

#148 - Building Wealth, Legacy & Creativity: Denzel Whitaker, Maestro Harrell, Jesse Janari, Jack Cook & DJ Smooth on The Necessary Entrepreneur
On this episode of The Necessary Entrepreneur with Mark Perkins, we welcome a dynamic group of creatives and entrepreneurs: actor and filmmaker Denzel Whitaker, musician and actor Maestro Harrell, and writer Jesse Janari discussing their new feature film Brand New; Jack Cook, founder of Illusion Islands Studio; and Jacob Gibbs (DJ Smooth), Cincinnati realtor and on-air personality for WIZF The WIZ, the city’s #1 Hip Hop and R&B station.
Together, they dive into entrepreneurship, creativity, personal growth, and the path to building wealth and legacy. From filmmaking and music to real estate and broadcasting, this inspiring conversation explores how vision, accountability, and community support fuel success across industries.
Key Takeaways:
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Identity, validation, and self-awareness drive personal and professional growth.
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Community and environment play critical roles in shaping success.
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Healthy relationships and accountability accelerate progress.
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Resilience and mindset are essential in navigating challenges.
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Financial literacy and curiosity open doors to opportunity.
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Building a legacy requires vision, planning, and responsibility.
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True fulfillment comes from the journey, not just the outcome.
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