Meet Brian, also known as B-Mack. You might recognize his vibrant personality from The Morning Show on 99.9 Sun FM.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
Penticton... I've lived in Kelowna for 7 years now.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My wife, because she is a goddamn riot! My better half, my co-pilot and the funniest person I know. I love that woman!
What is your favourite local store in Kelowna and why?
RW & Co, as I've gotta dress for success, and I usually get my suit attire and accessories there... you should SEE my 'nice clothes' closet! It's straight up baller status...
Describe yourself in one word.
Maniac.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Scotland to St Andrews Golf Course, to experience one of the most classic golf courses in the world. A place my grandparents both golfed many years ago.
What is your favourite activity in Kelowna?
GOLF.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Can't think of something specifically big or memorable, but I do embarrassing stuff often, like looking for my phone while it's in my hand, or looking for my glasses when I'm literally wearing them on my freakin' face!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
I was paralyzed from my neck down from Guillain-Barre Syndrome and had to learn how to walk again at 26 years old. GOOGLE IT! It's crazy... After recovery it inspired me to stop talking about the things I wanted to do and start DOING the things I wanted to do. It's been one hell of a ride ever since.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
Trick or Treating from door to door in my hometown Penticton. We would get SOOOO much candy and I was addicted to it all... and guess what. I STILL AM.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I am lucky enough to work in an industry that allows me to help many different charities and fundraisers, through emceeing and/or DJing. I am most proud of 'B Mack & Karly's Cold Weather Clothing Drive' which helps Inn From the Cold keep hundreds of people in need warm and clothed. We were so humbled last year when our total amount of items was over 3000, and we hope to do the same again this year, or far surpass it!
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
Eliminate Hate to make inclusion for everyone
Where would you sneak away to in Kelowna to spend some time alone?
Mission Creek Park walking trails... So peaceful and great for your mental health
Where would you like to see positive change in Kelowna and why?
The homelessness situation in Kelowna is bad, and there have been lots of talk and attempts at improving this situation, but it feels like we still have a long way to go. I DO however see a positive change on the horizon.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
Forward moving city that seems to be thriving. It's big enough to be entertained in many different ways, but small enough to not feel like a rat race. After living in big cities like Toronto & Calgary, the traffic here is quite a relief.
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
Babies!
Frontman for a cover band
Own a golfboard.
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
That I was paralyzed from the neck down! Please see above for more... :)
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
What is the name of your business/organization?
B Mack Productions & 99.9 Sun FM
Why did you get into/start this business?
I was born to entertain.
What is the goal of your business?
To DJ and/or MC the hell out of your event!
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Dealing with my Crohn's & Colitis is a constant struggle. Most foods are not good for your guts with Crohn's, even the stuff that's supposed to be good for you, like super greens and nuts.
If you could start all over again would you do things the same or would things be different?
My life is way too awesome to want to change anything. Don't mean to sound like a braggart, but I am way too happy to consider changing my path.
What do you always find yourself saying?
It can always be worse...
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
Travel overseas, and do it alone... It humbles you, educates you and opens up your mind while helping you understand life a bit better.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Gene Ween, the lead singer of my favourite band Ween. I have loved him for decades and think he is the greatest of all time... he gets so much better with age.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
Strengthens our community and is a win win for everyone.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Winning Best of Kelowna and Best of the Okanagan twice in a row was amazing, but I'm most proud of reaching Top 40 Under 40 here in Kelowna this year.
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
My co-host Karly who is my better half when it comes to work. She puts herself out there every single morning and has inspired SO many people through her stories of her crazy life. Especially young girls look up to her, and I find that to be commendable
My choice for the KelownaNow In Focus spotlight is:
Karly Fiddes, my co-host on Sun FM and an inspiration to many!
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Thanks for having me back on IN FOCUS! A lot has changed since the last time, only a few years back. :)
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great. Thank you, Kelowna!