Part 2: Brent Mitchell, founder of #ThisTestimonyThough...Live To Inspire

What services or products do you offer/manufacture?

– We sell everything in Christian based fashion. Hats, t-shirts and hoodies! We’re debating on launching some new items this fall like leggings and tunics.

How do you advertise your business? –

Most of our success has been from word of mouth and social media campaigns. We also get stopped and asked how to purchase merchandise when we’re wearing it.

What are your company’s goals? The end game for me is to develop a nonprofit that’s able to contribute resources to needy communities in my hometown. I’ve committed my mind to building an education center in my hometown in my grandparents name before I die so I got a lot of work to do. I also want to help kids go to college debt free. Student loans are the new slavery!

If I only knew then what I know now….

What was your favorite class in college?

This is an easy one school of law. I love to envision myself as an urban school activist lol. I get calls all the time from friends asking how they should handle school related issues. Hopefully, I’m giving them good sound legal advice.

To what do you attribute your success? Failure and Family…… I’m thankful for not always succeeding on the first attempt. It makes you appreciate something you work hard for. My family is so supportive of everything I’ve ever pursued so I’m really blessed to have them in my life and I never want to disappoint them.What motivates you? Ironically Failure and Family….. I refuse to accept failure. If it’s meant to be, God simply wants you to do it another way and sometimes God says no. If everything came easy in life it’s hard to appreciate blessings. It’s harder to build character and virtually impossible to develop faith and you never get to witness how awesome God really is. 

I pray that my kids grow to understand this because they’ve really been blessed.

What is your biggest pet peeve? Seeing someone waste their gifts or not share them to help other people.

What was the worst piece of advice you ever got? Really can’t honestly think of any. I take bits and pieces of what people say and make decisions and I stopped letting foolish folks have my attention a long time ago. My discernment is pretty high so I tend to trust my instincts.

What was the best piece of advice you ever got? “Trust in the Lord” – enough said!!

Do you help the community?

 Absolutely. We do a lot. We’re active in church and I’m usually coaching a sport depending on whatever season it is. The biggest project we did this year was our first ever #ThisTestimonyThough toy drive. We were able to donate about $500.00 worth of toys to W. W. Bushman Elementary School with the help of friends and family. I’m so proud of this because we’re new to DFW area.

We have a family tradition of volunteering every Christmas before our kids open any gifts. We also partner with various organizations to do back to school drives for needy kids. Lastly, we send random shirts to people (Pastors, Cancer survivors, High school graduates, etc). From day one I professed that #TTT was more than a t-shirt, we helping some folks. I was raised to be a giver so I’m always looking to be a blessing to someone. I feel like that’s the only way I’ll get blessed.

Who would you most like to have dinner with?

Hmmmm…..Just a big dinner with some family and friends always works for me. If it was a public figure, definitely, the Obama’s I would love to their thoughts on the world in general.

If you had one piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be?

If God gives you a vision to launch your own business make sure you have all of you pieces in place before you launch the brand (website, inventory, logos, business cards, etc). This lets everyone know that you are really starting a business. Also make sure you connect to someone that is successfully doing what you want to do. Listen to their advice and ask what mistakes they made in the beginning and what they would change.

It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me.-DANIEL 4:2

Shop Now :https://thistestimonythough.myshopify.com/

Meet Two Sisters Playing It Forward- Making An Extraordinary Difference

     How was this organization started?

The Dream Big Experience is a program that was created by the non –profit organization Light House Solutions. Light House Solutions is a mobile community outreach organization that was created in 2011 founded by Stacy Harper who is a Sr. Workforce Development Specialist. 

Light House Solutions was started in Maryland and the Washington DC area providing a wealth of human service resources to people from all different walks of life in need. 

Later, Stacy took the company and joined forces with her sister Lakisha Bradley in their home state of Arkansas. For 7 years these two sisters have taken the charge to make sure they bridge the gap between resources and the community. 

As a result, in 2016 the Dream Big Experience, a teen workforce development program, was born. Both Stacy and Lakisha were previous players on the golf team at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Through UAPB’s program, it allowed us first exposure to the game and much more. Because of the opportunity we received, it was a perfect fit for us to launch the Dream Big Experience during the week of the Northwest Arkansas LPGA Championship.

    What is your Mission Statement?

Light House Solutions mission is “To Do” by bridging the gap between resources and the community. We are driven to be “doers” in the community, helping to improve the quality of life for all. We offer several programs throughout the year to fulfill those needs; one of those is called the “Dream Big Experience”. 

Our Dream Big Experience program is where we invite students from across the state of Arkansas to attend the NWA LPGA Championship activities and receive exposure to the Northwest Arkansas culture through businesses, leadership, arts, and workforce development. 

Students get an opportunity to engage with professional players and play/learn the game of golf at the same time. Our goal is to create environments for teens that promote personal achievement, social aspiration, creativity, as well as, allowing each participant to just dream bigger!

    What is your Motto?

Dream Big Experience Motto is: Dream Big, Do It Big, Make It Happen!

   

Can you tell me about the work your organization does and the program or programs you run?

Light House Solutions has empowered a multitude of individuals for 7 years reconnecting youth with their families and working with local community and government leaders to strengthen their mission statements. Light House Solutions has three programs:

XTreme Achievers: Youth Enrichment program teaching ages 3-13 to build confidence, courage, communication and leadership skills through Physical Education, Performing Arts and our Creative Arts classes.

Trails of Love: Community Development, working with community leaders and residents to create a shared vision for self- learning and community sustainability. We are reputable for our huge back to school events and XTreme Holiday Give-a-ways.

Dream Big Experience: Teen Workforce Development program engaging ages 14-21 in the areas of life skills, career readiness, business communication, continuing education and social engagement.

 

We create professional environments for teens to learn how to dream bigger.

Through this program Light House Solutions will host selected high school and college students across Arkansas for an unforgettable moment to participate in the 4 day all-expense paid Dream Big Experience tour during the Northwest Arkansas LPGA Championship. Hotel, food and transportation accommodations are provided for all participants.

      

What results does your organization achieve?

We have empowered, supported and motivated a multitude of families, youth and individuals to become active within their communities, schools and homes. Light House Solutions has taken the charge for 7 years to make sure children go back to school with all the necessities to have a strong start, supporting parents financially across the state of AR.  

We help children learn how to sportingly compete with their peers and become healthy self-starters before he/she enters into a sport. More importantly, teens gain the needed insight and tools to enter into the workforce successfully through our workshops. 

Describe a time where you managed a specific challenge and we're proud of how you acted upon it?

When we first received the opportunity to have all access to the Northwest Arkansas LPGA Championship, and create the Dream Big Experience program back in 2016, we only had 2 months to pull it all together. It was a little intimidating at first but when God is in the midst of the miracles that were about to happen, there were no limits to what we could do. 

We quickly pulled together a dynamic group of people who just so happen to come from similar small towns like us and had a passion for giving back to their communities.

 We call them our “Dream Team”. The Dream Big Experience would not be possible without the help, dedication, and support of them. That year we got an opportunity to impact the lives of 7 students from Pine Bluff, Arkansas (4 from the Jefferson County Boys & Girls Club and 2 from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff)

   Tell me about your approach to motivating and empowering?

 My sister and I are firm believers that words don’t teach but life lessons do, we speak our truth through our work. We motivate and empower through creating environments for people to feel joy, love, support and rejuvenation of their spirits to want to create positive outcomes. 

We empower because we are Doers in the community leading the way with no fear to change old stagnate thinking that stops us as a human race from moving forward with a purpose.

   What are your goals for the next three to five years? What priorities will help you achieve them?

To obtain a home office in the NWA area that will allow us to operate our programs throughout the Arkansas and other states.  Our goal for The Dream Big Experience is to strengthen the program and partner with educational programs and other major corporations around the United States helping teens Dream Bigger and open doors for teens to engage in career exploration. 

To help support our vision we need sponsors to listen to our story, believe in our work, and join us as “Doers” in our mission to prepare our youth to be great and successful in the workforce.

Making A Difference In  The Community 

How can someone get involved? 

Contact Stacy Harper at donate@lhsolutions.org, Facebook us at Dream Big Experience or visit our website at www.lhsolutions.org

We welcome volunteers especially teens who are in need of community service hours!

  Any final thoughts you would like to leave with us?

 We want to thank all of our supporters and dream team members in helping make the Dream Big Experience come to life each year. Your passion, love, and dedication in making a difference in these student’s lives is salt to the earth and light to the world.

Brent Mitchell Shares His Story: ThisTestimonyThough-Part 1

Brent & Reevedia 

What is your background? Education and Work Experience?

 This is my 18th year in Education. I've been everything from a Substitute Teacher, Coach, Teacher, Principal, and District Administrator. 

I have a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Arkansas.

I have two Master's Degrees from Harding University, an Educational Specialist Degree from the University of Central Arkansas.

I'm  currently finishing up my Ed.D from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. 

What's your favorite quote(s)

“It doesn’t matter if a million people tell you what you can’t do, or if ten million tell you no. If you get one yes from God that’s all you need.” - Tyler Perry

"Failure is a great teacher, and I think when you make mistakes and you recover from them and you treat them as valuable learning experiences, then you've got something to share" - Steve Harvey

"It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me." - Daniel 4:2 New International Version (NIV)

 

What ignited the spark in you to start a new business venture or to make significant changes in an existing business?

I was going through a rough patch in life. It was my first time really dealing with adversity as an adult. As I began to go through it, I realized that EVERYONE goes through tough times and a lot of people were supportive of me and pulling for me to come out on top. After talking with God, the vision for #ThisTestimonyThough. 

Ironically, things began to turn around for me when I started using my gifts to help others. I was volunteering at church, mentoring aspiring leaders, and doing more work in my fraternity and social organizations.

I actually launched my brand with my unemployment checks in the midst of losing my home and relocating to another state…(talk about a testimony). I just knew God was hitting reset button on my life so I’m excited about what’s next to come.

Meet #TeamMitchell

Can you provide us with a description of your business?

This Testimony Though was created during the darkest time in my life. I had just lost my dream job, my marriage was on the verge of ending and a life changing investment was stolen from me. 

One day during a conversation with a mentor he reminded me that when God begins to turn this thing around you’ll have an awesome testimony to share with not only those that supported you but an even stronger message to those that doubted you.

 From that moment on I began to post positive messages and inspirational quotes to uplift people who may be going through similar issues. It is my prayer that when people wear this Christian based apparel you allow someone to learn about your testimony and encourage them that when believers are going through hell. God provides a round trip ticket. 

Our goal is to build an army of believers that will tell about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for them." (Daniel 4:2) 

If you had the chance to start your career over again, what would you do differently?

I love my career, because I love kids and having a chance to impact their lives is my passion in life.

The only thing I would do differently would be my investments. I would have definitely done some smarter things with my money in my twenties lol. 

What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them?

My biggest failure came on a bad business deal. I had close to $200,000 stolen from me by someone I trusted. My biggest take away from it to also research investments and always have a paper trail on all business. If it seems too good to be true, IT IS.

It also taught me to listen to what successful people did to become successful. I also believe that life teaches you lessons early that prepares you for greater later. So I learn from mistakes and grow from them.

Lastly, I also had to learn how to forgive people. And that's still a growth area for me. I truly believe that negative energy prevents you from blessings. 

How long do you stick with an idea before giving up?

Depends on what I put into it. I’m wiser now, so when my discernment kicks in I walk away from it.

What is your greatest fear, and how do you manage fear?

I believe that God doesn’t equip us with the spirit of fear. I believe that from time to time we all will have setbacks. I manage setbacks by putting all of my faith in God and knowing that when I get through the adversity, I’ll be better for it. I created a shirt that says God 1 – Devil 0. God is still undefeated.

If you could talk to three people, who would they be and why?

1. My father – He died when I was three months old. There are so many conversations I wish we could have.

2. My grandfather – He died a little over a year ago and he was truly my mentor. He always gave the best advice. He would always proofread or listen to my speeches and give me insight. I see parts of him in me everyday, so that’s a blessing.

3. Barack Obama – He’s so charismatic. Just seems like a conversation with him would be amazing.

Who has been your greatest inspiration?

My grandparents are all amazing. I love and appreciate the values they’ve instilled in me. All four of them have lived great lives and impacted me in ways that I could never repay them. My biggest prayer is to be able to invest back into the community I was raised in and build things in their honor like community/resource centers.

What book has inspired you the most? (OR what is your favorite book?)

My favorite book other that the Bible is “Motivating Black Males to Achieve in School and in Life” by Baruti Kafele. I’m currently reading “Men Who Win” by Mark Evans. It’s a great book that teaches you how to fight back after life knocks you down.

What is your favorite aspect of being an entrepreneur?

I’m learning something new every day. I didn’t have a clue about how to create shirts, sell shirts, web design, etc. I love creating apparel that folks actually wear and can’t wait to buy. I’ve got like 80 shirt ideas in my head, so I’m working on getting all of out to our website in stages. I also have some other visions I want to pursue like launching a non-profit and bringing some things for youth in my hometown.

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

Seeing the brand go from a vision to “real life” was pretty amazing. When I got my first order I cried. When I got my first international order I cried. When I saw my grandmother wear a shirt, I REALLY cried. It’s so awesome to see how God sees things through that he instructs you to do.

What final thoughts would you like to leave with us? 

I can honestly say that at the end of the day everything I’ve gone through has been a blessing. Every setback has only been a setup for something better.

Check out our website https://thistestimonythough.myshopify.com/ and stay tuned, God is just getting started

Contact Us

info@thistestimonythough.com

I'm Happy With Not Being Perfect

Written By: Effrence T. Smith

I thank the God above for making sure that my vision is good enough for me to see the stains that are on me. That is the reason why I can smile, stay happy, enjoy life, and not be a vengeful grown man.  No matter what my accomplishments are in life, I know I'm not better than anybody. I'm happy with not being perfect. 

Smile, be happy, and recognize it all, as a blessing!

The reason I can teach a bible class, mentor young men, take criticism, and most of all mix and mingle with anyone, is all because I know who I am. I take responsibility for every action that I have done. Whether it’s good or bad, I can look in the mirror and know that it was me. Before I take responsibility for anyone else, I have to be satisfied with myself and I am. Nothing is better than hearing your parents say "I am proud of you". 

"Know that there are consequences just for breathing"

The Smith Brothers

So don't let this material world make you think your car's, suits, and houses are what make you better. Get focused on your spirit so when all of that is taken from you, for whatever reason, you have a quiet corner to go to, a lending hand, and an understanding heart for comfort. Love yourself and know there are consequences just for breathing, so be ready when they come for you. 

Swing Until You Hit Something™