MEN HUSTLE
Exclusive PASTOR RONALD WILSON
TOO JUNE 2021
MENTAL HEALTH IN MEN
LIVING LIFE ON YOUR OWN BEAT
@PRETTYWOMENHUSTLEMAGAZINE
PWH MAG Special Edition
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 04 Dr. L.R. Matthews Yes! Vitamin D is the Key!
07 Pastor Ronald Wilson Pastor, Author and Entrepreneur
09 J Haleem Washington shares his views on Men’s Health
13 Wes Watkins Cover Exclusive Story
18 King James Worthy Grammy-Nominated and SingerSongwriter King James Worthy Talks on New Documentary Project and New Album ‘Once A Fairytale’
22 Raphael D. Bosley Preacher, Father, Mentor, Mental Health Counselor
26 Bryant Tinker Rising Comedian Using Laughter To Reach His Dreams
30 William Smith Young Entrepreneur Making Waves
CREATOR JAKIA CHEATHAM - MYLES INFO@PRETTYWOMENHUSTLE.COM
DR.LESLIE RAY MATTHEWS
By: Latoya Wilson
Internationally Recognized and Award-Winning
Tell us a little about your background.
Surgeon, Dr. Leslie Ray Matthews has
Native of Indianola, MS and graduated Cum
revolutionized the use of "high-dose" vitamin D
Laude from OIe Miss Majoring in BioChem.
in the frontline treatment of coronavirus and
Formerly worked as Trauma Surgeon and worked
other diseases of chronic illnesses such as
at Mayo Clinic for 5 years. Vitamin D3 is what I
traumatic brain injuries, heart attacks, strokes,
specialize in now.
concussions, ventilator associated pneumonias, sepsis, ARDS, and infections. A former Mayo
How important is Vitamin D to the body?
Clinic trained fellow and Senior Associate
Vitamin D is very important. You can not be
Consultant (SAC), former professor of clinical
healthy with a Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is
surgery, and a former director of surgical critical
a hormone and not a vitamin. The vitamin or
care and trauma surgery, Dr. Matthews is no
hormone D controls 3,000 out of the 30,000
stranger to saving critical lives with cutting edge
genes in a human body, 10% of DNA; among those
vitamin D research.
are your immune response system and your inflammatory response system. Inflammation
Dr. Matthews is one of the most sought-after medical professionals in the country. He has saved numerous lives with his patented approach with Vitamin D.
causes organ damage.
Explain the difference between Vitamin D and
If you could have any superpower in the world,
Vitamin D3.
what would it be and why?
Vitamin D and Vitamin D3 are the same. They are
To be more influential with people so I can
made by animals and we absorb Vitamin D3 80%
explain the disease process. If that could happen,
of the time. Vitamin D2 is made by plants.
COVID 19 could be eradicated in 3 months.
How can levels of Vitamin D affect the COVID-
Lastly, how does it feel to be the 1st male
19 pandemic?
interviewed for the PWH Special Edition?
When you have high levels of Vitamin D it can
I am honored to be invited. I come from a family
help to fight off inflammation in the organs.
of teaching, ministers, educators, taught
Inflammation is an immune system response to a
surgeons and there are 11 of us (6 sisters/5
threat. If you are injured, white blood cells flood
brothers), my dad is a Pastor and believes in
the area to guard against infection. These cells
equality so I learned at an early age.
produce chemicals to fight bacteria or viruses, and these chemicals also increase blood flow to the area. The way COVID works is that what vitamin D does is, like I said, it's a hormone so it increases your white blood cell count. White blood cells are the things that fight off bacteria, viruses, and the fungus. For the medical personnel, if you supplement your patients with vitamin D, about four or five days later, you'll see an increase in their CD4 count, which is T-cell, or another name for white blood cell. So you can directly measure it in terms of biomarkers. And also in COVID or coronavirus, when you... They have a lot of inflammation in their bodies. You see the C-reactive protein and Interleukin 6, those are medical terms, these are just biomarkers in the blood, and you see those decrease. So you see the CD4 white count go up and you see the inflammation decrease. So those are two things that COVID does. Basically has harmed the body with all the inflammatory reactions that it causes. What are your thoughts on the vaccine? Take the pandemic seriously. You can't see it, can't touch it and it's everywhere. N95 or surgical masks are needed. We need to use multiple lines of defense - Vitamin D and the vaccine work in conjunction. The vaccine is longterm.
STIMULATING TIPS
WRITTEN BY D’LASHELLE PORTER
Congratulations to our graduates! No more quizzes, no more tests, no more of these teacher’s mess! June is the time when school is out for most of our students and the summer fun begins! Time for sleeping in late and going to bed even later. For many of our youth, it can also be the time for a summer job. Some tips to consider when starting a job for the first time. The IRS-W4 form can be a little confusing. If you have not already discussed with your parents or a significant adult how to complete the form, the best suggestion is to enter zero’s (0) on all the lines, then sign and date it. Be sure to get a copy of the form for yourself to take home and verify that it is completed correctly with your parents or the significant
Look to make sure your name is spelled correctly, make sure your address is correct. If your social security number (SS#) is listed on your check stub,
adult. Do the same thing with the state’s
look to make sure your SS# is correct! Verify the hourly
payroll tax withholding form if your state
rate is what you agreed to. Now, do a little math. Take
requires that you complete one. This way you
the hourly rate multiplied by the number of hours you
have time to make changes if necessary, before your first paycheck.
worked. Example: $10-per hour x 30 hours worked for the past two weeks, is your gross amount and this should
When you receive your first paycheck, look at
equal $300. This is before taxes.
everything on the check and the check stub!
Look for next month’s Continuous $timulas discussion.
MEN HUSTLE TOO | PAGE 05
Until then, keep your mind on your money!
PASTOR RONALD WILSON BY PATRICE RIVERS Ronald Wilson, a native of Wilmington, North Carolina, is the Founder and Senior Pastor of Kingdom Vision Life Center (KVLC) in Greensboro, North Carolina. Writing is a deep passion of Ronald. He has been gifted by God with an uncanny ability to write and is considered by many as a prolific writer. Wilson is a published author with WestBow Press, Publishing Company. His initial book was entitled “The Dream
Team”,
inspiring
writing
concerning
the
importance of knowing those whom God chooses to walk with you while on your road to destiny. The Dream Team was blessed to receive a foreword by Bishop Michael A. Blue, author of “Building
Credibility
in
Leadership”
and
founding
pastor of The Door of Hope Christian Church in Marion, South Carolina. Pastor Wilson's books “101 Things Your Barber/Stylist Hates (But May Never Tell You)” and “The Science Beyond the Cut” skyrocketed in the Barbering and Hair Styling Industries and was showcased at Bishop T.D. Jakes’ 2015 MegaFest Hair Battle in Dallas, Texas. His latest book, “Money Needs: A Fundamental Guide to Financial Security”, provides practical principles to help build financial security and unlock a successful future. Pastor Wilson, along with his wife Pastor Rachel Wilson, has an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from St. Thomas Christian College in Jacksonville, Florida.
Where did your passion for becoming a pastor come from? Truthfully, I never saw myself becoming a Pastor. It wasn’t a “wanting” or longing for me, but rather a calling. After saying yes to the call, I decided if I’m going to be a Pastor, I might as well be a good one. I’ve always had passion in my heart for people, however, a passion developed as a Pastor as I continued to walk. What type of challenges did you have to face along the way? As with every leader, be it parenting, educating, coaching; most challenges arise from mental barriers and various personalities of those you lead. Constantly reminding yourself to release the patience and love for people that God had to have for me. Overcoming emotional living while leading was another challenge for me on the good and not so good side. Let’s pause for a minute and talk about your writing journey. What led you to write your initial book “The Dream Team”? The Dream Team was inspired by a Father’s Day message I ministered at a local church in which I live. After teaching the message, it then became writing aiming to educate people concerning not having a biased perspective on whom God uses to bring your dream to pass. How has the journey of writing been for you? Do you find it hard at times to focus on writing a book in general? The journey of writing has been a blessing. It’s been very therapeutic and refreshing to sit and bring your mind into color onto a sheet of paper. Yes; at times, due to my call and demand in other projects and ministry, it can sometimes become challenging to focus on writing.
Tell us more about your other books and the inspiration behind writing them In completion, I’ve written 4 books, however, I have several books that are still in the making that are about 70%-80% complete. On the humorous side, I have a book entitled 101 Things your Barber/Stylist Hates but may never tell youwritten to vent for the Barbers while educating the customer at the same time. My book entitled “Money Needs” was written to share fundamental information on how to unlock your financial future. In the making, I have a book entitled “Breakthrough”, a book entitled Marriage on the “Rocks”, a book entitled The Top 20 reasons you may be broke. And also a couple of more.
To you, what is your definition of a man who hustles? My definition of a man who hustles is a man that knows his identity through the eyes of God, and will not let anyone or anything stand in his way to stop him from reaching his destiny. A man that grinds and expects results from his “hustle.” What is next for you in 2021? 2021 for me is about remaining focused and building God a “physical church. “ I will do other writings, as well as help push and support my wife Rachel in her call to the Gospel music industry. 2021 is a great year to be released! Out, Wealthy, Healthy!
J HALEEM WASHINGTON
By: Chandra Gore
For Men’s health month we spoke to J
We stayed away from getting knowledge,
Haleem Washington about how we can
wisdom, and understanding of health. There
change the narrative around Men and their
were a lot of theories, a lot of thoughts and
views on health. He shared with me what
practices, and a lot of underground thoughts
needs to happen for more men to be focused
and practices. Nobody actually had any real
on health and how imperative it is that we
medical data saying, this is what you should
change the mindset.
do to be okay. We are all from different religions, different neighborhoods, and
Black men should be focused on their health
different parts of the world or the country
because nobody else is. At this particular
and everyone has different ways of what
juncture, there are so many things out there
they think is acceptable, good health.
that are impacting our health from the food
Nothing is concrete, especially in the black
we eat, the stress we endure, mental health
community. Historically, Black men do not
issues walking around with PTSD, and
trust the medical community. So, it's
coming from prison growing up in drug-
important that we gain the knowledge and
infested, inner-city communities. Black men
know real information and not only theories
are deteriorating at an alarming rate. Now, if
of what good health looks like. Once we
we want to be the pillars of our community,
acquire that knowledge, go super, super hard
to be the fathers that we are supposed to be,
at being as healthy as we can possibly be, for
the husbands we are supposed to be, the
as long as we can possibly be.
protectors we are supposed to be and in order for us to be as sharp as we need to be, this starts with our health. I think that knowledge about what is actually good health is way more important than the health itself. The reason I say this is because black men have been taken advantage of by the healthcare system.
Should Therapy Be A part of Healing?
Yes. I do believe that this should be the case, especially in the black community. When I was growing up, in my age group, this wasn’t pushed on us. We weren’t encouraged to participate in therapy. I heard such things as; it'll work itself out. However, as I've grown, I’ve found out that that is not true, talking to somebody definitely helps. In the Black community, we tend to lean heavily on the pastor and the church, but there are also a lot of medical individuals that we need to go and see. For example, physical therapy. We shouldn’t make a visit to a clinic when something’s wrong with us. We could go and just get more information about aging and proper nutrition. You can help yourself sometimes by going to a masseuse on a semi-regular basis or going to a chiropractor every other year and just taking a look at yourself. Mental health therapy is definitely needed, especially as it pertains to the dynamics of black families and our upbringing. We definitely need to be able to unload. A lot of times we leave it to life to fix itself or we hope that we get some type of art or some way to express ourselves. Most people don't find that thing to use to express themselves. Me? I found my creativity in books, but I didn't start writing books until I was 38. Prior to that time, what did I have? So, I think that we should focus on therapy a whole lot more.
How did you cope with being a convicted felon? At first, I didn't understand what it meant. I was still young. I was still in school; I literally had another year of college to go to, and I didn't really know until I graduated college. And then when I graduated college and I went out to apply for jobs, I couldn't even get the jobs that I was overqualified for. Well, actually, I did get a job. I was hired for three jobs back-toback, and they let me go because of my background. That's when it became real. Another thing that happened is that I spent a lot of time, not being fully myself, and being around individuals who I did not have to talk about my background. I had to tread lightly because I never knew where it could lead. I couldn't participate in certain scenarios or be around certain people. I knew I wasn't going to ever be able to be in a corporate setting. So, I had to really learn all over again, how to function in a legit manner, but still fly under the radar. I had to do that for a long time and that was tough. So, ultimately learning how to fly under the radar, not draw too much attention to myself, as well as trying to grow as an entrepreneur that’s how I learned to cope with being a convicted felon.
What was the catalyst that led you to entrepreneurship? I was always interested in entrepreneurship. Even when I was young, I played around in entrepreneurship. However, I also went to college and when you go to college, you're trained to go get a job. And when I came out as a convicted felon and couldn't get the job, I fell back on entrepreneurship, full-time. I was happy and grateful that I had that as an option for me because I have had my bouts with entrepreneurship since I was 19. So, I knew it was something that I could do. It was an option. So that's what pushed me into entrepreneurship full time, knowing that I wasn't able to go ahead and get a job that my degree warranted. I made the choice to go ahead and make my own path. What do you feel can be done to change what convicted felons are perceived as? Everything is about knowledge. A lot of times people start to judge you by the fact that you have a background, and they don't even know who you are. They don't know what your circumstances were. They don't know how old you were when you committed a crime. A lot of times, they don't even know what your crime is. They just know that you are a convicted felon and automatically, you're treated differently. That has happened to me multiple times over the course of my adult life. It can even happen with those who are close to you, family, friends, loved ones. And as soon as they hear that you're a felon, everything else goes out of the window, they don't want to get the knowledge and an understanding of what happened, or what led to you making that one bad decision. Sometimes it is one bad decision that can affect the rest of your life. We’ve all made bad decisions, it’s just that some people have not been caught. At the end of the day, the number one thing is understanding. A lot of people just don’t know what the circumstance is or what leads to the person being a convicted felon. I believe that if they actually knew, even with jobs and a person is brought in for an interview, and the interviewer has a conversation to ask the question – the interviewee may actually have a shot at getting the job, versus an individual seeing that someone is a felon on a paper and never bringing them in and giving them a chance to detail the circumstance that leads to the charge. Will you share with readers the decisions that caused your conviction? The circumstances or decisions that led to my conviction, were my lifestyle. I grew up in Newark, New Jersey – in a house with eight drug addicts addicted to heroin and crack cocaine. And in my neighborhood, the people that did well were the drug dealers and I grew up to be no different. At an early age, I played both sides and lived a double life. I was very good in school and played basketball, but I sold drugs after school, and I did this until college. Living this type of lifestyle caught up with me. So, I came to Benedict College, South Carolina, leaving New Jersey. So, I basically picked up where I left off. It wasn’t until I was facing 10 years in prison for everything to sink in. Up until that point, I had only received slaps on the wrist and got other opportunities to come out and do more. Facing 10 years in prison and being in a position where I possibly wouldn’t be able to graduate school, caused me to wake up, that’s when it really sank in. Describe with one word, how it felt to be pardoned, relief.
How were you able to serve your 18-years from home? The last three years of college after I was arrested, I fought the whole time. I hustled. I did everything I could to keep myself from going to prison when I graduated college. Right before my senior year, I went to court and became a felon. I was working, showing them that I had good grades knowing that I was in my senior year at college, and the fact that my felony charge came as a result of me getting money, as opposed to me hurting somebody. We were able to show that it would be better off for me to stay home and finish my degree. I was able to produce a good amount of money, and they put together a plan, a financial plan, for me to pay off my debt in five years, which I was able to pay off in 18 months. Again, after going directly into entrepreneurship, it was tough. I had to live under the radar for these 18 years. I decided not to go certain places or do certain things or pursue certain career choices or opportunities, even in entrepreneurship, knowing that I might be background checked. I was flat out denied for a lot of opportunities that I thought I probably shouldn't have been background-checked for. Treading lightly on everything you do, always knowing that that was at the forefront or in the back of your mind, whenever you're trying to do something as small as a volunteer to coach basketball for my son's county basketball league. It requires a background check. So, it was a possibility that checking and seeing that you have a felony on your record, that you won't get the opportunity to even volunteer. So, for the last 18 years, it's been me trying to live that double life, still being in a space where I stay cognizant of where I am. I tread lightly when I come in certain places knowing me having a background is going to be frowned upon. Sometimes I would come in and leave, leave fast, or not come to be around certain people or circumstances at all, to make sure that I feel comfortable and safe. So, the last 18 years I have been more so still trying to straddle the fence between me, the regular person, and me, the convicted felon.
BIO: Jamar “J Haleem” Washington is an author, nationally-published and award-winning corporate and commercial photographer, serial entrepreneur, business coach, motivational speaker, and corporate trainer. J Haleem was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey where his interest in being an entrepreneur was birthed. While in college, J Haleem became a convicted felon. Because of his challenged background, he was never able to get the corporate job his degree warranted, even though he graduated with honors. It was at that moment that he chose entrepreneurship to be the platform on which he would establish himself. Now, with more than 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur; his 501c3 organization, I Won’t Starve Academy provides education and training for entrepreneurs and career development focused on creating successful entrepreneurs.
www.jhaleem.com
WES WATKINS By: Chaundra Scott
"Living Life To Your Own Beat With Celebrity Musician And Author, Wes Watkins"
June is Black Music Month and it’s a time for celebration. For centuries our ancestors have used music as a form of expression, creativity and more. Music has even served as a means to fight for social justice. Musicians such as Wes Watkins are valuable in their creative nature to use music and even books as a means to reach masses for motivation. Even during our unprecedented times, Wes Watkins has continued to use his creativity to maintain his own mental wellness and fight for justice in his own way. He is a visionary who is leading to the beat of his own drum! His creative flow started in childhood. He was raised within a loving family who also sparked his interest in both music and the art of hustling to achieve your dreams. I had the pleasure of interviewing Wes for our special edition issue. He gave us all the details related to chasing your dreams, his love for music, his music inspiration and much more. Here’s what the celebrity musician, authorpreneur and father of two had to share:
How did your childhood influence your career moves? “My childhood influenced my career moves because as a child I watched my dad run his own business and hustle. Everything I learned from watching him and working for his business as a kid stayed with me as an adult. The main reason I have the drive and determination to succeed in this business is because of my childhood. My main music inspiration was because of the feel that it gave me. I was born into being a drummer. The day I was born my dad literally placed drumsticks in my hand and I’ve kept them there ever since. As a kid I loved the feeling and joy people got when they watched or heard me play.” Who are your musical influences? “My musical influences growing up were my Dad-Wesley Watkins, Larry Dennis, Mint Condition, Q-Tip, James Brown, Chris Dave, Robert Glasper and Northeast Groovers just to name a few. My top five favorite albums of all time are Michael Jackson: Thriller; James Brown: Funk Power; Tribe Called Quest: Low End Theory; John P. Kee: Not Guilty; and Common: Like Water for Chocolate. In a Verzuz battle I would like to see Jay-Z and Nas in a battle. That would be a dope battle.” What motivated you to become an author? “My motivation for becoming an author was simply to share my story with those who were struggling. It was for those struggling with their identity and personal issues with no way out; or those that feel disqualified from their purpose because of past decisions. Sharing my story with the world gave me a newfound confidence and drive to face life in a great way. The first book I wrote entitled: “The Life That Created My Own Sound” was my life story. It touched on how I overcame depression, fighting for custody of my son, alcoholism, suicide and finding my identity. This book was to let people know that despite your past you can still be great. Your past doesn't disqualify you, it actually qualifies you to handle your next. My second book entitled: “Motivation + Drive = Purpose” is simply to empower people to find their purpose in life. Once we understand how valuable our purpose is we find that motivation and drive to find our purpose. Without purpose you lack vision for what you are purposed to do because you don't know who you are so you’re unable to see who you were supposed to be. This book makes you reach further into yourself.” How has your fatherhood journey influenced your career? “My fatherhood journey has influenced my career in giving me something to push harder for because I know my children are watching. I want my kids to know whatever they put their mind to it can be accomplished no matter what happened in their past. My parenting advice for a soon to be father is “don’t quit”. Being a father can be hard at times but it’s worth it. Do everything you can to stay in your child's life no matter what happens. Never quit and always give them love.” Wes is truly living within his God-given purpose. His career is also impacting the community. “My music and book titles are impacting communities of color in a great way. The engaging conversations that have come from the book titles & music has been amazing. I’ve had the opportunity to have many life changing conversations about both books,” says Wes. He is also grinding to expand his music career. “My future plan is to keep building the brand of Got My Own Sound. I never want to become comfortable because of an accomplishment. I’m thankful we were able to hit #1 but we’re still putting work in. My biggest plan will be dropping my own Drumstick Company known as “GMOS Drumsticks and a new wine business”, he adds.
Wes is definitely the definition of a man who hustles. He encompasses the tenacity, wisdom and talent that will continue to help him pave the way in his industry. “My music will push the creative inside of you to bring out more in your music or whatever you are working on as a creative,” says Wes. “My hustle will inspire and motivate you to strive for greatness despite how difficult it may look,” he encourages. Wes Watkins is living life to his own beat while motivating all to push forward.
Follow Wes and his growing fan base of over 83K followers on social media as @wesgotmyownsound. Visit his brand online at https://linktr.ee/Gotmyownsound.
Photography Credits: Patrick Alsobrook Deon Washington Maurice Taylor
KING JAMES WORTHY Interview By: Patrice Rivers
Born in Queens, New York, James Worthy came to prominence with producing and writing for artists such as Lil’ Zane, Kalena Harper, Sammie, Yung Berg, Fetty Wap, and more. His most notable production work includes "Fight 4 Love" by Truth Hurts., "1 & Only" by Jhonni Blaze, "Blessing Me" by Robin S., and "Drip" by Sammie and J Young MDK. In 2017, Worthy has also pursued acting, and has been featured on Access Hollywood, and appeared on BET's docu-series ‘From the Bottom Up’ Season 1. In 2017, he joined the duo group ‘Kings X2’ where they released their debut single ‘Wine For Me’. The song peaked at number 10 on the Billboard Hot Singles Chart.20. Connect with King James Worthy: Instagram: @kingjamesworthy Facebook: King James Worthy You Tube: James Worthy Music Website: www.jamesworthymusic.com
Patrice: As always, it's a pleasure to speak with you about your music and other projects you have going on. Speaking of projects, you are working on your documentary. But before we get into your documentary, tell us how your music career got started. King James Worthy: It's always an exciting story. I'm from Queens, New York; I was always a music nerd, so I always looked at different genres of music. I love musicianship, I love songwriting, and just being around great and legendary artists and other aspects, I enjoyed being around those types of people. My dad did a lot of security work for celebrities and great artists. I had a chance to meet people that way. Every weekend, I went to the record store and brought albums I never heard before to understand musicianship and read credits and sharpen my craft. That's how it got started.
Patrice: Awesome! It's funny that you mentioned the record store because I haven't been to one in years. I went to this record store called Fye that was located at the mall and bought CDs. I don't know if people still do that now. (laughs) King James Worthy: (laughs) Hopefully, there are some stores still around. I remember that record store called Fye. Patrice: So let's talk about your latest single, 'In The Dark, which I downloaded and love, by the way. Tell us the creation behind the record as well as the title. King James Worthy: I wanted to do something many R N B songs weren't touching on. Sometimes people get too comfortable with the stuff they are doing. It was inspired by the scenario of trying new things sexually, mentally and physically in the dark.
Patrice: What a great concept! So when can we expect your new album to come out? King James Worthy: We are looking at midAugust. I am still putting the final touches on things and ensuring that everything is in tiptop shape, but yes, we are looking at August for the album release. Patrice: Sounds excellent! Since the release of your new single, how have promotions being going for you? Any accomplishments or awards? King James Worthy: Right now, I'm just focusing on the album and the documentary that coincides with it. Also, working on music visuals to go along with the music will be rolling out soon. Also, a couple of film and television projects and reality shows that I will be involved in this year. I'm excited about it all!
Patrice: That is awesome to hear! Now I want to talk more about the documentary. Are you able to discuss the project with us? If so, what is the name of the documentary, and what is it about? King James Worthy: The documentary is titled the same as the album called "Once a Fairytale" It's a documentary showing early childhood to where I'm at now and speaking musically and professionally as an artist, showing where the originality came from, how I got into music, meeting different people, how I transitioned to being a songwriter to a record producer and down the line a recording artist. The documentary shows the whole story of how everything came about and the ups and downs and trials and tribulations of working with different artists. I want people to understand the full story of how I got to where I am at today. Patrice: Documentaries are great because they give an insight into a person and their walks of life in their career. I know that you mentioned you are still working on the documentary, but when can we expect that to be released? King James Worthy: Most likely, the documentary will be released around the same time as the album, which is in August. Patrice: That's a double treat! The album is dropping as well as the documentary in the same month. What are some artists that you have been working with? Do you want to do other collaborations with other people/artists? King James Worthy: Right now, I haven't been working with too many artists specifically. I have been working on this solo album. As far as collaborations go, I do have a couple on the album, but we have to do something with Miquel, The Weeknd, Frank Ocean, Chris Brown, and more for the ones I haven't done yet. Those are a couple of artists I have in mind.
Patrice: Those are some great artists that you named! Miquel has been around for a while now, and The Weeknd has been blowing up the music scene lately! I've been a big Chris Brown fan since he first came out, plus, he's from my area in VA. I haven't heard anything from Frank Ocean in a while. King James Worthy: He's one of those artists where he'll pop out and drop an album, then he'll disappear for a while (laughs)
Patrice: But yeah, I can see collaborations with those artists. They are bringing the heat! The music industry can be very challenging at times. As a music artist, have you faced any challenges so far in your career? How do you stay focused? King James Worthy: Ah man, well, the pandemic has forced many people to sit back and re-evaluate a lot of different things and learn about themselves. Even for business owners to discover the next steps of doing things. That had a lot to do with me; I've always been a person with thick skin as well. Even though I've been through many ups and downs, especially with the industry-changing almost every month, you have to adapt to what's going on. That's what I have to do personally and professionally. I've had my share of bad deals and bad contracts, bad teams, and bad management. You have to go through them to get to the goals you're trying to meet. Patrice: Absolutely! Do you feel that the Rn B scene is changing? King James Worthy: I think it has changed over the last couple of years for good. I would say in music in general. I believe it has been creative production-wise. Sometimes the content may lack as well as lyrics and the meaning behind it. There are a lot of great songs that have originality.
Raphael D.
BOSLEY
By: Latoya Wilson
Raphael completed his Master’s degree in Counselor Education from Purdue University- Fort Wayne with a focus on Mental Health. He also received the Purdue Fort Wayne Counselor Education Clinical Excellence Award in April 2019. Raphael has a passion for advocacy, serving, and empowering the underserved and underrepresented populations of his community. He brings over 7 years of experience working with various populations, including but not limited to homeless individuals, juveniles, adult offenders, at-risk youth populations, and individuals with mental illnesses. Raphael operates with an optimistic perspective. He believes despite the darkness there is in any situation or individual- GOOD CAN BE discovered and used as a tool of motivation to rebuild, reorganize, and rebrand. Raphael has dedicated himself to helping others grow personally, professionally, and spiritually, in hopes that a ripple effect will start of individuals committing to doing the work it takes to be a better version of themselves. Outside of the counseling office Raphael enjoys spending time with his wife and their two beautiful children. Raphael is also a member of the American Counseling Association and an associate minister at Greater Progressive Baptist Church.
What is your passion? I aspire to inspire others to become the best version of themselves despite any possible past barriers, traumas, and/or failures. At this stage of my career, I’m passionate about truly advocating, serving, and empowering the underserved and underrepresented populations of our community. I come to life when I’m able to serve in a space that allows me to empower others through the avenues of encouragement, enlightenment, and enrichment. As a counselor, how do you unpack everyone else's baggage? As a counselor, I use traditional talk therapy to join and journey with a client to address anything that is directly impacting and/or impairing their current functioning or emotional health. I’m very intentional about fostering a space that allows the person I’m talking to feel secure in sharing and exploring their emotions and thought processes. From there we evaluate, process, and categorize what’s healthy vs. unhealthy. Then, we reinterpret and redistribute meaning and/or perspective in a way that empowers the client to move in a direction towards peace and healing.
How do you manage the ups and downs of being a counselor? Any career that consists of serving others holds the potential to be taxing and/or overwhelming. Three habits that I utilized for coping with the ups and downs of this field are (1) I lean into my support system, (2) I regularly check in with supervisors and colleagues (3) prioritize self-care. Personally, I believe a person can be as gifted and skill as they want to be, but the fact remains that an individual cannot pour from an empty cup. Working with underprivileged communities is a blessing in itself. What do you see as one of the main things suppressing communities? The list of things that plays into the suppression of underserved communities is broad, but I would say limited access to resources and services is one that stands out to me. Most underserved communities don’t have direct or quick access to things in comparison to their counterparts; whether that’s food, employment, mental health offices, top-tier education, and transportation. Etc. What is the main thing you want readers to know about you? I’m human. Despite the titles, degrees, and reputation I’m no different than any other person. At moments, like some of the readers, I question and doubt my intellect, judgment, gifts, abilities, and struggles to move beyond the past experience.
How can readers help connect with you? I can be found on most Social media platforms: Usernames: Instagram: raphaelbosley Facebook: @RaphaelBosleylmhca Twitter: @RaphaelBosley Linkedin: Raphael Bosley, LMHCA Another way to contact me is through email: Bosleyenterprise.be@gmail.com
How do you balance ministry and your career? As a person of integrity, I have to lead this response with authenticity- I STILL STRUGGLE in this area. I’m learning from others in the field that scheduling is a MUST and don’t try to do all the work on your own (ask for help).
What is your definition of a man who hustles? A man who hustles is a person who goes after what they want with a by any means necessary attitude and works ethic until they get it. What and who has been your greatest influence? There are a lot of people that have made impressions, but the influence has to go to my uncle Cedric Cheatham. My uncle Cedric is six years older than me so the closeness in age allowed the relationship to mirror one of the brothers. Throughout my life, he’s been intentional about speaking life into me and highlighting my gifts and the potential he sees. He didn’t just talk about it, but he put his resources (time, money, and living space) behind it to make sure I felt and had support to do whatever it is I was setting out to do. The influence or impact he has had on my life doesn’t just come from the things he did, but it comes from the things he didn’t do. He didn’t keep me from seeing that you can be gifted and still have to deal with the unfairness of life, the trials and tribulations that come uninvited, and the tragedy of success. He loved me enough to allow me to keep courtside seats to his life throughout different phases to learn how to navigate life. I value and appreciate more than what words could ever let him know.
BRYANT TINKER
By: Chaundra Scott Laughter is food for the soul and comedian, Bryant Tinker is the plug. Our recent times have forced many to pursue old hobbies and new crafts but Bryant has always been in his comedic bag. Bryant grew up as a military brat yet Louisville, KY is his hometown. As a military brat he was able to live in Germany, Alaska and North
RISING
Carolina. Bryant also served in the military himself and still has government experience under his belt. “ I think everything is funny. I have always been the funny one in all of my family and friendship circles,” Bryant states. He is choosing
COMEDIAN
to walk in his purpose by following his comedic dreams. Each new day motivates him to take it to the next level. “ I love being on stage and around my peers. It feels like my purpose,” he adds. “My comedic influences are Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, Patrice O'Neal
USING
and Bill Burr,” he expresses. The pandemic caused him to shift his focus for a while. However, with outside being open again it causes more cravings for audiences to enjoy laughter again. Bryant is confident that his
LAUGHTER
laughter will spark a fun-loving spirit within communities. “My comedy will let you know the truth and bring people together with our shared perspectives. Laughter is needed and it’s what I look forward to everyday,” he continues.
TO REACH
We’ve learned that tomorrow isn’t promised. Laughter is important to our everyday lives as it also adds a perspective outlook. Enjoy life again with comedian Bryant Tinker. He is a man who hustle and we’re giving him his flowers now so all can connect with him in
HIS DREAMS
jokes. Follow him online as: FB: King Tink and IG: king_tink. Stay tuned for more live shows in the DMV area at a comedy club near you. For
| 03
bookings send an email to bryanttinker@yahoo.com.
Photo by Karsten Winegeart
Men Embracing Self-Care is Normal BY
LATRINA
CALDWELL
Normalizing self-care is becoming more normal
Every man has a different way of practicing self-
for men just as much as for women. Men are
care, but sometimes they just don’t realize when
making time for consistent, everyday healthy
they need it. One of the keys to positive
rituals, this will help keep their body and mind
masculinity are identifying when you need a
energized. Self-care should be viewed as a
mental health break or doing some self-care. Men
priority, when we apply normally everyday self-
struggle to identify when they’re experiencing
care it helps with our mental and physical health
burnout due to being overwhelmed. Most men are
as well. You allocate certain time during each
the alpha and they carry a lot of responsibilities
day, or even the week to put your stressors on
in the household/relationship and just in life in
the back burner with the goal of improving your
general.
mental health.
When you’re experiencing burnout, some Men enjoy relaxing and being pampered. But
identifiers include having trouble getting to
most men don't allow themselves to apply self-
work/going to work, struggling with a lack of
care because of all the stigmas. Most folk view self-care as something for women. Self-care is for everyone. It is personal. It's not so much of the pampering part of self-care but it is taking care of your mental health, that is the best part of self-care. We have to change the stigmas by coming together in agreement about change. We need to start normalizing the things that we demand that need to change. We need to make our men feel like they matter because they do.
energy, or not getting enough sleep. Maybe you’re stretched too thin, or you keep saying yes to every task put in front of you. If your work is all-consuming, then you might be experiencing burnout very quickly. At any point, if these symptoms are present, then you should take some time for self-care.
SELF-CARE TIPS FOR THE EVERYDAY MAN
By: Latrina Caldwell
●
●
Make time for yourself throughout the day if possible.
●
Engage with others and have social hours.
●
Embrace your health (mental & physical)
●
Enjoy starting and creating new hobbies.
Be aware so that you will recognize when you might be facing burnout.
● ●
Get effective sleep.
Mediate or get a massage. .
William Smith By: Anastasia Jackson
William Smith was born in raised in Robbins IL. He had dreams and aspirations to become a basketball player in the NBA. He has done the next best thing; he is a musician. Royal Rico is not just any musician he has a catalog longer than your average “rapper”. Royal Rico has been making music for five-plus years now. He has released 100+ songs on YouTube and has five albums out. Royal Rico’s latest album is The Chosen One, you can find the album on all major platforms (Apple Music, Spotify, and Pandora music). In 2020 amid a pandemic, while most were doing their things. Royal Rico was mastering his craft in music as well as learning new skills. As of today, Royal Rico has a podcast called The Locker Room which is found on all major platforms (Anchor, Apple Podcast, and Spotify). The podcast is A haven for conversations and debates without borders. The podcast is a great place for ages ranging 18 and up. Hey, you just have to tune in to any platform and check out the content. While Royal Rico being a musician, he is very creative. His craft had him stumble across creating his radio station. For years Royal Rico manifested owning his radio station and now he does: The Vibe Radio station which will be coming to you all’s app store soon. In the meantime, check out the website for the radio station and get the latest update: TheVibeRadio.com
Anastasia: What makes you a man that hustles?llllll Royal Rico: My grandmothers’ legacy. I am not quite sure what she did, but she made sure the family was well taken care of for a long time. As I was growing up seeing that I knew for myself I wanted to make sure I leave a legacy behind. When you grow up in my hometown and you see how small the town is, not too many opportunities but you know you are different and you have to get out to show everyone there that you have the same chances to do what you’ve done. The drive to hustle is TO GET OUT! Anastasia: What motivated/inspired you to start music? Royal Rico: Taking pride in what I do. I did not necessarily want to make music. I was a consumer of music, but I was not out to do music at the beginning. I was put into a position to make music. I went on the fly on how to do music. Once I learned the ropes of music, I knew I had to be the best! The music industry is a very competitive field, and I knew the music I made was something different from what musicians make with their craft.
Anastasia: What is the name of your business/ businesses and what are they about? Royal Rico: I am a musician who has created over 100 plus songs. I have released five albums with the latest being The Chosen One. In April I released my podcast, which is called The Locker Room. The locker room is a place where you come and just talk; whatever you want not biased at all. I have also just started my radio station The Vibe Radio which will be able soon. The website is up and running theviberadio.com come and check out the content and get the updates on when the app will be available. I have a few more things up my sleeve but in due time I will reveal those things. Anastasia: Have you faced any challenges in your business? Royal Rico: Yes, getting artists for the radio station. Anastasia: What projects are you currently working on? Royal Rico: The Radio Station Anastasia: Is balancing your personal life/work life and business life for you at times? Royal Rico: Yes Anastasia: What does being an entrepreneur or business owner mean to you? Royal Rico: Freedom! I can do things on my time. I get to make things the way I see fit in certain areas. I get to give others opportunities.
@Royal_Rico_
FATHERS WHO HUSTLE Cedrick R. Cheatham When considering the true definition of a man who hustles, immediately I think of someone who works tirelessly to provide for his family and create new opportunities for those around him. Our Fathers Who Hustle Spotlight recognizes Cedrick R. Cheatham as a husband and dad of four. He works day in and day out at his 9 to 5 while following his dreams as promoter and manager for local gospel artists. He has hosted and collaborated with Gospel Quartet Music favs such as: Tim Rogers and The Fellas, The Brown Singers and More. You can find Cedrick hosting concerts for the community, spending time with his family, and chasing his dreams one show at a time.
@Cedrickrkheim
