THE OPEN SHOW

Speedsuit Powers was on the “Open” show—hosted by Daren Jaime!  It’s amazing how fast a 10-15 minute interview goes on television. It was over just as things were getting good.  My stomach was churning and my mouth was drying out as my segment approached; me…the guy who has shot hundreds of hours of video from Africa to China, produced interviews for various clients and coached them to be comfortable in front of the camera… I was nervous. As they turned on my microphone and did sound checks, I could hear my heart pounding.  It’s different being in front of the camera on a live show where they can’t edit out your mistakes.

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(”Open” host: Daren Jaime and author, Allen Paul Weaver III)

KEEP PRESSING FORWARD…

But I prayed and pressed forward, remembering not to look at the cameras, but to focus on the discussion, listen to Daren Jaime’s questions and comments, and speak from my heart about the issues.  This is how someone avoids a ‘crash and burn’ in front of a television audience of thousands, the crew, and the other invited quests.

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(Daren Jaime and Allen Paul Weaver III discuss ways to impact youth)

After discussing the storyline of Speedsuit Powers, the motivation behind the book, the cover artwork, the rising tide of school bullying and what the community can do to make a difference in the lives of our youth—the result was a room full of people who were excited to know more about my book, me as an author and ways to make an impact.  Several people shared stories about youth they felt would benefit from this epic urban adventure called Speedsuit Powers.

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(Assistant, Bharati Kemiaj and host, Daren Jaime presented with their copy of Speedsuit Powers)

A FIRST AMONG MANY…

This was my first television interview for anything created by my heart, mind and hands. It was humbling.  One of the greatest things I learned during this experience was that, an interview is over quick—so live in the moment.  Be there in the discussion; because afterwards you will have to continue to live on purpose.  So take every moment and don’t try to forecast into the future. Just be there and enjoy the ride.

Several opportunities have already presented themselves because I showed up to a single interview, pressed through my fear and spoke from my passion to impact lives and bring hope.  Who knows where things will lead?  I’m just grateful to God for being able to have this opportunity. 

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(Invited guests of “Open”: musician/actor, political analyst, author, filmmaker, Census Bureau reps)

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(crew and guests of “Open” 11.18.09)

-Allen Paul Weaver III-