Lead Up Podcast

On this episode, I sat down with the Executive Director of the Sacramento Youth Center (SYC) - Raquel Shipp. Raquel and her husband, Adam, are the co-founders of SYC but before that they served together in East Africa supporting a learning center. In honor of women's month, Raquel shared important women in her life that helped along her leadership journey as well as take some of the leaps for her professional career. Additionally, she discusses some of the challenges she has faced trying to juggle all the hats of a leader, wife, mom, and much more. Learn more about the Sacramento Youth Center (SYC) here Follow SYC on IG: https://www.instagram.com/sacyouthcenter/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lead-up/support

In this milestone episode (#50) , I sat down with a mentor and friend - Damien Giacchino. Damien serves as Associate Pastor at Real Life Church (RLC) in Sacramento and is the co-founder of Don't Awaken Love Too Early aka DALTE Conference. He shares the importance of healthy relationships in our lives and how we can better navigate interact with those we serve and interact with in and out of the workplace. If you are looking to become a healthier individual and improve your relationships, then you need to check out the impactful movement of DALTE happening in the Sacramento region and beyond! #leadup PURCHASE TICKETS FOR DALTE: https://dalte.ticketspice.com/dalte-2023 Follow Damien on IG: https://www.instagram.com/dgiacchino/ Follow DALTE on IG: https://www.instagram.com/dalteconf/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with Dwight Taylor Sr. aka "The Encouragement Expert" and he dropped so many gems in regards to effective communication and raising our level of awareness. Dwight also shared about this experience doing a TED Talk and how he keeps himself motivated and continuosly learning to build the life that he wants for himself and his family. Dwight shared several resources that can be found here: https://linktr.ee/dwighttaylorsr Follow him on IG: https://www.instagram.com/dwighttaylorsr/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with Bel Reyes & Brit Irby with Innovation Bridge, a consulting firm with the goal to deliver high quality technical assistance aimed at bridging innovative practices and collaborative partnership for more just and equitable communities and schools. Bel & Brit reflect back on their individual and collective journeys to how they got to where they are today and share how they want to continue to make an impact moving forward. Check ou their website here: http://www.innovationbridgeinc.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode, I sat down with Tiffani Harter who is a professional coach who supports people to tap into their own whole hearts so they can make the contribution they're here to make, and live a life they are proud of. Speaking from personal experience, I can attest that she definitely supported me and has helped me to get to another level in my own personal and professional journey #LeadUp To connect with Tiffani, visit her website: https://tiffharter.com/ Podcast recorded at Darling New Media, check out their services here: http://darlingnewmedia.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with Dr. Clarence Lee Jr. aka the PERSISTence Coach. Dr. Clarence Lee Jr. is the founder and CEO of the PERSIST Institute, a thriving business development coaching firm that helps entrepreneurs launch, grow, and scale their businesses online. A former flight surgeon in one of the USAF's most elite squadrons, Dr. Lee has a unique background in leadership, medicine, and operations. Named one of the "Top Healthcare-Entrepreneurs to Know" by Becker's Hospital Review and recognized as a Black Enterprise Modern Man, Dr. Lee holds degrees in medicine (M.D.) and business (M.B.A.) from Drexel University. Visit his website here --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with my colleague and friend Neil Brown, a Finance Specialist at Intel and part-time pilot for the Air Force. Neil had always dreamed of flying and through some good luck and fortune in his adult years he was encouraged to get lasik done and finally pursue his childhood dream. Connect with Neil on LinkedIn here (linkedin.com/in/neilcbrown/) --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with Caliph Assagai. Before embarking on a journey of self-discovery and renewed identity, Caliph had dreams and aspirations of in the political world and was doing everything necessary to make that happen from attending law school and having his own firm. Today, Caliph serves as a Clarity & Fulfillment Coach helping successful but unfulfilled professionals create a clear vision for a new and fulfilling life and take action to create it! #LeadUp Connect with Caliph on Instagram Visit Caliph's Coaching website https://www.caliph.coach/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with the incredible Courtney Beal aka CB (as I call her). Courtney serves as a Senior DEI Analyst at SMUD in Sacramento and is an advocate for equity as well as a chammpion for change. Reflecting back on her journey, Courtney recognizes how important her story and voice is and now uses her voice to help bring hope and change for the next generation #LeadUp Connect with her on LinkedIn here --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

*Support Uvalde victims here: https://sites.google.com/view/carmenxcharm/links   On this episode I sat down with my colleague and friend Chris Cooper. Chris is a Sacramento, specifically South Sacramento, native and an advocate for his community and beyond. He shares how past experiences shaped his priorities and influenced his leadership. His main goal is to be the best father he can be for his newborn son #LeadUp --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with my good friend Joel Ramos aka Barbergospel. Joel is a man of God, a husband, a father and an entrepreneur. He grew up in street gang culture but over time left that life behind and has committed himself to Christ, his wife and kids #LeadUp --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with Katie McCleary, a socially driven entrepreneur and storyteller who trains leaders, creatives, and humanitarians to launch big ideas that heal and uplift communities. She is the founder of 916 Ink, a nonprofit that has transformed over 4,500 vulnerable youth into confident authors who know the power of story and their voice. More recently, she co-authored a new book called "Bridge the Gap: Breakthrough Communication Tools to Transform Work Relationships from Challenging to Collaborative". Make sure to get yourself a copy with the link below! #LeadUp https://howtobridgethegap.com/the-book/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with Johan Cardenas, born and raised in Mexico then moved to the US to start high school. Not knowing any English, Johan began a new chapter in his life and had aspirations to go to college. After being told that his English wasn't proficient enough to get him to college he was discouraged for a moment...until he was extended an opportunity that ignite a motivation that would put him on path to not only attend college but also graduate #LeadUp --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode, I sat down with Vilien Gomez - Sales Engineer with tray.io - who has entrepreneurship running through his veins. At a young age he sold candy and science fair projects and even in college continued tapping into entrepreneurial endeavors with a tailgate business at LSU. He's all about investing and making an impact with the end goal of generational wealth. Thoroughly enjoyed this real talk conversation - enjoy! #LeadUp Connect with Vilien on LinkedIn --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with my friend and NELP colleague Ray Harrington Jr. aka Mad Scientist. Ray is a father, husband, entrepreneur and overall team player wanting to see everybody around him win at life. He loves his family, life, and choosing 'violence' - more on that as you tune in #LeadUp --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with my guy Brandon Cheathon who shares about his and family's journey to being debt free and experiencing financial freedom. If you're currently in debt and/or looking to experience financial freedom this is the content for YOU! #LeadUp --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I sat down with my good friend Anthony Ziba who has been on an incredible journey understanding and refining who he is as a leader. He pursued one vision and made it to the destination but after some time realized he was not where he belonged and took a new course... Follow him on Instagram: @zibabeats --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode, I sat down with the "big energy" man himself Nehemiah Goudeauxx. Although he grew up in the church and as Pastor's Kid, a mega church at that, life wasn't just streets paved with gold for him...it was complex to say the least. Nehemiah uses his gifts of communication and influence to make an impact not only in his community of Sacramento but also beyond. Grab a notebook or your notes on your phone because gems will be dropped (insert fire emoji). Follow Nehemiah on IG: @nehemiah_goudeauxx --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode I connected with Nyheim Hunter, Sac State graduate and former employee for the State but decided to take a leap of faith and pivoted to software engineering. Nyheim breaks down his bootcamp experience and the hustle he had to eventually land a job in the industry at Workit Health. Lots of practical gems to make connections and level up in your professional journey! Follow him on IG: @heimbh Connect with him on LinkedIn: Nyheim Hunter --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

I had the privilege of sitting down with the very talented Carmen Ross. She is a creative artist, photographer, eneagram nerd, and empathetic leader in her community. Carmen shares about a challenging leadership decision early on in her young professional career, eneagram breakdown, and a very helpful leadership hack - informational interviews. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode, I sat down with the "legend" himself - Keylen Newsome. Keylen is a young but mature leader who stands by his convictions and values and looks to serve his community through servant leadership. He took a leap of faith to transitioning to a new industry such as insurance after 5 years of doing youth-focused nonprofit work. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

After an 8-month hiatus, we are back with new episodes! Kicking us off is none other than the lovely Jade Rodgers (formerly know as Parker). Jade is a good friend and colleague of mine who has gone through several life transitions in a short span of time - loss of her mother, getting married, becoming a mother, leaving her job and starting her own consulting business Jadesiree Consulting focused on DEI, Fund Development, and Leadership Development. Check out her services here: https://www.jadesiree.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/lead-up/support

On this episode, I sat down with Marcus Strother. Marcus is a husband, father of three kids, an award winning educator, a community and youth advocate and currently serves as President/CEO of Mentor California, which serves to be the unifying champion for expanding quality youth mentoring relationships in California.

On this episode, I sat down with Jonni Redick, a retired Assistant Chief for the California Highway Patrol and founder of JL Consulting Solutions. She has over 29 years of experience within state government and public safety from an organization with over 11,000 employees. She holds a Master of Science degree in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership (LEPSL) from the University of San Diego. Currently, she is adjunct faculty for San Joaquin Delta College P.O.S.T. Academy as a Paraprofessional instructor in the Humanities, Social Science, Education, Kinesiology & Athletics Division and approved for the discipline of Administration of Justice. In addition, she is also adjunct faculty for the University of San Diego instructing for the MS, Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership Program.

On this episode, I sat down with one of my good friends Dr. Elbert Mock. I've known this guy for 10+ years since my freshman year of college and he's definitely been a role model when it comes to dedication and consistency. Not only is Elbert a full-time Pharmacist but also he is pursuing his passion and love for animals and is exploring the world one animal at a time as "LB the Adventurer". Check out his YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Z_U97aMEsrU Follow him on IG: @lbtheadventurer

On this episode, I sat down with Dolores Arredondo, an Experienced Marketing Executive with a demonstrated history of working in the financial services industry and Adjunt Professor at Pepperdine Graziadio School of Business and Management. She dives deep into her journey and the several obstacles she overcame not only as a daughter of immigrant parents but also a Latina navigating the professional world with with minimal experience. 

On this episode, I sat down with my friend and colleague Bryan Mapenzi. Bryan shares about his educational journey as well as being an athlete - baseball player - and overcoming several obstacles over a period of years. Since then, he has moved from the East Coast to West Coast and has been diving deep into a journey of elevating his wellness and creating habits that will bring about positive results for himself and his future.

On this episode, I sat down with Dr. Jose Gonzalez who serves as Senior Director, Program Strategy & Staff Development for the Boys & Girls Club. Dr. Gonzalez has an extensive education and leadership experience working in the field in many capacities and is now laser focused on creating systemic change.

On this episode I sat down with Coley World, a young up and coming spoken word artist, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur. Coley has been heavily involved in service to his community whether in the role of President for Sacramento State's Black Student Union (BSU) or as a full-time mentor for youth across Sacramento #LeadUp

Happy New Year #2021 On this episode I sat down with my guy Aldrenne Ramirez, an Acute Leader for Sutter Health IT but more importantly a husband, father, and friend. Aldrenne shares about discipline in his life and how we cultivates that in his kids. Not only is he disciplined but also a big believer of affirmations and self-talk. Hope you enjoy the content #LeadUp

On this episode I sat down with the Co-founders of Project Optimism - Armoni Easley and Ishmael Pruitt. They share their individual journeys leading up to their divine connection which eventually led them to create Project Optimism, an organization designed to align the skills and expertise of community members with the unique needs of the community. Project Optimism has now expanded not only in Sacramento but also in Los Angeles! Follow & Support Project Optimism: https://www.projectoptimism.org/ Instagram: @projectoptimismsac

On this episode, I sat down with Arielle Ayala who serves as the Associate Director for Stockton Service Corps, a first of its kind service initiative launched last year in the 209 (Stockton). Arielle shares more about the initiative and what she’s learned in the first year of the launch.

This is part 2 with my guy Hakeem. In part 1, Hakeem shared the beginning chapters of his journey living in Harlem then moving to Virginia at 16-years old to play basketball. Part 2 picks up from there. Follow Hakeem on Instagram @king_jubal

On this episode, I sat down with my guy Hakeem Croom, who currently serves as the Program Coordinator at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center at Sacramento State. In part 1 of this part 2 series, Hakeem goes deep into his background from living in Harlem, New York to jumping into an opportunity to play basketball in Virginia. He shares a lot of impactful lessons he learned during this life transition as a young Black man and working his way up as he navigated unknown territory. 

On this episode I sat down with Josiah Greer, who currently serves as the Enrollment Management/EOP Outreach Coordinator at Sacramento State. Josiah is also a motivational speaker and founder of Fire Your Boss (FYB). Listen in to hear about Josiah's leadership journey and how he sharpens his craft in the "dojo" #LeadUp Follow Josiah on Instagram & Twitter @jospyda_fyb Follow FYB on Instagram @_fireyourboss

On this episode I sat down with my friend Veronica Delgado Rodriguez, who serves as the Associate Director for Admissions of Marketing and Communications at Sacramento State University. She is heavily involved in the community, shares some practical ways to get involved, and talks about why volunteering is something every leader needs #LeadUp

On this episode, I sat down with a young and rising leader - Alejandro Galicia. I met Alejandro when he was a student in high school and over the last couple of years, Alejandro has immersed himself into service and community work in Sacramento as well as in Davis, where he is currently a 3rd year student at UC Davis. Alejandro reflects back on the moment when he not only met former President Barack Obama but also got to ask him a question at a conference in Oakland. Much respect to Alejandro and all that he is doing. Follow Alejandro on Twitter: @alejandroirl

On this episode, I sat down with Martin Sanchez, owner and founder of Amor Kombucha, a Latin-inspired kombucha made in Stockton, CA. Martin shares his journey from grinding in college to seeing a gap in the health and wellness space, more specifically when it comes to kombucha and using latin-inspired ingredients. Martin shares a lot of leadership lessons he's learned along the way and is looking to make big moves in the industry.  Follow Amor Kombucha on Instagram

Aaron Heredia serves as a Budget Analyst for the Department of Finance for the state of California. In addition to working for the state, Aaron and his wife, Maria, started their own business and have been building it for the past 5 years. Aaron shares his experience starting a business with his wife and how he continues to level up his leadership game through books, audiobooks, and podcasts #LeadUp Follow Aaron on LinkedIn Follow Human Growth Habits on Instagram Human Growth Habit Website

On this episode, I sat down with Tara Lynn Crawford, artist, motivational speaker, and creative, who shares her leadership journey from college to now. She drops many leadership gems in this one! Enjoy #LeadUp Follow her IG: @_taralynn3 www.taralynncrawford.com

On this episode, I sat down with Brian Bulaya, one of the co-hosts of the "We Don't Know Yet" podcast and the Founder of Simple Shift Studio, who shared about his most recent transition from a well-known company and starting up a business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Brian has learned and continues to put himself in situations to keep learning to be at the top of his game - don't miss the gems! Check out the "We Don't Know Yet" podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and all other listening platforms for podcasts.  Instagram: @wdkyet

On this episode I brought on the wordsmith himself - Christian Landa. Christian is a poet, artist, and nontraditional educator using his gifts to impact and change the lives of those around him. Make sure you have something to write down some notes with because Landa is spewing gems in this one. Enjoy! 

On this episode I brought on one of my best friends and favorite educators, somewhat biased, Chris Garcia. Chris is a San Diego native who is doing amazing work in his community in his 8th year of teaching. Chris shares his journey to the education field and gives insight on how to succeed in online learning. Additionally, he is the founder and host of the "Innovative Pedagogy" podcast.  Follow Chris: Twitter: @chrisgarcia03 Podcast: Innovative Pedagogy

On this episode, I sat down with Brittany Mitchell the founder of Heart & Soul Consulting, which provides athletes, coaches, and performers with mental skills to enhance performance and overcome mental barriers. Brittany shares his own personal journey as an athlete and how burning out led her to the Sports Psychology field. Follow Brittany: Instagram - @heartandsoulconsulting | @thementalminute Website - www.heartandconsulting.org

Had to kick off the 2020 new year with a special guest: Mission! Antonio Smith aka Mission is a rap artist in Sacramento who recently released his project "Thank You Lord We Made It Safe" and is now pushing his own music label "AOYNOM" (All of You None of Me). He shares about his background and how he first got started with music and what he's been learning ever since. Hope you enjoy it! Episode topics: [00:39] - Who is Mission? [01:36] - The beginning of the music journey [12:13] - The music industry [17:02] - Approaching music and life [21:47] - Starting a music label [23:09] - Advice to younger self & future goals Follow Mission & AOYNOM: Instagram: @missionismusic , @aoynommg Website: www.aoynom.com

Got a chance to sit down with my colleagues and mentees during our down time at a California State University Young Men of Color Consortium in Los Angeles. We talked about what leadership means to us, lessons learned, mental health and much more. This was a fun one, hope you enjoy it!

Super excited about this episode because I got my good friend, basically a sister, Kendy Braga to share her journey from working in group homes to now working for a software startup company called Webconnex. Webconnex was recently recognized by the Sacramento Business Journal as one of the Best Places to Work in 2019. Not only does the company have a fun culture but also are intentional in developing their team members. Lots of great value in this one - make sure to take notes! Follow Kendy: Instagram: @kendykayte Sacramento Business Journal Article

Caleb Tate aka "Mr. Stir the Pot" is a young leader in Sacramento who is looking to flip the city upside down and wanting to leave his own personal mark. Caleb recently challenged himself to post a video every single day for 60 days straight to talk about anything and everything. You can check out his YouTube page and follow him on Instagram @calebthetate

Fernando Cancino is a recent graduate from Sacramento State who experienced some mental health challenges while in school that eventually led him to go back home for 2 years until he came back to finish what he started. Fernando is currently in barber school and his ultimate goal is to have his own barbershop. Follow him on his journey: Instagram: @ferncancino1 & @barberos_co

Ozell Wilson is a leader in the making and is preparing for your vote in 2022 as he runs for a seat at City Council in Sacramento. Ozell shares about his story on how he gave up on his first love of basketball and how he pivoted to politics. Follow Ozell's journey on Instagram @ozell.wilson (Sorry for the background noise about halfway through the episode)

David Wilson II is a rising leader in the film industry. He talks about how he was depressed as an Economics major until he switched over to Film and nothing has been the same since then #LeadUp Follow David on his journey: Instagram: @swnup Facebook: David Wilson II Photography YouTube: SWNUP