We had the good fortune of connecting with Archie ” Mr. 180″ Jenkins SR. and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Archie ” Mr. 180″, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
“I started my own business because I needed a change. I wanted to be the example of what change looks like and change the mode and stigma. I had a vision to change the narrative and make money at the same time. However, what struck me was that I had to stop caring about the money and really focus on walking in my purpose. When I began to walk in my purpose, I began to realize that I was winning. I stopped caring about making a certain number of sales but focus on changing a certain number of lives each month. I focused on my vision and purpose, and that’s when I began to truly succeed.”

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
When I created 180lyfe enterprise magazine, I wanted it to feature ordinary people living next-door to us. I wanted it to showcase individuals we meet at the grocery store who are contributing to society in many ways, like helping children, providing support to the unhoused, or doing significant things in the community. I realized this while on the set of Black Panther, where the extras in the background were the real heroes doing great things. I wanted the magazine to be a keepsake, not just a publication, so people could look back on it years later and say, “Look what I did.” My goal was for 180lyfe to become a household name, inspiring others to help their communities.

Starting the magazine was not easy. I did not know where to begin, and when I reached out for help, I was met with a price tag. Even simple questions like where to print the magazine or what software to use were met with resistance. I struggled to get stories, and some months nobody wanted to talk to me. I did photography at the same time, and I was taking pictures for free. I kept showing up, like Michelle told me to, and eventually, people recognized me for who I was, and things started to take off.

I don’t consider myself successful yet because there is still so much that I want to do, so much that I want to show the world. I want the next generation to take it to the next level and say, “I know how to create a magazine. I know how to be a Chief Editor. I know how to do this. I know how to do that.”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
“If we were to visit Houston, Texas for a week, there would be so many great things to do. We could start by exploring some of the amazing restaurants and brunch spots that Houston has to offer. Since I love to eat, Sunday brunch would definitely be on my list. Additionally, I would want to visit the Galleria for some shopping.

One of my favorite spots in Houston is Fifth Ward. I always make sure to visit there, as it has such a rich history. Typically, I stay in Missouri City or Pearland, as I prefer to be close to these areas. Although I have stayed in downtown Houston a couple of times, I prefer to explore the museums and historical sites, such as the graffiti wall.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

I would like to give a special thanks to my wonderful, beautiful , & smart wife (LaRhonda) and my beautiful children (Junior & Aria) for always supporting me & having my back. I would also like to acknowledge my team, including my Chief editor ( Will) and assistant (Tierra), as well as my sisters(Ashia )who keep me motivated. A big shoutout goes to the person who introduced me to Acting and performing Miss Miechelle Unveiled. Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman thank you for speaking my name in rooms i wasnt even in.To everyone who has believed in me. I also want to thank my endorsers, including SynStylez & ZEESpeaks and others who are part of the 180LYFE brand. Lastly, I am grateful to my parents for praying for me, and to my grandmother for loving me when I didn’t love myself.

Website: www.180lyfe.com

Instagram: 180lyfe_180show

Facebook: archiejjenkins

Youtube: 180SHow

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