Upset The World Studios Rejected by My Father… Redeemed by God | The Basement w- Tim Ross
Nov 22, 2025
Malcolm Solo Brown, a Chicago-based tattoo artist and entrepreneur, shares his powerful journey from childhood rejection to healing through faith. He candidly reflects on the pivotal moment of his father's absence on Christmas, shaping his struggles with self-worth. Malcolm reveals how painful experiences inspired him to lead men's ministry and offer support in unexpected places like tattoo shops. His story highlights transformative kindness, like gifting a tattoo to a client in need, showcasing how vulnerability can foster authentic connections.
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Father's Christmas No‑Show Shaped Youth
- Malcolm Solo Brown recounts a childhood moment when his father failed to show up for Christmas and told him to call his mother to pick him up.
- That rejection created a deep wound of abandonment that affected his self-esteem and choices into adolescence.
Brokenness Fueled Entrepreneurial Drive
- Solo explains his entrepreneurial drive grew from needing to provide and avoid burdening his busy mother.
- He turned survival hustles into organized businesses like snow-shoveling crews and a dance group with contracts and uniforms.
Military School Rekindled Confidence
- Tim and Solo discuss Lincoln's Challenge, a quasi-military program that gave Solo structure, ribbons, and leadership roles.
- That environment rebuilt his confidence and revealed his leadership gifts, earning commendations.