Purpose Producer Podcast

In this episode of the Purpose Producer Podcast, host Georgia Dawkins welcomes comedian and writer Barry S. Naylor from Philadelphia. They discuss Barry's journey from Florida to Philadelphia, his experiences as a substitute teacher, and his career in comedy over the last 12 years. Barry also shares insights into his popular social media series, 'Mr. Barry feels the blues,' and his podcast, 'BS with BSN.' The conversation delves into how comedy brings joy and healing, the influence of his upbringing in the Black church, and the evolving nature of performance skills in today's digital age. 00:00 Introduction to Season Four 00:15 Meet Barry S. Naylor 00:37 Life in Philadelphia 01:23 Joy Scale and Teaching 02:48 Mr. Barry Feels the Blues 04:03 Comedy Beginnings 06:02 Finding Joy in Comedy 10:15 The Show Must Go On 12:31 Impact of the Black Church 13:50 Modern Day Kids 15:57 Follow Barry S. Naylor --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/purposeproducerpodcast/support

In this insightful episode, host Georgia Dawkins welcomes longtime friend and spiritual wellness mentor, Jules DeJesus Fritz. Together, they dive into a deep conversation about self-worth, overcoming imposter syndrome, and embracing one's true self. Jules shares personal stories about finding her purpose, the importance of community, and how beauty therapy has unexpectedly become a healing ministry. This episode is rich with wisdom and encouragement for anyone looking to connect more deeply with their own spiritual journey and self-acceptance. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Jeff Jenkins is inspiring a new community of travelers through his new show Never Say Never on National Geographic. The award-winning travel journalist first appeared on the podcast in 2021.  Now, the former school teacher is back with his infectious energy and unshakeable faith. In this episode, he talks about increasing visibility for plus-size travelers. Plus, the safety measures that made his adventures possible. Never Say Never with Jeff Jenkins premiers on National Geographic and Disney+ on July 9th. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Sampson McCormick is an award-winning comedian, writer, and producer known for sharing his unique perspectives on stages around the world. His career spans two decades but he's just getting started. In addition to standup, he's performed in nine independent films, including "B-Boy Blues," "Love the One You're With" and the Oscar-nominated short film "I Live Here," and written several more, including his filmed comedy shows. In this interview, he talks about cancel culture, being attacked on stage, and pronouns. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Ashley Harris is the host of The Queerly Blax podcast. The Queerly Blax Show aims to normalize the everyday existence of black LGBTQIA individuals through an interview style series. In this episode, we turn the tables on the beloved host and dive deeper into the power of our language. Hear how she balances queer life in corporate, being a wife, and life with a new baby. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Jastin Artis is a multifaceted artist who teaches leadership through music. As an artist and entrepreneur, he specializes in helping aspiring artists take on the industry. His app, A&R IN YOUR POCKET, is a home-based, faith-based subscription service for indie artists. In this episode, he details the life events and setbacks that led to his ultimate purpose. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/purposeproducerpodcast/support

2wicee is a native of Richmond, Virginia, and is an aspiring singer/songwriter. She grew up around a family of musical talent, which has motivated her to be the performer that she is today. In this interview, she highlights the struggles of being an independent artist and collaborating with R&B Legend Ne-Yo and singer Tiffany Evans. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Jaylen Christie is an award-winning writer, actor, cartoonist, motivational speaker, and public relations expert. Affectionately known as “The Superfly Nerd,” the diversity leader is celebrating his first comic book, Stink Bomb Man and The Brain Kids. It's a humourous adventure story with lots of action for the whole family. The characters first came to life in Jaylen's three-year-old imagination and it has been a lifelong dream for them to be shared with others. In this episode, the creator breaks down the decades-long journey to putting his pen to action. As a PR professional, Jaylen has led strategic communications planning and execution and generated media coverage for brands including Sodexo, Massey Services, RDV Sportsplex, FHSAA, Chick-Fil-A, and The Salvation Army of Orlando. Jaylen is known in Central Florida as a thought leader. He currently serves on the Public Relations Society of America's Board of Directors, the Orange County Library System's Friends of the Library board, and the United Negro College Fund's Leadership Council. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Alex “Nemo” Hanse is an author, entrepreneur, and joy enthusiast. Through his lifestyle brand, Foolies, he inspires people through books, apparel, and social media. You may not know Alex personally but you have felt his spirit. In his original song written for Viola Davis, he called her an EGOT winner 3 months before she cemented her place in history. "This makes me feel beautiful," said The Woman King star to her 10 million Instagram followers. In this interview, the multitalented designer discusses the importance of following your life's purpose. Hear what he calls the one thing you shouldn't leave behind when you die. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Keith Terrell is the host of Young, Black, and Vegan. With more than 70,000 subscribers, Keith has been recognized as a YouTube Creator of the Rise. In this episode, the South Central native opens up about his spiritual journey through plant medicine. From Costa Rica to Peru, he talks about the power of ayahuasca and navigating political unrest during a spiritual retreat. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Black boy joy is fighting back tears at the sight of your mom in her wedding dress. You can tell by the way the bride holds her son's face that Sommer L. Jean and Mekhi Sheffield have a strong bond. As seen on Good Morning America and CBS This Morning, this emotional first-look has been viewed more than 8 million times on TikTok. The newlyweds who met online sat down for an interview on The Purpose Producer Podcast just 8 days after their wedding. The heartfelt moment has inspired the "Black Boy Joy" series on The Purpose Producer. This campaign will feature interviews from Black men who are finding joy in everyday life. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

After being rejected by religion, two queer Black women embark on a spiritual journey to find God within. In this episode, Purpose Expert Kalyela Josephs shows us how she's using her experience to bring the LGBTQ+ Community closer to God. This episode is for anyone searching for identity and purpose. Find more information at: https://www.kalyelaj.com/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Travel Influencer Rachel Hill opens up about leaving corporate America to pursue her true purpose. After being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder in 2014, Rachel set out to travel the world indefinitely. Since then, the author and keynote speaker has helped hundreds of people create and build profitable online businesses. In this episode, she shares the wake-up call that ignited her path to success and healing. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Roy Wood Jr. is a stand-up comedian, producer, and actor, and is currently a correspondent on Comedy Central's Emmy and NAACP award-winning The Daily Show with Trevor Noah. He has had three stand-up specials on Comedy Central: Father Figure in 2017, No One Loves You in 2019, and his latest, Imperfect Messenger, in 2021. In this episode, he talks about his first Black journalist conference and how he strategically supports Black female comics. Most recently Roy starred alongside Jon Hamm in the Fletch sequel 'Confess Fletch' as well as 'Better Call Saul', 'Only Murders in the Building', 'The Last O.G.' & 'Space Force' Roy is the Executive Producer of the 2022 Emmy Nominated documentary / The Neutral Ground. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Pavar Snipe is a comedian, writer, actress, and disability advocate. she is the voice of Angela Baker on the DreamWorks animated series Dragons: The Nine Realms. Her latest venture Limitless Laughs Content Coaching helps clients create content for online, TV, film, and beyond. In this episode, she details how one episode of ABC's Scandal changed her life. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Benjamin Carlton is an author, activist, actor, comedian, and minister of love. He is a Co-Founder of BMe Community, a social impact organization that has served over 1,000,000 families, influenced national policy, and committed more than $2,000,000 to local community leaders. His debut memoir, I'm Black, I'm a Minister, and I'm Gay, details how queer Christians can live beyond fear and condemnation. In this episode, he opens up about his experience with conversion therapy and being queer in the Black church. Read more about the movement at www.blacklovewins.com --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

From the New York Comedy scene to the Kennedy Center stage, Courtney Bledsoe is breathing new life into entertainment television. After asking God for a recurring television role, the former teacher turned actress got not one – but two roles in 2022. She made her primetime debut on HBO Max's That Damn Michael Che, and now she's the newest member on the cast of MTV's Wild'N Out. This episode details the obstacles she overcame to see her dream come true. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Shayla Racquel is a master storyteller and powerful manifestor. This talented director is no stranger to overcoming odds - diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease at birth and a stroke at the mere age of 12, her battle with this illness is what brought her closer to the art of storytelling, which unlocked her love for filmmaking. Through prayer, hard work, and sticky notes, this talented director is creating her own path in Hollywood. In this episode, she opens up about her role on ABC's The Wonder Years and the legacy of the late director John Singleton. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Sunni Speaks is a vegan chef best known as the plant-based "Trap Queen". Since launching her "Vegan Trappin" business, Chef Sunni has managed to reach thousands with her "Smackin" foods via pop-up shops, food delivery, private dinners, catering, and nationwide shipping. In this episode of The Purpose Producer Podcast, Chef Sunni opens up about the tragedy that sounded the alarm about Black Health. Plus, the steps she took to lose more than 100lbs. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Keith Terrell is a writer, producer, and director who got his start at BET after film school. In this episode, he discusses the steps he took to launch his own show, Young, Black, & Vegan. Plus, the life lessons he learned from NBA Legend John Salley and America's Mom Tabitha Brown. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Chloé Hilliard is a writer and comedian who first appeared as a semi-finalist on NBC's Last Comic Standing and went on to appear on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Comedy Central, MTV, VH1, and more. Hear the journey that led her to become a writer on HBO's A Black Lady Sketch Show. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Winter Wheeler is a former top civil litigator who has made her niche as an expert mediator. She is sought out for her unique, compassionate, and successful style of handling complex matters that involve a diverse range of cultures, including Spanish-speaking clients. In this episode, Winter breaks down The Four Cornerstones of Mediation™, an original theory introduced to the world during her first TEDx talk in March 2021. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Kenny Lewis is a veteran gospel singer and songwriter. Since releasing his first national project in 2000, he’s gone on to work with some of the greatest in gospel music. Now, 22 years in, Kenny Lewis & One Voice are Stellar Award-nominated. Their latest single "He's Been Good" featuring Charles Jenkins already has more than one million streams. In this episode, he breaks down what it means to have an undefeated attitude and destroy the box. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Kim Smith is the CEO and Founder of LNQ Media. As a veteran journalist, she has gone from reporting local news to curating content for the most powerful media companies in the world. In this episode, Kim discusses being one of few women in sports journalism, embarking on motherhood, and becoming a media powerhouse. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Jeff Jenkins is the founder of ChubbyDiaries.Com, an online community for plus-size travelers who are passionate about seeing the world, experiencing new foods, and learning clever hacks along the way. In this episode, the award-winning journalist calls attention to the experiences that impact full-figured travelers the most. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

As a singer, songwriter, and publicist, Josh King (JKing) is making his mark on the entertainment industry. After getting his start with R&B singer Sammy, he has continued to build relationships helping countless celebrities and brands along the way. In this episode, the renaissance man opens up about adoption, therapy, and the $15,000 investment that changed his life. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

On the last episode, we met Nicole Hardesty, the social media guru with supernatural faith. Through her daughter’s memory, she introduced the topic of infant loss and mortality. In this episode, she talks about parenting, marriage, and guardian angels. To donate to Saul’s Light in memory of Bryant, click here. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Nicole Hardesty is a social media expert with more than 10 years of experience with major brands including The Huffington Post, The Daily News, and WUSA. In this episode, Nicole introduces us to Bryant, the baby girl who never came home from the hospital but whose spirit lives on each day. Listen as Nicole calls attention to the heartbreaking reality of infant loss. To donate to Saul’s Light in memory of Bryant, click here. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Tamika Newhouse is the CEO who went from teen mom to running her own company by the age of 20. Affectionately known as the Shonda Rhimes of Black Publishing, the award-winning author has penned 17 novels and helped to publish nearly 300 books. In this episode, Tamika opens up about living with bipolar disorder as a single mom and media maven. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Chelsea Fuller is an expert in crisis management. As the deputy communications director for Blackbird, she is basically the Olivia Pope of the social justice movement. From campaigns like #MeToo to #BlackLivesMatter and #DefundthePolice, Chelsea plays a leading role in responding to the headlines that keep us up at night. In this episode, the veteran journalist explains why she only responds when called upon and how her faith guides her every step of the way. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

As a career coach, leadership speaker, and business consultant, Brittany Cole finds joy in encouraging others to thrive. After spending 12 years at Pfizer, she found herself at the crossroads of grief and transition. This year, the former marketing executive released, Thrive Through It: A Guide for Redefining Resilience in Life and Business. In this episode, she peels back the pages of her best-selling book to show us how to define who we are through moments of loss. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

This episode is for the believer who is barely hanging on. With the unemployment rate, at 6.2 percent, and the number of unemployed persons, at 10.0 million, many are struggling to keep the faith. All while Black and Brown business owners are closing their doors at alarming rates. In this episode, Host and Executive Producer Georgia Dawkins discusses lessons of faith, success, and purpose. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Dr. Denise Mose is a professional educator who spent a year serving as a foreign teacher in China. Her act of faith ignited a real adventure of Self-Discovery and now she’s sharing her notes for other believers. In this episode, the award-winning author walks us through her journey to writing Blind Faith. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Kiami Davael is an American actress best known for her role as “Lavender” in the film Matilda. Throughout her career, she has starred in numerous TV shows like "Moesha" and "The Steve Harvey Show.” But perhaps she has learned the most from the roles she didn’t book and the ones she never saw coming. In this episode, Kiami details how her posture of faith has sustained her through loss and uncertainty. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Dr. Robin Martin is a sought-after speaker and valued strategic partner. In her book, Navigating Courage: Leading Beyond Fear, Dr. Martin bears powerful witness to the professional trials faced by women of color and minorities in the workplace. In 2020, she inspired the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to donate $15 million dollars to Historically Black Colleges and Universities participating in The Just Project. In this episode, she shares her secrets to leadership, courage, and success. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Elissa Yancey is an educator, author, co-founder of “A Picture's Worth,” a story-gathering tool that builds trust, adds context to issues shaping our world. Her new book, “Grab Happy,” addresses something we all can relate to in this season: grief. In this episode, Elissa opens up about the stages of grief, who we can become, and two words from her mother that changed her entire outlook on life. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

Meet Sirdarius Benton, better known as “The Dancing Deputy.” Deputy Benton first went viral in 2018 when he danced to Drake’s “In My Feelings.” In the midst of social unrest and a global pandemic, the Henry County, Georgia deputy says he’s bridging the gap by being in the gap.” In this episode, he opens up about a near-death experience that left him upside down after a high-speed chase. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

As a recording artist and songwriter, Phoenix Sohl is using energy healing to reach listeners on a deeper level. Using frequencies like binaural beats, she is creating transformational media to inspire and uplift the masses. In this episode, she opens up about the spiritual awakening that led her to the trail she’s blazing today. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

From “Hot Tub Time Machine” to “Black-ish,” Kellee Stewart has breathed life into characters for more than 10 years. Now, as a proud egg-advocate, Kellee is inspiring an underserved community through her weekly Instagram series, Warrior Wednesdays where she shines a light on other fertility stories. Whether you’re believing God for a child or you’re just believing God for a miracle, Kellee’s story is a reminder that we all play a leading role in activating our faith. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/purposeproducerpodcast/support

CJ Faison is the founder of Face Forward Productions where he curates cultural stories. After walking away from a career in finance, he took a non-traditional route to entertainment which led him to the Emmy nominated digital series, Giants. His latest short film, Junebug, explores fatherhood, girlhood, and mental wellness. In this episode, CJ gives us a look inside his process, his passion, and most importantly, his faith

CJ Faison is the founder of Face Forward Productions where he curates cultural stories. After walking away from a career in finance, he took a non-traditional route to entertainment which led him to the Emmy nominated digital series, Giants. His latest short film, Junebug, explores fatherhood, girlhood, and mental wellness. In this episode, CJ gives us a look inside his process, his passion, and most importantly, his faith.

Erin Waller is the founder of BWFwoman, an organization that supports and heals the brokenhearted and celebrates the inherent beauty of Christ in the spirit of women. Her goal is to empower others to make choices that strategically shift emotions. In this episode, she breaks down how to become intentional about our emotions so that we can all achieve our physical, mental, and spiritual goals.

After doctors told them they would have trouble getting pregnant, Talya and Dwayne Parker dared to ask God for more. As it turns out, the young couple was expecting before they ever petitioned God. Growing in your faith can be difficult when you are in a relationship, and that kind of love calls for an even deeper level of intimacy. In part II of our interview, Talya and Dwayne candidly detail the moments where they needed grace the most.

Sometimes the gift you use to help position others for success is your story. My guests today know all about the power of their testimony. In 2018, Dwayne and Talya Parker went viral after sharing the news that they had closed on their first house. While millions of people saw the photoshoot in their orange and green t-shirts outside their new home, it is the testimonies that they continue to share that make their ministry so unique.

This is a special episode about finding purpose in isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sometimes the miracle is not getting what you prayed for. Sometimes the miracle is being able to make it through a difficult season.

Aqueela Maddox is using the power of words to transform the lives of everyone she meets. As an author, speaker and relationship coach, she has impacted thousands around the world including Mexico, London, Paris, and the Dominican Republic. While she can be spotted as a recurring guest on VH-1's T.I. and Tiny's Friends and Family Hustle, her largest platform is wherever God decides to take her next. In this episode, Aqueela shows us how our testimonies can lead to a life of abundant faith.

Jacqie McWilliams is in her 8th season of serving as the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Commissioner. Not only is she the first woman to serve in that role, but she is also the first appointed African American Commissioner out of 100 Conferences representing NCAA Division I, II and III. The CIAA conference is made up of historically black colleges from North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Pennsylvania and Maryland. This year marks 75 years of the annual basketball tournament. In this episode, Commissioner McWilliams breaks down her playbook for success.

Deejay Young is an award-winning actor, singer, songwriter, and independent artist. At the peak of his career, he made the decision to leave one of the biggest brands in the world for an even greater dream. While on tour with "Hamilton: An American Musical," the multitalented entertainer pauses to explain how he manifests one life-changing opportunity after another.

Liz Warner is the founder of Run to Reach, a global campaign aiming to raise money for women's issues in 20 countries. After her father's untimely passing, Liz found peace on the pavement and now she's paying it forward with 30 marathons by the age of 30! In the show's first international interview, Liz joins us via FaceTime from Paris, France to show us the power of being in position.

In this episode of the Purpose Producer Podcast, Executive Producer Georgia Dawkins takes listeners down a path of hope, redemption and spirituality through a series of purpose reflections. Since launching her career with ABC News in 2008, the author, producer and journalist has gone on to blaze a dynamic path in media. While writing her debut book, “Everybody Knows: The Power of Being Position,” Georgia says she was called to be a Purpose Producer. Hear how she’s using her gifts to help others birth their dreams.