Thought Leaders by VMH Magazine

In this episode, Wells Fargo's Senior Lead Diversity & Inclusion Consultant, Dewey Norwood, to discusses the current turbulence in the banking industry and the importance of supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). We had the pleasure of speaking with Dewey during the Orange Blossom Classic Kickoff press conference held in Miami Gardens.Dewey shares his insights into the challenges facing the banking industry and how Wells Fargo is navigating these turbulent times. He also discusses the bank's commitment to supporting HBCUs and the African American community, including the $34 million in financial support the bank has provided to HBCUs in the last 12 years.Dewey also talks about the Wells Fargo HBCU Legends Collection, a new slate of debit cards that celebrate the legacy and contributions of HBCUs. He shares how this initiative is not only a way to show support for HBCUs but also a way to provide financial assistance to these institutions.Throughout the episode, Dewey provides valuable insights into the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the banking industry and the role that HBCUs play in educating and preparing future generations of African American leaders. Dewey's insights and experiences provide a unique perspective that is both informative and inspiring.

Jemini Powell believed in her unique talent, developed it and continued to show progress via video postings. Following her heart led to an Instagram message to try out for a part. She now has a new career doing what she loves!

Dr. April L Webster is native of Hickman, Ky. She is the wife of LaShawn Webster. She is a mother, an Ordained Evangelist, Mentor, and Entrepreneur. She obtained her Ph.D in Christian Psychology Counseling on May 11, 2011 from International College of Ministry. She holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration specializing in Human Resources; and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Work both from Kentucky State University in Frankfort, Ky. She is the proud co-owner of Loving Arms, LLC Homecare agency, Author and Founder of A'Lashell (Lipsticks). Dr. Webster is a woman of character and integrity. She credits all her accomplishments to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

During Atlanta Open Jack Sock shares his thoughts on kids choosing tennis as a career, and the tweet from Coco Gauff that let to Wimbledon. Jack Sock has won four career ATP singles titles and 15 doubles titles, and has career-high rankings of world No. 8 in singles and world No. 2 in doubles.

Entrepreneur and Managing Attorney of Bonner Law PC, Lisa Bonner Esq. says many are starting new ventures inspired by creativity, drive or necessity, yet many new and existing entrepreneurs don't adequately give attention to properly laying the foundation for the business to be positioned for success. Entrepreneurship can be an exciting journey, but the quest for success can often leave you burning the candle at both ends with little direction, zigzagging your way to success, which in turn affects your financial and mental health.In her debut book, The LegaliTEAS of Entrepreneurship: The Relentless Pursuit of Excellence and Balance in Starting Your Own Business (Book Logix, Publication Date: April 19, 2022) gives you the tea, on starting your own business, straight, no chaser.

Pamela Cook, (CMO) of The World Games 2022 held in Birmingham, Alabama is making history on several levels. As Media and Promotions Manager at Coca-Cola UNITED Bottling,Coca-Cola UNITED and CMO of the World Games. Pam shares what participants can look forward to at The World Games. The World Games 2022 Birmingham is the new generation of global sport competition with Olympic-style sports experience welcoming elite athletes from all over the world to compete for gold in 34 unique, multi-disciplinary sports. Featuring 3,600 athletes from more than 100 countries, the international event will unite global fans with the Birmingham community in 14 venues around the greater metropolitan area.

Myriam Belasse has more than 30 years of experience in the Fashion and Manufacturing industry. She spent more than 25 years in New York's fashion industry working with brands like Donna Karan, Bebe, Cache, Saks, Calvin Klein, and more. Her newest venture, KeenaBela brand, aims to provide chic, relaxing options to women who love to live in color.

A professional baker and cake designer for 26 years, Houston's, Ché René Macarons and More offers a variety of original flavors to explore. Made fresh daily with almond flour which makes all their macarons gluten-free. In this session the the founder shares the secret and inspiration for her flavors, story behind the business and expansion. Signature Flavors include: Southern Peach Cobbler, French Vanilla, Chocolate Ganaché, Kravin' Keylime, Lavish Lemon, Sea-Salted Caramel

Taelor, Inc., a menswear rental subscription service that uses artificial intelligence to select clothes for people based on their personal goals and preferences. “The future of menswear is access, not ownership,” said Anya Cheng, Taelor's founder and CEO, who was a former product lead at Meta who helped create Facebook Shopping and previously held digital innovation leadership positions at eBay, Target, McDonald's and Sears. “Our mission is to help people to look good, achieve goals and help save the environment.”Phoebe Tan, Taelor's other founder and COO, who previously served as an executive of a company that was an operations partner with Amazon Go and Starbucks, agrees that Taelor will appeal to today's young men. “The younger generation is a lot more fashion conscious because of social media, and they also support sustainability and buying second-hand clothes. That's why Taelor is really the perfect solution for many young men who want to look good but own less,” she said.

Decobie Durant, South Carolina State CB Talks NFL Combine & NFL Draft. In this segment the cornerback shares his mindset, and empowering views on what it takes to make it to the NFL Combine | NFL Draft. Surely, his words apply to all goals across the board.

'A Modern Day Lynching' is a fictional, yet timeless capsule. The novel includes characters like Chayanne Carter-Parker, which tells the story of the challenges of being black in America faced with socioeconomic and racial issues. Author/Novelist Shy Richards, is a Michigan native that currently resides in Atlanta, GA. She enjoys creating fictional literature and characters that 'feel real'.

Rev. Irene Ford-Smith shares details about her new book entitled, 'Some Glad Morning'. With infinite wisdom she also gives advice to women in leadership, to those challenged with the discomforts of growth and talks COVID 19. Reverend Irene Ford Smith, writes from her experiences as a eulogist in a fascinating and informative way that compels the reader to travel this journey of heartbreak, laughter, and lessons learned. Her riveting read will keep you turning pages as you experience the beat of her heart as she ministers to others. Reverend Smith resides in Maryland with her husband, Melvin.

In this episode Tameka Farriér, shares intimate details from her new book and encourages listeners to live a life of purpose. A wife, mother, friend, and small business owner, her thought-provoking memoir is filled with motivational stories about love, family, friends, all the while staying true to herself. She candidly shares the faith that got her through intense moments that will have readers laughing and crying, while prompting self-reflection. To learn more about her debut memoir visit her at TamekaFarrier.com or follow her on social media @TamekaFarriér

In this episode Alicia Hare shares tips for CEO's and small businesses that helps them lead brighter, finding new purpose and passion in their work. Alicia Hare, Ph.D, is the founder and CEO of Tournesol, a leadership consulting firm that partners with CEOs, their teams, and organizations in times of significant change. Alicia's unique “leading brighter” approach helps CEOs harness the full power of their platform to elevate performance and improve the quality of people's lives. At its core, leading brighter enables leaders to build brighter futures — ones filled with more shared prosperity, equality, connection, discovery, and joy.

In this episode, Kalen Thorton, CMO of Gatorade, formerly of Nike shares career/success advice and expressions on his role as chief marketing officer. Kalen is a global business and brand leader who believes in using the power of sport and innovation to unlock human potential. He was named chief marketing officer at Gatorade in 2021, after 10 years leading transformational brand initiatives at Nike and Jordan Brand.At Gatorade, Kalen leads brand strategy, integrated marketing, portfolio management, creative storytelling and the expansion of consumer engagement across digital channels. He and his team are driving the company's evolution from a sports fuel innovator to a brand that fuels sport.

During #AWNewYork 2021 Ashley Allison, CEO of Turner Conoly Group says the "work (storytelling) is rooted in the authentic stories of people whose family members have been killed at the hands of police violence and people who have been incarcerated. They are the ones who guide the stories." Ashley Allison is CEO Turner Conoly Group. She spoke during the Storytelling to Truth Telling: The Strategy Behind Creating Great Work session.Photo Credit: Garry JonesProduced by: Vikki Joneswww.vmhmagazine.com

Introvert or extrovert, do you have what it takes to reach your customer base? In this episode Entrepreneur, Obie Garrison briefly gives an inside look to his personality type and its impact in retail sales. | Are you faced with grown-up conversations with your child in order to maintain your career? Do you have the support of others as a single parent faced with career challenges? In this episode, Obie Garrison shares personal details, difficult decisions he had to make and learning more about his son during the process. | Are you faced with closed doors in your career due to your race, or gender? How do you navigate through such challenges. In the segment, Obie Garrison, a retail sales trainer/manager gives advice for D&I (diversity and inclusion) success.

In this episode Richard Stern, TuneIn's CEO, shares his views on great content, what that looks like in today's climate and shifting to digital audio. With over 75 million listeners and 5.7 million podcasters, TuneIn's head chief places content discovery as a top priority.

With over 18 years of fashion expertise, Kelly Helfman, Commercial President of Informa Markets Fashion, has re-imagined the wholesale industry. Landing MAGIC as the top U.S. trade event for two consecutive years in a row, Kelly has successfully boosted globally sought-after brands, MAGIC, COTERIE, PROJECT, and SOURCING at MAGIC into new era through industry advancements with live and digitally focused trade events. Starting her career in 2006 at MAGIC as a Customer Service Representative, Kelly has expertly navigated the corporate ladder, drawing a wide scope of insights that lend to her innovative approach, and progressive leadership style. Bringing authenticity and advocacy for work-life balance as a #bossbabe and modern mother of two, Kelly continually shapes not only fashion B2B events, but the industry as a whole

Everyone loves a good superhero story! 14 yr. old Ted Konne will soon debut his teen and young adult superhero novel for all to enjoy! But especially young readers! Ted was born in Des Moines IOWA, to the family of Tornyie and Grace Konne. Ted is a short form of his ancestral Southern Nigerian Ogoni name “Tedum” which means a man full of life. He grew up like any other normal kids but was very quiet and would sit in for hours in a quiet place brainstorming and writing.Ted wrote his first book at the age of five titled “The Broken Ship” and we were all amazed at his creative mind. The family was surprised at his talent of writing because at that age, all his knew was reading books. Subsequently, he again wrote his second book which he called “The Jungle Mathematics”. His talent continues, as he debuts his first two-part superhero series!

Children's Book Series: enjoy ‘The Adventures of ChiChi Ba & Mr. Bunny' by Author/Writer Saletha Oliver.Saletha Oliver was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama. She's married to her loving and supportive husband of 16 years, they have two beautiful children a son and a daughter. The inspiration for this book came from their daughter's love for stuffed animals. Saletha has always had a big imagination, and a passion for reading and writing stories. At a very young age, she fell in love with writing during an assignment from her 7th grade language teacher. The assignment required students to recite (fill-in-the-blank) poetry by the famous poet, and playwright Langston Hughes. The rest was history for her young mind; from that moment on she continued down the literary path with various styles of writing.

Todd Michael Herrington, A Founder of Delta Flight Products teaches different aspect of leadership in his new book 'Cleared for Takeoff, he Runway to Effective Leadership". Stetson hats, loud boots, and passion for aviation, Herrington’s career followed in the footsteps of both of his grandfathers, who flew in the US Army Air Corps during the war. Originally hailing from Alamo, California - where he turned down invitation to major in music from University of California at Berkeley - Todd Michael Herrington now lives in the Atlanta metropolitan area with his beloved wife, Catherine, and children (Charlie, Evelyn and Sylvia). He has two little angels in heaven (Lillian and Bridget) who watch over him every day. Receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 2001 (and graduating near the bottom of his class), he subsequently worked in commercial aviation for nearly twenty years serving in roles across several engineering disciplines, project management, as well as quality and safety. He is a proud founder of Delta Flight Products, LLC - one of the most ambitious subsidiary organizations that was ever founded in the commercial aviation industry."Cleared for Takeoff, The Runway to Effective Leadership" is available in hardback, paperback and ebook format all all major retails bookstores online.

Marcus Parker is a drummer, organist, vocalist, composer and arranger from Washington D.C. Born into a family of funk legends, Marcus' style is undeniable.

Journalist Chris Jordan speak with SayQuon Keys, who’s been dancing since the young age of 5. During his middle and high school years, "Quon" would choreograph/perform in Fashion, talent, and hair shows, which acted as a platform for him to hone his craft.After graduating from Baltimore City College High, he attended Morgan State University for two years before eventually venturing to Atlanta, and then California to pursue his dream of becomming a world renowned Hip-Hop Choreographer. He currently resides in Los Angeles, where he continues to study dance, and teach choreography. His Choreography client roster includes Fergie and The Black Eyed Peas, and he has danced for the PussyCat Dolls, Britney Spears, Omarion, R&B soul singer Leela James, Angela Winbush, and the late Britney Murphy.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Happy Ogunjimi has a passion for sustainable development and improvement of environmental standards in Africa. In his new book entitled, Outcome of Civilizations In Africa, Ogunjimi’s personal accounts in Nigeria and America share compelling details that inspire hope, and change for basic freedoms and humanity. In this episode Ogunjimi talks solutions with undeniable passion for strengthening communities.

Indigoz was established in 2013. CEO and Designer Toi Kyles wanted to bring something fresh to the Shoe Industry, combining Style and Maximum Comfort along with Healthy Footcare. Toi studied Fashion Merchandising at Marymount University, she did an internship under Carl Brown part owner of FUBU, and worked in the Retail Industry as a Visual Merchandiser and Manager. With her Knowledge and Experience she brings to you Indigoz Shoes, a feel-good company that sells Stylish Shoes and promotes Healthy Footcare.

The concept for Vontélle was born out of a need of both the founders, who each lost their expensive eyewear within the same year and decided to focus their efforts on making their next purchases from a Black-owned brand. "After searching high and low for glasses that were stylish and had an ethnic flair, we realized they simply didn't exist." Harris says, "That's when Tracy suggested we start our own line."

Celebrity TV Chef Jernard of My CLEOTV treats viewers to his delicious dishes giving you a true sense of home. A Bestselling Cookbook Author, Wells is known from numerous Food Network shows. In this episode he talks business, holidays recipes and what we can expect in 2021.

A young talented visionary, Caison Meeks has taken his first steps into entrepreneurship combining his love for reading and spelling. His mother, Jamie Meeks, helped guide the new author in creating his vision that teaches and inspires young readers.

Chef Antonio Phillips, ‘Chef Phill’, discovered his passion for Culinary Arts after having a successful career in the United States Army. Interested in cooking and impressed with his father's well-established career in restaurant management, Chef Phill went on to study Culinary Arts at the Le Cordon Bleu School of Culinary Arts.In 2014, Chef Phill along with his father and brother formed, Father and Son's Catering, LLC which is licensed and operating in both Georgia and North Carolina. He’s since created Chef Phill, LLC and launched his Special Blend All Purpose Seasoning, which showcased at Bloomingdale’s.

What was the mindset, and emotions that led to your big mistake? How do you pick yourself up and recover from past failures, mistakes, or deep-rooted pains associated with childhood? Unresolved childhood issues can affect adulthood in many areas of life, including low self-esteem and infidelity. Author, Clay’Nisha Wilson shares tips on moving forward through new book ‘Feel It To Heal It’.

Power, politics and leadership are key elements to community improvement. Television Journalist and Talk Show Host Ed Gordon released a book, Conversations in Black: On Power, Politics, and Leadership, is hosting a new series called ‘Impact The Vote’. Ed Gordon continues to be a voice for societal issues. His career spans over three decades in journalism, with NBC News, CBS News, NPR, BET and several other major platforms. Here he talks Impacting the Vote, journalism and changing the narrative for the African American community.

Garry Jones retired from the Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons as a Senior Lieutenant, after working a combination of 16 years for federal and state prison facilities. In addition Jones' is the founder of Advocate4Justice and A4J Sportswear - a clothing line that advocates for justice and addresses social issues. As an author he's written on a number of topics from health and doctor's accountability to the pressures of the federal prison system.

In his new book, ‘Minority Executive Search From The Top’, Burks provides solid tools and simple solutions for diversity & inclusion from the top down. For over 30 years his company has assisted clients gain a competitive edge by developing a culturally diverse workplace that includes professional minorities and women at all levels. His company has done this with knowledge, skills and resources that set us apart.In today’s global economy, a diverse workforce provides a tremendous competitive advantage. World-class organizations are distinguishing themselves with people who have different backgrounds, ideas, and perspectives.

Using his cell phone during breaks on his job, Robert Thurston Hankins, Jr. ‘penned’ his top-selling novel, The Incredible Life of Willie Sharp. Born and raised in North Oakland, CA, Robert’s mission is to reintroduce the world to the majestic beauty and mystic insights of African American culture through literature. One of the main characters in the novel - Willie Sharp - represents unrecognized men who impact and influence the lives young boys growing up in inner-city neighborhoods.

Karen Arrington, founder of the world’s longest running African American Female Pageant in America, is the most recent winner of the 51st NAACP Image Award for Literary Excellence. Karen’s mission is to change the perception of African American Women globally. Karen has been honored by The Lifetime Network, Woman’s Day Magazine, Jones New York + other major media outlets for her tireless advocacy for women’s health, success + empowerment. Her book Your Next Level Life won a 2020 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary work. Over the past 20 years, Karen has helped over 1,000 women step into powerful careers in media, business, medicine + law — transcending hardship, abuse + financial limitations, and transforming their lives + communities.

For the second year in a row, Expertise.com has listed Phoenix Mortgage Specialists, Inc. as one of the Top 19 Mortgage Brokerage firms, out of 149, in the Atlanta area. Phoenix outpaced its competitors in all of the five major scoring categories.

Considered an essential worker, Army Veteran Debbie Bair, a clinical pharmacist in her current position for the last eleven years was granted no adjustment time to the rapid unfoldings of the pandemic. Working in Washington, the state that once led the nation in deaths and was considered the hot zone to avoid, her role quickly evolved.

A songwriter, producer, and label owner of MO-B Entertainment, Avant has traveled a long and steady path from being the first artist on Magic Johnson's record label to starting his own label. He is grateful to be in a unique situation in his career, maintaining control in business and creative freedom. Recently, AVANT achieved one of the biggest accomplishments in today's music industry as his catalog has been streamed over 1.8 Billion times on Pandora. His ninth studio album, ‘Can We Fall In Love’ is an open-letter with raw honesty and intensity.

TV Personality and Network Owner, Shamiar Spann kicks off her newest project The DTN Network internationally. Ms. Spann has been in development mode with DTN for a number of years as she prepared for the right time to launch the network. Now is the right time; the voiceless, the unheard have finally found a home where they can be seen and celebrated. DTN seeks to empower the minds of those who belong to communities vilified and marginalized by society at large.

An experimental drug for the coronavirus has a proven benefit, according to Dr. Anthony Fauci. In this episode, Pres. of Center for Medicine in the Public Interest, & Former FDA Associate Commissioner, Professor Peter J. Pitts weighs in on Remdesivir, economy and the three Q’s America has to embrace.

COVID19’s global impact has upended the lives of millions. In this episode COVID19 survivor, Curtis Johnson shares intimate details of lack of protection, hospitalization, and the people that gave him the will to live.

ShaNay Norvelle, fitness expert, life coach and author, gives us a guide to being more flexible and relaxed in her new book entitled, 'Stretch Your Stress Away with ShaNay'. In this easy to follow guide, celebrity trainer, ShaNay Norvelle teaches how to stretch your body in ways that will release tension, lengthen muscles, relax and energize you.

In this episode Author Gary K. Johnson shares details on reducing his $3 million debt and steps used to take control of his life. He advises and emphasizes for clients to build strong credit, regulate indebtedness, and accumulate resources in order to help pave the way to financial independence.

In business for over 36 years, Ultimate JetCharters employs a diverse group of 112 professionals. During COVID19, the Ohio-based aviation company made a decision to fund payroll as they near-zero revenue. In this episode, SVP Rick Pawlak shares their decision to ensure workers have jobs as they wait on funding from air traffic relief package. Ultimate JetCharters is currently operating and ready to provide charter services around the country. Ultimate Air Shuttle is currently idle and is planning on a June restart bringing back their scheduled service in and our of private facilities on their 30 seat aircraft.

In this episode, Author Richard Bootle, shares insight into the Art of Decency and choices. With clear descriptions, he takes listeners on a historical journey into the importance of reading and it's the impact on future leadership.

In this episode, Chris Jordan talks with Cristina Sicard about her work "Harmony" and how it is impacting not only children but also her local community. Nominated for a 2020 Author Academy Award, ‘Harmony’ addresses a growing dilemma of transplanted families and immigrant life. The story is told partially in rhyming verse, with a sincere gentleness that is evident in the subtle watercolor gouaches that illustrate the story.

In this episode, Chris Jordan talks with award-winning, international Gospel Artist Chevelle Franklyn. Her music inspires listeners to, “Go In Your Strength.” Coping with the global COVID-19 pandemic, Franklyn wants people to know they can prevail. On her new album “Go In Your Strength" is an anthem for the ages, a mid-tempo inspirational song created to encourage believers and non-believers around the globe to press on through every trial.

In this episode Dr. Brooke Goldner, a board certified medical doctor and best-selling author. shares her personal success of reversing lupus after almost losing her life. She teaches listeners how to build their immune system to fight COVID-19, while keeping stress and anxiety away. Dr. Goldner graduated Carnegie Mellon University with honors for genetic research in leukemia and neurobiology, was a graduate of the Temple University School of Medicine, was Chief Resident at UCLA-Harbor Residency, and holds a certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University.

James A. Jackson, II, the owner of Gator Media STL, based in St. Louis, Missouri has shifted his focus to help grieving families say goodbye. In this episode he shares the process and his personal story that moved him to action.

From commencement to other student challenges, universities around the world have quickly adapted to COVID-19. Within this episode Dr. Dwayne Smith provides resourceful details implemented for students and staff at Harris-Stowe State University.