Verbally Effective Podcast

In this powerful episode of Verbally Effective, American writer, professor, editor, and social commentator Roxane Gay joins Ena Esco for an intimate conversation that spans identity, intellect, and influence. Roxane reflects on her upbringing in Omaha, Nebraska as the daughter of Haitian immigrants, and how those roots shaped her voice as a writer and cultural critic. We dive into the evolution of feminism, her current role as a professor at Rutgers University, and why she believes HBCUs are more vital than ever. Roxane also shares bold thoughts on artificial intelligence—and why she's not impressed—plus details on her exciting new romance novel project with none other than Channing Tatum. 

In this Financial Literacy Month edition of the Verbally Effective Podcast, we're diving deep into smart money moves, digital banking trends, and everyday financial empowerment. Ena Esco is joined by Brody Wamble of Simmons Bank and Karen Madlock of the Greater Memphis Financial Empowerment Center for a powerful conversation on FINTECH, budgeting, credit, and how to build wealth in a digital world. Whether you're just starting your financial journey or ready to level up, this episode is packed with insight and practical advice you can bank on. 

In this special episode, I'm sitting down with the visionary behind PLATFORMS by Christy B: The Hair & Fashion Experience—none other than Christy B herself. We're diving into why this is a must-attend event for creatives, trendsetters, and beauty industry professionals. Christy shares her inspiration behind the show, how she's building platforms for stylists and fashionistas to shine, and what attendees can expect from this elevated and diverse showcase of talent. From bold cuts to runway-ready looks, this experience is all about celebrating the culture, highlighting innovation, and building brands in the beauty, barber, and fashion world. Tap in as we talk style, substance, and the powerful movement Christy B is creating through PLATFORMS.

Join me as I sit down for a live podcast inside of Cossitt Library with Dr. Russell Wigginton, President of the National Civil Rights Museum, to explore his inspiring journey and leadership. In this episode, Dr. Wigginton shares insights into the museum's plans for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, current and upcoming exhibitions, and the parallels between the modern civil rights era and the legacy of Dr. King. Discover how the museum continues to educate, inspire, and empower future generations in the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

Keyanna Sawyer-Jones is a leading strategist in beauty and wellness brand development, with nearly two decades of experience driving growth for multicultural brands. As the founder and CEO of Bleum Creative, Keyanna has established a premier brand strategy agency dedicated to helping BIPOC beauty, lifestyle, and wellness brands create lasting legacies and achieve meaningful market impact. Take a listen as Ena and Keyanna discuss her early career as a model and actress, finding Bleum Creative, collaborating with iconic brands and her philanthropic efforts.

On this episode of the Verbally Effective Podcast, we're joined by political commentator Theryn C. Bond to unpack the heated Memphis-Shelby County School Board meeting and its controversial attempt to oust Superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins. Theryn provides sharp analysis and context surrounding the drama, highlighting the potential implications for Memphis' education system. We also shift gears to celebrate Memphis rap sensation Glorilla's homecoming to her alma mater, Melrose High School, where she made a heartfelt impact by donating $25,000. Tune in as we discuss the significance of her generosity and how it reflects the power of giving back to the community. Join us for an engaging conversation that blends politics, culture, and the spirit of Memphis. Now streaming on all podcast platforms!

On this episode of the Verbally Effective Podcast, we're joined by Memphis super producer James Dukes, aka IMAKEMADBEATS. James takes us behind the scenes of his latest project, Wands, sharing the inspiration and creative process that shaped this innovative work. We also explore his profound impact on Memphis' music and culture, as well as his bold vision for the future of 2025. Tune in for an in-depth conversation with one of Memphis' most influential creators.

Did you catch my conversation with Jarvis Hall, the host of Thrive Tribe, on WYXR? We dived into his inspiring fitness journey and how astrology shapes his daily life. If you missed it, don't worry—you can now stream the full episode anytime! Take a listen and let me know your favorite takeaway! 

Join Ena Esco on the Verbally Effective Podcast as she chats with TN State Representative Antonio Parkinson about his impactful Fresh Start Community Baby Shower initiative. Dive into critical global topics, including President Biden's missile approval for Ukraine and the Pentagon's recent revelations about UAPs emerging from the water. Later, Bishop Antonio Lawson joins to share insights about his upcoming holiday play, Another Christmas Temptation. Don't miss this engaging blend of community, politics, and culture!

In this live podcast recording at Novel Memphis, I sit down with Memphis native, business professional, and published author, Charlie Crenshaw IV! From his roots in Orange Mound to his service in Iraq, Charlie's journey is one of resilience, purpose, and community. His latest book, 40 Birthdays 40 Lessons, dives into the pivotal experiences and insights that have shaped his life.Join us as we discuss Charlie's reflections, his mission with Memphis Made Inc., and how his life lessons inspire his community and family. And for those who joined us in person, thank you for helping make the event unforgettable. Listen now and grab your copy of 40 Birthdays 40 Lessons!  

Join us for an exclusive conversation with Indie Memphis leadership, Executive Director Kimel Fryer and Director of Programming Kayla Myers, as they dive into the highlights of this year's Indie Memphis Film Festival. In this episode, Kimel and Kayla discuss the festival's exciting lineup, including featured films, hidden gems, and showcases from talented Memphis filmmakers. They'll also reveal the behind-the-scenes logistics of organizing a multi-day festival that brings together the film community and elevates Memphis as a cultural hub. Perfect for film enthusiasts and festivalgoers alike, this episode offers a unique look into the passion and planning behind Indie Memphis.

In this episode, we sit down with Tennessee State Representative Gloria Johnson, who has dedicated her life to fighting for justice and standing up for those left out or left behind. A special education teacher for 27 years, Gloria became fed up with elected officials attacking the rights of public school students and teachers. As a member of the “Tennessee Three,” she demanded that Republican politicians in Nashville stop the nonsense and pass gun safety laws to prevent future shootings. Now, Gloria is running for U.S. Senate with a mission to shift power back to working and middle-class families. She is committed to lowering costs for Tennessee families, expanding access to affordable healthcare, protecting reproductive freedom, passing common-sense gun safety measures, and increasing funding for public schools. Tune in as we discuss her journey, her vision for Tennessee, and why she's ready to bring real change to Washington.

Cecily Wilborn, an Arkansas native and Full Sail University Music Production graduate, has quickly risen in the music scene with her self-produced hit single "Southern Man," which garnered over 4 million streams worldwide in its first year. As an independent artist under JayWil Entertainment, Cecily has performed alongside notable artists like King George and West Love, captivating audiences at venues such as BB King's in Memphis, the Essence Festival, The Apollo, and the FedEx Forum. Her music is a unique blend of Blues, RnB, Country, Pop, Gospel, and Southern influences, reflecting her roots and versatility. Cecily recently released her new album, *Kuntry Gurl Playlist,* featuring tracks like "Party" and "Red Cup Blues," in partnership with OneRPM. Growing up in the small town of Marianna, Arkansas, with a population of about 3,500, Cecily, a Preacher's Kid, comes from a musically gifted family. In this episode, she shares the challenges of navigating the music industry, particularly working with her husband as her manager, and reflects on the personal and professional shifts she has faced, including the loss of her brother Cecil during the launch of her new album. Enjoy the soulful sounds and stories of Cecily Wilborn.

Meet Racheal Shantel from Collierville, TN—an inspiring force in urban development and community empowerment. With two bachelor's degrees in Interior Design and Commercial Construction Management, a master's in Urban and Regional Planning, and founder of Mane Up Memphis, Racheal is dedicated to uplifting Memphis through financial literacy, education, and community engagement. She's also a content creator, culture influencer, fitness enthusiast, and motivational speaker. Tune in as we explore her journey, passion for change, and her pursuit of a PhD in Urban Affairs in 2025.

Join me for episode 295 as I sit down with East Memphis native Cameron Hill, also known as Cam The Artist. This extraordinary young talent has created stunning pieces of art using grey, red, and purple as his primary colors. Cam shares how a pivotal moment of violence pushed him to pursue his artistry seriously. His work has garnered admiration in Memphis and beyond. Tune in to discover Cam's vision for Memphis, hear incredible stories of his viral art moments, and learn about his upcoming participation in the Cooper Young Festival and Paint Memphis 2024. Don't miss this inspiring episode!

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Kenneth Muhammad, a former inmate turned advocate for restorative justice in the Mid-South. Kenneth shares his transformative journey from incarceration to becoming a key figure in the movement for justice reform. Discover how his experiences have shaped his mission to promote healing, accountability, and positive change within the community. Join us for an inspiring conversation about redemption, resilience, and the power of restorative practices to create a more just and equitable society. Don't miss this eye-opening episode!

She's your favorite songwriter's favorite songwriter! Grammy Award-winning songwriter Crystal Nicole joins me for episode 293. With over 20 years of experience, Crystal has penned chart-topping hits for Beyoncé, Rihanna, Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Janet Jackson, JLo, Jennifer Hudson, Camila Cabello, Chris Brown, Monica, Lecrae, and many more. Now, she's stepping into the spotlight with her single, "Won't Stop," featuring Christian Hip Hop sensation Lecrae.Tune in as we explore Crystal's journey, starting with a pivotal opportunity from Jermaine Dupri that opened countless doors in the industry. Discover her songwriting process and hear about unique experiences with some of your favorite artists. We also discuss the impact of AI and streaming in the music business and the intricacies of songwriter credits. Crystal shares valuable advice for aspiring songwriters and reveals how she's seamlessly transitioned into the gospel music realm.

Warren Patten Jr. is a leadership coach, award-winning author and speaker for TEDx Orangemound. In 2022, he started Patten Entertrainment with a focus on leadership skills, profit productivity, people culture, and employee retention. Mr. Patten is also the author of "Father Knowts: Being A Better Father On Purpose" and 2X Award-Winning children's book titled "Can We Go Out And Play?"Warren will be one of eleven speakers at the Inaugural TEDx Orange Mound Event in Memphis, TN on Saturday, June 22nd. Take a listen as Warren takes us on a journey detailing his upbringing, love for music and vision for the future.

Anthony Sain is the host of the Anthony Sain Show with Bluff City Media as well was the founder of Asylum Media Group - an organization created to provide mentorship to young up and coming journalists and content creators. He is a father and an advocate for the youth of the city of Memphis.Tune in to hear Anthony's journey in addition to plenty of sports talk. With the WNBA at the tip of everyone's tongues you know we had to chime in on the latest updates.

Whitehaven native, Brandy J. Flynn, is a licensed therapist, officiant and cancer survivor. She is a luminary committed to empowering our communities to be resilient and transparent as it relates to mental health. Featured in numerous media outlets, Brandy has been in the counseling field for over two decades and has a growing private practice which includes conducting therapy, training for corporations, speaking engagements, and media correspondence. Take a listen as we touch on sorority and fraternity members denouncing their organizations, hot takes from the WNBA and a hilarious segment of "R&B Finish the line..."

North Memphis native, Simone Santana, known to many as Simone the Mastermind or YellaBizBae, is a multifaceted individual with diverse talents and expertise including operations specialist, marketing strategist, author, podcaster and speaker. Simone provides creators and solopreneurs with a simplified understanding of digital marketing strategies that are essential for online growth. Take a listen as she dives into a few client success stories, her new podcast "Dear God, Lettuce Pray," in addition to her passion for the cannabis world.

Memphis-based photojournalist and interdisciplinary artist Ariel J. Cobbert joins me for episode 288. In 2018, Cobbert received her BA in Print Journalism and African American Studies from the University of Mississippi. Her work has since featured in national publications including the New York Times, National Geographic, Bloomberg, CNN, and the Huffington Post, among others. She presently works as an independent photographer and as a Photography Program Curator at Memphis Public Libraries.Tune in to hear her journey and the amazing programming she curates at Cossitt Library.

As one of the South's foremost Black-led arts organizations and a rare ballet company with a BIPOC dancer roster, Collage Dance is reshaping cultural paradigms. Through transformative arts education, captivating performances, and advocacy for diversity, Collage Dance has left an indelible mark on the Southern dance landscape. In this episode, I sit down with Collage Dance's founding executive director, Marcellus Harper, and professional dancer, Victoria Jaenson, to delve into their experiences. Marcellus emphasizes the organization's dedication to keeping ballet relevant and accessible to their communities. Victoria shares her journey as a professional ballet dancer, reflecting on her inaugural season and the vital support from the Memphis community. They also offer a sneak peek into next weekend's premiere of ELEVATE. Featuring Luminescent by Black composer Joseph Bologne, Bluff City Blues inspired by Memphis music, and the regional debut of the acclaimed ballet Chroma, accompanied by the live score of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra. With a London choreography team imparting their expertise, this Royal Ballet-inspired performance promises a groundbreaking fusion of music, movement, and artistry. Prepare to be captivated by an unforgettable experience unlike anything seen before. Tickets start at just $20 currently and Verbally Effective listeners can unlock the code by tuning in for a steep discount on Ticketmaster to get a pair of tickets for the price of one! Access tickets for ELEVATE at collagedance.org or call with any questions at 901-800-1873.

Get ready to laugh out loud! Our latest podcast episode features the hilarious and talented comedian, Alex Thomas! Join us as we dive into the world of comedy, hear Alex's side-splitting stories, learn about his golf venture INGLEWOODS, and get an inside look at his journey in the entertainment industry. Don't miss this uproarious episode - tune in now!

"Meet Christine Weinreich, the Executive Director of the Memphis Library Foundation and a dedicated advocate for education and literacy. Armed with a law degree from the Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School, Christine strongly believes in the transformative power of education to drive individual success and foster community development. Her unwavering passion lies in ensuring equitable access to essential educational resources for all members of the community.In our podcast conversation, Christine delves into the structure and current programming initiatives of the Memphis Public Library system. Through her insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the diverse array of resources and services available in our public libraries, particularly in light of cultural and technological advancements.By tuning in, you'll have the opportunity to broaden your perception of libraries in 2024. Join us as we explore the evolving role of libraries as dynamic hubs of learning, innovation, and community engagement. Let's reimagine the possibilities together!"

From Houston to Memphis, DJ 007 has been a powerhouse on the turntables. With roots in radio from a young age, DJ 007's passion for music and spotlighting creative talent has been unwavering. Making his mark in Memphis, he held it down on-air and in the club scene at both Hot 107.1FM and K97FM. At iHeartRadio, DJ 007 pioneered Indie Day Radio, showcasing top music talent worldwide. Now, in 2024, find DJ 007 back in Houston, TX, continuing to push boundaries in music and media. Tune in and enjoy the journey!

LeMoyne Owen College is a four-year liberal arts college located in Memphis, TN that provides a transformative experience for students with a proud tradition of educating notable alumni. Last week I sat down for a live podcast at the historic Cossitt Library with Interim President, Dr. Christopher B. Davis, Director of Alumni Relations, Dr. June Chinn-Jointer and Emeritus Professor, Dr. Clarence Christian to have a conversation about the past, present and future of the institution. Situated in the heart of the historic Soulsville district, LeMoyne Owen College has always been a constant in the South Memphis community for education, mobilization and empowerment for blacks. Dating back to 1862, LeMoyne Owen College is Memphis' only historically black college and proud to be one of just over 100 such institutions remaining nation-wide.Take a listen as our distinguished panel discusses the founding and early years of LeMoyne Owen College and its significance within the HBCU community. The college faced many transformations over the years and was at the forefront of civil rights efforts in the city of Memphis. With a very strong alumni, many notable graduates have walked the halls of Steele Hall who continue to support and guide its direction. The college is currently revamping its brand now coined as "The Source" with a plethora of innovative initiatives underway. On this podcast, you will discover the strategic efforts in place for the growth and development of Memphis' only HBCU, LeMoyne Owen College.

Alfred Kainga is a talented acclaimed Zimbabwean-born comedian based in the United States, celebrated for his engaging stand-up comedy performances. He's renowned for his distinctive storytelling style and humor, often delving into various facets of everyday life, cultural nuances, and societal observations. Kainga has been celebrated for his remarkable talent in captivating audiences with his wit and charm. He often crafts comedic material from his experiences and keen observations, resonating with a wide array of people. His contributions have made a significant impact on the comedy scene, both in Zimbabwe and on an international scale.Take a listen as Alfred talks to Ena about his African roots, his transition into comedy and how he's able to appeal to diverse audiences in the comedy space.

I sit down with creator Delvin “DeshowMercy” Young on episode 281! His journey begins leaving Dallas, TX at a young age settling in Memphis with his grandmother. After graduating from Raleigh-Egypt High School, Delvin moved to Hollywood, CA and was discovered by a movie director. He began acting and modeling and later suffered a severe injury that changed the trajectory of his life. It was during this difficult time where he discovered photography and began his healing process. His work has been featured in numerous magazines and he's worked with a plethora of celebrities.

Take a listen to this exclusive VE episode with comedians Cocoa Brown, Big Vino and Skeet Carter. We learn quite a bit about the challenges women face in the comedy industry including some of the expectations surrounding content. You'll notice that pay inequities are a huge part of this world as well. However, we ultimately shine light on the amazing brand and community that Cocoa Brown has built in the areas of comedy, acting and education. If you're ready to laugh and learn a few things about comedy life tune in!

Westwood native Camille Leigh's photographic journey stands as a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for her craft. Following her graduation from the University of Memphis in 2010, where she earned a degree in Spanish and Philosophy, she could have ventured into a teaching career. However, life had different plans for her.Today, with an impressive eleven years of experience behind the lens, Camille has solidified her position as one of Memphis' most sought-after photographers. She has a remarkable ability to create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for her subjects, ensuring that they feel at ease in front of her camera. She is on a mission to destigmatize people's beliefs about their photography skills, encouraging them to overcome their fears and self-doubts, resulting in the creation of lasting memories.Camille's passion isn't limited to her own photography; it extends to nurturing the future of the field. Behind the camera, she is dedicated to teaching and mentoring the next generation of photographers and leaders. Through mentorship programs and hands-on training, Camille guides individuals who aspire to do more than simply take pictures. She seeks out those with ambition, a desire to develop their skills, and a commitment to serving others.Discover more about Camille's formative years, how she began to build her clientele, unique photography adventures and how she is passing the torch in her industry.

North Memphis native Dr. Trenton M. Watson lives and breathes education as the Principal for Westwood High School. He's been in this particular role for the past 6 months and has made true connections with his students. On this episode, you'll learn about Dr. Watson's vast experience teaching within the Memphis Shelby County School system and how he thrives to increase the graduation rate and reduce absenteeism. Dr. Watson believes that learning is never by accident and that the most intelligent people don't have all the answers but instead seek the right information.

Ali Manning is a food scientist, author, and the CEO/Founder of Umami Food Consulting, LLC. She is the creator of Food Science 4 Kids, a program that teaches grade-school children foodscience education and allows them to perform hands-on activities that enrich their daily lives. Ali is also the Program Consultant with Project Green Fork (a local restaurant sustainability program) within the Clean Memphis organization, which provides resources and support to help “food-prenuers” reduce waste in all areas of their operations.Ali recently premiered as a competitor on Netflix's latest show, Snack vs. Chef, and is a 2023 Comcast Rise grant recipient. She published her first children's book, "Can I Play with MyFood?" in February 2022, inspired by her sister Alexis who has Down's Syndrome. Ali is a graduate of Alabama A&M University and a Huntsville, AL native, but after being a transplant fornearly 14 years, she considers Memphis her home. She is married to her husband, Brian Manning, and they live with their puppy, Kobe-Williams-Manning (named after their favoriteathletes). Ali spends her time cultivating a life of joy through serving her community, skating with friends, styling clients, and creating content that inspires others to "Seize the Day"!

Michalyn Easter-Thomas with Memphis River Parks is curating work around Tom Lee Park's art installation by artist Theaster Gates titled "A Moment to Listening." For the opening, until the remainder of the year, she has gathered local creatives that includes Fenton Wright (The Big We), Jennifer McGrath (Orpheum Memphis) and Gabrielle Brooks (Urban Art Commission) to be guest curators in order to promote the activation of this artwork for Memphians.

Episode 275 is filled with Black Girl Magic as I sit down with Kimel Fryer and Kayla Myers of Indie Memphis. The 24th annual Indie Memphis Film Festival is happening October 24th-29th at Crosstown Theater, Circuit Playhouse, Hattiloo Theatre, Playhouse on the Square, Malco Studio on the Square, and online filled with a diverse lineup of films, shorts, documentaries and entertainment.Kimel Fryer is a Memphis native who graduated with a B.B.A. in Finance from the University of Memphis and a J.D. & M.B.A. degree from the University of Tennessee. She is currently the Executive Director of Indie Memphis, which supports the community through its annual film festival, year-round programming, youth program, artist development program, and its Black Creators Forum. Prior to Indie Memphis, Kimel worked in corporate finance for nine years at notable companies such as FedEx Supply Chain, Pfizer, and FCA US, LLC (formerly known as Chrysler, LLC). She is also a multi-hyphenate producer-writer-director and has been involved with creative spaces since childhood. With Kimel's background in finance and law combined with her passion for film, she is finally able to pursue opportunities that allow her to support underserved communities through the art of film.Kayla Myers is a film programmer, writer, and filmmaker from and based in Memphis. Currently, she works as a programmer and Black Creators Forum Manager at Indie Memphis. She's previously been the Features programmer for the San Francisco Documentary Festival, and the Series Producer for The DocYard in Cambridge, MA. She is passionate about intersectional feminist practices within the arts, making films more accessible to those not living in large filmmaking centers, and developing audiences with a thoughtful, community-centered approach.

Memphis Mayor-Elect Paul Young stopped by the Verbally Effective Podcast today to share his thoughts on his new title, the cancellation of Beale Street Music Festival 2024 and crime in Memphis.

Last year I had the opportunity to interview Memphis Mayor-Elect Paul Young twice on the Verbally Effective Podcast. The first sitting was prior to Young's announcement of running for Mayor and the second was months later after the declaration. I thought it would be fitting to run back the original episode which is filled with Paul's personality and some interesting facts about our new Mayor-Elect that you may not know. There's even a fun segment testing Young's R&B knowledge that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. Tap in now to Oakhaven, TN native Paul Young's journey as I bring back our original episode from this time last year.

Anasa Troutman is a cultural strategist, producer, writer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. As CEO & Founder of The BIG We and BIG We Foundation, Anasa works to build & execute stories & strategies that are aligned with her vision world where all communities can experience safety, abundance, creativity, and joy.Best known for her 20 year partnership as strategic advisor & executive producer for Grammy Award winning, singer/songwriter, India Arie, Anasa has provided strategic & creative support in many of the most important cultural, philanthropic, political, and social justice spaces, including being invited twice to the Obama White House to advise on cultural policy Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Anasa's latest project is the restoration of Historic Clayborn Temple, the Memphis church that was the organizing headquarters of The Sanitation Workers' Strike of 1968, Martin Luther King's last campaign, into a center to build cultural, economic power with Memphis' African-American community.Anasa works to embody her strong belief in creativity as a transformative practice & her understanding of the importance of capital access to elevate the voices and vision of underestimated communities.

Outreach Specialist Adrianne Vestal and Sigma Pi Phi Delta Boule Social Action Chairman Melvin Burgess stopped by the podcast to discuss the The Parity Project. Currently, the fraternity has an initiative to dismantle disparities locally and nationally through the Parity Project, a national call to action to achieve economic parity for Black America by 2030. The Parity Project focuses on moving the needle for Black representation in four key areas: STEM degrees, STEM jobs, Private Equity/Venture Capital Funded Entrepreneurs, and Fortune 500 Corporate Board of Directors.

Kevin Whitted is a Player Development Coach, former NBA player, Greater Wilmington Sports Hall of Famer, and McDonald's All-American. He is also the founder of Kevin Whitted Basketball Services (KWBS), a year-round player development curriculum-based training program that services youth, collegiate, and professional basketball players throughout the Mid-South region. Through KWBS, Kevin spends his time training others who are as serious about basketball as he is. His proven techniques have enhanced the coaching skills of high school and collegiate coaches and the performance of professional basketball players Julius Randle (New York Knicks), Thanasis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks), Liz Dixon (Connecticut Sun), Ferrakonn Hall (Argentina), Langston Galloway (formerly New Orleans Pelicans), and Shawn Williams (formerly Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers), to name a few. He has also worked with LeBron James, Amare Stoudemire, and Vince Carter.Kevin resides in Memphis, TN. He is married to his lovely wife DeNeia, and they have two talented daughters, Peyton, who plays professional basketball overseas and Paige, who is a top-ranked high school combo guard in Tennessee.

Did you know that up to 40% of the food supply in the U.S. is wasted, and up to 21% of Tennessee landfills are made up of wasted food. Locally, restaurants are second only to households in their generation of food waste in Memphis. As a program of Clean Memphis, Project Green Fork (PGF) contributes to a more sustainable Mid-South by helping local restaurants reduce their environmental impact.Ali Manning and Leann Edwards join me for episode 270 to discuss their mission of eliminating food waste via the 901 Save the Food Challenge. During this challenge, local restaurants collaborate with the organization on best practices and new strategies for updating their food waste management.

South Memphis native Carol Coletta is president and CEO of the Memphis River Parks Partnership and named of the 100 most influential urban planning experts. She is leading the relaunch of a nonprofit to develop, manage and program six miles of riverfront and five park districts along the Mississippi River. Carol has been living in downtown Memphis since 1977 and is extremely passionate about the city. After traveling the world, Carol has studied and immersed herself in the art of building community. She discusses what prompted the need to redesign Tom Lee Park and the many experiences we can expect for the opening kicking off September 2nd. You'll learn some of the biggest lessons and strongest allies she's encountered throughout this project. Lastly, Carol shares with us the many hats she wears such as being a mother, dog mom and cancer survivor. Be sure to RSVP for the opening of Tom Lee Park on tomleepark.org.

North Memphis native Chef Eli Townsend sat down with Ena Esco for a live Verbally Effective podcast at the historic Cossitt Library in downtown Memphis last week. Chef Eli shared the intricate details of his upbringing including how his love for cooking began and opening a restraunt. Not only is Eli the owner of Dos Hermanos Cafe, he is also the President of the Downtown Neighborhood Association and currently Mr. MidSouth Pride. Tap in and get inspired!

From Aretha Franklin, Al Green and Isaac Hayes to Three 6 Mafia, 8Ball & MJG and Yo Gotti, Memphis has always been fertile soil for producing music superstars. Entering that arena with all the aspirations of a young Al Green is rising singer/songwriter and Memphis native, Kendrick P. Like so many before him, Kendrick P. began singing in his grandfather's church, learning to play piano and drums along the way.Today, Kendrick's single, Get What You Give sits at #46 on Billboard's Urban Radio Chart and is trending all over Shazam. The accompanying video, as well as several others (Don't Look Back and Fake Love) are currently in rotation on BET Jams, Yo MTV, BET Soul and Music Choice. Kendrick is dropping his new project "Years & Tears" on August 18th on all platforms. Take a listen as Kendrick discusses his upbringing in East Memphis, his approach with this new body of work and when he fell in love with hip hop.

The annual Southern Heritage Classic Cultural Celebration is amongst us and I thought it would be fitting to have the founder, Fred Jones Jr. sit down with me for a live podcast at the historic Cossitt Library. Growing up in the Cleaborn Homes housing community in the Memphis area, Fred attended Booker T. Washington High School active in baseball, basketball, track and band. A severe football injury derailed his hopes of receiving a scholarship to college which led him to taking on jobs such as caddying for the Memphis Country Club and working at a florist on Vance. Fred had a gift for numbers which led him to receiving a job in the auditing department at Union Planters Bank and where he began their management program ultimately receiving BBA from Memphis State in 1971. At this point Fred made a transition and started working for Issac Hayes with Stax Records handling his finances. Having discovered a knack for putting together entertainers with large audiences in the most attractive venues, he started working with a plethora of first class talent including The Isley Brothers, Prince, Bill Cosby, The Commodores, Stevie Wonder, Parliament-Funkadelic, Luther Vandross, LL Cool J, Count Basie, Tyler Perry, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, The O'Jays, Usher, and hundreds more. As a result, the Southern Heritage Classic began in 1990 in Memphis, TN with HBCU's TSU vs. JSU. Fast forward to 2023, we are now entering the 34th Southern Heritage Classic Cultural Celebration with a new HBCU headliner, UAPB. Take a listen as Fred shares many stories throughout his journey which includes how the SHC came to fruition and his recollection when he received the news that JSU would no longer participate in the SHC. Fred and his team are laser focused on their strong commitment to continuing the traditional festivities in the Memphis community consisting of a parade, a fashion show, concerts, a golf tournament, tailgate parties, a coaches luncheon, a battle of the bands, and more. He hopes to see you this year at the Southern Heritage Classic in Memphis, TN the weekend of September 7-9 with UAPB vs. TSU.

Kontji Anthony is the CEO and co-founder of Youdle. Before Kontji became a technologist, she was the main co-anchor at WMC-TV in Memphis where she worked for 17 years. Kontji sits down with Ena Esco for a live podcast recording at the historic Cossitt Library. She shares that her goal is to scale the tech industry and make Memphis a destination for all things tech. With only 3% of AA in this industry, Kontji makes it her mission to advocate on the importance of teaching kids to code at an early age. In this conversation, you'll hear about Kontji's transition from news to tech, her relationship with family and why she chose Memphis as her home.

Take a listen to the live podcast with actor and social entrepreneur, Bertram Williams Jr. recorded live at Cossitt Library on June 29th. We discussed his passion for food justice coupled with his "Big Farma" persona that he's using as a tool to reach the youth. We also hit on the intricacies of the SAF/AFTRA writer's strike and how it has affected his work with P Valley. Esco's Pop Talk entered the discussion tackling topics such as Drake receiving a key to Shelby County and the current Memphis Mayoral Race. You'll definitely enjoy Bertram's take on unity in Memphis and making sustainability sexy. Bertram also shares his outlook for his Patreon platform in addition to continuing the Mamas Sundry podcast. Enjoy!

A proud North Memphis native, Tikeila Rucker is a mother of three. She is a dedicated educator, social, and civil rights activist, and a catalyst for change. With a passion for justice and equality, she has been actively involved in shaping her community for over a decade.Having served as the former President of the United Education Association of Shelby County (UEA), the local teachers' union, Tikeila has an extensive background in advocating for educational equity and uplifting the voices of teachers and students. Her experience as an educator has given her a deep understanding of the challenges within the education system and a determination to create positive change. As a servant leader Tikeila has consistently demonstrated her commitment to fostering community engagement and promoting social progress. Whether it's in the classroom, a boardroom, or on the streets, she is unwavering in her pursuit to shift the trajectory of civil and social justice in Memphis, TN. By forging meaningful relationships, raising awareness, and connecting with individuals who share her vision, she inspires others to stand in their truth and harness their power for the betterment of society.Currently, serving as the Political Director at Memphis for All, she is focused on cultivating a powerful and inclusive political force that transcends barriers of class and race. She works tirelessly to unite individuals in a progressive alliance, striving for tangible victories and sustainable change. Wherever she goes, Tikeila blazes a trail, igniting transformation in her wake.

Memphis native Darryl Sanford has been playing music all of his life. From playing the drums at the age of two and later matriculating to the piano, Darryl developed an ear for music. Darryl teaches music theory and is also a member of the legendary Bar-Kays.Darryl first started playing for churches as a teenager and has been playing for churches and choirs in the city of Memphis ever since. By the time he entered his twenties, he started breaking into secular music by playing for a jazz band and then eventually breaking off into the r&b and neo-soul scene in the city of Memphis and surrounding areas.After playing for many of the artists and singers in the city, he started playing for more mainstream artists in jazz and r&b, such as Shalamar, Howard Hewitt, Euge Groove, Kim and Kayla Waters, Alexander O'neal, and would eventually become a member of the legendary funk group The Bar-Kays.Darryl Sanford's main motivation is to be a light and spread positivity through the power of music.

Event promoter and Manager of the PC Band, Jeromy "Pep" Thomas, joined me for a live interview on WYXR for Black Music Month. Hailing from West Memphis, AR, Pep's gift for music began in the church. He developed the PC Band ten years ago with four additional members consisting of singers and musicians. The letters "PC" stands for Perfect Combination which describes the PC Band's diverse style ranging from R&B to Blues. Their recent hit "Turn 'er Loose" is a huge sensation that is beloved by fans across the globe.Take a listen as Ena and Pep discuss a range of topics such as touring the U.S., creating new music, hacking social media's algorithm and his dual role as a manager and band member.

New York native and Sustainable Funding Coach, Stormi Banks joins me for Ep 260!!! Stormi is the founder of Pink Print, a digital consulting firm helping women entrepreneurs gain access to funding to start or scale their business. PInk Print has helped more than 10K women entrepreneurs gain access to over $5M in business funding.Take a listen as Ena and Stormi discuss how she established the Pink Print which is a well oiled machine for grant funding. Stormi shares that only 1% of women seek out grant funding for their business which led to her providing this much needed service. You'll also learn about some of the challenges Stormi has faced as an entrepreneur in addition to her goal of scaling the Pink Print.