Lasting solutions to urban poverty span all the way from cradle to career–empowering communities by putting education, families, and community assets at the core. Urban Ventures provides cradle-to-career support for youth and families in one of Minneapolis’ most under-resourced neighborhoods, through music & arts, literacy & academics, farm, and sports. Mike Brooks (aka BIIG MIIC) is Music Academy Director at Urban Ventures and runs a recording studio there as well. Mike is known on stage and in music as BIIG MIIC, a high-energy hip hop artist and performer who creates music with the power to appeal to broad audiences. His stage presence is dynamic; his sound is unique, inventive and motivational. Links and notes related to this episode can be found at https://mpetersonmusic.com/podcast/episode03   Facebook Page Instagram LinkedIn