Make it Make Cents: A Conversation with LaShawnn D. Edwards II
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with one of my closest friends, LaShawnn, about his entrepreneurial journey. LaShawnn D. Edwards II is a native of Chicago, IL - though he currently resides in Las Vegas, NV. He is also a graduate of one of the top HBCUs in the nation, Hampton University. LaShawnn is a multifaceted entrepreneur whose skill-set has not limit - he is a master barber, communication specialist, investor, clothing designer and much more. All of these subset ventures form to create Living Legend Enterprise.
It is currently 3:30 AM PST and LaShawnn is waking up to begin his day. His morning routine is simple: he executes a few trades in the market, schedules his social media posts for the week, and is also in the midst of designing jerseys for his youth basketball team.
Aside from what already seems to be a busy morning routine, what is a day in the life like for you?
A typical day for me is nonstop - from the time I open my eyes, I am focused. I take a while in the morning and use that time for myself. I get to work as I watch the sun come up. I grind until it goes back down.
Tell me more about Living Legend Enterprise.
Living Legend Enterprise is a privately held lifestyle company. LLE’s goal is to strengthen the next generation by showing them how to better leverage their creativity, talent, and intelligence to create a better quality of life for themselves.
What does Make it Make Cents mean to you?
Make it Make Cents - this is a motto I live by. I have been told by family and friends I am always business all the time. I am always ready to capitalize and seize every moment.
You are emerging as one of the next leaders in entrepreneurship, why is this important to you?
I am humbled and blessed to do what I love. I think it is important to tell my story because it is very unconventional and it shows you can literally do anything. I have sold million dollar properties, worked with tech leaders internationally, and started multiple businesses all just to survive. I want to show young talented people how to harness that raw talent in whatever field and make themselves a business.
Why and how did you get into the professional barbershop business?
My father got me into barbering when I was a kid. At about 9 years old he gave me the official barber school book and I was just in awe of how someone could transform another person just from cutting their hair. When I got to college, I was dropped off with $200, ambition, and some clippers - so I made my way.
What are your short and long term goals for LLE?
The short term goal is to continue to gain assets and capital for future growth. Long term I will have different centers globally to help the young talented youth and their parents receive economic freedom. I want to continue to expand! I want to own businesses in multiple sectors to help make a difference and close the economic gap. Such sectors include tech, education, community outreach, and venture capital.
What is an interesting fact about you others would be surprised to know?
I also love science I originally began studying to be an oncologist in the military.
What is one of your favorite albums that you currently have on repeat?
“MAILBOX MONEY NIPSEY HUSSLE THA GREAT"