January Recap of Inspirational Stories

Wassup #BYODFAM!
As we close out January 2016 I thought to give a recap of the inspirational stories that I received this month. My goal is to research and give my audience at least 4 stories per month! Click the links below to view this months 5 stories!

Thank You for checking this blog post. Be sure to read previous posts and stay up to date with BYOD! 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Are Black People Self-Centered!?!

I had a interesting conversation yesterday with my classmate about the Oscars and the number of different races being nominated. This whole month the trending topic has been about Black actors/actresses not being nominated for awards. My classmate (who is of Asian descent) brought up a good point saying "everyone talks about black people not being nominated but what about Asians and other races?" She followed up with "at least black people can speak out about the issue because there are many blacks in the entertainment but Asians in the industry are a different story." After listening to her I came up with a great question for my blog readers "Are black people self-centered?" Do we only care about ourselves and race?

Yes, we are self centered! It's a dog eat dog world out here. We see it all the time in the hood where a black man will knock another black man down to get ahead. Like crabs in a barrel. Now, is it our fault the Asians or whatever community doesn't have a large enough voice to be heard? No, but do we care....I doubt it!

Let me hear your opinion below!

Thank You for checking this blog post. Be sure to read previous posts and stay up to date with BYOD! 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Should Chris Rock still host the Oscars?

The trending topic or question that's been in every one's conversation concerning the Oscars lately has been Should Chris Rock still host the oscars?

Now, if you've been under a rock lately or don't care for entertainment industry talk let me fill you in. The fact that not one black actor or actress hasn't been nominated for an Oscar this year is the conversation starter. Jada Pinket Smith was one of the first celebrities to speak on the topic and ever since then it's been the topic of discussion. We've heard arguments back and forth on why and why not the black community isn't being recognized this year but we can't forget the host of the event is none other than the legend himself Chris Rock. Should Chris Rock continue on and host this event that's refusing to recognize black talent for the 2nd year in a row or should he stand down and join the #boycotttheoscars movement. 

HELL TO THE YEAH! Chris Rock better still host the Oscars. First off let's get one thing straight: this #boycotttheoscars isn't paying Chris's bills! I know he's getting paid a pretty CHECK! Nothing should come in between getting your paper. 2nd, Chris Rock is a legendary comedian who's known for saying what white people DON'T wanna hear. Isn't it almost exciting to know this white audience (since many black celebrities have chose not to attend this year) is going to be the audience for Chris Rock. I laugh because they gave the wrong black man the mic LOL. I mean this whole conversation is great material for him and the jokes that he's gonna gonna be saying are gonna be hilarious! I already know! Lastly, i think the only way to calm down this "indifference" of people is through comedy.

We've heard comments from celebrities like #StacyDash who feels that #BET and the #BETawards force segregation. Which is utterly bullsh*t because all we did (speaking for black people) much like other nationalities is create a platform for ourselves when main stream America wouldn't! But, that's a whole other conversation. Stacy take two seats please and stay there.

To get back on topic, comedy is going to give us the opportunity to recognize and laugh at what we feel is making us different as people. Because, in the end we are all one and the Oscars should recognize people off of talent and performance not skin tone. Who's better to do that than Chris Rock. I think this is all great marketing for the event and if you do tune in to the Oscars be prepared to laugh at what every black person wants to say to "White Hollywood". I know Chris Rock is gonna hold it down! 

Leave your thoughts in the comments below!

Thank You for checking this blog post. Be sure to read previous posts and stay up to date with BYOD! 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Basketball Cop and Shaq

Police Officer Bobby White also known as "Basketball Cop" after a video of him playing basketball with some neighborhood kids had gone viral has played basketball with kids once again. This time he had some back up from a cop and I'm not talking about his regular co-workers. The 4-time NBA champion/Doctor/Sheriff Shaquille O'Neal joined Officer White in returning to the same neighborhood and playing with the kids once again. A great surprise for the kids that brought nothing but smiles. Shaq and the police man played basketball against the children and I'm sure made an everlasting memory for the children.

I've seen a trend online where police are interacting with many children playing outside and recording it. I personally think this is a technique to ease the tension between civilians and police due to the many police brutality cases within the last 5 years. Whether the police are doing it just for publicity or out of the goodness of their heart is your decision to make.

Before the joyous day ended Shaq spoke with the children sharing that he grew up in a similar neighborhood. He encouraged them to stay in school, listen to their parents, and stay focused. He brought the group of kids together and had them repeat the phrases "I WILL BECOME WHATEVER I WANNA BE. I WILL BE A LEADER NOT A FOLLOWER. I WILL RESPECT MY PEERS, MY ELDERS, AND ESPECIALLY MY PARENTS". As Shaq left he rewarded each child with $100 for making a basketball shot in front of him. I'm sure the children will never forget that day. Major s/o to the Gainesville, Florida Police Force and Shaquille O'Neal! Watch the video of them below. 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Romany Malco

As I work graveyard shifts I tend to watch a lot of interviews specifically from the Breakfast Club and Hot 97. For anybody not familiar with those platforms they are two radio stations based out of New York City. They both tend to play Hip Hop and urban content. And, this past week the Breakfast Club had Romany Malco on as a special guest. For those not familiar with who he is you can google him and many different shows and movies will pop up. Romany is a actor in the entertainment industry who is mostly known for his role in "The 40 year old Virgin" and the show "Weeds".

So Romany was on the Breakfast Club to promote his new movie/show that he's working on. The interview veered off topic and Romany began to share his point of view of purpose. For those of you that have been following me for some time (or just beginning) you are aware that I believe everyone's story can motivate and inspire others. In order for us to do that we must be willing to sharing our negative experiences because those experiences shape us into who we are today. In this interviewing it was fulfilling to hear Romany believe in the same idea that I have. I posted the video below for you guys to learn of Malco but also listen to what I want to share through his point of view. (Funny way to put it) It's a great interview but to specifically catch what I am sharing start the video at the 29:30 mark and listen until about 31:00. As I've been on this journey of Be Your Own Dad turning your negatives into positives I've came across many omens that continue to push me and motivate in what I'm doing.

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Confernce Weekend Recap

The #1 viewed programming is officially on its way to your television screen: SUPERBOWL 50! Go stack up on your salsa and dip, BBQ chicken wings, and get ready to watch the most expensive commercials ever paid before. Super Bowl 50 will be on February 7, 2015 featuring the Denver Broncos facing off against the North Carolina Panthers. It was a wild conference week so let's recap what went down today!

The first game was the New England Patriots facing off against the Denver Broncos in Denver. In the first half, Tom Brady played the worst he's ever played all season long throwing two interceptions. Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski would miss a PAT kick as well which ended up haunting the Patriots later in the game. The Broncos took advantage of the Patriots mishaps and entered half time with a lead of 17-9. The second half wasn't all that exciting until the final minutes of the fourth quarter. Rob Gronkowski made two do or die catches for the Patriots which put them in a position to tie the game by converting a 2 point conversion. Unfortunately, the Patriots would not complete the 2 point conversion and fall short to the Broncos in a 20-18 loss. Congratulations to the Broncos on being AFC Champions. 

The second game was the Arizona Cardinals facing off against the North Carolina Panthers in North Carolina.  Now this game was all North Carolina. The Panthers jumped out to a 17-0 lead early in the first quarter. In the 2nd the cardinals started to get their engines running but the defense still lacked which resulted in the Panthers going into half time up 24-7. After half time it was pretty much the Cam Newton show as he continued scoring through rushing and passing. The defense came up with a few picks and put the Cardinals away for good. The Panthers won 49-15 advancing on to Super Bowl 50! Congratulations to the NFC Champions North Carolina Panthers. 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Fresh Dressed

Netflix just added a fresh ass documentary to their catalog called...wait for it....Fresh Dressed.  (I know you like what I just did there) Fresh Dressed is about the evolution of the Hip Hop clothing game. I'm not talking about the Walmart 2 for 9.99 clothes either. I'm talking about how Gucci and Luis Vuitton became the threads to have on in the 80s. It was the style, the look, the status as to what it means. What now is said to be "swag" was just the norm back then. And, all this began in New York all throughout the 5 burrows: Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn and Staten Island. In the more predominantly black neighborhoods (to sound like the white man) the clothing really took off. It was to a point where you can tell where a person was from just based off what they wore. You could tell a Brooklyn cat from a Harlem cat if one had a Kango on and another had Adidas on.

The cool thing about this documentary was the producers really broke down how the clothing game was a major key in Hip Hop and how it was created. If you pay close attention you can watch how Hip hop is just like a blue print to building a brand. But, the crazy part is Hip Hop was so much more it was a culture. In the 80s when it all began you could recognize an individual that is down with the Hip Hop culture based on their clothing or style of dancing. As time went by the culture grew and now Hip Hop is majorly associated with music. Hence why fashion and Hip Hop music are one in the same.

I'm jealous because I was born when the culture was changing. Being born in '91 shows that I wasn't old enough to witness the transition from Adidas jumpsuits and shell toes to the baggy clothing of the 90s. But did witness in the 2000s when clothing transitioned into the white tee and large jersey phase. For now check out this fresh documentary that have interviews from Hip Hop moguls such as Nas, Diddy, Swiss Beats, Kanye West and many more.

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

FTESWL

If you are a fan of sports, music , and entertainment than I have to put you on to a fresh podcast: From The East Side With Love. FTESWL have featured me on their show a few times and it's always a fun relatable conversation. We live in a time where we don't have to wait for opportunities to come to us. We can create on our own opportunities. If you want your own tv show than create a YouTube channel. If you want your own radio show than create your own podcast. The hosts Kosher and JC always wanted a radio show and they now have their own. A show that first started as a hobby has now brought them further opportunities to work with larger companies in the radio industry. It's ironic...you follow your own dream and others will join you on your path to success and help you.

The FTESWL duo and I have paired up for a good cause so make sure to follow their account and podcasts for me. Listen to our latest podcast from this week where they had me special guest right here: https://soundcloud.com/fteswl/nfl-playoffsentertainment

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

 

"It's Not You, It's Men"

Yo #BYODFAM let me put you on to something new. So, Friday January 23 at at 9 p.m. Eastern time Rev Run and Tyrese are premiering their new show "It's Not You, It's Men" on the OWN Network. I already know (this is my opinion) this show is intended for a GROWN mature audience! Now, how do you know if your grown? Well, if you can open your mind to new ideas and listen to other people's opinions without calling them stupid then you're grown. My generation is stuck in this mentality where if a person doesn't agree with you're idea or opinion then your just wrong. Many of us having growing up to do.

The show is going to address topics such as sex, monogamy, marriage, dating, etc. Common topics that are brought up between single individuals and married couples often. Tyrese is a 37 year old single man that will represent the "single" Point of View. Rev Run on the other hand is a 51 year old happily married man of over 20 years and he will represent the "married" Point of View. These two individuals are going to clash on many topics I bet! 

Why am I gonna watch it? Well, if you don't know..I'm all about gaining knowledge and becoming a better person. I think listening in on topics that I'll have to deal with one day may benefit me in the long run. But, hey I'm just a #blogger. Check out the preview below and tell me your thoughts!

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

TRU Foundation continues to give back

At the beginning of the month I posted about rapper 2 Chainz giving back to communities through his TRU Foundation and Dabbing Santa Sweater proceeds. He was sure to mention he won't only be giving back during the holidays but all year around as well. It's safe to say so far that he's a man of his word. First time around he was able to bless a family with a new minivan and house. This time around he decided to stick with the house theme.

2 Chainz came in contact with a 11 person family that was desperately in need through a Go Fund Me Page. This family was living in a two bedroom household that was infested with rats, roaches, and raccoons. In there current home there was no heat available and black mold running throughout the house. The family consists of 9 children including 2 sets of twins and 2 boys that suffer constant pain from seizures. Also, the father has medical issues that doesn't allow him to work. The family was definetly in a tough situation.

2 Chainz and his TRU Foundation was able to provide the family with a rent free home for a year. The new house has 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms! Just enough space for the 11 person family. The family thanked 2 Chainz for his kindness and he mentioned "all you gotta do is pray, she prayed and I pulled up." Have to have faith and have to believe! 

Watch the family receive there new home right here: TRU Foundation continues to give back

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Jamie Foxx the Hero

Jamie Foxx is a talented individual widely known for his Oscar winning performance Ray! Foxx is an actor, musician, comedian, and apparently a firefighter. Late last night a truck flipped over in front of Jamie Foxx's estate and catching on fire. Jamie heard the accident, called the police, and ran out to help. Jamie and another man (name not given) pulled Brett Kyle, 32, out of his burning truck after it flipped over several times in Ventura County, California. Today, the media reported the story and the father of Brett Kyle was able to meet Jamie Foxx at his home and thanked him several times for his heroic act. Foxx mentioned "I don't look at it as heroic. I just look at it as....you just had to do something." The driver survived and was transported to the hospital with burn injuries following the accident. In my opinion, Foxx did the correct human thing and I'm glad everybody came out safe.

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Kareem-BYOD

Have you ever heard "I'm sorry you don't fit the description we're looking for". In a constant changing world we find ourselves in situations where certain industries are stuck in old fashioned ways. For example, the entertainment industry is very specific when looking for talent. A common casting for a character may sound like this: Must be male, no taller than 6'0, weighing no more than 185, ethnic (just another word for black), etc...So how does someone who's 6'4 and weighing 210 pounds attack the entertainment industry?

I had the chance this past weekend to ask my friend/actor Kareem how he deals with the industry being that he isn't the "physical norm" of what casting agents look for. Kareem said he uses the fact that he is different as his motivation and it has helped him. Kareem has been in LA for less than a year and he's been on his grind! He's been featured in TV series such as Undateable, Black Jesus, Gotham, and Shameless which will be premiering in two weeks. Be on the look out for this rising star and listen to his story below!

We all have used our negatives as our positives! Email me at JimmyV@beyourowndad.com to share your story and motivate someone else in a similar situation.

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Latasha Thomas Story

Imagine if you are a single parent of four children and you couldn't come home to your family. Doesn't the thought of that make you feel some type of way?!? The real sad part is this is true for many families. Many of us take for granted the fact we have a job, have transportation, have a roof over our head, have family to be around, etc. How would you feel if not having a home to go to and a car to travel with was your reality?

I want to introduce you guys to Latasha, a single mother of four that was forced to separate her children because she lost her home. Latasha was fired from her job because she chose to care for her sick child one morning. The job didn't agree with the amount of time she was taking off of work so she lost her job. Which began the waterfall effect of losing her car, home, and finally her own children. Latasha was forced to live in a neighborhood where she takes a 2 hour bus to and from work. The neighborhood was so bad that Latasha was followed home, beaten, and almost raped one evening after work.

After sharing her struggle and story the producers of The Steve Harvey were able to get in contact with and invite her on the show. Steve Harvey and friend/special guest Tip "T.I" Harris were able to collaborate together and help change Latasha's situation. First the duo was able to reunite Latasha back with her children live in studio for the first time. The oldest daughter always reminded her mother "just go through your storm, you have brighter days ahead" and she was right! Harvey and T.I. were able to bless the family with a ten thousand dollar green dot card for shopping, free rent for a year through apartments.com, and lastly a brand new Ford Focus SE! Don't let me spill all the juice watch the video below! 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Martin Luther King Jr Day Quotes

In honor of Today being Martin Luther King Jr Day I have compiled a list of quotes that he will forever be remembered for:

1. The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.

2. Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.

3. Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.

4. Life's most persistent and urgent question is, "what are you doing for others?"

5. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.

6. I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.

7. In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.

8. We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.

9. Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend.

10. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.

11. We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.

12. The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character-that is the goal of true education.

13. Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed.

14. Let no man pull you low enough to hate him.

15. A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.

16. Every man must decide whether he will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness.

17. Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it. Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it. Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it.

18. We may have all came on different ships, but we're in the same boat now.

19. Our scientific power has outrun our spiritual power. We have guided missles and misguided men.

20. A nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual doom.

21. Human salvation lies in the hands of the creatively maladjusted. 

Which quote is your favorite?!? Leave a comment and let me know! 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Future release new mixtape Purple Reign

Looks like Future is starting 2016 the right way. He dropped a new mixtape "Purple Reign" last night. Future had a great 2015 chartering Billboards 100 charts twice in one year. With the drop of this latest project let me know your thoughts if this will be as a hit mixtape or not?!? Link to the mixtape here: Future "Purple Reign"

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Playoff Divisional Round Wrap Up!

What a wild playoff weekend! Let's get right to it. First game this weekend was the Kansas City Chiefs @ New England. After resting for two weeks the Patriots look like the same regular season team that started the season off 10-0. With key receiver Juilian Edelman back in the line up the Patriots beat the Chiefs 27-20. Quarterback Tom Brady and Tight End Rob Gronkowski connected for two scores. The patriots advance on to the AFC championship once again to face off against the Denver Broncos.

In speaking of Denver, the Broncos beat the Pittsburg Steelers 23-13 this afternoon. In a game where the Steelers were leading the Broncos going into the 4th quarter the Denver Broncos offense made key plays. But, the Broncos defense stepped up and stopped the Steelers offense in the final minutes of the game. The New England Patriots will face off against the Denver Broncos in the AFC championship on January 24 at 3:00 eastern time.

In the NFC the Green Bay Packers faced off against the Arizona Cardinals that resulted in a wild finish. With 0:00 left on the clock Greenbay quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw up a Hail Mary like pass that resulted in a touchdown forcing the game into overtime. But, it's a first play in overtime that gave the Cardinals the win over the Packers. Arizona's Larry Fitzgerald made a 75 yard catch in OT that put the cardinals into scoring position to win. The Cardinals advance to the NFC championship game to face off against the Carolina Panthers.

The Panthers looked like the same team they were during the regular season as the faces off against the Seattle Seahawks. The offensive dominance and aggressive defense put the Panthers up 31-0 in the first half! The 2nd half consisted of the Seahawks trying to make a game out of this blow out which they did. The Seattle defense stopped the Panthers the 2nd half but the offense didn't have enough juice to take the lead of the game. They came up short which resulted in a Carolina win over Seattle 31-24. The Carolina Panthers face off against the Arizona Cardinals on January 24 at 6:15 p.m. Eastern Time. 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Lem- BYOD

This past weekend I found out that I am an introvert. The term introvert has many different definitions according to the Internet. But, my favorite definition that I agree with is a quiet reserved person that has a loud mindset. I recently posted a visual of this on my IG page. I find myself around a group of people a lot but stay quiet because I am  stuck in my own own thoughts. I'm constantly thinking of my next move. Not that the conversation among the group isn't interesting enough to participate it but I may take something from the conversation and start to think how I can apply whatever to my life and progress off of it. But, not everybody is a introvert like myself.

My co-host on my panel for The Rap Game after show Lem Gonsalves is a extrovert. An extrovert is a person whose interests are directed outwardly rather than inwardly. Lem shared his BYOD story of growing up with low self esteem and struggling with being accepted by those around him. Hence why he is an extrovert. As he grew he decided to get past that and began to perform his thought and emotions out through poetry and hosting. Lem is a great example of the BYOD mission to motivate and inspire other. Watch his story below!

Make sure you follow all social media platforms and tell a friend!

 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Follow up story on Black Youngsta

#BYODFAM check this out!! Last week I posted a story about a rapper named Blac Youngta getting held in a bank parking lot for withdrawing 200k out of his own account. There wasn't any reason given at the time as to why this man was being held against his own will. To the blind eye you would assume this was a racial act against a black man. Blac Youngsta even said in an interview with Fox news "I can't be young, black, and rich" making the conclusion that this was a racially motivated act. You remember me posting about this right?

Well listen I got the juice for you guys. Recent research by CBS reporter revealed that Blac Youngsta doesn't have an account at that bank, he didn't enter the bank nor make any withdrawals! Check this out the money he was flashing around isn't even his! Its said to be his managers money that was around 70k. The officers were called to that bank because a false check was given earlier that day and he "fit" the description of the assumed person. (Whatever that means) So I have a few questions that I may already have the answer to: 1. Was this a publicity stunt to gain more attention? (they say there's no such thing as bad press) 2. Why claim to have withdrawn 200k when you don't even have an account at the bank? 3. Just, why lie? C'mon son don't try to make something a racially black thing because it makes us all look bad! But hey im just a blogger. I NEED ANSWERS SWAYY!!!

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

"I'm not the skinniest, not the tallest"

Have you ever heard you don't look like you would do a specific job? When Oprah Winfrey began her career in television she was told that her "look" wasn't for television. Isn't that some bullsh*t! Oprah thought so too. Well lets jump 15 years down the road and Oprah Winfrey is now a house hold name. Her look hasn't changed much from when she began her career either.

My fellow co-host and BYOD supporter Nino Llanera is in a similar situation. Nino is from Los Angeles, Ca and he is a great example of a person that has used his negative as a positive. In a world where everyone copies the next trend Nino has decided to be the odd ball. Nino shares that " i'm not the skinniest, not the tallest but never let that stop me". He is comfortable with who he is and isn't afraid to share his story. Not being the norm hasn't let that stop him pursing a career in hosting. Watch his story below and share this with someone that can relate! Nino accepted the dare to motivate.....DO YOU! Email me at: JimmyV@beyourowndad.com to share your story!

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

The Rap Game Episode 2

Episode 2 of "The Rap game" aired last Friday and things are firing up on the show. If you haven't watched the Rap game yet it's about 5 teenagers ages 12-16 who are competing against each other for a rap contract with Jermaine Dupri who runs the label So So Def. This recent episode the challenge for the kids was apparently a tough one. Jermaine took the kids on a tour of Atlanta. The challenge was to create a verse using lyrics pertaining to Atlanta and what was seen that day. Only 2 out of 5 of the kids were highly praised for their verse when asked to perform it. Is it considered cheating if a verse was looked over by a family member and tweeked? That was the main question on the AfterShow this past Monday. You can tune in below and give your thoughts on it in the comment section as well. We had the manager of one of the kids as our special guest on our AfterShow as well! Wanna know who? Watch below!

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

GTrain Fitness Center Visit

#BYODFAM If you're in the North Hollywood area you have to catch a workout at Gtrain Fitness Center on 1501 Lankershim Blvd. I stopped by the fitness center yesterday and had a great experience. The center features power weights, power sleds, an indoor field, boxing bags, and an available room that hosts pole dancing classes and boot camps. Creator Gary Matthews held the grand opening for the gym last week. Gary is also the creator of the G train fitness system which is a compression vest and wrist & ankle cuff set that comes with a set of bands.

The fitness center is a great environment and I highly recommend you to check it out if you're in the Valley area! Check out my visit below and the G train system explanation.

 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

J Cole's Homecoming Concert

This past weekend I know #Dreamville fans everywhere were glued to their television sets or monitor screens. J.Cole (whose real name is Jermaine Lamar Cole) released an hour long performance from his 2014 Forest Hills Drive Tour known as "Homecoming." This specific performance was in his hometown of Fayetteville, NC. where he performed the full track list off of his Grammy nominated album 2014 Forest Hills Drive. J.Cole not only received a Grammy nomination for best rap album, but the project also is the first album in 25 years to go platinum without any features! If you're not too familiar with the Rap game than you must understand that we live in a time where artist collaborate more on songs in order to make it a hit record compared to putting the song out on their own. And Cole was able to put out a whole project with only his work on the songs. So to go platinum without any features is very impressive!

In the documentary "Homecoming" Cole performs his complete show with over 50,000 fans screaming, crying, and singing along. All while he has snippets in between his songs of him traveling back to his hometown and describing life in Fayetteville. If you aren't to familiar with who J.Cole is than be prepared to be amazed. 2014 Forest Hills Drive takes the listener in a time chamber traveling back to Cole's teenage days where he began to contemplate about selling weed and losing his virginity. The album then explains his progression in the industry and finally making it to Hollywood. Cole shares that the end result isn't what he expected and realized love and caring for one another is all you need in life. If you haven't had a chance to experience a J.Cole concert than you are in luck.

The Homecoming tour is available right here: J.Cole Homecoming

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Greenbay Packers beat out Washington Redskins

The Greenbay Packers faced off against the Washington Redskins this past wild card weekend. The Packers topped the Redskins 35-18 in a dominant fashion. The first half consisted of Redskins wide receiver scoring but not scoring. After catching the ball on a pass play he ran to the endzone crossing the plane with his feet but not the ball. After the officials looked over the play again they called it out in the 1 and the Redskins had to settle for a field goal that drive. After the first two quarters the halftime score was 17-11 Greenbay. 

The second half consisted of Greenbay's running game dominating the Redskins defense. In the end Greenbay's offense put up 38 points. They haven't put up that much points since week 3 of the regular season. With a final score of 35-18 the Greenbay Packers advance to the next round of the playoffs to face the Arizona Cardinals. 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

The missed Field Goal

An event of broken noses, one handed catches, and -6 degree weather is what the Minnesota Vikings vs Seattle Seahawks playoff game was all about. A game that was expected to be dominated by the Seahawks was won by a Vikings mishap. It's safe to say this wasn't that much of an offensive game. The Seahawks defense was able to stop record breaking Adrian Peterson only allowing him 45 rushing yards the whole game.  The Vikings defense was able to keep the Seahawks offense out of the end zone for 3 straight quarters . So how did this game end?

Well Vikings kicker (soon to be unemployed) Blair Walsh was 3/3 prior to the 4th quarter giving the Vikings all their points. The Seahawks offense kicked into 4th gear in the 4th quarter taking a 10-9 lead. With the clock reading :26 seconds left in the game the Vikings found themselves in field goal position. B.Walsh already hit a 47 yard field goal in the game and only thing stopping his team from advancing to the next round of the playoffs was a 27 yard field goal. The snap came, ball was kicked, but the field goal was NO good! Wide left! With :22 seconds left on the clock the Seahawks kneel on the ball beating the Vikings.

The Seattle Seahawks advance to the next round looking to face off with the number 1 seed Carolina Panthers led by MVP candidate Cam Newton.

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Steelers win over Bengals 18-16

Now this is what a playoff game looks like! The Pittsburg Steelers vs CinCinatti Bengals game came down to the wire. The Bengals trailed all game and made a 4th quarter come back after being scoreless the first 3 quarters. After taking the lead in the 4th quarter the steelers had to create a game winning drive. After the Bengals defense picked off the Steelers wirh under two minutes to go the game looked like it was over. All that was needed to be done was run out the clock. But, the Steeler's defense came up with a clutch strip to regain possession of the ball. With a little bit more than a minute left to play the Steelers offense charges down the field to put themselves into field goal range. Wasn't until a major play by the Bengals defense resulted in key player Antonio Brown getting illegally hit in the head. This play resulted in a 15-yard penalty and the ball being advanced into field goal range for the Steelers. Finally Steelers C.Boswell made the 35 yd field goal to end the game. Advancing the Steelers to the next round to face the Denver Broncos. 

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Kansas City Chiefs win 30-0

The NFL playoffs kicked off today with the Kansas City chiefs facing the Houston Texans. Let's just say Kansas City dominated over Houston in a 30-0 win. Houston's quarterback Bryan Hoyer threw for not 1 but 5 interceptions! The Chiefs had a very high offensive productions and clearly couldn't have been stopped by the Texans. The Chiefs move on to the next round of the playoffs to either play the New England Patriots or Denver Broncos next weekend!

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

I can't be young, black, and rich?

"It make me feel like I can't be young, black, and rich? I can't be a millionaire? I can't have this much money on me?" Is what rapper Blac Youngsta said when he and his enterouage was held by the police in the Wells Fargo parking lot Friday evening in Atlanta, Ga for no reason. Blac Youngsta was in the process of purchasing a vehicle and went to withdraw money out of his bank account. After obtaining his withdrawal of 200k he was met by officers outside of the bank. For why? WE DONT KNOW! *kanye west voice*

The bank manager requested the police after giving the rapper HIS money. The police put the rapper and his enterouage in handcuffs and investigated the situation. After searching...there was no crime committed! The rapper and enterouage were let go without any charges but took 100k of the rappers money for evidence. Evidence for what is my question. But, hey I'm just a blogger!

Check the video here: Rapper Blac Youngsta

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

"Children of successful people are born with a golden spoon anddon'thave to work for anything"

Reality show "Growing Up in Hip Hop" premiered last night on WE TV. It's safe to say we as an audience will learn a few things this season. The stereotype "children of successful people are born with a golden spoon and don't have to work for anything" is going to truly be put to the test. This seasons cast includes:  Angela Simmons, the daughter of Hip Hop Legend Rev Run, Romeo Miller, the son of Hip Hop Mogul Master P, Damon "Boogie" Dash, son of Roc-A-Fella co-founder Damon Dash, Egypt Criss, the daughter of Pepa from legendary rap duo Salt-N-Pepa, Kristina Debarge daughter of James Debarge from legendary group Debarge, and TJ Mizzel, the son of legendary Jam Master Jay of Run DMC.

The producers did a good job putting together an interesting cast. Seeing how at least 50% of the cast actually have businesses already in the making we'll be able to see how tough their skin is. One cast member already got "in her feelings" when hearing feedback from Hip Hop Pioneer Damon Dash who is known to not hold back his opinion. ARE RICH KIDS PROBLEMS THE SAME STRESS AS NORMAL KIDS PROBLEMS?

What do you think! Leave a comment below and be sure to watch the first episode below!

Growing Up in Hip Hop Season 1 Episode 1

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Pepper in his eye...

There's been a lot of controversy going on in the political world. In a recent address to the nation on Executive Action on Gun Control President Obama shared his thoughts on how he feels about the recent gun slaughterings within this past decade. Before exiting off the podium he shed tears when thinking about the young children that have lost their lives. He made sure to touch upon his hometown of Chicago suffering from gun shooting daily too.

A Fox host appears to not believe Obama's tearful speech to the nation. During a taping of Fox News Live host Andrea Tantaros mentions "I would check that podium for a Raw Onion" making the assumption that President Obama was fake crying and putting on an act for the cameras. In a different taping of Fox News another Fox anchor says "Obama was clearly faking his crying..he puts pepper to his eye and that's how he started crying. This is the breaking news you need to know"

Really guy this is the breaking news?!?! Forget the fact Barock Obama is our president for a second. The thought of young children dying is making another human cry is being labeled as "fake tearing" is over shadowing the action our president is attempting to make to control guns? Great breaking news....not!

Finally, another Fox host criticizes the panel and says "it makes us look bad" speaking in regard to the pepper comments. She believes he genuinely feels for the victims of the shoots. Much like I feel for them as well.

But, what do you think? Watch the videos of the host sharing their thoughts and share your own thoughts below!

Host Andrea Tantaros "Check podium for Raw Onion

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Playoffs Preview 2016

Its the time that all football fans have been waiting for. The NFL regular season is over and the playoffs are getting ready to kick off this weekend! We are a month away from the BIGGEST game of the year: SUPERBOWL 50! But, before we jump to what everybody is waiting for lets understand the different paths that are taken to get there.

The first matches start this weekend Saturday January 9-10, 2016 with the wild card match ups. For those of you not too familiar with the term wild car its defined as follows: a term in football referring to a winner who is a non-division winner that qualifies for the playoffs. (according to sportscharts.com) This weekend four games will be played that will determine which teams progress further into the playoffs. The first games are on January 9: Kansas City Chiefs @ Houston Texans beginning at 4:35 P.M. on ESPN and Pittsburg Steelers @ Cincinatti Bengals beginning at 8:15 P.M on CBS. The second set of games are on January 10: Seattle Seahawks @ Minnesota Vikings beginning at 1:05 P.M. on NBC and Greenbay Packers @ Washington Redskins beginning at 4:40 P.M. on Fox.

The teams that are victorious this weekend will go an and face the AFC: 1st seed Denver Broncos/2nd seed New England Patriots and NFC: 1st seed Carolina Panthers/2nd seed Arizona Cardinals weekend of January 16-17. Stay tuned for more coverage....

Ladies its almost over....your boyfriend/husband/side dude will be back for Sweet Sundays in a month or so LOL

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Is this a driving lesson from hell?

Who remembers practicing to get their license? Having to drive with an instructor who supposebly is an expert at driving..yea right! Worst part was the instructor can use their break pedal at any time and mess up your flow of driving. Well, who wouldn't mind learning how to drive from the stars of "Ride Along 2" Kevin Hart and Ice Cube?!? And, the late night show host Conan O'Brien joins them as they venture around Los Angeles in possibly the funniest driving lesson ever!

Could you learn a thing or two if comedian Kevin Hart is screaming from the back seat for you to speed pass the driver next to you? Also, if former NWA rapper Ice Cube gives you a few pointers on how to perform a drive by! Lastly, Conan advises you to throw a penny at the drivers beside you when passing by them. Lets just say this isn't your average lesson.

Would you pass with flying colors if these three were your instructors? I don't know about passing but you might see colors after you stop by the local weed shop with these celebrities. Hart, Cube, and Conan may be the first driving instructors that teach you how to get high and drive! LOL

Check the hillarious video that is trending right here:

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

How to get your potential man..

Its Wednesday so Instagram is gonna be #WCW crazy i'm sure....

So this post is for the ladies! I got your back fellas. This is: How to get your potential man....

So ladies let me paint the scenario: your interested in a guy and think he is cute. But, you don't know if he's interested in you...so what should you do? What you don't want to do is play the eye looking game all night with him. If you're interested in him than go after him! Being aggressive is very attractive. Let me guess your saying "O no! I'm the woman he should come up to me!" In a perfect world you are...still wrong!! Where on earth/universe/galaxy does it say the man should always be the agressor.....ill wait. What if he hasn't seen you yet? Then you will go home disappointed saying "guys are assholes he didn't even notice me!" Ladies if you can be aggressive enough to get a job, purchase groceries, or put gas in your car than you can go introduce yourself to the guy.

What do you say when your finally approaching him? A good phrase these days is...."Hey whats up hello I seen your pretty ass soon as you walk thru the door" lol i'm just playing. But, seriously a simple "hey how are you i'm..." will do. If you really want to get his attention mention "I saw you from across the way and wanted to introduce myself". Why say this? Because if this is a man that deals with a lot of people on a day to day basis than you clarified that your speaking to him on a personal vibe. Anybody that has learned the technique of networking knows that every conversation is a possible connection to something Business wise! Notice how i capitalized the B! From there on don't make it awkward and let him know that your feeling him through conversation.

You may be asking "How do i do that"? Ask him about his interests. Don't go to the question "what do you do?"  Because 1. He may not enjoy what he does 2. You shouldn't want to sound like a gold digger (unless thats what your about) 3. He might not have a job. If 3 is an issue with you than your really not feeling him like you thought. When you begin to ask about his interests a bulb will click in his head. Reason why is your asking about him and not about what he does. Now if you cant get to introducing yourself to this guy than once again you're really not feeling him like you think. I'm out...

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD

Lala spreading awareness

In a recent post #lalaanthony (wife of nba player #carmeloanthony) shared how she is spreading the word about a young boy named Anthony who is fighting an anoxic brain injury. Lala and husband sent sneakers to the family to help them get through this tough time. Also, by posting the young boys story on their Instagram timelines (over 5 millions followers combined) they are spreading awareness of the injury and possibly reaching out to someone who can help better young Anthony's situation. Lala comments under a popular blog's post and mentions that "God is working through me to find this boy the doctors & facilities he needs to get his life back". I agree that with the power of social media and the mass following of the power couple spreading awareness of this battle should be done. You never knew who may read the post and can help the situation. We all are Gods children. He uses us in different ways! #BYODFAM #negative2positive #blogger

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-Jimmy V aka MR.BYOD