Bet On Black: Self-Made Larry Morrow Built A Career Out Of Building Relationships
Less than a decade ago, Larry Morrow stood empty and hopeless in a New Orleans casino.
He had just lost $30,000 on a failed bet and was left only with his stifled pride and hurt ego when he decided that it was time to invest his money in a more lucrative gamble.
The author of the recently released book,All Bets On Me: The Risks and Rewards Of Becoming an Entrepreneur, has earned acclaim as one of the most prominent event curators in the nation, all with the help of an idea that was born the night he lost everything.
Now, the young gambler's rolodex is stocked with some of the industry's biggest names, but his story started behind the barbershop of a childhood friend. "I grew up right there in the 7th ward," he said. "Growing up, me and my friends would shoot dice as one of our hobbies. It kept us out of trouble. At my friend's dad's barbershop, just gambling all day and having fun. That kind of helped mold and grow who I am today."
He continued, "I became numb to gambling at an early age because I learned the value of a dollar at an early age. When I lost my first dollar, it hurt. But the moment I lost it, my immune system grew. I was able to gamble more and lose more and it [did] not affect me as much."
Larry learned at an early age that big risk equals huge reward. "Risks are something I have to take. It's something that motivates me and drives me to keep going. Never knowing what the outcome may be, but hoping the outcome will be what you want it to be."
Little did he know, his innate ability to develop relationships and his affinity for risk-taking would later allow him to build a model for entrepreneurship unlike one that the business world has ever seen. After losing his entire savings in the Casino one night, Larry shifted his business model and began investing in bringing local talent to New Orleans for curated events. His roster of guests included entertainers that were well above local standard, and over time, his knack for relationship building earned him a permanent spot in Black Hollywood and the title of "King" in his city.
Along with his newly released book, Larry also recently opened a restaurant with his mother that gained the attention of Forbes and has already hosted a number of guests including Teyana Taylor, Drake, and the cast of Power.
His goal is to offer a positive role model of a black man as an entrepreneur and prove that success doesn't really have a job description. He said, "I want to be able to inspire people and encourage people to love what they do. I think some people are still living in that old American dream that you have to get that piece of paper to be successful. There's athletes, there's doctors, rappers, actors, but when you think of an entrepreneur, it doesn't sound like an ideal job title."
"I've been writing my own checks for the past 7 years, and that's not easy. Sometimes it's not knowing where you're going but just knowing you have work to do."
xoNecole got a chance to sit down with the 27-year-old New Orleanian to talk more about how he built a stable career out of simply betting everything on himself.
I read a lot about how risk propelled your career forward, as well as relationships. I see you built an empire out of just being able to develop valuable partnerships. How important has reputation been during the progression of your career?
Throughout my journey it meant so much because it makes working with others a lot easier when you have a reputation for doing A1 business. That helped me grow. It's dope that people can speak highly of what you do. I always tell people it's not really the money, it's more about the relationships. The money is just an extra piece, but relationships are something you can grow from, and not just financially.
What's the biggest lesson you've learned about relationship building throughout your career?
Not abusing those relationships. A lot of people get in relationships and they automatically reach out and try and see what's in store for them. People come to the table looking to see what's for them, but my approach is different. I bring the table to the table, and then I discuss being fruitful. I never came to the table with my hand out. To build a relationship, you have to build organically and not look for anything from each other, just let it happen. If we all benefit each other some way in the future, that's fine too. But never come to the table looking for anything.
Switching gears, what do you think it was that drew you to your partner?
The fact that she wasn't available to anyone. She was somebody who kept herself exclusive. I tell her mom all the time she did a great job raising her kids. Our first year talking, it wasn't based on sex. She made me wait over a year for us to have any sexual intercourse. And that alone said a lot to me, but it also made me realize it's also not all about sex. It allowed us to bond and get to know each other in that year.
"It was a challenge and it was something different for me and I'm up for the challenge."
How do you balance your relationship despite your chaotic work life?
It's a challenge, but I'm blessed to have a woman that understands my life. Work for me is on my phone, on the go, creating things. Being an entrepreneur is a nonstop grind but she handles it well and is in tune with my vision. I dream so big, I shoot for the stars. I'm so passionate about life and the things I want to do for my family.
It would be impossible to be in a relationship with someone who didn't get it or I wasn't compatible with or someone who didn't trust me because I spend a lot of hours working. Empathy, compatibility and trust help keep us balanced.
What solutions or tips do you have for couples that may have chaotic schedules?
Whenever you decide to be with somebody, make sure you're with somebody that understands your work life. Understand your partner, understand their dreams and aspirations.
Has relationship building in business been as easy in your romantic life as it has been in your career?
No it ain't been that easy. When you're dealing with somebody on a day-to-day basis, maintaining relationships is the hardest part. In the business world, that has been easy but it's a little bit different when you're building with your girl. Let me simplify it, it's not as easy and I don't think it should be as easy. It's definitely a challenge, but I enjoy a challenge, and I'm up for it.
Keep up with Larry on Instagram by clicking here.
Taylor "Pretty" Honore is a spiritually centered and equally provocative rapper from Baton Rouge, Louisiana with a love for people and storytelling. You can probably find me planting herbs in your local community garden, blasting "Back That Thang Up" from my mini speaker. Let's get to know each other: @prettyhonore.
There’s just something about HBCU Homecoming that just hits different. Whether it’s your first time stepping onto the yard since graduation or you’re a regular at every Homecoming tailgate, HBCU pride is undeniable. It’s a vibrant celebration that unites the legacy of excellence and tradition with the energy and resilience of Black culture.
The experience goes beyond a typical college reunion; HBCU Homecoming is a family reunion, a fashion show, a cultural festival, and a week-long turn-up that embodies what it means to be unapologetically Black and educated. For HBCU alumni, the journey back to the yard each year is rooted in a love and pride that’s hard to put into words but impossible to deny.
From statement pieces to tech must-haves, every item represents the intersection of Black pride and HBCU love, ensuring that you show up to the yard in style and with intention. So whether you’re repping your alma mater for the first time since graduation or looking for fresh pieces to express your HBCU pride, these essentials will have you standing out, because, at HBCU Homecoming, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing out.
Thread Goals
diarrablu Jant Pants in Alia Noir
High-waisted, wide-legged, and ready to shut down the yard, the Jant Pants by diarrablu bring a whole new meaning to campus chic. Handcrafted in Dakar, Senegal, these free-flowing jacquard pants are perfect for stepping onto the yard with style and ease—making them a must-have for any HBCU alum’s closet.
Silver & Riley Convertible Executive Leather Bag Classic Size in Olive
This all-in-one luxury bag isn’t a bestseller for nothing. The Silver & Riley essential is made of Italian calfskin leather and thoughtfully designed, as it can be worn in four different ways: a shoulder bag, crossbody, a top handle, and a backpack. Chic and elegant, the Convertible Executive Leather bag is “the bag that every woman needs in her collection.”
Renowned Women's Intuition Cotton Graphic T-Shirt
Renowned
Renowned’s Women’s Intuition Cotton Graphic T-shirt features a bold graphic print inspired by the power and essence of women’s intuition. With its striking design, this all-cotton tee is a vibrant thing, making it a statement piece that celebrates feminine energy.
Mifland Million M Mesh Crop Shirt
Talk about bold, the Million M Mesh Crop Shirt combines edgy style with comfort, featuring Mifland’s signature print on a semi-see-through mesh fabric. Show up and show out in sophisticated flair.
HBCU Love FUBU
Melanin Is Life Melanated & Educated - I Love My HBCU Hoodie
Show off your HBCU love with this piece that represents everything you gained from your alma mater: a top-tier education, a community that lifts you up, and a deep sense of esteem for yourself and your culture. Wear it loud and proud, because being melanated and educated isn’t just a flex—it’s a legacy.
HBCU Culture Spelmanite Sweatshirt in Navy
Spelmanites, rep your Spelman pride with this unisex crewneck sweatshirt, designed for ultimate comfort and a relaxed fit. Made from a cozy cotton/polyester blend, this classic sweatshirt is as durable as it is stylish—making it an ideal piece for any Spelmanite showing love for their alma mater.
HBCU Culture Howard Is The Culture T-Shirt
Rock the ultimate flex by showcasing your Howard U love with HBCU Culture’s Howard Is The Culture t-shirt. This unisex tee offers a comfortable, relaxed fit that’s perfect for celebrating your HBCU spirit without sacrificing style or comfort.
DungeonForward FAMU - Strike Bucket - Reversible
DungeonForward’s Strike Bucket Hat brings versatility and style to the FAMU Crown collection with its reversible design, giving you two looks in one. Featuring a sleek black snakeskin-embossed brim lining and a bold outline Rattler emblem, this hat is all about repping your Rattler pride in style.
DungeonForward Savannah State University - HBCU Hat - TheYard
The Savannah State University HBCU Hat by DungeonForward is more than just a hat—it’s a symbol of Tiger pride and a nod to the culture. Perfect for gamedays, tailgates, or just showing off your HBCU love, this hat lets you carry a piece of the yard wherever you go.
Tech the Halls
Anker iPhone 16 Portable Charger, Nano Power Bank
Stay charged up with the Anker Nano Power Bank, which features dual USB-C ports, a foldable connector, and a compact design, making it perfect for those HBCU tailgates and late-night parties you pull up to.
Drip Check
Wisdom Frame 14 Square Sunglasses
Elevate your look with these angular square-frame sunglasses by Wisdom, bringing an ultramodern edge to any outfit. The sleek design makes them perfect for blocking out the haters while you stunt on the yard.
Coco and Breezy Eyewear Fortune in Gray Turquoise
The Fortune Glasses in Grey Turquoise is a bold statement piece to any Homecoming weekend ‘fit that “embody our fearless and outspoken DNA.” With their color and edgy design, these frames by Coco and Breezy are perfect for anyone looking to stand out and express their unapologetic confidence.
Howard U Lapel Pin
Rep your Bison pride wherever you go with this Howard U Lapel Pin from Pretty AmbVision. Whether adding it to your jacket, shirt, or bag, this pin is the perfect way to showcase your love for your alma mater while rocking your HBCU love with honor and distinction.
Mifland Standard Rucksack Mini
The Standard Rucksack is designed to evolve like that HBCU pride—getting richer, bolder, and better with time. Durable, stylish, and built to last, this Rucksack by Mifland is a timeless piece equipped with versatile carrying options and fully adjustable back straps for ultimate comfort.
Stay Fresh, Stay Blessed
Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask in Pink
Keeping it cute starts with beauty sleep. This luxurious silk mask is an essential for a reason. If protecting your skin and waking up refreshed is your priority, look no further than this Homecoming essential.
Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier Lemon Lime - Hydration Powder Packets
Stay hydrated and energized throughout Homecoming weekend with this Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier in Lemon Lime. Just add a packet to your water bottle, and bless your body with 2-3 times more hydration than water with every packet. Because staying hydrated is the key to popping up and showing out all weekend long!
Loop Experience Plus Earplugs High Fidelity Hearing Protection
Designed for your hearing protection, these sleek earplugs reduce noise without compromising sound quality—perfect for enjoying the band’s halftime show, late-night parties, and DJ sets. Whether you’re front row at the step show or hitting the yard, your ears deserve to be protected in style!
Black Girl Magic Glass Cup
Sip in style and celebrate your melanin with the Black Girl Magic Glass Cup. Perfect for morning coffee, your favorite iced drink, or showing off your HBCU pride on the yard—this cup is all about keeping it cute while radiating your endless supply of Black Girl Magic.
Glow Up & Show Out
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
What Homecoming weekend can be complete without an assist from this beauty find? Formulated to blend seamlessly into melanin-rich skin (no white-cast), protect your glow while you turn up with the Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30.
Sienna Naturals Issa Rae's Wash Day Ritual Set
Issa Rae’s Wash Day Ritual Set from Sienna Naturals includes the H.A.PI. Shampoo, the Plant Power Repair Mask, Dew Magic, and Lock and Seal to get your crown right. Whether you’re repping your coils or rocking a new color on the yard, these products restore and nourish your strands, keeping your hair healthy, strong, and Homecoming-ready!
54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter
Stay glowing from the tailgate to the after-party with the 54 Thrones Ivorian Cocoa + Ghanaian Coconut Beauty Butter. Infused with African-sourced ingredients, this rich, multi-purpose butter is the answer to keeping your skin soft and radiant through all the festivities all Homecoming long.
Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil
Keep your lips looking luscious and nourished with the Saie Glossybounce Hydrating Lip Oil. Perfect for adding an extra pop to your pout before hitting the yard or freshening up between events, this lip oil is a beauty essential for staying camera-ready all weekend.
Join us in celebrating HBCU excellence! Check out our Best In Class hub for inspiring stories, empowering resources, and everything you need to embrace the HBCU experience.
Featured image by Visual Vic/Getty Images
Ananda Lewis Clarifies Why She Didn't Get A Mastectomy & Says She's Doing 'Better' After Stage IV Breast Cancer Diagnosis
Former MTV VJ Ananda Lewis received a lot of backlash from online critics after sharing she decided to forgo a double mastectomy. But there's more to the story.
Ananda was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer in 2019, and during a recent round table discussion with CNN's Stephanie Elam and Sara Sidner, she revealed that she decided not to get a double mastectomy and, now, she has stage IV cancer.
Following that interview, she clarified why she did not get the surgery. “The circumstances were not conducive to surgery because my tumor wasn’t aggressively growing at the time, and then COVID hit,” Ananda told The Epoch Times.
She opted for a cryoablation treatment instead, which uses extreme cold to destroy the cancer cells.
Another thing the 51-year-old wanted to clarify was whether she was dying. She said she is not. “Nothing happened. Today, I am fantastic. I may have felt like I was dying in February, but I’m not dying, and I’m definitely doing better than I was last October,” she said.
She is focused on taking care of herself and getting a "good 20 more years out of this body." She follows a keto diet and avoids alcohol, white flour and white sugar.
During the CNN roundtable discussion, the mother of one shared that she had an integrative approach to her treatment, which included traditional medicine and homeopathy methods such as red light therapy.
“My plan at first was to get out excessive toxins in my body. I felt like my body is intelligent, I know that to be true. Our bodies are brilliantly made,” she said.
“I decided to keep my tumor and try to work it out of my body a different way,” she continued. “Looking back on that, I go, ‘You know what? Maybe I should have.’
Ananda also admitted that she wasn't prioritizing early detection, such as getting mammograms. The former talk show host's mom also had breast cancer and chose to go the conventional route, which influenced her to go a non-traditional route.
As a content creator, Ananda uses her social media to inform others on the things she's learned about obtaining good health such as toxic items to through out of your pantry and the many benefits of water.
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Feature image by Paul Archuleta/Getty Images