After a short stint as a professional basketball player, Marcus Malone shut down his athletic career and tapped into his more creative, entrepreneurial side by opening a barbershop/beauty salon in 2011. After establishing that business, Marcus quickly got into fashion by using the retail side to gain experience until he figured out exactly what he wanted to do in the industry.
His retail job moved him to Chicago where he faced many challenges, but soon envisioned a new children’s clothing line, Lunch Box Crew, which was inspired by his godchild. Lunch Box Crew tells the story of the time where kids can express themselves and find their personality and friends. The knowledge Marcus gained from working retail helped him shape his image of how to run a retail business and how to market and merchandise products while building a customer base.
While leveraging his professional sports relationships in retail to help market his brand, Marcus came up with a TV show concept titled “Athletes In Fashion.” AIF provides an in-depth look at an athlete’s fashion and style, and gives fans an inside look at players’ interests outside of their respective sport.
Now Marcus is perfecting both his children’s clothing line and film company, among other things.
Rolling out caught up the creative to gain insight on what inspires him every day, his favorite role models, and books that have change his life.
What inspires you to show up for work every day?
My determination to give the world the vision God has given me.
To show others they can do it too and to empower them as well as my team.
To show a doubter or a hater to never doubt and/or hate on me; it only makes me go harder when I feel like giving up.
How did you determine your career path?
With my basketball career being cut short due to nagging injuries, I focused on my intellectual talents to be a creator and fill voids I saw to my liking in the design and film world.
Who do you consider your peers in your field?
Zo from Chicago-based clothing brand Fashion Geek.
On the film side, I’d have to say NBA player Baron Davis. As an entrepreneur, I’d have to say, NBA players Bobby Simmons and Mike James.
Name your favorite role models for success in two different industries.
50 Cent: His business acumen, discipline, and work ethic are unmatched. He just flat out relentless.
Kobe Bryant: He’s just never satisfied with what he’s accomplished and never takes a day off outside of being a true champion.
Names three books that changed your outlook on life and that you recommend to others?
Resilience: Faith, Focus, Triumph by Alonzo Morning
The Power of Broke: by Daymond John
The Bible (King James Version)
Define your personal culture.
The knowledge of God and his son Jesus Christ, the mindset of lifting others up, setting trends, enjoying the process of who I’m becoming.
