Stephen Wilkes & Night Train 357 shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Stephen & Night, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day typically start around 4:00 am/5:00 am. I meditate, stretch, and head to the gym for an hour session. Then I wash up, make breakfast, and start the rest of the day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Stephen “Night Train 357”. I’m an award-winning emcee and full-time award-winning graphic artist. My name is based on my late father’s CB radio name, Night Train 357. He was a bass guitar player in the DMV. Recently, I’ve co-written several independent films, won awards for two, received my 3rd degree black belt in martial arts, and released a new Hip-Hop album entitled Affirmations.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
When my father died, it changed how I saw the world. Suddenly, it acted like a shock to my system and is a constant reminder that tomorrow is not promised today. Since his death and the passing of many other loved ones, I strive to be the best version of myself to honor their memory. I’m not perfect, but that’s part of the [life] journey. It was a turning point where my world was turned upside down, and it was my responsibility to set it right.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that holds me back is failure. I’m afraid I’m not good enough or that I’m not worth it. This is something I tackle to this day, thus the title of my album, Affirmations. The album is about positive self-talk and reaffirming one’s value and purpose.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say what matters to me most is my family and friends. My connections with them are everything. I wouldn’t be who I am if I didn’t have them in my life.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
I regret not believing in myself earlier. Life was a little scripted. There were plenty of examples around me of what I thought life would be. I thought you’d go to school, get a job, maybe get married, have kids, and that’s it. But there’s so much more to life than doing the basics. There are so many experiences and endeavors to pursue if you remain a little open-minded.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://nighttrain357.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nighttrain357/
- Twitter: https://x.com/train357
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nighttrain357/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nighttrain357
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/nighttrain357
- Other: https://nighttrain.bandcamp.com/
