Here’s To Life with Tori Reid

In nearly six decades of work, she has mentored hundreds of authors, poets and women globally. Her poetry has appeared in African American Review, Essence Magazine, Ms. Magazine... and dozens of literary journals and lifestyle magazines. In 2003, she was the recipient of the North Carolina Award for Literature (the highest award the state can bestow for significant contributions in science, literature, fine arts, and public service). She was selected for the Forbes distinguished 2022 list, 50 Over 50, in the Lifestyle category. She is an activist and a humanist, expertly versed in the power of words to lift the spirit, and she excels at the magic of  her being. She is passionate about "helping women, children, immigrants and newly literate citizens."She is the first African American and third woman to be appointed as the North Carolina Poet Laureate. When he appointed her in 2018, Governor Cooper stated that “(She) brings a deep appreciation of our state's diverse communities to her role as an ambassador of North Carolina literature.” Her mission is to "promote and expand appreciation of the literary arts" and "help ensure a high quality of life for all North Carolinians." And that's why Here's to Life is proud to welcome, Jaki Shelton Green, poet laureate of the people. "Poetry is about so much more - it is about the work we do here on the planet. It is about crafting quality work and saving lives, elevating lives. It's about the spirit. The serious writer who wants to work with an editor, the serious artist who wishes to workshop her work. My measurement of success is creating someone who is serious about the writing process. This is editing. This is refinement and curation of the spirit.” - Jaki Shelton Green "we are the messengers/new messengers/arriving as mutations of ourselves/we are these messengers/blue breath/red hands/singing a tree into dance"From her poem "who will be the messengers of this land."CREDITS:Guest:  Jacqueline Shelton Green Host and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellCo-Executive Producer:  Tori ReidWriter:  Patrick A. HowellPost Production:  We Edit PodcastsPost Production Assistant:  Alana ColemanVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water Systems Advertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Jacqueline Shelton Green:  Duke University Music:"Sry" by Twelwe"Soft Speak" by Siarate"Febrero" by Vendla"Less Than Endless" by At The End of Times, Nothinga Victory & Noble production@ 2023 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Find out more about Poet Laureate Jaki Shelton Green here:Jaki Shelton Green booksJaki Shelton Green at Duke UniversityHere's to Life with Tori Reid is a show about living your best life, living it out loud and always using the reservoir of the spirit to fill in life's valleys and mountain tops. Find more of our shows at www.HerestoLifeEveryday.com, also find out more about our host Tori Reid on Instagram at www.instagram.com/iamtorireid.

Dubbed a “national treasure” and nicknamed the “Mother of Black Hollywood,” she's starred in over 400 episodic TV shows, 68 movies, and four Broadway shows. During her prolific screen career, she's most notably known as Zelma Bullock in Tina Turner biopic "What's Love Got to Do With It" and as Ruby Johnson in the socially-conscious sitcom "Black-ish." She's an award-winning actress who steals every scene she's in, and yet her “real work” is off stage and off camera as an activist and a mental health advocate. She's a whirlwind of energy who has no time to waste. Her latest book and riveting work, “Walking in My Joy: In These Streets” touches the soul, makes you laugh out loud, while imparting ways on how to love yourself and keep negative energy at bay, while being beautifully transparent about her epic journey. She is a lover of life who is larger than life. Buckle up!! In this fiery conversation, they talk about the importance of loving yourself, her road to her authentic joy, making self-care a priority, how you can be in your joy, her latest book, and so much more. Here's to the one and only, Jenifer Lewis. CREDITS:Guest:  Jenifer LewisHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriter:  Tori Reid Post Production:  We Edit PodcastsAdd'l Post Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven Soundz  Add'l Editing:  Cutting Edge Editing Post Production Assistant:  Alana Coleman Music Supervision:  Another Place in Time Music  Voiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Jenifer Lewis:  UnknownVery special thanks to Terry Marsh, Ph.D.  Music:"Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18 - I, Moderato" (Rachmaninoff) by Skidmore College Orchestraa Victory & Noble production@ 2023 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Jenifer Lewis on InstagramWalking in My Joy: In These Streets

Part II: Tori returns in delight with one of her favorite spirits, a true comedian's comedian and one of the world's most groundbreaking, well-respected, and beloved entertainers. A true pioneer and legend in the entertainment industry with 52 years of comedy, relationships, stories, and wisdom to share. He has made over 500 national TV appearances as a stand-up comedian, including more than 60 appearances on The Tonight Show, and was a favorite guest of David Letterman. For fourteen years, he was the opening act for Frank Sinatra, and performed countless times with artists like Smokey Robinson, Liza Minnelli, Natalie Cole, and Sammy Davis, Jr. He is currently appearing to rave reviews around the country in his one-man show “An Evening Of Laughter and Memories of Sinatra.” In this spirited Part 2 conversation, they talk about the inner workings of show business, how to have balance in life, your ego vs spirit, what brings him pure joy, and so much more! Here's to the man who made Sinatra laugh, and Tori's beloved "Uncle Tom" ... Tom Dreesen.“The day I met him, my life forever changed. The day he passed away, I knew my life would never be the same.” - Tom Dreesen (on his relationship with Frank Sinatra)CREDITS:Guest:  Tom DreesenHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriters:  Tori Reid and Patrick A. Howell Post Production:  We Edit PodcastsAdd'l Editing:  Cutting Edge Productions Post Production Assistant:  Sydney Rhone Music Supervision:  Another Place in Time Music  Voiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Tom Dreesen:  James DevaneyMusic:"Jazz Intimate 6" by Magnus Ringblom“A Warm Welcome” by Martin Landstrom“Ready for New York” by Tiki Tiki“Tropic Swing” by Sarah, the IllstrumentalistVivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian Andersona Victory & Noble production@ 2022 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Tom Dreesen Official WebsiteStill Standing: My Journey From Streets and Saloons, to the Stage and Sinatra

She is so much more than a costume designer or expert storyteller. She is a trailblazer. A pioneer. A leader. Think Ryan Coogler's Black Panther. Spike Lee's Malcolm X, Do The Right Thing or 12 other Spike Lee joints. Ava DuVernay's Selma. Lee Daniels' The Butler. Steven Spielberg's Amistad. Coming 2 America… and so much more. But who is the woman behind the accolades? What makes her tick? What gives her life? And what drove her to become the first African American to win an Academy Award in Costume Design? And furthermore, how has it changed her?Here's to diving deeper into the life and mind of the modern iconoclast… Ruth E. Carter.CREDITS:Guest:  Ruth E. CarterHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellAssociate Producer:  Sterfon DemingsWriter:  Tori ReidPost Production Assistant:  Sydney Rhone Voiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hampton UniversityAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Ruth E. Carter:  Jeff LipskyMusic:“Glow” by Stereo Mixtrumental“Burning Up” by Chi Vaughn"Act I Fluvial" by Jo WandriniOutro - Produced by Stereo MixtrumentalVivreau Ad Music - "Soft Speak" by Siaratea Victory & Noble production@ 2022 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Ruth E. Carter Official WebsiteRuth E. Carter Afrofuturism in Costume Design ExhibitVisit Hampton University: The Standard of Excellence

Tori returns to her beloved alma mater, Hampton University, reflects and has a very special homecoming with the singular President Dr. William R. Harvey. Known for more than 40 years of legendary leadership, he transformed the university from a small Black college to a world-class leader within higher education. Whether it's his powerful presence, establishing the largest free-standing proton beam cancer center in the world, increasing the endowment from $29 million to over $400 million dollars, erecting 29 new buildings and the initiation of 92 new academic degrees… or simply his passion and unwavering commitment behind it all, he is a highly respected titan among men. Tori delights in her "Hampton Experience" and love for the prestigious HBCU. In the center of the Hampton University Museum, the oldest African American museum in the nation, they discuss the power of dreaming, what makes Hampton University singular, the importance of character, what he's most proud of, the key to being unshakeable under pressure, his wish for the future of Hampton University, and so much more! Here's to the titan visionary leader, Dr. William R. Harvey. CREDITS:Guest:  Dr. William R. HarveyHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellAssociate Producer:  James ParkerWriters:  Tori Reid and Patrick A. Howell Audio Recording:  Franklin FitzgeraldPost Production:  We Edit PodcastsAdditional Post Production:  Stereo MixtrumentalVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Dr. William R. Harvey:  J.D. ScottA special thank you to Vanessa D. Thaxton-Ward and the staff at the Hampton University Museum. Music:"Afternoon in Washington Square Park” by Jerry McHoy"Act I Fluvial" by Jo Wandrini"Act II Hygro" by Jo Wandrini“King's Chamber” by Cercles NouvellesVivreau Ad Music - "Soft Speak" by Siarate a Victory & Noble production@ 2022 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.

She is so much more than a costume designer. She is a national treasure and global visionary. She was nominated twice for an Oscar for her timeless work on Spike Lee's Malcolm X and Steven Spielberg's Amistad. She became the first African American to win an Academy Award in Costume Design for her exquisite designs on Ryan Coogler's Black Panther. The proud Hampton University graduate has designed an impressive filmography of over 60 diverse film and television projects. She has worked artfully with Spike Lee on 14 films including Do The Right Thing, and has designed for other directors including Ava DuVernay, Lee Daniels, and John Singleton in American iconographic films such as Selma and The Butler. In this impassioned conversation, Tori uncovers her magical journey, her all-time storytelling heroes, her serendipitous first meeting with Ryan Coogler, and more! Here's to our beloved Afrofuturistic shero… Ruth E. Carter.CREDITS:Guest:  Ruth E. CarterHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellAssociate Producer:  Sterfon DemingsWriter:  Patrick A. Howell Post Production:  We Edit PodcastsPost Production Assistant:  Sydney Rhone Voiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Ruth E. Carter:  UnknownMusic:“Sweeping The Savannah” by Sight of Wonders“Things I Love” by LVLYVivreau Ad Music - "Soft Speak" by Siarate a Victory & Noble production@ 2022 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Ruth E. Carter Official Website

Tori delights in talking to one of her favorite spirits, a true comedian's comedian and one of the world's most groundbreaking, well-respected, and beloved entertainers. He has made over 500 national TV appearances as a stand-up comedian, including more than 60 appearances on The Tonight Show, and was a favorite guest of David Letterman. For fourteen years he was the opening act for Frank Sinatra, and performed countless times with artists like Smokey Robinson, Liza Minnelli, Natalie Cole, and Sammy Davis, Jr. For the first six years of his career, he shared the stage with Tim Reid as America's first—and only—black and white comedy team. In this spirited conversation, they talk about his magical journey with Frank Sinatra, wisdom gained and what he misses most, his book "Still Standing", the power of laughter, the future of comedy, and so much more! Here's to the man who made Sinatra laugh, and Tori's beloved "Uncle Tom" ... Tom Dreesen. CREDITS:Guest:  Tom DreesenHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriter:  Patrick A. Howell Post Production:  We Edit PodcastsPost Production Assistant:  Sydney Rhone Voiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Tom Dreesen:  UnknownMusic:"Jazz Intimate 6" by Magnus RingblomVivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian AndersonOutro - Produced by Stereo Mixtrumental a Victory & Noble production@ 2022 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Tom Dreesen Official WebsiteStill Standing: My Journey From Streets and Saloons, to the Stage and Sinatra

Fresh out of NYU's Tisch Graduate Acting Program, she fulfilled her dream of working with both Denzel Washington, as his wife, and Spike Lee, in the hit film, "Inside Man". How?  You may wonder. By being herself.  And she's been on the inside of culture with successful shows as Luke Cage, Atlanta, and The Last O.G., and in films as Chris Rock's "I Think I Love My Wife" and more recently playing Mama Durant (Kevin Durant's mother) in "The Real MVP: The Wanda Durant Story". But she's best known for her current role on the hit show and remake, BEL-AIR as Vivian Banks aka "Aunt Viv" on Peacock. She's a lifelong dreamer and more importantly a manifestor, whose self-proclaimed purpose in life is to help people find their joy. And she's doing just that as she's fiercely reinventing the role of matriarch, a la Clair Huxtable or Aunt Viv 3.0, renewed for the 21st century... coloring her with some extra spice and that West Philly attitude in her own special way.  It is fitting exactly a year after Tori interviewed her own stepmother - Daphne Maxwell Reid (Aunt Viv 2.0) - that she connected her with Aunt Viv 3.0 for a fresh take on the re-imagination of Fresh Prince of Bel Air. Just who is the woman behind our latest "Aunt Viv?" Let's get the Inside track, and we use that word "inside" knowingly, on this powerful, every woman. Get ready for joy. "Here's to Life" welcomes the vivacious, refreshing, and joy-filled talent, who some call "Aunt Viv"... the beautiful Cassandra Freeman.“Who do you want to be? ... But is this who you actually are? If so, fine. But if not, choose differently. You have time.” - Cassandra Freeman as Aunt Viv (to Hilary)This episode on "Here's To Life":•  How she's made the role "Aunt Viv" her own and reinventing the matriarch•  What the show BEL-AIR means to her and their power of storytelling•  How African American Art came to play such a centric role in BEL AIR •  The mother and daughter dynamic in this new age•  Her respect and admiration for the original “Aunt Vivs” Daphne Maxwell Reid and Janet Hubert•  The serendipitous story of how she landed her first film role working with Denzel Washington and Spike Lee •  What her 3 year old is teaching her and how her unique parenting style informs her day-to-day life in the possibilities, potential and probabilities present in all of our lives•  What makes her feel the most alive •  Tori highlights Cassandra's powers and Cassandra returns with a clairvoyant revelation about Tori, and how each one of us has a blessed giftCREDITS:Guest:  Cassandra FreemanHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriters:  Patrick A. Howell and Tori ReidPost Production:  We Edit PodcastsAdd'l Post Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven SoundzPost Production Assistant:  Sydney Rhone Show Intern Affiliation:  Howard University Music Supervision:  Patrick A. HowellVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertSocial Media Marketing and Graphics by Octavia JohnsonPhoto credit for Cassandra Freeman:  Emily AssiranVery special thank you to Daphne Maxwell Reid and Team Jill Fritzo PR. Music:Intro and Outro - "Love Hop" by Stereo MixtrumentalCommentaries - "In My Room" by Christophe GormanVivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian Andersona Victory & Noble production@ 2022 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Cassandra Freeman on Instagram

Part II:  Tori explores the ancient adage "to whom much is given, much is required" with a soul star and Grammy Award winner and soul storyteller for Part II of this fun, insightful, and warm conversation. As a self-described "country boy" and "soul man whisperer", he never forgets his roots, and is determined to always fuel his communities that he stays connected to through his music, and his soul. He has been nominated for 17 Grammy Awards, sold nearly 50 million albums around the world, and has been compared to such icons as Sam Cooke and Al Green. He is the torch bearer... with a sound that is vintage R&B, while impacting modern culture. Love Is The New Black is the title of his latest album, and the first under his own label "My Music Box." They talk about the breakthroughs he's made, not only in music, but in the art form of business, acting, and life itself... and how his incredible spirit feeds into a legacy that will be celebrated with our greats. "Here's To Life" welcomes back the brilliant, soulful and authentic talent, and one of our favorite soul storytellers to spread more love, more laughs, and realness... Anthony Hamilton. "If you have the opportunity to put something in the music that can change somebody's perspective and the way they view, not just you but view others, I think we have the obligation to do that." - Anthony HamiltonThis episode on "Here's To Life":•  How he stays grounded•  What he loves about being a Black man •  The responsibility of an artist with a platform •  Working with Prince, D'Angelo, Isaac Hayes, Al Green and others during his illustrious career•  How Denzel Washington inspired him and what roles he would like to take on as an actor•  His power move to have his own label "My Music Box" and what it means to own your mastersCREDITS: Guest:  Anthony Hamilton Host and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriters:  Patrick Howell with Tori Reid Post Production:   WeEdit Podcasts with Tori ReidPost Production Consultant:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven SoundzPost Production Assistant:  Sydney RhoneShow Intern Affiliation:  Howard UniversityVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MooreAdvertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesLogo Graphic Design:  Henny Vallee Photo credit for Anthony Hamilton:  Antwon MaxwellVery special thanks to Tim Reid II and Eli Davis.Music:Intro and Outro - "Power of the Bull" by Stereo MixtrumentalFor Commentaries - "Beautiful" (Priority) - Inst. by Stereo MixtrumentalVivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian Andersona Victory & Noble production@ 2022 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Official website for Anthony HamiltonAnthony Hamilton on InstagramAnthony Hamilton on Apple Music

For Black History Month, we're celebrating a cultural icon dubbed the "first Black action hero" and the groundbreaking film that birthed him, made Oscar history, and was inducted for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant". Shut yo mouth! He returns for a Part 2 conversation as he talks about the 50th anniversary of the film “Shaft,” working with the Renaissance man himself… Gordon Parks, remembering John Singleton, and more. Who is the man that would risk his neck for his brother, man? We also heard he was a bad… well, you know the rest. We're just talking about the original Shaft."Here's to Life" welcomes back "the first Black action hero" and the soulful, cultural iconoclast spirit that is Richard Roundtree. This episode on "Here's To Life":•  What it was like making the film "Shaft" and the responsibility of "fame"•  Revisits the magic of the Renaissance man and visionary, Gordon Parks•  Shares a key to get through dark times and remain sane•  Tells a heartwarming story about his father, John Roundtree•  Reveals what would be his greatest accomplishment and how he wishes to be remembered•  Expresses the hardest thing he had to do to fulfill his destinyCREDITS:Guest:  Richard Roundtree Host and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriters:  Patrick Howell and Octavia JohnsonPost Production:  We Edit Podcasts Add'l Post Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven SoundzVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesLogo Graphic Design:  Henny Vallee Social Media Marketing and Graphics by Octavia JohnsonPhoto credit for Richard Roundtree:  UnknownMusic:Intro and Outro - "Africa" by Stereo MixtrumentalVivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian Andersona Victory & Noble production@ 2022 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Richard Roundtree on InstagramRichard Roundtree on Facebook

Tori takes pleasure in speaking with the “original Black action hero” and a  cultural iconoclast. Many see him simply as John Shaft with a brash, ‘take no prisoners' veneer. He however says, “what you see is not the actual”.  So, he is not only cool but a true gentleman, gentle soul and master thespian whose works span 5 decades including his forthcoming show with Ava DuVernay. The man also known as double R (or RR) is his father's son and a loving father with a disarming wit that will delight if not tickle you to all ends.He began his one of a kind career as a model with the Ebony Fashion Fair, Johnson Products', and Salem Cigarettes. After joining the Negro Ensemble Company, his first role was portraying boxing legend Jack Johnson in The Great White Hope. From there, he became a leading man whose career was launched by playing the infamous and original detective John Shaft in the 1971 film Shaft. For his performance, he was nominated for the Golden Globe Award Most Promising Newcomer Male Actor - in 1972. What followed has been a distinguished filmography including Inchon opposite Laurence Olivier, Alex Haley's Roots, City Heat opposite Clint Eastwood and Burt Reynolds, and David Fincher's Se7en. "Here's to Life" welcomes the brilliant, soulful and beautiful spirit that is Richard Roundtree. "What you see… what you perceive is not the actual.” - Richard Roundtree CREDITS:Guest:  Richard Roundtree Host and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriter:  Patrick Howell Post Production:  We Edit Podcasts Add'l Post Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven SoundzVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MoorePremier Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesLogo Graphic Design:  Henny Vallee Photo credit for Richard Roundtree:  UnknownMusic:Intro and Outro - "Africa" by Stereo MixtrumentalVivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian Andersona Victory & Noble production@ 2022 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Richard Roundtree on InstagramRichard Roundtree on Facebook

Tori has the pleasure to speak with an emerging, compassionate love champion. A champion of the spirit. She is a proud Zimbabwean singer-songwriter, philanthropist, activist, storyteller, gymnast and television personality. Using words as weapons of love, her 2021 debut album, "I'm not a mother, but I have children," is about the responsibility she feels to build a better world for future generations of all living things.  From being Zimbabwe's first Black woman gymnast at the All-Africa Games, to being a cast member on Real World: San Diego and working with MTV as a host and correspondent, she's accomplished a lot in a short amount of time and is just getting started. She is a radical thinker who delivers revolutionary messages while making people dance and celebrate life. From "It's a Good Day (to Fight the System)" - her song that debuted on Netflix's hit show "The Chair" starring Sandra Oh, she hopes it brings some joy into whatever fight you're fighting. As she says, "After all, what we're fighting for IS joy — the joy of a life whose fullest potential can be reached without hitting, or being hit by, systemic roadblocks." To her song, "To be me" - a song of empowerment for anyone who has "felt unsafe in their skin, body, identity or expression." Her ambition through her music is to gain an influential platform to affect fundamental social, educational and political changes in her home country, and on behalf of displaced and disenchanted youth around the globe. Ultimately, this icon in the making wants us to choose love. "Here's To Life" welcomes the proud, compassionate, and free spirit...  Shungudzo. “We're at this point in our lives where life has given us this torch and it's our responsibility to decide what happens next.” - Shungudzo CREDITS:Guest:  Shungudzo KuyimbaHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriter:  Patrick Howell  Post Production:  Next Day PodcastPost Production Assistant:  Kapri EcholsVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MooreAdvertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesLogo Graphic Design:  Henny Vallee Photo credit for Shungudzo Kuyimba:  Yazz AlaliMusic:Intro & Outros  - "The Mission" by Stereo MixtrumentalVivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian Andersona Victory & Noble production@ 2021 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Official website for ShungudzoShungudzo on Instagram

Crafting Positive Purpose and Social Transformation through Art and Pain “When things happening in the world seem so terrible and dark, it's so easy to get stuck in all the negative,” he says. “But I try to do whatever I can to help people out of that. I want my music to be the light.” That's one of this episode's guest talking about not only a Grammy award winning career which has sold millions of albums globally but also his commitment to hope, love and beauty in the form of an Oscar potential “Ferguson Rises” and its director.    Perhaps, on a spiritual plane, these two artists - the director and singer - understand the artform of their crafts where community, curation of the human spirit and creative expression are one.  Ferguson Rises explores the depths of the aftermath and protests following Michael Brown Jr.'s killing through a wide range of community members.From black and white residents to police officers, to business owners and those who chose to say "enough is enough" by taking to the streets for a record 400-plus days straight, Ferguson Rises dives into the heartland of America and an epicenter of race, violence and our future. This varied chorus of perspectives is interwoven with an intimate portrayal of a Black father's grief and resilience that bears witness to the human capacity to find purpose within pain. Here's to Life is proud to support Ferguson Rises Academy Award's Oscar campaign - Here's to Life welcomes Tribeca Film Festival's Audience's favorite auteur Mobolaji Olambiwonnu & Grammy Award Winning artist singer Aloe Blacc"I think also, we want to by Michael Brown Senior's example, we want to offer a young black man a space to understand, you can be masculine.   You can be a man.  But you can also have feelings as well.    You don't have to be robbed of the three-dimensional space of your humanity... we can make it to the other side."  —  Mobolaji Olambiwonnu“When I signed a major-label contract, I recognized the power of having a larger audience, and I promised myself that I'd use my voice for social change.”   —  Aloe Blacc"Before George Floyd, before Breonna Taylor, before America knew about Black Lives Matter, there was Michael Brown, Jr. On August 9th, 2014, in Ferguson Missouri, Darren Wilson, a white officer, fatally shot an unarmed Brown, and in the days that followed protest, anger, frustration and fear took over the city and its community. Six years later, a new story emerges, one filled with hope, love and beauty. Through interviews from community members, including Dorian Johnson, who was with him that day, and Michael Brown's father, this documentary illuminates the stories from within the city since that time, including the dreams and desires of its citizens to move beyond the limited and all-too-common narratives of racism and division in the media. The film reveals the humanity within the people of Ferguson, who represent all of us, and the communities in which we live." — Deborah RudolphCREDITS:Guest:  Ferguson Rises - Auteur Mobolaji Olambiwonnu & Aloe BlaccHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriter:  Patrick A. HowellPost Production:  We Edit PodcastsVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MooreLead Sponsor: Vivreau Water Systems Advertiser: Hilton Arden West Intro. and Outro Music:  Lover's Paradise, "Sight of Wonder"

He is a soulful storytelling master. As a matter of fact, he is in the soulful lineage of Sam Cooke, Al Green, or Bill Withers in his vocal mastery, storytelling prowess and evolution of self, as well as his sound. He could be one of the last of his kind in an era characterized by quick fixes on social media, streaming music and the evolution of Hip Hop.  He is a soul man who takes his sweet Southern time and by his own lyrical admission, "my soul is on fire!"  This time, he is tuning all of our spirits to the highest possible frequency with an earthy homage to love. Perhaps, this is not only a season of love, but an age of love that he himself is ushering in."Love is the New Black" is the title of this multi-platinum Grammy Award winning artist's latest creation in a career umbrellaing nearly 4 decades. It's also his first album under his own label "My Music Box". Widely acclaimed by critics and music lovers, the album has received 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon. He has been nominated for 17 Grammy Awards, sold nearly 50 million albums around the world and has worked side by side with D'Angelo and Prince at Paisley Park Studios. He is a singer, songwriter, and producer who rose to fame with his platinum-selling second studio album "Comin' from Where I'm From", which featured the title track single "Comin' from Where I'm From" and the follow-up mega hit "Charlene". "Here's to Life" welcomes the brilliant, soulful and rich talent that is Anthony Hamilton. “I learned patience, perseverance, and dedication. Now, I really know myself, and I know my voice.  It's a voice of pain and victory.”  - Anthony Hamilton This episode on "Here's To Life"•  Why Anthony Hamilton sings about love•  Hear why Anthony is comin from where he's from...•  Learn how love is the new black •  Find out why Lucille gets a little more love than Charlene•  Get a sneak preview of Anthony singing "Superstar" and moreCREDITS:Guest:  Anthony Hamilton Host and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriters:  Patrick Howell with Tori Reid Post Production:  Tori Reid Post Production Consultant:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven SoundzVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MooreAdvertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesLogo Graphic Design:  Henny Vallee Photo credit for Anthony Hamilton:  Antwon Maxwell (Love is the New Black, album cover)Very special thanks to Tim Reid II and Eli Davis.Music:Intro and Outro - "Power of the Bull" by Stereo MixtrumentalFor Commentaries - "Beautiful" (Priority) - Inst. by Stereo Mixtrumental Vivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian Andersona Victory & Noble production@ 2021 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved.Connect with the Guest:Official website for Anthony HamiltonAnthony Hamilton on Instagram

Aaron Chang is an internationally acclaimed fine art photographer, an evolving spirit, and a humble creative. One who captures the ocean, the sun… the surf - like no other. Known for being the Creator of Modern Surf Photography, he's redefining the sport of modern surfing through his lens. He's traveled to over 50 countries for films, travel journalism assignments and his epic imagery has been published worldwide in hundreds of books, along with over 100 magazine covers globally to his name. His work has appeared in Newsweek, Sports Illustrated, GQ, People, US Weekly and Elle. He's shot a variety of subjects, including poets, surfers of course, swimsuit models and Nobel scientists, and elephants in Namibia. Aaron is also revolutionizing art in the healthcare industry. Commissioned by some of the most prominent hospitals, his photography and multi-media art has elevated healing and inspired patients to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds them, even in times of crisis. Aaron's mission is to always bring joy to people through his art, and to help those appreciate the gift of life. Here's to a dynamic ambassador of the arts, Aaron Chang.  “There's no such thing as perfection in the creative process, I don't think. I think only God is perfection. The rest of us just try our guts out.” - Aaron ChangCREDITS:Guest:  Aaron Chang Host and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriters:  Tori Reid Post Production:  We Edit PodcastsVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MooreAdvertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesLogo Graphic Design:  Henny Vallee Photo credit for Aaron Chang:  Aaron ChangMusic:Intro and Outro - “Marbles” by Harbours & OceansFor Commentaries - “The Warm & Absolute” by LotusVivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian Andersona Victory & Noble production@ 2021 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights ReservedConnect with the Guest:Official website for Aaron Chang

This is Part II of a 2 part series celebrating and looking closely at the Fischer family musical legacy to our times and the world.Grammy-winning producer, composer, arranger Brent Fischer carries on the legacy of his legendary father, Dr. Clare Fischer.  Brent's  arranging credits appear on over 30 million albums to include: Usher, Michael Jackson, Elvis Costello & The Roots, and D'Angelo (who won Grammy Album and Song of The Year for "Really Love" from his album "Black Messiah" where Brent Fischer is credited as arranger and producer). Brent produced the last eight Clare Fischer albums, including: Grammy-nominated 2011 release ‘Continuum', 2012 Grammy-winning '¡Ritmo!' (Best Latin Jazz Album) and 2013 Grammy-winning ‘Music for Strings, Percussion and the Rest' (Best Instrumental Composition).The Clare Fischer Music Library is really about the melody between father and sons, one generation and the next. There is something otherworldly about those connections that bond, bind and mesmerize. Legacy is alive and the inspiration that Brent takes from his father who was influenced by Latin greats and worked directly with Dizzy Gillespie and Duke Ellington, is passed down to countless others who experience their greatness.  We all have a rich legacy. Tori recognizes the universality of legacy in her own special story.  This episode debuts two new segments to the show - an opening monologue with some behind the scenes banter and "Gimme a Minute" at the show's conclusion, a freewheeling riff of some of Tori's off the cuff thoughts. "Here's to Life" welcomes again the brilliant, rich, and passionate symphonic talent, Brent Fischer. "His greatest gift to me was his collection of his handwritten scores. And his music lives on in everything that I do; and I mean that sincerely.”  - Brent Fischer (on his father)This week on Here's To Life:• What is Legacy and why does it matter? • In Art... is perfection necessary? To tweak or not to tweak?• The Power of Exposure on a child• The Evolution of the incredible father/son duet over 35 years • How the Magic of Music Ties Us All Together• The Responsibility of Following in a Parent's Footsteps• The Legacy of the Fischer Family to the Music WorldCREDITS:Guest:  Brent FischerHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer and Director:  Patrick A. HowellWriters:  Patrick A. Howell and Tori ReidAssociate Producer:  Claris Dodge Special Consultant:  Jizelle ReidPost Production:  We Edit PodcastsAdd'l Post Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven SoundzPost Production Assistant:  Lauren YoungVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MooreAdvertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto Credit for Brent Fischer:  UnknownMusic:  "Rainforest" by Brent Fischer (Outro)Music Editor:  Matt BrownlieOther Music selections:"A Nostalgic Breeze" - William Benckert "See How They Fly" - Jerry McHoy"Skate Park Challenge" - Colors of Illusionand"Really Love" - D'Angelo featuring the Clare and Brent Fischer Sound  (snippet)Vivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" - Christian Andersona Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights ReservedVivreau Water Systems Vivreau Water mirrors Here's to Life's commitments to clear, clean and energizing change and legacy.Hilton Arden West Sacramento The Hilton Sacramento Arden West hotel would like to welcome you to beautiful, historic Sacramento,

I am Tori Reid and I have a long standing tradition called “Tori Sundays” where I tune in, in order to tune up. Call it meditation. Dancing. Dancing with the universe. Dancing in my innerverse.  Reading. Call it prayer. Writing. Call it really loving myself. For me, that's Tori Sundays. I've put my all into these shows. But really, they are sharings of myself with my listeners. And I get so many comments about not only our magical, incredible and brilliant guests, but also the thoughts and spirit musings throughout. So we're trying something new:  My HTL Musings.In today's debut HTL Musing, I've invoked none other than Saint Mother Teresa. Sister Teresa learned to speak both Bengali and Hindi fluently as she taught geography and history and dedicated herself to alleviating the girls' poverty through education. On May 24, 1937, she took her Final Profession of Vows to a life of poverty, chastity and obedience. So who else would I talk about when putting together a vignette on kindness?“Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.” – Mother TeresaProduced, directed and written by:  Tori Reid & Patrick A. HowellPost production:  We Edit PodcastsAssociate Producer:  Rita ReidSpecial Consultant:  Christian Howell INTRO: Light it Up (Instrumental Version) - Xavy Rusan, Tilden ParcTori Interlude Music - A Magic Moon - Howard Harper-BarnesOUTRO  Light it Up (Instrumental Version) - Xavy Rusan, Tilden Parc)Vivreau Waters  AdHilton Arden West  AfroBiz Ad

Some may know him as Ray Campbell on Sister, Sister, and others as Venus Flytrap on WKRP in Cincinnati. And then there are those who fondly recall him as Frank Parrish on Frank's Place, or others as "Downtown Brown" on Simon and Simon. But none of these aliases hold a candle to the man, distinct, renowned and an original in his own right.  He is called a pioneer because of his founding of New Millennium Studios in 1997 before Tyler Perry and after Oscar Micheaux's Lincoln Motion Picture Company in the 1940's.  So many around the world call him inspiration or mentor. Two of us call him Dad.  And there is one who calls him Poppy. He is also doted on as a husband, friend and leader amongst men. He has a whimsical mischief in his heart that attaches anatomically to your funny bone; a twinkle in his eye that catches you off guard and makes you see the stars; and the most unforgettable stories one can ever tell. Yes, a charismatic presence that can elevate all within his radius to cosmic beings; the most elemental definition of a superstar. Here's to Tim Reid, my dad - a culture manifesting auteur, a brilliant visionary, an outlier - an icon.  “When I built the studio, first since Oscar Micheaux, betting millions of my own money... it didn't work the way I had anticipated. It does work - Tyler Perry has proven that and he's done a hell of a job with it. So I knew it worked. Yeah, it's possible!"  - Tim Reid This week on Here's To Life:•  The Importance and Strength of Family•  The Power of Change and How It Can Be Your Lifeblood•  Living in the Spirit, and How he keeps his spirit alive•  Exploring the Most Valuable & Powerful Asset - Your Eternal Soul•  Dream Manifestation & Making It In Hollywood•  The most important lessons and values he has imparted on his children•  How to Live Eternally through Generations •  and, this episode is For Those Who Want to be a "Star"CREDITS:Guest:  Tim Reid Host and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriters:  Tori Reid and Patrick A. HowellDirector:  Tori ReidPost Production:  We Edit PodcastsAdd'l Post Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven SoundzPost Production Assistant:  Lauren YoungVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MooreSpecial Guest Voiceover Artist:  Skylar T. ReidSpecial Consultant:  Rita Reid Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertMusic:Intro and Outro - “Africa” For Commentaries - "Mission" Both Produced by Stereo MixtrumentalVivreau Ad Music - "That's What Left Us Behind" by Christian AndersonLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesLogo Graphic Design:  Henny Vallee Photo credit for Tim Reid:  Unknowna Victory & Noble production@ 2021 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights ReservedResources Mentioned:LGCY of a People NetworkConnect with the Guest:Tim Reid on InstagramTim Reid's Place on FacebookHilton Arden West Sacramento The Hilton Sacramento Arden West hotel would like to welcome you to beautiful, historic Sacramento, Vivreau Water Systems Vivreau Water mirrors Here's to Life's commitments to clear, clean and energizing change and legacy.

Last week Prince enjoyed a birthday.   He remains one of the most celebrated pop artist of the 20th century and the soundtrack by which many artists measure their own creations and draw inspiration from.  In this episode of Here's to Life's, Tori Reid explores the music and orchestral arrangements of some of his most widely celebrated albums including Parade, Sign of the Times, Batman (Soundtrack), Lotus Flow3r, Chrystal Ball, Graffiti Bridge and Girl Six.  Brent Fisher and his father, the late Clare Fisher are in fact, a soundtrack for the 21st century having composed musical arrangements for Paul McCartney, Celine Deon, Chaka Khan, Toni Braxton, Raphael Sadiiq, Al Jarreau, Michael Jackson, Usher, The Roots (with Elvis Costello) and D'Angelo. Going back to the 1940's, a prodigy Clare Fisher was profoundly influenced by Latin jazz, mambo and bossa nova greats as Tito Puente, Tito Rodriguez and Machito.  His greatest, most enduring and noted collaborations have come posthumously with his son, Brent, a prodigy in his own right who grew up lying under the piano listening to his father.   In fact, they have won 3 Grammy's on their collaborations. This is part 1 of a 2 part series focusing on the Fischer musical legacy"On the first big album that dad did for Prince on Parade, Prince wrote in the liner notes... it said special thank you to Clare Fischer for making more beautiful, the colors, black and white. Cause you know, there was that whole black and white theme for Parade and Under the Cherry Moon that the album covers in black and whites... basically Questlove did the same thing on this wise Up  Ghost album.  He said special thank you to Brent Fischer for making more beautiful, the colors, white an black."                 Brent FischerCredits    Guest: Brent Fischer Host and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriter:  Patrick A. HowellPost Production:  We Edit PodcastsAdd'l Post Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven SoundzPost Production Assistant:  Lauren YoungShow Intern Affiliation:  Howard UniversityVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MooreAdvertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertAssociate Producer: Claris Dodge  Special Consultant: Jizelle Reid Music Editor: Matt Brownlie Music: by Brent Fischer New Thing, Son of a Dad, RainforestPrince music featuring the Claire and Brent Fischer Sound Sign of the Times (Clare Fischer, Orchestral Arrangement, Brent Fischer Percussion) All My Dreams (Clare Fischer, Orchestral Arrangement)Resources Mentioned:Connect with the Guests:Brent Fischer's Official WebsiteBrent Fischer Connect with Tori Reid:Tori Reid on InstagramHere's To Life on FacebookLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Imagesa Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights Reserved

Part II:  This episode bookends our March Women's History Month as a tall glass of sweet Virginian iced tea between Tori Reid and her step mother.  We celebrate the 25th anniversary of the series finale (May 20, 1996) of "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air". Our Aunt Viv discusses her sweet joy and well lived memories from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Reunion special on HBO Max, the late great James Avery, the surprise first time union with Janet Hubert, and Will Smith’s inspiring journey to growth and acceptance.  From sitcom to reality, they examine their own blended family; decades of blood, sweat and tears in a beautiful, though frank, conversation between two powerhouse women. They make it look easy and beautiful but it is like the graceful chocolate swan gliding in the sometimes murky waters of life’s vast ocean. The two women laugh, keep it authentic and celebrate the victories, valleys, peaks and exalt one another in this piece of Virginian and Hollywood Americana.Here’s to the grace, soul and mother wit of Daphne Maxwell Reid.“We are a blended family. Like the Banks family, the Reids have had an uncommon success. Our harmony has come through the blending of time, belly laughter, family celebrations, bumpy roads and the greatest of all virtues, Love Almighty. So, here's to the love that is earned. The Love that pushes past the hurt, confusion, anger... to become stronger, more resilient, battle tested and true. Here’s to family.” - Tori Reid This week on Here's To Life:•  Reflections on memories of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Reunion special on HBO Max, including the late great James Avery and the warm and wonderful rejoining of Janet Hubert and their meeting for the first time •  Her experience with blended families and insight gained and shared on the bumpy, yet beautiful ride of her own blended family•  How respect is key within blended family relationships especially between step-parents and step-children•  Exploring power couples as the iconic Tim Reid and Daphne Maxwell Reid, and how they make it work Credits:Guest:Daphne Maxwell ReidHost and Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellWriters:  Patrick A. Howell and Tori ReidPost Production:  We Edit PodcastsAdd'l Post Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven Soundz Post Production Assistant:  Lauren YoungShow Intern Affiliation:  Howard University Voiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake Moore Advertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertMusic:"Frio Suave" by ElevadorLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Imagesa Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights ReservedResources Mentioned: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air Reunion on HBO MaxConnect with the Guests:Daphne Maxwell Reid's Official WebsiteDaphne Maxwell Reid on InstagramConnect with Tori Reid:Tori Reid on InstagramHere's To Life on FacebookVivreau Water Systems Vivreau Water mirrors Here's to Life's commitments to clear, clean and energizing change and legacy.

Part II:  This Mother’s Day, we continue our tribute to the iconic and legendary Cicely Tyson.  For Part I in Episode 15 “What Makes Cicely Tyson, Cicely Tyson”, we heard lovingly from those who were mentored by her, worked with her and knew her.  For this Part II, we speak with culture makers and great spirits as Debbie Allen, Bill Duke, and Daphne Maxwell Reid, who have been inspired by her light. All speak to her grace, command and seemingly effortless quantums of power as a Hollywood legacy since the 1960’s on the silver screen, as well as television. Her humanity is imbued with a fierce pride, keen intellect and profound understanding of who she understood herself to be. Who she knows we all are.  On this Mother’s Day, we honor all mothers by honoring the Queen Mother to all... Ms. Cicely Tyson. "To experience Cicely Tyson's spirit is like experiencing lightning - powerful, right, moving." - Debbie AllenThis week on Here's To Life:•  Reflections on the spirit of Cicely Tyson•  Her legacy as a woman, actress, and an icon•  Cicely Tyson's influence on Black women and culture, and how she and other women of the Blacks Arts Movement as Miriam Makeba, Nikki Giovanni, and Nina Simone redefine how we see ourselves•  Debbie Allen reflects on her being so powerful by being very human•  Bill Duke talks about how Cicely Tyson commands a room with her presence, constantly seeking and attaining excellence and professional heights•  Daphne Maxwell Reid describes Cicely Tyson's strength and how she blazed her own trailCredits:Guests:Debbie AllenBill DukeDaphne Maxwell ReidHost/Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellProducer:  William BroughtonWriters:  Patrick A. Howell and Tori ReidRecorded and Edited by William BroughtonPost Production:  Brian K. Jackson at Maven SoundzPost Production Assistant:  Lauren YoungShow Intern Affiliation:  Howard University Voiceover Artist(s):  Vïntóry Blake Moore and Patrick A. HowellAdvertising Sponsor:  Vivreau Water SystemsAdvertising Sponsor:  Hilton Sacramento Arden WestAd Voiceover Artist:  Ginger LevertSocial Media:  Digital Visibility ConceptsMusic:Intro - "Consumer" from "The Year of 11 Project"Outro - Produced by Stereo MixtrumentalLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto Credit for Cicely Tyson:  Stanley Bielecki  a Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC  All Rights ReservedResources Mentioned: Dance Theater of HarlemDebbie Allen Dance AcademyConnect with the Guests:Debbie Allen on InstagramBill Duke on InstagramDaphne Maxwell Reid on InstagramConnect with Tori Reid:Tori Reid on InstagramHere's To Life with Tori Reid on Instagram

This is the 20th episode inspired by the majestic Shirley Horn's timeless tome. Tori Reid, host of "Here's to Life", reflects on Life, the meaning of it all, her recent quantum steps into Transcendentalism, and the enlightened insights of some of her previous guests. From her beloved Phylicia Rashad and one of her favorite spirits Blair Underwood to new friends as legendary actor/director Bill Duke and bestselling author and healer don Miguel Ruiz Jr., they offer their incredible wisdom and power. And Tori, inquisitive and newly awakened, shares her gems - the power of stillness and our harmony. We are all we have and that is everything.Twenty is not only a symbol of positive attitude and optimism. It also symbolizes the ability to harmonize. The Number 2 resonates with the vibrations of balance and harmony, service and duty, receptivity and love, and it also relates to your divine life purpose and soul mission. Number 0 carries the energies of the God force and universal energies, and developing one’s spiritual aspects. The vibration of the number 20 is expressed when there is a strong need to learn patience so that the appropriate actions can be properly carried out. So, here's to episode “20” and, Here's to Life... with Tori Reid. "Inspiration is the thread that ties us all together.  When we're asleep in our consciousness, it's the music, films, the art, the conversations... the connection to other human beings, that's elevating. That awakens the soul."This week on Here's To Life:•  The power of stillness and harmony•  The key to enlightenment is effort•  Enlightened wisdom from Phylicia Rashad, Bill Duke, Blair Underwood, and don Miguel Ruiz Jr.•  The importance of Transcendental Meditation and how it awakens your being•  Learning to stand in your truth. Everything short of that is not living.Credits:Guests:  Phylicia RashadBill DukeBlair Underwooddon Miguel Ruiz Jr. Host/Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellProducer:  William BroughtonDirector:  Patrick A. HowellWriter(s):  Tori Reid and Patrick A. HowellRecorded and Edited by William BroughtonVoiceover Artist:  Patrick A. HowellMusic:Special homage was paid to Ms. Shirley HornSong - "Here's To Life"Graphics:  Henny ValleeLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credits for Phylicia Rashad:  Unknownfor Bill Duke:  Unknownfor Blair Underwood:  Timothy Whitefor don Miguel Ruiz Jr.:  Nicolo SertorioResources Mentioned:Transcendental MeditationConnect with the Guests: Phylicia Rashad on InstagramBill Duke on InstagramBlair Underwood on Instagramdon Miguel Ruiz Jr. on Instagram www.miguelruizjr.comConnect with Tori ReidTori Reid on InstagramHere's To Life with Tori Reid on Instagram

Tori's back again! This time with an auteur, Hollywood legend and global griot - at a towering 6' 4½” - who’s portrayed some indelible tough and rough multi-layered characters and directed cult underground classics and American popular phenomenons alike. But this gentle giant of a storyteller is also someone who has said one’s personal life, “requires vulnerability and that’s the painful part”. Even as we chronicle the mountain tops of an illustrious career, he surveys the valleys, crediting the practice of Transcendental Meditation with saving his life. Show host and guide Tori Reid also chronicles her own recent forays into a Transcendentalist Meditation and journey, sharing the benefits of the eastern practice to the body, soul and mind in very personal terms that are alternately transformative, healing and cosmic. He is the author of a memoir subtitled, “My 40-Year Career on Screen and Behind the Camera”.  He has been a director, producer, actor and cinematographer - participating in American culture at the highest levels of global culture for the past 5 decades - an annotated dossier reveals:  70’s - Car Wash, Kojak, Charlie’s Angels, Benson, Palmerstown USA80’s - American Gigolo, Commando, Predator, Miami Vice, Knots Landing (dir.), Falcon Crest (dir.), Action Jackson 90’s - Menace II Society, Bird on a Wire, A Rage in Harlem (dir.), Sister Act 2 (dir.), Deep Cover (dir.), Hoodlum (dir.)2000’s - X-Men: The Last Stand, The Boondocks, Black Lightning, forthcoming Steven Soderbergh crime drama No Sudden MoveHe is also passionate about his Younite Network and the Duke Media Foundation, where he teaches media and financial literacy. “Here’s to Life” welcomes the singular, gracious, and accomplished Bill Duke.Credits:Host/Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellProducer:  William BroughtonWriter(s):  Patrick A. Howell and Tori Reid Recorded and Edited by William BroughtonPost Production Assistant:  Lauren YoungVoiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake MooreMusic:Intro – “Consumer” from “The Year of 11 Project”Outro – Produced by Stereo MixtrumentalLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Bill Duke:  Unknowna Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

March is Women’s History Month. Tori delights in a spirited conversation honoring a special woman in her life. She made history as the first Black woman featured on the cover of Glamour magazine, as Northwestern University’s first Black homecoming queen which shocked the campus drawing national coverage, but she is widely known as “Aunt Viv” of the Fresh Prince of Bel Air. In every decade since the 1960s, she’s made her mark on American culture, but she is most proud of the mark she leaves on her family. She is a Renaissance woman who dabbles in photography, gourmet cooking, clothing design, and continues to work steadily on the small screen and in films continuing her acting career for five decades. Tori uses this conversation as a meditation for how women have gotten ahead and what they need to do to go all the way. They talk about the role of Black women historically, how to have a winning attitude, fulfilling your destiny, and so much more! Here’s to the Renaissance woman, Daphne Maxwell Reid. Credits:Host/Producer:  Tori ReidExecutive Producer:  Patrick A. HowellProducer:  William BroughtonWriter(s):  Patrick A. Howell with Tori Reid Recorded and Edited by William BroughtonVoiceover Artist: Vïntóry Blake Moore Music:Intro – “Consumer” from “The Year of 11 Project”Outro – Produced by Stereo MixtrumentalLogo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Daphne Maxwell Reid:  Unknown a Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori and executive producer Patrick A. Howell enjoy a once in a lifetime opportunity to vibe with a living legend and global icon from his home in Dakar, Senegal. He has been noted as one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world. He is known as the Ambassador of African music, the King of African Pop and in 2014, Rolling Stone magazine dubbed him ”perhaps the most famous singer alive” in Senegal and much of Africa. He is beloved by his people and has collaborated with other icons as Paul Simon, Sting and Bruce Springsteen. This Grammy Award-winning artist ran for President of his beloved Senegal in 2012, and was appointed as the Minister of Tourism. He embodies the meaning of the word, “Sankofa”. They talk about the inspiration behind his music, his heroes and friends Nelson Mandela and President Barack Obama, how love triumphs over racism, and so much more! Here’s to our beloved King of African Pop, Youssou N’Dour. Credits:Executive Producer: Patrick A. HowellExecutive Producer(s): Amobé Mévégué and Patrick AbandaExecutive Producer(s): Afrobiz and UBIZ NewsExecutive Producer: Worldwide Afro Network (WAN)Host/Producer: Tori ReidProducer: William BroughtonProducer: Rebel Talk Network Writer: Patrick A. Howell Recorded and Edited by William BroughtonVoiceover Artist: Vïntóry Blake MooreLead Sponsor:Vivreau WaterMarketing Sponsor(s): Los Angeles Review of BooksRebel Talk Network Music:All songs performed by Youssou N’Dour“Birima” Youssou N’Dour: I Bring What I Love (Film, 2000)“Wiri Wiri” Joko: From Village to Town (2000)“7 Seconds” with Neneh Cherry The Guide (Wommat) (1994)“My Hope Is in You” Joko: From Village to Town (2000)“Undecided” The Guide (Wommat) (1994)“Takuta” History (2019)Logo Photography: Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Youssou N’Dour: Youri Lenquette a Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Part II: Tori continues exploring the ancient adage “to thine own self be true” and other pearls of wisdom to live by with one of the greatest spirits ever. He seems to have mastered life, by mastering himself. As a father, husband, filmmaker, culture maker and prodigy, as well as an award-winning Hollywood and Broadway actor, he always remains grounded while effortlessly uplifting and inspiring those in his orbit by simply being himself. We’ve all seen him on LA Law, Sex and the City, Set It Off, and Netflix’s Self Made. Most recently, he was nominated for a 2021 Tony Award for Best Performance By An Actor In A Leading Role in Broadway's "A Soldier's Play," with the award show airing sometime this year. They talk about his definition of success, mastery of self, philosophy on love, his beloved mentors, and so much more! Here’s to one of Tori’s favorite spirits, Blair Underwood. Credits:Host/Producer: Tori ReidExecutive Producer: Patrick A. HowellProducer: William BroughtonWriter(s): Patrick A. Howell and Tori Reid Recorded and Edited by William BroughtonVoiceover Artist: Vïntóry Blake Moore Music:Intro – “Consumer” from “The Year of 11 Project”Outro – Produced by Stereo Mixtrumental Logo Photography: Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Blair Underwood: Vera Anderson a Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

On January 28th, 2021, we lost a beloved legend - our twin flame has ascended from this earthly plane beyond the veil to the heavens. This is part 1 of a 2 part special exploring the truth of Toni Morrison’s maxim - "You are your own best thing." This soulful love note to the ancestor and incandescent spirit of Cicely Tyson is celebrated by some of the brightest Hollywood and Broadway prodigies to have known or worked with her. Blair Underwood, Vanessa Williams, Tim Reid, LaChanze, and Tori Reid give their stirring recollections of Cicely Tyson, a singular luminescence. Cicely Tyson is our twin flame, a spirit separated from one body but reflecting the light of all of us, for all of us, to all of us. More than an actress, performer, Hollywood wunderkind, or civil rights activist, she is reminisced upon as our love, the exemplar of excellence, matriarchal regality, the greatest of all time, and an unrelenting warrior queen. Cicely Tyson… was our own best thing. Credits:Host/Producer: Tori ReidExecutive Producer: Patrick A. HowellProducer: William BroughtonWriter(s): Patrick A. Howell and Tori Reid Recorded and Edited by William BroughtonVoiceover Artist(s): Vïntóry Blake Moore and Patrick A. HowellMusic:Intro – “Consumer” from “The Year of 11 Project”Outro – Produced by Stereo Mixtrumental Logo Photography: Bobby Holland / MPTV ImagesPhoto credit for Cicely Tyson: Unknown a Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori reunites with a great spirit, actor, producer… storyteller, an iconic esquire in television. He is a proud son, father, and husband, and an enlightened spirit of the universe. Beginning a career in the eighties, this culture maker and outlier has managed to do something very rarefied with his life - be a Black man who identifies with his community, honor his family and people, stay true to himself, and be a confident, casual, cool, and kind soul. We’ve all seen him on LA Law, Sex and the City, Set It Off, and Netflix’s Self Made. More than a friend, Blair is like family and this incredible conversation is a tribute to his beloved mother, Marilyn. They talk about how he defines himself, his entrée into acting, his love of theatre, his role models, and so much more! Here’s to one of the great ones, Blair Underwood. Credits:Host/Producer: Tori ReidExecutive Producer: Patrick A. HowellProducer: William BroughtonWriter(s): Patrick A. Howell and Tori Reid Recorded and Edited by William BroughtonVoiceover Artist: Vïntóry Blake Moore Music:Intro – “Consumer” from “The Year of 11 Project”Outro – Produced by Stereo Mixtrumental Logo Photography: Bobby Holland / MPTV Imagesa Victory & Noble production© 2021 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori and her guest co-host Patrick A. Howell, enjoy talking to accomplished author, respected humanist, acclaimed professor, and gadabout. He is the founder of the Los Angeles Review of Books. He is the American Book Award-winning author of Doing Nothing: A History of Loafers, Loungers, Slackers and Bums in America. He recently released Aimlessness after the successful debut of his novel Born Slippy last year. His previous books have been translated into 12 languages, several of which have been named New York Times Notable Books. They talk about what it means to live aimlessly, his love affair with travel, being happy, the literary and publishing scene, his recent books Aimlessness and Born Slippy, and so much more! Here’s to our transcendental gadabout, Dr. Tom Lutz. Credits:Host/Producer: Tori ReidExecutive Producer: Patrick A. HowellProducer: William BroughtonWriter(s): Tori Reid and Patrick A. Howell Recorded and Edited by William BroughtonVoiceover Artist: Vïntóry Blake Moore Music:Intro – “Try” Produced by San PaloOutro – “Fall” Produced by San Palo Logo Photography: Bobby Holland / MPTV Images a Victory & Noble production © 2021 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Part II:  Tori, and her guest co-host, Patrick A. Howell, continue discussing the art of literature, living, legacy and being human with one of the world’s most versatile and admired writers. 100 years ago, the Harlem Renaissance began, and a hundred years from now, the world will be celebrating his legacy. He has received a Grammy, NAACP Image awards, the Los Angeles Review of Books/UCR Lifetime Legacy Achievement Award and PEN America’s Lifetime Achievement Award. They talk about his historic first as a winner of the National Book Foundation’s most prestigious award, the Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. He’s the first African American man to win the award. Previous recipients of the lifetime legacy award have included Isabel Alleende, Maxine Hong Kingston, Stephen King, Norman Mailer and Toni Morrison. They also talk about what’s inspiring him right now, how he defines success, some of his other works, and so much more! Here’s to our beloved master storyteller, Walter Mosley.   Credits: Host/Producer:  Tori Reid Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Executive Producer:  Tom Lutz Producer:  William Broughton Writer:  Patrick A. Howell  Recorded and Edited by William Broughton Voiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake Moore    Music: Noir Cold Open – “Vic’s Van” Produced by William Broughton Intro – “Try” Produced by San Palo Outro – “Fall” Produced by San Palo   Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images   www.victoryandnoble.com   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Part I:  Tori, and her guest co-host, Patrick A. Howell, delight in talking to one of the world’s most versatile and admired writers. He is the esteemed author of more than fifty critically acclaimed books, including the bestselling mystery series featuring Easy Rawlins. Several of his books have been adapted for film and television, including Devil in a Blue Dress (starring Denzel Washington, Don Cheadle and Jennifer Beals) and HBO’s Always Outnumbered (starring Laurence Fishburne and Natalie Cole). He is also a writer and executive producer on the late John Singleton’s FX drama series, Snowfall. They talk about his critically well-received book of short stories “The Awkward Black Man,” everyday people living extraordinary lives, his respect and love for Toni Morrison and John Singleton, making publishing history, and so much more! Here’s to our beloved master storyteller, Walter Mosley.       Credits: Host/Producer:  Tori Reid Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Executive Producer:  Tom Lutz Producer:  William Broughton Writer(s):  Patrick A. Howell and Tori Reid Recorded and Edited by William Broughton Voiceover Artist:  Vïntóry Blake Moore     Music: Noir Cold Open – “Vic’s Van” Produced by William Broughton Intro – “Try” Produced by San Palo Outro – “Fall” Produced by San Palo   Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori talks with the author of Dispatches from the Vanguard. A timely release from London’s Repeater Books capturing the current core of American and global culture through the Global International African Arts Movement. Some compare this period of time to the 1920s, drawing parallels between the influenza and corona virus. But what about the Harlem Renaissance that gave rise to not only the Black Arts Movement but also Hip Hop? Dispatches is a marvel from an independent publishing house by Tariq Goddard that has truly created an instant classic and manifesto for the new age we are all in. They talk about this groundbreaking book, how we’re all global, the healing spirit of Patrick’s father, how to create a global movement, living life as art, and so much more! Here’s to these creative expressionists, Patrick A. Howell and Marvin L. Mills.   Credits: Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Host/Producer:  Tori Reid Producer:  William Broughton Recorded and Edited by William Broughton   Music: Intro – “Try” Produced by San Palo Outro – “Fall” Produced by San Palo   Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori takes pleasure in speaking with a timeless voice and warrior spirit. She is one of the most multi-faceted and accomplished performers in the entertainment industry today with 4 Emmy nominations, 11 Grammy nominations, a Tony nomination, 3 SAG Award nominations, and 7 NAACP Image Awards. She is also a strong advocate for equal rights in gay and minority communities. Reflecting on her own life, Tori shares a personal story of how change can lead to growth, and celebrates how icons, like her guest, consistently ride change to freedom, success, and great truths that leave their imprint on the world. They talk about staying true to yourself, trusting life, racial unrest and inequality… and so much more! Here’s to the trailblazer, Vanessa Williams.   Credits: Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Host/Producer:  Tori Reid Producer:  William Broughton Sound Master and Recorded by William Broughton Music: Intro – “Save The Best For Last” performed by Vanessa Williams Outro – “Colors of the Wind” performed by Vanessa Williams Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images a Victory & Noble production 2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Part II:  Tori, and her guest co-host Patrick A. Howell, continue discussing love, justice and music in their upbeat and timely conversation with two of the most magical spirits in the world of entertainment and beyond, as they passionately reminisce and voice their thoughts on today’s zeitgeist. 7 Grammys. 3 Platinum records and 15 Gold. From Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In to One Less Bell To Answer…and their duet, You Don’t Have To Be a Star… they fly in different dimensions, harmonizing, uplifting, and inspiring. On this second episode, they talked about the unrest sparked by the ascension of George Floyd’s spirit, their protest song, their enduring love, and so much more! Here’s to our favorite twin flames… Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr.   Credits: Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Producer:  Tori Reid Co-Producer and Sound Master:  William Broughton Podcast and Intro/Outro Recorded by William Broughton   Music: Intro – “Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In” by The Fifth Dimension Outro – “You Don’t Have To Be a Star” by Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr. Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images a Victory & Noble production 2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Part I:  Tori, and her co-host Patrick A. Howell, engage in an upbeat and timely conversation with two of the most magical spirits in the world of entertainment and beyond, as they passionately reminisce and voice their thoughts on today’s zeitgeist. 7 Grammys. 3 Platinum records and 15 Gold. From Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In to One Less Bell To Answer…and their duet, You Don’t Have To Be a Star… they fly in different dimensions, harmonizing, uplifting, and inspiring. Up, up and away… they continue to fulfill their purpose while being rooted in love, faith, and a lasting marriage. On this first episode, we talked about their beginning, The Fifth Dimension, life altering moments, the Age of Aquarius, and so much more! Here’s to our favorite twin flames… Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr.   Credits: Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Producer:  Tori Reid Co-Producer and Sound Master:  William Broughton Podcast and Intro/Outro Recorded by William Broughton   Music: Intro – “Aquarius/Let The Sunshine In” by The Fifth Dimension Outro – “You Don’t Have To Be a Star” by Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr.   Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori makes magic with this fierce and genius spirit. From The Roots to Lauryn Hill, from Chris Rock to The Black Eyed Peas, she is a top orchestrator and one of the greatest tour managers to ever do it for some of the most iconic artists of the time. If these constellation acts are like royalty, then she is the power behind the throne. She is the one making it do what it do. They discuss creating an unforgettable event, making creative adjustments during COVID-19, working with A-list talent, her passion for Afropop, her love for Jeff Goldblum… and so much more! Here’s to the groundbreaker, Tina Farris.  Audio Clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55NUqrrBccw   Credits: Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Producer:  Tori Reid Co-Producer and Sound Master:  William Broughton Podcast and Intro/Outro Recorded and Engineered by William Broughton   Music: Intro – “Try” Produced by San Palo Outro – “March” Produced by San Palo Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori has the pleasure to speak with an emerging new voice. New energy. New force. She is a writer, a lecturer, a public academic, an expressionist, and above all, an unapologetic activist. She has been featured and celebrated in publications such as The New Yorker, The Washington Post, Harper’s Bazaar, on the TEDx stage and on the Emmy nominated show the Red Table Talk. In this passionate conversation, they talk about feminism and race, the importance of traveling home to Africa, the Great Unlearn, how to be a social media master… and so much more! Here’s to the powerhouse, Rachel Cargle.      Credits: Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Producer:  Tori Reid Co-Producer and Sound Master:  William Broughton Podcast and Intro/Outro Recorded and Engineered by William Broughton   Music: Intro – “Try” Produced by San Palo Outro – “March” Produced by San Palo Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori has the wonderful opportunity to converse with an author and healer who’s inspired her, along with his family, throughout her adult life.  In this dreamy conversation, they smile, reminisce, laugh out loud, and expand with grace.  They talk about his rich childhood, the healing and influential spirits of his father and grandmother, healthy relationships (including his own), building strong character, how we can use COVID-19 to grow ourselves, and more!  Here’s to the masterful, don Miguel Ruiz Jr.    Credits: Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Producer:  Tori Reid Co-Producer and Sound Master:  William Broughton Recorded and Engineered by William Broughton  Music: Intro – “Rainy Day” Produced by San Palo Outro – “Try” Produced by San Palo Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Part II:  Tori travels home to Virginia and visits with renowned international griot and poet Nikki Giovanni in the watermark year of 2019 for the diaspora and humanity (2019 being the 400th year since our ancestors arrived in Virginia to create a new global culture).  They discuss Giovanni's life and thoughts on the future, humanity, politics, and the highs and lows of it all.  Giovanni is arguably the greatest living poet in the world, as well as a beloved activist and educator.  On this second episode, Giovanni shares her adoration for Muhammad Ali and Serena Williams, her position on gun control, and her hope for the future.   Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Executive Producer:  Tom Lutz Producer:  Tori Reid Co-Producer and Head Audio Engineer:  William Broughton Sound Mixer and Cinematographer:  Trevon Facey Intro/Outro Recorded by Brian K. Jackson at Maven Soundz   Music: Intro – “Consumer” from “The Year of 11 Project” Outro – Produced by Stereo Mixtrumental   Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori is reunited with an icon, mentor and source of personal inspiration, in Victory & Noble’s 2nd episode.  In this heart-to-heart and unforgettable conversation, they cry, laugh out loud, and uplift and inspire with grace. They explore what makes Phylicia, Phylicia, the sweetness of her childhood, love and marriage, self care with 40 years of meditation, what she’s grappled with, completing her narrating Academy Award–winning storyteller Kobe Bryant’s, the Wizenard Series, her directorial Broadway debut with “Blue”, a jazz play by playwright Charles Randolph-Wright, and so much more!  A magical moment for all women worldwide happens as Phylicia hands Tori a spiritual baton for light, love, and owning your greatness. Here’s to America’s Mom, Phylicia Rashad.    Credits: Executive Producer:  Patrick A. Howell Producer:  Tori Reid Co-Producer and Head Audio Engineer:  Will Broughton Intro/Outro Recorded by Brian K. Jackson at Maven Soundz   Music: Intro - “Consumer” from “The Year of 11 Project” Outro - Produced by Stereo Mixtrumental  Logo Photography:  Bobby Holland / MPTV Images   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved

Tori travels home to Virginia and visits with renowned international griot and poet Nikki Giovanni in the watermark year of 2019 for the diaspora and humanity (2019 being the 400th year since our ancestors arrived in Virginia to create a new global culture).  They discuss Giovanni's life and thoughts on the future, humanity, politics, and the highs and lows of it all.  Giovanni is arguably the greatest living poet in the world, as well as a beloved activist and educator.  On this special show, Giovanni shares her thoughts on our current political climate, the Global International African Arts Movement, and her report card to God about humankind.    Executive Producer: Patrick A. Howell Executive Producer: Tom Lutz Producer: Tori Reid Sound Mixer and Cinematographer: Trevon Facey Audio Engineer and Editor: William Broughton   Music: Intro – “Consumer” from “The Year of 11 Project” Outro – Produced by Stereo Mixtrumental   a Victory & Noble production   2020 Victory & Noble LLC All Rights Reserved