saying? Like this was just heard.
[00:01:28.820 --> 00:01:30.960] Yeah, that just is what it meant for me.
[00:01:31.100 --> 00:01:34.040] It played bingo a couple of nights ago. Yeah, I probably got smoked.
[00:01:34.280 --> 00:01:43.400] But, you know, I ended up starting, starting the nonprofit right with Christian Ministries and our whole like mission
[00:01:43.400 --> 00:01:45.440] and vision is if we see a need, we fill a need.
[00:01:46.400 --> 00:01:51.340] So let that be mission strips around, you know, Ohio or missions around the United States.
[00:01:51.360 --> 00:01:55.400] Like we we want to make sure we're highlighting the needs of the community
[00:01:55.400 --> 00:01:57.540] and that we got to go house to house to do that.
[00:01:57.560 --> 00:01:58.780] And that's that's how we roll.
[00:01:59.640 --> 00:02:01.220] And I'm promised I'm about to answer your question.
[00:02:01.260 --> 00:02:06.940] So that led to the Ruining Christ podcast because that's something that God had put in my heart to really to really kick off.
[00:02:07.380 --> 00:02:10.080] I have guests going to show and share their testimonies and their life stories.
[00:02:10.900 --> 00:02:12.840] And I mean, it's the other day life stories.
[00:02:12.840 --> 00:02:18.000] It's like whether they had miscarriages, whether they had committed murder and got incarcerated.
[00:02:18.180 --> 00:02:20.640] Like and I'm talking like what these what these rappers we talk about.
[00:02:20.680 --> 00:02:23.060] No, they actually killed somebody, did it, got caught.
[00:02:23.320 --> 00:02:23.780] You know what I mean?
[00:02:25.160 --> 00:02:27.380] Like drop trafficking, you know what I'm saying?
[00:02:27.540 --> 00:02:30.080] Grew up in a church, whatever your story is.
[00:02:30.120 --> 00:02:31.380] We got it on there.
[00:02:31.940 --> 00:02:33.760] That's on all podcast platforms.
[00:02:34.120 --> 00:02:39.220] But from that, God has sort of put into my heart to really bring like revival to Cleveland.
[00:02:39.680 --> 00:02:42.900] And and he was like, no, and he was kept coming up.
[00:02:42.900 --> 00:02:48.400] It was just on me, like super heavy to just do to have some kind of revival in Cleveland.
[00:02:48.620 --> 00:02:52.760] I said, all right, well, my whole my whole heart is unity in the body of Christ.
[00:02:52.860 --> 00:02:57.600] Like my nonprofit stands on salvation, discipleship and church unity.
[00:02:58.000 --> 00:02:58.640] Those three things.
[00:02:58.640 --> 00:03:00.180] I say a revival.
[00:03:00.400 --> 00:03:01.540] That's not just doing it once five.
[00:03:02.040 --> 00:03:03.340] Let's get a bunch of churches together.
[00:03:03.540 --> 00:03:05.280] Let's have a centralized location.
[00:03:06.360 --> 00:03:09.260] Unless you know, I love music, so let's do this.
[00:03:09.300 --> 00:03:10.600] Let's get ready to baptize people.
[00:03:10.660 --> 00:03:12.100] Let's pray to baptize people in the Holy Spirit.
[00:03:12.140 --> 00:03:13.480] Let's pray to lead people to the Lord.
[00:03:13.980 --> 00:03:15.280] Like, let's let's do this.
[00:03:15.380 --> 00:03:16.320] Like, we're going to do it.
[00:03:16.400 --> 00:03:19.480] Let's do it big and get a bunch of big a bunch of people involved.
[00:03:20.980 --> 00:03:25.100] And I had a couple of churches involved that were that were going to be a part of it.
[00:03:25.540 --> 00:03:28.700] But I had had a few Christian hip hop artists on my podcast already.
[00:03:29.140 --> 00:03:32.680] And I said, OK, well, I know K Diamond and I know Bruno.
[00:03:32.680 --> 00:03:34.320] I said, well, let me hit up.
[00:03:34.400 --> 00:03:36.460] Let me hit them up to see if they'd be interested in coming out.
[00:03:36.740 --> 00:03:40.000] We had a traditional worship along with a Christian hip hop set.
[00:03:40.820 --> 00:03:42.720] So I called Diamond and he was like, what are you thinking?
[00:03:43.280 --> 00:03:46.180] And I said, well, I think we had a rappers that y'all go on.
[00:03:46.220 --> 00:03:49.780] And then we end the night with the traditional live worship music.
[00:03:50.320 --> 00:03:54.480] He was like, you know, my opinion is you should probably have because the artist I was talking to.
[00:03:54.480 --> 00:03:56.560] He was like, you know, you should have the rappers going last.
[00:03:57.180 --> 00:03:59.260] And I'm like, that ain't no work.
[00:03:59.260 --> 00:04:01.660] I say because the if the spirit falls.
[00:04:02.820 --> 00:04:06.600] And the work is traditional words when I first I won't have y'all come out at all.
[00:04:06.700 --> 00:04:09.300] Like, like my whole thing is I don't want to see anybody go to hell.
[00:04:09.400 --> 00:04:11.500] Like why as a Christian, why would you want that?
[00:04:11.860 --> 00:04:14.360] You know what I'm saying? So my whole thing was let's get them.
[00:04:14.940 --> 00:04:18.060] If this happens, like y'all won't go on for hours.
[00:04:18.240 --> 00:04:23.420] You know, because in my head, I'm thinking like, man, I'm talking like revival, revival, like old school tent revival spark.
[00:04:23.720 --> 00:04:27.920] OK. But something in me was like, Diamond is making a point.
[00:04:27.920 --> 00:04:30.180] And I know and I knew he something was like, he's right.
[00:04:30.260 --> 00:04:32.620] But I didn't see why he was right about to run a show.
[00:04:33.240 --> 00:04:34.620] So I said, let me let me get you back.
[00:04:34.660 --> 00:04:39.480] I need to process some stuff because again, I've been a bit playing my whole life.
[00:04:39.580 --> 00:04:43.280] OK. But this part was new, like with with the whole Christian hip hop scene.
[00:04:44.420 --> 00:04:49.000] My girlfriend at the time, my wife now, we went down to the House of Blues.
[00:04:49.420 --> 00:04:51.180] By the way, this thing was going to be called Unite Cleveland.
[00:04:51.260 --> 00:04:54.540] That was going to be that that was going to be the name of this event was Unite Cleveland.
[00:04:55.360 --> 00:04:57.720] OK. I like that name.
[00:04:57.980 --> 00:05:02.240] You know, I mean, you know, I'm just this kind of self-explanatory.
[00:05:02.480 --> 00:05:04.060] Yeah, I mean, I was, you know, that's me.
[00:05:04.120 --> 00:05:06.640] Like simple, like, you know, I mean, he could keep the keep the market easy.
[00:05:06.660 --> 00:05:08.900] We can just add that up and keep the name straight to the point.
[00:05:08.940 --> 00:05:10.100] Like, that's me. Yeah.
[00:05:10.460 --> 00:05:15.400] We go down to the beautiful tour that Hobie's having at the House of Blues.
[00:05:17.180 --> 00:05:19.300] And we are at the VIP meet and greet.
[00:05:19.760 --> 00:05:21.500] And I'm like starting to zone out.
[00:05:21.500 --> 00:05:24.320] And I'm zoning out, not because they're interested,
[00:05:24.400 --> 00:05:28.180] because the spirit is talking to me and I tap on the shoulder.
[00:05:28.380 --> 00:05:30.720] I said, girl, I got this feeling.
[00:05:31.720 --> 00:05:37.260] I said, we should we should do the whole concert right here.
[00:05:37.900 --> 00:05:40.820] And she turned and looked at me like, who am I about to marry?
[00:05:40.980 --> 00:05:42.360] This dude is crazy.
[00:05:42.980 --> 00:05:45.640] But she was like, let's prime in.
[00:05:45.700 --> 00:05:48.660] But let's pray about it, see how God really wants to do it.
[00:05:49.620 --> 00:05:52.180] So, mind you, I had already talked to Bruno and Diamond,
[00:05:52.180 --> 00:05:55.040] so I had already had them booked, you know,
[00:05:55.660 --> 00:05:59.260] and I said, all right, let me for you had a bit before I've had the venue.
[00:05:59.260 --> 00:06:01.320] I had them down like I was OK.
[00:06:01.960 --> 00:06:05.360] So I was like, all right, wait a minute, let me let me let me do some homework.
[00:06:05.920 --> 00:06:08.020] And I said, but I really think we should do this here.
[00:06:08.080 --> 00:06:11.040] I'm like, I really I feel like I feel like there's people
[00:06:11.040 --> 00:06:13.900] who will come to a place like this, like at my church,
[00:06:13.900 --> 00:06:17.440] we have these things called like connect groups, you know, acts to church type thing.
[00:06:17.440 --> 00:06:20.300] Or like we have our church on Sunday, but we had these groups during the week
[00:06:20.300 --> 00:06:22.440] where people will meet house to house. Yeah.
[00:06:22.540 --> 00:06:25.120] You know, I'm thinking like it's people who go to these connect groups
[00:06:25.120 --> 00:06:29.280] or go to concerts before they will set foot in a church for whatever reason.
[00:06:29.340 --> 00:06:31.080] Could be church heard because because they're scared,
[00:06:31.120 --> 00:06:35.120] because they're accountable, it could be just whatever, whatever the reason.
[00:06:36.100 --> 00:06:37.300] I said, let me do some homework.
[00:06:38.100 --> 00:06:40.760] Got a cop filled out there the forms for the House of Blues.
[00:06:42.040 --> 00:06:43.400] The day I wanted was open.
[00:06:44.280 --> 00:06:46.240] Carl Brennan, he was free.
[00:06:46.480 --> 00:06:48.080] Carl Diamond, he was free.
[00:06:49.020 --> 00:06:50.280] Then this is the crazy part.
[00:06:50.560 --> 00:06:53.740] I had already reached out to Miles Minnick's team
[00:06:55.440 --> 00:06:58.300] before before all of this, because I wanted Miles to do my podcast
[00:06:58.300 --> 00:07:01.200] and his wife, like, first of all, they are a solid couple.
[00:07:01.340 --> 00:07:02.760] I loved them. Legit team.
[00:07:02.920 --> 00:07:05.060] But she's about her business. Yeah.
[00:07:05.880 --> 00:07:09.000] She said, no, we can't do a podcast because he's about to go on tour.
[00:07:09.120 --> 00:07:11.100] Miles is actually blowing up at this time.
[00:07:11.100 --> 00:07:15.860] Like, I don't think I don't think Glowfest and all that had happened yet.
[00:07:15.960 --> 00:07:17.700] I think it was Glowchella at the time.
[00:07:17.700 --> 00:07:18.980] I don't remember because it all glow.
[00:07:19.100 --> 00:07:19.820] Like, I don't I don't remember.
[00:07:20.160 --> 00:07:22.780] But he was she was like, no, you can't do a podcast.
[00:07:23.360 --> 00:07:26.660] But I hit them back up. I said, what if I'm throwing a concert?
[00:07:26.820 --> 00:07:30.520] Would he be available for this on this date at this time?
[00:07:30.520 --> 00:07:34.760] And she was like, that's one of the last two dates he has opened for the year.
[00:07:35.040 --> 00:07:36.760] And I said, you got to be.
[00:07:36.900 --> 00:07:39.720] I said, Tina, send me that contract right now.
[00:07:39.720 --> 00:07:41.280] I'm like, let's get this going.
[00:07:42.400 --> 00:07:44.200] She was like, you put a deposit down, I guess.
[00:07:44.420 --> 00:07:45.920] Let's let's do this right now.
[00:07:46.320 --> 00:07:48.600] So we got Miles Minick.
[00:07:49.260 --> 00:07:53.780] So now we at the House of Blues with Miles Minick and Breno as my co-headliners
[00:07:54.320 --> 00:07:55.940] on a concert called Unite Cleveland.
[00:07:56.820 --> 00:08:00.640] And some of these didn't feel right because I'm like, I'm the only dude from Cleveland on this bill.
[00:08:00.860 --> 00:08:02.900] Ain't nobody else. Ain't nobody else involved.
[00:08:03.060 --> 00:08:06.020] Not even my girlfriend was not involved from Cleveland.
[00:08:06.060 --> 00:08:08.060] I'm the only Cleveland person on this thing.
[00:08:08.060 --> 00:08:09.820] That night, I'm doing it.
[00:08:09.820 --> 00:08:12.140] So this is the next night after we leave the House of Blues.
[00:08:13.420 --> 00:08:14.920] I'm doing a podcast.
[00:08:15.780 --> 00:08:18.860] Dude comes on a podcast and he's just talking about the Great Commission.
[00:08:18.960 --> 00:08:20.120] And I'm an evangelist to heart.
[00:08:20.240 --> 00:08:22.420] But this was not the topic of our show like at all.
[00:08:23.600 --> 00:08:29.100] And he's just talking about going beyond this and beyond the walls that and we got to go beyond the walls of the church.
[00:08:29.440 --> 00:08:35.260] And like you can see how abruptly I ended the interview because I zoned out like I glossed out.
[00:08:35.260 --> 00:08:38.600] I was like, the Holy Spirit is talking to me through you right now.
[00:08:39.720 --> 00:08:43.419] I ended that interview so quick, jumped off the computer.
[00:08:43.919 --> 00:08:46.440] I was like, we need to change.
[00:08:46.500 --> 00:08:47.040] I called the hospital.
[00:08:47.100 --> 00:08:48.880] I was like, we need to change this to beyond the walls.
[00:08:49.560 --> 00:08:50.840] Like this is not Unite Cleveland.
[00:08:50.940 --> 00:08:54.680] We are going beyond the walls of the church to go reach the lost.
[00:08:56.200 --> 00:08:57.040] And one more time.
[00:08:57.400 --> 00:09:01.000] Yeah, that's powerful. Beyond the walls to reach the lost.
[00:09:01.000 --> 00:09:02.120] Yeah. Yes.
[00:09:02.280 --> 00:09:04.220] So that's kind of the meaning behind all.
[00:09:05.080 --> 00:09:05.100] Yeah.
[00:09:05.220 --> 00:09:08.020] The Great Commission walls behind the walls that stand.
[00:09:08.100 --> 00:09:10.400] Yeah, kind of divide between the church and the street.
[00:09:10.580 --> 00:09:11.520] It's the Great Commission.
[00:09:12.880 --> 00:09:21.080] You know, our faith is not meant to be kept, you know, either inside a building or even inside of ourselves.
[00:09:21.460 --> 00:09:24.260] It's meant to be to be shared.
[00:09:24.900 --> 00:09:27.000] You know, and it's great to talk about.
[00:09:27.280 --> 00:09:27.880] I love Jesus.
[00:09:27.880 --> 00:09:28.700] I have faith.
[00:09:28.940 --> 00:09:31.100] All of this stuff when I'm talking to another Christian.
[00:09:31.660 --> 00:09:33.900] But what about that person who doesn't know Jesus?
[00:09:34.320 --> 00:09:36.040] So my whole thing is.
[00:09:37.040 --> 00:09:41.840] I want to find the, you know, I want to go where where are those people?
[00:09:41.920 --> 00:09:47.000] I want to go find those people, not for any my honor, my growth, my glory.
[00:09:47.100 --> 00:09:50.580] No, like, how do I bring these people to the same power of Jesus Christ
[00:09:50.580 --> 00:09:53.500] so they don't end up doing the stuff I used to do?
[00:09:54.220 --> 00:09:54.720] You know what I mean?
[00:09:54.880 --> 00:09:56.700] So is that that you used to do?
[00:09:56.700 --> 00:09:59.240] God, you talk I'm talking like.
[00:09:59.620 --> 00:10:02.800] Man buying drugs by the ounces, I'm talking like nights partying.
[00:10:02.800 --> 00:10:05.940] I'm talking having 13 dudes outside of a nightclub waiting for me.
[00:10:06.160 --> 00:10:08.820] I'm talking about having my own gun in my head ready to take my own life.
[00:10:09.300 --> 00:10:09.620] You know what I'm saying?
[00:10:09.620 --> 00:10:12.980] I want to get out there and tell people, no matter what you're going through, there's another way.
[00:10:13.460 --> 00:10:15.660] You don't have to keep living this way.
[00:10:15.720 --> 00:10:16.520] There's another way.
[00:10:16.660 --> 00:10:19.800] There's a there is a path to freedom through Jesus,
[00:10:19.880 --> 00:10:21.700] because the only way the father is through the son.
[00:10:22.800 --> 00:10:27.360] And if like if you knew somebody was sick and you had the medicine,
[00:10:27.480 --> 00:10:29.020] why would you not give it to them?
[00:10:29.120 --> 00:10:31.060] Why would I be keeping that from you?
[00:10:31.200 --> 00:10:32.000] Right, right.
[00:10:32.200 --> 00:10:33.580] He came for the loss.
[00:10:34.000 --> 00:10:38.020] So it's easy to sit here and be Christian when I'm with 18 other Christians.
[00:10:38.600 --> 00:10:41.880] It's easy to be hard when you're you know, and you would a gang of people.
[00:10:42.080 --> 00:10:43.180] You know what I mean?
[00:10:43.240 --> 00:10:45.640] But it's like for those people who don't know him.
[00:10:46.940 --> 00:10:48.100] That's who we're here for.
[00:10:49.140 --> 00:10:51.360] It's not the it's not it's not the concert.
[00:10:51.540 --> 00:10:52.920] It's not the it's not even the music.
[00:10:53.000 --> 00:10:53.680] It's it's him.
[00:10:53.760 --> 00:10:56.520] I want to see souls one for him.
[00:10:57.180 --> 00:10:57.660] Wow.
[00:10:58.260 --> 00:11:06.100] So we kind of talk about with your story, addiction, depression, suicide, violence.
[00:11:06.680 --> 00:11:08.620] How did you kind of step out of that?
[00:11:08.780 --> 00:11:09.200] Yeah.
[00:11:10.380 --> 00:11:15.320] It took my grandmother passing away to really like show me like you were not untouchable.
[00:11:15.540 --> 00:11:16.780] You are not immortal.
[00:11:17.760 --> 00:11:19.440] We anybody can get got.
[00:11:19.800 --> 00:11:20.680] Anybody can get caught.
[00:11:21.540 --> 00:11:26.300] And, you know, it was it was crazy for me because she had beat cancer once
[00:11:26.880 --> 00:11:29.740] and then, you know, she came down glider cancer.
[00:11:30.500 --> 00:11:35.440] And I got a phone call from my mom one day that basically said, Hey, you know,
[00:11:35.640 --> 00:11:37.720] your grandmother was in hospice and due to the type of cancer,
[00:11:37.860 --> 00:11:39.380] you asked her the symptoms of what they're saying.
[00:11:39.980 --> 00:11:42.180] They're giving her like five days to live, maybe.
[00:11:43.700 --> 00:11:46.180] And, you know, I wasn't following Jesus at the time.
[00:11:46.180 --> 00:11:47.760] Like I was still doing my thing.
[00:11:48.560 --> 00:11:52.160] And I got another phone call from another family member that basically said,
[00:11:52.700 --> 00:11:54.660] you know, your grandmother is going to be fine.
[00:11:54.700 --> 00:11:56.040] I don't know who started the rumor.
[00:11:57.060 --> 00:12:00.260] Well, you know, I had I hadn't been processing my my feelings
[00:12:00.260 --> 00:12:03.420] and emotions were processed through drugs, through alcohol, through nights out,
[00:12:03.460 --> 00:12:09.520] to chase some women like my brain is like, yo, I want my hero to rise up again.
[00:12:09.700 --> 00:12:12.660] But while my mom lied to me, so my head is spinning.
[00:12:12.660 --> 00:12:15.560] I remember sitting still for like 30 straight minutes,
[00:12:16.080 --> 00:12:17.680] just being like, man, this is crazy.
[00:12:17.700 --> 00:12:19.020] But somehow I knew to go pray.
[00:12:19.720 --> 00:12:23.380] You know, so I went in my room, shut the door, got on my knees.
[00:12:23.480 --> 00:12:25.200] I'm living in Lakewood, Ohio at the time.
[00:12:25.780 --> 00:12:27.680] And I said, I said that prayer.
[00:12:27.820 --> 00:12:30.060] So many people pray, God, if you're real,
[00:12:31.360 --> 00:12:35.600] make yourself real to me, but I need to know when she's going to die.
[00:12:36.320 --> 00:12:38.360] I live by the railroad tracks in Lakewood.
[00:12:38.480 --> 00:12:40.300] So the train becomes like white noise.
[00:12:40.300 --> 00:12:42.240] Right. That train goes by.
[00:12:42.700 --> 00:12:44.840] It blows his horn so loud.
[00:12:44.940 --> 00:12:49.000] I jump out of my skin and I was living there and it blew his horn three times.
[00:12:49.800 --> 00:12:52.520] And I had this crazy piece that I can't explain.
[00:12:52.600 --> 00:12:55.640] And I said, she's going to die in three days.
[00:12:56.100 --> 00:12:58.400] My grandmother is going to die in three days.
[00:12:59.100 --> 00:13:02.100] You just gave me what I asked for Saturday morning.
[00:13:02.200 --> 00:13:03.780] First thing, six a.m.
[00:13:03.780 --> 00:13:06.900] She was gone. I said, all right, Lord, I'm yours.
[00:13:08.260 --> 00:13:11.680] So that's that's what and did it all happen right away?
[00:13:11.720 --> 00:13:13.060] No, it did not.
[00:13:13.980 --> 00:13:17.640] Some of the some of that lifestyle was still too close to me.
[00:13:17.680 --> 00:13:18.860] I didn't put enough distance.
[00:13:18.960 --> 00:13:20.400] Some of the stuff radically came off.
[00:13:20.500 --> 00:13:21.900] Some of the stuff didn't radically.
[00:13:22.040 --> 00:13:26.640] Some of it lingered, you know, and that's why it's important.
[00:13:26.880 --> 00:13:28.380] Like we reap what we sow.
[00:13:28.440 --> 00:13:30.300] So it's important that we sow good seed.
[00:13:30.560 --> 00:13:31.860] It's important that we sow good seed.
[00:13:31.960 --> 00:13:33.940] So that's what really that was.
[00:13:33.940 --> 00:13:34.840] That was a catalyst.
[00:13:35.360 --> 00:13:36.020] That was a catalyst.
[00:13:36.460 --> 00:13:40.880] And then we had the Azusa conference that came here in 2017.
[00:13:41.940 --> 00:13:43.800] And that's what I really rededicated my life to Christ.
[00:13:43.880 --> 00:13:44.820] Got serious about my walk.
[00:13:46.880 --> 00:13:49.520] Now, you know, you heard the saying death come in threes
[00:13:49.520 --> 00:13:53.100] and you said three days and then I don't know if you believe in angel numbers,
[00:13:53.840 --> 00:13:58.340] but like one, two, three kind of signifies new beginnings.
[00:13:59.980 --> 00:14:01.800] But that's well, that's definitely deep.
[00:14:01.800 --> 00:14:03.820] And, you know, lost my grandmother's son.
[00:14:04.180 --> 00:14:05.440] Definitely could feel for that.
[00:14:05.700 --> 00:14:10.720] And it is a wake up call and has you think and realize and kind of reflect.
[00:14:11.040 --> 00:14:14.280] And I'm glad you took that reflection time, that prayer time,
[00:14:14.280 --> 00:14:15.760] because a lot of people don't.
[00:14:15.760 --> 00:14:20.160] Needs them alive or they fall back into their old ways, the negative ways.
[00:14:20.760 --> 00:14:22.820] And that's that's good that you've been through it
[00:14:22.820 --> 00:14:25.160] so you can be a testimony to early to others.
[00:14:26.680 --> 00:14:29.600] So going back to Beyond the Walls.
[00:14:31.540 --> 00:14:36.480] So compare the first one to what we can expect for number two.
[00:14:40.860 --> 00:14:43.420] It's going to be it's going to be it's going to be different.
[00:14:43.660 --> 00:14:44.740] It really is.
[00:14:45.220 --> 00:14:49.440] I'm a little bit more mature now in the sense of that was my first show.
[00:14:50.920 --> 00:14:53.340] And people would tell you that when they were backstage,
[00:14:53.420 --> 00:14:55.980] I'm repeating what a lot of people have said on my podcast.
[00:14:55.980 --> 00:14:58.040] They didn't know that was my first show.
[00:14:59.060 --> 00:15:02.980] That's how I know is the anointing of God, because you don't just wake up.
[00:15:03.100 --> 00:15:05.280] I'm going to go host a concert downtown, the House of Blues,
[00:15:05.360 --> 00:15:07.020] one of the biggest artists in Christian hip hop.
[00:15:07.340 --> 00:15:08.420] Like what you don't think.
[00:15:08.680 --> 00:15:10.060] But that's what happened.
[00:15:12.340 --> 00:15:18.000] So, you know, it was there was just things that I would have done differently.
[00:15:19.320 --> 00:15:22.060] Like then, you know, now everything is hindsight, right?
[00:15:22.860 --> 00:15:25.380] There's been more marketing behind Beyond the Walls, too.
[00:15:25.380 --> 00:15:29.200] There's been a lot more like I'll tell you, there's been a lot more faith I've had.
[00:15:29.360 --> 00:15:33.920] This one has stretched my faith because this event is donor funded.
[00:15:34.400 --> 00:15:38.220] This is all donations that have been made, cash donations.
[00:15:38.360 --> 00:15:40.480] And my top donor for this passed away.
[00:15:41.200 --> 00:15:42.960] So I have really had to.
[00:15:43.300 --> 00:15:47.920] And he, you know, he was he was already changing his his mind as far as like,
[00:15:48.000 --> 00:15:51.200] I don't know if we really want to support this anymore, because I'm not, you know,
[00:15:51.200 --> 00:15:56.380] he probably didn't see he didn't see the vision, you know, the same way, you know,
[00:15:56.380 --> 00:15:59.480] his whole thing was the mission trips and all those things, which we're still doing.
[00:16:00.060 --> 00:16:04.220] But at the same time, like, I'm not sure that he saw the vision with his whole concert thing.
[00:16:04.480 --> 00:16:06.020] And I get it. I want to understand.
[00:16:06.180 --> 00:16:10.740] But he passed away before we could even have like really dive into this conversation.
[00:16:11.000 --> 00:16:14.920] So I was like, oh, man, what are we going to do?
[00:16:14.920 --> 00:16:18.920] But when I tell you that somebody just messaged me.
[00:16:19.480 --> 00:16:23.080] Well, somebody just responded to me probably a week or so ago,
[00:16:23.300 --> 00:16:25.320] covering the rest of the cost for this event.
[00:16:25.700 --> 00:16:28.220] God is faithful. God is faithful.
[00:16:30.320 --> 00:16:34.540] The the flow that I say to anybody, especially you're in interest in a concert.
[00:16:35.080 --> 00:16:36.840] The concert has to make sense.
[00:16:36.900 --> 00:16:38.760] And that means the lineup has to make sense.
[00:16:38.960 --> 00:16:40.320] That's what I mean by the flow of the show.
[00:16:40.320 --> 00:16:44.560] So the actual runner show, all of these all of these guys have songs together.
[00:16:45.080 --> 00:16:47.100] So you're going to see a lot more collaboration.
[00:16:47.780 --> 00:16:49.360] And they're all for the Midwest.
[00:16:49.780 --> 00:16:53.840] So you're about to this is this is really about to be a hometown, hometown show.
[00:16:54.500 --> 00:16:57.880] So it's a good point, because like even keeping that date,
[00:16:58.300 --> 00:17:02.880] that kind of like that grit and that the beauty from a struggle type of energy
[00:17:02.880 --> 00:17:05.319] from the Midwest, specifically Cleveland.
[00:17:05.319 --> 00:17:09.460] Like that's that's good to have that flow and that same type of energy
[00:17:09.460 --> 00:17:12.040] and go out back to the House of Blues.
[00:17:12.140 --> 00:17:13.819] Now, it wasn't free, was it?
[00:17:14.099 --> 00:17:15.319] No, absolutely not.
[00:17:15.780 --> 00:17:18.460] So let's let's let's kind of let's kind of talk about now there's
[00:17:19.260 --> 00:17:21.520] you know, my audience is a creative entrepreneur.
[00:17:21.819 --> 00:17:23.140] So we talk a lot of business.
[00:17:23.640 --> 00:17:25.599] So let's talk about some numbers. Yeah.
[00:17:25.859 --> 00:17:30.140] What is like that break even ticket sale number?
[00:17:33.410 --> 00:17:36.190] That's tough because the thing was donated.
[00:17:37.210 --> 00:17:43.090] I'll tell you this, the venue itself costs about four thousand for me.
[00:17:43.170 --> 00:17:44.590] It costs forty five hundred.
[00:17:45.610 --> 00:17:48.250] That's also because I paid close your liquor license for the night.
[00:17:48.630 --> 00:17:52.290] I did not want I did not want that attached to my bed
[00:17:52.990 --> 00:17:54.610] because of what we're trying to do.
[00:17:54.770 --> 00:17:58.530] And because I did a lot of people with addiction, the lab.
[00:17:58.610 --> 00:18:00.090] I'm not about to put that out there.
[00:18:00.170 --> 00:18:03.010] All right. I guess the last thing I need is you to come to our concert,
[00:18:03.070 --> 00:18:05.970] get turned up, turned up, drive home, crash, you know,
[00:18:05.970 --> 00:18:07.390] and you just left the Christian phone.
[00:18:07.450 --> 00:18:09.250] No, we we don't we don't do that.
[00:18:11.490 --> 00:18:13.070] Here's what here's what I'm going to say.
[00:18:15.210 --> 00:18:17.150] Let's just I'll give you I'll give you this number.
[00:18:17.310 --> 00:18:21.370] Let's just say you could make fifteen thousand dollars off ticket sales.
[00:18:22.770 --> 00:18:27.250] Your artists, unless you have donations coming in, should not eclipse that number.
[00:18:28.570 --> 00:18:32.070] You know what I mean? So like I if I had to pat on my own pocket
[00:18:32.070 --> 00:18:34.530] for artists, it was twenty five thousand dollars.
[00:18:34.530 --> 00:18:38.670] But I would stand to make fifteen. That's crazy. It's crazy.
[00:18:38.990 --> 00:18:43.370] All right. So you you want to make sure that like that, you know, like off the off the rip.
[00:18:43.450 --> 00:18:46.790] This is the percentage that the that the venue is going to take out.
[00:18:47.590 --> 00:18:50.510] This is what the artists are. This is what the artists are going to cost.
[00:18:51.350 --> 00:18:52.890] This is what I stand to make.
[00:18:53.910 --> 00:18:56.550] But here's what I want to say. Anybody who is looking to get in.
[00:18:56.570 --> 00:18:59.050] This is my rule of thumb. I'm telling this to anybody.
[00:18:59.050 --> 00:19:03.730] If you are performing any of my shows, they are all paid by sound check.
[00:19:04.610 --> 00:19:06.510] So to me, ticket sales don't exist.
[00:19:07.110 --> 00:19:11.190] I do not do anything based off ticket sale revenue.
[00:19:12.030 --> 00:19:16.970] I pretend like when we get in the room, we're immediately in the green.
[00:19:17.630 --> 00:19:20.070] Everything is covered. Everybody's paid. We're done.
[00:19:20.450 --> 00:19:24.230] Ticket sales is a bonus for the second you start promising money you don't have.
[00:19:24.490 --> 00:19:26.970] I mean, come on, man, you ain't got a dollar until you really got to.
[00:19:26.970 --> 00:19:31.610] You know what I'm saying? So like until until the money is in hand, I'm not counting that.
[00:19:32.490 --> 00:19:36.330] I don't want to ever. Yeah, if you perform here, I'm going to pay you based off our ticket sales.
[00:19:36.450 --> 00:19:40.290] What if we sell 20 tickets? I'm not saying we're going to, but that's crazy.
[00:19:41.010 --> 00:19:45.190] And I heard truly nightmare stories about artists not getting paid, having a lawyer up.
[00:19:45.310 --> 00:19:47.310] People promise the self onto venue sales.
[00:19:47.670 --> 00:19:50.370] Yeah, I don't I don't mess with that. I don't mess with that.
[00:19:50.570 --> 00:19:53.910] So I appreciate that. I know that's indirectly answer your question.
[00:19:54.530 --> 00:19:56.910] And by artists, that's not a good context.
[00:19:57.050 --> 00:20:00.010] But I'm trying to give it to the point. I'm not trying to put nobody's base
[00:20:00.010 --> 00:20:01.630] out there either for how much they make. You know what I'm saying?
[00:20:01.730 --> 00:20:04.330] It's like there's I'm feeling so discreet that you don't know.
[00:20:04.550 --> 00:20:07.370] I don't want to put so that's why I'm working with those numbers.
[00:20:07.490 --> 00:20:12.730] But your your cost should not exceed what you can make.
[00:20:13.250 --> 00:20:15.850] But you see, you should not be you know what I mean?
[00:20:16.030 --> 00:20:22.210] Like you should not be coming out of pocket and being in the red all the time for these shows.
[00:20:22.210 --> 00:20:28.010] So I know we said it jokingly, but I really am already working on Beyond The Walls three.
[00:20:28.990 --> 00:20:32.610] And I already know how much that is going to cost budget wise.
[00:20:32.630 --> 00:20:36.490] So I know exactly what I'm going to need to have raised by November of twenty twenty six.
[00:20:36.830 --> 00:20:40.970] I'm starting that process now because you have a vision for something you can't be
[00:20:40.970 --> 00:20:44.450] in the same place as the people who are about to attend your event.
[00:20:44.470 --> 00:20:48.830] I got to be ahead of them. So I'm playing twenty six, twenty seven, twenty eight.
[00:20:49.370 --> 00:20:54.190] I'm not going to stop until this is a brown stay until this is until this is at the Kaz arena.
[00:20:54.250 --> 00:20:55.870] So we're doing this at Progressive Field.
[00:20:56.430 --> 00:21:01.970] You know, like there's there's no reason why it can't be done other than somebody saying it can't be done.
[00:21:02.450 --> 00:21:04.290] And then it'll it'll happen.
[00:21:04.370 --> 00:21:06.390] There's always a can't until it happens.
[00:21:06.790 --> 00:21:12.390] And I'm not in that camp. So and when is Beyond The Walls to November 1st,
[00:21:12.390 --> 00:21:16.290] November 1st, House of Blues VIP kicks off at six p.m.
[00:21:16.290 --> 00:21:21.310] Six p.m. Oh, doors open and not the not the walls,
[00:21:21.430 --> 00:21:26.370] but the doors are open and six p.m. November 1st Beyond The Wall.
[00:21:27.510 --> 00:21:29.550] So yes, I must.
[00:21:29.650 --> 00:21:34.650] I'm a third show it to the other benefit that I have to throw in this at a venue like that.
[00:21:35.390 --> 00:21:38.190] I'm not a sound guy. I'm not a lighting guy like that.
[00:21:38.270 --> 00:21:43.830] The media part, though I'm in the media world, that is not my background.
[00:21:43.830 --> 00:21:46.530] And God was just like, God gave me a courage.
[00:21:46.610 --> 00:21:48.430] He gave me a voice. Those are my gifts and he gave me.
[00:21:48.530 --> 00:21:49.210] So I'm in this vein.
[00:21:50.030 --> 00:21:53.390] But when you're in the venue like that, all that comes with it.
[00:21:53.390 --> 00:21:56.390] Sound guy, light guy, tech guy, Mike's equipment.
[00:21:56.610 --> 00:21:59.450] So it's worth the money to rent a space like that.
[00:21:59.670 --> 00:22:01.450] It's worth it. Totally worth it.
[00:22:01.590 --> 00:22:06.810] So even as you say that for my new entrepreneurs that, you know,
[00:22:06.930 --> 00:22:08.990] who call them solo entrepreneurs working by themselves.
[00:22:08.990 --> 00:22:10.510] Yeah. Do everything by themselves.
[00:22:11.110 --> 00:22:16.030] How important is it hiring a professional or a team, building a team around them?
[00:22:16.490 --> 00:22:18.370] It's OK. You're not an expert in everything.
[00:22:19.730 --> 00:22:24.250] It's OK to not be by yourself, too, because none of us are really self-made.
[00:22:24.430 --> 00:22:29.770] If you go home and you turn your lights on, somebody had a part to play in that.
[00:22:30.690 --> 00:22:33.390] I don't believe in the whole self-made concept.
[00:22:34.010 --> 00:22:38.790] So when you asked another difference between last year and this year, I got my squad with me this year.
[00:22:38.790 --> 00:22:41.830] I'm building a team with me.
[00:22:42.730 --> 00:22:48.070] My wife is going to be the one running the show and making sure everything is flowing fine backstage.
[00:22:48.630 --> 00:22:53.490] I have my own security team to make sure that everything is going smooth backstage.
[00:22:53.850 --> 00:22:54.750] I have my own DJ.
[00:22:55.270 --> 00:22:57.630] Shout out to my dog, Eli Williams, because that's my boy.
[00:22:59.150 --> 00:23:05.390] I have my main videographer and photographer, which is A from Breakthrough Studio.
[00:23:05.450 --> 00:23:07.810] I'm not going to say his last name, but I don't know if you want me to.
[00:23:07.810 --> 00:23:10.070] So, you know what I mean? So great talent. Great.
[00:23:10.230 --> 00:23:13.950] I know he is a monster. Eddie is a monster.
[00:23:14.430 --> 00:23:21.310] So like that's my like I'm building my squad because it's like, all right, we're here now.
[00:23:22.070 --> 00:23:26.270] But when God launches this into the stratosphere, these are still the people I want with me.
[00:23:26.270 --> 00:23:28.870] You know what I'm saying? Who've been down with me since day one.
[00:23:29.090 --> 00:23:30.890] Through the good, the bad, the ugly. You know what I mean?
[00:23:30.990 --> 00:23:34.030] These are this is my core group who I want here.
[00:23:34.030 --> 00:23:41.030] So, you know, those those people, that's that's a big difference from from one into is having that structure.
[00:23:41.050 --> 00:23:44.690] And honestly, I learned that because I was just at young Chris's concert.
[00:23:46.050 --> 00:23:53.230] It was I was at HBO Fest and, you know, I was running security for for the event,
[00:23:53.750 --> 00:23:55.370] but I was his personal security.
[00:23:55.710 --> 00:24:00.230] And then miles minute came, so I was also his personal security.
[00:24:00.790 --> 00:24:06.950] So. And I got a chance to really watch how these artists are moving behind the scenes.
[00:24:07.790 --> 00:24:11.270] And it helped me see like some of their preferences and how, like,
[00:24:12.430 --> 00:24:16.550] Don ready young Chris were communicating back and forth and how, like, even though I was ahead of security,
[00:24:16.630 --> 00:24:20.870] I didn't even know miles minute was coming, you know, things like that.
[00:24:20.890 --> 00:24:25.850] So just seeing like how that team was so tight knit.
[00:24:25.850 --> 00:24:30.430] I said, I need that for beyond the walls to and beyond.
[00:24:31.350 --> 00:24:36.210] So I need to have a crew back there with me once so I can just be the host
[00:24:36.750 --> 00:24:41.010] because young Chris was overseeing that concert like it let him just be an artist.
[00:24:41.590 --> 00:24:45.370] He never had his hands on all the administration for that night like I did last year.
[00:24:45.470 --> 00:24:48.850] Like last year, my hands was in everything, including picking up the artists.
[00:24:49.050 --> 00:24:54.230] And I was I missed like soundtrack was delayed and I missed things that I should not have missed.
[00:24:54.230 --> 00:24:56.750] So this year, I'll be there for soundcheck.
[00:24:56.910 --> 00:24:59.370] My wife will be handling the stuff that she needs to handle backstage.
[00:24:59.590 --> 00:25:02.370] I have a security team moving the artists back and forth.
[00:25:02.370 --> 00:25:07.410] I don't have to do all that. I will have some runners, you know, some people I can trust to,
[00:25:07.830 --> 00:25:12.270] you know, understand this is unto God, you know, and not have stars in our eyes
[00:25:12.270 --> 00:25:15.470] because there's no celebrities in this Christian space like that.
[00:25:15.510 --> 00:25:20.390] That doesn't exist. If you if you believe you're in a celebrity in a Christian space, you need to go pray.
[00:25:20.870 --> 00:25:22.750] This is an act of one and it's Jesus.
[00:25:23.630 --> 00:25:27.050] So we need to make sure that like people get it when they're backstage.
[00:25:27.250 --> 00:25:30.630] This is not this is not time to give them your mixtape.
[00:25:30.670 --> 00:25:32.990] This is not time to be like, oh, let me get this interview.
[00:25:33.330 --> 00:25:36.130] Like we're here to serve right now, you know, and getting people wrong,
[00:25:36.150 --> 00:25:38.070] but who really understand that was was key.
[00:25:38.190 --> 00:25:43.010] So that that's going to be a huge, huge difference from the two power of team.
[00:25:43.010 --> 00:25:48.070] So as the team continues to build, what is something we can expect even beyond
[00:25:48.070 --> 00:25:55.670] like Beyond The Walls 3.0, a little snippet, a little slither.
[00:25:56.070 --> 00:25:58.390] I'm going to tell you the expectation.
[00:25:58.670 --> 00:26:01.470] Yeah, something that you've been thinking about, like, should I experiment?
[00:26:01.610 --> 00:26:04.690] Should I do this? Beyond The Walls 3.
[00:26:05.330 --> 00:26:07.830] The two dates are already being held by the House of Blues.
[00:26:09.270 --> 00:26:13.990] And that headliner and co-headliner announcement is coming sooner to realize.
[00:26:14.690 --> 00:26:16.210] We're about to rock and roll all the fans.
[00:26:17.290 --> 00:26:17.910] You're Cleveland.
[00:26:18.030 --> 00:26:19.910] Cleveland isn't all for that music.
[00:26:20.590 --> 00:26:25.990] Like Bone Thugs and Harmony kind of preaching that we kind of say that street
[00:26:26.510 --> 00:26:30.530] disciple, that street gossip, like for rock and roll, Hall of Fame.
[00:26:30.690 --> 00:26:32.190] There's another icon in the city.
[00:26:32.590 --> 00:26:34.290] I know I never thought about having an event there.
[00:26:34.570 --> 00:26:36.070] I didn't even know. I ain't all of you.
[00:26:36.270 --> 00:26:37.730] You just gave me an idea.
[00:26:38.250 --> 00:26:40.270] That's because I'm I'll say this.
[00:26:40.270 --> 00:26:43.470] Will this event stay at the House of Blues?
[00:26:44.070 --> 00:26:44.510] No.
[00:26:44.770 --> 00:26:45.570] Will it stay in Cleveland?
[00:26:46.790 --> 00:26:47.850] It's going to stay in Cleveland.
[00:26:48.070 --> 00:26:49.670] OK, but that.
[00:26:50.270 --> 00:26:52.130] So it's going to stay in Cleveland.
[00:26:52.630 --> 00:26:55.110] But I have some plans to expand this out.
[00:26:56.070 --> 00:26:59.310] And I'm going to I'm going to I got some I'm in the works with a lot of
[00:26:59.310 --> 00:27:03.490] things right now as far as what this could what this is going to evolve into.
[00:27:03.610 --> 00:27:05.910] It's not a matter of could it really is a matter of when.
[00:27:06.790 --> 00:27:09.250] So it sounds like it's business beyond it.
[00:27:09.410 --> 00:27:09.770] Oh, yeah.
[00:27:10.110 --> 00:27:12.430] And I think that's what I would tell any any Christian.
[00:27:12.430 --> 00:27:14.230] Like, do the business upfront.
[00:27:14.430 --> 00:27:15.910] Do it with character, do it with integrity.
[00:27:15.970 --> 00:27:17.990] Do it right, because you're doing it on the Lord.
[00:27:18.190 --> 00:27:19.910] Because as soon as you put tell somebody you're a Christian,
[00:27:19.990 --> 00:27:21.070] they're looking at you different than you are.
[00:27:21.630 --> 00:27:23.130] They just are.
[00:27:23.150 --> 00:27:25.830] For whatever the reason is, good, bad, ugly, positive, negative,
[00:27:25.890 --> 00:27:26.910] whatever it is, they're looking.
[00:27:27.510 --> 00:27:29.770] It's you're you're in a different you're in a different lane.
[00:27:29.930 --> 00:27:30.730] Real humans.
[00:27:31.010 --> 00:27:31.810] Yeah. Right.
[00:27:32.350 --> 00:27:34.210] So is this business to it?
[00:27:34.430 --> 00:27:36.090] And then like the ministry.
[00:27:36.190 --> 00:27:36.550] Right.
[00:27:36.970 --> 00:27:38.110] How do they overlap?
[00:27:38.250 --> 00:27:39.430] And then when do you turn it on?
[00:27:39.450 --> 00:27:40.290] When do you turn it off?
[00:27:40.290 --> 00:27:42.930] I never turn off the Jesus part of it.
[00:27:42.930 --> 00:27:44.170] That is always on.
[00:27:44.310 --> 00:27:45.550] That is that's with me.
[00:27:45.550 --> 00:27:46.310] That's a non-negotiable.
[00:27:47.150 --> 00:27:47.510] You know what I mean?
[00:27:47.550 --> 00:27:50.610] Like if I so that is always there.
[00:27:51.070 --> 00:27:54.110] So for me on the on the back end, I'm praying.
[00:27:54.450 --> 00:27:57.150] I'm fast and I'm praying and fast with my wife.
[00:27:57.290 --> 00:27:58.670] God, who do you want at this concert?
[00:27:59.130 --> 00:27:59.590] You know what I mean?
[00:27:59.630 --> 00:28:00.570] Like, when do you want it?
[00:28:01.190 --> 00:28:03.690] You know, I plan on expanding this out to other cities.
[00:28:04.210 --> 00:28:06.510] So when you say, well, it's staying clean, it's going to stay in Cleveland.
[00:28:06.590 --> 00:28:07.930] But it's going to be this.
[00:28:08.110 --> 00:28:09.230] This is not it.
[00:28:09.230 --> 00:28:12.430] This is just my this is just a jump off.
[00:28:13.890 --> 00:28:14.870] This is home base.
[00:28:15.450 --> 00:28:17.090] But this is always going to be here.
[00:28:18.930 --> 00:28:20.670] But then it's OK.
[00:28:20.810 --> 00:28:23.190] So, Lord, let's just say you want.
[00:28:23.410 --> 00:28:26.530] D.K.G. Young Chris and Brennan were beyond the walls, too.
[00:28:26.710 --> 00:28:28.110] Well, there is a business side to this.
[00:28:28.430 --> 00:28:29.570] You got to fundraise for the money.
[00:28:29.990 --> 00:28:31.070] We have to sign the contracts.
[00:28:31.230 --> 00:28:32.790] We have to honor those contracts.
[00:28:32.910 --> 00:28:37.350] We have to do it with integrity and make sure because in this case,
[00:28:37.350 --> 00:28:40.410] if I damage that relationship, I'm damaging their walk with God.
[00:28:40.830 --> 00:28:41.290] You know what I'm saying?
[00:28:41.430 --> 00:28:44.950] I'm now being a stumbling block for them and their and their journey with Christ.
[00:28:45.770 --> 00:28:47.150] So let's not do that.
[00:28:47.230 --> 00:28:49.630] Let's let's learn how to navigate these waters.
[00:28:49.730 --> 00:28:53.350] So I started talking and I'm blessed because I started talking to Bailey
[00:28:54.150 --> 00:28:58.190] Unterweger, who is who is manages Christian Hip Hop Art is doing show promotion.
[00:28:59.030 --> 00:29:00.830] You know, Eli Williams, I got it.
[00:29:00.830 --> 00:29:02.310] I got a lot of game from Kay Diamond.
[00:29:02.430 --> 00:29:03.910] I got a lot of game from Mike Mack.
[00:29:04.050 --> 00:29:06.030] I got a lot of game from DJ Focus.
[00:29:06.030 --> 00:29:09.430] You got to be like God put some OGs in my life,
[00:29:09.950 --> 00:29:12.650] like early on his process to kind of take me to school.
[00:29:12.650 --> 00:29:14.830] And I mean, it was quick.
[00:29:15.850 --> 00:29:17.350] It was it was like the summer school version.
[00:29:17.370 --> 00:29:20.410] Of course, it was like they should take 14 weeks.
[00:29:21.430 --> 00:29:22.630] Here's four days.
[00:29:24.190 --> 00:29:26.610] So I'm just learning, just learning that real fast.
[00:29:27.190 --> 00:29:28.510] So, yeah.
[00:29:28.510 --> 00:29:32.270] But the business, the business needs to be handled right and with integrity.
[00:29:32.310 --> 00:29:34.990] So there's contracts run everything, you know,
[00:29:34.990 --> 00:29:37.850] making sure the market and stuff gets planned out, because that's my weakness.
[00:29:37.970 --> 00:29:40.930] And I'm stepping my game up a little bit in that slowly, but surely.
[00:29:42.410 --> 00:29:45.330] So, well, going back to House of Blues,
[00:29:46.990 --> 00:29:51.610] this is standing Cleveland, everyone standing Cleveland behind the wall, standing Cleveland.
[00:29:53.110 --> 00:29:57.190] But you like the House of Blues, you love the system that's at the House of Blues.
[00:29:57.450 --> 00:30:00.190] They are these different House of Blues in different cities.
[00:30:00.190 --> 00:30:03.790] Ever thought about just turning different House of Blues in different cities?
[00:30:05.050 --> 00:30:06.150] Thought about it.
[00:30:06.210 --> 00:30:06.950] Thought about it.
[00:30:08.130 --> 00:30:11.630] You know, it's we're not there yet.
[00:30:12.170 --> 00:30:16.230] I feel like the thing about running a business is a business one,
[00:30:16.230 --> 00:30:18.650] but also a nonprofit is overhead cost.
[00:30:18.990 --> 00:30:23.150] I want to make sure I keep that minimum, you know, and then.
[00:30:23.710 --> 00:30:26.490] But it's not a say no, it's a we're just not there yet.
[00:30:26.490 --> 00:30:29.990] But doing this in multiple cities is the plan.
[00:30:30.810 --> 00:30:32.370] So that is that is the plan.
[00:30:32.990 --> 00:30:40.150] So you say you have donors and like the asset for money is it's a task, but it's fundraising.
[00:30:40.850 --> 00:30:44.690] How do you get these donors to help you fundraise?
[00:30:44.970 --> 00:30:47.430] You share the vision with them, you know, and you share the cause.
[00:30:47.710 --> 00:30:52.110] Like, for example, this year, a portion of every ticket sold is supporting Youth for Christ.
[00:30:52.110 --> 00:30:54.890] So young men who've been incarcerated,
[00:30:55.710 --> 00:30:59.790] who are in who are either in the juvenile system right now incarcerated or coming out.
[00:31:00.130 --> 00:31:03.150] I'm making sure they have books that they need to repass a third grade level
[00:31:03.850 --> 00:31:06.790] because and I only speak in Ohio because I can't speak of this in other places.
[00:31:06.790 --> 00:31:10.950] But if you are incarcerated in Ohio, odds are you can't repass a third grade level.
[00:31:11.410 --> 00:31:15.770] It's the one illiteracy and incarceration go hand in hand in this state.
[00:31:15.950 --> 00:31:19.930] So I'm making sure that the books that need to repass whatever level that they're at.
[00:31:19.930 --> 00:31:25.030] I also partner with PNC Bank to make sure they're going to teach these these men financial literacy courses
[00:31:25.030 --> 00:31:28.470] and financial freedom courses so they understand how to spend the money when they get out.
[00:31:28.850 --> 00:31:30.530] And if they are out, same thing.
[00:31:30.550 --> 00:31:31.850] We make sure they have the books you need.
[00:31:31.930 --> 00:31:34.990] We make sure the courses you need so you can stay out the system.
[00:31:35.630 --> 00:31:37.030] For sure, there's another way.
[00:31:37.390 --> 00:31:41.070] Because if you can be a drug dealer, you can be a car salesman, right?
[00:31:41.830 --> 00:31:45.790] Like, if you know how to hustle, you can be an insurance agent like who?
[00:31:45.890 --> 00:31:47.930] But somebody's got to reach back and tell these dudes that.
[00:31:48.830 --> 00:31:50.990] So this is the reach back.
[00:31:51.230 --> 00:31:52.930] The pool is telling you there are there is other ways.
[00:31:52.990 --> 00:31:53.950] You have other options.
[00:31:54.690 --> 00:31:55.830] I was going to say that.
[00:31:55.950 --> 00:31:57.230] So there's other ways.
[00:31:57.310 --> 00:31:59.790] Just like it's all sales at the end of the day.
[00:31:59.790 --> 00:32:03.530] And even to the point if they're not selling a product, they're selling themselves.
[00:32:05.190 --> 00:32:06.030] We all have a vision.
[00:32:06.190 --> 00:32:07.830] We all have these dreams.
[00:32:08.530 --> 00:32:11.150] Even like you go into donors, you're telling a vision.
[00:32:11.370 --> 00:32:13.150] Yeah, you're selling a vision, right?
[00:32:13.450 --> 00:32:14.330] So yeah, that's powerful.
[00:32:15.910 --> 00:32:19.330] So let's dive into the podcast.
[00:32:20.450 --> 00:32:21.270] What does that entail?
[00:32:21.610 --> 00:32:26.590] So I decided that I wasn't going to do the podcast alone.
[00:32:26.730 --> 00:32:33.310] I wanted to have like guests come on the show to tell their stories so it can be an encouragement to anybody.
[00:32:34.110 --> 00:32:39.810] And I think one of the things that I balked against early was people were like, oh, you should segment your podcast.
[00:32:39.910 --> 00:32:44.130] Maybe you should just do your podcast for young men and maybe you should just do this and you should just do that.
[00:32:44.130 --> 00:32:46.790] And I'm like, God didn't tell me to do that.
[00:32:47.950 --> 00:32:50.430] God didn't tell me to go on that lane, at least not right now.
[00:32:50.490 --> 00:32:56.810] I'm not saying it's never going to be there, but he didn't tell me to segment my podcast out to just one population of people.
[00:32:57.230 --> 00:32:59.210] Right now I'm going to Joe Rogan approach.
[00:33:00.530 --> 00:33:04.950] There's a, I don't know when this will air, but there's 160 something episodes on there right now.
[00:33:05.170 --> 00:33:06.230] Probably close to 170.
[00:33:06.350 --> 00:33:07.350] So we just park it there.
[00:33:07.730 --> 00:33:08.790] There's someone there for everybody.
[00:33:08.990 --> 00:33:10.350] So you're really rooted in Christ.
[00:33:10.450 --> 00:33:11.370] Yeah, we in there.
[00:33:11.370 --> 00:33:13.870] Like we really, we, we 10 toes down for real.
[00:33:14.110 --> 00:33:15.450] Like it's you.
[00:33:15.590 --> 00:33:16.770] There's something on there for everybody.
[00:33:17.190 --> 00:33:21.210] You know, if you want to hear a story about brief because you had a miscarriage, we got episodes for you.
[00:33:21.210 --> 00:33:23.350] You want to go in there and talk about how to battle addiction.
[00:33:23.350 --> 00:33:24.510] We got episodes for you.
[00:33:25.050 --> 00:33:26.690] You are a pastor's kid and you were up in a church.
[00:33:26.750 --> 00:33:28.130] We got episodes for you.
[00:33:28.230 --> 00:33:34.110] But I didn't want to just be my story, you know, because eventually like you're going to Twitter.
[00:33:34.210 --> 00:33:38.850] I heard some of this already and there's always power testimony.
[00:33:38.850 --> 00:33:46.530] But I'm like, yeah, but there's there's somebody else out there whose story can be captured and they don't always have to be this large name.
[00:33:47.290 --> 00:33:56.130] I think sometimes if people think the anointing of God and the spirit of God is only attached to a name, it's not just attached to one person at all.
[00:33:56.610 --> 00:33:58.390] You know, so you gave your life to Christ.
[00:33:58.470 --> 00:34:01.010] You've got a story, a Jesus story to tell.
[00:34:01.530 --> 00:34:02.690] Hit me up and come on the show.
[00:34:02.790 --> 00:34:03.810] Let's talk about it.
[00:34:03.830 --> 00:34:05.270] Let's just talk about it.
[00:34:05.270 --> 00:34:11.429] So what's the most powerful or deepest conversation you had with a guess?
[00:34:11.969 --> 00:34:12.889] Who was their story like?
[00:34:13.330 --> 00:34:13.889] Oh, my goodness.
[00:34:14.010 --> 00:34:15.389] I don't believe you just asked me that.
[00:34:16.130 --> 00:34:18.210] That's a hundred something, seventy something episodes.
[00:34:18.710 --> 00:34:24.870] And which one was the deepest or one that stands out that kind of hits you.
[00:34:24.989 --> 00:34:26.790] Holy Gabbana stands out right now.
[00:34:27.070 --> 00:34:31.810] Like for like that was that was crazy because I mean, anybody know him know what he used to do.
[00:34:32.210 --> 00:34:34.370] He was running grocery stores, jumping on cars.
[00:34:34.370 --> 00:34:36.050] The dude's life story was crazy.
[00:34:36.929 --> 00:34:38.270] His story stands out.
[00:34:38.409 --> 00:34:39.969] I mean, miles minutes car was shot up.
[00:34:40.050 --> 00:34:42.030] His story stands out.
[00:34:42.330 --> 00:34:49.770] DKG story stands out because he you know, his brother and him were going to go somewhere one night and he didn't go.
[00:34:49.909 --> 00:34:55.889] And his brother, his brother, his cousin car got shot up, got like execution style.
[00:34:55.909 --> 00:34:56.610] He died.
[00:34:56.870 --> 00:34:58.590] Kyle was in the car.
[00:35:00.980 --> 00:35:03.880] Those stories stand out.
[00:35:04.320 --> 00:35:06.520] Man, there's a lot of them.
[00:35:06.640 --> 00:35:08.620] Some. There's a lot of them.
[00:35:08.900 --> 00:35:13.340] I hope you keep motivated and you know, to keep going with all of it.
[00:35:13.980 --> 00:35:17.580] I originally told God, no, that I was not going to do this podcast.
[00:35:18.780 --> 00:35:21.080] And first of all, so this is all disobedience.
[00:35:21.260 --> 00:35:23.060] Like telling God, no, it's just crazy word.
[00:35:23.120 --> 00:35:24.520] Like I just like, who am I to do?
[00:35:24.600 --> 00:35:27.860] I think we are at some point in our life, especially when we.
[00:35:30.400 --> 00:35:31.520] But I'm old now.
[00:35:31.580 --> 00:35:32.360] You know, I'm not old now.
[00:35:32.420 --> 00:35:32.740] I'm older.
[00:35:32.840 --> 00:35:34.040] You don't say like I still told you.
[00:35:34.060 --> 00:35:34.920] Like it's like it's truly.
[00:35:35.180 --> 00:35:36.700] Yeah, I still I still feel younger heart.
[00:35:39.000 --> 00:35:40.400] But I'm having fun.
[00:35:41.140 --> 00:35:41.500] I'm having fun.
[00:35:41.580 --> 00:35:42.100] I feel free.
[00:35:42.260 --> 00:35:42.920] I feel loose.
[00:35:43.560 --> 00:35:45.720] I feel like this is what I'm supposed to be supposed to be doing.
[00:35:45.740 --> 00:35:48.080] So that's that's keeping me keeping me going.
[00:35:48.400 --> 00:35:48.880] So wow.
[00:35:49.020 --> 00:35:52.300] So you say you're in the ministry, but you have a fun.
[00:35:52.420 --> 00:35:55.520] So we could have fun and still be rooted in Christ.
[00:35:55.520 --> 00:35:59.760] I've had more fun following Jesus than I did before him.
[00:35:59.960 --> 00:36:00.780] It's not even close.
[00:36:02.000 --> 00:36:03.220] I don't got to wake up with hangovers.
[00:36:03.640 --> 00:36:04.720] I'm not looking over my shoulders.
[00:36:04.820 --> 00:36:07.220] I got drugs in my car trying to get back home so we can get high.
[00:36:07.460 --> 00:36:08.040] Like it's easy.
[00:36:08.420 --> 00:36:09.820] Like, yeah, I got a license.
[00:36:09.960 --> 00:36:10.400] You know what I'm saying?
[00:36:10.680 --> 00:36:11.780] Like I'm not driving illegally.
[00:36:12.520 --> 00:36:13.680] You know, also, it's important.
[00:36:13.920 --> 00:36:14.580] You know, you know what I'm saying?
[00:36:14.700 --> 00:36:18.040] It's like, no, I feel there's a there's a freedom in Christ.
[00:36:18.500 --> 00:36:21.260] Like that yoke, like he carries all of that.
[00:36:21.280 --> 00:36:24.840] So I don't have to sit there and carry on his weight or freedom in Christ.
[00:36:24.840 --> 00:36:26.240] And you say Jesus.
[00:36:26.620 --> 00:36:31.340] And I know there's about three thousand four thousand different sectors of
[00:36:31.340 --> 00:36:32.440] Christian and Christianity.
[00:36:34.140 --> 00:36:41.940] So is your take or what is your take on like by God or father and Jesus Christ?
[00:36:42.220 --> 00:36:43.020] They're two separate.
[00:36:43.240 --> 00:36:44.720] They want father, son.
[00:36:44.820 --> 00:36:46.340] We're going to make this real easy.
[00:36:46.720 --> 00:36:47.180] Let's go.
[00:36:47.220 --> 00:36:48.680] Father, son, Holy Spirit.
[00:36:48.700 --> 00:36:49.520] Let's go.
[00:36:49.580 --> 00:36:50.260] So our Trinity.
[00:36:50.500 --> 00:36:51.800] Yeah, it's that simple.
[00:36:51.800 --> 00:36:54.640] And there is there is one God.
[00:36:55.220 --> 00:36:57.980] There is the only way back to him is through Jesus.
[00:36:58.220 --> 00:36:59.820] Jesus paid the price for our sins.
[00:37:00.780 --> 00:37:03.100] He died, buried, rose again.
[00:37:03.520 --> 00:37:07.100] If you want the freedom I'm talking about, try him.
[00:37:07.460 --> 00:37:10.320] Because the very thing that you feel like you're missing,
[00:37:10.860 --> 00:37:13.140] like there's a reason why that you have to keep taking those drinks.
[00:37:13.240 --> 00:37:14.880] There's a reason why you got to keep taking those hits.
[00:37:15.040 --> 00:37:17.700] There's a reason why you got to keep stepping out with all these women.
[00:37:17.720 --> 00:37:19.240] And there's a reason why they call her Mrs.
[00:37:19.260 --> 00:37:19.880] And she ain't hitting.
[00:37:20.000 --> 00:37:21.020] There's a reason why.
[00:37:21.020 --> 00:37:23.540] There's a reason why it's called mystery.
[00:37:23.720 --> 00:37:24.600] And it's a miss.
[00:37:25.240 --> 00:37:28.060] There's a miss because the only hit is Christ.
[00:37:29.620 --> 00:37:33.220] So we said the sun to get to the father.
[00:37:33.260 --> 00:37:34.660] So it's like the vehicle.
[00:37:35.060 --> 00:37:40.200] So the music is like the vehicle to Christ in this concert.
[00:37:41.220 --> 00:37:46.360] So in the New Testament, I love the model that Paul set out
[00:37:46.360 --> 00:37:50.860] because Paul said when I was a Jew, I carried myself as a Jew.
[00:37:50.860 --> 00:37:52.840] When I was a Gentile, I carried myself as a Gentile.
[00:37:53.060 --> 00:37:56.800] When I was around the week, I became weak so that I might win some
[00:37:56.800 --> 00:37:57.740] for the gospel.
[00:37:58.920 --> 00:38:02.100] And the whole idea behind that isn't it's the whole idea behind
[00:38:02.100 --> 00:38:06.100] that is it's the man, the message and the method.
[00:38:06.620 --> 00:38:10.960] The man Paul was surrendered to the man of Jesus.
[00:38:11.720 --> 00:38:14.700] The message that he carried was the message of salvation,
[00:38:15.280 --> 00:38:16.600] the saving power of Christ.
[00:38:17.340 --> 00:38:20.100] The only thing Paul ever tweaked without using sin,
[00:38:20.100 --> 00:38:22.940] without using something that was not God under was the method.
[00:38:24.120 --> 00:38:26.880] So when I'm in the suburbs, I'm talking one way,
[00:38:26.980 --> 00:38:28.760] but I'm saying the exact same thing.
[00:38:28.760 --> 00:38:30.660] When I'm in the projects, I'm saying the same thing.
[00:38:30.760 --> 00:38:33.040] I'm saying this message so you can understand it.
[00:38:33.300 --> 00:38:34.920] I'm not changing the message.
[00:38:35.020 --> 00:38:36.980] I'm just changing the method and the approach.
[00:38:37.500 --> 00:38:40.160] So part of my method is Christian hip hop.
[00:38:40.240 --> 00:38:42.040] Part of my method is Christian R&B.
[00:38:42.160 --> 00:38:44.000] Part of my method is this podcast.
[00:38:44.540 --> 00:38:46.500] Part of my method is going to the other shows in different
[00:38:46.500 --> 00:38:49.320] locations and talking to people like we're doing right now.
[00:38:49.320 --> 00:38:51.380] Yeah, I'm not changing the message at all.
[00:38:52.140 --> 00:38:53.140] It's Jesus all day.
[00:38:53.240 --> 00:38:54.260] You don't want to hear about Jesus.
[00:38:54.300 --> 00:38:56.420] I'm the last person you want to come and talk to.
[00:38:56.580 --> 00:38:57.280] Who else?
[00:38:57.540 --> 00:38:59.360] That's that's the only way I'm working in one on one.
[00:38:59.520 --> 00:39:01.600] I know the method is powerful, but it's key.
[00:39:01.700 --> 00:39:03.680] And I'm going to find a way to talk about it.
[00:39:03.680 --> 00:39:07.080] It's just because that's if you deny him before man,
[00:39:07.140 --> 00:39:08.120] he'll deny you before the father.
[00:39:08.120 --> 00:39:09.400] And that's not what I'm on.
[00:39:10.220 --> 00:39:12.500] So we can't have fear of man when it comes to that.
[00:39:12.500 --> 00:39:14.620] So I will tell everybody and glorify his name
[00:39:14.620 --> 00:39:17.020] because I know that's the healing that people need.
[00:39:18.160 --> 00:39:20.220] Now, you talk about the message.
[00:39:21.380 --> 00:39:24.260] And we have the Bible, the greatest book ever written.
[00:39:24.720 --> 00:39:25.840] Do you currently have a book?
[00:39:26.160 --> 00:39:27.520] I do not have a book out.
[00:39:27.800 --> 00:39:28.520] I do not.
[00:39:29.020 --> 00:39:30.660] You are the probably the third or fourth person
[00:39:30.660 --> 00:39:33.020] who's brought it up to me.
[00:39:33.940 --> 00:39:35.460] So I haven't gotten there yet.
[00:39:35.540 --> 00:39:37.240] I haven't gotten there, but I think I don't.
[00:39:37.400 --> 00:39:38.540] You just randomly said that.
[00:39:38.600 --> 00:39:41.400] So I feel like I need to go home and get
[00:39:41.400 --> 00:39:43.800] reach out to my connection who was like,
[00:39:43.800 --> 00:39:45.920] I feel like there's a book in you already to get this done.
[00:39:45.920 --> 00:39:48.440] Yeah, I see that.
[00:39:48.860 --> 00:39:52.960] And I also see like a documentary for Beyond the Wall.
[00:39:54.920 --> 00:39:56.800] Or something that go hand in hand a book.
[00:39:56.820 --> 00:39:57.520] Talking now.
[00:39:57.760 --> 00:39:58.240] Documentary.
[00:39:58.380 --> 00:39:59.260] Talking now.
[00:40:00.260 --> 00:40:01.620] It's going way beyond the wall.
[00:40:01.720 --> 00:40:02.540] Talking now.
[00:40:02.720 --> 00:40:03.320] All right.
[00:40:03.540 --> 00:40:04.000] Yeah.
[00:40:05.480 --> 00:40:06.820] I love to see it too.
[00:40:07.020 --> 00:40:09.860] Just the process and let's speak about the process
[00:40:09.860 --> 00:40:11.820] because a lot of people, they see the end goals
[00:40:11.820 --> 00:40:13.200] or even on social media.
[00:40:13.200 --> 00:40:16.480] Like right now, I'm taking a 10 day fast away
[00:40:16.480 --> 00:40:17.560] from social media.
[00:40:18.020 --> 00:40:19.420] So I'm having been on social media.
[00:40:19.480 --> 00:40:20.700] This is my eighth day.
[00:40:20.720 --> 00:40:22.340] So I'll be back on in 10 days.
[00:40:22.440 --> 00:40:23.420] I mean, two days.
[00:40:23.880 --> 00:40:25.100] That would be my 10th day.
[00:40:25.800 --> 00:40:28.060] And we see a lot of messages.
[00:40:28.360 --> 00:40:30.000] It's a lot of negativity.
[00:40:30.860 --> 00:40:33.140] All the different visions and visuals.
[00:40:35.620 --> 00:40:39.640] But how do you kind of promote yourself
[00:40:39.640 --> 00:40:42.540] through all the chaos, the madness,
[00:40:42.540 --> 00:40:45.080] the algorithm, the news?
[00:40:48.430 --> 00:40:50.350] I don't focus on it.
[00:40:50.990 --> 00:40:54.390] I don't focus on...
[00:40:54.390 --> 00:40:55.950] I keep my focus on Jesus.
[00:40:56.050 --> 00:40:58.090] And I know like, of course he's going to say that.
[00:40:58.110 --> 00:40:58.550] Well, yeah.
[00:40:58.730 --> 00:41:00.310] That's like, that's the primary.
[00:41:00.930 --> 00:41:02.410] And that is my anchor.
[00:41:03.350 --> 00:41:04.630] So let me ask you this.
[00:41:04.950 --> 00:41:07.490] Could anybody come to Beyond the Wall?
[00:41:07.590 --> 00:41:10.870] It's like, say if I'm a Buddhist,
[00:41:11.130 --> 00:41:12.390] which I have studied Buddhist
[00:41:12.390 --> 00:41:13.370] and many different religious,
[00:41:13.370 --> 00:41:14.810] are they welcome?
[00:41:15.950 --> 00:41:18.270] That's why I said the House of Blues.
[00:41:18.550 --> 00:41:19.330] I want you to come.
[00:41:19.830 --> 00:41:20.910] So it's really Beyond the Wall.
[00:41:22.850 --> 00:41:23.730] Because let's...
[00:41:23.730 --> 00:41:25.790] I 100% believe in my heart of hearts
[00:41:25.790 --> 00:41:27.830] that what I am telling you is true.
[00:41:28.810 --> 00:41:30.330] So why would I not want you to come?
[00:41:30.590 --> 00:41:31.730] Just because you walk like this,
[00:41:31.810 --> 00:41:33.050] or you talk like this,
[00:41:33.290 --> 00:41:34.650] or you carry yourself like this,
[00:41:34.710 --> 00:41:35.770] or you disagree with me.
[00:41:35.930 --> 00:41:37.650] It's people who are listening to this right now
[00:41:37.650 --> 00:41:38.870] who don't agree with what I'm saying.
[00:41:39.550 --> 00:41:39.990] Come!
[00:41:40.450 --> 00:41:41.490] Let's talk about it.
[00:41:42.230 --> 00:41:43.950] We don't got to talk about it on social media.
[00:41:44.010 --> 00:41:44.830] We don't got to fight about it.
[00:41:44.830 --> 00:41:46.390] Let's just talk person to person.
[00:41:46.650 --> 00:41:48.550] Like we're human beings and not argue.
[00:41:48.830 --> 00:41:49.550] You know what I mean?
[00:41:51.110 --> 00:41:53.610] Like the Holy Spirit's job is to change people.
[00:41:53.990 --> 00:41:55.150] My job is to be obedient.
[00:41:55.610 --> 00:41:56.850] The results are up to God.
[00:41:57.110 --> 00:41:58.070] I'm just a vessel.
[00:41:58.870 --> 00:41:59.690] And that's the way it is.
[00:41:59.930 --> 00:42:01.930] The Holy Spirit is to change people.
[00:42:02.090 --> 00:42:04.670] So like it's not...
[00:42:05.950 --> 00:42:07.270] I'm going to give you a message
[00:42:07.270 --> 00:42:08.290] and I'm going to give you the truth.
[00:42:08.410 --> 00:42:09.430] I'm going to give it to you in love.
[00:42:10.270 --> 00:42:11.550] I want to give it to you in a way
[00:42:11.550 --> 00:42:13.470] that you're going to receive it.
[00:42:14.490 --> 00:42:18.490] But it is not my job to take to like
[00:42:18.490 --> 00:42:20.210] just force this down your throat
[00:42:20.210 --> 00:42:21.590] and be like, you better change.
[00:42:21.690 --> 00:42:22.450] And that's God's job.
[00:42:22.690 --> 00:42:25.170] Like my job is the obedience to deliver the message.
[00:42:26.170 --> 00:42:27.350] The results are up to him.
[00:42:28.550 --> 00:42:30.550] So Lord, you design these people's hearts.
[00:42:31.630 --> 00:42:32.390] Prepare their hearts,
[00:42:32.430 --> 00:42:33.570] what I'm getting ready to say.
[00:42:35.050 --> 00:42:37.550] So it sounds like hip hop, you know,
[00:42:37.550 --> 00:42:41.590] hip hop was birthed 50 years ago in the Bronx,
[00:42:42.870 --> 00:42:43.450] you know,
[00:42:43.750 --> 00:42:46.390] singing our messages over the streets,
[00:42:47.010 --> 00:42:48.090] in the streets,
[00:42:48.690 --> 00:42:50.130] about our pain, our struggle,
[00:42:50.470 --> 00:42:52.190] our ways to overcome.
[00:42:52.690 --> 00:42:54.850] It's all like the same similarities.
[00:42:55.670 --> 00:42:58.390] And now that you're mixing hip hop
[00:42:58.390 --> 00:42:59.490] with the Christian,
[00:43:00.850 --> 00:43:04.590] how did you see those kind of audience
[00:43:04.590 --> 00:43:05.110] coming about?
[00:43:05.110 --> 00:43:07.410] Because Christian hip hop wasn't always a thing.
[00:43:09.110 --> 00:43:10.630] Where did you first see that evolution?
[00:43:10.970 --> 00:43:11.470] Like, wow.
[00:43:12.110 --> 00:43:13.710] I'm the first person to tell you.
[00:43:13.990 --> 00:43:17.910] I thought Christian rap was just by the past.
[00:43:18.210 --> 00:43:19.630] Like I was not like,
[00:43:21.070 --> 00:43:21.550] I'm from,
[00:43:21.870 --> 00:43:23.550] so I'm going to date myself a little bit,
[00:43:23.550 --> 00:43:25.490] but I'm from that golden era hip hop.
[00:43:26.130 --> 00:43:28.170] So it was Tupac, it was Big E,
[00:43:28.270 --> 00:43:29.050] it was Nas,
[00:43:29.550 --> 00:43:31.790] and I was a huge Jadakiss fan.
[00:43:32.450 --> 00:43:34.410] So we talking about wordplay.
[00:43:34.410 --> 00:43:35.630] I liked Eminem.
[00:43:35.770 --> 00:43:36.990] So I heard a piece of lyrics.
[00:43:37.130 --> 00:43:37.890] Yeah, you know what I'm saying?
[00:43:37.970 --> 00:43:38.690] So it's like,
[00:43:39.110 --> 00:43:41.290] this is what I was listening to.
[00:43:41.870 --> 00:43:43.010] Then I gave my life to Christ
[00:43:43.010 --> 00:43:44.390] and I'm looking at my options.
[00:43:44.630 --> 00:43:45.250] And I'm like,
[00:43:46.570 --> 00:43:49.370] I can't listen to at the time.
[00:43:49.430 --> 00:43:50.530] I'm talking about at the time now.
[00:43:50.530 --> 00:43:51.810] So this was 2010.
[00:43:52.730 --> 00:43:53.730] I can't sit here
[00:43:53.730 --> 00:43:55.810] and just listen to this traditional worship music.
[00:43:56.270 --> 00:43:56.630] Like,
[00:43:56.670 --> 00:43:58.850] ain't not a role with Chris Tomlin
[00:44:00.570 --> 00:44:01.870] and we'll just leave it with him.
[00:44:01.910 --> 00:44:03.130] There's only one pop in my head right now.
[00:44:03.250 --> 00:44:03.950] There's a million artists.
[00:44:03.950 --> 00:44:05.550] That's what I can think of right now.
[00:44:05.750 --> 00:44:06.470] Ain't no role it is,
[00:44:06.710 --> 00:44:07.770] but like,
[00:44:07.770 --> 00:44:08.250] you know,
[00:44:08.250 --> 00:44:10.450] I'm getting more into MMA
[00:44:10.450 --> 00:44:11.110] and like,
[00:44:11.190 --> 00:44:14.210] I need something else to sink my teeth into
[00:44:14.210 --> 00:44:15.830] because the music I was listening to
[00:44:15.830 --> 00:44:17.730] was completely against the message of the Bible.
[00:44:18.070 --> 00:44:18.510] Yeah.
[00:44:18.510 --> 00:44:19.610] Like it's hard to go,
[00:44:19.850 --> 00:44:21.230] lift my hands up at church on Sunday
[00:44:21.230 --> 00:44:22.550] and then get in the car
[00:44:22.550 --> 00:44:23.970] and now I'm bumping DMX.
[00:44:24.130 --> 00:44:24.810] Like this is not,
[00:44:24.950 --> 00:44:26.810] this is a real contradiction here.
[00:44:27.470 --> 00:44:30.570] Dude in my church had put me on to like 116.
[00:44:31.390 --> 00:44:32.890] So it was like Lecrae
[00:44:32.890 --> 00:44:33.810] and AD Minio
[00:44:33.810 --> 00:44:34.650] and Trip Lee
[00:44:34.650 --> 00:44:35.570] and KB
[00:44:35.570 --> 00:44:36.030] and I'm like,
[00:44:36.030 --> 00:44:37.490] you know, this is going kind of hard.
[00:44:37.490 --> 00:44:38.250] Like this is,
[00:44:38.310 --> 00:44:39.050] this is banging.
[00:44:39.270 --> 00:44:40.290] I think Bizzle was out.
[00:44:40.310 --> 00:44:41.330] Bizzle was out at that time.
[00:44:41.650 --> 00:44:42.790] The truth was out at that time.
[00:44:44.470 --> 00:44:46.310] So really started getting into,
[00:44:46.310 --> 00:44:47.070] into that.
[00:44:47.850 --> 00:44:48.030] But,
[00:44:48.310 --> 00:44:49.190] you know,
[00:44:49.450 --> 00:44:49.730] part of my,
[00:44:49.790 --> 00:44:50.270] part of my stories,
[00:44:50.310 --> 00:44:51.810] I've lost 115 pounds.
[00:44:52.130 --> 00:44:52.950] So I would go to the gym,
[00:44:52.970 --> 00:44:54.090] but I'm listening to the same songs
[00:44:54.090 --> 00:44:55.010] over and over and over again.
[00:44:55.510 --> 00:44:55.610] Like,
[00:44:55.610 --> 00:44:55.750] you know,
[00:44:55.830 --> 00:44:57.350] the edge is starting to come off
[00:44:57.350 --> 00:44:59.410] and we just made this JD's playlist again.
[00:44:59.590 --> 00:45:00.070] You know,
[00:45:00.070 --> 00:45:03.490] and I was just like,
[00:45:03.570 --> 00:45:03.770] I'm like,
[00:45:03.810 --> 00:45:04.590] why am I angry?
[00:45:04.770 --> 00:45:04.950] Like,
[00:45:04.950 --> 00:45:06.310] I haven't been this mad in a while.
[00:45:06.370 --> 00:45:07.030] What's going on?
[00:45:07.090 --> 00:45:07.230] Like,
[00:45:07.230 --> 00:45:09.910] why do I feel like more aggressive than usual?
[00:45:10.150 --> 00:45:11.730] I'm looking at something I'm listening to
[00:45:11.730 --> 00:45:12.550] and I'm like,
[00:45:14.070 --> 00:45:14.330] okay,
[00:45:14.390 --> 00:45:15.190] this is direct.
[00:45:15.330 --> 00:45:16.610] So to irrigate and agate,
[00:45:16.910 --> 00:45:17.410] it matters.
[00:45:19.030 --> 00:45:22.210] And so 2020 nonprofit hits.
[00:45:23.170 --> 00:45:23.610] I'm like,
[00:45:23.650 --> 00:45:25.050] podcast is jumping off.
[00:45:25.470 --> 00:45:25.650] I'm like,
[00:45:25.670 --> 00:45:25.950] you know,
[00:45:25.950 --> 00:45:26.330] I don't,
[00:45:26.530 --> 00:45:28.270] I got to make sure like I'm solid.
[00:45:28.270 --> 00:45:29.730] This is one of the things I got to put away.
[00:45:31.700 --> 00:45:32.500] And I'm not telling people,
[00:45:32.760 --> 00:45:33.860] this is my conviction.
[00:45:33.940 --> 00:45:35.180] So I'm just telling you my,
[00:45:35.180 --> 00:45:36.600] my conviction when it came to music,
[00:45:36.600 --> 00:45:37.100] but I will,
[00:45:37.100 --> 00:45:39.240] I will press people that it matters
[00:45:39.240 --> 00:45:41.080] what we expose ourselves to.
[00:45:41.280 --> 00:45:41.460] I can,
[00:45:41.460 --> 00:45:42.880] I want you to scriptures about that,
[00:45:43.180 --> 00:45:44.180] but this is my person.
[00:45:44.280 --> 00:45:45.440] I'm putting his music away.
[00:45:46.580 --> 00:45:47.160] So I'm on,
[00:45:47.400 --> 00:45:48.900] I'm on Instagram one night
[00:45:48.900 --> 00:45:50.520] and I'm typing in like Christian authors,
[00:45:51.460 --> 00:45:51.880] Christian this,
[00:45:52.020 --> 00:45:52.460] Christian that,
[00:45:52.540 --> 00:45:53.820] because I'm trying to set my algorithm
[00:45:53.820 --> 00:45:55.640] so I can get more guests for the podcast.
[00:45:55.680 --> 00:45:56.840] And I'm trying to set my algorithm
[00:45:56.840 --> 00:45:57.840] so I can be exposed
[00:45:57.840 --> 00:45:59.080] to what's really going on
[00:45:59.080 --> 00:45:59.820] in Christianity
[00:45:59.820 --> 00:46:01.060] across the United States.
[00:46:01.260 --> 00:46:02.880] And I would actually say across the world
[00:46:02.880 --> 00:46:04.400] because I've had guests from Australia,
[00:46:04.400 --> 00:46:05.280] can't all over.
[00:46:05.380 --> 00:46:05.640] You know what I mean?
[00:46:05.720 --> 00:46:06.600] I've had guests from all over.
[00:46:08.160 --> 00:46:09.460] And then I saw this thing.
[00:46:09.460 --> 00:46:10.240] It was like,
[00:46:10.260 --> 00:46:11.300] what was this Don ready?
[00:46:11.600 --> 00:46:12.080] Who is this?
[00:46:12.100 --> 00:46:13.200] Who is this Bruno dude?
[00:46:13.540 --> 00:46:14.200] Like, who is this?
[00:46:14.680 --> 00:46:16.500] And then went to the video
[00:46:16.500 --> 00:46:17.580] and song just came on.
[00:46:17.640 --> 00:46:19.540] It was like K I N G D O M dog.
[00:46:19.540 --> 00:46:20.420] I'm really about it.
[00:46:20.440 --> 00:46:21.540] And then a beat came back
[00:46:21.540 --> 00:46:21.920] and I go,
[00:46:21.920 --> 00:46:22.940] this is crazy.
[00:46:23.080 --> 00:46:23.440] Wow.
[00:46:24.400 --> 00:46:26.280] And then that turned me on
[00:46:26.280 --> 00:46:27.460] to this new wave
[00:46:28.100 --> 00:46:30.140] of a Christian, a Christian hip hop.
[00:46:30.980 --> 00:46:33.320] So that's how all of that really, really started.
[00:46:33.480 --> 00:46:33.660] It was,
[00:46:33.980 --> 00:46:35.840] I believe that we had to put off
[00:46:35.840 --> 00:46:37.460] one thing to put on something else.
[00:46:38.240 --> 00:46:40.400] So if I'm going to stop doing something,
[00:46:41.120 --> 00:46:42.000] that's just a hole now.
[00:46:42.000 --> 00:46:42.920] That's just a void now.
[00:46:42.920 --> 00:46:44.880] I got to fill that with something else.
[00:46:45.520 --> 00:46:47.400] So I put off all that other music.
[00:46:48.160 --> 00:46:49.720] I had to put on something much,
[00:46:49.980 --> 00:46:51.660] you know, something else that was life given.
[00:46:52.220 --> 00:46:54.720] So I would say
[00:46:54.720 --> 00:46:56.980] Christian hip hop is not lame now.
[00:46:56.980 --> 00:46:58.820] It's not hokey, you know?
[00:47:00.160 --> 00:47:01.440] And I loved like,
[00:47:01.460 --> 00:47:02.200] let me back up.
[00:47:02.620 --> 00:47:04.700] And I'm not saying that 116 was lame.
[00:47:04.740 --> 00:47:05.400] It was solid.
[00:47:05.560 --> 00:47:08.400] Like that was perfect for where I was, you know?
[00:47:08.560 --> 00:47:09.920] But I'm saying before them,
[00:47:10.940 --> 00:47:12.300] I wouldn't have listened to any Christian,
[00:47:12.420 --> 00:47:13.160] Christian anything.
[00:47:13.280 --> 00:47:14.880] Like I wasn't into Kirk Franklin.
[00:47:15.360 --> 00:47:15.720] You know what I mean?
[00:47:15.740 --> 00:47:17.500] Like I wasn't into some of those artists
[00:47:17.500 --> 00:47:19.200] coming up at that time, you know?
[00:47:20.020 --> 00:47:21.620] Like just wasn't where I was at.
[00:47:22.660 --> 00:47:22.900] Yeah.
[00:47:23.080 --> 00:47:24.080] I think at the time,
[00:47:25.260 --> 00:47:27.140] especially male Christian artists,
[00:47:28.380 --> 00:47:30.460] Kirk Franklin was one of the ones I stood out.
[00:47:30.680 --> 00:47:32.080] And then like you said, Lecrae.
[00:47:33.400 --> 00:47:35.500] And just me, you know, growing up,
[00:47:35.600 --> 00:47:38.860] listening, like you said, Jadakiss, Nas, Tupac.
[00:47:39.040 --> 00:47:40.520] I used to say Tupac was my father.
[00:47:40.680 --> 00:47:41.480] I won't play increase.
[00:47:42.100 --> 00:47:43.460] You know, I didn't have my father around
[00:47:43.460 --> 00:47:45.280] when I looked at him as a father figure.
[00:47:45.660 --> 00:47:47.360] And especially as a young artist.
[00:47:48.100 --> 00:47:49.840] And I had to change my ways,
[00:47:49.980 --> 00:47:51.560] not listen to the music no more.
[00:47:51.560 --> 00:47:54.480] And it's hard, you know, being around others.
[00:47:55.160 --> 00:47:56.640] And especially like being on trips
[00:47:56.640 --> 00:47:58.140] and, you know, listen to their music.
[00:47:58.260 --> 00:48:00.900] It's like, ah, I just, I just can't.
[00:48:01.720 --> 00:48:04.140] And, you know, I used to be a hip hop artist
[00:48:04.140 --> 00:48:07.220] and transformed to a more conscious hip hop artist.
[00:48:07.620 --> 00:48:10.220] And then kind of just slowly stopped doing music
[00:48:10.220 --> 00:48:11.640] and just focused on poetry.
[00:48:12.360 --> 00:48:15.160] So I wrote poetry books and also performed poetry.
[00:48:16.260 --> 00:48:19.860] And later equipped like instrumentals
[00:48:19.860 --> 00:48:22.540] with the palms, making it a full experience.
[00:48:23.260 --> 00:48:25.520] But all of it comes down to frequency.
[00:48:26.720 --> 00:48:28.680] And I even have a poem called Frequency.
[00:48:30.380 --> 00:48:30.980] Frequency.
[00:48:31.860 --> 00:48:33.860] Your frequency is what you frequently see.
[00:48:34.740 --> 00:48:38.240] Vibrations all in the universe and also inside of me.
[00:48:38.620 --> 00:48:40.340] Alien to the world society.
[00:48:40.840 --> 00:48:42.560] Shooting stars consciously.
[00:48:43.280 --> 00:48:43.880] Righteously.
[00:48:44.180 --> 00:48:46.280] Until every dust particle unites in me.
[00:48:47.020 --> 00:48:47.620] Sparkling.
[00:48:47.620 --> 00:48:50.020] As water, wine and jewelry.
[00:48:50.240 --> 00:48:53.520] Jewelry, see, I shine beyond my time of affinity.
[00:48:54.040 --> 00:48:54.940] Living sea.
[00:48:55.120 --> 00:48:57.400] Speckles around my eyes as vicinity.
[00:48:58.420 --> 00:48:59.100] Vividly.
[00:48:59.380 --> 00:49:00.060] Femininity.
[00:49:00.400 --> 00:49:01.980] Raise my higher divinity.
[00:49:02.320 --> 00:49:03.280] Sacred trinity.
[00:49:03.680 --> 00:49:05.560] Reflects my divine masculinity.
[00:49:06.440 --> 00:49:07.440] Pumped in the trenches.
[00:49:07.960 --> 00:49:08.580] Relentless.
[00:49:08.900 --> 00:49:12.020] Lost my human mind to gain my spiritual senses.
[00:49:12.600 --> 00:49:12.940] Defenseless.
[00:49:14.040 --> 00:49:14.720] Elevation.
[00:49:15.220 --> 00:49:16.660] Through focus and meditation.
[00:49:18.400 --> 00:49:19.120] Patience.
[00:49:19.340 --> 00:49:20.560] Eyes closed.
[00:49:20.580 --> 00:49:20.940] Silent.
[00:49:22.320 --> 00:49:23.460] Reality is real.
[00:49:24.280 --> 00:49:25.760] Transcend, be fulfilled.
[00:49:26.500 --> 00:49:27.900] Energy gathering as magic.
[00:49:28.220 --> 00:49:29.560] We all have it.
[00:49:29.760 --> 00:49:30.780] Pass it.
[00:49:31.240 --> 00:49:31.960] Positivity.
[00:49:32.600 --> 00:49:33.500] Pass it.
[00:49:33.980 --> 00:49:34.560] Love.
[00:49:35.100 --> 00:49:35.960] Pass it.
[00:49:36.600 --> 00:49:38.580] Around like the Last Supper.
[00:49:38.780 --> 00:49:40.000] At least in this lifetime.
[00:49:40.480 --> 00:49:41.260] This dimension.
[00:49:41.580 --> 00:49:43.620] Keep intentionally moving with the tension.
[00:49:43.940 --> 00:49:45.660] Open your mind of endless comprehension.
[00:49:46.920 --> 00:49:47.440] Listen.
[00:49:47.940 --> 00:49:49.240] And listen with intention.
[00:49:50.340 --> 00:49:50.840] Listen.
[00:49:51.420 --> 00:49:52.600] When you complete the mission.
[00:49:54.540 --> 00:49:58.420] And as I speak about mission, you are fulfilling and doing your mission.
[00:49:59.160 --> 00:50:01.460] But as I spoke about Last Supper.
[00:50:01.980 --> 00:50:04.140] And as I think about beyond the walls.
[00:50:05.060 --> 00:50:09.940] Who do you see at your Last Supper's after the shows?
[00:50:13.570 --> 00:50:14.770] Who's sitting at the table?
[00:50:18.450 --> 00:50:19.890] Oh, my wife, for sure.
[00:50:20.150 --> 00:50:20.730] They sit at the table.
[00:50:20.890 --> 00:50:21.490] That's like everyone.
[00:50:21.690 --> 00:50:22.310] Yeah, it's like that.
[00:50:23.950 --> 00:50:26.790] I'm like, I'm thinking about who else would be sitting there with us.
[00:50:27.250 --> 00:50:28.870] But like with no hesitation.
[00:50:29.690 --> 00:50:30.830] Would not like.
[00:50:32.090 --> 00:50:34.350] She's like that's the cheese like part of the backbone.
[00:50:34.350 --> 00:50:35.130] All of us.
[00:50:35.170 --> 00:50:35.650] You know what I mean?
[00:50:36.650 --> 00:50:37.910] So for sure.
[00:50:38.450 --> 00:50:39.430] This is her and I.
[00:50:41.920 --> 00:50:44.900] And if it's a tie, if it works out the way I want it to.
[00:50:44.980 --> 00:50:47.280] It'll be that team I was talking about earlier.
[00:50:47.720 --> 00:50:49.480] You know, the people who helped run.
[00:50:50.040 --> 00:50:50.900] Do the running show.
[00:50:51.040 --> 00:50:51.700] Do the security.
[00:50:51.780 --> 00:50:52.740] Run the stuff backstage.
[00:50:53.340 --> 00:50:54.680] You know, that would be fabulous.
[00:50:54.680 --> 00:50:55.320] That would be that team.
[00:50:55.760 --> 00:50:56.080] For sure.
[00:50:57.060 --> 00:50:57.540] What would you be?
[00:50:57.540 --> 00:50:58.560] You can't do this by yourself.
[00:50:59.640 --> 00:51:00.200] That's true.
[00:51:00.440 --> 00:51:01.400] Like we spoke on.
[00:51:02.180 --> 00:51:02.940] Can't wear every hat.
[00:51:02.980 --> 00:51:04.900] I mean, you could, but you burnt out.
[00:51:05.560 --> 00:51:08.880] I wore a lot of hats of this last year just because I didn't know any better.
[00:51:09.220 --> 00:51:10.980] Now that I know better, it's time to do better.
[00:51:11.140 --> 00:51:11.580] You know what I mean?
[00:51:12.000 --> 00:51:12.680] That's true.
[00:51:13.340 --> 00:51:16.000] And like you said, now that you know better, you do better.
[00:51:16.900 --> 00:51:17.780] You're a life coach, right?
[00:51:18.020 --> 00:51:18.300] Yeah.
[00:51:18.720 --> 00:51:19.020] Yeah.
[00:51:19.220 --> 00:51:23.680] So kind of walk me through the process of helping someone overcome what they're coming.
[00:51:23.680 --> 00:51:24.440] Yeah.
[00:51:24.440 --> 00:51:30.860] It's a matter of setting the goal because I'm not a licensed like therapist.
[00:51:31.200 --> 00:51:31.640] You know what I mean?
[00:51:31.860 --> 00:51:37.280] So it's a matter of like, we're going to, what do you want to achieve unless put together
[00:51:37.280 --> 00:51:41.700] a realistic action plan to get there that holds you accountable to take those steps.
[00:51:42.740 --> 00:51:42.900] Yeah.
[00:51:43.020 --> 00:51:46.800] I kind of chuckle because I call myself an unlicensed therapist.
[00:51:47.160 --> 00:51:50.140] It's like from late middle school to high school.
[00:51:50.140 --> 00:51:50.400] Yes.
[00:51:50.400 --> 00:51:54.060] To help everyone with the problems, relationships, individually.
[00:51:55.240 --> 00:52:00.200] So, you know, stand up at 2 a.m. when I wake up in school in a couple hours, like,
[00:52:00.320 --> 00:52:05.360] man, so I'm more conscious of it now, but yeah, I just call myself a licensed therapist.
[00:52:05.760 --> 00:52:05.820] Yeah.
[00:52:06.300 --> 00:52:07.500] They might get me jammed up.
[00:52:07.960 --> 00:52:08.840] Don't even call.
[00:52:09.060 --> 00:52:10.320] I refer you.
[00:52:10.880 --> 00:52:11.220] Yeah.
[00:52:12.100 --> 00:52:15.680] So how does it feel being a life coach, like helping others?
[00:52:15.880 --> 00:52:19.240] And then I know you kind of tied into the ministry work you do.
[00:52:19.240 --> 00:52:21.980] I love seeing other people up on it.
[00:52:22.180 --> 00:52:24.760] Like this is, I'm not going to gatekeep anything.
[00:52:25.300 --> 00:52:25.760] You know what I mean?
[00:52:26.060 --> 00:52:28.420] Like a lot of this game I got I was doing for free.
[00:52:28.820 --> 00:52:30.400] So I'm giving it back the same way.
[00:52:31.120 --> 00:52:35.360] You know, so helping somebody else get to the very place that God is calling into.
[00:52:36.220 --> 00:52:36.540] That's fine.
[00:52:36.680 --> 00:52:37.720] Let's do it.
[00:52:38.100 --> 00:52:41.000] Like this, that's the making disciples who make disciples.
[00:52:41.460 --> 00:52:43.740] If somebody helped me, how do I not help somebody else?
[00:52:45.600 --> 00:52:51.660] So walk me the day of Beyond the Walls and then you did year one.
[00:52:52.400 --> 00:52:55.740] Now you have some expectations for year two, which is November 1st.
[00:52:56.600 --> 00:52:57.860] Beyond the Walls 2.
[00:52:58.720 --> 00:53:00.440] Walk me through the typical day.
[00:53:00.580 --> 00:53:02.180] Like what is your energy levels?
[00:53:02.380 --> 00:53:04.100] Are you getting enough sleep?
[00:53:04.220 --> 00:53:06.200] Are you stand or wake up at night?
[00:53:06.220 --> 00:53:10.360] Because it's like kind of anxious and like, ah, I want everything to be perfect.
[00:53:10.700 --> 00:53:11.800] Like kind of walk me through the day.
[00:53:11.800 --> 00:53:13.360] There ain't no way I'm getting enough sleep.
[00:53:14.220 --> 00:53:14.800] There ain't no way.
[00:53:15.200 --> 00:53:20.180] We do a dinner with a shout out to to my restaurant in Berea.
[00:53:20.200 --> 00:53:21.020] That's one of my sponsors.
[00:53:21.080 --> 00:53:23.960] So I have all the artists the night before who can make it.
[00:53:24.020 --> 00:53:26.320] We go to a dinner there.
[00:53:27.480 --> 00:53:28.460] So is the last supper.
[00:53:28.820 --> 00:53:30.640] So is it before supper?
[00:53:34.430 --> 00:53:35.910] I hope that ain't the last one.
[00:53:36.010 --> 00:53:37.790] But I mean, if it is, you have to have the night.
[00:53:39.070 --> 00:53:41.310] So we we all go to a dinner.
[00:53:41.410 --> 00:53:42.390] We all would have dinner here.
[00:53:42.390 --> 00:53:44.110] They go back to their hotels.
[00:53:44.270 --> 00:53:45.030] I go home.
[00:53:45.330 --> 00:53:46.390] I try to sleep.
[00:53:47.070 --> 00:53:48.710] I'm going to wake up.
[00:53:48.790 --> 00:53:49.130] Pray.
[00:53:49.790 --> 00:53:52.070] I probably do some live podcast recordings.
[00:53:53.590 --> 00:53:56.110] That day, because I want to catch the water in town.
[00:53:56.190 --> 00:53:57.610] I've been breakthrough sound studios.
[00:53:57.650 --> 00:54:00.070] My people, your people is, you know, also breakthrough.
[00:54:00.470 --> 00:54:01.690] Yes, you already know.
[00:54:01.850 --> 00:54:02.530] You already know.
[00:54:04.250 --> 00:54:05.470] So do that.
[00:54:06.270 --> 00:54:06.950] Run home.
[00:54:07.410 --> 00:54:08.370] Get the fit ready.
[00:54:08.670 --> 00:54:09.310] You know, I got it.
[00:54:09.350 --> 00:54:10.410] I got to be clean that day.
[00:54:10.410 --> 00:54:12.890] You know, so I have my concert outfit ready.
[00:54:15.050 --> 00:54:19.890] And then I would probably get there sometime between two and three
[00:54:19.890 --> 00:54:20.950] to start soundtrack.
[00:54:21.170 --> 00:54:22.650] My wife and I get everything ready.
[00:54:22.770 --> 00:54:24.850] Set up to had a green room set up.
[00:54:24.870 --> 00:54:26.670] You know, we're like food and everything.
[00:54:26.690 --> 00:54:28.510] The artist is going to going to need.
[00:54:28.850 --> 00:54:29.790] They'll soundtrack.
[00:54:31.050 --> 00:54:33.330] Once they're done with soundtrack, I'll get everybody back there.
[00:54:33.370 --> 00:54:37.410] We'll pray after that, because, you know, the House of Blues is
[00:54:38.290 --> 00:54:40.510] we believe we're calling it back territory from the enemy.
[00:54:40.790 --> 00:54:43.990] You know, so it's a lot of spiritual warfare in there.
[00:54:43.990 --> 00:54:46.230] So we want to make sure we we typically pray it up.
[00:54:47.090 --> 00:54:48.990] And some of you guys say, why don't you start with that?
[00:54:49.070 --> 00:54:51.210] I typically do the soundtrack first and get everybody in the back
[00:54:51.210 --> 00:54:51.750] together.
[00:54:51.910 --> 00:54:53.510] So that's not a back of anybody's head.
[00:54:54.250 --> 00:54:57.070] Like you once that part is done, anything that needs to be done,
[00:54:57.550 --> 00:55:00.390] the sound, the line and Ted, they can go do what they got to do.
[00:55:00.610 --> 00:55:01.390] We're going to be in the back.
[00:55:01.470 --> 00:55:02.050] We're going to get ready.
[00:55:02.170 --> 00:55:04.010] We're going to, you know, we're going to pray that place.
[00:55:04.150 --> 00:55:05.130] We're going to pray that place up.
[00:55:05.330 --> 00:55:06.410] You know, so.
[00:55:07.750 --> 00:55:12.050] And yeah, and then, you know, you wait for the VIP, then it's showtime.
[00:55:12.310 --> 00:55:15.210] We we got a special interest this year we didn't have last year.
[00:55:15.590 --> 00:55:18.030] So I'm I think the people will be shocked.
[00:55:18.830 --> 00:55:21.250] There's going to be some surprises at the first.
[00:55:22.230 --> 00:55:23.270] 10, 15 minutes.
[00:55:23.910 --> 00:55:27.310] Well, you know, see, we got to just wait for the documentary.
[00:55:27.370 --> 00:55:30.510] I would love to see all this compile through over the years.
[00:55:32.590 --> 00:55:36.390] And say, as a young, young artist, young hip hop artist,
[00:55:36.390 --> 00:55:41.350] a young Christian hip hop artist that wants to get into music and performing.
[00:55:41.770 --> 00:55:43.490] How important is sound check?
[00:55:44.650 --> 00:55:48.490] Oh, man. And arriving early for sound check your your.
[00:55:50.070 --> 00:55:53.270] Listen, the Christian hip hop space, it looks huge.
[00:55:54.470 --> 00:56:00.590] It is, but it's not like you burn a bridge with the right.
[00:56:00.650 --> 00:56:02.870] But it's like, it's just it's crazy.
[00:56:02.950 --> 00:56:04.810] Like, it's not it's not as large as you.
[00:56:04.810 --> 00:56:07.870] So you have your character, you have the integrity, you got your word.
[00:56:08.470 --> 00:56:08.910] You know what I'm saying?
[00:56:09.450 --> 00:56:10.990] Like show up on time.
[00:56:12.150 --> 00:56:13.330] Be there for the soundtrack.
[00:56:14.150 --> 00:56:16.310] Leave your ego wherever you got to leave it.
[00:56:16.470 --> 00:56:17.070] You know what I'm saying?
[00:56:18.130 --> 00:56:22.310] Because for me, like I've seen I'm seeing beyond the walls grow
[00:56:22.310 --> 00:56:24.810] and I'm seeing some people who want to get attached to it.
[00:56:24.810 --> 00:56:27.550] And I know their character is not right and they won't be there.
[00:56:28.470 --> 00:56:31.410] And I don't feel bad about that because I'm going to protect the very thing
[00:56:31.410 --> 00:56:33.990] that God has asked me to to Stuart and Shepherd.
[00:56:34.670 --> 00:56:38.630] You know, I'm going to keep I want to keep the right people around these functions.
[00:56:41.170 --> 00:56:44.210] And I think it's important today that they show up for sound check.
[00:56:44.270 --> 00:56:47.130] It's important they keep their word for this idea we're going to do.
[00:56:47.550 --> 00:56:49.550] You know, if you said you were to make the dinner, make the dinner.
[00:56:49.630 --> 00:56:52.990] You know, if you said you were going to do the podcast, do the podcast.
[00:56:53.090 --> 00:56:56.150] We didn't negotiate that and then that's on me.
[00:56:56.250 --> 00:56:57.930] I know you understand. Right.
[00:56:58.910 --> 00:56:59.890] You know, stuff like that.
[00:56:59.890 --> 00:57:03.790] You know, so I think I think it's really important for those that do want to get involved.
[00:57:03.990 --> 00:57:07.470] But you but you said that they're not ready or they're not there.
[00:57:08.770 --> 00:57:12.550] What is something that your background would like coaching could help them with?
[00:57:12.870 --> 00:57:14.870] Well, I'm not saying they're not ready, not there.
[00:57:14.970 --> 00:57:20.610] I'm saying like be about your business, be about your business, because this is not.
[00:57:21.330 --> 00:57:23.770] This isn't just a toy in somebody's backyard.
[00:57:23.970 --> 00:57:26.210] You know what I'm saying? Like this is this is the real deal.
[00:57:26.210 --> 00:57:30.290] I fully plan on having this be one of the major concerts in this region.
[00:57:31.450 --> 00:57:35.920] Like this is not just just be about your business.
[00:57:36.100 --> 00:57:37.780] I'm going to say like that because I don't want to give too much away.
[00:57:37.780 --> 00:57:40.020] So just I would say that. So it's not I'm saying they're not ready.
[00:57:40.100 --> 00:57:41.360] I'm just saying be about your business.
[00:57:41.660 --> 00:57:46.820] Have your kingdom and character, have your kingdom integrity and just, you know,
[00:57:48.550 --> 00:57:51.370] understand it like we serve a God of order and structure.
[00:57:51.930 --> 00:57:58.350] And there is an order structure to this, you know, so that's that's why I would really say
[00:57:58.350 --> 00:58:01.870] Well, how would you help them be about the business?
[00:58:02.270 --> 00:58:07.490] Like you said earlier, someone that doesn't know better being incarcerated
[00:58:07.490 --> 00:58:11.550] and they have to sell drugs, but they also sell cars.
[00:58:12.010 --> 00:58:17.740] Yeah, insurance, wherever you're trying to get to,
[00:58:17.740 --> 00:58:21.060] find somebody who's already there and have them mentor you.
[00:58:21.240 --> 00:58:23.080] Coach. Yeah, that's like the number.
[00:58:23.420 --> 00:58:25.440] Like, don't talk to your friend.
[00:58:25.640 --> 00:58:28.360] Like, why would you take money advice when somebody is broke?
[00:58:28.360 --> 00:58:32.100] That's crazy. Like, why would you take important advice when you got a job?
[00:58:32.900 --> 00:58:35.460] No, get somebody who is where you're trying to be
[00:58:36.180 --> 00:58:39.680] and like learn from that person, like sit under that person.
[00:58:40.040 --> 00:58:44.340] I want to tell you straight up, like I actually just joined a new jujitsu gym
[00:58:44.920 --> 00:58:48.340] because they have kickboxing, like legit kickboxing classes there.
[00:58:49.160 --> 00:58:54.000] I offer to clean the mats because that was my first day in the gym.
[00:58:54.260 --> 00:58:57.580] I don't walk in there like I know how to throw, even though I do.
[00:58:57.580 --> 00:59:00.740] I've been doing kickboxing for a while now, but I don't walk in there.
[00:59:00.980 --> 00:59:02.440] Like I'm God's gift to the earth.
[00:59:02.640 --> 00:59:04.100] You go in there humble.
[00:59:05.280 --> 00:59:08.260] And thank God that he has put me in situations where I have been humble,
[00:59:08.280 --> 00:59:10.780] so I don't walk in there with a big head.
[00:59:11.520 --> 00:59:13.120] I offer to clean the mats.
[00:59:14.000 --> 00:59:14.540] You know what I mean?
[00:59:15.460 --> 00:59:22.140] Like, so sit under that person, take notes, study them, like see how they move.
[00:59:22.940 --> 00:59:25.960] Then find some people like some people you can walk eye level with.
[00:59:25.960 --> 00:59:29.300] We're like, yo, we, you know, we're not.
[00:59:29.640 --> 00:59:31.980] You know, I'm going to go over here, but we're kind of walking that same
[00:59:31.980 --> 00:59:34.560] that same pace, like we're kind of going in the same direction,
[00:59:34.640 --> 00:59:37.680] like finds of people you can really do life with.
[00:59:38.160 --> 00:59:42.240] And then finds of people who you can pour into yourself when the time's right.
[00:59:42.720 --> 00:59:48.120] But make sure that you are in a position to talk about things effectively.
[00:59:48.860 --> 00:59:50.720] So I would tell you in a career space, I would say,
[00:59:50.720 --> 00:59:52.400] make sure above approach in the area.
[00:59:52.700 --> 00:59:55.000] I can talk to you about what to do when you get off drugs.
[00:59:55.000 --> 00:59:56.800] Because I'm not still doing them.
[00:59:57.020 --> 00:59:57.300] You know what I'm saying?
[00:59:57.300 --> 00:59:59.940] I can talk to you about like, man, after that 21 day mark,
[01:00:00.020 --> 01:00:02.800] go after that 30 day mark, you might get that itch.
[01:00:02.880 --> 01:00:03.300] You know what I mean?
[01:00:03.520 --> 01:00:06.420] Like things like that, like make sure that you are delivered for you.
[01:00:06.420 --> 01:00:08.020] Talking about, you know, make sure in a position
[01:00:08.020 --> 01:00:11.900] to actually mentor someone in those areas, you know, stuff like that.
[01:00:11.900 --> 01:00:12.860] So that's what that's what I would say.
[01:00:12.940 --> 01:00:13.840] Any of them.
[01:00:14.200 --> 01:00:17.460] But you you want to be a preacher, sit under a pastor.
[01:00:17.680 --> 01:00:21.020] You want to be a concert promoter, sit under a good concert promoter.
[01:00:21.480 --> 01:00:22.200] You want to be a rapper.
[01:00:22.200 --> 01:00:24.940] Find some people who are doing it, who are doing it right.
[01:00:25.200 --> 01:00:26.760] And then like pay attention to how they move.
[01:00:27.680 --> 01:00:27.860] Wow.
[01:00:28.640 --> 01:00:30.880] That is very insightful advice.
[01:00:31.620 --> 01:00:34.600] And just wrapping up because we have about five minutes.
[01:00:34.780 --> 01:00:35.060] Yes, sir.
[01:00:35.060 --> 01:00:36.320] It's conference room.
[01:00:36.900 --> 01:00:44.620] And again, I know the first check out the first interview we sat down at podcast United Five.
[01:00:45.260 --> 01:00:47.680] And I said I will be sponsoring a ticket.
[01:00:47.680 --> 01:00:52.220] Oh, and by the time this releases, I'll be back on social media.
[01:00:52.380 --> 01:00:54.080] So yes, stay tuned.
[01:00:54.280 --> 01:00:55.300] Get that ticket.
[01:00:57.540 --> 01:01:03.540] And speaking about tickets for people that can't get a ticket and for anyone that's listening,
[01:01:04.180 --> 01:01:06.600] what are all the ways the listeners can get involved?
[01:01:07.060 --> 01:01:12.020] Yeah, go to if you're talking about buying tickets, go to ticketmaster.com.
[01:01:12.080 --> 01:01:16.060] All the tickets will be type in beyond the walls to if you find me on social media.
[01:01:16.100 --> 01:01:17.220] Believe that link is everywhere.
[01:01:17.220 --> 01:01:19.160] You will have no issues getting tickets.
[01:01:19.260 --> 01:01:20.540] There's an event on Facebook.
[01:01:21.640 --> 01:01:25.820] I actually had a donor recently who just purchased eight tickets.
[01:01:26.580 --> 01:01:28.000] I have six of those left.
[01:01:28.040 --> 01:01:30.020] I'll be giving away for free.
[01:01:31.580 --> 01:01:35.400] We also have two VIP tickets.
[01:01:35.420 --> 01:01:36.760] We're going to be giving away for free.
[01:01:37.100 --> 01:01:41.800] And all you have to do is go follow us on social media and subscribe to the podcast.
[01:01:41.860 --> 01:01:43.140] You'll be entered to win those.
[01:01:43.460 --> 01:01:44.640] What's your social media handles?
[01:01:44.640 --> 01:01:45.160] Yeah.
[01:01:45.720 --> 01:01:47.220] Eric Stevens, 1983.
[01:01:48.120 --> 01:01:48.920] Redwood CM.
[01:01:49.260 --> 01:01:51.620] And we're the Rooted in Christ podcast on YouTube.
[01:01:52.000 --> 01:01:53.100] One more time for the people.
[01:01:53.340 --> 01:01:53.540] Yeah.
[01:01:53.700 --> 01:01:55.000] Eric Stevens, 1983.
[01:01:55.820 --> 01:01:56.780] That's Instagram.
[01:01:57.300 --> 01:01:58.120] Redwood CM.
[01:01:58.760 --> 01:01:59.580] Also Instagram.
[01:02:00.360 --> 01:02:02.620] And then the Rooted in Christ podcast on YouTube.
[01:02:03.340 --> 01:02:05.880] What about if someone wants to donate to you personally?
[01:02:05.920 --> 01:02:07.200] We're going to do that.
[01:02:07.280 --> 01:02:07.640] Yeah.
[01:02:07.640 --> 01:02:13.180] If you have a specific donation link right on our lint tree.
[01:02:13.180 --> 01:02:15.260] So I give you all of that to post.
[01:02:15.900 --> 01:02:17.200] So, yeah, we they can give that.
[01:02:17.380 --> 01:02:18.100] All I got to do is DM me.
[01:02:18.160 --> 01:02:21.540] I can send you a link directly because we are a 501C3 nonprofit.
[01:02:21.800 --> 01:02:24.600] So that is all under Redwood Christian Ministries.
[01:02:25.220 --> 01:02:28.840] I set that up to make sure there was no lack of carriage or integrity.
[01:02:28.960 --> 01:02:30.580] And the money started coming in.
[01:02:30.580 --> 01:02:33.500] You know, so I set up the 501C3.
[01:02:33.640 --> 01:02:36.720] So the business bank account, you know, did all that that way, you know,
[01:02:36.760 --> 01:02:39.340] so it's all the nations go through there and they don't come to me personally.
[01:02:40.200 --> 01:02:40.940] That's beautiful.
[01:02:41.180 --> 01:02:42.560] And just a little bit more game.
[01:02:42.560 --> 01:02:44.500] We've got a non-private board directors, too.
[01:02:44.540 --> 01:02:47.680] So I have other people who are also kind of paying attention to how the money
[01:02:47.680 --> 01:02:49.120] is coming in and how it's being used.
[01:02:50.200 --> 01:02:51.860] So just final words.
[01:02:52.100 --> 01:02:55.360] What encyclopedic can you leave a creative entrepreneur?
[01:02:58.540 --> 01:02:59.820] Be who you are.
[01:03:00.800 --> 01:03:03.180] Somebody else that's already done is done.
[01:03:03.620 --> 01:03:04.240] It's over.
[01:03:04.680 --> 01:03:05.780] Don't worry about that wave.
[01:03:06.740 --> 01:03:08.700] Be be who God created you to be.
[01:03:08.940 --> 01:03:10.720] God created you to be unique.
[01:03:11.020 --> 01:03:12.320] You are uniquely a wonderful maze.
[01:03:12.360 --> 01:03:14.720] So be that just be that person.
[01:03:14.720 --> 01:03:16.960] Don't worry about the next person to do when you got to look like them.
[01:03:16.960 --> 01:03:17.740] You're going to walk like them.
[01:03:17.740 --> 01:03:18.560] You got to talk like them.
[01:03:18.560 --> 01:03:19.440] You got to dress like them.
[01:03:19.700 --> 01:03:21.680] Be who God created you to be.
[01:03:22.840 --> 01:03:26.240] And if you've heard anything that I've said today and it's just resonated
[01:03:26.240 --> 01:03:30.720] with you, I would tell you if you have not given your life to Jesus,
[01:03:31.340 --> 01:03:35.420] sick, talk to God like if you if you want to know more,
[01:03:35.520 --> 01:03:36.840] this Jesus thing is about.
[01:03:37.900 --> 01:03:40.220] Lord, I fall short.
[01:03:40.840 --> 01:03:41.600] I'm not perfect.
[01:03:41.680 --> 01:03:42.680] I've made some mistakes.
[01:03:43.540 --> 01:03:46.440] Forgive me, but I want you to reign over my life.
[01:03:46.500 --> 01:03:47.540] I want you to learn my life.
[01:03:47.560 --> 01:03:49.100] I want you to live in my heart.
[01:03:49.760 --> 01:03:52.540] Let's see what you let's see where we can go together.
[01:03:52.600 --> 01:03:53.820] Or what do you have for me?
[01:03:53.900 --> 01:03:54.680] Forgive me.
[01:03:55.660 --> 01:03:58.760] Live in my heart is my Lord and Savior, and I will follow you
[01:03:58.760 --> 01:03:59.640] for the rest of my days.
[01:04:00.500 --> 01:04:03.260] Say that in your own words, but give your life to him
[01:04:03.260 --> 01:04:04.560] because tomorrow is not promised.
[01:04:05.080 --> 01:04:07.240] But I promise you that piece that you're looking for.
[01:04:07.240 --> 01:04:08.640] You will find it in town.
[01:04:09.660 --> 01:04:10.380] That's amazing.
[01:04:10.380 --> 01:04:13.580] Thank you again with the Eric Stevens, Mel.
[01:04:13.760 --> 01:04:14.240] Anytime.
[01:04:14.580 --> 01:04:15.280] Appreciate you.
[01:04:15.680 --> 01:04:19.780] Mr. Eric Stevens, y'all with Redwood Christian Ministries
[01:04:19.780 --> 01:04:24.120] and also check out the podcast Rooted in Christ on all platforms.
[01:04:24.360 --> 01:04:24.720] Yes, sir.
[01:04:24.960 --> 01:04:25.520] Even YouTube?
[01:04:25.880 --> 01:04:26.440] Yeah. Oh, yeah.
[01:04:26.560 --> 01:04:27.460] It's Spotify.
[01:04:27.660 --> 01:04:28.260] We everywhere.
[01:04:28.460 --> 01:04:28.980] Everywhere.
[01:04:30.240 --> 01:04:30.600] Yes.
[01:04:31.340 --> 01:04:33.580] But I'm getting better with YouTube.
[01:04:33.640 --> 01:04:38.480] We had some discrepancies, but you can follow the audio
[01:04:39.820 --> 01:04:43.380] platforms, alienized photos, industry talk on all audio
[01:04:43.380 --> 01:04:48.180] platforms, Apple, Spotify, ICAST, all that good stuff.
[01:04:48.700 --> 01:04:51.980] And you can follow me at alienized photos.
[01:04:52.240 --> 01:04:56.920] That's alien eyes with a Z, photos with an S on all social
[01:04:56.920 --> 01:04:57.440] media.
[01:04:57.720 --> 01:05:00.260] And I'll be back on social media today, y'all.
[01:05:00.320 --> 01:05:01.980] I'm gonna catch up with all the messages, comments.
[01:05:02.080 --> 01:05:02.700] I'm sorry.
[01:05:02.760 --> 01:05:03.420] I'm sorry.
[01:05:04.020 --> 01:05:07.040] And then if you want more information or to book me as
[01:05:07.040 --> 01:05:11.960] an event photographer or a coach, you can visit alienized photos
[01:05:11.960 --> 01:05:13.100] dot com.
[01:05:13.480 --> 01:05:15.800] Again, alienized photos dot com.
[01:05:16.340 --> 01:05:18.500] And this has been a great episode.
[01:05:20.180 --> 01:05:23.360] Beyond The Walls 2, November 1st.
[01:05:24.160 --> 01:05:25.300] Let's go.

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59. Beyond The Walls 2 Promo at Podcasters United (Short)
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/beyond-the-walls-2-promo-at-podcasters-united-short
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[00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:05.440] Welcome, welcome, welcome back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:05.440 --> 00:00:08.760] with a special guest to my right, Mr. Eric Stevens.
[00:00:08.760 --> 00:00:09.300] How you doing?
[00:00:09.460 --> 00:00:09.860] What up man?
[00:00:09.860 --> 00:00:10.180] How you doing?
[00:00:10.280 --> 00:00:10.800] I'm good, bro.
[00:00:10.860 --> 00:00:11.840] Great, I'm lovely.
[00:00:12.460 --> 00:00:14.860] Appreciate you to coming out to Podcast United.
[00:00:16.580 --> 00:00:20.500] And you know, I missed the behind the walls verse.
[00:00:21.040 --> 00:00:21.400] Yeah.
[00:00:21.680 --> 00:00:22.740] What was that like?
[00:00:23.960 --> 00:00:25.840] It was a surreal experience
[00:00:25.840 --> 00:00:29.740] because I've never done a concert before.
[00:00:29.740 --> 00:00:31.500] I've never been a ticket promoter.
[00:00:31.540 --> 00:00:33.780] I've never promoted any kind of show.
[00:00:34.200 --> 00:00:35.260] And this was my first one.
[00:00:35.320 --> 00:00:35.880] First time.
[00:00:35.900 --> 00:00:36.900] That was the first time.
[00:00:37.980 --> 00:00:39.760] And a number of people said they didn't know
[00:00:39.760 --> 00:00:40.600] that was my first show
[00:00:40.600 --> 00:00:43.460] because they said, you look poised, you look composed.
[00:00:43.500 --> 00:00:45.740] And on the inside, I'm like, Lord, help me.
[00:00:45.900 --> 00:00:46.580] Since I'm built for this.
[00:00:46.740 --> 00:00:48.360] I was freaking out on the inside,
[00:00:49.900 --> 00:00:52.580] but I had a lot of great people help me
[00:00:52.580 --> 00:00:54.660] behind the scenes to just tell me
[00:00:54.660 --> 00:00:57.280] what to expect, things to look forward to,
[00:00:57.740 --> 00:00:58.800] things to look out for,
[00:00:59.420 --> 00:01:00.340] what to do the day of.
[00:01:00.400 --> 00:01:02.840] I learned a lot in a short period of time,
[00:01:03.580 --> 00:01:05.880] especially on the marketing side, the promoting side,
[00:01:06.200 --> 00:01:08.140] not having my hands in certain things,
[00:01:08.720 --> 00:01:10.640] being there for parts of soundcheck
[00:01:10.640 --> 00:01:11.980] that I missed this past year.
[00:01:12.300 --> 00:01:13.520] So I learned a lot.
[00:01:13.680 --> 00:01:14.220] I learned a lot.
[00:01:14.440 --> 00:01:15.600] Soundcheck's important too, yeah.
[00:01:15.640 --> 00:01:16.920] Yeah, it really was.
[00:01:17.820 --> 00:01:20.780] Beyond the Walls is meant to just tell you
[00:01:20.780 --> 00:01:23.320] there's a different message in music.
[00:01:24.160 --> 00:01:24.580] You know what I'm saying?
[00:01:24.740 --> 00:01:26.480] Like this is something your mother, your grandmother,
[00:01:26.780 --> 00:01:27.940] your kids can listen to.
[00:01:27.940 --> 00:01:29.060] You don't have to worry about shutting it off
[00:01:29.060 --> 00:01:30.580] because such and such is walking into the room.
[00:01:30.860 --> 00:01:32.920] This is a Christian hip hop and R&B concert,
[00:01:33.160 --> 00:01:37.440] and we are giving you solid music, incredible music,
[00:01:37.960 --> 00:01:40.600] but it's also just a faith-filled message behind it
[00:01:40.600 --> 00:01:42.420] that we don't gotta sit here and talk about robbing,
[00:01:42.460 --> 00:01:44.720] killing, stealing, murder, and every single song.
[00:01:45.220 --> 00:01:46.800] I'm honestly, I'm so tired of that.
[00:01:47.660 --> 00:01:48.940] All these dudes are talking about robbing
[00:01:48.940 --> 00:01:49.820] and killing all these people.
[00:01:49.960 --> 00:01:51.420] The murder count is exactly the same.
[00:01:51.760 --> 00:01:53.280] They're talking about a fabricated life,
[00:01:53.320 --> 00:01:55.480] and then these young kids, they see this,
[00:01:55.480 --> 00:01:57.700] they hear this, and they start emulating this,
[00:01:58.720 --> 00:02:01.960] and now it's just straight debauchery.
[00:02:02.080 --> 00:02:03.820] It's just straight deprecation
[00:02:03.820 --> 00:02:06.900] going through whatever community that music is playing in.
[00:02:06.920 --> 00:02:08.639] So we wanna give you something good
[00:02:08.639 --> 00:02:09.960] that the whole family can enjoy
[00:02:09.960 --> 00:02:12.600] and give you a positive faith-filled message too.
[00:02:13.060 --> 00:02:14.920] Wow, and this message is gonna go
[00:02:14.920 --> 00:02:17.160] beyond the walls, literally.
[00:02:17.660 --> 00:02:19.620] So what can we expect for Beyond the Walls C?
[00:02:19.780 --> 00:02:22.540] You can expect what I'm gonna tell you
[00:02:22.540 --> 00:02:24.900] is gonna be the biggest Christian hip hop concert.
[00:02:24.900 --> 00:02:25.480] The biggest?
[00:02:25.740 --> 00:02:26.200] In Cleveland, yeah.
[00:02:26.220 --> 00:02:26.740] Let's go.
[00:02:26.960 --> 00:02:30.060] This is the stepping stone.
[00:02:30.840 --> 00:02:33.200] One was the final, but this is the stepping stone now
[00:02:33.200 --> 00:02:35.580] for where we're going for three, four, or five.
[00:02:36.080 --> 00:02:38.100] So I'm already planning three or four right now.
[00:02:39.200 --> 00:02:42.100] You can expect energy, you can expect good music,
[00:02:42.460 --> 00:02:44.860] you can expect cash prizes and giveaways.
[00:02:45.320 --> 00:02:47.560] You can expect some dangin' beats.
[00:02:47.940 --> 00:02:49.100] It's gonna be a good time.
[00:02:49.260 --> 00:02:50.100] It's gonna be a good time.
[00:02:50.460 --> 00:02:51.900] Wow, so where is it hosted at?
[00:02:51.900 --> 00:02:55.080] This is gonna be the biggest Christian hip hop event.
[00:02:55.160 --> 00:02:55.840] Where is it gonna be hosted?
[00:02:55.920 --> 00:02:58.340] We got the House of Blues right in Cleveland, Ohio.
[00:02:58.500 --> 00:02:59.740] Yes, sir, yes, sir.
[00:03:00.040 --> 00:03:02.080] Yeah, it's gonna be right down there.
[00:03:02.340 --> 00:03:03.200] So y'all come check us out.
[00:03:03.380 --> 00:03:04.260] Where can I find the tickets?
[00:03:04.500 --> 00:03:06.180] So go right to Ticketmaster.com.
[00:03:06.300 --> 00:03:09.460] If you need a discount code, somebody DM me right now.
[00:03:09.480 --> 00:03:10.980] We got two discount codes going
[00:03:10.980 --> 00:03:12.500] on the General Mission tickets.
[00:03:12.820 --> 00:03:14.920] They're $30, so we got a discount for that.
[00:03:15.220 --> 00:03:16.800] The VIP tickets are $60,
[00:03:17.040 --> 00:03:19.040] which is gonna get you the VIP meet and greet
[00:03:19.040 --> 00:03:22.480] with a Q&A with everybody on the flyer.
[00:03:22.680 --> 00:03:24.080] And also any kind of photo ops,
[00:03:24.160 --> 00:03:25.740] any questions you wanna ask will be available
[00:03:25.740 --> 00:03:26.540] right before the show.
[00:03:26.760 --> 00:03:27.300] For $60.
[00:03:27.480 --> 00:03:28.460] For $60, man.
[00:03:28.680 --> 00:03:31.540] Samuel, what's the DM so I can text you for that code?
[00:03:33.140 --> 00:03:33.580] RedwoodCM.
[00:03:34.520 --> 00:03:35.440] RedwoodCM, yes, sir.
[00:03:35.440 --> 00:03:35.660] Instagram?
[00:03:36.000 --> 00:03:36.760] That's on Instagram.
[00:03:37.360 --> 00:03:41.060] So follow RedwoodCM, shoot that DM,
[00:03:41.520 --> 00:03:44.120] and yes, get that VIP ticket.
[00:03:44.660 --> 00:03:45.780] Cannot beat the price.
[00:03:46.520 --> 00:03:48.380] And just for the good cause,
[00:03:48.380 --> 00:03:49.980] I'm a sponsor a ticket.
[00:03:50.720 --> 00:03:51.920] I'm a sponsor a ticket.
[00:03:52.560 --> 00:03:53.540] Thank you, bro, I appreciate that.
[00:03:53.800 --> 00:03:55.440] This is Beyond The Walls,
[00:03:55.660 --> 00:03:59.500] two coming November 1st at the House of Blues.
[00:03:59.940 --> 00:04:00.960] Get your tickets today.

========================================================================
60. Day 11 - Social Media Fast Recap
Season 1 · Episode 21
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-11-social-media-fast-recap
========================================================================

[00:00:00.560 --> 00:00:08.880] Now, this is technically day 11 of my social media sabbatical.
[00:00:10.160 --> 00:00:14.420] I've been fasting for 10 and a half, about to be 11 days.
[00:00:15.800 --> 00:00:17.560] And let's recap.
[00:00:19.100 --> 00:00:24.600] This is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:00:25.760 --> 00:00:29.460] And this is Alien Eyes Photos industry talk.
[00:00:29.460 --> 00:00:36.680] And I've did a 10 day series on my social media sabbatical.
[00:00:37.560 --> 00:00:41.380] So I've been fasting for now, going on 11 days.
[00:00:42.120 --> 00:00:43.700] Cheers, clap, claps.
[00:00:45.500 --> 00:00:47.420] Now let's do a quick recap.
[00:00:48.160 --> 00:00:52.300] Now day one, I talked about detoxing.
[00:00:52.300 --> 00:00:55.620] That's a good episode to listen to.
[00:00:55.620 --> 00:01:02.800] If you want to get rid of anything that's holding you back in your life,
[00:01:03.340 --> 00:01:07.780] whether that's physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally,
[00:01:08.500 --> 00:01:12.100] you know how we cling on things and things cling on to us.
[00:01:12.740 --> 00:01:13.880] We have to get rid of it.
[00:01:13.900 --> 00:01:14.920] We have to detox.
[00:01:14.980 --> 00:01:15.730] We have to declutter.
[00:01:16.560 --> 00:01:19.760] We have to freshen up, cut loose.
[00:01:20.780 --> 00:01:25.140] Now, as I started detoxing, I'm like, okay, what are my habits?
[00:01:25.140 --> 00:01:28.860] This is going to lead me back to this, where I have to detox again.
[00:01:29.780 --> 00:01:32.240] So day two, I checked my habits.
[00:01:32.780 --> 00:01:39.020] And us as creative entrepreneurs, we have to find our flow,
[00:01:39.340 --> 00:01:40.660] find the good habits.
[00:01:41.100 --> 00:01:44.300] And sometimes we have to let some bad habits go,
[00:01:45.080 --> 00:01:47.880] our old habits that no longer serve us.
[00:01:48.620 --> 00:01:51.080] And we have to learn new habits.
[00:01:51.080 --> 00:01:57.380] So that's a good episode about habits, giving you that good reminder.
[00:01:58.380 --> 00:02:04.920] Day three, after I detox and cut some bad habits
[00:02:05.820 --> 00:02:14.280] and gained some new habits and reading more, I had to do the work.
[00:02:15.120 --> 00:02:20.280] What is the work that I am not doing in a tiny manner
[00:02:20.280 --> 00:02:22.660] or focusing on fully?
[00:02:23.880 --> 00:02:24.320] Hmm.
[00:02:25.660 --> 00:02:29.280] I'm not doing it to 90 to 100%.
[00:02:29.940 --> 00:02:32.400] I need to get to that.
[00:02:34.770 --> 00:02:37.430] 65, 70, 73.
[00:02:38.370 --> 00:02:39.850] No, it's not cutting it.
[00:02:40.110 --> 00:02:41.410] 90 and above.
[00:02:41.830 --> 00:02:42.970] It's a passing grade.
[00:02:43.890 --> 00:02:49.590] Of course we may slip and do, you know, 84, 85%.
[00:02:49.590 --> 00:02:51.450] That's still decent.
[00:02:52.950 --> 00:02:54.470] But 90 to 100.
[00:02:54.590 --> 00:03:00.630] I want to give this 90 to 100% on anything and everything that I do,
[00:03:00.630 --> 00:03:03.190] no matter if I feel like I feel it now.
[00:03:03.350 --> 00:03:05.010] I made it to Vegas.
[00:03:05.470 --> 00:03:09.350] Here at BPcon and still going hard.
[00:03:10.730 --> 00:03:16.110] But it's just being around the hotel and the casino area.
[00:03:16.110 --> 00:03:20.510] It's just smoking as we had to go to our rooms.
[00:03:20.910 --> 00:03:22.110] We got lost.
[00:03:22.690 --> 00:03:23.790] Luggage handle broke.
[00:03:24.070 --> 00:03:25.630] It was just chaos.
[00:03:25.910 --> 00:03:27.910] We were really looking for a room.
[00:03:28.470 --> 00:03:31.790] We got 30 minutes checking in, had to go back other side.
[00:03:31.850 --> 00:03:34.310] They moved us, downgraded our room.
[00:03:34.430 --> 00:03:35.810] It was a lot of stuff.
[00:03:36.570 --> 00:03:41.090] But I'm not used to cigarettes smoking, being around it for long periods of time.
[00:03:42.010 --> 00:03:43.750] And it congested me.
[00:03:43.750 --> 00:03:47.050] So that's the reason I sound like this.
[00:03:48.410 --> 00:03:51.350] Even talking about the sound, day four, communicate.
[00:03:53.230 --> 00:04:03.330] Day four, I connect and communicated with many people that I haven't spoke to in months.
[00:04:04.270 --> 00:04:06.450] Some weeks, but months.
[00:04:08.480 --> 00:04:09.280] It was good.
[00:04:10.120 --> 00:04:10.920] It was fresh.
[00:04:11.740 --> 00:04:13.160] And it was long.
[00:04:13.160 --> 00:04:15.940] I had some good lengthy conversations.
[00:04:16.940 --> 00:04:21.000] So I got to connect and reconnect and communicate.
[00:04:21.579 --> 00:04:30.560] And that's what I focus on day four and the earlier stages of my social media sabbatical.
[00:04:30.660 --> 00:04:32.960] As I took it, everybody started hitting me up.
[00:04:33.080 --> 00:04:35.640] Like, oh man, I'm glad you're doing this.
[00:04:36.460 --> 00:04:42.340] I know it's a good time to find you or contact you because you're doing this and you can really focus on it.
[00:04:43.000 --> 00:04:51.960] So a lot of people took advantage of my social media sabbatical and contacted me personally through my phone line.
[00:04:53.560 --> 00:05:02.340] So yeah, I guess when I take my next social media sabbatical, you really need to talk to me or you need coaching one-on-one.
[00:05:02.460 --> 00:05:04.900] It's a good time to do that.
[00:05:04.900 --> 00:05:19.200] And day five, to help build all this out, we had to figure out a method, our SOPs, our systems, what worked for us.
[00:05:19.740 --> 00:05:25.580] So I focus on power of system.
[00:05:27.760 --> 00:05:30.760] The power of systems is crucial.
[00:05:31.780 --> 00:05:33.060] It's critical.
[00:05:33.760 --> 00:05:39.780] It is needed to keep you organized and also for your growth.
[00:05:40.920 --> 00:05:44.580] It would save lots of headaches on the back end.
[00:05:45.220 --> 00:05:47.580] Get your systems together, y'all.
[00:05:48.340 --> 00:06:01.020] Now, day six, as I'm kind of a little over the halfway mark at that point, you know, thinking about when I get back on social media,
[00:06:01.020 --> 00:06:10.640] I just wanted to send a reminder that be a producer of the content versus a consumer of the content.
[00:06:14.390 --> 00:06:30.610] Be a producer, not a consumer of the content, especially of the content for your industry and what drives the marketing and eyeballs to your business, your brand,
[00:06:31.610 --> 00:06:35.170] your personal brand as a creative entrepreneur.
[00:06:37.090 --> 00:06:39.950] Be a producer of the content, not a consumer.
[00:06:40.410 --> 00:06:49.450] Don't just scroll, scroll, and scroll up and down and like and da da da da da da da da.
[00:06:50.090 --> 00:06:53.650] Give yourself a limit. Yeah, there's a time for that.
[00:06:53.650 --> 00:07:01.610] Like me, two minutes, because I got a five-minute social media limit and I got to post to do this.
[00:07:03.010 --> 00:07:11.410] So one or two minutes, I may engage, I may like, but I'm not doing all this up and down scrolling no more.
[00:07:11.630 --> 00:07:17.250] You don't catch me in the first two seconds of scrolling.
[00:07:18.130 --> 00:07:22.810] That's all I have. I'm not going back to my old ways, my old habits.
[00:07:22.810 --> 00:07:37.790] I set a five-minute limit. And for the week, I think I've only been on social media 20 minutes as I was getting off.
[00:07:38.590 --> 00:07:41.390] And I'm like, well, let me see if I can do five.
[00:07:41.390 --> 00:07:46.150] So I've limited myself to five.
[00:07:46.810 --> 00:07:51.870] So when I get back on, I want to limit myself to five or less.
[00:07:52.810 --> 00:07:56.890] Maybe get on social media every other day once I get back on.
[00:07:57.690 --> 00:08:01.510] So we shall see. Day seven.
[00:08:02.810 --> 00:08:07.990] Are you satisfied? Are you satisfied with what you are doing?
[00:08:08.830 --> 00:08:15.370] What is your satisfaction? What keeps you satisfied?
[00:08:15.990 --> 00:08:22.230] How can you be satisfied? What drives you to satisfaction?
[00:08:24.230 --> 00:08:29.330] Day eight. Now, talk about being satisfied.
[00:08:31.880 --> 00:08:37.640] Day eight was about your perfect digital image or your digital image in general.
[00:08:37.640 --> 00:08:42.900] But perfect digital image, especially for the females.
[00:08:44.540 --> 00:08:48.940] They want to be beautified and perfect. Oh, I can't do this without makeup.
[00:08:49.560 --> 00:08:54.400] And comparing themselves to other females and creators.
[00:08:55.280 --> 00:08:58.680] Man to man to other man. I want to be like that.
[00:08:58.680 --> 00:09:09.360] I don't care how the ladies are the money, the cars, the house and women with the bodies and make all the other stuff on both sides.
[00:09:09.900 --> 00:09:13.560] Comparing or even a lifestyle and business and entrepreneurship.
[00:09:14.680 --> 00:09:20.360] Oh, I'm not there, but I want to be like them and their business and how they do things.
[00:09:20.460 --> 00:09:26.200] I'm not marking myself how they do it because it's successful with them, but you're not satisfied.
[00:09:26.200 --> 00:09:32.280] So go back one day, day seven. Satisfaction. I have my daughter with me. So that was a big one.
[00:09:33.620 --> 00:09:36.720] What keeps you satisfied? How can you be satisfied?
[00:09:38.800 --> 00:09:45.380] But your digital image is not always be perfect. Stop comparing yourself.
[00:09:45.920 --> 00:09:50.320] Live your journey. Document your journey. Be a producer, not a consumer.
[00:09:50.320 --> 00:09:53.000] See how it's all tied together?
[00:09:54.460 --> 00:09:57.080] Because day nine was about digital awareness.
[00:10:00.640 --> 00:10:01.440] Is it awareness?
[00:10:07.610 --> 00:10:09.210] Digital awareness.
[00:10:14.620 --> 00:10:18.840] That was a big one. I stumbled. I personally stumbled day nine.
[00:10:19.440 --> 00:10:21.900] It was late. I was.
[00:10:22.960 --> 00:10:27.740] Yeah, yeah, that's yeah.
[00:10:29.380 --> 00:10:42.740] Yeah. But I brought awareness to awareness and also digital awareness and evolution and how to kind of overcome that.
[00:10:43.040 --> 00:10:47.000] As I threw the alley from day nine to day ten.
[00:10:47.800 --> 00:10:50.360] To establish trust.
[00:10:52.120 --> 00:10:56.160] And people love working with people they know, like and trust.
[00:10:56.260 --> 00:10:58.580] But trust to me is one of the biggest.
[00:11:00.180 --> 00:11:02.280] The second would be love.
[00:11:03.040 --> 00:11:06.940] People may know you. People may not. People may not know me.
[00:11:07.000 --> 00:11:11.740] People may get to know me a little bit, but want to know more.
[00:11:12.880 --> 00:11:16.060] But if they don't trust me, they ain't gonna want to know more about me.
[00:11:16.060 --> 00:11:19.720] They ain't gonna love me. So they have to trust me.
[00:11:21.160 --> 00:11:30.380] So we spoke about how to establish trust in day ten and that was a good maybe my second favorite one.
[00:11:31.880 --> 00:11:39.680] I think habits was maybe my favorite one because it's a good reminder to myself what habits and new habits that I'm picking up.
[00:11:40.120 --> 00:11:43.300] Am I maintaining my habits? Can I approve of my habits?
[00:11:43.300 --> 00:11:47.500] I can't even make what I'm doing even better.
[00:11:49.040 --> 00:11:53.620] So I think habits was my first one day two out of all of them.
[00:11:54.100 --> 00:12:02.060] But getting this started would be detox day one.
[00:12:02.280 --> 00:12:06.960] That would be my top three. I recommend day two with habits.
[00:12:06.960 --> 00:12:10.840] Number two, day ten, establish trust.
[00:12:12.180 --> 00:12:17.300] And number three from my top three of my social media sabbatical episodes.
[00:12:18.620 --> 00:12:22.940] Day one, detox, because without the start, you can get rid of stuff.
[00:12:23.640 --> 00:12:28.520] A lot of this won't even matter because you would still be stuck in ways.
[00:12:29.280 --> 00:12:33.740] Day one and day two is perfect. If you don't listen to nothing else or follow anything else,
[00:12:33.740 --> 00:12:42.420] follow day one and day two, detox and going over your habits and follow it up with establish trust.
[00:12:43.080 --> 00:12:47.180] You'll be welling away to a million dollar day.
[00:12:47.900 --> 00:12:51.120] And I'm trying to get my million dollar day. I'm trying to get a million dollars in general.
[00:12:52.300 --> 00:12:54.660] So let's continue this path.
[00:12:55.760 --> 00:12:59.940] I'm on the path of my first six figures and then I'm going for my first million.
[00:13:01.920 --> 00:13:04.840] So. Help a brother out.
[00:13:05.260 --> 00:13:09.560] This is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos.
[00:13:09.700 --> 00:13:14.300] Give me the recap of my ten day social media sabbatical.
[00:13:15.060 --> 00:13:18.560] And be sure to check out the book.
[00:13:19.000 --> 00:13:24.140] Ten day social media sabbatical by Stephen D Jackson.
[00:13:25.420 --> 00:13:26.780] Yes, I really did the work.
[00:13:26.780 --> 00:13:28.660] We are in a documented process.
[00:13:29.420 --> 00:13:37.460] I've actually included some personal stories, some even some helpful tips to go along with the episodes.
[00:13:38.000 --> 00:13:43.740] You know, give you a little more juice and meat for the look.
[00:13:44.900 --> 00:13:47.780] Yeah, take it in, digest it.
[00:13:48.140 --> 00:13:54.880] It's good. It's nourishing as we detox with habits and doing nowhere to connect and communicate
[00:13:54.880 --> 00:13:59.300] the power of systems produced, not consumed.
[00:14:00.100 --> 00:14:04.420] Are you satisfied? What is your satisfaction?
[00:14:05.200 --> 00:14:12.700] Oh, your perfect digital image online, digital awareness and established trust.
[00:14:13.320 --> 00:14:16.220] That is day one through day ten.
[00:14:16.960 --> 00:14:22.080] And I will give you a little bit more talking about what I've learned,
[00:14:22.080 --> 00:14:26.500] giving you my results, the back end and behind the scenes.
[00:14:28.100 --> 00:14:33.520] And a little tidbit on how I'm going to build out the course that pairs with the book.
[00:14:34.420 --> 00:14:36.460] That one is going to be major.
[00:14:36.680 --> 00:14:41.620] Hopefully I have this done by the end of this year, if not early next year.
[00:14:41.640 --> 00:14:46.400] Got a few projects, client collaborations I'm doing.
[00:14:47.380 --> 00:14:55.640] Two more conferences here in Vegas, BPCON as I do this recap of my social media sabbatical.
[00:14:56.660 --> 00:14:58.240] This is day 11, y'all.
[00:14:58.700 --> 00:15:00.020] I ain't loving it.
[00:15:00.960 --> 00:15:07.540] All right, but I got to attend to these duties in this conference and drink some more tea.
[00:15:07.880 --> 00:15:09.240] Man, I can't believe this.
[00:15:09.240 --> 00:15:10.460] Golly.
[00:15:12.920 --> 00:15:15.400] But I made it, y'all.
[00:15:16.140 --> 00:15:19.580] Ten days, ten days social media sabbatical.
[00:15:19.980 --> 00:15:22.560] Check out my documented process.
[00:15:23.120 --> 00:15:29.060] Check out the whole series, day one through day ten of my social media sabbatical.
[00:15:29.600 --> 00:15:34.500] Take your own social media sabbatical, even if it's one day.
[00:15:35.020 --> 00:15:37.600] Try it out and then try it for a week.
[00:15:37.600 --> 00:15:41.700] I'm used to doing a week, twice a year.
[00:15:42.080 --> 00:15:44.300] This time I did ten days.
[00:15:45.120 --> 00:15:46.160] Yay, look what I did.
[00:15:46.180 --> 00:15:47.200] I made progress.
[00:15:47.240 --> 00:15:53.380] I was more productive, focused, and I love that I enjoyed my time away from social media.
[00:15:54.740 --> 00:15:57.560] But I'll be back probably tonight.
[00:15:57.580 --> 00:15:58.880] I'll be getting on tonight.
[00:15:59.300 --> 00:16:02.760] So yeah, this is day 11.
[00:16:03.200 --> 00:16:06.380] To recap my social media fast.
[00:16:06.380 --> 00:16:11.500] Again, this is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:16:12.140 --> 00:16:18.640] And this is another episode of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:16:19.860 --> 00:16:22.720] And I am your go-to event photographer.
[00:16:23.200 --> 00:16:34.880] So if you want to book me for an event or conference or workshop or if you're a creative entrepreneur starting off,
[00:16:34.880 --> 00:16:42.340] you want to book me as a coach and let's have some ideation sessions and build a strategy for both.
[00:16:42.340 --> 00:16:48.100] Booking me as a photographer or for video production or a coach.
[00:16:48.300 --> 00:16:50.520] One of the three or even more.
[00:16:50.700 --> 00:16:53.800] I do a lot, but those are my three pillars.
[00:16:55.040 --> 00:16:59.080] You can visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:16:59.080 --> 00:17:02.920] Again, that's Alien Eyes with a Z.
[00:17:03.340 --> 00:17:04.859] Photos with a S.
[00:17:06.480 --> 00:17:07.880] Alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:17:08.160 --> 00:17:10.660] And that's eyes like your eyeballs.
[00:17:11.800 --> 00:17:14.859] And then you can also follow me as I'll be on tonight.
[00:17:15.160 --> 00:17:19.300] Hopping back on at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:17:19.480 --> 00:17:22.000] That's Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:17:22.280 --> 00:17:25.460] Again, that's Alien Eyes with a Z.
[00:17:25.800 --> 00:17:27.680] Photos with a S.
[00:17:27.680 --> 00:17:30.380] On all social media.
[00:17:31.440 --> 00:17:35.200] And again, this is Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:17:35.840 --> 00:17:37.380] This has been a great one.
[00:17:38.000 --> 00:17:41.200] Ten days of social media fasting.
[00:17:42.340 --> 00:17:45.340] This is my social media sabbatical y'all.
[00:17:45.620 --> 00:17:46.140] We did it.
[00:17:46.380 --> 00:17:47.200] We made it.
[00:17:47.420 --> 00:17:48.620] Another one in the books.
[00:17:49.340 --> 00:17:49.820] Peace.

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61. Day 10 Social Media Sabbatical Trust
Season 1 · Episode 20
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-10-social-media-sabbatical-trust
========================================================================

[00:00:00.820 --> 00:00:07.860] Welcome, welcome, welcome, this is day 10.
[00:00:09.280 --> 00:00:13.500] I made it y'all, day 10 of my social media sabbatical.
[00:00:14.960 --> 00:00:18.320] Let's talk about establishing trust.
[00:00:20.440 --> 00:00:23.640] Establishing trust is powerful.
[00:00:25.240 --> 00:00:30.100] I remember the Dalai Lama mentioned that
[00:00:31.060 --> 00:00:35.800] you can't buy trust in the supermarket.
[00:00:38.340 --> 00:00:41.560] Now that is powerful, that's not the full quote,
[00:00:42.100 --> 00:00:44.680] but I remember that when he said
[00:00:44.680 --> 00:00:48.580] you cannot buy trust in the supermarket.
[00:00:50.300 --> 00:00:52.200] What do you think about that?
[00:00:53.580 --> 00:01:00.280] I believe trust is the foundation of all transactions.
[00:01:01.840 --> 00:01:03.740] People don't want to waste money,
[00:01:04.459 --> 00:01:05.640] they don't want poor quality,
[00:01:06.520 --> 00:01:09.560] and they don't want to be treated unfairly.
[00:01:11.780 --> 00:01:13.980] And if they don't trust you,
[00:01:14.700 --> 00:01:18.020] or if they feel like they're going to waste their money,
[00:01:18.740 --> 00:01:20.340] they're going to give poor quality,
[00:01:20.860 --> 00:01:24.920] poor service, a poor product, be treated unfairly.
[00:01:26.580 --> 00:01:28.340] They will walk away.
[00:01:29.340 --> 00:01:34.500] Now, trust is big for entrepreneurs and business owners,
[00:01:35.240 --> 00:01:38.460] even creatives, creative entrepreneurs.
[00:01:39.760 --> 00:01:44.880] As you build customer loyalty and retention,
[00:01:46.180 --> 00:01:49.100] you don't want those one-time buyers,
[00:01:49.240 --> 00:01:53.000] you want to build a relationship, be a rapport,
[00:01:54.480 --> 00:01:57.520] have them trust you.
[00:01:59.480 --> 00:02:04.160] It lowers barriers, lowering barriers
[00:02:04.160 --> 00:02:09.419] so they could buy again and maybe buy more products
[00:02:09.419 --> 00:02:12.580] or explore more of your services.
[00:02:14.300 --> 00:02:16.060] Build that relationship, be a rapport.
[00:02:18.190 --> 00:02:23.350] You want to establish trust with your partners,
[00:02:24.490 --> 00:02:30.120] your suppliers, your investors, your employers,
[00:02:30.960 --> 00:02:37.280] employees, everyone that you do business with.
[00:02:38.180 --> 00:02:41.580] You want to establish that trust.
[00:02:42.620 --> 00:02:50.200] It is important and enables growth and builds partnerships.
[00:02:52.230 --> 00:02:56.410] It provides resilience through challenges.
[00:02:58.290 --> 00:03:02.030] You know, people give you the benefit of doubt
[00:03:02.430 --> 00:03:05.270] and time to make things right.
[00:03:06.210 --> 00:03:11.030] Without that trust, the same crisis could be fatal
[00:03:11.030 --> 00:03:14.010] to your business.
[00:03:15.550 --> 00:03:19.830] Trust reduces friction and also costs.
[00:03:20.870 --> 00:03:27.020] If they trust you, don't have all the means
[00:03:27.020 --> 00:03:31.460] or all the funds, but make it up to them,
[00:03:32.380 --> 00:03:34.440] they will have to trust you,
[00:03:35.200 --> 00:03:37.340] that you will make it up to them
[00:03:37.340 --> 00:03:39.200] and that you really don't have the funds
[00:03:39.200 --> 00:03:42.300] and that you're not trying to get over on them
[00:03:42.760 --> 00:03:44.580] and that you're really trying to work with them
[00:03:44.580 --> 00:03:46.000] for the long term.
[00:03:48.170 --> 00:03:50.750] Trust is big with negotiations.
[00:03:52.110 --> 00:03:54.490] No one wants to feel one-sided
[00:03:54.490 --> 00:03:56.270] or like they're getting controlled
[00:03:57.330 --> 00:03:59.670] or they're getting taken advantage of.
[00:04:02.720 --> 00:04:05.200] Trust, trust, trust.
[00:04:05.960 --> 00:04:10.000] You have to establish that trust.
[00:04:12.480 --> 00:04:16.660] It's big for your credibility, you know.
[00:04:17.620 --> 00:04:20.839] Getting positive testimonials and reviews
[00:04:20.839 --> 00:04:28.140] and case studies, validation is great for referrals.
[00:04:28.440 --> 00:04:32.860] If people trust you and they build trust with you
[00:04:33.840 --> 00:04:35.920] and you build trust with them,
[00:04:36.940 --> 00:04:39.420] they're gonna refer you to their friends,
[00:04:39.980 --> 00:04:42.280] their partners, their family.
[00:04:45.500 --> 00:04:46.820] It's just simple as that.
[00:04:48.660 --> 00:04:50.580] That's how you gain more business.
[00:04:51.320 --> 00:04:53.480] That's how you become more trustworthy,
[00:04:54.440 --> 00:04:59.160] more credible and have consistent business
[00:04:59.160 --> 00:05:01.440] with many, many people, man.
[00:05:01.940 --> 00:05:05.600] Again, with your suppliers, your investors and partners
[00:05:06.220 --> 00:05:08.360] because you become reliable,
[00:05:09.360 --> 00:05:12.340] want to be transparent and honest.
[00:05:13.640 --> 00:05:18.640] Be as transparent and honest by being open.
[00:05:20.040 --> 00:05:22.480] That's a good business practice
[00:05:23.220 --> 00:05:26.240] and it's good for pricing and decision-making.
[00:05:29.160 --> 00:05:33.160] Now, there's many different ways to build trust
[00:05:33.160 --> 00:05:34.560] and establish trust
[00:05:36.230 --> 00:05:39.170] and those are similar ways,
[00:05:39.970 --> 00:05:42.590] but it's truly being authentic
[00:05:42.590 --> 00:05:47.750] and having clear, very clear communication
[00:05:47.930 --> 00:05:50.990] with your customers, your stakeholders,
[00:05:51.930 --> 00:05:55.270] the public, your partners
[00:05:56.390 --> 00:06:00.390] and especially your employees and contractors.
[00:06:01.890 --> 00:06:04.810] No matter what businesses you're in,
[00:06:05.970 --> 00:06:11.050] you have to have trust with everyone you work with
[00:06:11.050 --> 00:06:14.810] and everyone who is consuming your product or service.
[00:06:15.850 --> 00:06:19.990] It is very, very important and vital.
[00:06:21.930 --> 00:06:28.460] Now, people love working with me
[00:06:28.860 --> 00:06:32.420] because I'm open and honest
[00:06:32.600 --> 00:06:35.900] and if I'm behind on a deadline,
[00:06:35.900 --> 00:06:39.520] then I am brutally open and honest
[00:06:39.520 --> 00:06:41.040] and I communicate that
[00:06:41.640 --> 00:06:44.320] and I've built trust with different people.
[00:06:44.920 --> 00:06:47.460] Even if I missed a deadline
[00:06:47.460 --> 00:06:49.880] or run it behind a couple of days,
[00:06:51.280 --> 00:06:53.100] you have to communicate
[00:06:54.260 --> 00:06:56.180] and you still have to be reliable
[00:06:57.920 --> 00:07:01.760] and you still have to deliver consistently.
[00:07:03.200 --> 00:07:05.120] Just be transparent and honest.
[00:07:05.120 --> 00:07:09.840] That's the biggest way to establish trust
[00:07:09.840 --> 00:07:12.160] in your field, in your industry.
[00:07:13.560 --> 00:07:15.240] Once you break that trust
[00:07:15.240 --> 00:07:18.340] or feel like you're not trustworthy,
[00:07:19.440 --> 00:07:21.100] oh, it's hard.
[00:07:21.700 --> 00:07:24.780] It is very hard to get it back.
[00:07:27.210 --> 00:07:34.430] Now, there's many times where I work with people
[00:07:34.430 --> 00:07:36.150] that wasn't trustworthy.
[00:07:37.290 --> 00:07:38.790] I thought that was a good fit.
[00:07:38.790 --> 00:07:44.450] I thought that was one of the top of the industry to pass,
[00:07:45.810 --> 00:07:49.190] but something rubbed me the wrong way.
[00:07:50.610 --> 00:07:53.650] I felt like I couldn't trust them
[00:07:54.070 --> 00:07:56.210] or trust them anymore.
[00:07:58.190 --> 00:08:02.210] And my gut was right.
[00:08:04.580 --> 00:08:06.800] I couldn't trust them
[00:08:06.800 --> 00:08:09.060] or anything that they were saying
[00:08:09.060 --> 00:08:11.980] and just talking about over delivering
[00:08:11.980 --> 00:08:14.160] when they didn't even deliver at all.
[00:08:15.180 --> 00:08:16.020] And that hurts.
[00:08:16.160 --> 00:08:17.340] And there's a lot of people,
[00:08:18.020 --> 00:08:19.960] let's use the real estate industry.
[00:08:20.000 --> 00:08:22.760] As I'm currently in Vegas,
[00:08:23.460 --> 00:08:25.300] yes, I made it to Vegas.
[00:08:26.560 --> 00:08:28.420] About to attend the BPcon
[00:08:28.420 --> 00:08:31.840] and I'll be doing some BPcon recaps,
[00:08:31.880 --> 00:08:33.700] so stay tuned for that.
[00:08:36.220 --> 00:08:39.419] But if you're working with different contractors
[00:08:39.419 --> 00:08:43.520] as an investor and you paid them all the money upfront
[00:08:44.560 --> 00:08:48.460] and they don't have the right business license
[00:08:48.460 --> 00:08:51.480] or identification or bond numbers,
[00:08:52.400 --> 00:08:55.300] and you trust them and you give them all the money
[00:08:55.300 --> 00:08:58.520] upfront and they do none of the work
[00:08:58.520 --> 00:09:00.020] and they run off with the money,
[00:09:01.100 --> 00:09:01.820] then what?
[00:09:03.170 --> 00:09:07.050] You left without a finished project,
[00:09:09.330 --> 00:09:12.370] unfinished home, non-renovated,
[00:09:13.110 --> 00:09:14.990] and no capital, no money.
[00:09:17.220 --> 00:09:19.640] You trust them a little too much,
[00:09:19.840 --> 00:09:22.440] a little too quickly, a little too hard.
[00:09:24.720 --> 00:09:26.660] It's damaging and it hurts.
[00:09:27.920 --> 00:09:30.940] But they'll report, interview,
[00:09:31.180 --> 00:09:34.480] talk with these people, build that trust,
[00:09:35.480 --> 00:09:41.140] establish trust first, have them trust you,
[00:09:43.060 --> 00:09:47.000] then trust them by asking qualifying questions.
[00:09:48.680 --> 00:09:54.540] Start little upfront, ease your way into the relationship
[00:09:55.960 --> 00:10:02.340] and then start paying out more or doing more work
[00:10:02.340 --> 00:10:04.080] and being consistent,
[00:10:04.080 --> 00:10:07.880] but have that clear communication upfront.
[00:10:09.100 --> 00:10:10.280] It's just powerful.
[00:10:12.140 --> 00:10:16.200] And again, I made it to Vegas finally,
[00:10:17.800 --> 00:10:20.320] so I'm looking forward to BP Con
[00:10:20.320 --> 00:10:23.580] and establishing trust with many of these
[00:10:23.580 --> 00:10:27.600] real estate investors and real estate agents
[00:10:28.640 --> 00:10:31.120] and looking for strategic partners.
[00:10:31.220 --> 00:10:33.860] Maybe I can help them with podcasts,
[00:10:34.350 --> 00:10:37.480] production or video production in general
[00:10:37.910 --> 00:10:40.400] as I am in the media field
[00:10:41.630 --> 00:10:43.920] and I'm sure they have the money
[00:10:44.430 --> 00:10:48.340] and they need content or they need visuals
[00:10:48.340 --> 00:10:49.860] for their property,
[00:10:50.620 --> 00:10:52.760] whether that's video walkthroughs
[00:10:52.760 --> 00:10:57.460] or pictures of these houses, mansions, buildings.
[00:10:59.100 --> 00:11:04.180] So, I have to shake hands, establish that trust,
[00:11:04.640 --> 00:11:08.100] build that rapport, tell them my story,
[00:11:08.500 --> 00:11:12.260] tell them all that I've done and be honest and candid.
[00:11:13.180 --> 00:11:15.840] If I haven't done something, I will let them know,
[00:11:16.120 --> 00:11:18.300] but I'm interested in learning and growing
[00:11:18.300 --> 00:11:20.300] and trying it out.
[00:11:21.080 --> 00:11:24.160] This may be my first time, this may be my 10th time,
[00:11:24.860 --> 00:11:26.400] this may be my 100th time.
[00:11:27.320 --> 00:11:31.580] I'm trying, never ever done it or never even heard of it,
[00:11:31.700 --> 00:11:35.940] but I have to be brutally honest and transparent.
[00:11:37.080 --> 00:11:38.320] I have to be vulnerable
[00:11:38.320 --> 00:11:41.320] and people have to be vulnerable with me,
[00:11:41.820 --> 00:11:43.500] but we have to get to that point.
[00:11:44.040 --> 00:11:49.580] So, start slowly, establish that trust in the right way,
[00:11:51.200 --> 00:11:53.280] ask those qualifying questions.
[00:11:54.540 --> 00:11:57.360] So, how do you feel?
[00:11:58.140 --> 00:12:00.240] How do you establish trust?
[00:12:01.360 --> 00:12:04.020] I gave you some ways and some examples.
[00:12:05.040 --> 00:12:07.100] I really wanna know how you establish trust,
[00:12:07.200 --> 00:12:09.720] how you build that rapport with others
[00:12:09.720 --> 00:12:13.660] and gain loyal customers and retention
[00:12:13.660 --> 00:12:17.280] and keep people coming back and referring your business
[00:12:17.280 --> 00:12:21.280] and your products and your services and your artworks.
[00:12:22.690 --> 00:12:26.970] What helps you grow and build partners?
[00:12:28.110 --> 00:12:31.270] Establish trust with different investors and suppliers
[00:12:31.270 --> 00:12:36.710] and strategic partners and gain good employees.
[00:12:40.980 --> 00:12:42.260] That's what I'm thinking about, right?
[00:12:44.310 --> 00:12:47.350] Existing trust can act as a buffer
[00:12:47.850 --> 00:12:54.100] instead of a barrier that reduces a lot of friction.
[00:12:56.140 --> 00:12:58.820] If I could trust or count on someone
[00:12:59.500 --> 00:13:04.500] in a pinch, I'm not able to be there physically.
[00:13:06.320 --> 00:13:08.860] I trust this person dearly.
[00:13:11.680 --> 00:13:17.200] That is so good, a great feeling.
[00:13:18.960 --> 00:13:20.960] When you would just count on somebody
[00:13:21.740 --> 00:13:23.700] and you know they're gonna get the job done
[00:13:23.700 --> 00:13:27.660] and do it well, maybe sometimes better than you,
[00:13:29.540 --> 00:13:33.320] and that's all about hiring the right people
[00:13:33.320 --> 00:13:37.800] or contractors and not being afraid to delegate.
[00:13:37.920 --> 00:13:40.940] You have to gain that trust
[00:13:40.940 --> 00:13:43.500] and they have to gain that trust with you.
[00:13:44.180 --> 00:13:49.060] It's important to establish trust in your life,
[00:13:49.740 --> 00:13:52.940] in your business, in your relationships,
[00:13:53.980 --> 00:13:56.840] whether that's friendships, partnerships,
[00:13:56.840 --> 00:14:01.540] romantic relationships with your family,
[00:14:01.880 --> 00:14:08.280] with your job, employers and employees, colleagues.
[00:14:10.240 --> 00:14:14.600] It's important to establish trust, all right?
[00:14:15.660 --> 00:14:18.620] So again, establish that trust and build rapport.
[00:14:20.120 --> 00:14:23.240] Make sure your credibility goes a long way.
[00:14:24.260 --> 00:14:26.860] You want people to refer you in your business,
[00:14:26.860 --> 00:14:28.960] you're broadening your service.
[00:14:30.120 --> 00:14:31.460] Establish that trust.
[00:14:33.400 --> 00:14:36.060] All right, y'all, this is Pataka Jackson,
[00:14:37.080 --> 00:14:40.920] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:14:42.180 --> 00:14:45.620] And this is Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:14:46.920 --> 00:14:51.020] This is day 10 of my social media sabbatical.
[00:14:52.540 --> 00:14:55.070] Stay tuned to what is to come
[00:14:55.790 --> 00:14:58.650] as I'll be building out an e-book
[00:14:58.650 --> 00:15:01.790] around my 10-day social media sabbatical
[00:15:01.790 --> 00:15:04.310] as I document the whole process.
[00:15:04.750 --> 00:15:06.850] And I'll be telling my story,
[00:15:07.350 --> 00:15:10.590] I'll be transcribing episodes for you all,
[00:15:12.350 --> 00:15:15.610] and providing a little more detail
[00:15:15.610 --> 00:15:19.610] with each episode and building out a course.
[00:15:20.330 --> 00:15:22.270] So stay tuned for it all.
[00:15:22.850 --> 00:15:26.050] And if you want to book me as an event photographer,
[00:15:26.550 --> 00:15:29.530] video production, or a business coach,
[00:15:29.670 --> 00:15:31.210] let's have an ideation session.
[00:15:31.870 --> 00:15:34.130] Let's talk business strategy.
[00:15:35.170 --> 00:15:38.850] Well, if any of those ring your bell,
[00:15:38.950 --> 00:15:40.030] if you need help,
[00:15:41.010 --> 00:15:46.810] you could visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:15:46.810 --> 00:15:52.650] That's alieneyes with a Z,
[00:15:53.030 --> 00:15:57.830] photos with a S, alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:15:59.110 --> 00:16:02.890] And I'll be back on social media tomorrow, y'all.
[00:16:04.190 --> 00:16:07.270] And follow me at alieneyesphotos.
[00:16:07.410 --> 00:16:09.410] Yes, that's alieneyesphotos.
[00:16:13.410 --> 00:16:15.630] Alieneyesphotos, alieneyes with a Z,
[00:16:15.630 --> 00:16:19.970] photos with a S on all social media.
[00:16:20.850 --> 00:16:25.330] And be sure to follow on a creative frequency
[00:16:25.330 --> 00:16:26.990] on all social media.
[00:16:27.370 --> 00:16:29.630] We're doing it big over there on Instagram,
[00:16:29.830 --> 00:16:35.710] IG, and YouTube, creative frequency.
[00:16:36.550 --> 00:16:41.330] But our page is on a creative frequency.
[00:16:42.010 --> 00:16:45.110] And that's me and Brianna Casanova
[00:16:45.110 --> 00:16:48.830] helping inspiring you to be creative no matter what.
[00:16:49.150 --> 00:16:51.990] As we show a lot of behind the scenes of our work
[00:16:51.990 --> 00:16:54.750] and our creative process.
[00:16:55.590 --> 00:16:57.850] Again, that's on a creative frequency.
[00:16:58.370 --> 00:17:00.930] And I'm Mr. Alieneyesphotos,
[00:17:00.930 --> 00:17:05.010] Photographer Jackson, and I am signing out.
[00:17:05.390 --> 00:17:05.869] Peace.

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62. Day 9 Social Media Sabbatical Digital Awareness
Season 1 · Episode 19
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-9-social-media-sabbatical-digital-awareness
========================================================================

[00:00:01.360 --> 00:00:07.380] Day nine of my social media sabbatical.
[00:00:08.800 --> 00:00:11.560] Let's talk about awareness,
[00:00:13.160 --> 00:00:15.960] and to be exact, digital awareness.
[00:00:17.440 --> 00:00:19.020] But let's start with awareness.
[00:00:21.140 --> 00:00:24.400] Awareness is the state of being conscious
[00:00:24.400 --> 00:00:28.520] and cognizant towards something.
[00:00:28.520 --> 00:00:32.640] Paying attention to what is happening in the present moment,
[00:00:33.760 --> 00:00:38.120] whether it's your thoughts, feelings, behaviors,
[00:00:39.100 --> 00:00:43.860] surroundings, and all impact your actions.
[00:00:45.840 --> 00:00:47.300] Now think about awareness
[00:00:47.300 --> 00:00:50.580] as having a spotlight on your experiences,
[00:00:51.920 --> 00:00:55.920] rather operating on autopilot.
[00:00:58.420 --> 00:01:02.440] Awareness is what you think about.
[00:01:05.060 --> 00:01:07.380] And when I say it's what you think about,
[00:01:10.320 --> 00:01:12.780] it's your informed intelligence.
[00:01:15.740 --> 00:01:21.660] It could be what your environment is telling you.
[00:01:25.060 --> 00:01:26.880] But I wanna shift gears a little bit
[00:01:26.880 --> 00:01:29.300] and speak about digital awareness,
[00:01:31.020 --> 00:01:37.050] which is your effectiveness and safety
[00:01:38.870 --> 00:01:40.490] of digital technology.
[00:01:41.260 --> 00:01:46.130] And now we get into artificial intelligence, AI,
[00:01:47.570 --> 00:01:50.230] the impact of online interactions,
[00:01:51.250 --> 00:01:53.630] individuals, society,
[00:01:53.830 --> 00:01:58.210] and the risk of opportunities in the digital world.
[00:01:59.410 --> 00:02:02.150] Technical knowledge, critical thinking,
[00:02:03.210 --> 00:02:06.670] data privacy and security, as I mentioned,
[00:02:09.380 --> 00:02:12.920] adaptability and how to be proactive
[00:02:13.730 --> 00:02:17.300] and how we learn these new technologies
[00:02:18.270 --> 00:02:22.160] and adapt it to our life and the landscape
[00:02:23.370 --> 00:02:27.180] of our business and life in general.
[00:02:30.760 --> 00:02:33.560] Now awareness has to do with observing,
[00:02:35.020 --> 00:02:37.420] noticing patterns, noticing patterns,
[00:02:37.420 --> 00:02:44.860] noticing patterns and understanding cause and effect,
[00:02:45.700 --> 00:02:49.320] being present in this moment versus, again,
[00:02:50.380 --> 00:02:54.080] on autopilot or operating automatically.
[00:02:56.520 --> 00:03:04.520] So you have to be conscious with this digital awareness.
[00:03:07.550 --> 00:03:09.190] So what are the patterns
[00:03:09.980 --> 00:03:12.710] you are taking in?
[00:03:13.830 --> 00:03:19.320] What are the patterns you are realizing?
[00:03:22.400 --> 00:03:26.120] What are the patterns that keep coming up in your life?
[00:03:29.280 --> 00:03:31.440] And think about your digital footprint.
[00:03:34.300 --> 00:03:37.960] What type of digital footprint are you creating?
[00:03:39.500 --> 00:03:43.020] The data you are creating and leaving behind,
[00:03:44.080 --> 00:03:45.840] what information are you sharing?
[00:03:46.760 --> 00:03:52.040] And how might that be used for other people,
[00:03:52.420 --> 00:03:54.060] for other businesses?
[00:03:55.000 --> 00:03:59.300] How are they using your information?
[00:04:02.270 --> 00:04:03.990] Have you ever thought about that?
[00:04:07.390 --> 00:04:11.530] And now I wanna get a little personal.
[00:04:13.700 --> 00:04:16.720] That was just the logistics and kind of definitions
[00:04:16.720 --> 00:04:19.519] of awareness and digital awareness.
[00:04:20.519 --> 00:04:27.800] And awareness is big, especially like me, traveling,
[00:04:28.200 --> 00:04:33.530] being in new cities and states, places I've never been.
[00:04:34.340 --> 00:04:38.020] I have to have a sense of awareness,
[00:04:38.220 --> 00:04:41.780] the sense of my surrounding, the environment
[00:04:41.780 --> 00:04:44.620] where I'm at, what I have with me,
[00:04:44.640 --> 00:04:47.840] what I have on and my target.
[00:04:48.480 --> 00:04:52.960] I have to be aware of many, many things.
[00:04:54.360 --> 00:04:56.800] What is going on in this place that I'm going?
[00:04:57.900 --> 00:04:58.760] Do I know?
[00:04:59.020 --> 00:05:00.080] What's on the news?
[00:05:02.060 --> 00:05:05.180] So we take it digital when we take it online
[00:05:05.180 --> 00:05:09.520] and on social media, which is this is day nine for me
[00:05:10.360 --> 00:05:11.840] being on social media.
[00:05:11.880 --> 00:05:15.440] I'm not aware of what's going on in social media land
[00:05:15.440 --> 00:05:17.700] and in the news and all this good stuff.
[00:05:18.580 --> 00:05:21.520] I'm sure I will be aware once I get on,
[00:05:22.300 --> 00:05:25.680] but right now I'm loving this break,
[00:05:26.340 --> 00:05:29.180] I'm loving this time, loving my productivity,
[00:05:32.590 --> 00:05:35.690] but digital awareness is key.
[00:05:38.690 --> 00:05:41.170] It's things for real, it's things fake.
[00:05:42.070 --> 00:05:44.670] You wanna constantly ask that question,
[00:05:45.270 --> 00:05:48.770] especially in this digital age with AI,
[00:05:49.450 --> 00:05:54.450] artificial intelligence, we're gonna ask that question.
[00:05:54.530 --> 00:05:57.330] Is this real or is it fake?
[00:05:58.070 --> 00:06:01.190] Is this real news or is it fake?
[00:06:02.230 --> 00:06:05.650] Is this a real character or avatar person
[00:06:06.520 --> 00:06:10.130] or is this a fake person or avatar character?
[00:06:11.350 --> 00:06:18.050] Is these cartoons really real made up by a human
[00:06:20.590 --> 00:06:23.410] or by artificial intelligence?
[00:06:24.350 --> 00:06:27.150] That was taught by other humans,
[00:06:27.910 --> 00:06:29.930] but it's not 100% correct.
[00:06:32.240 --> 00:06:35.200] So where do we cross the line?
[00:06:37.110 --> 00:06:39.750] Where do we say stop?
[00:06:42.250 --> 00:06:45.770] Where do we continue to build that awareness
[00:06:46.770 --> 00:06:50.170] where awareness may not be absolute?
[00:06:54.670 --> 00:06:58.030] Makes you question a lot of things, right?
[00:07:00.240 --> 00:07:04.400] Because if I'm aware of what I'm doing,
[00:07:05.520 --> 00:07:08.200] I'm conscious, I'm knowledgeable,
[00:07:09.780 --> 00:07:13.260] I know what's going on,
[00:07:14.060 --> 00:07:16.960] or at least I have a sense of what's going on,
[00:07:18.200 --> 00:07:22.260] but we type in our emails just willingly
[00:07:22.260 --> 00:07:24.220] to many different sites,
[00:07:25.060 --> 00:07:26.940] to these different lead magnets
[00:07:26.940 --> 00:07:30.560] and lead magnets are free information,
[00:07:30.920 --> 00:07:35.400] our tools, our gadgets, whatever that may be,
[00:07:36.140 --> 00:07:39.660] our inexpensive gadgets, tools
[00:07:39.660 --> 00:07:42.060] to collect your information,
[00:07:43.160 --> 00:07:46.140] to sell you at a later time
[00:07:47.200 --> 00:07:50.860] or put you in a pipe system, it's a lead for them.
[00:07:52.460 --> 00:07:54.260] So that's what lead magnet is for.
[00:07:54.500 --> 00:07:57.060] Like I don't have lead magnets right now,
[00:07:57.060 --> 00:07:59.820] but I am going to get one soon
[00:08:00.520 --> 00:08:02.660] because it's important for business
[00:08:03.500 --> 00:08:06.240] to build your email list and your ecosystem.
[00:08:07.100 --> 00:08:08.800] And I only want your email.
[00:08:08.800 --> 00:08:10.860] A lot of people ask for email,
[00:08:10.900 --> 00:08:12.680] your address, your phone number.
[00:08:13.580 --> 00:08:15.420] Me, I just want your email.
[00:08:15.800 --> 00:08:18.260] Let's constantly be in communications
[00:08:18.260 --> 00:08:20.340] and be on my newsletter.
[00:08:20.400 --> 00:08:21.740] Let me help you.
[00:08:22.080 --> 00:08:24.460] If you are a creative entrepreneur,
[00:08:25.460 --> 00:08:26.740] I want to learn more.
[00:08:26.820 --> 00:08:28.020] And if you are creative,
[00:08:28.060 --> 00:08:29.600] wanting to be an entrepreneur,
[00:08:31.020 --> 00:08:33.140] join the email list.
[00:08:33.659 --> 00:08:35.280] Check the show notes.
[00:08:35.440 --> 00:08:38.740] This is of course to be on the email list
[00:08:38.740 --> 00:08:39.600] and to subscribe.
[00:08:42.480 --> 00:08:45.380] By the way, I'm tired, so bear with me.
[00:08:45.740 --> 00:08:49.820] It is 2 p.m. my time.
[00:08:51.500 --> 00:08:57.020] I just got to Vegas for a BPCon
[00:08:57.020 --> 00:09:00.420] and I will be doing some recaps
[00:09:00.420 --> 00:09:03.640] from day one, day two, and day three.
[00:09:03.640 --> 00:09:05.360] Day one is a half day.
[00:09:06.020 --> 00:09:10.220] Day one, and day two, and day three.
[00:09:10.340 --> 00:09:11.660] I may put them all together.
[00:09:11.720 --> 00:09:12.980] I might break it up.
[00:09:13.140 --> 00:09:17.900] I don't know, but I know I got to be consistent
[00:09:17.900 --> 00:09:19.720] and bring this content.
[00:09:19.840 --> 00:09:21.120] And this is day nine.
[00:09:22.560 --> 00:09:28.380] Tomorrow, I get on social media at,
[00:09:29.880 --> 00:09:34.280] well, it'll be midnight, nine p.m. in Vegas.
[00:09:34.280 --> 00:09:37.800] So technically, nine p.m. will be midnight
[00:09:37.800 --> 00:09:39.740] back where I stay in Ohio.
[00:09:41.040 --> 00:09:44.840] So will I wait the full 10 days
[00:09:44.840 --> 00:09:49.060] and just be like, well, it's midnight here or there.
[00:09:50.340 --> 00:09:52.360] Here is nine p.m.
[00:09:53.120 --> 00:09:55.300] I don't know.
[00:09:55.840 --> 00:09:59.900] But I definitely documented the process
[00:09:59.900 --> 00:10:03.820] and I appreciate everyone that followed along.
[00:10:03.820 --> 00:10:06.740] And it actually did the sabbatical with me.
[00:10:06.980 --> 00:10:10.580] I had a lot of feedback and people that said
[00:10:10.580 --> 00:10:14.080] they was thinking about doing something similar.
[00:10:15.200 --> 00:10:16.700] And I appreciate that.
[00:10:17.500 --> 00:10:19.800] And I hope they meant what they said
[00:10:19.800 --> 00:10:22.420] and actually took time away.
[00:10:24.600 --> 00:10:27.600] And digital awareness, you have to have breaks
[00:10:27.600 --> 00:10:32.160] no matter if that's a few hours throughout the day,
[00:10:32.160 --> 00:10:34.360] if you're heavily on social media
[00:10:34.360 --> 00:10:37.980] or a couple days away or like me,
[00:10:38.020 --> 00:10:40.740] a little over a week, 10 days.
[00:10:41.640 --> 00:10:46.220] This is my 10-day sabbatical and I'm on day nine
[00:10:46.220 --> 00:10:48.060] and I've done well.
[00:10:48.120 --> 00:10:52.620] I haven't touched social media at all.
[00:10:53.260 --> 00:10:55.000] I deleted the apps.
[00:10:55.720 --> 00:10:57.620] I stay away.
[00:10:58.140 --> 00:11:00.800] I was aware if I had it on my phone,
[00:11:01.280 --> 00:11:03.760] I would've slipped up and probably clicked it.
[00:11:03.760 --> 00:11:06.560] So I was aware enough to get rid of it
[00:11:06.560 --> 00:11:09.840] and delete the apps all together.
[00:11:13.020 --> 00:11:15.280] And I challenge you to do the same.
[00:11:16.260 --> 00:11:18.960] Start with three days, start with five days.
[00:11:20.260 --> 00:11:25.820] Some people be at work or on their studies,
[00:11:27.140 --> 00:11:30.440] just watch some TV, just on social media,
[00:11:30.460 --> 00:11:31.880] it's all in the background.
[00:11:33.930 --> 00:11:39.210] It's like a habit that you can't break or shake.
[00:11:39.410 --> 00:11:42.890] Just on in the background as you're doing other things.
[00:11:43.930 --> 00:11:44.550] Why?
[00:11:45.710 --> 00:11:47.430] Are you even aware of this?
[00:11:47.910 --> 00:11:50.710] How much time you are spending on social media?
[00:11:51.030 --> 00:11:53.330] How much time are you spending on your phone?
[00:11:54.790 --> 00:11:59.150] Now there's a study that I think is over 80%
[00:11:59.150 --> 00:12:03.030] of people wake up within the first 15 minutes,
[00:12:03.030 --> 00:12:04.570] they're on their phone,
[00:12:04.910 --> 00:12:08.450] and I'm pretty sure within those 15 minutes is social media.
[00:12:09.710 --> 00:12:12.490] So are you really aware of your actions
[00:12:12.490 --> 00:12:17.050] on what you're doing, your visual awareness?
[00:12:20.750 --> 00:12:24.950] Now, I recently got a massage.
[00:12:26.830 --> 00:12:30.890] Me and my lady got a massage
[00:12:30.890 --> 00:12:32.730] and often we give each other massage
[00:12:32.730 --> 00:12:37.790] and we'll be like, wow, this feels good.
[00:12:37.830 --> 00:12:40.590] I never know I was sore in this area.
[00:12:43.010 --> 00:12:46.050] As we give each other full body massages,
[00:12:46.330 --> 00:12:50.110] like wow, I was sore near my ankles
[00:12:51.390 --> 00:12:55.730] and my ligaments over here, over there,
[00:12:56.030 --> 00:12:57.990] I had neck pain, didn't know about,
[00:13:00.110 --> 00:13:03.430] until we just gave each other that massage.
[00:13:06.150 --> 00:13:09.270] And I even think about with our business,
[00:13:09.390 --> 00:13:11.690] how we're massaging our business,
[00:13:12.110 --> 00:13:14.270] like where are our pain points?
[00:13:14.910 --> 00:13:17.410] Where are we sore at in our business?
[00:13:19.170 --> 00:13:22.010] Where are things that we are not aware of?
[00:13:22.370 --> 00:13:24.390] Just like I wasn't aware of my pain
[00:13:24.390 --> 00:13:26.410] in certain areas of my body
[00:13:26.410 --> 00:13:31.550] until I got the massage on my lady,
[00:13:32.490 --> 00:13:36.110] rubbed me and all over until I started moaning
[00:13:36.110 --> 00:13:38.150] and groaning like, wow, this hurts.
[00:13:39.450 --> 00:13:43.110] Do that again, put some more oil on that, rub that spot.
[00:13:45.500 --> 00:13:46.780] You know, I don't have the courage,
[00:13:47.380 --> 00:13:50.160] but I'm a massageist because they're more professional
[00:13:50.160 --> 00:13:53.520] and I'm like, yeah, just cover everything.
[00:13:54.160 --> 00:13:56.540] I'm hurt right here, target that spot.
[00:13:57.520 --> 00:13:59.780] But you know, I'm with a loved one.
[00:13:59.920 --> 00:14:01.920] But it could be a little more personable.
[00:14:03.640 --> 00:14:05.760] And we do a little more support,
[00:14:06.000 --> 00:14:11.580] just like, you know, she had the shoulder blades
[00:14:11.580 --> 00:14:16.460] and rub them, she didn't know she had that pain there.
[00:14:17.440 --> 00:14:23.580] Like near underarms, stuff we never even think about,
[00:14:23.720 --> 00:14:27.400] like wow, didn't know I was sore, it hurts, it aches.
[00:14:28.580 --> 00:14:32.100] Yeah, continue right there, rub that a little harder,
[00:14:32.320 --> 00:14:34.820] a little more pressure right there.
[00:14:35.720 --> 00:14:38.640] So what are things in our business
[00:14:38.640 --> 00:14:43.100] on our entrepreneur journey that we are not aware of
[00:14:43.100 --> 00:14:48.160] that can easily be massaged and taken care of?
[00:14:48.360 --> 00:14:51.900] What are our pain points that we are not aware of?
[00:14:53.200 --> 00:14:57.120] Now think about when we're online on social media,
[00:14:58.580 --> 00:15:03.540] what are some of these pain points online?
[00:15:04.380 --> 00:15:08.520] What are these pain points in social media
[00:15:08.520 --> 00:15:11.240] that we are not aware of?
[00:15:11.840 --> 00:15:14.920] And that's why this is our digital footprint,
[00:15:15.480 --> 00:15:17.520] this is our digital awareness.
[00:15:18.360 --> 00:15:22.700] Are you aware why you are online?
[00:15:24.240 --> 00:15:26.280] And that's just something to think about
[00:15:26.280 --> 00:15:29.340] and something I want you to think about
[00:15:29.340 --> 00:15:31.900] while we continue being on this journey
[00:15:32.500 --> 00:15:34.300] as we continue to grow.
[00:15:35.880 --> 00:15:39.860] Are we digitally aware of what we are doing
[00:15:40.880 --> 00:15:42.740] with our digital footprint?
[00:15:42.920 --> 00:15:45.440] What are we leaving behind?
[00:15:46.540 --> 00:15:55.260] Because these digital footprints last forever, all right?
[00:15:57.570 --> 00:16:02.710] All right, y'all, I'm about to take a long sleep
[00:16:03.710 --> 00:16:07.870] as the conference starts tomorrow.
[00:16:09.390 --> 00:16:13.770] I am tired, I am jet-lagged, I am hungry,
[00:16:14.790 --> 00:16:20.110] but I am gonna shower, brush my teeth, and go to bed.
[00:16:22.050 --> 00:16:26.270] PPCon, I am on the way, I made it to Vegas.
[00:16:27.450 --> 00:16:32.450] Yes, yes, yes, and this is photographer Jackson.
[00:16:32.710 --> 00:16:36.750] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media,
[00:16:37.650 --> 00:16:40.030] bringing you this podcast,
[00:16:40.930 --> 00:16:44.490] Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:16:46.820 --> 00:16:48.720] Are you following, are you subscribed?
[00:16:49.240 --> 00:16:50.320] Please do.
[00:16:50.840 --> 00:16:53.820] If not, follow me on all social media,
[00:16:54.960 --> 00:16:58.320] at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:16:58.720 --> 00:17:02.000] Again, that's Alien Eyes Photos,
[00:17:02.000 --> 00:17:07.500] and that's Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with an S.
[00:17:08.180 --> 00:17:10.920] And if you wanna book me as an event photographer
[00:17:10.920 --> 00:17:15.400] or even a coach to help you with your business strategy
[00:17:15.400 --> 00:17:17.900] or just have a ideation session,
[00:17:18.859 --> 00:17:21.140] just me and you, just talk about some ideas
[00:17:21.140 --> 00:17:22.540] of what you can do differently.
[00:17:24.020 --> 00:17:29.000] You can book me at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:17:29.720 --> 00:17:33.920] Again, that's Alien Eyes, like the old eyeballs,
[00:17:34.800 --> 00:17:41.540] Eyes with a Z, Photos with an S, alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:17:42.440 --> 00:17:45.780] And that's if you wanna check out my website
[00:17:45.780 --> 00:17:49.120] for more information or to book me directly.
[00:17:50.200 --> 00:17:53.740] And then if you need more inspiration on the creativity
[00:17:53.740 --> 00:17:56.640] and to see the behind the scenes of me and my lady,
[00:17:57.160 --> 00:18:00.360] you know, the one that was giving me those great massages.
[00:18:01.140 --> 00:18:03.320] Well, we are creatives at heart.
[00:18:03.440 --> 00:18:04.900] We used to do music,
[00:18:05.180 --> 00:18:07.480] and I used to do more poetry as well,
[00:18:07.620 --> 00:18:12.160] and now we transfer into video producers and photographers
[00:18:12.160 --> 00:18:14.720] and she more of an editor than I am,
[00:18:14.720 --> 00:18:17.940] but we're also editors to a lot of content,
[00:18:18.260 --> 00:18:22.000] content creators, and we show a lot of behind the scenes
[00:18:22.000 --> 00:18:25.980] and work inspire us to do what we do.
[00:18:27.280 --> 00:18:31.740] And we hope you are inspired by watching what we do.
[00:18:32.460 --> 00:18:38.280] But you could check us out over at Creative Frequency,
[00:18:38.960 --> 00:18:42.640] and all social media type in on a
[00:18:42.640 --> 00:18:45.280] and then Creative Frequency.
[00:18:45.820 --> 00:18:48.780] So on a Creative Frequency,
[00:18:48.920 --> 00:18:51.120] because we're always on a Creative Frequency
[00:18:51.120 --> 00:18:52.900] no matter what we do.
[00:18:53.680 --> 00:18:56.700] And also on YouTube on a Creative Frequency.
[00:18:58.120 --> 00:19:01.020] So check us out, follow us, subscribe,
[00:19:01.720 --> 00:19:03.140] shoot us a message, be like,
[00:19:03.600 --> 00:19:06.120] hey, we never thought about that.
[00:19:06.340 --> 00:19:09.580] Or hey, we love that you create
[00:19:09.580 --> 00:19:12.660] no matter what circumstance or where you're at.
[00:19:13.180 --> 00:19:17.160] Like we travel, we had to prop cameras and lights
[00:19:17.160 --> 00:19:20.500] or iron boards, use iron itself,
[00:19:21.020 --> 00:19:25.540] use a wall, whatever we have we're going to use
[00:19:25.540 --> 00:19:27.760] if we don't have what we need.
[00:19:28.840 --> 00:19:32.820] So check us out on a Creative Frequency on all platforms
[00:19:33.320 --> 00:19:35.120] because we're always creative
[00:19:35.120 --> 00:19:38.040] and keeping that frequency alive.
[00:19:39.040 --> 00:19:42.120] Again, this is Pataka Jackson, Steve Jackson.
[00:19:42.280 --> 00:19:46.520] This is day nine of my social media sabbatical.
[00:19:46.520 --> 00:19:50.660] Ooh, are y'all ready for that book?
[00:19:51.460 --> 00:19:52.680] It's coming soon.
[00:19:52.820 --> 00:19:54.460] I'm gonna link it in the show notes.
[00:19:54.560 --> 00:19:58.300] I'm gonna update it soon, but it's coming.
[00:19:59.380 --> 00:20:02.640] All right y'all, this is Alien Hospital's industry talk
[00:20:03.220 --> 00:20:06.500] and I am out, I'm going to bed y'all.
[00:20:06.680 --> 00:20:07.060] Peace.

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63. Day 8 Social Media Sabbatical Perfect Digital Image Online
Season 1 · Episode 18
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-8-social-media-sabbatical-perfect-digital-image-online
========================================================================

[00:00:00.590 --> 00:00:03.530] Welcome, welcome, welcome.
[00:00:04.850 --> 00:00:10.470] This is day eight of the social media sabbatical.
[00:00:12.590 --> 00:00:14.910] My social media sabbatical.
[00:00:16.290 --> 00:00:18.990] Our social media, for some, for some,
[00:00:19.050 --> 00:00:20.270] I can't speak for everyone,
[00:00:21.250 --> 00:00:23.970] but I hope you took this seriously
[00:00:24.830 --> 00:00:29.230] and joined and really stayed all social media,
[00:00:29.230 --> 00:00:30.930] not even checking your emails
[00:00:30.930 --> 00:00:33.650] and see if you got a notification or a new message
[00:00:33.650 --> 00:00:39.530] or comment or new like, new follow, nothing.
[00:00:40.810 --> 00:00:42.230] Don't even think about the platform.
[00:00:42.470 --> 00:00:43.630] Delete it off your phone.
[00:00:44.610 --> 00:00:47.590] I surely took it off my phone, the home screen,
[00:00:48.570 --> 00:00:49.410] all that good stuff.
[00:00:49.530 --> 00:00:50.790] Well, I took it off the home screen.
[00:00:51.190 --> 00:00:54.010] I didn't delete it because I knew I was gonna need it
[00:00:54.010 --> 00:00:56.010] again if I know if I delete something,
[00:00:56.430 --> 00:00:59.210] I take so many photos and videos,
[00:00:59.210 --> 00:01:02.350] a lot of BTS, a lot of quick clips.
[00:01:02.410 --> 00:01:05.590] When I'm just out, like I'm out now walking,
[00:01:05.810 --> 00:01:08.370] I see deer, I gotta pull my phone out,
[00:01:08.510 --> 00:01:11.950] be creative, give some pictures of deer
[00:01:11.950 --> 00:01:16.410] while they're posted up behind the greenery,
[00:01:16.590 --> 00:01:18.630] the trees, the branches, the bushes
[00:01:19.310 --> 00:01:22.250] and all the other plants that's in here in nature.
[00:01:24.470 --> 00:01:26.510] Yeah, kind of cutting grass,
[00:01:27.150 --> 00:01:29.410] the Metro Park grass though.
[00:01:29.410 --> 00:01:33.050] You may hear lawn mower in the background
[00:01:34.030 --> 00:01:37.050] as they ride around and birds chirping
[00:01:37.050 --> 00:01:40.010] and different insects and stuff flying around.
[00:01:40.710 --> 00:01:45.230] But today I wanna talk about digital image,
[00:01:45.470 --> 00:01:47.030] your digital image.
[00:01:47.310 --> 00:01:49.770] And as we continue to talk about social media,
[00:01:51.270 --> 00:01:55.150] your perfect digital image on social media.
[00:01:57.480 --> 00:02:06.710] So I know a lot of people try to emulate
[00:02:06.710 --> 00:02:09.590] or keep up with the Joneses as to say,
[00:02:10.610 --> 00:02:15.090] keep up with society, what they see in the media,
[00:02:15.210 --> 00:02:18.130] what they see online, social media,
[00:02:20.070 --> 00:02:23.410] trying to keep up with the beauty trend, fads.
[00:02:25.640 --> 00:02:28.280] Oh, this woman has long legs
[00:02:29.520 --> 00:02:36.600] and curved shaped body, nice chest, beautiful,
[00:02:38.000 --> 00:02:42.940] make up to the core, have pads
[00:02:42.940 --> 00:02:47.020] and stuff wrapped around her to the core.
[00:02:48.920 --> 00:02:51.260] But take the picture, post it online,
[00:02:52.740 --> 00:02:56.040] a thousand plus likes and comments.
[00:02:57.040 --> 00:03:00.680] And another young girl sees that and says,
[00:03:00.700 --> 00:03:03.240] dang, I wanna be like that, I wanna emulate that.
[00:03:03.440 --> 00:03:09.100] And they post this picture and they break out
[00:03:09.100 --> 00:03:13.500] and pimples and just clothes not the same
[00:03:13.500 --> 00:03:17.420] as the other ladies clothes and they compare themselves.
[00:03:19.340 --> 00:03:22.780] But are we really showing up as our authentic self?
[00:03:24.800 --> 00:03:28.080] The unfiltered self, this is who I am.
[00:03:28.820 --> 00:03:31.200] And as we talk about that,
[00:03:32.360 --> 00:03:34.600] it's the same for our business, our brands,
[00:03:35.540 --> 00:03:38.760] our image as an entrepreneur, a business owner,
[00:03:39.440 --> 00:03:45.120] creative, are we really being authentic to ourselves?
[00:03:46.920 --> 00:03:49.120] Now, of course, you know, don't post trash,
[00:03:50.680 --> 00:03:52.540] but let's just be real.
[00:03:54.500 --> 00:03:55.800] This is what we're doing.
[00:03:58.340 --> 00:04:01.080] And I know as we are in the age of AI,
[00:04:01.440 --> 00:04:05.280] there's gonna be a lot of that trying to become perfect
[00:04:05.280 --> 00:04:08.560] or have this perfect image online
[00:04:09.960 --> 00:04:15.500] and all the picture filters, makeup, jaw,
[00:04:16.519 --> 00:04:19.899] then it like is tightening, it's so much.
[00:04:21.200 --> 00:04:24.580] And now that we have even better AI in this world
[00:04:24.580 --> 00:04:27.000] that we live in here in 2025
[00:04:27.000 --> 00:04:30.180] and it's continually increasing each month
[00:04:30.180 --> 00:04:32.100] and it's different tools and stuff
[00:04:32.100 --> 00:04:36.340] that's coming out rapidly, it's hard to keep up.
[00:04:36.420 --> 00:04:40.760] Now it's like the, almost like the information age,
[00:04:40.860 --> 00:04:42.060] how it just came out of rapid
[00:04:42.060 --> 00:04:45.760] and everything was like very open.
[00:04:47.060 --> 00:04:49.980] And now it's the same with technology, AI,
[00:04:50.480 --> 00:04:56.800] as it rapidly grows, how are we gonna show up
[00:04:56.800 --> 00:04:59.240] as our authentic self when we could be perfect
[00:04:59.240 --> 00:05:01.840] by touch of a button in a few clicks?
[00:05:04.980 --> 00:05:07.720] I really wanna know, we gotta be our authentic selves
[00:05:07.720 --> 00:05:09.400] and that's what's gonna stand out.
[00:05:11.350 --> 00:05:13.930] You know, we're seeing these AI images with four fingers,
[00:05:15.030 --> 00:05:20.790] six legs, three arms, two heads, missing the nose.
[00:05:25.230 --> 00:05:27.050] It's not perfect, it's showing up
[00:05:27.050 --> 00:05:30.210] as the best thing it could do, but it tried.
[00:05:30.890 --> 00:05:32.790] It just took an educated guess.
[00:05:33.390 --> 00:05:34.990] Best off what you told it.
[00:05:35.990 --> 00:05:37.150] It's not gonna always be right,
[00:05:37.250 --> 00:05:39.690] it's not gonna always be perfect.
[00:05:42.190 --> 00:05:45.990] This has been doing some good work and also bad work,
[00:05:48.400 --> 00:05:52.980] but it showed up as its authentic self technology.
[00:05:54.500 --> 00:05:56.860] Why can't you show up as your authentic self?
[00:06:00.330 --> 00:06:04.970] And I know it's hard and I know sometimes
[00:06:04.970 --> 00:06:09.550] we chase the likes, the comments, the engagement,
[00:06:11.170 --> 00:06:21.490] the money, the intention, but whoever is meant to see it
[00:06:21.490 --> 00:06:25.390] will see it, whoever is looking for it will look for it.
[00:06:26.590 --> 00:06:29.730] But you still have to be you, do you?
[00:06:30.670 --> 00:06:33.930] Your business, your brand has to do it
[00:06:34.490 --> 00:06:36.430] and you have to make sure of it.
[00:06:37.410 --> 00:06:39.930] Now image is important, don't get me wrong.
[00:06:40.470 --> 00:06:44.750] I'm a visual marketer, I'm an event photographer,
[00:06:47.120 --> 00:06:53.980] I'm a video producer, it's very important.
[00:06:58.350 --> 00:07:00.230] Very, very important.
[00:07:01.490 --> 00:07:04.190] But when you mix that with authenticity
[00:07:04.810 --> 00:07:10.030] with your authentic self, it just magnifies to have seen.
[00:07:14.550 --> 00:07:18.130] Not your perfect image, but your best image.
[00:07:18.850 --> 00:07:25.010] Your best image of you in this rare and raw moment.
[00:07:26.750 --> 00:07:28.330] No makeup, no filters.
[00:07:29.610 --> 00:07:31.270] I don't care if you just roll out of bed
[00:07:31.270 --> 00:07:32.850] and turn some lights on,
[00:07:33.330 --> 00:07:35.510] you know the lights is gonna help beautify you.
[00:07:36.090 --> 00:07:39.810] Give us some good soft light, take a photo.
[00:07:41.130 --> 00:07:42.490] Of course clean yourself up,
[00:07:42.850 --> 00:07:47.270] watch your face at least, clean yourself up.
[00:07:47.950 --> 00:07:51.110] But you don't have to get all dolled up, makeup.
[00:07:52.650 --> 00:07:55.550] And for us men, we don't gotta put on our best outfit
[00:07:56.190 --> 00:07:58.590] that we can't just wait to bring out.
[00:08:00.680 --> 00:08:03.840] No, let's show up as our authentic self.
[00:08:05.000 --> 00:08:08.480] Make it look good, feel good,
[00:08:09.380 --> 00:08:11.280] but show up as our authentic self.
[00:08:12.600 --> 00:08:17.180] Let's not get perfect, let's do it above average at least.
[00:08:17.800 --> 00:08:19.960] Let's go for good or great,
[00:08:23.020 --> 00:08:25.300] but above average at least.
[00:08:28.540 --> 00:08:31.900] And most of the time strive for the best.
[00:08:32.720 --> 00:08:34.179] The best way you can look,
[00:08:34.480 --> 00:08:40.140] the best image you can capture, deliver,
[00:08:40.419 --> 00:08:41.280] it's just a video.
[00:08:43.020 --> 00:08:44.980] Your best image, your best effort,
[00:08:46.140 --> 00:08:48.100] but let's not make it perfect
[00:08:48.100 --> 00:08:52.540] and keep up with everyone else you see online
[00:08:52.540 --> 00:08:55.020] or any other business you see online
[00:08:55.020 --> 00:08:57.240] and try to copy and compare yourself like,
[00:08:57.800 --> 00:09:01.180] oh, they got a million views and this and this.
[00:09:01.600 --> 00:09:05.380] Just don't stay in your own lane,
[00:09:05.440 --> 00:09:06.660] just try to get better.
[00:09:06.920 --> 00:09:10.340] And when I say best, I mean the best of yourself,
[00:09:10.700 --> 00:09:11.680] your best self.
[00:09:12.760 --> 00:09:14.480] Keep doing what you have to do.
[00:09:16.390 --> 00:09:18.770] Like, I barely,
[00:09:20.150 --> 00:09:24.170] I used to barely post myself on my social media.
[00:09:25.790 --> 00:09:27.430] I'm like, oh, I gotta serve my clients,
[00:09:27.490 --> 00:09:30.470] I gotta show my portfolio, show images, this and that.
[00:09:30.750 --> 00:09:33.910] Now, it's more of a personal brand,
[00:09:34.250 --> 00:09:36.750] not lifestyle, but more personal.
[00:09:38.150 --> 00:09:44.270] Show my personality as a photographer and content creator.
[00:09:45.830 --> 00:09:51.880] And all these other things, but I decided,
[00:09:52.160 --> 00:09:53.940] I'm like, I'm just gonna post myself,
[00:09:55.640 --> 00:09:57.740] my authentic self, my personality,
[00:09:58.960 --> 00:10:01.300] and also inspire and educate on the way.
[00:10:02.280 --> 00:10:05.880] And that's even more reason to the birth of the podcast
[00:10:06.940 --> 00:10:10.300] and it helped me just get a lot of thoughts
[00:10:10.300 --> 00:10:12.600] that are always having my mind out.
[00:10:13.420 --> 00:10:15.680] And people say I always had these good things to say
[00:10:15.680 --> 00:10:17.220] or I gave them great advice.
[00:10:18.240 --> 00:10:20.340] So I'm like, well, let's make it a win-win.
[00:10:21.060 --> 00:10:24.480] It's giving me time to even talk to myself
[00:10:24.480 --> 00:10:28.040] as in the sense of, again, getting my thoughts out,
[00:10:29.180 --> 00:10:32.540] especially as a business coach
[00:10:33.140 --> 00:10:35.620] to help a lot of creative entrepreneurs
[00:10:37.120 --> 00:10:39.800] or creatives that wanna become entrepreneurs
[00:10:40.300 --> 00:10:41.660] and help with that transition.
[00:10:42.980 --> 00:10:53.950] But I know not all the time I used to keep up
[00:10:53.950 --> 00:11:01.750] with my self-image as far as comparing with the Joneses.
[00:11:01.790 --> 00:11:09.800] That's to say, I wouldn't even post me,
[00:11:09.820 --> 00:11:12.180] but when I did post me,
[00:11:14.400 --> 00:11:18.500] I didn't really compare myself or say,
[00:11:18.760 --> 00:11:19.900] oh, I wanna be like them,
[00:11:19.900 --> 00:11:24.740] but I knew kind of like we are when we're young,
[00:11:26.040 --> 00:11:29.220] we kind of fabricate the story
[00:11:29.220 --> 00:11:33.420] or make something interesting just so we could post
[00:11:33.420 --> 00:11:34.760] and be like, get the wild,
[00:11:34.820 --> 00:11:36.040] like the highlight of our life,
[00:11:36.560 --> 00:11:38.780] like the best moment of the day,
[00:11:39.620 --> 00:11:41.220] oh, we're on top of the hill,
[00:11:41.400 --> 00:11:44.160] but nobody posted when they was on the bottom of the hill
[00:11:44.160 --> 00:11:47.980] or when they was going through the pain and the legs
[00:11:47.980 --> 00:11:48.740] and it was burning,
[00:11:48.740 --> 00:11:50.720] but nobody wanna take a picture of that.
[00:11:51.280 --> 00:11:53.140] People love the process, the journey,
[00:11:53.760 --> 00:11:55.880] and that's what I'm documenting here at the journey
[00:11:55.880 --> 00:12:00.840] and giving it to you all so you can see the process.
[00:12:02.100 --> 00:12:03.600] How is it really done?
[00:12:04.580 --> 00:12:06.340] Anybody okay here at the top?
[00:12:07.500 --> 00:12:09.420] And the picture looks nice, yeah, it's perfect.
[00:12:10.040 --> 00:12:12.120] That's the highlight, oh, the championship,
[00:12:13.020 --> 00:12:15.380] but what about the hard work you put in practice
[00:12:15.980 --> 00:12:18.800] long nights, barely sleeping sometimes
[00:12:18.800 --> 00:12:20.320] because you think it's on your mind
[00:12:20.320 --> 00:12:25.460] because you want to be the best self you can be.
[00:12:31.380 --> 00:12:32.010] What's going on?
[00:12:34.280 --> 00:12:39.500] So remember, always show up as your authentic self.
[00:12:41.000 --> 00:12:45.810] Keep being authentic, visual image
[00:12:45.810 --> 00:12:48.750] and digital image on social media.
[00:12:50.030 --> 00:12:51.350] It doesn't have to be perfect,
[00:12:51.350 --> 00:12:54.350] it just has to be your best effort, your best self.
[00:12:54.450 --> 00:12:59.850] Show up, unfiltered, without makeup, you're beautiful,
[00:13:01.190 --> 00:13:04.850] you're handsome, you're great, you're good looking.
[00:13:09.460 --> 00:13:12.980] And to all the ladies, you are pretty
[00:13:13.520 --> 00:13:18.340] because it's mostly, y'all are effective the most,
[00:13:18.340 --> 00:13:19.380] especially young ladies.
[00:13:19.500 --> 00:13:21.000] And as I have two daughters,
[00:13:21.160 --> 00:13:23.060] I'm especially speaking to them
[00:13:23.060 --> 00:13:25.120] as they're growing in social media age,
[00:13:25.120 --> 00:13:26.480] especially with the AI.
[00:13:27.880 --> 00:13:30.120] You are beautiful, you are pretty,
[00:13:31.200 --> 00:13:33.080] you are great, you are divine.
[00:13:35.630 --> 00:13:39.590] Yeah, I'm just gonna wrap up this vlog
[00:13:39.590 --> 00:13:44.250] because I got to edit before I head out on this trip.
[00:13:48.480 --> 00:13:52.620] And then I know I said my social media sabbatical
[00:13:52.620 --> 00:13:57.960] is ending the same day I go out of town.
[00:13:58.740 --> 00:14:03.760] So, you know, I network and also take pictures,
[00:14:04.180 --> 00:14:05.120] get some video.
[00:14:06.560 --> 00:14:08.440] I said, yeah, that'd be a perfect time
[00:14:08.440 --> 00:14:09.900] for me to get it back,
[00:14:10.780 --> 00:14:14.300] for me to come back alive on social media.
[00:14:16.040 --> 00:14:18.680] But I kind of been learning this journey
[00:14:19.380 --> 00:14:21.100] and also creating for the podcast,
[00:14:21.180 --> 00:14:23.700] just building, being consistent,
[00:14:24.780 --> 00:14:27.400] being more productive, being more focused.
[00:14:27.960 --> 00:14:30.480] Like I said, I have a lot of things to work on,
[00:14:30.600 --> 00:14:31.620] a lot of things to build.
[00:14:32.060 --> 00:14:35.180] I got to finish putting this book together for you all.
[00:14:35.540 --> 00:14:36.580] It is gonna be amazing.
[00:14:36.600 --> 00:14:38.480] I can't wait to read it myself
[00:14:39.100 --> 00:14:41.580] because me, as I just talk this out,
[00:14:41.760 --> 00:14:43.500] and it's just pure thought.
[00:14:44.660 --> 00:14:48.400] You know, I scripted maybe two of the days,
[00:14:50.540 --> 00:14:53.420] but this whole process just been from my heart,
[00:14:53.880 --> 00:14:55.400] just pure experience.
[00:14:55.400 --> 00:14:59.280] Again, just practicing with my communication
[00:15:00.540 --> 00:15:03.400] and articulating my thoughts effectively.
[00:15:04.240 --> 00:15:06.360] And the more I do it, the better I get.
[00:15:06.760 --> 00:15:10.860] So I definitely want to practice and exercise that muscle.
[00:15:14.590 --> 00:15:19.430] I am power walking to give you all a lecture.
[00:15:20.950 --> 00:15:25.790] But this is all about the perfect image,
[00:15:25.790 --> 00:15:27.710] your perfect digital image.
[00:15:29.150 --> 00:15:30.350] You already good looking.
[00:15:31.690 --> 00:15:33.470] Let's just leave it at that.
[00:15:34.610 --> 00:15:36.670] All right, about to end this walk.
[00:15:37.490 --> 00:15:40.410] So I can head back and start editing before this trip.
[00:15:41.510 --> 00:15:44.230] And I'll be back on social media soon.
[00:15:45.630 --> 00:15:48.370] Maybe another couple more days.
[00:15:49.530 --> 00:15:54.610] The 10 days is over with, so I will be back soon.
[00:15:55.790 --> 00:15:57.890] I will update everybody,
[00:15:59.170 --> 00:16:00.950] and then I might be gone again.
[00:16:02.070 --> 00:16:03.670] Gone again in 60 seconds.
[00:16:06.210 --> 00:16:09.010] But I appreciate you all for tuning in.
[00:16:09.030 --> 00:16:10.170] This has been amazing.
[00:16:11.410 --> 00:16:13.250] Thank you all for listening.
[00:16:14.710 --> 00:16:15.710] Keep going.
[00:16:16.150 --> 00:16:17.350] This has been amazing.
[00:16:17.970 --> 00:16:19.670] And I hope you feel the same.
[00:16:21.010 --> 00:16:23.190] All right, this is photographer Jackson,
[00:16:23.190 --> 00:16:28.210] and Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:16:29.490 --> 00:16:34.550] And you can follow me at Alien Eyes Photos
[00:16:35.550 --> 00:16:43.510] as Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with a S, Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:16:43.730 --> 00:16:48.950] And follow on a creator frequency on our social media.
[00:16:49.570 --> 00:16:51.730] If you haven't heard of creator frequency,
[00:16:52.410 --> 00:16:56.850] that's me, Brianna Casanova of Overflow Studios.
[00:16:58.010 --> 00:17:00.690] So definitely check out Overflow Studios.
[00:17:01.350 --> 00:17:03.010] It'll be in the show notes.
[00:17:04.690 --> 00:17:08.650] But yeah, creator frequency is our creative journey,
[00:17:08.770 --> 00:17:10.869] which is behind the scenes, our life.
[00:17:11.910 --> 00:17:14.810] Again, that motivation and continue to do
[00:17:14.810 --> 00:17:18.410] what you gotta do as we're consistent in all we do.
[00:17:18.470 --> 00:17:20.130] And we've been posting,
[00:17:20.130 --> 00:17:22.250] well, since I've been on the sabbatical,
[00:17:22.490 --> 00:17:25.430] she been posting all the content.
[00:17:25.690 --> 00:17:29.990] But yeah, we post all our behind the scenes
[00:17:29.990 --> 00:17:32.890] of just us going through it,
[00:17:33.130 --> 00:17:34.710] whether that's good or bad.
[00:17:34.910 --> 00:17:36.970] We're showing up as our authentic selves.
[00:17:37.830 --> 00:17:40.910] And even in Atlanta, we had a conference
[00:17:40.910 --> 00:17:43.350] so we can't bring much stuff.
[00:17:45.710 --> 00:17:47.970] But just being in a hotel,
[00:17:47.970 --> 00:17:50.690] creating content at the end of the day,
[00:17:50.990 --> 00:17:52.390] after this long conference,
[00:17:55.330 --> 00:17:57.790] and having to use some equipment.
[00:18:01.430 --> 00:18:05.650] Props are replacements, I guess I could say, of props.
[00:18:07.110 --> 00:18:09.130] Because we didn't have all our tools.
[00:18:09.770 --> 00:18:11.910] We can't lug around our big equipment.
[00:18:12.590 --> 00:18:16.250] So we had to use ironboard, the iron itself,
[00:18:16.740 --> 00:18:20.990] and a wall, just get creative in what we can use
[00:18:21.420 --> 00:18:24.410] to help us out as we film and create.
[00:18:26.190 --> 00:18:28.630] But just showing the whole process,
[00:18:28.710 --> 00:18:32.550] not just the final product, that's what to say.
[00:18:33.530 --> 00:18:35.890] So really showing our authentic selves,
[00:18:35.890 --> 00:18:36.910] showing up anyway.
[00:18:37.810 --> 00:18:42.010] So again, follow Creative Frequency on all social media
[00:18:42.890 --> 00:18:45.410] on a Creative Frequency,
[00:18:46.050 --> 00:18:49.670] at on a Creative Frequency.
[00:18:50.350 --> 00:18:54.510] And also on YouTube, check out our channel and subscribe.
[00:18:55.210 --> 00:18:56.870] Don't be afraid to comment either.
[00:18:57.870 --> 00:19:00.230] We'll be watching and replying back to you.
[00:19:01.450 --> 00:19:03.310] And then if you want more information
[00:19:03.310 --> 00:19:05.710] or to book me as an event photographer
[00:19:05.710 --> 00:19:08.310] or business coach,
[00:19:09.050 --> 00:19:13.820] you can visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:19:15.530 --> 00:19:18.250] Alien eyes with a Z, like your eyeballs.
[00:19:18.830 --> 00:19:20.750] Eyes with a Z.
[00:19:21.190 --> 00:19:23.290] Photos with a S.
[00:19:23.790 --> 00:19:24.690] Dot com.
[00:19:26.490 --> 00:19:27.970] Alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:19:28.890 --> 00:19:30.630] All right, y'all, this is photographer Jackson
[00:19:30.630 --> 00:19:32.330] of Alien Eyes Photos Media
[00:19:32.330 --> 00:19:35.250] and Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:19:35.750 --> 00:19:38.990] This is day eight of my social media sabbatical.
[00:19:40.230 --> 00:19:41.350] This has been a great one.
[00:19:41.430 --> 00:19:43.850] This is about the perfect digital image.
[00:19:45.090 --> 00:19:45.950] All right, y'all, peace.

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64. Day 7 Social Media Sabbatical Satisfaction
Season 1 · Episode 17
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-7-social-media-sabbatical-satisfaction
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[00:00:00.720 --> 00:00:10.940] Welcome welcome welcome to alienize photos industry talk and this is day
[00:00:10.940 --> 00:00:20.060] seven hey day seven of my social media sabbatical and speaking of seven day
[00:00:20.060 --> 00:00:24.580] seven I have my daughter seven with me in the car as I record this and hey
[00:00:26.920 --> 00:00:33.980] the irony of this is day seven and wow and now yeah I have an event to cover
[00:00:33.980 --> 00:00:40.180] today so yeah I had to figure out when I'm gonna record this and I'm like hey
[00:00:40.180 --> 00:00:46.060] let's do this in a car before the event because yeah we have to stop and
[00:00:46.060 --> 00:00:50.680] get something to eat before the event as we're kind of pressed with time
[00:00:50.680 --> 00:00:56.780] I'm recording this right now right here in the car just to knock it out but
[00:00:56.780 --> 00:01:03.980] today I want to speak on satisfaction are you satisfied with what you're
[00:01:03.980 --> 00:01:07.600] doing in your business with what you're doing with your creative
[00:01:07.600 --> 00:01:19.430] endeavors your art are you satisfied with life are you content are you
[00:01:19.430 --> 00:01:27.970] satisfied are you complacent just standing there doing the same things
[00:01:27.970 --> 00:01:33.680] over and over like a hamster wheel over and over and over and over again
[00:01:35.820 --> 00:01:46.500] are you satisfied and unlock unlike the the other days I'm kind of like
[00:01:46.500 --> 00:01:52.600] teaching this one would be more motivational more inspirational just
[00:01:52.600 --> 00:02:02.530] something to think about take on this perspective is thought are you really
[00:02:02.530 --> 00:02:11.060] satisfied with your life are you really satisfied with your entrepreneur
[00:02:11.060 --> 00:02:18.780] journey your business are you satisfied with the actions you are
[00:02:18.780 --> 00:02:25.630] currently doing right now what are you doing that keeps you satisfied
[00:02:29.340 --> 00:02:34.400] what are some things that you could change to make you more satisfied and
[00:02:34.400 --> 00:02:45.170] what you're doing now I know a lot of times we start start many things we're
[00:02:45.170 --> 00:02:56.960] not satisfied so also want to say don't quit before you even start if
[00:02:56.960 --> 00:03:09.200] day two you really can't judge the whole criteria off two days one or two
[00:03:09.200 --> 00:03:16.180] days and then you say you quit of course it's not gonna be sunshine and
[00:03:16.180 --> 00:03:24.120] rainbows the first couple days you start I would have been quit I started
[00:03:24.120 --> 00:03:31.040] my business it was rough rough wasn't satisfied for a while I found things
[00:03:31.040 --> 00:03:38.500] that satisfied me are even more was amazing and then there was other things
[00:03:38.500 --> 00:03:45.860] that oh no I'm not satisfied with and the financial the pay I surely wasn't
[00:03:45.860 --> 00:03:51.840] satisfied now I was doing all types of photography before I niche it down
[00:03:51.840 --> 00:03:56.320] to you know being an event photographer because I love events that's actually
[00:03:56.320 --> 00:04:04.820] how I started I used to record people on my iPhone after I performed our
[00:04:04.820 --> 00:04:10.300] host event like I introduced them and then record the performance take
[00:04:10.300 --> 00:04:15.400] pictures on my phone are even the same after I perform I recorded other
[00:04:15.400 --> 00:04:20.600] performers and help them with their social media just the kindness of my
[00:04:20.600 --> 00:04:24.620] because I know how I am as an artist I would want some footage I want some
[00:04:24.620 --> 00:04:32.500] pictures you know performing so I did it for others and decided to invest in
[00:04:32.500 --> 00:04:39.660] the camera so I study learn invest in the camera bought the camera and kind
[00:04:39.660 --> 00:04:45.980] of shift gears to photography more visual art and then brought it more
[00:04:45.980 --> 00:04:54.900] towards visual marketing so if I would have quit it when I first started
[00:04:54.900 --> 00:04:59.100] because things wasn't going my way or working out or I wasn't completely
[00:04:59.100 --> 00:05:03.860] satisfied oh I wouldn't be where I am today you probably want to be
[00:05:03.860 --> 00:05:14.840] listening to this podcast me on this audio if I would have quit so do not
[00:05:14.840 --> 00:05:19.360] be discouraged on your first couple days your first week of starting something
[00:05:19.360 --> 00:05:24.720] new it's a growing process it's a learning process we all get frustrated
[00:05:24.720 --> 00:05:28.600] sometimes and while we're trying to figure things out we really can't
[00:05:28.600 --> 00:05:36.060] figure these out and keep bumping our head on the wall but it takes time it
[00:05:36.060 --> 00:05:41.300] takes time to perfect things the way you want to perfect it or get get
[00:05:41.300 --> 00:05:53.660] to where you wanted to be and to truly be satisfied I remember doing free free
[00:05:53.660 --> 00:06:00.120] events cover free events with photos video even people in my network gave
[00:06:00.120 --> 00:06:04.480] them free photo shoots you know just to practice and get my portfolio up
[00:06:05.890 --> 00:06:18.850] and my first price was $50 charging $50 an hour for a photo shoot and kind of
[00:06:18.850 --> 00:06:23.830] the same with events until I started raising my prices on events still had
[00:06:23.830 --> 00:06:32.300] the $50 photo shoots and then started off with 75 an hour for events and
[00:06:32.300 --> 00:06:40.520] then raised it up to you know basically doubled it 150 to kind of like where I'm
[00:06:40.520 --> 00:06:50.300] at now $300 an hour for events photography coverage that was my main
[00:06:50.300 --> 00:06:55.680] package just like a half day rate so it's four hours special ratings for
[00:06:56.960 --> 00:07:03.220] and then also full day rates so that's kind of what I push is my half day rates
[00:07:03.220 --> 00:07:08.720] like that middle ground but if people want to book hourly I do accept that
[00:07:09.300 --> 00:07:16.740] same with photography and also for video but yeah $50 so I was getting
[00:07:16.740 --> 00:07:23.680] somewhere then I just seen all the editing on the back end after photo
[00:07:23.680 --> 00:07:29.600] shoot so I'm like well I'm missing out on a lot cuz I'm spending so many hours
[00:07:29.600 --> 00:07:36.480] too many hours after the photo shoot it's like dang I'm working for pennies
[00:07:37.080 --> 00:07:40.720] way after the photo shoot because I'm editing and doing this and doing
[00:07:40.720 --> 00:07:45.120] that and the delivery to follow up the emails so it's so much after the
[00:07:45.120 --> 00:07:49.820] fact even things before the fact and then planning and that it's not just
[00:07:49.820 --> 00:07:56.740] taking a picture and then we're done it's a process to it and back on this
[00:07:56.740 --> 00:08:06.340] sabbatical I spoke about systems the power of systems day five so we have
[00:08:06.340 --> 00:08:13.000] to follow these processes follow these systems and you know create how
[00:08:13.000 --> 00:08:19.780] much we charge but it's an investment for whoever wants to purchase your
[00:08:19.780 --> 00:08:25.860] service or if you have a product your product it's time to rate create a
[00:08:25.860 --> 00:08:33.780] product time to market time to distribute the whole production process
[00:08:34.760 --> 00:08:41.100] the cost of material so much go into a product it's a little different for
[00:08:41.100 --> 00:08:46.640] digital products but for a physical product it's a lot that goes to a lot
[00:08:47.400 --> 00:09:00.650] so back to being satisfied what can help you be satisfied and what you
[00:09:00.650 --> 00:09:12.570] already doing right now right now what little tweak and change can help you be
[00:09:12.570 --> 00:09:17.450] more satisfied and again I could be with life or in your business or your
[00:09:17.450 --> 00:09:26.450] journey your creative endeavors whatever that may be what little tweak
[00:09:26.450 --> 00:09:36.510] can you make we all love happiness we all love peace we all love love and we
[00:09:36.510 --> 00:09:46.550] love being loved that we're happy love that we love that we're happy it's
[00:09:46.550 --> 00:09:54.500] no better feeling than that and that goes with being satisfied so there's
[00:09:54.500 --> 00:09:59.600] nothing to think about what keeps you satisfied and how and what can make you
[00:09:59.600 --> 00:10:08.920] satisfied if you're not satisfied so let's wrap it up with saying just be
[00:10:08.920 --> 00:10:17.860] satisfied be amazing be great it's already within you I gotta take take
[00:10:17.860 --> 00:10:22.980] this to a whole nother level and just say you're already satisfied
[00:10:24.320 --> 00:10:33.040] because you simply made the thought all right that's my time this is Steve
[00:10:33.040 --> 00:10:39.400] Jackson it's the photographer Jackson of alien eyes photos media bringing you
[00:10:39.400 --> 00:10:45.160] alien eyes photos industry talk if you want to find more information or to
[00:10:45.160 --> 00:10:54.660] book me visit alien eyes photos calm alien eyes with a Z photos with a S
[00:10:55.680 --> 00:11:02.320] you can follow me on social media but currently I am not active I got three
[00:11:02.320 --> 00:11:10.330] more days but follow me at alien eyes photos that's alien eyes photos on all
[00:11:10.460 --> 00:11:19.140] social media and follow on a creative frequency look at our creative journey
[00:11:19.140 --> 00:11:28.140] me and Brie and I casa nobody as we keeping you inspired to be creative as
[00:11:28.140 --> 00:11:31.860] you look at our journey in the behind the scenes of what we do and just to
[00:11:31.860 --> 00:11:37.460] make it work creatively again this is photographer Jackson of alien eyes photos
[00:11:37.460 --> 00:11:43.200] photos media bringing you alien eyes photos industry talk this is all
[00:11:43.200 --> 00:11:51.180] about being satisfied just be satisfied because you are already satisfied by
[00:11:51.180 --> 00:11:53.940] making the thought all right y'all peace

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65. Day 6 Social Media Sabbatical Produce Do Not Consume
Season 1 · Episode 16
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-6-social-media-sabbatical-produce-do-not-consume
========================================================================

[00:00:01.330 --> 00:00:05.170] Welcome, welcome, welcome.
[00:00:06.130 --> 00:00:11.450] This is day six of my social media sabbatical.
[00:00:13.250 --> 00:00:14.390] Day six.
[00:00:15.550 --> 00:00:18.190] This has truly been an amazing journey.
[00:00:19.550 --> 00:00:21.570] I'm going for 10 days,
[00:00:22.170 --> 00:00:23.370] but like I always say,
[00:00:23.450 --> 00:00:25.850] it's probably gonna be more than 10 days.
[00:00:26.770 --> 00:00:29.810] But I might pop on, pop right back off.
[00:00:30.310 --> 00:00:33.230] Just to update and check some messages.
[00:00:34.930 --> 00:00:39.690] But today I wanna speak on actually social media.
[00:00:41.230 --> 00:00:44.310] And everybody know me as a content creator,
[00:00:44.890 --> 00:00:47.750] photographer, video producer.
[00:00:49.950 --> 00:00:52.610] And with that being said,
[00:00:53.970 --> 00:00:57.190] for all my people that's like me and content creators,
[00:00:57.190 --> 00:01:00.930] even entrepreneurs, business owners,
[00:01:02.450 --> 00:01:04.690] produce, don't consume.
[00:01:06.110 --> 00:01:08.910] And what I mean by that when you're on social media,
[00:01:10.910 --> 00:01:13.990] produce the content, don't consume the content.
[00:01:15.710 --> 00:01:21.630] Like I strategically follow people that I can learn from,
[00:01:23.700 --> 00:01:27.980] that I could build with strategic partners
[00:01:29.260 --> 00:01:33.000] because especially how the algorithm is now,
[00:01:33.680 --> 00:01:36.060] they show you all types of things.
[00:01:36.080 --> 00:01:39.280] Even things that you probably don't even wanna see
[00:01:39.280 --> 00:01:44.520] or unaware about or suggested follows, suggested people
[00:01:44.520 --> 00:01:48.940] that the content that you think that you would like.
[00:01:50.020 --> 00:01:52.640] So take control of that.
[00:01:53.520 --> 00:01:55.300] I know they have the do not,
[00:01:58.340 --> 00:02:03.740] the not interest button and I like this content.
[00:02:04.180 --> 00:02:06.300] So the more you like a certain thing,
[00:02:06.320 --> 00:02:08.740] the more they're gonna show and suggest.
[00:02:09.740 --> 00:02:12.680] So if you don't consume it,
[00:02:13.360 --> 00:02:15.620] they're gonna feed you all types of things,
[00:02:15.620 --> 00:02:20.820] but it's good to push that not suggested button.
[00:02:21.620 --> 00:02:23.160] And I got a good 10 minutes
[00:02:23.160 --> 00:02:28.060] before I had to pick up this food here a little bit early.
[00:02:28.920 --> 00:02:30.140] So I had 10 minutes.
[00:02:30.140 --> 00:02:34.080] I've been on the road for about an hour and a half
[00:02:34.080 --> 00:02:39.500] doing this drive and stopping at some food.
[00:02:40.800 --> 00:02:42.340] I got 10 minutes before it's ready.
[00:02:42.360 --> 00:02:45.560] So I wanna get this episode together
[00:02:45.560 --> 00:02:50.660] and just talk about producing the content.
[00:02:50.820 --> 00:02:53.340] Versus consuming the content.
[00:02:54.840 --> 00:02:58.600] Now, again, if we do consume the content,
[00:03:00.820 --> 00:03:06.700] you'll want to follow pages, follow people,
[00:03:06.980 --> 00:03:11.620] follow businesses that are aligned with you.
[00:03:12.700 --> 00:03:18.900] Like I have a inspirational save tabs and folder
[00:03:20.820 --> 00:03:24.760] for people that's doing what I do,
[00:03:24.760 --> 00:03:29.920] but at a higher level, almost like a,
[00:03:31.560 --> 00:03:34.200] what would you say, a vision board almost,
[00:03:34.860 --> 00:03:38.580] a digital vision board that I could just go back
[00:03:38.580 --> 00:03:45.660] to reference, look at whenever I need that inspiration.
[00:03:46.920 --> 00:03:52.700] And I know a lot of people wake up to their phone,
[00:03:53.100 --> 00:03:56.700] wake up, get on social media, consume the content,
[00:03:56.820 --> 00:03:59.880] consume the content before they even brush their teeth,
[00:03:59.920 --> 00:04:03.280] wash their face, shower, do their morning routine
[00:04:05.600 --> 00:04:09.320] and do all of that and then go straight to work.
[00:04:10.840 --> 00:04:14.120] So they're miserable when they get to work,
[00:04:14.240 --> 00:04:15.920] miserable when they wake up
[00:04:15.920 --> 00:04:20.660] because it's not good content all the time.
[00:04:22.240 --> 00:04:25.040] It's whatever the social media platform gives them,
[00:04:25.100 --> 00:04:30.100] whatever Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or X,
[00:04:31.620 --> 00:04:35.420] or whatever platform they may be on, gives them.
[00:04:36.540 --> 00:04:37.140] TikTok.
[00:04:39.080 --> 00:04:46.930] So if you wake up, do things that are inspirational,
[00:04:47.330 --> 00:04:50.130] especially for me since I'm not on social media
[00:04:50.130 --> 00:04:55.750] at the moment, I have different books that inspire me.
[00:04:56.030 --> 00:05:01.470] So I wake up, stretch, get myself together,
[00:05:01.670 --> 00:05:03.250] brush my teeth, shower.
[00:05:04.410 --> 00:05:07.370] I used to journal, but not so much.
[00:05:07.930 --> 00:05:10.190] Like when I was writing different books,
[00:05:10.350 --> 00:05:13.650] writing books, I used to journal a lot,
[00:05:13.650 --> 00:05:19.890] my notes, my thoughts to formulate my chapters,
[00:05:19.990 --> 00:05:22.930] outline and finish the outline,
[00:05:23.030 --> 00:05:25.990] build off the chapters and the manuscript,
[00:05:26.050 --> 00:05:32.280] but on the opposite side, instead of writing, I'm reading.
[00:05:32.520 --> 00:05:36.120] I'm reading things that are in my industry,
[00:05:37.040 --> 00:05:41.240] more about marketing, sales, general business,
[00:05:41.240 --> 00:05:47.500] frameworks, offers, and in turn,
[00:05:48.200 --> 00:05:50.000] teaching you all that as well.
[00:05:50.860 --> 00:05:53.920] And anybody that hired me as a coach,
[00:05:54.680 --> 00:05:56.480] know they get the same treatment,
[00:05:57.320 --> 00:06:00.160] and I recommend certain books,
[00:06:01.220 --> 00:06:04.220] certain topics to study, send them videos,
[00:06:05.080 --> 00:06:08.140] inspiration, past things that I have done,
[00:06:08.860 --> 00:06:12.900] and I will continue to build out education and have books,
[00:06:13.860 --> 00:06:16.820] and building on my first course, so stay tuned for that.
[00:06:17.700 --> 00:06:22.080] And again, I'm working on a book in this process
[00:06:22.080 --> 00:06:24.780] while I'm away from social media for these 10 days,
[00:06:24.780 --> 00:06:28.420] so stay tuned for that.
[00:06:29.320 --> 00:06:32.300] And I will have to update the description
[00:06:32.300 --> 00:06:34.460] with the link of this book.
[00:06:35.060 --> 00:06:40.060] So if you're viewing this or listening to this
[00:06:42.380 --> 00:06:45.800] after September or after mid-October,
[00:06:46.380 --> 00:06:48.700] you will see the link to the book,
[00:06:48.760 --> 00:06:52.920] so be sure to download and purchase it.
[00:06:52.940 --> 00:06:54.820] I'm gonna make it a reasonable price,
[00:06:55.120 --> 00:06:57.760] and then later in this year,
[00:06:57.760 --> 00:07:00.360] I will have a course to pair with it,
[00:07:00.460 --> 00:07:03.020] so stay tuned for that.
[00:07:03.020 --> 00:07:07.180] Again, produce the content, don't consume it.
[00:07:08.680 --> 00:07:11.960] And when I say produce, what is your industry?
[00:07:14.960 --> 00:07:20.020] Follow a model of someone that inspires you
[00:07:20.020 --> 00:07:26.320] or that's doing big business that you want to be at
[00:07:26.320 --> 00:07:29.340] or the level you want to be at, desire to be at.
[00:07:30.480 --> 00:07:31.480] Kind of model them.
[00:07:32.160 --> 00:07:36.980] Even reach out to them, ask them questions on suggestions
[00:07:36.980 --> 00:07:39.600] or how can I get there, how can I be more like you?
[00:07:40.320 --> 00:07:42.260] I want to get better.
[00:07:43.220 --> 00:07:46.640] Read their books, read their content,
[00:07:48.500 --> 00:07:51.960] practice, write your scripts,
[00:07:53.820 --> 00:07:56.440] write your content out before you deliver it.
[00:07:57.620 --> 00:07:59.140] Practice, practice, practice,
[00:07:59.140 --> 00:08:02.540] and the more you practice, the better you can produce,
[00:08:02.960 --> 00:08:05.720] and you want to be a high-level producer.
[00:08:08.020 --> 00:08:10.880] Like post once or twice a day.
[00:08:12.440 --> 00:08:14.940] Like I'm not even posting once or twice a day
[00:08:14.940 --> 00:08:17.460] because I was a consumer,
[00:08:18.300 --> 00:08:20.260] but now that I'm stepping back and like,
[00:08:20.280 --> 00:08:22.460] wow, I have all this content,
[00:08:22.480 --> 00:08:24.120] but I haven't even posted it,
[00:08:25.260 --> 00:08:27.120] and I can't post it all at once,
[00:08:27.180 --> 00:08:28.780] and then the social media platform's
[00:08:28.780 --> 00:08:30.160] gonna think I'm spamming.
[00:08:30.890 --> 00:08:34.840] I'm posting 100 content pieces a day
[00:08:34.840 --> 00:08:37.900] just to catch up for all the times I didn't post.
[00:08:39.140 --> 00:08:41.440] So when I do get back on social media,
[00:08:41.740 --> 00:08:43.659] I will have a better routine,
[00:08:43.659 --> 00:08:46.460] but if you follow on a creator frequency,
[00:08:47.360 --> 00:08:51.120] which is my inspirational creative brand
[00:08:51.120 --> 00:08:53.580] with my partner Brianna Casanova,
[00:08:53.840 --> 00:08:56.280] we're both former music artists,
[00:08:56.530 --> 00:08:58.900] and we're currently into visual media,
[00:08:58.980 --> 00:09:01.240] podcast production, photography.
[00:09:02.940 --> 00:09:05.400] So everything revolves around creativity
[00:09:05.400 --> 00:09:08.600] and help inspiring anyone that's viewing us
[00:09:08.600 --> 00:09:12.960] on our creative journey to feel inspired to create,
[00:09:13.500 --> 00:09:16.540] produce that content, do the work no matter what.
[00:09:16.980 --> 00:09:18.740] Like we were in Atlanta,
[00:09:19.860 --> 00:09:22.240] and we couldn't bring all of our equipment,
[00:09:22.260 --> 00:09:25.200] so we using iron and boards, the iron,
[00:09:25.200 --> 00:09:27.280] propping things up on the wall,
[00:09:27.280 --> 00:09:30.660] just using the resources that we have in creating
[00:09:30.660 --> 00:09:32.420] no matter what we created.
[00:09:33.980 --> 00:09:36.060] And speaking on that inspiration
[00:09:36.060 --> 00:09:38.260] and the people that's at a higher level,
[00:09:39.720 --> 00:09:42.700] David Shands, who also is a business coach
[00:09:42.700 --> 00:09:43.980] and has a podcast.
[00:09:44.820 --> 00:09:48.500] I actually had the opportunity to run with him.
[00:09:48.560 --> 00:09:51.380] I attended the podcast summit in Atlanta
[00:09:51.830 --> 00:09:53.920] and had the opportunity to run with him
[00:09:53.920 --> 00:09:55.520] and ask him a few questions.
[00:09:56.380 --> 00:09:58.180] So continue to do the work.
[00:09:59.240 --> 00:10:02.640] And you know, you could be where you want to be,
[00:10:03.580 --> 00:10:06.940] continue to produce, continue to do the work,
[00:10:07.860 --> 00:10:09.480] and you will get there.
[00:10:11.290 --> 00:10:15.150] Again, I appreciate you listening as always.
[00:10:16.170 --> 00:10:17.730] This is photographer Jackson,
[00:10:17.990 --> 00:10:21.190] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media
[00:10:21.190 --> 00:10:24.670] bringing you Alien Eyes Photos industry talk
[00:10:24.670 --> 00:10:25.970] here, here, here.
[00:10:27.330 --> 00:10:29.810] And I wanted to make this a little longer,
[00:10:29.830 --> 00:10:31.290] but I got to pick up my food.
[00:10:31.330 --> 00:10:33.290] I am so hungry and exhausted.
[00:10:34.410 --> 00:10:36.110] I was dozing off on the road,
[00:10:36.130 --> 00:10:39.030] but I'm glad I made it, pulled over,
[00:10:39.130 --> 00:10:40.370] got here a little bit early.
[00:10:40.830 --> 00:10:43.630] So I want to knock this episode out
[00:10:43.630 --> 00:10:46.750] because I'll be busy for the rest of the day.
[00:10:47.350 --> 00:10:49.210] And once I get back home,
[00:10:49.290 --> 00:10:51.990] I have a lot of work to do
[00:10:51.990 --> 00:10:54.410] and catch up on before I leave town.
[00:10:56.610 --> 00:11:00.430] So yeah, got a big conference this weekend.
[00:11:02.610 --> 00:11:04.430] I got to get a lot of things in order.
[00:11:04.570 --> 00:11:06.870] I got a few projects I got to wrap up.
[00:11:07.690 --> 00:11:08.970] I still have to pack,
[00:11:09.790 --> 00:11:11.990] so I have a lot to do.
[00:11:12.910 --> 00:11:17.890] But again, produce, don't consume your own social media.
[00:11:19.090 --> 00:11:21.190] Again, this is photographer Jackson
[00:11:21.190 --> 00:11:23.970] bringing you Alien Eyes Photos industry talk.
[00:11:24.510 --> 00:11:27.090] I appreciate you listening as always.
[00:11:27.590 --> 00:11:29.310] And if you want to follow me,
[00:11:29.450 --> 00:11:33.910] you can follow me at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:11:34.110 --> 00:11:36.290] Again, that's Alien Eyes Photos
[00:11:36.290 --> 00:11:41.810] and that's photos with a S, eyes with a Z.
[00:11:43.010 --> 00:11:46.810] And you can follow me on my journey
[00:11:47.410 --> 00:11:49.070] on a creative frequency
[00:11:49.070 --> 00:11:51.870] if you want that creative inspiration.
[00:11:52.730 --> 00:11:55.710] And my personal website for more information
[00:11:55.710 --> 00:11:59.910] and booking is alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:12:00.150 --> 00:12:03.710] Again, that's alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:12:04.130 --> 00:12:07.290] And that's eyes with a Z, photos with a S.
[00:12:08.030 --> 00:12:10.250] Thank you for tuning in as always.
[00:12:10.410 --> 00:12:11.490] Be blessed.
[00:12:12.510 --> 00:12:12.910] Peace.

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66. Day 5 Social Media Sabbatical Power Of Systems
Season 1 · Episode 15
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-5-social-media-sabbatical-power-of-systems
========================================================================

[00:00:00.690 --> 00:00:13.960] wow everyone this is day four nope day five I was playing a joke because on day
[00:00:13.960 --> 00:00:19.620] three I said this is day two but yeah this is day five of my social media
[00:00:20.560 --> 00:00:28.700] sabbatical wow wow wow wow wow I am making progress I recently just wrapped
[00:00:28.700 --> 00:00:37.320] up an interview with the power couple so just stay tuned yeah and the biggest
[00:00:37.320 --> 00:00:44.220] thing was actually my topic for today so a lot of our conversation was about
[00:00:44.220 --> 00:00:52.520] this topic which was systems so let's discuss the power of systems for your
[00:00:52.520 --> 00:01:02.780] business systems is important it's important they create efficiency
[00:01:02.780 --> 00:01:09.780] consistency help with your processes decision-making help you shift through
[00:01:09.780 --> 00:01:18.420] data SOPs and proven scalability which is critical for growth keeps you
[00:01:20.020 --> 00:01:29.400] streamlines communication for employees it is important just like every great
[00:01:29.680 --> 00:01:34.440] sports championship team have a great system have a great playbook they
[00:01:34.440 --> 00:01:42.440] follow which is made by the owners and the coaches the staff and then they
[00:01:42.440 --> 00:01:47.360] implement it with the players and sometimes trades happen so the new
[00:01:47.360 --> 00:01:53.920] players have to learn their system it's all about systems like if you
[00:01:53.920 --> 00:02:01.120] watched the NBA the Spurs at one point do Greg Popovich had a great
[00:02:01.120 --> 00:02:06.840] system like in the playoffs they had one of the best winning records in
[00:02:06.840 --> 00:02:11.980] the playoffs and they won many championships in the Tim Duck and Tony
[00:02:11.980 --> 00:02:19.200] Parker mono genoble era like wow so even going back a little further with
[00:02:19.200 --> 00:02:23.980] the Chicago Bulls of Michael Jordan Scottie Pimpin they had a good system
[00:02:25.320 --> 00:02:35.140] a good system with coach Jackson and not not me but I play basketball but
[00:02:35.140 --> 00:02:40.300] that's here no there but having a great system for your business or
[00:02:40.300 --> 00:02:50.300] you do because as a creative you may have a good system as a musician to jot
[00:02:50.300 --> 00:02:55.360] down ideas and then have a writing session and then a recording session
[00:02:55.360 --> 00:03:00.600] then a review session then the edit session of that song and then we
[00:03:00.600 --> 00:03:05.420] record and then there's the mixing process and the mastering process and
[00:03:05.420 --> 00:03:15.080] you publish and publish in the market promote so it's a system it steps so
[00:03:15.080 --> 00:03:18.660] what system are you creating for your business do you need help with system
[00:03:18.660 --> 00:03:23.580] I can help you with that I have people that better that's better than
[00:03:23.580 --> 00:03:30.880] me that can help you with that but I surely can help you ask for help if
[00:03:30.880 --> 00:03:38.660] you need it it is critical if you don't have a system get the assistance it is
[00:03:38.660 --> 00:03:48.460] powerful it is major it is important now if you want to be consistent
[00:03:48.460 --> 00:03:55.400] without stress or having to recreate the wheel or start fresh create a
[00:03:55.400 --> 00:04:03.060] create SOPs standard operating procedures for your business it's easier
[00:04:03.060 --> 00:04:08.320] for decisions you know the decision-making process is easier because
[00:04:08.320 --> 00:04:13.140] you have that system like McDonald's has one of the best systems like
[00:04:13.980 --> 00:04:21.579] plug-and-play like they hired high schoolers and first day they know
[00:04:21.579 --> 00:04:30.000] to do because they have a great system easy system scalable system that's why
[00:04:30.000 --> 00:04:40.320] they have so many chains of restaurants so many locations so just think about
[00:04:41.300 --> 00:04:48.360] that what business can you model that has a great system like if you're in
[00:04:48.870 --> 00:04:54.120] fast-food restaurant business McDonald's has a great system that you can follow
[00:04:54.120 --> 00:05:03.320] so what company in your industry have a good or great or amazing system that
[00:05:03.320 --> 00:05:07.940] you could kind of model and replicate and get some ideas from and help build
[00:05:07.940 --> 00:05:13.340] your own system from that system again if you need help find someone that
[00:05:13.340 --> 00:05:17.860] could help and I'm that person that can help it doesn't have to be me
[00:05:17.860 --> 00:05:27.420] but it can be me reach out info at alienize photos calm info at alienize
[00:05:27.420 --> 00:05:34.320] photos calm shoot me an email it's good for scalability if you want to
[00:05:34.320 --> 00:05:38.940] grow your company you're not going to always be involved in your company
[00:05:38.940 --> 00:05:41.820] because you want to take those vacations right you want to have that
[00:05:41.820 --> 00:05:47.060] time off right you want to have that that day break you don't want to
[00:05:47.060 --> 00:05:54.120] always be so involved in your business right I know starting off we have to we
[00:05:54.120 --> 00:05:58.160] got to do the groundwork but we have to build the system so we can be able to
[00:05:58.160 --> 00:06:03.040] take time away from our business and let it grow itself they said if you
[00:06:03.040 --> 00:06:07.440] can't take two to three months away from your business then you don't have
[00:06:07.440 --> 00:06:11.480] a good function running business if it can't live and breathe without you
[00:06:12.020 --> 00:06:15.940] then you don't have a good business that you could just step away from it
[00:06:15.940 --> 00:06:21.300] in a time away like I'm right now I'm currently so involved in my business
[00:06:21.300 --> 00:06:28.180] like I'm in the face of my business and I can't step away that's not good
[00:06:29.060 --> 00:06:34.080] there's there's moments are like one or two events as I do event photography
[00:06:34.080 --> 00:06:39.660] and weddings that I can but that's not like all the time I'm not an
[00:06:40.460 --> 00:06:47.560] agency nor do I desire to be an agency but I need to follow an agency model to
[00:06:47.560 --> 00:06:52.720] scale to where I want to be and be able to step away from my company for
[00:06:52.720 --> 00:06:59.540] months at a time you know as I build out my coaching practice and work with
[00:06:59.540 --> 00:07:03.520] my partners and also build this podcast to where I want to build it
[00:07:04.580 --> 00:07:12.320] I need to find a better system find a better method that works for me where I
[00:07:12.320 --> 00:07:17.860] don't have to be as involved but still have that control and you know can
[00:07:17.860 --> 00:07:23.640] assist when needed my phone call away versus have to be there day to day to
[00:07:23.640 --> 00:07:30.460] day hour after hour after long hours and I put in long hours but if I
[00:07:30.460 --> 00:07:37.140] a better system which I'm currently building oh it's gonna be better hire the
[00:07:37.140 --> 00:07:43.660] right staff so you know they could just look over this SOP again standard
[00:07:43.660 --> 00:07:49.440] operating procedures look at a video that you did and just catch on like
[00:07:49.440 --> 00:07:54.060] okay this is how it's done it's like do it at a data right it steps
[00:07:54.060 --> 00:08:00.470] built out those steps increase your bottom line you know you're more
[00:08:00.470 --> 00:08:07.970] profitable if you had the right systems in place and central systems could be if
[00:08:07.970 --> 00:08:16.870] you look at my two two episodes one offers I think that's episode four or
[00:08:16.870 --> 00:08:21.370] six what is one of my earlier episodes back when I was numbering
[00:08:21.370 --> 00:08:28.450] episodes now I'm just doing the titles again I'm targeting through SEO and
[00:08:28.450 --> 00:08:33.669] keywords I'm just taking the episode numbers out cuz yeah I'm gonna have
[00:08:33.669 --> 00:08:38.890] thousands of episodes like yeah I'm really turning all of this into master
[00:08:38.890 --> 00:08:43.669] classes that you could just get the nuggets from the juice from just search
[00:08:43.669 --> 00:08:51.730] the topic and yeah I pretty much talk about many different things and
[00:08:51.730 --> 00:08:58.430] businesses are in business and entrepreneurship so cuz these a lot of
[00:08:58.430 --> 00:09:03.650] things that I wanted to know as I was starting off you know my business and my
[00:09:03.650 --> 00:09:09.010] journey early journey and entrepreneurship so yeah I'm doing this
[00:09:09.010 --> 00:09:15.190] for the younger me the younger creative the young entrepreneur the teen
[00:09:15.190 --> 00:09:21.770] entrepreneur the business minded entrepreneur that needs a spark or
[00:09:21.770 --> 00:09:30.280] just that guidance this is why I started you know you become more
[00:09:30.280 --> 00:09:38.930] efficient by making things simple by building out the right systems having
[00:09:38.930 --> 00:09:45.270] the right system is important and that's all I wanted to leave everyone
[00:09:45.270 --> 00:09:51.990] with because once you have that clarity everything becomes golden
[00:09:53.410 --> 00:10:01.010] everything becomes up as far as being progressive and I believe in for up
[00:10:01.010 --> 00:10:06.510] progression you know things are going up and they're moving forward those only
[00:10:06.510 --> 00:10:10.850] two directions that I love especially when we talk about money and making a
[00:10:10.850 --> 00:10:15.590] profit and if you're in business the thing you have to make a profit are
[00:10:15.590 --> 00:10:20.030] you going to go out of business and we've seen through Kovac a lot of
[00:10:20.030 --> 00:10:24.390] people don't have the right systems involved are a part of their
[00:10:24.390 --> 00:10:30.350] business someone times like Kovac or a pandemic happened you know there
[00:10:30.350 --> 00:10:38.310] can easily adjust and easily navigate through all that the chaos and the
[00:10:38.310 --> 00:10:43.250] subtle changes a lot of people went out of business many business especially
[00:10:43.250 --> 00:10:48.390] wrestling rights shut down cuz they had a plan in action so if you have a
[00:10:48.390 --> 00:10:55.470] good plan you have a good system oh you're going somewhere so again this
[00:10:55.470 --> 00:11:01.070] is all about systems the power of system so just think about that to help you
[00:11:01.070 --> 00:11:06.570] be more efficient is great for productivity keep you consistent better
[00:11:06.570 --> 00:11:11.730] for the decision-making for scaling of course for the growth for the clarity
[00:11:11.730 --> 00:11:15.870] also it can reduce cost that's something I didn't talk about it
[00:11:15.870 --> 00:11:22.990] reduces your cost your bottom line that way you have more profit the
[00:11:22.990 --> 00:11:29.390] line grows get bigger the ceiling is bigger the more you can hire out
[00:11:29.390 --> 00:11:34.630] employees and a team and you don't have to be that active in your business
[00:11:34.630 --> 00:11:38.910] of course you're still going to have to be active and put a lot of
[00:11:38.910 --> 00:11:44.010] groundwork up front but once you put those systems in place you can slowly
[00:11:44.010 --> 00:11:48.630] start to step away and kind of be like a manager of it all director
[00:11:48.630 --> 00:11:54.330] and that's what you want to be and become more of a director just think
[00:11:54.330 --> 00:11:59.490] about that so again this is the power of systems and I am your host
[00:11:59.490 --> 00:12:05.190] photographer Jackson Steve Jackson of alien eyes photos industry talk and
[00:12:06.130 --> 00:12:10.930] owner of alien eyes photos media and I just want to shout out my media
[00:12:10.930 --> 00:12:16.530] partners the pull-up experience check out the pull-up experience podcast
[00:12:16.530 --> 00:12:23.770] and also my video production partners who I am vice president of launch arts
[00:12:23.770 --> 00:12:32.570] media yeah so any big productions I am usually with launch arts media as I
[00:12:32.570 --> 00:12:38.570] focus more on the smaller video production and podcast work and a lot
[00:12:38.570 --> 00:12:44.950] of event photography I do more of my major work with launch arts media so
[00:12:44.950 --> 00:12:52.870] yeah those are my two media partners definitely book book book again if you
[00:12:52.870 --> 00:13:00.510] want to follow me you can follow me at alien eyes photos again as alien eyes
[00:13:01.010 --> 00:13:10.090] photos alien eyes photos comm if you want to book and for more information
[00:13:10.090 --> 00:13:18.390] again as alien eyes photos and as eyes with a Z photos with an S if you were
[00:13:18.390 --> 00:13:26.310] wondering again this is photographer Jackson Steve Jackson and I am signing
[00:13:26.310 --> 00:13:28.470] out peace

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67. Day 4 Social Media Sabbatical Connect & Communicate
Season 1 · Episode 14
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-4-social-media-sabbatical-connect-communicate
========================================================================

[00:00:01.900 --> 00:00:10.580] Wow day four of my social media sabbatical
[00:00:11.780 --> 00:00:13.970] day four y'all and
[00:00:14.600 --> 00:00:19.450] I apologize. It's the last episode. I said day two when it was really day three
[00:00:21.220 --> 00:00:26.900] So do the work is really day three not day two if I said that and slipped up
[00:00:26.900 --> 00:00:33.260] I apologize. I was in a rush. I had a wedding and it was a success. It was beautiful
[00:00:33.980 --> 00:00:38.320] But this is day four of my social media sabbatical
[00:00:38.320 --> 00:00:40.000] social media fast
[00:00:40.000 --> 00:00:45.410] And this is great. I don't feel it amazing right now. Y'all like I may just
[00:00:46.200 --> 00:00:49.760] get rid of social media all entirety like
[00:00:49.760 --> 00:00:53.230] and people coming out the woodworks and
[00:00:54.520 --> 00:00:59.660] Contacting me because I know I'm doing this sabbatical and it's fast this detox
[00:01:01.380 --> 00:01:03.500] It is amazing
[00:01:04.540 --> 00:01:05.980] Like I'm having
[00:01:06.700 --> 00:01:08.120] three hour
[00:01:08.120 --> 00:01:09.900] four hour
[00:01:09.900 --> 00:01:10.620] phone
[00:01:10.620 --> 00:01:18.400] Conversations like I'm not even a phone person, but like, you know my mentor he contacted me and
[00:01:18.400 --> 00:01:25.040] Catching up with old friends. It's amazing and I appreciate it. So
[00:01:26.220 --> 00:01:27.220] This
[00:01:27.220 --> 00:01:29.620] episode is about
[00:01:31.400 --> 00:01:32.840] Connecting and
[00:01:33.120 --> 00:01:33.920] Communicating
[00:01:34.940 --> 00:01:40.840] Let's connect and communicate just simple as that
[00:01:40.960 --> 00:01:43.220] Like who is somebody?
[00:01:44.120 --> 00:01:51.870] That is a viable in your life that you can connect with reconnect with
[00:01:52.650 --> 00:01:54.650] And communicate with have those
[00:01:55.010 --> 00:01:57.170] hour long talks
[00:01:58.590 --> 00:02:02.770] Who is that person who was that mentor who was that coach?
[00:02:03.530 --> 00:02:05.010] Am I your coach?
[00:02:06.330 --> 00:02:12.310] I can be if you hire me, but seriously
[00:02:14.030 --> 00:02:17.230] You know, I'm having these impactful conversations
[00:02:18.290 --> 00:02:24.340] and catching that with a lot of you know people that don't get to talk to on a normal basis and
[00:02:25.210 --> 00:02:29.530] You know, I do it a lot of things and I run a podcast director
[00:02:30.510 --> 00:02:35.010] producer of a podcast I have my own podcast and
[00:02:35.030 --> 00:02:41.850] I'm a vice president for production company. I have a photography business event business
[00:02:43.590 --> 00:02:45.430] Man parent
[00:02:45.430 --> 00:02:47.690] I'm in a relationship. It's
[00:02:48.150 --> 00:02:53.210] so many things that I do and that I am a part of
[00:02:54.730 --> 00:02:58.710] It's like wow just taking a step back
[00:02:59.450 --> 00:03:01.770] Taking a step back from social media
[00:03:03.390 --> 00:03:05.490] This little task
[00:03:05.810 --> 00:03:07.870] that I've done
[00:03:08.410 --> 00:03:10.410] has made a
[00:03:10.410 --> 00:03:14.030] impact in my life a
[00:03:14.030 --> 00:03:21.860] Ripple effect and people are feeling it and they catch a fire and it's filling a spire
[00:03:22.880 --> 00:03:23.920] like man they
[00:03:23.920 --> 00:03:30.180] Congratulating me and giving me applause and they really reaching out and it motivated me like man
[00:03:30.180 --> 00:03:33.060] Keep going I know how I feel I know how it is
[00:03:34.160 --> 00:03:35.960] Like man, I'm thinking about getting off myself
[00:03:37.620 --> 00:03:39.620] And I encourage you please do
[00:03:41.300 --> 00:03:45.160] It's refreshing and I know somebody was telling me like yeah, I did
[00:03:45.760 --> 00:03:52.760] 11 months off social media. I haven't been on social media in 11 months. I just got back on
[00:03:53.480 --> 00:03:59.500] And we've reconnected through social media before I got off social media and they telling me this
[00:04:00.300 --> 00:04:07.700] So that's amazing and very encouraging and like if I do a whole year off social media and build
[00:04:07.700 --> 00:04:12.400] What I need to build and continue to do what I do
[00:04:12.400 --> 00:04:21.240] Just think about all the work that I will put in and all the time and production and focus I would have
[00:04:22.840 --> 00:04:24.220] Just think
[00:04:24.820 --> 00:04:28.800] And I want you to think for yourself to yourself
[00:04:28.800 --> 00:04:35.640] About all the work you could put in for all the wasted time and distractions that's right in front of you
[00:04:35.640 --> 00:04:37.840] But you letting it happen
[00:04:37.840 --> 00:04:39.880] You're not doing the work
[00:04:40.900 --> 00:04:43.500] You're not doing what you're supposed to do
[00:04:43.500 --> 00:04:48.220] You're not doing what you want to do to get to where you want to be in life
[00:04:50.910 --> 00:04:55.530] Just take I challenge you to take two days off social media
[00:04:56.190 --> 00:05:02.410] Don't check it just delete it off your phone completely don't even go on a laptop or computer either
[00:05:04.270 --> 00:05:11.630] Give me two days as your coach or unofficial coach however, you want to look at me as your motivator
[00:05:12.890 --> 00:05:20.760] Do two days trot out do what you say you want to do in life
[00:05:20.760 --> 00:05:22.600] Do that
[00:05:23.120 --> 00:05:33.320] Just do it you say you want to be a millionaire you say you want to have these nice cars this big house have
[00:05:33.320 --> 00:05:37.820] The the wife or if you're female have the husband or whatever
[00:05:39.880 --> 00:05:45.720] You're not putting in the work in social media distraction
[00:05:46.820 --> 00:05:48.940] Maybe it is
[00:05:49.720 --> 00:05:54.900] Maybe you're too consumed with the overly consumed
[00:05:55.660 --> 00:06:01.660] With social media you're on it too much and not using it for the right reasons
[00:06:03.290 --> 00:06:06.270] You're supposed to use it to research
[00:06:08.210 --> 00:06:15.770] Connect and communicate and communicate in the right ways as far as networking and building relationships
[00:06:15.770 --> 00:06:18.070] nurturing those relationships
[00:06:18.070 --> 00:06:20.350] maintaining those relationships
[00:06:20.350 --> 00:06:22.730] building those relationships
[00:06:23.490 --> 00:06:25.430] Continuing those relationships
[00:06:28.240 --> 00:06:30.560] Communicating in the right way in the right direction
[00:06:32.710 --> 00:06:35.410] Like I am feeling so free
[00:06:35.410 --> 00:06:41.670] So fulfilled anybody know me. I'm a free-spirited person, and I love my freedom
[00:06:41.670 --> 00:06:48.250] I love just living life and living life on my own terms and I
[00:06:48.250 --> 00:06:49.970] got away with social media and
[00:06:51.370 --> 00:06:52.570] like wow
[00:06:52.570 --> 00:06:56.450] Like I'm having impactful conversation like I have a
[00:06:56.450 --> 00:06:59.250] Big interview tomorrow
[00:07:03.440 --> 00:07:06.660] I'm getting ready. I'm doing my research. I'm
[00:07:06.660 --> 00:07:09.080] Getting my questions right that I want to ask
[00:07:09.080 --> 00:07:16.420] I don't always go off the questions that I want to ask like that I wrote down or written down somewhere, but I
[00:07:16.420 --> 00:07:23.900] Have them I kind of mess that manifests what I want to say how I want the conversation to go
[00:07:25.700 --> 00:07:28.480] Have it pre laid out in my head
[00:07:28.480 --> 00:07:33.200] So when it comes to the interview it just flows because I just wanted to flow
[00:07:33.200 --> 00:07:36.860] I don't want it to be scripted at all. I want it to flow
[00:07:36.860 --> 00:07:42.680] That's how I want every conversation the interview that I have. I just wanted to flow and it wanted to be natural
[00:07:43.780 --> 00:07:46.640] But I wanted to be insightful impactful
[00:07:46.640 --> 00:07:53.330] Especially for y'all like I take a lot from it learn a lot from it
[00:07:53.330 --> 00:07:57.350] But I want you to take a lot from it and learn from it as well
[00:07:58.370 --> 00:08:02.590] As a creative entrepreneur we all we have we got to stick together
[00:08:03.510 --> 00:08:05.770] Community is powerful
[00:08:05.770 --> 00:08:13.980] Connect and communicate is as simple as that
[00:08:13.980 --> 00:08:16.780] Connect and communicate
[00:08:17.760 --> 00:08:24.520] Again, I challenge you to do two days away from social media get off social media for two days
[00:08:26.000 --> 00:08:29.590] Even even even YouTube and all the other guess
[00:08:31.220 --> 00:08:36.720] Stick to text messages and calling if you limit it to text messaging and calling
[00:08:37.760 --> 00:08:39.460] for two days
[00:08:40.260 --> 00:08:46.780] Think about where your life would be where career would be where your focus would be where your productivity be
[00:08:47.720 --> 00:08:50.960] I'm gonna give you some time to just think about that for a few seconds
[00:08:54.590 --> 00:08:59.570] Hmm just think where would your life would be
[00:09:00.100 --> 00:09:10.730] Where career would be I'm feeling amazing. I'm feeling great. It's late at night
[00:09:10.730 --> 00:09:13.150] And I'm recording
[00:09:13.150 --> 00:09:15.410] staying dedicated consistent
[00:09:16.330 --> 00:09:18.480] I'm really documenting this process
[00:09:19.150 --> 00:09:23.180] It's ten days of better going. I feel like it's gonna be longer than ten days
[00:09:23.770 --> 00:09:26.810] Because this is freaking amazing
[00:09:28.370 --> 00:09:30.290] This is amazing
[00:09:30.930 --> 00:09:36.030] I'm feeling good feeling great. I'm feeling lighter. I'm feeling more focus
[00:09:36.030 --> 00:09:41.590] I'm feeling dedicated to the work that I need to be doing a connecting with a lot of more people
[00:09:42.810 --> 00:09:48.370] that a lot of times that I say I don't have time for it because I'm busy and
[00:09:48.370 --> 00:09:53.950] doing a lot and doing all these things that I'm a part of and
[00:09:53.950 --> 00:09:56.490] You know they reach out and encourage me as well
[00:09:56.810 --> 00:10:07.110] So again, I'm having you know hour-long conversations that I normally don't have or have time for
[00:10:09.290 --> 00:10:10.730] It is
[00:10:10.730 --> 00:10:11.410] Amazing
[00:10:12.130 --> 00:10:15.690] And I would encourage you to do the same
[00:10:15.690 --> 00:10:19.890] Encourage you to do the same and continue to do the same
[00:10:19.890 --> 00:10:23.270] And continue and continue and continue
[00:10:24.610 --> 00:10:27.510] You have to put in the work
[00:10:27.510 --> 00:10:29.150] Gotta have good habits
[00:10:29.150 --> 00:10:39.290] And you got to detox all the clutter in your life and now with social media for me I
[00:10:39.290 --> 00:10:43.290] Had to break those bad habits just scrolling scrolling scrolling
[00:10:43.290 --> 00:10:47.750] After I post oh hey scroll scroll scroll scroll scroll
[00:10:48.450 --> 00:10:50.410] When I post a post
[00:10:50.410 --> 00:10:52.870] share and get off
[00:10:54.110 --> 00:10:59.330] Come back on comment and reply to people that commented
[00:11:01.250 --> 00:11:01.810] But
[00:11:02.530 --> 00:11:04.130] We all get distracted
[00:11:05.010 --> 00:11:08.670] No matter what it is in life, even if it's not some social media
[00:11:08.670 --> 00:11:13.810] We all have something that distract us even outside of social media. I would say
[00:11:14.570 --> 00:11:18.570] Food distract me. I'm a foodie. I love food
[00:11:19.230 --> 00:11:20.790] one of those smoothies
[00:11:20.790 --> 00:11:22.930] I'm a potato head
[00:11:23.750 --> 00:11:28.610] So if I come across any of that and it's a function. Oh
[00:11:28.610 --> 00:11:30.450] Man, you got my attention
[00:11:32.030 --> 00:11:36.950] So I have to eliminate that as well
[00:11:38.050 --> 00:11:44.140] Stay away from it. It's a double-edged sword. I
[00:11:44.140 --> 00:11:46.040] Love it. It's a comforting food
[00:11:46.040 --> 00:11:48.660] Gets me energized makes me feel happy
[00:11:50.120 --> 00:12:01.410] But it's a distraction too much of something. It's also bad. So I
[00:12:01.410 --> 00:12:03.210] Had to eliminate that as well
[00:12:04.980 --> 00:12:08.540] working way too much way too many hours I
[00:12:09.140 --> 00:12:11.220] Did that?
[00:12:11.540 --> 00:12:20.050] Many years of my life up to two years ago. I work part-time
[00:12:20.050 --> 00:12:22.250] Still running business
[00:12:22.250 --> 00:12:24.590] still vice president of another business
[00:12:25.350 --> 00:12:27.130] another company
[00:12:28.700 --> 00:12:30.820] director producer of a
[00:12:30.820 --> 00:12:31.600] podcast
[00:12:31.600 --> 00:12:38.060] Again around my own podcast. I used to do music push who used to write books
[00:12:38.060 --> 00:12:39.820] So many things
[00:12:39.820 --> 00:12:46.830] But what am I gonna focus on get focus get that clarity?
[00:12:47.910 --> 00:12:49.550] So I can maximize my
[00:12:50.370 --> 00:12:58.830] Productivity and I'm still kind of finding that out and to be honest. I don't think I ever shared this but I'm a share now
[00:13:00.330 --> 00:13:07.460] I want to get up to my first million. That's the real reason I'm getting off social media
[00:13:08.680 --> 00:13:10.540] so I could focus I
[00:13:11.940 --> 00:13:13.860] Want to make my first million
[00:13:15.500 --> 00:13:21.300] I'm giving myself a year, but if I don't knock it out in a year, I'm not gonna beat myself up, bro
[00:13:22.120 --> 00:13:25.560] But I know the goal is to make my first million
[00:13:26.600 --> 00:13:31.520] Whether that is eight months a year two years
[00:13:32.880 --> 00:13:34.980] Three is pushing it
[00:13:35.600 --> 00:13:39.800] But I'm gonna give myself grace. I
[00:13:39.800 --> 00:13:41.820] Want to get to my first million
[00:13:41.820 --> 00:13:43.560] I'm dedicated
[00:13:44.940 --> 00:13:48.840] And I'm doing the work and doing what I need to do
[00:13:49.680 --> 00:13:54.060] I'm actively looking for the right sponsors. I have a
[00:13:54.060 --> 00:14:00.420] list of companies that I want to collaborate and work with partner with reach out to
[00:14:01.980 --> 00:14:09.440] See how we can really make this happen I am really
[00:14:11.200 --> 00:14:13.340] Slimming down my client list
[00:14:15.000 --> 00:14:16.920] My target audience
[00:14:18.040 --> 00:14:23.620] A lot of a lot of things are changing. I'm coming to a lot of clarity
[00:14:24.720 --> 00:14:39.140] As I'm on the social media sabbatical. I'm having a good time. I enjoy my peace. I
[00:14:39.140 --> 00:14:42.380] Enjoy my mental clarity. I
[00:14:42.380 --> 00:14:45.320] Ever meditated once on the sabbatical and it was amazing
[00:14:45.320 --> 00:14:50.390] I used to meditate all the time and I've got away from it for months
[00:14:51.280 --> 00:14:53.590] Almost a year and it's
[00:14:54.500 --> 00:14:55.500] It's unusual
[00:14:56.580 --> 00:15:04.870] Because I sit with myself a lot. I'm my own best friend. I'm a thinker. I think a lot
[00:15:04.870 --> 00:15:08.790] I'm just being my own thoughts. You could say I'm over thinker
[00:15:09.870 --> 00:15:11.450] Because I'm always in my thoughts
[00:15:13.720 --> 00:15:15.560] But this time away
[00:15:16.640 --> 00:15:23.050] I've been able to connect and communicate and it's been lovely. It's been well
[00:15:24.470 --> 00:15:26.470] And I challenge you to do the same
[00:15:28.350 --> 00:15:30.190] Connect and communicate
[00:15:30.190 --> 00:15:35.570] With all the right people in your life that need to be in life
[00:15:36.850 --> 00:15:40.290] And want to be a life for the right reasons
[00:15:41.650 --> 00:15:43.590] So remember that
[00:15:44.350 --> 00:15:45.930] Connect and communicate
[00:15:46.850 --> 00:15:49.210] And that's what I'm doing while I'm on a social media
[00:15:50.970 --> 00:15:51.530] sabbatical
[00:15:51.530 --> 00:16:02.460] Dispassed away from social media. I'm really putting in work y'all and again, I'm building out a book
[00:16:02.460 --> 00:16:05.020] And a lot of these episodes
[00:16:06.040 --> 00:16:08.700] Probably all of these episodes is gonna go in the book
[00:16:09.740 --> 00:16:13.040] And I'm gonna add a little more to it
[00:16:13.040 --> 00:16:15.420] Add a little personal story to it
[00:16:16.300 --> 00:16:18.520] I'm also building the course
[00:16:18.520 --> 00:16:25.420] It should be ready by the end of this year. If not the top of next year
[00:16:25.420 --> 00:16:28.780] 2026 yes, I'm putting a date on it. So, you know, it's real
[00:16:30.160 --> 00:16:35.440] Yes, I'm serious and I'm serious about building this wealth and getting to my first million and
[00:16:36.400 --> 00:16:38.560] Please help me support me
[00:16:39.300 --> 00:16:45.880] Help me cuz it took this million. I'm a genuine person. I
[00:16:45.880 --> 00:16:47.840] Hope a lot of people for free
[00:16:49.100 --> 00:16:53.180] This podcast I'm doing for free. I
[00:16:53.180 --> 00:17:00.060] Share a lot of tips and my journey for free. I give a lot of game for free people call me up pick my brain
[00:17:00.060 --> 00:17:02.300] sometimes for free
[00:17:02.300 --> 00:17:04.740] and like damn
[00:17:04.740 --> 00:17:07.520] I'll be you know, it's like
[00:17:07.940 --> 00:17:10.920] $1,000 car. Oh
[00:17:10.920 --> 00:17:14.180] Well, that's cool. I
[00:17:14.180 --> 00:17:15.640] Do it a lot
[00:17:16.400 --> 00:17:20.079] You know, I'm a good person. I'm a nice person. I'm a genuine person
[00:17:21.060 --> 00:17:24.579] but I'm also a business person business-minded and
[00:17:26.180 --> 00:17:29.560] It's time to take control it's time to
[00:17:31.000 --> 00:17:37.090] Really buckle down and start
[00:17:37.650 --> 00:17:46.380] monetizing a lot of different things that I haven't before a lot of people
[00:17:47.860 --> 00:17:50.220] Want to work with me but
[00:17:51.420 --> 00:18:00.850] They don't have a budget and I spawn I'm a figure out other ways that we can
[00:18:01.710 --> 00:18:05.710] Work with each other or can assist you and help you
[00:18:06.530 --> 00:18:10.850] So just stay tuned for that and
[00:18:10.850 --> 00:18:13.570] Stay on this path in this journey with me
[00:18:14.070 --> 00:18:15.750] continue to grow
[00:18:15.750 --> 00:18:17.970] continue to build
[00:18:17.970 --> 00:18:20.290] Continue to pray meditate
[00:18:21.130 --> 00:18:23.150] Be with yourself
[00:18:23.150 --> 00:18:24.410] reflect
[00:18:27.750 --> 00:18:34.050] Reflection that's that's a powerful thing sitting with yourself meditate and that's a powerful thing
[00:18:35.090 --> 00:18:42.180] This lies in which you want the results of your life
[00:18:42.180 --> 00:18:47.000] Your entrepreneurship journey, what do you want it to be?
[00:18:47.820 --> 00:18:49.960] Visualize it and see
[00:18:50.640 --> 00:18:54.140] You could be whatever you want to be
[00:18:54.800 --> 00:18:59.580] Your life is for you in your own eyes and
[00:18:59.580 --> 00:19:06.530] Mine to see you could really live your dream in your fantasies
[00:19:07.890 --> 00:19:14.190] For real. Yeah, this is
[00:19:14.940 --> 00:19:16.340] photographer Jackson
[00:19:17.700 --> 00:19:25.500] Steve Jackson of alien eyes photos media bringing you alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:19:26.260 --> 00:19:27.740] And yes
[00:19:28.300 --> 00:19:30.720] I'm wrapping this up
[00:19:31.550 --> 00:19:38.950] And if you want more information on a book me as a very photographer or coach
[00:19:39.950 --> 00:19:46.430] Business strategy as we have adding ideation sessions and figure out a strategy that helps
[00:19:47.030 --> 00:19:53.970] You know work with your plans your future and where you want to go. Let me help you build that out
[00:19:54.550 --> 00:19:58.130] You could visit alien eyes photos
[00:19:58.130 --> 00:19:59.530] calm
[00:19:59.530 --> 00:20:01.950] alien eyes photos
[00:20:02.670 --> 00:20:07.330] calm and that's eyes with a Z photos with an S
[00:20:07.330 --> 00:20:09.470] Alien eyes photos
[00:20:10.130 --> 00:20:14.170] Calm you could follow me at alien eyes photos
[00:20:15.090 --> 00:20:18.970] again, that's alien eyes with a Z
[00:20:19.510 --> 00:20:23.410] Photos with an S on all social media
[00:20:24.110 --> 00:20:27.270] Even YouTube must start posting on YouTube. So
[00:20:27.690 --> 00:20:32.550] Definitely find me on there and you could find my join the vision again
[00:20:34.130 --> 00:20:38.060] My creative partner my life partner my baby
[00:20:39.710 --> 00:20:47.450] Brianna Casanova on a creative frequency or all platforms even YouTube
[00:20:48.430 --> 00:20:56.480] Helping you stay motivated and creative and showing our behind-the-scenes of how we done it and doing the work and
[00:20:56.790 --> 00:21:01.690] Staying creative even when we don't and we're very consistent. We've been posting
[00:21:02.550 --> 00:21:07.510] couple months straight like never missed a day and
[00:21:07.510 --> 00:21:12.530] I've been away for social media. So she's been doing all the posts and I give it up for her and
[00:21:12.530 --> 00:21:14.460] definitely shout her out and
[00:21:15.070 --> 00:21:18.550] again, you can follow us on a
[00:21:18.550 --> 00:21:24.430] Creative frequency on a creative frequency on our social media platforms
[00:21:25.330 --> 00:21:31.650] Again, this is photographer Jackson of alien eyes photos media. I am out
[00:21:31.650 --> 00:21:35.570] Continue to be impactful as I am being impactful in your life
[00:21:37.150 --> 00:21:40.770] Mm-hmm. All right, y'all see y'all next episode
[00:21:41.710 --> 00:21:42.270] peace

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68. Day 3 Social Media Sabbatical Do The Work
Season 1 · Episode 13
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-3-social-media-sabbatical-do-the-work
========================================================================

[00:00:01.070 --> 00:00:03.910] Wow, this is simply amazing.
[00:00:03.910 --> 00:00:09.010] This is day two of my social media sabbatical.
[00:00:10.430 --> 00:00:15.670] I am fasting for social media for 10 days or more.
[00:00:15.850 --> 00:00:16.730] There might be more.
[00:00:16.830 --> 00:00:18.150] I feel like there's gonna be more.
[00:00:19.510 --> 00:00:26.870] But I got a conference out of town on the 10th day.
[00:00:27.630 --> 00:00:31.010] So yeah, it may be 10 days.
[00:00:31.070 --> 00:00:32.830] I might keep it at 10 days, you know,
[00:00:32.850 --> 00:00:35.730] how we gotta get back.
[00:00:36.770 --> 00:00:39.550] I might post some fresh pictures out of town.
[00:00:40.830 --> 00:00:43.730] So yeah, that'll be my new welcome back on
[00:00:43.730 --> 00:00:46.990] to the platforms of social media.
[00:00:47.890 --> 00:00:52.690] So I appreciate everyone who's joining me on the podcast
[00:00:52.690 --> 00:00:55.450] and also joining me on this journey
[00:00:55.450 --> 00:00:57.850] the 10 day sabbatical journey.
[00:00:58.770 --> 00:01:02.130] It has been great for me thus far.
[00:01:02.390 --> 00:01:03.630] I am loving it.
[00:01:04.030 --> 00:01:05.650] I'll help you get in motivation
[00:01:05.650 --> 00:01:08.610] and some tips from all these episodes.
[00:01:09.710 --> 00:01:11.790] Yesterday I spoke on habits.
[00:01:12.110 --> 00:01:15.130] The first day I talked about detoxing.
[00:01:15.730 --> 00:01:19.370] Today I would like to talk about doing the work.
[00:01:20.030 --> 00:01:22.330] Just do the work.
[00:01:23.290 --> 00:01:27.090] I have to leave out in a wedding in 30 minutes.
[00:01:28.150 --> 00:01:31.090] So this one is gonna be quick and short,
[00:01:31.170 --> 00:01:34.670] but just a reminder to do the work.
[00:01:36.310 --> 00:01:39.530] Yesterday I had a long days of work
[00:01:39.530 --> 00:01:41.330] and preparing for this wedding,
[00:01:42.410 --> 00:01:48.450] doing some research on podcasting and old radio shows,
[00:01:50.430 --> 00:01:54.410] photography, advertising, just the whole gamut.
[00:01:56.280 --> 00:01:57.280] I am loving it.
[00:01:57.280 --> 00:01:58.980] I'm loving the time I have.
[00:01:59.620 --> 00:02:02.560] I did get a chance to read like I mentioned.
[00:02:03.120 --> 00:02:05.720] I'm not gonna have much time to read today.
[00:02:06.440 --> 00:02:11.120] So I'm gonna double up tomorrow, day four.
[00:02:12.120 --> 00:02:13.140] Stay out for that.
[00:02:13.160 --> 00:02:14.280] Stay tuned for that topic.
[00:02:14.320 --> 00:02:16.100] That's gonna be something special.
[00:02:17.160 --> 00:02:19.420] And I'll be a little more well rested.
[00:02:19.420 --> 00:02:22.280] So I'm gonna be in for a treat.
[00:02:23.720 --> 00:02:27.300] But this is a reminder to do the work.
[00:02:28.060 --> 00:02:32.300] I think the goal in life as far as entrepreneurship
[00:02:32.300 --> 00:02:35.880] and owning a business is to be able
[00:02:35.880 --> 00:02:39.400] to write your own job description.
[00:02:40.960 --> 00:02:45.020] Yes, write your own job description.
[00:02:47.660 --> 00:02:50.200] How does that sound?
[00:02:50.920 --> 00:02:52.160] Lovely, right?
[00:02:52.980 --> 00:02:55.180] I mean, who don't wanna get paid
[00:02:55.840 --> 00:02:58.200] for doing what they love?
[00:02:59.840 --> 00:03:03.960] You're getting paid to do what you love to do in life.
[00:03:04.740 --> 00:03:05.920] That is something amazing.
[00:03:05.980 --> 00:03:07.420] That is something special.
[00:03:08.160 --> 00:03:11.180] And don't ever take that moment for granted.
[00:03:13.870 --> 00:03:16.350] Think about those things that you wanna do
[00:03:17.230 --> 00:03:20.250] that you be like, oh, I'm not making money
[00:03:20.250 --> 00:03:21.210] from so-and-so.
[00:03:21.210 --> 00:03:25.850] Are you in this dead-end job and have no way out?
[00:03:27.660 --> 00:03:30.740] Find out a way that you can monetize what you do.
[00:03:31.460 --> 00:03:35.360] If you love writing, figure out how you can
[00:03:35.360 --> 00:03:39.400] turn your writing into publishings and sell it.
[00:03:41.160 --> 00:03:43.660] If you are a poet, which I was,
[00:03:44.440 --> 00:03:46.820] you have to perform in the right places,
[00:03:47.000 --> 00:03:50.400] in the right organizations, the right promoters.
[00:03:50.860 --> 00:03:52.580] You have the right people book you
[00:03:52.580 --> 00:03:54.140] because you will get advantage,
[00:03:54.140 --> 00:03:55.240] took an advantage of.
[00:03:55.440 --> 00:03:58.280] You'll get paid, you'll get paid, yeah.
[00:03:59.540 --> 00:04:02.240] But how much you wanna get paid for it
[00:04:03.040 --> 00:04:04.300] is something to look at.
[00:04:04.340 --> 00:04:06.880] So you have to be in the right places also.
[00:04:07.320 --> 00:04:08.780] Market in the right places.
[00:04:09.440 --> 00:04:13.980] Because a lot of people will undervalue you
[00:04:13.980 --> 00:04:15.840] in what you offer.
[00:04:16.640 --> 00:04:19.540] So make sure you are promoting in the right places,
[00:04:19.620 --> 00:04:20.959] in the right markets.
[00:04:20.959 --> 00:04:22.780] Know your target audience.
[00:04:22.920 --> 00:04:24.420] That's where the gold is at.
[00:04:25.280 --> 00:04:27.740] Like me, I don't step too much
[00:04:27.740 --> 00:04:30.640] out of the side of creative entrepreneurs.
[00:04:30.980 --> 00:04:33.140] If you're creative, if you're an entrepreneur,
[00:04:33.680 --> 00:04:36.040] business owner, creative entrepreneur,
[00:04:37.600 --> 00:04:39.120] that's my core audience,
[00:04:39.340 --> 00:04:41.800] especially young creative entrepreneurs
[00:04:42.400 --> 00:04:44.900] wanting to get into entrepreneurship
[00:04:44.900 --> 00:04:47.060] or start a creative endeavor.
[00:04:48.240 --> 00:04:49.500] I live the lifestyle.
[00:04:50.240 --> 00:04:51.580] Most of my life.
[00:04:52.420 --> 00:04:55.320] I've been into music since I was a young,
[00:04:55.540 --> 00:04:57.080] pre-teen actually.
[00:04:58.480 --> 00:05:01.720] Done it, performed later as a teenager,
[00:05:02.120 --> 00:05:03.220] into my adulthood,
[00:05:04.560 --> 00:05:07.260] and hung it up on the shelves about four years ago.
[00:05:08.220 --> 00:05:10.120] I haven't performed
[00:05:11.000 --> 00:05:14.320] in over three years, yeah.
[00:05:14.880 --> 00:05:16.940] My last performance was three years ago.
[00:05:18.760 --> 00:05:21.220] So I lived my dream.
[00:05:21.300 --> 00:05:23.020] That was a blessing.
[00:05:23.880 --> 00:05:25.700] I'm more of a recording artist,
[00:05:26.100 --> 00:05:28.900] but when I perform, I perform.
[00:05:29.840 --> 00:05:33.040] So if you had the opportunity to check me out
[00:05:33.040 --> 00:05:36.700] back in the day, you were in for a treat.
[00:05:39.560 --> 00:05:41.880] And I hope you loved it and liked it.
[00:05:41.880 --> 00:05:43.620] And I appreciate the support.
[00:05:44.160 --> 00:05:45.220] A lot of people ask me,
[00:05:45.300 --> 00:05:47.280] am I gonna get back to it?
[00:05:48.060 --> 00:05:49.300] I never know.
[00:05:50.200 --> 00:05:50.860] I never know.
[00:05:51.580 --> 00:05:53.560] Cause you never know what life may bring.
[00:05:53.840 --> 00:05:54.940] Life is mysterious.
[00:05:55.640 --> 00:05:56.580] We have control.
[00:05:56.760 --> 00:05:57.620] We should take control,
[00:05:57.640 --> 00:05:59.320] but it's also mysterious.
[00:06:00.340 --> 00:06:03.280] But I am building something even bigger.
[00:06:05.930 --> 00:06:07.910] So I am doing the work.
[00:06:09.890 --> 00:06:10.110] Excuse.
[00:06:11.610 --> 00:06:16.350] And I'm encouraging everyone else to do the work.
[00:06:17.070 --> 00:06:18.610] You have to do the work.
[00:06:18.610 --> 00:06:21.670] There's no other way around it.
[00:06:21.690 --> 00:06:23.750] There's no substitute for work.
[00:06:23.910 --> 00:06:25.190] You have to do the work.
[00:06:25.430 --> 00:06:26.870] Somebody has to do it.
[00:06:27.290 --> 00:06:29.090] So let that be you.
[00:06:29.950 --> 00:06:32.230] Figure out how you can make it easy for yourself.
[00:06:34.660 --> 00:06:37.380] If you want to be more hands-on,
[00:06:37.580 --> 00:06:39.620] be in construction, plumbing,
[00:06:41.620 --> 00:06:43.900] make sure you learn the trade.
[00:06:44.520 --> 00:06:46.460] Learn your craft or whatever you do.
[00:06:46.640 --> 00:06:47.760] Study, study, study.
[00:06:48.520 --> 00:06:53.300] I've been doing photography for over five years now,
[00:06:53.300 --> 00:06:54.820] and I'm constantly studying.
[00:06:54.820 --> 00:06:56.080] I was studying yesterday,
[00:06:56.220 --> 00:06:59.400] looking at old trends
[00:07:00.160 --> 00:07:03.280] and also the advertising behind it.
[00:07:04.120 --> 00:07:05.520] Cause I'm a marketer.
[00:07:06.120 --> 00:07:08.880] I'm always be doing research on,
[00:07:09.000 --> 00:07:11.980] first off my industry and what works for other industry.
[00:07:12.240 --> 00:07:13.640] Hence this podcast,
[00:07:14.180 --> 00:07:16.760] Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:07:19.640 --> 00:07:24.520] So don't be afraid to get behind that computer,
[00:07:24.520 --> 00:07:27.160] go to the library and do that research.
[00:07:27.300 --> 00:07:28.600] You have to do the work.
[00:07:29.700 --> 00:07:31.020] There's no other way.
[00:07:31.880 --> 00:07:33.200] If you don't do the work,
[00:07:33.220 --> 00:07:35.000] it's going to continue to pile up.
[00:07:35.300 --> 00:07:36.600] You know how it is.
[00:07:37.140 --> 00:07:39.580] Why let it pile up and make yourself miserable
[00:07:39.580 --> 00:07:44.400] and depressed and be in a dark, deep, black hole?
[00:07:44.720 --> 00:07:45.240] Why?
[00:07:45.760 --> 00:07:50.500] Just constantly do the work you want to improve.
[00:07:50.920 --> 00:07:53.240] And if you're not where you at in life,
[00:07:53.460 --> 00:07:55.760] you have to do the work.
[00:07:55.820 --> 00:08:00.340] Sometimes double the work to get to where you need to be
[00:08:00.340 --> 00:08:01.500] and want to be.
[00:08:02.900 --> 00:08:04.900] And that's my message to you.
[00:08:05.660 --> 00:08:09.140] I'm about to continue to make sure I have everything
[00:08:09.140 --> 00:08:10.320] for this wedding.
[00:08:10.900 --> 00:08:13.280] It's going to be a nice day, it's sunny.
[00:08:14.000 --> 00:08:16.940] I'm at a great venue, got a great couple.
[00:08:17.540 --> 00:08:23.320] They even prayed with me on the initial cards.
[00:08:23.400 --> 00:08:25.960] We went over the timeline and details of the wedding.
[00:08:26.800 --> 00:08:29.120] So it's like, we're a praying family.
[00:08:29.220 --> 00:08:30.520] Would you like to pray with us?
[00:08:30.580 --> 00:08:32.580] And I said, yes, why not?
[00:08:33.280 --> 00:08:35.419] Let's get this prayer in, yes.
[00:08:36.500 --> 00:08:41.039] And so today is the day and it's a lovely day
[00:08:41.039 --> 00:08:43.400] and it will continue to be a lovely day.
[00:08:44.780 --> 00:08:49.660] So as I'm about to wrap up and get ready to do this work,
[00:08:50.400 --> 00:08:53.400] AKA this wedding, and on top of that,
[00:08:53.660 --> 00:08:56.540] do more work as I continue to build out the podcast
[00:08:56.540 --> 00:09:01.060] and continue to write the ebook and build out this course.
[00:09:01.840 --> 00:09:04.820] It's always worth to do some always doing work
[00:09:04.820 --> 00:09:07.840] and this 10-day social media sabbatical
[00:09:07.840 --> 00:09:09.300] has been great for that.
[00:09:09.860 --> 00:09:12.660] Man, I might do a whole month, y'all.
[00:09:12.980 --> 00:09:14.880] I honestly may do a whole month.
[00:09:15.960 --> 00:09:18.100] I may pop on for like one day
[00:09:18.100 --> 00:09:20.680] and pop right back off another 10 days
[00:09:20.680 --> 00:09:21.880] and another 10 days.
[00:09:23.160 --> 00:09:25.400] So I'm doing the work and I'm loving it,
[00:09:25.400 --> 00:09:27.900] I'm loving my peace, I'm loving my mental clarity,
[00:09:28.200 --> 00:09:30.760] I'm loving that I'm more focused and more productive.
[00:09:31.300 --> 00:09:33.140] I am getting a lot done.
[00:09:33.820 --> 00:09:38.600] So this is my reminder to you, do the work.
[00:09:39.420 --> 00:09:43.940] Just do the work, as simple and easy as that.
[00:09:44.120 --> 00:09:45.920] There's no other way around it.
[00:09:46.180 --> 00:09:48.860] Be able to write your own job description
[00:09:49.800 --> 00:09:54.160] by right now doing the work.
[00:09:55.400 --> 00:09:57.420] All right, y'all, this has been another edition
[00:09:57.420 --> 00:09:59.760] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:10:00.340 --> 00:10:04.080] This is day three of my social media sabbatical
[00:10:05.300 --> 00:10:07.840] and this is just a reminder to do the work.
[00:10:08.570 --> 00:10:11.400] And this is photographer Jackson, Steve Jackson
[00:10:11.400 --> 00:10:13.500] of Alienize Photos Media.
[00:10:15.100 --> 00:10:17.960] And if you wanna find me for more information
[00:10:17.960 --> 00:10:21.400] or to book me as your coach or event photographer
[00:10:21.400 --> 00:10:24.640] or if you need video production as well
[00:10:24.640 --> 00:10:28.180] as I help you with the marketing of your business,
[00:10:30.720 --> 00:10:33.180] visit alienizephotos.com.
[00:10:33.180 --> 00:10:39.820] Again, Alienize with a Z, Photos with a S.com.
[00:10:41.100 --> 00:10:42.820] I know I'm not active right now,
[00:10:42.820 --> 00:10:48.220] but you could follow me at Alienize Photos,
[00:10:49.900 --> 00:10:51.660] Alienize Photos.
[00:10:52.180 --> 00:10:54.700] And also check out my joint picture
[00:10:54.700 --> 00:10:58.780] with the creative herself, Brianna Casanova
[00:10:58.780 --> 00:11:01.200] on a creative frequency.
[00:11:01.710 --> 00:11:06.820] Follow us at on a creative frequency,
[00:11:07.460 --> 00:11:12.680] motivating you to continue to be creative,
[00:11:13.600 --> 00:11:16.480] showing you our journey behind the scenes
[00:11:16.480 --> 00:11:18.620] as we continue to do the work.
[00:11:19.400 --> 00:11:21.940] So there's no other way around it
[00:11:21.940 --> 00:11:23.760] and we've been consistently posting
[00:11:23.760 --> 00:11:27.260] since we started the page and never missed a day.
[00:11:27.640 --> 00:11:30.360] Consistency builds trust and credibility.
[00:11:31.220 --> 00:11:34.460] And yeah, it's a good habit to have.
[00:11:34.840 --> 00:11:36.320] Continue to do the work.
[00:11:37.100 --> 00:11:38.660] Again, this is photographer Jackson
[00:11:38.660 --> 00:11:42.160] of Alienize Photos Media bringing you
[00:11:42.160 --> 00:11:46.300] Alienize Photos industry talk day three.
[00:11:46.840 --> 00:11:50.180] Social media sabbatical, the fast and the real
[00:11:50.800 --> 00:11:52.400] and I am out.
[00:11:52.860 --> 00:11:53.320] Peace.

========================================================================
69. Day 2 Social Media Sabbatical Habits
Season 1 · Episode 12
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-2-social-media-sabbatical-habits
========================================================================

[00:00:01.230 --> 00:00:05.610] This is day two of the social media
[00:00:06.570 --> 00:00:07.370] bad
[00:00:07.370 --> 00:00:14.410] sabbatical. I am away y'all. This is day two. I don't talk about habits.
[00:00:15.870 --> 00:00:19.890] This is day two of my social media sabbatical and
[00:00:20.630 --> 00:00:27.790] today let's touch on habits. Your habits are crucial when you have more time on your hands.
[00:00:28.670 --> 00:00:33.250] So it is best to have some good, healthy habits.
[00:00:34.970 --> 00:00:38.750] Instead of spending an average of 30 minutes on social media,
[00:00:39.750 --> 00:00:46.630] I personally could read a couple chapters of many books that are just collecting dust on my shelf.
[00:00:47.450 --> 00:00:52.750] At this point, I'd just be buying books, supporting local authors and creators in their
[00:00:52.750 --> 00:00:58.950] endeavors, both physical books and ebooks. If they quizzed me,
[00:01:00.390 --> 00:01:04.670] I would not get much past the first few pages, honestly.
[00:01:05.530 --> 00:01:12.230] Being off social media is helping me reclaim my time and again, I am building out a course
[00:01:12.230 --> 00:01:20.710] that should be available later this year, as well as a new book. Are y'all excited for it?
[00:01:21.960 --> 00:01:27.560] What are some things that you are currently working on behind the scenes that was once a
[00:01:27.560 --> 00:01:37.590] dream? Day two of my social media sabbatical is feeling like a good break away from
[00:01:38.810 --> 00:01:43.250] this AI and robotics and I can actually feel like a human again.
[00:01:44.590 --> 00:01:50.150] I reconnected with nature with my daughter as we hiked a new trail we'd never been on
[00:01:50.150 --> 00:01:56.590] before. Stumbling over rocks and tree branches, you know how it is, all in the wilderness,
[00:01:56.990 --> 00:02:07.070] the wilder beast. Just be tripping and clinging over rocks. Oh yeah, you get it if you've been
[00:02:07.070 --> 00:02:15.170] hiking and yeah, the elements is out there. And as an entrepreneur or creative entrepreneur,
[00:02:15.170 --> 00:02:22.730] it is vital to take breaks and surround yourself with nature and natural living organisms.
[00:02:23.730 --> 00:02:31.490] Many hug a tree, put their feet in grass, soak up all the fresh air from the plants,
[00:02:32.290 --> 00:02:39.180] work in the garden, meditate outside, but find what works for you.
[00:02:40.360 --> 00:02:51.590] Mine is simply taking a walk or a nice hike. Ever heard many power couples
[00:02:52.610 --> 00:02:57.970] and what they do? They take breaks in nature's or what about an old couple
[00:02:59.150 --> 00:03:05.710] walking? Have you seen the old folks walking? Well, they say it is healthy for you physically
[00:03:05.710 --> 00:03:13.530] and also your mind to walk at least 30 minutes a day. It helps reduce stress
[00:03:13.530 --> 00:03:23.850] and increase mental clarity. Reduce stress and increase mental clarity.
[00:03:25.090 --> 00:03:32.330] Now, if you're entrepreneur, business owner, creative, that is very impactful. I don't know
[00:03:32.330 --> 00:03:45.150] about you, but it is a must. Now, it's a great habit to have. Sometimes I may turn into a
[00:03:45.150 --> 00:03:53.070] jog as I'm constantly playing basketball weekly, once or twice a week. So I have more wind and
[00:03:53.070 --> 00:04:01.620] stamina for my endeavors and also basketball. And for my creative performers, this is
[00:04:01.620 --> 00:04:06.760] for your lifestyle. You don't want to be on stage winded or do a speech winded or dance,
[00:04:06.820 --> 00:04:13.680] whatever you do, you don't want to be winded. Keep that stamina up, be active, be in nature,
[00:04:13.960 --> 00:04:22.420] clear your mind, rehearse, put in the work. And I'm putting the work that's going to be for
[00:04:22.420 --> 00:04:29.780] tomorrow, so I ain't gonna go too deep into it. But what habits are you picking up?
[00:04:30.660 --> 00:04:37.660] And which ones are you trying to put down? What are you secretly secretly working on
[00:04:38.720 --> 00:04:48.480] that you do not have time for? Do exactly that and minimize or completely cut out distractions.
[00:04:49.500 --> 00:04:56.300] I mean, completely cut out distractions. Like social media, if I'd have kept
[00:04:56.300 --> 00:05:01.480] it on my phone, I probably would have slipped up and pushed that dang button just out of habit.
[00:05:02.620 --> 00:05:08.820] And that's why I want to talk about habits because you got to minimize it or get rid of
[00:05:08.820 --> 00:05:15.880] it completely. And I got rid of it completely because I don't want to slip up and press that
[00:05:15.880 --> 00:05:21.820] little icon on my phone or two and just be like, dang, I didn't mean to press it and
[00:05:21.820 --> 00:05:29.980] wipe off quickly. No, I want to have zero time, zero watch time, zero usage time.
[00:05:30.500 --> 00:05:36.980] And I am going to show the facts. I'm not just someone just telling you all of this because
[00:05:36.980 --> 00:05:41.600] it's cool or it sounds cool. No, I'm actually doing the work and I'm gonna show the proof.
[00:05:41.800 --> 00:05:51.340] The proof is in the pudding. I am doing the work. Habits are regular tendencies or engagements
[00:05:51.340 --> 00:06:00.500] that you do frequently that come up naturally to you and it's hard to give up. New habits form
[00:06:00.500 --> 00:06:09.360] around 18, 30 days, something like that, 15, 30, around that time range, you know, about
[00:06:09.360 --> 00:06:16.520] 20 days, let's just say 18 to 30 days. It is a ritual, a routine that you have and develop.
[00:06:17.480 --> 00:06:23.720] So what new routines will you insert into your life and your self-development?
[00:06:25.700 --> 00:06:37.840] That habit loop is cue, craving, response, and reward. Again, habit loops start with the cue
[00:06:38.780 --> 00:06:47.440] and then it goes to craving, then it's response, and then a reward. The cue starts the desire
[00:06:47.440 --> 00:06:55.580] and new behavior fueled by a reward. Just like the food we crave, craving is the motivation
[00:06:55.580 --> 00:07:02.120] and driving force behind the habit. Along with motivation, you can also have friction.
[00:07:02.840 --> 00:07:12.480] Either is a response mechanism you have towards that habit or behavior. Your ability to do it
[00:07:12.480 --> 00:07:18.780] or ability to not do it affects this and to satisfy our cravings,
[00:07:19.940 --> 00:07:28.460] we have that delicious treat or dish, which is the reward or our end goal.
[00:07:29.360 --> 00:07:38.340] How can we change and break a habit? First, you have to acknowledge it and be aware of it.
[00:07:38.660 --> 00:07:44.500] Secondly, change your environment and make it hard for you to get and do that habit.
[00:07:45.340 --> 00:07:53.260] Thirdly, tell your family, your friends and loved ones, even colleagues and business partners.
[00:07:54.380 --> 00:08:02.980] Tell them, help them keep you accountable. Tell them what you're doing so they can help you
[00:08:02.980 --> 00:08:08.340] break it and not encourage that habit or habits that you want to get rid of.
[00:08:10.060 --> 00:08:20.000] Last but not least, have a replacement. Ideally, you want something in comparison
[00:08:20.000 --> 00:08:27.640] that is somewhat similar to make it easy, but it doesn't have to be. It could be something
[00:08:27.640 --> 00:08:39.620] completely different, but we are habits lovers, habit lovers, creatures of habits, habit lovers,
[00:08:41.520 --> 00:08:51.300] things of familiarity. We seek things that's familiar, so make it easy. Do something that
[00:08:51.300 --> 00:09:00.720] is like what you're trying to replace. Make it easy. Just replace it with something you
[00:09:00.720 --> 00:09:12.620] find beneficial. To take on a new habit that you want to replace your old, keep it simple.
[00:09:13.920 --> 00:09:21.000] Make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy and make it satisfying.
[00:09:21.920 --> 00:09:29.580] You will change up your habits in no time. In no time, you will change that habit.
[00:09:31.340 --> 00:09:40.860] And yeah, I put in that work, that 30 minutes of reading time. It is grateful. I actually
[00:09:40.860 --> 00:09:50.980] went to sleep and woke up to reading, which is good. I do a lot of reading when I can,
[00:09:50.980 --> 00:09:58.600] but I'm reading even more, and it's crucial and beneficial to my growth and self-development.
[00:09:58.940 --> 00:10:07.380] As I continue to teach and preach and all the principles and tactics and frameworks that I'm
[00:10:07.380 --> 00:10:14.480] learning, I give back to my community, my followers, my tribe, and everybody that I work
[00:10:14.480 --> 00:10:23.380] with. I apply it to my businesses and everything that I do. So hey, if you want some tips and
[00:10:23.380 --> 00:10:30.140] insights, check out these podcast episodes, and that's why I started. And again,
[00:10:30.760 --> 00:10:39.760] if you listen to my first couple episodes, I started this podcast to help me with communication
[00:10:39.760 --> 00:10:46.140] and my public speaking and turning all of these into a master class to teach.
[00:10:46.680 --> 00:10:56.040] And people want to hire me on different topics, to have them hire me or bring me in to speak
[00:10:56.040 --> 00:11:03.860] on certain topics or already have the outline for it. And basically just have to finish it,
[00:11:03.860 --> 00:11:13.480] wrap it up in a bow and present. So if you find any topics that you desire and really want to
[00:11:13.480 --> 00:11:19.600] bring me out to your organization, your company, your team, or just the one-on-one, hey, this is
[00:11:19.600 --> 00:11:28.260] what this is for. I bring on a lot of people from my network or people I network with or just
[00:11:29.360 --> 00:11:36.020] desire to meet. I bring them on a platform to help educate you. And I think that's a good
[00:11:36.020 --> 00:11:41.800] habit to have. You got to continue to build your network and learn from others. So
[00:11:41.800 --> 00:11:47.440] as I learn from others, you can learn from others as well. So I hope you find value in
[00:11:47.440 --> 00:11:52.780] all of this. And yeah, what are some habits that you are wanting to break?
[00:11:52.780 --> 00:11:56.620] What are some new habits that you are wanting to start?
[00:11:57.540 --> 00:12:06.240] I'm gonna let you think and reflect on that. Again, what are those habits you are wanting
[00:12:06.240 --> 00:12:14.000] to break? And what are those new habits you are wanting to start? You might have to play
[00:12:14.000 --> 00:12:22.380] this episode a few times to get the tactical tips and the steps to start a new habit and
[00:12:22.380 --> 00:12:30.060] break a new habit. The proof is in the pudding. Show your work. Just like in math class,
[00:12:30.060 --> 00:12:36.220] show your work. How did you get to your answer? How did you come to this outcome? This
[00:12:36.220 --> 00:12:45.200] result? So what result will you have in the next 30 days, 60 days to the end of the year?
[00:12:46.400 --> 00:12:52.360] What results will you have with the new habits you formed and the habits that you
[00:12:52.360 --> 00:13:04.070] want anymore and got rid of? What will your results be? Yes, this is Mr. Photographer Jackson,
[00:13:05.170 --> 00:13:13.750] Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos Media, bringing you another episode here on Alienize
[00:13:13.750 --> 00:13:22.910] Photos Industry Talk, the introspective business podcast, bringing you great insights and tips
[00:13:22.910 --> 00:13:31.910] from various industries, arches, knowledge, wisdom from my entrepreneur journey that
[00:13:31.910 --> 00:13:41.470] can be applied through various industries and sectors. So again, thank you for tuning in to
[00:13:41.470 --> 00:13:48.130] Alienize Photos Industry Talk. If you want to find more information or book me, visit
[00:13:49.750 --> 00:14:02.570] alienizephotos.com. Again, Alienize with a Z, Photos with a S.com. And once I'm back on social
[00:14:02.570 --> 00:14:11.810] media, I will get to everyone, get to the comments, the DMs, follow people back. But
[00:14:11.810 --> 00:14:22.280] now you can follow me at Alienize Photos, at Alienize Photos. And be sure to follow
[00:14:22.750 --> 00:14:33.050] Creative Frequency at, on, a, Creative Frequency, on, a, Creative Frequency. Yes,
[00:14:33.370 --> 00:14:41.710] keeping you motivated and tips on how to stay creative as we show behind the scenes. And
[00:14:41.710 --> 00:14:49.290] me and Brianna Casanova. I call us the creative geniuses, but I'm gonna let y'all
[00:14:49.290 --> 00:14:55.250] determine that. So check us out on, on a Creative Frequency. This is another edition of Alienize
[00:14:55.250 --> 00:15:00.690] Photos Industry Talk with photographer Jackson, and I'm signing out. Peace.

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70. Day 1 Social Media Sabbatical Detox
Season 1 · Episode 11
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/day-1-social-media-sabbatical-detox
========================================================================

[00:00:00.590 --> 00:00:01.630] Wow
[00:00:02.350 --> 00:00:08.450] This is day one of my social media fast
[00:00:10.340 --> 00:00:19.560] Can I just say I am thrilled? I am excited. I am happy. I am joyful
[00:00:19.560 --> 00:00:22.260] I am energized. I
[00:00:22.260 --> 00:00:23.360] am greatness
[00:00:25.790 --> 00:00:28.530] blessed by the best
[00:00:28.530 --> 00:00:35.090] Day one of the social media fast. Oh
[00:00:35.090 --> 00:00:41.350] Gotta love it. I'm working on quite a few things
[00:00:42.430 --> 00:00:48.880] Got some events coming up. I'll be out of town for a while
[00:00:48.880 --> 00:00:52.080] Got some big meetings. I
[00:00:52.080 --> 00:00:54.760] Need some mental clarity. I
[00:00:54.760 --> 00:00:56.590] need to be more productive and
[00:00:57.580 --> 00:00:59.590] I don't need to be scrolling up and down
[00:01:00.320 --> 00:01:02.950] all these different social media platforms
[00:01:04.580 --> 00:01:06.510] And I'll post and get off
[00:01:07.180 --> 00:01:09.360] That's what I used to do
[00:01:09.360 --> 00:01:12.930] but you know, sometimes we get caught up and then
[00:01:13.900 --> 00:01:17.480] commenting back and forth with our peers
[00:01:18.560 --> 00:01:20.140] and different networks
[00:01:21.320 --> 00:01:24.600] So, you know, we all been down and lame
[00:01:24.600 --> 00:01:25.860] sometimes
[00:01:27.270 --> 00:01:32.910] It's good. Sometimes it's bad and I'm not gonna say it's good or bad
[00:01:33.830 --> 00:01:38.870] You know when I was on social it's only been a day when I was on social
[00:01:39.710 --> 00:01:42.290] But I'm taking these ten days
[00:01:42.290 --> 00:01:48.970] Just removing it I had to take it off my phones, you know, you're gonna click it, you know out of sight out of mind
[00:01:48.970 --> 00:01:52.270] so I just took it off and
[00:01:52.270 --> 00:01:54.130] You know more
[00:01:54.130 --> 00:01:59.670] creative frequency with Brianna Casanova and
[00:02:03.180 --> 00:02:04.380] Yeah, and I
[00:02:05.060 --> 00:02:07.240] Had to tell her you you you have to post
[00:02:08.060 --> 00:02:13.680] Everything I can help you but as far as getting on and posting it's all up to you
[00:02:16.040 --> 00:02:17.240] Because I
[00:02:17.240 --> 00:02:21.180] Cannot get on I cannot I had to stay true to my word
[00:02:22.040 --> 00:02:26.120] But we can't miss a day. We were also doing a consistency thing
[00:02:27.540 --> 00:02:32.320] Supposed to be 60 days. I said let's make it a year. I know
[00:02:32.320 --> 00:02:36.640] I'm not sure if we're gonna agree to the year, but at least the 60 days
[00:02:36.640 --> 00:02:42.160] That was our commitment to keep posting consistently every day each day
[00:02:42.160 --> 00:02:46.380] For 60 days and that was our commitment that we made
[00:02:47.120 --> 00:02:51.260] To ourselves at the podcast summit when we are in Atlanta
[00:02:52.180 --> 00:02:52.860] so
[00:02:52.860 --> 00:02:55.800] We've been doing great. We've been consistent
[00:02:56.720 --> 00:03:02.480] We've been making that happen really sometimes other than there in the last minute
[00:03:02.960 --> 00:03:04.780] 11 p.m
[00:03:06.470 --> 00:03:14.560] But right now I need to focus on the podcast. I need to focus building it out
[00:03:14.560 --> 00:03:17.240] And I need your help
[00:03:18.360 --> 00:03:22.980] What do you want to learn as a creative entrepreneur
[00:03:23.940 --> 00:03:31.240] What do you want to learn because there's many things that I may not even know about
[00:03:32.340 --> 00:03:40.400] That you may want to know about but I have someone into my network that can help both of us
[00:03:41.480 --> 00:03:42.120] So
[00:03:42.920 --> 00:03:44.740] What do you want to learn about?
[00:03:45.340 --> 00:03:51.580] And if you were creative and wanted to transition into an entrepreneur become a creative entrepreneur
[00:03:52.600 --> 00:03:56.720] What are some things on your mind? What are some things that are holding you back?
[00:03:58.300 --> 00:04:08.580] Allow me to help allow my network to help. We're all family. We're all community, you know
[00:04:09.700 --> 00:04:11.600] Everybody loves me
[00:04:13.070 --> 00:04:15.730] Mr. Photographer Jackson alien
[00:04:17.070 --> 00:04:20.490] Steve Jackson of alien eyes photos media
[00:04:21.769 --> 00:04:24.330] One of the top creative
[00:04:24.330 --> 00:04:25.190] artists
[00:04:25.190 --> 00:04:34.330] But I've always been entrepreneur not I look at it and this time away from social media
[00:04:35.030 --> 00:04:37.730] gives me time to reflect and
[00:04:39.210 --> 00:04:43.590] Realize my old self and what I was into
[00:04:44.890 --> 00:04:47.990] So instead of looking on pictures on
[00:04:49.730 --> 00:04:50.530] Instagram
[00:04:51.550 --> 00:04:53.970] Videos on YouTube
[00:04:54.790 --> 00:05:04.840] And Facebook I pick up an old photo album. Look at old pictures
[00:05:07.880 --> 00:05:09.520] That's what I'm doing
[00:05:11.160 --> 00:05:14.440] Looking at the past and reflecting even on
[00:05:15.440 --> 00:05:23.450] The past week the past month. What are some things that happened in my life? What is some things that I like?
[00:05:24.950 --> 00:05:26.770] What are some things that I didn't like?
[00:05:28.490 --> 00:05:30.490] What are some things I didn't appreciate
[00:05:31.250 --> 00:05:33.190] What are the most grateful things?
[00:05:34.790 --> 00:05:35.430] that
[00:05:35.430 --> 00:05:39.750] Kept me well in the last few weeks last few days
[00:05:41.600 --> 00:05:47.260] And that's some things that I am reflecting on taking some time to just think about
[00:05:47.900 --> 00:05:50.400] Even get a notebook and journal
[00:05:51.040 --> 00:05:53.100] You know write a few pages
[00:05:53.100 --> 00:05:57.340] I'm also writing a book and develop developing a course. So
[00:05:57.340 --> 00:06:02.960] That's another reason for the ten days sabbatical. I may push it to ten weeks
[00:06:02.960 --> 00:06:06.160] But I'm not gonna be out of time and you know how it is out of time
[00:06:06.160 --> 00:06:10.060] You gotta you gotta post something or two or three
[00:06:10.060 --> 00:06:12.520] maybe four or more
[00:06:16.370 --> 00:06:19.070] But and of course at least in your stories
[00:06:20.930 --> 00:06:21.530] but
[00:06:21.530 --> 00:06:25.610] Ten days minimum ten days ten days ten days
[00:06:27.550 --> 00:06:28.750] Going away
[00:06:28.750 --> 00:06:31.030] from social media
[00:06:31.030 --> 00:06:32.810] But ten days
[00:06:34.600 --> 00:06:37.100] If anybody wants to join me
[00:06:37.880 --> 00:06:48.740] Now is the time and I kind of gave a pre warning to social media that I will be
[00:06:49.520 --> 00:06:52.100] Stepping away for ten days. And if you need me
[00:06:52.740 --> 00:06:54.600] Check out the podcast
[00:06:54.600 --> 00:06:58.240] In or said directly contact me
[00:06:58.660 --> 00:07:00.680] info at
[00:07:00.680 --> 00:07:02.720] alienize photos calm
[00:07:04.040 --> 00:07:05.640] info at
[00:07:07.400 --> 00:07:12.340] Alien eyes and that's eyes like your eyeballs eyes with a Z
[00:07:12.820 --> 00:07:14.560] photos with a s
[00:07:14.560 --> 00:07:15.560] calm
[00:07:17.250 --> 00:07:20.130] Yeah, I'm not gonna make this too too long
[00:07:20.130 --> 00:07:23.310] But if anybody want to come on this journey with me
[00:07:23.310 --> 00:07:29.350] Maybe you're creating something and you need that extra quiet time. You need that extra rest
[00:07:29.730 --> 00:07:33.390] need to decompress and
[00:07:33.970 --> 00:07:36.770] Another reason I have to step away from social media
[00:07:37.630 --> 00:07:42.130] It's a lot of negativity on there, honestly, I
[00:07:42.130 --> 00:07:48.830] Know you could do to not interested and you know not follow but it's some way somehow
[00:07:49.550 --> 00:07:51.950] Still pops up like a weed in the grass
[00:07:53.950 --> 00:07:54.510] so
[00:07:54.510 --> 00:08:00.990] To eliminate it all. I'm just getting rid of it all and the whole thing about Charlie Kurt and
[00:08:01.890 --> 00:08:04.090] It's just so much
[00:08:06.270 --> 00:08:12.690] Politics and Donald Trump and this and that school shoe is so much
[00:08:14.130 --> 00:08:15.610] So much
[00:08:18.270 --> 00:08:19.030] So much
[00:08:19.030 --> 00:08:30.460] Whoo, I had to take a deep breath after that one and you know social media can cause
[00:08:30.750 --> 00:08:32.610] depression anxiety
[00:08:33.990 --> 00:08:34.730] fatigue
[00:08:35.669 --> 00:08:42.510] Be a distraction and I don't need any distractions. I don't need depression and anxiety
[00:08:42.510 --> 00:08:49.580] Towards what I am building and what I am building. I don't need any of those emotions feelings thoughts
[00:08:51.290 --> 00:08:52.690] And actions
[00:08:53.310 --> 00:08:56.800] Into what I'm building when I'm growing and what I want to do
[00:08:57.530 --> 00:08:59.650] You know on pure
[00:08:59.650 --> 00:09:00.930] energetic
[00:09:02.510 --> 00:09:03.910] focus clear
[00:09:06.060 --> 00:09:14.670] Productivity to what I am growing and building out. That's just like you wouldn't put trash
[00:09:16.500 --> 00:09:18.180] Like junk food
[00:09:18.180 --> 00:09:19.540] alcohol
[00:09:20.320 --> 00:09:28.580] It's about you know, all the things if a woman was pregnant you wouldn't at least you shouldn't I know something that did
[00:09:28.580 --> 00:09:30.780] You shouldn't
[00:09:31.340 --> 00:09:33.620] If you want the best
[00:09:34.420 --> 00:09:36.760] For your newborn your child
[00:09:37.500 --> 00:09:41.740] That's just a little example maybe a bad example, but
[00:09:42.540 --> 00:09:44.180] You get the point
[00:09:45.280 --> 00:09:45.840] So
[00:09:49.040 --> 00:09:51.400] Take the time for yourself
[00:09:53.930 --> 00:09:57.990] That's my reminder to you on day one. Take the time to yourself
[00:09:58.910 --> 00:10:01.130] And if you don't already have a plan
[00:10:02.010 --> 00:10:04.530] Build that plan even if it's one sentence
[00:10:05.970 --> 00:10:07.890] Create that one sentence
[00:10:09.110 --> 00:10:14.010] But have some type of North Star some type of guy some type of reminder
[00:10:14.010 --> 00:10:16.530] Why you started in the first place?
[00:10:16.530 --> 00:10:18.970] Why you keep going anyway
[00:10:22.300 --> 00:10:27.640] Don't stop you almost there to what you want to do. This is day one of
[00:10:27.640 --> 00:10:29.460] 10 1 of 10
[00:10:30.300 --> 00:10:32.740] Again, we may go two weeks, but we see
[00:10:34.540 --> 00:10:36.660] For sure 10 days and
[00:10:37.940 --> 00:10:39.660] Yeah, follow me on this journey
[00:10:41.120 --> 00:10:46.300] And I will let you know what comes out on the other end
[00:10:46.300 --> 00:10:51.800] Again, this is photographer Jackson of alien eyes photos media
[00:10:51.800 --> 00:10:58.540] Mr. Steve Jackson here with alien eyes photos industry talk
[00:10:59.540 --> 00:11:02.040] the top business
[00:11:02.580 --> 00:11:05.260] introspective business podcast I may say
[00:11:06.020 --> 00:11:06.980] Yes
[00:11:07.780 --> 00:11:14.380] I'm here to collaborate with many people and I'm working on some things behind the scene again
[00:11:14.380 --> 00:11:21.510] That's why I need these 10 days just to focus and be productive. I got some projects that I'm working on
[00:11:22.200 --> 00:11:27.360] I got some events coming up at a time. So
[00:11:27.360 --> 00:11:30.190] Yeah, I just got a buckle down and get this work done
[00:11:30.860 --> 00:11:32.770] Stay focused stay productive
[00:11:33.840 --> 00:11:36.180] And yeah, we can't be inviting
[00:11:36.860 --> 00:11:39.910] anxiety and depression and distraction in our life
[00:11:40.700 --> 00:11:42.930] We got to cut it out and get rid of it
[00:11:42.930 --> 00:11:46.150] Hey if it becomes two months
[00:11:46.150 --> 00:11:50.730] 60 days and I'm like, I'm still off social media. Y'all. I'm sorry
[00:11:51.310 --> 00:11:56.010] Hey, well, you heard it first here on day one setting the tone, right?
[00:11:56.910 --> 00:11:59.870] Again, you can follow me at
[00:11:59.870 --> 00:12:03.910] alien eyes photos on all social media
[00:12:03.910 --> 00:12:09.050] I will get back to you as soon as I get on I swear I am gonna take
[00:12:09.610 --> 00:12:17.390] Maybe the first day and a half when I get back on just to follow up with everybody some all caught up
[00:12:18.210 --> 00:12:20.550] But still follow me, please
[00:12:21.070 --> 00:12:26.150] Alien eyes photos and you want to reach me or book me visit
[00:12:26.530 --> 00:12:29.850] alien eyes photos dot com
[00:12:30.350 --> 00:12:35.910] alien eyes with a Z and photos with a S
[00:12:35.910 --> 00:12:37.410] dot com
[00:12:37.410 --> 00:12:39.770] Thank you for tuning in as always
[00:12:40.690 --> 00:12:42.150] peace love and blessings

========================================================================
71. Wait, Where You Get These Numbers From?
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/wait-where-you-get-these-numbers-from
========================================================================

[00:00:00.430 --> 00:00:03.750] Wait, so you're coming over at random numbers.
[00:00:03.810 --> 00:00:04.970] Where do you get these numbers from?
[00:00:07.270 --> 00:00:08.930] Where I get the, that's a great question.
[00:00:09.110 --> 00:00:09.910] That's a great question.
[00:00:10.050 --> 00:00:14.290] Honestly, I just feel like whatever I think the value.
[00:00:15.290 --> 00:00:18.030] See, this is a hard question
[00:00:18.030 --> 00:00:20.910] because we know it's hard to really put a price tag
[00:00:20.910 --> 00:00:23.890] on art in general, because since I guess a jury,
[00:00:23.930 --> 00:00:26.130] but it's also at the same time, so.
[00:00:26.130 --> 00:00:29.310] I mean, it's art, work, marketing.
[00:00:30.170 --> 00:00:33.330] You gotta still, you know, eat, take profit.
[00:00:35.330 --> 00:00:38.270] The costs, expenses, and you know,
[00:00:38.910 --> 00:00:40.190] material could go up and down.
[00:00:40.210 --> 00:00:41.150] You know how that is.
[00:00:42.250 --> 00:00:42.690] Exactly.
[00:00:43.050 --> 00:00:46.830] Like usually, see, when you ask me to give you a range,
[00:00:46.970 --> 00:00:48.590] it's like, I can't really even give you a range
[00:00:48.590 --> 00:00:51.590] because I usually sell pieces based off the pieces.
[00:00:51.670 --> 00:00:52.230] Why not?
[00:00:52.230 --> 00:00:54.270] Why not nonetheless doing 100?
[00:00:55.790 --> 00:00:58.330] Or make every piece 100, or make every piece 100?
[00:00:59.390 --> 00:01:02.110] Because I feel like different pieces have different value
[00:01:02.110 --> 00:01:03.910] and I don't think they all have the same value,
[00:01:03.910 --> 00:01:06.330] so I'm not gonna sell them all at the same price.
[00:01:08.350 --> 00:01:10.190] But your starting price,
[00:01:10.370 --> 00:01:12.890] but your starting price could start at 100.
[00:01:15.390 --> 00:01:17.770] That could be something, right?
[00:01:18.130 --> 00:01:19.690] See where I'm going though, yeah.
[00:01:20.290 --> 00:01:22.010] I see you, I see you.
[00:01:24.190 --> 00:01:27.050] This is your time, your value, your worth,
[00:01:28.210 --> 00:01:29.630] your baby, in a sense.
[00:01:29.790 --> 00:01:30.910] You know, I know how it is.
[00:01:30.910 --> 00:01:32.390] You're a creator and it's like, your baby?
[00:01:32.870 --> 00:01:33.490] It's my baby?
[00:01:34.990 --> 00:01:35.730] No, no, no.
[00:01:36.370 --> 00:01:37.090] I don't know.
[00:01:37.330 --> 00:01:38.970] I guess I feel like when I,
[00:01:39.010 --> 00:01:40.850] because I am low-key kind of starting out,
[00:01:40.930 --> 00:01:44.670] especially when it comes to like marketing,
[00:01:44.790 --> 00:01:46.370] like my own stuff.
[00:01:46.490 --> 00:01:48.510] And so I feel like I did want to make it
[00:01:48.510 --> 00:01:49.510] more affordable.
[00:01:49.670 --> 00:01:52.150] Like I wanted this to be like something
[00:01:52.150 --> 00:01:54.270] that I see people wearing my stuff.
[00:01:54.290 --> 00:01:55.590] Like I don't want it to be,
[00:01:56.050 --> 00:01:57.610] I don't know how to explain it.
[00:01:57.650 --> 00:01:58.750] I think, I don't know.
[00:01:58.870 --> 00:01:59.630] I don't know how to.
[00:01:59.630 --> 00:02:03.710] You wanted more to the masses than more monetary.
[00:02:04.790 --> 00:02:06.030] I guess you could say.
[00:02:06.910 --> 00:02:10.110] You visualize people in your work,
[00:02:10.370 --> 00:02:11.730] but what type of people?
[00:02:12.010 --> 00:02:14.170] Because if any old body could wear it,
[00:02:14.230 --> 00:02:14.950] is that what you want?
[00:02:15.930 --> 00:02:17.870] Or only a certain type of person?
[00:02:19.010 --> 00:02:23.070] No, I feel like my audience would be
[00:02:23.070 --> 00:02:24.030] a certain type of people.
[00:02:24.190 --> 00:02:25.510] Like my audience would be like-
[00:02:25.510 --> 00:02:26.330] What's your audience?
[00:02:26.850 --> 00:02:29.450] Like young black people specifically.
[00:02:29.450 --> 00:02:31.030] That would be my audience.
[00:02:31.510 --> 00:02:31.910] Young black who?
[00:02:32.090 --> 00:02:32.330] Female?
[00:02:32.510 --> 00:02:32.890] Male?
[00:02:35.170 --> 00:02:38.110] No, no female, male, like anybody.
[00:02:38.870 --> 00:02:39.530] You don't have to,
[00:02:39.790 --> 00:02:40.370] gender don't.
[00:02:41.390 --> 00:02:41.830] Okay.
[00:02:42.130 --> 00:02:42.430] Black.
[00:02:42.790 --> 00:02:43.670] Just black, okay.
[00:02:44.410 --> 00:02:44.790] Yes.
[00:02:44.830 --> 00:02:45.910] I'm just getting there.
[00:02:45.930 --> 00:02:46.710] Like people who look like me.
[00:02:46.750 --> 00:02:47.370] You feel me?
[00:02:47.550 --> 00:02:47.850] Yeah.
[00:02:48.310 --> 00:02:48.630] Got you.
[00:02:48.770 --> 00:02:49.950] Brothers and sisters, got you.
[00:02:50.630 --> 00:02:51.610] Yes, yes, yes.
[00:02:51.750 --> 00:02:54.870] But I feel like anybody could wear,
[00:02:55.350 --> 00:02:56.650] anybody could wear my art
[00:02:56.650 --> 00:02:57.950] if they want to seek that out.
[00:02:58.050 --> 00:02:58.650] You feel me?
[00:02:59.110 --> 00:03:01.970] I don't want it to be, you know,
[00:03:02.150 --> 00:03:03.610] Pinterest to just only, you know,
[00:03:03.710 --> 00:03:04.430] these type of people.
[00:03:04.510 --> 00:03:07.650] I feel like my art is for everybody to see
[00:03:07.650 --> 00:03:09.110] or who wants to see.
[00:03:09.810 --> 00:03:12.390] So I got an idea.
[00:03:12.470 --> 00:03:14.590] How about, you know,
[00:03:14.670 --> 00:03:16.290] me being a photography space,
[00:03:16.650 --> 00:03:19.390] I could help you market that.
[00:03:19.430 --> 00:03:23.610] And I will wear every last single one of your pieces
[00:03:24.210 --> 00:03:25.470] to help you get through.
[00:03:25.630 --> 00:03:27.630] And I think it'd be iconic.
[00:03:29.090 --> 00:03:31.010] Every last one of my pieces.
[00:03:31.630 --> 00:03:34.210] We should be making a live show.
[00:03:34.490 --> 00:03:37.550] See now, this is, yeah, this is, yeah.
[00:03:37.870 --> 00:03:38.670] This is me.
[00:03:39.250 --> 00:03:41.550] What about doing it live at a live show?
[00:03:42.230 --> 00:03:43.190] You're almost like a,
[00:03:43.290 --> 00:03:45.510] you know how they do release, book release?
[00:03:47.490 --> 00:03:49.370] You can make it a live show
[00:03:49.370 --> 00:03:51.050] and it's almost like a live auction.
[00:03:51.950 --> 00:03:54.450] They literally taking pieces the morning.
[00:03:54.790 --> 00:03:55.910] Okay, you get that one.
[00:03:55.930 --> 00:03:56.710] So after the show,
[00:03:56.730 --> 00:03:58.090] they get to take that piece home.
[00:04:00.130 --> 00:04:03.330] All right, we can talk about that.
[00:04:03.590 --> 00:04:04.210] See, yeah.
[00:04:05.150 --> 00:04:08.170] But I got to jump on out of here.
[00:04:08.670 --> 00:04:10.590] Yeah, I appreciate you.
[00:04:11.570 --> 00:04:12.490] No problem.

========================================================================
72. My Creative Business Coaching Style
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/my-creative-business-coaching-style
========================================================================

[00:00:00.590 --> 00:00:04.470] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome
[00:00:05.430 --> 00:00:09.290] back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:11.260 --> 00:00:15.240] Let's discuss my creative business coaching style.
[00:00:18.110 --> 00:00:23.110] Now what is my business coaching style
[00:00:26.140 --> 00:00:29.220] as a creative and for creatives?
[00:00:29.500 --> 00:00:34.310] Creative entrepreneurs, it's a good question.
[00:00:37.560 --> 00:00:39.380] But I wanna put it out there
[00:00:42.100 --> 00:00:44.500] when I'm coaching and mentoring others,
[00:00:45.320 --> 00:00:49.240] my words and feedback are about the actions and outcome
[00:00:49.240 --> 00:00:52.600] rather than the person, individual or company.
[00:00:53.660 --> 00:01:00.220] I am doing it in the need of the goal, the goal at hand.
[00:01:02.000 --> 00:01:08.560] If you are doing good work, keep doing it.
[00:01:10.780 --> 00:01:15.950] But if you're not, I will call you out on it.
[00:01:19.120 --> 00:01:20.360] You want this goal,
[00:01:23.390 --> 00:01:26.880] but the actions are not leading up to you getting the goal.
[00:01:27.860 --> 00:01:29.080] And we both know that.
[00:01:30.500 --> 00:01:32.760] We had come up with a change, a solution.
[00:01:36.540 --> 00:01:40.520] I'm always creatively problem solving,
[00:01:42.320 --> 00:01:47.560] thinking of solutions, thinking how can things be better?
[00:01:52.110 --> 00:01:55.630] So if you tell me you want this goal,
[00:01:56.110 --> 00:01:59.470] you really wanna do something, you really want this,
[00:01:59.910 --> 00:02:02.150] you want this outcome, this result,
[00:02:04.530 --> 00:02:07.650] but you're not going in the direction,
[00:02:08.550 --> 00:02:14.250] the route, the steps that's needed to get there.
[00:02:19.370 --> 00:02:21.070] So yeah, I will have to call you out.
[00:02:21.190 --> 00:02:22.370] But if you're doing good work,
[00:02:22.810 --> 00:02:24.530] like I said, keep doing the good work.
[00:02:25.330 --> 00:02:26.710] I encourage the good work.
[00:02:27.430 --> 00:02:31.930] We celebrate the good work and keep going, you know?
[00:02:32.570 --> 00:02:35.330] Make it a habit of doing good work.
[00:02:35.830 --> 00:02:37.090] Turn it to great work.
[00:02:37.410 --> 00:02:38.710] Turn it to amazing work.
[00:02:39.430 --> 00:02:40.890] Have it keep evolving, you know?
[00:02:45.550 --> 00:02:50.670] Eliminate distractions and let us focus on the needs done.
[00:02:54.810 --> 00:02:55.970] Excuse me.
[00:02:57.190 --> 00:02:59.630] Eliminate the distractions and let us focus
[00:02:59.630 --> 00:03:01.790] on the work that needs to be done effectively.
[00:03:03.590 --> 00:03:05.650] I'm gonna just get a sip of water before I continue.
[00:03:06.770 --> 00:03:08.710] But you know, with that being said,
[00:03:09.050 --> 00:03:10.710] emotions, a blur judgment.
[00:03:14.230 --> 00:03:15.030] Gotta stay hydrated.
[00:03:17.470 --> 00:03:20.330] I remember when one of my old basketball coaches
[00:03:20.330 --> 00:03:23.330] used to tell me, keep my arms straight.
[00:03:26.990 --> 00:03:30.890] I was semi-stuck in the method,
[00:03:31.370 --> 00:03:34.670] in the habit of shooting, you know, my own way.
[00:03:35.490 --> 00:03:37.070] It took me longer to adjust.
[00:03:38.550 --> 00:03:44.030] You know, I would just do the opposite almost.
[00:03:44.150 --> 00:03:45.490] I'm like, I'm doing it right.
[00:03:45.630 --> 00:03:46.650] That's how you show me.
[00:03:47.130 --> 00:03:49.990] But I guess like last minute, or I do what I do it,
[00:03:50.010 --> 00:03:52.770] then like last minute, you're like, oh, almost.
[00:03:54.490 --> 00:03:56.730] But I don't know, I was young,
[00:03:57.090 --> 00:03:59.650] and sometimes I would twist my wrist
[00:03:59.650 --> 00:04:02.110] instead of flicking my wrist.
[00:04:02.590 --> 00:04:04.280] Like I was like slightly twisted
[00:04:04.280 --> 00:04:08.900] instead of flicking and keeping my arms straight.
[00:04:09.560 --> 00:04:13.600] Elbow probably outer than it need to be, you know.
[00:04:14.900 --> 00:04:17.800] So some things I had to learn,
[00:04:18.399 --> 00:04:20.240] some things that I definitely took in
[00:04:20.240 --> 00:04:22.240] and still remember and I appreciate.
[00:04:24.400 --> 00:04:27.000] But yeah, that simple principle stuck with me.
[00:04:27.860 --> 00:04:29.460] And now that I'm much older
[00:04:29.900 --> 00:04:31.900] and just started back playing basketball
[00:04:31.900 --> 00:04:35.100] every now and then, you know, you know how I be.
[00:04:35.560 --> 00:04:37.360] I got to ease into it.
[00:04:39.810 --> 00:04:45.250] The remainder, I should say the reminder
[00:04:47.790 --> 00:04:50.430] of the foundation of shooting.
[00:04:54.420 --> 00:04:57.320] You know, that little memory is a reminder
[00:04:58.340 --> 00:05:00.400] for the foundation of shooting, you know.
[00:05:02.560 --> 00:05:04.460] And the things that we learn,
[00:05:07.410 --> 00:05:09.390] that's simple, that's basic,
[00:05:11.640 --> 00:05:16.420] can really change outcomes or lives.
[00:05:19.280 --> 00:05:22.680] It could be that little tweak of the fundamentals
[00:05:23.080 --> 00:05:27.640] or the basics could get you a long way.
[00:05:30.750 --> 00:05:34.510] Sometimes you don't need the big grandiose things,
[00:05:35.670 --> 00:05:39.250] the lavish things, the newest thing,
[00:05:42.070 --> 00:05:47.330] what is working, what is working.
[00:05:48.530 --> 00:05:50.490] And that should always be the goal,
[00:05:52.840 --> 00:05:57.080] what is working and how it is improving,
[00:05:58.990 --> 00:06:00.250] those two things.
[00:06:03.320 --> 00:06:10.510] Now, like I said, that principle of that basketball,
[00:06:10.710 --> 00:06:12.630] shooting and keeping my arms straight
[00:06:13.330 --> 00:06:15.710] stuck with me for all these years.
[00:06:16.690 --> 00:06:18.610] An old lesson from my basketball coach,
[00:06:18.670 --> 00:06:21.650] Myron Jackson, and maybe it's a Jackson thing,
[00:06:21.750 --> 00:06:24.150] you know, I'm Steve Jackson,
[00:06:24.450 --> 00:06:26.010] also known as Photographer Jackson,
[00:06:26.170 --> 00:06:28.030] many call me alien for my brand,
[00:06:28.290 --> 00:06:33.310] alienize photos, media, and then also former,
[00:06:33.310 --> 00:06:35.310] musician, alienize player.
[00:06:36.110 --> 00:06:38.830] You can catch my music on all streaming platforms
[00:06:38.830 --> 00:06:41.370] in alienizeplayer.com.
[00:06:42.110 --> 00:06:47.110] But yeah, I'm very appreciative,
[00:06:48.410 --> 00:06:50.470] you know, years and years later,
[00:06:52.070 --> 00:06:53.870] I am certainly shooting a basketball
[00:06:53.870 --> 00:06:55.550] better than I was in school.
[00:06:56.350 --> 00:07:00.690] It's a testimony of how much of a student I am
[00:07:00.690 --> 00:07:03.950] for everything that I pursue and engage,
[00:07:03.950 --> 00:07:07.970] relentless on getting better, improving.
[00:07:09.610 --> 00:07:13.410] I also had a chance to coach at the YMCA
[00:07:13.410 --> 00:07:14.990] for two summers straight,
[00:07:15.510 --> 00:07:19.050] to volunteer and coach the NBA Cavs Junior,
[00:07:20.830 --> 00:07:24.710] AY and W, or YMCA.
[00:07:25.770 --> 00:07:27.010] I think it was both though.
[00:07:28.090 --> 00:07:32.890] YMCA hosted a program sponsored by the Cleveland Cavaliers.
[00:07:36.030 --> 00:07:40.190] I still coach, but now it's creative entrepreneurs,
[00:07:41.230 --> 00:07:42.950] and you could be one of them.
[00:07:44.230 --> 00:07:46.330] Be sure to reach out and let me know
[00:07:46.330 --> 00:07:47.510] what you need help with.
[00:07:51.030 --> 00:07:53.430] And you know, I'm a laid back person,
[00:07:56.370 --> 00:07:58.450] but when it's show time and you know,
[00:07:59.970 --> 00:08:01.170] change needs to happen,
[00:08:01.780 --> 00:08:04.350] and with change comes the transformation.
[00:08:05.290 --> 00:08:06.610] When you make it a habit,
[00:08:07.610 --> 00:08:09.530] and the habit you make it concrete,
[00:08:10.790 --> 00:08:13.410] and you be consistent and never change,
[00:08:14.110 --> 00:08:15.570] and keep doing your thing.
[00:08:20.750 --> 00:08:23.030] But having that peace,
[00:08:24.510 --> 00:08:26.250] which I preach a lot,
[00:08:28.070 --> 00:08:30.490] you know, never let anyone or anything
[00:08:30.490 --> 00:08:31.910] disrupt your inner peace.
[00:08:32.970 --> 00:08:36.130] Never ever let anyone, not even yourself,
[00:08:36.429 --> 00:08:37.690] disrupt your inner peace,
[00:08:38.250 --> 00:08:42.070] as we can sometimes get in each other way,
[00:08:43.570 --> 00:08:45.190] our own self way,
[00:08:46.790 --> 00:08:48.650] be a blockage for our own self,
[00:08:48.890 --> 00:08:49.910] our own reflection,
[00:08:51.190 --> 00:08:54.910] our own goals, our own thoughts, our own movements.
[00:08:56.750 --> 00:08:59.270] You know, we could really get in a way
[00:08:59.270 --> 00:09:07.900] and you know, stop and block our self, you know.
[00:09:15.420 --> 00:09:21.810] I've learned being an artist,
[00:09:23.510 --> 00:09:24.670] being an entrepreneur,
[00:09:26.690 --> 00:09:28.350] being in so many rooms,
[00:09:29.670 --> 00:09:31.330] being in so many industries,
[00:09:31.630 --> 00:09:33.190] around so many industries,
[00:09:33.430 --> 00:09:35.490] network with so many industries,
[00:09:37.490 --> 00:09:39.690] you know, did video production and photography
[00:09:39.690 --> 00:09:42.430] for so many industries.
[00:09:43.390 --> 00:09:47.270] Just shaking hands with people in different industries.
[00:09:49.790 --> 00:09:52.790] Always, you know, kept that creative mindset.
[00:09:55.200 --> 00:09:57.380] You know, it's also fueled by my entrepreneurship
[00:10:00.490 --> 00:10:03.670] because let's be real, I just want to create and,
[00:10:03.670 --> 00:10:09.140] you know, locked in in the studio,
[00:10:11.690 --> 00:10:15.270] locked in writing, locked in filming,
[00:10:16.890 --> 00:10:19.470] content creator, building,
[00:10:22.090 --> 00:10:24.270] using my imagination to come up with something,
[00:10:25.110 --> 00:10:27.290] something brilliant, something beautiful,
[00:10:29.450 --> 00:10:30.570] inspiring, impactful.
[00:10:33.690 --> 00:10:35.950] That's what I love using my creativity on.
[00:10:39.660 --> 00:10:41.280] And that's what, you know,
[00:10:41.380 --> 00:10:43.460] most creatives want to focus on,
[00:10:43.640 --> 00:10:47.680] most artists, creatives want to focus on.
[00:10:52.150 --> 00:10:54.130] But it got to be fueled by the entrepreneurship.
[00:10:55.210 --> 00:10:57.350] You got to love it so much that
[00:10:57.350 --> 00:11:01.590] the business part of it is just like one cohesive circle.
[00:11:03.710 --> 00:11:05.150] It all runs together.
[00:11:08.890 --> 00:11:12.150] And I encourage any and all creative
[00:11:14.250 --> 00:11:20.030] artists to have that entrepreneur mindset.
[00:11:21.530 --> 00:11:24.970] And to have episodes on the entrepreneurial mindset,
[00:11:26.710 --> 00:11:28.850] that growth mindset that's needed
[00:11:30.350 --> 00:11:34.030] to step in to becoming a creative entrepreneur.
[00:11:36.480 --> 00:11:40.240] I'm a creative, so, you know,
[00:11:40.400 --> 00:11:44.480] I don't have to be one dimensional, but I can.
[00:11:46.570 --> 00:11:49.810] We can make it a creative function
[00:11:50.530 --> 00:11:53.910] and really get you on a path that needs you,
[00:11:58.820 --> 00:12:00.860] get you on a path that needs you.
[00:12:08.510 --> 00:12:12.250] So, I'm about to get up out of here,
[00:12:12.350 --> 00:12:13.390] got to eat dinner.
[00:12:14.030 --> 00:12:15.930] It's been a long day.
[00:12:16.610 --> 00:12:20.630] I've been putting a lot of work in, catching up on work.
[00:12:21.730 --> 00:12:26.230] But, yeah, I know I'm kind of
[00:12:26.230 --> 00:12:28.790] having inquiries on, you know, my coaching.
[00:12:29.090 --> 00:12:31.230] So, I just want to put it out there
[00:12:31.230 --> 00:12:34.690] on my coaching style in advance, you know.
[00:12:36.190 --> 00:12:40.430] I'm very laid back, but I'm wise, resilient,
[00:12:41.690 --> 00:12:43.330] easy to work with.
[00:12:43.950 --> 00:12:47.030] And, hey, I've been through some things.
[00:12:48.890 --> 00:12:54.090] You can find more information on Alien Eyes Photos media
[00:12:54.870 --> 00:12:57.650] at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:12:57.770 --> 00:13:04.050] That's Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with a S dot com.
[00:13:04.490 --> 00:13:06.450] And follow on all social media
[00:13:06.450 --> 00:13:12.790] at Alien Eyes Photos at Alien Eyes Photos.
[00:13:13.630 --> 00:13:16.170] And also follow Creative Frequency
[00:13:17.270 --> 00:13:19.690] on a Creative Frequency on YouTube
[00:13:19.690 --> 00:13:26.390] and all social media at on a Creative Frequency, you know.
[00:13:26.590 --> 00:13:30.470] Join me in, I call her Lady B.
[00:13:31.930 --> 00:13:35.290] You know, that's her artist name, doing the music.
[00:13:36.070 --> 00:13:39.430] And, again, mine was Alien Eye Player.
[00:13:40.050 --> 00:13:44.510] I played with it and I later integrated Alien.
[00:13:46.030 --> 00:13:49.910] If anybody know the story of the Super Teen Poetry,
[00:13:50.190 --> 00:13:51.670] then you know how that came about.
[00:13:53.430 --> 00:13:57.350] But, yeah, we really want to encourage other creatives
[00:13:57.350 --> 00:13:58.490] on being creative.
[00:13:59.110 --> 00:14:02.330] So, if you need that extra inspiration on being creative
[00:14:02.330 --> 00:14:05.210] or, you know, get a focus on doing the work,
[00:14:05.770 --> 00:14:08.730] also check out on a Creative Frequency.
[00:14:08.730 --> 00:14:12.690] You got to be on a Creative Frequency to get, you know,
[00:14:13.010 --> 00:14:18.190] things that's coming from the stratosphere out of nowhere,
[00:14:18.190 --> 00:14:21.010] you know, painting that blank canvas.
[00:14:22.070 --> 00:14:24.730] But, yeah, check us out on a Creative Frequency.
[00:14:28.320 --> 00:14:33.630] And, again, you know, seek out coaching,
[00:14:34.930 --> 00:14:36.150] seek out mentorship.
[00:14:36.810 --> 00:14:39.170] You know, even if it's not with me,
[00:14:39.990 --> 00:14:43.230] you know, find somebody that relates to your style,
[00:14:43.550 --> 00:14:46.510] complements your style, complements your learning style.
[00:14:47.370 --> 00:14:49.490] You know, somebody that's going to push you
[00:14:49.490 --> 00:14:51.250] and help you get the results.
[00:14:52.950 --> 00:14:54.870] You know, you can have more than one coach,
[00:14:55.250 --> 00:14:56.470] more than one mentor,
[00:14:57.250 --> 00:14:59.730] mentor in different parts of your life.
[00:15:00.350 --> 00:15:05.490] So, be open to it, be open for the growth,
[00:15:05.690 --> 00:15:08.030] be open for the criticism and, you know,
[00:15:08.030 --> 00:15:10.390] constructive criticism, I should say.
[00:15:12.090 --> 00:15:15.050] You know, we're always here to help
[00:15:16.870 --> 00:15:18.650] and encourage you to do the work
[00:15:18.650 --> 00:15:21.030] because only you can do the work.
[00:15:21.630 --> 00:15:24.530] We can only help guide you and lead you the way,
[00:15:25.610 --> 00:15:27.610] but at the end of the day,
[00:15:28.070 --> 00:15:30.630] it all falls on you and you putting the work in.
[00:15:31.130 --> 00:15:32.790] So, just remember that.
[00:15:34.050 --> 00:15:34.910] All right, y'all, peace.
[00:15:35.010 --> 00:15:36.950] Photographer Jackson, I am out.
[00:15:36.950 --> 00:15:39.430] Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:15:40.050 --> 00:15:41.810] This is my culture style, y'all.

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73. Alex Hormozi $100M Money Models Book - Attraction Offers How To Make Money
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/alex-hormozi-100m-money-models-book-attraction-offers-how-to
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[00:00:01.070 --> 00:00:07.030] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos industry talk.
[00:00:08.230 --> 00:00:09.790] And I'm gonna jump right into it.
[00:00:09.790 --> 00:00:11.950] This is iconic.
[00:00:13.010 --> 00:00:16.470] I wanna say first congrats to Alex Harmozzi
[00:00:17.230 --> 00:00:20.430] who owned multiple gyms.
[00:00:22.630 --> 00:00:26.630] Believer gym instructor, fitness instructor, coach.
[00:00:27.610 --> 00:00:31.310] Then went on to scale multiple gyms
[00:00:31.310 --> 00:00:34.350] and started scaling and investing in multiple businesses.
[00:00:35.550 --> 00:00:39.590] You know, I watched live, at least 70% of it.
[00:00:39.870 --> 00:00:43.370] I watched him live, you know,
[00:00:43.570 --> 00:00:46.710] achieve the Guinness World Record.
[00:00:48.390 --> 00:00:54.270] Selling, I think the fastest within the day.
[00:00:55.470 --> 00:01:01.910] The fastest selling book within 24 hours,
[00:01:02.250 --> 00:01:04.209] non-fiction book in 24 hours.
[00:01:05.510 --> 00:01:08.870] And he really set it as a goal and invited them
[00:01:09.950 --> 00:01:14.550] to be a part of, you know, at a book launch he did,
[00:01:15.510 --> 00:01:17.590] which was, you know, amazing and, you know,
[00:01:17.690 --> 00:01:19.470] had me thinking, had a lot of people thinking
[00:01:19.470 --> 00:01:21.430] and people talking about it.
[00:01:21.430 --> 00:01:23.710] And I did pre-order the book
[00:01:24.410 --> 00:01:27.430] and I wanted to check it out.
[00:01:28.550 --> 00:01:33.410] I'm not a big consumer of Alex's content,
[00:01:35.350 --> 00:01:37.850] but, you know, I'm familiar with him
[00:01:37.850 --> 00:01:41.110] and what he do as far as scaling businesses.
[00:01:41.990 --> 00:01:44.510] And, you know, I read, the more I read his book,
[00:01:46.650 --> 00:01:48.890] it's, man, it's great.
[00:01:51.680 --> 00:01:58.420] You know, some things I wanna talk about just are simple.
[00:01:59.440 --> 00:02:00.380] You know, he states,
[00:02:00.740 --> 00:02:02.720] good money models make millionaires.
[00:02:05.770 --> 00:02:08.330] Good money models make millionaires.
[00:02:08.350 --> 00:02:10.229] And this is from his new book,
[00:02:10.590 --> 00:02:17.130] That Achieve, you know, that record of the most sales,
[00:02:17.570 --> 00:02:20.050] book sales in 24 hours.
[00:02:20.870 --> 00:02:24.250] And I'm not sure where the numbers are at right now,
[00:02:24.290 --> 00:02:26.150] but I'll put them in his show notes
[00:02:26.150 --> 00:02:27.790] after I do that research.
[00:02:29.290 --> 00:02:32.730] But, you know, he have the series
[00:02:33.100 --> 00:02:35.010] and this is the third of the series
[00:02:35.690 --> 00:02:40.280] and the series is sold over a million copies.
[00:02:41.990 --> 00:02:45.370] They call it the $100 million series.
[00:02:45.830 --> 00:02:51.090] And this book is $100 million money models.
[00:02:51.750 --> 00:02:56.030] Again, by Alex Hormozi, How to Make Money.
[00:03:00.990 --> 00:03:05.170] And a lot of these are going to be about offers.
[00:03:06.490 --> 00:03:07.950] Like he has four type of offers.
[00:03:08.110 --> 00:03:11.710] He break down attraction offer, the upsell offer,
[00:03:11.930 --> 00:03:14.590] downsell offer, and a continuity offer.
[00:03:15.450 --> 00:03:18.470] If you're not sure what those offers are,
[00:03:20.750 --> 00:03:23.610] I know I have an episode called Offers.
[00:03:24.230 --> 00:03:25.350] You know, I will start there,
[00:03:25.370 --> 00:03:27.850] but in the future I will certainly
[00:03:27.850 --> 00:03:31.350] have another updated episode on offers
[00:03:31.350 --> 00:03:34.070] and about offers and the different offers you can do,
[00:03:35.670 --> 00:03:37.030] especially for your industry.
[00:03:37.610 --> 00:03:40.870] But I know with my creative entrepreneurs,
[00:03:41.610 --> 00:03:46.130] you know, take heed to this because you could be doing
[00:03:46.130 --> 00:03:48.150] one or two of these things
[00:03:48.150 --> 00:03:51.990] that you never even thought about, you know.
[00:03:52.070 --> 00:03:54.470] How can you add more value?
[00:03:54.650 --> 00:03:57.350] How can you get something for free to add more value
[00:03:57.350 --> 00:03:58.830] to what you already offer?
[00:03:59.710 --> 00:04:02.470] Oh, you do the photo shoot if you're a photographer.
[00:04:03.390 --> 00:04:05.210] And just offer a free print, you know.
[00:04:05.250 --> 00:04:07.730] It may cost you, you know, some money,
[00:04:08.390 --> 00:04:12.170] but you know, what if they are a returning client,
[00:04:12.810 --> 00:04:14.290] you know, on a consistent basis
[00:04:14.290 --> 00:04:17.250] because you did that special act of kindness.
[00:04:18.670 --> 00:04:19.850] There is something for free.
[00:04:20.529 --> 00:04:25.950] So sometimes we have to give something away for free
[00:04:25.950 --> 00:04:29.830] just to add more value on the guarantee.
[00:04:32.170 --> 00:04:39.000] And I like this, kind of like an open up paragraph.
[00:04:41.440 --> 00:04:44.780] If you make more offers and people buy them,
[00:04:45.260 --> 00:04:46.660] you make more money.
[00:04:47.300 --> 00:04:49.100] If you make more money,
[00:04:49.340 --> 00:04:52.360] you can use it to get more customers.
[00:04:53.300 --> 00:04:56.240] And I think that second sentence on using it
[00:04:56.240 --> 00:05:01.420] to get more customers is key, you know,
[00:05:01.420 --> 00:05:07.420] because we may buy more supplies
[00:05:07.420 --> 00:05:11.060] or more education, training,
[00:05:12.880 --> 00:05:16.180] and probably other stuff we don't need equipment,
[00:05:18.790 --> 00:05:22.330] but put it back into the marketing, into the advertising.
[00:05:23.810 --> 00:05:26.670] You know, maybe we don't need a new tool, this new AI.
[00:05:28.110 --> 00:05:30.830] Maybe we just need better marketing, you know.
[00:05:32.350 --> 00:05:35.030] Marketing is critical, marketing is key.
[00:05:36.070 --> 00:05:39.450] So when we get money coming into our business,
[00:05:39.630 --> 00:05:41.410] especially when you first start a note,
[00:05:42.090 --> 00:05:44.550] you want to reinvest, reinvest your money.
[00:05:46.450 --> 00:05:48.550] You make these offers, you get any sales,
[00:05:48.890 --> 00:05:50.190] you shake your hands,
[00:05:50.670 --> 00:05:51.910] put it right into the business.
[00:05:54.240 --> 00:05:56.100] You know, there's a lot of times,
[00:05:57.360 --> 00:05:59.480] you know, I didn't pay myself for the business.
[00:06:01.200 --> 00:06:03.540] It's just reinvesting and reinvesting
[00:06:03.540 --> 00:06:06.680] and, you know, just to be candid,
[00:06:10.840 --> 00:06:16.120] you know, me having more of a personal brand,
[00:06:16.920 --> 00:06:19.540] a more front-facing brand
[00:06:20.660 --> 00:06:24.460] that highlights creatives and entrepreneurs,
[00:06:26.260 --> 00:06:27.740] and my creative entrepreneurs,
[00:06:29.660 --> 00:06:35.670] my creative artists, business owners, colleagues,
[00:06:35.670 --> 00:06:43.840] you know, elevating positive stories
[00:06:44.460 --> 00:06:45.880] will always be my core,
[00:06:46.280 --> 00:06:48.620] but when people think of alien eyes,
[00:06:48.720 --> 00:06:50.180] they think of me, they think of alien,
[00:06:51.260 --> 00:06:56.260] which alien was around in my music, in poetry,
[00:06:57.340 --> 00:06:59.360] performing and recording days.
[00:07:00.880 --> 00:07:02.980] You know, if you check out Alien Our Players,
[00:07:03.200 --> 00:07:06.120] I built that music brand
[00:07:06.880 --> 00:07:09.520] before I switched to visual media,
[00:07:09.520 --> 00:07:12.020] photography and video production.
[00:07:13.280 --> 00:07:16.140] And I kept the alien and, you know,
[00:07:16.140 --> 00:07:20.680] now I'm using my eyes to, you know,
[00:07:21.420 --> 00:07:24.100] provide solutions for creative entrepreneurs,
[00:07:25.340 --> 00:07:27.440] which I do with event photography,
[00:07:27.740 --> 00:07:29.520] helping you market, you know,
[00:07:29.560 --> 00:07:31.880] your business through event photography.
[00:07:33.720 --> 00:07:39.750] And, you know, maybe I didn't think it
[00:07:39.750 --> 00:07:41.730] all the way through, you know,
[00:07:41.730 --> 00:07:44.210] starting a new business for the long term.
[00:07:44.570 --> 00:07:45.890] I knew immediately, you know,
[00:07:45.970 --> 00:07:49.270] just carrying that same name,
[00:07:49.490 --> 00:07:51.110] like a name transfer,
[00:07:53.270 --> 00:07:54.770] kind of like changing the last name,
[00:07:54.770 --> 00:07:56.330] I guess you could say.
[00:07:57.710 --> 00:07:59.730] You know, I upgraded it, you know.
[00:08:00.650 --> 00:08:03.370] My business mindset upgraded.
[00:08:03.490 --> 00:08:06.230] It got married, you know, with music.
[00:08:07.930 --> 00:08:09.430] I could've went wider.
[00:08:09.430 --> 00:08:11.790] I could've continued on and wider,
[00:08:13.590 --> 00:08:16.130] but just the time I was at,
[00:08:16.970 --> 00:08:19.910] I was more entrepreneurial thinking
[00:08:19.910 --> 00:08:22.230] versus the creating and I'm a creative.
[00:08:22.810 --> 00:08:24.670] I'm an artist at heart by the core.
[00:08:25.310 --> 00:08:27.650] That's first, I am a creative.
[00:08:32.179 --> 00:08:33.360] But with the shift,
[00:08:33.480 --> 00:08:35.880] we're just more business and entrepreneurship,
[00:08:35.880 --> 00:08:38.460] you know, having that mindset
[00:08:39.900 --> 00:08:41.880] and also that money mindset
[00:08:42.919 --> 00:08:44.740] and just running the business
[00:08:44.740 --> 00:08:49.240] and stepping out there testing the waters,
[00:08:50.140 --> 00:08:52.480] doing something I love, you know.
[00:08:52.980 --> 00:08:55.140] I remember my mother bought me a camera
[00:08:55.140 --> 00:08:56.900] on a field trip.
[00:08:56.920 --> 00:08:58.700] I was maybe six or seven,
[00:08:58.860 --> 00:09:00.240] so like first grade.
[00:09:01.520 --> 00:09:04.360] And, you know, the little wound up cameras,
[00:09:04.980 --> 00:09:08.020] the shh, shh, shh, and then you click it,
[00:09:08.020 --> 00:09:10.640] the shh, shh, shh, click it.
[00:09:11.380 --> 00:09:13.860] You get like 12 shots through the film
[00:09:16.140 --> 00:09:19.760] and I'm just, man, field trip at the zoo.
[00:09:19.940 --> 00:09:22.720] I'm just pressing a button.
[00:09:22.880 --> 00:09:26.440] Probably the worst pictures I ever took, literally.
[00:09:27.680 --> 00:09:29.920] You know, I'm first grade, just pressing a button.
[00:09:30.720 --> 00:09:33.580] Not even fully composing.
[00:09:34.560 --> 00:09:37.140] But, you know, I noticed a number at the bottom.
[00:09:37.140 --> 00:09:39.980] It was like, it had like a five.
[00:09:40.580 --> 00:09:44.580] I'm like, wait, I was limited
[00:09:44.580 --> 00:09:46.680] to the number of photos I had to take.
[00:09:48.060 --> 00:09:51.260] And I'm just testing out like, shh, shh, shh.
[00:09:51.340 --> 00:09:52.640] Wait, did I not remove it?
[00:09:52.640 --> 00:09:53.760] Oh no, I would say two.
[00:09:54.300 --> 00:09:56.120] Oh shoot, so I only got two pictures left
[00:09:56.120 --> 00:10:01.620] and end up using that two photos
[00:10:02.300 --> 00:10:04.840] that I had left to take, you know,
[00:10:04.980 --> 00:10:06.320] two pictures I could take.
[00:10:07.620 --> 00:10:09.660] With the film camera.
[00:10:11.320 --> 00:10:16.480] And I'm first grade, second grade maybe, at the latest.
[00:10:18.960 --> 00:10:20.780] And everything excites me.
[00:10:20.980 --> 00:10:22.260] I seen a new animal.
[00:10:22.820 --> 00:10:24.260] I think it was a lion at the time.
[00:10:24.460 --> 00:10:26.540] I just tried to take a picture of the lion.
[00:10:27.820 --> 00:10:30.480] And I'm like, wow, I can't take no more pictures now.
[00:10:30.900 --> 00:10:32.760] You know, after those two shots was up.
[00:10:34.420 --> 00:10:36.760] So, you know, years and years later,
[00:10:36.760 --> 00:10:41.940] I come back, photography, you know, very photogenic.
[00:10:43.400 --> 00:10:47.640] And also love being behind a camera, which I love.
[00:10:48.200 --> 00:10:51.600] It's just a whole creative aspect and creating and,
[00:10:51.600 --> 00:10:52.800] you know, freezing time.
[00:10:52.900 --> 00:10:55.100] You know, I'm a superhero, freeze time.
[00:10:57.160 --> 00:10:59.720] But continuing with Alex,
[00:11:01.280 --> 00:11:04.080] what if you make your customers twice as viable
[00:11:04.820 --> 00:11:07.400] and you get twice as many of them
[00:11:07.400 --> 00:11:11.740] and those customers at twice the speed?
[00:11:14.700 --> 00:11:16.940] Yeah, who wants that?
[00:11:17.260 --> 00:11:22.180] Twice the speed, twice the amount, twice the value.
[00:11:27.120 --> 00:11:29.480] If you make customers twice as value
[00:11:29.480 --> 00:11:32.440] and get twice as many of them,
[00:11:32.740 --> 00:11:36.020] you get those customers at twice the speed.
[00:11:36.020 --> 00:11:41.200] Woo, your business grows eight times faster.
[00:11:42.140 --> 00:11:44.360] And wait, if you triple them,
[00:11:45.100 --> 00:11:52.020] your business grows 27 times faster by tripling them.
[00:11:54.910 --> 00:12:01.970] By tripling them, your business grows 27 times faster.
[00:12:03.790 --> 00:12:04.530] Wow.
[00:12:06.610 --> 00:12:09.890] You know, and that's going back to those offers,
[00:12:10.150 --> 00:12:12.030] you know, the traction offer, upsell offer,
[00:12:12.270 --> 00:12:16.750] downsell offer, continuity offer, you know.
[00:12:17.850 --> 00:12:21.610] It's all about turning strangers into customers,
[00:12:23.070 --> 00:12:26.990] building our audience, having a game plan,
[00:12:28.130 --> 00:12:30.530] sticking what you need to stick to,
[00:12:33.220 --> 00:12:37.060] you know, find out how it could work for you
[00:12:38.620 --> 00:12:39.980] going back to the offer.
[00:12:42.520 --> 00:12:44.440] Just find out which one works for you.
[00:12:45.720 --> 00:12:47.400] But I would always recommend
[00:12:47.400 --> 00:12:48.820] starting with the attraction offer.
[00:12:49.000 --> 00:12:51.320] You got to attract, you know.
[00:12:51.440 --> 00:12:54.980] It's kind of like someone taking a quiz
[00:12:55.680 --> 00:12:56.880] just to see if they're a good fit,
[00:12:56.920 --> 00:12:58.960] or an interview to see if they're a good fit.
[00:13:01.690 --> 00:13:07.470] Attract, you know, attraction offers
[00:13:07.470 --> 00:13:12.670] is like lead generation, which can be free, discounted,
[00:13:14.270 --> 00:13:19.370] a low price, low entry, or maybe a trial offer.
[00:13:21.470 --> 00:13:25.530] Attract, attract, attract.
[00:13:30.220 --> 00:13:37.060] Yeah, this book is good, you know, kind of blew my mind.
[00:13:37.980 --> 00:13:43.480] And I was kind of, I would say indifferent, you know.
[00:13:43.600 --> 00:13:45.860] I knew it would have been a decent book,
[00:13:45.900 --> 00:13:48.540] but yeah, the more I read it,
[00:13:48.660 --> 00:13:50.260] I was reading another book at the time.
[00:13:50.440 --> 00:13:53.160] I had to put it down and actually,
[00:13:53.400 --> 00:13:55.160] like, wait, this is pretty good.
[00:13:55.300 --> 00:13:57.660] Maybe I'm gonna have to switch books real quick.
[00:13:58.400 --> 00:14:00.300] So man, shout out to Alex or Mozi.
[00:14:00.440 --> 00:14:02.800] If you're grads again, man, it's an honor.
[00:14:03.580 --> 00:14:06.120] And I definitely would continue learning from you
[00:14:06.120 --> 00:14:09.240] and, you know, watching and, you know,
[00:14:09.420 --> 00:14:11.780] I know we're gonna meet one day and it's gonna be crazy.
[00:14:12.680 --> 00:14:14.740] Good conversation, good vibes.
[00:14:15.800 --> 00:14:19.060] Again, if you haven't checked out or heard of the book,
[00:14:19.740 --> 00:14:24.060] A Hundred Million Dollar Money Models by Alex or Mozi.
[00:14:24.840 --> 00:14:28.620] Man, it is a must to check out, you know.
[00:14:29.020 --> 00:14:32.400] Basically, the book sums up, you know,
[00:14:32.940 --> 00:14:34.360] how to get more cash.
[00:14:36.140 --> 00:14:39.360] And how to get more cash after you get cash.
[00:14:40.080 --> 00:14:41.880] And how to get the most cash.
[00:14:42.740 --> 00:14:46.060] So first, how to get cash and then how to get more cash
[00:14:46.060 --> 00:14:48.160] and then how to get the most cash.
[00:14:49.420 --> 00:14:52.400] And check out the other two books in this series
[00:14:52.400 --> 00:14:56.000] of A Hundred Million Dollar Offers
[00:14:56.620 --> 00:14:59.160] and A Hundred Million Dollar Models
[00:14:59.160 --> 00:15:01.240] and I think A Hundred Million Dollar Leads.
[00:15:01.400 --> 00:15:02.400] I think it is.
[00:15:02.400 --> 00:15:05.720] But it's all in A Hundred Million Dollar Series.
[00:15:06.540 --> 00:15:08.900] Say that a lot of times in this book
[00:15:08.900 --> 00:15:11.060] that, you know, we kind of took away from
[00:15:11.060 --> 00:15:14.660] was A Hundred Million Dollar Money Models
[00:15:14.660 --> 00:15:16.620] again by Alex or Mozi.
[00:15:17.580 --> 00:15:21.000] I do not own any rights to the book.
[00:15:22.180 --> 00:15:27.640] I am just saying my thoughts and endorsing Mr. Alex.
[00:15:28.740 --> 00:15:29.860] Yeah, man, great job.
[00:15:30.000 --> 00:15:31.800] I appreciate everyone tuning in.
[00:15:32.400 --> 00:15:37.000] Again, this is Alien Eye Player, ha ha.
[00:15:38.900 --> 00:15:42.000] Mr. Alien Eyes Photos, photographer Jackson,
[00:15:42.160 --> 00:15:45.340] Steve Jackson of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:15:46.760 --> 00:15:52.080] You can check me out at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:15:52.460 --> 00:15:57.400] Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with a S, dot com.
[00:15:57.400 --> 00:16:03.560] And also Alien Eyes Photos on all media.
[00:16:04.480 --> 00:16:09.260] Be sure to check out Creative Frequency on YouTube
[00:16:09.260 --> 00:16:13.740] on a Creative Frequency and I'll show some media,
[00:16:14.260 --> 00:16:18.540] especially IG, Instagram, Creative Frequency
[00:16:18.540 --> 00:16:20.820] on a Creative Frequency.
[00:16:21.740 --> 00:16:23.400] All right, y'all, I am out.

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74. Master Of All Trades w/ Eroc Beatz
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/master-of-all-trades-w-eroc-beatz
========================================================================

[00:00:01.940 --> 00:00:09.960] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:11.200 --> 00:00:15.800] Man, I'm here with my brother, my great brother, great musician.
[00:00:15.800 --> 00:00:17.720] I call you the Dr. Dre of Cleveland.
[00:00:19.740 --> 00:00:21.800] Man, wow, that's an honor.
[00:00:22.340 --> 00:00:26.180] Yes, yes, man, my brother, man. I'm glad to finally have you all.
[00:00:26.960 --> 00:00:31.140] And we were just chatting, and we was like, man, let's just press record.
[00:00:32.560 --> 00:00:37.390] And what was the question you were asking more so about music?
[00:00:38.560 --> 00:00:41.080] As I kind of tease on the podcast a lot.
[00:00:41.720 --> 00:00:45.280] Back in my ancient days of music and poetry and this.
[00:00:46.100 --> 00:00:47.920] He made some bangers for me.
[00:00:48.460 --> 00:00:51.240] The ones he made, I don't think I ever released though.
[00:00:51.260 --> 00:00:51.880] That's crazy.
[00:00:52.900 --> 00:00:53.880] I know that's wild.
[00:00:54.080 --> 00:01:00.300] Like the craziest part is that, you know, like when I first met you,
[00:01:00.300 --> 00:01:06.000] you was out there as a musician more so even as a poet, you know, more so on the forefront.
[00:01:06.300 --> 00:01:14.260] And so the question I have for you was like, how did you transition to being more so interested
[00:01:14.260 --> 00:01:24.200] or even more invested in behind the scenes work or even the business aspect, administrative aspect of things
[00:01:24.200 --> 00:01:31.740] and still kind of like balance and still being even still on the forefront, even as a podcast.
[00:01:34.280 --> 00:01:35.740] Man, that's great.
[00:01:35.940 --> 00:01:47.220] So I know a lot of people know me as that, you know, business, business mind of God, which is true.
[00:01:47.620 --> 00:01:53.280] But actually say no, I am I'm a creative first.
[00:01:54.780 --> 00:01:58.360] And then, of course, there's business to it.
[00:01:58.680 --> 00:02:07.780] So, but it's just more so understanding business more like I always been business minded, always, you know,
[00:02:09.020 --> 00:02:15.280] picture money in my life, success in my life, leadership in my life, you know, surrounding those things,
[00:02:15.580 --> 00:02:21.060] yourself around those things and, you know, of course, love, self-love first.
[00:02:21.060 --> 00:02:23.100] You know, that's the biggest thing.
[00:02:24.640 --> 00:02:30.640] So, you know, that's what I lead with and creativity, being creative.
[00:02:30.920 --> 00:02:32.780] That's like the number one thing.
[00:02:32.840 --> 00:02:36.780] If I could do anything, it'd be, you know, had a money for being creative.
[00:02:37.660 --> 00:02:39.700] But, you know, you got to make the money.
[00:02:40.000 --> 00:02:44.500] So, of course, I add the business to it and it becomes fun.
[00:02:44.540 --> 00:02:46.380] So I have my I have my moments.
[00:02:46.380 --> 00:02:52.560] You know, sometimes I may be just straight business, you know, creating strategies, creating offers,
[00:02:52.860 --> 00:02:55.760] creating this, creating that, but it's still creating.
[00:02:57.100 --> 00:03:02.640] But it's more business than actually freely creating.
[00:03:02.740 --> 00:03:08.380] This is the difference between freely creating and, you know, creating for business and through business.
[00:03:09.400 --> 00:03:10.400] Right. That's what's up.
[00:03:10.600 --> 00:03:11.840] You know, and that's beautiful.
[00:03:11.840 --> 00:03:18.940] Like, you know, it almost seems like you are balancing two sides of your brain in a way.
[00:03:19.340 --> 00:03:26.340] Like, you know, so how do you like is there a side of your, you know, creativity that you like more?
[00:03:26.940 --> 00:03:37.680] Is there, you know, because I think I even also ask you this and you can even, you know, answer this as far as are you more introverted or extroverted?
[00:03:39.200 --> 00:03:43.760] I am more introverted.
[00:03:45.860 --> 00:03:47.580] Intro. Yeah.
[00:03:47.580 --> 00:03:48.860] Internal. Yeah.
[00:03:50.180 --> 00:04:02.820] Hence the, you know, the tag phrase that a podcast is introspective business podcast like getting inside the business of different industries.
[00:04:02.820 --> 00:04:11.980] But yeah, I am an introvert.
[00:04:13.420 --> 00:04:15.060] You know, I grew up to myself.
[00:04:15.220 --> 00:04:27.000] I have siblings, but for most part, I was to myself doing my own things in my own world, creating, playing games at the time.
[00:04:27.820 --> 00:04:30.700] I had to retire that, you know, just like I did with music.
[00:04:30.700 --> 00:04:32.600] We're going to touch on that too.
[00:04:32.780 --> 00:04:33.760] I know you.
[00:04:34.740 --> 00:04:35.080] Yeah.
[00:04:36.340 --> 00:04:42.400] Hey, we worked together for, you know, had like a four year run before I hung it up, man.
[00:04:42.640 --> 00:04:43.620] Oh, my goodness.
[00:04:44.100 --> 00:04:45.100] He is not.
[00:04:45.180 --> 00:04:46.720] He say he retiring, y'all.
[00:04:46.800 --> 00:04:47.580] He is not.
[00:04:47.620 --> 00:04:48.820] Not if I'm around.
[00:04:48.820 --> 00:04:49.580] Trust me.
[00:04:50.300 --> 00:04:51.460] He gonna get on the track.
[00:04:51.560 --> 00:04:52.540] I'm retired.
[00:04:52.920 --> 00:04:53.220] Yeah.
[00:04:53.300 --> 00:04:53.600] Yeah.
[00:04:53.620 --> 00:04:54.240] We see.
[00:04:54.240 --> 00:05:01.260] You got too much, you know, talent, I would think to me personally, or I think you to just retire musically.
[00:05:01.420 --> 00:05:02.020] You know what I'm saying?
[00:05:02.140 --> 00:05:05.880] I think if you was, you honestly do yourself a disservice.
[00:05:06.420 --> 00:05:14.880] That's just my personal, you know, if you did not at least dibble and dabble, even if it's, you know, every four years or something like that.
[00:05:14.880 --> 00:05:15.820] And that's just me.
[00:05:15.820 --> 00:05:16.580] Every four years.
[00:05:16.800 --> 00:05:17.600] I can do that.
[00:05:17.660 --> 00:05:18.120] Every four.
[00:05:18.120 --> 00:05:20.320] I just challenge you every, at least every four years.
[00:05:20.320 --> 00:05:23.160] I give you grace and I ain't gonna pressure you.
[00:05:23.280 --> 00:05:24.000] None of them four years.
[00:05:24.820 --> 00:05:27.000] The first three years, I ain't gonna say nothing.
[00:05:27.200 --> 00:05:29.040] But once that fourth year come, I'm coming.
[00:05:29.460 --> 00:05:32.220] And I'm like, yo, what you want to do, man?
[00:05:33.880 --> 00:05:37.320] Hey, y'all want to hear a new record?
[00:05:38.200 --> 00:05:39.200] Should we just?
[00:05:39.740 --> 00:05:40.800] I'll say what we should.
[00:05:41.140 --> 00:05:42.000] I'll say why not.
[00:05:42.000 --> 00:05:43.200] Come up with something fresh.
[00:05:43.900 --> 00:05:45.940] Right now, right here, right now while we on the spot?
[00:05:46.880 --> 00:05:49.400] Nah, we gonna, we gonna, we gonna build it out.
[00:05:49.580 --> 00:05:52.200] We gonna, yeah, we gonna build it out.
[00:05:52.500 --> 00:05:53.340] We gonna build it out?
[00:05:53.680 --> 00:05:59.160] We just, we about to just, we gonna rock out with something or we gonna just, hold on.
[00:05:59.180 --> 00:06:01.200] Nah, we gonna build it out after the fact.
[00:06:01.720 --> 00:06:02.680] Okay, I got you.
[00:06:02.760 --> 00:06:03.740] Because yeah, we gonna.
[00:06:04.020 --> 00:06:04.460] Yeah.
[00:06:04.460 --> 00:06:09.600] Yeah, because if I'm gonna come back and this the, yeah, we gonna have to.
[00:06:09.620 --> 00:06:10.660] Okay, I was about to say.
[00:06:11.360 --> 00:06:14.700] We can make that look, but yeah, just let me know, man.
[00:06:14.700 --> 00:06:17.080] They gonna turn to the eye, but I already know how it go.
[00:06:18.080 --> 00:06:18.260] Yeah.
[00:06:18.260 --> 00:06:19.880] But yeah, it may happen.
[00:06:21.180 --> 00:06:23.340] Yeah, no, we don't got much time.
[00:06:23.480 --> 00:06:24.560] We both got things.
[00:06:24.600 --> 00:06:25.760] You got a show tonight, too.
[00:06:26.120 --> 00:06:27.040] Oh, yeah, yeah.
[00:06:27.040 --> 00:06:27.520] What up, man?
[00:06:28.260 --> 00:06:32.140] I'm actually having a show tonight with my brother, Honesty Blade.
[00:06:32.460 --> 00:06:33.660] Yeah, she has good brothers.
[00:06:33.980 --> 00:06:34.560] Good, yeah.
[00:06:34.720 --> 00:06:36.060] Great MC, man.
[00:06:36.180 --> 00:06:37.080] Great MC, yeah.
[00:06:38.100 --> 00:06:41.800] Great talented hip hop artist all the way around, man.
[00:06:41.800 --> 00:06:45.600] And he got a show with Jack the Ripper, DJ Jack the Ripper.
[00:06:45.800 --> 00:06:46.820] Jack the Ripper.
[00:06:46.980 --> 00:06:48.560] Yeah, Jack the Ripper, man.
[00:06:49.460 --> 00:06:53.700] And so at 7 o'clock at the B-side, it's going down tonight.
[00:06:54.620 --> 00:06:57.220] So anybody that's hearing this, if you are available.
[00:06:57.620 --> 00:06:59.880] Yeah, I know it's in about an hour and a half, but.
[00:07:00.760 --> 00:07:02.500] Oh, you want me to drop this today?
[00:07:02.800 --> 00:07:04.620] You have to drop this immediately.
[00:07:05.180 --> 00:07:05.580] Immediately.
[00:07:05.760 --> 00:07:09.400] But, you know, at the time of this, you know, of course you couldn't make it.
[00:07:09.400 --> 00:07:13.640] But the point is, is that hip hop, it's a lot of hip hop things.
[00:07:13.860 --> 00:07:16.540] You know, the hip hop scene, I think, is about to start to expand.
[00:07:16.540 --> 00:07:19.660] And I think that we got a lot of hitters deep down in the underground.
[00:07:20.140 --> 00:07:27.080] That's ready to come out to the forefront and ready to, you know, showcase real lyricism, real rap.
[00:07:27.480 --> 00:07:28.720] You know, and we bringing it back.
[00:07:28.880 --> 00:07:29.400] You know what I'm saying?
[00:07:30.040 --> 00:07:31.340] So I'm going to just say that.
[00:07:31.340 --> 00:07:37.540] Hey, but whenever you listen into this, man, you know, strangers to the B-side.
[00:07:38.100 --> 00:07:44.400] So, you know, come out one of these days to the B-side, support the B-side and all they do.
[00:07:44.560 --> 00:07:46.700] Yeah, especially on the hip hop side.
[00:07:47.100 --> 00:07:51.340] Yeah, I think all the Coventry is like real hip hop.
[00:07:51.540 --> 00:07:57.680] You know, like the foundation of like, I would say, Cleveland, like hip hop right now.
[00:07:57.780 --> 00:07:58.440] You know what I'm saying?
[00:07:58.440 --> 00:08:04.620] I would give it that, you know, it's right where like, you know, it's a lot of different, you know,
[00:08:04.720 --> 00:08:09.200] cubby holes, but I think Coventry is, you know, at this moment right now,
[00:08:09.240 --> 00:08:12.500] like representing real hard for the hip hop scene right now in Cleveland.
[00:08:13.100 --> 00:08:14.460] I'm going to just let you know right now.
[00:08:14.560 --> 00:08:17.460] I would say B-side, you know, the grog shop, you know,
[00:08:17.460 --> 00:08:22.960] it's a couple of different, you know, other things that be going down, you know, around the area.
[00:08:24.220 --> 00:08:29.640] So B-side is definitely just in and of itself a staple just for not only just hip hop culture,
[00:08:29.880 --> 00:08:35.220] but just Cleveland, you know, soul music culture, you know what I mean?
[00:08:35.260 --> 00:08:36.860] So that's what I believe.
[00:08:38.240 --> 00:08:40.620] So it keeps the heart pumping.
[00:08:41.200 --> 00:08:45.640] One of the longest running open mic nights in Cleveland.
[00:08:46.220 --> 00:08:46.580] Yeah.
[00:08:47.600 --> 00:08:51.880] I started, that's where I, shoot, I first started, when I first started getting out here,
[00:08:51.880 --> 00:08:53.260] being on the forefront.
[00:08:54.400 --> 00:08:57.840] I started, I think I was fueled by Temple with passion.
[00:08:57.920 --> 00:09:01.780] So I give Temple with passion a lot of credit as far as me just performing.
[00:09:02.280 --> 00:09:07.360] Like, you know, at the time they were handling more business for me than okay.
[00:09:08.300 --> 00:09:10.060] You know, but.
[00:09:11.400 --> 00:09:11.740] Yeah.
[00:09:12.420 --> 00:09:14.480] It is, man.
[00:09:14.680 --> 00:09:20.700] Do you see yourself putting on more shows or putting on like events or anything like that in that aspect?
[00:09:20.700 --> 00:09:22.560] Oh, yeah.
[00:09:23.820 --> 00:09:30.360] Like I was telling you earlier, man, I'm going to put something together for the Pull Up Experience.
[00:09:30.980 --> 00:09:33.040] So we're going to look out for that offer.
[00:09:33.360 --> 00:09:40.580] We are putting something together for our fifth year anniversary of the Pull Up Experience.
[00:09:42.480 --> 00:09:44.720] So, yeah, we are creating something.
[00:09:45.680 --> 00:09:50.260] I'm going to, you know, shoot some ideas, you know, hear everybody else ideas.
[00:09:50.260 --> 00:09:54.300] We pull it together and we're going to come up with something great for the public.
[00:09:54.980 --> 00:09:57.120] City of Cleveland, surrounding cities.
[00:09:57.480 --> 00:10:01.820] Even if you got a state, you know, because, man, we be traveling to y'all.
[00:10:01.980 --> 00:10:03.660] Come travel with us, you know.
[00:10:04.300 --> 00:10:05.880] Come see what Cleveland is like.
[00:10:06.600 --> 00:10:08.860] We're thinking about like, you know.
[00:10:08.980 --> 00:10:09.680] I'm living what I'm thinking.
[00:10:09.740 --> 00:10:11.000] Couple, couple grand.
[00:10:11.180 --> 00:10:11.380] Yeah.
[00:10:11.520 --> 00:10:13.060] Couple grand for this offer.
[00:10:13.520 --> 00:10:15.720] It's going to be an all day thing, you know.
[00:10:15.720 --> 00:10:22.780] Hang out with the VIPs, the Pull Up Experience itself and our friends, our network.
[00:10:23.100 --> 00:10:23.780] And come learn.
[00:10:24.120 --> 00:10:24.920] Mastermind with us.
[00:10:24.940 --> 00:10:25.600] Come party.
[00:10:26.040 --> 00:10:27.960] Hey, all day.
[00:10:28.000 --> 00:10:29.100] It sounds like a vibe, man.
[00:10:29.420 --> 00:10:29.900] I ain't going to lie though.
[00:10:30.040 --> 00:10:30.440] For real.
[00:10:31.100 --> 00:10:32.040] It's the fifth year.
[00:10:32.300 --> 00:10:32.580] It's like.
[00:10:33.360 --> 00:10:34.940] Yeah, that sounds like it's going to be going.
[00:10:35.100 --> 00:10:35.980] I ain't going to lie, y'all.
[00:10:36.060 --> 00:10:37.860] You don't want to have to come out, step out, man.
[00:10:37.900 --> 00:10:39.260] You never know who you might meet.
[00:10:39.360 --> 00:10:42.480] It's been so many people who then came through the Pull Up Experience.
[00:10:42.640 --> 00:10:43.980] Big ups to y'all.
[00:10:43.980 --> 00:10:49.620] I'm so proud of everybody who has, you know, dedicated, you know, to that platform.
[00:10:50.040 --> 00:10:51.500] Including you, my brother, man.
[00:10:51.620 --> 00:10:54.440] And everything that you have done throughout the community.
[00:10:55.880 --> 00:10:57.680] You know, big ups to you, man.
[00:10:57.720 --> 00:10:59.640] Just all the way around, man.
[00:10:59.980 --> 00:11:01.840] You know, jack of all trades, bro.
[00:11:02.000 --> 00:11:03.880] Like, what can you not do?
[00:11:04.160 --> 00:11:07.340] It's the next question I have for you.
[00:11:07.600 --> 00:11:07.940] Mr.
[00:11:08.080 --> 00:11:11.600] Well, before I answer, you're going to have to ask me that again.
[00:11:11.600 --> 00:11:13.420] I got to shout out.
[00:11:13.420 --> 00:11:14.040] I got it.
[00:11:14.080 --> 00:11:14.400] I got it.
[00:11:14.400 --> 00:11:18.000] I got to shut out the team because I know when I shout them everybody out, like, what was the question?
[00:11:18.280 --> 00:11:19.440] So I'm going to ask it again.
[00:11:19.800 --> 00:11:23.900] I got to shout out the team before we leave off with that.
[00:11:24.820 --> 00:11:30.820] Man, first off, man, you know, Brandon Gates, man.
[00:11:30.980 --> 00:11:31.380] Yes.
[00:11:32.320 --> 00:11:38.020] Definitely the face of the Pull Up Experience, you know, founder, co-founder.
[00:11:38.020 --> 00:11:41.020] Along with Markita, Eddie.
[00:11:42.580 --> 00:11:44.900] And, yeah.
[00:11:46.100 --> 00:11:53.980] But, you know, the whole team from Miss Overflow Studios.
[00:11:54.900 --> 00:11:59.080] My love, my right hand, Miss Brianna Casanova.
[00:11:59.680 --> 00:12:03.080] Brittany Knight, Michelle Gates, you know.
[00:12:04.340 --> 00:12:06.620] Brittany with Beauty Be Toed.
[00:12:06.720 --> 00:12:11.420] You know, we joke around with Beauty Be Toed, but, you know, just having fun.
[00:12:11.680 --> 00:12:13.200] And, you know, we loving our consistency.
[00:12:13.340 --> 00:12:14.740] And I'm proud.
[00:12:15.440 --> 00:12:21.620] You know, we kind of stepped out around the same time, but she was releasing, you know, way before I started.
[00:12:22.220 --> 00:12:25.180] So she didn't want a podcast.
[00:12:25.540 --> 00:12:30.400] But now, you know, co-hosting and has her own podcast.
[00:12:30.700 --> 00:12:31.340] It's a beauty.
[00:12:31.340 --> 00:12:34.960] And Michelle, Michelle Gates, Lady Gates, man.
[00:12:35.180 --> 00:12:38.340] Behind the, real behind the scenes, like, you know.
[00:12:38.940 --> 00:12:46.200] Hey, get some operations together and, you know, event coordinator, virtual assistance services.
[00:12:47.360 --> 00:12:54.940] Anything administrative, definitely hit up MJM Virtual Assistance with Michelle Gates.
[00:12:55.580 --> 00:12:59.160] Then we have Sam, Samantha.
[00:12:59.740 --> 00:13:00.260] Yes.
[00:13:00.640 --> 00:13:01.760] Oh my goodness.
[00:13:01.980 --> 00:13:05.100] I remember being at a show, a modeling show.
[00:13:05.220 --> 00:13:10.860] I was hired to be a photographer for a friend, family at the time.
[00:13:13.140 --> 00:13:16.880] And yeah, she was hosting, I believe.
[00:13:17.080 --> 00:13:19.080] Yeah, she was hosting art, either modeling.
[00:13:19.160 --> 00:13:20.920] I think at the time she was modeling.
[00:13:23.080 --> 00:13:26.060] And yeah, she killed it.
[00:13:26.380 --> 00:13:27.180] I think she was hosting.
[00:13:27.180 --> 00:13:29.220] I remember she changed so many outfits.
[00:13:29.340 --> 00:13:30.460] I think she was hosting.
[00:13:31.380 --> 00:13:33.000] And like, man, I'm like, who is this woman?
[00:13:33.840 --> 00:13:34.880] She killed it.
[00:13:34.940 --> 00:13:35.860] I remember that day.
[00:13:36.720 --> 00:13:38.020] And I think I told her once.
[00:13:38.220 --> 00:13:40.280] I'm like, man, I remember it so vividly.
[00:13:40.480 --> 00:13:43.400] Like, man, I'm going to be working with her one day.
[00:13:43.680 --> 00:13:46.860] And look, she's a part of the team full of experience.
[00:13:47.540 --> 00:13:52.440] And then we have Ms. Nakia Hudson, To You Wise.
[00:13:52.640 --> 00:13:53.100] You know who?
[00:13:53.260 --> 00:13:54.220] My favorite one.
[00:13:54.240 --> 00:13:56.440] I'll be telling everybody about To You Wise.
[00:13:56.440 --> 00:13:58.040] It's the best wine.
[00:13:58.440 --> 00:14:03.060] If I'm buying some wine, I'm probably buying two wines most of the time.
[00:14:03.320 --> 00:14:04.660] Yeah, I'll double that.
[00:14:04.980 --> 00:14:08.700] Yeah, I've had their wines, a variety of them, actually.
[00:14:09.080 --> 00:14:13.360] And every one of them, I will say, has been amazing.
[00:14:13.740 --> 00:14:14.820] Like, I'm not no lie.
[00:14:15.340 --> 00:14:17.340] And a high percentage as well.
[00:14:17.820 --> 00:14:20.100] Like, you know, I'm talking about us.
[00:14:21.560 --> 00:14:25.100] I don't even want to misquote, you know what I'm saying?
[00:14:25.100 --> 00:14:27.180] But just check them out, man.
[00:14:27.180 --> 00:14:30.860] They definitely are doing a great service with the wines.
[00:14:31.540 --> 00:14:34.520] And that would be 14%, by the way, for most of them.
[00:14:34.600 --> 00:14:35.640] Mostly for the dry.
[00:14:36.240 --> 00:14:36.680] Yeah.
[00:14:38.020 --> 00:14:40.560] But again, don't quote me either.
[00:14:40.800 --> 00:14:41.260] Yeah, right.
[00:14:41.260 --> 00:14:42.240] Because I don't...
[00:14:42.240 --> 00:14:44.260] I was about to say 15, but I...
[00:14:44.780 --> 00:14:45.820] Because, yeah, I was going...
[00:14:46.740 --> 00:14:47.420] What's wrong?
[00:14:47.560 --> 00:14:48.860] It was up there.
[00:14:49.260 --> 00:14:51.360] So either way, they taste amazing.
[00:14:52.780 --> 00:14:54.100] Yeah, just check them out.
[00:14:54.100 --> 00:14:57.880] I think 13.5% Grille.
[00:14:58.280 --> 00:14:59.660] That's the...
[00:14:59.660 --> 00:15:00.820] We like to party.
[00:15:03.540 --> 00:15:05.680] That's my go-to.
[00:15:05.740 --> 00:15:06.680] One of my favorites.
[00:15:08.160 --> 00:15:14.420] And she also supplies the wines to different restaurants.
[00:15:14.440 --> 00:15:18.680] So if you want your restaurant to supply 2U wines,
[00:15:18.680 --> 00:15:25.180] let's definitely reach out to Ms. Nakia Elber at 2U Wines in South Euclid, Ohio.
[00:15:25.920 --> 00:15:32.140] And stay tuned for the next wine and dine fest.
[00:15:33.780 --> 00:15:40.120] The next South Euclid wine and dine fest with 2U Wines and four bistros.
[00:15:40.640 --> 00:15:44.720] Every summer, or end of the summer, I would say.
[00:15:44.720 --> 00:15:49.120] So look out every August around that time.
[00:15:49.280 --> 00:15:50.460] It's going down.
[00:15:50.480 --> 00:15:51.760] I have to put that on the calendar.
[00:15:51.860 --> 00:15:53.040] And I'm there every year.
[00:15:53.220 --> 00:15:56.740] It's been a great run and building.
[00:15:57.220 --> 00:16:00.040] And you know how I am with business.
[00:16:00.500 --> 00:16:03.340] So we're going to keep building it out and see what works.
[00:16:06.580 --> 00:16:10.780] But yeah, I did a little media this year.
[00:16:11.540 --> 00:16:16.360] The first year, interviews with the Pull Up Experience team.
[00:16:16.620 --> 00:16:22.780] This year, I'm like, we've got to get more content and work out something.
[00:16:24.080 --> 00:16:32.380] But yeah, for this next year, for the wine and dine fest, we're going to build it out more.
[00:16:33.240 --> 00:16:34.620] We're about to put the pieces together.
[00:16:34.620 --> 00:16:35.480] Here we go.
[00:16:37.220 --> 00:16:44.820] Actually, about that offer with our five-year anniversary, we might have to get you on the mic.
[00:16:45.040 --> 00:16:46.040] Oh, man.
[00:16:46.400 --> 00:16:46.920] What?
[00:16:47.960 --> 00:16:52.220] Since I'm retired, I'm like, all right, you take more place with the music.
[00:16:52.240 --> 00:16:52.940] Come on, man.
[00:16:53.020 --> 00:16:54.260] You're my closest.
[00:16:56.820 --> 00:17:01.200] They might get a better show.
[00:17:01.920 --> 00:17:03.100] We're building it then.
[00:17:04.180 --> 00:17:05.579] I appreciate that, though.
[00:17:05.599 --> 00:17:07.280] We'll have some music, some entertainment.
[00:17:08.460 --> 00:17:11.960] Hey, with the Pull Up Experience, you never know, man.
[00:17:12.040 --> 00:17:16.859] Like I said, my network big, but put us all together.
[00:17:17.079 --> 00:17:17.800] Oh, yeah.
[00:17:19.380 --> 00:17:20.800] That's what it's about, man.
[00:17:20.819 --> 00:17:25.740] It's coming together, man, and really just pushing our city forward, man.
[00:17:25.760 --> 00:17:30.720] Pushing our communities forward and beyond our city, you know what I'm saying, around the world.
[00:17:30.720 --> 00:17:33.100] This is bigger than us.
[00:17:33.200 --> 00:17:35.280] I love everything that y'all are doing.
[00:17:35.680 --> 00:17:37.340] Yeah, you sat down with us a couple times.
[00:17:38.360 --> 00:17:39.040] Absolutely.
[00:17:40.460 --> 00:17:50.820] I'm more than honored to come and participate in whatever I can, whether it's performing or getting on a podcast or whatever.
[00:17:53.120 --> 00:18:06.580] It really, you know what I'm saying, it's just all about, like I said, us coming together and pushing, you know what I'm saying, something that's supporting another person, because that's another big thing, and probably be supportive.
[00:18:06.580 --> 00:18:09.840] I'll say it with me to my last question, of course, you know what I'm saying, of course.
[00:18:09.840 --> 00:18:10.680] Last question.
[00:18:10.900 --> 00:18:12.380] I love it.
[00:18:16.260 --> 00:18:17.140] For today.
[00:18:17.260 --> 00:18:18.020] For today.
[00:18:18.560 --> 00:18:20.760] No, yeah, yeah, right, right, right.
[00:18:21.020 --> 00:18:31.520] You know, and then I know that, of course, this has always been a question, you know what I'm saying, rooming around, you know what I'm saying, but just, you know, you seem to be more behind the scenes than Mike.
[00:18:31.800 --> 00:18:32.460] You know what I'm saying?
[00:18:32.720 --> 00:18:46.820] And I just wanted to know more, you know, as, you know, what do you see yours and how you can support the city and what ways do you see yourself in the future?
[00:18:47.460 --> 00:18:53.480] Being able to see support, you know, people that surround you, you know what I'm saying?
[00:18:53.680 --> 00:19:03.180] What support systems do you think that, you know, we need in the city of Cleveland that you would want to see yourself a part of, if that makes sense?
[00:19:05.540 --> 00:19:09.760] Well, I love fitness, you know?
[00:19:09.760 --> 00:19:18.800] Like, you know, I even told you, I'm like, man, I want to get out and hoop at least twice a week, once or twice a week.
[00:19:19.560 --> 00:19:22.400] If anything, once, let's push for two.
[00:19:23.600 --> 00:19:26.700] And you've been awesome rounds on me most of the time.
[00:19:26.780 --> 00:19:29.060] Yeah, we pretty much every week now.
[00:19:29.260 --> 00:19:29.600] Yeah.
[00:19:29.740 --> 00:19:31.360] So we've been out here.
[00:19:32.080 --> 00:19:33.760] Hey, we out here too.
[00:19:33.980 --> 00:19:35.140] We actually tried today.
[00:19:35.360 --> 00:19:35.960] We tried.
[00:19:35.960 --> 00:19:40.060] Yeah, that's why I'm like, hey, we can finally have a conversation and sit down.
[00:19:40.680 --> 00:19:41.060] Yeah.
[00:19:41.120 --> 00:19:42.240] Maybe a podcast.
[00:19:42.740 --> 00:19:43.240] Yeah.
[00:19:43.500 --> 00:19:44.520] So, yeah.
[00:19:45.700 --> 00:19:47.760] I was raining right now, but it's all right.
[00:19:48.100 --> 00:19:49.200] Yeah, I would say fitness.
[00:19:49.260 --> 00:20:03.380] And I want to start like a walking, running thing, like a club almost, where mainly creative entrepreneurs, but, you know, entrepreneurs, creatives, anything in between.
[00:20:03.380 --> 00:20:08.000] But I mean, if anybody, you know, you just want to be out, you know, check us out in the community.
[00:20:08.800 --> 00:20:12.420] As long as you're doing good, you know, got a good head on your shoulders.
[00:20:12.560 --> 00:20:13.000] Yeah.
[00:20:13.300 --> 00:20:14.360] You're respectable.
[00:20:14.640 --> 00:20:17.580] You want to work and run and get this work in.
[00:20:18.380 --> 00:20:27.480] But, you know, of course, if you have medical problems or issues, you know, it may be a little high speed.
[00:20:27.960 --> 00:20:34.480] So, you know, I don't want to say not come up, but, you know, you got your own risk.
[00:20:35.200 --> 00:20:37.040] But we will always be there to support.
[00:20:37.480 --> 00:20:42.760] But, you know, it is going to be a more of a faster pace, high speed type of thing.
[00:20:43.220 --> 00:20:48.740] But, you know, maybe, you know, you can support the community and, you know, be a vendor.
[00:20:48.860 --> 00:20:55.840] If you have a business, you know, you could be a vendor at the event, you know, as we, you know, have a check in.
[00:20:55.840 --> 00:20:59.820] And then they got to check in with you in order to, you know, be a part of it.
[00:21:00.200 --> 00:21:02.600] So, I don't ever want to count nobody else.
[00:21:02.640 --> 00:21:03.860] See, I found a way, see.
[00:21:04.120 --> 00:21:06.940] That's what I love about business is just being the glue.
[00:21:07.680 --> 00:21:07.740] Yes.
[00:21:07.760 --> 00:21:10.260] Like, no matter what I got to be, if I got to be the host, I'll be the host.
[00:21:10.480 --> 00:21:17.420] If I'm the photographer, I'm the videographer, film man, producer, director, you know.
[00:21:17.960 --> 00:21:23.280] If I got to do wardrobe, like, hey, hey, people don't have on different clothes.
[00:21:24.740 --> 00:21:27.400] I'm like, my bad, but hey, we made it work.
[00:21:28.000 --> 00:21:28.880] Yeah, see.
[00:21:29.820 --> 00:21:35.780] And that's why, hey, I think that's why, you know, a lot of people appreciate you including myself, bro.
[00:21:35.980 --> 00:21:39.000] You know, because you step in your role.
[00:21:40.060 --> 00:21:46.040] You know, from the times that I've known you, bro, you've always stepped in your roles, no matter what that role had to be.
[00:21:46.300 --> 00:21:50.140] And I think that's what made you damn near a master of all trades.
[00:21:50.280 --> 00:21:50.960] You know what I'm saying?
[00:21:50.960 --> 00:21:55.860] I mean, you know, like, that's, you know, like, you know, for real, you know.
[00:21:55.900 --> 00:21:58.360] Title of the episode, Master of All Trades.
[00:21:58.400 --> 00:22:00.200] I mean, that sounds like something for sure.
[00:22:00.300 --> 00:22:00.540] Woo!
[00:22:00.900 --> 00:22:02.020] Master of All Trades.
[00:22:02.760 --> 00:22:04.860] That's a compliment, bro.
[00:22:05.140 --> 00:22:05.840] That ain't a compliment.
[00:22:05.860 --> 00:22:07.080] What's higher than a compliment?
[00:22:07.180 --> 00:22:07.640] That's that.
[00:22:07.880 --> 00:22:08.780] That's a trophy.
[00:22:09.080 --> 00:22:09.340] I know.
[00:22:09.940 --> 00:22:11.100] It's bigger than the trophy.
[00:22:12.440 --> 00:22:13.960] That's what that's one of them was.
[00:22:15.080 --> 00:22:15.560] That's a monument.
[00:22:15.560 --> 00:22:16.540] It's a monument.
[00:22:16.600 --> 00:22:17.420] That's an EMT.
[00:22:17.640 --> 00:22:19.300] You know, that's like a monumental.
[00:22:19.300 --> 00:22:20.500] It's monumental.
[00:22:20.780 --> 00:22:36.280] You know, it's, you know, I would say, you know, you striving to reach that pinnacle to really being able to step into multiple roles and being able to, you know, step in any lane that you really want to step in, which is not something that a lot of people can say they can do.
[00:22:36.440 --> 00:22:37.140] You know what I'm saying?
[00:22:37.780 --> 00:22:38.940] So, you know.
[00:22:39.440 --> 00:22:41.100] Hey, legends know legends, man.
[00:22:41.720 --> 00:22:42.000] Hey.
[00:22:42.000 --> 00:22:42.280] Blank.
[00:22:42.340 --> 00:22:43.080] Hey, man.
[00:22:43.080 --> 00:22:52.480] They know you from whether, you know, music production or rapping, you know, hip hop scene.
[00:22:53.600 --> 00:22:55.440] But, you know, some know from both.
[00:22:56.460 --> 00:22:59.480] But, you know, even drawing, even modeling.
[00:23:00.360 --> 00:23:02.220] Oh, man.
[00:23:02.480 --> 00:23:03.260] Going back.
[00:23:03.580 --> 00:23:03.900] So, yeah.
[00:23:04.000 --> 00:23:04.640] Thank you, man.
[00:23:04.700 --> 00:23:05.720] I appreciate that.
[00:23:05.820 --> 00:23:06.460] Even chess.
[00:23:06.800 --> 00:23:08.760] We versatile, you know.
[00:23:09.020 --> 00:23:10.200] I think that's the thing.
[00:23:10.200 --> 00:23:15.240] You know, we're both able to be versatile and, you know, love the versatility.
[00:23:16.060 --> 00:23:16.220] Yeah.
[00:23:16.220 --> 00:23:19.180] You know, just showing up doing what works, man.
[00:23:19.760 --> 00:23:24.060] Even shows on the basketball court, like, man, we be working.
[00:23:24.620 --> 00:23:25.400] Yeah, man.
[00:23:25.400 --> 00:23:27.060] We're having fun, too, though, man.
[00:23:27.060 --> 00:23:28.340] We have fun, though.
[00:23:28.600 --> 00:23:30.720] Like, people love hooping with us, man.
[00:23:30.800 --> 00:23:31.940] We fun, man.
[00:23:32.180 --> 00:23:32.680] We fun.
[00:23:32.700 --> 00:23:33.640] We get the work out.
[00:23:34.460 --> 00:23:36.120] We just here to work, you know.
[00:23:36.340 --> 00:23:36.940] For real.
[00:23:37.080 --> 00:23:37.860] Play the game.
[00:23:38.100 --> 00:23:38.660] That's it, man.
[00:23:38.660 --> 00:23:40.060] We don't do it complaining.
[00:23:40.560 --> 00:23:40.760] Yeah.
[00:23:40.760 --> 00:23:41.960] We chilling, bro.
[00:23:42.100 --> 00:23:43.940] I appreciate your demeanor, bro.
[00:23:43.940 --> 00:23:45.420] Like, how you carry yourself.
[00:23:45.900 --> 00:23:48.180] Just in many different aspects, man.
[00:23:48.240 --> 00:23:48.860] You know what I'm saying?
[00:23:49.460 --> 00:23:54.860] Like, it's not too many people, like I said, that know how to navigate multiple
[00:23:54.860 --> 00:23:56.520] rooms, multiple dimensions.
[00:23:57.280 --> 00:23:58.140] Multiple dimensions.
[00:23:58.660 --> 00:24:00.400] He pulling out the bags.
[00:24:01.640 --> 00:24:02.840] He showing off.
[00:24:03.300 --> 00:24:04.560] No, I'm not, bro.
[00:24:04.560 --> 00:24:05.260] I'm not.
[00:24:06.120 --> 00:24:07.020] This is how we eat.
[00:24:07.020 --> 00:24:07.240] You know what I'm saying, man?
[00:24:07.440 --> 00:24:11.860] Look, you an alien, so they don't know how deep we eat.
[00:24:12.040 --> 00:24:12.740] You know what I'm saying?
[00:24:13.020 --> 00:24:14.340] Every day for us, bro.
[00:24:14.400 --> 00:24:15.440] This is, yeah.
[00:24:16.580 --> 00:24:17.620] He pulling out the stuff.
[00:24:17.640 --> 00:24:18.920] He can't correct for y'all.
[00:24:18.980 --> 00:24:20.280] He's like, hey.
[00:24:20.460 --> 00:24:20.900] Hey.
[00:24:21.140 --> 00:24:22.840] He's like, he ain't going to disappoint me.
[00:24:24.060 --> 00:24:25.180] That's what's up, bro.
[00:24:25.400 --> 00:24:26.280] No, for real.
[00:24:26.520 --> 00:24:27.240] That's for real, man.
[00:24:27.240 --> 00:24:28.300] I was putting on, hey.
[00:24:32.000 --> 00:24:34.100] No, that's how we rolling, man.
[00:24:34.480 --> 00:24:36.140] So I love it, man.
[00:24:36.140 --> 00:24:36.580] I'm glad.
[00:24:36.880 --> 00:24:40.940] That's why I said I'm happy to carry on this journey.
[00:24:41.140 --> 00:24:41.640] You know what I'm saying?
[00:24:41.860 --> 00:24:43.900] This partnership with you.
[00:24:43.960 --> 00:24:45.760] You'd feel me if you down.
[00:24:45.800 --> 00:24:46.760] You know what I'm saying?
[00:24:47.200 --> 00:24:48.680] And seeing where we take this.
[00:24:48.680 --> 00:24:49.480] You know what I'm saying?
[00:24:49.620 --> 00:24:50.480] For real, so.
[00:24:51.880 --> 00:24:52.800] Changing the culture.
[00:24:53.580 --> 00:24:55.380] The music, business.
[00:24:56.240 --> 00:24:56.600] Yeah.
[00:24:56.600 --> 00:24:58.180] We only going to start it right there.
[00:24:58.580 --> 00:24:59.020] Absolutely.
[00:24:59.100 --> 00:25:00.360] It's going to be much more.
[00:25:00.880 --> 00:25:01.320] Yeah.
[00:25:01.800 --> 00:25:04.440] Start the music and the business from the core.
[00:25:04.440 --> 00:25:07.660] I'm going to, like I said, continue to build it out.
[00:25:08.120 --> 00:25:09.540] I'm going to go.
[00:25:10.320 --> 00:25:11.820] I might put it into a song.
[00:25:12.220 --> 00:25:13.740] I think that's what I'm going to do.
[00:25:15.060 --> 00:25:16.940] Like the whole process.
[00:25:18.560 --> 00:25:21.940] Like even from the starting, I said it on the podcast.
[00:25:22.080 --> 00:25:23.260] I'm dropping the song.
[00:25:23.440 --> 00:25:24.200] I'm going to sing along.
[00:25:24.760 --> 00:25:29.280] Like even singing the whole process, even to the release of the song.
[00:25:30.480 --> 00:25:32.560] Even showing my marketing plan.
[00:25:33.000 --> 00:25:38.240] If you listen close to me in the song, I might make it a 20 minute chart.
[00:25:38.880 --> 00:25:40.100] That'd be crazy.
[00:25:40.420 --> 00:25:40.940] Wow.
[00:25:41.140 --> 00:25:42.240] Are you producing this?
[00:25:42.500 --> 00:25:42.880] Whoa.
[00:25:44.140 --> 00:25:45.200] We're going on a journey.
[00:25:46.420 --> 00:25:47.520] You said it.
[00:25:47.740 --> 00:25:48.900] You said I got to come out with it.
[00:25:49.100 --> 00:25:50.280] Hey, that's only right.
[00:25:50.840 --> 00:25:50.860] Right.
[00:25:51.800 --> 00:25:56.020] Man, because, bro, that's crazy.
[00:25:57.100 --> 00:25:59.020] Hey, that's what I'm saying.
[00:25:59.020 --> 00:25:59.820] We're going to talk about it.
[00:25:59.820 --> 00:26:01.460] I'm like, no, we can do it live.
[00:26:01.800 --> 00:26:03.360] But yeah, we might save it for another.
[00:26:03.900 --> 00:26:05.320] We do some live, you know.
[00:26:05.620 --> 00:26:06.100] That'd be.
[00:26:06.220 --> 00:26:07.180] But we got some.
[00:26:07.560 --> 00:26:10.720] We just did like a freestyle session.
[00:26:11.080 --> 00:26:13.340] Like an hour, hour and a half.
[00:26:13.780 --> 00:26:14.200] Yeah.
[00:26:14.420 --> 00:26:16.460] We might drop that.
[00:26:17.220 --> 00:26:18.300] You never know.
[00:26:18.680 --> 00:26:19.840] You never know how it go.
[00:26:20.200 --> 00:26:20.660] Hey.
[00:26:21.680 --> 00:26:22.180] For real.
[00:26:22.580 --> 00:26:24.400] So I'm definitely down, man.
[00:26:24.400 --> 00:26:25.400] Like, you know, whatever.
[00:26:26.180 --> 00:26:30.620] Like I said, I'm here to support whatever creative ideas you got, man.
[00:26:30.740 --> 00:26:33.740] You know, I think that, again, that's foreign to me.
[00:26:33.760 --> 00:26:34.940] But that's what makes you alien.
[00:26:35.160 --> 00:26:35.600] I play it.
[00:26:35.620 --> 00:26:36.300] You know what I'm saying?
[00:26:36.920 --> 00:26:37.680] You know, like.
[00:26:37.780 --> 00:26:47.320] Speaking of alien, we was out of this world at an amusement park filming your music video, man.
[00:26:47.420 --> 00:26:49.520] Like, we were high in the sky.
[00:26:49.520 --> 00:26:50.200] Oh, man.
[00:26:50.220 --> 00:26:51.000] For higher.
[00:26:51.000 --> 00:26:51.780] That was.
[00:26:52.460 --> 00:26:53.500] That was.
[00:26:53.660 --> 00:26:55.480] I will forever remember that.
[00:26:55.900 --> 00:26:59.420] That's going to be one of my faves forever.
[00:26:59.720 --> 00:27:00.480] You know what I'm saying?
[00:27:00.840 --> 00:27:05.760] My favorite music videos because it was just so authentic and so real.
[00:27:05.940 --> 00:27:06.560] You know what I'm saying?
[00:27:06.760 --> 00:27:08.260] We were just playing those games.
[00:27:08.440 --> 00:27:09.480] You know, we really was.
[00:27:10.520 --> 00:27:11.940] You know, we really was.
[00:27:13.920 --> 00:27:17.180] How did you feel like just, you know, in your experience?
[00:27:17.400 --> 00:27:18.840] I told you I wanted the last question.
[00:27:20.160 --> 00:27:20.600] Shoot.
[00:27:21.180 --> 00:27:23.200] No, but we do got to get out of here, y'all.
[00:27:23.720 --> 00:27:24.220] All right.
[00:27:25.320 --> 00:27:26.180] Real, real quick.
[00:27:26.600 --> 00:27:27.980] I would say.
[00:27:30.260 --> 00:27:31.600] Because you know we can keep going.
[00:27:31.800 --> 00:27:32.600] You know how it goes.
[00:27:32.620 --> 00:27:38.000] The experience is, yeah, because I got to change, especially if, yeah.
[00:27:38.000 --> 00:27:39.000] Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:27:39.020 --> 00:27:39.460] Yeah.
[00:27:39.460 --> 00:27:40.960] I got to grab the camera.
[00:27:41.360 --> 00:27:42.280] Oh, yeah, yeah.
[00:27:42.280 --> 00:27:42.980] I got to.
[00:27:42.980 --> 00:27:43.940] I'm about to get live.
[00:27:43.980 --> 00:27:45.440] I got to stop at the studio.
[00:27:47.540 --> 00:27:48.420] But yeah.
[00:27:49.420 --> 00:27:51.580] It was a pretty experience, you know.
[00:27:51.880 --> 00:27:53.080] I was tired as heck.
[00:27:53.840 --> 00:27:55.180] But, you know, I had to come through.
[00:27:55.380 --> 00:27:56.960] Still showed out, man.
[00:27:57.520 --> 00:27:57.840] You did.
[00:27:57.900 --> 00:27:58.380] You edited.
[00:27:58.520 --> 00:27:59.780] You did your thing with that.
[00:27:59.880 --> 00:28:02.980] I didn't know how you was going to do it.
[00:28:02.980 --> 00:28:04.040] But you put the pieces together.
[00:28:04.080 --> 00:28:05.920] And it was pretty quick, too.
[00:28:06.500 --> 00:28:08.180] So, you know, I commend you for that.
[00:28:08.440 --> 00:28:11.060] I was, you know, you had the vision in your head.
[00:28:11.500 --> 00:28:13.200] You did the directing, too.
[00:28:13.320 --> 00:28:15.460] Like, hey, you know.
[00:28:15.660 --> 00:28:17.660] Hey, me times, you direct me.
[00:28:17.660 --> 00:28:18.640] Oh, my God.
[00:28:19.200 --> 00:28:20.340] Obviously, you know, directing.
[00:28:21.040 --> 00:28:22.280] You did your thing with that.
[00:28:22.360 --> 00:28:23.300] You already had your vision.
[00:28:23.360 --> 00:28:28.660] But I love working with business owners and mainly creatives.
[00:28:29.860 --> 00:28:30.820] Creative entrepreneurs.
[00:28:31.160 --> 00:28:33.180] That's my, you know, core audience.
[00:28:34.160 --> 00:28:34.860] I appreciate that.
[00:28:34.860 --> 00:28:36.020] Because you come with your vision.
[00:28:36.180 --> 00:28:36.960] You came with your vision.
[00:28:37.100 --> 00:28:40.440] So at least it's not me having to pull everything out.
[00:28:40.600 --> 00:28:42.760] It's like, yeah, this is the song.
[00:28:43.200 --> 00:28:45.060] You know, I heard the song.
[00:28:46.060 --> 00:28:48.200] My daughter loved the song.
[00:28:48.200 --> 00:28:49.580] Yeah, I appreciate that.
[00:28:49.620 --> 00:28:50.760] We didn't know she was singing.
[00:28:51.340 --> 00:28:52.980] I really do appreciate that.
[00:28:53.120 --> 00:28:56.540] So, you know, she came out to see you live.
[00:28:56.580 --> 00:28:58.500] You know, a couple of times performing.
[00:28:58.960 --> 00:29:00.700] That was, man.
[00:29:01.460 --> 00:29:04.880] Yeah, you and B, man.
[00:29:04.880 --> 00:29:06.860] Y'all came through so clutch, man.
[00:29:07.360 --> 00:29:09.260] Shout out to you and Lady B, man.
[00:29:09.440 --> 00:29:10.440] Real on that one, bro.
[00:29:10.700 --> 00:29:11.720] That was our first.
[00:29:11.900 --> 00:29:12.340] Yeah.
[00:29:12.940 --> 00:29:15.340] We'll be our first music video.
[00:29:17.280 --> 00:29:17.400] We.
[00:29:17.740 --> 00:29:18.660] Free Nikalab.
[00:29:19.720 --> 00:29:22.560] Well, no, we collab with Lady Poet.
[00:29:23.700 --> 00:29:24.560] A couple of times.
[00:29:24.600 --> 00:29:27.580] More so on the creative side as far as like a creative.
[00:29:27.740 --> 00:29:30.680] But it was before, you know, clothing brand.
[00:29:30.940 --> 00:29:33.360] Or like a music, a hip hop music video.
[00:29:34.260 --> 00:29:34.780] Wow.
[00:29:35.980 --> 00:29:36.420] High honor.
[00:29:36.580 --> 00:29:37.100] Wow.
[00:29:37.620 --> 00:29:37.780] Yeah.
[00:29:37.960 --> 00:29:38.880] High honor, bro.
[00:29:39.140 --> 00:29:39.280] Yeah.
[00:29:40.000 --> 00:29:40.420] Wow.
[00:29:40.420 --> 00:29:41.060] Wow.
[00:29:42.280 --> 00:29:42.660] Yeah.
[00:29:43.240 --> 00:29:43.520] So.
[00:29:43.960 --> 00:29:44.040] Wow.
[00:29:44.700 --> 00:29:45.460] Wow.
[00:29:45.740 --> 00:29:49.720] And I definitely want to shout out creative frequency.
[00:29:50.180 --> 00:29:51.920] That's that's that's our, you know, United.
[00:29:52.080 --> 00:29:55.760] That's alienized photos and overflow studios.
[00:29:56.020 --> 00:30:00.760] You know, our joint creative sessions are are studying
[00:30:00.760 --> 00:30:02.400] are doing our work.
[00:30:02.640 --> 00:30:06.860] We really be documenting us doing work like literally we edit
[00:30:06.860 --> 00:30:12.100] and literally be doing research, building our our platforms,
[00:30:12.300 --> 00:30:14.940] our offers, our communications, you know,
[00:30:14.940 --> 00:30:18.040] how we strategize is catching up with each other and, you know,
[00:30:18.240 --> 00:30:21.860] different businesses like she's a far better editor than me.
[00:30:22.000 --> 00:30:23.160] Like, that's my consultant.
[00:30:23.960 --> 00:30:28.300] You know, she she considered me, you know, her mentor and,
[00:30:28.300 --> 00:30:28.980] you know, teacher.
[00:30:29.260 --> 00:30:31.840] But like with the editor, I go to her.
[00:30:32.100 --> 00:30:34.740] Like, you're my mentor in that.
[00:30:34.740 --> 00:30:39.060] Like, so we just mentor each other as, you know, real relationships,
[00:30:39.680 --> 00:30:42.400] you know, should, you know, teach each other.
[00:30:43.780 --> 00:30:47.880] And yeah, you know, you know, you you you newly married now.
[00:30:47.920 --> 00:30:49.500] Oh, yeah.
[00:30:49.760 --> 00:30:50.040] Yeah.
[00:30:50.200 --> 00:30:55.540] You feel like how how is it like even as far as like teaching,
[00:30:55.540 --> 00:30:59.200] you know, each other or, you know, oh, yeah.
[00:30:59.740 --> 00:31:01.960] How major is that in the relationship?
[00:31:02.620 --> 00:31:06.760] I mean, it's one of the most important aspects of the relationship.
[00:31:07.060 --> 00:31:11.140] You know, the relationship is actually there to the whole.
[00:31:11.360 --> 00:31:16.240] One of the main purposes is to teach you to become a better,
[00:31:16.320 --> 00:31:18.080] higher version of yourself.
[00:31:18.340 --> 00:31:18.800] You know what I'm saying?
[00:31:18.820 --> 00:31:23.040] And once you understand that, it really puts you in a different mindset
[00:31:23.040 --> 00:31:27.120] and you can start to understand and put another level of balance
[00:31:27.120 --> 00:31:28.000] within the relationship.
[00:31:28.020 --> 00:31:30.360] And as the relationship goes on,
[00:31:30.360 --> 00:31:32.940] and at least in a more healthy way,
[00:31:33.900 --> 00:31:37.780] you start to be able to see how it gets better and better.
[00:31:38.000 --> 00:31:38.440] You know what I'm saying?
[00:31:38.780 --> 00:31:41.140] You know, you start to learn more patience.
[00:31:41.680 --> 00:31:47.000] You know, you start to learn how to better communicate with each other.
[00:31:47.040 --> 00:31:47.780] You know what I'm saying?
[00:31:47.840 --> 00:31:52.240] And not go off the hinges because you were able to actually sit down
[00:31:52.240 --> 00:31:53.760] and communicate and, you know,
[00:31:53.920 --> 00:31:58.460] break down what you were able to feel in that moment without offending
[00:31:58.460 --> 00:31:59.860] one another. You know what I'm saying?
[00:31:59.860 --> 00:32:05.120] So it really takes a lot of practice and then it correlates to everyday life.
[00:32:05.260 --> 00:32:08.140] You know, it teaches me as a man how to, you know,
[00:32:08.300 --> 00:32:09.800] better navigate people in general.
[00:32:09.980 --> 00:32:10.600] You know what I'm saying?
[00:32:10.700 --> 00:32:11.860] On a day-to-day basis.
[00:32:12.020 --> 00:32:12.620] You know what I'm saying?
[00:32:12.800 --> 00:32:16.160] And so having that balance and being able to also have,
[00:32:16.160 --> 00:32:19.560] you know, a good foundation and relationship at home,
[00:32:19.560 --> 00:32:24.260] it helps you to just be in this very healthy mindset, you know,
[00:32:24.260 --> 00:32:29.440] and really creates a level of, you know, balance.
[00:32:29.560 --> 00:32:32.620] And at the same time, a zeal in your life.
[00:32:32.620 --> 00:32:33.280] You know what I'm saying?
[00:32:33.340 --> 00:32:37.260] To the point where you start to, you know, have a higher purpose.
[00:32:37.300 --> 00:32:38.000] You know what I'm saying?
[00:32:38.100 --> 00:32:43.500] Every single day is, you know, it just, I can go on and on.
[00:32:43.600 --> 00:32:44.380] You know what I'm saying?
[00:32:44.480 --> 00:32:49.380] You know, but that's just like my core answer, you know, of what I think.
[00:32:50.180 --> 00:32:54.300] Why that part of the relationship is actually,
[00:32:55.380 --> 00:32:58.660] I believe the most important aspect is learning from each other.
[00:32:58.820 --> 00:32:59.500] You know what I'm saying?
[00:32:59.880 --> 00:33:00.700] Yeah, it's huge.
[00:33:00.940 --> 00:33:01.680] It's huge.
[00:33:02.020 --> 00:33:05.020] It's like, that is the reason.
[00:33:05.020 --> 00:33:05.760] The cheat code.
[00:33:06.100 --> 00:33:06.880] It's the cheat code.
[00:33:07.000 --> 00:33:07.480] You know what I'm saying?
[00:33:07.880 --> 00:33:09.880] Of course to be in harmony and this, that,
[00:33:10.100 --> 00:33:13.920] or to have kids and things like that.
[00:33:13.920 --> 00:33:17.280] But the higher, the higher purpose is to be,
[00:33:17.320 --> 00:33:19.880] be a higher version of yourself.
[00:33:20.360 --> 00:33:20.800] You know what I'm saying?
[00:33:20.840 --> 00:33:23.880] To become more compassionate for, you know,
[00:33:23.940 --> 00:33:26.400] to understand the man and to understand the woman
[00:33:26.400 --> 00:33:28.240] and to understand each other.
[00:33:28.400 --> 00:33:31.780] Because without family, you know, none of this,
[00:33:32.340 --> 00:33:35.700] that is the foundation of every aspect from the financial
[00:33:35.700 --> 00:33:37.280] to the education to the religion.
[00:33:37.360 --> 00:33:41.720] So without the foundation, the family, you got nothing.
[00:33:46.300 --> 00:33:50.380] Man, I'm about to give you a formal episode, bro.
[00:33:51.800 --> 00:33:54.180] You know, meeting E-Rock B.
[00:33:54.260 --> 00:33:56.020] So definitely look out for that, y'all.
[00:33:56.060 --> 00:33:57.540] We got to get out of here.
[00:33:58.100 --> 00:34:00.720] And I know you got a show, so, you know,
[00:34:01.100 --> 00:34:02.920] y'all know how it is, the show day, man.
[00:34:03.000 --> 00:34:03.840] It's in a couple hours.
[00:34:04.840 --> 00:34:07.040] So yeah, some time I got to make some runs.
[00:34:07.200 --> 00:34:09.400] Stop at the studio, change, do this, do that.
[00:34:10.400 --> 00:34:12.420] So I'm going to try to make it up for sure.
[00:34:12.420 --> 00:34:13.940] Appreciate you for coming.
[00:34:13.940 --> 00:34:15.560] So I'm going to close this out, man.
[00:34:15.560 --> 00:34:18.679] This has been Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:34:19.239 --> 00:34:21.239] Yes, my brother E-Rock Beats.
[00:34:21.300 --> 00:34:22.880] And where can they find you at?
[00:34:23.760 --> 00:34:28.500] You can follow me on IG at E-R-O-C.
[00:34:28.719 --> 00:34:29.500] Beats with a Z.
[00:34:29.980 --> 00:34:32.620] Once again, that's E-R-O-C.
[00:34:32.699 --> 00:34:33.560] Beats with a Z.
[00:34:33.960 --> 00:34:35.580] Shout out to the Pull Up Experience, man.
[00:34:35.639 --> 00:34:39.179] Shout out to my brother, my bruh, my fam, man.
[00:34:40.020 --> 00:34:42.320] Whatever they call me in the creative community.
[00:34:44.199 --> 00:34:47.100] Man, I mean, shoot, the Jack of All Trades.
[00:34:47.320 --> 00:34:48.239] I mean, shoot.
[00:34:48.260 --> 00:34:49.020] Artist name.
[00:34:50.699 --> 00:34:51.460] Poto Jackson.
[00:34:52.400 --> 00:34:53.659] No, the music.
[00:34:54.840 --> 00:34:55.420] And the music?
[00:34:55.880 --> 00:34:56.440] Yeah.
[00:34:57.340 --> 00:34:58.140] Music, poetry.
[00:35:02.020 --> 00:35:02.380] Damn.
[00:35:02.520 --> 00:35:03.220] You are overthinking.
[00:35:03.700 --> 00:35:04.780] Am I overthinking it?
[00:35:06.540 --> 00:35:07.520] You're overthinking.
[00:35:07.660 --> 00:35:08.800] Am I overthinking it?
[00:35:09.180 --> 00:35:09.800] What's the real?
[00:35:10.580 --> 00:35:11.440] Am I overthinking it?
[00:35:11.680 --> 00:35:12.400] Artist name.
[00:35:13.660 --> 00:35:14.540] Alien Up, what's that?
[00:35:15.280 --> 00:35:15.880] Yeah.
[00:35:15.880 --> 00:35:16.340] Alien Up, yeah.
[00:35:16.640 --> 00:35:17.120] Yeah.
[00:35:18.440 --> 00:35:18.880] Alien.
[00:35:20.240 --> 00:35:20.940] True form.
[00:35:22.180 --> 00:35:22.880] That's what I'm like.
[00:35:23.800 --> 00:35:28.360] It originated from the music to poetry.
[00:35:29.880 --> 00:35:31.820] Or more so, poetry to music.
[00:35:32.540 --> 00:35:32.640] Yeah.
[00:35:32.640 --> 00:35:34.600] However, I don't know which one I started first, actually.
[00:35:34.880 --> 00:35:37.420] I was writing forms first or music.
[00:35:37.540 --> 00:35:38.080] I don't know.
[00:35:38.560 --> 00:35:42.740] But yeah, I just took the brand.
[00:35:43.420 --> 00:35:45.180] Alien, everybody knew me as Alien.
[00:35:45.840 --> 00:35:46.500] That was the...
[00:35:46.500 --> 00:35:47.160] Oh, I did.
[00:35:47.220 --> 00:35:48.940] I don't know if you heard me, but I did say Alien.
[00:35:48.940 --> 00:35:49.240] Alien.
[00:35:50.420 --> 00:35:50.900] Oh.
[00:35:51.500 --> 00:35:53.200] That's why I was probably so confused.
[00:35:53.680 --> 00:35:54.300] Oh, yeah.
[00:35:54.780 --> 00:35:55.240] All right.
[00:35:55.380 --> 00:35:56.220] Yeah, yeah, yeah.
[00:35:56.280 --> 00:35:57.220] No, no, no.
[00:35:57.400 --> 00:35:57.700] Anyway.
[00:35:58.360 --> 00:35:58.840] But yeah, yeah.
[00:35:58.920 --> 00:35:59.240] My bad.
[00:35:59.560 --> 00:36:00.240] My bad.
[00:36:00.640 --> 00:36:00.920] Anyway.
[00:36:01.800 --> 00:36:02.540] But yeah.
[00:36:02.940 --> 00:36:03.800] That is Alien.
[00:36:04.220 --> 00:36:10.960] But sometimes people want to transition.
[00:36:11.040 --> 00:36:11.520] Yeah.
[00:36:11.520 --> 00:36:14.660] And they're like, well, I'm known for this.
[00:36:15.480 --> 00:36:16.740] But just carry it over.
[00:36:16.960 --> 00:36:18.420] I took the whole Alien.
[00:36:20.940 --> 00:36:23.240] Now I'm giving you my eyes.
[00:36:24.660 --> 00:36:33.960] So it's like, I'm about to really build this out and see how far we go with the Alien brand.
[00:36:34.960 --> 00:36:39.760] So I'm doing a lot of partnerships with Alien brands.
[00:36:39.780 --> 00:36:40.940] And I got a couple of them.
[00:36:40.940 --> 00:36:42.160] I can't even mention.
[00:36:42.720 --> 00:36:50.820] But yeah, I definitely want to come correct because business.
[00:36:53.080 --> 00:36:56.500] But again, this is Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:36:57.560 --> 00:36:59.240] But yeah, I'm going to get you a formal episode.
[00:37:00.760 --> 00:37:08.100] We don't really catch up because, yeah, I know 35, 40 minutes ain't...
[00:37:09.360 --> 00:37:11.340] You know, it's a good intro though.
[00:37:12.160 --> 00:37:14.860] So I bet you'll definitely be on the lookout for the episode.
[00:37:16.120 --> 00:37:21.210] And again, if you want to follow me at Alienize Photos.
[00:37:22.640 --> 00:37:29.100] Alienize with a Z, Photos with a S, and AlienizePhotos.com.
[00:37:30.140 --> 00:37:30.960] I am out.
[00:37:31.420 --> 00:37:31.720] Peace.
[00:37:32.100 --> 00:37:32.600] Peace.

========================================================================
75. Eliminate Distractions Even The NBA
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/eliminate-distractions-even-the-nba
========================================================================

[00:00:01.870 --> 00:00:06.970] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome back
[00:00:07.550 --> 00:00:10.990] to Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:11.150 --> 00:00:14.210] with your host, photographer Jackson,
[00:00:14.950 --> 00:00:19.650] Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos Media
[00:00:21.310 --> 00:00:25.250] and a collaborator to pull up experience
[00:00:25.250 --> 00:00:29.590] and Overflow Studio whom we form Creative Frequency.
[00:00:30.490 --> 00:00:32.150] Encouraging you to stay creative
[00:00:32.150 --> 00:00:34.190] as you follow us on our creative journey.
[00:00:35.630 --> 00:00:36.870] And yeah, it's a busy day
[00:00:36.870 --> 00:00:39.730] with the pull-up experience this week, you know.
[00:00:40.290 --> 00:00:44.490] Kind of had some brief text chats
[00:00:45.210 --> 00:00:48.650] and scheduled a team meeting tomorrow
[00:00:48.650 --> 00:00:52.450] as I'm getting ready for, you know,
[00:00:52.790 --> 00:00:55.350] recordings with the pull-up experience as we have.
[00:00:55.350 --> 00:00:57.150] We have two interviews today,
[00:00:57.810 --> 00:01:01.090] two great entrepreneurs, so stay tuned.
[00:01:01.670 --> 00:01:04.370] Follow, subscribe, the pull-up experience,
[00:01:05.110 --> 00:01:06.610] my entrepreneur partners,
[00:01:07.370 --> 00:01:10.130] and yeah, we taking this to the top.
[00:01:10.610 --> 00:01:11.950] But I just wanted to hop on
[00:01:13.210 --> 00:01:15.970] and some things was on my heart
[00:01:17.830 --> 00:01:22.130] as, you know, we kind of get distracted sometimes.
[00:01:22.230 --> 00:01:24.210] We kind of go off course, you know.
[00:01:24.210 --> 00:01:27.550] Fall asleep at the wheel, you know,
[00:01:27.590 --> 00:01:30.350] I've definitely done that a lot, you know, literally.
[00:01:31.610 --> 00:01:33.270] People know I'm always doing a lot,
[00:01:34.370 --> 00:01:36.770] so I'm traveling and, you know,
[00:01:38.150 --> 00:01:39.410] tired, you know, it happens.
[00:01:40.290 --> 00:01:42.330] And, you know, I pull over when I can
[00:01:42.330 --> 00:01:44.570] and, you know, make sure I'm stay hydrated
[00:01:44.570 --> 00:01:46.930] and try to avoid it the most I can.
[00:01:47.190 --> 00:01:48.930] I'm getting my sleep more
[00:01:49.390 --> 00:01:52.110] and that's important for an entrepreneur, you know.
[00:01:52.110 --> 00:01:54.450] Not getting in sleep is a distraction.
[00:01:54.450 --> 00:01:58.530] I'm like, man, am I piling my schedule up too much?
[00:01:58.850 --> 00:01:59.970] Am I doing too much?
[00:02:00.150 --> 00:02:03.830] Am I not fully giving 100% all the time
[00:02:03.830 --> 00:02:06.310] because I'm trying and, you know,
[00:02:06.530 --> 00:02:08.850] putting my energy in too many things?
[00:02:09.930 --> 00:02:11.790] You know, even starting a podcast is like,
[00:02:11.790 --> 00:02:13.570] oh, you starting another thing?
[00:02:14.470 --> 00:02:16.890] You know, I had a podcast back in the day,
[00:02:16.930 --> 00:02:18.130] Lyrical Logic Podcast,
[00:02:18.130 --> 00:02:23.170] is I broke down lyrics and poems with different guests
[00:02:23.590 --> 00:02:25.610] and then also have them break down
[00:02:25.610 --> 00:02:29.290] one of their poems or songs, you know.
[00:02:31.480 --> 00:02:34.320] But, you know, starting this podcast,
[00:02:34.560 --> 00:02:38.820] it was, again, on my heart, you know, it was meaningful
[00:02:39.840 --> 00:02:41.920] and it's adding to my business
[00:02:41.920 --> 00:02:46.260] as it's the biggest marketing arm of my business.
[00:02:46.800 --> 00:02:49.080] So, and it's free, you know,
[00:02:49.080 --> 00:02:52.760] and I get to connect with people through conversation,
[00:02:53.500 --> 00:02:55.640] which is good, impactful,
[00:02:55.960 --> 00:02:58.180] and, you know, even for everyone else,
[00:02:58.520 --> 00:03:00.780] you know, listen to these interviews
[00:03:00.780 --> 00:03:04.600] and, you know, even my solo podcast episodes
[00:03:05.720 --> 00:03:08.040] of Alien Eyes Photos industry talk.
[00:03:09.740 --> 00:03:13.300] But, you know, distractions, they get in the way.
[00:03:14.520 --> 00:03:16.000] How can we cut them out?
[00:03:16.000 --> 00:03:20.520] How can we get them out of our life completely?
[00:03:20.580 --> 00:03:22.360] If you really want it, you know,
[00:03:22.360 --> 00:03:24.860] you got to delete distractions completely
[00:03:26.740 --> 00:03:29.340] because distractions don't come to us.
[00:03:30.420 --> 00:03:32.220] We go to the distractions.
[00:03:33.080 --> 00:03:35.320] We seek out the distractions.
[00:03:36.380 --> 00:03:38.540] You know, I don't want to do this big task.
[00:03:38.640 --> 00:03:40.220] Oh, let me distract myself.
[00:03:40.340 --> 00:03:43.980] Oh, let me play, you know, a game on my phone,
[00:03:43.980 --> 00:03:49.180] you know, Spades or whatever you play on your phone.
[00:03:50.800 --> 00:03:56.640] And, you know, you may watch Netflix, watch TV,
[00:03:58.340 --> 00:04:02.160] you know, go hang out with a friend,
[00:04:02.440 --> 00:04:05.540] y'all still trying to figure out what y'all want to do.
[00:04:06.320 --> 00:04:09.960] And, you know, y'all both trying to distract yourselves
[00:04:09.960 --> 00:04:14.000] because y'all don't want to face the hard work
[00:04:14.000 --> 00:04:15.800] or the task that's needed.
[00:04:15.960 --> 00:04:17.200] It could be something simple.
[00:04:17.880 --> 00:04:21.399] And the simple can sometimes be, you know, difficult.
[00:04:23.140 --> 00:04:27.360] Like the most littlest thing, even with relationships,
[00:04:27.360 --> 00:04:30.000] you know, it could be something simple, something little.
[00:04:32.000 --> 00:04:33.340] We just don't want to do it.
[00:04:33.380 --> 00:04:36.680] Just do it, you know?
[00:04:38.180 --> 00:04:40.100] And that's me also talking to myself,
[00:04:40.200 --> 00:04:44.160] but I know many could reflect on that
[00:04:44.160 --> 00:04:47.620] because I do get distracted a lot, you know?
[00:04:48.840 --> 00:04:54.620] And to be candid, I had an opportunity to try for the NBA
[00:04:56.300 --> 00:04:59.000] and anybody that know me, I love basketball.
[00:04:59.300 --> 00:05:02.220] It's one of my childhood dreams to be in the NBA.
[00:05:03.360 --> 00:05:05.800] And I was also thinking like,
[00:05:06.460 --> 00:05:10.120] well, will my older self be mad at my younger self
[00:05:10.120 --> 00:05:11.700] for not taking this opportunity?
[00:05:12.140 --> 00:05:15.960] You know, something I wanted so bad at one point in my life,
[00:05:16.780 --> 00:05:21.320] but I wanted to pursue music and poetry at the time.
[00:05:22.180 --> 00:05:26.500] So, you know, I didn't consistently play basketball.
[00:05:26.660 --> 00:05:29.820] Like it's been maybe five years
[00:05:29.820 --> 00:05:32.300] since I've like picked it up.
[00:05:32.340 --> 00:05:36.940] I picked it up more recently this year, 2025,
[00:05:38.380 --> 00:05:42.840] and you know, been consistent with my, you know,
[00:05:42.900 --> 00:05:46.020] I could say my hoopin' partner, E-Rock, Mr. E-Rock Beats,
[00:05:46.340 --> 00:05:50.120] Eric Porter, my brother, great producer, great MC,
[00:05:50.380 --> 00:05:53.340] great host, great friend, man.
[00:05:53.880 --> 00:05:54.600] I love you, brother.
[00:05:54.660 --> 00:05:56.340] And we got some episodes coming out
[00:05:56.860 --> 00:05:59.460] as he had the opportunity to interview me.
[00:05:59.780 --> 00:06:01.620] So stay tuned for that.
[00:06:03.500 --> 00:06:08.040] Yeah, so I had the opportunity to try out for the NBA,
[00:06:09.180 --> 00:06:11.620] the G League, Cleveland Charge,
[00:06:12.520 --> 00:06:14.960] the development sector of the NBA.
[00:06:16.800 --> 00:06:21.700] And I was all for it.
[00:06:23.240 --> 00:06:25.040] You know, I'm training, I'm training.
[00:06:25.880 --> 00:06:29.780] You know, I only had about five weeks to train.
[00:06:30.680 --> 00:06:33.540] And like I said, I haven't been playing in years.
[00:06:34.140 --> 00:06:36.340] This year, I finally got back to it,
[00:06:36.340 --> 00:06:38.940] but it's still not like, you know, consistent play.
[00:06:39.140 --> 00:06:41.780] I play maybe once a week.
[00:06:43.820 --> 00:06:45.540] One point it was like once a month.
[00:06:45.580 --> 00:06:48.580] So yeah, I've started bringing it up to once,
[00:06:49.380 --> 00:06:52.340] once a week, sometimes twice.
[00:06:52.560 --> 00:06:55.480] I would love more to get it up to about three or four.
[00:06:55.480 --> 00:06:56.400] Oh, bars.
[00:07:00.240 --> 00:07:05.180] I really had to sit and think about it though,
[00:07:07.780 --> 00:07:10.640] because I'm focused on my first million.
[00:07:13.400 --> 00:07:17.450] You know, it's tough sometimes
[00:07:17.450 --> 00:07:19.930] getting out that four figure, five figure,
[00:07:20.490 --> 00:07:23.010] you know, and then once you get that six figure,
[00:07:23.590 --> 00:07:26.250] and it's like, okay, the million, here we go.
[00:07:28.840 --> 00:07:30.460] I'm focused on my first million
[00:07:33.330 --> 00:07:36.690] and I know I'm gonna do it with the team around me.
[00:07:38.440 --> 00:07:40.100] And, you know, the Pull Up Experience,
[00:07:40.320 --> 00:07:42.440] Creative Frequency, Overflow Studio,
[00:07:43.700 --> 00:07:44.980] Montage Media,
[00:07:50.030 --> 00:07:59.540] is really important for me to eliminate distractions,
[00:08:01.160 --> 00:08:04.060] to build the brands that I'm a part of.
[00:08:07.260 --> 00:08:08.640] Eliminate distractions,
[00:08:10.260 --> 00:08:12.460] so I could continue elevating the brands
[00:08:12.460 --> 00:08:14.620] that I am a part of.
[00:08:18.410 --> 00:08:18.670] Wow.
[00:08:22.800 --> 00:08:24.800] I'm just sitting back and reflecting,
[00:08:24.800 --> 00:08:30.580] and, you know, as you hear this,
[00:08:33.020 --> 00:08:38.380] you know, it's very eye-opening,
[00:08:42.059 --> 00:08:45.340] very, you know, catchy to the mind
[00:08:45.340 --> 00:08:47.500] to wanna do something new or,
[00:08:48.440 --> 00:08:49.960] you know, experience something.
[00:08:52.130 --> 00:08:54.510] But is it worth your focus
[00:08:56.850 --> 00:08:59.430] on where you want to go in life?
[00:09:00.150 --> 00:09:03.230] The ultimate goal, the current goal,
[00:09:04.790 --> 00:09:07.670] what you want to do to distract you,
[00:09:07.910 --> 00:09:10.670] or taking away from what you're supposed to do
[00:09:13.050 --> 00:09:16.350] has value, and first off, it doesn't have value,
[00:09:16.530 --> 00:09:17.810] it would add value.
[00:09:19.390 --> 00:09:19.890] No.
[00:09:21.190 --> 00:09:22.530] I would stop there,
[00:09:23.710 --> 00:09:26.710] because on the flip side, there's also self-care,
[00:09:27.490 --> 00:09:30.290] self-love, time with the one above,
[00:09:30.690 --> 00:09:33.270] the one in your heart, the one in your mind,
[00:09:33.570 --> 00:09:34.810] the one in your spirit,
[00:09:37.460 --> 00:09:39.590] we're at one, we're never apart.
[00:09:44.970 --> 00:09:47.550] We're one and never apart, just like, you know,
[00:09:47.630 --> 00:09:50.170] our business, our brand, our personal brands,
[00:09:51.110 --> 00:09:52.190] which is important,
[00:09:55.510 --> 00:10:04.500] and every story is just like a narrative for brand,
[00:10:04.800 --> 00:10:06.020] every brand has a story,
[00:10:06.720 --> 00:10:08.140] every person has a story,
[00:10:09.280 --> 00:10:10.780] every artist has a story,
[00:10:10.920 --> 00:10:12.740] every entrepreneur has a story.
[00:10:13.840 --> 00:10:16.860] You know, as I continue talking
[00:10:16.860 --> 00:10:18.500] to my creative entrepreneurs,
[00:10:19.900 --> 00:10:21.100] you know, those who's creative,
[00:10:21.260 --> 00:10:23.780] and those who also an entrepreneur,
[00:10:24.720 --> 00:10:26.340] tied all in to each other,
[00:10:27.200 --> 00:10:28.340] or if you're just a creative,
[00:10:28.460 --> 00:10:29.640] or you're just an entrepreneur,
[00:10:31.160 --> 00:10:33.580] or if you want us to become one of these,
[00:10:34.020 --> 00:10:38.240] you know, two, or I could say three, to be both,
[00:10:41.540 --> 00:10:43.160] you got to eliminate the distractions.
[00:10:45.360 --> 00:10:47.140] I know people that go to the gym
[00:10:47.140 --> 00:10:49.100] just spend more time on their phone
[00:10:49.100 --> 00:10:51.120] than they do, you know, working out.
[00:10:51.960 --> 00:10:53.800] You know, I leave all that in a locker,
[00:10:53.880 --> 00:10:57.020] like, I know I want to listen to music, my music,
[00:10:57.280 --> 00:10:59.340] and you know, you know how I be in the gym,
[00:10:59.500 --> 00:11:00.460] but it's just like, no,
[00:11:00.560 --> 00:11:02.860] because I'm trying to find a song,
[00:11:03.160 --> 00:11:04.360] or get a text up going and say,
[00:11:04.520 --> 00:11:08.880] oh, like, it's just a big loop, you know?
[00:11:08.920 --> 00:11:11.980] We wake up, sometimes,
[00:11:12.120 --> 00:11:14.040] first thing people do is get on their phone,
[00:11:15.380 --> 00:11:17.420] you know, take their time to yourself,
[00:11:18.980 --> 00:11:21.240] so self-love and self-care is also important,
[00:11:21.560 --> 00:11:24.500] and you know, taking time to rest and take a break,
[00:11:25.200 --> 00:11:26.840] and you know, do something fun,
[00:11:27.000 --> 00:11:29.740] do something enjoying, experience, travel,
[00:11:30.900 --> 00:11:34.180] unwind, unplug, you know, do nothing.
[00:11:35.640 --> 00:11:36.380] You know, find time,
[00:11:36.400 --> 00:11:37.840] you got to find time to read a book,
[00:11:38.060 --> 00:11:41.340] and you know, even books, that's not, you know,
[00:11:42.520 --> 00:11:46.680] in your genre, or your target audience,
[00:11:47.540 --> 00:11:48.880] or what you do,
[00:11:50.560 --> 00:11:51.340] but you know,
[00:11:53.360 --> 00:11:55.660] just trying to branch out and explore.
[00:11:55.760 --> 00:11:58.500] Books is one of those sectors where you can't explore,
[00:11:59.740 --> 00:12:02.960] and kind of take, and you know, just take it in,
[00:12:06.360 --> 00:12:08.240] but there's a balance,
[00:12:10.100 --> 00:12:11.840] you know, you got to cut those distractions,
[00:12:12.920 --> 00:12:15.120] but what distractions are okay?
[00:12:16.560 --> 00:12:18.580] I'll leave that up to you to figure out,
[00:12:18.860 --> 00:12:20.620] but I got to get going,
[00:12:20.780 --> 00:12:22.920] so we're set up for the pull-up experience.
[00:12:23.160 --> 00:12:24.920] I know the team is probably waiting on me,
[00:12:24.920 --> 00:12:26.100] and we're like, oh,
[00:12:26.280 --> 00:12:27.960] but I'm just wanting to drop in,
[00:12:28.860 --> 00:12:31.840] and also my thoughts and reflections,
[00:12:32.900 --> 00:12:34.080] you know, continuing,
[00:12:34.300 --> 00:12:36.780] reflecting on my journey as an entrepreneur.
[00:12:37.860 --> 00:12:41.960] Again, it's 2025, September,
[00:12:44.720 --> 00:12:46.860] and I'm glad it's still warm.
[00:12:47.580 --> 00:12:49.500] It's getting cold some days,
[00:12:49.560 --> 00:12:51.920] it's colder than others, especially at night,
[00:12:52.440 --> 00:12:56.940] but I'm going to appreciate this September weather.
[00:12:58.040 --> 00:12:59.620] My sense of Earth went on fire on y'all,
[00:12:59.700 --> 00:13:01.120] but I got to go.
[00:13:01.700 --> 00:13:02.900] Thank you for listening.
[00:13:03.260 --> 00:13:04.620] Tune in, subscribe,
[00:13:04.620 --> 00:13:07.720] follow me at Alienize Photos,
[00:13:08.260 --> 00:13:10.980] and follow me on all social media,
[00:13:11.120 --> 00:13:13.400] also with my creative partner,
[00:13:14.280 --> 00:13:15.700] at Creative Frequency.
[00:13:15.960 --> 00:13:20.200] You can follow us at On A Creative Frequency,
[00:13:21.080 --> 00:13:22.880] On A Creative Frequency.
[00:13:24.140 --> 00:13:25.900] All right, peace.

========================================================================
76. Get Better (short)
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/get-better
========================================================================

[00:00:00.340 --> 00:00:05.840] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome back
[00:00:06.650 --> 00:00:09.000] to Alienize Photos Industry.
[00:00:09.360 --> 00:00:12.300] Talk with your host, Photographer Jackson.
[00:00:14.180 --> 00:00:17.740] I just want to talk about getting better.
[00:00:20.340 --> 00:00:21.740] Yes, get better.
[00:00:23.700 --> 00:00:25.360] You know, I recently got done editing
[00:00:25.360 --> 00:00:27.840] a photo gallery for a friend's event.
[00:00:27.840 --> 00:00:32.920] And if anyone knows professional editing
[00:00:33.640 --> 00:00:35.560] or does professional editing,
[00:00:36.520 --> 00:00:39.080] you know how much time, patience,
[00:00:39.340 --> 00:00:41.900] and constant tweaking that is
[00:00:41.900 --> 00:00:44.260] and how much it takes out of you.
[00:00:45.600 --> 00:00:48.340] You know, upon delivering the gallery days later,
[00:00:48.880 --> 00:00:52.780] I receive a message that the photos cannot be used
[00:00:52.780 --> 00:00:55.780] for marketing and requested a partial refund.
[00:00:57.020 --> 00:00:59.180] You know, I was taken back.
[00:00:59.980 --> 00:01:02.160] I had to look back at the photo gallery
[00:01:02.160 --> 00:01:03.080] like, am I tripping?
[00:01:04.260 --> 00:01:06.380] Because I know I took some great photos.
[00:01:08.320 --> 00:01:12.040] So, hmm, so yeah, I looked back at the gallery
[00:01:13.000 --> 00:01:18.620] and, you know, responded back in a very detailed message.
[00:01:19.360 --> 00:01:22.780] No, granted, there was no call prior to the event,
[00:01:23.400 --> 00:01:24.560] which was my mistake.
[00:01:25.780 --> 00:01:27.840] Typically with last minute requests,
[00:01:27.840 --> 00:01:30.960] it is hard to squeeze in that call or meeting
[00:01:31.700 --> 00:01:32.760] before the event.
[00:01:33.580 --> 00:01:36.960] And this is why I encourage everybody to book early
[00:01:37.760 --> 00:01:41.520] and we can schedule all pre-production calls,
[00:01:41.640 --> 00:01:44.180] you know, map out the expectations,
[00:01:44.480 --> 00:01:45.880] the timeline of the event,
[00:01:46.400 --> 00:01:47.880] what equipment I may need,
[00:01:48.180 --> 00:01:49.840] where I may be positioned,
[00:01:50.440 --> 00:01:54.020] you know, that's very critical details that's needed.
[00:01:55.780 --> 00:01:58.020] You know, so it's hard, you know, last minute,
[00:01:58.200 --> 00:02:00.920] the day before, the day of, you know,
[00:02:01.020 --> 00:02:02.400] especially someone in media,
[00:02:02.840 --> 00:02:05.060] it's hard for us to prepare.
[00:02:06.040 --> 00:02:07.260] You know, unless we've done it, you know,
[00:02:07.380 --> 00:02:09.020] multiple times and, you know,
[00:02:09.300 --> 00:02:11.000] same reoccurring event, same thing,
[00:02:11.100 --> 00:02:12.300] but that's different.
[00:02:13.560 --> 00:02:16.520] But, you know, something new, fresh,
[00:02:17.960 --> 00:02:20.200] you know, you gotta have that pre-production meeting
[00:02:20.780 --> 00:02:22.960] and carve out that time before
[00:02:22.960 --> 00:02:24.400] that the last minute works.
[00:02:26.580 --> 00:02:31.100] Get better, you know, support it.
[00:02:33.080 --> 00:02:34.560] And we're still friends,
[00:02:35.300 --> 00:02:37.020] we know business is business,
[00:02:37.720 --> 00:02:40.780] we will not let our businesses get in between us.
[00:02:41.460 --> 00:02:44.020] Yet this struck fire under me.
[00:02:45.020 --> 00:02:46.980] I said to myself, get better.
[00:02:48.300 --> 00:02:49.940] I have to get better.
[00:02:51.280 --> 00:02:54.300] As a marketer that specializes in visual media,
[00:02:55.160 --> 00:02:56.580] I have to get better.
[00:02:57.680 --> 00:02:59.140] I have to be a better marketer.
[00:02:59.140 --> 00:03:01.420] A better photographer, a better producer,
[00:03:01.820 --> 00:03:05.160] a better communicator, a better leader, a better coach.
[00:03:05.760 --> 00:03:07.440] I have to get better.
[00:03:10.740 --> 00:03:12.500] I'm saying all of this to say,
[00:03:14.020 --> 00:03:16.780] do not let difficult moments ruin your relationships
[00:03:17.740 --> 00:03:20.840] with your family, friends, good business partners,
[00:03:21.220 --> 00:03:23.720] spouse, even yourself.
[00:03:25.940 --> 00:03:29.820] Do not let it ruin what is near to your heart.
[00:03:31.760 --> 00:03:35.050] Learn how to take frustration, doubt, shame,
[00:03:35.570 --> 00:03:37.870] negative emotions and turn it into a game.
[00:03:39.210 --> 00:03:44.860] Something positive, something positive.
[00:03:46.340 --> 00:03:48.540] Change it into something positive.
[00:03:50.860 --> 00:03:53.020] And see me, I did two things.
[00:03:53.780 --> 00:03:56.560] Documented the situation so I could reflect
[00:03:56.560 --> 00:03:58.960] on what I did and what I'm doing.
[00:03:59.860 --> 00:04:01.560] Hence this podcast episode.
[00:04:02.420 --> 00:04:08.360] Then too, I turned that challenge and situation
[00:04:09.000 --> 00:04:11.160] into vitamins for my growth.
[00:04:12.360 --> 00:04:13.220] Get better.
[00:04:13.740 --> 00:04:17.240] And I will continue to get better with all I do.
[00:04:18.260 --> 00:04:21.279] I pledge to myself and the world.
[00:04:22.760 --> 00:04:25.900] I will get better and continue to get better.
[00:04:26.420 --> 00:04:27.580] Continue to elevate.
[00:04:28.460 --> 00:04:30.620] Demonstrate your talents, don't rate.
[00:04:31.560 --> 00:04:32.940] Continue to elevate.
[00:04:34.220 --> 00:04:35.140] Get better.
[00:04:38.810 --> 00:04:41.690] Feels like a good, quick rant.
[00:04:42.590 --> 00:04:46.970] But I hope you still found value and insight in this.
[00:04:48.070 --> 00:04:49.430] Now this was a quick episode
[00:04:49.430 --> 00:04:51.870] of Alienize Photos Industry Talk,
[00:04:52.630 --> 00:04:55.170] the introspective business podcast.
[00:04:55.770 --> 00:04:57.670] Let us continue to have conversations
[00:04:57.670 --> 00:05:01.690] and dialogue around business as I did, you know,
[00:05:01.690 --> 00:05:05.850] when you do services for family and friends, you know,
[00:05:05.970 --> 00:05:12.170] and things may not turn out the way they always expected
[00:05:12.170 --> 00:05:14.810] or seem or, you know, what you have in your mind
[00:05:14.810 --> 00:05:17.650] or their mind, but it's business.
[00:05:18.730 --> 00:05:21.790] And we had this dialogue around business
[00:05:21.790 --> 00:05:23.490] and let's continue this conversation.
[00:05:25.330 --> 00:05:28.510] I love to ask everyone that comes on the show
[00:05:28.510 --> 00:05:30.310] when I do interviews,
[00:05:31.070 --> 00:05:35.750] how does media affect your industry or a variation of it?
[00:05:37.760 --> 00:05:43.400] As my business is a media, it is vital data
[00:05:44.100 --> 00:05:47.080] that continues to help me get better.
[00:05:48.120 --> 00:05:50.360] And I wanna ask you all out there,
[00:05:52.500 --> 00:05:53.740] what helps you get better?
[00:05:56.360 --> 00:06:00.020] What helps you get better?
[00:06:02.190 --> 00:06:03.310] What helps you get better?
[00:06:05.600 --> 00:06:07.880] All right, and thank you all for listening.
[00:06:08.920 --> 00:06:10.700] This is photographer Jackson,
[00:06:10.960 --> 00:06:14.200] Steve Jackson of Alienize Photos
[00:06:14.200 --> 00:06:16.920] and Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:06:17.520 --> 00:06:23.420] A-E-P-I-T, Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:06:24.200 --> 00:06:26.920] And for coaching or event photography booking,
[00:06:27.700 --> 00:06:30.780] visit alienizephotos.com.
[00:06:31.120 --> 00:06:35.340] Alien eyes, like the eyeballs, eyes with a Z,
[00:06:35.340 --> 00:06:37.560] photos, the pictures,
[00:06:38.900 --> 00:06:41.700] or the S, dot com.
[00:06:43.960 --> 00:06:45.160] Alienizephotos.com.
[00:06:45.640 --> 00:06:48.600] All right, I am out, about to prepare for a wedding.
[00:06:49.400 --> 00:06:51.700] So yeah, then I got another wedding tomorrow,
[00:06:52.420 --> 00:06:56.480] so busy weekend and I will talk to you all soon, peace.

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77. Public or Private
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/public-or-private
========================================================================

[00:00:00.050 --> 00:00:00.950] You said it too, you was like,
[00:00:01.050 --> 00:00:02.670] you said bubba and son, name, golden, name,
[00:00:02.710 --> 00:00:04.290] boy, I got it together, I can't remember.
[00:00:04.490 --> 00:00:06.570] I'm like, I don't know.
[00:00:07.290 --> 00:00:09.090] First, you're supposed to be holding this, boy.
[00:00:10.130 --> 00:00:11.510] Like this, like that.
[00:00:11.650 --> 00:00:13.090] So, on tonight's episode.
[00:00:13.870 --> 00:00:14.490] Where the uh?
[00:00:14.590 --> 00:00:15.330] Pull up after dark.
[00:00:15.650 --> 00:00:17.050] Pull up after dark, there we go, I like that.
[00:00:17.290 --> 00:00:18.150] Pull up after dark.
[00:00:18.290 --> 00:00:19.270] Pull up after dark, what's up?
[00:00:20.090 --> 00:00:21.150] We gotta miss him.
[00:00:21.190 --> 00:00:22.930] You should be sold in the union, y'all.
[00:00:23.030 --> 00:00:26.550] One day, he gonna get my podcast name right, y'all.
[00:00:26.790 --> 00:00:28.930] That day will come.
[00:00:30.410 --> 00:00:34.050] I wanna ask y'all, how do y'all feel about
[00:00:34.050 --> 00:00:35.390] taking your relationship public,
[00:00:35.530 --> 00:00:36.430] versus having that private?
[00:00:37.950 --> 00:00:38.850] Don't do it?
[00:00:40.150 --> 00:00:42.750] Speak on it, speak on it.
[00:00:42.930 --> 00:00:44.850] I don't want to talk about personal spirits I had.
[00:00:45.670 --> 00:00:46.850] We won't say no names.
[00:00:46.870 --> 00:00:47.790] We won't say no names.
[00:00:48.490 --> 00:00:49.010] G will meet her.
[00:00:49.050 --> 00:00:49.870] Where are the others?
[00:00:51.110 --> 00:00:51.510] Hater.
[00:00:53.170 --> 00:00:55.090] Me too, I put she hanging with me, y'all.
[00:00:55.330 --> 00:00:56.490] See, they were a bastard.
[00:00:57.370 --> 00:00:59.510] She wanted to murder, but he like,
[00:00:59.510 --> 00:01:00.870] I don't want her to get with you, bro.
[00:01:02.210 --> 00:01:03.530] Why'd that bring you to these?
[00:01:04.349 --> 00:01:05.129] That is the question.
[00:01:05.190 --> 00:01:06.610] That's another story for the day, y'all.
[00:01:06.730 --> 00:01:07.930] I can't believe that.
[00:01:08.290 --> 00:01:08.910] To this day.
[00:01:08.970 --> 00:01:09.450] To this day.
[00:01:09.790 --> 00:01:11.230] I was nice to her.
[00:01:11.530 --> 00:01:13.610] My gosh, and I wish I would've been rude.
[00:01:14.810 --> 00:01:16.350] So I would be an Eric podcast now,
[00:01:16.430 --> 00:01:17.130] but whenever I bring you around,
[00:01:17.390 --> 00:01:19.970] I'm like, that ain't never, that's it, dawg.
[00:01:20.310 --> 00:01:20.590] Right.
[00:01:21.270 --> 00:01:22.170] I'm so glad it's over with.
[00:01:22.410 --> 00:01:25.090] But, though, yeah, she was one of the people
[00:01:25.090 --> 00:01:26.610] who was like, I want you to
[00:01:27.810 --> 00:01:30.490] announce our relationship on social media.
[00:01:31.750 --> 00:01:33.130] In like the dummy hours.
[00:01:34.710 --> 00:01:36.670] I put it on Facebook, but I put it on Facebook first, right?
[00:01:37.170 --> 00:01:39.250] Yeah, and you didn't even warn your team, by the way.
[00:01:39.310 --> 00:01:40.130] I did not.
[00:01:40.290 --> 00:01:40.990] I did not.
[00:01:41.070 --> 00:01:42.870] Because she was like, do it, do it, do it.
[00:01:42.930 --> 00:01:43.830] Do it right now.
[00:01:43.930 --> 00:01:44.370] On some games.
[00:01:44.490 --> 00:01:46.210] I was like, okay, yeah, yeah.
[00:01:47.270 --> 00:01:48.790] She was like, go do it right now.
[00:01:48.810 --> 00:01:49.710] Are you in danger?
[00:01:51.410 --> 00:01:53.290] Like, I don't do it, she's like,
[00:01:53.390 --> 00:01:54.010] no, do it right now.
[00:01:54.090 --> 00:01:55.010] Right in front of us, I see.
[00:01:55.010 --> 00:01:56.150] Oh my gosh.
[00:01:57.690 --> 00:01:58.290] That's threaded.
[00:01:59.930 --> 00:02:01.670] So I did it, my dummy.
[00:02:02.890 --> 00:02:04.210] And I want to say, not even the hour,
[00:02:04.270 --> 00:02:05.850] it was like 20 minutes later.
[00:02:06.490 --> 00:02:08.850] Text me, text me, text me, text me, text me.
[00:02:09.550 --> 00:02:10.910] Hey Brandon, somebody hacked your page.
[00:02:11.690 --> 00:02:13.210] Brandon, somebody hacked your, Brandon, what?
[00:02:13.710 --> 00:02:14.770] Someone got your page?
[00:02:15.350 --> 00:02:17.950] Oh man, I was gonna ask the cash, but what?
[00:02:19.090 --> 00:02:20.910] I'm like, nah, that was a hack, man.
[00:02:21.030 --> 00:02:22.750] That one, that was me.
[00:02:23.910 --> 00:02:24.830] That was me.
[00:02:26.550 --> 00:02:28.150] It wasn't even, it was, it was everybody.
[00:02:28.250 --> 00:02:29.430] Everybody was like, man.
[00:02:29.650 --> 00:02:31.790] Yeah, you're just like, what?
[00:02:31.910 --> 00:02:33.390] It's people like, for real, bro.
[00:02:34.590 --> 00:02:36.510] Can we even, the fact I have been divorced,
[00:02:36.790 --> 00:02:39.250] I've been married, I've been everything in between,
[00:02:39.350 --> 00:02:41.410] and I've never poked my relationship status, right?
[00:02:42.150 --> 00:02:44.290] And the fact that out of the blue,
[00:02:44.290 --> 00:02:45.790] I was just like, hey, I'm in a relationship with a guy.
[00:02:46.210 --> 00:02:49.190] One, it was just out of character, right?
[00:02:49.190 --> 00:02:49.510] Yeah.
[00:02:49.510 --> 00:02:55.530] And then two, it didn't solidify our relationship at all.
[00:02:55.710 --> 00:02:57.410] If anything, it probably made it just that much worse.
[00:02:58.230 --> 00:03:00.010] It's why we need to prove our relationship
[00:03:00.010 --> 00:03:00.990] or what we're dealing with.
[00:03:02.130 --> 00:03:02.890] Tied up so.
[00:03:03.170 --> 00:03:03.590] Yeah.
[00:03:04.670 --> 00:03:05.890] So don't do it.
[00:03:06.290 --> 00:03:07.750] Don't do it.
[00:03:07.910 --> 00:03:10.290] Well, I thought to ask the expert or what not,
[00:03:10.370 --> 00:03:10.730] you know?
[00:03:11.090 --> 00:03:14.270] Yeah, you know, the love relationship code.
[00:03:14.810 --> 00:03:16.850] So it's Coach B.
[00:03:16.930 --> 00:03:19.390] Not really, that's probably taken already.
[00:03:19.390 --> 00:03:21.530] Don't come for me.
[00:03:21.710 --> 00:03:22.290] Don't swear.
[00:03:22.550 --> 00:03:24.870] I'm just new to this space, okay?
[00:03:25.030 --> 00:03:26.530] Don't come for me.
[00:03:26.790 --> 00:03:28.950] But however, new to the certification,
[00:03:29.170 --> 00:03:30.970] but I've been doing this a long time
[00:03:30.970 --> 00:03:32.010] as far as giving advice.
[00:03:32.090 --> 00:03:34.670] So don't, you know, let's not knock that part.
[00:03:34.910 --> 00:03:36.390] But anywho, to get to the question,
[00:03:36.870 --> 00:03:38.110] I tried it as well.
[00:03:39.710 --> 00:03:41.210] I only, but here's the thing.
[00:03:41.210 --> 00:03:44.270] I didn't change statuses like Facebook or whatever.
[00:03:44.590 --> 00:03:48.450] I just did like a snippet of them on my story
[00:03:48.450 --> 00:03:50.110] and it still sparked like,
[00:03:50.330 --> 00:03:51.370] oh, I'm a little boy.
[00:03:51.770 --> 00:03:52.890] This is the back of his,
[00:03:52.990 --> 00:03:55.270] how do you recognize on the back?
[00:03:55.410 --> 00:03:56.390] Oh, I know her back.
[00:03:56.490 --> 00:03:57.690] I don't know about your gondor and downs.
[00:03:58.870 --> 00:04:00.270] Like, you're with such and such.
[00:04:00.390 --> 00:04:01.530] It's like, how do you know?
[00:04:01.550 --> 00:04:03.790] Like, I need to show a spade in the back.
[00:04:04.090 --> 00:04:05.350] I was like, okay.
[00:04:05.730 --> 00:04:06.130] Well.
[00:04:08.690 --> 00:04:11.270] I screenshot it, then I zoomed in and then.
[00:04:11.730 --> 00:04:12.250] Oh yeah.
[00:04:13.370 --> 00:04:15.510] But in it, and that relationship didn't,
[00:04:15.610 --> 00:04:17.850] you know, honestly, it soured out.
[00:04:18.510 --> 00:04:21.209] And, you know, you do look kind of, you know,
[00:04:21.310 --> 00:04:23.210] crazy on these streets, you know.
[00:04:23.410 --> 00:04:25.450] Crazy, for sure.
[00:04:25.890 --> 00:04:28.870] So I have learned as much as, okay.
[00:04:28.930 --> 00:04:30.810] And I know my females can help me out with this one.
[00:04:31.310 --> 00:04:33.770] You do want it to be known that you got a man,
[00:04:33.890 --> 00:04:34.910] especially if he's a good man,
[00:04:35.090 --> 00:04:38.290] but you don't want to at the same time.
[00:04:38.310 --> 00:04:39.350] It's very conflicting.
[00:04:40.750 --> 00:04:43.750] Cause you know, I am currently with a wonderful man.
[00:04:44.150 --> 00:04:45.470] Hey, hit that buzzer one time.
[00:04:46.150 --> 00:04:46.670] Hey.
[00:04:48.330 --> 00:04:50.230] And that's relationship of my life.
[00:04:50.570 --> 00:04:53.930] And I wanted to, I do want to share the great news
[00:04:53.930 --> 00:04:55.970] to the world, but it's also like,
[00:04:55.970 --> 00:05:00.690] I don't want to jeopardize what we have by, you know,
[00:05:00.870 --> 00:05:04.030] thirsty heathens finding out and next thing I know,
[00:05:04.030 --> 00:05:04.590] you know.
[00:05:05.430 --> 00:05:06.670] So, I don't know.
[00:05:06.730 --> 00:05:08.810] I just prefer to keep it tight, you know,
[00:05:08.970 --> 00:05:10.190] tight-lipped until,
[00:05:11.110 --> 00:05:13.690] give me that ring and then it's all over.
[00:05:13.690 --> 00:05:16.010] It's all over the world.
[00:05:16.050 --> 00:05:16.950] What's on the bag?
[00:05:18.330 --> 00:05:19.690] Hey, what did you say about the son?
[00:05:19.950 --> 00:05:22.750] He said, he said, I want to keep the world for my son.
[00:05:22.950 --> 00:05:23.410] What did he say?
[00:05:23.910 --> 00:05:25.650] I try to keep my kid from the world,
[00:05:25.870 --> 00:05:27.030] not the world for my kid.
[00:05:27.610 --> 00:05:28.190] Something like that, yeah.
[00:05:28.250 --> 00:05:29.750] Something like that, but long story short,
[00:05:30.510 --> 00:05:33.250] you don't, you're not shielding
[00:05:33.250 --> 00:05:34.570] your relationship from the world.
[00:05:34.930 --> 00:05:36.650] No, you don't say it.
[00:05:36.690 --> 00:05:38.750] Yeah, yeah, and you ain't shielding the world
[00:05:38.750 --> 00:05:40.510] from your relationship, you shielding the relationship.
[00:05:41.010 --> 00:05:41.630] There we go.
[00:05:41.810 --> 00:05:42.930] Well, is that a go?
[00:05:43.730 --> 00:05:44.950] He gets it.
[00:05:44.950 --> 00:05:45.510] He gets it.
[00:05:45.570 --> 00:05:47.130] You know, he already had it in the mind.
[00:05:47.230 --> 00:05:48.430] Come on, that's why we can't see.
[00:05:49.170 --> 00:05:51.950] But I mean, as far as public and private,
[00:05:52.110 --> 00:05:54.410] I mean, me personally, I'm a private person.
[00:05:56.350 --> 00:06:00.530] So, as much as private as possible,
[00:06:00.690 --> 00:06:03.330] but I do feel,
[00:06:04.210 --> 00:06:07.350] like you said, a snippet, a slither or something,
[00:06:08.050 --> 00:06:10.010] you know, even relationship status,
[00:06:10.010 --> 00:06:13.150] if y'all at that point and had them talks,
[00:06:13.570 --> 00:06:15.230] you know, every relationship deserves that.
[00:06:15.370 --> 00:06:16.410] Yeah, for sure.
[00:06:17.770 --> 00:06:19.670] And then whatever, you know,
[00:06:19.710 --> 00:06:21.910] y'all both feel comfortable with, you know?
[00:06:22.050 --> 00:06:23.970] Maybe one does, one doesn't,
[00:06:24.010 --> 00:06:26.990] will come with a happy medium, happy balance.
[00:06:27.650 --> 00:06:29.010] You know, that's just my thoughts on it.
[00:06:29.550 --> 00:06:30.670] I feel like you make it public,
[00:06:31.550 --> 00:06:32.970] then once you lay everybody in a relationship,
[00:06:33.030 --> 00:06:34.450] you gotta know what it's over with, too.
[00:06:34.790 --> 00:06:35.370] Like, it's just y'all.
[00:06:35.930 --> 00:06:36.670] That's true.
[00:06:37.110 --> 00:06:38.350] If you're not around now, then it ain't fair.
[00:06:38.490 --> 00:06:39.410] Now they invested now.
[00:06:39.410 --> 00:06:43.430] Yeah, well, I don't think they could've cut it off at though,
[00:06:43.530 --> 00:06:43.990] you know what I'm saying?
[00:06:44.350 --> 00:06:45.630] But the more it's that no, no,
[00:06:45.730 --> 00:06:47.170] just like y'all, y'all know,
[00:06:47.350 --> 00:06:49.410] y'all probably be the first to know.
[00:06:50.190 --> 00:06:55.130] And, you know, I don't think I'll not together no more.
[00:06:55.390 --> 00:06:57.390] Oh, so, so, no, then it's not,
[00:06:57.610 --> 00:06:58.890] other people's jobs to say,
[00:06:58.950 --> 00:07:00.210] oh, they're not together anymore.
[00:07:00.290 --> 00:07:03.870] So, it's just like, if you know, you know, you know?
[00:07:04.070 --> 00:07:05.450] Yeah, yeah, I'm just gonna assume
[00:07:05.450 --> 00:07:06.970] if you would say a one-day relationship,
[00:07:07.170 --> 00:07:08.630] but then it starts to change,
[00:07:09.110 --> 00:07:10.390] people let you know.
[00:07:10.770 --> 00:07:12.390] Yes, Facebook definitely let you know.
[00:07:12.570 --> 00:07:14.710] Here's the crazy part.
[00:07:14.770 --> 00:07:17.730] So, I got all of these birthday comments
[00:07:17.730 --> 00:07:18.770] and Facebook, right?
[00:07:19.110 --> 00:07:21.910] And, you know, I don't know what made me narrow in
[00:07:21.910 --> 00:07:23.670] on this certain person.
[00:07:23.770 --> 00:07:27.950] I won't say who, but we know, we know who it is.
[00:07:28.390 --> 00:07:34.090] And they basically called me out of all,
[00:07:34.370 --> 00:07:36.550] oh, you're single, didn't know that.
[00:07:36.550 --> 00:07:40.410] And I'm like, when did I ever give all that I'm single?
[00:07:41.330 --> 00:07:45.170] So, I guess they read way more into my post
[00:07:45.170 --> 00:07:46.110] than they should have.
[00:07:46.170 --> 00:07:47.130] I was like, oh, bet.
[00:07:47.250 --> 00:07:48.690] And I went to my relationship desk
[00:07:48.690 --> 00:07:49.530] and I just put in a relationship.
[00:07:49.550 --> 00:07:53.050] I never said who, he will still remain nameless,
[00:07:53.050 --> 00:07:56.530] even though he does not mind being out there.
[00:07:56.530 --> 00:07:58.370] Cause we did a vlog to get, well, I did,
[00:07:58.610 --> 00:07:59.730] I'm trying to get a vlog together
[00:07:59.730 --> 00:08:00.610] when we went to New Orleans.
[00:08:00.650 --> 00:08:02.230] And he was like, I don't care if you show me.
[00:08:02.390 --> 00:08:04.130] And I'm like, for real, if I don't care.
[00:08:04.710 --> 00:08:08.290] I'm like, okay, this is gonna be it if I do that.
[00:08:08.310 --> 00:08:09.650] Cause, you know, I can only capture
[00:08:09.650 --> 00:08:11.410] but so much of the trip without capturing him.
[00:08:11.770 --> 00:08:13.850] So, I've still been too retarded
[00:08:13.850 --> 00:08:15.490] if I wanna release a vlog or whatever.
[00:08:16.510 --> 00:08:18.530] But that person called me out and I was like, okay.
[00:08:18.670 --> 00:08:19.550] Well, I changed the status,
[00:08:19.590 --> 00:08:22.030] but you ain't gonna know who until I get that ring.
[00:08:22.030 --> 00:08:22.490] Just saying.
[00:08:22.670 --> 00:08:24.190] Yeah, that's the thing too.
[00:08:25.070 --> 00:08:28.210] Like, I think that sometimes is enough, you know?
[00:08:28.790 --> 00:08:30.330] Everybody doesn't have to know everything
[00:08:30.330 --> 00:08:32.570] or every detail or this and this and that.
[00:08:34.289 --> 00:08:36.330] And the relationship, I'm cool, I'm happy.
[00:08:36.450 --> 00:08:39.650] The mystery makes people want to know more, so they'll,
[00:08:39.650 --> 00:08:40.830] they'll be drawn to you more.
[00:08:40.850 --> 00:08:41.770] I'm on the side of that too.
[00:08:42.150 --> 00:08:44.090] Hey, okay, Steve, I like the wingsaws
[00:08:44.090 --> 00:08:45.970] and this side's the mystery.
[00:08:46.150 --> 00:08:47.170] Hey, that could be the title.
[00:08:47.790 --> 00:08:50.250] Well, I mean, you know, as we're creating content,
[00:08:50.350 --> 00:08:52.930] we actually post it on social media every day.
[00:08:53.630 --> 00:08:55.410] So, that's our little challenge.
[00:08:56.510 --> 00:08:58.310] Lorenz take all of our apps,
[00:08:58.770 --> 00:08:59.610] more sheds than that.
[00:09:00.130 --> 00:09:01.690] Three people who have been in relationships
[00:09:01.690 --> 00:09:02.830] more than 20 plus years
[00:09:02.830 --> 00:09:04.450] and you don't know where their spots are.
[00:09:05.070 --> 00:09:07.190] And it all said, they keep the rest of it private
[00:09:07.190 --> 00:09:08.190] for that very reason.
[00:09:09.250 --> 00:09:10.510] If you can't interrupt something that they don't know,
[00:09:10.510 --> 00:09:11.290] you don't know anything about it.
[00:09:11.290 --> 00:09:12.190] That's a good point.
[00:09:12.510 --> 00:09:14.170] But they still don't mind.
[00:09:14.190 --> 00:09:15.510] No, no, they don't mind.
[00:09:15.530 --> 00:09:16.290] But you're right.
[00:09:16.490 --> 00:09:18.610] But you're not posting about that shit.
[00:09:19.730 --> 00:09:22.230] They're not hiding their wives in caves
[00:09:22.230 --> 00:09:23.490] or, you know what I'm saying, out late,
[00:09:23.490 --> 00:09:23.990] but they're not.
[00:09:23.990 --> 00:09:24.790] That's a good point.
[00:09:24.890 --> 00:09:26.910] They're not kind of getting in kid Kardashian.
[00:09:27.290 --> 00:09:27.690] Yeah.
[00:09:28.310 --> 00:09:29.890] But you know what, and that's a good point
[00:09:29.890 --> 00:09:31.370] because those are great couples that,
[00:09:31.370 --> 00:09:32.850] like you said, are really doing it
[00:09:32.850 --> 00:09:35.450] and you don't hear no negative dirt
[00:09:35.450 --> 00:09:37.810] or anything going on behind the scenes.
[00:09:38.770 --> 00:09:40.690] And Boris Kojo and Nicole,
[00:09:40.690 --> 00:09:43.310] they also been 20 something years.
[00:09:44.150 --> 00:09:47.990] And you can just tell the authentic happy couples
[00:09:49.070 --> 00:09:50.830] because they're living life to the fullest.
[00:09:50.890 --> 00:09:51.550] And like you said,
[00:09:51.550 --> 00:09:53.530] it don't have to be for show all the time.
[00:09:53.670 --> 00:09:55.090] Now, will you get little glimpses
[00:09:55.090 --> 00:09:57.650] and little snippets of their happy life
[00:09:57.650 --> 00:09:58.690] every once in a while?
[00:09:59.050 --> 00:09:59.490] Absolutely.
[00:09:59.490 --> 00:10:03.710] And it helps to make you want to have that for yourself.
[00:10:03.930 --> 00:10:04.630] You know what I mean?
[00:10:04.990 --> 00:10:05.350] But you're right.
[00:10:05.430 --> 00:10:06.370] It's not all up in your face.
[00:10:06.610 --> 00:10:09.050] Like, unfortunately, bless yous.
[00:10:10.130 --> 00:10:11.450] Like cashed out on her, dude.
[00:10:11.730 --> 00:10:13.090] You know, every time we turned around,
[00:10:13.150 --> 00:10:14.370] they was there and-
[00:10:14.370 --> 00:10:15.210] But you know what?
[00:10:16.650 --> 00:10:17.830] They don't want some double marriage.
[00:10:18.210 --> 00:10:21.570] The relationships are fabricated by the-
[00:10:21.570 --> 00:10:22.990] All by the industry?
[00:10:23.270 --> 00:10:23.630] Yeah.
[00:10:23.950 --> 00:10:24.690] These are relationships.
[00:10:24.790 --> 00:10:26.950] These are literally relationships where they pay
[00:10:26.950 --> 00:10:28.750] one side of the table to say,
[00:10:28.750 --> 00:10:31.890] hey, I mean, we need to get some promotion for this album
[00:10:32.370 --> 00:10:33.930] or publicity for this movie.
[00:10:34.130 --> 00:10:36.210] Let's present a relationship to help promote it.
[00:10:36.210 --> 00:10:36.830] Oh, wow.
[00:10:37.550 --> 00:10:39.010] So I don't even translate into that part.
[00:10:39.010 --> 00:10:43.190] You mean the party with Stefan was on?
[00:10:43.330 --> 00:10:44.330] I don't know.
[00:10:45.290 --> 00:10:46.350] We'll find out later on.
[00:10:46.370 --> 00:10:48.050] I committed it 20 years from now or not.
[00:10:48.230 --> 00:10:50.130] But I'm pretty sure he was having fun.
[00:10:52.250 --> 00:10:52.770] Of course.
[00:10:53.230 --> 00:10:53.990] That's what I'm saying, though.
[00:10:54.110 --> 00:10:56.050] But like, so I feel like what you're doing
[00:10:56.770 --> 00:10:58.290] for the grandma, for social media,
[00:10:58.410 --> 00:10:59.290] I feel like it's not a thing.
[00:11:00.310 --> 00:11:01.510] I'm like, and then-
[00:11:01.510 --> 00:11:02.010] That's true.
[00:11:02.990 --> 00:11:05.470] What's the one guy who was our relationship coach
[00:11:05.470 --> 00:11:06.590] and he was our chairman's wife?
[00:11:07.050 --> 00:11:07.750] Oh, Derrick Jackson.
[00:11:08.090 --> 00:11:09.550] Yeah, her big example.
[00:11:10.230 --> 00:11:10.810] Her big example.
[00:11:10.930 --> 00:11:11.690] Public is hell.
[00:11:12.270 --> 00:11:14.290] Yeah, that was-
[00:11:14.290 --> 00:11:15.070] In doing the most.
[00:11:15.130 --> 00:11:16.050] That was bad.
[00:11:16.890 --> 00:11:18.790] So that's what I'm saying, the more public it to me,
[00:11:19.710 --> 00:11:22.330] the more I feel like-
[00:11:22.330 --> 00:11:23.930] Yeah, yeah.
[00:11:24.270 --> 00:11:25.310] Or the more it's like this.
[00:11:25.830 --> 00:11:26.390] Right, right, right.
[00:11:26.450 --> 00:11:27.210] Are y'all really happy?
[00:11:27.370 --> 00:11:28.490] Do we trust this tease?
[00:11:28.490 --> 00:11:29.890] Are y'all really happy?
[00:11:30.170 --> 00:11:30.430] You know what I'm saying?
[00:11:30.630 --> 00:11:31.070] Because if you were happy,
[00:11:31.150 --> 00:11:32.330] why do you have to prove that he was yours?
[00:11:32.330 --> 00:11:35.390] Yeah, there's almost like a reality show almost
[00:11:35.390 --> 00:11:37.210] every day or every post, you know?
[00:11:37.410 --> 00:11:38.130] Day after the day.
[00:11:39.330 --> 00:11:41.630] People knowing you every move and stuff like that.
[00:11:42.330 --> 00:11:43.090] At the end of the day,
[00:11:43.590 --> 00:11:45.870] we're public figures of celebrities, you know?
[00:11:46.850 --> 00:11:48.770] So it's like, just think about that, right?
[00:11:48.770 --> 00:11:49.890] We step outside.
[00:11:50.230 --> 00:11:51.250] Oh, copper russies in our face.
[00:11:51.750 --> 00:11:53.030] Oh, I heard y'all was in an argument.
[00:11:53.290 --> 00:11:54.150] Da-da-da-da-da-da.
[00:11:54.730 --> 00:11:55.390] Like, is there-
[00:11:55.390 --> 00:11:55.790] Right.
[00:11:56.070 --> 00:11:57.930] Everybody wants to deal with that also, so.
[00:11:58.290 --> 00:11:59.650] Nobody talking about it with my kids.
[00:11:59.730 --> 00:12:01.090] They're like, I know you have kids.
[00:12:01.250 --> 00:12:01.930] You have my kids.
[00:12:02.310 --> 00:12:04.310] Wow, that's how private you are.
[00:12:04.850 --> 00:12:06.130] It's not for you to know.
[00:12:06.510 --> 00:12:06.530] Yeah.
[00:12:06.610 --> 00:12:08.510] You see your social media is what I want you to see.
[00:12:08.970 --> 00:12:09.370] Absolutely.
[00:12:09.730 --> 00:12:10.910] Nothing more, nothing less.
[00:12:11.090 --> 00:12:12.350] Nothing more, nothing less.
[00:12:12.990 --> 00:12:14.030] It's about business.
[00:12:15.090 --> 00:12:15.310] Yes.
[00:12:15.810 --> 00:12:17.030] Yes, because we are professional.
[00:12:17.130 --> 00:12:17.950] We're professional.
[00:12:19.270 --> 00:12:20.150] Yeah, professional.
[00:12:20.530 --> 00:12:21.230] Pac-ass.
[00:12:21.550 --> 00:12:22.570] Don't do it.
[00:12:24.110 --> 00:12:24.710] So yeah.
[00:12:24.930 --> 00:12:26.670] Hey, hey, they pressure you to do it
[00:12:26.670 --> 00:12:28.490] as a super bread platinum guy.
[00:12:28.930 --> 00:12:31.210] And then, you're like, you know what?
[00:12:31.990 --> 00:12:33.270] I don't need to tell you about my relationship status
[00:12:33.270 --> 00:12:34.090] because we're no longer together.
[00:12:35.870 --> 00:12:37.250] I could say, learn from me.
[00:12:37.370 --> 00:12:37.950] Don't do it.
[00:12:39.270 --> 00:12:41.690] I mean, but that's cool with all the extra bells
[00:12:41.690 --> 00:12:43.390] and whistles, I don't-
[00:12:43.390 --> 00:12:45.130] Well, wait, when would you feel
[00:12:45.130 --> 00:12:50.250] that you would share a snippet of your significant other?
[00:12:51.550 --> 00:12:52.970] Well, I feel like, I don't know.
[00:12:53.370 --> 00:12:54.790] That'd be, I mean, it's not like-
[00:12:54.790 --> 00:12:55.790] Do you feel like it would be-
[00:12:55.790 --> 00:12:56.810] It's not a mad day moment.
[00:12:56.950 --> 00:12:57.930] It's like, hey, by the way,
[00:12:58.190 --> 00:12:59.230] we celebrate Christmas this year
[00:12:59.230 --> 00:13:01.510] and just pop up with a photo.
[00:13:02.430 --> 00:13:05.770] When I'm sippin' on to you, I spill it fine.
[00:13:06.190 --> 00:13:08.430] This episode is about to be by to you.
[00:13:08.710 --> 00:13:12.010] Get you lit every time.
[00:13:12.190 --> 00:13:14.470] Oh, but you said something raining or something.
[00:13:14.610 --> 00:13:19.030] Something raining, you will get to know who he is.
[00:13:19.550 --> 00:13:21.250] It's not gonna be all up in your face either.
[00:13:21.290 --> 00:13:22.890] It's not gonna be thrown out to you.
[00:13:22.890 --> 00:13:24.390] Oh, I said, we're all gonna be like you.
[00:13:24.910 --> 00:13:25.610] Throw it all.
[00:13:25.690 --> 00:13:27.430] It's gonna be a pat of the comfy ceiling.
[00:13:29.470 --> 00:13:30.190] And that's it.
[00:13:32.370 --> 00:13:34.690] I'd probably make that a podcast episode.
[00:13:35.510 --> 00:13:36.430] Run it back.
[00:13:36.430 --> 00:13:37.210] I heard that.
[00:13:37.350 --> 00:13:37.710] I won.
[00:13:39.570 --> 00:13:40.150] I did.
[00:13:42.310 --> 00:13:44.470] That actually gives me a good podcast episode.
[00:13:44.770 --> 00:13:45.010] I would.
[00:13:45.210 --> 00:13:48.210] Who is my fiance?
[00:13:48.390 --> 00:13:50.390] When that time comes, speaking into existence.
[00:13:50.470 --> 00:13:51.610] Y'all gotta speak it into existence.
[00:13:52.070 --> 00:13:53.250] Manifest, manifest what you want.
[00:13:53.690 --> 00:13:54.310] That was good.
[00:13:54.850 --> 00:13:56.510] That's gonna break the internet.
[00:13:56.550 --> 00:13:57.630] It won't break the internet for real.
[00:13:57.990 --> 00:14:00.270] You know, it's gonna be a river of tears.
[00:14:01.630 --> 00:14:02.790] What she done is a process.
[00:14:03.410 --> 00:14:04.910] Sister Pallis, I'm this.
[00:14:05.430 --> 00:14:06.290] Zephyr's have a sniper.
[00:14:08.850 --> 00:14:11.170] I'll go shoot my sardines, you know?
[00:14:12.890 --> 00:14:13.970] You know what, I'm not following her.
[00:14:15.270 --> 00:14:17.830] You know, they'll be crying in the streets, man.
[00:14:17.990 --> 00:14:19.010] They gonna cry in the car.
[00:14:19.230 --> 00:14:20.690] They'll be crying, bruh,
[00:14:20.690 --> 00:14:22.170] because they, oh my God,
[00:14:22.230 --> 00:14:23.250] they're gonna shoot me in the shot, bruh.
[00:14:24.590 --> 00:14:25.390] So crazy.
[00:14:25.750 --> 00:14:27.110] The way you do it, it's gonna be,
[00:14:27.710 --> 00:14:29.990] the streets gonna be, it's gonna be running with tears.
[00:14:30.650 --> 00:14:33.150] I see it almost every other episode.
[00:14:33.430 --> 00:14:37.430] I was like, today.
[00:14:39.430 --> 00:14:41.910] They're playing with the whole leg.
[00:14:42.390 --> 00:14:42.610] What's up, buddy?
[00:14:44.870 --> 00:14:45.390] It's gonna break the internet.
[00:14:45.510 --> 00:14:46.210] Man, it won't break the internet.
[00:14:47.170 --> 00:14:48.650] You're gonna break the internet, bruh.
[00:14:49.490 --> 00:14:51.570] They're gonna, they're gonna report your page.
[00:14:51.830 --> 00:14:52.830] Hey, this, hey.
[00:14:53.470 --> 00:14:54.370] This is, hey.
[00:14:55.810 --> 00:14:57.150] This is, this is, this is, this is,
[00:14:57.150 --> 00:14:58.230] this page is being forced.
[00:14:58.490 --> 00:14:58.890] Dang.
[00:14:59.710 --> 00:15:00.690] Trying to shut me ass.
[00:15:00.910 --> 00:15:02.350] Well, they ain't got multiple.
[00:15:02.910 --> 00:15:04.090] Yeah, they ain't, they,
[00:15:04.130 --> 00:15:05.970] the streets gonna, the streets gonna be crying that day.
[00:15:06.130 --> 00:15:07.350] Oh, you know.
[00:15:07.550 --> 00:15:08.950] They gonna be crying that day.
[00:15:09.550 --> 00:15:09.650] But-
[00:15:09.650 --> 00:15:11.510] There is a beauty for everybody out there.
[00:15:11.550 --> 00:15:12.850] You will find your queen.
[00:15:14.930 --> 00:15:15.850] You see told.
[00:15:15.990 --> 00:15:17.170] You see told.
[00:15:17.390 --> 00:15:20.730] Not beauty be told, like some people just saying.
[00:15:22.030 --> 00:15:22.750] Not that.
[00:15:22.990 --> 00:15:23.670] They're the operant.
[00:15:24.250 --> 00:15:24.850] The operant.
[00:15:25.270 --> 00:15:25.530] Oh yeah.
[00:15:25.590 --> 00:15:27.670] And I wasn't looking for long time.
[00:15:27.670 --> 00:15:29.030] So that's how we do it.
[00:15:31.070 --> 00:15:33.070] They looked it up on the business search
[00:15:33.070 --> 00:15:34.530] and hope it don't exist again.
[00:15:34.730 --> 00:15:35.490] Oh, man.
[00:15:36.350 --> 00:15:36.970] Wait, what the hell?
[00:15:37.330 --> 00:15:38.770] Like, oh no.
[00:15:39.490 --> 00:15:40.430] They don't give all around,
[00:15:40.650 --> 00:15:42.370] they give all around less of the vice.
[00:15:42.830 --> 00:15:43.330] He do his job.
[00:15:43.490 --> 00:15:44.330] Oh man.
[00:15:44.450 --> 00:15:45.790] She the Monday, Wednesday, Friday.
[00:15:45.810 --> 00:15:46.950] Her name's the third.
[00:15:48.050 --> 00:15:49.870] So not all Sunday, you rest.
[00:15:50.650 --> 00:15:51.870] Sunday, you rest.
[00:15:51.870 --> 00:15:52.910] Oh, goodness.
[00:15:53.750 --> 00:15:54.570] That's how you do it.
[00:15:54.830 --> 00:15:56.330] That's tribe and traffic though.
[00:15:56.350 --> 00:15:57.330] I don't know what that mean.
[00:15:57.510 --> 00:15:58.030] That's cynical.
[00:15:58.970 --> 00:15:59.410] Cynical.
[00:15:59.850 --> 00:16:00.290] That it.
[00:16:00.850 --> 00:16:02.550] That was your beauty be told.
[00:16:03.730 --> 00:16:05.010] And since he is liquor,
[00:16:05.230 --> 00:16:06.710] it's Hennessy that drink out the tea.
[00:16:07.690 --> 00:16:08.570] Oh man.
[00:16:09.330 --> 00:16:10.810] Got some drink we could.
[00:16:11.910 --> 00:16:12.530] That was still hot.
[00:16:12.810 --> 00:16:13.090] Maybe had-
[00:16:13.090 --> 00:16:13.870] Speaking of which,
[00:16:14.350 --> 00:16:15.750] you see told will be coming out with a nudge.
[00:16:17.150 --> 00:16:18.290] I would say.
[00:16:19.950 --> 00:16:22.290] That will be a great master by the way.
[00:16:22.410 --> 00:16:23.750] Old wine and once.
[00:16:25.450 --> 00:16:29.310] Oh, that went to the fruit and they all pink.
[00:16:30.790 --> 00:16:32.530] Still of the worm.
[00:16:32.790 --> 00:16:33.770] But what she already,
[00:16:33.890 --> 00:16:34.870] yeah, she already got a pink one,
[00:16:34.890 --> 00:16:37.030] but maybe we can do a one with different flavor
[00:16:37.030 --> 00:16:37.710] if it was good.
[00:16:37.790 --> 00:16:38.510] The design.
[00:16:39.510 --> 00:16:39.650] Yeah.
[00:16:40.070 --> 00:16:40.510] Lemonade.
[00:16:41.310 --> 00:16:42.390] That is what it is.
[00:16:42.670 --> 00:16:42.770] Yeah.
[00:16:42.910 --> 00:16:43.570] Two of them.
[00:16:43.750 --> 00:16:44.290] Pink moscato on it.
[00:16:44.290 --> 00:16:45.910] Well, no, she got a lemon drive.
[00:16:46.070 --> 00:16:47.370] Lemon drive, lemonade.
[00:16:48.010 --> 00:16:50.550] And then it's got a hollow out for it.
[00:16:50.670 --> 00:16:51.650] So you wines y'all.
[00:16:51.890 --> 00:16:54.010] So you wines and beauty tell me we collaborating.
[00:16:54.770 --> 00:16:56.490] Talk to the queen about it.
[00:16:56.790 --> 00:16:57.950] That's the difference of experience.
[00:16:58.070 --> 00:16:59.030] Dude, we collaborate.
[00:17:00.550 --> 00:17:01.570] Don't miss you.
[00:17:03.110 --> 00:17:03.830] How y'all feeling?
[00:17:04.650 --> 00:17:05.530] Pretty tired.
[00:17:07.069 --> 00:17:08.109] Had a long day.
[00:17:08.450 --> 00:17:08.930] Close it out.
[00:17:09.210 --> 00:17:09.910] Close it out.
[00:17:10.290 --> 00:17:10.970] Listen, listen y'all.
[00:17:10.990 --> 00:17:12.010] Don't do it.
[00:17:12.190 --> 00:17:13.150] Don't do it.
[00:17:13.150 --> 00:17:13.910] What's my advice?
[00:17:14.530 --> 00:17:15.930] That's all of our advice.
[00:17:16.750 --> 00:17:18.690] Well, this has been.
[00:17:19.210 --> 00:17:19.890] Well, I don't know.
[00:17:20.050 --> 00:17:21.369] This full thing is gonna be a group.
[00:17:21.410 --> 00:17:22.869] We gonna up that all three, five bars.
[00:17:23.210 --> 00:17:24.010] Yeah, my girl.
[00:17:24.270 --> 00:17:25.310] All of y'all there.
[00:17:26.310 --> 00:17:26.770] All right.
[00:17:27.069 --> 00:17:28.470] Now, would you collaborate?
[00:17:28.569 --> 00:17:30.470] Like how you do with Instagram and YouTube?
[00:17:30.790 --> 00:17:32.330] Oh, yeah, they would.
[00:17:32.590 --> 00:17:33.710] He build YouTube though.
[00:17:34.470 --> 00:17:36.430] You will have to drive because YouTube are like me.
[00:17:36.530 --> 00:17:38.210] Every time I post, they be like failed.
[00:17:39.070 --> 00:17:40.150] So you gonna have to post it.
[00:17:41.930 --> 00:17:42.130] Yeah.
[00:17:44.150 --> 00:17:44.510] Me.
[00:17:45.250 --> 00:17:47.370] I could do it to my, the audio platform.
[00:17:48.550 --> 00:17:49.370] You gonna tell me this or no?
[00:17:52.610 --> 00:17:53.250] How many minutes is it?
[00:17:54.310 --> 00:17:54.690] You're right.
[00:17:54.810 --> 00:17:55.470] It's a short one.
[00:17:55.650 --> 00:17:56.390] We're just gonna edit.
[00:17:56.470 --> 00:17:57.510] Five minutes, all right?
[00:17:57.890 --> 00:17:58.610] We're gonna edit.
[00:17:58.790 --> 00:17:59.470] Oh, here we go.
[00:17:59.610 --> 00:18:00.470] We gotta put this in.
[00:18:00.690 --> 00:18:02.050] Put this in again.
[00:18:02.450 --> 00:18:03.290] I know what they say.
[00:18:04.110 --> 00:18:05.050] Yeah, okay, we'll get it.
[00:18:05.050 --> 00:18:05.910] Okay, well don't do it.
[00:18:05.930 --> 00:18:06.970] I'll say we live though.
[00:18:07.410 --> 00:18:08.470] We live now.
[00:18:08.750 --> 00:18:09.550] I know now.
[00:18:10.390 --> 00:18:10.750] We got it.
[00:18:10.830 --> 00:18:11.310] I'll do it.
[00:18:11.710 --> 00:18:12.590] Why y'all drew that?
[00:18:12.750 --> 00:18:14.210] So I can just need the rest.
[00:18:14.210 --> 00:18:18.150] This has been a great after night edition ever.
[00:18:18.150 --> 00:18:19.150] This is the experience.
[00:18:19.450 --> 00:18:20.710] And you know why we did this y'all?
[00:18:20.810 --> 00:18:22.970] For some reason we be sitting around, just sitting around
[00:18:22.970 --> 00:18:24.450] and we like, we need to record this.
[00:18:24.610 --> 00:18:25.090] We get it.
[00:18:25.470 --> 00:18:26.190] We did it.
[00:18:26.270 --> 00:18:26.530] We did it.
[00:18:26.610 --> 00:18:27.510] Y'all should be proud of us.
[00:18:27.750 --> 00:18:30.290] Trying out the computer mics, you know.
[00:18:31.110 --> 00:18:32.590] Yeah, these nice too.
[00:18:33.130 --> 00:18:34.210] I feel all fancy.
[00:18:34.570 --> 00:18:37.970] You know, so I got the box to go put on the mic.
[00:18:38.070 --> 00:18:39.150] I said, I'll put it on there.
[00:18:39.370 --> 00:18:41.150] And that's what I was saying.
[00:18:41.330 --> 00:18:42.070] We're the coders.
[00:18:42.190 --> 00:18:43.490] Yeah, literally the video marriage.
[00:18:44.030 --> 00:18:45.730] We gonna do it right now.
[00:18:47.410 --> 00:18:49.350] And there we go.
[00:18:49.610 --> 00:18:53.390] I forgot besides, okay, I said the name, then what?
[00:18:56.250 --> 00:18:57.430] Hold on, close this up.
[00:18:57.430 --> 00:18:58.310] Oh, don't say it no more.
[00:18:58.530 --> 00:18:58.990] I know that.
[00:18:59.050 --> 00:18:59.730] I got that word.
[00:19:00.030 --> 00:19:00.410] Hey though.
[00:19:00.850 --> 00:19:01.790] Hey y'all, we live.
[00:19:03.050 --> 00:19:04.850] Okay, I just need the number.
[00:19:05.170 --> 00:19:06.190] When are like 13 or something?
[00:19:06.510 --> 00:19:06.870] 24.
[00:19:07.390 --> 00:19:07.890] Oh, okay.
[00:19:07.930 --> 00:19:09.550] And then I already got the, I got the symbol.
[00:19:09.730 --> 00:19:10.430] I got the symbol.
[00:19:10.430 --> 00:19:11.510] Oh, okay.
[00:19:13.650 --> 00:19:14.590] 19 minutes.
[00:19:15.570 --> 00:19:17.610] This is Steve, photographer Jackson
[00:19:17.610 --> 00:19:19.970] of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:19:20.310 --> 00:19:22.890] All right, and it should go Brittany Knight
[00:19:22.890 --> 00:19:27.030] again, Coach Britts with Beauty Toll Podcast.
[00:19:27.230 --> 00:19:29.370] Coming at you guys with pull-up after dark.
[00:19:30.010 --> 00:19:30.890] This be nasty.
[00:19:33.230 --> 00:19:36.130] You and you all the wrong advice you don't need
[00:19:36.130 --> 00:19:37.470] for the pull-up spirits.
[00:19:38.990 --> 00:19:39.990] And we happy.
[00:19:40.570 --> 00:19:42.210] All right, we are out y'all.
[00:19:42.210 --> 00:19:44.690] Go ahead and subscribe, like, share,
[00:19:44.990 --> 00:19:45.750] do all that good stuff.
[00:19:45.990 --> 00:19:48.750] Buy our merch, our courses, all that good stuff.
[00:19:48.910 --> 00:19:52.690] If you wanna book us, what's the best method?
[00:19:53.170 --> 00:19:55.510] Oh, I got my website too y'all.
[00:19:55.510 --> 00:19:56.370] Oh yeah.
[00:19:57.450 --> 00:19:58.490] BeautyToll.com.
[00:19:58.750 --> 00:20:00.870] Look y'all session with me y'all.
[00:20:01.630 --> 00:20:03.170] Y'all heard of Beauty Toll
[00:20:03.170 --> 00:20:07.130] and you can find me at AlienEyesPhotos.com.
[00:20:09.850 --> 00:20:10.730] AlienEyesPhotos.com.
[00:20:13.570 --> 00:20:13.990] Yeah.
[00:20:16.210 --> 00:20:18.570] Check out the pull-up experience on all social media.
[00:20:18.890 --> 00:20:19.130] Yes.
[00:20:19.430 --> 00:20:20.590] Yeah, you can find the whole.
[00:20:20.750 --> 00:20:20.990] DM.
[00:20:21.290 --> 00:20:22.770] You are on the whole team on there.
[00:20:22.850 --> 00:20:23.410] That's right.
[00:20:23.830 --> 00:20:25.250] Yes, yes, all right y'all, we out.
[00:20:26.150 --> 00:20:26.810] See y'all.

========================================================================
78. Podcast Summit Recap - Day 2 - 2025
Season 1
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/podcast-summit-recap-day-2-2025
========================================================================

[00:00:01.140 --> 00:00:04.560] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome,
[00:00:04.560 --> 00:00:09.040] back to Eleonide's Photos Industry Talk
[00:00:09.920 --> 00:00:14.120] with your host, photographer Jackson.
[00:00:14.140 --> 00:00:15.600] We're gonna run that right back.
[00:00:19.100 --> 00:00:23.040] All right, welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome
[00:00:23.040 --> 00:00:26.280] to Eleonide's Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:27.000 --> 00:00:28.580] And we're gonna jump right into it.
[00:00:28.580 --> 00:00:34.000] Just left podcast summit 2025 in Atlanta.
[00:00:34.880 --> 00:00:37.420] Day two is a wrap.
[00:00:37.820 --> 00:00:41.640] The summit is over, I got some gems for y'all.
[00:00:42.140 --> 00:00:48.520] First off, man, I started the day waking up at 4.50
[00:00:49.200 --> 00:00:53.920] to meet David Shantz and some other creators
[00:00:53.920 --> 00:01:00.660] and entrepreneurs bright before the sun came up at 5.40.
[00:01:01.620 --> 00:01:05.840] We started stretching about 5.50
[00:01:06.840 --> 00:01:10.560] and then started running about 6 a.m.
[00:01:11.500 --> 00:01:14.460] Did two miles to our destination,
[00:01:14.540 --> 00:01:16.960] then came back one and one,
[00:01:17.160 --> 00:01:19.920] as in one mile there, one mile back.
[00:01:20.060 --> 00:01:23.640] So a total of two miles, bright, early,
[00:01:24.140 --> 00:01:26.380] getting the day started right before the conference.
[00:01:26.380 --> 00:01:32.960] So I've been up for a little past 4 a.m.
[00:01:34.740 --> 00:01:37.920] And you know, last night, you know,
[00:01:37.920 --> 00:01:41.260] I did a blog, a blog style video
[00:01:42.300 --> 00:01:46.180] and also audio for the podcast as you're listening.
[00:01:48.160 --> 00:01:50.140] And I went to sleep late.
[00:01:50.140 --> 00:01:54.300] I went to sleep about 1.30, 2 a.m.
[00:01:54.300 --> 00:01:56.560] and got right back up two hours later.
[00:01:57.160 --> 00:02:01.460] And it's about almost nine here, sun is setting
[00:02:01.460 --> 00:02:04.380] as you can see behind me on the audio.
[00:02:04.380 --> 00:02:05.500] I know you won't be able to see,
[00:02:05.720 --> 00:02:09.320] but yeah, it's about nine here.
[00:02:10.080 --> 00:02:13.440] So yeah, I literally been up all day tired,
[00:02:13.440 --> 00:02:21.760] but I'ma spill some tea, I guess you can see.
[00:02:22.840 --> 00:02:26.920] But nah, some insights, let me see,
[00:02:28.060 --> 00:02:30.600] starting off, opening up, Willie Moore Jr.
[00:02:31.880 --> 00:02:35.100] You know, he spoke about the four M's,
[00:02:35.240 --> 00:02:41.960] which was money, mission, method, and millions.
[00:02:42.440 --> 00:02:45.300] Then he also talked about the magic and your motive.
[00:02:46.240 --> 00:02:48.160] And then, you know, yeah, what is your motives?
[00:02:48.340 --> 00:02:50.180] And be clear about your motive.
[00:02:51.260 --> 00:02:54.880] And another disclaimer, I am again outside,
[00:02:55.300 --> 00:02:57.400] outside here in downtown Atlanta.
[00:02:58.220 --> 00:03:00.820] So I recorded like this yesterday.
[00:03:00.940 --> 00:03:03.220] I'm like, let me just run it back, same style.
[00:03:03.620 --> 00:03:06.160] I have to, you know, I gave y'all some tips
[00:03:06.160 --> 00:03:08.480] and insights from day one.
[00:03:08.560 --> 00:03:10.280] Let me do day two the next day.
[00:03:10.300 --> 00:03:11.780] So this is the next day.
[00:03:12.440 --> 00:03:14.940] I'm outside, y'all might hear some music,
[00:03:15.040 --> 00:03:17.300] some loud talking, yelling in the background.
[00:03:17.980 --> 00:03:21.080] Hopefully y'all can hear my voice nice and clear.
[00:03:21.680 --> 00:03:25.140] And any song played in the background,
[00:03:25.400 --> 00:03:29.220] I do not have rights to this song, the music.
[00:03:29.720 --> 00:03:34.020] So yeah, I don't have rights, so blah, blah, blah.
[00:03:35.800 --> 00:03:38.460] Willie Moore Jr. also spoke about how his friend
[00:03:38.460 --> 00:03:42.180] got a 90 million Netflix deal.
[00:03:43.800 --> 00:03:47.360] A 90 million dollar Netflix deal.
[00:03:48.320 --> 00:03:50.280] And it's huge, and you know,
[00:03:50.380 --> 00:03:52.080] think it's possible for all of us.
[00:03:53.780 --> 00:03:56.200] And then David Shands came out,
[00:03:57.400 --> 00:04:01.660] and spoke about celebrating each other,
[00:04:01.920 --> 00:04:05.140] the small wins, just like we did during the run.
[00:04:05.360 --> 00:04:07.440] You know, some of us walked, some of us ran.
[00:04:08.040 --> 00:04:11.740] The ones that ran, we finished first.
[00:04:11.740 --> 00:04:15.680] So as the walkers was trickling in, we clapped them in,
[00:04:15.760 --> 00:04:19.279] you know, hyped them up, celebrated them,
[00:04:19.360 --> 00:04:21.740] gave them encouragement as they came in,
[00:04:23.140 --> 00:04:26.780] and he told us to continue to show up.
[00:04:28.500 --> 00:04:30.020] Continue to show up.
[00:04:32.210 --> 00:04:33.610] Yeah, the background getting noisy,
[00:04:33.650 --> 00:04:35.610] but I'm gonna still push through.
[00:04:36.850 --> 00:04:41.670] And Jeremy, who David Shands got to interview
[00:04:41.670 --> 00:04:46.310] from Red Circle, Jeremy, he spoke about
[00:04:47.430 --> 00:04:49.770] having that brand longevity
[00:04:51.130 --> 00:04:53.430] and partnerships and sponsorships.
[00:04:53.950 --> 00:04:55.510] And to have it at least for three months,
[00:04:55.670 --> 00:04:57.110] so aim for three months.
[00:04:57.810 --> 00:05:00.930] But a typical contract started at 30 days,
[00:05:00.930 --> 00:05:02.010] which is, you know, a month.
[00:05:02.530 --> 00:05:06.750] So definitely some negotiations if you're aligned,
[00:05:06.950 --> 00:05:10.090] and you know, that's like a trial, 30 days.
[00:05:10.090 --> 00:05:11.710] But you know, if it works out,
[00:05:12.130 --> 00:05:14.890] extend it to three months, six months,
[00:05:14.950 --> 00:05:17.490] maybe even a year, try it out, you know?
[00:05:19.410 --> 00:05:24.730] Per thousand downloads cost about 20 to $50,
[00:05:24.970 --> 00:05:26.890] especially starting off, you know.
[00:05:27.370 --> 00:05:30.210] I think 15 to 20 is a good spot,
[00:05:30.650 --> 00:05:32.070] and then increase from there,
[00:05:32.890 --> 00:05:34.850] especially as the more you show value
[00:05:34.850 --> 00:05:37.530] and you know, prove that your audience is there
[00:05:37.530 --> 00:05:39.850] for what you have to say and sell.
[00:05:42.250 --> 00:05:45.450] CPD, I learned that, is the cost per download.
[00:05:46.250 --> 00:05:49.290] So again, that cost per download starting off
[00:05:49.290 --> 00:05:53.690] is a good $15 to about $50.
[00:05:55.050 --> 00:05:58.150] So 20 to 40 is a good sweet spot,
[00:05:58.690 --> 00:06:02.670] but you know, 15 and 20 is good at starting out.
[00:06:05.610 --> 00:06:10.090] The podcast medium is one of the top markets
[00:06:10.090 --> 00:06:16.000] for sponsorships right now, say less.
[00:06:17.180 --> 00:06:22.360] And then Ms. Donnie Wiggins showed up and showed out.
[00:06:25.560 --> 00:06:28.980] Always get some good nuggets from her.
[00:06:30.140 --> 00:06:33.720] And basically she was saying,
[00:06:34.920 --> 00:06:39.280] lean into your transparency, hence her podcast,
[00:06:40.000 --> 00:06:43.860] full transparency and also on the Social Proof podcast,
[00:06:44.560 --> 00:06:48.780] which she was number 57, episode number 57
[00:06:48.780 --> 00:06:49.860] on the Social Proof.
[00:06:50.340 --> 00:06:53.780] And you know, David asked her to become a host,
[00:06:54.360 --> 00:06:57.140] you know, because she added that much value
[00:06:57.140 --> 00:06:58.540] and it was a good conversation.
[00:06:59.040 --> 00:07:00.860] So you never know when your partners,
[00:07:01.140 --> 00:07:02.980] where your partners is gonna come from,
[00:07:03.640 --> 00:07:05.180] the relationships you build,
[00:07:05.360 --> 00:07:07.100] you never know where it may lead you.
[00:07:08.280 --> 00:07:15.480] So definitely nourish and build those relationships
[00:07:15.480 --> 00:07:18.880] and maintain and retain those relationships.
[00:07:20.960 --> 00:07:25.120] She also said, use your podcast as a lead magnet
[00:07:25.120 --> 00:07:29.700] versus a product and be part of a larger ecosystem.
[00:07:29.700 --> 00:07:33.660] You know, monetize your back end
[00:07:33.660 --> 00:07:38.660] and as she is a business development strategist,
[00:07:41.060 --> 00:07:42.720] you just gotta soak in everything
[00:07:42.720 --> 00:07:46.420] because strategy is key, the planning is key.
[00:07:47.120 --> 00:07:50.000] I know she definitely helped David in the long run
[00:07:50.000 --> 00:07:54.240] and they working together is just like a powerhouse
[00:07:54.240 --> 00:07:56.460] on top of a powerhouse, you know?
[00:07:57.000 --> 00:07:58.960] And I love them, enjoy them both
[00:07:58.960 --> 00:08:01.180] and the Pull Up Experience,
[00:08:02.160 --> 00:08:05.700] we definitely model our frameworks
[00:08:05.700 --> 00:08:08.600] and you know, a lot that they do.
[00:08:10.340 --> 00:08:12.540] As far as like the interview style
[00:08:12.540 --> 00:08:15.540] and you know, how we conduct, you know,
[00:08:15.700 --> 00:08:19.080] business around the podcast and we're getting better.
[00:08:19.220 --> 00:08:21.880] Like I said, previously yesterday, you know,
[00:08:21.880 --> 00:08:23.220] we have a lot on our plate.
[00:08:24.020 --> 00:08:26.320] You know, the Pull Up Experience from Cleveland, Ohio,
[00:08:26.320 --> 00:08:30.240] we are global, we're national,
[00:08:30.340 --> 00:08:31.960] but we're soon to be global
[00:08:31.960 --> 00:08:34.720] and also Alienize Photos industry talk
[00:08:34.720 --> 00:08:38.539] who I am the host of as my personal podcast,
[00:08:39.039 --> 00:08:41.580] preaching about my entrepreneur journey
[00:08:41.580 --> 00:08:44.920] as I talk about business and give key insights
[00:08:44.920 --> 00:08:46.120] as I'm doing now,
[00:08:46.160 --> 00:08:48.880] as I go to different conferences and summits,
[00:08:49.100 --> 00:08:52.220] workshops, you know, courses, eBooks
[00:08:52.220 --> 00:08:54.880] and then everything I learned in between
[00:08:55.620 --> 00:08:57.560] and then also when I interview,
[00:08:58.120 --> 00:09:01.200] we still talk business and then I also ask
[00:09:01.200 --> 00:09:08.800] how media, like photography, videography, newspaper
[00:09:08.800 --> 00:09:10.640] because that's what I do.
[00:09:10.640 --> 00:09:13.520] I create media and marketing.
[00:09:14.360 --> 00:09:16.380] How does that affect your industry?
[00:09:17.200 --> 00:09:21.400] So yeah, and then I attended the workshop
[00:09:21.400 --> 00:09:26.020] with Miss Cynthia, she had a quote,
[00:09:27.030 --> 00:09:29.960] AI is intended to be an extension of us,
[00:09:30.540 --> 00:09:33.940] not the extinction of us.
[00:09:34.840 --> 00:09:39.060] AI is intended to be the extension of us,
[00:09:39.120 --> 00:09:40.540] not the extinction.
[00:09:41.480 --> 00:09:45.060] We're not extinct and we won't become extinct
[00:09:45.470 --> 00:09:49.220] and we will not let AI make us extinct
[00:09:49.220 --> 00:09:52.760] because we're humans and we control it, all right?
[00:09:54.960 --> 00:10:02.500] Digital diabetes cause mental obesity
[00:10:03.300 --> 00:10:05.220] because we've taken in so much
[00:10:05.220 --> 00:10:09.580] and not acting on it or doing what we just learned,
[00:10:09.740 --> 00:10:12.320] you know, we're just taking it all in.
[00:10:14.880 --> 00:10:17.980] Prop engineering versus context engineering,
[00:10:18.640 --> 00:10:22.120] you know, it's like doers versus directors,
[00:10:22.180 --> 00:10:23.660] you know, you wanna be more directing.
[00:10:26.800 --> 00:10:29.820] Al Quincea, AKA at Conundrum,
[00:10:29.880 --> 00:10:34.880] hey, who was number episode 300
[00:10:34.880 --> 00:10:36.160] on the Pull Up Experience
[00:10:37.200 --> 00:10:42.020] and David Shands, 200, the Conundrum, 300,
[00:10:42.220 --> 00:10:45.240] we got some powerful people from Atlanta.
[00:10:45.680 --> 00:10:47.280] Oh, that's our staple episode,
[00:10:47.300 --> 00:10:51.060] so yeah, we thank both of them, you know,
[00:10:51.060 --> 00:10:54.260] they added value to our community, our network
[00:10:54.260 --> 00:10:58.680] and even us, you know, continually, even to this day,
[00:10:59.000 --> 00:11:01.760] way after the episodes and the interviews, you know,
[00:11:02.140 --> 00:11:05.700] they still provide insight and man,
[00:11:06.800 --> 00:11:09.020] we still support them at all they do.
[00:11:12.420 --> 00:11:17.240] But she spoke on AEO, you know,
[00:11:21.920 --> 00:11:25.620] also about Instagram and then the A-B testing
[00:11:25.620 --> 00:11:28.700] and how it's now a search engine.
[00:11:30.200 --> 00:11:31.980] And again, back to that AEO,
[00:11:35.720 --> 00:11:39.460] it's more important than the SEO now, so.
[00:11:41.530 --> 00:11:45.930] And then social media has a mute button,
[00:11:46.710 --> 00:11:47.630] especially Instagram.
[00:11:48.670 --> 00:11:52.190] Mute those profiles and accounts
[00:11:52.190 --> 00:11:57.410] that you don't want to get in your feed
[00:11:57.410 --> 00:12:01.990] all in your mind, just flooding you with negativity
[00:12:01.990 --> 00:12:04.690] and content that you don't want to see,
[00:12:06.190 --> 00:12:07.570] block it out, mute it.
[00:12:11.050 --> 00:12:18.770] Corey, Mr. Corey, he spoke about building a community,
[00:12:19.590 --> 00:12:21.070] establishing your identity
[00:12:21.430 --> 00:12:25.110] and also the trending mass relatability
[00:12:28.620 --> 00:12:33.820] and then most of all, focusing in on high impact content.
[00:12:35.850 --> 00:12:41.210] And you know, he works with a lot of brands, celebrities,
[00:12:43.290 --> 00:12:48.110] helping brands and podcasts get celebrities
[00:12:48.110 --> 00:12:50.630] and working with different celebrities and artists.
[00:12:51.070 --> 00:12:53.970] So yeah, it's definitely important, you know,
[00:12:55.050 --> 00:12:58.070] reverse engineer your brand intention.
[00:12:58.070 --> 00:13:01.730] And like again, focus on high impact content.
[00:13:02.890 --> 00:13:06.470] And then the AI panel with Miss Alicia Little
[00:13:06.470 --> 00:13:09.910] and Cynthia and Alquencia, okay, a conundrum.
[00:13:11.690 --> 00:13:15.970] Some things I took away from that was get meta verified.
[00:13:16.090 --> 00:13:17.710] So that's Facebook, Instagram.
[00:13:19.670 --> 00:13:22.370] Pay that money if you're not verified
[00:13:22.370 --> 00:13:25.770] or get verified the old school way, natural way,
[00:13:26.410 --> 00:13:29.570] but you know, it's gonna protect you in the long run,
[00:13:29.730 --> 00:13:32.570] especially with, you know, AI as it's coming around.
[00:13:33.630 --> 00:13:35.890] Again, sorry for the background noise
[00:13:35.890 --> 00:13:38.550] as it's getting louder and louder and louder.
[00:13:39.110 --> 00:13:44.490] I apologize, but yeah, I definitely want to, you know,
[00:13:44.910 --> 00:13:48.470] speak my mind as I come from this conference.
[00:13:52.650 --> 00:13:58.990] We're gonna be coming, approaching fraud detection fatigue.
[00:13:59.090 --> 00:14:01.250] Like we're not gonna know what's real, what's fake.
[00:14:01.290 --> 00:14:04.690] And it's just gonna be, you know, so much.
[00:14:05.230 --> 00:14:07.850] We're not gonna know what's real, what's fake.
[00:14:07.890 --> 00:14:10.470] And then we're just gonna get tired of it, you know?
[00:14:11.770 --> 00:14:15.350] So be mindful of that, you know, it's coming.
[00:14:16.070 --> 00:14:21.500] And then, you know, being faceless on your content,
[00:14:22.210 --> 00:14:25.990] your podcast, you know, your brand that you develop,
[00:14:26.030 --> 00:14:29.670] you know, don't be afraid to create a mascot, you know,
[00:14:30.150 --> 00:14:32.350] with the AI, create a mascot.
[00:14:32.650 --> 00:14:34.450] So that's something I'm about to actually look into.
[00:14:35.230 --> 00:14:38.470] So yeah, I might need some names for a mascot, everybody.
[00:14:40.630 --> 00:14:45.290] And then Mr. J. Hill interviewed the brothers from EYL,
[00:14:45.290 --> 00:14:48.250] Earn Your Leisure, Troy, and Rishai.
[00:14:48.610 --> 00:14:51.390] And I have their book, by the way, it's, ooh wee,
[00:14:51.710 --> 00:14:52.230] it's amazing.
[00:14:52.290 --> 00:14:54.530] I had to get it, I had it pre-ordered
[00:14:54.530 --> 00:14:57.290] before it was released, and it was nice.
[00:14:58.910 --> 00:15:02.210] And I actually had access to EYL University
[00:15:02.210 --> 00:15:04.650] for a couple months, and it was nice,
[00:15:04.690 --> 00:15:07.650] because I think like 2,000 a year, annually,
[00:15:08.030 --> 00:15:09.930] 2,000 a year, I don't know if they got monthly.
[00:15:10.010 --> 00:15:13.830] I think they just got an annual plan is two grand.
[00:15:13.830 --> 00:15:17.250] Yeah, so, you know, it was worth it.
[00:15:17.350 --> 00:15:18.560] I appreciate it.
[00:15:19.550 --> 00:15:22.670] But yeah, they said, always follow your purpose,
[00:15:22.690 --> 00:15:26.450] you know, the mistake entrepreneurs make
[00:15:26.450 --> 00:15:28.670] is that they sell too early.
[00:15:29.590 --> 00:15:31.930] And they said, start with adding value,
[00:15:32.610 --> 00:15:34.310] trust, and build community.
[00:15:35.130 --> 00:15:38.090] And David is huge on community building
[00:15:38.090 --> 00:15:41.230] and building the community and retaining the community.
[00:15:41.610 --> 00:15:43.050] And he has the morning meetup,
[00:15:43.050 --> 00:15:45.630] and I had a chance to be a part of that as well,
[00:15:45.810 --> 00:15:46.970] you know, for a few months.
[00:15:47.410 --> 00:15:50.630] So I'm just thankful for the being in these communities,
[00:15:50.630 --> 00:15:51.450] you know?
[00:15:53.690 --> 00:15:54.790] Leverage your brand.
[00:15:56.770 --> 00:16:00.830] And shout-outs to EYL for making a new deal
[00:16:00.830 --> 00:16:03.830] with iHeart Radio, you know?
[00:16:04.030 --> 00:16:06.290] So that's big, and that's major,
[00:16:06.550 --> 00:16:11.190] and they're, you know, making good relationships
[00:16:11.190 --> 00:16:14.990] with a lot of people, especially in Ghana, Africa.
[00:16:15.870 --> 00:16:17.410] You know, they have Investfest.
[00:16:17.670 --> 00:16:21.250] It was like two weeks from now,
[00:16:21.870 --> 00:16:23.490] or like almost two, three weeks
[00:16:23.490 --> 00:16:25.630] after podcast summit every year.
[00:16:26.110 --> 00:16:28.290] So I haven't been to Investfest yet,
[00:16:28.290 --> 00:16:31.630] but I purchased the virtual tickets and a replay.
[00:16:33.250 --> 00:16:35.810] So yeah, due to my schedule,
[00:16:35.990 --> 00:16:38.190] getting back to Atlanta that quickly,
[00:16:39.030 --> 00:16:43.830] I just can't write at this moment in time these years,
[00:16:43.870 --> 00:16:45.710] but it's coming soon where I could hit both
[00:16:45.710 --> 00:16:48.930] the podcast summit and earn your leisure
[00:16:48.930 --> 00:16:52.210] in Investfest each year.
[00:16:53.210 --> 00:16:55.430] But yeah, looking forward to attending live
[00:16:55.430 --> 00:16:57.190] one of these upcoming years.
[00:16:58.710 --> 00:17:01.590] And then Troy said,
[00:17:01.650 --> 00:17:05.470] intuition is like God whispering in your ear.
[00:17:05.910 --> 00:17:07.369] Follow your intuition,
[00:17:07.369 --> 00:17:09.670] especially as you get big
[00:17:09.670 --> 00:17:11.530] and work with different partners,
[00:17:11.790 --> 00:17:16.030] different brands, different sponsorships.
[00:17:16.390 --> 00:17:17.510] You know, follow your intuition.
[00:17:17.650 --> 00:17:19.410] If it doesn't align with your brand,
[00:17:20.349 --> 00:17:22.010] don't be afraid to say no, you know?
[00:17:22.089 --> 00:17:22.690] Say no.
[00:17:23.990 --> 00:17:28.290] And then Donnie Wiggins and Brandon shot me.
[00:17:29.070 --> 00:17:29.430] Whew.
[00:17:30.990 --> 00:17:32.890] They had a little improv session,
[00:17:34.510 --> 00:17:39.590] but Brandon, you know, he started, you know,
[00:17:41.650 --> 00:17:44.230] meeting Dave at the mall when he had a kiosk
[00:17:44.230 --> 00:17:48.870] selling Sleepist but Suckers, you know,
[00:17:49.110 --> 00:17:51.650] it's a T-shirt brand, it's a clothing brand.
[00:17:53.350 --> 00:17:56.950] And you know, it kind of got mentorship through him.
[00:17:57.970 --> 00:18:01.210] And then he said he purchased David Shan's
[00:18:02.250 --> 00:18:05.130] entrepreneur course, or he was following along
[00:18:05.130 --> 00:18:08.950] with his course, Entrepreneurship 101.
[00:18:19.400 --> 00:18:20.820] The music, y'all.
[00:18:22.760 --> 00:18:23.420] That's wild.
[00:18:28.040 --> 00:18:30.360] They trying to drown me out, y'all.
[00:18:32.120 --> 00:18:32.680] Wow.
[00:18:33.340 --> 00:18:37.900] The perks of outside in Atlanta at night,
[00:18:38.220 --> 00:18:41.240] down times, it is the weekend, so I get it.
[00:18:41.420 --> 00:18:43.000] Everybody trying to party and stuff.
[00:18:44.740 --> 00:18:47.440] Again, I own no rights to these songs.
[00:18:47.440 --> 00:18:50.600] This music, I own no rights.
[00:18:51.980 --> 00:18:54.880] So this does not be monetized.
[00:18:55.980 --> 00:18:59.000] This is just free game for my community, my audience.
[00:18:59.520 --> 00:19:01.360] I appreciate y'all for sticking with me.
[00:19:02.620 --> 00:19:03.820] All right.
[00:19:04.420 --> 00:19:12.450] Ooh, be the CEO of your own media source.
[00:19:12.630 --> 00:19:14.970] You are the CEO of your own media source.
[00:19:16.130 --> 00:19:16.890] Donnie Wiggins.
[00:19:17.690 --> 00:19:20.090] If you didn't get nothing else from her,
[00:19:20.470 --> 00:19:22.170] from the previous gyms that I've dropped,
[00:19:23.550 --> 00:19:24.550] that is a great one.
[00:19:25.670 --> 00:19:28.130] And then closing the day off with none other
[00:19:28.130 --> 00:19:31.130] than David Shan's again, you know.
[00:19:31.830 --> 00:19:32.850] Oh man.
[00:19:34.510 --> 00:19:36.310] Entrepreneurship is a challenge.
[00:19:37.350 --> 00:19:39.910] The three pillars he focuses on is content,
[00:19:40.030 --> 00:19:41.550] community, and cash flow.
[00:19:42.290 --> 00:19:46.870] You know, if you're not where you want to be,
[00:19:46.870 --> 00:19:48.290] maybe it's your community.
[00:19:49.690 --> 00:19:52.650] Or if you've got a good community, maybe it's the content.
[00:19:53.390 --> 00:19:55.170] Well, if you've got the content and community,
[00:19:55.450 --> 00:19:56.830] well, maybe it's the cash flow.
[00:19:57.150 --> 00:19:58.430] Maybe it's a cash flow issue.
[00:19:58.770 --> 00:20:01.010] Maybe your way you monetize
[00:20:01.010 --> 00:20:04.390] and your systems is incorrect, you know.
[00:20:04.750 --> 00:20:07.810] So check it, work on it, adjust it, you know.
[00:20:07.810 --> 00:20:10.670] But those are three pillars to help you succeed,
[00:20:10.790 --> 00:20:13.050] especially with podcasts and also entrepreneurship.
[00:20:15.370 --> 00:20:18.210] Big things, there's leadership, team building,
[00:20:18.490 --> 00:20:19.930] community engagement, pricing,
[00:20:20.770 --> 00:20:21.890] being in the right environments.
[00:20:21.990 --> 00:20:29.310] How many people in your call log do you look up to,
[00:20:29.350 --> 00:20:33.710] you know, or who in your call log life you desire?
[00:20:35.090 --> 00:20:37.970] Or is it the people you've been talking to on the phone
[00:20:37.970 --> 00:20:40.070] a couple of hours, just, oh yeah,
[00:20:40.210 --> 00:20:42.210] and they did this and that and that and that.
[00:20:42.210 --> 00:20:44.330] Oh yeah, the sports team.
[00:20:44.490 --> 00:20:45.690] Yeah, we going to championship.
[00:20:46.010 --> 00:20:48.290] Oh, the weather, oh, it's cold, oh, it's snowing,
[00:20:48.350 --> 00:20:51.750] oh, it's raining, like two hours.
[00:20:52.490 --> 00:20:54.510] Those are not impactful conversations.
[00:20:54.630 --> 00:20:56.250] Those are just, to me, smart talking.
[00:20:56.410 --> 00:21:00.250] Everybody knows me, knows I do not like smart talk
[00:21:00.250 --> 00:21:02.210] and I just shy away from it.
[00:21:02.250 --> 00:21:05.230] I know I sing standoffish a lot of times,
[00:21:05.370 --> 00:21:07.470] especially like with conversations like that.
[00:21:08.590 --> 00:21:11.910] Yeah, how can we add value and impact to each other?
[00:21:12.410 --> 00:21:14.310] You know, that's the type of conversation
[00:21:14.310 --> 00:21:16.790] is I like to do, you know, I like to go deep, so,
[00:21:17.250 --> 00:21:22.090] you know, and then just leaving it off, you know,
[00:21:22.310 --> 00:21:24.430] what's your business model, your content,
[00:21:24.910 --> 00:21:27.790] to cash-map it, the products and services
[00:21:27.790 --> 00:21:30.510] you're aligning around your podcast and your business.
[00:21:30.990 --> 00:21:34.430] And then once you get inside his communities,
[00:21:34.430 --> 00:21:37.530] like the Seven Figure Podcast, you know,
[00:21:37.550 --> 00:21:39.830] he has 10 monetization strategies.
[00:21:40.590 --> 00:21:43.030] So look out to that, look out for that.
[00:21:43.070 --> 00:21:45.710] And if you want to be a part of that, you know,
[00:21:45.790 --> 00:21:46.870] reach out to him.
[00:21:46.930 --> 00:21:49.970] I'm sure the link is in his bio on his website.
[00:21:50.530 --> 00:21:53.450] But yeah, if you visit David Shands on Instagram,
[00:21:53.690 --> 00:21:56.030] it's definitely in his bio, I've checked it out.
[00:21:57.990 --> 00:22:01.970] Had a chance to view that as well, and man.
[00:22:02.870 --> 00:22:08.330] But yeah, everybody provided content over this weekend,
[00:22:08.870 --> 00:22:11.110] you know, I met some good people,
[00:22:11.430 --> 00:22:13.630] some good podcasters, creators,
[00:22:14.290 --> 00:22:16.470] people who's from Atlanta, not from Atlanta.
[00:22:17.070 --> 00:22:18.610] So yeah, it's a blessing, you know,
[00:22:18.650 --> 00:22:20.370] keep building that work, that network.
[00:22:21.070 --> 00:22:22.530] And yeah, I'm about to get to work.
[00:22:22.850 --> 00:22:24.430] I'm about to actually do another recording
[00:22:24.430 --> 00:22:27.530] with Brianna from OFL Studios,
[00:22:28.030 --> 00:22:31.630] my life partner, my right hand, my baby.
[00:22:32.570 --> 00:22:36.350] So yeah, we about to get started soon.
[00:22:37.150 --> 00:22:39.270] So I'm about to take a bite to eat,
[00:22:39.670 --> 00:22:42.110] take a break, then we about to set up for this film.
[00:22:42.630 --> 00:22:43.910] And anybody that don't know us,
[00:22:43.950 --> 00:22:47.070] you know, check out our WWWs,
[00:22:47.070 --> 00:22:49.010] that's our work with we,
[00:22:50.010 --> 00:22:53.530] work with we, WWW.
[00:22:53.830 --> 00:22:56.270] It's a spinoff and a work with me,
[00:22:56.760 --> 00:22:58.870] work with me, so that's our solo.
[00:22:59.130 --> 00:23:01.710] And then work with we is when we're together
[00:23:01.710 --> 00:23:03.130] and that's creative frequency.
[00:23:03.590 --> 00:23:05.750] You know, follow us on all our media
[00:23:05.750 --> 00:23:08.670] on a creative frequency.
[00:23:09.450 --> 00:23:12.530] Yeah, and our website coming soon.
[00:23:13.510 --> 00:23:16.510] But yeah, we have a lot, but I'ma close this.
[00:23:16.850 --> 00:23:19.470] You know, you can find me on all social media
[00:23:19.470 --> 00:23:24.210] at Alien Eyes Photos and alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:23:24.210 --> 00:23:30.630] That's Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with a S dot com.
[00:23:30.930 --> 00:23:32.570] And yeah, I'm photographer Jackson.
[00:23:32.650 --> 00:23:35.330] If you need coaching, especially in the media space,
[00:23:35.730 --> 00:23:38.590] marketing, I do ideation sessions
[00:23:38.590 --> 00:23:41.730] and you know, help build your marketing and strategy.
[00:23:42.390 --> 00:23:44.350] So yeah, let's get it.
[00:23:44.350 --> 00:23:45.910] I am about to sign out,
[00:23:46.190 --> 00:23:48.850] relax, eat before this next recording is set.
[00:23:49.330 --> 00:23:50.510] It's been a blessing, y'all.
[00:23:50.510 --> 00:23:52.290] We out here.
[00:23:52.970 --> 00:23:54.510] Hey, peace.

========================================================================
79. Podcast Summit Recap - Day 1 - 2025
Season 1
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/podcast-summit-recap-day-1-2025
========================================================================

[00:00:01.940 --> 00:00:11.540] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk with your host photographer
[00:00:11.540 --> 00:00:12.240] Jackson.
[00:00:12.560 --> 00:00:21.340] And I'm here in Atlanta, August 7th, 2025, day one of Podcast Summit 2025.
[00:00:22.280 --> 00:00:23.420] Y'all see how that rhyme?
[00:00:24.000 --> 00:00:24.560] Yes, yes.
[00:00:24.760 --> 00:00:30.460] But just to open up the day, Wall Street Trapper, and by the way, I'm outside.
[00:00:30.460 --> 00:00:36.620] So if you hear all type of noises and car rides and random voices yelling, I'm outside.
[00:00:36.620 --> 00:00:37.540] This is organic.
[00:00:38.320 --> 00:00:38.820] Here in Atlanta.
[00:00:40.400 --> 00:00:45.060] But yeah, Wall Street Trapper, he opened it up with the energy, the energy, the energy,
[00:00:46.020 --> 00:00:46.940] the motivation.
[00:00:48.040 --> 00:00:53.260] Like he told us in order to learn, you need to be in a relaxed state.
[00:00:54.180 --> 00:00:55.420] Like that is true.
[00:00:55.440 --> 00:00:58.820] You know, studying meditation and Buddhism.
[00:00:58.820 --> 00:01:00.220] That is true.
[00:01:00.620 --> 00:01:02.640] You learn best when you're in a relaxed state.
[00:01:02.640 --> 00:01:07.140] That's the only way you learn because you're riled up and you're mad, you know.
[00:01:08.440 --> 00:01:14.280] The wavelength is shorter, and even your mind is, the intention span is short.
[00:01:14.840 --> 00:01:16.600] So that's just something to think about.
[00:01:18.260 --> 00:01:22.140] And then he also spoke about what are you really good at?
[00:01:23.260 --> 00:01:24.360] What are you good at?
[00:01:25.700 --> 00:01:28.740] What are you good at?
[00:01:30.300 --> 00:01:34.540] So everybody that's good at multiple things.
[00:01:35.740 --> 00:01:38.000] Pick one thing that you're really good at.
[00:01:38.800 --> 00:01:41.860] One thing and just stick with it.
[00:01:42.980 --> 00:01:48.200] Surrender your voice to God and be blessed like never before.
[00:01:50.700 --> 00:01:57.870] You know, when he said that, the whole room just erupted.
[00:01:59.110 --> 00:02:05.890] You know, and first you start by surrendering.
[00:02:05.890 --> 00:02:08.110] That's about what you experience.
[00:02:09.669 --> 00:02:12.030] And don't worry about being the number one show.
[00:02:12.810 --> 00:02:15.990] Focus on the best show you can produce.
[00:02:19.360 --> 00:02:22.680] That's like the icing on the cake, you know.
[00:02:23.980 --> 00:02:29.100] And he left it off with how you start is not going to be the way you finish.
[00:02:31.520 --> 00:02:36.720] You know, take that how you take it, but let it be in the correct manner.
[00:02:39.310 --> 00:02:41.330] You know, there was a lot more things discussed.
[00:02:41.370 --> 00:02:45.710] Of course, I don't want to spill all the tea, you know, catch the replays
[00:02:45.710 --> 00:02:49.010] about a podcast, some of the replays.
[00:02:49.050 --> 00:02:53.450] But, you know, these are some good thoughts that I came across.
[00:02:56.050 --> 00:03:01.310] And then Ernestine Morris interviewed Kev on stage,
[00:03:01.990 --> 00:03:04.530] you know, out the gate.
[00:03:04.890 --> 00:03:10.050] Kev, you know, mentioned he associated himself with good times.
[00:03:12.770 --> 00:03:16.370] You know, so he associates yourself with good in general.
[00:03:16.950 --> 00:03:20.890] Good spirit, good times, good moments, good experiences, good outcomes.
[00:03:24.270 --> 00:03:28.010] And if everyone that has a podcast or into media,
[00:03:29.390 --> 00:03:34.970] media tracks, advertisers, point blank simple, and everything you do
[00:03:34.970 --> 00:03:36.910] is not going to be perfect.
[00:03:38.570 --> 00:03:41.370] When he also has a new book out.
[00:03:43.230 --> 00:03:43.670] Successful.
[00:03:46.090 --> 00:03:46.970] Successful failures.
[00:03:49.700 --> 00:03:51.880] I was going to be funny with him, I know, you know,
[00:03:51.960 --> 00:03:54.300] because Kev on stage is a funny guy.
[00:03:55.000 --> 00:03:56.240] Mr. Kevin, yeah.
[00:03:57.200 --> 00:03:58.660] But yes, successful failures.
[00:03:59.040 --> 00:04:01.920] I'm a definitely get that book.
[00:04:02.660 --> 00:04:03.760] Check it out.
[00:04:03.760 --> 00:04:06.860] Maybe here's some reviews on it on a podcast.
[00:04:07.420 --> 00:04:10.940] So, yeah, I look forward to that.
[00:04:11.580 --> 00:04:20.660] And then CJ came on stage and surprisingly introduced E.T.,
[00:04:20.660 --> 00:04:23.560] Mr. Eric Thomas, his right hand.
[00:04:24.480 --> 00:04:26.740] And, wow, they both.
[00:04:27.760 --> 00:04:31.220] Even CJ said E.T. told them stop having sex.
[00:04:32.180 --> 00:04:34.420] Yes, stop having sex.
[00:04:36.080 --> 00:04:43.720] Yeah, well, let's just continue.
[00:04:45.280 --> 00:04:47.380] But I get it.
[00:04:47.400 --> 00:04:51.360] And I heard other like millionaires and billionaires say that,
[00:04:51.460 --> 00:04:56.240] like one point, you know, they cut themselves off and,
[00:04:56.400 --> 00:05:03.300] you know, no sexual activity or no porn or masturbation for two years.
[00:05:03.970 --> 00:05:06.840] You know, and that's a powerful thing to do, really.
[00:05:07.760 --> 00:05:09.340] It really, really is.
[00:05:09.760 --> 00:05:15.680] You know, your focus, you know, clarity, energy,
[00:05:16.440 --> 00:05:21.980] the purity, the spirit is just pure, you know, clean.
[00:05:23.620 --> 00:05:26.560] And it's good, especially with the right person,
[00:05:26.660 --> 00:05:28.760] only with the right person, you know.
[00:05:29.220 --> 00:05:33.240] Can't just be out here with any and everybody.
[00:05:33.240 --> 00:05:36.920] That was the biggest message from not having sex.
[00:05:37.880 --> 00:05:40.780] But if you're going to do it, you know, stay faithful, stay loyal.
[00:05:42.000 --> 00:05:44.540] That's the only powerful thing to do, really.
[00:05:45.860 --> 00:05:47.920] And to protect yourself and your spirit.
[00:05:50.320 --> 00:05:56.030] And, oh, man, E.T., wow.
[00:05:56.790 --> 00:05:59.210] The I am, I will, I can.
[00:06:00.650 --> 00:06:02.750] Man, hearing that live,
[00:06:04.530 --> 00:06:06.230] it's a whole nother energy.
[00:06:07.810 --> 00:06:09.910] And focus where your energy flows.
[00:06:10.690 --> 00:06:12.950] And the focus goes where energy flows.
[00:06:13.550 --> 00:06:17.510] So be mindful what you're doing, what you're focused on,
[00:06:17.590 --> 00:06:19.970] even what you spend your time and energy on.
[00:06:25.830 --> 00:06:28.270] And then I had Mr. David Shands come out.
[00:06:29.170 --> 00:06:33.770] Oh, I didn't have him come out, but he came out finally.
[00:06:33.890 --> 00:06:34.870] I'm like, wow.
[00:06:36.220 --> 00:06:42.320] We haven't seen Mr. Shands, the hostess with the mostess.
[00:06:43.280 --> 00:06:45.100] We haven't seen him all day.
[00:06:46.240 --> 00:06:51.360] Yeah, David Shands, you know, he broke down the history of a radio
[00:06:51.360 --> 00:06:56.920] and how we got to podcast and why a podcast is needed.
[00:06:58.700 --> 00:06:59.640] It's becoming popular.
[00:06:59.720 --> 00:07:01.760] I was going to say popular, but it's becoming popular
[00:07:01.760 --> 00:07:03.160] and even more popular.
[00:07:03.160 --> 00:07:06.640] And he suggests everyone should have a podcast.
[00:07:08.420 --> 00:07:11.240] And I remember with the Pull Up Experience
[00:07:11.710 --> 00:07:14.880] at the Futureland Conference, our topic was
[00:07:15.400 --> 00:07:17.560] every business should have a podcast.
[00:07:18.220 --> 00:07:21.680] And if you want us to run that back, we definitely can.
[00:07:22.480 --> 00:07:25.380] But yes, every business should have a podcast.
[00:07:26.120 --> 00:07:29.580] And it's my biggest marketing piece in my business.
[00:07:30.480 --> 00:07:33.540] You know, it creates content, it's engaging.
[00:07:33.820 --> 00:07:35.100] I'm building relationships.
[00:07:35.380 --> 00:07:37.360] So it's so many factors.
[00:07:37.960 --> 00:07:40.400] You know, I'm attracting advertisers and sponsors.
[00:07:41.340 --> 00:07:44.880] So it, like I said, it's going to be loud.
[00:07:45.080 --> 00:07:51.840] I'm outside here at ATL, day one of ATL Georgia.
[00:07:52.920 --> 00:07:55.360] I'll make sure I'm specific, but, you know,
[00:07:55.660 --> 00:07:56.440] people should know.
[00:07:57.040 --> 00:08:00.300] Yeah, here day one podcast summit 2025.
[00:08:01.520 --> 00:08:03.540] Outside is loud, it's bright.
[00:08:05.120 --> 00:08:07.080] And I've got multiple cameras running.
[00:08:07.860 --> 00:08:10.840] So you may see different content on different things.
[00:08:11.520 --> 00:08:14.120] But, yeah, it's mainly the audio for right now.
[00:08:14.200 --> 00:08:17.800] So I'm pretty, you know, cool, calm, collected.
[00:08:19.440 --> 00:08:23.540] And back to where Wall Street says, you know, to learn.
[00:08:24.780 --> 00:08:26.460] You got to be in a relaxed state.
[00:08:27.060 --> 00:08:28.600] So what happened when you teach?
[00:08:29.780 --> 00:08:31.100] Teach from that relaxed state.
[00:08:31.360 --> 00:08:34.280] And that's something more and more
[00:08:35.000 --> 00:08:36.659] I want to continue getting better at.
[00:08:37.159 --> 00:08:39.860] I know I do, but, you know, consistently
[00:08:40.440 --> 00:08:44.540] and even more deeply, I just want
[00:08:44.540 --> 00:08:48.300] to be more relaxed in, like, everything I do.
[00:08:49.720 --> 00:08:52.700] I know how I am now, you know, cool, calm,
[00:08:52.700 --> 00:08:53.960] collected, laid back.
[00:08:54.200 --> 00:08:57.040] It's scary for a lot of people, you know,
[00:08:57.200 --> 00:08:58.480] they don't know how to take it.
[00:09:00.020 --> 00:09:02.660] But I want to become even more relaxed,
[00:09:02.840 --> 00:09:06.500] more relaxed, laid back, chill, you know.
[00:09:07.620 --> 00:09:09.720] I still got that dynamic side of me,
[00:09:09.720 --> 00:09:17.870] but for the most part, I think I'm gonna just be cool.
[00:09:19.740 --> 00:09:22.720] I'm adjusting this camera, y'all, one second,
[00:09:22.900 --> 00:09:26.840] but yeah, okay, okay, nice and adjusted.
[00:09:28.520 --> 00:09:32.380] But some things David Shands spoke on.
[00:09:33.400 --> 00:09:35.500] Consistency creates separation.
[00:09:38.300 --> 00:09:40.540] Consistency creates separation.
[00:09:42.650 --> 00:09:44.690] Because if nobody else is doing it,
[00:09:45.550 --> 00:09:47.710] you're already separating yourself from the rest.
[00:09:49.630 --> 00:09:53.430] He also said, keep going, keep going.
[00:09:56.860 --> 00:10:03.490] And he said, the first 53 episodes of his podcast,
[00:10:04.170 --> 00:10:10.470] no traction, not many views, little to no views for some.
[00:10:14.520 --> 00:10:18.640] And the number 54 was actually with Wall Street Trapper
[00:10:18.640 --> 00:10:20.240] on the Social Proof Podcast.
[00:10:24.550 --> 00:10:27.090] And going back to that consistency,
[00:10:28.210 --> 00:10:30.590] which, you know, back to my team,
[00:10:30.730 --> 00:10:34.150] the pull-up experience, that's one thing we have
[00:10:34.150 --> 00:10:36.050] over everybody in Cleveland.
[00:10:36.230 --> 00:10:38.990] We're consistent, very consistent.
[00:10:39.190 --> 00:10:43.130] At one point, we were recording eight shows a week,
[00:10:44.470 --> 00:10:47.370] eight shows a week, not every week,
[00:10:47.610 --> 00:10:51.110] but six to eight shows a week.
[00:10:51.350 --> 00:10:56.600] That's three days, sometimes a random day.
[00:10:57.760 --> 00:10:59.060] Well, yeah, Tuesday's our day.
[00:10:59.180 --> 00:11:00.880] If anybody wanna get on the podcast,
[00:11:01.420 --> 00:11:02.540] we do every other Tuesday.
[00:11:02.540 --> 00:11:06.160] We're pretty booked out, you know, most of the year,
[00:11:06.920 --> 00:11:11.180] most years, we're almost booked the full year in advance.
[00:11:12.380 --> 00:11:15.220] So when people try to get on, it's not a gimmick.
[00:11:15.700 --> 00:11:17.800] And, you know, the waiting time is the waiting time
[00:11:17.800 --> 00:11:21.040] because we have a waiting list, you know?
[00:11:21.340 --> 00:11:24.360] So everybody be wanting me to get them on a podcast.
[00:11:24.960 --> 00:11:30.360] This is another outlet, me starting Alienize Photos
[00:11:30.360 --> 00:11:34.620] to give those others an outlet, a platform.
[00:11:35.460 --> 00:11:38.300] And then we could still get on a pull-up experience,
[00:11:38.320 --> 00:11:39.620] but like I said, it's a wait.
[00:11:40.420 --> 00:11:44.520] But we also had the honor to have Mr. David Shands
[00:11:44.520 --> 00:11:46.480] on a pull-up experience podcast.
[00:11:48.140 --> 00:11:51.040] And man, y'all, hey, check it out.
[00:11:51.340 --> 00:11:53.260] 200, that was that, hey.
[00:11:54.280 --> 00:11:56.320] We can't thank you enough, Mr. David Shands,
[00:11:56.540 --> 00:11:59.620] all you do, and yes, thank you.
[00:11:59.620 --> 00:12:03.320] You encouraged me to start the podcast.
[00:12:05.440 --> 00:12:08.840] Yes, Alienize Photos Industry Talk podcast, we are here.
[00:12:09.560 --> 00:12:10.840] Yes, thank you.
[00:12:11.660 --> 00:12:15.780] And then I met Sean Stevenson.
[00:12:18.620 --> 00:12:25.160] This is breaking down the different ways to monetize.
[00:12:26.000 --> 00:12:28.560] And let's just start with sponsorships.
[00:12:30.970 --> 00:12:35.330] Who wants to be a sponsor on the podcast?
[00:12:35.330 --> 00:12:39.450] Alienize Photos Industry Talk, where we talk business
[00:12:39.450 --> 00:12:41.650] and I preach about my entrepreneurial journey
[00:12:41.650 --> 00:12:43.330] like I am doing right now.
[00:12:44.250 --> 00:12:47.950] I am mainly an event photographer, business coach,
[00:12:48.390 --> 00:12:50.370] where I hold ideation sessions
[00:12:50.370 --> 00:12:53.310] to help build your strategy and marketing
[00:12:53.950 --> 00:12:54.950] in your vision.
[00:12:55.730 --> 00:13:00.030] I elevate positive voices in all I do
[00:13:00.030 --> 00:13:04.010] with my visual media and also with my podcast.
[00:13:10.560 --> 00:13:13.260] Yeah, I'm leaving all that in there, by the way,
[00:13:13.320 --> 00:13:14.280] all the motorcycles.
[00:13:15.940 --> 00:13:18.100] I'm leaving all that in there, y'all.
[00:13:18.640 --> 00:13:21.180] The background noise, the motorcycles.
[00:13:23.530 --> 00:13:29.270] Hey, hey, hey, I'm not gonna monetize this episode anyway,
[00:13:30.050 --> 00:13:33.050] so any copyrights, any music that's played in this,
[00:13:33.450 --> 00:13:35.250] it's not by me at all.
[00:13:36.390 --> 00:13:39.770] I have no rights to none of the music in this video.
[00:13:42.430 --> 00:13:43.630] So, shh.
[00:13:45.340 --> 00:13:47.400] But yeah, I'm leaving background noise in it,
[00:13:47.580 --> 00:13:49.480] but yeah, Shawn Stevenson.
[00:13:52.850 --> 00:13:53.450] Sponsorships.
[00:13:55.030 --> 00:14:01.820] I know it may be like a no thought or a low thought
[00:14:01.820 --> 00:14:04.200] that, oh yeah, why not get sponsorships,
[00:14:05.740 --> 00:14:09.580] but sponsorships for events, conferences,
[00:14:11.060 --> 00:14:16.450] podcasts, get brands, just, man.
[00:14:18.380 --> 00:14:19.620] Don't be afraid to reach out.
[00:14:19.740 --> 00:14:21.380] That's all I'm gonna say about that.
[00:14:22.860 --> 00:14:27.040] And then also, have a product, have a course,
[00:14:27.140 --> 00:14:30.140] have an ebook, a physical item.
[00:14:31.940 --> 00:14:34.580] Something to think about if you want to help
[00:14:34.580 --> 00:14:39.880] drive revenue from your podcast into your podcast.
[00:14:41.930 --> 00:14:45.190] And I'll leave you one more nugget that he kinda,
[00:14:45.930 --> 00:14:48.710] I don't say kinda, well, he mentioned
[00:14:49.590 --> 00:14:51.610] don't be afraid to take equity.
[00:14:52.990 --> 00:14:55.090] You know, that's another, you know.
[00:14:55.270 --> 00:15:00.150] Get 2% of this new item, this new fad,
[00:15:00.250 --> 00:15:02.650] this new gadget, this new software.
[00:15:04.030 --> 00:15:06.070] Why not get 2%, 5%?
[00:15:07.970 --> 00:15:11.070] You don't always gotta do a flat rate or,
[00:15:11.070 --> 00:15:12.910] you know, big lump sums.
[00:15:14.350 --> 00:15:15.990] Don't be afraid to take that equity.
[00:15:19.460 --> 00:15:21.820] I think next was a panel.
[00:15:23.720 --> 00:15:28.540] Yes, yes, yes, it was a panel with, let me see,
[00:15:28.820 --> 00:15:34.740] Ebony Porter, Ike, Mr. Vaughn, Dan Jeter,
[00:15:35.080 --> 00:15:38.060] Danielle Jeter, like the football,
[00:15:38.280 --> 00:15:40.400] baseball player, I'm gonna say football.
[00:15:41.240 --> 00:15:46.860] Freshy and Mercedes Smith, Vaughn Alvarez.
[00:15:50.180 --> 00:15:52.300] They're basically, you know, in a PR,
[00:15:53.040 --> 00:15:56.080] public relations, press release.
[00:15:58.600 --> 00:16:00.400] Kinda got a hint at a budget.
[00:16:02.120 --> 00:16:07.680] If you want that big, you know, great press release,
[00:16:08.040 --> 00:16:11.320] tight vibe to push you like they push celebrities.
[00:16:12.560 --> 00:16:14.960] 15,000 is kinda where
[00:16:16.460 --> 00:16:20.060] the touch point was, you know,
[00:16:20.160 --> 00:16:22.580] because the more you pay them,
[00:16:22.900 --> 00:16:25.100] the more hours and the more effort
[00:16:25.100 --> 00:16:27.140] and resources they could put in.
[00:16:27.320 --> 00:16:28.660] But if they have a smaller budget,
[00:16:28.760 --> 00:16:30.740] it's not really gonna cover their time.
[00:16:31.360 --> 00:16:33.560] So think about that when you're reaching out
[00:16:33.560 --> 00:16:37.400] to PR services and, you know, PR reps.
[00:16:38.100 --> 00:16:41.500] And for these press releases, you know,
[00:16:42.820 --> 00:16:47.000] make it a campaign, six months, a year,
[00:16:47.620 --> 00:16:49.640] you know, and gradually roll it out.
[00:16:52.390 --> 00:16:56.930] And another thing they spoke on that was big
[00:16:56.930 --> 00:16:59.210] and important was call to action.
[00:16:59.330 --> 00:17:04.050] Always, always, always have a call to action.
[00:17:04.630 --> 00:17:05.790] And the most important thing
[00:17:05.790 --> 00:17:07.750] about a press release is the story.
[00:17:08.310 --> 00:17:10.089] So make sure your story is right,
[00:17:10.089 --> 00:17:14.089] it's compelling, it's vivid, it's nice.
[00:17:14.710 --> 00:17:16.310] Hey, make it truthful for real.
[00:17:19.510 --> 00:17:21.430] And then one of my new favorite people,
[00:17:21.790 --> 00:17:26.530] Miss Alicia Little, who may seen her
[00:17:26.530 --> 00:17:30.470] on Neal Maya's, Neal Maya Davis podcast.
[00:17:33.570 --> 00:17:35.470] I know you've probably seen her on
[00:17:35.470 --> 00:17:37.210] Earn Your Leisure podcast.
[00:17:38.010 --> 00:17:42.650] I've seen her on quite a few different podcasts
[00:17:42.650 --> 00:17:44.950] and networks as she continues to grow.
[00:17:45.750 --> 00:17:47.350] And I love that for her.
[00:17:53.590 --> 00:17:58.150] One of the things she preached on that I enjoy was
[00:17:58.150 --> 00:18:03.230] just teach your AI, you know, your style and your tone,
[00:18:03.410 --> 00:18:08.070] teach it you if you want it to be you and more like you.
[00:18:11.270 --> 00:18:15.990] And yeah, she spoke on some stuff she happened to work
[00:18:15.990 --> 00:18:20.190] even for, you know, podcasters and, you know,
[00:18:20.190 --> 00:18:25.490] how she's leveraging AI to help make these resources
[00:18:25.490 --> 00:18:27.850] and tools for podcasters.
[00:18:28.250 --> 00:18:30.330] So I'm definitely gonna check that out
[00:18:30.330 --> 00:18:34.930] and see how we can collaborate because, you know,
[00:18:34.930 --> 00:18:40.050] that's my network, that's my, you know, community podcast
[00:18:40.050 --> 00:18:43.330] and especially, you know, with the network
[00:18:43.330 --> 00:18:44.850] or the pull-up experience.
[00:18:45.390 --> 00:18:49.290] And, you know, people come up to us for tips
[00:18:49.290 --> 00:18:50.950] and insights and education.
[00:18:51.430 --> 00:18:54.870] And, you know, we're actually slacking with coming out
[00:18:54.870 --> 00:18:56.690] with our courses or our education.
[00:18:56.870 --> 00:18:59.810] We have some eBooks, but, you know,
[00:19:00.910 --> 00:19:02.770] we have a lot of things in the work
[00:19:02.770 --> 00:19:06.650] and it's just like the things we should focus on
[00:19:06.650 --> 00:19:08.930] and, you know, getting pulled in many directions,
[00:19:09.530 --> 00:19:12.510] you know, always got a collaboration on a table
[00:19:12.510 --> 00:19:13.570] and that's good.
[00:19:14.750 --> 00:19:17.170] And a lot of these things is gonna take time,
[00:19:18.570 --> 00:19:21.870] but yeah, I think this next sit down with the team
[00:19:21.870 --> 00:19:23.170] is gonna be a good one.
[00:19:24.530 --> 00:19:28.670] Cause yeah, maybe we need to hire Mr. Alicia Little
[00:19:28.670 --> 00:19:29.730] as a coach.
[00:19:30.550 --> 00:19:35.230] And then I ended the day with Davis Shands
[00:19:38.010 --> 00:19:40.810] interviewing a rep from Go High Level.
[00:19:40.970 --> 00:19:43.990] I think he's the owner, but don't quote me on that.
[00:19:45.890 --> 00:19:48.550] But, you know, one thing he was speaking on
[00:19:48.550 --> 00:19:50.490] is don't be afraid to cold call.
[00:19:51.150 --> 00:19:53.650] Pick up the phone and make that call.
[00:19:55.550 --> 00:20:00.760] And wow, that's, where more can you say?
[00:20:02.780 --> 00:20:06.840] Sometimes the loose tracker will work or would.
[00:20:08.220 --> 00:20:11.300] We haven't tried before, you know.
[00:20:11.760 --> 00:20:14.000] Have a presentation, have it ready.
[00:20:16.090 --> 00:20:18.130] Don't be afraid to pitch your products
[00:20:18.130 --> 00:20:19.610] and services at events.
[00:20:20.450 --> 00:20:23.310] So those were some of the nuggets.
[00:20:24.990 --> 00:20:26.810] No pun intended on that.
[00:20:29.330 --> 00:20:35.770] Me and Lady B, AKA Brie, Anna from Overflow Studio
[00:20:35.770 --> 00:20:38.570] and Creative Frequency and also the Pull Up Experience.
[00:20:39.070 --> 00:20:40.850] And, you know, she do some BTS
[00:20:40.850 --> 00:20:43.210] with Alienize Photos, Industry Talk
[00:20:43.210 --> 00:20:45.430] and Alienize Photos in general, you know.
[00:20:46.070 --> 00:20:47.610] We're definitely partners in this
[00:20:48.470 --> 00:20:51.070] and, you know, I couldn't have a better life partner
[00:20:51.070 --> 00:20:52.410] in this moment in my life.
[00:20:52.870 --> 00:20:55.210] So, you know, I'm definitely appreciative.
[00:20:55.210 --> 00:20:58.010] I definitely want to send gratitude to that
[00:20:58.010 --> 00:21:03.090] as we're here at Podcast Summit 2025 here in Atlanta.
[00:21:03.610 --> 00:21:07.130] And I know she probably waiting for me to wrap up
[00:21:07.130 --> 00:21:08.990] so we can finish this other recording
[00:21:08.990 --> 00:21:10.590] and do some work with me.
[00:21:10.690 --> 00:21:12.970] If you haven't checked out our work with we,
[00:21:14.070 --> 00:21:15.150] work with we.
[00:21:15.350 --> 00:21:18.670] www.workwithwe.creativefrequency.
[00:21:18.910 --> 00:21:21.870] Yeah, we about to start dropping a lot of content
[00:21:21.870 --> 00:21:23.450] and we've been sitting on the live.
[00:21:23.450 --> 00:21:25.810] We've been like, oh, it ain't perfect.
[00:21:25.870 --> 00:21:27.310] Oh, we didn't edit it.
[00:21:27.450 --> 00:21:28.790] Oh, we didn't color grade it.
[00:21:28.830 --> 00:21:30.050] Oh, it ain't finished yet.
[00:21:30.410 --> 00:21:31.710] I'm like, just drop it.
[00:21:31.990 --> 00:21:34.530] Let's just give it to the people, you know.
[00:21:34.550 --> 00:21:36.050] You never know who this may encourage
[00:21:36.050 --> 00:21:37.590] or what couple, you know, like,
[00:21:37.670 --> 00:21:39.710] oh, well, we should do something together.
[00:21:39.810 --> 00:21:40.430] They're doing something.
[00:21:40.810 --> 00:21:41.630] I like them.
[00:21:41.650 --> 00:21:43.110] They got good chemistry.
[00:21:43.770 --> 00:21:44.950] Like we're introverts.
[00:21:45.870 --> 00:21:48.830] So, you know, our way of speaking
[00:21:48.830 --> 00:21:50.650] and giving back is to the camera.
[00:21:50.770 --> 00:21:51.790] You know, this is what we love.
[00:21:52.970 --> 00:21:56.670] We're multi-creative geniuses.
[00:21:57.050 --> 00:22:03.230] Like, I don't think I should be saying this,
[00:22:03.250 --> 00:22:05.630] but just wait till we drop some music.
[00:22:08.500 --> 00:22:10.180] I'm sorry on the audio.
[00:22:10.340 --> 00:22:13.900] I dropped it on the behind the scenes of the camera.
[00:22:14.300 --> 00:22:15.620] I guess it's like a vlog now.
[00:22:15.640 --> 00:22:16.420] This is a vlog.
[00:22:17.480 --> 00:22:18.760] I'm gonna call it a vlog.
[00:22:20.960 --> 00:22:21.300] Yeah.
[00:22:21.300 --> 00:22:26.980] So I'm recording live on alienized photos,
[00:22:27.200 --> 00:22:30.200] industry talk outside here in Atlanta, Georgia.
[00:22:31.020 --> 00:22:36.020] Just wrapped up day one of the podcast summit 2025.
[00:22:40.600 --> 00:22:43.780] And yeah, I think that was all the nuggets
[00:22:43.780 --> 00:22:48.780] from the interview with David Shands and Go High Level.
[00:22:51.300 --> 00:22:54.880] Or High Level, but everybody know it as Go High Level.
[00:22:56.440 --> 00:22:59.240] I think we were pretty much checked out at the time
[00:22:59.240 --> 00:23:03.900] because we were ordering food and we didn't drive.
[00:23:04.500 --> 00:23:08.560] So, you know, our flight, you know,
[00:23:10.270 --> 00:23:12.350] it was like, it was about the same price as our Uber.
[00:23:12.810 --> 00:23:14.950] So we were kind of doing some calculations
[00:23:14.950 --> 00:23:17.430] and where we were gonna eat at or should we sit down?
[00:23:17.450 --> 00:23:18.670] Should we pick up?
[00:23:19.330 --> 00:23:21.750] And we ended up finding something, you know,
[00:23:22.050 --> 00:23:22.870] less than a mile.
[00:23:22.890 --> 00:23:27.260] So we ended up walking and yeah,
[00:23:27.260 --> 00:23:29.080] they left my tater tots out.
[00:23:32.470 --> 00:23:34.390] They left my tater tots out.
[00:23:38.280 --> 00:23:40.900] And anybody that know me knows I'm a potato head.
[00:23:41.920 --> 00:23:43.780] You know, I just turned this into a vlog.
[00:23:44.200 --> 00:23:46.380] So sorry, especially on the audio.
[00:23:46.500 --> 00:23:47.560] I know you can't see this.
[00:23:47.620 --> 00:23:50.660] You have to check the vlog out, the behind the scenes.
[00:23:51.540 --> 00:23:52.940] Cause you know, I don't do much video.
[00:23:53.060 --> 00:23:54.760] So when you get the video, you're gonna be like,
[00:23:54.760 --> 00:23:57.060] yeah, okay, we want more.
[00:23:57.220 --> 00:23:58.600] Maybe you get more, maybe.
[00:23:59.380 --> 00:24:00.960] But, you know, I'm gonna relax.
[00:24:01.040 --> 00:24:02.260] I'm chilling, I'm tired,
[00:24:02.280 --> 00:24:06.060] but I definitely want to push through, create.
[00:24:06.520 --> 00:24:09.620] I might drop this tonight, unedited, whatever,
[00:24:09.700 --> 00:24:11.080] you know, I'm creating.
[00:24:12.760 --> 00:24:17.180] And yeah, but shout out to that restaurant.
[00:24:17.520 --> 00:24:19.260] You know, it was still good.
[00:24:20.540 --> 00:24:22.740] And I just, I just, I just count that as a tip
[00:24:22.740 --> 00:24:23.980] towards the tip, it's cool.
[00:24:24.390 --> 00:24:30.200] They left the tater tots out, but it's all good.
[00:24:30.900 --> 00:24:34.940] I know good karma is in the universe for me.
[00:24:35.520 --> 00:24:39.500] I'm gonna get a lifetime supply of tater tots.
[00:24:39.640 --> 00:24:40.240] I don't know.
[00:24:41.140 --> 00:24:44.060] Maybe I might invest in potatoes.
[00:24:44.120 --> 00:24:44.900] I don't know.
[00:24:45.360 --> 00:24:46.760] All right, at that point I'm just rambling,
[00:24:47.040 --> 00:24:48.860] but yeah, stay, stay tuned.
[00:24:49.060 --> 00:24:50.680] I might, I might do this tomorrow
[00:24:50.680 --> 00:24:54.780] as we wrap up podcast summit with day two.
[00:24:54.780 --> 00:24:57.840] So yeah, I'll do this tomorrow for y'all.
[00:24:57.860 --> 00:25:00.960] So if you like this, excuse me,
[00:25:00.980 --> 00:25:03.060] make sure you check out the next video.
[00:25:04.020 --> 00:25:06.040] Part two, this is part one.
[00:25:06.400 --> 00:25:10.580] Mr. Photographer Jackson of Alienize Photos Industry Talk
[00:25:10.580 --> 00:25:13.520] and also of Alienize Photos Media,
[00:25:14.360 --> 00:25:15.840] my event photography brand
[00:25:15.840 --> 00:25:18.300] where I do conferences, live events.
[00:25:19.440 --> 00:25:23.980] I do weddings and headshots.
[00:25:24.440 --> 00:25:26.360] I do a few other things,
[00:25:26.460 --> 00:25:28.280] but those are my main services.
[00:25:28.960 --> 00:25:30.820] Event photography is my bread and butter.
[00:25:30.880 --> 00:25:31.620] That's what I love.
[00:25:31.660 --> 00:25:32.900] That's what I'm passionate about.
[00:25:33.180 --> 00:25:35.220] That's where I love connecting with people.
[00:25:36.280 --> 00:25:39.580] It's nothing like a good event and that has impact.
[00:25:41.720 --> 00:25:43.080] When I get to document it,
[00:25:43.500 --> 00:25:46.660] there's nothing better than that to me.
[00:25:48.660 --> 00:25:52.940] And I provide quality and I have a good team behind me.
[00:25:53.480 --> 00:25:56.900] You know, I'm blessed for everyone that worked with us,
[00:25:56.960 --> 00:25:58.720] continue to book with us,
[00:25:59.060 --> 00:26:00.900] and I'm only growing and expanding.
[00:26:01.100 --> 00:26:05.280] I'm teaching a new era of photographers and videographers,
[00:26:06.420 --> 00:26:08.420] bit, bit-ographers, bit-ographers.
[00:26:08.900 --> 00:26:10.480] I know I probably butchered that word,
[00:26:11.500 --> 00:26:13.920] but you know, media producers,
[00:26:14.620 --> 00:26:20.360] hosts, producers, you know, it's writers.
[00:26:20.960 --> 00:26:26.450] I got a lot in store, you know?
[00:26:29.410 --> 00:26:33.710] And anybody that's watching this or listening to this,
[00:26:34.370 --> 00:26:36.050] you know, don't be afraid of your growth.
[00:26:37.550 --> 00:26:39.330] Do not be afraid of your growth
[00:26:39.330 --> 00:26:41.030] and I'ma leave it at that, you know?
[00:26:41.490 --> 00:26:46.110] This is Mr. Alienize Photos, AKA photographer Jackson.
[00:26:46.650 --> 00:26:50.030] I am signing off and I think my audio cut out,
[00:26:50.030 --> 00:26:52.210] but I hope this other mic is rolling,
[00:26:52.290 --> 00:26:55.570] but I've been vlogging, so I hope it picked up.
[00:26:55.570 --> 00:26:59.750] It's cause yeah, I ran out of memory, y'all,
[00:26:59.770 --> 00:27:00.710] that's what happened.
[00:27:01.170 --> 00:27:02.790] But it's all good because
[00:27:02.790 --> 00:27:04.650] that's what backup mics are for.
[00:27:05.050 --> 00:27:07.850] Always have backups, that's my rule.
[00:27:09.450 --> 00:27:11.050] Except if you're in a relationship,
[00:27:11.050 --> 00:27:12.950] then you just gotta stick it out and work it out.
[00:27:13.590 --> 00:27:14.550] But other than that,
[00:27:16.390 --> 00:27:19.490] in business, have backup, backup computers, backup.
[00:27:19.490 --> 00:27:21.570] In my, you know, media space,
[00:27:21.790 --> 00:27:26.590] backup cameras, backup lighting, backup microphones, so.
[00:27:27.070 --> 00:27:27.630] Oof.
[00:27:28.150 --> 00:27:30.130] Backup clothes sometimes, you know?
[00:27:30.150 --> 00:27:33.170] People may spill water or something or drink
[00:27:33.630 --> 00:27:35.330] on your clothes or you may do it
[00:27:35.330 --> 00:27:38.230] or eat something saucy and you spilt it on ya.
[00:27:39.010 --> 00:27:40.270] Yeah, you're good clothes.
[00:27:40.790 --> 00:27:42.470] Always have backup, so.
[00:27:43.370 --> 00:27:45.110] Yeah, that's my tip for today.
[00:27:45.770 --> 00:27:47.870] Podcast summit and here in Atlanta.
[00:27:48.370 --> 00:27:51.890] Thank you, Mr. David Shands, Social Proof, Donnie Wiggins,
[00:27:52.130 --> 00:27:54.090] all everybody, the morning meetup.
[00:27:54.310 --> 00:27:56.370] Man, shout out to all of y'all, the inner circle.
[00:27:57.450 --> 00:28:00.150] I will see y'all tomorrow, but for the vlog,
[00:28:00.210 --> 00:28:02.710] make sure y'all take out part two.
[00:28:03.630 --> 00:28:05.110] Thank you, thank you, thank you.
[00:28:07.620 --> 00:28:09.480] All right, I just wrapped up the,
[00:28:09.500 --> 00:28:10.740] I just made it into a vlog.
[00:28:10.740 --> 00:28:13.400] I'm sorry for the audio listeners, I know.
[00:28:13.760 --> 00:28:15.720] I could be doing the most sometime.
[00:28:16.380 --> 00:28:18.840] My audio cut off from my main source,
[00:28:18.840 --> 00:28:20.780] but it's all cool,
[00:28:21.300 --> 00:28:24.380] because we are back and I'm gonna wrap up.
[00:28:24.440 --> 00:28:25.940] Thank you for the backup, Mike.
[00:28:26.000 --> 00:28:29.080] Shout out to Ms. Brianna at Overflow Studios
[00:28:29.080 --> 00:28:30.680] for the backup, Mike,
[00:28:31.120 --> 00:28:33.920] because mine is full and she gave me hers.
[00:28:34.440 --> 00:28:38.980] So, man, she gon' get a free photo shoot or something.
[00:28:39.640 --> 00:28:42.180] Well, her birthday coming up, y'all, so.
[00:28:43.100 --> 00:28:45.640] And my daughter's birthday is, oh, it's tomorrow.
[00:28:47.020 --> 00:28:48.140] Oh, wow.
[00:28:48.140 --> 00:28:50.240] So, yeah, I'm about to jump off of here,
[00:28:50.940 --> 00:28:55.300] and yeah, I gotta send out the love to the babies
[00:28:55.300 --> 00:28:56.420] while I'm out of town.
[00:28:57.640 --> 00:29:00.580] All right, peace, love, and blessings, family.
[00:29:00.920 --> 00:29:07.140] Mr. Alienize Photos Industry Talk is out for the day,
[00:29:07.520 --> 00:29:09.540] but you already know what I say.
[00:29:09.720 --> 00:29:12.400] If you need me for coaching or event photography,
[00:29:13.120 --> 00:29:14.680] I am your guy.
[00:29:15.320 --> 00:29:18.960] And then visit alienizephotos.com.
[00:29:19.220 --> 00:29:23.460] That's alienize photos with a Z, photos.
[00:29:25.770 --> 00:29:27.130] Do I say photos with a Z?
[00:29:27.770 --> 00:29:29.070] Photos with a S.
[00:29:30.630 --> 00:29:34.410] Alienizephotos, eyes with a Z, photos with a S.
[00:29:34.990 --> 00:29:37.830] And I'm out, I'm tired as rock-a-tail, peace.

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80. Father's Day Fuel & Interview Purpose
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/fathers-day-fuel-interview-purpose
========================================================================

[00:00:00.980 --> 00:00:09.380] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome to Alienize Photos in the Street Talk.
[00:00:10.640 --> 00:00:22.840] I am your host, photographer Jackson, and I am in a beautiful space here, 216 Cleveland.
[00:00:24.440 --> 00:00:28.540] I saw it on the clock so I had to say it, I had to do it, and it's true, I'm here
[00:00:28.540 --> 00:00:35.220] in Cleveland, Ohio, born and raised, and just feeling good.
[00:00:36.180 --> 00:00:48.760] I had to do a little self-reflection, self-analysis, get myself together, because I felt in this
[00:00:48.760 --> 00:00:56.840] hump, and I just couldn't get over the hump, you know, starting doubting myself
[00:00:56.840 --> 00:01:07.630] and, you know, just listening to the naysayers and the outside and letting it affect me,
[00:01:08.090 --> 00:01:15.870] affect my greatness, affect my journey, affect my purpose, affect my experiences, affect
[00:01:15.870 --> 00:01:24.270] my thoughts, and they say when you do not have control over your thoughts, you become
[00:01:24.270 --> 00:01:25.510] a slave to it.
[00:01:27.840 --> 00:01:37.040] So that means I was becoming a slave to other people's thoughts, not doing what I was
[00:01:37.040 --> 00:01:40.640] supposed to do, being who I was supposed to be.
[00:01:42.790 --> 00:01:54.400] I let it affect my personal life, my business, my growth, and, you know, children are
[00:01:54.400 --> 00:01:59.260] out of school for the summer, so it's affecting my kids, because they're around
[00:01:59.260 --> 00:02:10.509] me a lot more, versus when they are in school, nieces, nephews, it's affecting the youth.
[00:02:13.050 --> 00:02:23.450] So I had to check myself, get myself in line, speak with some close people to get
[00:02:23.450 --> 00:02:31.500] me back on track, and that's the beauty of just speaking to others, communicating,
[00:02:32.100 --> 00:02:38.420] hearing other people's experiences and thoughts, people that know you better than they may
[00:02:38.420 --> 00:02:47.040] see how you look in the mirror and point out something that you never seen before.
[00:02:48.160 --> 00:02:51.060] Like, do you know you got this greatness inside you?
[00:02:51.200 --> 00:02:55.960] Every time you walk in a room, people turn their heads and just look at you,
[00:02:56.860 --> 00:03:01.160] gravitate towards your energy, your aura, your presence.
[00:03:01.960 --> 00:03:03.840] You shift the energy in the room.
[00:03:06.570 --> 00:03:08.650] Do you remember who you are?
[00:03:09.190 --> 00:03:11.370] What are you talking about, dude?
[00:03:13.650 --> 00:03:22.070] And all you need is that little wake-up call sometimes, reminders, and it's good to set
[00:03:22.070 --> 00:03:28.370] those reminders on our phones, but what about reminders in our real life, our reality?
[00:03:29.730 --> 00:03:40.320] People who mean so dear and close to us, people so dear and close to us, and I just
[00:03:40.320 --> 00:03:44.880] think about what I'm doing now, podcasting, interviewing.
[00:03:48.760 --> 00:03:55.980] If I knew all of that now, I would have got to interview with them.
[00:03:57.120 --> 00:04:02.860] People that mean so much and dear to my heart, who means a lot to me.
[00:04:04.260 --> 00:04:17.260] Family members, friends, old business partners, but they're not here to have that interview.
[00:04:18.820 --> 00:04:28.790] So me not having it back then, when I had that chance to speak to a loved one, someone
[00:04:28.790 --> 00:04:35.690] that means so much and dear to my heart, my life, my existence, my family's existence,
[00:04:35.690 --> 00:04:44.820] my friends' existence, business' existence, or whatever the case, I didn't get that chance,
[00:04:45.420 --> 00:04:47.640] and I don't have that chance.
[00:04:49.460 --> 00:04:54.700] So it's important for me to have these conversations with people that I feel dear
[00:04:55.540 --> 00:05:00.180] and grateful in my life, that I appreciate.
[00:05:02.030 --> 00:05:10.210] It's important for me to have these conversations and share light and also learn from each
[00:05:10.210 --> 00:05:19.540] other, let the world learn from us, our journey, our mistakes, our lessons, our
[00:05:19.540 --> 00:05:31.460] growth, our passion, our wins, our elevation, our collaboration, our inspiration, our purpose,
[00:05:32.520 --> 00:05:39.000] everything that we do, everything that we know you can do.
[00:05:40.950 --> 00:05:45.570] We all excel and motivate and uplift each other.
[00:05:46.830 --> 00:05:50.390] And it's important to do that. It's important to have these conversations.
[00:05:53.290 --> 00:05:56.590] I know you can hear it in my voice. It's the passion.
[00:05:58.230 --> 00:06:04.140] And that is why I take every interview serious.
[00:06:04.140 --> 00:06:10.440] We may spend almost a half a day, 12 hours.
[00:06:14.600 --> 00:06:18.060] That's why I say we might have to block off a full day.
[00:06:18.660 --> 00:06:20.140] I don't have no time restrictions.
[00:06:21.360 --> 00:06:29.010] Hey, we have to break this up into like five, six episodes because it's so long.
[00:06:29.070 --> 00:06:30.370] We're going to do that.
[00:06:31.530 --> 00:06:33.790] But I don't want to rush. I don't want to force.
[00:06:34.650 --> 00:06:41.130] Most of my conversations are like an hour and a half, two hours average right now.
[00:06:41.370 --> 00:06:48.390] But there's times where I know it'll went like six hours if I didn't just stop it,
[00:06:48.530 --> 00:06:49.390] wrap it up, you know?
[00:06:51.690 --> 00:06:55.490] And I also don't want to make it too long for the audience.
[00:06:55.610 --> 00:07:02.450] But I also don't want to not have that information, those conversations,
[00:07:02.450 --> 00:07:10.910] those important journeys, gems, lessons, the growth, the wins.
[00:07:13.700 --> 00:07:15.140] You know, it's good.
[00:07:16.180 --> 00:07:18.420] And it's good to express that all.
[00:07:19.920 --> 00:07:24.740] It's like, damn, man, we finally got a chance to catch up and talk, man.
[00:07:24.760 --> 00:07:28.120] Let's just talk, man. Let's talk.
[00:07:32.620 --> 00:07:37.740] So with that being said, you really can't put limits on things.
[00:07:40.660 --> 00:07:46.000] And sometimes you have to do it without preparing, do it without planning.
[00:07:47.040 --> 00:07:48.440] Just go with the flow.
[00:07:50.620 --> 00:07:52.640] Sometimes you have to do it without a script.
[00:07:54.460 --> 00:07:56.020] Oh, I didn't have a time to write the script.
[00:07:56.080 --> 00:07:57.380] I didn't have a time to prepare.
[00:07:58.440 --> 00:08:00.440] Well, you know who you are.
[00:08:00.440 --> 00:08:02.540] You know what you do. You know what your purpose is.
[00:08:02.620 --> 00:08:03.720] You know this.
[00:08:04.800 --> 00:08:05.760] Just go with the flow.
[00:08:06.280 --> 00:08:08.900] You didn't have time to practice, but you showed up.
[00:08:08.960 --> 00:08:09.880] That's what matters.
[00:08:10.360 --> 00:08:11.860] You showed up.
[00:08:12.820 --> 00:08:17.460] And that's also something that I had to remember that I was still showing up,
[00:08:17.540 --> 00:08:26.040] no matter how I felt, how I took it, how I felt in this negative slump.
[00:08:27.300 --> 00:08:30.420] I still showed up.
[00:08:32.320 --> 00:08:33.799] Tired, drained.
[00:08:36.309 --> 00:08:38.809] I knew I wasn't in my energetic self.
[00:08:39.830 --> 00:08:42.770] And I feel it finally coming back, y'all.
[00:08:43.490 --> 00:08:44.490] I'm back.
[00:08:46.920 --> 00:08:49.660] And I just want to pass that motivation,
[00:08:51.100 --> 00:08:53.700] quick tidbits while it was on my heart.
[00:08:54.160 --> 00:08:57.340] And I felt so grateful and back in myself.
[00:08:58.440 --> 00:09:00.920] Day one, this is day one of my shift.
[00:09:01.300 --> 00:09:02.780] And I just wanted to give that to you.
[00:09:02.780 --> 00:09:04.100] For that electricity.
[00:09:04.440 --> 00:09:06.680] Fire y'all up, because this fired me up.
[00:09:07.120 --> 00:09:07.900] I'm back.
[00:09:09.060 --> 00:09:11.680] Now I can do the work that I'm used to doing.
[00:09:12.000 --> 00:09:13.060] High level.
[00:09:14.000 --> 00:09:17.140] Coaching, consulting, performing at a high level.
[00:09:21.380 --> 00:09:22.060] I'm ready.
[00:09:23.500 --> 00:09:27.460] And I want you to be just as ready as I am.
[00:09:29.650 --> 00:09:30.970] Feel what I'm feeling.
[00:09:31.230 --> 00:09:32.050] The passion.
[00:09:33.310 --> 00:09:34.290] The purpose.
[00:09:36.610 --> 00:09:37.530] Blend it together.
[00:09:42.710 --> 00:09:45.530] But just be ready for the interviews.
[00:09:52.120 --> 00:09:53.660] I'm telling y'all.
[00:09:54.380 --> 00:09:56.340] It's a lot that's on the way.
[00:10:00.720 --> 00:10:01.620] I'm excited.
[00:10:03.950 --> 00:10:05.370] Trying to relax and calm down.
[00:10:06.550 --> 00:10:08.930] But the passion is still there.
[00:10:09.030 --> 00:10:10.110] I'm fired up.
[00:10:10.750 --> 00:10:14.830] So with that being said, I got to get to work.
[00:10:16.110 --> 00:10:17.230] I got to put in the work.
[00:10:18.450 --> 00:10:21.210] I have a lot to do.
[00:10:25.430 --> 00:10:27.910] And it's Father's Day, y'all.
[00:10:30.130 --> 00:10:31.590] It's Father's Day.
[00:10:34.590 --> 00:10:38.770] Probably not going to release this on Father's Day, but it's Father's Day.
[00:10:40.430 --> 00:10:42.550] You know, my daughter asked me.
[00:10:43.130 --> 00:10:49.660] She said, daddy, what you want for Father's Day?
[00:10:51.260 --> 00:10:54.420] And I said, a day off.
[00:10:55.140 --> 00:10:56.920] Just relax and do nothing.
[00:10:56.920 --> 00:11:03.310] And I actually have the opportunity to do that.
[00:11:03.350 --> 00:11:06.050] But I'm still getting to work.
[00:11:07.170 --> 00:11:09.530] So do I really know how to relax?
[00:11:11.210 --> 00:11:11.310] Huh.
[00:11:12.670 --> 00:11:13.490] Well, I'm going to try, y'all.
[00:11:13.690 --> 00:11:15.070] But let me get to work.
[00:11:15.690 --> 00:11:18.230] At least so I can relax for the rest of the day.
[00:11:19.110 --> 00:11:19.990] While I can.
[00:11:20.890 --> 00:11:24.250] I definitely got a busy week coming into next week.
[00:11:24.270 --> 00:11:26.650] And then a wedding coming up the following week.
[00:11:26.650 --> 00:11:28.850] So it's a lot of preparation.
[00:11:29.110 --> 00:11:31.090] It's a lot of things to get back done.
[00:11:31.570 --> 00:11:33.250] Now I'm feeling like myself again.
[00:11:34.230 --> 00:11:36.030] So I'm going to leverage that.
[00:11:36.430 --> 00:11:37.810] Keep that momentum going.
[00:11:38.730 --> 00:11:43.450] Hopefully I don't feel like I felt this past week.
[00:11:43.810 --> 00:11:45.290] I'm shutting off the week.
[00:11:46.590 --> 00:11:48.630] Spreading my wings, sun shining.
[00:11:49.890 --> 00:11:53.970] And ready to get to grind mode.
[00:11:55.490 --> 00:11:59.490] I was going to say work, but I'm saying I'm getting tired of saying work grind mode.
[00:11:59.870 --> 00:12:00.950] I'm going to think of a better word.
[00:12:01.590 --> 00:12:02.770] So many.
[00:12:03.090 --> 00:12:03.630] All right, y'all.
[00:12:03.970 --> 00:12:04.350] Peace.
[00:12:05.090 --> 00:12:09.910] Again, if you ever want to check me out, more information, alienoplayer.com.
[00:12:10.230 --> 00:12:14.890] If you need me for business coaching, or if you need me as an event photographer,
[00:12:16.410 --> 00:12:23.320] or whatever you need in business, consult with me.
[00:12:24.320 --> 00:12:27.280] I know somebody that knows somebody.
[00:12:28.360 --> 00:12:32.280] And I want to start utilizing my network.
[00:12:33.460 --> 00:12:35.340] Putting everybody on.
[00:12:35.980 --> 00:12:37.800] Everybody collaborating with everybody.
[00:12:40.060 --> 00:12:42.980] So yeah, just hit me up.
[00:12:43.780 --> 00:12:49.460] Like I said, this episode, I'm just feeling like myself again.
[00:12:50.000 --> 00:12:51.460] So I'm so excited.
[00:12:52.400 --> 00:12:54.540] I know you can hear it.
[00:12:54.540 --> 00:12:55.460] And I'm just everywhere.
[00:12:56.240 --> 00:12:57.400] Mine is everywhere.
[00:12:58.940 --> 00:13:01.380] Just like the ideas that I have.
[00:13:01.980 --> 00:13:03.880] So if you want to have an ideation session,
[00:13:05.780 --> 00:13:11.360] a nice five minute or an hour ideation session.
[00:13:13.510 --> 00:13:14.830] Let's have it.
[00:13:15.990 --> 00:13:21.110] It helps unlock different thoughts you knew you had,
[00:13:21.830 --> 00:13:23.530] but wasn't thinking about.
[00:13:25.720 --> 00:13:26.960] And that's what I do.
[00:13:28.140 --> 00:13:30.000] Help people realize for themselves.
[00:13:31.660 --> 00:13:32.760] I just guide them.
[00:13:32.840 --> 00:13:37.820] I'm the guide to the destination you want to go.
[00:13:40.110 --> 00:13:40.650] All right, y'all.
[00:13:40.730 --> 00:13:41.690] Peace, love, and blessings.
[00:13:42.670 --> 00:13:44.150] I am out.
[00:13:44.730 --> 00:13:49.030] Mr. Photographer Jackson, Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:13:49.950 --> 00:13:51.170] Yes, yes.

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81. Khayla Monique - The Unshatter'd Adoptee Interviewed by Steve Jackson (Alien)
Season 2 · Episode 1
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/khayla-unshatterd-adoptee-interviewed-by-steven-jackson
========================================================================

[00:00:01.870 --> 00:00:06.370] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome back
[00:00:07.270 --> 00:00:10.210] to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:10.930 --> 00:00:12.690] Yes, it's a beautiful day.
[00:00:13.030 --> 00:00:15.190] I'm finally catching up with Ress.
[00:00:15.410 --> 00:00:16.830] Oh, I'm getting a retwist.
[00:00:16.910 --> 00:00:19.410] So that means something special might be going on
[00:00:19.410 --> 00:00:21.990] as you can hear in the background.
[00:00:22.770 --> 00:00:28.970] The clips, the combs, the hair management, the sprays.
[00:00:29.250 --> 00:00:31.270] And now we're about to add good conversation
[00:00:31.270 --> 00:00:34.010] and I'm here with Kayla Monique.
[00:00:34.310 --> 00:00:35.450] Would you like to introduce yourself?
[00:00:35.750 --> 00:00:36.730] Yes, yes, yes.
[00:00:36.810 --> 00:00:40.590] Hey everybody, it is your girl, Kayla Monique,
[00:00:40.850 --> 00:00:43.370] AKA The Unshattered Adoptee.
[00:00:43.830 --> 00:00:47.290] Yes, Unshattered Adoptee, what does that mean to you?
[00:00:47.610 --> 00:00:49.290] What does that mean to me?
[00:00:49.490 --> 00:00:53.350] Okay, so when I think of Unshattered Adoptee,
[00:00:53.990 --> 00:00:56.950] I think of glass.
[00:00:58.210 --> 00:00:59.710] Now, but when I think of the glass,
[00:00:59.710 --> 00:01:03.050] sometimes glass can have cracks in it,
[00:01:03.110 --> 00:01:04.650] but still take up space.
[00:01:05.110 --> 00:01:06.730] The visual, like maybe a bus stop,
[00:01:07.050 --> 00:01:09.490] that glass is shattered, but it still takes up space.
[00:01:10.010 --> 00:01:12.150] Other glass can shatter and actually fall
[00:01:12.150 --> 00:01:13.490] and crumble to the ground.
[00:01:13.550 --> 00:01:16.730] I like to believe that me and my tribe,
[00:01:16.850 --> 00:01:19.170] other adoptees, other individuals affected
[00:01:19.170 --> 00:01:22.070] by foster care, teen pregnancy,
[00:01:22.430 --> 00:01:23.790] we are all unshattered
[00:01:23.790 --> 00:01:25.590] because we're still standing here today.
[00:01:26.170 --> 00:01:27.790] I'm still standing here today.
[00:01:27.790 --> 00:01:30.510] I have some cracks, but that's okay.
[00:01:30.690 --> 00:01:31.990] And that makes me unique.
[00:01:32.710 --> 00:01:34.510] So I'm still here today.
[00:01:34.750 --> 00:01:36.510] So when I say be unshattered,
[00:01:36.590 --> 00:01:37.770] that's exactly what I mean
[00:01:37.770 --> 00:01:39.570] because everybody has some cracks.
[00:01:40.270 --> 00:01:41.830] Everybody has a few stains
[00:01:41.830 --> 00:01:43.890] from something that they've been through in life,
[00:01:44.190 --> 00:01:45.370] but you're still here.
[00:01:45.490 --> 00:01:48.270] So you are unshattered, just like I am unshattered.
[00:01:48.550 --> 00:01:52.310] So that's what Unshattered Adoptee stands for.
[00:01:52.750 --> 00:01:55.050] Wow, that's truly powerful.
[00:01:55.050 --> 00:01:57.090] And also motivating,
[00:01:58.950 --> 00:02:00.230] especially for other people
[00:02:00.930 --> 00:02:02.950] that may be going through similar things.
[00:02:03.530 --> 00:02:04.530] Absolutely, for sure.
[00:02:04.930 --> 00:02:06.890] So I would say, is that your line of work?
[00:02:07.850 --> 00:02:09.729] Yes, yes, yes, yes.
[00:02:12.210 --> 00:02:14.770] So both personally and professionally,
[00:02:15.030 --> 00:02:18.330] so I am currently a youth behavior health specialist
[00:02:18.330 --> 00:02:20.830] with Ohio Guidestone here in Cleveland,
[00:02:21.350 --> 00:02:24.730] working with youth ages six to 18.
[00:02:25.230 --> 00:02:27.330] And then on the personal side,
[00:02:27.410 --> 00:02:30.650] that's kind of what my new podcast is gonna be about,
[00:02:30.930 --> 00:02:33.510] being able to take that time to pour into the youth,
[00:02:33.670 --> 00:02:36.930] but also adults affected by foster care and adoption
[00:02:36.930 --> 00:02:38.950] since now I am an adult.
[00:02:39.210 --> 00:02:41.690] So I'm able to empathize with what it is
[00:02:41.690 --> 00:02:43.610] to be an adult as an adoptee
[00:02:43.610 --> 00:02:44.310] and some of the struggles
[00:02:44.310 --> 00:02:45.990] that we may go through as adults.
[00:02:46.250 --> 00:02:49.050] So yes, personally, I'm starting my podcast
[00:02:49.050 --> 00:02:51.750] to help individuals affected by foster care
[00:02:51.750 --> 00:02:53.750] and adoption and mental health,
[00:02:53.750 --> 00:02:55.310] and then professionally,
[00:02:55.550 --> 00:02:58.290] I work with the youth as a behavior health specialist.
[00:02:58.370 --> 00:03:00.490] So yeah, that's my line of work.
[00:03:00.570 --> 00:03:02.210] That's purpose for sure.
[00:03:02.630 --> 00:03:04.510] Did you say podcast?
[00:03:05.150 --> 00:03:07.070] I did say podcast.
[00:03:07.130 --> 00:03:08.590] And for the people listening in,
[00:03:08.610 --> 00:03:09.710] what's the name of your podcast?
[00:03:10.310 --> 00:03:12.310] So the name of my podcast is
[00:03:12.310 --> 00:03:15.870] Unshattered Adoptee Podcast that is coming this April,
[00:03:15.870 --> 00:03:17.150] so please stay tuned.
[00:03:17.990 --> 00:03:19.230] Okay, April, April, April.
[00:03:19.530 --> 00:03:21.210] Yes, Aries season.
[00:03:22.130 --> 00:03:24.430] Got a rapid Aries, Aries Aries.
[00:03:24.430 --> 00:03:26.270] Yes, period, big Aries.
[00:03:26.990 --> 00:03:28.450] So the time when it's recording,
[00:03:29.390 --> 00:03:30.630] by the time it's released,
[00:03:31.050 --> 00:03:32.370] people should be able to find it.
[00:03:33.230 --> 00:03:35.690] So definitely check out all,
[00:03:35.930 --> 00:03:37.270] if it's gonna be everywhere, I don't know.
[00:03:37.710 --> 00:03:39.030] Well, for it to start off,
[00:03:39.030 --> 00:03:43.350] it's gonna be on IG at unshattered underscore adoptee
[00:03:43.350 --> 00:03:46.670] as well as my personal page at miss underscore Kayla
[00:03:46.670 --> 00:03:47.850] with two A's,
[00:03:48.030 --> 00:03:50.770] and future plans are to have it on Apple
[00:03:50.770 --> 00:03:51.450] and Spotify,
[00:03:51.730 --> 00:03:53.350] but you'll also be able to see it on YouTube.
[00:03:53.590 --> 00:03:55.210] Oh yeah, we gonna get you there.
[00:03:55.390 --> 00:03:56.470] Oh yeah, for sure.
[00:03:57.410 --> 00:03:59.550] And can you spell it out for the individuals?
[00:04:00.330 --> 00:04:02.510] So what did you want me to spell out?
[00:04:02.770 --> 00:04:04.190] Yeah, unshattered, just what it's saying.
[00:04:04.210 --> 00:04:04.950] Unshattered, perfect.
[00:04:04.970 --> 00:04:06.870] Cause people may be driving or.
[00:04:06.910 --> 00:04:07.950] You're absolutely right.
[00:04:08.250 --> 00:04:15.590] So unshattered is spelled U-N-S-H-A-T-T-E-R-D.
[00:04:15.790 --> 00:04:20.750] Okay, again, that's U-N-S-H-A-T-T-E-R-D.
[00:04:21.890 --> 00:04:23.010] Unshattered adoptee.
[00:04:23.290 --> 00:04:23.610] Yes, yes.
[00:04:23.670 --> 00:04:25.650] And it will also be in a show notes.
[00:04:27.030 --> 00:04:28.950] Yes, thank you, thank you.
[00:04:30.210 --> 00:04:32.790] And you had a chance on coming to
[00:04:32.790 --> 00:04:35.850] actually podcast workshop that I was presenting at.
[00:04:37.190 --> 00:04:39.190] You wanna talk a little bit about your experience?
[00:04:39.770 --> 00:04:40.430] I do.
[00:04:40.650 --> 00:04:43.770] So first off, it was an amazing experience.
[00:04:43.830 --> 00:04:45.710] I definitely wanna say that,
[00:04:45.910 --> 00:04:47.790] just the knowledge that you guys shared
[00:04:47.790 --> 00:04:50.070] and then being able to fill my trailer,
[00:04:50.070 --> 00:04:52.370] which you guys have already seen on my platforms
[00:04:52.370 --> 00:04:53.290] on Instagram.
[00:04:54.290 --> 00:04:57.850] And yes, A-L-E-N-I took care of that for me.
[00:04:58.130 --> 00:04:59.230] So shout out to him.
[00:04:59.690 --> 00:05:00.950] Absolutely loved the trailer.
[00:05:01.090 --> 00:05:02.810] So yes, I went to the event.
[00:05:03.150 --> 00:05:04.550] And the funny thing is,
[00:05:05.090 --> 00:05:06.330] I wasn't sure if I was gonna come.
[00:05:06.890 --> 00:05:07.330] What?
[00:05:07.790 --> 00:05:10.090] You know, it's crazy you say that
[00:05:10.930 --> 00:05:13.770] because last minute we were thinking about canceling.
[00:05:14.130 --> 00:05:16.450] Oh wow, I didn't know that.
[00:05:16.510 --> 00:05:17.330] Yeah. Okay.
[00:05:17.330 --> 00:05:19.730] So we stuck through and you stuck through.
[00:05:20.630 --> 00:05:21.630] Confirmation right there.
[00:05:21.710 --> 00:05:23.030] Yeah, we just gotta make it happen.
[00:05:23.110 --> 00:05:24.990] You know, you may feel those,
[00:05:25.210 --> 00:05:26.130] you know, like you said,
[00:05:26.150 --> 00:05:27.250] you might have these stains,
[00:05:27.330 --> 00:05:28.910] you may be better than bruised,
[00:05:28.930 --> 00:05:30.650] but you still gotta push through.
[00:05:30.830 --> 00:05:31.430] Come on now.
[00:05:31.450 --> 00:05:33.250] You know, I'm tired most of the days.
[00:05:33.250 --> 00:05:34.150] People don't know that,
[00:05:34.310 --> 00:05:35.710] but I still push through.
[00:05:36.650 --> 00:05:37.530] Absolutely, absolutely.
[00:05:37.530 --> 00:05:38.250] So you got to.
[00:05:38.470 --> 00:05:41.190] And that was definitely me that day.
[00:05:41.910 --> 00:05:43.970] Like most of us do, we'll have a plan,
[00:05:43.970 --> 00:05:45.770] but sometimes the day just
[00:05:45.770 --> 00:05:47.570] takes a completely different direction.
[00:05:47.570 --> 00:05:49.630] And that's what it was for me that day.
[00:05:49.990 --> 00:05:52.110] By the time I was getting ready to come to you guys,
[00:05:52.110 --> 00:05:53.690] I was already an hour late.
[00:05:54.030 --> 00:05:56.070] So in my mind, I'm like, oh my gosh,
[00:05:56.150 --> 00:05:57.770] I've been doing hair all day.
[00:05:57.930 --> 00:06:00.450] I'm not dressed the way I wanna be dressed.
[00:06:00.910 --> 00:06:02.550] Like I don't even know if I'm gonna go,
[00:06:02.690 --> 00:06:05.610] but last minute I kind of gave myself that push,
[00:06:05.670 --> 00:06:08.550] which I encourage everybody to do.
[00:06:08.550 --> 00:06:10.110] Even if you don't feel like you want to,
[00:06:10.130 --> 00:06:12.430] but you know it's something that's gonna elevate you
[00:06:12.430 --> 00:06:15.710] personally on your self-discovery journey, do it.
[00:06:15.850 --> 00:06:17.470] And that's literally what I did.
[00:06:17.470 --> 00:06:18.750] Like I said, I was an hour late.
[00:06:19.130 --> 00:06:21.690] I wasn't dressed the way I wanted to be dressed,
[00:06:21.890 --> 00:06:23.570] but I showed up for myself.
[00:06:23.770 --> 00:06:25.230] And I'm so glad that I did
[00:06:25.230 --> 00:06:27.130] because I got to network with individuals.
[00:06:27.390 --> 00:06:29.570] I got to meet some amazing people.
[00:06:29.690 --> 00:06:31.690] And again, I got an amazing trailer.
[00:06:31.970 --> 00:06:33.150] You know what I mean?
[00:06:33.150 --> 00:06:34.410] And I could have easily said,
[00:06:34.430 --> 00:06:35.530] I don't know, I'm not ready.
[00:06:35.590 --> 00:06:36.650] I don't wanna do it.
[00:06:36.670 --> 00:06:39.010] But no, I trusted myself.
[00:06:39.230 --> 00:06:40.430] I trusted my voice,
[00:06:40.710 --> 00:06:42.350] which is also something that
[00:06:42.350 --> 00:06:44.150] Unshattered Adoptee represents.
[00:06:44.610 --> 00:06:45.690] Using your voice.
[00:06:45.690 --> 00:06:49.090] Because as adoptees, sometimes we feel like
[00:06:49.090 --> 00:06:50.590] our voices don't have power
[00:06:50.590 --> 00:06:54.650] or fear of rubbing somebody the wrong way.
[00:06:55.170 --> 00:06:57.190] And I've come to a place where
[00:06:57.190 --> 00:07:00.050] my voice is one of my biggest gifts.
[00:07:00.790 --> 00:07:02.190] Being able to use my voice.
[00:07:02.270 --> 00:07:03.650] And then I hear other people say,
[00:07:03.670 --> 00:07:06.030] wow, the way you use your voice.
[00:07:06.350 --> 00:07:08.250] I'm so glad you use your voice.
[00:07:08.890 --> 00:07:09.730] You know what I mean?
[00:07:09.890 --> 00:07:11.570] So show up for yourself.
[00:07:12.030 --> 00:07:13.330] Even if it scares you,
[00:07:13.510 --> 00:07:14.950] even if it's not going perfect
[00:07:14.950 --> 00:07:16.410] the way that you expect it to go,
[00:07:16.830 --> 00:07:18.910] you never know what reward you're gonna receive
[00:07:18.910 --> 00:07:20.710] at the end of showing up for yourself.
[00:07:21.950 --> 00:07:22.830] That is amazing.
[00:07:23.290 --> 00:07:24.550] And as you say that,
[00:07:24.570 --> 00:07:25.910] and you say use your voice
[00:07:25.910 --> 00:07:26.950] and words are powerful.
[00:07:27.230 --> 00:07:29.830] So definitely be conscious of the words you speak.
[00:07:30.810 --> 00:07:32.210] Yes, yes, cool.
[00:07:32.510 --> 00:07:34.250] Did you have one of those teachers growing up?
[00:07:34.750 --> 00:07:37.270] Like, you know, you talk too much hard.
[00:07:38.410 --> 00:07:40.230] Your voice, your mouth gonna get you in trouble.
[00:07:40.330 --> 00:07:41.570] Did you have one of those teachers growing up?
[00:07:41.790 --> 00:07:42.970] I absolutely did.
[00:07:43.070 --> 00:07:44.730] I feel like every year,
[00:07:44.730 --> 00:07:45.870] through elementary school,
[00:07:45.870 --> 00:07:48.970] I was always getting that on my behavior charts
[00:07:48.970 --> 00:07:49.850] or my report card.
[00:07:49.850 --> 00:07:52.490] Oh, great stuff, but just a little too talkative.
[00:07:53.270 --> 00:07:54.730] You know, and then fast forward
[00:07:54.730 --> 00:07:56.270] when I worked in the medical field.
[00:07:56.910 --> 00:07:58.630] Sometimes the doctors would have to tell me,
[00:07:58.750 --> 00:07:59.930] hey, Kayla, can you keep it down?
[00:08:00.070 --> 00:08:02.130] You're a little too loud in there.
[00:08:02.790 --> 00:08:06.010] And the funny thing is at times,
[00:08:06.150 --> 00:08:07.230] at first when I would hear that,
[00:08:07.350 --> 00:08:09.050] it made me wanna be more quiet.
[00:08:09.530 --> 00:08:11.970] You know, but as time has gone on
[00:08:11.970 --> 00:08:13.950] and I've been doing different opportunities
[00:08:13.950 --> 00:08:15.150] where I use my voice,
[00:08:15.390 --> 00:08:18.050] I now understand that those people
[00:08:18.050 --> 00:08:20.470] who thought that I was too loud or I talked too much,
[00:08:20.810 --> 00:08:23.010] they weren't the ones meant to hear me.
[00:08:23.190 --> 00:08:26.010] My voice is loud because my voice is meant to project.
[00:08:26.270 --> 00:08:27.690] It's meant to touch other people.
[00:08:27.850 --> 00:08:31.150] And I can't do that with a timid, shy little voice.
[00:08:31.330 --> 00:08:33.169] No, my voice needs to carry.
[00:08:33.570 --> 00:08:34.970] It needs to have confidence.
[00:08:35.090 --> 00:08:36.789] And it needs to be powerful.
[00:08:37.809 --> 00:08:38.730] You know what I mean?
[00:08:38.770 --> 00:08:41.070] Just the same way music and the sound of music
[00:08:41.070 --> 00:08:43.210] can affect your spirit and how you feel.
[00:08:43.210 --> 00:08:45.430] Someone's voice and tone can do the same.
[00:08:45.550 --> 00:08:47.750] I'm sure everybody's heard that saying,
[00:08:47.910 --> 00:08:50.290] it's not what you say, but how you say it.
[00:08:50.510 --> 00:08:51.670] You know what I mean?
[00:08:51.730 --> 00:08:53.190] And that's that for me.
[00:08:53.410 --> 00:08:54.850] My voice carries in this loud
[00:08:54.850 --> 00:08:57.310] because I have a message that I'm meant to share.
[00:08:58.710 --> 00:08:59.470] You know what I mean?
[00:08:59.870 --> 00:09:01.490] So definitely, for sure.
[00:09:02.050 --> 00:09:03.790] Message to millions, for the millions.
[00:09:05.930 --> 00:09:12.290] And it kind of reminds me of more dynamic speakers,
[00:09:12.290 --> 00:09:14.030] like Les Brown and you know.
[00:09:14.270 --> 00:09:15.870] Oh my gosh, love Les Brown.
[00:09:17.210 --> 00:09:18.630] When he said, I forgot how much he said
[00:09:18.630 --> 00:09:21.250] he makes an hour just for speaking engagement.
[00:09:23.430 --> 00:09:27.510] It's I think like 500,000 for two hours.
[00:09:27.570 --> 00:09:28.170] Come on.
[00:09:28.510 --> 00:09:30.950] Just for using his voice and speaking.
[00:09:31.610 --> 00:09:34.710] And not to give too much details or anything like that,
[00:09:34.710 --> 00:09:37.070] but one of my speaking opportunities,
[00:09:37.150 --> 00:09:40.230] and I can share this now because I manifested it,
[00:09:40.230 --> 00:09:44.190] but I some years back, maybe 2018, 2019,
[00:09:44.570 --> 00:09:47.250] I was in this space where affirmations
[00:09:47.810 --> 00:09:49.810] just saying what I wanted to manifest.
[00:09:49.850 --> 00:09:51.170] And I would say, hey,
[00:09:51.370 --> 00:09:54.190] I make X amount of money as a speaker.
[00:09:54.610 --> 00:09:56.770] And I kept saying that, kept saying that,
[00:09:56.830 --> 00:09:57.730] kept saying that.
[00:09:58.050 --> 00:10:00.370] And one particular speaking opportunity
[00:10:00.370 --> 00:10:03.350] where being paid and all that was not discussed.
[00:10:03.490 --> 00:10:05.530] They just wanted me to be a part of their event.
[00:10:05.530 --> 00:10:07.470] And I was just grateful to be a part of their event
[00:10:07.470 --> 00:10:09.390] that they saw me and recognize me.
[00:10:09.390 --> 00:10:13.030] And I got a card, didn't open it right away.
[00:10:13.150 --> 00:10:15.510] It was maybe two hours after the event.
[00:10:15.730 --> 00:10:17.570] When I opened that card,
[00:10:18.370 --> 00:10:20.950] the exact amount that I had been manifesting
[00:10:20.950 --> 00:10:22.830] and saying that I wanted to make as a speaker,
[00:10:23.030 --> 00:10:25.270] that's how much they paid me.
[00:10:25.790 --> 00:10:27.430] So that right there can show you
[00:10:27.430 --> 00:10:29.850] how powerful your mind and your words are.
[00:10:30.490 --> 00:10:33.490] If you really want something, speak it.
[00:10:33.530 --> 00:10:36.630] Speak it over your life and believe it.
[00:10:36.630 --> 00:10:37.750] That's the biggest part.
[00:10:38.310 --> 00:10:40.390] You said that was your first time?
[00:10:40.850 --> 00:10:41.570] One of my speaking,
[00:10:41.590 --> 00:10:43.610] one of my first speaking opportunities, yes.
[00:10:43.930 --> 00:10:44.710] And prior to that,
[00:10:44.710 --> 00:10:47.790] I was already in the zone of manifesting,
[00:10:47.790 --> 00:10:50.270] thinking about what type of life I wanted to have,
[00:10:50.390 --> 00:10:51.950] where I really wanted to be.
[00:10:52.110 --> 00:10:53.930] And that's how speaking came about.
[00:10:53.970 --> 00:10:56.050] That's something that comes naturally to me.
[00:10:56.330 --> 00:10:57.250] It's easy.
[00:10:57.330 --> 00:10:58.650] It doesn't feel like work.
[00:10:58.730 --> 00:11:02.450] And I love to see how my voice can change
[00:11:03.390 --> 00:11:06.090] somebody's spirit or their confidence within themselves,
[00:11:06.090 --> 00:11:08.510] which is what I see working with my youth.
[00:11:09.150 --> 00:11:10.450] Some of the things that I say to them,
[00:11:10.450 --> 00:11:12.330] you see that light bulb go off,
[00:11:12.930 --> 00:11:14.930] that light pop up in their eyes.
[00:11:15.150 --> 00:11:19.210] It's such an amazing and fulfilling feeling to have.
[00:11:19.550 --> 00:11:20.170] You know what I mean?
[00:11:20.170 --> 00:11:22.850] And that's why now I'm so much more confident
[00:11:22.850 --> 00:11:23.930] to use my voice.
[00:11:24.110 --> 00:11:26.430] I'm not as shaky when I'm talking.
[00:11:26.890 --> 00:11:27.310] You know what I mean?
[00:11:27.310 --> 00:11:28.530] Like I'm talking right now
[00:11:28.530 --> 00:11:32.010] and I feel completely purpose-filled,
[00:11:32.050 --> 00:11:34.710] right where I'm supposed to be using my voice,
[00:11:34.710 --> 00:11:36.430] what God gave me,
[00:11:36.590 --> 00:11:38.890] along with the obstacles that I overcame.
[00:11:39.150 --> 00:11:40.770] That's where your purpose meets,
[00:11:41.270 --> 00:11:42.530] where your natural gifts
[00:11:43.070 --> 00:11:45.030] and the struggles that you have overcame,
[00:11:45.230 --> 00:11:46.490] where they intersect,
[00:11:47.090 --> 00:11:48.190] that's your purpose.
[00:11:49.570 --> 00:11:50.590] That's your purpose.
[00:11:50.650 --> 00:11:52.070] And my purpose is my voice.
[00:11:52.410 --> 00:11:54.490] And I'm so grateful to have my voice.
[00:11:55.670 --> 00:11:57.430] Yes, that's amazing.
[00:11:58.130 --> 00:11:58.730] Absolutely.
[00:11:58.870 --> 00:12:01.170] You said they slid you a little envelope
[00:12:01.170 --> 00:12:02.430] after the fact, huh?
[00:12:03.350 --> 00:12:04.710] Yes, like what?
[00:12:05.110 --> 00:12:06.790] Oh my gosh, I wasn't,
[00:12:06.790 --> 00:12:08.330] and that just shows when you're doing something
[00:12:08.330 --> 00:12:09.390] with a pure heart, too.
[00:12:10.070 --> 00:12:10.390] You know what I mean?
[00:12:10.510 --> 00:12:10.910] You were just,
[00:12:11.290 --> 00:12:12.310] literally I just was doing it
[00:12:12.310 --> 00:12:14.410] because I wanted to do what I wanted to speak,
[00:12:14.510 --> 00:12:15.710] wanted to share my story.
[00:12:17.230 --> 00:12:19.470] I wasn't expecting anything in return,
[00:12:19.830 --> 00:12:21.950] but usually when you're obedient,
[00:12:22.010 --> 00:12:23.870] don't wanna get too religious or spiritual or anything,
[00:12:23.950 --> 00:12:26.910] but when you're obedient to a higher power,
[00:12:27.170 --> 00:12:28.610] you're gonna be rewarded.
[00:12:30.370 --> 00:12:31.870] That's just how it goes.
[00:12:32.610 --> 00:12:35.330] So step outside your comfort zone, guys,
[00:12:35.470 --> 00:12:36.870] anybody, even if you're not adopted.
[00:12:37.270 --> 00:12:40.410] This does not only resonate with adoptees,
[00:12:40.570 --> 00:12:42.090] someone affected by foster care.
[00:12:42.570 --> 00:12:44.710] Everyone has their own personal struggles
[00:12:44.710 --> 00:12:46.530] and their own personal stories
[00:12:46.530 --> 00:12:50.190] that may at times make them feel weighed down,
[00:12:50.630 --> 00:12:52.490] make them feel like they are shattering,
[00:12:53.190 --> 00:12:54.150] but you're not.
[00:12:55.110 --> 00:12:56.890] If you're listening to this right now,
[00:12:57.070 --> 00:12:58.630] you still have purpose.
[00:12:59.170 --> 00:13:01.390] You are unshattered.
[00:13:01.390 --> 00:13:01.990] That's right.
[00:13:02.710 --> 00:13:03.950] And you're here for a reason.
[00:13:04.310 --> 00:13:05.590] Something brought you here
[00:13:05.590 --> 00:13:08.450] to listen to this conversation today.
[00:13:09.710 --> 00:13:11.750] So take what resonates with you
[00:13:11.750 --> 00:13:13.730] and do what you feel,
[00:13:13.850 --> 00:13:15.130] but trust yourself.
[00:13:15.770 --> 00:13:16.670] Trust yourself.
[00:13:17.550 --> 00:13:18.470] Trust yourself.
[00:13:19.050 --> 00:13:23.710] And going back to that being your first time speaking,
[00:13:24.870 --> 00:13:26.330] I wanna say your first time speaking,
[00:13:26.450 --> 00:13:30.010] but almost like you starting your speaking career.
[00:13:30.010 --> 00:13:32.090] Yes, yes, yes.
[00:13:32.210 --> 00:13:33.630] How much they pay you?
[00:13:33.630 --> 00:13:34.390] You don't have to explain.
[00:13:34.470 --> 00:13:35.350] You don't gotta say the number,
[00:13:35.390 --> 00:13:37.210] but just have it in your head
[00:13:37.210 --> 00:13:39.350] and just think about a year from now,
[00:13:39.830 --> 00:13:40.870] two years from now.
[00:13:41.570 --> 00:13:43.110] You know that number's gonna increase.
[00:13:43.930 --> 00:13:44.770] Come on now.
[00:13:44.970 --> 00:13:45.310] What?
[00:13:45.310 --> 00:13:46.050] Come on now.
[00:13:46.070 --> 00:13:46.970] What do you think that number
[00:13:46.970 --> 00:13:48.750] will be just a year from now?
[00:13:49.490 --> 00:13:51.850] Oh, I feel like a year from now,
[00:13:51.990 --> 00:13:55.930] just because I'm so more confident in what I do.
[00:13:57.030 --> 00:13:59.950] I feel like what I got paid that first time
[00:13:59.950 --> 00:14:00.930] in a year from now,
[00:14:01.110 --> 00:14:06.590] it would probably increase by two, $300 for sure.
[00:14:07.030 --> 00:14:08.870] That's what I see for sure
[00:14:08.870 --> 00:14:10.650] without giving a specific number,
[00:14:10.790 --> 00:14:12.770] but just knowing what I did make
[00:14:12.770 --> 00:14:15.010] and how scared I was.
[00:14:15.250 --> 00:14:17.170] You know, I gotta put that out there.
[00:14:17.170 --> 00:14:18.030] I was scared.
[00:14:18.050 --> 00:14:20.270] I was sweating bullets, okay?
[00:14:20.750 --> 00:14:23.750] So to even be compensated
[00:14:23.750 --> 00:14:26.010] when I felt like I didn't do a good enough job
[00:14:26.010 --> 00:14:28.170] and now as you guys can hear me now
[00:14:28.170 --> 00:14:29.690] and there's no shaking in my voice,
[00:14:30.030 --> 00:14:32.690] that's why I say my pay as a speaker,
[00:14:32.690 --> 00:14:34.970] I can see it increasing by at least $300.
[00:14:35.770 --> 00:14:36.870] You know what I mean?
[00:14:36.930 --> 00:14:36.990] Just because.
[00:14:36.990 --> 00:14:38.110] We're gonna add another zero here.
[00:14:38.370 --> 00:14:39.310] We're gonna add another zero.
[00:14:39.470 --> 00:14:39.910] Yeah, absolutely.
[00:14:40.450 --> 00:14:41.790] Another zero, okay.
[00:14:41.870 --> 00:14:42.650] I like that.
[00:14:42.670 --> 00:14:45.310] I like that making four digits, okay,
[00:14:45.670 --> 00:14:46.250] for speaking,
[00:14:46.370 --> 00:14:48.650] for just using my voice and pouring it into individuals.
[00:14:48.950 --> 00:14:49.870] I like that, yeah.
[00:14:50.070 --> 00:14:52.650] We're gonna be making four digit,
[00:14:52.870 --> 00:14:54.790] four digit income as a speaker.
[00:14:54.990 --> 00:14:55.370] Minimum.
[00:14:55.570 --> 00:14:55.870] That's the minimum.
[00:14:55.930 --> 00:14:56.410] Minimum.
[00:14:56.410 --> 00:14:58.530] Ooh, come on, y'all.
[00:14:58.530 --> 00:14:59.090] Y'all hear me?
[00:14:59.130 --> 00:15:00.470] I'm dropping gems right here.
[00:15:01.210 --> 00:15:01.730] Definitely.
[00:15:02.030 --> 00:15:03.010] Yes, yes.
[00:15:03.010 --> 00:15:05.310] Bringing it into fruition four digits
[00:15:05.310 --> 00:15:08.830] and even more, like you said, abundance.
[00:15:09.410 --> 00:15:09.830] Abundance.
[00:15:10.050 --> 00:15:10.570] Abundance.
[00:15:10.730 --> 00:15:12.550] I actually have episode two,
[00:15:12.570 --> 00:15:14.290] I think I spoke on abundance mindset.
[00:15:14.390 --> 00:15:15.550] I think that's episode two.
[00:15:15.670 --> 00:15:15.990] Okay.
[00:15:15.990 --> 00:15:18.110] But yes, the abundance mindset.
[00:15:19.290 --> 00:15:20.890] More confirmation for you.
[00:15:21.310 --> 00:15:21.950] Yes, yes.
[00:15:22.810 --> 00:15:23.830] And like I'm speaking,
[00:15:24.270 --> 00:15:25.950] I'm getting more into the speaking arena
[00:15:25.950 --> 00:15:27.490] and so yeah, definitely,
[00:15:27.730 --> 00:15:29.510] we're gonna add another zero in now,
[00:15:29.890 --> 00:15:31.170] like you said, a year from now.
[00:15:31.330 --> 00:15:31.650] Yes.
[00:15:31.930 --> 00:15:32.230] At the beginning.
[00:15:32.730 --> 00:15:33.230] Let's go.
[00:15:33.230 --> 00:15:35.050] At a year, it may be, like you said, at three,
[00:15:35.210 --> 00:15:36.250] but we're about the end of the year,
[00:15:36.310 --> 00:15:37.590] it's not gonna be another zero, man.
[00:15:37.770 --> 00:15:38.470] I love it.
[00:15:38.670 --> 00:15:39.970] Absolutely, I'm claiming it.
[00:15:40.050 --> 00:15:40.450] Yeah.
[00:15:40.550 --> 00:15:41.910] I'm claiming, because it's already happened.
[00:15:42.050 --> 00:15:43.850] So I know it can happen again.
[00:15:44.450 --> 00:15:45.710] That faith is just stronger.
[00:15:45.850 --> 00:15:47.290] Faith of a mustard seed, guys.
[00:15:48.230 --> 00:15:49.250] Faith of a mustard seed.
[00:15:49.650 --> 00:15:53.250] Oh yeah, and I work with a lot of creative
[00:15:53.250 --> 00:15:55.990] entrepreneurs are just creatives
[00:15:55.990 --> 00:15:58.130] and they're also those that's just entrepreneurs,
[00:15:59.050 --> 00:16:00.950] but I love the creative entrepreneurs
[00:16:00.950 --> 00:16:04.310] where they're creative and they're both entrepreneurs.
[00:16:05.070 --> 00:16:07.470] Which I am, coming from an artist background
[00:16:07.470 --> 00:16:09.730] with music, poetry, photography,
[00:16:10.690 --> 00:16:12.730] being an entrepreneur also,
[00:16:14.030 --> 00:16:15.770] which all my life I could say I was an entrepreneur
[00:16:15.770 --> 00:16:17.630] or I had that entrepreneur mindset.
[00:16:18.610 --> 00:16:20.870] So I love working with creative entrepreneurs
[00:16:20.870 --> 00:16:24.430] and the biggest thing I tell them,
[00:16:25.070 --> 00:16:27.850] the better you do, your value increase.
[00:16:29.290 --> 00:16:31.370] And like you said, you being unshattered,
[00:16:31.650 --> 00:16:34.850] the glass, it might have some bumps in the road,
[00:16:34.850 --> 00:16:35.970] but that's like practice.
[00:16:36.970 --> 00:16:40.370] It's like, it's life in that and it's unshattered.
[00:16:41.770 --> 00:16:43.090] So it's still functional.
[00:16:43.270 --> 00:16:45.590] It's still doing what it needs to do.
[00:16:46.050 --> 00:16:46.530] Yes.
[00:16:46.910 --> 00:16:49.310] So your value will definitely increase
[00:16:49.310 --> 00:16:52.050] and there's always times
[00:16:52.050 --> 00:16:53.890] where the unshattered can be fixed.
[00:16:54.210 --> 00:16:55.970] Ooh, I like that, yes.
[00:16:56.330 --> 00:16:58.550] So turn into art.
[00:16:59.770 --> 00:17:01.910] How can your shatterness be art,
[00:17:02.150 --> 00:17:04.210] be beautiful to others?
[00:17:06.130 --> 00:17:07.730] So yeah, we're gonna add another zero
[00:17:07.730 --> 00:17:08.869] and then after that another zero.
[00:17:09.829 --> 00:17:11.109] Compound it as the years go by.
[00:17:11.250 --> 00:17:12.829] Yes, just constantly growing
[00:17:12.829 --> 00:17:14.829] and I definitely agree with that 100%.
[00:17:14.829 --> 00:17:15.869] That's literally where I am.
[00:17:15.869 --> 00:17:17.230] I just wanna keep elevating.
[00:17:17.390 --> 00:17:18.410] Just keep getting better,
[00:17:18.410 --> 00:17:19.810] getting better at my craft.
[00:17:20.190 --> 00:17:23.130] You know, just the amount of people
[00:17:23.130 --> 00:17:25.650] that I'm able to reach that increasing.
[00:17:26.390 --> 00:17:27.150] You know what I mean?
[00:17:27.210 --> 00:17:29.470] Like I just wanna,
[00:17:30.930 --> 00:17:33.790] I want people to be able to be where I am today
[00:17:33.790 --> 00:17:36.370] because back in 2018,
[00:17:36.650 --> 00:17:38.790] which was like one of my lowest points
[00:17:38.790 --> 00:17:40.830] and I always think of a Phoenix rising at that point
[00:17:40.830 --> 00:17:42.170] because when you're so low,
[00:17:42.190 --> 00:17:43.070] but you're still here,
[00:17:43.090 --> 00:17:45.070] the only other place you can go is up.
[00:17:45.810 --> 00:17:48.770] And for me, you know what I mean?
[00:17:48.830 --> 00:17:50.970] It was just like, I was at a point where
[00:17:50.970 --> 00:17:52.650] I just wanna feel happy.
[00:17:53.210 --> 00:17:56.610] I don't remember what it feels like to be happy.
[00:17:57.650 --> 00:17:59.670] And fast forward maybe,
[00:18:00.990 --> 00:18:04.670] maybe a year or so of consistently putting in that work,
[00:18:04.950 --> 00:18:07.170] consistently loving on me,
[00:18:07.430 --> 00:18:11.010] tapping into who Kayla was and nurturing myself.
[00:18:11.550 --> 00:18:13.910] I literally remember it like it was just yesterday.
[00:18:14.450 --> 00:18:18.410] In my car, on the freeway and literally client tears of joy
[00:18:18.410 --> 00:18:20.350] because I felt that happiness again,
[00:18:20.350 --> 00:18:21.890] creeping up inside of me.
[00:18:22.790 --> 00:18:24.150] You know what I mean?
[00:18:24.170 --> 00:18:27.650] Like you deserve to be where I am and be happy
[00:18:27.650 --> 00:18:29.510] and I'm proof that it can be done.
[00:18:30.150 --> 00:18:31.810] You know, two time team mom,
[00:18:32.590 --> 00:18:34.110] you know, two evictions.
[00:18:34.370 --> 00:18:35.890] I've been fired from a job.
[00:18:36.010 --> 00:18:38.190] I've had to move back home with my mom.
[00:18:38.650 --> 00:18:39.170] You know what I mean?
[00:18:39.170 --> 00:18:43.070] I've had to kind of literally restart and be humble.
[00:18:43.930 --> 00:18:47.670] But with me doing that, I picked myself back up
[00:18:47.670 --> 00:18:49.850] and each day is getting greater and greater.
[00:18:49.890 --> 00:18:51.090] Do I have my bad days?
[00:18:51.110 --> 00:18:53.310] Yes, but here's the difference.
[00:18:54.630 --> 00:18:57.470] How anxiety had control of me
[00:18:57.470 --> 00:19:00.510] and the things that were going wrong in my life
[00:19:00.510 --> 00:19:01.890] had control of me.
[00:19:02.010 --> 00:19:03.330] It's the opposite now.
[00:19:03.330 --> 00:19:05.010] I have control over it.
[00:19:05.150 --> 00:19:07.070] I have control over my anxiety.
[00:19:07.290 --> 00:19:09.150] I have control over my depression.
[00:19:09.390 --> 00:19:11.870] I have control over how my day is gonna go.
[00:19:11.870 --> 00:19:14.370] And I don't sit in those feelings.
[00:19:15.290 --> 00:19:16.510] That's what I was doing before.
[00:19:16.510 --> 00:19:19.790] I would just sit and wallow in just negativity
[00:19:19.790 --> 00:19:21.110] and just being unhappy.
[00:19:21.490 --> 00:19:24.470] Now I allow myself to feel it because that's healthy.
[00:19:24.770 --> 00:19:25.510] I'm human.
[00:19:25.850 --> 00:19:28.350] I'm gonna feel things, but I don't stay in it.
[00:19:30.470 --> 00:19:32.090] Now, go ahead, go ahead.
[00:19:32.290 --> 00:19:33.750] No, because then I feel like everybody deserves
[00:19:33.750 --> 00:19:36.530] to feel that who may be struggling through something.
[00:19:36.890 --> 00:19:38.650] There is a way out.
[00:19:39.370 --> 00:19:40.490] There is. There is a way out, yeah.
[00:19:41.870 --> 00:19:44.930] I was gonna say, what are some actionable steps
[00:19:44.930 --> 00:19:48.430] for someone that's struggling to gain that control
[00:19:48.430 --> 00:19:50.170] or take control of the wheel
[00:19:50.170 --> 00:19:52.810] versus being in a self-driving car?
[00:19:53.070 --> 00:19:55.850] Okay, so I know a lot of people have probably heard it
[00:19:55.850 --> 00:19:57.850] all starts in your mind, and that sounds cliche,
[00:19:58.050 --> 00:19:59.470] but it's really, really true.
[00:20:00.290 --> 00:20:01.950] What you focus on, you bring about.
[00:20:02.350 --> 00:20:03.470] One more time, one more time.
[00:20:03.930 --> 00:20:06.730] What you focus on, you bring about.
[00:20:07.390 --> 00:20:10.970] So if you're constantly focusing on what's going wrong
[00:20:10.970 --> 00:20:13.130] in your life, you're gonna get more of what's going wrong.
[00:20:13.150 --> 00:20:14.310] That's just how it works.
[00:20:14.570 --> 00:20:16.330] So for me, what I would do is,
[00:20:16.330 --> 00:20:18.550] and I really did this for 60 days straight
[00:20:18.550 --> 00:20:21.690] just to help my mind start to focus on the good
[00:20:21.690 --> 00:20:23.050] and not so much the bad,
[00:20:23.370 --> 00:20:25.670] I would say a gratitude journal.
[00:20:25.910 --> 00:20:28.670] If you don't like to write, pick your phone up
[00:20:28.670 --> 00:20:31.090] and record yourself saying it.
[00:20:31.210 --> 00:20:34.390] Being grateful for whatever it is you have right now.
[00:20:35.070 --> 00:20:37.510] And as you continue to be grateful for what you have,
[00:20:37.510 --> 00:20:39.950] and it's such an easy step, you know what I mean?
[00:20:39.950 --> 00:20:41.410] If you're not somebody who wants to get up
[00:20:41.410 --> 00:20:43.310] and go do yoga or, you know,
[00:20:43.410 --> 00:20:45.130] do all these things that require energy
[00:20:45.130 --> 00:20:48.010] because nine times out of 10, your energy is low
[00:20:48.530 --> 00:20:50.330] because you're feeling so down.
[00:20:50.790 --> 00:20:53.130] So the easiest thing that I would do is say,
[00:20:53.130 --> 00:20:55.970] listen to positive affirmations on YouTube
[00:20:55.970 --> 00:20:57.530] because all you have to do is type it in.
[00:20:57.530 --> 00:20:58.590] You just have to listen.
[00:20:59.090 --> 00:21:01.870] And the second thing is gratitude journaling.
[00:21:02.230 --> 00:21:05.170] Those two steps are probably the easiest steps
[00:21:05.170 --> 00:21:08.010] that I can give somebody to start their healing journey
[00:21:08.010 --> 00:21:11.170] now without having to feel like they have to have
[00:21:11.170 --> 00:21:12.890] their souls completely together.
[00:21:13.130 --> 00:21:15.430] You know, some of you guys are probably sleeping
[00:21:15.430 --> 00:21:17.610] the days away because you're depressed, you're down.
[00:21:18.450 --> 00:21:19.690] But if you literally just say,
[00:21:19.990 --> 00:21:21.250] I'm grateful that I woke up.
[00:21:22.190 --> 00:21:23.710] I'm grateful that I can see.
[00:21:24.670 --> 00:21:26.110] I'm grateful that I can hear.
[00:21:27.050 --> 00:21:28.710] I'm grateful that I can taste food.
[00:21:28.810 --> 00:21:30.330] You know, all of those things are something
[00:21:30.330 --> 00:21:31.790] to be grateful for because there's somebody
[00:21:31.790 --> 00:21:33.670] who doesn't have and wishes that they do.
[00:21:34.570 --> 00:21:37.410] So even if you can't find anything to be grateful for
[00:21:37.410 --> 00:21:39.390] because I noticed that's what some people struggle with,
[00:21:39.570 --> 00:21:40.610] finding something to be grateful for.
[00:21:40.910 --> 00:21:42.730] Just be grateful that you woke up.
[00:21:44.010 --> 00:21:45.910] That you're given another chance to restart.
[00:21:46.910 --> 00:21:48.490] Each day is another day to restart.
[00:21:49.130 --> 00:21:50.710] That's how you need to look at each day.
[00:21:51.110 --> 00:21:53.050] It's another day for me to be better and restart.
[00:21:53.450 --> 00:21:55.590] You didn't do good Monday on your affirmations
[00:21:55.590 --> 00:21:58.030] and gratitude started again Tuesday.
[00:21:59.150 --> 00:22:02.350] And like I heard in the workshop for podcasting,
[00:22:02.350 --> 00:22:04.870] repetition is gonna lead to that confidence.
[00:22:04.890 --> 00:22:07.330] And it's also gonna lead to growth
[00:22:07.330 --> 00:22:08.950] and change that you can actually see.
[00:22:09.150 --> 00:22:11.410] And I'm saying this because I actually did it.
[00:22:11.570 --> 00:22:13.930] I'm not gonna tell you to do something that I didn't do.
[00:22:14.390 --> 00:22:15.630] It makes no sense.
[00:22:15.770 --> 00:22:18.170] I'm here to empathize, not just sympathize.
[00:22:19.670 --> 00:22:22.930] So again, that's what I started to help me.
[00:22:22.930 --> 00:22:25.190] Even changing the screensaver on your phone
[00:22:25.190 --> 00:22:29.190] because we're 99% of the time we are on our phone
[00:22:29.190 --> 00:22:31.310] trying to be distracted or whatever the case may be.
[00:22:31.610 --> 00:22:32.730] Change your wallpaper.
[00:22:33.090 --> 00:22:36.390] Change your screensaver to a positive affirmation.
[00:22:37.710 --> 00:22:39.370] So every time you pick up that phone,
[00:22:39.530 --> 00:22:41.690] your mind is being programmed by you seeing that
[00:22:41.690 --> 00:22:43.310] and you're gonna see the change.
[00:22:43.570 --> 00:22:44.410] It's inevitable.
[00:22:46.330 --> 00:22:49.890] It's just like gravity, just like gravity.
[00:22:50.110 --> 00:22:52.510] There's no way if you really put in the work
[00:22:52.510 --> 00:22:53.730] and you really believe in it,
[00:22:53.810 --> 00:22:56.030] there's no way you're not gonna start to see results.
[00:22:57.250 --> 00:22:58.470] So that's where I was taught.
[00:22:58.950 --> 00:23:01.650] Affirmation videos on YouTube and gratitude journaling,
[00:23:01.690 --> 00:23:02.810] whether you write it out
[00:23:02.810 --> 00:23:04.590] or you record yourself on your phone.
[00:23:05.270 --> 00:23:08.330] Now, I gotta kind of plug myself too.
[00:23:08.630 --> 00:23:10.250] And you speak a lot about self-love.
[00:23:10.690 --> 00:23:12.890] I used to call myself a self-love advocate.
[00:23:13.050 --> 00:23:16.710] I still am, but I don't focus too much in that space
[00:23:16.710 --> 00:23:18.150] as much as I should.
[00:23:18.250 --> 00:23:20.190] So I kind of took the label off
[00:23:20.190 --> 00:23:22.370] unless we had like personal conversations.
[00:23:22.550 --> 00:23:25.190] But also like I have affirmations
[00:23:25.190 --> 00:23:29.150] and like I started linking it in my podcast episodes
[00:23:29.150 --> 00:23:30.350] and that's it.
[00:23:30.350 --> 00:23:32.750] Alien affirmations, one, two, three.
[00:23:32.750 --> 00:23:36.930] Alien affirmations, one, two, three, by Alien Eye Player.
[00:23:38.010 --> 00:23:40.030] And it's a minute track, a good track,
[00:23:40.030 --> 00:23:42.870] and I'm not like, I don't wanna say sugarcoating,
[00:23:42.910 --> 00:23:46.150] but it's not that fluffy like I am great.
[00:23:47.730 --> 00:23:49.270] I can do anything.
[00:23:49.690 --> 00:23:52.970] Those are great, but I wanna go more deep
[00:23:52.970 --> 00:23:55.470] into your soul with these affirmations.
[00:23:55.990 --> 00:23:57.770] And that's why they're alien
[00:23:57.770 --> 00:23:59.170] because they're out of this world.
[00:24:00.530 --> 00:24:04.180] Okay, higher, I like that.
[00:24:06.480 --> 00:24:09.500] So you speak about every day
[00:24:09.500 --> 00:24:12.200] it's almost like a blank canvas starting fresh.
[00:24:12.880 --> 00:24:15.720] I think every painting or every art that you do
[00:24:15.720 --> 00:24:17.720] is not gonna be your best work
[00:24:17.720 --> 00:24:19.420] or to your satisfaction,
[00:24:19.700 --> 00:24:22.400] but it's still a representation of you
[00:24:22.400 --> 00:24:23.820] in some way, shape or form,
[00:24:23.820 --> 00:24:25.840] especially in this moment in life.
[00:24:26.260 --> 00:24:28.980] Now I know we kind of spoke before the recording
[00:24:29.580 --> 00:24:31.620] just about me being a photographer
[00:24:31.620 --> 00:24:33.260] in my history about photography.
[00:24:34.600 --> 00:24:36.300] And each day is even kind of different,
[00:24:37.020 --> 00:24:39.360] like I don't have my childhood hospital,
[00:24:39.440 --> 00:24:41.580] my childhood home, it's gone.
[00:24:41.600 --> 00:24:42.800] I don't have pictures of that.
[00:24:42.820 --> 00:24:46.560] And that kind of testify my journey
[00:24:46.560 --> 00:24:48.160] of me becoming a photographer
[00:24:48.160 --> 00:24:51.520] because I'm a historian in the documentation
[00:24:51.520 --> 00:24:55.040] of these things that sometimes no longer exist.
[00:24:55.660 --> 00:24:57.140] Or we can see the transformation
[00:24:57.520 --> 00:24:59.720] and a lot of people do there before and after
[00:24:59.720 --> 00:25:02.860] when they're on body weight challenges,
[00:25:03.580 --> 00:25:06.720] diet challenges, this is what I look like before
[00:25:06.720 --> 00:25:09.460] and dang, this is what I look like now.
[00:25:10.200 --> 00:25:11.840] If you don't see that change
[00:25:11.840 --> 00:25:14.140] and then you're not doing it in the work.
[00:25:15.080 --> 00:25:17.660] So you should be able to see that physical change
[00:25:17.660 --> 00:25:18.640] within a picture.
[00:25:19.340 --> 00:25:20.440] That's just for that example.
[00:25:21.200 --> 00:25:23.120] Think about that with all things.
[00:25:24.700 --> 00:25:26.120] You touched on some great points
[00:25:26.120 --> 00:25:28.540] and I'm gonna have to get a gratitude journal.
[00:25:28.660 --> 00:25:29.760] Do you sell those, by the way?
[00:25:30.600 --> 00:25:33.460] I do not, but hey, you dropping some gems.
[00:25:33.480 --> 00:25:35.280] Not yet, not yet.
[00:25:35.360 --> 00:25:36.940] I like that, definitely.
[00:25:37.180 --> 00:25:41.260] Be on the lookout for sure.
[00:25:41.260 --> 00:25:43.420] But yes, I would definitely encourage you to do that.
[00:25:43.440 --> 00:25:46.120] Anybody, even if you're already in a good space,
[00:25:46.180 --> 00:25:48.340] what's wrong with making your life a little bit better?
[00:25:48.860 --> 00:25:51.600] You know, like just, I feel like
[00:25:51.600 --> 00:25:54.980] we just get into a place of the mundane
[00:25:54.980 --> 00:25:56.640] and just doing the day to day.
[00:25:57.040 --> 00:26:01.620] And it's just very easy to get thrown into
[00:26:01.620 --> 00:26:04.440] just that negativity and just trying to figure out,
[00:26:04.560 --> 00:26:05.700] well, what can I do to fix this?
[00:26:06.220 --> 00:26:08.860] And just be, just be.
[00:26:09.460 --> 00:26:11.120] And realizing that it's just so simple
[00:26:11.120 --> 00:26:13.340] as to what you say and what you focus on.
[00:26:13.720 --> 00:26:16.160] It's not as hard as we make it.
[00:26:16.540 --> 00:26:17.140] You know what I mean?
[00:26:17.440 --> 00:26:18.960] Yes, everything takes time,
[00:26:19.260 --> 00:26:21.060] but anything worth having
[00:26:21.060 --> 00:26:24.420] is gonna take a little bit longer, you know?
[00:26:24.420 --> 00:26:27.960] And when you guys are embarking on this journey,
[00:26:28.120 --> 00:26:29.920] wherever you may be, whether it's self-love,
[00:26:30.100 --> 00:26:31.800] whether it's self-discovery or just healing,
[00:26:33.360 --> 00:26:34.740] take a minute to think about
[00:26:34.740 --> 00:26:37.180] how much grace we give to other people.
[00:26:37.920 --> 00:26:38.740] You know what I mean?
[00:26:38.740 --> 00:26:40.500] How we're so easy to understand
[00:26:40.500 --> 00:26:41.620] what they're going through
[00:26:41.620 --> 00:26:45.040] and can pour into them and tell them to do X, Y, and Z.
[00:26:45.280 --> 00:26:47.860] But for some reason, we can't take our own advice.
[00:26:50.060 --> 00:26:50.700] You know?
[00:26:50.700 --> 00:26:53.520] And that's just basically
[00:26:53.520 --> 00:26:56.140] when I wouldn't be able to get people to see
[00:26:56.140 --> 00:27:00.280] the same energy that we so easily give away to others.
[00:27:00.400 --> 00:27:03.060] Let's start being intentional and giving that to ourselves
[00:27:03.060 --> 00:27:06.340] because clearly we see how it makes other people feel.
[00:27:06.500 --> 00:27:07.700] We're lifting them up.
[00:27:07.700 --> 00:27:09.880] Why do we feel like we can't lift ourselves up?
[00:27:09.960 --> 00:27:12.140] We have to wait for somebody else to do it.
[00:27:12.240 --> 00:27:14.420] No, clearly we have it in us
[00:27:14.420 --> 00:27:16.060] that we can pour into somebody else.
[00:27:16.840 --> 00:27:18.080] We just need to understand
[00:27:18.080 --> 00:27:19.380] that we're worthy of that too.
[00:27:19.380 --> 00:27:21.540] It doesn't have to be somebody else pouring into us
[00:27:21.540 --> 00:27:24.660] because we know how to properly love ourselves.
[00:27:25.040 --> 00:27:26.820] And it's our job to teach people
[00:27:26.820 --> 00:27:28.920] how to treat us properly and love us properly.
[00:27:29.800 --> 00:27:31.840] So you got to start with loving yourself.
[00:27:31.840 --> 00:27:33.760] How can you teach somebody how to love you
[00:27:33.760 --> 00:27:36.120] or respect you when you don't even know?
[00:27:36.920 --> 00:27:38.320] That's a good point.
[00:27:39.340 --> 00:27:41.000] Going back to that self-love,
[00:27:41.780 --> 00:27:44.420] like even when I, oh man,
[00:27:44.540 --> 00:27:48.400] I used to be an unlicensed therapist
[00:27:48.400 --> 00:27:52.000] for couples dealing with hardship
[00:27:52.000 --> 00:27:53.960] or even tough times,
[00:27:55.180 --> 00:27:58.160] being their coach and mentor in that aspect.
[00:27:59.160 --> 00:28:00.760] But yeah, you have to love yourself
[00:28:00.760 --> 00:28:02.440] before you can love someone else.
[00:28:03.240 --> 00:28:05.320] Like you literally giving the blueprint
[00:28:05.320 --> 00:28:06.080] by living yourself.
[00:28:06.220 --> 00:28:07.320] Like this is how I want to be loved.
[00:28:07.380 --> 00:28:09.160] This is how I accept love.
[00:28:09.680 --> 00:28:12.220] And you know, it's the blueprint for other people.
[00:28:12.920 --> 00:28:14.160] So yeah, it's important.
[00:28:14.680 --> 00:28:18.100] Like, you know, I take time, even when I wake up,
[00:28:19.280 --> 00:28:21.260] a lot of people there, they be all on their phone
[00:28:21.260 --> 00:28:25.140] and go through the apps and before they brush their teeth.
[00:28:26.580 --> 00:28:28.460] Trust me, I have days like that too.
[00:28:28.920 --> 00:28:30.040] We're all guilty.
[00:28:31.520 --> 00:28:33.700] But yeah, just having that quiet moment to myself,
[00:28:33.900 --> 00:28:36.020] collecting my thoughts and you know,
[00:28:36.100 --> 00:28:38.820] how I want the day, the week to kind of pan out
[00:28:38.820 --> 00:28:42.100] what I'm about to do today, like, okay, all right.
[00:28:42.100 --> 00:28:44.840] And then, you know, get myself ready.
[00:28:45.460 --> 00:28:48.020] Like I usually start with a bowl of oatmeal.
[00:28:48.120 --> 00:28:49.240] I didn't get my oatmeal today,
[00:28:49.460 --> 00:28:50.980] but usually start with a bowl of oatmeal.
[00:28:51.220 --> 00:28:55.080] You know, it's a good meal
[00:28:55.080 --> 00:28:57.400] and a good fiber and it's filling.
[00:28:58.400 --> 00:28:59.740] And it's a healthy alternative
[00:28:59.740 --> 00:29:01.380] as far as breakfast and it's quick.
[00:29:02.440 --> 00:29:04.380] But yeah, that's kind of like my routine,
[00:29:04.480 --> 00:29:06.180] you know, slowly creeping to my day.
[00:29:06.220 --> 00:29:08.680] I know a lot of people, they work nine to fives
[00:29:08.680 --> 00:29:11.540] and you know, they jump it to work, you know,
[00:29:11.540 --> 00:29:12.520] almost the first day.
[00:29:12.660 --> 00:29:14.280] So you think about if you're late, you're rushing
[00:29:14.280 --> 00:29:16.860] and like, oh, oh, so think about your day starting
[00:29:16.860 --> 00:29:18.200] like that and then setting the tone
[00:29:18.200 --> 00:29:19.320] for the rest of the day.
[00:29:19.920 --> 00:29:23.500] And like, you know, before I dove deep
[00:29:23.500 --> 00:29:25.060] in my entrepreneur journey, I'm like,
[00:29:25.080 --> 00:29:28.100] I'm only doing, you know, third shift night
[00:29:28.100 --> 00:29:30.080] because I really want to live out my day,
[00:29:30.180 --> 00:29:33.520] do whatever I want in the day, work on my business.
[00:29:33.900 --> 00:29:38.260] If I want to attend my kids, nephew, you know,
[00:29:38.460 --> 00:29:41.320] basketball game or sports event or whatever,
[00:29:41.320 --> 00:29:44.440] maybe, you know, I could do that and then still go to work
[00:29:44.440 --> 00:29:46.260] because it's like the last thing I think about
[00:29:46.260 --> 00:29:47.880] and the last thing I want to do in my life,
[00:29:47.880 --> 00:29:48.800] not the first day.
[00:29:49.320 --> 00:29:51.520] So I like that, I like that.
[00:29:51.580 --> 00:29:53.480] That's a good way to look at it for sure.
[00:29:53.860 --> 00:29:55.660] And do you feel like that's been helping you?
[00:29:55.680 --> 00:29:59.180] Oh, definitely, like even like yesterday,
[00:29:59.180 --> 00:30:03.300] like I was able to, you know, go to a baby shower
[00:30:03.300 --> 00:30:05.500] and attend different events and still, you know,
[00:30:05.600 --> 00:30:06.320] get work.
[00:30:06.620 --> 00:30:08.040] Nice, nice, nice, nice.
[00:30:08.160 --> 00:30:09.040] I love that.
[00:30:09.200 --> 00:30:10.580] Sometimes for some people, you know,
[00:30:10.580 --> 00:30:11.980] just starting off, it could be draining,
[00:30:12.200 --> 00:30:14.920] especially if you're not used to it or finding that flow.
[00:30:15.060 --> 00:30:17.660] But once you find that flow, it is golden.
[00:30:17.940 --> 00:30:19.120] Trust me, it is golden.
[00:30:19.940 --> 00:30:20.820] It's not for everyone.
[00:30:21.020 --> 00:30:22.100] You dropping gems.
[00:30:22.640 --> 00:30:23.680] It's not for everyone though.
[00:30:23.680 --> 00:30:26.820] And I understand being a single parent,
[00:30:27.880 --> 00:30:29.600] but it also could be a benefit
[00:30:29.600 --> 00:30:30.880] if you got that support system.
[00:30:31.660 --> 00:30:33.300] So, you know, find out what works for you.
[00:30:33.320 --> 00:30:35.340] Maybe it's in the middle of the day, you know,
[00:30:35.400 --> 00:30:36.780] doing work in the middle of the day,
[00:30:37.460 --> 00:30:40.100] but, you know, especially those that have, you know,
[00:30:40.100 --> 00:30:44.400] nine to five and jobs, careers that start very early,
[00:30:44.900 --> 00:30:46.500] like six, seven a.m.
[00:30:47.160 --> 00:30:48.460] That could be tough for a lot of people,
[00:30:48.620 --> 00:30:50.040] especially on a regular basis.
[00:30:50.520 --> 00:30:52.800] So you just got to find out what works for you
[00:30:53.400 --> 00:30:55.180] and not a gratitude journal,
[00:30:55.200 --> 00:30:56.940] but just a personal journal of like,
[00:30:57.040 --> 00:30:58.180] how do I want my life to look
[00:30:58.180 --> 00:30:59.780] and how do I want my life to flow?
[00:31:00.040 --> 00:31:01.620] How do I want my life to be structured?
[00:31:01.720 --> 00:31:02.820] I think it's also important.
[00:31:03.260 --> 00:31:05.200] Like really spend time with yourself.
[00:31:05.640 --> 00:31:07.480] I speak with a lot of people and they'd be like,
[00:31:08.300 --> 00:31:10.180] oh, I can't do this by myself.
[00:31:10.300 --> 00:31:11.320] I don't want to be by myself.
[00:31:11.520 --> 00:31:13.920] I like, people have a hard time being with themselves,
[00:31:14.080 --> 00:31:14.900] sitting with themselves.
[00:31:15.340 --> 00:31:16.320] I honestly love it.
[00:31:18.040 --> 00:31:20.280] Like, it's another, I'm my own best friend.
[00:31:21.240 --> 00:31:22.240] I'm my own coach.
[00:31:22.480 --> 00:31:24.060] I'm my own motivational speaker.
[00:31:24.880 --> 00:31:27.040] Like, it all starts with me first.
[00:31:35.700 --> 00:31:37.600] We spoke about self-love, I had a pitch in.
[00:31:38.460 --> 00:31:39.820] Absolutely, and honestly,
[00:31:39.980 --> 00:31:41.620] I like that you did tap into that
[00:31:41.620 --> 00:31:44.040] because with you being a man, you know what I mean?
[00:31:44.040 --> 00:31:46.140] Sometimes they can kind of be like,
[00:31:46.320 --> 00:31:48.960] it could be different stereotypes or this and that.
[00:31:49.220 --> 00:31:51.120] And me being a boymind specifically,
[00:31:51.880 --> 00:31:54.760] I'm very big on instilling that in them.
[00:31:55.140 --> 00:31:57.180] Yes, you may be a man, you know what I mean?
[00:31:57.200 --> 00:31:59.140] But you're still human at the end of the day.
[00:31:59.440 --> 00:32:02.060] If you need to let some tears out
[00:32:02.060 --> 00:32:03.560] and you don't want somebody to see you,
[00:32:03.720 --> 00:32:04.700] go in the bathroom, close your door,
[00:32:04.760 --> 00:32:07.060] or whatever you got to do, but don't hold it in.
[00:32:07.480 --> 00:32:10.640] Don't try to be so tough just because you're a man.
[00:32:10.740 --> 00:32:13.740] So I feel like you talking about self-love as a man,
[00:32:13.740 --> 00:32:17.340] it's so important, especially our black men.
[00:32:17.860 --> 00:32:20.580] Like, yes, love yourselves, love yourselves.
[00:32:20.640 --> 00:32:23.640] You are so worthy of it, 100%.
[00:32:23.640 --> 00:32:26.200] So you touching on that is beautiful
[00:32:26.200 --> 00:32:29.980] because more men need to hear that for sure.
[00:32:31.180 --> 00:32:34.340] And I like the workshops and stuff that you attend
[00:32:35.090 --> 00:32:38.360] and also the speaking events that you're, you know,
[00:32:38.480 --> 00:32:38.920] booked for.
[00:32:39.140 --> 00:32:41.600] Is it more of a ratio of more men than women
[00:32:41.600 --> 00:32:42.960] or more women than men?
[00:32:42.960 --> 00:32:46.260] I can honestly say the speaking events that I have done
[00:32:46.260 --> 00:32:49.500] have been more women than men.
[00:32:50.400 --> 00:32:53.720] And that's kind of why when I say I want to work
[00:32:53.720 --> 00:32:55.600] with adults and youth, that's not,
[00:32:55.780 --> 00:32:59.220] you don't hear me say adult women or adult men.
[00:32:59.260 --> 00:33:02.400] No, it's all inclusive, which is also why
[00:33:02.400 --> 00:33:04.900] when you hear my trailer and I say it's where family
[00:33:04.900 --> 00:33:06.500] and community goes hand in hand,
[00:33:06.820 --> 00:33:09.120] I really mean that when I say family.
[00:33:09.640 --> 00:33:10.200] You know what I mean?
[00:33:10.200 --> 00:33:13.060] That non-judgment and everything like that.
[00:33:13.420 --> 00:33:15.980] So hopefully over time, and especially with me
[00:33:15.980 --> 00:33:20.100] being a boy mom and having male guests on my show,
[00:33:20.220 --> 00:33:22.580] sharing their stories, I'm hoping that
[00:33:22.580 --> 00:33:24.620] that can expand a little bit better.
[00:33:24.920 --> 00:33:27.160] So where if I am putting together an event,
[00:33:27.200 --> 00:33:29.900] I'm seeing at least maybe an equal amount of men
[00:33:29.900 --> 00:33:31.640] and women showing up.
[00:33:32.020 --> 00:33:33.860] Because it's not just for women.
[00:33:34.640 --> 00:33:36.420] Everybody needs self-love and healing,
[00:33:36.500 --> 00:33:38.440] regardless of whether you're a man or woman.
[00:33:38.920 --> 00:33:41.180] And I think if we could just get out of that mindset,
[00:33:41.660 --> 00:33:43.340] it'd be so much easier.
[00:33:44.320 --> 00:33:47.120] So I think us talking about this is a great thing.
[00:33:47.560 --> 00:33:48.000] Definitely.
[00:33:48.780 --> 00:33:49.680] You used to be a rapper?
[00:33:50.740 --> 00:33:51.660] Did I used to be a rapper?
[00:33:51.800 --> 00:33:52.220] Yeah.
[00:33:52.420 --> 00:33:53.020] I did.
[00:33:53.400 --> 00:33:54.560] What made you say that?
[00:33:54.880 --> 00:33:56.880] Well, it's not just for women.
[00:33:57.440 --> 00:33:58.700] It's for self-love and healing.
[00:33:58.840 --> 00:33:59.900] I'm like, okay.
[00:34:00.220 --> 00:34:00.740] All right.
[00:34:01.800 --> 00:34:02.860] Got the bars for it.
[00:34:02.880 --> 00:34:05.440] Hey, I'm a poet and I didn't even know it.
[00:34:05.460 --> 00:34:06.280] Let's go.
[00:34:06.280 --> 00:34:08.699] That's actually a running joke on this podcast.
[00:34:08.900 --> 00:34:09.040] Really?
[00:34:09.100 --> 00:34:13.699] Me being a former poet or former performing poet
[00:34:14.280 --> 00:34:15.440] always kind of hit on that.
[00:34:15.620 --> 00:34:16.800] Like, oh, I'm gonna spit a rap for you.
[00:34:16.800 --> 00:34:17.719] I'm gonna spit a poem for you.
[00:34:17.800 --> 00:34:18.520] One of these days.
[00:34:18.679 --> 00:34:19.219] One of these days.
[00:34:19.560 --> 00:34:20.420] Yes, yes.
[00:34:20.420 --> 00:34:22.500] I would love to hear one of your poems or raps
[00:34:22.500 --> 00:34:23.040] for sure.
[00:34:23.120 --> 00:34:24.480] Bring it back for us one time.
[00:34:24.639 --> 00:34:25.000] Bring it back.
[00:34:25.420 --> 00:34:27.100] Yeah, bring it back one time.
[00:34:27.139 --> 00:34:27.920] One time.
[00:34:28.159 --> 00:34:29.040] Let me see, let me see.
[00:34:29.699 --> 00:34:32.260] I think one of my staple poems is called Frequency.
[00:34:32.340 --> 00:34:33.400] I'm gonna give y'all a snippet.
[00:34:33.400 --> 00:34:34.260] Cause I do wanna,
[00:34:35.219 --> 00:34:38.060] actually I think I have it on one of my other episodes
[00:34:40.159 --> 00:34:41.120] under meditation.
[00:34:42.440 --> 00:34:43.320] Episode 10, I believe.
[00:34:43.480 --> 00:34:44.300] Yeah, episode 10.
[00:34:44.400 --> 00:34:47.320] I haven't released it yet, but yeah, episode 10.
[00:34:47.560 --> 00:34:48.739] I'm gonna weave it in.
[00:34:48.800 --> 00:34:49.739] But I'm gonna give y'all a snippet
[00:34:49.739 --> 00:34:51.860] if y'all haven't tuned in.
[00:34:52.340 --> 00:34:52.820] Frequency.
[00:34:55.320 --> 00:34:57.460] Frequency is what you frequently see.
[00:34:58.700 --> 00:35:02.440] Words and vibrations inside of me.
[00:35:03.720 --> 00:35:04.940] Whew, it's been a minute.
[00:35:05.020 --> 00:35:07.260] Let me recollect my thoughts for a minute.
[00:35:07.280 --> 00:35:09.520] Wait, that was already sounding nice though.
[00:35:09.840 --> 00:35:11.280] That was sounding real nice.
[00:35:11.440 --> 00:35:12.820] Yeah, it gets deep.
[00:35:13.080 --> 00:35:15.640] It sounds like it's gonna get deep for sure.
[00:35:15.960 --> 00:35:20.180] It's been a minute since I performed live.
[00:35:20.200 --> 00:35:21.360] Just performed in general.
[00:35:21.600 --> 00:35:22.080] Okay.
[00:35:22.340 --> 00:35:23.600] Is that something you wanna get back into?
[00:35:24.480 --> 00:35:24.680] No.
[00:35:25.920 --> 00:35:27.580] I retired, I hung it up.
[00:35:27.800 --> 00:35:29.240] People ask me that all the time.
[00:35:29.360 --> 00:35:29.720] Okay.
[00:35:30.760 --> 00:35:31.240] Yes.
[00:35:31.240 --> 00:35:38.300] I mean, I would do it for more marketing purposes.
[00:35:38.440 --> 00:35:42.540] More for corporations and brands.
[00:35:42.900 --> 00:35:43.840] If I shoot a commercial,
[00:35:44.820 --> 00:35:46.320] I could kind of develop something for them.
[00:35:47.340 --> 00:35:49.540] But actively putting out music and performing.
[00:35:49.820 --> 00:35:51.660] I'm always a recording artist.
[00:35:51.860 --> 00:35:52.500] I'm always.
[00:35:52.500 --> 00:35:52.760] Yes.
[00:35:53.080 --> 00:35:56.380] But as far as performing and being in a video, no.
[00:35:56.780 --> 00:35:58.560] That's okay, that's okay.
[00:35:58.760 --> 00:35:59.380] We evolve.
[00:35:59.580 --> 00:36:01.100] That just shows that you've evolved.
[00:36:01.100 --> 00:36:02.960] Yeah, I appreciate that.
[00:36:03.160 --> 00:36:05.360] Ain't nothing wrong with it.
[00:36:05.600 --> 00:36:08.040] All right, I kinda got my thoughts together
[00:36:08.040 --> 00:36:09.220] how to pull it up though.
[00:36:09.280 --> 00:36:10.080] Okay, okay.
[00:36:10.600 --> 00:36:11.960] I'm gonna give y'all a snippet.
[00:36:12.000 --> 00:36:13.260] It's a short poem anyway,
[00:36:13.340 --> 00:36:15.560] but I'm gonna give y'all a snippet of the shortness.
[00:36:16.000 --> 00:36:16.860] But good.
[00:36:19.020 --> 00:36:19.500] Frequency.
[00:36:20.720 --> 00:36:23.260] Your frequency is what you frequently see.
[00:36:23.960 --> 00:36:27.020] Vibrations all in the universe and also inside of me.
[00:36:28.000 --> 00:36:29.820] Alien to the world society.
[00:36:30.420 --> 00:36:32.700] Shooting stars consciously.
[00:36:33.060 --> 00:36:33.860] Righteously.
[00:36:34.180 --> 00:36:36.680] Until every dust particle unites in me.
[00:36:36.880 --> 00:36:37.680] Sparkling.
[00:36:38.140 --> 00:36:40.860] Like water wine and jewelry and jewelry.
[00:36:41.080 --> 00:36:43.800] I shine brighter than my time of infinity.
[00:36:44.460 --> 00:36:45.220] Limency.
[00:36:45.500 --> 00:36:47.760] Speckles around my eyes this vicinity.
[00:36:48.560 --> 00:36:49.240] Vividly.
[00:36:49.660 --> 00:36:50.320] Femininity.
[00:36:50.720 --> 00:36:52.400] Raise my higher divinity.
[00:36:52.920 --> 00:36:53.720] Sacred trinity.
[00:36:54.060 --> 00:36:56.020] Reflects my divine masculinity.
[00:36:57.200 --> 00:36:58.280] Felt in the trenches.
[00:36:58.900 --> 00:36:59.460] Relentless.
[00:36:59.460 --> 00:37:01.120] Lost my human minds.
[00:37:02.300 --> 00:37:04.840] To gain my spiritual senses.
[00:37:06.060 --> 00:37:06.660] Defenseless.
[00:37:07.460 --> 00:37:07.920] Elevation.
[00:37:07.920 --> 00:37:09.560] See, you ain't shy, you can talk.
[00:37:09.800 --> 00:37:10.640] Look at you.
[00:37:10.960 --> 00:37:12.620] Through focus and meditation.
[00:37:13.980 --> 00:37:17.100] Yeah, so that's just a snippet of frequency.
[00:37:17.600 --> 00:37:19.160] Nah, I like it.
[00:37:19.160 --> 00:37:19.740] Thank you, thank you.
[00:37:19.760 --> 00:37:22.360] Again, art school, so we had creative writing too.
[00:37:23.100 --> 00:37:25.900] So, man, it's amazing.
[00:37:26.800 --> 00:37:29.260] And with your art school, what did you take up?
[00:37:29.260 --> 00:37:33.520] I was a dance major from sixth through 12th grade.
[00:37:34.240 --> 00:37:35.780] What type of dance is it?
[00:37:35.780 --> 00:37:37.720] Is it more theoretical or more like hip hop?
[00:37:37.740 --> 00:37:43.160] We primarily focused on ballet and modern.
[00:37:43.380 --> 00:37:45.380] Those were our main focuses.
[00:37:45.680 --> 00:37:46.900] And then when we have performances,
[00:37:47.140 --> 00:37:48.320] we would do like praise dancing.
[00:37:48.620 --> 00:37:51.960] Like we had tours like around Christmas time,
[00:37:52.060 --> 00:37:53.300] we would do like Coming of the King.
[00:37:53.620 --> 00:37:55.900] So we would do dances like Wade in the Water,
[00:37:56.280 --> 00:37:57.900] different things like that.
[00:37:57.900 --> 00:37:59.520] Really get the crowd moving.
[00:37:59.820 --> 00:38:01.600] But some other forms of dancing
[00:38:01.600 --> 00:38:04.280] that we did a little bit was tap dancing.
[00:38:04.280 --> 00:38:06.400] I would love to get back into tap dancing.
[00:38:06.500 --> 00:38:08.400] Just because we didn't do it that long,
[00:38:08.420 --> 00:38:10.260] but I absolutely loved it.
[00:38:10.300 --> 00:38:11.580] Loved it, loved it, loved it.
[00:38:11.940 --> 00:38:13.300] So dance now for me,
[00:38:13.320 --> 00:38:14.460] since I'm not doing a profession,
[00:38:14.580 --> 00:38:15.940] is like my creative outlet.
[00:38:16.280 --> 00:38:17.680] Just like with hair,
[00:38:17.820 --> 00:38:19.120] because I love doing hair.
[00:38:19.340 --> 00:38:21.200] I'm licensed going on 15 years,
[00:38:21.260 --> 00:38:22.960] but it's not my main focus.
[00:38:23.040 --> 00:38:24.020] And that's okay.
[00:38:24.740 --> 00:38:25.500] You know what I mean?
[00:38:25.540 --> 00:38:27.080] It's like my creativity.
[00:38:27.080 --> 00:38:28.520] And I love it.
[00:38:28.520 --> 00:38:30.100] Yeah, I wanna speak on that too.
[00:38:30.940 --> 00:38:34.640] But yeah, let's jump right into it actually.
[00:38:35.240 --> 00:38:38.560] So, with hair, you said 15 years,
[00:38:39.040 --> 00:38:40.580] what are some of the trends
[00:38:40.580 --> 00:38:43.420] from when you first started versus like now?
[00:38:45.200 --> 00:38:48.700] I can say, what's something that we don't?
[00:38:49.300 --> 00:38:50.560] Oh, a little bit,
[00:38:50.760 --> 00:38:52.880] we kind of did like the whole little body wraps,
[00:38:52.940 --> 00:38:54.240] like the curls on the top.
[00:38:54.340 --> 00:38:55.440] Did that a little bit.
[00:38:55.460 --> 00:38:57.240] Not really doing that anymore.
[00:38:58.440 --> 00:38:59.740] There's so many things.
[00:38:59.900 --> 00:39:02.140] I can't think of one thing to be completely honest
[00:39:02.140 --> 00:39:04.440] of what we did back then that's changed now.
[00:39:04.580 --> 00:39:06.180] Like the way we do quick weaves,
[00:39:06.700 --> 00:39:07.820] or you know what?
[00:39:08.040 --> 00:39:10.440] Actually, with COVID, that's what I can say.
[00:39:10.720 --> 00:39:14.620] The fact that cosmetologists, beauty professionals,
[00:39:15.120 --> 00:39:17.300] we're able to make money in different ways
[00:39:17.300 --> 00:39:19.340] other than being directly with the client.
[00:39:20.520 --> 00:39:22.060] Digital products, like classes.
[00:39:22.160 --> 00:39:25.180] Say if you're somebody who's really good at hair cutting,
[00:39:25.460 --> 00:39:27.520] putting together a video and reselling it.
[00:39:27.520 --> 00:39:29.680] Making that passive income.
[00:39:29.680 --> 00:39:31.560] So being able to create classes,
[00:39:31.700 --> 00:39:33.880] and I will say that it's a lot,
[00:39:33.900 --> 00:39:35.300] we'll say that it's a lot easier
[00:39:35.300 --> 00:39:37.780] to get from behind the chair and pivot
[00:39:37.780 --> 00:39:40.560] into something as whereas back then,
[00:39:40.700 --> 00:39:43.360] nobody really talked about retirement plans.
[00:39:44.000 --> 00:39:44.540] You know what I mean?
[00:39:45.780 --> 00:39:48.320] 401Ks for cosmetologists.
[00:39:48.480 --> 00:39:49.900] That's something that wasn't really talked about.
[00:39:50.180 --> 00:39:51.620] And now after COVID,
[00:39:51.700 --> 00:39:54.360] I can say that's definitely a big topic that comes up.
[00:39:54.660 --> 00:39:56.920] How can you protect yourself as a hairstylist?
[00:39:56.920 --> 00:39:58.580] How can you retire from the industry
[00:39:58.580 --> 00:40:00.340] if you want to retire and not be broke?
[00:40:01.080 --> 00:40:01.840] You know what I mean?
[00:40:02.020 --> 00:40:03.920] So I would say that's the biggest change.
[00:40:03.940 --> 00:40:05.220] Not so much with the hair,
[00:40:05.240 --> 00:40:06.660] because it kind of comes back.
[00:40:07.420 --> 00:40:07.760] Yeah.
[00:40:08.100 --> 00:40:10.280] Is there any like products from back then
[00:40:10.280 --> 00:40:12.440] that used to be big and major
[00:40:12.440 --> 00:40:14.000] that a lot of people don't use now,
[00:40:14.040 --> 00:40:17.280] or even some products, or even tools that you use?
[00:40:17.360 --> 00:40:18.320] Oh, tools for sure.
[00:40:18.620 --> 00:40:19.820] They were already going out
[00:40:19.820 --> 00:40:21.620] like the old school Marcells.
[00:40:22.460 --> 00:40:24.560] You know, to do those small curls
[00:40:24.560 --> 00:40:25.540] and everything like that.
[00:40:25.540 --> 00:40:28.440] Everybody now is using the mini flat irons for that.
[00:40:28.840 --> 00:40:29.880] Nobody really uses.
[00:40:30.260 --> 00:40:32.860] Now, some of our old, like my kids, Gigi,
[00:40:33.120 --> 00:40:34.400] she's an older hairstylist
[00:40:34.400 --> 00:40:35.800] and she still uses the Marcells,
[00:40:35.840 --> 00:40:38.240] but she's still able to do what's current as well.
[00:40:38.600 --> 00:40:42.480] So I would say sometimes people can kind of elevate
[00:40:42.480 --> 00:40:44.680] with the times as things change,
[00:40:44.700 --> 00:40:46.700] but definitely the Marcells
[00:40:46.700 --> 00:40:49.360] aren't as common as they used to be.
[00:40:50.500 --> 00:40:51.860] More electric tools.
[00:40:52.600 --> 00:40:55.480] Now, with my background in being in media,
[00:40:55.840 --> 00:40:58.080] especially like video production, you know,
[00:40:58.140 --> 00:41:01.920] everybody's on social media, has a web page.
[00:41:02.100 --> 00:41:06.280] How has media from back then affected the industry?
[00:41:06.700 --> 00:41:07.320] Oh my goodness.
[00:41:07.380 --> 00:41:09.560] I feel like it has affected the industry
[00:41:09.560 --> 00:41:11.020] in such a good way.
[00:41:11.020 --> 00:41:13.240] I mean, it has its pros, it has its cons,
[00:41:13.260 --> 00:41:14.940] but more so in a good way
[00:41:14.940 --> 00:41:17.960] because we're able to reach so much more people.
[00:41:17.960 --> 00:41:19.620] And now we have the trend
[00:41:19.620 --> 00:41:21.960] where some stylists are bi-coastal,
[00:41:21.960 --> 00:41:23.740] meaning, okay, they do here in Cleveland,
[00:41:24.000 --> 00:41:26.840] but they're also doing here in Georgia or Vegas.
[00:41:26.980 --> 00:41:29.320] And again, that's another extra stream of income
[00:41:29.320 --> 00:41:31.740] because if you're traveling, you know what I mean?
[00:41:31.740 --> 00:41:33.560] You got to add on that little extra thing.
[00:41:34.180 --> 00:41:36.860] So social media has made it possible
[00:41:36.860 --> 00:41:38.840] to be able to get your name out there more,
[00:41:39.200 --> 00:41:40.720] you know, to celebrities,
[00:41:41.280 --> 00:41:42.440] gaining, you know, celebrity clients,
[00:41:42.480 --> 00:41:44.580] which I know some stylists are into as well,
[00:41:44.660 --> 00:41:46.080] because you have social media.
[00:41:46.680 --> 00:41:47.300] You get what I'm saying?
[00:41:47.440 --> 00:41:48.740] So those celebrities can see,
[00:41:48.740 --> 00:41:51.700] you can tag them in your posts so that they can see it.
[00:41:52.080 --> 00:41:54.240] So social media has really, really changed
[00:41:54.240 --> 00:41:56.760] the beauty industry in a good way for sure,
[00:41:56.760 --> 00:42:00.200] because you're able to get more visual
[00:42:00.200 --> 00:42:03.580] and to reach more people to expand your brand with it,
[00:42:03.580 --> 00:42:05.560] instead of it just being local to your city.
[00:42:07.000 --> 00:42:09.760] So I had this friend, right?
[00:42:10.680 --> 00:42:12.540] His name is Steven, you know?
[00:42:12.540 --> 00:42:13.760] He's an event photographer.
[00:42:14.860 --> 00:42:17.200] We spoke on, what was that, bi-coastal?
[00:42:17.200 --> 00:42:18.500] Bi-coastal, yes.
[00:42:18.520 --> 00:42:21.760] Can someone in the media industry be bi-coastal?
[00:42:21.980 --> 00:42:22.860] Bi-coastal.
[00:42:23.620 --> 00:42:26.040] So honestly, if you're working with an artist
[00:42:26.040 --> 00:42:29.260] who's like in, say, we'll just say Georgia again,
[00:42:29.380 --> 00:42:31.760] and you end up, they like your work,
[00:42:31.760 --> 00:42:33.540] you come down there, say maybe one time,
[00:42:33.660 --> 00:42:34.940] shoot a video, do whatever you want to do,
[00:42:34.960 --> 00:42:35.920] so they're like, oh my gosh,
[00:42:36.120 --> 00:42:36.980] I really like your work,
[00:42:37.000 --> 00:42:38.180] like I want to keep working for you.
[00:42:38.400 --> 00:42:39.660] They're going to invest in you.
[00:42:39.660 --> 00:42:41.020] They're going to invest in that time
[00:42:41.020 --> 00:42:43.200] for you to be able to come back once a month,
[00:42:43.320 --> 00:42:44.460] once every three months,
[00:42:44.460 --> 00:42:47.380] whatever their business plan is set up to be,
[00:42:47.940 --> 00:42:50.020] then you're bi-coastal, and then word of mouth.
[00:42:50.420 --> 00:42:52.580] So pretty sure that client that you're working with
[00:42:52.580 --> 00:42:54.340] in Georgia is going to tell somebody else,
[00:42:54.560 --> 00:42:55.440] and then word of mouth,
[00:42:55.480 --> 00:42:57.960] and then your clientele is going to start to grow
[00:42:57.960 --> 00:42:59.860] and get bigger in that other state
[00:42:59.860 --> 00:43:03.420] while you've already built a clientele here in Cleveland.
[00:43:03.640 --> 00:43:04.880] So that's one of the ways
[00:43:04.880 --> 00:43:06.040] that you could possibly do that,
[00:43:06.100 --> 00:43:07.180] work with a client out of state,
[00:43:07.200 --> 00:43:09.240] let them see your work, you know what I mean?
[00:43:09.240 --> 00:43:10.160] And then they hire you on,
[00:43:10.260 --> 00:43:11.500] like man, I don't want nobody else.
[00:43:11.500 --> 00:43:14.340] I want you, and I'm willing to pay you
[00:43:14.340 --> 00:43:18.640] to come from Cleveland to Georgia to do my photography.
[00:43:18.740 --> 00:43:20.740] That's actually ironic you say that
[00:43:20.740 --> 00:43:22.760] because actually one of my business partners,
[00:43:23.880 --> 00:43:26.000] he'd been in the media industry for,
[00:43:26.080 --> 00:43:29.060] you know, visual media industry for 10 years.
[00:43:30.460 --> 00:43:34.080] And he recently expanded to Atlanta specifically
[00:43:34.080 --> 00:43:36.900] last year, so it's crazy how you say Georgia
[00:43:36.900 --> 00:43:40.500] because I'm joking, but you know,
[00:43:40.500 --> 00:43:42.060] it's actually on the radar.
[00:43:42.320 --> 00:43:44.420] And I don't know if you heard of the podcast summit?
[00:43:45.020 --> 00:43:47.440] Yes, I have, and I really want to go.
[00:43:47.620 --> 00:43:49.900] Yeah, me and the team, we went last year,
[00:43:50.060 --> 00:43:51.560] and it's amazing. Okay.
[00:43:51.580 --> 00:43:54.260] I heard so many great things about that event,
[00:43:54.260 --> 00:43:56.400] so because I'm doing what I'm doing now,
[00:43:56.400 --> 00:43:59.340] and I really want to see it expand and go somewhere,
[00:43:59.420 --> 00:44:00.580] now that I'm really serious,
[00:44:00.640 --> 00:44:02.460] I would love to be able to go
[00:44:02.460 --> 00:44:04.080] to the summit this year for sure.
[00:44:04.240 --> 00:44:06.660] Definitely, I think he just released a date,
[00:44:06.700 --> 00:44:10.120] so I would send it to you too, like, you know.
[00:44:10.120 --> 00:44:12.280] Please do, thank you.
[00:44:12.280 --> 00:44:13.920] We elevate, you know.
[00:44:13.980 --> 00:44:15.000] Thank you, thank you.
[00:44:15.180 --> 00:44:19.140] And now you got a fresh head of re-twisted locks,
[00:44:19.440 --> 00:44:24.220] looking real nice and fresh, period.
[00:44:24.600 --> 00:44:26.380] So you could walk out there,
[00:44:27.480 --> 00:44:29.420] look like that businessman, you know,
[00:44:29.640 --> 00:44:32.380] pass out some business cards, you know what I mean?
[00:44:34.380 --> 00:44:35.800] Knock on some doors and stuff.
[00:44:36.040 --> 00:44:37.340] Absolutely, for sure.
[00:44:37.420 --> 00:44:39.120] Ain't nothing wrong with the pirates,
[00:44:39.120 --> 00:44:41.960] like they used to do back in the day on the windshields,
[00:44:42.000 --> 00:44:44.000] put your flyers right there when you come off the club.
[00:44:45.440 --> 00:44:50.020] So how are stylists, is it called stylists or?
[00:44:50.600 --> 00:44:52.180] Yes, you could say hairstylist.
[00:44:52.720 --> 00:44:54.920] Cosmetologist is just basically meaning
[00:44:54.920 --> 00:44:58.620] that you studied hair, skin, and nails in school.
[00:44:58.800 --> 00:45:01.380] So like the esthetician, right, right, right, right.
[00:45:01.880 --> 00:45:03.600] But yeah, I focus just on hair,
[00:45:03.600 --> 00:45:05.580] so you could say hairstylist.
[00:45:06.200 --> 00:45:08.620] As far as marketing, what are some,
[00:45:08.620 --> 00:45:09.920] because you spoke about business cards,
[00:45:10.140 --> 00:45:12.960] what are some ways other than social media
[00:45:12.960 --> 00:45:16.600] that are ways of them marketing themselves and getting out?
[00:45:17.200 --> 00:45:19.020] So one of the things that I definitely did,
[00:45:19.060 --> 00:45:20.300] I did vending events.
[00:45:21.260 --> 00:45:23.920] And yes, vending events, I would have my business cards,
[00:45:24.020 --> 00:45:25.320] but I would also have flyers
[00:45:25.320 --> 00:45:28.480] with like different hairstyles that I offer
[00:45:28.480 --> 00:45:29.900] just so they can see my work.
[00:45:30.060 --> 00:45:33.800] And even just as you walk, you're out and about,
[00:45:33.940 --> 00:45:34.660] say you're at the mall,
[00:45:34.840 --> 00:45:36.860] have your business cards and flyers with you.
[00:45:36.860 --> 00:45:38.860] Even if somebody says, hey,
[00:45:39.340 --> 00:45:42.600] I'm not looking for a stylist right now,
[00:45:42.700 --> 00:45:45.140] at least you're able to give that to that flyer to them.
[00:45:45.160 --> 00:45:47.520] They can pass it along to somebody else who needs it.
[00:45:47.620 --> 00:45:49.060] And I would say one other way
[00:45:49.060 --> 00:45:51.620] that my kids Gigi taught me, and I love it,
[00:45:51.840 --> 00:45:54.700] she would do a deal where if you bring her
[00:45:54.700 --> 00:45:55.740] three new clients,
[00:45:56.160 --> 00:45:58.060] your next service will be completely free.
[00:45:58.220 --> 00:45:59.720] And that's another great way.
[00:46:00.620 --> 00:46:01.560] That's amazing.
[00:46:01.920 --> 00:46:03.180] And a lot of people who don't,
[00:46:03.220 --> 00:46:04.940] like I was speaking with someone,
[00:46:05.620 --> 00:46:07.460] like you should have a referral system.
[00:46:07.620 --> 00:46:08.280] Like it's easy.
[00:46:08.860 --> 00:46:10.760] You know, it's less work from you
[00:46:10.760 --> 00:46:13.360] and you also getting promotion from it.
[00:46:13.460 --> 00:46:16.140] Bringing in new clients, it's saving you time.
[00:46:16.400 --> 00:46:18.740] And like, who better else?
[00:46:19.020 --> 00:46:20.540] I mean, kind of like even how we met
[00:46:20.540 --> 00:46:21.860] through a mutual person.
[00:46:21.860 --> 00:46:22.360] Exactly.
[00:46:22.700 --> 00:46:24.880] It kind of speeds up that time.
[00:46:25.260 --> 00:46:28.380] Or like, you know, and we instantly click
[00:46:28.380 --> 00:46:30.600] and I told you, we're gonna be working together
[00:46:30.600 --> 00:46:32.560] and I love what you're doing
[00:46:32.560 --> 00:46:34.140] and I'm pouring word. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
[00:46:34.140 --> 00:46:37.320] And even your story, it intrigues me.
[00:46:37.520 --> 00:46:39.680] And like, yeah, the youth particularly,
[00:46:39.720 --> 00:46:41.540] they need people like you.
[00:46:41.580 --> 00:46:42.060] Absolutely.
[00:46:42.280 --> 00:46:44.900] And I feel like the younger you are
[00:46:44.900 --> 00:46:47.860] when you start learning how to love yourself,
[00:46:48.140 --> 00:46:48.780] the better.
[00:46:49.280 --> 00:46:50.160] Oh my goodness.
[00:46:50.240 --> 00:46:52.040] Like I wish I would have learned it sooner,
[00:46:52.040 --> 00:46:55.140] but I still, I was about 29 when I started my journey.
[00:46:55.200 --> 00:46:56.640] So I was still fairly young,
[00:46:56.900 --> 00:46:58.580] but I just like, if I would have,
[00:46:58.620 --> 00:46:59.980] I feel like if I would have known it
[00:46:59.980 --> 00:47:02.780] maybe in my teens and it was actually introduced to me,
[00:47:02.780 --> 00:47:06.640] it probably would have, you know,
[00:47:06.980 --> 00:47:09.220] stopped maybe me being a teen mom
[00:47:09.220 --> 00:47:10.620] and different things like that.
[00:47:10.780 --> 00:47:11.500] You know what I mean?
[00:47:11.900 --> 00:47:14.060] So yeah, definitely for sure.
[00:47:14.660 --> 00:47:15.760] We need it.
[00:47:16.160 --> 00:47:16.640] Yeah.
[00:47:16.860 --> 00:47:17.660] Excuse you.
[00:47:17.740 --> 00:47:20.180] We on the location in this trash day.
[00:47:20.200 --> 00:47:21.620] So if you heard it in the background,
[00:47:21.760 --> 00:47:22.920] just know it was,
[00:47:23.160 --> 00:47:25.040] they're collecting the trash during their jobs.
[00:47:25.080 --> 00:47:26.740] So I appreciate them.
[00:47:27.100 --> 00:47:27.620] Yeah.
[00:47:27.760 --> 00:47:28.880] Thank you, City of Cleveland.
[00:47:29.480 --> 00:47:29.800] Yes, yes.
[00:47:30.000 --> 00:47:30.620] Thank you.
[00:47:30.620 --> 00:47:31.220] Thank you.
[00:47:31.740 --> 00:47:32.840] We appreciate you.
[00:47:32.840 --> 00:47:33.700] We recognize you.
[00:47:33.700 --> 00:47:34.020] Right.
[00:47:34.100 --> 00:47:34.880] Keep it clean.
[00:47:35.060 --> 00:47:38.540] It's actually a multi-million dollar industry
[00:47:38.540 --> 00:47:40.280] I'm gonna have to tap into too.
[00:47:42.800 --> 00:47:42.920] Yeah.
[00:47:42.920 --> 00:47:44.140] Watchable screens are in color.
[00:47:44.360 --> 00:47:45.320] Right, that's right.
[00:47:46.120 --> 00:47:48.080] So we spoke about you being a hairstylist
[00:47:48.080 --> 00:47:48.960] and the different trends.
[00:47:49.000 --> 00:47:50.800] What about the trends of,
[00:47:50.800 --> 00:47:53.640] you know, being a adoptee?
[00:47:53.880 --> 00:47:56.040] Like what are even like the structure
[00:47:56.040 --> 00:48:00.040] maybe through paperwork or even like,
[00:48:00.040 --> 00:48:02.960] just kind of give like a brief overview of the process
[00:48:02.960 --> 00:48:05.260] and then kind of break down the trends and history.
[00:48:05.420 --> 00:48:09.060] So I was adopted at two.
[00:48:09.820 --> 00:48:11.920] So my memory of like the whole process
[00:48:11.920 --> 00:48:14.380] with like paperwork is a little bit vague.
[00:48:14.380 --> 00:48:17.500] I would have to do more like talk to my mom with that.
[00:48:17.500 --> 00:48:17.760] Okay.
[00:48:17.900 --> 00:48:20.640] But for sure, for sure the process,
[00:48:21.320 --> 00:48:24.100] normally how it starts is at least what my mom said
[00:48:24.100 --> 00:48:26.440] is when I was in foster care,
[00:48:26.460 --> 00:48:28.160] basically once she went through the process
[00:48:28.160 --> 00:48:29.660] of whatever that paperwork was,
[00:48:29.660 --> 00:48:31.980] she would start to do visits with me.
[00:48:32.180 --> 00:48:32.640] You know what I mean?
[00:48:32.680 --> 00:48:35.160] So while I was still in the foster home in Warren, Ohio,
[00:48:35.520 --> 00:48:39.280] my mom would come and visit me and everything like that.
[00:48:39.560 --> 00:48:43.180] And then after a while, that's when they would actually,
[00:48:43.700 --> 00:48:45.360] I have a picture of me in like the courtroom.
[00:48:45.540 --> 00:48:49.600] So the actual state of Ohio makes the adoption permanent
[00:48:49.600 --> 00:48:50.560] into what it is.
[00:48:50.560 --> 00:48:53.160] And then you move to wherever you're gonna move.
[00:48:53.320 --> 00:48:55.240] Now, something that some people don't know
[00:48:55.240 --> 00:48:57.660] is the fact that when a child is adopted,
[00:48:57.660 --> 00:48:58.840] you can change their name.
[00:48:59.570 --> 00:48:59.840] Okay.
[00:49:00.460 --> 00:49:02.980] So I go by Kayla Monique, okay.
[00:49:03.040 --> 00:49:04.920] That is my biological name.
[00:49:05.140 --> 00:49:06.360] My name was not changed.
[00:49:06.400 --> 00:49:07.980] Kayla Monique were not changed.
[00:49:08.300 --> 00:49:10.260] So a lot of times when I introduce myself,
[00:49:10.260 --> 00:49:12.100] you're gonna hear me say Kayla Monique
[00:49:12.100 --> 00:49:13.580] because of the simple fact,
[00:49:13.840 --> 00:49:15.580] my biological last name is Reed,
[00:49:15.880 --> 00:49:17.340] my adopted family is McCrary,
[00:49:17.400 --> 00:49:18.740] but they're both my family.
[00:49:19.080 --> 00:49:21.140] So you'll hear me say Kayla Monique.
[00:49:21.180 --> 00:49:23.540] So basically after I got adopted,
[00:49:23.740 --> 00:49:25.660] the next step is basically where someone
[00:49:25.660 --> 00:49:27.860] from the agency came to visit me
[00:49:27.860 --> 00:49:30.540] for like maybe six months into the first year
[00:49:30.540 --> 00:49:32.540] just to make sure I was adjusted good.
[00:49:32.600 --> 00:49:35.740] And then after that, you're an adoptee.
[00:49:35.740 --> 00:49:38.860] So now you're in this new environment with this new home,
[00:49:39.000 --> 00:49:42.700] you're adjusting to new parents, new family members.
[00:49:42.940 --> 00:49:44.480] And again, I don't remember all of that
[00:49:44.480 --> 00:49:48.220] because I was so young, but that's the process.
[00:49:49.120 --> 00:49:51.140] And some adoptive parents are good
[00:49:51.140 --> 00:49:52.920] about talking to you about it
[00:49:52.920 --> 00:49:55.540] and explaining that to you, but some aren't.
[00:49:56.660 --> 00:49:59.160] And that's also why I wanna do the work that I wanna do
[00:49:59.160 --> 00:50:01.920] because it's kinda, some adoptees don't,
[00:50:01.920 --> 00:50:04.340] cause I have adopted cousin who's not that into it.
[00:50:04.380 --> 00:50:06.960] She's cool with where she is, but you have me
[00:50:06.960 --> 00:50:09.920] where I'm super inquisitive and I wanna know.
[00:50:09.980 --> 00:50:12.120] So that's kinda the process of adoption.
[00:50:12.260 --> 00:50:13.520] Yes, you do your paperwork
[00:50:14.160 --> 00:50:16.160] depending on if the child's in foster care
[00:50:16.160 --> 00:50:16.940] or newly born.
[00:50:17.140 --> 00:50:18.440] So there's a couple of little things
[00:50:18.440 --> 00:50:20.660] that can make it a little unique to each person.
[00:50:21.080 --> 00:50:22.040] Okay, wow.
[00:50:22.380 --> 00:50:23.360] And what are some of the things
[00:50:23.360 --> 00:50:24.800] you would wanna change about that system?
[00:50:25.220 --> 00:50:26.900] So some of the things I would wanna change
[00:50:26.900 --> 00:50:32.060] is the fact that anyone who is dealing with children
[00:50:32.060 --> 00:50:33.640] affected by foster care or adoption,
[00:50:33.820 --> 00:50:37.220] I feel like that individual should be able
[00:50:37.220 --> 00:50:40.040] have some type of experience to adoption or foster care
[00:50:40.040 --> 00:50:41.460] because again, you heard me talk about
[00:50:41.460 --> 00:50:43.340] empathizing versus sympathizing.
[00:50:43.720 --> 00:50:46.520] And for me, it's so easy for me to get on that level
[00:50:46.520 --> 00:50:49.280] because I empathize, I've walked in their shoes.
[00:50:49.600 --> 00:50:51.720] And a lot of times it's kinda hard
[00:50:51.720 --> 00:50:54.580] for others who haven't to do that.
[00:50:54.580 --> 00:50:56.660] And to really understand where a person is coming from.
[00:50:57.000 --> 00:51:00.120] So I think there should be more in-person conversations
[00:51:00.120 --> 00:51:02.700] with adoptees present to speak to potential
[00:51:02.700 --> 00:51:05.220] adoptive parents, potential foster parents,
[00:51:05.580 --> 00:51:07.640] just so they understand what it is,
[00:51:08.400 --> 00:51:10.440] fully understand the role that they're stepping into.
[00:51:10.780 --> 00:51:13.060] Because sometimes it can't be from a selfish perspective
[00:51:13.060 --> 00:51:15.620] because they wanna have a baby and they can't.
[00:51:15.620 --> 00:51:16.840] And here's my baby.
[00:51:17.100 --> 00:51:20.240] But not thinking about that baby still has struggles,
[00:51:20.380 --> 00:51:22.340] they still have their own individuality.
[00:51:22.740 --> 00:51:24.480] There's things that you're gonna need to understand
[00:51:24.480 --> 00:51:26.880] to be able to truly care for that child,
[00:51:27.220 --> 00:51:29.920] which I feel like nobody really understood me
[00:51:29.920 --> 00:51:32.120] because they weren't affected by it.
[00:51:32.240 --> 00:51:34.300] They were like, ooh, wow,
[00:51:34.360 --> 00:51:36.000] but couldn't give me anything.
[00:51:36.380 --> 00:51:39.240] So I think that more people affected by adoption
[00:51:39.240 --> 00:51:41.560] should be helping to make those decisions
[00:51:41.560 --> 00:51:45.280] and educating potential foster and adoptive parents.
[00:51:46.220 --> 00:51:46.940] For sure.
[00:51:48.380 --> 00:51:52.440] And me being again in media and more so documenting
[00:51:52.440 --> 00:51:55.380] these powerful stories, elevating positive stories,
[00:51:56.440 --> 00:52:00.620] what role does media play in this situation?
[00:52:01.000 --> 00:52:03.020] Is it enough media in this space
[00:52:03.020 --> 00:52:04.760] that's telling these stories?
[00:52:05.400 --> 00:52:07.800] Me personally, I don't think there's enough media.
[00:52:08.180 --> 00:52:10.060] I know there are places in Cleveland
[00:52:10.060 --> 00:52:13.300] that do things like Fostering Hope, Adoption Network.
[00:52:13.840 --> 00:52:15.040] But for me personally,
[00:52:15.060 --> 00:52:17.560] I don't see it broadcasted enough on TV
[00:52:17.560 --> 00:52:20.680] or on big media podcasts,
[00:52:20.680 --> 00:52:23.820] so like say on Fox 8 News, Channel 5 News,
[00:52:24.040 --> 00:52:26.400] there's not enough media exposure for it,
[00:52:26.400 --> 00:52:28.740] so I feel like a lot of people are uneducated
[00:52:28.740 --> 00:52:31.400] because they have to go looking for it themselves,
[00:52:31.960 --> 00:52:33.960] whether then it being on media, like you said,
[00:52:34.100 --> 00:52:36.560] like when they're talking about murder or politics,
[00:52:36.820 --> 00:52:38.200] let's talk about what's happening
[00:52:38.200 --> 00:52:41.180] with all of these children, so yeah.
[00:52:41.440 --> 00:52:42.500] There needs to be more media.
[00:52:42.960 --> 00:52:45.100] Yes, yeah, we're definitely gonna change that.
[00:52:45.320 --> 00:52:47.080] We're definitely changing that, let me say that.
[00:52:47.120 --> 00:52:48.920] We're definitely changing that now.
[00:52:48.920 --> 00:52:50.280] Yes, yes. We're doing that.
[00:52:50.280 --> 00:52:52.980] Our voices matter, and I say that all the time.
[00:52:53.420 --> 00:52:54.760] Adoptee voices matter
[00:52:54.760 --> 00:52:57.540] because there's so many different forms of adoption
[00:52:57.540 --> 00:52:58.400] that people don't know.
[00:52:58.660 --> 00:53:01.200] You have biracial, you have same-sex,
[00:53:01.500 --> 00:53:02.400] you have kinship,
[00:53:02.500 --> 00:53:04.320] where basically that's someone within the family
[00:53:04.320 --> 00:53:05.860] that takes on the child,
[00:53:05.880 --> 00:53:06.920] like I have a sister like that,
[00:53:06.920 --> 00:53:08.180] but she wasn't fully adopted.
[00:53:08.340 --> 00:53:08.780] Okay.
[00:53:09.180 --> 00:53:11.100] So it's like, where do I stand?
[00:53:11.660 --> 00:53:12.940] Like yeah, this is my family,
[00:53:12.940 --> 00:53:15.280] but it's not my mom and dad, you know?
[00:53:15.280 --> 00:53:17.860] So there's just, there's so many different things
[00:53:17.860 --> 00:53:18.840] that come with adoption
[00:53:18.840 --> 00:53:20.580] that a lot of people don't know.
[00:53:21.100 --> 00:53:22.660] So that's why I feel like media
[00:53:22.660 --> 00:53:25.680] is gonna be a big tool to get it out there,
[00:53:25.700 --> 00:53:27.200] and not just reading material,
[00:53:27.440 --> 00:53:29.260] but actual conversations
[00:53:29.760 --> 00:53:32.160] so that people can really hear it and it can stick.
[00:53:33.020 --> 00:53:33.820] Well, I know the people
[00:53:33.820 --> 00:53:35.500] that's gonna love this conversation.
[00:53:35.500 --> 00:53:36.780] I appreciate you.
[00:53:37.240 --> 00:53:38.140] Oh, you're very welcome.
[00:53:38.140 --> 00:53:40.220] Thank you for listening.
[00:53:41.020 --> 00:53:45.540] And if there's an inspirational word or quote
[00:53:45.540 --> 00:53:49.140] you may give someone in a tough situation
[00:53:49.140 --> 00:53:51.960] or even an adoptee or entrepreneur
[00:53:51.960 --> 00:53:53.320] that may be struggling,
[00:53:53.460 --> 00:53:55.020] what are some words that you could give
[00:53:55.020 --> 00:53:56.000] to encourage them?
[00:53:56.740 --> 00:53:57.580] I would say,
[00:53:57.640 --> 00:53:59.040] because this is something I say to me often
[00:53:59.040 --> 00:54:00.440] and it may sound cliche,
[00:54:00.840 --> 00:54:04.100] but no weapon formed against you shall prosper.
[00:54:05.480 --> 00:54:07.720] Like absolutely, unless you give it the power,
[00:54:07.940 --> 00:54:09.360] whether it's a regular person
[00:54:09.360 --> 00:54:12.000] who's just talking nasty about you,
[00:54:12.100 --> 00:54:13.860] whether it's your living situation,
[00:54:13.860 --> 00:54:14.940] maybe you're in a building
[00:54:14.940 --> 00:54:17.540] and it's just not where you wanna be.
[00:54:17.780 --> 00:54:19.260] You have a boss that's,
[00:54:20.080 --> 00:54:24.480] you have the control over how that's gonna affect you.
[00:54:25.640 --> 00:54:27.040] You still have that control,
[00:54:27.160 --> 00:54:29.060] even if you feel like you don't, you do.
[00:54:30.400 --> 00:54:32.100] You can let somebody say,
[00:54:32.260 --> 00:54:32.860] oh, you're stupid
[00:54:32.860 --> 00:54:34.740] and really let it mess up your whole day,
[00:54:34.980 --> 00:54:36.200] or you can take them like,
[00:54:36.580 --> 00:54:39.160] that's their opinion, not mine.
[00:54:39.660 --> 00:54:42.740] No weapon formed against you shall prosper.
[00:54:42.740 --> 00:54:45.060] It brings me back to one of my affirmations.
[00:54:45.320 --> 00:54:47.760] Also, again, check out alien affirmations,
[00:54:48.120 --> 00:54:49.740] one, two, three, yes.
[00:54:50.060 --> 00:54:52.060] Or you can just type in alien one, two, three,
[00:54:52.060 --> 00:54:53.300] it may pop up.
[00:54:53.520 --> 00:54:54.920] And I say,
[00:54:56.060 --> 00:54:56.760] I'm a magician.
[00:54:57.340 --> 00:54:59.800] I could change my mind in an instant.
[00:55:00.440 --> 00:55:01.540] I'm a magician.
[00:55:02.180 --> 00:55:03.780] That's what it brings me to that.
[00:55:04.060 --> 00:55:06.620] Even the opening statement like,
[00:55:06.820 --> 00:55:08.860] change your mind, you could change the world.
[00:55:09.320 --> 00:55:11.120] Like these are the type of affirmations
[00:55:11.120 --> 00:55:11.720] that I include.
[00:55:11.720 --> 00:55:12.660] That too.
[00:55:12.680 --> 00:55:14.660] And I do have another little long one.
[00:55:14.760 --> 00:55:15.820] Okay, that's definitely fair.
[00:55:15.840 --> 00:55:19.080] But I love to say it because most of us are,
[00:55:19.160 --> 00:55:20.480] we're giving some type of service
[00:55:20.480 --> 00:55:21.700] to somebody else or something.
[00:55:22.400 --> 00:55:23.920] So another one I like to say is,
[00:55:24.080 --> 00:55:26.060] I do wonderful work in a wonderful way.
[00:55:26.600 --> 00:55:29.040] I give wonderful service for wonderful pay.
[00:55:29.280 --> 00:55:30.760] I'm gonna repeat it after you.
[00:55:31.520 --> 00:55:32.440] Let's go, I'll start.
[00:55:32.460 --> 00:55:34.260] I do wonderful work in a wonderful way.
[00:55:34.620 --> 00:55:36.560] I do wonderful work in a wonderful way.
[00:55:36.800 --> 00:55:38.400] I give wonderful service.
[00:55:38.560 --> 00:55:40.180] I give wonderful service.
[00:55:40.300 --> 00:55:41.340] For wonderful pay.
[00:55:41.340 --> 00:55:42.600] For wonderful pay.
[00:55:42.760 --> 00:55:43.560] Come on now.
[00:55:44.640 --> 00:55:45.460] Come on now.
[00:55:45.500 --> 00:55:47.060] And I've used that before in saying,
[00:55:47.760 --> 00:55:49.400] with them clients doing hair and stuff,
[00:55:49.500 --> 00:55:50.780] them tits go a little higher.
[00:55:51.440 --> 00:55:53.320] So it's all about what you say.
[00:55:53.560 --> 00:55:54.660] And then you gotta believe it.
[00:55:54.720 --> 00:55:56.260] You gotta believe what you say.
[00:55:56.720 --> 00:55:57.820] Not just say it.
[00:55:57.940 --> 00:55:58.680] You gotta believe it.
[00:55:58.680 --> 00:55:59.660] You have to believe.
[00:56:00.120 --> 00:56:02.920] And you know it was crazy as you say that.
[00:56:02.920 --> 00:56:04.540] That's actually how I got my first wedding.
[00:56:05.340 --> 00:56:07.240] I was with my old photography partner.
[00:56:07.620 --> 00:56:08.340] We went to the party.
[00:56:08.360 --> 00:56:09.500] We was gonna practice some stuff
[00:56:09.500 --> 00:56:10.900] and get some brand each other.
[00:56:10.900 --> 00:56:12.260] You take photographs of me.
[00:56:12.260 --> 00:56:13.620] I take photographs of you.
[00:56:14.480 --> 00:56:16.120] Practice in a different light.
[00:56:16.560 --> 00:56:18.500] And I always said I wanted to jump into weddings.
[00:56:19.520 --> 00:56:20.840] And before we did,
[00:56:22.040 --> 00:56:23.900] we listened to my affirmations that I made.
[00:56:23.960 --> 00:56:24.920] I didn't release this one,
[00:56:25.520 --> 00:56:30.540] but one of them is I deserve to get the money.
[00:56:31.180 --> 00:56:32.260] I deserve.
[00:56:32.460 --> 00:56:34.020] And then I repeated it and said it
[00:56:34.020 --> 00:56:35.180] in a more powerful tone.
[00:56:36.040 --> 00:56:37.360] That was just one of them,
[00:56:37.460 --> 00:56:40.320] but it was a lengthy track, almost seven.
[00:56:41.000 --> 00:56:43.380] And probably even longer than that.
[00:56:43.500 --> 00:56:45.220] I have some shorter ones too,
[00:56:45.260 --> 00:56:46.780] but just listening to that,
[00:56:47.360 --> 00:56:49.280] some great things always come through.
[00:56:49.420 --> 00:56:52.800] And that's how I attracted my first wedding client.
[00:56:52.940 --> 00:56:54.940] Yes, that is so true.
[00:56:55.260 --> 00:56:56.580] And even with the vision boards,
[00:56:56.860 --> 00:56:58.260] I have a vision book.
[00:56:59.880 --> 00:57:02.160] Because I like to keep it with me
[00:57:02.160 --> 00:57:04.040] and so I can look at it more often.
[00:57:05.400 --> 00:57:07.200] And some of the things are still manifest,
[00:57:07.300 --> 00:57:09.040] but one thing was the speaking opportunity.
[00:57:09.040 --> 00:57:12.400] I had a microphone, me talking every day
[00:57:12.400 --> 00:57:13.900] before the opportunity even came.
[00:57:14.280 --> 00:57:15.900] And I was sitting down and thinking of one day,
[00:57:15.940 --> 00:57:18.240] I was like, wait a minute, get your vision book.
[00:57:18.360 --> 00:57:20.480] And I looked at the years I had on there
[00:57:20.480 --> 00:57:22.100] from 2021 to 2023,
[00:57:22.520 --> 00:57:24.180] and that was when I got my very first
[00:57:24.180 --> 00:57:25.500] public speaking opportunity in 2020.
[00:57:26.260 --> 00:57:27.560] So as you speak book
[00:57:27.560 --> 00:57:29.880] and we talked about the products earlier,
[00:57:29.980 --> 00:57:31.680] even what I'm doing with the podcast,
[00:57:32.140 --> 00:57:35.180] especially my solo podcast in the earlier stages,
[00:57:36.000 --> 00:57:38.460] breaking it up into books, like the transcripts,
[00:57:38.460 --> 00:57:41.060] and then getting the key points and highlights from that,
[00:57:41.320 --> 00:57:43.700] putting it into books, expanding on it.
[00:57:44.300 --> 00:57:47.040] So yeah, I kind of give you that tip too.
[00:57:47.220 --> 00:57:49.120] Look what you take from each interview
[00:57:49.740 --> 00:57:52.080] and reflect on it and,
[00:57:52.200 --> 00:57:53.560] or even use them as examples,
[00:57:54.560 --> 00:57:56.360] like such-and-such spoke about boom, boom, boom.
[00:57:56.560 --> 00:57:59.140] This is why it's important, and you know.
[00:57:59.420 --> 00:58:01.460] Ah, see, y'all need to tap into him.
[00:58:01.540 --> 00:58:02.660] Y'all need to tap in.
[00:58:02.700 --> 00:58:04.080] He's always dropping gems.
[00:58:04.360 --> 00:58:04.840] I appreciate it.
[00:58:04.840 --> 00:58:05.500] Like somebody met him.
[00:58:05.580 --> 00:58:07.020] It hasn't even been that long.
[00:58:07.020 --> 00:58:07.600] It hasn't?
[00:58:07.620 --> 00:58:08.380] Under a month.
[00:58:08.560 --> 00:58:10.000] Yeah, under a month for sure.
[00:58:10.000 --> 00:58:11.360] And he's just been doing the work, like.
[00:58:11.760 --> 00:58:12.960] Absolutely, dropping so much gems.
[00:58:13.080 --> 00:58:15.340] But again, that shows that being in alignment.
[00:58:15.920 --> 00:58:16.240] You know what I mean?
[00:58:16.340 --> 00:58:18.560] Again, why I'm so glad I showed up to that event
[00:58:18.560 --> 00:58:20.680] because it connected me with more amazing people.
[00:58:21.280 --> 00:58:22.480] So it's only up from here.
[00:58:22.600 --> 00:58:23.460] It's only up from here.
[00:58:23.460 --> 00:58:23.740] It's only up.
[00:58:24.280 --> 00:58:25.980] Oh, are we doing the work?
[00:58:26.140 --> 00:58:27.220] Yes, yes, yes.
[00:58:27.260 --> 00:58:28.280] You gotta do the work.
[00:58:29.180 --> 00:58:30.400] Ooh, you have to do the work.
[00:58:30.820 --> 00:58:32.560] Don't just take in the knowledge.
[00:58:33.420 --> 00:58:35.160] Like, so don't just take what we're telling you
[00:58:35.160 --> 00:58:36.220] and just let it sit there.
[00:58:36.220 --> 00:58:37.960] Actually do what we're telling you.
[00:58:38.080 --> 00:58:38.620] You have to.
[00:58:38.860 --> 00:58:39.560] Like, for real.
[00:58:40.420 --> 00:58:41.460] And so y'all are not looking at us like,
[00:58:41.580 --> 00:58:43.760] oh, but y'all said, yeah, you gotta do it.
[00:58:43.800 --> 00:58:45.240] And you have to be consistent.
[00:58:45.420 --> 00:58:46.080] You have to.
[00:58:46.460 --> 00:58:47.460] You have to be consistent.
[00:58:47.960 --> 00:58:49.800] Like, I started my journey in 2018.
[00:58:50.080 --> 00:58:51.460] This is 2025.
[00:58:52.500 --> 00:58:54.040] It's taking time, but I'm still growing.
[00:58:54.840 --> 00:58:55.380] You know what I mean?
[00:58:55.380 --> 00:58:56.660] I'm still growing.
[00:58:57.080 --> 00:58:59.060] How many years is that difference?
[00:58:59.440 --> 00:59:00.400] Ooh, my goodness.
[00:59:00.620 --> 00:59:03.880] 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, about six, 70 years or so?
[00:59:03.940 --> 00:59:04.260] Seven.
[00:59:04.260 --> 00:59:05.440] I've been on this journey.
[00:59:05.440 --> 00:59:06.800] Seven years.
[00:59:06.880 --> 00:59:07.400] Seven years.
[00:59:07.400 --> 00:59:08.600] Is seven a powerful number?
[00:59:09.140 --> 00:59:10.180] Ooh, it is.
[00:59:10.220 --> 00:59:11.960] That's my life path number.
[00:59:12.400 --> 00:59:14.140] And we've been talking about sevens all day.
[00:59:14.580 --> 00:59:16.600] And that's actually my daughter's name too.
[00:59:16.820 --> 00:59:17.240] Really?
[00:59:17.460 --> 00:59:17.980] Yeah.
[00:59:18.140 --> 00:59:19.120] See, look at that.
[00:59:19.680 --> 00:59:20.420] Oh my goodness.
[00:59:20.460 --> 00:59:21.740] The confirmation, guys.
[00:59:21.820 --> 00:59:23.420] Are y'all seeing this confirmation right here?
[00:59:23.420 --> 00:59:23.740] Wow.
[00:59:23.740 --> 00:59:26.120] When you're in alignment with where you're supposed to be
[00:59:26.120 --> 00:59:29.860] and you show up and you really trust yourself.
[00:59:30.180 --> 00:59:31.260] Oh my goodness.
[00:59:31.720 --> 00:59:33.080] Like, don't be scared.
[00:59:33.620 --> 00:59:35.500] I was scared for so long
[00:59:35.500 --> 00:59:38.640] and it kept me so stagnant for so long.
[00:59:39.400 --> 00:59:42.940] Once I started to venture out and stop being so scared,
[00:59:43.380 --> 00:59:45.040] it put on, like they say, the big girl panties.
[00:59:45.960 --> 00:59:49.520] Man, like it's literally just been one thing after another.
[00:59:49.920 --> 00:59:52.180] Like it's, oh my gosh, it's amazing.
[00:59:52.620 --> 00:59:54.600] When they say enjoy the journey and the process,
[00:59:54.780 --> 00:59:55.800] that's literally where I'm at.
[00:59:56.000 --> 00:59:58.160] I'm actually able to enjoy the journey.
[00:59:58.860 --> 00:59:59.320] Yeah.
[00:59:59.380 --> 00:59:59.980] Oh, it's so much fun.
[01:00:00.820 --> 01:00:03.640] I know we can wrap, oh, we're gonna have to do a part two
[01:00:03.640 --> 01:00:04.280] for sure.
[01:00:04.600 --> 01:00:04.740] We are.
[01:00:04.740 --> 01:00:05.040] We are, for sure.
[01:00:05.040 --> 01:00:06.220] We're gonna have school.
[01:00:06.880 --> 01:00:08.200] This is definitely high level.
[01:00:08.280 --> 01:00:09.840] This is definitely inspirational.
[01:00:10.440 --> 01:00:12.180] Appreciate you sharing your story
[01:00:12.180 --> 01:00:14.360] and like, oh, it amazes me more.
[01:00:14.500 --> 01:00:15.300] Thank you.
[01:00:15.420 --> 01:00:16.440] I really appreciate it.
[01:00:16.500 --> 01:00:17.620] I loved it, for sure.
[01:00:18.160 --> 01:00:20.120] So for those listening in, you know,
[01:00:20.520 --> 01:00:22.980] I'm promoting myself as a business coach.
[01:00:23.560 --> 01:00:25.700] I like to have ideation sessions
[01:00:25.700 --> 01:00:27.580] because I like to have different ideas
[01:00:27.580 --> 01:00:28.620] and bounce them off people.
[01:00:28.620 --> 01:00:32.540] So with that being said, would you hire me as a coach?
[01:00:33.400 --> 01:00:33.540] Absolutely.
[01:00:34.140 --> 01:00:34.580] Okay.
[01:00:34.900 --> 01:00:37.720] 10 out of 10, just from the last few days
[01:00:37.720 --> 01:00:39.080] that we've been talking consistently
[01:00:39.080 --> 01:00:42.620] and how you just been dropping gems on my podcast
[01:00:42.620 --> 01:00:44.600] and the question that you've been asking me,
[01:00:45.160 --> 01:00:46.940] like any question, right there.
[01:00:47.020 --> 01:00:48.340] And sometimes you answer the questions
[01:00:48.340 --> 01:00:50.560] before I even ask the question, so I would.
[01:00:51.220 --> 01:00:52.660] I've been practicing, I've been practicing.
[01:00:52.780 --> 01:00:53.300] For sure.
[01:00:54.420 --> 01:00:55.400] That just goes to,
[01:00:55.400 --> 01:00:57.060] cause I go like to a lot of workshops,
[01:00:57.060 --> 01:01:01.640] read books, webinars, conferences, travel outside
[01:01:01.640 --> 01:01:03.720] to stay, go to conferences and network.
[01:01:04.020 --> 01:01:05.280] So yeah, it's like you said,
[01:01:05.280 --> 01:01:06.800] you have to apply what you know.
[01:01:06.800 --> 01:01:07.680] I know all of this.
[01:01:07.960 --> 01:01:08.960] I take a lot of notes.
[01:01:08.960 --> 01:01:10.300] I don't just keep it in my notebook.
[01:01:10.420 --> 01:01:11.140] There you go.
[01:01:11.140 --> 01:01:14.000] I'll reread it, apply it, even stuff you,
[01:01:14.000 --> 01:01:16.200] I may not even know, but it's like, hmm.
[01:01:16.820 --> 01:01:20.300] But I'm sure me staying consistent with my learning,
[01:01:20.780 --> 01:01:23.280] you know, is gonna help with that situation.
[01:01:23.640 --> 01:01:24.060] Absolutely.
[01:01:24.060 --> 01:01:27.300] Me taking action is how you recorded my trailer that day
[01:01:27.300 --> 01:01:29.580] cause I already had to take action on it.
[01:01:29.580 --> 01:01:30.280] So I was ready.
[01:01:30.900 --> 01:01:31.520] You know what?
[01:01:31.740 --> 01:01:33.100] I'm gonna do something special.
[01:01:33.740 --> 01:01:35.440] That was just in the studio,
[01:01:35.660 --> 01:01:37.440] but we're gonna actually create,
[01:01:37.900 --> 01:01:39.960] I call that the unofficial trailer.
[01:01:40.060 --> 01:01:41.500] We're gonna create an actual trailer.
[01:01:41.900 --> 01:01:43.640] On me, on me, on me.
[01:01:44.300 --> 01:01:45.620] Just cause I appreciate your vision
[01:01:45.620 --> 01:01:48.100] and the line of work you do and the importance of it.
[01:01:48.380 --> 01:01:50.880] And like you said, there's not enough media in there.
[01:01:51.460 --> 01:01:53.780] So that's gonna be my, you know, courtesy
[01:01:53.780 --> 01:01:55.400] Aw, thank you.
[01:01:55.400 --> 01:01:57.780] See y'all, y'all need to come check him out.
[01:01:57.820 --> 01:01:59.700] I don't know if he gonna do everything.
[01:02:00.060 --> 01:02:00.880] You have to talk to him about that.
[01:02:00.880 --> 01:02:03.520] I don't really do,
[01:02:05.980 --> 01:02:08.720] yeah, just talk, just send me a message.
[01:02:08.780 --> 01:02:09.800] We gotta make money.
[01:02:09.920 --> 01:02:11.600] Yeah, I got babies to feed.
[01:02:13.320 --> 01:02:14.180] Dills gotta be paid.
[01:02:14.220 --> 01:02:15.340] That's right, that's right.
[01:02:15.700 --> 01:02:17.260] But you know, you never know.
[01:02:17.420 --> 01:02:18.820] Just that's the importance of networking.
[01:02:19.260 --> 01:02:20.880] And you spoke about that too.
[01:02:21.720 --> 01:02:23.420] And even at the workshop,
[01:02:23.420 --> 01:02:26.040] I told everybody find an accountability partner.
[01:02:26.500 --> 01:02:28.000] Now are you keeping in touch
[01:02:28.000 --> 01:02:29.440] with your accountability partner?
[01:02:29.600 --> 01:02:32.620] So we are following each other on Instagram.
[01:02:33.520 --> 01:02:35.620] She's like my post, actually my trailer
[01:02:35.620 --> 01:02:36.480] and everything like that.
[01:02:36.480 --> 01:02:39.420] But we have not met outside yet together.
[01:02:39.680 --> 01:02:41.860] Well, I don't wanna say met,
[01:02:42.020 --> 01:02:44.520] but maybe I think what I said at that day,
[01:02:45.180 --> 01:02:47.560] you know, keeping communications once a week.
[01:02:47.720 --> 01:02:49.100] Did you do what you were supposed to do this week?
[01:02:49.620 --> 01:02:50.460] You know, so.
[01:02:50.480 --> 01:02:51.860] Yeah, we gotta work on getting there.
[01:02:52.040 --> 01:02:52.480] We both here.
[01:02:52.480 --> 01:02:53.240] All right, so.
[01:02:53.260 --> 01:02:54.400] But yes, we're friends.
[01:02:54.560 --> 01:02:55.800] We have each other's numbers,
[01:02:55.980 --> 01:02:56.860] which I love that too.
[01:02:56.860 --> 01:02:57.980] We make sure we exchange numbers,
[01:02:58.000 --> 01:02:59.020] not just social media.
[01:02:59.020 --> 01:02:59.940] Right, that's important.
[01:02:59.940 --> 01:03:00.240] For sure.
[01:03:00.380 --> 01:03:01.440] Get the personal number too,
[01:03:01.440 --> 01:03:02.260] not just social media.
[01:03:02.560 --> 01:03:04.040] Because some people are on,
[01:03:04.200 --> 01:03:05.820] they're not on social media all the time.
[01:03:06.200 --> 01:03:07.920] I'm truly, I'm gonna get them back.
[01:03:08.140 --> 01:03:10.180] I always say that, but then I just be like,
[01:03:10.820 --> 01:03:11.700] did you see my post?
[01:03:11.800 --> 01:03:14.640] I'm like, it'll be a week later.
[01:03:15.460 --> 01:03:16.640] I'm like, but yeah.
[01:03:16.640 --> 01:03:18.840] It's okay, we understand, we understand.
[01:03:19.820 --> 01:03:21.160] Yeah, I'm busy living life
[01:03:21.160 --> 01:03:22.400] and I'm actually doing the work.
[01:03:22.400 --> 01:03:23.700] So that's why I'm not on.
[01:03:23.880 --> 01:03:24.620] And that's the thing.
[01:03:24.640 --> 01:03:25.640] It's not like you're just gone
[01:03:25.640 --> 01:03:26.620] because you're just gone.
[01:03:26.760 --> 01:03:27.640] You're putting in work.
[01:03:28.000 --> 01:03:28.440] Yeah.
[01:03:28.660 --> 01:03:29.880] You know, elevation.
[01:03:30.860 --> 01:03:33.020] Elevation, through focus and meditation.
[01:03:33.180 --> 01:03:33.560] See, see.
[01:03:33.900 --> 01:03:34.340] Patience.
[01:03:34.880 --> 01:03:35.300] Ooh, yo.
[01:03:35.760 --> 01:03:37.180] I might do a video for that poem.
[01:03:37.380 --> 01:03:38.360] I think you should.
[01:03:38.800 --> 01:03:42.080] But after this, we're gonna wrap up the song.
[01:03:43.020 --> 01:03:44.620] But reach out, send that message to her.
[01:03:44.860 --> 01:03:45.580] What was her name again?
[01:03:46.280 --> 01:03:48.680] So my name on Instagram
[01:03:48.680 --> 01:03:52.780] at unshattered underscore adoptee,
[01:03:53.180 --> 01:03:55.480] at unshattered underscore adoptee.
[01:03:55.480 --> 01:03:57.740] Feel free to DM me, send me a message.
[01:03:57.780 --> 01:03:59.920] If you have any questions, any suggestions,
[01:03:59.940 --> 01:04:01.900] if you wanna work with me,
[01:04:02.220 --> 01:04:03.940] hey, I would love to have you.
[01:04:04.540 --> 01:04:04.980] Yes, yes.
[01:04:05.020 --> 01:04:07.420] And if you need another accountability partner,
[01:04:07.460 --> 01:04:08.620] you have two here.
[01:04:08.820 --> 01:04:09.300] Yes, yes, yes.
[01:04:09.300 --> 01:04:12.020] So yes, let me reach out to me also
[01:04:12.020 --> 01:04:14.540] at alien eyes photos.
[01:04:14.600 --> 01:04:17.340] And that's alien eyes with a Z,
[01:04:17.340 --> 01:04:21.820] photos with a S, alien eyes photos on all media
[01:04:21.820 --> 01:04:25.260] and check out alieneyesphotos.com
[01:04:25.260 --> 01:04:27.120] and also fan base,
[01:04:27.420 --> 01:04:30.840] who I just happened to be an investor in.
[01:04:31.120 --> 01:04:33.300] Black-owned media, social media
[01:04:33.300 --> 01:04:35.500] by Mr. Isaac Hayes III.
[01:04:36.320 --> 01:04:39.560] Yes, y'all know that his father is a great R&B singer.
[01:04:39.640 --> 01:04:41.540] He's doing great things in Atlanta.
[01:04:41.860 --> 01:04:44.060] And I kinda, I didn't get to formally meet him
[01:04:44.060 --> 01:04:46.340] in Atlanta at the podcast summit,
[01:04:46.340 --> 01:04:49.600] but I happened to go through the replays,
[01:04:49.600 --> 01:04:52.840] like, oh, he was there, I heard his story
[01:04:52.840 --> 01:04:56.380] and just how he speaks about fan base and his brand.
[01:04:56.560 --> 01:04:58.340] I'm like, it's something I could buy into
[01:04:58.340 --> 01:05:00.760] and invest with, so, you know.
[01:05:01.440 --> 01:05:04.380] Find me on fan base also, alieneyesphotos.
[01:05:04.840 --> 01:05:08.240] So yeah, I encourage everyone to make a account
[01:05:08.240 --> 01:05:11.560] and it's for creators to get paid.
[01:05:12.640 --> 01:05:15.200] They have likes and they also have love.
[01:05:15.200 --> 01:05:19.900] So, love, you know, you get half cent
[01:05:19.900 --> 01:05:21.060] for each person I love you.
[01:05:21.060 --> 01:05:22.160] It goes back to the company
[01:05:22.160 --> 01:05:24.600] and the other half cent goes to you.
[01:05:24.760 --> 01:05:26.000] Oh, I love that.
[01:05:26.520 --> 01:05:26.760] Yeah.
[01:05:26.760 --> 01:05:27.220] Oh, I love that.
[01:05:27.220 --> 01:05:27.960] For creators, yeah.
[01:05:27.980 --> 01:05:28.500] That's amazing.
[01:05:28.800 --> 01:05:29.800] That's amazing for sure.
[01:05:29.940 --> 01:05:30.820] I definitely gotta tap in.
[01:05:31.180 --> 01:05:33.240] Yeah, and they also have audio rooms,
[01:05:34.060 --> 01:05:35.020] like clubhouse.
[01:05:35.260 --> 01:05:36.620] So they had an audio room.
[01:05:36.860 --> 01:05:38.140] So I want to build out,
[01:05:38.160 --> 01:05:41.120] well, I'm building out, you know,
[01:05:41.160 --> 01:05:42.960] with my platform and the podcast,
[01:05:42.960 --> 01:05:45.000] getting them more towards fan base.
[01:05:45.240 --> 01:05:47.100] So like, we having this conversation here.
[01:05:47.140 --> 01:05:48.780] So probably the next time, part two,
[01:05:49.340 --> 01:05:50.820] I will have it, you know,
[01:05:50.900 --> 01:05:52.620] kind of streaming through the audio
[01:05:52.620 --> 01:05:54.960] with fan base and the audio room.
[01:05:55.940 --> 01:05:57.520] But it's still, I mean,
[01:05:57.520 --> 01:05:59.900] I'm still learning platform myself, so.
[01:06:00.560 --> 01:06:01.080] You know.
[01:06:01.180 --> 01:06:02.520] But you got a lot of knowledge though.
[01:06:03.680 --> 01:06:03.900] Yeah.
[01:06:04.160 --> 01:06:04.440] For sure.
[01:06:04.440 --> 01:06:04.760] For sure.
[01:06:04.900 --> 01:06:06.640] It's just time for me to use it, you know.
[01:06:06.700 --> 01:06:08.460] Yeah, I'm so excited you are.
[01:06:08.700 --> 01:06:09.380] Thank you.
[01:06:09.540 --> 01:06:09.980] Mm-hmm.
[01:06:10.220 --> 01:06:11.240] I appreciate that.
[01:06:11.240 --> 01:06:13.580] Well, any closing words for the people,
[01:06:14.160 --> 01:06:16.700] for the creative entrepreneurs specifically?
[01:06:17.460 --> 01:06:18.200] Keep going.
[01:06:18.460 --> 01:06:19.020] Keep going.
[01:06:19.760 --> 01:06:23.420] Your vision, keep going and your vision has purpose.
[01:06:23.780 --> 01:06:27.380] Keep going and your vision has purpose.
[01:06:27.780 --> 01:06:29.800] Keep going and your vision has purpose.
[01:06:30.100 --> 01:06:30.720] I love that.
[01:06:30.760 --> 01:06:31.220] Mm-hmm.
[01:06:31.400 --> 01:06:32.640] Well, Ms. Kayla Monique,
[01:06:32.780 --> 01:06:35.620] I want to appreciate you for taking,
[01:06:35.680 --> 01:06:39.420] this is actually my first interview with this podcast.
[01:06:39.440 --> 01:06:39.900] Hey.
[01:06:41.080 --> 01:06:41.960] My first.
[01:06:42.520 --> 01:06:43.600] First guest, yes.
[01:06:43.880 --> 01:06:46.040] I jumped out the solo realm.
[01:06:47.260 --> 01:06:48.560] That's my first interview.
[01:06:48.680 --> 01:06:49.220] Yay, I love it.
[01:06:49.220 --> 01:06:50.100] For the podcast.
[01:06:50.580 --> 01:06:50.660] I love it.
[01:06:50.660 --> 01:06:51.080] I love it.
[01:06:51.500 --> 01:06:53.060] And you got a re-twist with it.
[01:06:53.180 --> 01:06:53.960] We got a re-twist.
[01:06:54.120 --> 01:06:54.980] See, knock it two birds.
[01:06:55.740 --> 01:06:57.500] See, anybody that know me,
[01:06:57.500 --> 01:06:58.940] I love preaching,
[01:06:59.040 --> 01:07:00.740] knock out two birds with one stone.
[01:07:01.020 --> 01:07:01.080] Yes.
[01:07:01.080 --> 01:07:02.200] And that's what we did there.
[01:07:02.500 --> 01:07:02.940] Absolutely.
[01:07:03.140 --> 01:07:03.380] Yes.
[01:07:03.380 --> 01:07:04.840] Got the re-twist done,
[01:07:05.040 --> 01:07:07.040] did an interview, you know.
[01:07:07.340 --> 01:07:08.000] Content, come on.
[01:07:08.160 --> 01:07:09.400] Content, yes.
[01:07:09.400 --> 01:07:10.840] I love it.
[01:07:10.840 --> 01:07:13.160] Oh my God, I cannot thank you enough.
[01:07:13.800 --> 01:07:15.760] Right on time, right on time, yes.
[01:07:16.440 --> 01:07:18.300] So, with that being said,
[01:07:18.420 --> 01:07:21.860] this has been Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[01:07:23.220 --> 01:07:25.260] Like, share, follow.
[01:07:25.400 --> 01:07:26.980] I'm trying to get away from subscribe
[01:07:26.980 --> 01:07:28.960] because subscribe could mean, you know,
[01:07:29.400 --> 01:07:31.160] a monetary thing, but subscribe.
[01:07:31.540 --> 01:07:34.060] But also subscribe because I will have
[01:07:34.060 --> 01:07:37.200] different content that be under a paywall, you know.
[01:07:37.200 --> 01:07:40.240] But, you know, like, follow, reach out,
[01:07:40.400 --> 01:07:42.980] send a message, engage, build a community,
[01:07:43.620 --> 01:07:45.120] book me as an event photographer,
[01:07:45.340 --> 01:07:46.300] book me as a coach.
[01:07:47.100 --> 01:07:48.380] I just get to work.
[01:07:49.320 --> 01:07:50.880] Thank you, thank you for tuning in.
[01:07:50.940 --> 01:07:53.640] Again, this is Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[01:07:54.200 --> 01:07:56.300] Until next time, thank you.
[01:07:57.040 --> 01:07:57.520] Peace.
[01:08:00.840 --> 01:08:01.680] Yes, yes, yes.
[01:08:01.680 --> 01:08:01.880] Ha, ha.

========================================================================
82. Ep. 9 - Self Love Momentum w/ Photographer Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 9
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/ep-9-self-love-momentum-w-photographer-jackson
========================================================================

[00:00:01.490 --> 00:00:08.230] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome back to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:09.010 --> 00:00:13.050] Yes, Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:14.530 --> 00:00:19.170] And this is episode 9, and I want to speak about self-love.
[00:00:20.170 --> 00:00:21.610] That's very important.
[00:00:23.370 --> 00:00:25.650] Episode 9, the Divine Nine.
[00:00:25.650 --> 00:00:34.740] Self-love and the general definition may be high regards of your well-being and happiness.
[00:00:35.680 --> 00:00:43.260] And to add on my extended definition, it's truly the love you have for yourself,
[00:00:44.100 --> 00:00:48.600] the words, actions, decisions, diet, clothing you wear,
[00:00:49.340 --> 00:00:53.300] and even what you consume, from food, from what you read, watch,
[00:00:53.300 --> 00:00:58.300] to what you listen to or who you listen to.
[00:00:58.320 --> 00:00:59.120] It's important.
[00:01:01.450 --> 00:01:06.050] And it all affects your love for yourself and the thoughts you have about yourself.
[00:01:08.210 --> 00:01:12.350] It is being kind to yourself, no matter the circumstance,
[00:01:12.870 --> 00:01:16.930] while doing the inner work to nourish your entire existence.
[00:01:18.550 --> 00:01:21.070] Nourish your entire existence.
[00:01:22.050 --> 00:01:29.190] That is my personal, short, short definition of self-love.
[00:01:31.050 --> 00:01:36.850] Let me hear your personal definition of self-love and what self-love means to you.
[00:01:39.650 --> 00:01:43.810] Thinking affects our emotions, and emotions affect our thinking.
[00:01:45.070 --> 00:01:52.270] So when we're mad, we usually get in a positive, you know, positive mad.
[00:01:53.030 --> 00:01:56.230] I guess that's not a good way to word it, positive mad.
[00:01:56.290 --> 00:02:03.330] Like you're positively in the mad zone or the rage zone.
[00:02:04.330 --> 00:02:10.690] I guess I could word it that it's a bad mind state, negative mind state.
[00:02:12.510 --> 00:02:20.250] And to get to that positively good mindset, mind state,
[00:02:21.150 --> 00:02:23.950] it takes some work, you know.
[00:02:24.170 --> 00:02:33.230] So if your emotions are troubled, are, you know, feeling attacked,
[00:02:35.310 --> 00:02:41.330] usually your thinking is usually to defend yourself or attack back.
[00:02:42.330 --> 00:02:46.230] And that's not always a good case, you know.
[00:02:46.870 --> 00:02:49.210] It's not always a good outcome, I should say.
[00:02:54.910 --> 00:03:01.630] Having good thoughts truly, you know, influence your emotions,
[00:03:01.630 --> 00:03:10.930] but I think your emotions have a far, by far heavier weight on your thoughts
[00:03:10.930 --> 00:03:12.890] than your thoughts do on your emotions.
[00:03:13.950 --> 00:03:17.090] Now you can have these great thoughts all you want,
[00:03:18.190 --> 00:03:20.210] but you also got to have that emotion.
[00:03:20.210 --> 00:03:22.930] You know, if your emotions are great and intact
[00:03:22.930 --> 00:03:27.690] and you have this, you know, great sense of emotional intelligence
[00:03:27.690 --> 00:03:30.810] and when to pinpoint a certain emotion
[00:03:30.810 --> 00:03:34.270] or when you feel like this emotion is coming on or coming about,
[00:03:34.750 --> 00:03:41.520] you know, to shift that and alter your thinking by altering your emotions.
[00:03:42.920 --> 00:03:49.180] A lot of people, you know, they love being stuck in a rut,
[00:03:49.180 --> 00:03:51.140] you know, at least to say.
[00:03:51.680 --> 00:03:54.860] But always remember thinking affects your emotions
[00:03:54.860 --> 00:03:57.100] and emotions affect your thinking.
[00:03:58.960 --> 00:04:02.560] Transform your thinking when you are not in control of your thoughts
[00:04:02.980 --> 00:04:07.460] and negative thoughts and emotions arise.
[00:04:09.040 --> 00:04:10.700] Shift the way you think.
[00:04:11.700 --> 00:04:15.760] Those words, those actions, you cannot get back.
[00:04:17.740 --> 00:04:18.760] You cannot get them back.
[00:04:19.519 --> 00:04:24.660] I know technology and inventions are increasing by the day.
[00:04:26.300 --> 00:04:30.100] We have yet to come, come up with a way to go back in time
[00:04:30.100 --> 00:04:34.920] on a consistent basis, on a consistent basis without space
[00:04:34.920 --> 00:04:36.260] or out of space, I should say,
[00:04:38.180 --> 00:04:41.280] which may be the only constant at the moment.
[00:04:44.760 --> 00:04:48.100] My artist name, like I mentioned in the affirmations
[00:04:48.100 --> 00:04:50.500] that I will be linking in all my shows,
[00:04:50.500 --> 00:04:52.460] Alien Affirmations, one, two, three.
[00:04:52.520 --> 00:04:54.360] I don't think I said it on the last episode.
[00:04:54.960 --> 00:04:57.460] So Alien Affirmations, one, two, three.
[00:04:57.680 --> 00:05:00.760] Or if you type in Alien, one, two, three,
[00:05:00.880 --> 00:05:01.900] it's a little cheat code.
[00:05:01.920 --> 00:05:03.980] Sometimes it pops up.
[00:05:04.240 --> 00:05:06.700] Artist name, Alien Aplea.
[00:05:07.880 --> 00:05:14.250] And it hints at that outer space to almost time travel.
[00:05:15.950 --> 00:05:18.990] And I have an older spirit, older soul.
[00:05:22.300 --> 00:05:23.220] You know, some of my thoughts,
[00:05:23.220 --> 00:05:26.460] I feel like our time travel back into the past
[00:05:27.300 --> 00:05:31.680] to get the outcome for the present,
[00:05:32.300 --> 00:05:33.740] or even the future, I may say.
[00:05:39.680 --> 00:05:40.460] It's actually interesting.
[00:05:40.700 --> 00:05:45.420] I used to want to get into time travel as a young kid,
[00:05:45.440 --> 00:05:46.800] so that's very interesting.
[00:05:47.080 --> 00:05:50.620] I was coming back up in my life, or at least that thought.
[00:05:51.640 --> 00:05:56.560] So maybe my emotions at some point arise that thought.
[00:05:57.200 --> 00:05:58.580] You never know.
[00:06:00.840 --> 00:06:02.700] You cannot succeed without momentum.
[00:06:06.090 --> 00:06:08.630] You cannot succeed without momentum.
[00:06:10.630 --> 00:06:11.570] You got to have that momentum.
[00:06:11.690 --> 00:06:12.690] You got to have that drive.
[00:06:12.790 --> 00:06:14.070] You got to keep pushing forward.
[00:06:14.890 --> 00:06:21.340] You got to keep loving yourself.
[00:06:22.960 --> 00:06:24.780] Self-love is very important.
[00:06:24.920 --> 00:06:28.600] It's like the tool book and the guidebook
[00:06:28.600 --> 00:06:32.520] of how you want others to treat you,
[00:06:32.620 --> 00:06:36.040] but how you treat yourself, most importantly.
[00:06:36.040 --> 00:06:41.250] And you have to keep doing that, keep doing that.
[00:06:41.930 --> 00:06:44.230] I use this metaphor of going to the gym
[00:06:45.530 --> 00:06:48.390] and going to the basketball court at the gym
[00:06:48.890 --> 00:06:50.710] and putting up shots.
[00:06:51.090 --> 00:06:52.770] Keep shooting that shot.
[00:06:53.030 --> 00:06:54.290] Just keep getting the reps.
[00:06:54.970 --> 00:06:55.870] You have to show up.
[00:06:55.970 --> 00:06:56.830] You have to practice.
[00:06:56.950 --> 00:06:57.930] Keep shooting that shot.
[00:06:58.750 --> 00:06:59.530] You have to.
[00:06:59.610 --> 00:07:00.990] If this is what you want to do,
[00:07:01.810 --> 00:07:04.970] if you want to be your highest self,
[00:07:04.970 --> 00:07:08.150] you have to work and love yourself every day.
[00:07:08.210 --> 00:07:10.070] Work on yourself and love yourself every day.
[00:07:10.690 --> 00:07:13.090] You have to work on loving yourself
[00:07:13.090 --> 00:07:15.490] and then love yourself too.
[00:07:16.970 --> 00:07:21.620] Like get into the outcome of the outcome.
[00:07:22.400 --> 00:07:23.520] You want to love yourself,
[00:07:23.560 --> 00:07:25.860] but you have to put in the work on properly
[00:07:25.860 --> 00:07:27.800] learning how to love yourself
[00:07:27.800 --> 00:07:29.740] in the way you want to love yourself
[00:07:29.740 --> 00:07:32.280] to love yourself
[00:07:33.060 --> 00:07:35.440] the way you should be loving yourself.
[00:07:36.680 --> 00:07:38.200] You cannot succeed without momentum.
[00:07:40.510 --> 00:07:44.330] Some people stop right when they get close to the goal.
[00:07:46.470 --> 00:07:47.730] Fail short.
[00:07:50.020 --> 00:07:50.740] They lost momentum.
[00:07:54.200 --> 00:07:59.650] You did not come this far to come this far.
[00:08:01.070 --> 00:08:07.030] I did not come this far only to come this far.
[00:08:07.390 --> 00:08:09.570] I did not come this far only to get this far.
[00:08:10.550 --> 00:08:13.990] When I first heard that from E.T.,
[00:08:13.990 --> 00:08:17.150] Eric Thomas, the top motivational speaker
[00:08:17.150 --> 00:08:19.730] here in the United States,
[00:08:22.840 --> 00:08:24.000] and it's true,
[00:08:24.800 --> 00:08:27.540] you didn't get all the way to this point
[00:08:27.540 --> 00:08:28.880] in your life and your career
[00:08:28.880 --> 00:08:30.300] and your entrepreneur journey
[00:08:31.550 --> 00:08:33.330] and your podcasting journey.
[00:08:36.370 --> 00:08:37.549] Only to stop.
[00:08:40.130 --> 00:08:41.130] Only to stop now.
[00:08:44.500 --> 00:08:46.880] I have children looking up to me.
[00:08:48.240 --> 00:08:50.420] Daughters looking up to me.
[00:08:52.060 --> 00:08:55.180] Nieces, nephews, even peers, you know.
[00:08:55.300 --> 00:08:56.920] So I'm older, I may say,
[00:08:57.360 --> 00:09:01.100] looking up to me and, you know,
[00:09:01.780 --> 00:09:02.980] I'm their motivation.
[00:09:03.860 --> 00:09:05.240] I'm their inspiration.
[00:09:05.840 --> 00:09:08.460] They see me and, you know,
[00:09:08.920 --> 00:09:10.860] they know all things as possible
[00:09:12.040 --> 00:09:13.620] because that's my belief.
[00:09:13.780 --> 00:09:15.200] And if I stop,
[00:09:16.740 --> 00:09:17.660] when am I going to leave them?
[00:09:17.660 --> 00:09:22.120] But maybe they should stop too?
[00:09:22.720 --> 00:09:23.140] Hmm.
[00:09:25.820 --> 00:09:27.300] But there is a time and place
[00:09:27.300 --> 00:09:30.960] where journeys, chapters, books do stop.
[00:09:31.980 --> 00:09:35.060] And it's good to learn that as well.
[00:09:36.300 --> 00:09:38.860] Some things don't need to go on forever.
[00:09:40.400 --> 00:09:41.500] Some journeys do not.
[00:09:41.660 --> 00:09:46.360] Now keep the momentum.
[00:09:48.250 --> 00:09:49.210] That should be the title.
[00:09:49.970 --> 00:09:50.330] Yeah.
[00:09:50.650 --> 00:09:52.110] Self-love momentum.
[00:09:52.110 --> 00:09:56.330] I think I'm entitled to that this episode.
[00:09:57.030 --> 00:09:58.150] Self-love momentum.
[00:09:58.250 --> 00:09:59.030] I love it.
[00:10:00.700 --> 00:10:03.240] And even, yeah, I'm going to definitely do a part two.
[00:10:04.280 --> 00:10:06.220] Got some things to get to today.
[00:10:06.580 --> 00:10:08.760] I feel like it's always a good topic.
[00:10:08.940 --> 00:10:11.540] So I'm going to do a part two on this self-love.
[00:10:11.900 --> 00:10:13.420] That will be episode 11.
[00:10:14.500 --> 00:10:17.520] I appreciate you for tuning in to episode 10.
[00:10:18.080 --> 00:10:21.060] And I also want to give some financial tips
[00:10:21.060 --> 00:10:23.180] or financial mindset
[00:10:25.020 --> 00:10:26.920] around this topic right now.
[00:10:29.080 --> 00:10:33.940] Because financial, I would say, it's important.
[00:10:34.220 --> 00:10:35.780] I won't say it's a deal breaker,
[00:10:35.820 --> 00:10:37.460] but it's definitely helpful
[00:10:37.460 --> 00:10:40.960] and it's definitely important to maintaining yourself.
[00:10:42.970 --> 00:10:45.530] Now look at self-love as self-maintenance.
[00:10:45.950 --> 00:10:47.630] How are you maintaining yourself?
[00:10:48.110 --> 00:10:49.630] How are you upkeeping yourself?
[00:10:50.810 --> 00:10:52.890] How are you increasing your value?
[00:10:53.850 --> 00:10:56.650] How are you increasing your mind, your thoughts?
[00:10:57.490 --> 00:10:58.950] How are you calming your thoughts?
[00:11:00.590 --> 00:11:03.190] And again, back with alien affirmations,
[00:11:03.350 --> 00:11:04.630] one, two, three.
[00:11:05.390 --> 00:11:07.250] Alien affirmations, I say,
[00:11:10.140 --> 00:11:12.200] never let anyone disrupt your inner peace.
[00:11:14.000 --> 00:11:17.540] Never, ever let anyone, not even yourself,
[00:11:18.540 --> 00:11:20.420] disrupt your inner peace.
[00:11:21.580 --> 00:11:25.120] Key word, not even yourself.
[00:11:26.980 --> 00:11:29.600] Do not let yourself disrupt your inner peace.
[00:11:32.060 --> 00:11:36.060] Don't be a victim to what your emotions are going through
[00:11:36.060 --> 00:11:38.520] or what your thoughts are going through.
[00:11:38.700 --> 00:11:39.860] And it's affecting your emotions,
[00:11:40.080 --> 00:11:40.760] affecting your thoughts,
[00:11:40.880 --> 00:11:42.500] and affecting your well-being.
[00:11:43.040 --> 00:11:44.440] Going back to the definition,
[00:11:45.280 --> 00:11:50.240] self-love is living in that pure happiness
[00:11:50.240 --> 00:11:53.800] and good, healthy, well-being.
[00:11:54.780 --> 00:11:58.240] That's your body, mind, spirit, soul, environment.
[00:12:01.810 --> 00:12:04.070] Peace and love is everything to me.
[00:12:04.810 --> 00:12:06.730] It's dearly, you know, my religion.
[00:12:07.410 --> 00:12:09.310] Peace and love, like literally.
[00:12:10.490 --> 00:12:12.110] To live with peace and love
[00:12:12.980 --> 00:12:15.190] and some other, you know, positive things,
[00:12:15.330 --> 00:12:16.710] you know, having a positive mindset
[00:12:16.710 --> 00:12:22.210] and, you know, sharing, learning, growing.
[00:12:23.290 --> 00:12:25.490] Just having these things in mind
[00:12:25.490 --> 00:12:29.740] would be great on a self-love journey.
[00:12:32.220 --> 00:12:34.560] And just in my financial mindset,
[00:12:34.940 --> 00:12:38.850] just to think about, I'm an entrepreneur,
[00:12:38.910 --> 00:12:40.890] so I like to speak to other entrepreneurs
[00:12:40.890 --> 00:12:43.710] and, you know, people on this journey.
[00:12:45.720 --> 00:12:48.200] I own rental properties, I own real estate.
[00:12:50.310 --> 00:12:58.660] Commercial, that could be for tenants
[00:12:58.660 --> 00:13:02.170] that need somewhere to live,
[00:13:03.330 --> 00:13:07.690] big group homes, I own real estate.
[00:13:12.350 --> 00:13:14.490] Online business are,
[00:13:14.990 --> 00:13:17.550] have digital products you can sell online.
[00:13:20.860 --> 00:13:23.280] Like for me, I have a few books.
[00:13:25.740 --> 00:13:27.500] I will be generating courses.
[00:13:28.860 --> 00:13:33.880] For me, I will have photos for sale, for print,
[00:13:35.060 --> 00:13:37.000] and a few other products.
[00:13:41.600 --> 00:13:43.880] That's just something to think about.
[00:13:44.700 --> 00:13:47.320] Some people love e-commerce
[00:13:47.320 --> 00:13:49.600] and, you know, buying and reselling.
[00:13:50.380 --> 00:13:51.500] That's a method.
[00:13:52.520 --> 00:13:54.360] Being an affiliate for a company,
[00:13:55.760 --> 00:13:57.180] taking a percentage, you know,
[00:13:57.180 --> 00:13:59.340] you don't have to make a product or,
[00:13:59.340 --> 00:14:01.120] you know, do all the heavy lifting.
[00:14:01.540 --> 00:14:03.720] You just be in the selling, influencer.
[00:14:06.940 --> 00:14:08.500] Live below your means.
[00:14:08.500 --> 00:14:10.750] You know, you don't have to have
[00:14:11.960 --> 00:14:14.740] 10 Rolls Royce,
[00:14:14.740 --> 00:14:16.540] Roll Voices is a job.
[00:14:19.560 --> 00:14:23.370] You don't have to have 8 jack wires,
[00:14:28.660 --> 00:14:29.520] 4 focuses.
[00:14:30.700 --> 00:14:33.580] Whatever the car may be or
[00:14:33.580 --> 00:14:37.880] have all these big mansions
[00:14:37.880 --> 00:14:41.740] or hundreds of rooms, you know,
[00:14:42.280 --> 00:14:43.180] it's not important.
[00:14:45.330 --> 00:14:49.150] What is important is just having that
[00:14:50.490 --> 00:14:52.990] and the rest is extra.
[00:14:54.050 --> 00:14:56.010] And all the bells and whistles are extra.
[00:14:59.780 --> 00:15:02.120] 5, 6 versus 100.
[00:15:02.300 --> 00:15:03.240] Why do we need 100?
[00:15:04.620 --> 00:15:05.620] Why do we need all these
[00:15:05.620 --> 00:15:07.280] expensive watches and chains?
[00:15:07.380 --> 00:15:09.900] Why do we need like 20 of them?
[00:15:09.980 --> 00:15:11.940] Why can't we just have one or two good ones
[00:15:11.940 --> 00:15:14.060] that we, you know,
[00:15:14.620 --> 00:15:15.520] crafted for ourselves
[00:15:15.520 --> 00:15:17.400] or even made ourselves?
[00:15:17.400 --> 00:15:19.680] And we were that.
[00:15:20.100 --> 00:15:22.220] Like, this is me, especially myself,
[00:15:22.360 --> 00:15:22.640] loved it.
[00:15:22.640 --> 00:15:25.660] I made this watch, this chain,
[00:15:25.960 --> 00:15:26.280] this bracelet.
[00:15:27.340 --> 00:15:29.400] This even washed my hair
[00:15:29.400 --> 00:15:30.600] and conditioned it.
[00:15:31.140 --> 00:15:32.240] Maybe styled it.
[00:15:32.320 --> 00:15:33.440] I did this.
[00:15:34.380 --> 00:15:35.940] I crafted this for myself.
[00:15:36.700 --> 00:15:38.400] I stitched this shirt together.
[00:15:38.680 --> 00:15:40.000] Not this one, not me,
[00:15:40.120 --> 00:15:42.060] but using it as an example.
[00:15:43.260 --> 00:15:44.480] Stitched this shirt together.
[00:15:44.720 --> 00:15:47.020] I did this and I'm wearing it
[00:15:47.020 --> 00:15:47.480] proudly.
[00:15:47.660 --> 00:15:48.440] Like, I did this.
[00:15:48.440 --> 00:15:49.220] This is my work.
[00:15:49.240 --> 00:15:50.200] This is my being.
[00:15:50.580 --> 00:15:52.640] This is my experience.
[00:15:53.080 --> 00:15:54.900] I'm literally wearing my experience
[00:15:55.580 --> 00:15:57.860] as my shirt or my shirt.
[00:15:58.840 --> 00:15:59.660] My experience.
[00:15:59.680 --> 00:16:00.620] Think about that.
[00:16:03.030 --> 00:16:04.850] And, you know, live below your means,
[00:16:04.870 --> 00:16:06.690] but also increase your income,
[00:16:08.010 --> 00:16:09.270] not your expenses.
[00:16:10.030 --> 00:16:11.810] Kind of self-explanatory.
[00:16:12.450 --> 00:16:14.210] Increase your income, not your expenses.
[00:16:15.030 --> 00:16:17.050] Increase what you get in.
[00:16:17.390 --> 00:16:19.290] And, you know, we spend a lot,
[00:16:19.410 --> 00:16:20.870] so try not to spend a lot
[00:16:20.870 --> 00:16:24.790] on things we don't really need.
[00:16:26.900 --> 00:16:28.600] Invest in the stock market
[00:16:28.600 --> 00:16:30.920] and consistently, like,
[00:16:31.120 --> 00:16:31.900] consistently do it.
[00:16:32.040 --> 00:16:35.320] It's nothing like compounding growth.
[00:16:36.060 --> 00:16:36.980] That's very important.
[00:16:41.800 --> 00:16:43.380] Build multiple income streams,
[00:16:43.480 --> 00:16:45.120] whatever that may be.
[00:16:47.910 --> 00:16:49.890] Comforter, think about being a painter.
[00:16:53.730 --> 00:16:55.550] Play basketball, think about
[00:16:55.550 --> 00:17:00.450] being a basketball coach to the youth
[00:17:00.450 --> 00:17:03.830] or at schools or being a mentor
[00:17:03.830 --> 00:17:05.069] or having a training camp
[00:17:05.069 --> 00:17:06.569] in your off-season.
[00:17:09.500 --> 00:17:10.099] You're an artist.
[00:17:10.240 --> 00:17:12.839] Think about writing jingles for corporations.
[00:17:13.099 --> 00:17:15.780] Think about writing music for others.
[00:17:17.579 --> 00:17:20.500] Putting out music albums
[00:17:20.500 --> 00:17:22.099] for you to sell.
[00:17:26.050 --> 00:17:26.770] Streams of income.
[00:17:27.690 --> 00:17:29.610] I think book is the easiest
[00:17:29.610 --> 00:17:32.870] and general one for, like, any industry.
[00:17:34.510 --> 00:17:36.690] You know, developing a book,
[00:17:36.810 --> 00:17:37.950] writing a book, really,
[00:17:38.630 --> 00:17:40.570] for me, I like to take
[00:17:40.570 --> 00:17:42.850] at least six months just to
[00:17:42.850 --> 00:17:44.610] craft the whole process,
[00:17:44.830 --> 00:17:46.330] go through the whole process
[00:17:46.330 --> 00:17:48.210] of writing a book.
[00:17:49.090 --> 00:17:50.790] You know, some longer,
[00:17:51.850 --> 00:17:54.890] some shorter, but a good six months.
[00:17:54.910 --> 00:17:56.310] You know, building a plan,
[00:17:56.390 --> 00:17:57.490] building an outline,
[00:17:57.490 --> 00:17:59.350] getting the words, thoughts,
[00:17:59.550 --> 00:18:00.910] getting a structured frame,
[00:18:01.010 --> 00:18:02.170] all that good stuff.
[00:18:02.730 --> 00:18:04.990] And then go into the marketing and promotion.
[00:18:08.010 --> 00:18:08.770] Six months.
[00:18:09.810 --> 00:18:10.670] Write that book.
[00:18:11.650 --> 00:18:12.630] Finish that book.
[00:18:15.760 --> 00:18:17.960] Think long-term and not short-term
[00:18:17.960 --> 00:18:19.180] with finances.
[00:18:20.440 --> 00:18:22.320] You know, sometimes we want things now.
[00:18:22.460 --> 00:18:24.360] We want that big lump sum.
[00:18:24.460 --> 00:18:25.600] We want that big check.
[00:18:25.720 --> 00:18:27.100] We want it right now.
[00:18:28.260 --> 00:18:30.420] But millionaires, billionaires,
[00:18:31.480 --> 00:18:33.120] trillionaires, trillionaire companies
[00:18:34.120 --> 00:18:36.160] have good habits and stay consistent.
[00:18:38.470 --> 00:18:40.150] And that's what I want to,
[00:18:42.070 --> 00:18:43.730] you know, share with you.
[00:18:44.110 --> 00:18:45.150] Just be consistent.
[00:18:45.850 --> 00:18:46.630] Be smart.
[00:18:47.850 --> 00:18:48.970] Even with your business,
[00:18:49.150 --> 00:18:51.230] you got to act within your business
[00:18:51.230 --> 00:18:52.070] with that self-love.
[00:18:52.170 --> 00:18:53.630] You had to have that love for your business.
[00:18:54.410 --> 00:18:56.310] And, you know, if there's things
[00:18:56.310 --> 00:18:58.010] that your business do not do
[00:18:58.010 --> 00:19:00.210] or that you don't stand for,
[00:19:01.090 --> 00:19:02.310] you don't have to do it.
[00:19:02.310 --> 00:19:04.050] And it's okay to say no to money.
[00:19:04.710 --> 00:19:06.490] You know, now all money is good money.
[00:19:08.210 --> 00:19:10.330] So what are your values?
[00:19:10.810 --> 00:19:12.030] What do you love?
[00:19:13.070 --> 00:19:14.410] And hopefully it's yourself first
[00:19:14.950 --> 00:19:17.950] and your business and your family.
[00:19:19.130 --> 00:19:21.770] And then start to think about the other things.
[00:19:24.360 --> 00:19:25.240] Love yourself.
[00:19:26.560 --> 00:19:27.860] If you don't love yourself,
[00:19:28.300 --> 00:19:29.480] no one else will.
[00:19:30.180 --> 00:19:31.520] Got to have that self-love.
[00:19:32.140 --> 00:19:32.900] Love yourself.
[00:19:33.620 --> 00:19:35.620] Remember, check out Alien Affirmations.
[00:19:35.660 --> 00:19:37.040] That's the first thing I say.
[00:19:37.540 --> 00:19:38.900] I love myself.
[00:19:39.600 --> 00:19:41.100] I love myself.
[00:19:41.840 --> 00:19:43.080] I love myself.
[00:19:44.020 --> 00:19:45.600] I love myself.
[00:19:46.940 --> 00:19:48.020] And then I go in.
[00:19:48.920 --> 00:19:50.560] Alien Affirmations 1, 2, 3.
[00:19:50.620 --> 00:19:52.900] Check it out on all streaming platforms.
[00:19:53.780 --> 00:19:54.180] Yes.
[00:19:54.660 --> 00:19:55.560] And this is a wrap.
[00:19:55.600 --> 00:19:57.400] This has been a great episode
[00:19:57.400 --> 00:19:58.980] around self-love,
[00:19:59.620 --> 00:20:00.920] alienized photos,
[00:20:00.920 --> 00:20:05.320] industry talk, episode 9.
[00:20:05.520 --> 00:20:07.500] A-E-P-I-T,
[00:20:07.700 --> 00:20:09.040] alienized photos,
[00:20:09.080 --> 00:20:10.160] industry talk.
[00:20:11.200 --> 00:20:12.820] And yes, if you want more information
[00:20:12.820 --> 00:20:14.100] or to book me,
[00:20:14.440 --> 00:20:18.280] please visit alienizedphotos.com.
[00:20:18.480 --> 00:20:22.160] Again, alienized with a Z,
[00:20:22.640 --> 00:20:24.040] photos with an S,
[00:20:25.680 --> 00:20:27.160] alienizedphotos.com.
[00:20:27.600 --> 00:20:29.560] And follow me on all social media
[00:20:29.560 --> 00:20:31.640] or most platforms,
[00:20:33.800 --> 00:20:34.320] alienizedphotos,
[00:20:34.540 --> 00:20:35.700] at alienizedphotos.
[00:20:35.860 --> 00:20:37.960] And then also check me out on fan base.
[00:20:38.580 --> 00:20:40.660] Yes, I will be having some exclusive content
[00:20:40.660 --> 00:20:41.660] on fan base,
[00:20:42.000 --> 00:20:42.880] some behind the scenes.
[00:20:42.980 --> 00:20:44.600] You may be watching this video
[00:20:44.600 --> 00:20:46.260] on fan base.
[00:20:46.360 --> 00:20:48.780] I don't like posting to a lot of different media,
[00:20:48.800 --> 00:20:51.840] so if you're checking this out on fan base,
[00:20:52.100 --> 00:20:53.400] definitely let me know.
[00:20:53.620 --> 00:20:55.680] You know, give me some love, likes.
[00:20:56.640 --> 00:20:58.280] Yeah, keep giving me feedback,
[00:20:58.280 --> 00:21:00.060] what you want to hear, what you want to listen.
[00:21:00.440 --> 00:21:03.080] Now think about doing part two of this self-love.
[00:21:03.500 --> 00:21:04.960] So yeah, fan base,
[00:21:05.360 --> 00:21:07.740] at alienizedphotos and all other medias,
[00:21:08.120 --> 00:21:12.820] at alienizedphotos and alienizedphotos.com.
[00:21:13.880 --> 00:21:16.200] Yes, if you need an event photographer,
[00:21:16.380 --> 00:21:18.880] if you want media or business strategy,
[00:21:19.520 --> 00:21:20.960] coaching, consulting,
[00:21:21.760 --> 00:21:22.700] definitely let me know.
[00:21:23.100 --> 00:21:24.040] Let's get you together.
[00:21:24.400 --> 00:21:26.000] Let's help out.
[00:21:26.600 --> 00:21:27.080] Marketing.
[00:21:28.720 --> 00:21:30.140] Yeah, we're going to get you together this year.
[00:21:30.340 --> 00:21:32.460] Let's just stop it right there
[00:21:32.460 --> 00:21:34.440] and give me a call,
[00:21:34.920 --> 00:21:36.480] text, follow,
[00:21:36.780 --> 00:21:39.760] hit me up on the DMs at alienizedphotos.
[00:21:39.820 --> 00:21:41.680] This is photographer Jackson,
[00:21:41.800 --> 00:21:43.380] and I'm signing out
[00:21:44.020 --> 00:21:46.360] alienizedphotos industry tour episode nine,
[00:21:46.740 --> 00:21:47.620] self-love.
[00:21:51.210 --> 00:21:52.350] Peace, love, and blessings, everyone.

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83. Ep. 8 - Relationships Matter Today w/ Photographer Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 8
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/ep-8-relationships-matter-today-w-photographer-jackson
========================================================================

[00:00:00.370 --> 00:00:03.410] Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome.
[00:00:05.690 --> 00:00:10.310] Welcome back to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:12.290 --> 00:00:13.610] All Thanks Media,
[00:00:14.190 --> 00:00:18.450] the introspective inspirational business podcast.
[00:00:19.970 --> 00:00:25.100] And today, I'd like to speak about relationships
[00:00:25.100 --> 00:00:26.860] here in episode eight.
[00:00:28.400 --> 00:00:32.940] Relationships, they're very important.
[00:00:35.180 --> 00:00:40.120] Especially in entrepreneurship and life in general.
[00:00:41.160 --> 00:00:44.680] Business, romantically.
[00:00:47.320 --> 00:00:49.320] And I'm gonna touch a little on each.
[00:00:52.790 --> 00:00:54.130] Let's start with friendship.
[00:00:57.600 --> 00:01:00.200] You know, you want to be there for other people.
[00:01:00.260 --> 00:01:02.560] You want other people to be there for you
[00:01:02.560 --> 00:01:04.099] in a genuine way.
[00:01:05.379 --> 00:01:06.320] Be respectful.
[00:01:07.660 --> 00:01:09.240] You know, have them look out for you
[00:01:09.240 --> 00:01:10.340] when you're not around.
[00:01:11.380 --> 00:01:13.500] You're in different spaces and places.
[00:01:14.740 --> 00:01:17.160] Your name is brought about or your image
[00:01:17.160 --> 00:01:18.820] or your being or your work.
[00:01:20.200 --> 00:01:21.960] You know, we got to look out for each other
[00:01:23.680 --> 00:01:28.320] and really have that open communication
[00:01:29.360 --> 00:01:31.420] you know, with our friends.
[00:01:33.180 --> 00:01:35.360] Especially the ones we really, really call friends,
[00:01:35.480 --> 00:01:36.800] like our best friends.
[00:01:38.080 --> 00:01:40.460] Because that's important because, you know,
[00:01:41.980 --> 00:01:46.680] 10 years being good friends, best friends, close friends.
[00:01:47.900 --> 00:01:50.960] Of knowing each other and then became friends.
[00:01:53.200 --> 00:01:54.920] And then one little situation happened
[00:01:54.920 --> 00:01:56.440] and then it just falls apart.
[00:01:57.180 --> 00:01:59.420] So I think having that open communication,
[00:02:00.900 --> 00:02:03.440] especially in the business sector,
[00:02:03.860 --> 00:02:06.600] when friends are business partners
[00:02:06.600 --> 00:02:07.740] and do business together,
[00:02:07.880 --> 00:02:11.260] that's very important, very critical.
[00:02:11.260 --> 00:02:15.160] And I know a lot of people, they do get in business
[00:02:15.160 --> 00:02:17.320] with their friend or their family.
[00:02:18.060 --> 00:02:19.760] Their friend or their family member.
[00:02:21.880 --> 00:02:25.340] And, you know, sometimes it's thought of rocky
[00:02:27.520 --> 00:02:31.940] and not kind of the destined outcome
[00:02:33.960 --> 00:02:35.320] or the desired outcome.
[00:02:38.000 --> 00:02:40.700] But I think communication kind of trumps all of that
[00:02:40.700 --> 00:02:43.820] and having that mutual respect for each other
[00:02:43.820 --> 00:02:48.460] and really having that clear goal collectively.
[00:02:51.500 --> 00:02:55.740] And even relationships, romantic relationships, I may say.
[00:02:57.540 --> 00:02:59.480] You know, you have to communicate.
[00:03:01.220 --> 00:03:02.900] And I could just about say that
[00:03:04.120 --> 00:03:06.480] for any relationship you have,
[00:03:06.580 --> 00:03:07.660] you have to communicate.
[00:03:07.940 --> 00:03:09.960] With business partners, you have to communicate.
[00:03:12.520 --> 00:03:14.680] The people you meet at networking events,
[00:03:14.800 --> 00:03:15.800] you have to communicate.
[00:03:17.280 --> 00:03:19.760] You had a conference, you got to communicate.
[00:03:20.280 --> 00:03:22.520] You're teaching, coaching, you got to communicate.
[00:03:23.380 --> 00:03:25.900] So no matter what relationship it is,
[00:03:26.440 --> 00:03:30.900] communication by far is one of the best,
[00:03:31.260 --> 00:03:33.420] you know, success methods.
[00:03:34.700 --> 00:03:39.200] And I'll say not only success methods,
[00:03:39.740 --> 00:03:45.130] but you know, what keeps the relationship thriving
[00:03:45.130 --> 00:03:47.090] and flowing and good standards
[00:03:47.090 --> 00:03:53.010] and, you know, positive mind states, you know,
[00:03:53.010 --> 00:03:55.610] because you don't want to have negative intentions
[00:03:56.250 --> 00:04:02.530] towards relationships or the people you're around.
[00:04:04.190 --> 00:04:07.250] You know, good thoughts, good experiences,
[00:04:07.470 --> 00:04:09.690] good moments, great moments,
[00:04:10.630 --> 00:04:15.430] magnificent moments, times, all that.
[00:04:17.420 --> 00:04:19.740] And it takes practice, you know.
[00:04:21.060 --> 00:04:24.520] You know, nothing happens overnight or in a week,
[00:04:25.700 --> 00:04:29.340] but that constant communication and, you know,
[00:04:29.360 --> 00:04:32.240] maybe some things change on one person's end
[00:04:32.900 --> 00:04:34.580] that the other person didn't know about,
[00:04:34.580 --> 00:04:37.020] like, I don't like this anymore.
[00:04:38.840 --> 00:04:41.220] And they didn't communicate that to the other person,
[00:04:41.220 --> 00:04:44.240] but they still, you know,
[00:04:44.240 --> 00:04:48.800] think they like this specific thing, whatever that may be.
[00:04:52.180 --> 00:04:55.260] And you know, you have to communicate that on both ends.
[00:04:56.920 --> 00:05:01.120] You know, maybe I'm not into sports anymore.
[00:05:01.220 --> 00:05:02.560] Like, that's just not my thing.
[00:05:02.740 --> 00:05:05.420] I want to be full fledged and invested.
[00:05:05.540 --> 00:05:07.280] So I don't want to hear about sports.
[00:05:07.580 --> 00:05:09.480] I don't want to go to sports games.
[00:05:10.060 --> 00:05:11.320] And I'll talk about me, by the way.
[00:05:11.320 --> 00:05:12.640] I love basketball.
[00:05:12.640 --> 00:05:14.160] I'm a Cleveland Cavaliers,
[00:05:14.480 --> 00:05:16.200] if you really want to be exact.
[00:05:18.000 --> 00:05:19.680] But yeah, I'm a big basketball fan,
[00:05:20.000 --> 00:05:23.240] especially Cleveland sports, any Cleveland team.
[00:05:24.480 --> 00:05:27.400] But, you know, first with the Cavs,
[00:05:27.440 --> 00:05:30.320] then everything else is kind of secondary.
[00:05:31.600 --> 00:05:32.360] But yeah.
[00:05:33.620 --> 00:05:35.700] But what if, like 10 years from now,
[00:05:36.360 --> 00:05:39.000] I may not even care about basketball anymore?
[00:05:39.000 --> 00:05:40.980] You know, I'm older, I'm mature.
[00:05:41.800 --> 00:05:44.200] You know, I'll probably, personally,
[00:05:44.640 --> 00:05:46.580] me, speaking about investing,
[00:05:46.740 --> 00:05:48.380] I might be deep in my investment.
[00:05:49.020 --> 00:05:50.560] You know, I don't have time for sports.
[00:05:51.140 --> 00:05:54.920] So, but also, you know, have that luxury,
[00:05:57.220 --> 00:06:00.860] that hobby, that, you know, that gateway thing,
[00:06:01.000 --> 00:06:04.240] whether it's arts, sports, traveling,
[00:06:05.560 --> 00:06:09.140] podcasting, teaching, whatever that may be.
[00:06:09.140 --> 00:06:12.640] I have that, you know, for you.
[00:06:17.780 --> 00:06:20.180] And I want to touch about business partners.
[00:06:24.270 --> 00:06:29.080] The more, the more you work with someone,
[00:06:30.640 --> 00:06:33.020] the more you communicate with someone,
[00:06:34.280 --> 00:06:38.440] the more you strategize and build,
[00:06:38.780 --> 00:06:41.660] like literally build together,
[00:06:44.360 --> 00:06:46.160] the better it may, the better,
[00:06:46.400 --> 00:06:47.460] I ain't gonna say better it may be,
[00:06:47.460 --> 00:06:48.920] the better it will be.
[00:06:50.230 --> 00:06:55.130] And I've, you know, worked with a lot of different people.
[00:06:55.990 --> 00:07:01.130] Like I said, I've been in various rams of media
[00:07:05.220 --> 00:07:08.220] and collaborated with a lot of different people.
[00:07:08.600 --> 00:07:10.440] A lot of people I could call my business partners,
[00:07:11.660 --> 00:07:15.100] I was in groups with our teams,
[00:07:16.940 --> 00:07:19.900] organizations, one-on-one partners,
[00:07:19.900 --> 00:07:25.600] like we, not maybe legally, but formed a partnership.
[00:07:28.440 --> 00:07:32.840] You know, sometimes it doesn't always work out.
[00:07:34.950 --> 00:07:36.890] Sometimes it doesn't work out
[00:07:36.890 --> 00:07:42.850] in the sense that time just takes its spot,
[00:07:46.310 --> 00:07:47.890] that it's at a standstill,
[00:07:47.930 --> 00:07:51.150] not that the relationship or the partnership
[00:07:51.150 --> 00:07:53.350] didn't work out, but it's just like,
[00:07:53.350 --> 00:07:54.910] the partnership is at a standstill
[00:07:55.470 --> 00:07:59.730] because one person may be deep in their personal journey
[00:07:59.730 --> 00:08:02.470] or the other person may be deep in their personal journey
[00:08:02.470 --> 00:08:05.910] or business or whatever they may be.
[00:08:06.230 --> 00:08:09.110] And it's like, there's no time to kind of come back
[00:08:09.110 --> 00:08:11.950] and do what we did collectively.
[00:08:14.390 --> 00:08:16.390] And that's fine too.
[00:08:17.970 --> 00:08:20.410] Actually, I think that's one of the better ways
[00:08:20.410 --> 00:08:23.010] that I like to kind of separate.
[00:08:23.350 --> 00:08:24.610] You know, we're both thriving,
[00:08:25.590 --> 00:08:28.390] not, you know, argument or disagreement
[00:08:28.390 --> 00:08:31.350] or we're gonna go, you know, do this
[00:08:31.350 --> 00:08:35.030] and not, you know, communicating certain things.
[00:08:36.169 --> 00:08:39.929] So I like when, you know, both parties are thriving
[00:08:39.929 --> 00:08:42.630] and it's like a natural separation.
[00:08:42.789 --> 00:08:46.630] Every now and then, you know, may collab again,
[00:08:47.330 --> 00:08:51.190] but maybe not on that full-throttle partnership level,
[00:08:51.550 --> 00:08:54.850] but, you know, a light collab, you know,
[00:08:54.950 --> 00:08:57.090] something you do together
[00:08:57.090 --> 00:08:59.470] or even just hanging out, catching up,
[00:08:59.470 --> 00:09:02.050] how can we help each other type of thing.
[00:09:03.910 --> 00:09:10.850] So business partners as far as relationships are key.
[00:09:11.290 --> 00:09:14.230] If you, you know, are entrepreneur or business owner
[00:09:15.250 --> 00:09:20.150] and you really want to take it to another level
[00:09:20.150 --> 00:09:22.510] as far as collaboration, you know,
[00:09:22.510 --> 00:09:24.290] you have to start off with a good business partner,
[00:09:24.410 --> 00:09:25.950] especially with networking.
[00:09:26.570 --> 00:09:28.490] You know, y'all bounce off each other and you know,
[00:09:28.550 --> 00:09:33.850] oh, you're doing alley-oops and all that to each other.
[00:09:34.910 --> 00:09:36.270] Sorry, audio has stopped.
[00:09:36.450 --> 00:09:40.260] I'm like, oh, and yeah.
[00:09:42.750 --> 00:09:49.020] But I also wanna touch on like how many mistakes
[00:09:49.020 --> 00:09:51.320] in relationships do you get?
[00:09:54.100 --> 00:09:56.040] Like, what would a friend, if I say,
[00:09:59.380 --> 00:10:10.270] I don't want to do something or, yeah,
[00:10:10.290 --> 00:10:12.230] I don't wanna do something, we do it anyway.
[00:10:12.950 --> 00:10:14.770] Like, that's your thing.
[00:10:14.790 --> 00:10:19.870] That's not my thing as far as like going to
[00:10:21.110 --> 00:10:25.370] a hockey game and I don't care about hockey.
[00:10:25.370 --> 00:10:27.370] I'm just doing it because you're my friend,
[00:10:29.700 --> 00:10:32.160] but we never get to do what I wanna do type of thing.
[00:10:33.280 --> 00:10:39.060] So, or if, you know, do something they don't like
[00:10:39.060 --> 00:10:47.340] or agree with, how many times is too many?
[00:10:47.640 --> 00:10:50.060] I mean, actually they say two is too many,
[00:10:52.680 --> 00:10:55.360] but that's also something to think about.
[00:10:55.880 --> 00:10:58.840] We're not just friends, we're all your relationships.
[00:11:03.080 --> 00:11:05.160] And I know we're not all perfect.
[00:11:05.320 --> 00:11:06.160] You know, I'm not perfect.
[00:11:06.640 --> 00:11:08.000] I struggle with a lot.
[00:11:08.540 --> 00:11:10.100] You know, still struggle with a lot.
[00:11:10.660 --> 00:11:12.380] I mean, I struggle with communication
[00:11:12.380 --> 00:11:14.900] and you know, the biggest thing I speak about
[00:11:14.900 --> 00:11:18.880] is communication and you know, me being an introvert,
[00:11:18.940 --> 00:11:22.420] I love my solo time, my quiet time, my downtime,
[00:11:22.700 --> 00:11:23.880] just my inner thoughts.
[00:11:24.600 --> 00:11:25.800] I'm always thinking about a lot,
[00:11:26.060 --> 00:11:27.440] always a lot on my mind.
[00:11:28.060 --> 00:11:30.060] You know, I don't really have much time to myself,
[00:11:30.640 --> 00:11:33.620] get that time, I love taking that time
[00:11:33.620 --> 00:11:34.880] and being in that time.
[00:11:35.320 --> 00:11:36.860] And I think the biggest relationship
[00:11:37.520 --> 00:11:40.220] you should have ever is with yourself.
[00:11:40.400 --> 00:11:42.760] You know, that self-love, that self-gratitude,
[00:11:42.820 --> 00:11:45.100] that self-expression is big
[00:11:45.100 --> 00:11:48.780] and that would get you far, very far in life.
[00:11:49.160 --> 00:11:51.520] You know, that self-confidence, that self-worth,
[00:11:53.060 --> 00:11:57.060] that self-image, what you see
[00:11:57.060 --> 00:12:01.140] and what you think all the time about yourself
[00:12:01.140 --> 00:12:05.080] usually becomes yourself over time.
[00:12:09.110 --> 00:12:11.150] And one of the things that I'm learning
[00:12:11.930 --> 00:12:13.670] with my self-love journey
[00:12:15.270 --> 00:12:18.710] was approaching of almost 10 years now,
[00:12:20.250 --> 00:12:23.310] more so five, one more of a heavier level,
[00:12:23.430 --> 00:12:24.250] but closer to.
[00:12:28.660 --> 00:12:30.400] It looks different each day.
[00:12:32.320 --> 00:12:35.540] It really, really looks different each day.
[00:12:37.820 --> 00:12:41.990] And sometimes I look in the mirror,
[00:12:44.800 --> 00:12:50.280] it's like the only thing I wanna do is find myself.
[00:12:53.520 --> 00:13:02.600] And to be honest, most days it's harder to find yourself.
[00:13:03.920 --> 00:13:05.460] Some days you're right there,
[00:13:05.820 --> 00:13:07.320] like boldly right there.
[00:13:09.300 --> 00:13:13.220] But each day you treat yourself with love,
[00:13:13.220 --> 00:13:15.300] treat yourself with respect.
[00:13:17.120 --> 00:13:19.680] You know, what fuels you, what desires you,
[00:13:19.720 --> 00:13:20.780] feed yourself that.
[00:13:21.280 --> 00:13:23.900] Remember your purpose, your motivation, your motives.
[00:13:26.120 --> 00:13:28.780] Sometimes you cannot let emotion get in the way,
[00:13:28.960 --> 00:13:30.240] especially in business.
[00:13:31.700 --> 00:13:34.120] No, there's no emotions with numbers.
[00:13:35.460 --> 00:13:36.540] Emotions don't have emotions.
[00:13:38.060 --> 00:13:39.680] These robots don't have emotions,
[00:13:41.260 --> 00:13:42.560] but you do.
[00:13:43.460 --> 00:13:48.000] And the biggest and the greatest relationship
[00:13:48.000 --> 00:13:51.980] you would have is with yourself, you yourself.
[00:13:52.320 --> 00:13:55.520] And I have an affirmation track I would link.
[00:13:56.160 --> 00:13:58.280] We're actually gonna link it to all our episodes,
[00:13:58.320 --> 00:14:01.280] because I think it's just monumental and powerful.
[00:14:01.440 --> 00:14:03.520] I will start talking about it more.
[00:14:03.960 --> 00:14:07.160] And also release additional affirmation tracks
[00:14:07.160 --> 00:14:08.800] upon request.
[00:14:09.020 --> 00:14:10.480] You know, if I get the request,
[00:14:10.480 --> 00:14:11.640] I will put it out faster.
[00:14:12.360 --> 00:14:14.520] But of course, if I don't hear any feedback
[00:14:14.520 --> 00:14:17.420] and then they're satisfied with the one
[00:14:17.420 --> 00:14:18.860] I'm about to present to you now,
[00:14:18.940 --> 00:14:20.420] then that's fine as well.
[00:14:21.640 --> 00:14:24.040] But you know, definitely give me some feedback
[00:14:24.040 --> 00:14:25.660] if you love these affirmations,
[00:14:25.800 --> 00:14:29.920] if you want affirmations in a specific realm
[00:14:31.520 --> 00:14:33.880] or about something in particular.
[00:14:35.160 --> 00:14:36.760] Definitely let me know the feedback.
[00:14:37.640 --> 00:14:38.960] I'm open to requests.
[00:14:38.960 --> 00:14:40.840] I'm an artist at heart.
[00:14:41.100 --> 00:14:43.600] I have a music background, poetry,
[00:14:45.100 --> 00:14:46.800] a little music production.
[00:14:47.700 --> 00:14:50.340] And now I'm into more of the visual space
[00:14:50.340 --> 00:14:53.760] with photography, a bit of photography,
[00:14:54.340 --> 00:14:56.520] video production and podcasting.
[00:14:57.800 --> 00:15:01.260] Kind of have my feet a little bit of everything.
[00:15:02.720 --> 00:15:03.240] Author.
[00:15:04.120 --> 00:15:07.780] Like the list goes on as far as that artistry.
[00:15:08.960 --> 00:15:10.880] I'm a writer at heart.
[00:15:11.120 --> 00:15:12.160] I love reading.
[00:15:13.460 --> 00:15:17.080] And those things are reflected upon my spirit.
[00:15:18.440 --> 00:15:21.520] I love a good book, especially a good business book.
[00:15:22.520 --> 00:15:23.900] Things about mindset.
[00:15:25.040 --> 00:15:27.840] And that's what I reflect to my audience.
[00:15:29.560 --> 00:15:31.600] But going back to the affirmations,
[00:15:34.200 --> 00:15:37.320] when I talk about being
[00:15:38.640 --> 00:15:41.740] in the greatest relationship,
[00:15:42.440 --> 00:15:46.360] you are in a relationship with yourself, literally.
[00:15:47.560 --> 00:15:53.380] And people forget that first because one is a number.
[00:15:54.620 --> 00:15:55.540] Zero is not.
[00:15:56.040 --> 00:15:57.980] One is, and you are one.
[00:15:59.960 --> 00:16:03.200] So what relationship do you have with yourself?
[00:16:04.820 --> 00:16:11.590] But I always say, be good to yourself.
[00:16:12.890 --> 00:16:14.530] Be gentle with yourself.
[00:16:16.190 --> 00:16:17.510] Be blessed with yourself.
[00:16:20.340 --> 00:16:24.040] Like you really have to do these things.
[00:16:24.540 --> 00:16:29.610] Really take time for you and that self-maintenance.
[00:16:31.710 --> 00:16:36.550] And I'm a big believer of inner peace and affirmation.
[00:16:37.670 --> 00:16:40.730] Never let anyone disrupt your inner peace.
[00:16:41.850 --> 00:16:43.170] Never ever let anyone,
[00:16:43.170 --> 00:16:45.930] not even yourself, disrupt your inner peace.
[00:16:48.280 --> 00:16:49.480] Inner peace is everything.
[00:16:49.960 --> 00:16:53.200] And I say, never ever let anyone,
[00:16:54.780 --> 00:16:57.420] not even yourself, disrupt your inner peace.
[00:16:57.500 --> 00:17:01.480] Because sometimes us, ourselves,
[00:17:01.720 --> 00:17:05.599] can disrupt our inner peace, our mental mind state,
[00:17:07.040 --> 00:17:10.599] and introduce and attract negative thoughts
[00:17:11.040 --> 00:17:12.079] out of nowhere.
[00:17:13.339 --> 00:17:14.780] When they don't have to be there.
[00:17:16.849 --> 00:17:18.329] All these negative emotions.
[00:17:20.230 --> 00:17:23.670] I try not to let the outside world affect me too much.
[00:17:24.109 --> 00:17:26.450] I know a lot of things going on in politics
[00:17:26.450 --> 00:17:31.510] and the presidents and the different parties
[00:17:31.510 --> 00:17:34.610] and then inflation and it's just,
[00:17:34.690 --> 00:17:38.910] you know, the celebrity drama, relationships.
[00:17:41.730 --> 00:17:45.570] It can even be family drama, work drama, you know?
[00:17:48.750 --> 00:17:51.990] It's, it gets difficult because outside of self,
[00:17:52.050 --> 00:17:56.310] you know, nexus, you know, my children and my daughters.
[00:17:57.450 --> 00:18:01.210] Then, you know, relationships and family
[00:18:03.310 --> 00:18:08.010] and then that next tier friends
[00:18:08.010 --> 00:18:09.690] outside of the best friends.
[00:18:12.410 --> 00:18:15.130] Then associates and then just the world in general.
[00:18:15.130 --> 00:18:21.300] I do care for the world, but I care for myself first.
[00:18:22.740 --> 00:18:25.020] So if I can find peace in myself,
[00:18:27.060 --> 00:18:31.260] before I, you know, hit that something's gonna go wrong
[00:18:31.260 --> 00:18:35.560] or negative, you know, I listen to myself.
[00:18:36.100 --> 00:18:37.640] Like, I could have avoided it.
[00:18:38.340 --> 00:18:41.720] I felt it in my body, my mind and spirit
[00:18:41.720 --> 00:18:44.640] that something is about to go wrong.
[00:18:45.480 --> 00:18:46.540] Now I listen to myself.
[00:18:46.640 --> 00:18:50.860] Now I'm dealing with a situation that's ruckus
[00:18:51.620 --> 00:18:53.640] and just a disaster and chaos.
[00:18:54.520 --> 00:18:56.360] And it's taken me out of my hookup,
[00:18:56.660 --> 00:19:00.260] my positive mind state, my positive being, my energy.
[00:19:01.860 --> 00:19:02.960] Now I'm dealing with this.
[00:19:03.600 --> 00:19:05.640] I really could have been dealing with myself
[00:19:05.640 --> 00:19:07.860] and my energy and my peace and growing myself
[00:19:07.860 --> 00:19:10.420] and watering myself and letting myself boom
[00:19:10.420 --> 00:19:12.500] and blossom and, you know,
[00:19:14.000 --> 00:19:16.320] grow the way I need to grow.
[00:19:16.780 --> 00:19:19.760] And so the trawl is a tree that I could be.
[00:19:21.280 --> 00:19:23.080] Plant it in the ground and the earth.
[00:19:25.000 --> 00:19:26.860] You have to look at yourself as a tree.
[00:19:28.020 --> 00:19:29.800] Water and nurture yourself.
[00:19:31.600 --> 00:19:35.080] Stand firm in the ground, in the soil.
[00:19:36.820 --> 00:19:38.740] Continue to water yourself, continue to grow,
[00:19:38.940 --> 00:19:41.680] continue to learn, continue to communicate.
[00:19:44.920 --> 00:19:45.680] It takes time.
[00:19:45.900 --> 00:19:47.640] It does, it really does.
[00:19:49.980 --> 00:19:52.260] But also we're relationships.
[00:19:52.360 --> 00:19:53.820] I think about the number eight
[00:19:53.820 --> 00:19:57.700] and that's why I wanted this episode to be number eight.
[00:19:58.200 --> 00:19:59.580] I hope you enjoyed it.
[00:19:59.580 --> 00:20:02.400] If you like it, you know, let me know the feedback.
[00:20:03.940 --> 00:20:07.880] I really want to tailor these episodes, you know.
[00:20:09.260 --> 00:20:13.400] First off, they're my, you know, inner journal,
[00:20:15.420 --> 00:20:17.120] inner entrepreneur journal.
[00:20:17.120 --> 00:20:20.740] You know, deep diving in my mind
[00:20:20.740 --> 00:20:22.820] and how I take it, how I approach things.
[00:20:24.660 --> 00:20:27.900] But yeah, the number eight, it's like, you know,
[00:20:27.980 --> 00:20:29.740] it's continuous, it's affinity.
[00:20:29.980 --> 00:20:31.460] That's how I think about relationships
[00:20:31.460 --> 00:20:33.740] and it's constantly touching each others.
[00:20:34.340 --> 00:20:36.740] You know, that figure eight and like skating
[00:20:36.740 --> 00:20:39.300] is always all touching each others
[00:20:39.300 --> 00:20:41.560] on a big curved oval.
[00:20:42.700 --> 00:20:46.840] Oh, yeah, this is episode eight
[00:20:46.840 --> 00:20:49.260] of Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:20:49.900 --> 00:20:52.300] We have made it to the end.
[00:20:52.680 --> 00:20:55.320] Yes, Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk
[00:20:55.320 --> 00:20:59.060] on most streaming podcast platforms.
[00:20:59.920 --> 00:21:02.220] And if you want more information about me
[00:21:02.220 --> 00:21:04.680] or Alien Eyes Photos event photography,
[00:21:05.240 --> 00:21:08.680] you can visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:21:08.680 --> 00:21:11.880] That's alieneyes with a Z,
[00:21:12.000 --> 00:21:16.620] photos with a S, alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:21:17.460 --> 00:21:19.880] And you can follow me at all social media
[00:21:19.880 --> 00:21:22.420] at alieneyesphotos.
[00:21:22.720 --> 00:21:26.680] That's alieneyesphotos on all social media.
[00:21:28.810 --> 00:21:30.890] I'm on social media, I try to get away
[00:21:30.890 --> 00:21:34.050] from a lot of them, but if you think I'm on a platform
[00:21:34.050 --> 00:21:37.370] or want to find me, look up alieneyesphotos
[00:21:37.370 --> 00:21:41.730] and that's eyes with a Z, photos with a S.
[00:21:42.330 --> 00:21:46.330] Also follow me on fan base at alieneyesphotos.
[00:21:46.590 --> 00:21:49.410] Yes, fan base, that's where I'll be holding
[00:21:49.410 --> 00:21:53.170] a lot of my content, especially exclusive.
[00:21:53.890 --> 00:21:57.430] And also if you want some more, you know,
[00:21:57.530 --> 00:22:00.810] these talks and you know, behind the scenes
[00:22:00.810 --> 00:22:03.870] type of things and you know, more of my
[00:22:03.870 --> 00:22:08.490] deeper dive talks, really kind of even go further,
[00:22:08.550 --> 00:22:10.370] you know, further some of these conversations
[00:22:10.370 --> 00:22:12.650] or even new conversations and topics.
[00:22:13.390 --> 00:22:15.430] So yeah, definitely follow me on fan base
[00:22:15.430 --> 00:22:17.830] and that's at alieneyesphotos.
[00:22:19.070 --> 00:22:20.650] Yeah, I think that's everything.
[00:22:20.950 --> 00:22:23.190] Don't forget to like, share, subscribe,
[00:22:23.990 --> 00:22:25.410] all that good stuff.
[00:22:25.750 --> 00:22:29.410] Keep following, you know, keep sharing the media out.
[00:22:29.510 --> 00:22:31.990] You know, I encourage you to send this out
[00:22:31.990 --> 00:22:34.910] to a hand full of friends.
[00:22:35.150 --> 00:22:38.770] So if you have two hands, that's 10 fingers.
[00:22:39.210 --> 00:22:41.710] So send this to 10 friends, to 10 colleagues,
[00:22:42.350 --> 00:22:44.570] 10 business partners, you know,
[00:22:44.670 --> 00:22:45.950] people in your organization.
[00:22:46.790 --> 00:22:48.570] Say, I really appreciate this episode
[00:22:48.570 --> 00:22:51.270] and you know, I really want us to think in this way.
[00:22:52.230 --> 00:22:53.870] Send this out to 10 people.
[00:22:54.990 --> 00:22:59.610] Again, if you want to book or for more information,
[00:22:59.610 --> 00:23:02.190] visit alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:23:02.670 --> 00:23:06.230] And this is episode eight with photographer Jackson,
[00:23:07.510 --> 00:23:11.690] bringing you alieneyesphotos industry talk podcast.
[00:23:12.530 --> 00:23:15.270] Episode eight in the books, we are out.
[00:23:15.650 --> 00:23:18.670] Until next time y'all, peace, love,
[00:23:19.130 --> 00:23:20.950] and blessings always.
[00:23:25.400 --> 00:23:27.060] We have done it.

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84. Ep. 7 - Personal Journey of Constant Progression with Photographer Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 7
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/ep-7-personal-journey-of-constant-progression-photographer
========================================================================

[00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:07.920] Welcome, welcome, welcome to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:13.560 --> 00:00:14.700] Life has been a journey.
[00:00:18.090 --> 00:00:22.210] A journey that will only get you as far as you want to make it.
[00:00:26.560 --> 00:00:32.670] A journey where it's constant and it should be progressive.
[00:00:36.560 --> 00:00:37.660] Constant and progressive.
[00:00:43.030 --> 00:00:52.250] I think a lot of sports teams they go for championships
[00:00:52.250 --> 00:00:58.130] and to win a championship being constant and progressive.
[00:00:59.750 --> 00:01:00.930] It's the way you do that.
[00:01:08.030 --> 00:01:12.480] And coming from a sports background, mainly basketball,
[00:01:13.290 --> 00:01:20.230] or that's the main sport that I play, there's systems.
[00:01:20.810 --> 00:01:22.890] Just like with entrepreneurship, there's systems.
[00:01:25.180 --> 00:01:27.760] There's constants and progression.
[00:01:29.870 --> 00:01:36.270] And usually those two character types or those traits are successful.
[00:01:36.570 --> 00:01:37.830] They win championships.
[00:01:39.470 --> 00:01:43.410] They win success or they gain it.
[00:01:45.490 --> 00:01:49.530] They set out and accomplish their accomplishments,
[00:01:50.610 --> 00:01:51.910] their goals, their times,
[00:01:55.750 --> 00:02:04.410] and how even recording, scheduling, and goals from a podcast
[00:02:04.410 --> 00:02:09.090] and just the podcast industry in itself.
[00:02:12.390 --> 00:02:18.590] So I do service others, help them.
[00:02:19.930 --> 00:02:21.510] It brings me back to the journey.
[00:02:24.200 --> 00:02:27.660] Like life, entrepreneurship, sports, it's a journey.
[00:02:29.730 --> 00:02:31.510] To be honest, constant journey.
[00:02:31.510 --> 00:02:33.470] This progressive journey.
[00:02:33.710 --> 00:02:35.350] This constant journey.
[00:02:35.910 --> 00:02:37.290] This progressive journey.
[00:02:37.490 --> 00:02:39.270] This constant journey.
[00:02:39.470 --> 00:02:48.480] This like really in life, entrepreneurship, long-term entrepreneurship,
[00:02:49.860 --> 00:02:56.560] like really doing what you first are supposed to do.
[00:02:57.740 --> 00:02:58.960] There's multiple tasks.
[00:02:59.340 --> 00:03:00.380] There's constant learning.
[00:03:00.660 --> 00:03:02.540] There's constant relationship building.
[00:03:02.540 --> 00:03:04.680] There's constant operations.
[00:03:05.140 --> 00:03:06.060] Different times.
[00:03:06.780 --> 00:03:08.300] Different deliverables.
[00:03:09.000 --> 00:03:11.920] Different financial goals.
[00:03:13.460 --> 00:03:15.100] Financial generation.
[00:03:16.800 --> 00:03:20.060] You have to generate revenue to operate.
[00:03:24.320 --> 00:03:28.980] And really appreciating the journey.
[00:03:29.280 --> 00:03:33.760] Like it's long in life in general.
[00:03:34.220 --> 00:03:35.420] Like itself is long.
[00:03:35.420 --> 00:03:41.190] And you have to appreciate it, especially while you can.
[00:03:41.450 --> 00:03:43.650] Appreciate those around you.
[00:03:45.190 --> 00:03:46.310] Those who you work with.
[00:03:46.310 --> 00:03:47.670] Those in your family.
[00:03:49.170 --> 00:03:51.410] Those who you may come across.
[00:03:51.670 --> 00:03:52.490] Those you teach.
[00:03:52.650 --> 00:03:54.030] Those you train.
[00:03:54.590 --> 00:03:55.570] Those you coach.
[00:03:57.790 --> 00:03:58.650] Those you work with.
[00:03:58.810 --> 00:04:00.790] Those you become partners with.
[00:04:01.230 --> 00:04:02.370] Or you do business with.
[00:04:05.400 --> 00:04:06.660] Those you learn with.
[00:04:08.200 --> 00:04:09.600] Those who teach you.
[00:04:10.580 --> 00:04:11.820] Those who mentor you.
[00:04:14.510 --> 00:04:17.550] And it's a constant exchange.
[00:04:18.170 --> 00:04:19.329] And we all support each other.
[00:04:21.050 --> 00:04:25.170] Like if all of a sudden I want to be a football coach,
[00:04:26.710 --> 00:04:28.470] then I'm going to go to the football experts.
[00:04:29.730 --> 00:04:30.750] I'm going to an expert.
[00:04:30.810 --> 00:04:34.630] So when people come to me to learn photography,
[00:04:35.910 --> 00:04:37.610] or just business culture in general,
[00:04:41.650 --> 00:04:47.690] they feel the highest are maybe someone they could trust.
[00:04:47.690 --> 00:04:51.850] They may love as far as my content or how I would teach.
[00:04:52.690 --> 00:04:53.750] And my method of teaching.
[00:05:00.740 --> 00:05:04.120] What if they're a doctor and I'm just like, man,
[00:05:05.820 --> 00:05:10.080] there's a constant decline in the health industry.
[00:05:11.380 --> 00:05:13.240] And something just clicks in my brain.
[00:05:13.520 --> 00:05:18.400] Like I want to be a doctor or, you know,
[00:05:18.460 --> 00:05:21.940] not so much a title, but really saves lives.
[00:05:21.940 --> 00:05:26.510] What if I could perform surgery?
[00:05:26.870 --> 00:05:28.130] I wouldn't say overnight.
[00:05:28.130 --> 00:05:29.210] I'm not saying that.
[00:05:29.570 --> 00:05:35.210] But just find that spark.
[00:05:38.390 --> 00:05:41.470] Because we live for impact.
[00:05:42.870 --> 00:05:44.010] Let's give that impact.
[00:05:45.090 --> 00:05:46.890] You got to remember that constant journey.
[00:05:51.660 --> 00:05:52.420] Constant journey.
[00:05:55.030 --> 00:05:56.170] It's a long journey.
[00:05:58.480 --> 00:05:59.980] Long, long journey.
[00:06:03.900 --> 00:06:04.620] Don't stop.
[00:06:08.040 --> 00:06:08.540] Don't quit.
[00:06:10.750 --> 00:06:11.790] Just do it.
[00:06:12.210 --> 00:06:12.870] Like Nike.
[00:06:13.190 --> 00:06:14.810] Just do it.
[00:06:15.190 --> 00:06:16.490] Sometimes you can't even think about it.
[00:06:16.490 --> 00:06:17.490] You know what you're going to do.
[00:06:18.410 --> 00:06:19.590] Just do it.
[00:06:23.810 --> 00:06:25.790] And me personally, I feel myself there all the time.
[00:06:25.910 --> 00:06:27.670] Like just do it.
[00:06:28.330 --> 00:06:29.750] You say, all right, I got to do this.
[00:06:29.910 --> 00:06:31.590] Just do it right now.
[00:06:33.090 --> 00:06:33.950] It's on the list.
[00:06:35.790 --> 00:06:36.690] Just do it right now.
[00:06:36.690 --> 00:06:37.690] Get it out of the way.
[00:06:38.050 --> 00:06:39.190] You don't got to think about it no more.
[00:06:39.950 --> 00:06:40.790] Cross it off the list.
[00:06:40.830 --> 00:06:41.590] Do it right now.
[00:06:46.470 --> 00:06:50.920] What are you going to do right now?
[00:06:50.920 --> 00:06:55.400] Especially if it doesn't take much time or a little time.
[00:06:56.300 --> 00:07:00.460] You know, if it could compound and end up expanding in time
[00:07:00.460 --> 00:07:05.240] and the duration is by far not what you intended or measured
[00:07:05.240 --> 00:07:12.080] or even sacrificed, don't risk it.
[00:07:12.340 --> 00:07:16.940] But if you can do it right then and there, just do it.
[00:07:17.960 --> 00:07:19.520] If it takes two seconds, do it.
[00:07:19.520 --> 00:07:20.380] Just do it.
[00:07:22.630 --> 00:07:23.470] Just do it.
[00:07:23.490 --> 00:07:24.190] Do it right now.
[00:07:27.960 --> 00:07:31.340] I feel like there's different seasons where you have to coach
[00:07:31.340 --> 00:07:35.190] yourself, like you as a leader.
[00:07:35.710 --> 00:07:37.470] Speak to yourself, you know.
[00:07:37.710 --> 00:07:37.990] Journal.
[00:07:38.270 --> 00:07:38.930] Drop me a thought.
[00:07:39.010 --> 00:07:39.710] Look at your notes.
[00:07:39.830 --> 00:07:40.790] Review your notes.
[00:07:41.810 --> 00:07:43.250] Especially if you're on a long journey.
[00:07:43.490 --> 00:07:45.670] Let's go back to day one.
[00:07:46.070 --> 00:07:48.490] What was I thinking about day one as a leader?
[00:07:48.930 --> 00:07:51.910] Like when I stepped into this role and this position,
[00:07:53.470 --> 00:07:58.820] this constant journey, this progressive journey.
[00:07:58.820 --> 00:08:02.100] When I speak about the progression,
[00:08:02.180 --> 00:08:05.380] like if you incrementally get better each day,
[00:08:05.900 --> 00:08:08.520] like 0.1% each day,
[00:08:09.500 --> 00:08:13.680] and even sometimes compound that to one, to two, to three,
[00:08:13.880 --> 00:08:18.880] to four, four and a half, five, five and a half, six,
[00:08:19.560 --> 00:08:25.500] 6.7, and then even sometimes 10, 11, and so on.
[00:08:25.540 --> 00:08:26.680] I ain't putting the cap on, right?
[00:08:26.680 --> 00:08:28.620] But it's endless.
[00:08:29.020 --> 00:08:33.080] But if it's constantly progressing and incrementally
[00:08:33.080 --> 00:08:37.140] getting better, if you're incrementally getting better,
[00:08:37.700 --> 00:08:42.460] faster, wiser, better strategist,
[00:08:44.240 --> 00:08:47.200] a better partner, a better communicator,
[00:08:48.460 --> 00:08:50.760] a better business savvy person,
[00:08:55.100 --> 00:08:57.420] where your weaknesses become your strengths,
[00:08:59.650 --> 00:09:00.790] and it takes time.
[00:09:01.370 --> 00:09:03.910] You're not going to be perfect overnight.
[00:09:04.430 --> 00:09:07.130] But one night, I can promise you that
[00:09:07.130 --> 00:09:09.370] you will be perfect at what you do.
[00:09:10.390 --> 00:09:11.610] And it may not be forever.
[00:09:11.730 --> 00:09:13.890] That perfectness may not be forever,
[00:09:14.690 --> 00:09:16.370] but at one point in time, you will.
[00:09:17.050 --> 00:09:18.710] You must appreciate that time.
[00:09:20.090 --> 00:09:23.950] Everyone has a time where something they're very passionate about.
[00:09:26.360 --> 00:09:29.140] It's like this golden window, this golden gate.
[00:09:29.820 --> 00:09:31.840] It's going to happen for a period of time.
[00:09:33.340 --> 00:09:35.720] But this perfectness may not last forever.
[00:09:38.040 --> 00:09:40.620] But perfectness is attainable
[00:09:40.620 --> 00:09:43.280] in a lot of different things.
[00:09:43.520 --> 00:09:45.000] Can I say all things?
[00:09:45.460 --> 00:09:47.080] Well, all things are possible.
[00:09:48.780 --> 00:09:49.660] You're limitless,
[00:09:52.080 --> 00:09:54.600] and you don't really have to step into that line
[00:09:55.420 --> 00:10:00.060] who says there's a limit on how much you make when you're in sales.
[00:10:01.420 --> 00:10:05.700] All you're going to sell in this is you can't put a real number on it.
[00:10:05.700 --> 00:10:07.800] You can't put a cap on that.
[00:10:10.240 --> 00:10:11.440] It's also having systems.
[00:10:11.680 --> 00:10:13.420] It's also knowing the prices.
[00:10:13.560 --> 00:10:16.320] It's also doing your market research.
[00:10:17.580 --> 00:10:18.120] Comparing.
[00:10:20.020 --> 00:10:24.240] And then always this price is doing services, deliverables.
[00:10:26.420 --> 00:10:28.500] That's most often the service industry,
[00:10:29.740 --> 00:10:32.380] which I could slowly speak on.
[00:10:33.360 --> 00:10:34.820] Traditionally, I don't have a product.
[00:10:35.220 --> 00:10:36.860] At least not yet.
[00:10:38.020 --> 00:10:40.080] Or let's just say that's not my main focus.
[00:10:43.250 --> 00:10:45.470] It's all shifting.
[00:10:46.830 --> 00:10:48.270] And I'm building.
[00:10:49.590 --> 00:10:50.310] Developing.
[00:10:52.080 --> 00:10:54.040] That takes that constant time and progression.
[00:10:59.240 --> 00:11:00.020] We take time.
[00:11:03.290 --> 00:11:05.270] My favorite songs is
[00:11:06.190 --> 00:11:07.390] It's Take Time
[00:11:11.360 --> 00:11:12.840] by Miss Lady B.
[00:11:17.470 --> 00:11:28.450] My baby definitely reminds me of those creative moments
[00:11:28.450 --> 00:11:30.810] with my daughters, my kids.
[00:11:36.890 --> 00:11:39.510] And that's a journey in itself.
[00:11:41.140 --> 00:11:42.880] Life is literally a journey.
[00:11:44.240 --> 00:11:45.960] Entrepreneurship is literally a journey.
[00:11:49.150 --> 00:11:50.130] It's literally a journey.
[00:11:57.760 --> 00:12:00.140] I'd love for you to think about that.
[00:12:00.920 --> 00:12:04.820] The next time you may get frustrated or stuck.
[00:12:05.940 --> 00:12:06.560] Remember, it's a journey.
[00:12:06.820 --> 00:12:07.960] It's a learning process.
[00:12:09.900 --> 00:12:11.460] Everything is going to be perfect.
[00:12:13.080 --> 00:12:14.220] It's a learning process.
[00:12:16.120 --> 00:12:17.400] You prime your mind.
[00:12:18.020 --> 00:12:20.080] And get in those tough situations.
[00:12:22.020 --> 00:12:23.560] Just do a quick reframe.
[00:12:32.950 --> 00:12:34.370] But there's also preparation.
[00:12:36.030 --> 00:12:38.990] So avoid those things that happen.
[00:12:40.590 --> 00:12:41.030] Barriers.
[00:12:41.470 --> 00:12:42.070] Safe gates.
[00:12:44.440 --> 00:12:44.880] Protection.
[00:12:48.790 --> 00:12:49.130] Practice.
[00:12:55.110 --> 00:12:56.790] You got those days and time and habits.
[00:13:00.940 --> 00:13:02.420] But you got to push through anyway.
[00:13:04.600 --> 00:13:06.040] Push through the best way you can.
[00:13:08.940 --> 00:13:10.300] Because this is a long journey.
[00:13:12.420 --> 00:13:13.880] And you don't get far on the journey.
[00:13:16.540 --> 00:13:17.900] Because you don't remember me.
[00:13:17.900 --> 00:13:21.360] You don't see how far I am on my journey.
[00:13:22.040 --> 00:13:23.920] You don't remember me.
[00:13:24.860 --> 00:13:27.280] You're going to take your journey as far as you can.
[00:13:27.840 --> 00:13:28.860] As far as you desire.
[00:13:29.560 --> 00:13:31.340] As far as you can push it.
[00:13:31.700 --> 00:13:35.380] Inch by inch by inch by inch by mile by mile by mile.
[00:13:36.880 --> 00:13:37.920] By kilomiles.
[00:13:39.490 --> 00:13:41.010] But it grew from that inch.
[00:13:43.660 --> 00:13:44.360] That inch.
[00:13:44.820 --> 00:13:46.600] That seed in the garden.
[00:13:46.980 --> 00:13:48.480] It grew to blossom.
[00:13:56.210 --> 00:13:57.370] That flower.
[00:13:58.030 --> 00:13:59.030] Just from that seed.
[00:13:59.350 --> 00:13:59.750] It grew.
[00:14:01.670 --> 00:14:03.070] From that seed.
[00:14:05.140 --> 00:14:05.720] Incrementally.
[00:14:06.120 --> 00:14:06.820] Over time.
[00:14:07.520 --> 00:14:09.080] Over time it took that journey.
[00:14:13.230 --> 00:14:14.990] It gave what it gave to life.
[00:14:15.450 --> 00:14:16.510] To its purpose.
[00:14:17.030 --> 00:14:17.630] Its beauty.
[00:14:18.630 --> 00:14:19.430] Its triumph.
[00:14:19.670 --> 00:14:20.190] Its journey.
[00:14:20.410 --> 00:14:21.290] Its story.
[00:14:22.630 --> 00:14:24.050] How it communicates with the soil.
[00:14:24.050 --> 00:14:27.890] How that we work our feet on.
[00:14:28.530 --> 00:14:29.350] Like literally.
[00:14:29.730 --> 00:14:31.730] It's sharing that soil with us.
[00:14:32.530 --> 00:14:34.090] And it's giving what it gave.
[00:14:35.930 --> 00:14:36.750] Think about that.
[00:14:38.590 --> 00:14:40.150] Think about things in different life forms.
[00:14:40.170 --> 00:14:43.350] How they got to go through this journey.
[00:14:45.540 --> 00:14:48.120] Sometimes that really helped push me through.
[00:14:48.140 --> 00:14:49.760] I'm just showing personal insight.
[00:14:50.560 --> 00:14:52.160] It's probably my personal episode.
[00:14:53.080 --> 00:14:55.060] Like really going deep into my mind.
[00:14:55.060 --> 00:14:56.400] And my frameworks.
[00:14:57.120 --> 00:14:57.840] My mindset.
[00:14:58.300 --> 00:14:59.220] Thought processes.
[00:15:00.000 --> 00:15:02.160] I got to kind of reframe my life.
[00:15:03.120 --> 00:15:05.160] There's so many times.
[00:15:08.740 --> 00:15:10.020] Where there's situations.
[00:15:10.380 --> 00:15:11.000] Where it's like.
[00:15:12.460 --> 00:15:13.220] You have it.
[00:15:13.340 --> 00:15:14.780] You just have everything.
[00:15:15.160 --> 00:15:15.680] Outline.
[00:15:15.920 --> 00:15:17.680] How you want it.
[00:15:18.260 --> 00:15:21.560] Everything is working out perfectly seamlessly.
[00:15:22.200 --> 00:15:23.380] Everything is in the flow.
[00:15:23.580 --> 00:15:24.380] It's a natural state.
[00:15:24.380 --> 00:15:25.820] It's just like.
[00:15:25.820 --> 00:15:27.040] Crystals and glitter.
[00:15:27.400 --> 00:15:27.840] Shine.
[00:15:29.400 --> 00:15:30.760] Just perfection.
[00:15:32.820 --> 00:15:34.340] But then there's.
[00:15:34.340 --> 00:15:35.480] Opposite times.
[00:15:36.480 --> 00:15:37.480] There's opposite.
[00:15:38.780 --> 00:15:40.140] Satisfaction on the journey.
[00:15:41.480 --> 00:15:42.480] There's mishaps.
[00:15:44.240 --> 00:15:45.120] But again it happens.
[00:15:45.520 --> 00:15:46.960] But what are you going to do about it?
[00:15:47.980 --> 00:15:49.020] You know.
[00:15:49.120 --> 00:15:49.940] People ask me.
[00:15:49.980 --> 00:15:52.100] How do you stay calm in many situations.
[00:15:52.100 --> 00:15:53.240] It's purely that.
[00:15:53.380 --> 00:15:54.460] Just really staying calm.
[00:15:56.600 --> 00:15:58.120] Really staying focused.
[00:15:59.540 --> 00:15:59.780] Like.
[00:15:59.840 --> 00:16:00.760] Yeah it's tough. It's rough.
[00:16:00.960 --> 00:16:02.300] It hurts emotionally.
[00:16:02.500 --> 00:16:03.880] It's a beating.
[00:16:04.580 --> 00:16:05.620] You get flustered.
[00:16:05.800 --> 00:16:08.260] But you don't want to live in that fluster.
[00:16:08.420 --> 00:16:09.620] You really got to change.
[00:16:10.520 --> 00:16:11.420] Stay focused.
[00:16:11.620 --> 00:16:12.160] With the mindset.
[00:16:12.460 --> 00:16:13.400] Like okay I got to get a job.
[00:16:14.220 --> 00:16:15.620] Not just working right now.
[00:16:15.620 --> 00:16:16.820] But okay.
[00:16:18.020 --> 00:16:18.880] Just take a step back.
[00:16:19.400 --> 00:16:20.620] Take a break from it.
[00:16:20.700 --> 00:16:21.980] Then come back.
[00:16:23.260 --> 00:16:24.080] Take a walk.
[00:16:24.780 --> 00:16:25.840] Yeah scream.
[00:16:27.180 --> 00:16:29.620] Take deep breaths and come back to it.
[00:16:30.940 --> 00:16:31.560] Walk away.
[00:16:32.100 --> 00:16:32.700] Then you come back.
[00:16:34.200 --> 00:16:35.820] Like I said this is a very impressive episode.
[00:16:37.260 --> 00:16:37.600] But.
[00:16:37.720 --> 00:16:39.760] It was just on my mind to share it.
[00:16:40.240 --> 00:16:41.720] And really want to encourage.
[00:16:42.260 --> 00:16:42.900] My network.
[00:16:42.900 --> 00:16:43.980] My tribe.
[00:16:44.240 --> 00:16:44.860] My listeners.
[00:16:46.640 --> 00:16:47.920] Everybody who follows me.
[00:16:48.080 --> 00:16:49.420] Every one person in my life.
[00:16:50.340 --> 00:16:51.700] Whether they're my mentee.
[00:16:51.720 --> 00:16:53.100] Or I'm into one of them.
[00:16:53.480 --> 00:16:54.500] Whether it's a coach.
[00:16:54.660 --> 00:16:56.180] Or it's a business partner.
[00:16:57.100 --> 00:16:58.820] Family, friends, loved ones.
[00:16:58.840 --> 00:16:59.980] People that just know me.
[00:17:00.400 --> 00:17:01.600] People that know about my business.
[00:17:01.700 --> 00:17:03.140] My brand. My creativity.
[00:17:03.380 --> 00:17:04.839] My art. My work.
[00:17:05.880 --> 00:17:07.940] I already just stumbled across this episode.
[00:17:08.880 --> 00:17:10.359] Just my voice.
[00:17:10.640 --> 00:17:12.099] My present.
[00:17:12.480 --> 00:17:13.540] Positive mindset.
[00:17:17.780 --> 00:17:17.960] But.
[00:17:18.400 --> 00:17:19.480] It's a journey.
[00:17:22.190 --> 00:17:23.810] And um. Yeah.
[00:17:25.410 --> 00:17:27.230] Gotta do something with the.
[00:17:27.230 --> 00:17:28.170] With the fam.
[00:17:29.190 --> 00:17:29.610] So.
[00:17:34.470 --> 00:17:35.850] Relaxing in the hot tub.
[00:17:36.450 --> 00:17:38.990] And bathtub.
[00:17:48.070 --> 00:17:50.350] Very personal and you know.
[00:17:50.490 --> 00:17:52.670] Let me know in the comments or in the email.
[00:17:54.070 --> 00:17:55.070] If you got my
[00:17:55.070 --> 00:17:56.490] Personal number and text messages.
[00:17:56.690 --> 00:17:58.370] Really how you like this.
[00:17:58.710 --> 00:18:00.150] Personal style.
[00:18:02.400 --> 00:18:03.900] And should I.
[00:18:03.960 --> 00:18:05.320] Aim more towards.
[00:18:06.320 --> 00:18:08.700] You know personal insights. My personal journal.
[00:18:09.500 --> 00:18:10.760] My personal thoughts.
[00:18:14.830 --> 00:18:16.110] You know you might take it.
[00:18:16.190 --> 00:18:17.070] More in that direction.
[00:18:20.070 --> 00:18:21.930] You know there's a lot of insight.
[00:18:24.400 --> 00:18:25.000] And wisdom.
[00:18:26.060 --> 00:18:27.240] Within me. But.
[00:18:28.520 --> 00:18:29.380] It's all about.
[00:18:30.480 --> 00:18:31.520] How it's communicated.
[00:18:32.360 --> 00:18:32.840] What's.
[00:18:36.000 --> 00:18:36.480] Needed.
[00:18:41.290 --> 00:18:42.210] Helping someone.
[00:18:42.810 --> 00:18:44.430] What if they don't need help in that way.
[00:18:46.290 --> 00:18:47.750] What if they don't need help on this.
[00:18:52.420 --> 00:18:53.380] Something else.
[00:18:59.660 --> 00:19:00.620] But yeah.
[00:19:01.600 --> 00:19:02.560] Contact me.
[00:19:08.220 --> 00:19:09.420] Aiming at photos.
[00:19:18.370 --> 00:19:19.990] Alright y'all. Let's get out this water.
[00:19:21.150 --> 00:19:22.110] Stay tuned.
[00:19:22.930 --> 00:19:25.250] I won't be right if I don't add my tag.
[00:19:25.290 --> 00:19:27.110] Especially if this is your first time listening.
[00:19:27.110 --> 00:19:28.030] So.
[00:19:29.350 --> 00:19:30.930] Visit alien eyes.
[00:19:31.210 --> 00:19:33.330] Photos. And that's alien eyes.
[00:19:33.330 --> 00:19:35.190] With a z photos. With a s.
[00:19:36.090 --> 00:19:37.510] Alien eyes photos.
[00:19:38.310 --> 00:19:39.210] Dot com.
[00:19:40.570 --> 00:19:41.250] And you could
[00:19:41.250 --> 00:19:42.950] Just scroll to the bottom.
[00:19:43.630 --> 00:19:45.190] If you want to contact me.
[00:19:46.130 --> 00:19:47.410] Or if you have an idea.
[00:19:47.970 --> 00:19:49.030] If you want to collab.
[00:19:49.150 --> 00:19:50.130] If you want to work.
[00:19:51.010 --> 00:19:52.290] If you need a bit of photography.
[00:19:53.810 --> 00:19:54.910] If you need video production.
[00:19:55.870 --> 00:19:57.090] If you need a podcast.
[00:19:57.870 --> 00:19:58.910] These tips.
[00:20:00.250 --> 00:20:00.990] You know.
[00:20:01.770 --> 00:20:02.910] Eventually I will have.
[00:20:05.230 --> 00:20:06.630] A 30 minute session.
[00:20:08.070 --> 00:20:09.590] You know tailor to your needs.
[00:20:12.660 --> 00:20:13.900] That's really uh.
[00:20:14.140 --> 00:20:14.660] Elevate.
[00:20:17.890 --> 00:20:19.570] And the show notes.
[00:20:20.810 --> 00:20:21.950] There will be the booking link.
[00:20:22.050 --> 00:20:23.050] But again.
[00:20:23.470 --> 00:20:24.350] If you're listening.
[00:20:25.410 --> 00:20:26.850] And not able to go to the show notes.
[00:20:26.850 --> 00:20:28.830] Visit alien eyes.
[00:20:29.050 --> 00:20:30.850] Photos. Dot com.
[00:20:32.170 --> 00:20:32.310] Again.
[00:20:32.530 --> 00:20:34.970] Alien eyes. Photos. Dot com.
[00:20:37.590 --> 00:20:38.330] That's a blessing.
[00:20:38.890 --> 00:20:40.270] Stay blessed. Stay motivated.
[00:20:42.070 --> 00:20:42.430] Again.
[00:20:44.710 --> 00:20:46.210] See y'all on the next episode.
[00:20:46.950 --> 00:20:47.510] Peace.

========================================================================
85. Ep. 6 Value and Economic Cost w/ Photographer Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 6
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/ep-6-value-and-economic-cost-w-photographer-jackson
========================================================================

[00:00:02.960 --> 00:00:12.100] welcome welcome back welcome back to alien eyes photos industry talk everyone
[00:00:12.100 --> 00:00:22.040] this is episode 6 we are journaling audio journaling audio blogging or we
[00:00:22.040 --> 00:00:31.760] call it podcasting yes episode 6 of alien eyes photos industry talk I am
[00:00:31.760 --> 00:00:39.940] moving like a train like a locomotive they may say in episode 6 I would like
[00:00:39.940 --> 00:00:48.370] to talk about value let's talk about value and now if you're tuning in for
[00:00:48.370 --> 00:00:52.930] the first time I like to keep these episodes pretty short close to 23
[00:00:52.930 --> 00:01:00.050] minutes like the old-school TV shows 23 minutes and a 30-minute time slot on
[00:01:00.050 --> 00:01:08.410] TV not counting commercials so yeah let's just jump right into it value now
[00:01:08.410 --> 00:01:14.550] they say value is the importance the worth the desirability the measure of
[00:01:14.550 --> 00:01:22.150] something beneficial and standards principles and usefulness in our
[00:01:22.150 --> 00:01:27.570] usefulness let's say some may also say it is their beliefs are what is
[00:01:27.570 --> 00:01:36.250] right or wrong value optimally guides decisions and then if you remember in
[00:01:36.250 --> 00:01:41.890] episode 3 titled decision-making where I broke down decisions and the
[00:01:41.890 --> 00:01:46.970] importance of decision-making that is a great episode to go back and check
[00:01:46.970 --> 00:01:56.490] out if you have not listened that's episode 3 decision-making episode 3 of
[00:01:56.490 --> 00:02:06.480] on decisions it's a quick juicy one a good question to ask yourself will be
[00:02:06.480 --> 00:02:19.520] what do you value what in life or your career do you value also to further that
[00:02:19.520 --> 00:02:32.200] thought what is your value so what do you value and what is your value two
[00:02:32.200 --> 00:02:39.860] questions to propel you in life and also your career in our entrepreneur
[00:02:39.860 --> 00:02:47.030] journey I like to think of the economics concept of economic costs
[00:02:47.030 --> 00:02:54.360] when I think of value when choosing between multiple options you're giving
[00:02:54.360 --> 00:03:00.980] up the potential gain of the option you don't choose it is the value of
[00:03:00.980 --> 00:03:09.220] but you give up when you choose one option over another going back again to
[00:03:09.220 --> 00:03:15.800] episode 3 when I spoke on decision-making opportunity costs is
[00:03:15.800 --> 00:03:21.340] purely about decision-making in your decisions that lead and guides your
[00:03:21.340 --> 00:03:28.560] life it weighs the advantages to the disadvantages saying yes to something
[00:03:28.560 --> 00:03:37.200] it's given up another thing or something else or somebody if you want
[00:03:37.200 --> 00:03:43.880] to take it down that road it's given up something and sacrifice for
[00:03:44.500 --> 00:03:50.160] something else whether that's time a resource a person place thing if you
[00:03:50.160 --> 00:03:55.040] go here well they're not going to be able to go there if you go to the
[00:03:55.600 --> 00:04:01.640] versus going to the studio well you just missed out on that studio time for
[00:04:02.460 --> 00:04:09.060] having fun our time with the family if you want to go out to the on a date
[00:04:11.220 --> 00:04:18.500] versus spending time with a family and kids well you better drop them kids
[00:04:18.500 --> 00:04:24.740] off and y'all go on that date are if you take in one business move versus
[00:04:24.740 --> 00:04:32.780] another it's a sacrifice and you have to choose and I like how episode 3 it
[00:04:32.780 --> 00:04:39.220] starts off with that and then it leads to this because your decisions and
[00:04:39.760 --> 00:04:47.020] values go together they date they couple they're in the same group in
[00:04:47.020 --> 00:04:52.880] the same family it's important so think about your decisions think about
[00:04:52.880 --> 00:05:02.420] your value and what you value another thing another man's trash is another
[00:05:02.420 --> 00:05:12.780] man's treasure so if I threw out let's say oh basketball card I have no use
[00:05:12.780 --> 00:05:17.160] for I don't it's just I don't need these no more I don't need these
[00:05:17.160 --> 00:05:28.600] basketball cards but little do I know it's worth ten million or ten grand or
[00:05:28.600 --> 00:05:33.500] even a billion or whatever the value may be to some of these cards but I
[00:05:33.500 --> 00:05:37.020] want to get rid of it because it's just you know I don't want a hoarder
[00:05:37.020 --> 00:05:40.980] and just keep all this stuff you know I want business books instead of
[00:05:40.980 --> 00:05:46.840] business baseball cards or basketball cards because I like basketball but
[00:05:46.840 --> 00:05:51.380] never owned any basketball cards I had Pokemon and Yu-Gi-Oh but that was you
[00:05:51.380 --> 00:05:57.200] know childhood never owned any sports cards no basketball no football no
[00:05:57.720 --> 00:06:06.720] baseball cards but yeah these basketball cards end up being ten grand ten
[00:06:06.720 --> 00:06:12.100] million a billion in value but I don't know it because I'm trying to
[00:06:12.100 --> 00:06:19.260] you know away for a couple dollars thinking oh I don't need this no more I
[00:06:19.260 --> 00:06:22.920] don't see the significance or importance of it I don't see the value
[00:06:22.920 --> 00:06:32.860] in it or doesn't have value to me but someone that collects these cards
[00:06:32.860 --> 00:06:39.900] these basketball cards they know the value and have value in these cards and
[00:06:39.900 --> 00:06:47.940] they buy it from me for pennies dollars and they know the worth and get
[00:06:47.940 --> 00:06:52.880] that ten grand that ten million that billion dollars whatever the worth may
[00:06:53.920 --> 00:06:59.320] be collectively told you I'm one of these days I'm a spit of palm well
[00:06:59.320 --> 00:07:05.820] just freestyle palm or a rap or something for y'all y'all gonna really
[00:07:05.820 --> 00:07:15.660] really really get some good behind the scenes content of me and my poetry one
[00:07:15.660 --> 00:07:32.460] day one of these episodes but yeah I digress so back to that another man's
[00:07:32.460 --> 00:07:41.470] trash is another man's treasure you do not really like money some do but you
[00:07:41.470 --> 00:07:49.090] don't really like money you like what money can give and provide for you you
[00:07:49.090 --> 00:07:55.430] like the outcome money can give you you don't really like money itself the
[00:07:55.430 --> 00:08:01.530] credit or the paper dollars the penny nickels dons quarters 50 cent pieces
[00:08:01.530 --> 00:08:09.750] you like what it can give you like the freedom the time and things of
[00:08:09.750 --> 00:08:22.550] nature but do you like money itself I don't think so sorry guys I'm adjusting
[00:08:22.550 --> 00:08:28.930] this time lapse so I have a little content for y'all as this is not
[00:08:28.930 --> 00:08:35.110] traditionally a video podcast this is strictly audio but gotta have some
[00:08:35.110 --> 00:08:40.190] content I am a video producer do a lot of video production event
[00:08:40.190 --> 00:08:46.570] photography so I gotta have some type of camera work what would I be if I don't
[00:08:46.570 --> 00:08:53.510] have any camera work and I am in this profession right but I love time lapses
[00:08:53.510 --> 00:08:57.070] it shows the process and the speedy time and you know a lot of people's
[00:08:57.790 --> 00:09:02.750] attention span is not long so kind of you know see the whole process and
[00:09:02.750 --> 00:09:06.650] the short amount of time shout outs to the time lapse and whoever made
[00:09:06.650 --> 00:09:17.310] time lapses another concept I would like to bring up let's talk about cars
[00:09:17.310 --> 00:09:23.670] speaking about more cards let's let's talk about the game of cards let's
[00:09:23.670 --> 00:09:28.830] talk about blackjack and my last name is Jackson hence photographer Jackson
[00:09:28.830 --> 00:09:40.210] photographer Jackson so blackjack it's definitely close not the founding what
[00:09:40.210 --> 00:09:46.870] they say creator of the game but it's close to my name oh my goodness one of
[00:09:46.870 --> 00:09:52.890] these days I'm gonna spit a poem for y'all it's just natural I'm sorry no I'm not sorry but it's
[00:09:54.450 --> 00:10:00.950] sorry for the weight that's what I want to say but going to blackjack I like to
[00:10:00.950 --> 00:10:08.710] say never split tens so I always think about that never split tens that's a
[00:10:08.710 --> 00:10:21.750] ten a queen a king a jack king queen jack or ten never split tens a blackjack
[00:10:21.750 --> 00:10:30.070] metaphor to the second highest hand after 21 it is a classic game of 21 or
[00:10:30.070 --> 00:10:37.310] the closest to the number 21 without going over with the value cards of 10
[00:10:37.890 --> 00:10:45.930] each which is 20 I would never statistically gamble or sacrifice the
[00:10:46.530 --> 00:10:57.540] second closest to a winning hand with 20 yes I would never split tens and
[00:10:58.040 --> 00:11:04.120] sacrifice the second closest to a winning card hand with 20 only to
[00:11:04.120 --> 00:11:13.010] hope for two more chances of 20 take the 20 while you have it most people
[00:11:13.010 --> 00:11:25.980] experience and be bold because they want to experiment and be greedy and split
[00:11:25.980 --> 00:11:32.160] the value ten cards and hopes to get another ten value card back to back
[00:11:32.160 --> 00:11:42.080] when there is a two or three or four or five or six seven eight nine
[00:11:42.080 --> 00:11:49.920] yes nine eight seven six five four three and two value cards as well which
[00:11:49.920 --> 00:11:56.360] is a higher chance of receiving one of those cards versus another ten value
[00:11:56.360 --> 00:12:07.150] card statistically or normally with 52 cards per deck there are 16 value
[00:12:07.790 --> 00:12:16.770] ten so 16 chances to receive a ten value card minus the two tens you
[00:12:16.770 --> 00:12:24.450] already have which would be 14 chances out of 52 plus another four chances of
[00:12:24.450 --> 00:12:36.320] receiving an ace which is a value of one or a value of 11 card with a ten
[00:12:36.320 --> 00:12:42.720] it is automatically 21 so you have an ace and a ten it's automatically 21 if you
[00:12:43.200 --> 00:12:48.300] get that dealt first that's a blackjack if not you just have 21 you
[00:12:48.300 --> 00:12:52.200] win a little bit more on a natural blackjack if you dealt that first but
[00:12:52.200 --> 00:12:59.000] if you split tens you just win even money but the chances are slim with
[00:12:59.000 --> 00:13:09.590] 28 value cards lower than a ten which is that two to nine so again
[00:13:09.590 --> 00:13:19.720] never split tens take that 20 because the chances are slim again 28 value
[00:13:19.720 --> 00:13:27.720] cards are lower than ten which are two through nine and is most likely to
[00:13:27.720 --> 00:13:36.600] happen then splitting tens and receiving another ten or an ace another
[00:13:36.600 --> 00:13:42.740] analogy for it is splitting or breaking up two powerful leaders that
[00:13:42.740 --> 00:13:49.200] complement and work well together dividing them have the reverse momentum
[00:13:49.200 --> 00:14:04.230] and go directly downhill this is why I always suggest never split ten never
[00:14:04.230 --> 00:14:15.070] split tens just check my backup audio says it paused deal with that a
[00:14:15.070 --> 00:14:19.010] little later as long as I got this I should be fine so I'm gonna keep
[00:14:19.750 --> 00:14:28.160] speaking more on the value going back to what do you value what is your value
[00:14:28.160 --> 00:14:36.460] and I know I can speak about me well let's start with music and poetry I
[00:14:37.400 --> 00:14:43.900] did a lot of open mics which is you know I had to pay to perform and then
[00:14:43.900 --> 00:14:49.000] I end up knowing my value as the more and more more I did these open
[00:14:49.000 --> 00:14:55.560] and you know I looked at it as practice and I started performing and hosting and
[00:14:55.560 --> 00:15:08.400] touring which is fun but at the time a lot of money for poets wasn't wasn't
[00:15:08.400 --> 00:15:16.740] higher or at least the markets I was in they were not lucrative to have a
[00:15:16.740 --> 00:15:27.480] which was definitely ago and I could have got there but I used to pull out
[00:15:27.480 --> 00:15:33.000] my phone take pictures and record others on my iPhone shoutouts to Apple
[00:15:33.000 --> 00:15:38.580] Apple iPhones and then send it to them and I'm like why not just invest in
[00:15:38.580 --> 00:15:42.780] a camera and once I invest in a camera I never look back I started
[00:15:42.780 --> 00:15:48.820] studying taking courses watching videos doing masterminds had a couple mentors
[00:15:48.820 --> 00:15:58.080] luckily to a sale my path in the media visual media with photography and now I
[00:15:58.080 --> 00:16:02.320] specialize in event photography a lot of video production podcast
[00:16:02.320 --> 00:16:06.820] production a lot of behind the scenes work so if you need some behind the
[00:16:06.820 --> 00:16:11.240] scenes content or if you need content creation in general definitely
[00:16:11.240 --> 00:16:17.440] let me know you know send me a message visit alien eyes photos dot com or you
[00:16:17.440 --> 00:16:23.860] can follow me on social media at alien eyes photos dot com and that's eyes
[00:16:23.860 --> 00:16:29.680] like your eyeballs with a Z and photos like the pictures with an S alien eyes
[00:16:29.680 --> 00:16:39.520] photos yeah and then going started my company alien eyes photos media you
[00:16:39.520 --> 00:16:45.760] used to do a lot of free events just on my own will just to practice make
[00:16:45.760 --> 00:16:53.520] sure I got you know all my ducks in a row eggs in a basket and then I started
[00:16:53.520 --> 00:16:58.340] with $50 photo shoots now this is not events to just strictly portrait
[00:16:58.340 --> 00:17:05.180] photo shoots and headshots over time you know slowly increased that but
[00:17:05.180 --> 00:17:12.400] for the longest I was $50 but $50 now I can't do anything I can't pay
[00:17:12.400 --> 00:17:18.880] I could barely pay myself in which you know a lot of the revenue that I did
[00:17:18.880 --> 00:17:29.120] incur or gain obtain no pain no gain in my first two years I didn't pay
[00:17:29.120 --> 00:17:35.220] myself at all you know I wanted strictly for my business you know for
[00:17:35.220 --> 00:17:39.580] my business to grow and all the software I have to pay for you know if
[00:17:39.580 --> 00:17:44.880] I hire you know contract people out you know of course I got to pay them so
[00:17:44.880 --> 00:17:51.840] staff you know all the help the systems a lot of that is the programs
[00:17:51.840 --> 00:17:56.300] even the education a lot of that cost and so I was just reinvesting in
[00:17:56.300 --> 00:18:03.150] myself and you know I haven't took a penny from my business and so long I
[00:18:03.740 --> 00:18:07.600] paid myself once in these first three years and I'm still not paying
[00:18:07.600 --> 00:18:18.740] myself so I do have a nine-to-five job to sustain myself my bills and my other
[00:18:18.740 --> 00:18:29.420] obligations and family stuff I had to pay for bills finances taxes expenses
[00:18:29.420 --> 00:18:40.210] you know this goes on emergency stuff so yeah working a job some too but I'm
[00:18:40.210 --> 00:18:48.590] like I cannot do two jobs and run a podcast this is before I started my own
[00:18:48.590 --> 00:18:53.670] podcast before I started alien eyes photos industry talk I am the proud
[00:18:53.670 --> 00:18:59.130] producer creative director over at the pull up experience to pull up
[00:18:59.130 --> 00:19:07.530] podcast and the pull up experience is the premier entrepreneur elevation group
[00:19:07.530 --> 00:19:16.880] here in Cleveland Ohio definitely my production partners and media and then
[00:19:16.880 --> 00:19:22.000] to further extend I am in launch arts media shout out to launch arts
[00:19:22.000 --> 00:19:29.100] media my other production partners we do a lot of video production a lot of
[00:19:29.100 --> 00:19:34.400] events a lot of green screen work so if you really want that big production I
[00:19:34.800 --> 00:19:40.020] have an extended team at launch arts media definitely contact them or me
[00:19:40.020 --> 00:19:45.680] because I am a part of the team and yeah we could get you handled with
[00:19:45.680 --> 00:19:52.620] all your media needs but again increasing that volume starting at 50
[00:19:52.620 --> 00:20:01.320] and now I'll say transparently my hourly rate which I try not to charge
[00:20:01.320 --> 00:20:07.240] hourly but it breaks down and people relate to that the most which
[00:20:07.240 --> 00:20:11.080] calculates about three hundred dollars an hour so you could do with
[00:20:11.080 --> 00:20:16.520] math and I know weddings it could be a little bit more but for an event
[00:20:16.520 --> 00:20:23.440] typically three hundred dollars an hour photos could be a little less video
[00:20:23.440 --> 00:20:28.960] could be a little more but average is about three hundred dollars an hour now
[00:20:28.960 --> 00:20:35.560] I will tell you this for those who want to book me if I don't have to
[00:20:35.560 --> 00:20:44.000] edit it would be a lot less cheaper for you trust me I incentivize those
[00:20:44.000 --> 00:20:47.960] who do not want me to edit because that's just I love my time and it was
[00:20:47.960 --> 00:20:52.380] like okay I show up for the event or do the photo shoot or whatever and then
[00:20:52.380 --> 00:20:56.980] I got to go home I go to the office go to the studio and sit behind a
[00:20:56.980 --> 00:21:01.560] computer and edit when I could just give you the files right there if you
[00:21:01.560 --> 00:21:07.220] have an inside editor or someone you work with or you do a lot of video
[00:21:07.220 --> 00:21:13.360] editing you put videos together yourself you just need the footage oh I'm your
[00:21:13.360 --> 00:21:20.340] if I just got to shoot it I am there and I'm be excited about it because all
[00:21:20.340 --> 00:21:25.780] I got to do is film or take the photos and send it to you and that's
[00:21:25.780 --> 00:21:31.300] just me knowing my value of time like I could do two or three events versus
[00:21:31.300 --> 00:21:36.640] one and not to edit you know all of this stuff and that's why a lot of
[00:21:36.640 --> 00:21:41.460] photographers videographers charge more because it's it takes time to edit
[00:21:41.460 --> 00:21:46.400] it's more time than the event and the photo shoot the little details that the
[00:21:46.400 --> 00:21:53.040] chops it's it's a lot trust me we don't just be saying these prices just to
[00:21:53.040 --> 00:21:58.260] say these prices you know it's also you know our expertise this is our
[00:21:58.260 --> 00:22:04.420] cameras our lighting like all this equipment our training the time on a
[00:22:04.420 --> 00:22:08.400] back end a time on the front end these these pre to cause the
[00:22:08.400 --> 00:22:13.900] discovery cause going down the rabbit hole with all the list of things we have
[00:22:13.900 --> 00:22:17.420] to do and I have a long list and I really have it and I do send it out
[00:22:17.420 --> 00:22:25.860] for those that ask for it because it's a lot but again know my value if
[00:22:25.860 --> 00:22:33.870] if I don't have to edit I will gladly send it to you right then and
[00:22:33.870 --> 00:22:40.210] there within 224 hours usually I say 48 just to be good but 24 hours
[00:22:41.370 --> 00:22:47.330] but also don't be putting filters not speak for myself but I know a lot of
[00:22:47.330 --> 00:22:50.330] photographers they don't like you putting filters on their work especially if
[00:22:50.330 --> 00:22:55.560] they edit it already don't put a filter on it but if you don't know
[00:22:55.560 --> 00:22:59.820] how to edit just just just be a front because we don't want you just
[00:22:59.820 --> 00:23:05.880] messing up our work are you because you know we want you to look good and
[00:23:05.880 --> 00:23:14.440] be a visual representation of yourself again that's knowing your value now some
[00:23:14.440 --> 00:23:22.330] of the things I value like I said it's time now I want you to reflect what do
[00:23:22.330 --> 00:23:29.430] you value again time is one of my biggest freedom is one of my biggest
[00:23:30.350 --> 00:23:39.210] love I value those things community coaching event photography I value
[00:23:39.210 --> 00:23:45.550] those things I look at myself as a historian document a time document a
[00:23:45.550 --> 00:23:52.050] history and that's why I love it when people contact me like oh I want you
[00:23:52.050 --> 00:23:57.670] to be there at my event to document everything and I'm like everything well
[00:23:57.670 --> 00:24:02.050] what's important what are the things you value and we kind of limit it down to
[00:24:02.050 --> 00:24:07.310] that and I capture it of course I capture the extra are the good moments
[00:24:07.310 --> 00:24:11.450] the fun times the experiences the essence of the event the story telling
[00:24:11.450 --> 00:24:21.720] I cater it I document I'm a real visual historian so again if you want
[00:24:21.720 --> 00:24:28.260] to book me I am photographer Jackson of alien eyes photos visit alien eyes
[00:24:28.260 --> 00:24:37.640] photos calm that's eyes with a Z photos with an S alien eyes photos calm and
[00:24:37.640 --> 00:24:44.760] follow me on all social media platforms alien eyes photos and yes
[00:24:44.760 --> 00:24:52.100] this has been a great one episode 6 of alien eyes photos industry talk we are
[00:24:52.660 --> 00:25:00.020] yeah thank you for tuning in again if you like this go over and listen to the
[00:25:00.020 --> 00:25:05.120] pull-up experience podcast on all streaming platforms our current
[00:25:06.640 --> 00:25:11.640] episodes release on YouTube we're catching up with the audio and trust me
[00:25:11.640 --> 00:25:17.080] I'm among the team like we got to get this audio how much surpassed y'all
[00:25:17.080 --> 00:25:29.140] we have at the time of this recording almost at episode 300 so yeah I'm doing
[00:25:30.640 --> 00:25:35.320] up my daughter just walked in hey baby you good you good you want to say hey
[00:25:35.320 --> 00:25:41.160] to everybody while you're here you say as she gets all right I mean I'm
[00:25:41.160 --> 00:25:45.840] actually closing out the episode so this would be good timing for you you
[00:25:45.840 --> 00:25:53.560] want to say hey to everybody hey say what's up all right yeah we're closing
[00:25:53.560 --> 00:25:59.900] now episode 6 of alien eyes photos industry talk well you'll spend time my
[00:25:59.900 --> 00:26:04.920] daughter relax while I can get something to eat and chill and I am
[00:26:04.920 --> 00:26:17.360] out I'm your host photographer Jackson of alien eyes photos this has been a
[00:26:23.730 --> 00:26:28.470] thank you thank you thank you and remember your value and remember your
[00:26:28.470 --> 00:26:28.730] worth

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86. Ep. 5 - Mental Hygiene With Meditation And Prayer w/ Photographer Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 5
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/ep-5-mental-hygiene-with-meditation-and-prayer-w-photographe
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[00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:09.420] Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, yes, welcome, welcome, welcome to another edition of Alien Eyes.
[00:00:11.180 --> 00:00:15.500] Mental hygiene with meditation and prayer.
[00:00:18.010 --> 00:00:23.350] Now, as I speak about mental hygiene, you may wonder what is that?
[00:00:24.690 --> 00:00:31.750] Well, you know what your mental is and some, or at least most, may know what hygiene is.
[00:00:33.890 --> 00:00:35.670] But some do not.
[00:00:39.920 --> 00:00:49.120] But for simple terms, it's the cleanse of your mental mind, your inner body, your inner soul.
[00:00:50.580 --> 00:00:55.300] Wash your thoughts and clear your mind just like you have to clear your laundry.
[00:00:57.320 --> 00:01:04.280] Wash, dry, hang it up, fold it up until it's ready to be worn again.
[00:01:07.020 --> 00:01:11.380] Buy a hand-me-down store or donation-based store.
[00:01:13.240 --> 00:01:17.460] You have to wash it, a thrift store. You have to wash it before you wear it. At least you should.
[00:01:19.080 --> 00:01:23.480] You don't know how many people tried it on and where their life has been before they did.
[00:01:24.680 --> 00:01:31.150] So just like your mind, I speak a lot about sitting in silence.
[00:01:31.150 --> 00:01:36.430] And I challenge you all, at least for ten minutes a day, to sit in silence.
[00:01:37.090 --> 00:01:43.850] Do nothing. No background noise. Isolate yourself. Have that time to yourself.
[00:01:44.130 --> 00:01:48.980] Wash your soul. And I like to do that with meditation.
[00:01:51.480 --> 00:01:56.660] Try to silence what I call my monkey mind. My thoughts be everywhere, jumping everywhere.
[00:01:59.220 --> 00:02:03.540] Thinking a million miles per hour, a trillion times sometimes.
[00:02:04.780 --> 00:02:10.199] I clear out, hopefully, quite a few thoughts.
[00:02:11.340 --> 00:02:14.580] I'll start with a blank slate. A fresh sheet of paper.
[00:02:15.780 --> 00:02:21.770] One thing, but I have to clear my mind first.
[00:02:24.460 --> 00:02:29.560] Apreneur and a creative have the honor to be both.
[00:02:30.500 --> 00:02:33.460] Yes, an artist, artist entrepreneur.
[00:02:34.620 --> 00:02:40.900] You know, my creative mind are always thinking of solutions for problems.
[00:02:42.040 --> 00:02:44.380] And now I'm stepping into the coaching role.
[00:02:45.440 --> 00:02:54.300] I'm always thinking of solutions to more problems that have arise or may arise in this season.
[00:02:54.300 --> 00:03:01.320] And then, you know, the people that I coach their season, you know, in the beginning stages of their business,
[00:03:03.620 --> 00:03:07.120] particularly photography businesses, media businesses.
[00:03:07.880 --> 00:03:19.660] But I work with all types of entrepreneurs and I have a knack for marketing, branding, you know, visual representation of your brand, your company.
[00:03:23.220 --> 00:03:26.900] And, you know, I found myself in a lot of things.
[00:03:28.360 --> 00:03:35.160] So instead of saying the same things, well, that's just a testament of why I started this podcast.
[00:03:35.460 --> 00:03:49.320] To challenge myself to be better, a better speaker, be more fluent and get my thoughts across very tactfully, very precisely, you know.
[00:03:50.440 --> 00:03:53.940] I had to do with speaking from time to time.
[00:03:54.180 --> 00:04:01.040] Now that I stopped performing, which is, you know, another form of, you know, is more arithmetic.
[00:04:03.300 --> 00:04:13.180] But to progress in that, that's one of the birth reasons of the podcast, the reasons it was birthed.
[00:04:13.180 --> 00:04:20.300] Also to journal my entrepreneurial journey, my creative journey as well.
[00:04:21.320 --> 00:04:36.620] And to assist other, you know, beginning entrepreneurs, beginning creators, especially in a media business, a general business podcast, helping entrepreneurs and small businesses.
[00:04:36.620 --> 00:04:46.660] I'm in a media space, so a lot of this will kind of be biased to the media, but, you know, you can grab some jewels in this space.
[00:04:47.080 --> 00:04:53.440] Or even if you're working with a media company, you may want to, you know, get a feel of how a media company may work.
[00:04:53.540 --> 00:04:57.880] This would be a good opportunity for you to tune in and gain some insights.
[00:04:57.880 --> 00:05:10.240] And now we think, or you book us, or, you know, if you're going to book me directly, you can reach me at alien eyes photos dot com.
[00:05:10.600 --> 00:05:21.360] That's alien eyes with a Z, photos with a S dot com, alien eyes photos dot com, like the eyeballs.
[00:05:23.120 --> 00:05:25.700] Aliens on my website, especially videos.
[00:05:26.320 --> 00:05:32.100] I got a link to my photography portfolio. It's honestly outdated.
[00:05:32.200 --> 00:05:37.420] So if you like that, you would really like current style. It's about two and a half years old, honestly.
[00:05:38.200 --> 00:05:47.900] But I do a lot of work, so I really do not know even though I should, but, you know, a lot of people been liking, you know, my older work and, you know, I've progressed.
[00:05:47.900 --> 00:05:52.900] So they, you know, see their finished product and it's like, wow, okay, that's definitely a step up.
[00:05:54.080 --> 00:05:57.680] So, yeah, it's another reason I kind of do that. It gives them that wow factor.
[00:05:57.720 --> 00:05:59.580] Like, oh, it's even better than I intended.
[00:05:59.720 --> 00:06:13.460] I'm talking to you and, you know, sharing thoughts and meeting in the middle and, you know, setting the expectation on how, you know, for video production, I may say may go or how photoshoot may go.
[00:06:13.460 --> 00:06:19.320] We get a clear, actionable plan step by step and what's going to happen.
[00:06:19.820 --> 00:06:30.720] And we really talk about the process and what to expect so we can get the final product the way that it should be.
[00:06:34.300 --> 00:06:35.290] Sorry about that.
[00:06:38.270 --> 00:06:46.850] Really, you know, especially with your brand, you want to hone in on what you're, I want to say selling.
[00:06:46.850 --> 00:06:51.470] But in a sense, selling to your audience because you're selling yourself, you're selling your brand.
[00:06:52.550 --> 00:07:00.310] So just making sure every message we convey is precise before we do any photography or any video.
[00:07:00.590 --> 00:07:02.950] Let's get a general understanding of that.
[00:07:03.030 --> 00:07:04.590] Let's bring that to the forefront.
[00:07:05.130 --> 00:07:08.670] And that's how we will frame each video or even the pictures.
[00:07:09.230 --> 00:07:11.710] I focus on most, mostly events.
[00:07:12.630 --> 00:07:19.710] But I do a lot of headdots and portraits and brand and shoots outside of video production and podcasting.
[00:07:21.970 --> 00:07:24.350] So it kind of varies.
[00:07:24.670 --> 00:07:28.430] I have a wide array of tools under my belt.
[00:07:29.010 --> 00:07:31.070] I come from a creative background.
[00:07:32.570 --> 00:07:36.590] So I like to blend all that together.
[00:07:37.050 --> 00:07:38.410] That's my personal sauce.
[00:07:38.430 --> 00:07:39.830] That's my personal style.
[00:07:39.830 --> 00:07:46.930] And I've been around for about, hmm, let's think about this.
[00:07:51.040 --> 00:07:54.600] Officially in business with my media company, it's 2025.
[00:07:54.860 --> 00:08:06.170] But in business in general and having this entrepreneurial mindset, it's close to close to 10 years give or take.
[00:08:08.400 --> 00:08:10.720] I was mostly an artist growing up.
[00:08:10.720 --> 00:08:13.000] I didn't know too much about the business side.
[00:08:13.020 --> 00:08:14.300] I knew I had to learn it.
[00:08:15.040 --> 00:08:19.900] My mother used to always say you count those pennies and put them in a wrapper.
[00:08:20.280 --> 00:08:24.440] You know, you had that 50 cent penny wrappers.
[00:08:24.540 --> 00:08:29.200] I usually really sort my coins out and put them all in line.
[00:08:30.320 --> 00:08:31.600] I thought I was going to go into accounting.
[00:08:31.660 --> 00:08:33.260] I'm good with numbers. I love numbers.
[00:08:33.360 --> 00:08:34.080] I love math.
[00:08:34.380 --> 00:08:37.510] But I stick to my creative background.
[00:08:37.510 --> 00:08:45.760] I started song writing and then started performing years later after having quite a few studio tracks.
[00:08:47.070 --> 00:08:51.510] I have a lot of music, a lot of records that I never publicly release.
[00:08:52.410 --> 00:08:55.570] The rough drives, songs that didn't be recorded.
[00:08:55.890 --> 00:09:03.630] So many songs that I've written, choruses, ideas, poems, unfinished poems, published poems and books.
[00:09:03.630 --> 00:09:07.150] I have In Love Words by Steven D. Jackson.
[00:09:07.170 --> 00:09:11.230] That's N-I-N, love, words.
[00:09:11.990 --> 00:09:14.470] That's volume one and then also volume two.
[00:09:14.650 --> 00:09:17.910] It's all about love, poems and the representation of love.
[00:09:18.590 --> 00:09:24.950] Then I have Dark Ages Engraved, the e-book and audio book is available.
[00:09:27.390 --> 00:09:30.370] Yeah, Dark Ages Engraved by Steven D. Jackson.
[00:09:30.950 --> 00:09:35.170] Kind of has some good celebrity reviews.
[00:09:35.430 --> 00:09:36.690] Megan Good was one of them.
[00:09:37.010 --> 00:09:40.810] I definitely, you know, that's an honor.
[00:09:41.370 --> 00:09:42.690] So, you know, I'm applaud.
[00:09:43.230 --> 00:09:44.430] I'm happy. I'm grateful.
[00:09:46.050 --> 00:09:47.070] What else?
[00:09:48.130 --> 00:09:53.790] As I, you know, clear my mind before I, I'm going to do a short meditation in this episode.
[00:09:54.810 --> 00:09:58.970] Actually, I like to do that now before I further the episode.
[00:10:00.030 --> 00:10:04.250] You know, I like to start my deep breaths in through the nose, out through the mouth.
[00:10:05.030 --> 00:10:07.190] In with the good, out with the bad.
[00:10:07.490 --> 00:10:13.550] Inhale through your nose, out through your mouth.
[00:10:14.570 --> 00:10:15.530] Again, into your nose.
[00:10:31.700 --> 00:10:33.900] How do you calm your nerves, calm your thoughts?
[00:10:37.520 --> 00:10:38.840] Silence your background.
[00:10:40.060 --> 00:10:41.280] Silence your environment.
[00:10:42.420 --> 00:10:44.880] Silence your headspace and start to relax.
[00:10:48.110 --> 00:10:49.070] Take a deep breath.
[00:11:17.410 --> 00:11:26.050] Before I finish the episode, I do a quick prayer to higher power within.
[00:11:28.690 --> 00:11:30.310] I am grateful for being blessed.
[00:11:30.510 --> 00:11:31.910] I am grateful for being alive.
[00:11:32.450 --> 00:11:34.430] I am very thankful for my life.
[00:11:35.650 --> 00:11:37.230] I am grateful for my existence.
[00:11:37.590 --> 00:11:48.990] I'm grateful for my knowledge, my wisdom, my thoughts, my mind, my business, my expertise, my skills, my talents, my charming personality,
[00:11:48.990 --> 00:12:01.370] my calmness, my calm mind, my great strategic thoughts, my powerful mindset, my direction of life, my family, my daughters,
[00:12:02.910 --> 00:12:09.150] my loved ones, my friends, my colleagues, business partners, podcasting partners.
[00:12:10.350 --> 00:12:16.810] I am grateful for LaunchArts Media, which I am here recording in this space today.
[00:12:16.810 --> 00:12:27.650] Definitely check out LaunchArtsMedia.com, AllThingsMedia, and I could say also shout out to the podcast and partners.
[00:12:28.190 --> 00:12:35.310] And I am honored to be the creative director and producer of The Pull Up Experience, an entrepreneur podcast.
[00:12:35.430 --> 00:12:43.510] So if you like this podcast, you will really, really, really love our interview style podcast over at The Pull Up Experience.
[00:12:44.070 --> 00:12:47.350] Definitely check out if you're going to number 300.
[00:12:48.450 --> 00:12:54.810] And I don't expect you to check it all 300, but if you're up to the challenge, go ahead.
[00:12:55.630 --> 00:13:05.670] But you know, we have quite a few ranging topics that we discuss with many people from the entrepreneurial space and different industries.
[00:13:05.670 --> 00:13:07.810] And I like to cover different industries.
[00:13:08.630 --> 00:13:15.330] You may hear a real estate investor, you may hear an engineer, you know, every once in a blue moon.
[00:13:16.550 --> 00:13:19.850] But I like to, you know, focus on business-based industries.
[00:13:24.090 --> 00:13:26.770] And I'll say, a man, a woman.
[00:13:29.420 --> 00:13:38.340] Yeah, wildly to say myself, I never heard, you know, I have too much positive thoughts in my head.
[00:13:38.340 --> 00:13:42.240] I don't have many positive thoughts going on in my brain.
[00:13:43.000 --> 00:13:43.780] I don't hear that.
[00:13:43.960 --> 00:13:49.650] I typically hear negative thoughts and false beliefs, fear, and everything in between.
[00:13:51.720 --> 00:13:56.260] Negative thoughts cause clutter, like literally clutter your minds.
[00:13:56.440 --> 00:14:00.160] Filthy. It's so much going on in my monkey brain sometimes.
[00:14:01.040 --> 00:14:02.980] It creates division and separation.
[00:14:05.890 --> 00:14:07.430] Learn new thought processes.
[00:14:08.010 --> 00:14:12.770] Because if you change your story, you change how you live your life.
[00:14:16.810 --> 00:14:20.390] If you change your story, you change how you live your life.
[00:14:21.510 --> 00:14:23.130] Your thoughts control your actions.
[00:14:24.950 --> 00:14:36.130] This is also why we, if we clutter our minds, we lose sight of what is really, you know, needed the most.
[00:14:37.070 --> 00:14:43.590] Taking in too much unnecessary information, I may say, unnecessary, key word, unnecessary information.
[00:14:44.590 --> 00:14:52.130] Taking in too much unnecessary information and general knowledge that is not useful, especially immediately.
[00:14:57.120 --> 00:15:07.480] Compared to what your life considered of the steps that you will need to take or may want to take the desired next steps.
[00:15:07.480 --> 00:15:10.520] Having no action is not progressive.
[00:15:11.800 --> 00:15:19.040] Focus on the right thoughts to get you the proper action to display those thoughts and actions become positive habits.
[00:15:21.690 --> 00:15:32.110] So yeah, the right thoughts will lead to the proper actions for you to display or act out on.
[00:15:33.390 --> 00:15:37.810] But first, you should start your positive habits early.
[00:15:42.240 --> 00:15:46.360] Start your positive habits early and secure smaller wins first.
[00:15:47.440 --> 00:15:53.620] Every day you should bathe, brush your teeth, and put on fresh clothes. At least you should.
[00:15:55.080 --> 00:15:59.120] Breakfast is essential and making your bed are simple.
[00:15:59.520 --> 00:16:04.080] But early in the day wins that are compounded by positive habits.
[00:16:05.180 --> 00:16:15.870] Live the transformation you wish to seek. Live the transformation you wish to seek.
[00:16:19.590 --> 00:16:30.050] Going back to those positive thoughts and as you sit in silence, as you meditate, as you calm your body, calm your mind, calm your nerves.
[00:16:30.750 --> 00:16:38.170] Take your deep breaths with positive thoughts, positive environment, positive circumstances.
[00:16:39.170 --> 00:16:56.850] With positive results and working with me, I will help you get your mindset together before we dive into a higher level coaching program.
[00:16:56.850 --> 00:17:01.670] I don't think you can jump right into it, but it's going to cost you.
[00:17:05.250 --> 00:17:14.150] I do want to help you guide you in the right direction or to have that, I call it entrepreneur venting.
[00:17:15.630 --> 00:17:18.869] Help you talk it out. Sometimes you just need someone to talk it out with.
[00:17:19.470 --> 00:17:27.230] But if you want more a year or almost every week, once a week type of coaching,
[00:17:28.690 --> 00:17:41.230] I definitely have some programs and plans we can talk about and discuss based off what you need.
[00:17:41.850 --> 00:17:48.950] I focus on mindset, on branding and marketing for your business and brand.
[00:17:49.130 --> 00:17:52.430] When I used to be an artist in the music and poetry industry,
[00:17:53.030 --> 00:18:01.610] now I know how they should start their business and give them different ideas on how they should market different products they could have.
[00:18:03.850 --> 00:18:15.370] I love them and see them thrive and really live in their dream and desire and passion and what they really want to do in life, what they're good at.
[00:18:16.370 --> 00:18:27.860] They deserve it, but I love working with entrepreneurs in the media space and business have an impact on the public.
[00:18:28.880 --> 00:18:34.700] We elevate positive stories, as simple as that. That's the tagline, elevating positive stories.
[00:18:35.620 --> 00:18:39.840] I love highlighting brands with positive stories.
[00:18:42.900 --> 00:18:46.240] That's just the testament to the pull-up experience, the podcast.
[00:18:47.760 --> 00:18:56.000] We're positive stories and as they elevate our audience, they also elevate us and we elevate them as well.
[00:18:57.840 --> 00:19:02.220] Sharing ideas and insights and just learning about their journey and story.
[00:19:05.890 --> 00:19:11.410] I can say my podcast is a sibling podcast.
[00:19:11.410 --> 00:19:19.950] We further the conversation and dig deeper inside your business podcast because we turn inward.
[00:19:23.090 --> 00:19:33.820] At the pull-up experience, we bring your story, a little bit of your personality, but with mine we go more deeper, more inside.
[00:19:34.320 --> 00:19:39.160] We can talk a little bit of numbers. We can really have a little coaching session live.
[00:19:39.160 --> 00:19:43.660] You may be coaching me, I may be coaching you, or we may be coaching our audience.
[00:19:44.800 --> 00:19:48.160] We're a little combination of the two, so definitely feel inspired.
[00:19:53.180 --> 00:19:59.040] Space, my own mind frame, have calm thoughts as you intake this information.
[00:19:59.760 --> 00:20:05.780] Go back and listen to the mindset episodes 1 and 2.
[00:20:05.780 --> 00:20:12.720] Number 1 is mindset and expectations, 2 is abundance mindset, 3 is decision-making.
[00:20:12.840 --> 00:20:17.340] So I'll wrap you for this episode 5 and also for and also the rest of the podcast.
[00:20:20.460 --> 00:20:27.980] As we start to wrap, as near my 23 minutes, take time for yourself as I mentioned earlier on this podcast.
[00:20:29.220 --> 00:20:33.640] Don't forget to take deep breaths, especially when you're feeling high levels of anxiety.
[00:20:34.240 --> 00:20:39.200] Or before a big task, or before a big meeting, or before public speaking.
[00:20:40.700 --> 00:20:48.510] You know, take a couple minutes to you. Really, just breathe in, breathe out.
[00:20:50.050 --> 00:20:56.550] Start to focus, focus your mind, silence your mind, silence your ringer, silence your thoughts, silence your environment.
[00:20:58.760 --> 00:21:00.300] Declutter your mind.
[00:21:02.080 --> 00:21:09.640] And this has been Mental Hygiene with Meditation and Prayer, well received by you.
[00:21:10.720 --> 00:21:20.740] Again, this is an audio-based introspective business podcast that's geared towards 23 minutes per episode,
[00:21:20.880 --> 00:21:24.580] like the old school TV shows in a 30-minute segment.
[00:21:25.620 --> 00:21:29.880] So, if you're driving, on your way to work, on your way to pick up the kids,
[00:21:30.220 --> 00:21:34.020] this is a good way to tune into these short but meaty episodes.
[00:21:34.740 --> 00:21:39.920] It's only getting better, my speaking will only be getting better, my quality will only be getting better over time.
[00:21:40.320 --> 00:21:46.960] As you listen and grow with my progressive journey, you will be developed as well.
[00:21:47.500 --> 00:21:52.180] You will be my thoughts, my experiences and skills and wisdom.
[00:21:52.180 --> 00:21:58.800] We could grow together and don't be afraid to reach out to collab.
[00:21:59.500 --> 00:22:03.080] You can find me at alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:22:03.320 --> 00:22:07.040] Again, that's alieneyes with a Z, like an O.
[00:22:09.740 --> 00:22:16.060] Photos with an S, alieneyesphotos.com on all media.
[00:22:16.160 --> 00:22:21.920] And it'll be linked to the show notes and also usually at the bottom,
[00:22:22.640 --> 00:22:28.820] where it says podcast website, it just takes you straight there and you can find my booking information
[00:22:28.820 --> 00:22:36.920] if you want to book me for workshops, for conferences, for your event photos or videos.
[00:22:37.800 --> 00:22:43.380] I do have a small team that I work with and also my media partners, Launch Arts Media,
[00:22:43.680 --> 00:22:49.340] if you really want to get into the bigger productions at Launch Arts Media in Shaker, Ohio.
[00:22:49.340 --> 00:22:55.640] And yeah, tune in also to the Pull Up Experience podcast.
[00:22:56.380 --> 00:22:59.460] You can find them, Pull Up EXP.
[00:23:00.000 --> 00:23:03.260] That's the Pull Up EXP, short for The Pull Up Experience.
[00:23:03.320 --> 00:23:07.720] Check out our YouTube channel where most of our updated episodes are,
[00:23:08.080 --> 00:23:10.660] as we're still catching up with the audio.
[00:23:11.820 --> 00:23:14.760] But that's why I love this audio based podcast.
[00:23:14.760 --> 00:23:17.780] It helps me crank it out a little bit faster.
[00:23:17.920 --> 00:23:20.500] I think video kind of slows it down, you know, doing both.
[00:23:21.440 --> 00:23:24.760] Sometimes I look at the camera today and I'm just like, let's just press record.
[00:23:26.020 --> 00:23:27.980] I had some time to relax a little bit before this.
[00:23:28.340 --> 00:23:35.560] I promise y'all, episode three I was dog tired, like almost 30 plus hours up,
[00:23:35.880 --> 00:23:38.380] no sleep, just working and grinding.
[00:23:39.420 --> 00:23:44.740] But I promised to Ebo that there will be times I sound like that, nice and tired.
[00:23:44.760 --> 00:23:48.320] And had long days, sleepless nights, sleepless days.
[00:23:48.420 --> 00:23:51.820] But I'm still going to push through and give y'all, you know, what I can.
[00:23:52.080 --> 00:23:54.820] You know, it might be a shorter episode, which that one was.
[00:23:56.060 --> 00:24:01.380] But I'd rather give you a little something, a little nugget of insight or wisdom
[00:24:01.380 --> 00:24:05.760] that may help you on your journey, focusing on rest.
[00:24:06.260 --> 00:24:09.940] A lot more this year, I promise, I promise you, I promise you.
[00:24:10.860 --> 00:24:15.700] But to help me get more rest, you got to book me.
[00:24:16.880 --> 00:24:19.100] Yeah, trying to get discounts all the time.
[00:24:19.240 --> 00:24:23.680] Because if I'm booked with so many things to do,
[00:24:23.720 --> 00:24:25.920] because everybody wants to ask for a discount,
[00:24:26.000 --> 00:24:31.620] then I can't really, you know, pay myself, pay my staff, pay my business partners.
[00:24:33.680 --> 00:24:38.920] And, you know, travels and gas, my basic needs of life, food,
[00:24:38.920 --> 00:24:44.140] X, Y, Z, if those needs can't be met and, you know, taken care of,
[00:24:44.760 --> 00:24:47.900] then I'm going to have to do a little bit more work.
[00:24:48.720 --> 00:24:53.920] Yeah, so that's going to take time away from me sleeping, resting, and counterproductive.
[00:24:55.900 --> 00:24:58.180] And productivity goes down.
[00:24:59.300 --> 00:25:03.620] So, yeah, don't be afraid to book me at my normal rate.
[00:25:04.040 --> 00:25:06.420] Always ask or look for a discount.
[00:25:06.420 --> 00:25:15.260] But I do barter, so that may be a way to cut the price down without cutting the price, you know.
[00:25:15.460 --> 00:25:23.600] I will exchange services and, you know, it may be a little monetary and, you know, give me a rest and exchange.
[00:25:24.300 --> 00:25:29.220] So that's a way to learn lowering the cost with the barter system.
[00:25:30.180 --> 00:25:35.720] Have money, have service, and yeah, I'm big on that.
[00:25:36.420 --> 00:25:37.880] Community and collaboration.
[00:25:38.960 --> 00:25:43.660] So, yeah, again, if you want to book me, check out ni'sphotos.com.
[00:25:45.000 --> 00:25:50.640] And, yeah, I'm here for all things events, whether if you need help setting up,
[00:25:51.660 --> 00:25:54.500] and you need help with your audio, of course, your visuals,
[00:25:55.800 --> 00:26:02.520] with event photography, video production, video recaption of the whole entire event.
[00:26:03.560 --> 00:26:08.520] Events is my niche. I also do weddings, I do coaching, podcasting,
[00:26:09.220 --> 00:26:14.960] whether if you need photo documentation or video production for your podcast.
[00:26:15.140 --> 00:26:16.580] I will help you with your podcast.
[00:26:16.640 --> 00:26:20.560] I have a team that will get your podcast in the right direction.
[00:26:20.800 --> 00:26:24.240] Or if you need some guidance for a one-on-one,
[00:26:24.380 --> 00:26:30.240] just to get your wheels burning and turning and that fuel underneath you going,
[00:26:31.100 --> 00:26:34.000] contact ni'sphotos.com.
[00:26:34.280 --> 00:26:38.080] And this has been another episode, great episode,
[00:26:39.720 --> 00:26:49.550] of Alien Eyes Photos Media presenting Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:26:50.170 --> 00:26:55.460] And this is episode five, mental hygiene.
[00:26:56.690 --> 00:26:58.210] Mental hygiene, I love that.
[00:26:58.210 --> 00:27:03.990] And, yeah, until next week, until next time, stay blessed.
[00:27:04.350 --> 00:27:06.350] Peace, love, and blessings.
[00:27:08.110 --> 00:27:14.050] Yes, yes, yes, Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk five.
[00:27:15.070 --> 00:27:16.430] Tell me how you like it, sure.
[00:27:16.670 --> 00:27:21.290] Some feedback and follow me at alieneyesphotos.com
[00:27:21.290 --> 00:27:26.210] and also my website, alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:27:26.210 --> 00:27:34.590] And that's eyes with a Z, photos with a S, Alien Eyes Photos,
[00:27:35.170 --> 00:27:39.850] expert photographer Jackson, also Stephen D. Jackson.
[00:27:40.950 --> 00:27:42.310] I am signing out.
[00:27:43.070 --> 00:27:48.510] I am done under my 30 minutes, but more than 20.
[00:27:48.830 --> 00:27:51.770] So my challenge for the day is over with.
[00:27:51.890 --> 00:27:54.310] Thank you for tuning in to another episode.
[00:27:54.310 --> 00:27:58.490] This has been great. Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you.
[00:27:58.810 --> 00:27:59.290] Peace.

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87. Ep. 4 Offers with Photographer Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 4
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/ep-4-offers-with-photographer-jackson
========================================================================

[00:00:01.010 --> 00:00:06.990] Welcome, welcome, welcome back to Alienize Industry Talk.
[00:00:07.870 --> 00:00:12.060] Yeah, all things media.
[00:00:12.680 --> 00:00:17.060] Peace is coming soon as I dive deeper into those episodes.
[00:00:18.440 --> 00:00:22.280] But like I said, welcome back to Alienize Photos Industry Talk.
[00:00:22.540 --> 00:00:27.760] I'm in episode four and I'm going to speak about offers real quick, just real quick.
[00:00:29.000 --> 00:00:30.880] So let's speak about offers.
[00:00:31.940 --> 00:00:36.520] And I feel like you should make an offer at least once a day, make an offer.
[00:00:38.840 --> 00:00:40.220] So that's seven offers a week.
[00:00:40.380 --> 00:00:43.840] So if you skip a day, do two or three in a day.
[00:00:44.460 --> 00:00:46.280] Just make one a day like a vitamin.
[00:00:47.580 --> 00:00:49.220] Make an offer a day.
[00:00:49.460 --> 00:00:51.180] Can you do that? I challenge you to do that.
[00:00:52.180 --> 00:00:55.300] So if you skip a day, double up, triple up.
[00:00:56.000 --> 00:01:03.960] But you should make one offer a day or tell someone what you do, what services you provide, what products you provide.
[00:01:04.200 --> 00:01:06.460] How can you help them? How can you assist?
[00:01:07.700 --> 00:01:10.180] Yeah, this is going to be a nice short episode.
[00:01:10.200 --> 00:01:12.500] I just want to speak to you about the importance of offers.
[00:01:13.600 --> 00:01:22.100] And no one will book you or buy what you have to offer if you don't offer them or know and explain what you do.
[00:01:22.100 --> 00:01:26.420] Like me, I am an event photographer, also do coaching.
[00:01:26.980 --> 00:01:28.340] I am podcasting.
[00:01:28.420 --> 00:01:35.100] I'm a director and producer of the creative branding brand.
[00:01:37.980 --> 00:01:42.560] I just realized that I hadn't released the name to the public.
[00:01:43.420 --> 00:01:51.100] So, yeah, I have another podcast with collaborating of overflow studio, Miss Brianna Casanova.
[00:01:51.100 --> 00:01:54.020] So, yeah, that's definitely coming soon.
[00:01:54.420 --> 00:02:05.860] But again, director, producer of Pull Up Experience podcast, entrepreneur elevation group here in Cleveland, Ohio,
[00:02:06.340 --> 00:02:12.260] as we interview a lot of entrepreneurs and small businesses around the city of Cleveland and Ohio.
[00:02:12.700 --> 00:02:15.300] But we're not limited to that location.
[00:02:15.780 --> 00:02:16.960] We're worldwide.
[00:02:17.180 --> 00:02:18.000] We're national.
[00:02:18.000 --> 00:02:19.100] Yeah, I guess we're global.
[00:02:19.320 --> 00:02:19.920] We're national.
[00:02:20.120 --> 00:02:20.920] We're just right.
[00:02:22.120 --> 00:02:28.340] And we pop up at different events and conferences, interview, you know, your guest, self, the host, the organizer,
[00:02:28.360 --> 00:02:36.520] and who else you may need us to cover, again, site from feedback and testimonials and promotion.
[00:02:40.010 --> 00:02:42.670] But we spoke about our offers.
[00:02:44.450 --> 00:02:49.270] Again, my one on one coaching session, just two hours.
[00:02:49.270 --> 00:02:53.070] Five hundred dollars, two hours for five hundred dollars.
[00:02:53.170 --> 00:02:57.730] And this is this is February two thousand twenty five.
[00:02:57.830 --> 00:02:59.890] So the price would definitely go up.
[00:02:59.890 --> 00:03:04.790] But that's my introductory rate for two hours of coaching this for starters.
[00:03:04.950 --> 00:03:11.710] But you want to put together a more inclusive package for yourself, your brand, your business.
[00:03:12.890 --> 00:03:14.350] Talk about those numbers.
[00:03:14.550 --> 00:03:18.170] But let's start off at two hours or five hundred dollars.
[00:03:18.170 --> 00:03:20.910] I offer you that or anyone listening in.
[00:03:20.990 --> 00:03:24.530] Thank you for tuning in to this podcast episode.
[00:03:24.570 --> 00:03:27.150] And you must mention this to get that offer.
[00:03:27.170 --> 00:03:29.950] This is a podcast exclusive offer.
[00:03:30.710 --> 00:03:34.730] Two hours for five hundred dollars, five hundred dollars for two hours.
[00:03:35.450 --> 00:03:36.670] Yes, coaching.
[00:03:36.910 --> 00:03:38.050] Pick my brain.
[00:03:38.110 --> 00:03:44.770] If you want to entrepreneur vent, you know, we don't have many spaces to vent as entrepreneurs and small businesses.
[00:03:45.370 --> 00:03:47.050] Yeah, you know, pick my brain.
[00:03:47.050 --> 00:03:52.130] Let's come up with some strategies and some plans, put some action and systems to place.
[00:03:52.750 --> 00:03:53.590] Let's do that.
[00:03:54.730 --> 00:04:00.690] So I offer you my coaching session for two hours or we could go further.
[00:04:00.710 --> 00:04:05.890] Or if you need an event photographer or video production, definitely contact me.
[00:04:05.890 --> 00:04:08.790] We could talk about rates and what meet your budget.
[00:04:09.470 --> 00:04:13.410] But yeah, I have day rates, have day rates.
[00:04:15.110 --> 00:04:18.190] Currently, they're increasing.
[00:04:18.269 --> 00:04:19.230] I was going to say that.
[00:04:19.829 --> 00:04:25.470] But they're quite affordable for my quality talent, skill and price point.
[00:04:28.650 --> 00:04:31.370] And again, I challenge you to make an offer.
[00:04:31.810 --> 00:04:36.290] Make an offer once a day or seven days a week.
[00:04:36.710 --> 00:04:40.230] If you get all said one day per week, then that's fine.
[00:04:40.650 --> 00:04:42.430] That's 28 offers a month.
[00:04:42.430 --> 00:04:45.790] Let's just make it a 30 offers for the month.
[00:04:47.090 --> 00:04:50.090] And yeah, let's see where it takes you.
[00:04:50.210 --> 00:04:56.950] You know, see if you really get more business and, you know, sales by offering more.
[00:04:56.950 --> 00:05:00.650] But once a day, I challenge you that and I challenge myself.
[00:05:01.030 --> 00:05:04.010] So if I contact you, this is a challenge.
[00:05:04.350 --> 00:05:11.350] And I would definitely send us out to my network and my mentees and those who I coach.
[00:05:11.350 --> 00:05:16.170] I'll definitely send them this episode until making an offer strategy is important.
[00:05:16.790 --> 00:05:18.750] I'm just going to leave it at that.
[00:05:19.290 --> 00:05:22.450] Make an offer at least once a day.
[00:05:22.710 --> 00:05:24.670] What do you offer? What do you do?
[00:05:25.190 --> 00:05:27.430] Tell someone or two.
[00:05:29.430 --> 00:05:36.670] You have listened to Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk with Mr. Photographer Jackson.
[00:05:36.670 --> 00:05:43.810] Yes, yes, that's Stephen D. Jackson, also known as Photographer Jackson in the media industry.
[00:05:45.050 --> 00:05:49.290] CEO and creative director of Alien Eyes Photos Media.
[00:05:49.930 --> 00:05:52.510] And to book me and for more information,
[00:05:53.430 --> 00:06:02.590] Alieneyesphotos.com, that's Alien Eyes with a Z, Photos with an S, Alieneyesphotos.com.
[00:06:03.070 --> 00:06:09.290] And Alien Eyes Photos on all platforms, or most of them at least, all the major ones.
[00:06:10.270 --> 00:06:13.470] And check out my booking links.
[00:06:13.470 --> 00:06:28.870] If you need event photography, event video coverage, video production, podcast, mentorship, coaching, speaking engagements, workshops.
[00:06:29.850 --> 00:06:32.970] Yeah, contact me, Photographer Jackson's been out here working.
[00:06:34.550 --> 00:06:39.410] So thank you for tuning in to episode four, offers on.
[00:06:39.410 --> 00:06:43.410] Yes, that's Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk.
[00:06:43.710 --> 00:06:45.070] All things media.
[00:06:46.010 --> 00:06:47.210] Thank you for tuning in.
[00:06:47.270 --> 00:06:49.170] This has been a great short one.
[00:06:50.530 --> 00:06:51.970] Under 10 minutes.
[00:06:52.250 --> 00:06:54.590] Yeah, it's my first one under 10 minutes besides my trailer.
[00:06:55.370 --> 00:06:57.390] And thank you for tuning in to this episode.
[00:06:57.770 --> 00:06:59.030] We are out.
[00:06:59.870 --> 00:07:00.390] Peace.
[00:07:01.590 --> 00:07:03.630] Take care. Have a blessed one. Peace, love and blessings.
[00:07:04.210 --> 00:07:05.270] Make those offers.

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88. Ep. 3 Decision Making with Photographer Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 3
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/ep-3-decision-making-with-photographer-jackson
========================================================================

[00:00:02.130 --> 00:00:11.010] welcome welcome welcome back everybody welcome to alien eyes photos industry
[00:00:11.010 --> 00:00:20.210] talk this is episode 3 I want to thank you all for listening in tuning in and
[00:00:20.870 --> 00:00:29.700] joining me in this journey you know I am very thankful I'm very blessed yeah
[00:00:29.700 --> 00:00:37.700] let's jump right into it it's gonna be a real quick episode I I've been up 20 30
[00:00:37.700 --> 00:00:47.480] plus hours basically since yesterday been filming since 10 a.m. so yeah I
[00:00:47.480 --> 00:00:52.600] definitely want to jump into it had a lot going on today had to knock it out
[00:00:52.600 --> 00:01:01.080] and I still wanted to give energy towards this podcast and give some
[00:01:01.080 --> 00:01:06.160] insight so I definitely want to honor my word and push through no matter how
[00:01:06.160 --> 00:01:12.680] tired I am I am very tired you may have heard the previous episodes me a
[00:01:12.680 --> 00:01:19.420] lot of energetic sometimes it would be like this where I'm just tired but
[00:01:19.420 --> 00:01:25.500] episode 3 I would definitely want to speak about a subject that's very very
[00:01:25.500 --> 00:01:34.600] important and that's decision-making decisions are the most important
[00:01:34.600 --> 00:01:44.030] navigation tool in your life and certainly mine as well simply by
[00:01:44.030 --> 00:01:48.970] making the decision you are saying yes to one thing if you're saying yes to
[00:01:48.970 --> 00:01:56.180] one thing you're saying no to another so have you take that have
[00:01:56.180 --> 00:02:07.410] you received that that's that also look at the word decision you know kind of
[00:02:07.410 --> 00:02:15.150] break it down as die decision you break it up with division die vision two
[00:02:15.150 --> 00:02:22.250] visions and you really got to decide between one or two divide it up and
[00:02:22.850 --> 00:02:51.980] and let me one moment everybody while I'm still doing this I've been up all
[00:02:51.980 --> 00:03:05.510] day but yeah that's neither here or there but again decisions is really
[00:03:07.720 --> 00:03:15.940] considering considerations and trying not to use the word decide but you
[00:03:15.940 --> 00:03:21.940] really deciding on something you're figuring out something you're
[00:03:21.940 --> 00:03:33.540] identifying something you're doing your analysis what are the facts and you
[00:03:33.540 --> 00:03:40.880] bring that up on also knowledge and you really choosing something choosing
[00:03:40.880 --> 00:03:51.070] aside choosing an idea choosing a direction decision-making is one of
[00:03:51.070 --> 00:03:57.730] the most important things in life I call it the most important navigation
[00:03:57.730 --> 00:04:13.870] tool the most important navigation tool how do you think about that hmm no one
[00:04:13.870 --> 00:04:35.130] took another deep breath for that one remember the quote told y'all mom I'm
[00:04:35.130 --> 00:04:43.130] poor they didn't even know it in my first ever novel once upon a time yes
[00:04:43.130 --> 00:04:51.010] once upon a time by Stephen D Jackson check that out wherever you find your
[00:04:51.010 --> 00:04:58.550] books it's a e-book and then I believe it's an audio audio book and also the
[00:04:59.650 --> 00:05:08.070] paperback that's it definitely support me in that arena my first novel after
[00:05:08.070 --> 00:05:15.810] that it came out with a bunch of poetry books ebooks so if you like poetry I
[00:05:16.450 --> 00:05:21.630] have some about life in general and the struggles and challenges and the
[00:05:21.630 --> 00:05:31.070] pain and how to overcome that and then also a series of love forms which was
[00:05:32.170 --> 00:05:44.390] inspired back in the day but I had to decide on what I wanted to write decide
[00:05:44.390 --> 00:05:51.130] on what I wanted to put in a book decide on how I wanted to express
[00:05:51.130 --> 00:05:59.030] myself to the world you know I had to go deep within and sometimes you have
[00:05:59.030 --> 00:06:03.890] to really take that quiet time I spoke about it in a previous episode go
[00:06:03.890 --> 00:06:11.140] back and check it out how a quiet time is important you know that meditation
[00:06:11.140 --> 00:06:17.380] that silence being in your head being your thoughts being in your mind to
[00:06:17.380 --> 00:06:24.060] really figure out what is the best decision for you this isn't decision
[00:06:24.060 --> 00:06:32.700] making is a skill I'm sorry it is a great skill you need to practice and
[00:06:34.920 --> 00:06:41.300] otherwise you you might make the wrong decision and wrong decisions lead you
[00:06:41.300 --> 00:06:48.540] to bad places and bad direction leads you to who knows you what but we want
[00:06:48.540 --> 00:06:55.820] to focus on the positive and continue to have great decisions really sit
[00:06:55.820 --> 00:07:01.380] down and write and map out you know what's in your head what's sweet what's
[00:07:01.380 --> 00:07:11.580] your thoughts and really hone in on it focus but again I didn't want it to be
[00:07:11.580 --> 00:07:19.040] long-winded today I'm tired but wanted to still push through and yeah
[00:07:19.040 --> 00:07:27.300] hit record and I promise I'll be back in my energetic self in the next
[00:07:27.300 --> 00:07:39.780] episode but I am tired y'all I've been up almost two days straight but I made
[00:07:39.780 --> 00:07:47.220] that decision too so whose fault is that mine but it was all worth it and
[00:07:47.220 --> 00:07:51.020] it was a good energy and you know everything I was doing is positive so
[00:07:51.700 --> 00:07:56.860] and really making an impact for something you know major bar a few
[00:07:56.860 --> 00:08:02.140] things that are making an impact so it's multiple things that's the reason
[00:08:02.140 --> 00:08:09.820] I've been up for two days so I don't want to tuck your ears off today and
[00:08:09.820 --> 00:08:14.560] yeah I feel like the words are not coming out the way that I really want
[00:08:14.560 --> 00:08:22.900] to but you could always tune in follow subscribe do all that good
[00:08:22.900 --> 00:08:30.520] stuff follow me on all social media at alien eyes photos that's at alien eyes
[00:08:30.820 --> 00:08:39.600] eyes with a Z photos with a S alien eyes photos eyes like your eyeballs and
[00:08:40.280 --> 00:08:48.880] alien eye player calm for my music and poetry and alien eyes photos for
[00:08:50.920 --> 00:08:57.820] media that's event photography video production coaching consulting and any
[00:08:57.820 --> 00:09:03.980] visual marketing and media definitely give me a call give me you know send me
[00:09:03.980 --> 00:09:10.060] an email send me a message book me if you want to start a podcast I have
[00:09:10.060 --> 00:09:17.180] the team for you look I do a lot of things you might just want to contact
[00:09:17.180 --> 00:09:21.760] me because it's something that I may not list or something that I forget
[00:09:21.760 --> 00:09:27.820] about that I could really assist you with and the entrepreneurial creative
[00:09:27.820 --> 00:09:37.140] realm business marketing arts like those are my sectors and I could
[00:09:37.140 --> 00:09:41.240] really assist me even weddings I talk about weddings a lot I'm gonna still
[00:09:41.240 --> 00:09:44.940] talk about weddings I love weddings there's a peak of someone's love or
[00:09:44.940 --> 00:09:51.040] two people's love so yeah I definitely love that and we'll love to get married
[00:09:51.040 --> 00:09:58.980] one day stay tuned I'm missing something oh tune in to the pull up
[00:09:58.980 --> 00:10:03.820] experience podcast the number one elevation entrepreneur elevation group
[00:10:03.820 --> 00:10:11.010] in Cleveland we're coming world for the world I don't know see I'm tired
[00:10:11.010 --> 00:10:17.230] but yeah definitely check out the podcast the pull-up experience mainly on
[00:10:17.230 --> 00:10:24.450] YouTube we're updating the audio because we're kind of stuck at like 140 150 but
[00:10:24.450 --> 00:10:31.370] we have almost 300 episodes they definitely got me outlet but I'm the
[00:10:31.370 --> 00:10:37.120] creative director and lead photographer for the pull-up experience I
[00:10:37.120 --> 00:10:41.340] love my entrepreneur team my family we're doing amazing things we're doing
[00:10:41.340 --> 00:10:47.920] amazing events we're doing our own events covering events we're really
[00:10:47.920 --> 00:10:54.460] doing a lot when we're also teaching we're hosting our own workshops getting
[00:10:54.460 --> 00:10:59.400] booked to speak at different workshops and conferences so it's been amazing
[00:11:00.340 --> 00:11:10.880] and follow the pull-up experience on social media at the pool up e XP that's
[00:11:10.880 --> 00:11:15.920] the pull-up e XP and you will find the pull-up experience on all media and
[00:11:16.520 --> 00:11:21.240] the pull-up experience under YouTube you could check us out live and catch
[00:11:21.240 --> 00:11:26.900] some of our great interviews with amazing entrepreneurs and changemakers
[00:11:26.900 --> 00:11:34.420] around Ohio but we also interview many many people outside of the city as we
[00:11:34.420 --> 00:11:42.280] travel also I want to thank launch arts media video production and media
[00:11:42.280 --> 00:11:50.060] partners as I am one of the leads in the video department at launch arts
[00:11:50.060 --> 00:11:56.460] media my media partners I am here in their space here creating recording
[00:11:56.460 --> 00:12:05.460] that's why my audio sounds so Chris Chris oh goodness Lordy it's time for
[00:12:05.460 --> 00:12:13.020] a nap but it's a big game today I'm not gonna say which game because I
[00:12:13.020 --> 00:12:18.400] don't want to date this but yeah I don't know if I'm even gonna catch
[00:12:18.400 --> 00:12:24.560] it or watch it but I'm about to get going y'all thank y'all for tuning in
[00:12:24.560 --> 00:12:34.640] and if you want to share this podcast out hashtag industry talk yes alien eyes
[00:12:34.640 --> 00:12:41.140] photos industry talk you can share it by hashtagging industry talk and tag me
[00:12:41.140 --> 00:12:48.120] alien eyes photos let me know how you like it give me some feedback tune in
[00:12:48.120 --> 00:12:57.220] check out the website alien eyes photos calm and scroll until you see the
[00:12:57.220 --> 00:13:04.700] request to book our you know contact me for more info I appreciate y'all as
[00:13:04.700 --> 00:13:15.360] always peace love and blessings I am I'm going to be a y'all piece this has
[00:13:15.360 --> 00:13:17.220] been a great one
[00:13:18.500 --> 00:13:19.020] peace

========================================================================
89. Ep. 2 Abundance Mindset with Photographer Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 2
Listen: https://shows.acast.com/alieneyezphotosindustrytalk/episodes/ep-2-abundance-mindset
========================================================================

[00:00:02.380 --> 00:00:12.940] Welcome, welcome, welcome, it is your host, photographer Jackson, of Alien Eyes Photos
[00:00:12.940 --> 00:00:23.840] as I present to you Alien Eyes Photos Industry Talk, yes yes that's Alien Eyes Photos Industry
[00:00:23.840 --> 00:00:34.400] Talk, episode 2, yes I made it to another chapter as you listen in, read in on the
[00:00:35.540 --> 00:00:42.500] transcripts however you may intake this, this is beautiful, made it to episode 2, keep rocking
[00:00:42.500 --> 00:00:53.820] out with me, this is gonna be a great journey, amazing insight, amazing information, you don't
[00:00:53.820 --> 00:01:12.440] need to talk about it, another deep breath on there, just read in through your nose, good to take those deep breaths
[00:01:12.440 --> 00:01:26.950] one more time and I just feel good, just a special shout out to my broadcast and production
[00:01:26.950 --> 00:01:34.910] partners, Launch Arts Media, I am recording this episode in your space so if you like this
[00:01:34.910 --> 00:01:42.170] quality compared to my home setup, this is definitely the place to be, definitely reach
[00:01:42.170 --> 00:01:49.610] out to Launch Arts Media for your production, visually, orderly, if you want some strategic
[00:01:50.310 --> 00:01:59.810] pointers with your business, Family All Things Media, Launch Arts Media and I just happen
[00:01:59.810 --> 00:02:09.190] to be a part of a special place, special position by the video department, we do a lot of work
[00:02:09.190 --> 00:02:14.190] together so definitely stay tuned and rock with me, if you rock with me, you rock with
[00:02:14.190 --> 00:02:27.030] them, so let's jump right in, I want to continue from the first episode as I touched
[00:02:27.030 --> 00:02:38.800] on mindset, yes yes mindset, I just want to continue down that specifically, episode
[00:02:38.800 --> 00:02:46.400] mindset and expectations, the mindset you should have as you listen in and you will
[00:02:46.400 --> 00:02:55.340] take this information and listen to this podcast and then also the expectations for
[00:02:55.340 --> 00:03:02.700] the podcast and what you can expect, for episode two I want to dive in before I head
[00:03:02.700 --> 00:03:09.860] to the meeting, I had a good 20 minutes so I definitely want to knock this out, be very
[00:03:09.860 --> 00:03:15.520] concise and get it done in 20 minutes or less, this will be a short one but a good
[00:03:15.520 --> 00:03:26.640] one, let's continue on mindset, specifically the abundance mindset, now if you listen
[00:03:26.640 --> 00:03:33.830] to episode one you heard me speak a little about mindset as I said before, if you
[00:03:33.830 --> 00:03:42.610] have not, stop this current podcast episode, which is episode two and listen to the first
[00:03:42.610 --> 00:03:48.950] one, then come back, yeah come back after listening to episode one, come back to
[00:03:48.950 --> 00:04:02.760] two, to maximize the ingestion of this episode of abundance mindset, so let's
[00:04:02.760 --> 00:04:12.740] on mindset because it is important before everything else takes place and I read
[00:04:12.740 --> 00:04:22.530] this book by Stephen Covey who has quite a few good books, author of the
[00:04:22.530 --> 00:04:29.470] seven habits of highly effective people who speaks about having the
[00:04:29.470 --> 00:04:37.330] win-win character trait, let me say that again, having the win-win character
[00:04:37.330 --> 00:04:46.220] trait, which is a piece of having the abundance mindset, there is plenty out
[00:04:46.220 --> 00:04:58.230] there for everyone and we all could win, now in the last episode I spoke
[00:04:58.230 --> 00:05:09.850] about losses and failures, briefly, I spoke about the L's and in the
[00:05:09.850 --> 00:05:17.350] previous episode again, L's are not losses, they are lessons, if you
[00:05:17.350 --> 00:05:23.300] shape your mind frame to understand that simple fact, you would know you
[00:05:23.300 --> 00:05:36.720] really never lose, you really never lose, now do you always win, no, but you do
[00:05:36.720 --> 00:05:47.260] not lose, you actually gain wisdom, to me that is a win, that is being
[00:05:47.260 --> 00:05:52.680] grateful for whatever the universe provides you in your life and lifetime,
[00:05:53.560 --> 00:06:01.920] a great song I actually have, lifetime by alieniplayer, lifetime by alieniplayer
[00:06:01.920 --> 00:06:12.040] and that's what it ain't, a nice clean legacy song in the hip-hop genre, lifetime
[00:06:12.040 --> 00:06:19.660] by alieniplayer on all stream of platforms and also over at alieniplayer.com
[00:06:19.660 --> 00:06:37.140] that's a-l-i-e-n-i-p-l-a-y-a.com, alieniplayer.com, check out the rest of the
[00:06:37.140 --> 00:06:44.020] songs and music, nice positive and conscious, good, you know, feel-good music,
[00:06:44.020 --> 00:06:54.680] again positive, no profanity and good 95% of the songs, so definitely check it out,
[00:06:55.260 --> 00:07:01.200] some good stuff, having been in front of the mic, well that's why I love this
[00:07:01.200 --> 00:07:05.720] right now, in front of the mic, but you know being a hip-hop artist and
[00:07:05.720 --> 00:07:12.760] poet and now look I'm back on the mic podcasting, so yeah, I just channel it
[00:07:12.760 --> 00:07:25.060] in a different way now, it's good, they also have a quite a good reference and
[00:07:25.060 --> 00:07:40.700] quotes from that song that I could just blur about, my oldest daughter's favorite
[00:07:40.700 --> 00:07:47.100] song, shout out to Aubrey, I actually released it on her birthday, August 8th,
[00:07:47.100 --> 00:07:56.030] a few years back, about five years ago, and it's been a blessing, it's been a
[00:07:56.030 --> 00:08:25.340] journey, continue to sit with self, a lot of people can't sit with their
[00:08:25.340 --> 00:08:33.630] self and just hear those personal thoughts inside their head, yet they're
[00:08:33.630 --> 00:08:36.630] listening to it at the wrong time, when they're in public, when they're supposed to be
[00:08:36.630 --> 00:08:49.210] focused on other things, other people doing other tasks, but use that self
[00:08:49.210 --> 00:08:59.380] time to mentally talk to yourself, what are you ingesting, what is your mind
[00:08:59.380 --> 00:09:06.000] seeing in your mind, what is it seeing, what is causing these thoughts, what are
[00:09:06.000 --> 00:09:13.860] you thinking about, so be sure to sit with self, because it will help with
[00:09:13.860 --> 00:09:23.920] this abundance mindset, because you have to focus, the world is so loud, you
[00:09:23.920 --> 00:09:29.610] need that quiet time, now you see me on the mic, but I'm actually an
[00:09:29.610 --> 00:09:39.560] introvert, and for those who can't see me, because this is a bonus, I am a
[00:09:39.560 --> 00:09:44.100] videographer, photographer, media specialist, so from time to time I will
[00:09:44.100 --> 00:09:52.460] be on camera, but I want this strictly audio based podcast, and I may have,
[00:09:52.460 --> 00:09:58.240] you know, somewhere where you could see a couple videos or behind the scenes,
[00:09:58.240 --> 00:10:03.460] but if I do video, most of it would be just for content purposes, not just, you
[00:10:03.460 --> 00:10:08.040] know, not mainly for the whole episode, just a couple clips and things like
[00:10:08.880 --> 00:10:15.980] that, time lapses, but I want you to focus in on the audio, on what I'm
[00:10:15.980 --> 00:10:24.120] saying, so, and it's just a quicker setup, just audio, I could just press
[00:10:24.120 --> 00:10:28.580] record and use my voice, and that's that, and edit it later, versus, you know,
[00:10:28.780 --> 00:10:35.990] whole video and projection, and I want this to get out almost as fast as I do
[00:10:35.990 --> 00:10:42.170] it, with video, it just takes a lot more time, and you know, I serve clients,
[00:10:42.410 --> 00:10:45.810] I got my hands on a couple other things, and diving into real estate
[00:10:45.810 --> 00:10:50.010] investing, so, you know, I got a lot on my plate, and I think audio is the
[00:10:50.010 --> 00:10:55.750] best method to get a lot done for me, efficiently, in this moment, and I
[00:10:55.750 --> 00:11:01.770] do have other podcasts, shout out to the Pull Up Experience podcast, the
[00:11:01.770 --> 00:11:07.390] Entrepreneur Elevation Group here in Cleveland, Ohio, and I'm blessed to be
[00:11:07.390 --> 00:11:13.550] a part of, I definitely will have an episode strictly for them, shouting
[00:11:13.550 --> 00:11:20.240] them out, so definitely stay tuned and out, yeah, the Pull Up Experience,
[00:11:20.360 --> 00:11:25.020] yeah, check out the Pull Up Experience and subscribe to the podcast, we're
[00:11:25.020 --> 00:11:29.620] making some major moves, and you can see us at some live events, and we also host
[00:11:29.620 --> 00:11:36.380] events ourselves, so definitely come out, meet me at an event, meet the rest
[00:11:36.380 --> 00:11:46.640] of the team, yeah, I'm actually in our photos, launch our media in the
[00:11:46.640 --> 00:11:53.560] Pull Up Experience on the back of the current hoodie I have on, because
[00:11:53.560 --> 00:11:59.420] I do represent these brands, these companies, these, what now I could call
[00:11:59.420 --> 00:12:06.900] family, yeah, this is real, and I'm also appreciative of the people that
[00:12:06.900 --> 00:12:12.820] was put up to my life, and also helped me to grow this abundance
[00:12:12.820 --> 00:12:18.760] mindset, yes, and we all are doing amazing things, that's what matters
[00:12:18.760 --> 00:12:27.120] the most, so with the abundance mindset, you have to think there will always be
[00:12:27.120 --> 00:12:34.990] more, you know, if you collaborate, you could build much more, and that's how
[00:12:34.990 --> 00:12:41.320] you stay on top, you know, being generous to others, you know, it's just, the
[00:12:41.320 --> 00:12:46.440] energy just comes back to you when you share, other people share,
[00:12:46.620 --> 00:12:49.580] especially knowledge, you share knowledge, you know, share knowledge, you share
[00:12:49.580 --> 00:12:56.240] stuff, I share mine, oh, you want a piece of this, this food, oh, you got a piece
[00:12:56.240 --> 00:13:00.540] of mine, oh, yeah, let's trade off, barter, let's go back to the barter
[00:13:00.540 --> 00:13:10.860] system, I don't mind bartering, maybe have monetary payment, maybe, I don't
[00:13:10.860 --> 00:13:15.040] know, I need a massage, so you give me a massage, you know, video
[00:13:15.040 --> 00:13:26.300] production, and my value time is much more than the typical massage, so, I
[00:13:26.300 --> 00:13:31.420] still have and have, maybe two massages, and I shoot content for you, and
[00:13:31.420 --> 00:13:39.810] just get some pictures, let's trade off, yeah, let's see, you know, you
[00:13:39.810 --> 00:13:48.310] have to freely welcome others, no, let me put some disclaimers on it,
[00:13:48.310 --> 00:13:52.270] positive people mainly, sometimes you can't always see things, and
[00:13:52.270 --> 00:14:00.270] sometimes people change, but definitely follow that positive energy, and
[00:14:00.270 --> 00:14:05.790] welcome other people in, and freely, you know, be open, be free, and be
[00:14:05.790 --> 00:14:14.640] free with yourself, trust, be over poor, now this one, as I talked
[00:14:14.640 --> 00:14:22.460] about collaboration, it's also good to have competition, and competition
[00:14:22.460 --> 00:14:30.280] cannot, and should not, only be looked at as bad, because really, it's not
[00:14:30.280 --> 00:14:35.300] going back to that win-win, yeah, just keep that in mind, that win-win
[00:14:35.300 --> 00:14:42.700] mentality, and character trait, because we also talk about saturation,
[00:14:42.700 --> 00:14:48.000] saturation is a good thing, I mean, there's something there, but if I build
[00:14:48.000 --> 00:14:51.180] a hobby job, I don't even know what that is, I'm just making something up,
[00:14:51.500 --> 00:14:59.620] and nobody wants it, then what am I doing, but, you know, there's many
[00:14:59.620 --> 00:15:06.800] photographers, I could say the market is saturated, yeah, and people doing all
[00:15:06.800 --> 00:15:11.440] types of things with their phone now, these phones are amazing,
[00:15:11.440 --> 00:15:17.440] shout out to Apple, I got stock in Apple, bought some Apple products, but
[00:15:17.440 --> 00:15:27.160] yeah, I can speak up a lot about this abundance mindset, might have to do a
[00:15:27.160 --> 00:15:31.880] part two, I had to head to a meeting, so I'm gonna wrap this up real
[00:15:31.880 --> 00:15:41.620] quick, always strive for growth, believe your best is yet to come, that
[00:15:41.620 --> 00:15:48.440] would be the amazing thing when something good happens, but it's the
[00:15:49.080 --> 00:15:53.780] Oh my good, that's always the best feeling, always the best, I'm telling
[00:15:53.780 --> 00:16:03.180] you, it's a good feeling, believe your inner self and environment is
[00:16:03.180 --> 00:16:09.980] growing, and I like to say that, because, you know, there is an
[00:16:09.980 --> 00:16:15.260] environment, your inner self, your brain, your intellect, your mind,
[00:16:17.400 --> 00:16:27.110] now you have to think big, take ownership of change, don't back
[00:16:27.110 --> 00:16:32.650] away from it either, I know a lot of people that do, are just
[00:16:32.650 --> 00:16:38.620] comfortable, you have to sometimes live uncomfortable, a lot of times I
[00:16:38.620 --> 00:16:42.820] do, starting this podcast, it was definitely uncomfortable, I was
[00:16:42.820 --> 00:16:48.120] twiddling my thumbs for months, but I'm like, let's do it, let's
[00:16:48.120 --> 00:16:51.080] upload the trailer, let's get the trailer out the way, I did the
[00:16:51.080 --> 00:16:53.900] trailer, I'm like, okay, now it's real, now let's get it, let's
[00:16:53.900 --> 00:16:58.500] put some plans to action, I even got some guests set up now, so
[00:16:58.500 --> 00:17:03.200] definitely tune in to those interviews, some amazing people,
[00:17:03.660 --> 00:17:07.240] some amazing insights and wisdom, and I'm gonna kind of ask them
[00:17:07.240 --> 00:17:13.609] some good questions, so stay tuned, with that, remember, you
[00:17:13.609 --> 00:17:18.329] are always showing up for yourself, you work for you no
[00:17:18.329 --> 00:17:25.470] matter what, no matter what job, no matter what business, no
[00:17:25.470 --> 00:17:37.490] matter what brand or task, you are working for you, there are
[00:17:37.490 --> 00:17:43.270] countless of times I could have came in at a later time, a few
[00:17:43.270 --> 00:17:48.510] minutes before an event typically, but as a professional
[00:17:48.510 --> 00:17:54.170] event photographer, or media specialist, event specialist as
[00:17:54.170 --> 00:17:59.030] well, because I love a lot of events and I can assist, I
[00:17:59.030 --> 00:18:03.770] show up earlier than expected, this gives my clients and
[00:18:04.690 --> 00:18:08.590] prospective clients, the notion that this guy shows up one
[00:18:08.590 --> 00:18:16.430] time, and even help set up, not only sometimes I don't always
[00:18:16.430 --> 00:18:20.190] have to set up, but when I can I do or if I move a table
[00:18:20.190 --> 00:18:24.270] or a chair, you know, help with some decorations, I hold
[00:18:24.270 --> 00:18:29.700] a ladder, I would definitely do that, but like I said, I
[00:18:29.700 --> 00:18:33.920] can always help, but sometimes, because I still have to set
[00:18:33.920 --> 00:18:38.820] up myself and get the settings, the camera settings in
[00:18:38.820 --> 00:18:46.040] place, the lighting in place, explore the venue, and event
[00:18:46.040 --> 00:18:51.720] staging, go over the timeline, coordinate with the event
[00:18:51.720 --> 00:18:56.600] coordinator about changes that may have been made to
[00:18:58.800 --> 00:19:04.060] get my mind in order and focus on what is about to go on.
[00:19:04.360 --> 00:19:07.160] Because that mental, like I said, that quiet time, sitting
[00:19:07.160 --> 00:19:10.760] with my thoughts, it's always good for me, I'm just sitting
[00:19:10.760 --> 00:19:22.160] my thoughts in peace and quiet, you know, and it's
[00:19:23.340 --> 00:19:26.860] definitely best to always keep in contact with the event
[00:19:26.860 --> 00:19:31.360] coordinator, that's a few times before the event, during
[00:19:31.360 --> 00:19:35.800] event, sometimes after, but mainly before and during
[00:19:37.400 --> 00:19:41.320] weddings and events to have wedding coordinators or event
[00:19:41.320 --> 00:19:50.600] coordinators, OMG, oh my goodness, oh my god, that's a
[00:19:50.600 --> 00:19:53.900] lifesaver, truly, it makes things more organized, it's a
[00:19:53.900 --> 00:19:57.480] good flow, good sit, oh my goodness, and everybody that
[00:19:57.480 --> 00:20:01.520] wants to do these big events and weddings, get a wedding
[00:20:01.520 --> 00:20:04.080] planner, get an event coordinator, get a wedding
[00:20:04.080 --> 00:20:06.800] coordinator, it will change your life and make it
[00:20:06.800 --> 00:20:10.580] simple, trust the professional, just like you
[00:20:10.580 --> 00:20:13.360] should trust me as a photographer and videographer
[00:20:13.360 --> 00:20:16.460] and with your media, if I'm going to cover these
[00:20:16.460 --> 00:20:23.040] things, you know, hire a professional event coordinator
[00:20:23.470 --> 00:20:29.260] or event planner, or both will change your life,
[00:20:29.660 --> 00:20:33.000] sometimes they're intertwined and sometimes a company
[00:20:33.000 --> 00:20:38.480] may offer both, you know, have it all in one, but
[00:20:38.480 --> 00:20:45.670] yeah, I definitely recommend it, so always check in
[00:20:45.670 --> 00:20:48.590] with the coordinator for any changes that may have
[00:20:48.590 --> 00:20:52.750] been made, especially last minute before the event
[00:20:52.750 --> 00:20:56.550] starts, and always double check the timeline, is the
[00:20:56.550 --> 00:20:59.730] timeline still correct and updated? Yes, then you're
[00:20:59.730 --> 00:21:06.070] good to go, and I use that time to breathe and
[00:21:06.070 --> 00:21:08.870] focus what is about to go on, like I mentioned,
[00:21:10.630 --> 00:21:14.850] that is me showing up for myself, when you show up
[00:21:14.850 --> 00:21:19.670] for yourself, it is contagious, and others see and
[00:21:19.670 --> 00:21:27.160] witness and then want to invest in you, it's so
[00:21:27.160 --> 00:21:30.120] contagious and other people see and witness that
[00:21:30.120 --> 00:21:35.480] and want to invest in the person as myself, or
[00:21:35.480 --> 00:21:41.300] you, if you do things like this, be sure to show
[00:21:41.300 --> 00:21:44.540] up for yourself, no matter what that looks like,
[00:21:47.420 --> 00:21:53.200] you are the professional, because you're professional,
[00:21:53.400 --> 00:22:03.170] right? Only you can answer that. If you set up
[00:22:03.730 --> 00:22:07.270] and you are good to go, or rehearse or whatever
[00:22:07.270 --> 00:22:11.310] that may be in your craft or industry, and there
[00:22:11.310 --> 00:22:15.870] is nothing or no one to check in with, or
[00:22:15.870 --> 00:22:19.990] everything seems perfect, well that is extra time
[00:22:19.990 --> 00:22:23.830] for you, for you to do whatever you may desire,
[00:22:25.430 --> 00:22:28.590] have a bite to eat, meditate before an event
[00:22:28.590 --> 00:22:33.990] starts, this is also a great time to network, to
[00:22:33.990 --> 00:22:43.220] meet new individuals, businesses, pass out a few
[00:22:43.220 --> 00:22:46.680] business cards and shake some hands, I told you
[00:22:46.680 --> 00:22:51.940] I used to be a poet, you know, so to my 23
[00:22:51.940 --> 00:22:54.060] marks, I'm going to definitely wrap it up, I got
[00:22:54.440 --> 00:22:58.820] an event, meeting to go to, got quite a few
[00:22:58.820 --> 00:23:01.760] things today, so definitely thank you for
[00:23:01.760 --> 00:23:05.840] tuning in and listening, I might spit some
[00:23:05.840 --> 00:23:07.300] bars for you all when they have a little
[00:23:07.300 --> 00:23:13.140] bonus episode, and definitely don't forget
[00:23:13.140 --> 00:23:16.160] hashtag industry talks, post this on social
[00:23:16.160 --> 00:23:21.060] media and share with hashtag industry talks,
[00:23:24.380 --> 00:23:28.140] alienize photos, industry talk, with Mr.
[00:23:28.540 --> 00:23:41.750] Photographer Jackson, Steven Jackson, don't be
[00:23:41.750 --> 00:23:44.350] afraid to reach out, book me as your photographer,
[00:23:44.770 --> 00:23:48.990] your event photographer mainly, I do headshots,
[00:23:49.210 --> 00:23:52.310] portraits, a few other things, but events is
[00:23:52.310 --> 00:23:56.870] my niche, also weddings, video production,
[00:24:03.210 --> 00:24:04.750] also for coaching, I don't want to leave,
[00:24:06.770 --> 00:24:08.590] contacting me for coaching and mentoring,
[00:24:08.590 --> 00:24:11.430] and I've definitely been serving, shout out to
[00:24:11.430 --> 00:24:15.390] y'all, I'm kind of hard on my peoples,
[00:24:19.560 --> 00:24:21.260] let's just get it, continue to elevate,
[00:24:23.410 --> 00:24:26.490] check out alienizephotos.com, follow me on
[00:24:26.490 --> 00:24:29.850] all social media, alienizephotos, and yeah,
[00:24:29.870 --> 00:24:31.870] I'm going to leave it at that, it's a wrap,
[00:24:32.930 --> 00:24:42.180] we're out, I'll later, take care.

========================================================================
90. Ep. 1 Mindset and Expectations with Photographer Jackson
Season 1 · Episode 1
Listen: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/aepindustrytalk/episodes/Ep--1---Mindset-and-Expectations-with-Photographer-Jackson-e2uf1qc
========================================================================

[00:00:00.460 --> 00:00:11.000] Alienize Photos industry talk episode 1. Alienize Photos industry talk welcome to
[00:00:11.000 --> 00:00:17.220] the first episode yes yes yes so I just want to jump right into it I'm not
[00:00:17.220 --> 00:00:24.000] long-winded a lot of my episodes would be around 23 minutes now back then
[00:00:24.000 --> 00:00:29.040] when you look at TV shows you see the average duration was about 23
[00:00:29.040 --> 00:00:35.720] minutes and that 30 minute slot so yeah I just want to jump right into it set
[00:00:35.720 --> 00:00:41.900] some expectations what to expect things that I'll be sharing I'll also have
[00:00:41.900 --> 00:00:49.740] interviews but mainly this would be a solo podcast you know you get to
[00:00:50.020 --> 00:00:57.440] listen in on my journal a personal journal I definitely want to have
[00:00:57.440 --> 00:01:07.930] everything about this podcast be about different industries and we use our
[00:01:07.930 --> 00:01:14.750] voice our platforms as I'm using alienize photos industry talk this
[00:01:14.750 --> 00:01:23.590] podcast it's a media platform so I want to focus on all things media as well
[00:01:23.590 --> 00:01:33.550] and kind of combine it and combining the two you know every industry to get out
[00:01:33.550 --> 00:01:38.790] there it needs media some way whether it's a social media post whether it's
[00:01:38.790 --> 00:01:44.590] a flyer on someone's car whether if it's you know knocking on someone's
[00:01:44.590 --> 00:01:55.410] door and you know it's documented on camera or if you do interviews a lot
[00:01:55.410 --> 00:02:23.710] one of these things in marketing is media and I knew that it was important for me to be in a media space and also you know own your media like the way the way the world is set up is because of media and the media influence and that's why I'm big on positive messages I love capturing and
[00:02:24.650 --> 00:02:31.150] things with impact and positive messages as I do a lot of events do a lot of video
[00:02:31.150 --> 00:02:35.490] production things with a good cause things with a good purpose things that
[00:02:35.490 --> 00:02:39.470] inspire things that motivate things that bring your life things that teach
[00:02:40.070 --> 00:02:49.370] and I'm forever a student so I'm big on that I'm officially jumping into this
[00:02:49.370 --> 00:02:54.770] recording as it didn't capture but good I'm having backup audio this is
[00:02:54.770 --> 00:03:02.520] first episode but just setting some expectations and I do want to speak
[00:03:02.520 --> 00:03:07.960] about mindset later on this first episode because you know how can you
[00:03:07.960 --> 00:03:15.380] receive a lot of things that's going to be broadcast on this platform you
[00:03:17.340 --> 00:03:21.580] got to have the right mindset and the right mindset to take it to take it
[00:03:21.580 --> 00:03:29.180] in to retain it and filter it you know and every bloodstream and every
[00:03:29.180 --> 00:03:38.700] body in the right places but in order to do that your mind your brain has to
[00:03:38.700 --> 00:03:46.320] be in a correct headspace before you start anything you have to have the
[00:03:46.320 --> 00:03:56.620] right mindset again welcome to the first episode alienize photos industry
[00:03:56.620 --> 00:04:01.260] talk as we discuss all things media and how different trends affect
[00:04:01.260 --> 00:04:10.920] different industries I'm journaling my existence with my encounter with
[00:04:10.920 --> 00:04:16.500] different industries and also bringing my knowledge mainly from the creative
[00:04:16.500 --> 00:04:24.060] realm and also entrepreneur business realm the things that I know but the
[00:04:24.060 --> 00:04:47.170] background I'm have collaborating with a lot of a lot of case studies and
[00:04:47.170 --> 00:04:57.190] I was trying to figure out how I wanted to say it but I could say a lot of the
[00:04:57.190 --> 00:05:02.210] things we do our case studies you know we're trying on different marketing
[00:05:02.210 --> 00:05:06.370] techniques so that is does this work it may work for someone else but
[00:05:06.370 --> 00:05:19.710] does it work for you hmm something to think about but before you start
[00:05:19.710 --> 00:05:24.530] anything you have to get your mindset right you have to continue to water
[00:05:24.530 --> 00:05:30.350] yourself with self-love real love continue to learn and do mental
[00:05:30.350 --> 00:05:36.130] exercises just like bodybuilders go to the gym for physical exercise to
[00:05:36.130 --> 00:05:45.660] stay in physical shape you also need to stay mentally in shape and mentally
[00:05:48.680 --> 00:06:03.780] physically thought decisiveness and physical form of the shape that you
[00:06:03.780 --> 00:06:16.200] want to allow growth to seep in you need to stay mentally in shape similar
[00:06:16.200 --> 00:06:23.840] to missing a day watering a plant or even your garden but if you miss a few
[00:06:23.840 --> 00:06:30.400] days a week a month a year a couple years and someone that plant will
[00:06:30.400 --> 00:06:40.640] eventually decay transition whether away the plant that flower that garden
[00:06:40.640 --> 00:06:48.410] was no longer in shape and you could put in shape in parentheses because as
[00:06:48.410 --> 00:06:53.330] we spoke about the bodybuilder going to the gym to get physically in
[00:06:53.330 --> 00:07:01.690] shape let's continue to water our minds and let it grow and prosper and be
[00:07:01.690 --> 00:07:07.390] hydrated and nourished you know how good you feel when you nourish versus
[00:07:07.390 --> 00:07:12.870] you you're hungry you're tired your energy depleted when you well rested
[00:07:12.870 --> 00:07:22.830] you hydrated got some you know water on a mildly cool day with the you
[00:07:25.030 --> 00:07:31.070] get some good food but today like a lot where you know you sluggish you know
[00:07:31.070 --> 00:07:37.490] got the itis and want to go to sleep afterwards and you will nourish you're
[00:07:37.970 --> 00:07:43.950] fed oh you could conquer the world so think about when you're always like
[00:07:43.950 --> 00:07:55.060] this that flower that plant is gone no longer a shape is bent over a D I
[00:07:55.060 --> 00:08:04.860] don't like saying negative words because I'm big on vibrations and you know it
[00:08:04.860 --> 00:08:11.250] lost its shape it became a skeleton so what are the things that you are
[00:08:11.250 --> 00:08:22.250] doing before your physical body turned to a skeleton what are the
[00:08:22.250 --> 00:08:38.590] things we are doing that we're living life making impact learning being
[00:08:39.750 --> 00:08:48.010] student growing because who loves the hamster wheel running in a circle in a
[00:08:48.010 --> 00:08:55.390] circle in a circle circle circle circle circle circle over and over and over
[00:08:55.390 --> 00:09:01.750] doing over that's insanity do the same thing over and over and over and
[00:09:01.750 --> 00:09:07.820] over again is a sanity so why do we do the things that we don't like
[00:09:07.820 --> 00:09:17.920] over and over and over again it's just time to stop it why are we in
[00:09:17.920 --> 00:09:24.400] industries that we don't like why are we with are even collaborating with
[00:09:24.400 --> 00:09:29.120] companies we don't like you know I speak a lot to entrepreneurs and also
[00:09:29.120 --> 00:09:35.240] creatives so those are my main two demographic targets but I'm also
[00:09:35.240 --> 00:09:41.510] speaking to everybody you know you could apply this to life you know
[00:09:41.510 --> 00:09:46.510] Share this with a colleague a family member because this is real talk at the
[00:09:46.510 --> 00:09:54.180] end of the day and we really have to start with our mind and get it in
[00:09:54.180 --> 00:10:09.920] shape and you know it saddens me because I'm gonna say the school
[00:10:11.300 --> 00:10:19.260] system failed this current generation that's currently 2025 if you know
[00:10:19.260 --> 00:10:25.500] when they put a date on it but the reading levels has tremendously went
[00:10:25.500 --> 00:10:36.280] down and you know a lot of things are technology based you know versus let's
[00:10:36.280 --> 00:10:47.300] say even 20 years ago where we had kids picking up books ten years from
[00:10:47.300 --> 00:10:51.100] now all they gonna know is ebooks and not know what a physical book was we
[00:10:51.100 --> 00:10:56.260] used to hold this in our hand turn the pages here to hear that crack in the
[00:10:56.260 --> 00:11:01.300] back as you first open it as you glance at the cover like okay let's open it
[00:11:01.300 --> 00:11:09.860] and see what's inside you're like like a screechy door yeah and then a
[00:11:09.860 --> 00:11:16.760] flicker and turn of the pages all right as y'all can see I'm not the
[00:11:16.760 --> 00:11:21.000] best with sounds but I love being animated we're gonna have fun and you
[00:11:21.000 --> 00:11:25.440] know like again I want you to get used to me and you know I don't want to set
[00:11:25.440 --> 00:11:30.700] too many expectations but I definitely want to give you a frame and a
[00:11:30.700 --> 00:11:37.460] structure of how it will go now again this is like journaling and you know
[00:11:37.460 --> 00:11:43.820] just my insights on a lot of these solo episodes but when I interview
[00:11:43.820 --> 00:11:49.800] it'll be interview style question answer have you know organic
[00:11:49.800 --> 00:11:59.460] conversation as well and there may be some BTS that come along with it but I
[00:11:59.460 --> 00:12:04.700] do want to keep this strictly an audio podcast now there will be content
[00:12:04.700 --> 00:12:11.340] where you see clips and stuff and video and also like I said behind the
[00:12:11.340 --> 00:12:23.060] BTS different clips and also promotions so yeah the best way I feel to tune is
[00:12:23.060 --> 00:12:26.960] is with already I really want you to listen I don't even want you to worry
[00:12:26.960 --> 00:12:33.000] about the video I want you to close your eyes and listen and someone said
[00:12:33.000 --> 00:12:37.860] actually a few people you have a radio voice you had that that smooth
[00:12:37.860 --> 00:12:45.840] talker you know smooth operator could listen to you all day like you have a
[00:12:45.840 --> 00:12:53.100] real chill common voice is this comforting and soothing so I definitely
[00:12:53.100 --> 00:13:02.960] want to express that and you know I want you to focus in on my voice and
[00:13:02.960 --> 00:13:12.220] saying and things that's being put in the light and also the conversation the
[00:13:12.220 --> 00:13:22.700] questions the answers the thoughts the ideas because at the end of the day we
[00:13:22.700 --> 00:13:32.820] are here for each other to build each other and one another up to continue
[00:13:32.820 --> 00:13:44.180] to grow and blossom be fruitful and I heard this quote from Myron Godin
[00:13:46.120 --> 00:13:56.570] tremendous biblical business coach when you set the intention the
[00:13:56.570 --> 00:14:07.060] obstacles come when you set the intention the obstacles come the
[00:14:07.060 --> 00:14:11.980] obstacles come when you set that intention you set what you want you
[00:14:11.980 --> 00:14:26.860] towards it that's when the problems and mishaps but you got a maneuver and get
[00:14:26.860 --> 00:14:35.850] through them just like anything else in life then I was talking with a friend
[00:14:35.850 --> 00:14:47.500] and you know discussing how they feel defeated and you know they lost and I
[00:14:47.500 --> 00:14:56.040] said well we could eat losses or else they like to call it else almost like
[00:14:56.040 --> 00:15:02.160] vegetable soup we eat that for dinner it's just it's just fuel you know
[00:15:02.160 --> 00:15:07.560] energize me you know you got to have fun and you know with life and the
[00:15:07.560 --> 00:15:13.460] things in life I think it's the same way with business because in some way
[00:15:13.460 --> 00:15:19.520] business is a part of my life it's a it's a chapter it's a moment it's a
[00:15:19.520 --> 00:15:25.760] continuation of my life so you know I want to be happy and smiling and
[00:15:26.140 --> 00:15:37.380] having fun you know my religion is based off peace and love so those
[00:15:37.380 --> 00:15:50.330] aspects helps you be grateful for those quote-unquote losses those else but
[00:15:51.510 --> 00:16:04.410] really if you think about those else's lessons what is it teaching you what
[00:16:04.410 --> 00:16:13.080] is it bringing your attention to how can you learn from this what do you
[00:16:13.080 --> 00:16:23.210] need to learn from this what didn't you see that you can see now what you see
[00:16:23.210 --> 00:16:34.590] that you didn't see sometimes things arise like oh we've got to go camping
[00:16:34.590 --> 00:16:46.470] here come a snowstorm avalanche rain now it's muddy planes got to change in
[00:16:50.540 --> 00:16:57.720] well if you were prepared and you know those things were gonna happen you know
[00:16:57.720 --> 00:17:08.030] you could have planned for it maybe a thick sheet of tarp multiple layers
[00:17:08.030 --> 00:17:24.460] another down maybe try concrete till it dries up and harden or maybe build
[00:17:24.460 --> 00:17:33.690] house a cabin would build it up and you wouldn't have to worry about those
[00:17:33.690 --> 00:17:41.110] things then you know you doctor up and tailor it from there build that
[00:17:41.110 --> 00:17:48.310] frame that foundation first again going back to why mindset is important once
[00:17:48.310 --> 00:17:56.490] that frame of that house is intact and I love this because I'm you know
[00:17:56.490 --> 00:18:03.410] investing to be specific so if anyone wants to help guide me and you know
[00:18:03.410 --> 00:18:11.150] you can talk have chats about it I'm definitely open and interested and I
[00:18:11.150 --> 00:18:18.610] will have a few people from the real estate industry on as we discuss
[00:18:18.610 --> 00:18:26.550] industry trends and you know just sharing insights all around you know
[00:18:26.550 --> 00:18:30.730] maybe I could get him some pointers from the outside something they never
[00:18:30.730 --> 00:18:39.650] thought of and I know they would just definitely bless me with wisdom you know
[00:18:39.650 --> 00:18:45.030] saying their story and how I could learn from it again sometimes we don't
[00:18:45.030 --> 00:18:52.390] experience things someone went through it already oh so that's how you tell
[00:18:52.950 --> 00:18:58.910] I was doing it like this the whole time you got a soup it around okay and then
[00:18:58.910 --> 00:19:05.710] gotta go underneath that's how you do that okay I was missing a step I failed
[00:19:05.710 --> 00:19:13.790] because I missed a step literally fail you fall and now you're falling down
[00:19:13.790 --> 00:19:19.210] a step because you missed one step you was trying to go to pass you
[00:19:19.210 --> 00:19:26.110] jump too high at once before you physically work out just like you
[00:19:26.110 --> 00:19:31.090] worked out you worked out he used to jump in five steps at a time you able
[00:19:31.090 --> 00:19:35.790] to jump three gracefully so think about when you're trying to go to
[00:19:35.790 --> 00:19:41.330] stairs you can't skip a step because you haven't built that strength it
[00:19:41.330 --> 00:19:45.710] wasn't doing those workouts it wasn't giving yourself those physical
[00:19:45.710 --> 00:19:50.910] exercises and also those mental exercises which is as much more
[00:19:50.910 --> 00:19:54.070] important because if you don't have a willpower to do it you're not going to
[00:19:54.070 --> 00:20:02.190] do it at all just like the gym is more mental than physical the physical
[00:20:02.190 --> 00:20:06.510] is the result of the mental because you'd be like oh no I ain't gonna do
[00:20:07.290 --> 00:20:11.010] it I ain't gonna do it or you get to the gym get in a parking lot like
[00:20:11.010 --> 00:20:15.750] I don't want to work out the day and then go home it's all mental you
[00:20:15.750 --> 00:20:22.780] have to get in the gym first that's the first battle like sixty percent sixty
[00:20:23.840 --> 00:20:28.900] five lose or don't meet their go gym goals because they can't even get in
[00:20:28.900 --> 00:20:37.610] the gym I mean I was definitely one of those people but now you know the
[00:20:37.610 --> 00:20:43.510] way I really want to focus my mind and study entrepreneurship and now
[00:20:43.510 --> 00:20:47.770] real estate investing like I had to do my studies I had to put in that
[00:20:47.770 --> 00:20:55.950] time but I know that so the gym is not that much important to me I get there
[00:20:55.950 --> 00:21:00.130] when I get there that's that's my mindset and I know that shift you know
[00:21:00.130 --> 00:21:04.890] it's a sacrifice but guess what when I figure it out I would be back in the
[00:21:04.890 --> 00:21:10.910] gym full throttle but these things that I know because I came with it
[00:21:10.910 --> 00:21:20.610] with attention I know I will have challenges along the way also but it
[00:21:20.610 --> 00:21:25.290] was my attention to do this and get this done and execute on it because we
[00:21:25.290 --> 00:21:29.370] have all these ideas and anybody that know me I have a bunch of ideas
[00:21:29.370 --> 00:21:34.350] always have a bunch of thoughts a bunch of things there's like my mind
[00:21:34.350 --> 00:21:39.330] is like binary code just running down the screen always computing and
[00:21:39.330 --> 00:21:43.350] calculating and thinking of new things and fresh ideas because I love being
[00:21:43.350 --> 00:21:48.310] original too and having fun like I said and just combining it with the
[00:21:48.310 --> 00:21:57.230] creativity it's just like man a lot of problems could be solved and I'm
[00:21:57.230 --> 00:21:59.210] thinking about it I'm thinking about it I'm thinking about it I think about
[00:21:59.210 --> 00:22:02.210] this and thinking about that problem and how to solve it and it's like
[00:22:03.010 --> 00:22:10.710] I'm completing multiple puzzles at once but one puzzle is not getting
[00:22:12.530 --> 00:22:16.490] done and done on time or in a timely manner because I'm trying to
[00:22:16.490 --> 00:22:26.780] one puzzle piece and too many puzzles at once but if I focus on that one I
[00:22:27.000 --> 00:22:37.400] could get one puzzle done it was only 24 pieces it took me 20 years and I
[00:22:37.400 --> 00:22:46.300] could just focus on one puzzle get it done versus multiple puzzles trying
[00:22:46.300 --> 00:22:51.520] to do thousand puzzles at once just focus on that one puzzle and then
[00:22:51.520 --> 00:22:57.700] move on to the next just like that one stair and then it compounds but if you
[00:22:57.700 --> 00:23:05.680] can't do one you have nothing and zero times zero is zero but if you do one
[00:23:06.360 --> 00:23:14.640] you do two one times two is two that number so if you keep going up and up
[00:23:16.120 --> 00:23:23.920] incrementally it gets better just like you say you want to read six books in a
[00:23:23.920 --> 00:23:31.280] year then next year seven books next eight and then you've reading a book
[00:23:31.280 --> 00:23:47.370] every three days a book every three days and you know when things are foggy
[00:23:49.310 --> 00:23:57.370] we can't see the picture so you got to focus it reminds me of like you know
[00:23:57.370 --> 00:24:03.390] you know the outfit you supposed to wear and then you pile and close over
[00:24:03.390 --> 00:24:10.020] the outfit you're supposed to be wearing just throwing your clothes and
[00:24:10.020 --> 00:24:15.990] it's piling up and it's piling up piling up where's the outfit you know
[00:24:15.990 --> 00:24:20.930] the outfit you supposed to be wearing you've seen it but maybe it was a
[00:24:20.930 --> 00:24:25.870] little blurry because you didn't focus you was distracted your attention was
[00:24:25.870 --> 00:24:35.450] off your intention wasn't on the right things because your intention follows
[00:24:35.450 --> 00:24:41.570] your attention and vice versa piggybacks off each other no wonder they
[00:24:41.570 --> 00:24:48.430] sounded like you know maybe you could have the right intention but if your
[00:24:48.430 --> 00:24:52.650] attention is over here or somewhere else now it's got to be diverted and
[00:24:52.650 --> 00:24:58.470] go somewhere else it will follow your attention but if your attention is on
[00:24:58.470 --> 00:25:02.490] your intention and what you're supposed to do I made this plan to get
[00:25:02.490 --> 00:25:07.510] to this step and that the the train tracks are laid them down now I'm
[00:25:07.510 --> 00:25:11.770] diverting from the train tracks not that the train is off somewhere in the
[00:25:11.770 --> 00:25:26.370] forest but yeah I digress this is my set and definitely follow me on all
[00:25:26.370 --> 00:25:36.250] media alienize photos as I am a media company focused on live events and a
[00:25:36.250 --> 00:25:42.510] quick thing about me I started off as a creative a poet a musician
[00:25:42.510 --> 00:25:51.120] performing hosting and I used to capture people and take pictures on the
[00:25:51.120 --> 00:26:01.820] camera phone my iPhone I perform pull my phone out and record or take
[00:26:01.820 --> 00:26:08.960] pictures of other artists as they perform and also I looked at that as
[00:26:08.960 --> 00:26:15.880] community and showing support and one day I was like huh let me invest in the
[00:26:15.880 --> 00:26:21.680] camera so I took time out of that and made sacrifices because my attention
[00:26:21.680 --> 00:26:26.840] was on really learning and do it and then a couple years later I'm like
[00:26:26.840 --> 00:26:31.800] yeah I really enjoy this is like yeah I could tell stories in a
[00:26:31.800 --> 00:26:43.010] way now and I focused on it and I learned I started a business but I didn't
[00:26:43.010 --> 00:26:47.090] start a business right away also had to learn business I'm still learning
[00:26:47.090 --> 00:26:51.990] business still bumping my head but I'm smiling through it all because I not
[00:26:51.990 --> 00:27:02.300] know I know what's on the other side I know what's on the other side like
[00:27:02.300 --> 00:27:12.760] my life partner she has this song stay solid you know if I got a mushy tool
[00:27:13.960 --> 00:27:24.660] how can I break down the walls but if I sharpen my mind sharpen my head my
[00:27:24.660 --> 00:27:31.590] thoughts I could break through that wall I could pierce through the wall
[00:27:31.590 --> 00:27:37.470] without even touching it because I'm so sharp if it gets the wall get
[00:27:37.470 --> 00:27:45.840] next to me it would just shatter because I'm that sharp it's like you got a nice
[00:27:45.840 --> 00:27:54.230] diamond and you cut you or a nice stone you get cut similar to a paper cut
[00:27:54.230 --> 00:28:07.200] you get too close you get cut so I'm that sharp but again I digress and if
[00:28:07.200 --> 00:28:17.630] you want to promote the podcast I encourage you promote using industry
[00:28:17.630 --> 00:28:28.890] talk as a hashtag so hashtag industry talk again hashtag industry talk and
[00:28:28.890 --> 00:28:33.210] tag alienize photos let me know that you're listening in tuning in your
[00:28:33.210 --> 00:28:37.730] thoughts and how do you like it definitely give me some feedback all
[00:28:37.730 --> 00:28:45.720] is welcome if you want to be a guest on the show you can visit my website
[00:28:46.620 --> 00:28:55.390] alienize photos.com and fill out an inquiry request form also I will have
[00:28:55.390 --> 00:29:03.570] booking links below please definitely tap in if you want your event capture
[00:29:03.570 --> 00:29:10.030] whether that's with videography photography or if you're looking for more
[00:29:10.030 --> 00:29:17.190] commercial and video production all things media contact me I even do
[00:29:17.190 --> 00:29:27.270] weddings so just want to mention that because one of my goals was to be a
[00:29:27.270 --> 00:29:34.170] destination wedding photographer it got kind of buried but you know I do love
[00:29:34.170 --> 00:29:39.730] live events more than all but secondary it's definitely weddings which
[00:29:39.730 --> 00:29:45.570] I still consider event so I love it and it reminds me of sports my
[00:29:45.570 --> 00:29:49.750] favorite game is basketball you know those sprinting up and down the court
[00:29:49.750 --> 00:29:57.090] that marathon and it's just it's just I'll speak about it in another podcast
[00:29:57.090 --> 00:30:04.510] about basketball and how I relate it to life but the anticipation of that
[00:30:05.150 --> 00:30:08.670] you know with certain sports especially basketball there's certain
[00:30:08.670 --> 00:30:12.530] things in anticipation oh they're gonna go to the basket I'm
[00:30:12.530 --> 00:30:17.330] just like weddings I anticipate you know the rhythm you know they're gonna
[00:30:17.330 --> 00:30:25.590] kiss do the first kiss you know people are gonna come down you know a tear
[00:30:25.590 --> 00:30:29.190] gonna shed but you don't know you got to anticipate certain moments that's
[00:30:29.190 --> 00:30:32.870] what I love about it the most a lot of events you always on your feet
[00:30:32.870 --> 00:30:38.170] always on the toes you know what to expect you may have a template or
[00:30:38.170 --> 00:30:42.950] something that's gonna occur but sometimes things don't happen and you
[00:30:42.950 --> 00:30:47.580] got a kind of pivot and I like it because it's like okay now I get to
[00:30:47.950 --> 00:30:58.930] use my mind as like birthday parties I don't see the creativity in them or
[00:30:59.510 --> 00:31:05.370] that the in a sense challenge because you know you do like a concert well
[00:31:05.370 --> 00:31:10.610] maybe if a light go out then you know it's real dark how you gonna take
[00:31:10.610 --> 00:31:16.950] photos and focus in this dark can you really see it now if things are
[00:31:16.950 --> 00:31:25.890] changed and so you just got to continue to pivot maneuver but yeah
[00:31:25.890 --> 00:31:31.290] again I digress I'm just excited it's just like I got so much to talk
[00:31:31.290 --> 00:31:38.650] but again I do want to keep these close to 23 minutes as possible there was
[00:31:38.650 --> 00:31:41.990] something would be some you know longer maybe an hour maybe just break
[00:31:41.990 --> 00:31:46.990] it up at that point but a lot of these I do want to keep you know 23
[00:31:46.990 --> 00:31:54.210] to a half hour again I'm available for workshops event coverage video
[00:31:54.210 --> 00:32:04.210] production assaulting coaching high-level projects follow me at alien
[00:32:04.210 --> 00:32:11.430] eyes that's eyes like the eyeballs eyes with a Z photos with a S alienize
[00:32:11.430 --> 00:32:25.730] photos and alienize photos calm yes yes it's been a blessing thank you for
[00:32:25.730 --> 00:32:31.090] alienize photos industry talk thank you thank you thank you
[00:32:31.550 --> 00:32:38.090] peace love and blessings I love myself I love my life I am divine life

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91. Alien Eyez Photos Industry Talk Podcast Trailer
Season 1 · Episode 0
Listen: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/aepindustrytalk/episodes/Alien-Eyez-Photos-Industry-Talk-Podcast-Trailer-e2ud48d
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[00:00:01.940 --> 00:00:10.760] Alienize Photos Industry Talk. Welcome to Alienize Photos Industry Talk as we
[00:00:10.760 --> 00:00:17.640] discuss all things media and how new trends affect different industries. You
[00:00:17.640 --> 00:00:23.960] may find tactical business, creative, and entrepreneurship advice, discussions
[00:00:23.960 --> 00:00:29.520] around new equipment, new software, and for journaling out my thoughts and
[00:00:29.520 --> 00:00:37.360] insights. If you would like to share the podcast, please use hashtag industry
[00:00:37.360 --> 00:00:46.640] talk. Yes, that is hashtag industry talk. You can visit alienizephotos.com to
[00:00:46.640 --> 00:00:52.820] book me for your event coverage, video production, coaching, and high-level
[00:00:52.820 --> 00:01:01.420] projects. Thank you for tuning in to Alienize Photos Industry Talk as we
[00:01:01.420 --> 00:01:05.379] discuss all things media.