BE Modern Man is an integrative program that honors the essence, image, and accomplishments of today’s man of color. With features of today’s leaders, executives, creatives, students, politicians, entrepreneurs, professionals, and agents of change—these men share the common thread of creating a new normal while setting the bar in tech, art, philanthropy, business, and beyond. The BE Modern Man is making a positive impact, his way, and has a story to tell.
BE Modern Man Capone Lee
Age: 50
Profession: Comedian and Actor
Social Media: Facebook: @caponelee | Twitter: @comediancapone | Instagram: @comediancapone
One Word That Describes You: Gangsta
What does being one of the BE Modern Man 100 Honorees mean to you?
It means a lot. I’ve been part of the Black Enterprise family for a few years now so I take pride in being acknowledged. For me to come from the hood and constantly be told you will never be anything—so regardless of the timing, this reward is priceless!
What are you doing as a BEMM to help support black male achievement now or in the future?
I try to encourage and keep up with current events that concern black people and the realities of being a black person. I always characterize my brothers and sisters, whether it’s while giving a speech or in a comedy routine. I always try to influence and enlighten anyway I can.
What are some examples of how you turned struggle into success?
Discipline, faith, and the voice of my mother telling me to never give up.
What is your “Extraordinary Impact”?
Laughter is a cure for something that has not been diagnosed. I’ve had women walk up to me with problems and say I helped them fight them with my jokes. I’ve had men who have been abusive say I helped them through my comedy. I think I’m a vessel from God to help certain situations.
What is an important quality you look for in your relationships with others?
I look for loyalty.
What are some immediate projects you are working on?
A one-man show at The Apollo for Mother’s Day, Friday, May 11. Also my movie, Hearts Not Included, that I wrote and produced. Right now, I am shooting the pilot but will shoot the feature at a later date.
What is the best advice you ever received?
Don’t ever let anything stagnate my imagination.
What is some advice you have for other men who want to make a difference?
If you’re gonna make a difference, make sure you’re makng a difference.
How do you prep for an important business meeting and/or event?
Pray, meditate, accept the butterflies and give it everything I got.
As a busy Modern Man, how do you unwind on vacation?
I do a lot of meditating, and lots of researching, and listen to a great deal of motivational speeches. My favorite speaker is Tony Robbins. His voice is very distinct and trustworthy, and I dig his words.
If you could travel and stay anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
I would go back to Thailand. That place really digs deep into people’s calmness. Growing up in the hood, I have learned to cherish being calm.
Anything else you’d like to say?
I hope this is more powerful for you than it is for me. “Mama we made it!”
It’s our normal to be extraordinary. Follow @BEModernMan and join the conversation using #BEModernMan.
Come celebrate the BE Modern Man 100 Men of Distinction at the 2nd Annual Black Men XCEL, Aug. 29–Sept. 2, 2018, at PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
Photo Credit: The Washington Post