OuttaDeeBox Podcast

Send us Fan Mail

Jealousy can lead to unexpected places; in my case, it paved the way to a partnership brimming with innovation and community impact. Tune in as we team up with Little Johns to cook up a storm of nourishment and event excitement, and I'll tell you all about how a Prince lookalike dating my now-wife set the stage for an electric Prince-themed bash we're cooking up. Beyond the music and the personal tales, we're tackling serious issues with Little Johns by transforming imperfect produce into 30,000 meals for children, intertwining environmental responsibility with the fight against hunger.

Our latest installment isn't just a feast for the ears, but a celebration of transformative journeys. Hear a powerful Boys and Girls Clubs success story, where support translates into six-figure achievements, and how we're charging against Wisconsin's racial achievement gap with soaring college admissions. We're rallying for sustainable wages in trades for women and people of color and championing borderless leadership for global problem-solving. Special thanks to our guests, including Michael Johnson, for their enriching contributions, and cheers to ONJYC for podcasting milestones we hope are just around the corner.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

When Michael Johnson sat down with us, the atmosphere was charged with the kind of inspiration that could only come from the 2022 In-Business Executive of the Year. In today's conversation, Michael bares his soul, sharing the tapestry of his life's work and the efforts at Boys and Girls Clubs that garnered him such prestigious recognition. Our dialogue traverses the emotional landscape of his Pay it Forward campaign, echoing Michael's own backstory and embodying his commitment to fostering community support. A special surprise awaits him too—a token of our gratitude, envisaged by a local artist, which perfectly captures the essence of his heartfelt initiative.

It's not every day that you meet someone who turns down a career in Washington D.C. to make a difference in their hometown. Michael's narrative is rich with such decisive moments and the learnings gleaned from life in Chicago's public housing. Wisdom, as my mother used to say, can indeed be found in the most unexpected places. We honor the diversity of experiences that shape us, and on this day, we recall the Mayor of St. Louis's tribute to Michael's profound influence, a poignant reminder of the impact one can have on their community.

Lastly, we navigate the stormy seas Michael weathered as CEO during one of the most tumultuous periods in recent history. His near-resignation amid a global pandemic, the personal battles with health and family, and the societal tremors following the George Floyd protests reveal a story of resilience. Yet, through innovative partnerships, Michael's actions spoke volumes—raising funds, supporting local businesses, and even ensuring daily meals for hundreds of children. Join us as we unfold the layers of this extraordinary journey, culminating in the celebration of Vel Phillips with a statue at Capitol Square—another historic achievement born from unwavering advocacy and unity.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Have you ever mistaken AM for PM and turned an entire day upside down with humor? That's exactly how we kickstart our vibrant conversation with Tracy Anderson and Merv Seymour—forces behind the "It Takes Little to Be Big" campaign by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County. This episode is a heartfelt rally cry to bring new volunteers into the fold, focusing on the power and urgency of mentoring. Steering the community outreach, Tracy paints a poignant picture of the 200 kids, especially boys of color, awaiting life-changing connections. With his transformative journey from Mississippi to Madison, Merv lends his voice to the narrative, unraveling the compelling reasons that call one to mentorship and the mutual enrichment it fosters.

Laughter and earnestness intermingle as comedian Marv jumps into the fray, underscoring the gravity of community participation, especially in the African-American sphere. Our six-week recruitment drive takes flight with innovative strategies aiming for hearts and minds across Madison. We swap stories that tug at the heartstrings, sharing how being raised by single mothers has sculpted our views on family dynamics and the tenacity it takes to steer such households. As the curtain falls on this powerful episode, we extend our deepest gratitude to Tracy and Merv, who've woven their tales into our larger narrative, leaving us richer for the shared experience.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

What if there was a way to transform the lives of those in correctional institutions? We recently had a riveting conversation with special guest host Kingston Robertson, interviewing James Morgen from Moses, an organization rewriting the narrative around incarceration and post-incarceration life. James, having spent over 24 years behind bars, provides an intimate insight into the importance of treating those incarcerated with dignity and respect. He highlights the significant work Moses does in advocating for legislative changes and their current focus on rectifying the deplorable conditions in Wisconsin's Correctional Institutions.  

Shifting gears, we uncover the power of personal transformation and the unique ways Moses Madison is making an impact. James brings to light their Transformation Celebration event, a heartening ceremony that honors individuals who have made significant life changes. We delve into the power of sharing our transformation journeys and standing firm in our values, principles, and beliefs. This story of personal evolution is set against their drive to raise funds for a youth culinary program, a testament to the organization's dedication to empowerment.

In the final segment, our exploration of self-confidence will move you, the power of voting, and how incarceration affects tax dollar allocation. James illuminates how courage and confidence can often be misunderstood as arrogance and emphasizes the need to set boundaries and embrace unconditional love. We unpack the profound effects of incarceration on the human mind and the importance of a strong mindset in achieving success and making positive changes in our lives. This thought-provoking discussion with James promises to reshape your perceptions of incarceration, transformation, and empowerment. Tune in, engage, and be inspired.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

The music industry is a maze, and we've got a seasoned guide on the show for you today! From coast to coast, this super producer and beat battle champion has worked with some of the biggest names in music and entertainment. Godxilla has over 30 years of music production under his belt. He holds degrees in music tech, entertainment media, and entertainment business. Recording, mixing, and mastering come second nature to this producer. Godxilla is the owner of "The Mountaintop A.V." The Mountaintop is a full-service recording and

 video studio is set in the North Shore area of the City of Milwaukee. The studio is a one-stop shop for many of the area's recording artists. Godxilla worked in L.A. for a couple of years and, as a result, still regularly mixes and works on projects from all over the country. His notable credits include KRS-One, Mad Lion, Afroman, Too $hort, Kobe Bryant, Nipsey Hussle, Kurupt, Krooked I, Organized Noise, X-Clan, O.G. Big Mike, Baby Drew and Coo Coo Cal. He offers us a rare glimpse into the world of music production, sharing his journey and the lessons he has learned along this nugget of wisdom as a reminder that consistency is critical, treating music like a job you show up to daily.

The conversation doesn't stop at music creation. We also roam the fields of business in the music industry. Godxilla underscores the importance of understanding the ins and outs of the business side of music, including attending industry seminars. The need for honesty and openness between artists and producers was also mentioned during our chat. We touch on personal music preferences, industry dynamics, and how labels approach signing artists.

We dig into the concepts in the music industry, a crucial strategy for every artist. Our guest points out the importance of planning, using influence strategically, and the role of mentors. We also discuss the works of Wendy Day, a titan in the music industry, who advises that artists should aim for a significant contract within three years. Wrapping up our chat, our guest reflected on how his follow-through has contributed to his success and offered final advice to all aspiring musicians. Tune in for an enlightening journey through the music industry like no other.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Ever thought about breaking into the music industry but felt overwhelmed by its complexities? We get it, and that's precisely why we're here to simplify it for you! Our prolific professor, who's juggled roles from student to role manager for a prominent group, brings to light the significance of setting achievable career goals. He unpacks fascinating insights from his journey, shedding light on the virtues of flexibility and openness to new opportunities in this dynamic industry. More than just talent, he emphasizes the power of small wins, scaling up, and celebrating your milestones, however small they may be. 

Navigating the studio environment can be daunting, but we've got your back! Our chat revolves around the imperative of preparation and the essence of professionalism. Are you curious about the various roles and responsibilities within a studio? We break down the uniqueness of each, from producers to engineers, delineating what every service entails. But that's not all! We also offer an exclusive peek into the Music Entrepreneur Club - a platform where we dissect an array of pertinent topics. 

Finally, we address the elephant in the room - the business side of music. It's more than just about making great tunes; it's also about building constructive relationships and mastering the art of selling music publishing. We delve into the dynamics of partnerships in the industry, the importance of doing your homework before collaborating, and managing expectations. Also, don't miss out on our bonus segment as we expose the realities of fame and its navigation. So, if you're gearing up to leave your mark on the music industry, this episode is a must-listen!

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome, dear listeners, to a riveting conversation with DJ Pain 1 Hold your breath as we journey through his transformation from an aspiring rapper to a multi-platinum record producer, as he recalls breaking into the music industry and the battles he had to fight to stay afloat. Be prepared to be amused and enlightened by his stories of collaborations with Ludacris, Rick Ross, G Herbo and the significant influence of Soulja Boy on the music business. 

Ever wondered how fame can transform you into an Imposter? DJ pain 1 has experienced it first hand. He candidly discusses the struggle of dealing with the pressures of success and the uncomfortable feeling of people using him. He also emphasizes on the crucial role of relationships in the music industry. Hang on as our chat takes unexpected turns from him being an interviewee to an interviewer, sharing the invaluable lessons he learned through his journey. 

We're bringing you a unique perspective on the role of the internet and authenticity in music business. Navigate through the digital age with us as we explore how artists can thrive. DJ Pain 1  shares his college experiences and how they prepared him for the challenges ahead. We're wrapping up the episode by redefining success and failure, debunking the myth that success is solely about financial gain. Brace yourself for an episode packed with valuable lessons and intriguing stories from DJ Pain 1  music journey.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

What if you could unlock the true power of community connection and celebration? Christina Williams, the executive director of the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce, joins us to unravel this secret. Christina sheds light on how the Chamber serves as a vital link between businesses, resources, and customers. She takes us on an enlightening journey of Cornfest, an annual community event that has stood the test of time, serving as a beacon of unity and celebration for a whopping 70 years! From supporting scholarships to advancing health initiatives, Christina reveals how every dollar spent at Cornfest goes back into nurturing the community.

Yet, it's not just about commerce and festivities. Christina opens up about the Chamber's earnest efforts to weave diversity and inclusivity into the fabric of Cornfest. The event has become a cherished tradition for many Latino families, and the Chamber is striving to make it a welcoming haven for the black and LGBTQ communities as well. Christina also offers a sneak peek into other fun ways to engage with the Chamber, like volunteering at Cornfest or joining their lively coffee chat. Please tune in to our heartening conversation with Christina, and discover how the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce is shaping a future where everyone feels heard, important, and, most importantly, part of one big family.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Imagine hustling through your life, moving from city to city, grappling with the harsh realities of gang life, and surviving the trauma of multiple shootings. This is the life story of Rolando Oates, a man whose resilience and unwavering pursuit for a better life led him to a path of finding solace in dogs and the world of dog-breeding. 

Join us as we walk through Rolando's experiences - from childhood shaped by a hardworking mother, navigating through the entangled streets of Minnesota, to surviving bullets and dealing with the aftermath. The journey is a raw revelation of a life where the only constant is change and uncertainty. Rolando's vulnerability as he opens up about guilt and PTSD after being the last one standing from his old group is heart-wrenching, yet his strength and courage shines through.

The story takes an unexpected turn when Rolando discovers his passion for dogs, leading him to the shady world of dog breeding. Rolando, a decade deep in the game now, tells us about his dog breeding enterprise, BMG Kennels, and how he strives to place different breeds of bullies in loving homes. From getting his first dog as a set up from his cousin to dealing with shifty dog game players, Rolando's tale is as captivating as it is inspiring. Tune in to hear it all, and find out how you can connect with BMG Kennels.

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

When streets talk, they tell tales of struggle and success, of alleyways that lead to avenues of opportunity. Tune into a powerful narrative as I, Dee Star, am joined by Kingston Robertson, the visionary behind the Holy Godz clothing line. Kingston's journey from Englewood, Chicago's hardened pathways to the forefront of the fashion world, is remarkable. Bearing the lessons from his grandmother and uncle, he turned a history with gang culture and a transformative stint in prison into a beacon of hope and inspiration. Hear his truths about navigating life's trials to emerge as a mentor and leader, using his story to steer the youth away from the shadows and into the light.

As threads weave together to create a tapestry, so do the elements of building a brand stitch into the narrative of success. Discover the intricacies of sculpting a clothing line from the ground up, where every choice of fabric and branding strategy weaves a more significant message. Kingston opens up about the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, the commitment to quality that sets Holy God apart, and the personal evolution required to lead a family-run business with heart and foresight. This episode isn't simply a conversation; it's an invitation to witness the transformation of adversity into ambition and to extend our hands to support those who have faced imprisonment as we strive to uplift individuals and entire communities. Join us on this journey of redemption and resilience, where fashion and purpose dress the spirit of change.

Support the show