Jennifer Lopez Has Mastered Her Brand of ‘Sex Appeal and Keeping it Real’

This production of “Wise-up Wednesdays” Blogcast by Douette ‘Doc’ Cunningham is a presentation in “social media entertainment from the groove-track of life!” #WUWECAST

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Uppertunity’ – Get Lifted!”
With Higher Hopes, Bolder Dreams and Greater Teams (Old-School Flava)

It seems like she’s everywhere! She’s an American Idol judge and can also be seen on the big screen. Her music sells in the millions getting radio airplay from coast to coast and on pop/latino stations. In between time she’s also a mom. J-Lo has mastered her brand of ‘sex appeal and keeping it real.’

Many might remember her early days as a ‘fly girl’ dancer on the variety show In Living Color. Because of her passion she’s gone on to sing, act and serve as a commercial product endorser. Some might understand passion in the space of getting ‘layed.’ But J-lo might also see it in the face of getting paid.

She has used her big break in showbiz to become an international icon. Over the years she’s had a few sour notes along the way. Her success is also seen in how she ‘packages her pain.’ She shares more in her memoirs, not to complain but to explain that mistakes don’t have to be criminal nor bad-breaks final.

In a recent interview she reflected on her days growing-up in the Bronx. On the corner she’s seen as ‘Jenny from the block.’ But with Madison Avenue advertisers she’s more like ‘Jenny the brand.’ Her success reflects how she has embraced her passion as well as her pain to realize major progress.

J-lo has raised her game to the point where her career has bounce-back-ability. Even with the setbacks in failed marriages or missed opportunities she’s still a hot commodity. She has spread her passion far and wide. Even through the pain she has gone from ‘around the way girl’ to her own dream world.

J-Lo

Theme:–The Year of ‘Uppertunity’ – Get Lifted!”
With Higher Hopes, Bolder Dreams and Greater Teams (New-School Flava)

It seems like she’s everywhere! A main attraction let’s make that clear. American Idol Judge front and center. Also the big screen and fashionista. Music that sells in the millions across nations. Radio airplay coast to coast on pop/latino stations. J-lo known for sexy brand appeal. As much as for keeping it real.

Let’s flashback to her days as a ‘fly girl’ dancer. The variety show In Living Color was her answer. Using her passion to also sing, act and do much more. You’ve seen her pics at the department store. Some see passion in the space of getting ‘layed.’ But others like J-lo might see passion in the face of getting paid.

Rising in showbiz to international icon. J-lo knows about bringing home the bacon. A few sour notes along the way. Packaging her pain in what she has to say. Memoir wasn’t written just to complain. But in her wising-up to explain. That a mistake doesn’t have to be criminal. And bad breaks don’t have to be final.

Imagine before stardom she was a law clerk. These days she’s getting paid for her celebrity work. On the corner she’s ‘Jenny from the block’ when you shake her hand. But with Madison Avenue she’s more like ‘Jenny the brand.’ Success is in how she’s embraced passion and pain. To turn progress into major gain.

J-lo raised her game to new heights. Career bounce-back-ability took her to new flights. Even with setbacks, failed marriages and missed opportunity. She still has it going on as a hot commodity. Spreading her passion as an ‘around the way’ girl. Between the scripts and tips in her own dream world.

jennifer-hudson

Tip: Bounce-back-ability is in maximizing your passion, packaging your pain, not to complain but explain.
Talkback: What does it take these days to have bounce-back-ability or become a hot commodity?
Groove-Tracks: Jennifer Lopez (J-Lo) ‘I’m Real’ ft. Ja Rule – http://youtu.be/Sjx9oSJDAVQ and Jennifer Hudson (J-HUD) ‘Walk it Out ft. Timbaland’ – http://youtu.be/mykXoDnFKlU

This production of “Wise-up Wednesdays” Blogcast by Douette ‘Doc’ Cunningham is a presentation in “social media entertainment from the groove-track of life!” #WUWECAST

Job Market Reboot: 5 Steps to Career Refresh and Getting Back on the Dream Track

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams”

Know anybody who’s ever dislocated a limb? For one it can be painful. Plus, it can involve special steps to ensure proper healing. Well, Federal Bank Chair Janet Yellen in a recent speech touched on labor market dislocation. This is workforce displacement, discouragement and high long-term unemployment.

In addition, economic data analysis by Georgetown University found that 40% or roughly 4.6 million of those unemployed are ages 18 – 29. The July Jobs Report showed that around 3.2 million Americans are among the long-term unemployed. Clearly the economy needs a job market reboot and Labor Day reset.

With the unofficial end of summer upon us, BBQ cookouts are sure to be in full swing. There’re job fairs and career moves to follow. Oftentimes economic news is presented from a Wall Street perspective for the stock market. But who’s breaking it down from a Main Street perspective for the block market?

So, here are “5 steps to career refresh and getting back on the dream track” no matter where you are in the labor market whether employed, unemployed or emerging self-employed.

  1. Maximize Awareness:- “Know your dough and know your flow.” This means assessing the many ways you can turn your passion into profit and your pain into something that’s paying. It’s also about doing more of the things that get you in the flow of performance greatness.
  2. Professional Branding:- The idea of having a USP (unique selling proposition) is the same as highlighting your market value. Do you see yourself as Campus CEO, Me Inc. CEO, Urban CEO or Heartbeat CEO? Branding gives you a winner’s edge in being the best value money can buy.
  3. Increase Checking:- A meal’s entrée comes with a “main dish” supported by one or more sides. With your life’s purpose as a menu guide, take your main talent/skill/vision and surround it with one or more supporting sides. This way you build different streams into your checking account.
  4. Dream Living:- Deep inside many of us is a childhood dream wanting to breakout. Dream living isn’t always about becoming the next pop star or celebrity. It could simply be greater fulfillment or significance. Also, the more we help others achieve their dreams the more we achieve the same.
  5. Life Experience:- Is there something from your past experience that could be a setup for your next achievement? That’s really how your highs and lows can serve you well. Even if others can’t relate don’t deny yourself the opportunity of going from stumbling block to mountain top.

Stops and starts in the economy are like dealing with stalled cars on the highway. There’s rubbernecking, detours and block market slowdown. Stops and starts might even happen with your electronic devices. A refresh in market outlook starts with a reboot in purpose and a return to getting back on the dream track.

Miss Robbie and ‘Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s’ Took Road Trip for ‘New Day, New Dreams’

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (Old-School Flava)

Oprah and Tyler have a good thing going. Since OWN’s launch she’s forged a strategic partnership with Perry for new programming. Some of the network shows are still getting their stride. Others are taking further steps. So Miss Robbie on a Sweetie Pie’s episode took a road trip for ‘new day, new dreams.’

She’s opening a new location in the blues city of Memphis. That’s not a far way from St. Louis or from her earlier career as a backup singer with Ike & Tina Turner. They travelled from St. Louis to get the location off the ground. Miss Robbie says at her age or any age it’s never too late for a new venture or adventure.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said it this way: “With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts.” Miss Robbie and her team are working hard at hiring staff, upgrading operations and meeting the locals. As with any venture, the business side is about how to create, manage and grow the returns stream.

While making plans on the new venture she ran into a setback. An injury from a fall caused her to need surgery. She took time-off to take care of her health. Miss Robbie knows that in life “no pain, no gain.” But it’s also true that “no health, no wealth.” The personal side is about taking care of mind, body and soul.

Miss Robbie will soon be known not just for soul food. She’s also launched a Sweet Tea line. We know how folks down south love their sweet tea. It might be the next best reminder of home-cooking and the human side of everyday living. It’s in leaving a good taste and cherished feeling for life’s best moments. 

miss-robbie

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (New-School Flava)

Oprah and Tyler on a roll. Friendship going good says informal poll. Since OWN’s launch we’ve seen. A strategic partnership in between. Some TV shows still getting their stride. Others plotting along for the ride. So Miss Robbie’s Sweetie Pie’s makes a move. With a road trip and ‘new day, new dreams’ groove.

Opening next spot in Memphis blues city. Of jazz sounds and sights looking pretty. Not a far way from the St. Louis hub. Or her days with Ike & Tina in the club.  She chose to move around. In getting the location off the ground. Says at her age not too late for this venture. Or even for having a new life adventure.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said it best. “With the new day comes new strength and new thoughts,” oh yes! Miss Robbie and company working hard at hiring staff. Upgrading the shop, meeting the locals between a laugh. As with any venture or biz team. Gotta create, manage and grow the returns stream.

While doing some of her daily chores. She ran into a setback and some sores. After falling, surgery was the next action. To get back her health satisfaction. Taking time-off during the rain. Knowing in life “no pain, no gain.” Plus, “no health, no wealth” was on her mind. By taking care of body and soul in kind.

Serving more than just soul food. Even if her lingo may seem crude. Launching a Sweet Tea product line. Maybe even thinking about fine wine. Down south folks love their beer and tea. Next best thing to home-cooked meals under a tree. Leaving a good taste of the past. With more cherished feelings that will last.

Tip: The business side of any venture takes creating, managing and growing the value while the personal side takes creating, managing and growing in values.

Talkback: What’s your pick on a typical summer’s day: Sweet Tea or Cold Drink?

Lebron James Knows the Business of NBA Basketball is Bigger Than Game Time

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (Old-School Flava)

The suspense was building as the rumors were swirling. Who would Lebron James play for next season? Would he and Carmelo Anthony end up on the same team? What would happen to Miami’s big-three? Well his answer came in an essay. James knows the business of basketball is bigger than game time.

He announced his decision with a letter to fans on SI.com. His reasoning was summarized in three words, “I’m coming home!” His return to the Cleveland Cavaliers shows the signs of a “bigger person.” After his less than amicable departure, he now sees pro basketball as bigger than points, rebounds and assists.

James sends a message to those on the court or some other career field of dreams. It’s not just about performance. It’s also in having a greater purpose. His decision says something about how he combines vision, passion and mission to impact millions. In his words, “my calling here goes above basketball.”

Maybe James’ decision puts “hustle and flow” on notice. He wants to have a greater balance of on-court energy with social advocacy. He’s a good example of showing that you serve the game, the business and the greater community with your presence and talents as extensions of divine providence.

Back in the Caribbean, James would be described as “the don.” This means he’s got a handle on things. He says his four years in Miami were like a college career. Now he’s ready for a new season in the game of basketball and life. You can’t fault a person in wanting the best for himself and his hometown family.     

  lebron-james-fam

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (New-School Flava) 

Media suspense was building. Local bar rumors were swirling. Who’d Lebron James play for next season? If not the Heat what would be the reason? Carmelo and James on same team? What about Miami’s big-three dream? James knows basketball business is bigger.  Than game time stats as a winner.

Posted his decision on the net. A letter to fans on SI.com was the set. Clear and to the point as if from Rome. James simply said “I’m coming home.” Returning to Cleveland the place of his heart. The city and Cavaliers given a new start. A less than friendly exit before. James sees game as bigger than the score.

Makes this point to players on the court. And to other career field of dreams sport. Performance is an important thing for sure. But having greater purpose is worth even more. James combines vision, passion and mission. As he’s set to impact more in the million. Because his calling goes above basketball opinion.

Maybe decision puts “hustle and flow” on point. He can use his experience to anoint. With greater thrust in on-court energy. Plus special service in hometown advocacy. Good for representing the pro game. In sports, biz or career fame. By engaging your presence and talents. As an extension of divine providence.

Back in the Caribbean James would be seen as “the don.” Back on the block he’s seen as “the one.” Having a man’s handle on things. He’s already earned two rings. Four years in Miami was like a college career. Ready for a new season with little or no fear. Just can’t fault him for showing his love and care.     

Tip: How you “change the game” is a function of performance and purpose that is bigger than the game itself.

Talkback: How surprised were you that both Charles Barkley and Stephen A. Smith hinted that James would return to Cleveland?

Realizing Your Dreams: Steve Harvey’s Branding Moves Hit a New Groove (Part 10)

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (Old-School Flava)

Not everybody in the entertainment industry earns a star. That honor on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is given to icons across music, film and related productions. A few years ago Steve Harvey was one to join that number. It was one of his happiest moments. This is like a testament to realizing your dreams.

They say many are called but few are chosen. In this case many apply but few get selected by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. They run the selection process and determine who gets a star. But letting your star shine is less about fame and more about recognizing you’re too good to not try.

Winners and achievers know that if you don’t try you can’t fly. That’s what the baby eagle knows when preparing to leave the nest. You have to flap your wings enough times to build-up the muscles. You have to take a hop and a step to build-up your faith. You have to spread your wings as your passion sings.

With Harvey it was spreading his wings through comedy. He found ways to make people laugh at the comedy club. He packaged his comedy for TV sitcom. He took his gifts to radio and other venues. This wouldn’t have happened if he had given-up. Realizing your dreams is in knowing you’re too good to quit.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a salute to those who’ve made a name for themselves in entertainment. These days Harvey is seen on billboards doing a salute to military veterans of the “stars and stripes.” If life and death is all that’s left, then realizing your dreams is in knowing that you’re too good to fail!

 

steve-harvey-tv

 

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (New-School Flava)

Not all actors in showbiz talk. Get a star on the Hollywood Walk. That’s given as street-level inductions. To icons in music, film and related productions. Some years ago Harvey was among the few. Joining the elite group of A-lister crew. Happy moment without a doubt. Realizing your dreams can give you clout.

Many are called few chosen. Not given-out like dime a dozen. Many apply few selected. By the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce elected. They manage the process and the choice. And determine who gets to feel like a Rolls Royce. Letting your star shine is less about fame. Moreso seeing yourself in the game.

You’re too good not to try. If you don’t try you can’t fly. That’s what Momma eagle teaches baby bird. Preparing to leave the nest and join the herd. Flap your wings for muscle usage. More hops and steps for faith wattage. After a while you can spread your wing. Letting your purpose and passion sing.

Harvey’s flight came through comedy. That was his “in it to wing it” remedy. Found new ways to make people smile. Packaging his comedy in a sitcom style. Using his gifts on radio and laugh-a-lot venues. Raising his standing and his biz revenues. Giving up wasn’t an option. Too good to quit was his caption.

Hollywood Walk of Fame star. Props to those who’ve made it thus far. These days Harvey’s seen on billboard signs. Giving salute to the “stars and stripes” kinds. If life and death is all you’ve got left. Then don’t fall for dream theft. Too good not try, to quit or fail. Realizing your dreams is about setting sail.

Tip: Some banks are too big to fail, but you’re too good to not let your dreams sail.

Talkback: Who would you honor if that’s the incentive you had for realizing your dreams?

Becoming a Powerhouse: Steve Harvey’s Branding Moves Hit a New Groove (Part 9)

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (Old-School Flava)

What does the name Steve Harvey bring to mind? That could depend on the first encounter. Some people might go as far back as his days doing Amateur Night at the Apollo. Others might know him from his comedy circuit. No matter how he brings it, Harvey’s worked his way up to becoming a powerhouse.

That’s no small task. In every career pursuit or dream track you’ll find lots of high achievers. These are people who demonstrate passion in their work. They operate with an engaged sense of purpose. But the ones who become a powerhouse figure in their fields are those who possess PQ or personality quotient.

Everybody knows what IQ can do for you. It’s a measure of your intellectual edge. In the case of PQ, it’s about connecting people with the essence of your personality and the warmth of your authority. So while it’s good to be smart, it pays to be personably smart. This way people can connect with your heart.

That’s the whole idea behind shifting gears or turning things around on the job or in business. There’re lots more people in the pot than there’re those ready to land a spot. So to separate from the pack you have to have had made a name for yourself or to offer more than what people can get off the shelf.

It seems even when Harvey is in downtime he’s still making things happen. He might not be on the clock but he’s still on his game with his work in philanthropy. It’s about planting seeds, meeting needs and taking heed to the real power of his life’s calling. After a while he keeps doing what he’s doing with style.

steve-harvey-tv

 

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (New-School Flava)

What does the name Steve Harvey bring to mind? Depends on what a Google search might find. Some people go back to his Amateur Night days. Others think about his comedy circuit craze. Whether Harvey brings it like a bull or a mouse. He’s worked his way up to becoming a media and biz powerhouse.

No small task for today’s brand at work. Many doing better than most to earn their perk. Happens in every career or dream track. Lots of high achievers listed front to back. Purpose in work served with passion. From the boardroom to the runway fashion. Where personality quotient or PQ is not in ration.

Everybody knows about IQ. What intellectual edge can do for you. There’s more in store with PQ. A measure of how your energy comes through. Connecting people with the essence of your personality. As well as the warmth of your authority. Yes it pays to be smart. So personably smart comes from the heart.

That’s the whole idea behind shifting gears. On the job or during your business years. Lot’s more people to be found in the pot. Than those ready to land a spot. So in order to separate from the pack. Could mean getting on the dream track. By making a name for yourself. Offering more than sold off the shelf.

Seems even when Harvey’s in downtime. He’s making things happen in primetime. He might not always be on the clock. When hanging-out fishing from the dock. Yet he’s still on his game. Adding philanthropy to his name. Planting seeds, meeting needs. Taking to his life’s calling heed. Putting style in good deeds.

Tip: Using personality to connect with your authority is an important element to becoming a powerhouse.

Talkback: When do you remember first hearing about Harvey and his brand?

Giving Back for Tomorrow: Steve Harvey’s Branding Moves Hit a New Groove (Part 8)

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (Old-School Flava)

A few years ago the Disney Company approached Steve Harvey about partnering on an initiative known as the Disney Dreamer’s Academy. Harvey says it was a “no-brainer” because the program’s ideals were similar to why he started his foundation to provide mentoring. He sees it as giving back for tomorrow.

In some circles this might be thought of as “paying it forward.” It’s about giving back to those who’re coming behind you. The idea is tied to investing in the future of others. It might also be a way of serving people of different stars and stripes so that today’s investment becomes tomorrow’s achievement.

Some of this is in how you live, in how you treat others and are treated by others. Some of it might also be how we live-up to our social/civic responsibility. This calls for a bigger kind of love than ice cream and cookies. It’s said that “people don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care!”

If job uncertainty, career-quakes or a business setback feels like lemons, well you know the rest. Where to start is usually the question but where to go might be the real decision. How you live has a way to come back to you like karma. So think about how you give of yourself to use legacy as a driving force.

Each year a new class of students is announced for the academy. They receive some ‘dreamer’s boot camp’ training that will last them a lifetime. How you live might say a lot about you. How you treat people might give others a lot to say about you. But it’s how you leave a legacy that speaks volumes over time.

steve-harvey-tv

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (New-School Flava)

Few years ago Disney approached Harvey. Wanted to partner on Dreamer’s Academy. Harvey saw it as “no-brainer.” This could be done on retainer. But it really wasn’t about the money. But about program ideals beyond funny. It’s why he started a foundation to do mentoring. Giving back for tomorrow’s rising.

In some circles seen as “paying it forward.” It’s about giving of yourself by looking backward. Not long ago you were in those shoes. Now you’re trying to help pass along life clues. Tied to the future yet to come. Serving people of different stars, stripes and then some. Showing others what achievement can become.

This in some sense is in how you live. How others treat you reflects how you give. In being aware of your social duty. As well as your overall civic responsibility. Calls for a bigger kind of love. That floats with grace like a dove. More than raisin cookies or ice cream. Caring enough to see others reach their dream.

Job stress, career or business quakes? Feels like lemons or gives you the shakes. Where to start usually the question. Where to go might be the real decision. How you live comes back like karma. Don’t get hooked on prescription pharma. Think more about how you gave. As legacy’s driving force of the brave.

Each year’s academy class he has to announce. Some names Harvey might fumble to pronounce. They then become dreamer’s in-training. To spur a lifetime of ongoing learning. How you live might say a lot about you. How you treat others says what’s true. Your legacy speaks volumes as dreams come through.

Tip: “If you can dream it, you can do it!” – Walt Disney.

Talkback: In looking back, how did a teacher, neighbor or other adult impact your life’s journey?

Stretch the Rules like Plastic: Steve Harvey’s Branding Moves Hit a New Groove (Part 7)

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (Old-School Flava)

When was the last time you heard these words, “bend and stretch, reach for the stars?” If you’re from the millennial generation you have no clue from whence those words came. If you’re a generation Xer or baby boomer you know it came from a television show for kids. There they were taught the golden rules.

The show was called Romper Room and no it wasn’t about the relationship romp. It was a show for pre-schoolers sort of like Sesame Street. Those shows work for learning the ‘abc’ rules while Steve Harvey’s books are about learning the dating rules. He’s come-up with a 90-day rule for love and romance.

So what’s that got to do with finding a job, changing careers or living your dreams? Sometimes life can put us in situations where someone has to stretch the rules like plastic. It’s one thing to break the rules. But it’s another thing to stretch the rules even without rocking the boat in order to raise the game.

That’s helped Harvey hit a new groove. The ideas in his books about a successful relationship can apply to having career/business success as well. Yes, you have to learn the rules of the road. But sometimes you have to unlearn outdated rules that might be keeping you stuck in professional/relationship neutral.

Harvey was heard on Ryan Seacrest’s LA radio show giving some of his golden rules of relationship. Not everybody is on board with his “straight talk, no chasers” dating advice. But whether making room to grow personally or professionally to avoid melancholy, it might take re-learning the rules to reach the next level.

steve-harvey-tv

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (New-School Flava)

Last time you heard these words.. Bend, stretch, reach for the stars nerds? A millennial might have no clue. Those words aren’t stuck like glue. Gen Xer or baby boomer can think back. To their days watching TV without the laugh track. For this TV show was made for kids. Putting the golden rules on fridge grids.

Show was Romper Room in case you forgot. No, it wasn’t about keeping a relationship hot. Geared to pre-schoolers and their child-like beat. Sort of like a trip to Sesame Street. Those shows good for learning ‘abc’ rules. While Steve Harvey’s books about not dating fools. With a 90-day rule for romance old-school.

So what’s that mean for finding another 9 to 5? Changing careers or letting your dreams thrive? Life can put us in situations sure fantastic. Where we hope someone stretches the rules like plastic. It’s one thing to break the rules yesterday. But another thing to stretch the rules today. In order to keep yourself in play.

That’s helped Harvey hit a groove. As he makes each market move. Real talk about personal friendship. And tips on a successful biz relationship. Might even apply to career/business dreams. Using rules of the game for winning teams. Might mean unlearning outdated stuff. That’s keeping you from achieving nuff.

Harvey took the airwaves on Seacrest’s LA radio show. Sharing golden rules for being in the relationship flow. More of his “straight talk, no chasers” advice. Not everybody wants to hear it twice. Whether making room to grow personally or professionally. Might take re-learning some rules to avoid melancholy.

Tip: Sometimes a breakthrough in relationship or business partnership is made possible when you stretch the rules, reach for the stars and unlearn or re-learn the scoop for making the big catch.

Talkback: What are some of life’s “golden rules” that you’d rather forget, change or re-learn?

Surround Sound Playground: Steve Harvey’s Branding Moves Hit a New Groove (Part 6)

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (Old-School Flava)

Friends come, friends go and some stick around for a lifetime! That’s one way to see relationships on the block, in business and in a pinch. Friendships usually develop from the social or work scene. You run into someone with whom you build a connection. Friendships are like surround sound from your playground.

That might make sense to Harvey who’s been around the block a few times. From his days doing laugh-a-lot gigs he ran into a host of people. Most friendships start out as casual and can become close or even a homie. Plus, BFFs know you well enough to give feedback that echo a deep base of validation.

Just think how Harvey turned friendship into a staging ground for success. He teamed-up with three friends who were fellow comics. They became known as ‘Kings’ on the circuit. Each person in the group has gone on to do big things. One of his best buddies Cedric is seen on the Millionaire TV game show.

So, want to get a handle on the happenings in an industry? Email a relative! Want to be in the running for urban planning? Linkedin a networking contact! Want to let your hair down or just chill? Phone a friend! Harvey’s seen personal/professional “surround sound” friendships become meaningful collaborations.

Friendships are like a two-way street. There’s give and take that create memories for old-time sake. A friend might come into your space for a reason. This means it’s not by chance. Sometimes they last for a season. They’re there in pre-school but a distant memory in grad school. Others last for a lifetime stretch.

steve-harvey-tv

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (New-School Flava)

Friends come, friends go. Some stick around for the big show. A way to see relationships on the block. In business or in a pinch time-clock. Shaking hands at the workplace. Or a friend connection in the social space.  Real friendships are like surround sound. With high cheers and deep cares from the playground.

Might make sense from Harvey’s trips. Been around the block and has a few tips. From his days doing laugh-a-lot gigs. Running into a host of people small and bigs. Most friendships start out as a casual thing. Becoming closer like a homie or round-the-way fling. With BFFs giving feedback that’s validating.

Think how he’s turned friendship into a staging ground. Taking his success from bottom to the top of the mound. Teamed-up with friends who were fellow comics. Became known as ‘Kings’ in Comedy funkadelics. They’ve gone on to be major players. Best bud Cedric quizzing Millionaire Show gamers.

Want to get the scoop on an industry? Email a relative who’s got the skinny! Want to be in the big city running? Linkedin a contact in urban planning! Want to let your hair down and just chill? Phone a friend, hangout and split the bill! Work and play friendships go a long way. Ask Steve, hear what he has to say.

Friendships are like a two-way street. The value of a good one is hard to beat. There’s one way of give and another of take. Creating lasting memories for old-time sake. A friend might be there for a reason. Some stay for a longer season. Not by chance but by divine sketch. As others last for a lifetime stretch.

Tip: Good friends are like surround sound that help bring out the best quality in the song your life sings.

Talkback: Before your homeboy/homegirl was a close friend or BFF they were…?

Build Real Crossover Appeal: Steve Harvey’s Branding Moves Hit a New Groove (Part 5)

doc_lg

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (Old-School Flava)

Are you ready for the red carpet preview? How about the acceptance speech review? Well that’s what you’ll find during the season of Awards Shows. We go from the Grammys to Oscars with the Stellar and NAACP Image Awards in between. Celebs like Harvey can get various awards due to crossover appeal.

It’s all a part of building diverse market branding. Some award shows are about movies, others about music. There’re the Hollywood A-listers and Fashion Ave stylistas who’re recognized for their personal acclaim or catwalk pizzazz. Harvey might say it’s about positioning your brand as a box of chocolates.

There was a time when the value of work was in the idea of widgets. So, productivity was a measure of how many units could be made in a period of time. These days making widgets has become fairly simple. It’s no longer just about the box but about how what’s inside the box meets a niche or base audience.

Harvey expands his base with new rounds of success. He’s gone from stand-up comic to radio jock to sitcom star to game show host to Image Award winner for his national talk show. Each time his base grows he brings more market value that benefits a wider niche, bringing many happy cash-money returns.

When the awards season is over he’s still building his brand like cheese. There’re many types and ways cheese adds flavor to a meal or smiles to a selfie. Whether through his appearances at conventions, book signings, movie premieres or community events, his branding keeps him in good standing.

steve-harvey-tv

Theme:–The Year of ‘Brandemonium’
Where Hopes & Dreams Become Real on Breakout Teams” (New-School Flava)

Ready for the red carpet preview? How ‘bout the best speech review? That’s what’s up at award shows. Where folks get to give thanks on their toes. There’s the Grammys, Oscars and other big grabs. Stellar and NAACP Image Award fabs. Celebs like Harvey make a steal. Because of their crossover star appeal.

All a part of what they’re building. In diverse marketplace branding. Some award shows are about movies. Others honoring the music groovies. Hollywood A-listers and Fashion Ave stylists. For their acclaim and catwalk favorites. Put together in brand positioning. Like a box of chocolates for the tasting.

Was a time when value seen in work. Came from the idea as a widget clerk. Productivity a measure in unit numbers. Made in a period of time between slumbers. Nowadays making widgets is easy to stack. More than just about the box-n-go pack. But about audience base and fan niche you can track.

Harvey expands his base again and again. Building on each round of success top-ten. Gone from stand-up comic to radio jock. Game show host to sitcom star block. Image Award winner for his talk show. Brings new market value helping the base grow. With many happy cash-money returns in the flow.

When awards season over he’s still building. His brand like cheese for ad selling. Many types and ways cheese puts flavor. In a meal or smiles for a selfie savor. Through his talks at biz conventions. Book signings, premieres and community connections. Taking his branding and standing in many directions.

Tip: Building crossover appeal is about connecting with a base that loves your box of chocolates and expanding your niche to those that love your overall package.

Talkback: Are Award Shows about the award or about the recognition that can further build your brand?”