Maze Jackson has a diverse background of experience in the worlds of business, politics, and community engagement. For over 25 years, Jackson has been lobbying for high-profile clients, creating community-based solutions and driving the discussions that shape impactful policies.
Jackson has been featured on ABC, CBS, the New York Times, Chicago Sun-Times, and a variety of other high profile media outlets, and can be heard daily on WVON 1690 AM on the “WVON Morning Show.”
As vice president of business development at The Intelligence Group, Maze focuses on utilizing his network of experienced vendors, institutional relationships, and effective tactics to create strategies that allow The Intelligence Group to achieve clients’ goals. Maze shares his thoughts on fatherhood.
What legacy are you leaving for your children and the children of your community? Ideally, a trust fund, LBVS, but beyond that a work ethic, values, and a sense of responsibility to help other people. We have been blessed, my mother calls it a “hedge of protection prayed around us!” I want them t leave them that same hedge.
How would you describe your fatherhood culture?
Laid-back, encouraging, but a little out of step with modern times, for my kids’ tastes. I like to let them learn from experience, with lessons taught and gentle guidance.
From a father’s perspective, what two books would you recommend every child read? Rich Dad, Poor Dad and The 48 Laws of Power.
Why is it important to expose children to education and valuable skills?
Exposure period is the key. You can’t know what you like, love, dislike if you are not exposed to it.
As a father and a life coach, describe your playbook.
It’s OK to imagine, explore, and do something different, just know your stuff. Think before you act and remember the goal is never to lose or be even … it’s to come out ahead. If it doesn’t do that then it’s probably not a good idea.
Which fatherhood experiences have taught you the most about yourself?
School projects and seeing my teenager daughter begin to make adult decisions.
What insightful advice would you suggest about building a network?
The better your network, the better the opportunities to provide for your family. If you surround yourself and family with Black Excellence you will be Black Excellence.
Why should you read every day?
To be prepared to be a productive member of society and to get ahead.
Name one life lesson that no one taught you, but should have.
The importance of literally taking time out to be alone with yourself and your thoughts.
How important is keeping your word?
Word is bond is real. It’s as simple as that if you ask me!
When it comes to protecting yourself at all times, physically and mentally, what would you tell your children?
Your mind is your best weapon, a physical altercation is the last resort, but always be aware and prepared for your surroundings. If you ever want to leave…leave. Tell Doughboy stop the car.
What advice would you give on being responsible for your own dreams?
Unlike a lot of people, you have a great start, and my goal is to put you I the best position to be the best at whatever you want to be, but you have to be the best. I can’t do it for you.
Finish the sentence:
Never give up on yourself because:
You are a Jackson, we never give up!
How does following your spiritual values help you in life?
I was born with spiritual values that have guided my life, even when I tried to go against them. I believe that my family has a spiritual legacy that allows me to know that God has me regardless of the situation. I used to feel corny saying it, but I firmly believe it’s true!
Share one of your fondest memories you’ve experienced with your father, grandfather or father figure:
Just plain old going fishing.
Why is writing down your fatherhood goals for life so important?
I actually haven’t written them down so thanks for that, but mainly, I just want to be able to provide my children with the opportunity to be anything they want to be, whether schooling, startup, business or entertainment. I want their father’s name to mean something for them that they can build on!
