Debt Free or Die Trying by Marcus Garrett

Only newsrooms that see DEI as a core priority of every journalism function will survive. DEI is framed as some esoteric undefined ideal beyond the horizon, one that never gets prioritized and never gets any closer. But they never think it through, leading to counterproductive effects and the reproduction of discrimination. These places start with moral arguments and “nice to support” initiatives. Or sidelined, as we’ve seen in so many newsrooms before. Center stage, based on quality journalism arguments and enabling newsrooms to adapt and innovate. In 2021, any discussion around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in newsrooms will either go one of two ways. Growing segments of the population who did not feel represented grew further disenchanted and distant.

The loyalty of once rock-solid audiences crumbled.

Once all-powerful editors-in-chief concealed themselves behind hidden processes and claims of external misinformation. Journalism kingpins around the world suffered. In 2020, they were seen panicking in a techni-coloured Oz where the isolated state of the wizard was visible to all. Newsrooms around the world have spent years reproducing their own bubbles in monochrome. 2020 showed that if journalism fails to connect the current realities it will fail to be a part of it. 2020 showed that the discussion around diversity in journalism is years behind. 2020 showed that we need our media to show us a broader picture of reality and stop counting salaries alone. True diversity, equity, and inclusion is about whose reality counts, where and when. All eyes focused on the media to reflect the diversity of reality. Global democracies, under threat from populists, exposed deep-rooted systemic racism. 2020 was a year when even a pandemic couldn’t stop Black Lives Matter. Combined, these shape our economies and societies. Information forms public perception and the governance of power. The flow of information is at least as important as the flow of capital. Because Curtis James Jackson III understands that you need both visibility and money to exist in this world. Yet the greater public only picks up on 50 Cent’s beats and gangster gestures. Jackson’s now refined “have no fear” approach is shared with many smart followers in his own lyrical style and captivating storylines.

His first startup earned his bread as a teen and destroyed all its competitors. Traversing many fields and moving years ahead of industry trends, he invested in Vitaminwater and cryptocurrencies, pioneering while others laughed at him. His bold risk-taking saw him freefall into debt only to climb right back onto the Forbes list with one original venture after the other. He is an entrepreneur, author, executive producer, and business guru. A thief is only after my salary, a liar is after my reality.”Ĭurtis James Jackson III is one of the great American strategists of the 21st century.

Debt Free or Die Trying by Marcus Garrett