This week’s feature is Mark Wiggins, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of the new hit magazine, Off the Bench!

I sat down with Mark to discuss his magazine, as well as the importance of using his voice as a Black man in the community.

What is the mission of your magazine, Off The Bench?

“The mission of Off the Bench is to provide quality media products and services that encourage, inspire, and motivate people to move from the bench to the starting line-up in life and elevate their lifestyle.”

Why do people have a hard time “getting off the bench?”

“To get off the bench takes work. Well, it’s not just work, it’s effort, well not just effort, but consistent effort. Many are not sure what they should do because they are waiting for permission from others. Unfortunately, the number of those who used to give us permission is now smaller, and don’t want you to leave them on the bench. So, to get off the bench requires that you move into a fresh box, pond, or level and stand by yourself. That is a sacrifice that many do not want to make. Change is a beast, but that beast is tamable if you change your mindset and surround yourself with a network that will support you, not hold you back.”

Why is it important to be a Black male voice in today’s time?

“I think it is more important not just to be a voice, but use your voice, your stage, your influence and network to facilitate change. We have been speaking for decades, but I think that urgency in the message has elevated the frequency and energy so that now more than ever people are hearing the Black male message.” 

What message do you have for the community as we prepare for Mental Health Awareness month in May specifically for Black men?

“We see more now than ever that mental health is important. There has been a rise in people seeking professional help to deal with a variety of concerns. Being in the house for over a year, the political, social indifference, world events, injustice, and total disregard for life, all that adds up. Having a mental health professional or advisor on your team is the new secret weapon to achieving success. They could be a counselor, therapist, Life Coach, or religious leader. Find someone to assist you. Also, make sure that you are accountable to another Black man. Stop looking away when you can help AND ask for help instead of walking away. We need that support from each other right now. We have work to do. You also need a wellness plan to go along with your mental health plan. Getting in shape, meditation, hot yoga, walking, and having a healthier diet are positive ways to take part in your destiny and change the trajectory of your legacy. Last, to the Kings out there, I say to you, “Get your crown!” The kingdom and the community demand your return to power and influence, and we will not be a greater community until.”  

Do you have any events or activities that you would like to share?

We have a couple of events coming up in May. My Off the Bench Live Birthday edition will be on May 16th. It will be a hybrid event that will stream on social media on Instagram at OTBmagazine and on Facebook at Speakerman87 and will also air on my YouTube channel Off the Bench Live. This event will feature speakers and authors and my birthday motivational message. You can subscribe to the Off the bench Magazine at www.offthbenchmagazine.com. If you are looking to get your message in front of more people, reach out to me at success@offthebenchmagazine.com.

We are always looking for contributing authors and speakers with a platform. If you need help learning how to tell your story so you can sell your story, and your story is your product, idea, or service, consider joining my speaker training program. 

Do you have any last words for our readers today? 

As always, I will leave you with this. “If you can reach your dreams with a stepladder, then they are probably too low!”