WayMaker Fireside Chat

In this episode of the WayMaker Fireside Chat, we welcome Elizabeth Booker Houston—a powerhouse blend of professor, public health lawyer, social scientist, and stand-up comedian. Elizabeth unpacks her personal journey from growing up with chronic illness and poverty to becoming a voice of justice in both political spheres and comedy clubs. She shares her insight on administrative law, DEI backlash, reproductive rights, and the power of accessible knowledge. Tune in for a conversation that's as thought-provoking as it is hilarious, as Elizabeth reminds us that advocacy and authenticity can—and should—coexist.

In this episode of the WayMaker Fireside Chat, Dr. Latanya McDade—Superintendent of Prince William County Public Schools—joins us for a heartfelt conversation on leadership, equity, and the future of education. Dr. McDade unpacks how her personal story as a first-generation American shaped her passion for serving students, and why investing in public education is a collective responsibility. She outlines the bold commitments of her district's Vision 2025 strategic plan and calls on both government and private sectors to help build thriving futures for all students. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about the future of public education in America.

In this episode of the WayMaker Fireside Chat, we welcome Tyronne Stoudemire, Senior VP of Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Hyatt Corporation. Tyronne unpacks the evolution of DEI in corporate America, highlighting where progress has stalled and where opportunities remain. He shares powerful insights from his book Diversity Done Right, emphasizing the importance of shifting from performative diversity efforts to sustainable change. Tune in as we explore how companies can create truly inclusive environments and why data-driven decisions are key to long-term success.

In this episode, we're joined by Sydney Sykes, partner at Lightspeed Ventures and co-founder of BLCK VC. Sydney shares her journey into the venture capital world, breaking barriers as a Black woman in a historically exclusive industry. She discusses the importance of representation in investing, the impact of funding Black entrepreneurs, and the role of community in shaping the future of venture capital. Plus, she offers valuable advice for aspiring founders and investors. Don't miss this inspiring and insightful conversation!

In this episode, we're joined by Rodney Herenton, CEO of Channing Capital Management. Rodney shares his incredible journey from working in his grandfather's grocery store as a child to managing billions in assets today. We'll explore the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the importance of ownership in wealth-building, and his advice for aspiring investors. Rodney also opens up about the challenges Black professionals face in the financial industry and how mentorship and discipline have been key to his success.

In this episode of the Waymaker Fireside Chat Podcast, we're joined by Justin Bayless, Founder of Journey Venture Studios and Bayless Integrative Health. A Morehouse graduate and business leader, Justin shares his insights on the power of giving back, the importance of supporting HBCUs, and his mission to eliminate barriers for minority entrepreneurs in venture capital. We'll discuss his groundbreaking work in healthcare innovation, his belief in generational wealth planning, and how he's building a legacy through impact-driven entrepreneurship.

In this episode of the WayMaker Fireside Chat, we sit down with Ashton Keys, CEO and Founder of Athlytic, and Brandon Grier, VP of Equity Sports, to break down the impact of NIL (name, image, and likeness) in college sports. From the NCAA's role in shaping NIL policies to the realities of athlete compensation and the challenges of navigating these new opportunities, Ashton and Brandon provide expert insights on the shifting landscape of college athletics. Whether you're an athlete, a fan, or simply curious about the financial and legal dynamics at play, this conversation is a must-listen!

In this episode, we're joined by Ian Brock, co-founder of Dream Hustle Code and author of New Nerd Money. Ian shares his journey of discovering financial literacy at a young age and how it inspired him to write a book designed to help his generation build wealth. We'll discuss the power of delayed gratification, breaking the cycle of financial misinformation, and the importance of mindset in achieving financial success. Ian's insights are game-changing for young people looking to take control of their financial future.

In this episode of the WayMaker Fireside Chat, Roland Martin shares his journey to becoming a leader in journalism and his ongoing mission to empower the Black community. He discusses the critical importance of political engagement, insights into the factors shaping our nation today, and the role of income disparities in societal challenges. Roland also offers practical advice on stepping into opportunities and building a brighter future.

In this episode, we're joined by Tiff Massey, a boundary-pushing interdisciplinary artist. Starting her career with her first love—metal—Tiff continues to cultivate that relationship while expanding her artistic repertoire. Drawing her inspiration from Black culture, Tiff strives to create pieces that tell stories, ignite conversations, and connect people from all walks of life. She shares her journey as an artist, her philosophy on storytelling through art, and advice for young creatives to stay authentic and persevere.

In this episode, we're joined by Maya-Camille Broussard. Maya-Camille is an American chef, author, restaurant owner, and pastry chef on the Netflix series Bake Squad. Together, we'll discuss how she first got interested in the culinary arts, her career journey, and the individuals who have been waymakers to her along the way.

In this episode, we're joined by Lynae Vanee. Lynae (@lynaevanee ) is a social media influencer with hundreds of thousands of followers across social media. She is a creator, aims to educate and empower through her platform and is a 3x NAACP Image Award Nominee. Today, we'll discuss her role and responsibility and an influencer, discuss how she hopes to impact culture and encourage change, and talk about those who have been a waymaker to her on her journey.

In this episode of the WayMaker Fireside Chat Podcast we sit down with Nick Cannon! Nick widely-recognized American TV personality, comedian, rapper and actor with an accomplished career in the entertainment industry. Today, we'll discuss his journey on transitioning from an entertainer to an entrepreneur, what he hopes to accomplish moving forward, and the waymakers that helped him get to where he is now.

In this episode, we're joined by Kamie Crawford! Kamie Crawford is currently the host of Catfish: The TV Show, Are You the One?, and Ex on the Beach, hosts her own on-demand podcast host, and is a former model. Together, we'll discuss relationship wisdom, the ups and downs that naturally come within relationships, and equip WayMaker listeners with practical relationship advice.

In this episode, Dr. Michael C. Grayson, Founder and CEO of the Credit and Debit Management Institute and author of How to Stop Making Payments joins us to discuss the evolution of credit in America. Dr. Grayson breaks down the key components everyone should know, from understanding credit scores to outsmarting the system, and shares insights on leveraging today's broken credit system to your advantage through education. Tune in to learn practical strategies that can empower you to take control of your financial future.

In this episode, we sit down with Joseph Hines. Joseph Hines is a style expert and the owner of his company, Affluent. Together, we'll discuss Joseph's career, his company, Affluent, his style and fashion advice for WayMaker listeners, and touch on the importance of investing in your unique image.

In this episode, we sit down with J. Byron Brazier. J. Byron Brazier is the son of co-developer and Apostolic Church of God pastor Reverend Byron T. Brazier, and grandson of the church's founder, Bishop Arthur M. Brazier. J. Byron is the Lead Developer of The Woodlawn Central Master Plan – an effort to revitalize the historic South Side district. Today, we'll talk about Woodlawn, the development of the community, the future of the church, and so much more.

In this episode, we sit down with American Poet J. Ivy. J. Ivy is an award-winning poet, recording artist, songwriter, author, and actor with a passion for sharing inspiration and healing through his writing. Together, we'll discuss J. Ivy's decorated career, his vision for the future, his advice to young listeners, and so much more.

In honor of prostate cancer awareness month, we sit down today with Dr. Courtney Hollowell, chairman of urology at John Stroger Hospital in Chicago. In this episode, Dr. Hollowell sheds light on the critical issue of prostate cancer, focusing on its disproportionate impact on African American men. Dr. Hollowell shares why prostate cancer rates are higher in this community and the essential steps to take for early detection and prevention. Dr. Hollowell urges men to take proactive health measures to tackle this disease head-on.Tune in today for this life-saving conversation!

Modern entertainment is a powerful conversation starter about important cultural issues, and there's no better trailblazer than today's guest Matthew Cherry. Matthew Cherry is an Academy Award winner, former NFL player, New York Times bestseller, and now successful filmmaker, writer, and movie director. Today, we'll talk about Matthew's newest animated short film and children's book, Hair Love, and his career in shedding light on modern social and cultural issues within the Black community, the value of film in bringing awareness to these issues, and how to use film to empower communities to be who you are and not who others want you to be!

In this episode, we're joined by Dream Hampton. Dream Hampton is a filmmaker behind series such as Surviving R. Kelly and Netflix's Ladies First: A Story of Women in Hip-Hop, and was recognized as one of the 100 most influential people of 2019 by Time Magazine. Together, we'll discuss her filmmaking passion, her effort to shine a light on injustices, her career advice to WayMaker listeners, and so much more.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Marcus Collins. Dr. Collins is an author, award-winning marketing expert, and sought-after cultural translator who has worked with a variety of massive clients, from Beyoncé to Budweiser. He is a marketing professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan, and the Former Head of Strategy for Wieden+Kennedy, New York. Today, he'll help viewers understand what culture really is, why it is so important, and give them the tools they need to engage with it effectively.

In this episode, we're joined by Dawn Porter! Dawn Porter is an decorated documentarian behind some award-winning documentaries like: J_ohn Lewis: Good Trouble_, The Way I See It, and The Lady Bird Diaries. Together, we will discuss some of her career work, her upcoming project about R&B great Luther Vandross and so much more.

In this episode, we're joined by Carlton Mackey! Carlton is the creator of the Black Men Smile campaign, an innovative campaign focused on changing the way Black men, Black masculinity, and Black joy are perceived and portrayed by the media. Together, we'll discuss Carlton's future vision behind the campaign, touch on the successes the campaign has already accomplished, and much more.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Adjoa B. Asamoah! Adjoa a racial equity champion, award-winning social impact strategist, esteemed political operative, and a history-making policy architect. A woman of many talents, Adjoa develops legislative strategy and leads the CROWN act, is a former professor, was entrusted to serve as the Biden-Harris Campaign's National Advisor for Black Engagement, and served as the Black Engagement Director for the historic 59th Presidential Inaugural Committee. In this episode, we'll discuss her work in racial equity, the CROWN act, and her role as Black Engagement Director for the 59th Presidential Inaugural Committee.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Adjoa B. Asamoah! Adjoa a racial equity champion, award-winning social impact strategist, esteemed political operative, and a history-making policy architect. A woman of many talents, Adjoa develops legislative strategy and leads the CROWN act, is a former professor, was entrusted to serve as the Biden-Harris Campaign's National Advisor for Black Engagement, and served as the Black Engagement Director for the historic 59th Presidential Inaugural Committee. In this episode, we'll discuss her work in racial equity, the CROWN act, and her role as Black Engagement Director for the 59th Presidential Inaugural Committee.

In this episode, we're joined by Nnenna and Pierce Freelon. A mother-son music duo, Nnenna and Pierce made history in 2022 when they became the first-ever mother-son singers to be nominated for individual Grammy's in the same year. Together, we'll discuss their music career, what inspires them, speak on the importance of family, take a look at what they want their legacy as artists to be, and so much more.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of being joined by Thomas Dear! Thomas Dear is the creator of Teddy Makes Cents and has a passion for educating the next generation on finances. Drawing from his childhood experiences, Teddy Makes Cents equips kindergarteners to third-grade students with a ground-level financial education. Today, we'll discuss Thomas' passion for equipping the next generation, the origin and evolution of Teddy Makes Cents and the importance of financial literacy.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Beverly Wilcher. Beverly is a seasoned Youth and Family Specialist Supervisor with over 15 years of experience in the juvenile system and is a proud mother to Amani, her adopted daughter. Together, we'll discuss her incredible experience being a mother, her relationship with Amani, her work in the juvenile system and how to make a positive impact in the lives of our youth.

In this episode, we sit down with Comedian Gary "G-Thang" Johnson. Gary Johnson is an accomplished actor, host, writer, and comedian who has been involved in the comedy scene since 1994. Together, we'll discuss his career progression, his comedy, his upcoming 60-minute special, and his vision for the future.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Allyson and Wes Felix! Brother and sister duo Allyson and Wes are business partners in the shoe industry. Today, they'll talk about the founding of their brand, Saysh, how they hope to break free from the shoe industry, touch on what it's like running a business with your sibling, their waymakers and so much more.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with KJ Rose! KJ Rose, also nicknamed "The Talent Whisperer," is a renowned performance coach who has a passion for bringing the best out of others. Today, she'll discuss how she got her start in coaching, her favorite aspects of performance coaching, coaching challenges, her advice to listeners, and much more.

In this episode, we sit down with brothers Walter and Wallace Scott and Leaveil Degree, the current members of the legendary American vocal group, The Whispers. Together, we'll discuss their humble beginnings, how the music industry has evolved, the keys to their longevity, and much more.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Coltrane Curtis and Lisa Chu! This husband and wife duo are the owners of the Team Epiphany marketing agency, an agency that helps brands of all kinds stand out in a competitive marketplace. Today, we'll discuss the origins of the agency, the current state of marketing and brand-building, and their career-advice to listeners.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Terri Major-Kincade. Dr. Major-Kincade is a double board certified Neonatologist and Pediatrician and serves as Chair for the Steering Committee for African American Outreach for the Texas Chapter of March of Dimes. Together, we'll discuss how she got her start and current focus in medicine, obstacles in the healthcare industry, her advice to WayMaker listeners and so much more.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Bozoma Saint John! Bozoma Saint John is a businesswoman known for her former role as CMO of Netflix and the author of The Urgent Life. Together, we'll discuss her tragic story of loss, how she grew from the experience, and her business and grief-handling advice to WayMaker listeners.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ade Adamson, a distinguished dermatologist and health researcher who specializes in skin cancer, evidence-based medicine, and health policy. He also directs the Melanoma and Pigmented Lesion clinic at Dell Seton Medical Center. Together, we'll discuss the challenges faced by black and brown communities regarding skin disorders. Dr. Adamson shares invaluable insights and support for managing health in skin of color. We also address prevailing stigmas and enhancing protection. This episode is brought to you by Vaseline. Vaseline proudly presents Mended Murals, an initiative restoring faded art to raise awareness and the importance of highlighting Skin of Color.

In this episode, we sit down with the one and only Sonya Clark! Sonya is an Art Professor at Amherst College in Massachusetts. Together, we'll discuss how she got passionate about art, her role as Professor of Art at Amherst College, her creative advice to WayMaker listeners, and so much more.

In this episode, we have the honor of being joined by Monique and Melvin Rodriguez! Monique and Melvin are a married couple who are the Founders of Mielle Organics, a haircare and beauty brand. Together, they've built the brand and will discuss the inspiration and origin of Mielle Organics, some of their biggest obstacles thus far, their advice to other entrepreneurs and so much more.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Mitchella Gilbert! Mitchella is the Co-Founder and CEO of OYA Apparel, a sportswear company that focuses on making healthy and comfortable activewear for women. Together, we'll discuss the fashion inidustry, Mitchella's work with OYA Apparel, the keys to starting your own business and so much more.

In this WayMaker Fireside Chat we sit down with Marina Skye. Marina is the Founder of Sets by Skye and an accomplished creative director and set designer who has worked with names such as Jimmy Kimmel, SZA, 21 Savage and Young Dolph. Today, we'll discuss her career and how she got her start, the creative aspects of her work and her career advice to listeners.

In this WayMaker Fireside Chat we sit down with Kim Carter. Kim Carter is a housing developer, the CEO of Center for Housing and Motivational Projects (CHAMP) and the author of "Waking Up to My Purpose." Today, we'll discuss her difficult childhood, the steps she took to recover, how she's giving back to her community and her advice to listeners on changing the course of their lives.

In this episode, we sit down with Katria Adams. Katrina Adams is a former professional tennis player from Chicago and formerly has been President and CEO of the United States Tennis Association. Today, she'll discuss how her years on the court prepared her for leadership, break down the current state of tennis and reveal her waymakers.

In this episode, we sit down with K. Michelle! K. Michelle is a R&B and Country music artist also known for her role in VH1's television series Hip Hop & Love: Atlanta. Today, she'll talk about her beginnings in music, her shift to country music, and her advice to women looking to pursue their dreams.

In this episode, we sit down with Jennnifer Campbell. Jennifer is an accomplished author, coach and change manager with over 25 years of experience. Today, we'll discuss her entreprenership and coaching career as well as dive into effective soul strategy tips listeners can utilize in their lives.

In this episode, we sit down with Cynthia Marshall! Cynthia Marshall is the CEO of the Dallas Mavericks, and in 2018 became the first-ever Black female CEO in the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Together, we'll discuss Cynthia's career, her current role as CEO of the Mavericks and her personal advice to WayMaker listeners.

In this episode, we sit down with Bre Khounphinith. Bre is an accomplished makeup artist in Las Vegas, Nevada. Aside from her Beauty by Bre makeup studio, she also has a strong following on social media, where she seeks to educate makeup enthusiasts in makeup and business.

In this episode, we sit down with Angela Lewis. Angela Lewis is an actress best-known for her role of Aunt Louie in the FX crime and drama series Snowfall. We'll discuss her current role, the final season of the show, her acting career, Blue Remedy Media and her personal advice for listeners.

In this episode, we sit down with 17-year-old PhD candidate Dorothy Jean Tillman! Together, we'll discuss her upbringing, her fast-tracked education, her business, her writings and more. ‌

In this episode, we sit down with Kelli Richardson Lawson to discuss mental health! We'll discuss her motivation for founding The SonRise Project, how we can destigmatize mental health and so much more.

In this episode, we sit down with Michael and Dulcevita Brock to discuss parenting principles, their organization and their advice to current and future parents