6/5 - Health & Hip-Hop

RECAP

- Jason Berry, a Hip Hop legend, and former manager of Eminem's DJ, Green Lantern, once weighed over 350 lbs

- Over the years, he has undergone significant weight loss, so much so that many people who haven't seen him in years don't recognize him.

- His weight loss journey began as a fight against kidney failure, a battle that lasted over a decade, culminating in a kidney transplant over three years ago.

- Kidney problems, diabetes, and high blood pressure are prevalent in Berry’s family, prompting him to change his lifestyle for his health and to be present for his family.

- The demanding lifestyle of the music industry, characterized by late nights, club activities, and unhealthy eating habits, contributed to his health decline.

- Initially not taking his kidney diagnosis seriously, Berry was forced to reflect and commit to a healthier lifestyle after beginning dialysis, having to connect to a machine every night.

- Facing challenges like infections from dialysis tubes, he transitioned to Hemodialysis at a clinic, prioritizing his health over work.

- The transplant process is variable by state; Berry traveled to Florida for his transplant due to shorter wait times and specialized hospital care. People on the list face hurdles like being periodically disqualified if sick, but Berry seized the opportunity for surgery once he had a donor.

- Recognizing the impact of health issues on Black communities, Berry aims to be a role model, spreading awareness and promoting healthy habits within the Hip Hop community.

- He is organizing a "Health & Hip Hop" festival in Inglewood, set for Spring 2026, to combine music and culture with health promotion, striving to foster good health awareness through the influential platform of Hip Hop.

Julie Pilat - CGO, FYI

Roneal Madlani - Head of Community, FYI

Sean Kantrowitz - Director of Media & Content, FYI

Emily Choi - Content Producer, FYI

Frankie Sandoval - Screen & Design, FYI

Meka Lolita - Music Curation, FYI

Aminah Muhammad - Social Media, FYI

Karmen Huerta - RAiDiO Content Producer, FYI

Markus Nielsen-Kolding - Product, FYI

Jafet Chavez - Product, FYI

Giuliana Rodriguez - Product, FYI

— — —
Jason Berry - Guest of Honor

Anis Taylor - Producer

JT - Writer / Producer

Kristin Juel - Founder | Juel Concepts

LDorado Jonez - Artist

Viviana Montalvo - Designer
DJ Teo - Music Supervisor

Ural Garrett - Know Your Rights Camp

Memo NOC - Creative Director

James B. Golden - Keynote Speaker

Rachel - Artist

Dr. Malcolm Jones - Professor

Kai Urbany - Musician

Howie Miura - Music Consultant

Mel - Wellness Warrior

OFTN - Artist

Yulia Gonzalez - Social Media Director

santedubois - Artist

Donita Rose - Singer / Songwriter

Brian Gray - Music Exec.

Hadiyah Robinson - TV Writer / App Developer

Goal: Help everyone get the most out of FYI for Mac

3 Ways People Can Support:

1. Download and get started with FYI for Mac (if you haven't already)
2. Spread the word amongst your FYI network that we are available for Mac
3. Reach out in our Product Connect group chat with FYI product questions or feedback

Goal:

3 Ways People Can Support:

- SUBSCRIBE TO HIGHER THAN 7

- WATCH A DECADE AT HANK

- ATTEND FC21 LA @ VENICE BEACH on 6/28

Goal:

Help people start or get back into prioritizing their physical health

Ways People Can Support:

- Sign up for the program

- Share with your peers

Goal:

3 Ways People Can Support: