We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Reginald Waller Jr.. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Reginald below.
Reginald , appreciate you joining us today. Have you ever had an amazing boss, mentor or leader leading you? Can you us a story or anecdote that helps illustrate why this person was such a great leader and the impact they had on you or their team?
I’ve reported to and worked under a few people during my “day” jobs. Even the best supervisor/manager, didn’t quite feel right. I always felt myself out of place. But the day I went into business for myself and became my own boss, there was a paradigm shift. I had to learn lessons the hard way, it cost me money, time, sanity and more. But I also got to reap the rewards fully as well. In the immortal words of Nipsey Hussle, “I ain’t got a boss, I’m am not a slave, turning up my hustle’s how I give myself a raise”.
It rings true for me. The best boss I’ve ever had has been myself. I’m appreciated, utilized, and respected.
Reginald , 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’ve always been into drawing and doodling. But when I realized I didn’t want to play football the rest of my life and that I wasn’t good enough to play at the high level, I had to think about what I was good at and passionate about. That’s when I started drawing more and with more intention. I decided to go to college for studio art. About halfway through my college career, financial aid became scarce for me, and I couldn’t afford school anymore. I dropped out and stayed in the college town and made my money by working at GameStop, and moonlighting as a freelance artist. Fast forward to now, I’m a full time artist and comic book author. I have a comic series called Ramen Shaman, and with two books and a third one releasing within 2 months.
I run a clothing website as well called NotSoStarvedArtist.com and I often table comic book stores and conventions. I love what I do, and I love the people who support me and make it possible.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.
This book follows a shepherd that sets out to find his “personal legend”. What he is meant to do. The book talks about how when you set out to do something, the universe conspires to make it happen. It’s a beautiful and impactful story that bolsters my drive and dreams everytime I think of it. I wish I could read it for the first time again.
I also remember Jim Carrey giving a commencement speech about how funny his dad was. How his dad could’ve been a comedian, but he took a “safe” job. A job he still eventually ended up losing. It’s best to do what you are passionate about because the “safe” way out can let you down just the same.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
I want my Ramen Shaman series to be on TV’s in households around the world. I want to see my character I made up, animated and going on adventures and inspiring others to create their own stories and keep pushing toward their goals.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.notsostarvedartist.com
- Instagram: @notsostarvedartist
- Facebook: Not So Starved Artist
- Linkedin: Reginald Waller Jr.
- Twitter: @eatmoramen
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@eatmoramen?si=NqwqAWKmo82ZgiKh
- Soundcloud: https://open.spotify.com/artist/42btkxiz6sAocmWTIAwC88?si=93JX_O18RRWeoPcI8H4arw
