“Keep an open mind… When people come through with advice or some good game, listen to it. Listen. You ain’t gotta do it or live by it but listen. Keep an open mind. I wish I would’ve kept an open mind when I was younger. I didn’t have no open mind; I did not care; I was on my own thing, and bumped my head so many times.” - J Meast

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by J Meast. As a rapper based in Bend, Oregon, by way of North Oakland, California, J Meast enjoys mentoring and bringing along younger rappers, as well as taking care of his two-year-old son. Ashanti and J Meast reflect on their respective upbringings in Oakland, look back on the strengths of their respective parents, and discuss different ways that young men can let out their feelings. Have a Happy Holiday and enjoy the show!

(1:10) Ashanti's introduction.

(7:00) J Meast introduces himself, his origins, and his work. He and Ashanti reflect on their childhood and adolescence in Oakland.

(11:30) They discuss why it can be hard for young people to open up for one another, and the consequences that come from this.

(16:15) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, careful, passionate.

(17:35) J Meast and Ashanti discuss some characteristics that could be on the front of his mask, specifically his desire to mentor younger musicians and rappers.

(22:20) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - worry, people pleaser/shadow, my brother’s mental health - and J Meast relates some of his own experiences.

(25:40) J Meast shares how he independently deals with the heavier things in life. Then, he and Ashanti compare their parents and their respective upbringings.

(31:30) J Meast shares his words of advice to young people.

(35:30) J Meast shares how you can get in touch with him.

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Connect with J Meast:

Instagram: instagram.com/jmeast2solid

Facebook: facebook.com/jmeast.meast

Youtube: youtube.com/channel/UCDaQGSR4NdhglKKBVmhAGXA

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Create your own mask anonymously at www.100kmasks.com

If you are interested in being on the Face to Face podcast, email us at [email protected]

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Connect with Ashanti Branch:

Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks

Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks

Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch

Website: branchspeaks.com

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Send in a voice message:

anchor.fm/branch-speaks/message

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Connect with Ever Forward Club:

Instagram: instagram.com/everforward

Facebook: facebook.com/everforwardclub

Twitter: twitter.com/everforwardclub

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club