Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mvp Mike. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi MVP, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
I develop my confidence and self-esteem from taking chances to get to my higher self. Growing up, I have learned to be uncomfortable with being uncomfortable. As you experiences new environments and network with different people, you learn that although no one’s experience is the same, you can learn from anyone you come across. I wasn’t always comfortable to perform my music and I didn’t always feel the best to host events with hundreds of people. However, I know that I am in that position at that time for a reason. I take the attitude that no one could do my job like me. With that mindset, the sky is the limit for me and my brand.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
What’s up y’all! It’s MVP Mike, the new face of connection and community! I’m Salisbury, North Carolina and I make an impact as an artist, event host, and media personality. I grew up around lot of accomplished figures, and it caused me to second-guess if I could fit their shoes when I grew up. In high school, I realized that I could write my own story as “MVP Mike.” I got my start from writing and creating music, dropping freestyles on Instagram and YouTube. Each time I released a freestyle, I got more acclamation, causing me to tap in with my full potential of being an extroverted public figure. When I was 16, I started making it a priority to make connections with people in music, meeting rappers, entrepreneurs and other public figures in Charlotte, North Carolina, where I stayed frequently for school. Being in these circles created a name for myself In 2020, I committed to the illustrious North Carolina A&T State University. When I touched down on campus, I was on a mission to make my mark. Personally, I believe I did just that. At A&T, I emceed many upscale events, released music that was talked about school wide, and had confidence that was through the roof. When graduating from college this past May, I’ve learned to tailor my brand in the ways that is pleasing to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Today, I host events, create content under my production company, “Is This Thing On?” and make connections with figures such as G Herbo, Moneybagg Yo, Issa Rae, Lala Milan, Terrence J, Trap Dickey, Latto, Lakeyah, Kid Saiyan, Dreek Jones, Young Devyn, and even Trina. I believe what’s most exciting about my profession is that I feel right at home, and I know I am an ethical figure in the space. A lot of people lose light of why they’re in the entertainment industry, but with me being spiritually grounded, I know my purpose for being in the entertainment realm is to speak for those who are afraid to speak for themselves, to serve the people next to me, and inspire people after me. In 2025, I will be releasing my first EP, securing major partnerships for my production company, and going to law school. I’m beyond excited to elevate my brand with my community that’s been rocking with me for years as well as the new faces that’s tapped in with me along the way!
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?
I would say faith, fearlessness, and authenticity has impacted my journey the most. Faith is an everyday walk, and I am a firm believer of if you can see it, you can obtain it. I don’t hesitate to be inspired by someone’s work ethic or journey, as I can apply their traits for what I see for my brand. However, it matters if you truly believe that you can obtain all of the things that are called on your life. If you put in the work and invest in your passions, you will reap what you sow. God makes it happen for those who work for it every time! I also think you can’t be scared to work hard.. that’s where the fearlessness comes in. Invest in yourself. I didn’t just drop one freestyle, conduct one interview, or have a big stage to host on, I worked with what I had and turn the lemons to lemonade. Also, I have the skilling of make connections, and that alone helps me stand tall on my business. I’m not afraid to showcase my talents on social media or in public, as I want to ensure that I did everything in my power to exceed my potential as the MVP. Lastly, my quality of being myself has separated me from my peers’ brand and content. I always want to stand out as an individual. I do that by showcasing my personality and being secure enough to know that I am the brand, no matter how far or behind the next man is. The pressure I bring is most valuable. My advice for how to develop these qualities is reflect on who you are, and then operate as the person you envision yourself being. With hard work, prayer, and no hating on the next man, you’ll look up and live your dream.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Of course, my parents and grandparents. They’re very accomplished and very supportive. They’ve taught us to keep God first, remain humble and in shorter terms when you do anything in life., “leave it on the flo.” With me being 22 years old, I get inspired my sisters, my cousins and my friends. I look at people like Michelle, Alyssa, Alaina, Mariah, Jerm, K2, Wes, Bari, Marcus, Dro, Bitty, Gabe, Jamari, Shawn, Bryce, Daniel, Lean, Lady E, Laila, Chidera, Jala, Jarrah, Destiny, Heaven, Kam, Gabby, Coah, India and so many more as people who operate in high frequencies. They have a brand themselves, but they’re always aiming higher for their namesake. Whether they know or not, they inspire me with knowing that even with the growing pains, they are faithful in the path that God has carved out for them. I’m grateful that even with the different walks of life we’re all on, they encourage me to keep going as I do them. This past year, I’ve had the honor of having mentors who are in places that I aspire to be whether in business, music, or just being a good person. I thank Dr. Jimmy R. Jenkins, Sr., Attorney Ben Crump, Travis P. Jackson, Yandrick Paraison, Desmond Wiggan, Jr. and Stephenthadream who’s given me words of encouragement and have overall inspired me with their work ethic and impact they’ve made unto others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://themichaelcartwright.com
- Instagram: @themvpmike
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themichaelcartwright
- Twitter: @themvpmike
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@themvpmike
Image Credits
Photo Credits: Alaina Lopez “Laii.nyy 2.0”
Nick Jones “Shifty Flicks”
Grizzy Photos
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