We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Logan Newman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Logan below.
Hi Logan, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
there has been many times where I was the only one in the room that looked like me. However I use that as fuel to make sure I am being an outstanding representation of all the young black boys and girls that they deserve to be in rooms where conversations are had about the outcome of our futures. It’s imperative that our youth actively advocate for themselves. it’s the self-advocacy and self-agency that creates the leaders of today. “If your are not at the table then you’re on the menu” – African proverb
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am currently on my second contract playing basketball professionally here in the states with the Detroit Panthers Basketball Club. I also founded my basketball media company by the name of 94Feet Inc. We specialize in providing film, training, mentorship for Athletes around the globe. In my community work I primarily work with L!FE Leaders Inc, as the Associate Director of Media and Communications. Life Leaders is a youth workforce development program. We use Detroit as our Classroom as we educate our youth of Detroit in: Intra/interpersonal communication skills, financial literacy, critical thinking and job readiness skills. Also, I sit on the board of trustees of the Umoja Debate league and a Youth Council Member for the Skillman Foundation.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1. Definitely networking — its not about what you know it’s who you know. 2. Always saying ‘Yes” — take advantage of any and every opportunity that comes your way
3. Collaboration over competition — there is enough out here for everyone to make it
Make connections with people no matter where you go. you never know that person can help you get to the next level. Always say yes. A lot of times we let our pessimistic attitudes in life inhibit us from leverage an opportunity presented to us that has the potential to shift our perspectives and open our paradigms to what the world has to offer. Collab with those who are currently pursing the same things you have interest in. if you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far go with others. Multiple perspectives in one room working together can allow goals to be accomplished faster.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
I am totally a book worm. I am currently building out my at home library. Since I’ve fully invested into reading more and more there has been a few books that Ive read that have shifted my paradigm
1. Ryan Holiday – the obstacle is the way
2. Think and Grow Rich – Napoleon Hill
3, The Bible and Quran
Contact Info:
- Website: 94Feetapparel.com
- Instagram: @Loganknewman | @94feet.inc
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/logan-newman-38655516b
