Have you ever considered whether you really respect your natural talents and gifts? Ted Williams of Columbus, Oh, respects his. Even on a cold winter's day, on a street corner near where he lives (but not for long) on the streets of Columbus, Ted respects his gift. Watch this video to see what I mean.
See? Ted, who worked in radio before falling prey to drugs, alcohol, and homelessness, won't just perform for you for free. He only gives you his best voice if you exchange the privilege of hearing it for a dollar. After this video went viral this week, Ted received job offers from all kinds of businesses, from radio stations to credit unions (for voice over work). He won't be living under a bridge for much longer.
Of course we should all make sure we do something every day for someone who will never be able to pay us anything for it. But outside of the occasions when you intentionally give something away, make sure you charge what it's (and you) are worth. Lead by example. Show others that you respect your gift and they will do the same.
Congratulations, Ted! Thank you for showing us that everyone can create their own job and be a consumer-business owner. We can bail our own selves out.
We don't have to rely on the government or anyone else to do that for us. Thank you for sharing your gift, and for setting an example for everyone: never give up, share your gift, and make sure you are paid fairly for it.
UPDATE: According to this MSNBC article, Ted has been offered a job with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and will be featured on NBC's Today Show any day now.
Question: Do you respect gifts and talents you have to offer the world? Are you charging a fair price for your talents? Fair for you and for your customers?
I kept seeing this video pop up over the airwaves today and figured it was just another feel-good story. I really can’t believe how affected I am by his story now that I’ve seen the video. Such a powerful message. Very moving!
I know. When I showed it to my husband, I watched for a reaction when Ted started speaking. My husband was in the media industry for years. His mouth dropped when he heard Ted’s voice. The man was made for radio. Thanks for watching and sharing your feedback.
A beautiful story and a great way to start the year. As an artist, I pledge to work harder this year to respect my talents and the talents of others more!
I’m so excited to hear that. I once hear rapper JayZ say that the “starving artist” does not exist except in the minds of the people who make money on the artistic talents of others. He was speaking a bit tongue-in-cheek I think, but his point was well taken. He said agents and companies backing artists need to perpetuate the myth of the “starving artist” so they can continue to take a big percentage of the profits made on an artists talent. Kind of funny, but not. Anyway, I see a lot of talented INDIES buying into the idea that they can’t charge a lot for their products and still be respected as artists. Poppycock! Thanks for stopping by!
This is awesome, thanks for sharing!
I saw this yesterday on the news and when I watched it again on YouTube, jaw dropped! His voice was so incredible and truly characterized the perfect pitch for radio.
I truly hope someone gives him a shot…I think he would even be great at voice over for movie trailers. Hey Hollywood, if you’re listening….a contender to be sure.
Katherine: Looks like he got his shot! He was on The Today Show last week!
Hey, I know that intersection! Its my hometown.