Charles Ivy shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Charles, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Thanks for the opportunity, Voyage Houston. Regarding intelligence, energy, and integrity, they are all indispensable. However, the one I’d identify as the ultimate importance is integrity.
Integrity is about character, honesty, and a consistent adherence to strong moral principles. Integrity is essential to one’s character. It builds trust with individuals because it is the foundation of a successful relationship, whether personal or professional. Without trust, collaboration breaks down, reputations are destroyed, and even the most brilliant plans fail.
So, while I deeply value and seek out intelligence and energy in myself and others, integrity is the non-negotiable. It’s the filter through which intelligence and energy must operate to be truly constructive and beneficial.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello, Voyage Houston readers. I’m Charles Ivy II, a 48-year-old Houston native with 25 years of experience in the creative and marketing industry. I specialize in helping organizations with brand revitalization and new ventures.
I represent a variety of unique brands, with my primary focus on my own brand, EnvyInk, Inc. I also work for a law firm. Additionally, I work on another project called Friday Night Fever Bull Riding and the Search 185 Podcast.
Currently, I serve exclusively as the Marketing Director for a multinational law firm, and as the Social Media Manager and Web Designer for the Search 185 Podcast.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
The person who saw the real me, even before I could, is my incredible friend, mentor, and bossman, Sam Medlock. He’s a 19-year veteran of the PBR and the driving force behind Friday Night Fever Bull Riding as its Executive Producer.
My life has certainly had its share of setbacks—infidelity, divorce, romantic heartbreaks, financial issues, battles with addiction, and struggles with mental health. But Sam stepped in, showing me unconditional love and support when I felt completely lost. For nearly a year now, his wisdom and guidance have been a transformative force in my life, and I am profoundly grateful for the gift of his presence.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
I’ve been on the brink of giving up, not once, but twice. I genuinely believe I’m living on borrowed time because of it. One night, when I was deep in my depression and moments away from ending my life, a stranger saved me. I was on the third floor of my apartment patio, a 9mm loaded and ready. Then, a knock at the door. It was a woman I didn’t know, asking, “Are you okay?” I admitted, “No, I’m not.” She sat and talked with me, and without my knowledge, she called for help.
It was only this May 2025 that I finally got to express my deepest gratitude for saving my life. Seeing her face light up, knowing she was happy to witness my recovery, was incredibly moving. We now share a unique bond, often pausing to talk when we see each other around the apartment complex. Those brief conversations are a constant, gentle reminder of the remarkable person who intervened when I needed it most.
Because of that night and the painful loss of my dear friend Nathan Riggs, I truly understand the challenges of mental health. If you’re struggling with your thoughts, please remember you’re not alone. Don’t hesitate to connect with a family member, a trusted friend, or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting for immediate support.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, the public version of me is absolutely, genuinely me. I’m as real as a warm, freshly baked donut, completely unadulterated and true to its core. I wear my heart on my sleeve, openly expressing my emotions and convictions, not timidly, but with a proud and audible confidence that leaves no room for doubt or pretense. What you see is precisely what you get, without any filters or facades.
Beyond that core authenticity, I pride myself on being an articulate and polite individual, always striving to communicate clearly and respectfully. My intelligence allows me to engage deeply with various topics, and I truly enjoy infusing conversations with a sense of humor that can lighten any mood. Ultimately, being a strong and effective communicator is something I value highly, ensuring my thoughts and feelings are always understood.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
These days, I find my peace in moments of prayer and meditation. They are my base, offering me solace and guidance. To stay grounded and connected to the present moment, I rely on a combination of coffee and cigarettes, which have become a non-negotiable part of this ritual.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://charlesivy.com/
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/charlesivy
