Where were you born and raised?
Kansas City, Missouri.
What is your occupation?
On Air Personality/DJ - Hot 103 Jamz (KPRS-FM).
What is your favorite childhood memory?
Three things come to mind: Chiefs, WWF and music videos. But the thing that stands out the most is anything with the Chiefs. January of 1994 (I was eight at the time) I watched our Chiefs go on a magical playoff run with Joe Montana. We lost the AFC Championship Game that season at Buffalo, but I will always remember the excitement that was around the city when Joe came here. He really lit a fire under this city that still burns almost 30 years later.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
I believe this month gives America an opportunity to really observe and learn about the plight, contributions and culture of African Americans in this country and what we have contributed to building America to what it is today. It's also a time for me personally, to reflect on what my ancestors fought so hard for like Civil Rights, Voting, and even dining at the same restaurant as our fellow white Americans.
What do you believe is the most important issue currently facing the Black community?
Having true equal economic opportunities is one that is at the top of the list for me, because it literally affects every part of the lives of most African Americans. Whether it's finding quality jobs, wages, housing, transportation and everything else in between. For the simple fact that in 2021, we have food deserts in some parts of this (and other towns) city speaks volumes to how mainly African-American zip-codes can be ignored for years. A country can never go bankrupt when they invest in their people.
When did you realize you were Black in America and what has that meant for your life?
I have always been aware of my culture as far as I can remember, but when you say 'Black in America', it takes on a totally different meaning now. Because in some situations, there could be some dicey propositions. Being Black in America is a heavy title, especially when you have to interact with Police, apply for a job, walk down the street, go to the store, I mean that title never leaves you because of the experiences you have had and seen. I learned at a very early age what it was like being Black in America, you can see the disparities, some times we think kids don't know, but in reality they do. But I am thankful for my family and friends for always keeping me grounded and never forgetting who I am or what I come from.
Who or what is your biggest inspiration to push for change?
My future kids (Lord willing). It's all about paying it forward for those who have yet to enter into the world. I think one of our jobs as humans is to provide the world with whatever gift God gave you, to use it for the positive contributions to this world and leave the earth in better shape than it was when you arrived.
How have you supported or contributed to the local Black community?
I have been fortunate enough to work with the great people at Carter Broadcast Group since 2007, so I have been engaged with our community through my work at Hot 103 Jamz. We provide resources for those in need, we have a long list of non profit groups we work with through out the year, we support local businesses, partner with St. Jude, our annual Toy & Food Drive, the list can go on and on with the amount of organizations and schools we have worked with to make a difference. I also coach with The Kansas City Seminoles, a little league football organization that has benefited hundreds of kids in Kansas City over the past 21 years.
