SEPTEMBER 2021
Adrianna
VOL. 4
Punching Above Your Weight
COPYRIGHT. 2021 Adrianna Group, LLC No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the publisher's prior written permission. Published by Adrianna Group, LLC Designed by Marcus L. Craig
SEPTEMBER 2021
VOL. 4 Dear Adrianna,
Discharging from the Navy is a major transition. The process itself was straightforward, but as I learn more in life, you’ll come to see that some things or some people are symbols. My time in the Navy symbolized a time of planting. Nothing of substance will come to you without both planning and effort. So with that, when the seeds for our brand’s impact were planted, I was in the Navy. From that, came a podcast series, magazine editions, and sharing the stories of entrepreneurs. You’re too young at this moment to read and conceptualize what I’ve mentioned here; but as you mature, there will be a lot of questions you will need to ask yourself. One of those questions will be, what seeds have I planted for myself? Love, Dad
Publisher's Note Publisher's Note You get times where people genuinely undervalue the kind of impact you have or can have both in your community as well as your field of expertise. However, people are more than what they show and do not show you. This magazine edition is for those who put themselves out there; not be acknowledged, then shock those around them with their efforts. Additionally, this edition serves as a definitive reminder that we all, through our diverse backgrounds and means. started from somewhere. The direction we wanted to travel in was to ask the kinds of questions you all would ask Founders if readily given the opportunity. Hence, we wanted to go with a question-and-answer format for much of the content inside the magazine. In doing this, it gives you a more intimate look at the perspective each Founder has but also provides a way for a more honest look at the person behind the company. Over time, we'll offer an even greater insight into the current challenges and opportunities our stable of Founders face by adding focus to our short-form content in conjunction with our magazine editions. Let us know what you think of the magazine so we can challenge ourselves to improve.
Appreciatively, Marcus L. Craig ADRIANNA
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SEPTEMBER 2021
VOL. 4
Illustrating Points - 7 Elevating A Culture - 12 Written By Yaqub Howell
In Between Trips - 16 Making Wood Work - 21 Written By Kevin Long
From Service to Service - 26 Identity Crisis After Military Service - 28 Written By Jenna Carlton
Picking Up the Pen - 32 Your Next Chapter - 37 Written By Jeremiah Valentine
Special Thanks - 40 ADRIANNA
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Your Strength is Built on the Resistance You Face. Adrianna
Rachel Phillips Illustrator FOLLOW HER ON IG @ RACHIEARTS SHOP HER WORKS AT WWW.REDBUBBLE.COM
Illustrating Points In seeking out for artist to bring into the Adrianna brand, I came across several talented artists on Instagram. Coupling that with having a personal affinity with illustrations, I stumbled upon the illustrator Rachel Phillips.
From that discovery, our working relationship starting with an agreement for the magazine cover design of the Punch Above Your Weight magazine edition. For our brand, this was a historical moment in the sense that it was the brand’s first contractual agreement put into practice. Not only that but working with Rachel eventually lead to a critical adjustment in the trajectory of where we wanted to take the Adrianna
brand but also changes in future designs in our magazine editions. In keeping with telling compelling stories, we caught up with Rachel to ask her about both her story and her work.
Where were you born and raised? I was born in Norwich, England to a Welsh father and English mother. I moved to South Wales when I was 2 years old. To this day, Wales is still where I currently work and live.
Have you always had an interest in art at an early age or did your interest grow as time went on? I have always loved art. When growing up, drawing was always my favourite subject in school. I knew I had a talent when people started to point out how well I drew something. So, this also encouraged me to grow my skills through the years.
What attracted you to illustrating as opposed to other art forms? My main attraction to illustration is that is can be used for so many things, and that it always starts out with a rough sketch and can be turned into a great concept. Illustration is a way of telling a story without any words needed.
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Growing up in the United Kingdom, what perspective did that give you that you would not find anywhere else? Growing up in the United Kingdom, which is usually rainy most of time, let me appreciate nature and tropical places, but also to love the rains which both promote growth. This meant being trapped in my room a lot, which lead me to drawing a lot and letting my imagination grow.
What art school do you attend? When I left high school, I studied a 2 year art and design course. Coming out with a double distinction level 3 diploma. This then led to me getting into the university of South Wales where I am currently studying an illustration degree. I will soon be starting my 3rd and final year.
Do you intend on continuing your art education at a graduate level? After I graduate, I will always be continuing my education on illustration. I believe every piece of work I do gives me more experience into the industry.
What inspired you to open your online shop on Red Bubble? What inspired me to open a Red Bubble store was seeing people enjoy my art and wondered if I would be able to make it available to them. So, I put my prints onto their products, and they do the rest for me which gave me time to work on my art more.
What have been some of the major illustration projects that you have worked on? I haven’t really worked on anything major yet, but the university has given us some great opportunities to work with clients such as the RHS, peanuts and Keihls.
Have you collaborated with other artists in different art mediums? I have collaborated with fellow peers in college such as fashion design and in university illustrating a wall of Halloween drawings. Collaboration is very important in connecting with people and combining ideas.
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Can you describe some of the challenges you have faced over the years as an illustrator? I found one of the main challenges is finding the work, as most job sites don’t really have artist jobs, I have found social media to be a great platform to find clients, where they can also view my portfolio on Instagram.
What's your favorite illustration you have done? I don’t have an ultimate favourite illustration but some of my favourites are the more personal ones with deep meanings. I would like to do more of these in the future.
Is there any misconceptions about illustrating or in the broader art world that you feel need to be addressed? A misconception of the art industry I
found is some people don’t view being an artist as a real job, but there are so many jobs in this world that require illustration such as information, products, literature and animation. I believe it’s just a matter of finding the right clients and getting the experience.
Is there a dream project you always wanted to create?
A dream project of mine would be to illustrate a children’s book or even to be a part of the production of a Disney movie.
What are some of the things you look forward to in the future as an illustrator? Things for me to look forward to in the future is finishing university and coming out stronger ready to take my brand to the next level.
In what ways do you measure your success? The way I measure my success is knowing that I haven’t given up and this is only the start of an amazing journey in finding out about myself and learning how to be the best illustrator I can for my clients.
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Our debut food collaboration will drop in winter 2021.
Adrianna
More than a pastime. More than music and fashion. It's culture.
Requiem Culture Founder Yaqub Howell
www.requiemculture.com
Elevating A Culture Requiem. According to the Oxford Languages, one of the definitions of requiem is “A token of remembrance.” In other words, a way to keep one’s legacy alive. Preserving the art of all avenues, music, fashion, graphic design, photography, by remembrance and reinvention. Embracing the old, like classic boom rap to hip-hop and perpetuating the new. While on this musical journey, I have discovered that people are often multi-faceted and often delve into many forms of expression. Some Rap and hip-hop artists are also fashion designers, painters, skateboarders, photographers, and beauty gurus. It’s fascinating to discover that rap artists such as Lupe Fiasco, Hopsin, Earl Sweatshirt, and Tyler, The Creator all like skateboarding. Back in 2010, when Earl Sweatshirt was a new artist, he was always draped in the brand Supreme. A brand created to serve skate culture, mixing high-end clothing with streetwear, and known for its exclusivity. Various artists have helped me realize that I don’t limit my expression to one art form. As the years' pass, I have become an activist for lyricism and giving flowers to the rise of the trap sound. This has led to a deeper fascination for the fashion worn by various rap and hip-hop artists and fashion designers. I learned of Virgil Abloh, who started the Off-White brand, and Julia Lang, who created the lifestyle brand VEERT. I have come to admire various artists embracing and perfecting their musical prowess, engaging in their other interests,s and creating added income streams.
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Keeping in mind my admiration for other artists and their multiple forms of expression, in 2020, I realized that I needed to use my platform to expand. So, along with making the best music possible, I decided to dip my hands into fashion. Additionally, I started selling hand-made t-shirts with my album covers on the front of my dorm room. On my journey, I had also discovered works by two fantastic painters, SquatDeadFace and Isaac Pelayo. Soon after, I realized other rappers, such as Al Divino and Zelooperz, also painted. So, I picked up the pen for the first time in years, not to write, but to draw. This later involved an appreciation for photography as well. I am now asking myself the question of what I was supposed to be? A rapper who designs clothes. A rapper who paints works of art. I decided that limits are the ones that I place on myself, and I decided to create my own lane and as a result, Requiem Records was born. My goal is for Requiem Records to be bigger than just a label. I am creating a platform for all artists. A place for rappers to connect and present their music. A place for producers to work, artists to paint, skateboards to have clips, and photographers to shine. Requiem is an all-inclusive culture, Requiem Culture. We are the culture. We serve the culture. We preserve the culture and push the culture forward. This venture is the Mecca for my culture and everything it has influenced. Artists have a choice to focus on one of their talents or display multiple gifts. There will be no end, only more growth. This is Requiem.
*RequiemCulture.com will officially launch November 2021* *The first Adrianna x Requiem Culture collaboration will debut Fall 2021*
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Visit our IG, TheOfficialAdrianna for more content!
Visit A. Travel for more travel content from Karina Ramirez.
In Between Trips Karina Ramirez and I had worked together for a couple of years prior to pursuing our ventures. While others see millions of blogs across the internet, what sets each blog apart is the person behind the blog. The amount of time a person spends investing in viewing a blog depends on how well the blog's writing resonates with them. While I knew Karina well before our A. Travel collaboration, I also acknowledge that she has an eye for sharing her experiences in a way that inclined people to gravitate towards her. With that, we wanted you all to get to know the person behind the blog.
Where were you born and raised? Born and raised in Stockton, CA.
You have a clear affinity for traveling. Did you travel quite a bit when you were younger? Only in Mexico, I have a lot of family there so we
went a lot as a kid.
How did you like living in California?
I miss it all the time, especially the food. Oahu has a great food scene but the best Mexican food, besides Mexico obviously, is in California.
What state have you always wanted to visit? Believe it or not, it’s a tie between Wisconsin and Wyoming. Their national parks look incredible.
Was traveling more one of the reasons you joined the Navy? Absolutely! At the time I didn’t know many travel hacks and saw the Navy as the best way to see the world.
While in the Navy, how many countries have you been to and what was your favorite?
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I’ve been to over 30 countries! My favorite port visit has to be Greece. Crete and Rhodes were an incredible time. Amazing food, amazing beaches.
What were some of the things you liked about visiting Greece?
The Greek islands were always on my list; I have many more I want to see! Crete specifically had a great nightlife, and Rhodes had the best shrimp sandwich I ever had in my whole life.
We were stationed in Spain for two years and I saw you travel quite often. What were a few of your favorite places?
Hard to narrow it down, but if I have to I would
say Iceland and Malta. Complete opposites in terms of climate but they are both known for having a famous “Blue Lagoon” and both tie for the most beautiful water I’ve ever seen.
In Europe, were there any places you visited that felt surreal?
Spain actually! I remember in college
watching Anthony Bourdain, Parts Unknown where he visited Spain, and I said to myself, “one day I’ll live there.” Behold the power of speaking into existence because almost 5 years later, I did live there.
After you left Europe, which has so many landmarks and countries, were there any places you wish you went to that you left on the table?
I wouldn’t say I regret any specific country but
I did go to certain cities multiple times, and I wish I would’ve spent that time elsewhere. I went to Rome and Paris twice, each to accompany a friend. We definitely could’ve hit other spots like Milan or Nice.
In one of your travel blog posts, you reference traveling solo. Do you prefer solo trips or traveling in a group?
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Both! Each has its own pros and cons. I encourage traveling solo for those who have a place they’ve always wanted to go but put it off because they can't find anyone! Nobody wanted to go to Poland with me, but I just had to go. Traveling in a group is always fun; just requires a little more planning to please everyone in the group.
I am not too sure if you remember the conversation we had but you said you never wanted to live on the east coast. Why is that? Because the West Coast is the
best coast. Come on Marcus.
What is one of the countries you also wanted to go to but have not visited yet?
Oh my God, I have so many. Literally the 164 countries I haven’t seen yet. Once things
become safer I would love to go to India, UAE, and Mongolia as my first stops.
Many people collect certain things from all the places they go. For some people, it is license plates, and for others, it's shot glasses. I prefer to collect artwork or anything that has a design. What do you like to collect in your travels? What don’t I collect? I try to bring back license
plates, shot glasses, fans, hoodies, pens, postcards. I have a cowbell from Switzerland.
What made you want to write your travel blog now as opposed to years ago?
The Adrianna Times! I was always too nervous
to start writing on my own platform, but this space has made me comfortable in telling my stories and travel tips.
Referring to a recent blog post, you mentioned going to Antarctica. It is the most exotic place I have heard of someone going to. When is that trip happening? January 2023! A long time from now but it takes quite a bit of planning and saving. The price is in the thousands, big yikes! But I truly feel this will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I know I will regret it if I don’t go now. Because Antarctica is so remote and only really used for research you have to book through a travel agency. They require online medical screenings, travel insurance, and physical fitness. It’s a lot but I can’t wait. The penguins will make it so worth it.
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Oftentimes, the answers you seek are in the question itself.
Relationships can start almost anywhere and almost anytime. That was the case when I met Kevin Long through the Founder of Millenial Veterans, Jenna Carlton. However, his craft is rare, given the use of machine-based manufacturing practices. Let's dive into the history, products, and outlook of Moxie Woodworking. Originally from Cherokee, Iowa; I joined the Navy in 2005 to be a Damage Controlman. My Commands include USS Underwood (FFG-36), USS Nassau (LHA-4), Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenace Center (MARMC) USS San Jacinto (CG-56), and USS Kearsarge (LHD-3) and I am finishing my military career at 16 years as the Senior Enlisted Leader of the Navy Instructor Training Course (NITC) in Pensacola, Florida as a Senior Chief Petty Officer. Outside of the Navy and Moxie Woodworking, I have a Bachelor of the Arts in Emergency and Disaster Management from American Military University. I enjoy building and shooting firearms, love fishing (although I am terrible at it). I recently got into riding motorcycles- I have a slate blue smoke 2021 Indian Scout Bobber Sixty. I love running and doing obstacle course racing such as Spartan and Terrain Races. My favorite thing is that I absolutely love being a dad.
Is there a story behind the company name? Moxie Woodworking. I have always thought that the name of the business is just as important as the product or service itself (consider the movie The Founder about how Mcdonald's got started). Someone told me that my daughter has moxie and that word just stuck with me and when it came time to name the business it just felt right.
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Shortly after Netflix came out with a movie called Moxiewhich is about a teenage girl’s high school rebellion (I never actually saw it), so now many people assume that I (a man) owns and runs a woman-owned business. Ha! I do not mind the attention or support, but that quickly fades when I set them straight. In my mind, the name is key, you do not often hear a word such as ‘moxie’ in conversation, and it's pretty simple to forget ‘Jim-Bobs Woodshed’ or ‘Jennifers Creations.’ A lot of attention gets paid to content creators and businesses centered on technology. Out of all the businesses to start, why woodworking? Woodworking has always been a passion. I started building incredibly young doing residential construction with my father. Growing up we had the mindset of why pay people to do something that I could do. I loved building things like tables and boxes and eventually, people started paying me to fix things or make things for them so it's kind of just started itself.
How long has Moxie Woodworking been in business?
Officially Moxie Woodworking became a business in December 2020 and it has kind of just taken off on its own. Unofficially I have been making and selling things for probably 15 years. I’ve learned over the years that I’m not that great at working with my hands. Have you always had a higher level of success working with your hands or was it something that you really had to develop into doing? I have always been someone who has been naturally good at whatever I put my mind to, regardless of what that task was, but the woodworking came naturally. That being said, I am not oblivious to the fact that I don’t know everything. I am constantly learning and feel like I have just scratched the surface when it comes to woodworking skills and techniques that are out there.
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Every entrepreneur has faced their fair share of adversity. What are some of the challenges you face in your industry? The pandemic surely is one major challenge that arouses for makers. Lack of tools and materials were to be expected and the significant price increases for lumber were painful but what was difficult was the market saturation of woodworkers. Don’t get me wrong I love that people are getting out there, developing new skills, and learning a trade, but it's extremely difficult to start a business when everyone who owns a table saw is doing the same thing.
The nature of your work provides customers with a lot of flexibility regarding custom work to be done. Do you prefer to do custom woodwork compared to a line of products? I fall under both categories. I love doing custom work because at the end of the day I have fulfilled someone's request, made them extremely happy, and get to see that awesome “I love it” smile, but the custom work is generally a little more tedious and might be something that I am not as comfortable with doing. The product line is easy because I get to look at my lumber stock and create what comes to mind without specific direction. A combination of both is important because it keeps me from getting bored but also doesn’t over-stress me.
Industries all have different dynamics that entrepreneurs need to contend with. What do you feel are some of the keys to success in your industry? Learn your value- don’t sell yourself short or be too hard on yourself because no one will see the flaws you have made like you do, and remember those flaws prove it is a handmade product and that its unique. Get comfortable being uncomfortable- if you are comfortable you aren’t growing, cautiously expand your skillset by doing new things. Learn to say no- some jobs aren't worth the work or they are too big for you and it's okay to say no and explain that to the customer (most of the time they will respect you for the honesty). Learning to say no is especially important to friends and family- if they really wanted to support you, they wouldn’t be asking for a discount or free stuff.
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No one cares for your best interest as much as you- Don't fully rely on people you hire either as employees (trust but verify) or in the service industry (such as attorneys or accountants) they are dealing with multiple accounts and can't remember everything about your specific business-if the IRS comes knocking you are going to be the one to explain everything to them.
We are both veterans from the same branch [Navy]. What are some things you have experienced or learned in the Navy that have helped you along the way in business? As an engineer in the Navy, I have always been very mechanically inclined, which helps a lot in the woodworking/building world. I learned some rather good organization, leadership, and self-starter skills early in my career, a lot of those translate over to starting a business in any industry.
If you could pick one aspect of your business that you want customers to know that you’re known for, what would it be? That would have to be my bold-colored cutting boards. I have an excellent lumber supplier that allows me to get my hands on some great species of wood which grants me the ability to create amazing works of functional home décor.
You have a lot of people, across age groups and socio-economic backgrounds who aspire to be entrepreneurs. What do you feel those people should know regarding entrepreneurship? Know your market, it's extremely important to get out and talk to your customers about what they like, want, need, and not get too deep into one specific aspect of your business.
Several of us have projects were either currently working on or intend to start in the future. What are some of the big plans you have for Moxie Woodworking? I am separating from the Navy this October and plan to become a full-time woodworker. With that, I am happy with the growth and direction where Moxie Woodworking is going. Long-term plans include a large CNC for signs and custom inlay projects. My short-term plans/goals include getting Moxie products into more stores and increasing my online sales.
How do you measure success? For me, I measure success with customer satisfaction. Customers who love Moxie Woodworking products so much they are willing to post and share my products on social media or become repeat customers are my ultimate measure of success.
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From Service to Service Where were you born and raised?
I was born in the U.P. (Upper Peninsula of Michigan) and raised right across the border in Northern Wisconsin in a very small town less than 1,400 people.
Which branch of the military did you join and what made you enlist?
I was in the best branch, aka the Navy! What pushed me to enlist was knowing it was a chance to experience so much more than the small town I grew up in. I wanted to serve my country while also being independent financially. I knew I would meet people from all over and learn skills that would set me up for a lifetime of success. I also had the selfawareness to know that I was too immature for college and needed more discipline in my life.
What was your occupation in the military and for how many years were you on active duty? I was an Aerographer’s Mate (AG), a rare job in which I was able to learn meteorology and oceanography. I served four years.
What are some of the biggest lessons learned from your time in the service? I joined during my crucial development years 18-22 so I could say the Navy raised me. I learned how to deal with and have good relationships with all sorts of different personality types. The Navy taught me how to work hard and not expect any reward besides knowing you did your best.
Favorite place you were stationed or visited while serving. My favorite place was Chania in Crete. We stopped there as our last port visit on deployment, and it was breathtaking. The food, the locals, and the atmosphere were all filled with excitement. I also met my future husband there, but he was taken away by shore patrol before I even got his last name.
You have a clear passion for serving others. What made you start The Millennial Veterans? ADRIANNA
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When I got out of the Navy I moved to a new state with no family and friends around. I felt very isolated and didn’t know where to reach out for help. I created The Millennial Veterans Facebook group as a supportive place for anyone who has transitioned or is transitioning to the civilian world to ask questions and know they are not alone. When we leave the military, we leave behind a whole culture. It is hard to adjust to a new life and I really want to normalize that.
I’ve been interviewed by you, and it was great. How did you come across the idea of interviewing veterans? The stereotype of veterans isn’t always painted in the best light. A lot of people look at our population as a burden to society and I want to change that! There are so many veterans that continue to serve their communities, create companies, and start nonprofits. I want to highlight these veterans by creating space for a conversation that all veterans can relate to. These interviews are called Vet Chats. During a normal season we have one every Sunday at 9pm (ET) on Instagram Live, all our welcome!
How many veterans have you interviewed so far? I did my first Vet Chat on December 12, 2020, and have done a total of 20 with a few more planned this year!
What is next for The Millennial Veterans? We are in the process of planning our first in-person meet-up this Fall or Winter. We are looking into doing a veteran hike, off-course race, or join another veteran event over on the East Coast. We are always open to ideas and love hearing stories from all our members!
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Identity Crisis After Military Service After leaving the military, a lot of veterans go through an identity crisis. Military life has such a unique culture that it is almost impossible to not associate it with your personal identity. The main point of boot camp is to break down what makes you an individual and to teach you how to conform with everyone around you. You are told what to wear, how to do your hair, to shave daily, where to live, and even given a whole new language (acronyms overload). Your day is planned out for you every day whether you like it or not. There isn’t much thinking required as far as choices go. Most decisions are made for you. When the service member leaves the service, they are not just leaving a job behind. They are leaving behind a culture, a way of life, and many securities. This blog is only touching on the identity of the veteran and I want to acknowledge that there are more complex issues when transitioning such as mental health and PTSD. Not every veteran has the same experience, I am very fortunate to have had a fairly smooth transition compared to others. I would just like to highlight every day issues that aren’t talked about but are totally normal when leaving the service. I feel a lot of vets will be able to relate. I was so excited when I got out of the Navy because I finally had more freedom to do what I wanted without the military’s restraints. But in reality, it didn’t take long for the novelty feeling of being a civilian to wear off. I tried to remember who I was without the Navy. I, like most, joined when I was 18. Was I supposed to resort to who I was back then? A pretty much reckless teenager? No, but sometimes it felt like that was the only personal identity I remembered. Even though I was going to school, I kind of felt like a loser. A lot of my civilian friends had already graduated and were working in real jobs. I was surrounded by kids much younger than me and I was just the weird older person in their class. Also, people put the military on a pedestal, and now that I was out, I was just another broke college student not contributing to society.
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There were so many choices that I had to make that were normally made for me while I was in the service. I had anxiety about my appearance. It sounds silly, but I really did have a hard time with clothes. It was frustrating having to decide what to wear and how to look professional. I struggled with talking to people. I would treat my professors very formally; like I would with my higher-ups in the service when I could've been more personal with them. I also was afraid to talk in class because I was used to being a little cruder when the college environment is more sensitive. I, like many veterans, started over in a totally unfamiliar environment in a new state with no family or friends around. In the military I was surrounded by tons of friends and people who could relate to me, now I felt isolated. So who am I? I am a veteran. I started to identify myself as a veteran, the one word that can explain what I have been through and why I am where I am today. It took me a while to embrace this label. When you think of the word veteran, you probably think of an old man who served in Korea or Vietnam, you don’t think of a 23-year-old woman. I really had to own this title to show people that there is more than one type of veteran and the more I did that, the more I could make sense of my place in the world. This holds true for many people who have left the service. They are stripped of their identity when the join and confused about it when they leave. So, if you know someone who has served, don’t be surprised if they cling to the fact they are a veteran. It is a title that is earned and one that cannot be taken away. I have recently started a Facebook support group for younger veterans and transitioning service members. If you or anyone you know could benefit from this group, our Facebook group's page is here.
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Picking Up the Pen
Picking Up the Pen The working relationship I had with Jeremiah Valentine shifted across from the U.S. Navy to our prospective ventures. Coming off the release of his first published book, It’s Not About You, I caught up with Jeremiah to both reflect and look forward to the start of his literary success.
Where were you born and raised? I was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan and before high school, my family moved to West Bloomfield, Michigan.
What made you want to start writing? Heartbreak, my first girlfriend broke my heart at the age of 16. I started writing to vent my feelings. I started taking English classes, more and more. The different styles and genres became a place for me to get lost in
Do you feel that writing was something that came naturally or was it an activity that you were led into? It’s something that comes naturally. It is easier for me to write than it is for me to speak. The page doesn’t talk back. I can get my ideas and stories down easily. Feelings, stories, and poems are the vessel for my ideas.
When did you know that you wanted to pursue writing as a career? There was no plan for that. Writing to me is a vessel for me to express my ideas. To this day, I don’t care if I make a ton of money. I like writing. I like sharing my ideas with people.
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BOLTED LOOSE If I never got published, I would still write poems and stories; I truly love it. However, people throughout my life have pushed me to become published. They have told me I am good enough.
Did you have a lot of influences around you that supported your writing? When I was in high school, there was a period when certain family members didn’t believe in me. My mother is a teacher, and she always stressed the idea of education. She wanted me to go to college and get a degree in something practical because she wanted me to learn how to be independent. My father has always believed in me from an early age when he saw my interest in reading. He thought I should have started writing for sports columns. He always gave me great ideas to further my passion. Even now, he plans to give copies of my book to his friends and other family members. After I put together an early version of the book, my sister read my work, and she was on board. She told me, “You should get published because people need to read these.”
Do you have any writers that you looked up to as your writing matured? Daniel Silva and Tom Clancy were early influences. Spy novels were my first love. The suspense they build over the pages and the way they slip clues of intrigue and mystery throughout the book blows my mind. For poetry, Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou were all I needed. The ability to use words as steppingstones for a bigger meaning is a skill I am always trying to master. They also maintain an ability to take a few words and place the reader in the middle of all the action and intrigue.
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After graduating high school, did you attend college? If so, where did you attend? I went to college at Central Michigan University, Wayne State University, and lastly Oakland Community College. I never obtained a degree. I joined the Navy to use the GI bill. My personal goal is to earn a Bachelor’s in English.
What made you want to write novels as opposed to being a journalist, screenwriter, or work along those lines? I want to create a body of work I am proud of and find different opportunities to grow my name recognition.
Several people who know their passions work on them all the time. How often do you write? I try to contribute to my writing every day. Whether it is editing, looking up selfpublishing advice, or continuing a story I am working on. Also, I try not to be hard on myself. I realize that some days, you are going to be more inspired than others. Therefore, I create and maintain my productivity as much as possible.
Writers often will have a book of theirs made into a show or movie. What are some of the opportunities you are building towards? Nothing right now. For me, it is not about a series like “Twilight” or “Harry Potter.” I write to change minds and accept new ideas.
Who are some of your favorite writers and your favorite books? Stephen King is the first one that comes to mind. He is a masterful storyteller. His books take you to a place where you must finish the chapter, the scene, the part. His book, 11/22/63, is my favorite book of all time because it pulls together sci-fi, history, and drama into an epic novel. My next favorite author is Mitch Albom. He is from Detroit like me, and he creates these stories that pull on your heartstrings. They are short novels as well. He is an author that both my mother and I enjoy.
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While serving together, our colleagues have seen you write all the time, culminating in your first book being published. Congratulations. How long did it take to write and develop the book? It took me almost three years to gather all those poems together. In that time, I experienced heartbreak, loss, and life lessons that I will never forget. Those stories manifested in my work. Some of them are honest. Some of them are difficult to read because I am honest with the reader. In total, I had 200 poems slated for the book. But, in the end, I chose the ones that meant the most to me and the ones I knew other people would understand.
Have you thought about writing novels in a series (i.e., Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, and The Hunger Games)? Not really. Often Ideas kind of bounce around in my head, and I just kind of fan the flames. If I think it's a good story and sticks with me, I usually will pitch the idea to a friend for their input to see if they feel the same way. Over the years, I have just learned to trust myself and trust my process; it has taken me this far.
We have talked on several occasions about the digital platform Substack. How did you come across the platform, and how does it grow your writing? It was you who told me about the idea when we were both had duty day together. I told you about how I wanted to further my reach, and you told me about an article you read on Bloomberg. Initially, it was a springboard to put me out there. Also, it made me accountable for posting something every day that I could. Up to that point, my writing was only done when I was filled with a story or an idea. The repetition forced me to the next level. It also allowed me to grab a few more fans along the way.
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How often do you publish on Substack? These days it isn't a massive priority for me because of other projects I am working on. It is a work in progress. I intend to grow the platform use for me in the future.
Is it your intention to soon put your writings behind a paywall? I would rather develop a dedicated audience first before charging people. I want readers to know they are receiving something for their money. We can read plenty of books and articles for free online every day, and I want to give them a reason to return.
You’re an avid investor in the stock market. So with that, have you also thought about investing in the City of Detroit? Not particularly, I am trying to save my ship before I can right another. I have no idea if I will get to developing businesses that can purchase a massive stake in other companies. Currently, I am going through a massive life change. I am planning to take all the money I have accrued and using it for my transition.
What are some of the projects you’re working on right now? I am working on marketing my first book of poems. Also, I am editing my first novel every day, and I’m working with a new publisher.
As we all grow our ventures, it is important to uplift the people around us. So what advice do you have for others that are on the fence about writing or who have just started?
Write, write, and write. The only person you have in your way is yourself. All your dreams are achievable. The greatest piece of advice I was given was, "To get something you never had before, you have to do something you never did before." It has taken me a while to embrace the saying and meaning, but once you put it into practice, it doesn't become easier; it becomes routine.
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At the time of this interview, we’re around the halfway point in 2021. What are your plans for the rest of the year to close it out strong? Grow name recognition. Debut another novel. Grow my Substack platform. Have fun. Transition out of the military.
Your Next Chapter
My first novel, It’s Not About You, is available on Poets’ Choice. I have given the book to friends, family, and strangers. Everyone I have spoken to about it loves the poetry. It is great to receive recognition for all the time and work I put into the book. My second novel is called, Dreams of You. I wrote the entire novel on my last deployment. I am currently editing and starting to consult different places about publishing. My first book taught me a few lessons about myself and my process. I like to be in control. Some people are okay with handing off their work to someone to chop and polish into a finished product. I am not one of them. I designed the cover, picked out the font and did all the edits of my first novel. I had help because I never did it before. Being decisive is a skill I have matured into, and it has benefited me greatly. People who have read a few chapters of Dreams of You, express that it is relatable and memorable. I had a few people break out in tears and tell me about their admiration. So I am comfortable saying it is my best work so far. I look forward to bringing it into the world. I think it's a unique story that brings plenty to the table. I am truly excited about it. Earlier I spoke about creative control. Every story I turn into a book is a journey. I try to record and process my previous experience to the next project. I don’t mind being in creative control for my work. However, after publishing my first novel, I realized that I don’t know plenty, and I must learn to walk before I run. Marketing, registering a business, getting an agent, and presenting a polished project are all difficult things to master. It requires determination and a level of understanding I have not reached yet, and I am comfortable admitting that.
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Even in the Midst of Crisis, There is an Opportunity to Build on Your Purpose. Adrianna Adrianna
When we finished Punch Above Your Weight, It's great to look back on the preparation and teamwork required to design and develop each edition. As my experience and leadership increase, I feel I'm beginning to hit a stride of solid creativity. Previously, I was more concerned about how many collaborations and strategic partnerships I garnered, but as I mature as an entrepreneur, the quality of these agreements became ever-more important. Our brand owes so much to the people to the stable of creatives that we feature. What's even better is that there's been a long-standing working relationship already in place for the majority of the creatives I feature, so watching everyone grow professionally and personally is excellent to witness. The next magazine edition will drop in December 2021. There's such a long lead time because our team is relatively small, but additionally, we focus all of our resources on developing one edition at a time. So stay tuned to our content on IG for exclusives and updates. Thank you for reading. Marcus L. Craig
SEPTEMBER 2021
VOL. 4
Special Thanks Shout out to everyone who helped make this edition happen. We're grateful to you all. Adrianna Craig-Lopez Jenna Carlton
Rachel Phillips Yaqub Howell Kevin Long Denise Craig Jeremiah Valentine Jessica Jaral Karina Ramirez Lyndi Weston ADRIANNA
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SEPTEMBER 2021
VOL. 4
Disclaimer The Founder and personnel associated with Adrianna magazine are not certified/registered financial professionals. Additionally, Adrianna Group, LLC is not a registered/certified financial institution within the United States, its territories, or other jurisdictions. All information and views provided via this magazine and its related businesses are for entertainment purposes only.
The company, its founder, and associated personnel are not liable for the investment performance of any asset. Investment performance may differ from one individual or group to another.
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The opinions and commentary of our website, podcast, and parent company do not reflect any official policy of the U.S. government or its entities to include the U.S. military or any of their personnel.
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