Three Stores, Two Cotton Gins, One Remarkable Life

Rick Meekins shares his journey from being in the military to working in the restaurant business and eventually starting his own restaurant. He then transitioned into consulting and founded , a consulting company that helps people sustain their businesses. One of the key lessons he learned is the importance of staying in your lane and focusing on what you do best. Rick Meekins shares his lessons learned in business and life, including the importance of trusting in God and being resilient in the face of challenges. He emphasizes the need for business owners to adapt and embrace new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, in order to stay relevant. Rick's ultimate goal is to create a million jobs and provide resources and support for growing businesses. He is also working on a book and his online magazine called helps business owners navigate the complexities of running a successful company. In this episode: One of the key lessons he learned is the importance of staying in your lane and focusing on what you do best. Aepiphanni operates with the goal of doing business in a way that honors God and makes the world a better place. Trust in God and lean on Him during challenging times Adapt and embrace new technologies to stay relevant in business Create a million jobs and support growing businesses Be inspired by his story and learn more about W. Rick Meekins in this 37th episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, and 1 Remarkable Life: The Journey from There to Here!

This week on 'Three Stores, Two Cotton Gins, One Remarkable Life,' we're joined by Haywood County Tennessee District 8 Commissioner Jeffery Richmond. Hailing from the iconic 'Tina Turner's hometown,' Commissioner Richmond shares his personal and inspiring journey into politics and government service, and his future goals. In this episode Commissioner Richmond talks about:  ●     Roots and family: Richmond shares insights into his roots, the impact of his father's death on his life, and his sister's activism. ●     Entry into politics: He discusses the driving force behind his decision, namely to do more for his community. ●     Role as Commissioner: He talks about past successes, contributions, and vision for the community's betterment, and maybe ultimately running for mayor. ●     Personal motivations: Richmond is honest about his determination, and his positivity in life, and he always believed he could be elected to public office and make a difference.  ●     Role model: He also talks about the importance of good role models, and how to be one.

This week's episode dives into the personal history of Professor Henrietta Giles and her experiences as a child at the heart of the desegregation movement of the 1960s. Today, her life has come full circle in her current work as a journalist, cultural historian, professor, and documentary storyteller.   In this episode Prof. Henri talks about:   • Her background. • The two pivotal moments in her youth that had the most impact on her life. • Her work as a college professor enables her to guide students in discovering the social issues that most impact them. • Her dissertation examines the news stories of the Civil Rights era and how they impacted the way black people perceived themselves during that historic time.

This week's episode details how one determined woman is helping people return to the path of dignity, stability, and wellbeing — with a new pair of shoes. Chicago's Charisma Cannon describes her journey building the non-profit organization Shoe Heals. Drawing on a combination of faith in God, self-confidence, and determination, Charisma partners with organizations around Chicago to serve people in need. Shoe Heals provides new shoes to the homeless, foster children, recently incarcerated youth, low-income workforce, and many more.  In this episode Charisma talks about: • Her inspiration for the non-profit, Shoe Heals • Can a new pair of shoes really heal the human spirit? • Pivotal moments that brought her to where she is today • The mission of Shoe Heals • How do I get involved?

Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson's former student, Dr. Marcus L. Matthews is now a celebrated educator himself. In today's episode, he shares with her some of the defining moments of his life and how he has converted his experiences into resilience and understanding as an educator. Today, Dr. Matthews leads and inspires teachers and other educators to develop trauma-informed classrooms that help students succeed, no matter their circumstances. Be inspired by his story and learn more about his work, books, and words of wisdom in this episode of Three Stores, Two Cotton Gins, One Remarkable Life: The Journey from There to Here.

"Reverend and Representative" Johnny Shaw, growing up in Laconia, TN, as the youngest of 11, was the golden voice of the church choir. He has become the voice urging citizens to vote for change by representing District 80 of Tennessee since January 2001. From being rejected for having a "Black Voice" to spreading Black Gospel Music globally through his Shaw's Broadcasting, his story is inspiring. In this candid conversation, he expresses his views on politics, the need to serve, the challenges of having two Black-owned radio stations, 94.7 WOJG FM and WBOL 1560 AM, and staying true to his identity. WOJG currently spreads "Word and Music" all day, every day. The station serves 14 counties in West Tennessee and North Mississippi and can be accessed globally through the website wojg.com. Learn more about Johnny Shaw in this 32nd episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, and 1 Remarkable Life: The Journey from There to Here!

The ability to just show up and do what others have not tried will give you the confidence to break new ground. Civil Miller-Watkins is the Vice-Chair of the Fayette County School board, a mother, grandmother and politician. Over the years, she has contested for a couple of offices that many black women do not even think about running for. Although she did not win some of the elections, she came out with life lessons that can help empower other people, and black women especially, to shoot for the stars. Civil is a leader's leader, a phenomenal exceptional woman who was able to balance family life, work and politics. The gems she has to share will shape your life and help you live a better and more productive one. Listen to this podcast and become empowered to be all that you were created by God to be

Managing people is one of the hardest things that you do as a leader. Every day leaders complain about their teams and try to create new ones as though that would solve the problem. In this episode, Justin L. Harris, a certified Human Resources Professional and Practitioner with over 20 years of experience, shows us that there is a better way to manage people and lead them towards productivity. Throughout the podcast, he echoes the importance of knowing your craft, and because he has achieved mastery in his career, he can share insights gathered over the years. As you listen to this podcast, you'll hear solutions to people management problems, and discover ways to manage and lead teams from a pro who's done it consistently and is now training others.  

All the way from Downtown ‘no place' in Tennessee to becoming Professor of Christian Education, Spiritual Formation, and Youth Ministry at Memphis Theological Seminary (MTS), Rev. Dr. Carmichael Crutchfield has traveled a long way on the winding course of life. His journey from being an accountant to becoming pastor, church administrator, fraternity president, professor, author, and mentor will inspire you to embrace the changes that life brings. In this episode, he talks about how his family shaped his life, the choices he made, how he dealt with the loss of a loved one, his brotherhood in the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., his status as newlywed, and above all, his unwavering faith in God's Grace.

Pamela Marshall is an extraordinary woman, who at 19 started anchoring the news on WBBJ Channel 7 in Jackson Tennessee. She went on to excel in many top positions and today she shares her life experiences and shows us how believing in your God-given gift, mixed with forgiveness and empathy can help you become the best version of yourself. One of the things we struggle with the most is forgiveness. Many times, we find it difficult to let go of the pain and hurt that others inflicted on us. We hold onto them tightly and we stew in the pain. In this podcast, Pamela shows us that holding onto pain and hurt will only end up destroying us. She talks about the benefits of letting go and how to forgive. Pamela has a new book coming in September titled The Art of Forgiveness. Tune in and hear all about it and how you can get a copy and begin the healing process. Her website is:

Ida Prewitt Suggs was born in Stanton, Tenn., the second of 11 children, and the eldest daughter. When Ida's parents couldn't afford to send her to college, she had to figure out how to make her big dreams come true! In the meantime, she inspired her siblings, and became a woman of influence, a leader and an amazing woman of God. Over the course of her incredible life, she's touched many lives, and in this podcast, she shares what helped her become who she is today.

Angela Lee is a leader, mentor, and inspirational figure within her community. Having worked for 10 years managing her own AT&T store in Michigan, she moved to Tennessee and is making an impact in the community she spent time in growing up. Inspired by the life of her grandparents, Angela has been a beacon of hope within the neighborhood, serving as the president of the Concerned Citizens of the Douglas Community. By the end of this episode, you will: Learn more about the Douglas family in Tennessee. Get to know more about Angela Lee and her achievements. Understand what it takes to lead. Get some hands-on advice that will help you live an impactful life.

Steven Dale Jones is an American multi-award-winning songwriter, composer and lyricist. His work has resulted in over 150 cuts and over 20 million records sold by artists including Bonnie Raitt, George Strait, Alabama, Reba McEntire, John Legend, Kenny Rogers, Diamond Rio, and Mindy McCready. On top of that, he has earned nine ASCAP awards, a Grammy nomination and a Dove Award. Steven Dale Jones hails from a musical family and attributes his talents to good genes and supporting parents. He started writing songs at the age of 11, and went on to college and completed a degree in finance. He worked in the banking industry for 10 years but his passion for songwriting never waned, and he continued to write songs relentlessly.  When he was offered a publishing deal at FAME Records, the rest, as they say, is history. His advice to any songwriter is to write what you know and write what you love because you can transfer those emotions to the listener. And, always write things that would be ok to play for your mom and dad.

Travelius "Trell" Harris is more than just an engineer. He is a world traveler and founder of the Alita A. Watkins Memorial Scholarship, a nonprofit organization established in 2010 which awards scholarships to deserving graduating students, in memory of his mother. He is also the owner of Annie Lue Estates, a real estate business established in 2013 that provides affordable housing to well over 100+ individuals. In 4th grade, Trell began to understand the power of speech and conversation after winning a public speaking contest. He discovered that by communicating effectively, he could persuade the crowd by using good diction and enthusiasm. He uses these skills in his daily life and imparts this knowledge to others. His goal is to pull others up and assist them with their life goals and ambitions. Trell founded the Camp Cousin Uncle Trell, a non-profit camp for children in his family who are 5 years and older, offering them new experiences, life skills, creative, mental and physical activities - and of course good communication. Trell firmly believes that remaining true to yourself (not listening to other people's limiting beliefs) and practicing self-determination are life traits that will allow you to live life on your terms. By caring less about what others think about you, and thinking about what you should be doing, you can live a full life without limiting yourself mentally or physically. Currently Trell is working with his family to construct a public venue in his hometown - for the community to host events at an affordable cost for all.

  Sherron Burgess is the Senior Vice President and Global Chief Information Security Officer at BCD Travel, the second largest travel company in the world. BCD operates out of 109 countries, and it is Sherron's responsibility to ensure cyber security for the entire global operation. Sherron is just one of two African American women who hold this title, and she is the youngest (still in her 30's). Sherron attributes her success to the way she was raised. Her mother was a professor   so they moved around a lot, experienced many different cultures, and learned different ways of doing things and thinking about things; all of which helped her to be so successful in her role today. Sherron loves her position and her ability to help others understand their gift, and to operate  through their gift, has helped her to become an inspirational leader and trailblazer in the complex world of cyber security.

Overview: Pug Fuller grew up in Brownsville, TN where he accelerated through school and began studies at the University of Tennessee at just 16 years of age. When he started at UTKnoxville, in 1968, there were about 120 African American students out of 25,000. He received a B.S. in education and three master's degrees. Pug spent many years teaching and in administrative roles at and after a stint working in a video lab, he developed a passion for this technology and that's how Pug Fuller Video was conceived. Pug is blessed to have worked with the likes of Herbie Hancock, Jessie Jackson, and Shirley Chisolm.

From the age of 7, Joshua Trotter has always wanted to become a businessman. When he was 12, he approached his mother and told her of his to become an entrepreneur. Joshua's mother Katrecia Miller, gave him some leg work to complete to ensure he was serious about his venture. After weeks of research, Joshua had an industry he was interested in: candle making. He presented a business name, completed his product research, and calculated start-up costs. That's how Magic Wicks was born. Joshua's dream of being an entrepreneur is taking him to places far beyond the small town he lives in. Joshua's ultimate goal is also the Magic Wicks tag line, ‘add a little magic to every home.' Lookout world, Joshua's on his way! Website: www.magic-wicks.com   In This Episode: · Joshua's first steps in creating his own business at a young age · Turning that goal into reality · The importance of family support · Market research is vital to the success of his products · Creating a successful product is harder than you think · Always have a goal

Rev. Roger Anthony Hopson has a lot to share when discussing how to get from there to here. As the oldest in his family, Rev. Hopson talks about how his brother Vincent is his best friend and how they had a blast spending time together, both in school and outside it. His story proves that even if a person thinks he has planned his life all out, things can change in the blink of an eye . Listen to Rev. Hopson's remarkable story about how people and circumstances changed him and his view of life in Episode 20 of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins and 1 Remarkable Life!   In this episode: · In this story, Rev. Hopson shares how special his brother was to him as his best friend and partner in crime growing up. · Rev. Hopson talks about how his experience of joining a gang when he was young changed the rest of his life as it triggered a move to live with his grandparents and how things shifted from there. · He reflects on the significance of how meeting a variety of people can change your view of life and the plans you've laid out. · The importance of having a supportive life partner · The lessons that Roger Anthony Hopson lives by and what he hopes his legacy to the world will be.

Being the 7th out of the 8 siblings, and the younger brother of Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson, Reginald Bond has a lot of wonderful and exciting experiences to share. Aside from enjoying being the youngest in the family for 14 years before his lovely baby sister arrived, Reginald is also very vocal about his love for farm life. He loves the smell of fresh air and nature but in Texas Reginald started getting into different jobs which greatly influenced the strong and versatile person he is today. Reginald had quite a journey growing up and you will get to hear some of these entertaining moments and his incredible story in Episode 19 of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins and 1 Remarkable Life!   In this episode: · Reginald shared how he found it fascinating that Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson and he share the same birthday and havethe same love for cars · Reginald talks about different experiences in school where he felt the demands of having really smart siblings. · Experiencing the positive results of pledging a fraternity · Expectations of growing up with determined and driven siblings · Discovering what a job will teach you and what it leaves to the individual, which eventually helps him/her go through life · Being married and having kids as a pivotal moment in a person's life

Dr. Dorothy Granberry has a lot to share when talking about getting from there to here. As a middle child with parents who fully supported her education, she was able to overcome any adversities that came her way. Dr. Granberry has played a key role in bringing history alive and generating more awareness of the African American community and their contributions. Her life story proves that money should not be an obstacle to receiving the education one deserves. With determination, eagerness and love for what you do and believe in, anyone can achieve their dreams and develop a legacy for others to follow. Listen to her amazing story in Episode 18 of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins and 1 Remarkable Life!   In this episode: · Dr. Granberry shares how being a middle child helped her accomplish more, and why this became an important place in their family · The significance of having parents that raise their children to believe they can do anything they set their minds to · The effect of hearing parents share their views and perspectives of the world with their children as they grew up · The value of having a "can-do" attitude and putting it into action · The significance of education wherever you are · Learning one's roots and contributing to society · Lessons that Dr. Granberry lives by and her legacy to the world rather than just the African-American society

Vincent Hopson is a remarkable member of his household. Born in Savannah, TN, yes, there is one in Tennessee, Vincent has dedicated his life to his family. When things went topsy-turvy, he stood steadfast in the face of adversity—taking life one day at a time. His experiences dealing with an injury at work and then with his wife's onset of dementia made him realize the importance of humility and how pursuing a godly life can make daily struggles less taxing. Hear more about Vincent Hopson's life lessons in this 17th episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life!   In this episode: Leaving Savannah for Chicago and going back How everyone thought he would be a good fit as a teacher Enrolling in college, but realizing teaching wasn't his calling Getting a job in a nearby paper mill instead of getting a degree His wife, Bertha, being diagnosed with Alzheimer's 6 years ago, and how that changed their lives Finding relief in support groups Allowing Bertha to do whatever she wants Learning constantly about how to care for her Finding peace at yard sales and junk stores with brother, Roger Staying humble and kind Leaving a legacy of a plain old Vince who cared about people and made a difference

Dr. Jo Zanice Bond’s love for learning has taken her far. Hailing from Brownsville, TN, she found herself pursuing a Ph. D. and eventually becoming a professor at Tuskegee University. Her life experiences opened her eyes to the importance of persistence, and revealed why ‘elbow grease’ pays off eventually. It also showed her the big responsibility of nurturing young minds and the importance of the African diaspora in her school community. Hear more about Dr. Bond’s amazing feats in this 16th episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life!   In this episode: Leaving Brownsville and how far she’s gotten On Dr. Bond’s love for learning and pursuing a Ph. D. Becoming a professor at Tuskegee University The important women who have been a part of Tuskegee University How the African diaspora converges in Tuskegee Speaking to students from diverse backgrounds How her birth order inspired her desire to teach and to learn Why persistence pays off How entrepreneurship influenced her dissertation

Meet child #1 in the Bond family, Dr. Norma Jean Bond Burgess. She’s someone who has built a fulfilling career in academia and has been a great inspiration to her family and each student and colleague she has interacted with. But what really pushed Dr. Burgess to this point? She reflects on the guiding principles in her life, her role as the Bond family’s oldest child, and how she reframed the way she views leadership in this newest episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life.   About the Guest: Dr. Norma J. Bond Burgess, Professor, Associate Provost for Diversity, Inclusion and Special Initiatives, Lipscomb University (TN) Dr. Norma J. Bond Burgess is President Elect of the National Council on Family Relations (President elect 2020-2022 and President 2022-2024). Burgess was selected as a "Women of Influence” by the Nashville Business Journal for 2021. A successful businesswoman, Burgess has been recognized nationally for her work. A powerful motivational speaker, she has a sense of humor and is committed to sharing strategies for integrating work, family and success.   In this episode: Pursuing and making opportunities Dr. Burgess' guiding principles in life Dr. Burgess' favorite role and on being child #1 in the Bond family On being scared of failure but learning its importance Learning to listen to help people succeed On representation and influencing students’ lives Taking control of your own life The lessons that helped Dr. Burgess become successful

Meet child #3 of the Bond family, Attorney Linda Bond Edwards. Entering law school at the exciting age of 35 years old, Linda went through a faith-filled journey that led her to bounce around different corporate positions and move from one city to another. She believes that the path that God has set out for her is far more perfect than what she could ever plan for herself... and this has guided her throughout a life well-lived. Hear more about Linda’s story in this 14th episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life!   In this episode: Linda’s journey to law school and beyond The walk of faith and following the Lord’s will A peek into Linda’s law school experience Being selected as one of the “25 Women to Know in Tallahassee” Linda’s life in Tallahassee Why it’s important to take a closer look at yourself Linda’s 2021 Word of the Year Having a stable support system rooted in faith The legacy Linda wants to leave behind

This episode’s guest holds a special place in Dr. Hopson’s life, especially since this woman played a major role in Dr. Cynthia’s career as a writer. Meet Christy Smith, the former publisher of a weekly newspaper in the area I grew up in. We go back to 1987 when I pitched a story to her and the rest, as they say, is history. Christy played a major role in my career as a writer, and after conquering the world of journalism (with a cool byline, “C. T. Smith”), she became a Disaster Consultant. She spent years supporting and helping survivors—an experience that changed her relationship with God. Hear more about her story on working in disaster case management and how she values being a lifelong learner in the 13th episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life.   In this episode: From being a journalist to becoming a Disaster Consultant How working in disaster recovery and with survivors shifted Christy perspective Liberal education and how it should be given more importance Being active participants in culture and politics The value of being a lifelong learner On leaving, remaining and contributing in this world

This episode’s guest holds a special place in Dr. Hopson’s life, especially since this woman played a major role in Dr. Cynthia’s career as a writer. Meet Christie Tate Smith, a former publisher of a weekly newsletter in the town Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson grew up in. They go back to 1987 when Dr. Cynthia pitched. A story to Christie and the rest, as you can say, is history. After conquering the world of journalism (with a cool byline, “CT Smith”!), Christie went on to become a Disaster Consultant. She spent years supporting and helping survivors—an experience that changed her relationship with God. Hear more about her story on working in disaster case management and how she values being a lifelong learner in the 13th episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life.

Angella P. Current-Felder is an author, a retired executive, and an active Methodist leader and civil rights icon. Born in Detroit, Michigan, she served as the Executive Director of the Office of Loans and Scholarships under the United Methodist Board of Higher Education and Ministry. She also worked as the Executive Director of several other human service organizations as well as the agency liaison for the Africa University Endowment Fund Campaign. But before all those remarkable feats, Angella P. Current-Felder was a girl who grew up among a family which also made major leaps in their respective paths. She’s the daughter of the first Methodist African–American woman bishop and a former Deputy Director of the NAAC. She was also a student in Morgan State College—a time in her life where she became more politically involved. Learn more about her story in this 12th episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life!   In this episode: · The story behind Angella’s name and how her early years shaped the woman she is now · On being a part of the Methodist Church · Being actively involved in her school’s debate team · That moment in her life that led to her becoming more politically motivated · Learning how to ‘read with a political eye’ during her college years · The lessons Angella P. Current-Felder lives by and the legacy she wants to leave to the world

To celebrate her 65th birthday, the 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life podcast flipped the script by interviewing Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson in this special episode! In this episode, management consultant and founder of Aepiphanni Business Consulting Rick Meekins sat down with Dr. Cynthia to gain insight into what ‘heartwork’ is and its difference from simply doing hard work, why she always strives for excellence and her close relationship with God. She talks about her own stories, experiences, and learnings and how it all led her from there to here. If you’d like to officially get to know the host of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life, listen and learn more from Dr. Cynthia herself! Listen now!   In this episode: · On taking the road less traveled · The importance of learning something new every day · The most interesting thing that Dr. Cynthia learned about herself throughout her journey · Listening to other people and encouraging their big dreams · Why excellence is the only standard Dr. Cynthia accepts · Having strong faith and staying in constant contact with God · Writing as “heartwork” and having God guide her · How one becomes “spiritually hungry” · On lifting up phenomenal women

A pivotal moment in Dr. Cassandra Y. (Yvette) Owens’ life is when she went back to her home town to regroup after pursuing graduate studies. Finding her way back home proved to be one of the best decisions she made. She ended up staying for 13 years—a time wherein she was able to make an impact on her students, the college she works in and on the black community. Dr. Owens now serve as the Department Chair and Assistant Professor of Religion at Lane College at Jackson, Tennessee and has authored two books since then. She champions gamechangers who are not getting the recognition they deserve and is a firm believer of the importance of boosting students up and showing them what they are capable of. Listen to Dr. Owens and her passionate views on leadership, education, being a woman in the ministry and the contributions of black men in episode 10 of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life! Website: Dr. Cassandra Owens’ Books:     In this episode: · Finding your way back home and regrouping · Paying it forward as an educator · Being a woman in ministry and her major female influences · Insights from Dr. Cassandra’s two books · On black men and their contributions to society · Recognizing and celebrating society’s gamechangers · On what makes a leader and the challenges behind such a responsibility · The lessons Dr. Cassandra learned and that made her successful

When it comes to stories of going from there to here, Andrea Bond Johnson has quite a journey to share. She’s the CEO of  the Golden Circle Insurance Agency, a full-service firm in Brownsville,Tennessee that evolved from a legacy her grandfather started in the 50s. Moreover, she’s running for office in her hometown with a vision to prioritize people over politics. She champions the importance of health and wellness and has dedicated the majority of her life to serving other people. But behind all these amazing feats, there is one experience—one struggle—that solidified her calling and beliefs. Andrea Bond Johnson is a breast cancer survivor. And the journey from finding out about her situation to surviving such an illness is what propelled her forward.   Listen more and learn the whole story by listening to episode 9 of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life!

When you meet Donald Michael Hopson, you’ll know that he’s like no other man. He’s one of the coolest, most authentic people that you’ll ever meet, and this is what makes him live his life out the box and to the fullest. He’s usually identified as a “, and his quirky ways to support the team has brought a smile to the faces of fellow fans. Hear more about his story in the 8th episode of “3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life.”

Episode 7 of “3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life” is where we meet Carey Bond, child #5 of the Bond family. Hailing from the town of Stanton, Tennessee, Carey’s adventures took him from America to Iraq, and from one career path to another. Listen to hear more about his experiences with racism, learning to live out loud, his achievements in the military, and how he brought and carried all the learnings from his small village throughout it all.

Episode 6 of “3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, 1 Remarkable Life” is where we meet Dr. Braque Talley. He currently serves as the Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management and Student Success at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. But more than achieving such high accomplishments, Dr. Talley is first and foremost a husband to Dr. Brittney Tate-Talley and a father to his pre-teen daughter, Bridynn. From his shattered dreams of becoming a football player, to pivotal moments during his internship at the Black College Fund, to being named as one of Mississippi's “30 under 30 to Watch,” Dr. Talley is making waves in higher education at a young age of 31. I truly believe that Dr. Talley will leave a legacy of excellence and empowerment in this world. Listen to this episode to know more about Dr. Braque Talley’s pursuit of excellence and how it led him to the field of higher education.

It’s hard being an educator during these times but as Dr. Phyllis Adams, a Communications professor, would say, “When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.” In this 5th episode, I get to talk to Dr. Phyllis Adams—one of the hardest working people I know in  academe. We began by talking about her family, the people she knew, and how they inspired her. From wanting to become a news commentator, her communications degree led her to the fulfilling path of being a professor. Listen and delight with both heart and mind as this podcast episode talks about education, the inspiring role of an educator, and the importance of cultural diversity in the class curriculum.

How do you make an impact in your community? Well, in this episode, we meet someone who not only contributed to and helped a community—she actually built it from the ground up. Episode 5 is where we meet Adriane Chaurice Bond Harris, child number 8 and the youngest of the Bond family. She found purpose and passion in urban planning and spent the last few decades helping underserved communities and creating new housing opportunities. She went through massive career shifts and took leaps of faith to get to where she is now. Hear her story to get inspired about why charting your own path is what will pave the way to a purposeful life.

Welcome to the 3rd episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins and 1 Remarkable Life! Today’s guest is one of my best friends for more than 30 years.  Mrs. Charles Cynthia Rawls Bond is an NYU Master’s Graduate and one of the most fascinating people I know. Her exciting life experiences make her a great addition to this show. Being one of the first of the children to go to boarding school at that time, Charles Cynthia is living proof of an extraordinary life well-lived. She shows that nothing is impossible if you put your mind and heart to it. Her story will take us through memory lane as she also offers insights about racial relations in Haywood County, Tennessee. She also talks about how some of her closest family members worked with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People NAACP and their experiences with racist attacks in their youth. Tune in to this week’s episode. Having a name like Charles as a woman is already a preview of an exciting story to come!

The path to success may be a rocky, topsy-turvy road, and the life experiences for everyone during this journey will definitely be unique, as unique is every single soul that habits in this world. Enter the latest podcast guest, William Orlando Bond Sr., better known as Big Bill, child number six of the eight Bond Hopson children. As a retired FedEx executive, he immerses us in his life story and how through rough starts and some bumps on the road he managed to get form there to here and turn into a successful professional winning six figures.

Cynthia A. Bond Hopson, PhD in Journalism, is indescribably wonderful! She’s charming, confident, effervescent, and utterly amazing!   She is always up to something delicious and her new podcast, “Three Stores, Two Cotton Gins, One Remarkable Life: From there to here” is the latest yummy dessert she’s cooked up. From rural West Tennessee’s cotton fields, her adventures have taken her literally around the world and back. During this episode listeners will discover: Experiences in Dr. Hopson’s childhood that raised her as the happy and empowered women she is right now. Historical importance of Stanton, Tennessee. Which were the threes stores. What were the two cotton gins. How these had led to a remarkable life. How she started building her professional path since she was very young. Dr. Hopson’s most important travels and their great impact in her life. Dr. Hopson’s favorite books and how these will be inspiring for you. Quotes: “We have to be more involved in our communities (…) and with our children” – Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson “Simple is very good” – Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson "I’ve never been bored in my life” – Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson “I was at the edge of Lima, Perú, wondering ‘wow, how did I get here?’” – Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson. “I’ve had a charm life, I do”… – Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson “I think life is supposed to be fun”– Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson Books mentioned: The Women of Haywood: Their Lives-Our Legacy I Do ... Every Day: Words of Wisdom for Newlyweds and Not So Newlyweds Too Many Irons in the Fire: and They're All Smoking Wiggle Tails