Today we’d like to introduce you to Edward Marshun Preston (marrshun)
Edward Marshun, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m sharing my story, unfiltered and real. My journey has been a wild ride of trials and tribulations that forced me to grow up way too fast. At a young age, I faced trauma and personal struggles that I had to overcome on my own. I found solace in education and creativity, which became my tools for healing and growth. I started reading and writing at the age of two, and it’s always been my thing. Over time, this passion evolved into other forms of art like music, painting, and performance art.
Through my experiences, I learned the importance of faith and resilience. My community, family, and friends were my strength, especially my mother’s unwavering support and my sister’s determination to excel. Despite significant losses, each one taught me that life is precious, and every day is a gift. I’ve used these experiences to shape myself into who I am today—a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of creative expression.
I stand as a symbol of hope and resilience, particularly for those who have faced similar challenges. My “Dear Artist” series reflects my journey. The first book, “Dear Artist: Everyone is Your Friend”, was about embracing everyone as potential allies. OUT NOW! The second book, “Dear Artist: From a Lion’s Den to a Pack of Wolves” looks deeper into vulnerability and truth. Writing this book was a healing process for me, as I shared traumatic experiences that I had never spoken about before. It was emotional, especially during a time when I lost friends and faced personal challenges.
These experiences, though difficult, have made me a stronger person. As a Black man who has had to navigate different aspects of society, my story is one of inspiration and resilience. It’s a raw and real account from the perspective of someone who grew up in a single mother’s home without a father. My journey shows the human spirit’s ability to thrive despite adversity.
Recently, I graduated with a bachelor’s in history and fine arts from Texas Southern University, a personal achievement that marked a significant milestone for me. My upcoming work in literature continues to explore themes of identity, community, and social justice, reflecting my commitment to speaking directly to the Black experience and contributing to broader conversations about civil rights and democracy.
Let’s keep a buck fifty. Yes, I have been through hell and back , but not once have I not held on to faith the size of a mustard seed, I’ve been diving back into the classics for inspiration—novels like The Invisible Man, Fly Girl, The Coldest Winter Ever, and writers like Sista Soldier Everything I’m doing in 2025 is intentional, and finally, I feel like I’m walking in purpose. The legends like James Baldwin, Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, and Nikki Giovanni have been my guiding lights. I know that the path has been paved, and we’re now prepared to adopt, listen, hear, and feel change, despite what you see in the media or news. They’ve paved the way for this new Renaissance of Black writers in the United States. As Queen Beyonce so aptly put it, we’re in the midst of a cultural Renaissance, and I’m here for it! The melting pot of America has been cooked, seasoned, and served to Generation X, Z, and Millennials. It’s time to feast on the flavors of our collective creativity and celebrate culture. So, sit tight and don’t tap that Prada loafer, because this Renaissance is just getting started, and I’m honored to be a part of it! Today I am happy with life … I got love, My Faith is stronger than before, and I have knowledge for the power.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Smooth? Ha! No way. My journey has been like driving down a rocky, country dirt road in the depths of Texas—it’s not for the faint of heart. Just kidding, but seriously, it hasn’t been easy at all. I was raised to save face, smile in public, be stoic, and fight tirelessly for what I want out of life.
The funny thing is, my family is matriarchal, so you’d think that when we gather to discuss family matters, it would be emotional and feminine. But it’s the total opposite. The women in my family are fierce, strikingly beautiful, successful, and independent, and the men are held to very high standards—it’s not a place for the weak. Warriors give birth to warriors, and I was challenged from the moment I came into this world. I’ve always had to work hard for everything, so I don’t expect life to be easy. It’s not like 1, 2, 3; it’s more like trigonometry. But on the flip side, it’s sweet like sweet potato. Many struggles many lessons not losses. The best advice I have been given is ‘ The show must go on it doesn’t stop, not even for you. Never let anything or anyone get in the way of you taking care of business… nothing, no one. Period. So, every time I am hitting a roadblock, I bulldoze over it. I have several scars prove I have been through impact.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about www.SmartGuyTakeover.com?
Get ready for the ultimate preview of SmartGuyTakeover.com at The Artesian Symposium in Houston, TX, this April during 420 weekend! The journey to creating this platform began during my junior and senior years at Texas Southern University, where I started teaching and tutoring. It was a time of personal growth and discovery, and I realized the impact that sharing knowledge and creativity could have on others.
That’s when I met my partner, Colton Smith, a biologist and technology enthusiast. Our collaboration was a game-changer. Combining love, my passion for art , and education. With his expertise in biology and technology, we created a powerful synergy that’s poised to reboot and update the human and the human experience. SmartGuyTakeover.com is more than just a website; it’s a community for the next wave of culture managers and creators across media, literature, business, health, and finance.
At The Artesian Symposium, you’ll get a firsthand look at what we’re building—a hub for creatives to share their work, learn from each other, and drive positive change. Stay tuned for updates by following me on Instagram or joining our mailing list through SmartGuyTakeover.com. You won’t want to miss out on the excitement!
And, to top it all off, my latest book, “Dear Artist: From a Lion’s Den To a Pack of Wolves”, is dropping shortly after February 6th, 2025. It’s a call to action, reminding us that now is the time to stop waiting for opportunities and start taking them. We’re not just building a community; we’re taking over with creativity, resilience, and determination. Join the movement and let’s make 2025 unforgettable
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
“I had spent so much time comparing myself to others and measuring my success against theirs that I had lost sight of what was truly important to me. I started to focus on my own goals and passions, rather than trying to live up to the expectations and dreams of others.” Dear Artist: Everyone is Your Friend ”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.smartguytakeover.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Marrshun
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardmarshunpreston0717/
