7 TV shows that will inspire you to start that side hustle while in quarantine
Have you thought about taking advantage of the free time social distancing has given you to create something dope?
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer or company.
Dear fellow creatives and hustlers out there, have you thought about taking advantage of the free time social distancing has given you to create something dope? Wouldn’t now be a great time to launch that project of yours?
Let’s be clear. We’re not at all being judgmental if all you’ve wanted to do these past few weeks was kick it at the crib in sweatpants while watching Tiger King. But, what if you’ve had that inkling in the back of your mind to get your dream off the ground?
Looking at game-changers who made a way out of no way is a great source of inspiration for this. That’s where binge-watching amazing TV shows, docu-series’ included, can come in handy and we’ve picked some inspiring ones that will get you in the money-making spirit. Check out seven of them below.
1. “Hip Hop Evolution”
It’s impossible to watch Netflix docu-series “Hip Hop Evolution” and not get inspired. The series tells the stories of some hip hop greats like KRS-One, LL Cool J, and N.W.A, and highlights how they came from rough beginnings and fought their way to the top. Through hustle and unadulterated skill, they changed the game. If that’s not inspiration — especially for you aspiring artists — we don’t know what is.
2. “Self-Made (Inspired By The Life of Madam CJ Walker)”
Without any capital, business experience, or the societal privilege of having light skin and curly hair, Madam CJ Walker succeeded in becoming the first self-made black woman millionaire after creating her historical hair care line. Portrayed by Oscar-winning actress Octavia Spencer, Walker’s story is one of perseverance and triumph against seemingly impossible odds.
3. “She Did That”
Created and executive produced by content creator and PR consultant Renae Bluitt, this documentary gives us a raw look into the lives of several black female entrepreneurs. Luvvie Ajayi had been laid off before launching her own brand and eventually becoming a New York Times bestselling author. Carol’s Daughter founder Lisa Price started her hair and skincare line in her kitchen before it became a household name. Melissa Butler, founder of The Lip Bar, was ripped to shreds on the ABC show “Shark Tank” before proving all of the investors that denied her wrong. These are just some of the rags to riches story that prove Black Girl Magic is very real.
4. “Styling Hollywood”
If fashion is your passion, Adair Curtis, interior designer to the stars, and his partner, celebrity stylist Jason Bolden, should serve as the ultimate motivation. In their Netflix docu-series “Styling Hollywood,” the couple shows us how they run an empire merging both of their careers. Curtis and Bolden lift under the hood of their glossy photoshoots and red carpets moments, and show us the hard work and grace under pressure that’s required to work with A-list clients. It’s life, love and business advice all wrapped into one.
5. “Black Hollywood: They’ve Gotta Have Us”
Through this gripping three-part Netflix series, “They’ve Gotta Have Us” is the ultimate guidebook for black creatives on surviving while black in the film industry. It gives viewers a timely look at the impact of art, activism, and race on black cinema over three generations. John Singleton, Robert Townsend and Barry Jenkins are just a few of the famous faces present in this project. You don’t have to be in the film industry to appreciate its messages of survival and pride.
6. “Next In Fashion”
In this fashion competition series, designers travel from far and wide to compete for a $250,000 prize and the chance to become the next big thing in fashion. Viewers may particularly be drawn to the stories of two urban designers, who were there to prove streetwear and urban fashion deserved its fair share of the spotlight. This show is all about fighting for your dream in the face of every obstacle.
7. “Kevin Hart: Don’t F*ck This Up”
Kevin Hart is a certified hustler. This series gave watchers a look into the comedy titan’s daily life and the struggles that he overcame to become one of the highest-paid comedians in history. His days usually start with 5 a.m. workouts and are followed by a series of meetings, travel and family obligations. Hart proves that he’s one of the hardest working men in show business, and that it takes many sacrifices to achieve the success he has. It serves as a reminder that to whom much is given, much is required. Hustlers, take notes!