Meet Tony McKinney | CEO & Founder of Black Rockstar Apparel and Goldmine Dumpsters LLC.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tony McKinney and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tony, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve always had a dream to become an entrepreneur. I was raised by entrepreneurs so it’s always been instilled in me. I have spent most of my working years pouring into and building other people’s businesses that I wanted to finally pour into mine. My mother taught me young that you either spend time building someone else’s dream or you build your own. So, I wanted to establish a brand based on longevity that created jobs and avenues for growth in marginalized communities.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It’s a lifestyle and the reward is in the thrill! I have been fortunate enough to be pressure tested in entrepreneurship. This has assisted me in adapting a more focused mindset and also remain true to myself. In the beginning it was not easy. I wanted so badly to be a household name quickly, but I did not have any idea what it looked like. Once I switched my own narrative, I was intentional and I think that level of self awareness was able to be translated into my love for business. I also believe that even in my designs with Black Rockstar Apparel I make sure that it is not just fast fashion opportunities but that there is room for expression and inclusivity. I bring the same structure to Goldmine Dumpsters LLC by ensuring flexibility, and offering transparent pricing. I had to learn to respect the journey in order to appreciate the reward. Business is what you put into it and as long as you are passionate about what you create you will continue to solidify an avenue for yourself.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am Batman to the nightlife. Lol! Since I own a pop culture clothing company, I spend a lot of time with and around Houston Socialites. So if I was outside my first stop for brunch would for sure be KISS, because they have the best oxtails with grits in the city. After, my friends and I are most likely heading to Address or Seaside for a little hookah and libation. To end the night, we would most likely head to either Monte Carlo or Urban Smoke for a more elevated nightcap and a smooth old fashioned.

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?
My mother and grandmother, Jennifer Jordan and Evelyn Barrow, have been the most constant support in my life. I mean those women are the true definition of strong black women. My grandmother has made some of the most selfless sacrifices for me and for that I can never repay her. I am often amazed at how she advocates for me. My mother is one of the most resilient women I know. A lot of people do not know this but my father passed away shortly after I was born. So, I do not have any real personal memories of him but through my childhood she always made sure I knew who he was. My mother spoke about him in such a light that even though I never met him I wanted to be just like him. I am his name sake and I work so hard to make sure that everyday I wake up, every connection I make, and every being that I am is reflective of that. However, I was never short of role models. My step father, Darryl Jordan, helped develop me into the man that I am. With his guidance I have been able to mature both culturally, spiritually, and financially. Although there are a few honorable mentions that have not been named I am forever grateful for my village. It’s bigger than words so I make sure to show them everyday.

Website: https://www.blackrockstarapparel.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goldminedumpsters