Monyett Crump Jr. first discovered his love for dance at the age of 15 after being inspired by dance icons such as Michael Jackson and the Jabbawockeez. Since then, he has trained in Hip Hop with some of the finest instructors and professional dance studios all over the country. 

He has also been a part of some of Chicago's main urban companies including The Puzzle League, Viscious, and CODA. Monyett has had the honor of working with artists such as Jennifer Hudson, Ciara, Chance the Rapper, DLOW, Ian Eastwood, WilldaBeast Adam's company, and more. 

In this episode, he hopes to inspire dancers around the world, especially the next generation of dancers, and hopes to promote hard work and commitment.

Things you will learn in this episode:

[00:01 - 05:51] Opening Segment

• I introduce today’s guest, Monyett Crump Jr.
• Monyett talks about his journey into the dance industry 
• Working in the basement 
• Influenced by his family 
• Realized he can dance as a professional 

[05:52- 15:43] Always Being Hungry to be Better 

• Monyett’s way of learning and training
• Watching YouTube videos 
• Taking an initiative 
• Always being hungry to be better
• Being passionate about something
• Grateful for the opportunity to dance 
• Making an impact to people and organizations 
• Understanding the culture 
• Going to auditions 
• Experience with Jennifer Hudson 
• What he learned dancing in Chicago 

[15:44 - 25:50] A Performer and Entrepreneur

• Why the Jennifer Hudson experience was a big deal
• A big deal at the moment but the next day is normal 
• What Monyett learned in this journey
• Give everything 
• Always be prepared 
• Keep on grinding 
• Dealing with self-doubts 
• What keeps him motivated? 
• Shift in mindset 
• From performer only to being a performer and entrepreneur 
• Fulfillment brought by giving back to the community 

[25:51 - 35:18] For the Community, By the Community 

• The hardest part of being a creative entrepreneur
• Balancing dancing as a passion and as a business 
• “For the community, by the community”
• Involving as many people as possible, not just himself 
• Learning from each other 
• Free workshops for the community 
• Something that is available to all
• A platform for people to come together 
• Attracting people to join his mission
• The power of connections 

[35:19 - 40:30] Closing Segment

• You just have to start 
• You don’t have to know everything at first 
• What’s next for Monyett and and his team
• Creating your opportunities is actually flexible 
• How to find more of Monyett 
• Links below 
• Final words

Tweetable Quotes: 

“Creating your own opportunities is the way to go.” - Monyett Crump Jr.

“We can really do anything in entrepreneurship because it’s us giving our full selves.”