The Power of Persistence: A Conversation with Professor Lyrical

Blending Passions: From Hip-Hop to Academia

In this episode of the MindShift Power Podcast, I, Fatima Bey The MindShifter, sat down with Professor Lyrical, a Ph.D. in mathematics, an inspirational speaker, and a rap artist. His journey from hip-hop to academia is a testament to the power of persistence and the importance of blending passions. As Professor Lyrical shares, "The hip-hop has always just been a part of my life since I was a kid."

The Role of Mentorship

Professor Lyrical emphasizes the importance of mentorship in his journey. He recalls how a teacher's encouragement in his early years sparked his love for creative writing and performance. This passion for hip-hop later intertwined with his academic pursuits, leading him to use his talents to inspire and educate others. "What substance are you then gonna share with the captive audience?" he asks, highlighting his commitment to making a meaningful impact.

The Value of Education

In our discussion, we delved into the value of education, both formal and self-taught. Professor Lyrical underscores that education is more than just acquiring a degree—it's about developing discipline and critical thinking skills that prepare you for life's challenges. "Education can is really literally that. It feels crappy. Like, why am I doing this? You know, once you do have some of those credentials and you start to stack them, they're permanently in the treasure chest."

Self-Education and Lifelong Learning

For those who feel out of place in traditional education systems, Professor Lyrical offers hope and encouragement. He shares his own experiences of self-education and lifelong learning, emphasizing that success is not limited to those with formal degrees. His journey as a professional seamstress and educator illustrates the myriad ways one can acquire valuable skills outside the traditional classroom.

Navigating the Music Industry

Professor Lyrical provides a candid look into the music industry, discussing the challenges of getting your music heard and the importance of marketing. He highlights the need for persistence, strategic planning, and the willingness to learn from others. "If you have the right budget and you wanna do it the correct way, you could, for about a hundred thousand dollars, market a decent song that let's just say is, let's use, an academic term grammatically correct."

The Power of Authenticity

Throughout our conversation, a recurring theme is the power of authenticity. Professor Lyrical advises aspiring artists and professionals to remain true to themselves and their passions. He warns against acting bigger than you are, emphasizing that humility and genuine connections with your audience are key to long-term success.

A MindShifting Moment

This episode’s mind-shifting moment is a powerful reminder to embrace your unique journey. Whether you're pursuing a traditional education, learning on your own, or navigating the challenges of the music industry, persistence and authenticity are your greatest allies. Remember, success is not just about reaching the top—it's about the growth and learning you experience along the way.