Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to BK Fulton. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

BK, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

Both of my parents were lifelong educators. My Dad taught high school and college math. My Mom taught elementary and middle school english. I am a blend of both of them. They encouraged curiosity and a healthy belief in myself. These things unlocked my confidence and helped to make me the leader that I would become.

BK, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I believe that readers become leaders. I almost flunked out of college because I was distracted and somewhat intimidated by all the “smart kids” on campus. I did not consider myself one of them. After several bad reports and letters from the university registrar, I went to the library to plan my escape from Virginia Tech. I believe it was divine that I ended up in the E185 section of the library which focuses on African-American history. The first book I picked up out of 2 million library volumes was a book about Lewis H. Latimer – the scientist who engineered an improvement on the light bulb which made the light bulb more commercial. He also drafted the original patent drawings for the telephone. I was inspired. I decided that I could do college and maybe more. I went from the probation list, to the dean’s list to the Board of Directors at Virginia Tech. I was a new man. Years later, after retiring from leading the Mid-Atlantic region for Verizon, I realized that if reading about great people could put my life on rocket boosters, I could motivate others to be the best version of themselves by telling amazing stories on the big screen or stage with great acting, music and scripts.

Now, 30 years later, in addition to leading and advising several businesses and community organizations, I’m a four time Tony winner including Best Musical for our Broadway show The Outsiders. This is what can happen when we love ourselves enough to give our dreams a chance.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is leveraging the power of art to heal. By sharing the stories of great humans and producing art that reveals these stories with powerful music and compelling images, I’m able to produce more good in the world; more love. It is my belief that when we operate from a place of love (versus fear or hate) we are able to unite and develop the cures for ALS, cancer and many of the things that hurt us. We have to use our super powers for good and art is my way of advancing what’s good in the world.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

Books are my refuge. I read 5-7 books per month. I love reading and also listening to books on services like audible.com. I had no idea how much knowledge was already distilled and available to the world. I find myself turning to great books in the same way I love great stories – art punches above it’s weight. A book is a gift you can open more than once. I often give away my favorite books to mentees and people who visit me. Lately, books like Men of Mark, Caste and Einstein and the Rabbi have reminded me to keep going. There are times in life where disappointments or failings can stall progress. I find that books are the fastest way for me to rebound and reestablish my footing. Reading keeps me going. Accordingly, I believe that I am in alignment with my earthly assignment.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bkfulton.me
• Instagram: @bkfulton
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bkfulton
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bk-fulton-1072014/
• Twitter: bkfulton

Image Credits

N/A – I own the rights to all of these images.