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Check Out Jameal Pullins’ Story

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Jameal Pullins.

Jameal Pullins-MDRD

Hi Jameal, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Less is more. I remember when a little was a lot. We had to make do with what we had. I was taught not to complain and to be grateful because someone had less. It’s a mental thing. I grew up in the projects just like all my friends, but when I walked into my house, I was loved. I think that was the key to it all: to be surrounded by the people who care the most.

I honestly just wanted better for myself. I didn’t care how I got it. We had three options: the league, music, or drugs. I’m not gonna lie; I couldn’t do drugs; my momma would beat me behind. My childhood was the most fun I had because it’s what made me my true foundation. Fast forward, I am an entrepreneur. I have seen many sides of the spectrum. I’ve gone from employee to manager and now to owner. I’m a published model and recording artist.

It all started with a desire for a better life. I think when you start with less, you desire more, but you learn how to operate with less. In business, really in life, this is essential. Have you ever noticed when a person doesn’t earn it, they lose it easily? Unbeknownst to me, I learned some of life’s greatest nuggets in my youth. It wasn’t planned; it’s just how it happened.

Now I’m grateful for it all: the good, the bad, and the ugly. I wouldn’t be me without it. I got to where I am because I had a desire for a better life. I was resilient and passionate. I decided what I wanted, and when opportunities arrived, I answered and gave it my all every time.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
I woke up today, and somebody had eaten the last slice. It’s a struggle! In life, I’ve had to overcome many obstacles. I don’t dwell on them. They’re just bumps in the road that come with the path I’ve chosen. The road doesn’t adjust to the driver; it’s the other way around. I didn’t grow up with a silver spoon.

My struggle started early, and I had to learn to laugh through the pain. No one owes me anything. This world will chew and spit you out if you let it! I’ve learned the harsh truth, but I’ve also learned how to grab life by the horns. I’d love to tell you about my struggles, but I’d rather tell you how to overcome them. Through all the pain, endure and persevere. “Struggle doesn’t always last” is what we used to say. Besides, we’re all just trying to figure it out.

No one has all the answers. I thought it was funny when they said, “Pain is weakness leaving the body.” Well, what didn’t kill me never made me stronger at all. I’ve had to do some mental repairing on myself. The struggle was the process, but we’re making progress.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am both a recording artist and a business consultant. I am currently pursuing my career as an artist. I am recognized for my work as a model and musician, and I also dabble in fashion design and acting. My true passions lie in music and fashion, which I classify as entertainment.

I did not just decide one day to become an entertainer; rather, I was raised by a mother and grandmother who loved singing and dressing exquisitely. I guess you could say I get it, honestly. I am proud of myself for pursuing this path, as there was a time when I lived in fear – not of failure, but of my peers’ opinions. The best part was that when I started, everything else just fell into place. I have come a long way, and sometimes, I have to remind myself of that.

I recall the times I caught myself looking ahead at others and comparing. I realized that we were all on the same track but running different races. We may not start, finish, or arrive at the same time, but as long as we are in the race, we are doing great. Some people never get off the bench and get in the game; they are too busy judging from the sidelines.

That’s what sets me apart from others. It’s clear why I’m here – how about you?

What matters most to you?
Everything and nothing at the same time. I have no true ties to anything because one day, it all fades. I’m somewhere between wanting it and having it. I am more than grateful for my progress because it has been a process. I’m still here, so each day, I make the most of it. I know that when it’s all over, I would have done what I said I would do!

That’s what matters most to me. I must be a man of my word. I’ve set my intentions to be an unwavering example for generations to come. I live by this quote: ‘Say what you mean and mean what you say,’ because people say things and don’t follow through.

A good majority of people have desires they’ll never pursue. I vowed to myself that I would take my own path, no matter how different it may seem. I will put in the work and time. I will see the result, and in the end, it’ll all be worth it.

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Image Credits

MDRD Productions

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