Interview: Bad Boy World Entertainment’s Love H. Whelchel III

Having worked for the likes of K-Force, Young & Rubicam and TBWA/Chiat/Day, Mr. Whelchel is more than prepared to rise to this new challenge.

[Business]

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Bad Boy World Entertainment Group’s new Chief Human Resources Officer, Mr. Love H. Whelchel III. Since graduating from Morris Brown College he has acquired a bevy of knowledge in the fields of advertising, marketing, media and entertainment.  Having worked for the likes of K-Force, Young & Rubicam and TBWA/Chiat/Day, Mr. Whelchel is more than prepared to rise to this new challenge. It will be exciting to watch how his fresh perspective and holistic view on business will take BBWEG to the next level.

BSN: Congratulations on your new position!   I’d like to ask you a few questions and introduce you to our readers.  After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree which focused mainly on Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism, what swayed your career towards advertising and marketing?
LW:  I would have to say that advertising and marketing chose me.  When I graduated from Morris Brown College I thought I’d be the next big hotelier.  The economy was not the best at the time so I went where the opportunities were.

BSN: How will your experiences at K-Force, Young & Rubicam and TBWA/Chiat/Day help you take BBWEG to the next level?
LW: Having worked in diverse fields throughout my career definitely gives me an edge.  I am familiar with how finance, media, entertainment and advertising operate. I’ve seen what worked and what hasn’t.  I’m bringing a fresh perspective to the music industry.

BSN: Is there any one “Rule of Thumb” you never break when conducted business?
LW: Always remain professional.  No matter how your co-workers, clients or bosses behave, never lose your professionalism.

BSN: With over 20 years of HR experience, what are three qualities your employees must possess?
LW: The three qualities I look for are, in this order:  One: Integrity. Two: Passion. Three: Intellectual curiosity.

BSN: Mr. Combs obviously sees qualities in you that he himself possesses, such as diligence and commitment to excellence.  Do you feel any pressure at all to get his “Nod of Approval” on your new ideas and strategies?
LW: That’s a very good question!  I will definitely put more pressure on myself than he would. (laughing!) I am my own worst critic.  If Mr. Combs asks for A, B and C, I’d bring him A,B,C,D,E and F!  I go over and above on all tasks. I overdo everything.

BSN: What is the best thing about your job?
LW: I would have to say that no two days are alike. That may be problematic for some, not for me.  I’m easily bored and always looking for a challenge. There is never a dull moment at BBWEG!  I feel mentally stimulated as soon as I walk into the office.

BSN: What is the worst thing about your job?
LW: I don’t have a “Worst Thing”.  (Laughing!) I’ve been here seven weeks so I’m still “Honeymooning” so to speak.  I’m still quite excited about my new position.  The people I work with are great and Mr. Combs has been very supportive.

BSN: Who was the most influential person in your life?
LW:  I can’t say one person.  I’ve had so many wonderful influences in my life over the years. Starting with my parents, of course.  Also my grandparents on both sides and my wife.  She is amazing!  She is my support and my sounding board.  She helps me keep the balance between my personal and professional life. Also my six year old son, Love H. Whelchel IV.  He is a big motivation for my success.  He is great!

BSN:  Any idea why your parents named you Love?
LW:  I actually do!  My great-grandfather researched our family history back to the 1920’s and 1930’s.  He discovered that the first born son in our family was named Love.  So he changed his name from Henry Whelchel to Love Henry Whelchel.

BSN: That is so cool!  Now with your busy schedule what do you do to relax and unwind?
LW:  I really enjoy bike riding. I rode along the Hudson River this past weekend.  I love all outdoor sports!  Basketball, golf, tennis, you name it, I’ll play it.

BSN: So can we expect to see you at the US Open this summer?
LW: Absolutely!  I enjoy watching the Williams Sisters play.  I’m definitely going to try and catch a few matches there.

BSN: What is on your I-Pod these days?
LW: Well, I am an avid jazz fan. I love Miles Davis and the Rippingtons. But I listen to all different genres of music.  Of course I love hip-hop!  I’m really digging this Jay Z/Kanye West project, it’s great!

BSN:  Describe yourself in one word.
LW:  Passionate.  I am passionate about everything I do, personally and professionally.  I don’t do anything half-way.

BSN:  Tell me about your favorite charity.
LW:  It would be “Ladders for Leaders”.  I’ve been involved with this program since my days at Young & Rubicam.  I’m very big on helping kids in urban cities. I totally support programs that benefit inner-city youth.  I’ve always enjoyed mentoring young people.  It is a wonderful program!  They are some of the brightest, smartest and amazing kids I’ve ever met!

BSN:  So you’re in support of Mayor Bloomberg’s Minority Youth Program?
LW:  Yes!  I look forward to participating in it. I think it’s a great incentive. Much needed in our communities.  I’m proud of Mayor Bloomberg for starting it.

BSN:  How is President Obama doing?
LW:  He is doing a fantastic job!  He is an innovator, doing things this country has never  witnessed.  Fresh ideas!  He can expect to get Love Whelchel’s vote in 2012!

BSN:  He can expect my vote as well!  Now we all have a “Hidden Talent”. What’s yours?
LW:  Most people who know me don’t even know this.  I am an artist!  I can draw, paint, sketch.  I can actually create a painting, and not stick figures either! (laughing!)

BSN: Wow, interesting! Can we look forward to an exhibit from you in the future?
LW:  Maybe one day!

BSN: Mr. Whelchel you are an extremely busy man. I thank you for your time. It was an absolute pleasure speaking with you. Good luck in your new position and GOD bless!
LW: You’re very welcome!  Thank you for your time as well Shuana.  Have a great day!

Needless to say, Mr. Whelchel is all business and all class.  What a delightful man.  We wish him the best on this new endeavor at BBWEG and look forward to speaking with him again in the future.

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