Optimal Attitude: Hamilton Effect with Spoken Word Artist Odd Rod

Resilience. Perseverance. The Hamilton Effect. Roderick “Storyteller Odd?Rod” Borisade, a 20-year veteran of performance,  proves that his message is more important than his words by leaving audiences across the country inspired to push beyond adversity. Coming from a home with a drug-addicted mother and an absent father, Rod suffered from depression as a teen before the death of his brother caused him to fight for his own life. After reprogramming his thoughts, he was able to overcome suicidal considerations and make it through grade school to earn a full scholarship to the University of North Florida. Documenting his journey in a series of poems and performing them at colleges across the country landed him another full scholarship to the University of Alabama where he earned his Master’s Degree in April 2021. His transparent storytelling and rhythmic cadence captivate listeners while providing in-depth observations of surviving real traumatic events like suicide and addiction. He’s been voted APCA’s Spoken Word Artist of the Year 14’,16’,18’, and 22’. He continues to forward his story of dedication and determination to encourage his listeners. 

Today our discussion will include:

·      How Odd?Rod started speaking to universities and schools across the country and the message he brings to those students.

·      How growing up in the hood, with a mom addicted to crack, and an absent dad impacted his life journey…and how music and education opened doors for him.

·      Losing his brother to brain cancer when his brother Eric was 16 and Odd?Rod was 13, and how that made him go into a deep depression where he wanted to end it all.

·      The Hamilton Effect—and perseverance and resilience

·      Odd?Rod sharing one of his poems in the Spoken Word and experiencing his impact for yourself.