01 — Authenticity

If you don’t see it, chances are you won’t be it. I am a person of color, and have been forced to conform through survival tactics such as code-switching to get employment, find social acceptance, and avoid harassment from law enforcement. Even with America being a melting pot, somehow parts of America have found ways to have ingredients of that pot left out or put to the side. Speaking from experience, it’s a confusing and reductive feeling. Now that I have established respect for my authentic-self in personal and professional spaces, I am only expected to show up as me. If I were to code switch, it would be viewed as inauthentic, untrustworthy, and a joke. That transition happened quickly, but it wasn’t without notice from me. The feeling of becoming stronger through the support of my true self is validating and confidence building. I’ve found myself happier for it. That is a feeling we all deserve. The current and next-generation desperately need to experience the feeling of being free to be themselves. Representation is incredibly impactful and has an unmeasurable influence on people.

"Your personal brand is who you are, not what you do for a profession”

02 — Culture

As a Black man born in urban America during the birth of the most influential human manifestation of art and customs - hip hop, I’ve always been a participant and contributor. My experiences living in a social dynamic that created rules defined by White American ideals and expectations, but not quite making space in the cultural African origins of a Black American person, led me to a welcoming inclusive culture that's deeply entrenched in the Black urban experience; city life, hip hop, athletics, personal style, art, individualism, and community. This culture was created by us but democratized, so it's available to the individuals that possess an understanding and appreciation for it regardless of ethnicity. The cultural codes are spoken in its music, seen through its art and fashion, and experiences. I navigate urban American cultures and sub-cultures to understand the nuances of each diverse variation of America’s melting pot. 

How can you create culturally relevant, respectful, and welcoming programming if you are not at the minimum aware of the culture and recognize it as its own?

03 — Impact

Every interaction leaves an impression. If you are touching something, it’s also touching you back. A person can’t move about this world without having an impact. I define impact as the positive results of your actions on individuals, communities, and industries. There is always an opposite reaction being the negative, but I am focused on the meaningful intentional considerate positive results of a person’s actions. At some point we have to stop looking for leadership to solve community socioeconomic problems and do what we can, at the level we can, to make improvements. The question is, what are you going to do? Complain or contribute? BTW, contributing isn’t always financial. So no excuses.

04 — Entreprenuership

Starting a small business can be a challenging and overwhelming process, but with the right guidance and support, it can also be incredibly rewarding. That's where Jason comes in. With years of experience in the small business world, he has the knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and emerge on top.

One thing that sets Jason apart is his emphasis on understanding and respecting culture. He knows that the culture in which you operate can have a big impact on your business, and he helps his clients understand cultural expectations so they can make informed decisions that align with their values and goals.

I am sure you have a few questions about the above, so reach out by using the contact form. I would even love to hear about your journey.