We recently had the chance to connect with Gifted Da FlameThrowa and have shared our conversation below.
Gifted, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Life in general. I know that seems generic, but that’s where I am at. I am fighting daily for joy and not happiness.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Terrence “Gifted Da FlameThrowa” Veal. I am a veteran HipHop Artist and a 8th grade ELA Teacher. My story is unique. Raised by a single Mother (Lynette Wallace), a strong Grandmother (Bonnie Wallace), an Uncle (Herman Wallace of the Angola 3) that was a Black Panther who served 41 yrs in solitary confinement and one Grandfather who was the first black constable of Jefferson Parish in Louisiana, Herbert Wallace and a very talented Grandfather (Jesse Veal Sr) who ran a record label and traveled the country.
My Grandfather (Herbert Wallace) has a fire station named after him and ironically I got shot in my face in front of that very fire station.
I’ve been to jail several times, sold drugs and I hold a Masters Degree in Education. Born and raised on the Westbank of New Orleans, I am a plethora of variables and I love it.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My Grandmother taught me at five yrs old a statement. “I will not be a mediocre N—-A” I had to say that over and over again when she decided. My Mother drilled in me to be a go getter, never complain and figure it out. Whatever “it” maybe. Failure is not an option. Work, in a literal and figurative mindset is not about talent, it’s about grit and consistency.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
You have to fail forward. Suffering is a gift when you have the proper perspective. Pain is a very exquisite teacher. It’s honest and welcoming.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
Character is not what you do in front of people. It’s what you do behind closed doors. My name is my name. I have to be able to look myself in the mirror and be proud of the choices I’ve made.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I want people to speak on my integrity and how I loved people. My name is my name and I stand on that.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.iamgifted.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imtherealgifted?igsh=YTdzdGo5bmNpd2Y%3D&utm_source=qr
- Twitter: https://x.com/therealgifted?s=21
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17H5ALAh1W/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@therealgifted?si=r33HcVvC7mQP9DYb
