the Ask Now Show: Eating Clean On A Budget

I never really talk about this but I feel like I can be myself with y'all.  One of my biggest struggles has been controlling my weight. I know that some of you may be judging me by saying this, because there are people a lot heavier than me.  I realize this and I'm not trying to make a mockery out of it.  However, I only want to loose around twenty pounds and I haven't been able to do it for quite a while.

So when I saw all of the questions submitted about dieting and healthy eating I was VERY excited.

 I mean lets be honest--it just seems like a lot more of a financial struggle to eat healthy.  McDonalds finances with a Panera Bread mindset can be difficult. 

Luckily during this episode of the Ask Now Show I sat down with a fitness guru and  trainer Akiem Jones.  In addition to being a professional he is one of my great friends and I knew he'd be honest and educated in his answers.

Check out our interview below.  As promised we gave you the real, all the questions you WANT to ask.


<3 AKC

Frenchie Davis Answers the Questions We're Afraid to Ask...

Okay so there's not too much to say about this episode, it speaks for itself.  A lot of the #AskNow questions I received were about relationships, sex, and dating as a young adult.

So I took the amazing opportunity to speak with Frenchie Davis and discuss some of your questions.  Frenchie is a radio host and sexologist who keeps it very real to say the least.  Her bold, educated, and honest conversation answered a lot of questions that I think many of us are too afraid to ask. 

We discussed marriage, long distance relationships, hook-up culture, and the power of communicating in relationships. 

Some things you will agree with--some you may not.  Take a listen to our conversation and let me know your thoughts!

Sunni and the City Talks the Power of Music & Working in the Industry

First of all for those of you who don't know, the Ask Now show will begin airing on DCTV and DCTV.com in January.  However, people who are subscribed will get to see the interviews before they air via AskKirbyCarroll.net on Youtube! SO if you're reading this I'm guessing you are one of those people! If not go to AskKirbyCaroll.net and click SUBSCRIBE BY EMAIL.

Anywho...

When I was younger and I got in trouble my parents had a few things they would do to punish me for my actions.  However, by far the worst one was taking my stereo.  I literally felt like I couldn't function without it.  My music heads understand---its like how do I work, how do I sleep, how do I pregame!?  It can be tragic.

So of course when I was looking through #AskNow questions I had to pick the one that related to music. A Howard student emailed in and asked, "do you think music is influencing our youth positively or negatively?"  I had a convo with Sunni and the City, a radio host and socialite in the DC area to help me adequately and honestly answer this question. 

 Sunni is someone who is really dedicated  to the community and women empowerment but she also really likes hip-hop and pop culture.  It was a pleasure talking to her and I feel like she gave a very thoro and honest answer to the question.  She also gave us a little background into what its like being a female radio host in one of the biggest markets in the country.   

I recommend  this interview to any conscious person, music lover, individual interested in working in media, or resident of the DMV area.

Check out the episode/interview below..
Let me know what you think!

<33 AKC

Event Alert: Short Film &Showcase: Norfolk, Virginia

Broken Promises The Movie

Short Film & Showcase

 

A modern-day story of tainted love, Broken Promises are all Kori knows. Torn between following her dreams of becoming a psychologist and holding on to the love of her life, Tremell, she is truly put through the fire when she discovers all he's doing behind her back. A typical good girl, she has a difficult choice to make, where the consequences may cost Tremell his relationship and Kori her life...

 

"This will be a night full of surprises, special guests, and performances, live entertainment, prizes and giveaways. Grab a friend, tell a friend get your tickets now.

 Sounds good right! I love supporting the arts.

Get your tickets by clicking the link below.

 

<33 AKC

 

For Tickets: 757-402-9507
www.BrokenPromisesTheMovie.eventbrite.com 

The Process..

Hey Guys,

I just wanted to share how I feel about the Ask Now Show.  I'm so excited to say---its almost in its finishing stages.  We're at that point where we have to start the post process but the interviews are done!

To be honest, I'm kind of nervous because so much of my heart is invested in this project.  The things and people who are special guests are truly that, special.  Some of them are good friends while others I only met recently.  But, the things they're talking about are real issues-- health and fitness, the black community, sexual and emotional health, the power of mentorship, and how amazing and powerful entertainment can be.  Our guests range from radio personalities to community leaders but they all share the same ideal.

We want to promote positivity and education in the urban community.  My hope with Ask Now is to be an outlet for students to talk about deep issues or every day problems they face while in college or as a young adult.  By simply sending in these questions, Ask Now looks to connect them with people or situations that can insight.  We received a lot of questions about getting in shape, so we spoke with a health coach.  We got a lot of questions about sexual health and relationships, so we spoke to a sexologist.

Whatever it may be, the goal is to help you cope with small to large issues, so you can focus on your true purpose. 

I know there are only a select few people who read these posts and send in AKC questions religiously.  But, I just wanna say I really appreciate it! Its been hard but I'm really trying to get out of my element and make things happen for us.

We're trying to grow our social media outreach also so please follow us on IG @askNowShow and FB AskKirbyCarroll.net.

Of course if you have a question or topic send it in through AskKirbyCarroll.net or you could even make a video and hashtag it #AskNowShow.

Thanks as always

<33 AKC

Ask Now Show

Ask Now 

It is finally time for ASK NOW to have it’s moment!  I recently started filming a project that is very close to my heart and has been for quite some time! The series was created with the intent to give college students and young adults of various backgrounds a place to connect and voice their opinion.  Our relaxed yet structured conversations will touch on relationships, education, issues in the media and entertainment.  

Ask Now will also feature weekly talent, these individuals are motivated, gifted, and ambitious people.  They may be writers, radio hosts, fitness gurus or socialites.  However, what makes this show marketable is that these are normal people.  Ask Now will take away the feeling of "watching a YouTube show" and make you feel like you’re just sitting down having a great conversation with friends.  

The final element of this show is our connection with social media.  We will use it to create and get feedback to our topics.. Prizes will be given to viewers at the end of the show, winners will be announced via social media.  

If you have a few moments please go follow us on Instagram @AskNowShow and stay tuned for all that is to come!  I really think you guys are gonna enjoy it! 

<33 AKC

One on One with McKinley Freeman

For those of you who live under a rock, Hit the Floor is a VH-1 scripted series that combines outstanding acting, explosive dancing, and strong writing that airs on Mondays at 9:00 PM EST.  A magazine I freelance for called,  I Am JMARiiE had the opportunity to speak with McKinley Freeman, who plays heartthrob Derrick Roman.  In this amazing conversation we discovered so much about him and his character.

To begin, he explained that his journey has not been easy.  Many people do not know that Freeman started in the corporate world at IMG.  His creative gene has always been prevalent but he used it differently.  Freeman would display his marketing abilities by creating portfolios and packages for various corporations.  He has a bachelor’s degree in business and finance along with a master’s degree in marketing and information systems “I started doing some modeling just because I felt like I was missing something, there was a part of me I wasn’t allowing to grow.”  From there he was soon cast in the popular soap opera “All My Children“ and his career took off.  To make sure he was up to the task he began to immerse himself into learning the craft of acting. 

When he read the script for Derrick’s character his first response was, “Cool, let’s do it!” Freeman states “When I got the script, it was the first time in my career where producers were like, here’s the work go create something.  It was a really great opportunity to do that, and challenge what everyone thinks is your stereotypical professional athlete.”  McKinley explained that Derrick’s best and worst character trait is being passionate and relentless.

The live dancing combined with the big personalities keep the making of the show fun and exciting but they still maintain a big level of professionalism.  “It’s like being at summer camp!” he laughed in reference to working with his co-stars.

I was getting a lot of insight about Derrick but, I wanted to know more about McKinley!  As fans of the show know he has an amazing physique.  McKinley explained how he exercises frequently to give his workout the time and respect it needs.  For workout advice, he says to pick out two things that work for you and do them consistently over a month.  Cardio was his recommended choice. McKinley isn’t lacking in personality which made it is easy for him to later speak about his crush on Zoe Saldana, and his life being single.  “A sense of humor and confidence is important.  At the end of the day you can find that in celebrities or plenty people who aren’t celebrities, it’s all about connection.” 

What stood out the most about McKinley Freeman, is his positive outlook and go-getter mentality.  “You have to get to a place where your peace of mind and your future isn’t conditional on anyone’s choices.  When you do that I believe things will conspire to make those things happen.”  At the close of our conversation, he let me know there is a lot more to come in these next episodes and that there will be a season three! Make sure you support McKinley and the entire Hit the Floor cast every Monday at 9PM EST on VH-1.

Mayte talks Passion, Prince and Puppies

Many people dream of what it’s like to be connected to a superstar. Recently, IAMJMARiiE spoke with Mayte, star of the popular VH1 show, Hollywood Exes.

 Mayte was formally married to music superstar, Prince.  When asked about how she would describe the season and herself she used the word passionate simultaneously.  She explained how passion can be both negative and positive but that  the show and herself both, posses a lot of it! “All of the women in the show are outspoken and strong willed. It’s because for so long we had to just be quiet and be the wife, we couldn’t speak up.” Mayte explained that though she wouldn’t call the women’s connection a sisterhood, there is definitely a love and respect for each other because they’ve all been thru a similar journey.

Mayte's passion is invested in many things. She is the founder of Mayte’s Rescue which places healthy dogs in loving homes.  She's always had a genuine love for all animals and their care, she referred to an incident in the first episode, where simply seeing somewhere wear a fur bag really angered her.

She has a very passionate and genuine spirit. I could hear the kindness in her voice when she spoke of her relationship with Prince. “When you have a baby with someone there is a lifelong connection, our child didn’t make it, but I still carried our child. I have a special love for him, there is no malice towards him; he’s the father of my son."  Mayte and Prince sadly lost their child in complications during delivery, but their love for him lives on.

Mayte revealed that she is now in a new relationship. They’ve known each other for years but  finally decided to make it romantic. Though, it is a long distance relationship she cares for him greatly and is happy they started as friends first.

 In addition to being an animal activist she has a belly dancing DVD, clothing line, may be opening a dance school, and is currently buying a house! Still, performing has a special place in her heart. Mayte’s biggest dream is to be on Broadway in NY.

When asked if there is anything she’d like viewers and fans to know about her she said, “I think viewers understand I am a passionate person, I think we all are a little crazy. I hope they enjoy the ride; there is always evolution or at least an attempt to make things better. We all want to grow and learn to be a better person, and I hope they do the same."

Keep up with her at Mayte.com and watch Hollywood Exes on VH1 Wednesdays at 9/8c .

Twitter: https://twitter.com/maytegarcia
Instagram: http://instagram.com/maytejannell
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMayteGarcia
- Kirby Carroll
(@askKirbyCarroll)

An Inside Look at BET Weekend 2014

A few weeks ago I traveled to Los Angeles, California for  BET Experience.  The weekend was jam packed with events, activities, networking,and parties.  It was very interesting to see the mixture of people and personalities.  It was very obvious that some people were treating the weekend like a vacation and indulging in the atmosphere.  While others were very strategic about their reasons for being there whether it was career related or personal. (side-eye)

Mid-day Saturday I attended the 106 and park live taping on behalf of IAMJMARIIE.  As you would expect there were many teens and young adults outside.  It was interesting to see how strong Bowwow's fan-base still is.  As soon as he stepped out young girls ran to take photos and greet him.  There were a few nice performances.  I was the most excited about seeing Sevyn Streeter.  Sevyn always gives a good show and she seemed to have a really strong connection with her fan base.

Sunday night we attended the actual award show.  The first thing that attracted me was the fashion! I expected to see a lot of "club dresses."  However, most of the guests were dressed very eloquently which aided to the regal atmosphere.  The color of the night was white, almost everyone was draped in some shade of it.  I'm guessing this had lots to do with the fact that it was SO hot outside and not really a fashion statement.

As you all know, I am a big fan of music and its culture.  But, its always interesting to see how "celebrities" act at award shows.  I wanted to get up dance and sing along.  However , I notice a lot of people rather sit quietly, than truly enjoy themselves.  Which brings me to Chris Brown, that was not the case for him at all.  The audience all stood to their feet when he performed, it seemed that almost everyone was happy to see him back on the scene.  Another one, is the captivating Phylicia Rashad, she appeared to give tribute to Ruby Dee/ Maya Angelou and the audience stood in an almost reverence manner.  (I guess Mrs. Cosby will always get respect like that).  Yolanda Adams also brought many to their feet for a mini praise break, its always funny to seee rappers get in the spirit temporarily.

The weekend included many other events and launch parties.  Moments like Music Matters and Tony Rock's all white were two of the major highlights of the weekend.

My hope for attending award shows and events like this.  Is that people like myself and others are inspired to create something worthy of recognition.  My personal favorite moment of the evening was  August Alsina receiving best new artist.  I really like his CD, and as a fan I know his story.  When we see these people make it, it should inspire us to do the same. Sing, write, act, create, be a beacon in the community, lets do something that entertains AND inspires!

For more exclusive event coverage or interviews, please follow me at the links below.

Twitter: @askKirbyCarrooll
Instagram: @askKirbyCarroll
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kirby.wright.14

 Also if you have an event that you'd like covered or a client you'd like interviewed, check us out at IAMJMARIIE.com and email me at Kirby@iamjmariie.

Relationships, Heartbreak & Selfworth

It seems that in this day and time so many people are seeking ways to shield themselves from heartbreak and become knowledgeable on relationships.  Author and poet Trenell Harris explained that his best teacher was his own personal relationships, friendships and experiences.

Harris is the author of a new book of poetry focused on relationships titled, “The Silent Voice: Life Lessons through Poetry.”

Check out the full article from our conversation here.   


- @askKirbyCarroll

A One on One with Editor in Chief of Facon Magazine

The goal of “Facon Magazine” is to promote emerging designers and beauty brands.  Editor-in-Chief, Janice Wallace credits the continuing success of the magazine to her life journey and loyal team.  If you're a supporter of indie fashion and creation,  you will enjoy this article.

Read the full story here.  

Special Giveaway! Thanks for Reading!

Happy Sunday Everyone!

Thank you so much for reading and supporting AskKirbyCarroll.net.  I recently wrote an article on Morena Bella Skincare, a skincare line created specifically for women of color.  Well, Morena Bella Skincare connected with me and would like one of our readers to try  the products for FREE!  I'm reviewing them as well, so I figured we could try it together.

There is one simple rule, you have to be subscribed to my blog.  If you are getting this in your email, you're good, if not make sure you go here http://feeds.feedburner.com/Askkirbycarroll and subscribe.  Second, shoot me a note or mention via social media that you're interested.  All names will be entered into a system that will randomly pick a winner Sunday! '

Good luck!
Oh and don't forget #AKC question tonight!  Have a great day! :)

SOCIAL MEDIA
IG/TWITTER @askKirbyCarroll
FACEBOOK: Kirby Wright

Henry Simmons Talks Upcoming Movie "In the Rough"

It is rare to find a movie that simultaneously inspires and entertains an audience effectively.  The upcoming motion picture, “In the Rough” is expected to do both!

Staring Taraji P. Henson, this film tells the inspiring story of coach Catana Starks, an African American woman who coaches an all-male golf team.

Last week I Am JMARiiE spoke to Henry Simmons who plays Kendrick Paulsen Jr.  Check out my article at the link below and let me know your thoughts about the film! 

http://iamjmariie.com/henry-simmons-talks-upcoming-movie-in-the-rough/ 

Morena Bella: A Skincare Line For Women of Color

Last week I I AM JMARiiE had a discussion with Alesia Bell Alaziz, creator of Morena Bella Skincare.

A few years ago, Alaziz was laying down about to call it a night. Within a few moments of shutting her eyes, the name just spoke to her, Morena Bella Skincare.  Days later, she had the sticky notes of the potential brand all over her car and belongings.  Morena Bella means brown skinned beautiful woman.  It is a clinical grade natural and botanical skin care line created specifically for women of color.

Check out our full interview here.  

Summer Hair, WE CARE

Hey everyone!

This post is geared more towards the women.  I know it's slowly getting warmer and our fashions and hairstyles are changing.

We may be getting braids, chopping it all off or just throwing it into a messy bun.  Whatever the case, African American women know one of the hardest struggles is maintaing natural hair in the heat!

I have been getting a lot of messages and feedback regarding "natural hair" and maintenance tips.  I have to be honest thats not really my forte.  However, I recently came across another blog that I think will be ideal for those discussions.

Feel free to visit, leave feedback, and create a community!  The link is posted below, let me know how you like it!

http://healthyhairthrives.wordpress.com

<3 AKC 

“Essentially Black: Media and the Modern American Family,”

Hampton University hosts annual Black Family Conference, coordinated by HU Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications.  The event will take place March 19th-March 21rst.  The conference will hosts many prominent individuals such as Sheila Johnson, BET co- founder, Dr. Ian Smith, the producers of Preachers of LA, and many many more! Some of the topics of conversation include gun violence, race and ethnicity, media coverage across platforms, and nontraditional relationships.

There will also be live entertainment and comedy after hours.  

This is an event you do not want to miss!  Check out the full press release here.

AKC will be there will you?  Register here!

For media concerns contact:

 Gianina Thompson, University Relations 

(757) 727-5754 gianina.thompson@hampton.edu 

What Do You Love About Your HBCU?

A HBCU EDUCATION IS SECOND TO NONE!  

CHECK OUT THESE HAMPTON STUDENTS SAYING HAPPY VALENTINES TO THEIR HBCU?
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOURS? 

Happy Birthday Trayvon

I know it's been awhile since the Trayvon Martin incident.  But, the truth is a child's life is really gone due to one man's ignorance and fear.  People have moved on,  social media has went back to normal, and I'm pretty sure the Witness Protection Program has Zimmerman somewhere tucked away.   But you know who hasn't moved on, his parents, friends, teachers, and etc.  I'm not posting this to bring everyone down,  I just want to remind everyone to live LIFE.  Don't waste moments, don't waste time.  Live life to the fullest and remember what so many worked for, fought for, and died for.  Let's not make their fight senseless by creating violence or hate. 

 Live life with respect, dignity, and love.  

 Happy Birthday Trayvonn, I pray for your family and loved ones and I pray that

 your passing will continue to inspire others to live life fully and commit to non-violence.

A few months back I came across this video that a friend of mine from college created.  The name of the song is T.R.A.Y and it's by Grammy Rich.  It's a really strong reminder about what happened and how Trayvon could have been any of own kids or siblings. 

<3 AKC

@askKirbyCarroll 

30 Days to Change

Recently, I participated in a challenge created by a previous talent featured on AskKirbyCarroll.net, Kareem Taylor. Kareem is a voice actor and radio personality that can be heard on CNN and various commercials nationwide.  http://askkirbycarroll.blogspot.com/2013/01/one-on-one-with-kareem-dream.html.  The name of the initiative was 30 Days to Change.   It was geared toward the creators; the actors, writers, singers, bloggers, entrepreneurs, and etc.  The timing was not accidental, the 30 days was strategically placed to lead up to the new year.  The goal was to inspire others to work towards their individual projects.  No matter what the situation was, work for those thirty days.

Kareem took to his social media sites to leave empowering messages to motivate individuals participating in the challenge.  What  resonated with me the most was the get up and do it mentality.  Dreaming is great, and anyone who supports me knows I LOVE dreams.  However, it takes work and time to turn these dreams into reality. If you see yourself becoming a singer, you have to train your voice.  If you dream of writing for Essence, you have to develop your writing ability.  Kareem's inspiring and uplifting posts via social media kept myself and others on the right track.

Another thing I enjoyed about 30 Days to Change was the community feeling.  I was not in this alone.  Let's be honest, we all scroll through social media entirely too much.  During this challenge, when I looked through Instagram/Twitter, I saw positivity.  I saw peers creating posts explaining their latest endeavor.  I saw Kareem giving me an uplifting word to keep me motivated.  There are powers in numbers and connecting with others.  I felt a sense of responsibility to keep my word and finish the challenge.

 On a personal level, I'm not afraid to say, sometimes I hinder myself.  I worry about what others will think, resources, or question my talent.  30 Days to Change helped me jumpstart my 2014 and leave those thoughts behind.  I used my time to improve my site and work on a screenplay that is close to my heart.  This year is already off to an interesting beginning.  I'm starting my second semester of graduate school and I made the decision to leave my past employer.  Resources are tighter and my situation has changed.  However, I feel extremely strong and motivated.  I owe a huge thank you to Kareem and the 30 Days to Change challenge.  I encourage all of you to follow him and  learn his motivating story and see how it effects you.
 

2014 is here, make it yours.

<3 AKC

Ask Now

Hey guys!

I just wanted to let you all know that I recently started a new segment on the site called AskNow.  I know the interviews have not been too recent, blame it on grad school!

However, I still want to make sure we're keeping in contact.  AskNow will post every Sunday before 8pm.  It is a chance for YOU to ask a question and receive real answers and opinions from other viewers of the site.

The questions can range from music and TV, relationships, school, sports or whatever crosses your mind! Just be prepared for the honesty of the opinions!

If you have a question, please send it to us at askKirbyCarroll@yahoo.com.

This is a fun way to get real advice! Follow the link below!

Check out the AKC question of the week

<3
AKC