Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlos Wallace.
Hi Carlos, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my business, Sol-Caritas, L.L.C., after being wrongfully fired for standing my ground about unfair business practices at my former company. As I fought for my job, I was embroiled in a tough appeal process; however, I needed a way to subsist.
The wisdom of my late grandfather (the first black jurist in Palestine, Texas) fueled my sense of survival and ingenuity. I was also motivated by my responsibilities as a husband and father.
I’m so proud of this company I don’t know where to begin. I have to say, Sol-Caritas would not be where it is today were it not for my team’s contributions. Everyone who works for us, with us, and who supports the company has helped build Sol. I may be the face of the company, but our team is the heart and soul.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Currently, our company has undergone major changes in the past six months. There has been a reshuffling of leadership, and our team is implementing new projects (including filming a new movie based on a poetic play I wrote). Balancing the changes (while ensuring everyone is engaged and motivated) can be challenging. Remember that we work with serious, professional artists, and we never want the business side of our company to interfere with their creativity. It’s definitely like walking a tightrope sometimes.
Getting the word out is always a priority for Sol, and we’ve stepped up our marketing and promotions to keep up with our growth. Most of our followers equate us with the Houston Improv. We have to shift the focus to the Komedy Lounge (North Side), which takes time and a lot of marketing muscle. Thankfully, our Public Relations company, Million Dollar Pen, Ink. is as excited (and invested) in our company’s initiatives as we are, so we are making tremendous strides.
All these moving parts definitely keep us on our toes!
If we are talking about lifelong challenges, there have been quite a few!
The most important people in my life—my parents and grandparents—died before I was 40 years old. To put it in even greater perspective: My mom (my best friend, protector, and hero) passed away when I was 27. I was devastated. She left a void in my soul that will never be filled.
I have hit rock bottom personally, financially, mentally, and even emotionally. I’ve lost tens of thousands of dollars in failed business ventures and lived through several name storms in Houston. I’ve had to reset my life after a divorce and suffered betrayals at the hand of family and friends.
The irony is because of my upbringing, I never let it show. I never asked for help or even displayed an ounce of evidence that I was having trouble. I’m not wearing that as some kind of badge of honor. I’m just being real. I have become acutely sensitive to how my close friends and loved ones act daily, ensuring they know I am here to lend an ear and a shoulder. I know many people (especially men) that handle issues that way. Some of my best friends have revealed they’ve faced tragedy, illness, and unemployment, and no one ever knew. In a way, that stoic persona made the challenges even more difficult! I powered through and emerged on the other side stronger and much wiser, but I learned that sometimes it really is ok to reach out to those you trust and who care about you. My experiences showed me that no one should suffer in silence.
Now, let me be clear: Everything is NOT for everybody. Like the bible says: Above all else, guard your heart. Choose your “shoulder” and your “ear” very wisely. For the record, social media should not be where you bare your soul or air out your problems or issues. I want to make sure anyone reading this understands that.
Still, anyone who tells you their life has been easy has not lived life to the fullest. If talking about the personal difficulties I have faced over the years helps one person realize that we, as human beings of faith, can overcome anything life throws at us, I am all in.
We’ve been impressed with Sol-Caritas, LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
While promoting entertainment shows is the primary focus, our philanthropic spirit sets Sol apart in our industry. Sol-Caritas assists local charities, gives back to education through scholarships provided by the Alice Wallace Scholarship Fund, and supports businesses by offering valuable sponsorship advertising. I learned how much I can contribute to my community and aspiring artists through the shows and events I produce. These days I am more inspired by a philanthropic spirit and responsibility to be a mentor and leader in the community.
Also, important; I value the importance of partnerships. This principle has become increasingly important in our household. My wife Liz and I are both business owners. She is a successful book publisher, writer, and editor. I rely on her company, Million$Pen, Ink. for our writing, public relations, and social media management and content services. But more importantly, we work together on the public speaking circuit. We’ve developed a “Transfer of Superpowers” motivational speaking program used in corporate settings, non-profit organizations, and academia. Part of the objective is to teach about and salute black excellence.
Liz is also a standup comic whose comedy career is progressing successfully. I manage her comedy gigs, write her contracts, and schedule her hosting jobs. She is currently the host of the Spits & Giggles at Komedy Lounge and performs comedy at the venue as well.
There is considerable power and influence in a marriage where each spouse contributes their strengths, experience, and wisdom to the union. We mesh personalities and objectives and approach life in a balanced, effective way while remaining focused on our dedication to being community leaders and mentors to younger artists and students.
Some people wonder how a husband and wife can possibly work together. We wonder why other couples don’t take advantage of the opportunity. Far too many stereotypes are assigned to women in our lives and society. I am a staunch proponent of dispelling those labels. I am married to a woman who has obliterated the old tropes about a woman’s “role.” If our commitment helps other couples (and women) shed the perceived status quo, we consider that a triumph.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up.
Visiting with my grandfather, Justice O’Neal Hunt.
I remember driving miles as a young adult to his office (Granddaddy was the Justice of the Peace in Palestine, TX). We’d sit for hours talking about life, and he’d share so much wisdom. But it wasn’t like I was sitting there asking him these deep, meaningful questions, and he was just answering them in a cold, stale, academic way. We really talked, and I felt his love for me and was honored that he thought enough of his grandson to want to spend time with me.
These visits never got old. We got closer and closer through the years. I learned so much from him and have applied it all to my life.
I traveled before I finally settled in Houston. Still, I never underestimate the impact of a small-town upbringing and these bonds with the people who raised me. I grew up in Jacksonville, Texas, and that background has kept me grounded and proud. I know grandaddy, momma, and daddy are watching over me and that my East Texas community is always checking in. I never want to disappoint those who care about me and who helped raise me.
My small-town rearing even kept me out of prison! Thanks to my “village,” my family, and my strong ties to the community, I was given a second chance at a very early stage of my adult life. Trust me when I tell you the thought of losing your freedom is a powerful incentive to do right at all times.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.carloswallace.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrcarloswallace/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MrCarlosWallace
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-wallace-45b94327/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/MrCarlosWallace
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6i-806HYpD9pO7_aQ3K0bw
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/elite-giveaway-spits-and-giggles-komedy-lounge-houston
- Other: https://sol-caritas.com/
Image Credits
Deonne Moore
Envision Skylimit
