Story & Lesson Highlights with Shockie G of Pittsburgh

Shockie G shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Shockie, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
Both. I think I’m slowly meandering on the path, smelling flowers, carving my name into tree trunks and pretending I have no where to be.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Shockie G and I am a Spoken Word Poet, and competitive slam artist. I am trying to build a brand rooted in community and love. Currently I am doing events and workshops that allow me to surround myself with other people, mentor, and inspire other poets.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship with my Mother. There were moments where my Mother had to fight to be in my life and make sacrifices to just be near me. Whenever I feel worthless or unloved I remember how unconditionally she loved me.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Failure and comparison. I find myself feeling like I’m not doing enough or being where I ought to be. Ive been told comparison is the thief of joy. I believe that. I find myself chasing things just to say “See I too did the thing!” While not having satisfaction or wanting that path for my life. Success can look very different for different people.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
Smart people fall victim to capitalism believing their paycheck matches their intelligence. We are all forced to monetize our gifts because people mistake genius for worth. No one wants to learn from the small guy who sells goods on the side of the road, but feel like they need to sit through seminars with Jeff Bezos/ Jay-z to learn anything of value.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I just want to be a good person. Whatever that is. I hope people have memories of how I inspired or helped them to succeed.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Sweater Bob

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