Unleashed Ep. 6: Never Give Up
In a rousing episode of the Unleashed Podcast: Never Give Up, Omega Sparks sits down with the versatile and inspiring actor, Brent Moore Gaskins. Known for his roles in major films like “Wakanda Forever” and “Avengers: Endgame,” Gaskins shares a compelling story of perseverance, creativity, and community support. The passion-fueled conversation explores themes of destiny, the struggles of breaking into the entertainment industry, and the importance of communal success.
A Beginnings in Brooklyn and the Power of Imagination
Brent MooreGaskins was born into a large family in Brooklyn, New York, where childhood adventures were fueled by piles of comic books from Marvel and DC. These stories allowed him to travel to distant universes, dreaming of acting as his future. He recounts how those early days of reading and make-believe sparked his love for storytelling and his subsequent journey into the world of acting. Fast forward decades later, Gaskins finds himself acting in the very worlds he once imagined.
The Journey to Acting as a Calling
The journey was not without its setbacks. Despite careers in banking and sales, Gaskins felt a deeper calling. At age 48, he pivoted, pursuing his true passion for acting, even while facing personal challenges such as homelessness. His story underscores the belief in one’s own path, often in the face of societal expectations to take the ‘safer’ route. “It’s the secret sauce,” Gaskins emphasizes. “Even when life tries to knock you down, the spirit of not giving up is what keeps you moving forward.”
Highlights and Challenges in the Industry
Gaskins is no stranger to the highs and lows of the entertainment industry. From being an extra in blockbuster films to securing speaking roles, he underscores the importance of community and networking. His platform, Amethyst, on Roku TV, is an effort to ensure creators have the freedom and financial benefits they deserve without giving away ownership to larger entities. He advocates for the creative community to support one another, likening it to how ants work together towards a common goal.
Brent Moore Gaskins, the Advocate
In the podcast, Gaskins talks about the need to uplift and highlight real and positive messages in media. He questions why mainstream platforms seem to prefer destructive narratives and urges communities to push back by supporting content that nurtures and enlightens. Whether it is in acting or his role with the world-renowned college choir, Gaskins emphasizes the importance of purpose over profit and community engagement.
Advice for Aspiring Actors and Creators
Gaskins advises aspiring actors and creators to seek mentorship from those within the industry, cautioning them against predatory practices that prey on the inexperienced. He stresses the need for continuous effort and learning, stating, “Don’t sell your soul for fame. Your talent, when finely tuned, will open doors for you.”
Supporting Each Other: A Vital Ingredient
The podcast concludes with an appeal for mutual support within the creative industries. “It’s easy if we do it together,” Gaskins says, highlighting the necessity of mutual empowerment to achieve greater accomplishments.
Conclusion
Brent Moore Gaskins continues to inspire with his journey, illustrating that dreams are achievable at any stage in life with perseverance and community support. The Unleashed Podcast episode serves as both a guideline and encouragement for listeners to pursue their passions, affirming that the journey, though challenging, can lead to incredible achievements and self-fulfillment in artistic expression and beyond.
For more on Brent Moore Gaskins, be sure to catch him in his latest Netflix appearance and follow his growing ventures, demonstrating how tenacity in the face of adversity can lead to extraordinary possibilities.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
03:22 Early Life and Inspirations
06:38 Challenges and Triumphs
12:44 Military Service and Overcoming Obstacles
15:39 Acting Career and Industry Insights
20:16 Community and Collaboration
21:46 Amethyst Platform and Independent Filmmaking
35:21 The Power of Tagging on Social Media
35:53 The Business of Promotion
36:29 Challenges in Collaboration
36:56 The Importance of Purpose and Effort
38:02 Upcoming Projects and Excitement for 2025
41:14 Raising Funds for a Choir’s Italy Trip
43:40 Advice for Aspiring Actors and Musicians
47:31 Staying Safe in the Industry
51:08 The Importance of Community and Support
01:01:36 Final Thoughts and Gratitude