Story & Lesson Highlights with Phax 100 of Kansas City, Kansas

We recently had the chance to connect with Phax 100 and have shared our conversation below.

Phax, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
All three……. intelligence, energy, and integrity are important to me because they work hand in hand. Integrity matters most when it comes to trust; if someone doesn’t value integrity, it’s hard for me to trust them. Energy is equally important because it connects to intuition and gut instinct trusting your gut often guides you in the right direction. Intelligence is also vital, as it gives us the tools to think critically and overcome obstacles. Together, these qualities create a strong foundation for both personal and professional success.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Joshua Ferguson, but I go by Phax 100. I’m an artist who uses storytelling and pain in my music to speak on real-life experiences from growing up in Miami, Life in general, relationships, and navigating the streets. My music reflects the perspective of someone who has been misunderstood but chooses to lead others away from the same traps. What makes my brand unique is the authenticity every lyric comes from lived experiences, lessons, and growth. Right now, I’m focused on expanding my reach, connecting with listeners worldwide, and building platforms that not only showcase my music but also inspire the next generation. I’m also the founder of Miami Blendz, a smoothie bowl brand built on health, flavor, and community. What makes Miami Blendz special is our focus on stomach-friendly superfruit bowls, a healthier alternative that tastes just as good as it looks. Coming from Miami, I wanted to bring vibrant, tropical flavors to people in a way that supports wellness and energy. I’m currently working on growing Miami Blendz into a household name, providing people with delicious options that make healthy living simple and enjoyable.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed I wasn’t good enough for this world and often thought I wasn’t smart because of the way I was made to feel, especially by my mother. Over time, I grew out of that belief. Through life experience, self-reflection, and resilience, I’ve come to understand my worth, my intelligence, and the value I bring. Today, I know I do belong, and I carry that confidence into everything I do.

What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me resilience in a way that success never could. It forced me to become stronger than most people who never had to endure real hardship. I didn’t have a crutch or much support, which meant I had to learn how to stand on my own. Of course, support would have helped shorten the struggle and sped up the journey to success, but the lessons I gained through suffering gave me an inner strength, patience, and perspective that success alone could never teach.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes and no. The public version of me is real, but it’s only one side of who I am. I tend to keep my distance because, in today’s world, people can often be rude or disrespectful. Even so, I make it a point to stay respectful myself, because one negative encounter doesn’t mean everyone deserves that treatment. If someone takes the time to really get to know me, they’ll see that I can be one of the coolest and most genuine people they’ve ever met. I’m very protective of and loyal to those who honor and respect me.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
What I understand deeply, that many people don’t, is the reality of being a Black man in this world. Racism is not something of the past, it still exists, and it shapes the way I’m seen and treated. The judgment can come from every culture, whether through looks, energy, or the silence of being ignored because of my skin color and hairstyle. It’s draining to feel like I have to prove myself every single day just to be seen as equal. No matter where I go, I know I’ll be judged negatively at times simply because of the race I am and carrying that weight is something most people that’s non black never have to think about.

Image Credits
Joshua Ferguson