Page 21 - EQ Magazine Issue #3

COVER STORY

Evolving

Entrepreneurs

By Lilyvette Rodriguez

When we think about the future, inevitably we think
about the generations that are coming up the ranks. We
also make assumptions based on what we think, see or
have experienced with other generations. Labels are
placed on tendencies within each era. At its core, fear of
the unknown or differences cause the negative labels.
Optimism and objectivity the positive ones. At the end
of the day, every generation has its pros and cons.
Regardless of the generation you may fall into, you were
seen as “The Future.” There are certain characteristics
that are similar to all generations as it pertains to
entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurs are visionaries, have focused passion and
are risk takers…that’s what sets them apart. Millennials
are no exception, and as the largest generation in
numbers, after Baby Boomers, their innovation, creativity
and successes will surpass beyond their predecessors. to do. Most people don’t get the chance or even learn
We are witnessing some amazing accomplishments how to start.”
occurring at younger ages. Is there something in your
daughter, son, nephew, or niece that at first glance Jeremy, on the other hand was more strategic. He shares
might appear to be a waste of time, but with a little with me how when he was 8 years old, he asked his
encouragement could be the next big thing? mom to take him to Virgin Records. He liked that you
could preview each album on headphones before
Joel and Jeremy Rodriguez, from the Inland Empire in purchasing. He states, “I put Ludacris’ ‘Red Light
Southern California, are two such stories. At a young District.’ Sonically, Ludacris’ southern style caught my
age, they were interested in the same things every attention, especially his rendition of “Georgia.”
young boy enjoys; music, cars and video games. Their Southern style songs really piqued my interest; and,
entrepreneurial journey, while still considered in its Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’ album. Michael Jackson’s
infancy, is noteworthy in how they continue to cultivate music always made me move. Those were the first two
their passions. As Jeremy states, “every detail is all part albums I ever bought in my life. Listening to the music
of the bigger picture.” made me feel like I was in my own little universe.” His
love for music grew from there. His next major album
Their journey begins with music; rap, of course! Joel was Eminem’s ‘Marshall Mathers.’ He recalls, “my dad
jokingly states “we’re thinking we’re going to be the had a bootleg. I remember listening to the album on
next Rap sensation.” His goal was a little different. “I auto play and I took the CD from him. From that point
was a timid and shy person, my brother, more outgoing. on I started writing lyrics. I wrote about what I was
As years went on, he (Jeremy) wanted me to do rap and going thru at the time. Storytelling infused with satyr
friends, family, everyone who listened to our music, at imagery. I was 10 years old.” The lyrics in notebooks
the time, encouraged me to continue. One of the perks remained that way for 4 to 5 years before Jeremy
was overcoming my shyness. I wanted to try something started recording. He states, “At this point I had a bunch
new that I never thought I would have the opportunity of notebooks with lyrics.”

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