Josh Rodgers

AFROTECH STAFF

Josh Rodgers

Lover of Culture. Curator of Motivation. Advocate for Equity. Josh Rodgers is a writer and content creator originally from Memphis, TN. Along with AfroTech, Josh's work can be seen on Blavity News, Travel Noire, Shadow & Act, and Buzzfeed. When he isn't writing, he can be found on the mic as the co-host and founder of The Jigsaw Podcast - a platform dedicated to helping Black millennials attempt to navigate the craziest puzzle piece ever created, life.

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Articles493

Denzel Washington As The Only Black Actor On Forbes Highest Paid List Shows That The Hollywood Pay Gap Is Still An Issue

From movements like #OscarsSoWhite to constant stories about pay inequity in the entertainment industry, it is no real surprise that when Forbes released a list of the 2023 highest-paid actors in Hollywood, CA, there was a lack of diversity. The lone Black indigenous person of color (BIPOC) named on the list at number 10 was veteran actor Denzel Washington. Financial earnings for marginalized groups compared to their white counterparts is not a new social justice issue. However, due to some public knowledge regarding celebrity salaries, it is hard to ignore the significant differences in pay that Black actors receive. The most noticeable pay gap is the gender inequities between actors who identify as men or women. According to the National Partnership for Women and Families, Black actresses typically make an estimated 64 cents for every dollar white, non-Hispanic male actors make. This number increases to 68 cents for Black women producers and directors. While advocates for Black...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 28, 2024

12 Millionaires & Billionaires Who Got Their Big Break After 25, Now They Have Massive Careers And Empires

When it comes to turning dreams into reality, hard work, dedication, perseverance, and opportune moments are more critical to success than an arbitrary timeline based on age. However, society continues to pressure people to grind harder and rest less, as if patience isn’t a virtue. History has proven that time is only a construct, noting that it is never too late to manifest dreams. Whether they had a breakout moment in their late 20s or figured out the secret formula in their 30s, these celebrities prove that dreams never expire. Jay-Z The 54-year-old rap legend didn’t have his breakout moment until he dropped his first album, Reasonable Doubt , at age 26. He is now an accomplished billionaire in the music game, with several businesses and investments in his portfolio. Lupita Nyong’o View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lupita Nyong’o (@lupitanyongo) Many people’s first introduction to Nyong’o was her performance in the critically acclaimed film “12 Years A Slave.” Although...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 28, 2024

Just Like His Crossover Musical Taste, Nelly's Diverse Business Portfolio Helps Him Maintain His $70M Net Worth

The early-to-mid-2000s was a particularly unique era in rap music. From the tall white T-shirts to the emergence of popular dance trends, rappers during this era kept listeners hungry to keep up with every trend they introduced. Nelly was among those influential rappers. Born Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., Nelly burst onto the music scene in 2000 with his debut album, “Country Grammar.” The album and its title track earned Grammy nominations during the 2001 awards, prompting insight into the rapper’s trajectory. The current father of four would experience more success following his debut release with other songs such as “Hot in Herre,” “Air Force Ones,” and “Pimp Juice.” Nelly’s success would land him additional Grammy nominations, with him eventually earning three awards, according to the Grammys website. While the St. Louis, MO-raised rapper experienced significant success in the music industry, he did not subject himself to staying behind the mic. Nelly launched the record label Derrty...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 25, 2024

How Toni Braxton Rose To Fame, Lost It All Twice And Bounced Back With An Estimated $10M Net Worth Today

When one thinks of ’90s R&B, some key icons typically come to mind, including Toni Braxton’s unique and sultry voice. Braxton’s journey began way before her 1992 commercial debut when she was featured on the soundtrack to the comedy/romance film “Boomerang,” starring Eddie Murphy, Robin Givens, and Halle Berry. Several interviews and appearances have documented that Braxton and her family got their musical start in the church. Braxton’s religious upbringing would prove to be a foundation for her musical success. She went on to give the world chart-topping hits like “Un-Break My Heart,” “Breathe Again,” and “Just Be A Man About It.” Her musical contributions earned her critical success and seven Grammy Awards, a testament to her talent and hard work. The Maryland-born singer diversified her entertainment portfolio by appearing on television and in films. According to Playbill, the mother of two became the first and only Black woman to be cast as Belle in the Broadway production of...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 22, 2024

Terrell Owens Earned An Estimated $80M In The NFL But Admits He Lost It After Letting People Control His Finances — 'They Just Basically Stole From Me'

One common argument among sports fans is the GOAT (greatest of all time) conversation. When it comes to the NFL, one of the consistent names that comes to mind is former New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady. However, top-performing players do not start and stop with the leading position. They need wide receivers to throw to, and you can’t ignore Terrell Owens when looking down the history of top-performing athletes at that position. The NFL lists Owens as the No. 6 greatest wide receiver of all time. He had 1,078 receptions, 15,934 yards, and 153 touchdowns during his professional football career. While his high-performing career did not yield him a Super Bowl championship, he was inducted as a 2018 Football Hall of Fame class member. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NFL (@nfl) Terrell Owens, a father of five, had an estimated net worth of $80 million from the height of his career, with most of his earnings coming from on-field play totaling nearly $80 million,...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 21, 2024

A 'Martin' Reunion: How These Former Cast Members, Who Have A Combined Estimated Net Worth Of Nearly $114M, Are Still Making Moves Today

Whether you were born in the 1990s or simply a fan of that era, the sitcom “Martin” was more than just a show. It was a part of your reality, a nostalgic journey that still resonates today. This unique blend of humor and relatability left an indelible mark on ’90s pop culture that people can still feel and cherish. For the years 1992-1997, the 30-minute comedy series “Martin” aired over 130 episodes, bringing viewers countless laughs and unforgettable moments. The show’s magic was not just about the individual performances but about the camaraderie and chemistry of the cast. Martin Lawrence played the character Martin Payne with Tisha Campbell (Gina Waters-Payne), Thomas Mikal Ford (Tommy Strawn), Tichina Arnold (Pamela James), and Carl Anthony Payne II (Cole Brown) playing their iconic roles — each one of them was instrumental in the show’s success, creating a bond that was as solid off-screen as it was on-screen. Week after week, the cast of “Martin” delivered unforgettable...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 14, 2024

Andre 3000 May Have Traded In Rapping For The Flute, But His Estimated $35M Net Worth Proves He's Still On Top Of His Game

Rap enthusiasts have argued that the opening verse to UGK’s “International Players Anthem” by Andre 3000 is one of his most iconic lyrical performances. Everything about it, from powerful world play to the melodic flow, creates the perfect formula for a rap verse. Although this is one example, Andre 3000 is held in regard for his lyrical prowess. Whether it is eclectic combinations with Outkast group mate Antwan “Big Boi” Patton or a smooth feature, fans get excited when Andre 3000’s name is mentioned because they know something great is about to come. Born Andre Lauren Benjamin, the Atlanta, GA, native became famous as a member of Outkast — the iconic rap duo. Andre 3000 and Big Boi would make waves in rap, highlighting the talent, depth, and presence of rappers from the South. During the 1995 Source Awards, Outkast won the award for Best New Artist. In a room filled with tension and clamor from rappers representing the East and West Coasts, Andre 3000 took the mic and, without any...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 13, 2024

Chad Johnson May Have Been Jokingly Named The Cheapest Athlete, But It's Allowed Him To Maintain A $15M Net Worth

Most people have a favorite number, which can lead them to fully embrace it by wearing it as a pendant on a necklace or even as a tattoo. Former NFL wide receiver Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson took it to another level by adding his own spin to his jersey number, 85 — making it his nickname in Spanish. Although he’s built a reputation based on his association with the number, Johnson’s life and legacy go beyond it. Born in Miami, FL, Johnson entered the NFL as the Cincinnati Bengals’ second-round draft pick in 2001. Throughout his career, Johnson completed 766 receptions; 11,059 yards; and 67 touchdowns. While he completed most of these athletic accomplishments with the Bengals for 10 seasons, he also played one year with the New England Patriots, earning a chance to compete in the 2012 “Super Bowl XLVI.” Johnson’s career did not land him the chance to earn the top NFL award as a Super Bowl champion, but his on-field career garnered significant earnings. According to Spotrac, Johnson...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 11, 2024

A Bill To Ban TikTok Is Gaining Major Traction — Here Is What It Could Mean For Users And Black Creators

One of the most viral stories to reach the internet was the 50-part TikTok series, “Who TF Did I Marry?” by TikTok user Reesa Teesa. In it, she described her tumultuous relationship with her ex-husband and the mind-boggling events that led to the ultimate demise of the marriage. Although there has been widespread opinion about her choices, others would not have felt the impact of her story without the TikTok platform. Now, creators like Reesa Teesa and viewers who enjoy the content could soon no longer have a place to gather. Recently, a bill in the House of Representatives advanced that could eliminate TikTok from being used and accessed in the United States. According to CBS News, the Chinese-based social media platform is the subject of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. The 12-page bill was proposed to “protect the national security of the United States from the threat posed by foreign adversary controlled applications,” CBS News...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 11, 2024

Terrence Howard, Who Has An Estimated $4M Net Worth, Shared How He Received ‘Lowball Pay’ Despite His Accolades

If the lyrics to “It’s Hard Out Here For A Pimp” sound familiar, then it’s likely because of its connection to the 2005 film “Hustle and Flow,” starring veteran actor Terrence Howard. Critics and fans could argue that his portrayal in the Memphis, TN-based movie is one of Howard’s most recognizable roles. In it, he makes a solid effort to adapt to the culture and lingo of the mid-Southern city. “My ability to connect with an audience, I feel, was born in Memphis with ‘Hustle & Flow’ and what we shot,” Howard said ahead of the 2023 premiere of “Showdown at the Grand,” per The Daily Memphian. He continued, “Something about that city brings out the very best in me, and maybe it’s just because the city is no frills. It is what it is.” While “Hustle and Flow” may be a high point in his career, it is not the peak. Howard has starred in several films and television shows, including the drama series “Empire” (2015) and movies such as “The Best Man” (1999) and “Iron Man” (2008). The...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 5, 2024

While Viola Davis Has Built An Estimated $25M Fortune, The Actress Once Said She Still Has To ‘Hustle For My Worth’ Compared To Her White Counterparts

For six seasons between 2014 and 2020, Shonda Rhymes had television audiences on lock every Thursday, partially due to the thrilling drama series “How To Get Away With Murder.” Starring the iconic Viola Davis, the hour-long show chronicled the complicated daily life, career, and antics of its main character, Annalise Keating. Although Viola Davis gave viewers a captivating weekly performance, her time on the ABC series was not the first nor last time she would have audiences in a proverbial chokehold, enamored by her acting chops. According to an interview with the Harvard Business Review, Viola Davis was born on a former plantation in Saint Matthews, SC, and raised in poverty. She faced continued racism after moving to Rhode Island. However, her humble beginnings didn’t stop her from discovering her love of acting and using that as a tool for her success. “I had a passion for acting because it was therapeutic. Art heals the mind. Art is supposed to move you, shake you, make you...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 4, 2024

Jay-Z Attributes Yo Gotti’s $100M Net Worth To The Rapper’s Executive Skills — ‘His Business Acumen Is Evident In Every Move He Makes’

In 2006, Yo Gotti released “That’s What’s Up (Intro),” and many from the rapper’s hometown of Memphis, TN, consider it a cultural anthem. The song sets up an open letter to his fans and haters, describing who he is, what he’s been through, and his current and impending impact at the time. Words in the opening lines serve as a preamble and manifest the upward trajectory of Yo Gotti’s success. “…Tha streets been beggin’, so I had to go ‘Back 2 Da Basics.’ This the intro to my life, entry to my world.” Although this mid-2000s track was an introduction of sorts, the song was not his entry point into the rap game. Born Mario Mims, Yo Gotti is a Memphis native who released his first musical work in 1996, titled “Youngsta’s On A Come Up,” under the alias Lil Yo. And a come-up was precisely what he’d experienced. Throughout his multi-decade career, Yo Gotti would release popular songs like “Rake It Up,” “I Know,” “Law,” and “Down in the DM” — working with top artists such as Nick Minaj,...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 1, 2024

Nicki Minaj Was The First Female Rapper To Amass A $100M Fortune — Here's Where Her Net Worth Sits Today

Whether rap fans agree or not, one thing that cannot be disputed is Nicki Minaj’s commercial success. A proud native of Trinidad and Tobago, Minaj took the rap game by storm with explosive creativity, catchy lyrics, and bass-pounding beats. While the 41-year-old entered the game with mixtapes and songs that still get the people moving, many Hip-Hop enthusiasts would argue that her verse on Kanye West’s “Monster” set her apart. Like her song “Starships,” Nicki Minaj’s career has catapulted her into chart-topping levels and garnered her uncanny influence. According to Billboard, Nicki Minaj has produced three No. 1 hits and had 23 of her songs become top ten singles. Her 2022 single, “Super Freaky Girl,” made history for the rapper. Billboard reports that “The track is Minaj’s first Hot 100 No. 1 as an unaccompanied artist and her third overall.” This was also the first time a Hip-Hop song by a solo woman would chart this way since Lauryn Hill’s “Doo Wop (That Thing)” in 1998. Minaj...

Josh Rodgers

Mar 1, 2024

Sheryl Lee Ralph’s 2 Children, Etienne And Ivy Maurice, Open Wellness Studio Alongside Their Cousin Marley Ralph, Which Offers Yoga Classes

Self-care is not only a vibe, but it’s necessary. With many people tapping into what it means to engage in self-care, the concept has manifested itself in many forms. One of the ways people have historically engaged in self-care is through yoga. And WalkGood Yard provides spaces for yoga enthusiasts of all levels.

Josh Rodgers

Feb 26, 2024

'Real Cousins' Niecy Nash-Betts, Danielle Brooks, And Sterling K. Brown Make Waves In Hollywood With An Estimated Combined Net Worth Of $16M

Play cousins is a cultural euphemism often adopted by the Black community. Through friendships, community organizations, and many other ties — people routinely choose their family regardless of bloodlines. However, in some unpredictable ways, those who could’ve been regarded as play cousins have actual biological connections. Niecy Nash-Betts brought this to the forefront, revealing she is related to fellow actors Danielle Brooks and Sterling K. Brown. In an Instagram post, the 53-year-old actress shared a picture posing with Brooks and Brown, congratulating them on their Oscar nominations and announcing to the world that the trio are blood-related cousins. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Niecy Nash (@niecynash1) “Both of my COUSINS are OSCAR NOMINATED ‼️‼️ Yes! We are blood-related! REAL cousins!” Nash-Betts wrote in the caption of her post. “I’m so proud of my fam! @thedaniellebrooks @sterlingkbrown I’m rooting for you!” Brooks, 34, is a first-time Oscar nominee for her...

Josh Rodgers

Feb 22, 2024