Podcasts about alpha phi alpha fraternity

Michael Dixon received a bachelor's degree in multidisciplinary studies from North Carolina State University and a master's degree in college student affairs leadership from Grand Valley State University. Michael is a Doctoral candidate at Indiana State University. Michael is a former higher education administrator with more than 18 years in the industry. He has several research interests and his brief study in philosophy causes him to ask lots of questions. In his free time, you can catch Michael playing a round of disc golf or competing in sports and/or board games. In episode 570 of the Fraternity Foodie Podcast, we find out why Michael chose NC State for his undergraduate experience, what made him choose to join the Grad Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., why he enjoys working in DEI spaces, why that DEI work is so critical, how to take our unique members and turn that into recruiting power, what we should do if we struggle with our self-confidence when talking to new members, how we can break down bias in the Fraternity and Sorority recruitment, one part of the recruitment experience that we should reevaluate, practical ways we can improve the new member experience, and how recruitment can impact our chapter culture. Enjoy!

On this podcast, we've seen many traits and habits that lead to real estate success.  Of course, drive, discipline, and sales mastery are necessary if you want to build an awesome business and legacy.  But the exceptional agents we feature on this show have another thing in common.  Their ability to withstand temporary pain in the pursuit of long-term growth.  That pain takes on many forms: being vulnerable about where your business is bleeding.  Receiving and applying feedback. Not focusing on flashy accolades like GCI and rather prioritizing net profit.  Using real estate income to invest and build wealth instead of spending aimlessly.  This is where many agents and team leaders struggle the most. They put off temporary pain, and as a result, they put off all the things they want to achieve.  How do you create a mindset for growth? Why do team leaders need to be more vulnerable?  In this episode, I'm joined by entrepreneur, investor, philanthropist, and managing partner at Coalition Properties Group, Keith James.  He shares his incredible story and how he pays it forward in his business and community.    Things You'll Learn In This Episode  The power of exposure  Why did Keith buy his first rental before he purchased his own home?  The value of vulnerability  In an industry where everyone wants to present themselves as a success story, why is it powerful to admit where you're falling short? GCI is just a trophy  Real estate team leaders are so focused on GCI that they forget it's just a shiny industry accomplishment you can't take to the bank. Why do we need to focus less on topline revenue? Guest Bio Keith James is an entrepreneur, investor, philanthropist and managing partner at Coalition Properties Group. Born in Northern Mississippi, Keith spent his youth traveling around the United States playing in AAU basketball tournaments weekend after weekend. This exposure brought Keith the global perspective needed to see that the world is bigger than your back yard. After graduating from high school, Keith attended Tuskegee University, earning his bachelor's in Business Administration with a focus in Marketing. As a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Keith has met with some of the most successful men in real estate, obtaining bits of knowledge from mentorship along the way. The home buying process is an exciting time for families. Research shows families spend hours on the internet before meeting with a real estate professional. Keith knows that feeling all too well. The excitement of his first home purchase was a major investment he made at the age of 23 and he turned it into an income-generating property. That purchase led to another purchase... and it was too late; Keith caught the real estate investor bug! Keith's passion in life is to be the bridge to help people get to where they want to go. Follow Keith on Instagram.    About Your Host Remington Ramsey is a speaker, author, entrepreneur, and visionary in the world of real estate. As the creator of "Real Producers", a widely acclaimed magazine connecting top agents and industry leaders, Remington has built an impressive platform dedicated to celebrating and elevating the real estate community. Remington is also the author of Agent Allies: Building Your Business With Strategic Real Estate Partnerships. With a passion for motivating and mentoring, he's shared stages with some of the biggest names in business, helping professionals break through barriers and reach new heights. When he's not busy being a real estate guru, Remington is known for his contagious energy, practical wisdom, and a good dose of humor—because let's face it, navigating life and business requires both grit and a sense of humor. With multiple successful ventures under his belt and a reputation for engaging storytelling, he has the rare ability to make even the driest industry stats sound exciting.    Follow the show on our website, Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don't miss a single inspiring episode! Start a Real Producers Magazine in YOUR Market! Learn more about franchise opportunities at realproducersmag.com

Ann and EJ sit down with Daryl Davis II, a candidate for City Council District 6, this week for the big story. We also discuss how anti-DEI is impacting TCU and TCC. We give you updates on redistricting talks at the county level as Tim O'Hare's voter fraud law firm gets approved for tens of thousands of our tax dollars.SHORT STORY #1: Anti-DEI impacts TCU and TCC:- TCU cuts Diversity & Inclusion office amid funding cut threats, higher-ed politicization- Tarrant GOP attacks TCU- Texas DEI ban leads to NAACP event abruptly moving from Tarrant County CollegeSHORT STORY #2: Updates on Redistricting- Tarrant County Republicans' plan to redraw commissioners' precincts worries Democrats- Tarrant County takes steps to redraw commissioners' precinctsSHORT STORY #3: State vs. Local Control- Legislation could overturn downtown Fort Worth district's authorityBIG STORY: Interview with Daryl Davis II City Council Candidate for District 6WINS AND LOSSESAnn:

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Randal Pinkett. He has established himself as an entrepreneur, innovator, speaker, author, media personality and DEI expert who is leading the way in business, technology and equity for all. He is the co-founder, chairman and CEO of BCT Partners, a global, multimillion-dollar research, training, consulting, technology, and data analytics firm whose mission is to leverage diversity, insights and innovation to transform lives, accelerate equity and create lasting change. The company has been recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Management Consulting Firms, Ernst & Young as EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Manage HR Magazine as a Top 10 Firm for Diversity & Inclusion, the Black Enterprise BE100s list of the nation’s largest Black-owned businesses, and the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America.Dr. Pinkett is an expert in several areas relating to emerging technologies, “big data” analytics, social innovation, culture, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and is a regular contributor on MSNBC, CNN, and Fox Business News. An international public speaker, he is the author or co-author of several books including Black Faces in High Places, Black Faces in White Places, Data-Driven DEI, Campus CEO, and No-Money Down CEO. He holds five degrees including: a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University; a M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Oxford in England; and a M.S. in Electrical Engineering, MBA, and Ph.D. from MIT. Most notably, he was the first and only African American to receive the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship at Rutgers University; he was inducted to the Academic All-America Hall of Fame, as a former high jumper, long jumper, sprinter and captain of the Rutgers men’s track and field team; and he was the winner of NBC’s hit reality television show, “The Apprentice.”Born in Philadelphia and raised in New Jersey, Dr. Pinkett is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and First Baptist Church in Somerset, NJ, where he resides with his family, including a daughter and two sons. Dr. Pinkett firmly believes that “for those to whom much is given, much is expected,” so throughout his endeavors, he places great emphasis on his responsibility to give back to the community. Company Description * BCT Partners’ mission is to provide insights about diverse people that lead to equity.We are a national, multi-disciplinary consulting firm that delivers a full range of research, consulting, training, technology, and analytics services. BCT works with government agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and foundations, and is one of the leading firms in the country with expertise in the following markets: housing and community development, economic development, workforce development, children and families, health, education, and diversity, equity & inclusion.We invite and welcome to our team people who share our values and goals; those with a passion for making the world a better place, who see strength in our diversity, seek equal opportunity for all communities and are motivated to create a more equitable and just society. We appreciate the knowledge, abilities, and ideas of each individual and embrace his/her/their positive contributions to our collaborative and dynamic work environment. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Randal Pinkett. He has established himself as an entrepreneur, innovator, speaker, author, media personality and DEI expert who is leading the way in business, technology and equity for all. He is the co-founder, chairman and CEO of BCT Partners, a global, multimillion-dollar research, training, consulting, technology, and data analytics firm whose mission is to leverage diversity, insights and innovation to transform lives, accelerate equity and create lasting change. The company has been recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Management Consulting Firms, Ernst & Young as EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Manage HR Magazine as a Top 10 Firm for Diversity & Inclusion, the Black Enterprise BE100s list of the nation’s largest Black-owned businesses, and the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America.Dr. Pinkett is an expert in several areas relating to emerging technologies, “big data” analytics, social innovation, culture, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and is a regular contributor on MSNBC, CNN, and Fox Business News. An international public speaker, he is the author or co-author of several books including Black Faces in High Places, Black Faces in White Places, Data-Driven DEI, Campus CEO, and No-Money Down CEO. He holds five degrees including: a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University; a M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Oxford in England; and a M.S. in Electrical Engineering, MBA, and Ph.D. from MIT. Most notably, he was the first and only African American to receive the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship at Rutgers University; he was inducted to the Academic All-America Hall of Fame, as a former high jumper, long jumper, sprinter and captain of the Rutgers men’s track and field team; and he was the winner of NBC’s hit reality television show, “The Apprentice.”Born in Philadelphia and raised in New Jersey, Dr. Pinkett is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and First Baptist Church in Somerset, NJ, where he resides with his family, including a daughter and two sons. Dr. Pinkett firmly believes that “for those to whom much is given, much is expected,” so throughout his endeavors, he places great emphasis on his responsibility to give back to the community. Company Description * BCT Partners’ mission is to provide insights about diverse people that lead to equity.We are a national, multi-disciplinary consulting firm that delivers a full range of research, consulting, training, technology, and analytics services. BCT works with government agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and foundations, and is one of the leading firms in the country with expertise in the following markets: housing and community development, economic development, workforce development, children and families, health, education, and diversity, equity & inclusion.We invite and welcome to our team people who share our values and goals; those with a passion for making the world a better place, who see strength in our diversity, seek equal opportunity for all communities and are motivated to create a more equitable and just society. We appreciate the knowledge, abilities, and ideas of each individual and embrace his/her/their positive contributions to our collaborative and dynamic work environment. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Randal Pinkett. He has established himself as an entrepreneur, innovator, speaker, author, media personality and DEI expert who is leading the way in business, technology and equity for all. He is the co-founder, chairman and CEO of BCT Partners, a global, multimillion-dollar research, training, consulting, technology, and data analytics firm whose mission is to leverage diversity, insights and innovation to transform lives, accelerate equity and create lasting change. The company has been recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Management Consulting Firms, Ernst & Young as EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Manage HR Magazine as a Top 10 Firm for Diversity & Inclusion, the Black Enterprise BE100s list of the nation’s largest Black-owned businesses, and the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America.Dr. Pinkett is an expert in several areas relating to emerging technologies, “big data” analytics, social innovation, culture, diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and is a regular contributor on MSNBC, CNN, and Fox Business News. An international public speaker, he is the author or co-author of several books including Black Faces in High Places, Black Faces in White Places, Data-Driven DEI, Campus CEO, and No-Money Down CEO. He holds five degrees including: a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University; a M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Oxford in England; and a M.S. in Electrical Engineering, MBA, and Ph.D. from MIT. Most notably, he was the first and only African American to receive the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship at Rutgers University; he was inducted to the Academic All-America Hall of Fame, as a former high jumper, long jumper, sprinter and captain of the Rutgers men’s track and field team; and he was the winner of NBC’s hit reality television show, “The Apprentice.”Born in Philadelphia and raised in New Jersey, Dr. Pinkett is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and First Baptist Church in Somerset, NJ, where he resides with his family, including a daughter and two sons. Dr. Pinkett firmly believes that “for those to whom much is given, much is expected,” so throughout his endeavors, he places great emphasis on his responsibility to give back to the community. Company Description * BCT Partners’ mission is to provide insights about diverse people that lead to equity.We are a national, multi-disciplinary consulting firm that delivers a full range of research, consulting, training, technology, and analytics services. BCT works with government agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions and foundations, and is one of the leading firms in the country with expertise in the following markets: housing and community development, economic development, workforce development, children and families, health, education, and diversity, equity & inclusion.We invite and welcome to our team people who share our values and goals; those with a passion for making the world a better place, who see strength in our diversity, seek equal opportunity for all communities and are motivated to create a more equitable and just society. We appreciate the knowledge, abilities, and ideas of each individual and embrace his/her/their positive contributions to our collaborative and dynamic work environment. #BEST #STRAW #SHMSSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earl Stafford, Jr. is a visionary leader and ethical innovator dedicated to shaping the future of cyber, AI, and national security. As CEO of Aperio Global, he leads with a higher purpose, ensuring that technological advancements serve mission-critical needs and adhere to the highest standards of Truth, Trust, and Transparency—the foundation of both his leadership and faith.With over 25 years of executive experience, Stafford has positioned Aperio Global as a trusted partner to the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and global stakeholders. His dedication to ethical AI and mission-centric innovation led to NLYTEN, an AI-driven platform designed to enhance decision security, speed, and national defense capabilities while aligning with moral responsibility and operational precision.Earl is an alumnus of Georgetown University and is life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.Listen NOW to discover, 3 Secrets To Becoming an Ethical Innovator

The Rickey Smiley Morning Show is broadcasting live from the Georgia International Convention in Atlanta for the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity’s FOCUS HBCU Fair. In political news, President Trump recently addressed a joint session of Congress, discussing key issues like inflation, immigration, and his ongoing opposition to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Meanwhile, in the world of entertainment, R&B singer Omarion is standing firm on his belief in polyamory, asserting that men are not meant to be with just one woman and that women outnumber men. Beyoncé also made waves by revealing her personal preference when it comes to vacations. While she enjoys taking time off and doing regular activities, she shared that she’s not a fan of the beach and prefers being on a boat instead. These hot topics from politics to celebrity insights are sure to keep listeners engaged and entertained! Website: https://www.urban1podcasts.com/rickey-smiley-morning-show See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kyle Fairweather, president of UNLV's Collegiate 100 and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, shared his journey from Houston to UNLV, where he pursues an International Business major with a Japanese concentration. Kyle discussed his military background as a combat medic and his transition to UNLV. He highlighted the Collegiate 100's focus on professional development, networking, and mentorship, including recent trips to Atlanta and Colorado. Kyle emphasized the importance of leadership, accountability, and public speaking skills gained through his roles. He also mentioned Alpha Phi Alpha's values and his aspirations for the Collegiate 100, including fostering a sense of community and providing opportunities for personal and professional growth.

What happens when mentorship shifts the course of a life? In this episode of My Best Shift, Chantée Christian sits down with David Atkins, a bestselling author and influential leader at George Mason University, to explore the power of mentorship, legacy, and representation. From a chance meeting in 2001 to a lifelong connection, we discuss the unseen impact of mentors, the evolution from giving advice to empowering self-discovery, and the lasting impact of leadership in Black and Brown communities.Join us as we unpack the honest, sometimes uncomfortable truths that shape careers, identities, and futures, and reflect on how representation fuels community and personal growth.Listen now to discover how mentorship can change the trajectory of your life!Meet David C. Atkins – A Legacy Builder, Mentor & Visionary. From a small-town upbringing in Jarratt, Virginia, to shaping the future of students at George Mason University, David C. Atkins is a dynamic and integral force of mentorship, leadership, and legacy. A founding member and past president of the GMU Black Alumni Chapter, David has spent 35+ years as a student, alum, employee, donor, and changemaker at the university.With a Bachelor's in Decision Science from GMU and a Master's in Theology from Howard University, he blends strategic thinking with a deep calling to serve and uplift others. Ordained at a church founded by his great-great-grandmother, David's commitment to legacy runs deep, shaping his work in brand development, licensing, and student mentorship.His passion? Empowering young people to see beyond limitations and embrace their greatness. Whether through his international travels to Egypt and Ghana, or his dedication to Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., David is an intentional collaborator who transforms energy into impact. Connect with David via Facebook | LinkedIn | InstagramShow your support for the show in the form of a review, rating, like, follow and/or subscribe. It makes a huge difference with the algorithmic overlords!________________________INSPIRED ACTIONS/THOUGHTS FOR THIS EPISODEWhat seeds are you planting today that will contribute to your long-term legacy?How can you be more intentional about receiving mentorship or coaching in a way that serves your personal growth?________________________SUPPORT US BY SUPPORTING OUR PARTNER(S)Buzzsprout – Following this link let's Buzzsprout know we sent you, gets you a $20 Amazon gift card if you sign up for a paid plan, and helps support our show https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1381600.Headliner – Following this link let's Headliner know we sent you https://make.headliner.app/referral/info_AwIgqs.________________________THE DREAM TEAM -- CREDITSAudio Engineering: Superb Media (kevinwatkins.nyc@gmail.com)Music Composition: Hitz Muzic Group, LLC (hitzmuzicgroup@gmail.com)Photography: Peculiar Images by R.J. Paulk (rj@peculiarimages.us)Hair: Rob Fooks with Rob Fooks Hair Salon (rob@robfooks.com)Custom Artwork: Janae Danielle Consulting and Design (janaedanielleco@gmail.com)________________________If you take any of these actions, share them with us via Instagram. AND brag online about your inspired actions/thoughts on social media using #MyBestSHIFT. Follow us @MyBestShift_LLC on Instagram.

Kerry is an award-winning illustrator and art director whose work has been published in many newspapers, magazines, books and websites. He has illustrated several children's books along with a unique line of multicultural greeting cards. Kerry is a hands-on creative director with the vision to inspire, collaborate, and execute fun and illustrative solutions. He has worked as graphics director for several newspapers and organizations throughout the metropolitan Washington, DC region. Many of his clients have worked with him remotely on various visual storytelling and branding projects. Kerry also illustrates digital gift caricatures and on-site caricatures at private homes, schools, corporate conferences, churches and other community events. He's a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI), National Cartoonists Society (NCS), Association Media & Publishing (AM&P), and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Kerry and his wife, Tawanda, a public relations executive, live in Columbia, Md., with their two children. He may be reached via: TWITTER: http://twitter.com/caricaturekerry FACEBOOK: Kerry G. Johnson INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/caricaturekerry/ #KerryGJohnson #FlorezaDeniseLee #Florenza #FlorenzaLee #OntheAirwithFlorenza #PodcastLife #CreativeJourney #Inspiration #OnTheAirWithFlorenza #Storyteller #AuthorLife #Illustrators #GraphicArtist #Empowerment #CreativeMinds #HeartfeltConversations #InspireOthers #ChangeMakers #ListenNow #TuneIn #PodcastCommunity #CreativeInspiration #SelfDiscovery

Kerry is an award-winning illustrator and art director whose work has been published in many newspapers, magazines, books and websites. He has illustrated several children's books along with a unique line of multicultural greeting cards. Kerry is a hands-on creative director with the vision to inspire, collaborate, and execute fun and illustrative solutions. He has worked as graphics director for several newspapers and organizations throughout the metropolitan Washington, DC region. Many of his clients have worked with him remotely on various visual storytelling and branding projects. Kerry also illustrates digital gift caricatures and on-site caricatures at private homes, schools, corporate conferences, churches and other community events. He's a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI), National Cartoonists Society (NCS), Association Media & Publishing (AM&P), and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Kerry and his wife, Tawanda, a public relations executive, live in Columbia, Md., with their two children. He may be reached via: TWITTER: http://twitter.com/caricaturekerry FACEBOOK: Kerry G. Johnson INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/caricaturekerry/ #KerryGJohnson #FlorezaDeniseLee #Florenza #FlorenzaLee #OntheAirwithFlorenza #PodcastLife #CreativeJourney #Inspiration #OnTheAirWithFlorenza #Storyteller #AuthorLife #Illustrators #GraphicArtist #Empowerment #CreativeMinds #HeartfeltConversations #InspireOthers #ChangeMakers #ListenNow #TuneIn #PodcastCommunity #CreativeInspiration #SelfDiscovery

Join the conversation by letting us know what you think about the episode!Welcome to the 1st installment of our Banned Books Series! In this episode, we discuss George M. Johnson's All Boys Aren't Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto. This is a beautiful and important book. Tune in to hear our reactions to and understanding of All Boys Aren't Blue. Afterwards, let us know your thoughts about the book.  George M. Johnson (they/them) is an Emmy nominated, award-winning, and bestselling Black nonbinary author and activist. They have written on race, gender, sex, and culture for Essence, the Advocate, BuzzFeed News, Teen Vogue, and more than forty other national publications. George has appeared on BuzzFeed's AM2DM as well as on MSNBC. They are also a proud HBCU alum twice over and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. Their debut memoir, All Boys Aren't Blue, was a New York Times bestseller and garnered many accolades. It was the second-most banned book of 2022 in the United States, according to the American Library Association. For their work fighting book bans and challenges, the National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) honored George with its Free Speech Defender Award, and TIME Magazine named them one of the “100 Next Most Influential People in the World.”Support the showBe part of the conversation by sharing your thoughts about this episode, what you may have learned, how the conversation affected you. You can reach Raquel and Jennifer on IG @madnesscafepodcast or by email at madnesscafepodcast@gmail.com.Share the episode with a friend and have your own conversation. And don't forget to rate and review the show wherever you listen!Thanks!

Thursday, November 14 on Urban Forum Northwest: *Michelle Merriweather, President & CEO, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle invites you to the 23rd Annual Breakfast:Era of Essential Service featuring special guest, Taraji P. Henson. The event will be held on Friday, November 22 beginning at 8:30 am at the Seattle Convention Center Summit Building 900 Pine Street, Seattle 98101. *David Cuerpo, Communications Specialist | Public Information Officer, Seattle Fire Department in his position he speaks on behalf of the firefighters and paramedics that serve the city. He also informs the community of significant events. Today he will inform you of two events that will inform interested individuals that might want to consider a career as a firefighter/paramedic. The starting salary is $94,000.00. *Dr. John German reflects on the contributions made by the late Dr. James D. Carter who passed away suddenly on October 28. He was revered leader and a cherished part of The Breakfast Group, a Seattle nonprofit made up of African American professional men. He was executive director of The Breakfast Group's Project M.I.S.T.E.R program. He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and a member of the National Black MBA Association. *John Houston's father was swindled out of 10 acres of property on Union Street in Renton WA by theRenton School District. His family was told that the District needed their property to build a middle/junior high school, which was never built but sold to a developer. Mr. Houston will provide an update on his efforts to reclaim his family's land. *Josephine Howell comments on JHP Presents "Sounds Of The Sound" that will be held Saturday, November 30 at 6:30 pm at Town Hall Seattle 1119 8th Avenue Seattle 98101. Urban Forum Northwest streams live at www.1150kknw.com. Check us out at www.urbanforumnw.com for archived program and relevant information. Like us on facebook. @Eddie_Rye. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thursday, November 14 on Urban Forum Northwest: *Michelle Merriweather, President & CEO, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle invites you to the 23rd Annual Breakfast:Era of Essential Service featuring special guest, Taraji P. Henson. The event will be held on Friday, November 22 beginning at 8:30 am at the Seattle Convention Center Summit Building 900 Pine Street, Seattle 98101.*David Cuerpo, Communications Specialist | Public Information Officer, Seattle Fire Department in his position he speaks on behalf of the firefighters and paramedics that serve the city. He also informs the community of significant events. Today he will inform you of two events that will inform interested individuals that might want to consider a career as a firefighter/paramedic. The starting salary is $94,000.00.*Dr. John German reflects on the contributions made by the late Dr. James D. Carter who passed away suddenly on October 28. He was revered leader and a cherished part of The Breakfast Group, a Seattle nonprofit made up of African American professional men. He was executive director of The Breakfast Group's Project M.I.S.T.E.R program. He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and a member of the National Black MBA Association.*John Houston's father was swindled out of 10 acres of property on Union Street in Renton WA by theRenton School District. His family was told that the District needed their property to build a middle/junior high school, which was never built but sold to a developer. Mr. Houston will provide an update on his efforts to reclaim his family's land.*Josephine Howell comments on JHP Presents "Sounds Of The Sound" that will be held Saturday, November 30 at 6:30 pm at Town Hall Seattle 1119 8th Avenue Seattle 98101.Urban Forum Northwest streams live at www.1150kknw.com. Check us out at www.urbanforumnw.com for archived program and relevant information. Like us on facebook. @Eddie_Rye. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thursday, November 14 on Urban Forum Northwest: *Michelle Merriweather, President & CEO, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle invites you to the 23rd Annual Breakfast:Era of Essential Service featuring special guest, Taraji P. Henson. The event will be held on Friday, November 22 beginning at 8:30 am at the Seattle Convention Center Summit Building 900 Pine Street, Seattle 98101. *David Cuerpo, Communications Specialist | Public Information Officer, Seattle Fire Department in his position he speaks on behalf of the firefighters and paramedics that serve the city. He also informs the community of significant events. Today he will inform you of two events that will inform interested individuals that might want to consider a career as a firefighter/paramedic. The starting salary is $94,000.00. *Dr. John German reflects on the contributions made by the late Dr. James D. Carter who passed away suddenly on October 28. He was revered leader and a cherished part of The Breakfast Group, a Seattle nonprofit made up of African American professional men. He was executive director of The Breakfast Group's Project M.I.S.T.E.R program. He was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and a member of the National Black MBA Association. *John Houston's father was swindled out of 10 acres of property on Union Street in Renton WA by theRenton School District. His family was told that the District needed their property to build a middle/junior high school, which was never built but sold to a developer. Mr. Houston will provide an update on his efforts to reclaim his family's land. *Josephine Howell comments on JHP Presents "Sounds Of The Sound" that will be held Saturday, November 30 at 6:30 pm at Town Hall Seattle 1119 8th Avenue Seattle 98101. Urban Forum Northwest streams live at www.1150kknw.com. Check us out at www.urbanforumnw.com for archived program and relevant information. Like us on facebook. X@Eddie_Rye.

Our host, LUL President & CEO Lyndon Pryor, is joined by Greg Vann of the JCPS Diversity, Equity, and Poverty Department. He is the Executive Administrator of External Equity, which is to say his job is to make sure that students feel supported regardless of ethnicity, race, color, national origin, age, different abilities, religion, marital or parental status, political affiliations or beliefs, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The duo discusses the fallout from the 2024 election, the importance of Black Student Unions, how the school district is working to support students outside of the classroom, and the state of education in Kentucky. Vann graduated from the University of Memphis with a BS in Professional Studies. He has dedicated his career to working with youth, starting in a residential treatment facility, then Job Corps, before landing at Jefferson County Public Schools. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

It's that time again and with the election around the corner and a Divine 9 Candidate on the ballot to be the next President of the United States of America, we couldn't wait to hear from college students on campuses across the nation! To commemorate our 4th Annual Divine 9 Series, we begin with Ajalon Washington, President of the Iota Kappa Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. This upcoming graduate joins us to discuss the importance of voting based on our history, and why he plans to become a Middle School History Educator in the Dallas Independent School District. Find out how he overcame personal learning differences and how he has been able to maintain his mental health while in college.⁠ ⁠ Ajalon is from Cedar Hill, Texas and he will soon complete his Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts: History with a Path to Teacher Certification at Paul Quinn College in Dallas, Texas. He is currently interning at United2Learn, a Paul Quinn College work program and he plans to teach History at the high school or college level. He also plans to be an accredited author and publish a book series. Ajalon received his high school diploma from Woodrow Wilson High School, and achieved the ranking of Eagle Scout enrolled in 470 Circle 10. His goals in life are to provide and sustain a lifestyle, both in faith and effort, and provide for those under his care or those in need of his help. To learn more about Ajalon, connect with him on IG @b_t_jay or visit him on LinkedIn. ⁠

Host Jason Blitman is joined by one of the most banned authors in the country, George M. Johnson, to talk about their new book, Flamboyants: The Queer Harlem Renaissance I Wish I'd Known. They discuss the significance of LGBTQIA+ history, challenges faced by past queer icons of the Harlem Renaissance, and the connection between George's previous work, All Boys Aren't Blue, and Flamboyants. Guest Gay Reader Rasheed Newson joins Jason to talk about his reading list, the interconnectedness of queer history, and insights from his own book, My Government Means to Kill Me. George M. Johnson (they/them) is an Emmy nominated, award-winning, and bestselling Black nonbinary author and activist. They have written on race, gender, sex, and culture for Essence, the Advocate, BuzzFeed News, Teen Vogue, and more than forty other national publications. George has appeared on BuzzFeed's AM2DM as well as on MSNBC. They are also a proud HBCU alum twice over and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. Their debut memoir, All Boys Aren't Blue, was a New York Times bestseller and garnered many accolades. It was the second-most banned book of 2022 in the United States, according to the American Library Association. For their work fighting book bans and challenges, the National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) honored George with its Free Speech Defender Award, and TIME Magazine named them one of the “100 Next Most Influential People in the World.” While writing their memoir, George used he/him pronouns. Originally from Plainfield, New Jersey, they now live in Los Angeles, California.Rasheed Newson is a writer and producer of Bel-Air, The Chi, and Narcos. He currently resides in Pasadena, California with his husband and two children. My Government Means to Kill Me is his debut novel.Gays Reading is sponsored by Audible. Get a FREE 30-day trial by visiting audibletrial.com/gaysreadingBOOK CLUB!Use code GAYSREADING at checkout to get first book for only $4 + free shipping! Restrictions apply.http://aardvarkbookclub.comWATCH!https://youtube.com/@gaysreadingBOOKS!Check out the list of books discussed on each episode on our Bookshop page: https://bookshop.org/shop/gaysreading MERCH!Purchase your Gays Reading podcast merchandise HERE! https://gaysreading.myspreadshop.com/ FOLLOW!@gaysreading | @jasonblitman CONTACT!hello@gaysreading.com

Dr. Warren Morgan is Chief Executive Officer for Cleveland Metropolitan School District where he leads one of the largest school systems in Ohio. As an experienced educator, Dr. Morgan recognizes the potential of every child and advocates for equity and excellence. He previously served as Chief Academic Officer in Indianapolis, as Executive Director for Teach for America, as a Network Leader of Cleveland's investment turnaround schools, as a high school principal in Chicago Public Schools, science teacher in St. Louis where he was awarded Outstanding Teacher, and he began his career with the Illinois Senate.Dr. Morgan also had the pleasure of working for both Presidents Obama and Trump as a prestigious White House Fellow. He currently serves on the Board of the White House Fellows Foundation Association.Dr. Morgan holds a Bachelor's from Butler University, where he served as student body president; a Master's from the University of Missouri- St. Louis; and a Doctorate from the University of Illinois–Chicago. He is an alum of the Broad Fellowship at Yale University. He is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc

Overcoming setbacks in law school is something our next guest is very familiar with. Judge Derwin L. Webb is the first African-American male Family Court Judge in the history of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. A first-generation attorney, Webb was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, but later moved to Louisville where he has lived for more than twenty-five years. A former standout basketball player at the University of Louisville for Hall of Fame basketball coach Denny Crum, Webb was a captain his senior year, and earned the respect of his peers both on and off the basketball court. As an undergraduate, he was elected as a senator in the Student Government Association. In this role he represented the interests of the student population and discovered the importance of public service. He joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. After receiving his B.S. in Political Science, he attended the Brandeis School of Law at the University of Louisville. Upon graduation, he began his legal career with the prestigious law firm, Stites & Harbison, where he learned all aspects of business and corporate law. He then returned to his alma mater to work as an Assistant Athletic Director where he supported the athletic department in areas of compliance, academics, and diversity. He was appointed by the president to serve on the University's Commission on Diversity and Racial Equality, the president's chief policy advisor on issues of diversity. He also served on numerous non-profit boards dedicated to improving the lives of individuals within the Kentuckiana region. This work earned Derwin the Business First “Forty Under Forty” Award for outstanding Louisville young professionals. In episode 478 of the Fraternity Foodie Podcast, we find out what it was like being bussed to other districts for school as a kid, how we can solve the gun violence in this country, why he decided to play basketball for the University of Louisville, why he's the only player who had to pay admission to his own basketball game, why he joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., how he was able to overcome the setbacks at law school, why his road to becoming a judge wasn't easy either, what it is like to be the first African-American man to serve as judge in Louisville's Family Court, and what is The Chronicles of the Traveling Bookbag Tour. Enjoy!

August 7, 2024 - Jodi Silotto of Millikin University and students Morwin Coney and Keishon Tinon of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity joined Byers & Co to talk about the on campus Back to School Backpack Giveway hosted by the fraternity. Listen to the podcast now!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Follow us on social @doseofblkjoy and learn more about “A Dose of Support” from the 4A's (American Association of Advertising Agencies): ⁠https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdEW1U3sVdZRCQHPVtmwxAITUEA5I4ojWGAgKJMMp3Tc63l-A/viewform?usp=sf_link⁠ About Rashan: Rashan Brown aka Rush (The Mic) is a Spoken-Word Poet & Founder of poetry me, please. Founded in 2019, poetry me, please is a spoken-word poetry platform and content studio that provides a stage for artists across the world to showcase their talents through creative verbal expression. Featured in Forbes, Time Out, PIX11, News12, NBC, Ebony, REVOLT & The Grio, poetry me, please is the largest poetry showcase in NYC. Averaging 500 guests per show, PMP is on the rise.  Rashan's voice & brand have partnered with the likes of the NFL, Eventbrite, LLoyd Banks, Harlem's Fashion Row, NY Independent Schools, the Big Four, Columbia Business School, Republic Records, Rupi Kaur, TIER, Microsoft, AfroTech and AfroFuture. Bringing the show to City Winery, The Cutting Room, SOBS and the iconic Apollo Theater where they sold out to a crowd of over 1,500. The former STEM educator & Bronx native is committed to mentorship and community building. A board member of BUILD NYC, Rashan continues to be a mentor for students at his alma mater University at Albany, SUNY. A member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Rashan carries the values of the organization in this work. 

The Illinois Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Day at the Capitol is coming up April 30th - May 1st in Springfield. They will be partnering with the ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated for a day of advocacy and education. Michael Gaines, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and Sherri Hale, a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. spoke to Community Voices about the history and legacy of their organizations, the different items they'll be advocating for, and the schedule for the two days of events. They also talk about the history and work of Black Greek-lettered Organizations in our community.

In life, we are often faced with numerous and various decisions that can shape our path and influence our future. Decision-making is one of the crucial parts of our lives.  Each choice we make determines our direction and the path of our journey.  Some circumstances may not involve significant choices,  but others  may require us to step out in faith, get our knees on the ground, and raise our hands in surrender to the almighty God who is always in control. Life is a choice.  The greatest mistake a man can ever make is choosing to live his life apart from God's guidance and grace. Therefore, we should possess a humble heart that acknowledges the wisdom of God in every circumstance whether  favorable  or unfavorable. Though some things in this world may cause us trouble and discouragement, still, we have peace that passes all understanding, knowing that we are never alone.  The eyes of our Lord are always on us. Thus, may we all find the courage to walk in faith and embrace the transformative power of God's guidance in every decision we make.   Pastor Wesley Thompson is a loving husband, father, educator, author, activist, chaplain, political candidate, pastor, and faithful man of God. He is a native of Florence, Alabama. He is the senior pastor and teacher at Bethel Colbert Missionary Baptist Church and previously served as a youth pastor and interim pastor in his eleven years of ministry. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of North Alabama and a master's of divinity degree from Mercer University. He is pursuing a doctor of ministry degree from the Interdenominational Theological Center. He has worked as a college admissions recruiter and adjunct professor. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., NAACP, the Academy of Preachers, and various community service organizations. He is married to Le'Tanndra Thompson, and they have three sons.   In this episode, we will revisit a conversation I had with Rev. Wesley Thompson over a year ago and learn how faith in God guided him through the complexities of decision-making amidst the darkest moment of his life. He underscores the significance of seeking divine direction, aligning decisions with personal aspirations, consulting trusted confidants, and how God can lead us towards paths of hope, healing, and purpose. Rev. Thompson's testimony serves as an inspiration to all who listen, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, faith can lead us to hope, healing, and unexpected blessings. Tune in to gain a wealth of wisdom on the impact of faith on decision-making during life's darkest moments.     “When making decisions, it's usually going to be uncomfortable when you're more than likely to not be guaranteed one way or the other and that's where the faith piece comes in.”   Topics Covered: (00:01:43) Ask God for direction (00:03:16) Where faith comes in (00:04:36) The doubts of starting a podcast (00:06:33) Introducing our special guest, Rev. Wesley Thompson (00:08:14) Making positivity out of negativity (00:10:42)The passing of the torch (00:13:18) The question of "Am I enough?" (00:15:23) In Sickness and In Health: A Story of Love, Strength, and Faith (00:20:00) The hard part of decision making (00:22:54) How God works in amazing way (00:24:16) Trust God through it all (00:26:17) Moving from Atlanta to North Alabama: Was it by choice or force? (00:30:29) Advertisement: Are you prepared for life's unexpected challenges? Dr. Stephanie Pearson and her team of skilled advisors at Pearson Ravitz are here to help you guard your most valuable asset. Go to https://pearsonravitz.com/ to make sure you are protected today. (00:32:25) God knows what we truly need. (00:33:44) The dream of Dr. Martin Luther King: What does it mean to Pastor Thompson? (00:37:00) The Political aspirations: The joy in doing something you love. (00:38:01) What did Pastor Thompson learn from losing the election? (00:39:54) Final TimeOut with Reverend Wesley Thompson: How would you encourage a person who fears failure and is afraid of taking the first step toward a goal? (00:41:30) Take a leap of faith and go deeper (00:42:32) God will never lead you to a place of failure. (00:43:25) Connect with Pastor Wesley Thompson.     Key Takeaways:    “Faith for me is something easy to talk about but when you have to live it out, it's much more difficult.” – Dr. Derrick Burgess   "In every bad situation, there's something good you can pull out of it if you try." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "God reminded me that our ways and our thoughts are not his, and he pulled a surprise on me." – Pastor Wesley Thompson    "No matter how successful, accomplished or educated a person is, there's always that thought in the back of your head where you will ask yourself, am I that enough?" – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "When we're in the moment of that depression, sadness, and frustration of just not knowing what in the world is going on, God is building a testimony for us." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "There's no testimony without a test." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "Everybody should be able to look back on their life and say, I'm glad I did instead of, I wish I would have." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "No matter what it is, there's no age limit on when you can do it." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "If you don't fail, you're not going to learn and grow." – Dr. Derrick Burgess   “God is never going to tell you to go somewhere in which it's going to lead to failure.” – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "You will never give yourself a chance to discover what lies beyond out there in the deep until you go out there." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   Connect with Wesley Thompson:   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MinisterWesleyThompson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westhompson1906/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-thompson-70373845/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@voteforwesley Book: https://www.amazon.com/Sickness-Health-Story-Strength-Faith/dp/0997679786   Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHGDu1zT4K_X6PnYELu8weg Email: thesportsdoctr@gmail.com   This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Looking at the positive side of the timing, opportunities, and even of failures is the core of today's episode with Philip Wilkerson. We dive into Philip's own career path, the importance of celebrating accomplishments while also recognizing failures, we discuss building resiliency and the responsibility that we all have to pay it forward . Let's see where happenstance takes us... Philip Wilkerson is an Employer Engagement Consultant at GMU Career Services. In this role, he serves as a liaison between employers and the GMU community to make sure career opportunities such as jobs and internships are made aware to students, faculty/staff, and alumni.  In the past, he was awarded "Employee of the Month" for GMU in September 2019, the” Forty under 40” list for GMU Black Alumni, “Forty under Forty” for the Northern Virginia area through the Leadership Center for Excellence as well as being a recipient for the "Pillar Award" which is for a GMU staff member who supports Black students. He is also the faculty advisor for the Iota Alpha Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and the GMU NAACP chapter. In his free time, he hosts a podcast called Positive Philter which focuses on well-being and is actively involved in Toastmasters. He is married to Maggie Wilkerson, LSCW (JMU Class of 2007, Social Work), and father to two boys, Bennett and Miles.Connect with Philip:Positive Philter Podcast Instagram  Facebook  LinkedIn Let's Connect:@HappenstanceThePodcast@CareerCoachCassieHappenstance the Playlist

Professionally speaking, Philip Blackett is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and small business owners grow their dream businesses, while utilizing his skillset in sales, marketing and business development. Philip served as President of Cemetery Services, Inc., a seven-figure business he bought based in the Greater Boston area. He's worked at FedEx, Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, and Chick-fil-A. Philip graduated from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary with his Masters of Divinity (M.Div) degree with a concentration in Great Commission Studies. He also earned his MBA from Harvard Business School. In college, Philip graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a Morehead-Cain Scholar, majoring in Political Science and Economics. Philip is a Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. When he is not fulfilling his purpose, Philip enjoys reading, watching sports, and raising his twin daughters, Sofia and Elizabeth, with his wife Mayra. In episode 435 of the Fraternity Foodie Podcast, we find out why Philip decided to go to UNC Chapel Hill, why he decided to join Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., what makes companies like as FedEx, Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, and Chick-fil-A successful, How can we navigate tough conversations and disagree with someone's views but still respect and love that person, how can we train ourselves to be open to new ideas and thoughts, what lessons he learned from his first failed business, what are the core four of dream business growth. Enjoy!

Our next guest is Derrick Scott II, a Mentor, Keynote and Public Speaker, as well as a Finance Strategy & Transformation Consultant. Derrick is an accomplished, collaborative & result-driven leader with over 7 years' experience in strategic planning & management consulting. Assists institutions by integrating products to enable enterprise growth. He possesses the ability to thrive in fast paced working environments by applying analytical thinking, industry best practices, & adapting to ambiguity. He leverages technical & financial expertise in delivering dynamic recommendations and presentations for his clients. In episode 428 of the Fraternity Foodie Podcast, we find out why Derrick chose Florida State for his undergraduate experience, why he decided to join Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Iota-Delta Chapter), how he was able to plan and execute events for 115,000 alumni as the Board President of the Florida State University Young Alumni Council, what were his job responsibilities at GE Power and also Deloitte, what is Cardinal Wisdom Consulting, how students can overcome fear and unlock their leadership potential, what surprised Derrick about his conversations with students about fear, and how he stayed committed to growth even when life handed him some obstacles to overcome. Enjoy! 

Leon Hite, III, affectionately known as Coach Hite, is an energetic, innovative, and compassionate inspirational speaker! His gift for inspiring others has enabled him to speak to, coach, and mentor over 10 thousand people of all ages in both the corporate world and educational institutions. Currently, Coach Hite is the Director of Safety and Security for Jennings School District and the administrator for JETS (Jennings Education and Training School) which is the district's alternative school.A man of God, devoted husband, father of three, and active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Leon believes that we all possess the ability to be a better version of ourselves if we are willing to “Think Outside the Box”.

Harold Hughes is the founder & CEO of Bandwagon, a South Carolina-based experience technology company. Under his leadership, Bandwagon has raised more than $3M in venture capital and successfully acquired IdealSeat, Inc. in 2020. Harold has had his ideas validated as a graduate of the Founder Institute Accelerator (and now serves as Director for their Austin chapter), one of the inaugural companies in Google for Startups Black Founders Exchange Program, and most recently, the inaugural cohort of the IBM Blockchain Accelerator in 2019. A man of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Harold is actively involved in his community, participating on the Board of Directors for BEAM, a non-profit that focuses on the advancement of women entrepreneurs as they grow their companies as well as a founding team member of Amass, an end-to-end wealth building platform for Black Americans. To that end, Harold is also an active angel investor, investing in women, people of color, and Black founder-led companies. Most notably, he has invested in Partake Foods, the Jay-Z-backed CPG company making allergy-friendly snacks, as well as companies like Goodr, Chipper, Journey Foods, Republic, and Stix. Harold is a graduate of Clemson University, where he received Bachelor's degrees in both Economics (B.A.) and Political Science (B.A.). As a “Triple Tiger”, he also completed his MBA at Clemson before pursuing a graduate certificate in Innovation & Entrepreneurship at Stanford University. Harold is the author of "A Kids Book About Blockchain." He was our guest on Episode 136 of the Agents of Innovation podcast, filmed and recorded at the 40th Annual Miami Book Fair, on November 19, 2023. This can also be viewed on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/3QlX_ch7DtY You can learn more about Harold Hughes at: https://bandwagonfanclub.com/team/harold-hughes/ Find his new book at: https://amzn.to/4azCnqC Learn more about the Miami Book Fair at: https://www.miamibookfair.com Follow the Agents of Innovation podcast on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AgentsOfInnovationPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovationradio/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/agentinnovation You can support this podcast and our Fearless Journeys community on our Patreon account: www.patreon.com/fearlessjourneys You can also join our network through the Fearless Journeys community at: https://www.fearlessjourneys.org/

Today is all about spreading joy, and Amanda has a fantastic lineup in store. Kicking off the episode, seven-year-old entrepreneur Blake Landon is making a positive impact on the world through his motivational speaking and clothing brand, BLEU, inspiring people to embrace their uniqueness. The episode continues with the engaging Word Game of the Week, followed by a Public Seales Announcement and voicemail check. The hour unfolds with heartwarming stories of Black joy, featuring Grammy Award-winning singer Ambré and the Magnolia Initiative, as well as the Loveland Foundation's mission to provide therapy services to Black women. In the second part of the show, reality star and author Bambi takes the spotlight as the Headliner of the Week, sharing her insights and experiences in another edition of "For the Record." The episode wraps up with more celebrations of Black joy, reflections on 50 years of hip-hop in the Blackspin segment, and Amanda's closing gratitude. Listen, Laugh, and Learn on The Amanda Seales Show! FOLLOW ALONG AS WE COVER:   (1:21) - Seven-year-old entrepreneur Blake Landon is making an impact in the world by spreading love, and positivity, and encouraging people to embrace their uniqueness through fashion… Blake is a motivational speaker, and the founder of the clothing brand, BLEU.   (3:15) - The Word Game of the Week.   (8:05) - The Public Seales Announcement.   (10:24) - We'll Check the Voicemail.   (12:22) - COMING UP THIS HOUR… WE'RE SPREADING MORE BLACK JOY. THE PEOPLE VS. THINGS I LEARNED THIS WEEK AND WE'LL CHECK THE VOICEMAIL.   (13:26) - A Story of Black Joy. The Grammy Award-Winning Singer, Ambré, is using her “Magnolia Initiative” to help New Orleans youth for the holidays and beyond. She describes her program as a “call to action” to provide resources to children and teens in foster care.   (15:25) - The People Versus Rihanna & Beyonce.   (19:29) - Things I Learned This Week.   (24:37) - We'll Check the Voicemail.   (26:15) - COMING UP THIS HOUR: WE'RE SPREADING MORE BLACK JOY. OUR HEADLINER OF THE WEEK… BAMBI WILL JOIN US FOR ANOTHER EDITION OF… FOR THE RECORD THINGS I LEARNED THIS WEEK AND WE'LL CHECK THE VOICEMAIL.   (28:16) - A Story of Black Joy. Black women deserve access to therapy, and the Loveland Foundation is on a mission to ensure they have it. The foundation, founded by author, entrepreneur, and activist Rachel Cargle started out as a birthday wish. The non-profit aims to bring healing to communities of color through therapy services. And her foundation works with over 2,000 therapists around the country, and collectively the foundation has provided Black women with over 150,000 hours of free therapy.   (30:02) - For the Record with Bambi – Part 1.   (34:01) - For the Record with Bambi – Part 2.   (37:49) - We'll Check the Voicemail.   (41:37) - COMING UP THIS HOUR: SHARING MORE BLACK JOY! CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF HIP HOP WITH THE BLACKSPIN THINGS I LEARNED THIS WEEK.   (44:37) - The men of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity are spreading Christmas cheer for the holidays. For the third year in a row, the men of Alpha Phi Alpha have taken busloads of students from Detroit Christmas shopping and treated the students each with 4 free gifts of their choice.   (46:45) - The Blackspin.   (51:17) - Thank you for listening to The Amanda Seales Show!   FOLLOW THE SHOW ON ALL SOCIALS: @Sealessaidit @Amandaseales @Jeremiahlikethebible If You Have A Comment Leave Amanda A Message At 1 855-Amanda-8 That's 1-855-262-6328See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Joyce III is Founder and Chief Visionary Ocer of Coee With A Black Guy, an innovative movement in which he provides consultation and coaching that is rooted in facilitating conversations about race and perspective for community groups and organizations. Joyce is an educator, a former award-winning journalist, and runner up in the 2021 Santa Barbara mayoral election. James Joyce III is an educator, public servant—civil rights activist and social entrepreneur that founded Coffee with a Black Guy. At its foundation, CWABG serves as a safe place for interactive, community conversations about a variety of issues from the perspective of a Black man. It's been a growing, grassroots effort hosted by Joyce and his team to help put an end to racism.For these efforts and more, several organizations have recognized Joyce and his innovation, including the Ventura County (CA) branch of the NAACP who awarded Joyce with their 2018 Distinguished Citizen Award. It's bestowed upon an individual whose groundbreaking work increases understanding and awareness of racial and social issues. Forbes also featured Joyce and his work with CWABG in a piece published during the Covid-19 outbreak. In that, Joyce was recognized for his outstanding leadership in aiding anti-racist conversations even during a worldwide pandemic. He's also served as keynote speaker for the University of British Columbia's 2021 Social Enterprise Conference, among more.Currently serving as adjunct faculty for the Santa Barbara City College Career Skills Institute, for much of the past decade Joyce has served as District Director for California State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (Ret.), who represented nearly 1 million constituents within Santa Barbara and Ventura counties, until terming out in Dec. 2020. In that role, Joyce was responsible for the day-to-day operations representing the Senator and her work. Known as a sturdy leader and champion for justice, Joyce has served on various advisory boards in the area including Impact Hub Santa Barbara (now Kiva Cowork), the Ventura County Leadership Academy (Joyce was awarded the 2021 Alumnus of the Year), and the Santa Barbara Young Black Professionals.Joyce is also on the board for the Common Table Foundation (formerly the Lois and Walter Capps Project), Sanctuary Centers of Santa Barbara, TV Santa Barbara, formerly the California Association of Marriage & Family Therapist Education Foundation, as well as the national board for Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB), where he helped found the collegiate chapter while a student-athlete at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.An award-winning journalist, Joyce, a Maryland-native is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., currently active with Xi Iota Lambda Alumni Chapter, seated in Camarillo, CA. Joyce was runner up in the 2021 Santa Barbara mayoral election, securing 27 percent of the votes cast among 6 candidates. Now, Joyce leverages more than two decades of public service and journalism experience to provide impactful insight for groups an individuals seeking to gain better cross-cultural understanding

On this episode of Mission CTRL, Ramon and the flight Crew sat down with Paul S. Lavoie, the Chief Manufacturing Officer of Connecticut.  Lavoie was appointed by Governor Ned Lamont as the CMO in February 2022.  Connecticut is the only state that has a Chief Manufacturing Officer position.  When appointing him, Governor Lamont said “manufacturing is a key sector of our economy and having this position of chief manufacturing officer in my administration is important to letting these companies know that they have a seat at the table in my administration.” Tune in to hear how Lavoie, a son from a blue collar family in Connecticut started his career in the supermarket industry, transitioned to business coaching/speaking, buying and selling a marketing company, to leading the reshoring and renewable energy efforts for Connecticut.  Before launching into Lavoine's story Ramon shares an opportunity PD had to wrap the World Trade Center with the  Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.'s brand for the fraternity's founders day, MCU's move away from Kang and Johnathon Majors, McDonald's entering the beverage market and Fryborg Donuts.  . . Find Mission CTRL on Anchor, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and our website. Mission CTRL aims to ignite the innovative spirit inside us all through providing budding and successful entrepreneurs and community leaders with a platform to share their stories and inspire others. Tune in every Wednesday and catch up with the team at Peralta Design as we unleash the origin stories behind some exceptional leaders, share marketing/branding insights, and navigate the ever-changing currents of pop culture. Subscribe for weekly branding and entrepreneurial content here!  To learn more about Peralta Design's work visit peraltadesign.com. #welaunchbrands #digitalagency #mbeagency #mbe #digital #branding #marketing #web #startups #creative #BrandU #w2 #fulltime #leadership #contentcreator #contentstrategy #marketingstrategy #entrepreneurs #business #launchyourbrand

In the news today: For our first headline of the day focusing on campus news, MSU's athletic gender equity problems are worse than they seem, advocates say. For our second headline focusing on MSU safety, MSU updates off-campus aggravated assault reports from 3 to 5. For our final headline focusing on student life, Alpha Phi Alpha hosts annual Miss Black & Gold Scholarship Pageant: Women celebrate night in elegance.

Dr. Randal Pinkett has established himself as an entrepreneur, speaker, author and scholar, and as a leading voice for his generation in business and technology.  He is the founder, chairman, and CEO of his fifth venture, BCT Partners, a multimillion-dollar research, consulting, training, technology, and analytics firm headquartered in Newark, NJ.Dr. Pinkett has received numerous awards for business and technology excellence including the Information Technology Senior Management Forum's Beacon Award, the National Society of Black Engineers' Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and the National Urban League's Business Excellence Award.  He has been featured on nationally televised programs such as The Today Show, Fox Business News, MSNBC, and CNN.Dr. Pinkett is the author of Campus CEO: The Student Entrepreneur's Guide to Launching a Multimillion-Dollar Business and No-Money Down CEO: How to Start Your Dream Business with Little or No Cash and co-author of Black Faces in White Places, which was named one of “The Best Books of 2010.”  He holds five degrees including: a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers, an M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Oxford, an M.S. in Electrical Engineering, an MBA, and a Ph.D. from MIT.  Most notably, he was the first and only African-American to receive the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship at Rutgers University; he was inducted to the Academic All-America Hall of Fame, he was a former high jumper, long jumper, sprinter, and captain of the men's track and field team; and he was the winner of NBC's hit reality television show, “The Apprentice."Born in Philadelphia and raised in New Jersey, he is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and the First Baptist Church in Somerset, NJ, where he resides with his family.  Dr. Pinkett firmly believes that “for those to whom much is given, much is expected,” so throughout his endeavors, he places great emphasis on his desire to give back to the community.A Quote From this Episode"I will have authentic, culturally diverse, and global relationships. I will bridge differences and be a bridge between communities of the like-minded. I will behave inclusively toward others and be an inclusive servant leader. And I will dismantle personal, interpersonal, institutional, and systemic barriers to help create environments that produce equitable outcomes for all."Resources Mentioned in This EpisodeRandal's Books and BCT PartnersAbout The International Leadership Association (ILA)The ILA was created in 1999 to bring together professionals interested in studying, practicing, and teaching leadership. Plan for ILA's 25th Global Conference in Vancouver, British Columbia, October 12-15, 2023.About The Boler College of Business at John Carroll UniversityBoler offers four MBA programs – 1 Year Flexible, Hybrid, Online, and Professional. Each MBA track offers flexible timelines and various class structure options (online, in-person, hybrid, asynchronous). Boler's tech core and international study tour opportunities set these MBA programs apart. Rankings highlighted in the intro are taken from CEO Magazine.About  Scott J. AllenWebsiteMy Approach to HostingThe views of my guests do not constitute "truth." Nor do they reflect my personal views in some instances. However, they are views to consider, and I hope they help you clarify your perspective. Nothing can replace your reflection, research, and exploration of the topic.

Jay Augustine is not new to the Louisiana NOW audience. Augustine has been a guest before on the podcast, as he was the guest speaker at the 2022 Annual Conference. We welcome him back for another interview as he has a new book, When Prophets Preach: Leadership and the Politics of the Pulpit.  Jay serves as senior pastor of St. Joseph AME Church, in Durham, NC, and as general chaplain of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He is an accomplished author, respected academic leader, and nationally recognized social justice advocate who speaks for the equality of all human beings. Prior to Dr. Augustine's current pastoral service, he led Historic St. James AME Church (1844), in downtown New Orleans, the oldest predominantly black, Protestant congregation in the Deep South, while simultaneously teaching at Southern University Law Center. He recently served as a visiting professor at North Carolina Central University Law School and as a consulting faculty member at Duke University Divinity School, where he is also a member of the Board of Visitors and a missional strategist. To see Jay's teaching sessions from the 2022 Annual Conference, go here. 

Welcome back to Illogical by TRUTH, In this episode your host Terrance Ruth engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Everett Ward, an Education and Public Affairs Consultant with a rich history of leadership in the Black community. Dr. Ward served as the 35th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and was the former President of St. Augustine, an HBCU. Together, they delve deep into the historical and contemporary roles of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in local government and local governance.We cover questions regarding:What was the economic impact of a growing educated black population in Raleigh, the south, and the country?What is the future of HBCU's role in local economies and cities? What should we be looking out for?What led you to leadership in these areas and how do these roles create alignment in your overall story? Terrance Ruth and Dr. Everett Ward engage in a dynamic conversation that not only uncovers the historical significance of HBCUs but also offers insights into their evolving roles in contemporary society. Join us as we explore the intersection of education, local politics, and community development in this captivating episode of Illogical by TRUTH.About Our GuestsDr. Everett B. Ward is an Education and Public Affairs Consultant. He's the 35th General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and former President of St. Augustine, an HBCU. Illogical by TRUTH is hosted by Terrance Ruth and is produced by Earfluence

“A More Perfect Union" Hour 1 with Nii-Quartelai Quartey | @drniiquartelai| Podcast Hosted by changemaker, journalist, educator, and KBLA Talk 1580 Chief National Political Analyst Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey, “A More Perfect Union” promises to deliver national news of consequence, informed opinion, and analysis beyond the headlines. This Sunday, the oldest Black fraternity pulls their 2025 national convention out of Florida citing Governor DeSantis 'hostile policies. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. General President Dr. Willis L. Lonzer Ill joins me from the current Alpha convention in Texas to unpack their decision, share where they intend to take their nearly $5 million economic impact and more. Later in the hour, we'll be joined by Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley Institute, Board President Christopher Benson. Given the current political environment related to Black history, listen to his reaction to President Biden's proclamation setting up national monuments for Emmett Till and his mother, activist Mamie Till-Mobley. Plus learn about how you can support the work of the Till Institute.

Dr. Mark A. Sullivan is a well-respected educator who began his tenure in Birmingham City Schools more than 25 years ago as a 5th grade teacher at Dupuy Elementary School. While later serving as a math teacher at Center Street Middle School, recognition of Dr. Sullivan's talent and commitment to student achievement set him on a career path resulting in his appointment to a number of progressively responsible leadership positions. With a move from the classroom to school administration, Dr. Sullivan served as principal of Spaulding Elementary School where he led faculty and staff efforts resulting in moving the school to “academic clear” status for the first time. Subsequently, he was tapped to serve as Director of Area III, where he worked with the Senior Executive Director in the supervision of twenty-two elementary and middle schools. In meeting various district leadership needs, other positions of service have included: interim principal of Elyton Elementary School; Director of K-8 School Operations; principal of Glen Iris Elementary School; interim assistant superintendent; principal of John Herbert Phillips Academy (International Baccalaureate School); principal of Ramsay High School (International Baccalaureate School); Academic Officer, and Chief of Staff. Dr. Sullivan currently serves as Superintendent of Birmingham City Schools. Dr. Sullivan is a native of Birmingham and attended Birmingham City Schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, graduating from Woodlawn High School. He received a B.S. degree in elementary education from Alabama A&M University, a master's degree from Alabama State University, an educational specialist degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a doctorate degree in educational leadership from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Dr. Sullivan holds membership in a number of professional organizations including Phi Delta Kappa, the National Association of Black School Educators, and the National Education Association. Dr. Sullivan retired from service to his country with 24 years in the United States Naval Reserves and has served his community through organizations such as Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, 100 Black Men of Birmingham, and Boy Scouts of Central Alabama. On a personal note, Dr. Sullivan is the proud father of one daughter, Morgan, who serves as his inspiration to pursue and provide the best academic options and opportunities for all scholars.

Born and raised in Midwest City, OK to Eddie and Wanda Gill. Rev. Dr. Eric Gill received a bachelor's degree in business management from the University of Central Oklahoma. He has obtained two master's degrees: a master's degree in the Science of Management from Southern Nazarene University, and Eric graduated, with honors, from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University with a Master of Divinity Degree where he was also certified in Church Administration. On May 13, 2017, Eric received his Doctor of Ministry Degree from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University, his research focused on: Deconstructing Eurocentric Pedagogies in Middle-Class Black Youth. Additionally, Dr. Eric Gill is certified in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Management from Cornell University. A lover of community and basketball, Dr Gill, is also the Assistant Boys Basketball Coach at the historic Booker T. Washington High School, in Tulsa, OK. Dr. Gill is a licensed and ordained Baptist Minister. In addition, Rev. Dr. Eric Gill has taught and lectured across the country. Dr. Eric J. Gill is a member of the Oklahoma City Council of Church's IMPACT Committee, a part of the Leadership Tulsa 64 cohort, the Faith Coalition for the Commutation of Julius Jones; and he is the proud Chaplain of the Alpha Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated Dr. Gill has been married to the beautiful, Kendra L. Gill. The two of them have an energetic five-year-old boy, Emyr Jason Gill. And on July 7, 2021, they were blessed with a beautiful baby girl, Emani Jade. Eric's goal is to serve & love God's people. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/marquess-dennis/support

Beth McKibben, the editor of Eater Atlanta, discusses Michelin's recent announcement that its famous dining guide is now reviewing notable restaurants in Atlanta. Plus, Gwinnett County is working to address the affordable housing crisis. The county recently created the Housing and Community Development Division following the recommendation of a housing study. Matt Elder, the director of the division, discusses the new division, his top priorities and a recent proposal to spend leftover COVID relief funding to create affordable housing in Gwinnett County.Lastly, Rahul Garabadu, the senior voting rights staff attorney at the ACLU of Georgia, discusses the latest developments in a lawsuit filed by the ACLU of Georgia, the ACLU and WilmerHale on behalf of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., against the state of Georgia for its new redistricting maps, citing the maps discriminate against Black voters and violate Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Rev. Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine (a/k/a “Jay Augustine”) currently serves as senior pastor of St. Joseph AME Church, in Durham, North Carolina, and as general chaplain of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He is an accomplished author, respected academic leader, and nationally recognized social justice advocate who speaks for the equality of all human beings. He joins us on Beloved Journal to speak about his book, "When Prophets Preach: Leadership and the Politics of the Pulpit." You can order a copy of his highly acclaimed book here.

Good Morning Nashville! ☀️ BACK-TO-BACK EPISODE DROPS FROM THE BADDEST PODCAST IN NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE!

In this special episode, we bring you the live recording from our "Democracy in Ohio: Town Hall" event held on June 15. Listen in as we, your hosts EhKees & Tareya, alongside a group of experts and community leaders, delve into vital democratic issues. We cover key topics such as the upcoming August Special Election, recent State House Bills and how they impact you, and the urgent issues that require our attention now. Our panelists include Raphael Davis-Williams from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Alpha Rho Lambda Chapter, Rep. Dontavius Jarrells, (D), District 1 - Columbus, Greer Aeschbury from All Voting Is Local, and Collin Marozzi from the ACLU of Ohio. This conversation is not just about awareness, but about engagement, creating space for discourse and growth. It's a deep dive into our local democratic landscape and how we can collectively make a difference. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/columbus-cant-wait/message

My guest for this episode is the Reverend Dr. Jonathan C. Augustine. But that is the name that appears on his books. In his personal relationships, Dr. Augustine goes by Jay. Dr. Augustine serves as senior pastor of St. Joseph AME Church, in Durham, NC, and as general chaplain of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He is an accomplished author, respected academic leader, and nationally recognized social justice advocate who speaks for the equality of all human beings. Prior to Dr. Augustine's current pastoral service, he led Historic St. James AME Church (1844), in downtown New Orleans, the oldest predominantly black, Protestant congregation in the Deep South, while simultaneously teaching at Southern University Law Center. He recently served as a visiting professor at North Carolina Central University Law School and as a consulting faculty member at Duke University Divinity School, where he is also a member of the Board of Visitors and a missional strategist with the Center for Reconciliation. After graduating from Howard University, with a degree in economics, Augustine served as a decorated infantry officer in the United States Army. He earned his law degree at Tulane University and served as a law clerk to Chief Justice (then-Associate) Bernette Joshua Johnson, at the Louisiana Supreme Court, before practicing law and serving in both publicly elected and appointed offices in Louisiana. After accepting the call to ordained ministry, he earned his Master of Divinity degree, at United Theological Seminary, as a Beane Fellow and National Rainbow-PUSH Coalition Scholar, before completing a fellowship at Princeton Theological Seminary, and earning his Doctor of Ministry at Duke University. In addition to numerous articles published in law reviews, Dr. Augustine is the author of three books that can be found on Amazon: The Keys Are Being Passed: Race, Law, Religion and the Legacy of the Civil Rights Movement , Called to Reconciliation: How the Church Can Model Justice, Diversity, and Inclusion , and his most recent work, When Prophets Preach: Leadership and the Politics of the Pulpit . In this episode Dr. Augustine and I will be discussing Called to Reconciliation. You can learn more about Dr. Augustine from his website: https://www.jayaugustine.com/ The intro and outro music for this episode is from a clip of a song called 'Father Let Your Kingdom Come' which is found on The Porter's Gate Worship Project Work Songs album and is used by permission by The Porter's Gate Worship Project.

Brandon A. McCall, a native of Birmingham, Alabama currently stars as Simba in Disney's THE LION KING on Broadway, having re-opened the show on Broadway in September 2021!  McCall made his professional debut at the B Street Theatre in Sacramento, California performing in their school tour and children's theatre. Later, he brought his talents back to his hometown and began performing with Red Mountain Theatre Company. Credits include SISTER ACT, DREAMGIRLS, SMOKEY JOE'S CAFÉ, Disney's THE LITTLE MERMAID as Sebastian and in SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK with Birmingham Children's Theatre just to name a few.  He has been in the films Woodlawn and The Deadliest Lie and looks forward to having a more significant presence in the TV/Film industry. McCall's journey with Disney's THE LION KING unfolded with the national tour as an ensemble member/Simba understudy. He soon earned the lead role as Simba on the tour. After an 18-month Broadway hiatus, McCall is currently playing the lead role as Simba on one of Broadway's biggest stages in the heart of Times Square. He has also made appearances on Good Morning America, The View, ABC's Queen Family Singalong, NPR's Tiny Desk and more!  He received his Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from Alabama State University. McCall was initiated into the Beta Upsilon Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He has also been inducted into the 2022 Class of ASU's 50 Under 50.    McCall is grateful to God for his wife, Denika, daughters, Bréa and Briley, family, friends, supporters and the wonderful blessings that have been afforded to him! We'd love for you to give us a rating and a review! Many thanks to Brandon for appearing on this episode. Produced by @OnAirWithQ

In this episode, we are joined by past recipients of the Desiree V Copper Memorial Scholarship, Whitni R Irving AIA, NOMA, LEED Green Associate, NCARB; Colby C. Mitchell, Assoc. AIA, NOMA and Natasha Graves, RA, who share their experiences of receiving financial support for their architectural registration exam (ARE). Two DVC Committee Members, Katherine Williams, AIA, NOMA and Nickolas Hill, Assoc. AIA, NOMA, who give us an insider's view of the scholarship and its impact. They talk about the scholarship's goal to pave the way for aspiring architects, the selection process, and how the scholarship has evolved over the years. The Desiree V. Cooper (DVC) Memorial Scholarship offering assistance to those taking the architect registration exam. It seeks to honor the life and legacy of Desiree V. Cooper by championing the things she was passionate about in her professional career and personal endeavors: providing continual service to her communities and encouraging minorities and women in the advancement of their careers in architecture. To that end, the Foundation awards Scholarships for the architectural registration exam in the following categories: The Black Women in Architecture Award, The Harrisburg Memorial Award, The DC Memorial Award, and the NOMA award. Whitni R Irving AIA, NOMA, LEED Green Associate, NCARB is a Job Captain at IA Interior Architects. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a Master of Architecture from Clemson University. With expertise in K-12 education, civic institutions, urban parks, and mixed-use developments, Whitni has worked on numerous projects that have positively impacted communities. Her projects include Seaport Circle and the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport, among others. Colby C. Mitchell, Assoc. AIA, NOMA is a native of Marianna, Arkansas. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (2011) and Master of Architecture (2013) degree, both from the University of Memphis. He is a Project Manager at Self + TuckerArchitects and Adjunct Professor at the University of Memphis. He is also an entrepreneur graphic designer with his own business, Detail 7; proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., serves on the board of Directors for the American Institute of Architects (AIA) – Memphis Chapter and the National Organization of Minority Architects – Memphis Chapter. Natasha Graves, RA, is an Assistant Preconstruction Manager at John Moriarty & Associates. She received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Howard University, where she gained a solid foundation in design, project management, and construction. Natasha's passion for architecture and construction is evident in everything she does. She is committed to delivering exceptional results and ensuring that every project is a success. Find out about Natasha's licensure journey through Archstories.

You read it right, DEIB, not just DEI. The “B” is for belonging. Rhett will tell us all about that during our time together in this episode. Rhett was born with a condition known as craniosynostosis. This is a condition where the skull is malformed. Without treatment, the malformity can lead to Down's Syndrome. He was one of the first children to benefit from surgery to correct this condition. After a successful time at college obtaining a Bachelor's and Master's degree Rhett went into then years working in College Administration. While working toward his Master's degree at Salisbury University he met his wife which he would tell you was the most important event in his life. Eight years ago he relocated from Maryland, where he grew up, to San Francisco where he is now part of a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating homelessness in San Francisco. Along the way, he also has authored two self-help books and five children's picture books. Unstoppable by any definition. He will inspire you I am sure and he will give you some life lessons you will find useful. About the Guest: Rhett Burden is a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) practitioner, author, and speaker from San Francisco, California. Rhett partners with high schools, colleges, and universities to develop the personal and professional consciousness of their students, faculty, and staff. After spending nearly a decade working in college administration, and writing books to empower, and uplift students, Rhett has learned what it takes to be successful. It's how well you connect with the people you're trying to help and communicate your understanding back to them. Rhett is a life member of the UMES National Alumni Association and a 2019 inductee into the UMES National Alumni Association Hall of Excellence. Additionally, Rhett is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc and a Prince Hall Mason. Rhett holds a MA in conflict analysis and dispute resolution from Salisbury University (SU), BA in sociology from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), and AA in real estate from City College San Francisco (CCSF). He has also authored seven (7) books; 2 professional development and 5 children's picture books. Rhett is a proud father, son, and husband who is on a mission to leave a legacy Social Media & Website Link LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhettburden/ Website: rhettburden.com About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog. Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards. https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/ accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes Michael Hingson  00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i  capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us.   Michael Hingson  01:16 Welcome once again to unstoppable mindset. Glad you're with us. Hope you can stay around for the whole hour. We have Rhett Burden today, who is our guest and he is an author. He's a diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging person. I'm really excited to hear about that. And I know he has some other stories to tell us so we're gonna get right into it, Rhett Welcome to unstoppable mindset.   Rhett Burden  01:50 Michael, good afternoon. Thank you for welcoming me. I'm excited to chat with you about diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging and so much more.   Michael Hingson  02:00 Yeah. And we'll have to definitely deal with so much more whatever it turns out to be right.   Rhett Burden  02:04 Absolutely.   Michael Hingson  02:07 Well, let's start. Like I love to do kind of more at the beginning. And tell us a little bit about you growing up and some of all the things that happened along the way there that probably helped kind of make you what you are today, or maybe not for all I know.   Rhett Burden  02:21 Absolutely. Well, to start at the beginning, I don't think I can tell my story without mentioning to you in your audience that I was born with a rare birth defect known as cranial synostosis. craniosynostosis is a birth defect that causes the skull not to fuse properly. And the incision. So I guess if I were to give it its full name is I have sagittal, cranial synostosis, which means that I have an incision and running from the top of my head to about three quarters of the way back. That shaped who I am. Because as I grew older and learn more about craniosynostosis, it impacted the empathy that I had for others. It impacted the way I look and feel about myself. And it made me more interested in perennial synostosis craniosynostosis folks that are inflicted with it, and those that weren't as fortunate as I was to have a successful surgery at GW Hospital in Washington, DC.   Michael Hingson  03:30 So you had surgery to deal with that? When did that happen? What year was that?   Rhett Burden  03:35 I would have had surgery early on. So this is early, mid 1980s, somewhere between 1987 and 1988. When I was a very, very young child,   Michael Hingson  03:47 is there still kind of visible evidence of the surgery and so on for you today?   Rhett Burden  03:54 There is I must say I'm a fairly tall guy. So for those that are taller than me, and that could look down and see the top of my head, then yes, you can visibly see it.   Michael Hingson  04:06 So did did it kind of affect you with other kids and so on growing up, or were they were they not too abusive and mean to you because you had something that looked a little different than most of them?   Rhett Burden  04:19 Well, in fairness, I would say most children are teased or picked on by their peers. I was no different. I was no exception to that rule for me. Growing up I remember folks being really interested in when they heard the story and wanting to touch the incision or touch the scar because I have what appears to be like a lump or a small indent. So once you know the teasing is over and you're just having conversation with folks even from middle school in high school, they were very interested to touch into feel because I've always been very open about it. I had the surgery not been successful, I would have had Down syndrome, my life would have taken an entirely different path. So I've always been open in chatting about it.   Michael Hingson  05:13 Well, but you obviously survived growing up and you went to high school into college. Did you do any thing unusual in high school or college or anything like that? Were you in sports or any of those things? Or, or any? Or were you just sort of what most kids were?   Rhett Burden  05:31 I would say I had a great high school and college experience. I tried out for sports teams in high school. And fortunately, I didn't make the sports team. But I was friends with the athletes. It was a different time back then. So a lot of time was spent outside building relationships, biking, running, exploring. Video games were popular, but not to the height of their popularity as they are now video games weren't considered a sport. So there were no eSports in my day. And then in college, I had a great collegiate experience also.   Michael Hingson  06:07 Yeah, video games have now become quite a big thing. Most of them don't talk. So I don't get to do much in the way of video games, but I can appreciate the art form.   Rhett Burden  06:19 Absolutely. Absolutely.   Michael Hingson  06:21 So you went to college? What'd you major in?   Rhett Burden  06:25 Yeah, so went to the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, historically black college and university on the eastern shore of Maryland. So near Ocean City, not too far from Delaware. And I studied sociology got a minor in public policy. And you and me yes. Is, has been will always be one of the best decisions I've ever made. The friendships that I've made the relationships that were built the social experience that I had, at historically black colleges and universities, less like most schools, they are things like student government association. So I got my first job working as an RA a Resident Assistant. In the residential communities. I was fortunate enough to be voted as the face of the sophomore class, the junior class and even the face of the university. So it's called Mr. Sophomore, and Mr. Jr. and Mr. University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, I went on to compete in the National Black College Hall of Fame contest, where I came in third. And oddly enough, my roommate at the time at that experience that happened, and in Missouri, he won, and he was from Tennessee State. So if you'll meet us has given me so much. And I will forever be indebted to that institution and the experience that he gave me.   Michael Hingson  08:00 So tell me about the competition. What did you have to do? How did you all compete?   Rhett Burden  08:05 Yeah, so it's an annual competition that takes place and particular HBCU around the country, and all of the faces of the HBCU. So all of the misters, whatever the name of the university is, they go and compete. And it's something similar to a pageant where you have to showcase a talent, you do a monologue, there's a opening number, you are voted on by a panel of judges. And it is all to see who will be crowned Mr. Historically Black College and University for that year. So I was very fortunate I competed in 2009. It again, didn't win, but did come in third place and will again forever be grateful for that opportunity. I have made some lifelong friends from being a part of it, that contest.   Michael Hingson  08:56 That is really pretty cool. And obviously you did learn some speaking up speaking things along the way. You certainly seem to be pretty articulate in that regard as well. And you are a public speaker, aren't you?   Rhett Burden  09:08 I am very, oddly enough, going back to my time a Umes. That's when I really got interested in training and facilitation started off being a resident assistant. Oddly, I was the university's first freshman alrea. When I started in 2005, I was there for a semester, and just networked and worked my way into getting the position which had not been done before you had to normally be a sophomore or a junior, so you could have some more collegiate experience so you could give back to the freshman class. And I just became enamored with personal and professional development, designing training, presentations, facilitating public speaking. And then because I was fortunate enough to be the face of these classes, sophomore junior class and then the face of the university. I was an ambassador for the university. Oh, always speaking on behalf whether it dealt with recruitment retention, the social experience and it was really a part of my journey that has shaped me to the man I am today.   Michael Hingson  10:11 When you speak or when you were doing speeches and are doing speeches, do you like to write everything out and read or do you tend to be more extemporaneous and, and modify according to the situation or whatever is happening,   Rhett Burden  10:29 I would say a little bit of both contingent upon the audience. If I am giving a keynote, that I like to have my thoughts flushed out, especially if the audience's a C suite or group of professionals, when I'm working with colleges and universities, you can be a bit more free, a bit more fun, you can work in some audience engagement in a way that you just can't do when you're working with a group of professionals. So I would say a little bit of both based on the audience.   Michael Hingson  10:58 Well, how did you get into speaking, I would imagine and partly came from the Umes and the other experiences that you've talked about, but how did you get into doing that kind of as part of what you do?   Rhett Burden  11:12 Absolutely. Well, I was a member of the Student Government Association, my was a residential assistant. And there would often be opportunities to knowledge share, whether it was working with first year communities, or, you know, helping new staff learn processes and procedures. And I would always volunteer, I really felt comfortable being on stage, I've always felt comfortable being in front of people, I've never mind minded making a fool of myself if that's what was required, but also standing firm and speaking boldly about issues that are important to me, and trying to bring people along. So that's really where it started.   Michael Hingson  11:58 I find it interesting that so many people fear public speaking or fear being up on a stage, I guess they don't want to think that they might look dumb, or it's all about appearances, and so on. But being up on stage has never, for example, bothered me. I've just never been bothered by doing that. I'm used to it. And I guess it's been that way my whole life.   Rhett Burden  12:25 That's awesome. And I know that you do it. Well, considering your history. So yeah, I've always enjoyed it. It is a lot of fun, especially when you really connect with an audience. How do you know when you've really connected with an audience? You know, I'm really big on energy. And you can probably appreciate this as a speaker, you can feel when the energy shifts when you first get on stage. And again, contingent upon the audience, people are feeling you out. They want to know, Are you a subject matter expert? Are you excited to be there? What's your level of enthusiasm to present to the audience. And for me, a lot of it was being able to open myself up to be vulnerable to share messages. And you can sense when the energy swings in your favor. And it's like nothing I've ever experienced before.   Michael Hingson  13:20 Yeah, when you really establish that connection, you know it, the trick is you learn what the audience reacts to or doesn't react to. And when you get those reactions, and you get what you expect to happen based on what you're saying. And know you're connected. It just enhances what you do. And it makes it all the better. And it grows on both   Rhett Burden  13:42 sides. Absolutely. Absolutely.   Michael Hingson  13:45 It is so much fun to have that kind of really good connection with an audience. Well, so when you got out of well, let me ask you this first craniosynostosis Yeah, is something that you had? Is it something that affects you yet today? Or is there any kind of issue with it? Or is it just kind of you have it, it's in your past, but it isn't something that you need to deal with on on a daily basis or any kind of basis today?   Rhett Burden  14:12 You know, that's a great question. I would say that it is forever a part of me. I am not in any physical pain because of the procedure because of the the incision or the scar that's been left. But it is interesting when I touch my head when I get like a hair cut, and you have to be very mindful. For me, if I'm telling a barber that you'll notice that my head is not necessarily round or flat and, you know, just please be mindful of my incision. This is maybe a little odd, but sometimes I find myself knocking on the lump or bump that's on my head where the incision starts, just because it makes a hollow sound. So But I'm very fortunate that I am not in any physical pain. But it's definitely there. I notice it. But I'm also very proud of it. Because if the doctors were not successful again, I don't know how my life would have turned out.   Michael Hingson  15:15 Well, have you ever said whenever the discussion has come up? Yeah, but you should see the other guy.   Rhett Burden  15:22 You know what I'll have to incorporate that I have not thought to do that. I'll have to incorporate that in there.   Michael Hingson  15:29 Yeah, you see the other guy. But oh, you know, it is so easy to get so frustrated just because in one way or another, some of us look different. But it is so important to have a sense of humor and not let it get in the way. So I'm really excited that you're you're dealing with something that clearly is a little bit of a difference for you. Absolutely. But you deal with it, and it is just part of your life, and you move forward.   Rhett Burden  15:59 Absolutely. Now, when I was younger, in school, I was othered a bit because of it. But I must say growing up during that timeframe in the 80s. In just knowing that even though things may have been a little hurtful, I don't think the teasing was meant to be mean spirited. It was just the nature of the beast when you were in middle school or in high school. But you could always laugh about it afterwards. And if you were playing the dozens with someone, if you were laughing and joking, it didn't escalate. Sometimes someone had a funnier joke than you. And then it sort of died down from there. So I'm very, very fortunate because it helps you develop thick skin. And to let you know that things really aren't that serious. Most things in life. You are in control of how you respond, not necessarily what happened to you. And the way in which you respond dictates how people will treat you and interact with you afterwards. So I've been very, very fortunate to have enough self confidence and enough self love to know that sometimes jokes are funny. I don't mind being the butt of say a joke, because I've never felt it was mean spirited with the intent to do real harm. It was just a part of the culture at that time.   Michael Hingson  17:22 You bring up a really good point, there are things that we don't have control over. And I talk a lot about, of course, the World Trade Center. And I've learned along the way that we didn't, of course have control over the World Trade Center. No matter what happens you we didn't have control over that. And we don't have control over how other people deal with what happened on September 11. And we don't have control necessarily over what happened to us that day. But we have absolute control over how we choose to deal with it. It's all a matter of choice.   Rhett Burden  17:58 You're absolutely, absolutely I mean, you have such an incredible story. And knowing that you were part of something that involves a national tragedy, and that you have sort of flipped the script, or the story on its head, I think is a beautiful thing. And I'm sure it has served you extremely well as you've shared your story, and even coached others that may not feel the same way you do.   Michael Hingson  18:22 Well, and in so many ways things come up being blind having happening to be blind my entire life. I didn't have control over that happening. But again, I have control over how I deal with it. I have control over how I choose to learn or not. And I hope that I do choose to learn and to progress and move forward and not let that be a negative factor in my life just as as you're talking about.   Rhett Burden  18:52 Absolutely. Absolutely.   Michael Hingson  18:56 So what did you do after college?   Rhett Burden  19:00 So after college, after graduating from University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, I was very fortunate that the university offered me my first professional role. I had been in pair of professional roles or, you know, odd jobs here and there through high school. It was a different time when you needed a workers permit and you can only work a certain amount of hours. I started off working in for the university and the Division of Student Affairs and I was working in residential communities. I was wanting a dorm. It was a great experience. And then I immediately started grad school in conflict analysis and dispute resolution at a neighboring institution, Saulsbury University.   Michael Hingson  19:47 And so what else did you do there?   Rhett Burden  19:50 So I one of the interesting things is we were a part of I believe the beta cohort. The institution had just got its accreditation to have the program the conflict analysis and dispute resolution program known as cater. And we were part of that second cohort. And it was, it was an amazing experience to be a part of that cohort model, where there were about 30 of us that started and I think 28 or 29 of us finished, to build community with folks to share in an experience where we were so new, and to be a part of a program that was new to the university that has since made amazing strides. And at one point, I thought that before I became a dei practitioner, I really had ambitions to be a sex and marriage therapist. That was odd. My sort of the genesis of that story is I used to watch the show Masters of Sex. I think it came on Showtime. And I was always intrigued with the history with a science behind it. And I've always been fascinated by relationship and relationship dynamics. My life obviously took a different turn. But Salisbury University was was a great academic experience. And it was one of the most important experiences of my life because I met my partner, my wife of umpteenth years, we met being a part of the same cohort at Salisbury University. So that place will always hold a special place in my heart for who would allow me to meet.   Michael Hingson  21:32 So how long have y'all been married? Now?   Rhett Burden  21:34 You know, what if my mental math serves me correctly, about eight years, we have been together for over a decade, but married for eight. So I would not have found my wife had I not been at Saulsbury. And had I not been part of that cater program. Any children? We do we have one beautiful, amazing, talented, special little girl, she will be to later this year. And having the privilege to be a father. To be a girl dad, and to share that responsibility with my best friend is is truly special, and something that I don't take for granted.   Michael Hingson  22:27 Well, sounds like you'll bring bring her up well, and of course, there'll be all sorts of challenges along the way.   Rhett Burden  22:35 I'm sure.   Michael Hingson  22:39 But again, those are those are things that one has to deal with, and you can but again, it's interesting what came to mind when you said that you met your wife? And at the at the job? Again, it's all about choices, isn't it?   Rhett Burden  22:56 Absolutely best choice I ever made going to Solsbury who would have thought that not only would I leave with a degree, but I would leave with my life partner. Amazing, amazing decision.   Michael Hingson  23:09 I love to think from time to time about what I've done in my life, what's happened in my life and can trace everything back to choices. Absolutely. And it could have gone so many different ways at so many different times. Even after September 11. The next day, my wife said, you want to contact Guide Dogs for the Blind where you've gotten your dogs, and let them know that you were in the World Trade Center made it up because some people have visited you from there. And I never would have thought of that. But the result of that was that that's just me. And I wouldn't have necessarily thought of it. But she did. And the result was that they said gee, can we put a little article out about you? And that just broke the whole dam of getting all sorts of visibility in the media and all sorts of other things happened. But all the way in, in what we do, and in my life, all the choices that I made, I can trace what I've done back, are there things I could have done differently? Sure. That maybe I should have done differently, probably. But you know, you can't go back after the fact and just beat yourself up over things. I love to say I used to say I'm my worst my I'm my worst critic, and I realized that's the wrong thing to say. I'm my best teacher, because because I'm the one that has to teach me. And when I look at choices and evaluate and make a choice. Hopefully it's the right one. But either way, I made the choice and I can't be ashamed of that.   Rhett Burden  24:44 Absolutely. It's amazing to hear you tell that story, not just for the revelation that you had but to think the catalyst for you and the success that you had started off with a conversation from your wife and this suggestion He absolutely beautiful. And I'm sure you are very grateful for that conversation with that suggestion.   Michael Hingson  25:08 Sure. Well, of course, it goes back further because we decided to move from California to New Jersey in the first place in 1996, and so many other choices along the way. And I think it's great to be able to think back of all the things that I've done, and the choices that I made, because I then eventually get to the point of saying, Now, what do I do and what can I learn? And what have I learned that I can use going forward? And I think that all too often, we never take the time to be that introspective and something that we all should do, because it will help us and guide us to with what we should do next.   Rhett Burden  25:50 Absolutely. I'm in full agreement.   Michael Hingson  25:54 So here's something that we really need to do more of. So anyway, from Solsbury, what did you do? So from Saulsbury,   Rhett Burden  26:01 I got to the master's degree, met my partner. And we decided that we were both working for separate universities. And my wife got bit by the textbook very early on, and had an opportunity to work at Facebook. And it would cause it required us to leave Maryland and to come out to California. This happened shortly after we got married and came back from our honeymoon. And we've been in California for the past seven years, all because my wife decided to take a chance on herself. She believed in herself. And she invested in herself, which is why she got the role at Facebook. And for me wanting to follow her lead to support her to champion the things that she was doing and to say, You know what, it's time for a different experience. We are taking on a new level in life. And I'd love for us to do that in California.   Michael Hingson  27:06 So how's that going?   Rhett Burden  27:08 It's going extremely well, you know, the initial sticker shock of San Francisco was a lot coming from Maryland to the bay. You know, everything from the cost of milk to gas was exponentially higher. And that was a little shocking at first when, you know, I had lived in the Maryland, DC Virginia area my whole life and things were expensive, but not that expensive. And having worked at a couple of universities while I've been in California to where I am now. It has it's been such an amazing journey. And I'm so glad that we took that leap of faith to come this way to come westward.   Michael Hingson  27:52 So what universities in California, yeah,   Rhett Burden  27:55 I spent some time at Menlo College and Palo Alto. also spend time at Academy of Art University. I've done a lot of dei work with several different associations, sort of under the umbrella of this college of the university system. And now I work in a nonprofit. So you know, I'm forever grateful I was a higher ed practitioner, for almost 15 years loved my time there. There's something energizing about being around college students about being in that environment. And now I work for a nonprofit, and I'm excited. I'm just so thrilled and excited with the opportunity I have for you to lead our dei be initiatives and to work collaboratively with our board and our CEO, to ensure that we have an equitable workplace, where we are diverse, we leverage our diversity so that we are inclusive, and that we create an environment where everyone belongs. So big job, but I'm definitely up for the challenge.   Michael Hingson  29:00 And what is your wife doing these days?   Rhett Burden  29:03 Well, my wife has one of the most important jobs and that is caretaker, Matt Yeah, my my wife helps to take care of our daughter. She also has a podcast. And she is an entrepreneur. So in supporting her entrepreneurial efforts, seeing her podcast thrive and of course, the most important job of mothering and being of our child and being the best partner that   Michael Hingson  29:30 she can be. So she has left Facebook. She has   Rhett Burden  29:34 she is no longer at Facebook or meta by that journey has ended. Yeah, but it's it was a great opportunity and experience.   Michael Hingson  29:45 So what is her podcast about?   Rhett Burden  29:47 Yeah, so my wife's podcast is entitled cultivating her space. She is the co host and co founder of the podcast with a clinician Her name is Dr. Donna And the podcast is all about uplifting women of color, to share experiences, to, to lift up voices and to tell stories that are not widely known or needs, or have never been told, and to provide community for women of color. So very proud of her and those efforts.   Michael Hingson  30:23 That's pretty exciting. So I probably wouldn't be a good volunteer to be on it. But I'm very excited about it. It's, it's great that she's doing that and that she and the doctor are making a very successful podcast. That's cool.   Rhett Burden  30:37 Absolutely. Thank you so much.   Michael Hingson  30:41 And we can hardly wait to hear about your daughter going on the podcast, you know, that should happen soon.   Rhett Burden  30:47 Yeah, you know, very early on. She was a guest that, you know, she was a she wasn't internal guests. But my wife was recording during the pregnancy. And then there were a few episodes where she had to record and you can hear my daughter in the background, making sure that she got her five minutes of fame and stardom. So yeah, I can't wait for her to be her own independent guests   Michael Hingson  31:13 have to have opinions. You know,   Rhett Burden  31:14 that's true. Very, very true.   Michael Hingson  31:17 So what's the nonprofit that you're working at? Tell me about that, if you would,   Rhett Burden  31:21 yeah. So the name of the nonprofit is compass Family Services. It's been in existence over 100 years in San Francisco. And the goal of the nonprofit is to end family homelessness and to help families achieve self sufficiency. I've been there for about seven months, it's been a really great experience. I've really enjoyed having the opportunity to work at the nonprofit, there are amazing people there doing trauma informed work every day, and giving back to the community trying to help the unhoused population in San Francisco, which is all in the 1000s about 8000 folks and doing what we can along with another without, along with so many other amazing organizations trying to help in the homelessness crisis in our city.   Michael Hingson  32:11 So what do you do? How does all that work?   Rhett Burden  32:15 Yeah, well, you know, I, as the director of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging at the job, I always like to center the folks that I work with, I may have a fancy title, I may be considered a senior leader, but the organization is nothing and I am nothing without the people that are on the ground doing the hard work. We have case, workers, we have case managers, therapists, childcare professionals, they are truly the heroes at Compass. Working with folks that have experienced trauma that are experiencing homelessness, that have mental health challenges that have substance abuse challenges, and the work they do every single day to help find housing, to help get folks set up with jobs, to take care of children is is truly remarkable. And again, though I lead our D E IB efforts, for me, I am nothing without them. Because they are the heart of the organization.   Michael Hingson  33:19 So in the the things that you do, I kind of imagined the answer to this. But is there a faith component? Well,   Rhett Burden  33:30 I would say faith is sure, yes, I mean, there is the faith that the organization has put in me to lead our efforts to be the tip of the spear or they handed the ship. But everything needs to be collaborative. I'd like to bring ideas to the table and to co design them with the folks that I work with whether they're in the C suite or their frontline personnel. Because I see myself as one cog in the wheel of compass that makes the organization go.   Michael Hingson  34:02 Well, and it should be a team effort by any definition. The fact is that anytime someone thinks they're it, it's so unfortunate that yeah, you you know what I'm saying? Absolutely not the way to do it. And so it should be collaborative. And it's great to really discover the whole concept of teamwork, isn't it?   Rhett Burden  34:26 Absolutely. Absolutely. I'd like to consider myself a culture add. Folks have been very kind again, I'm in my organizational infancy. But I'd like to think that we are having an impact. And again, I never want to miss an opportunity to uplift of the folks that have preceded me. The folks that have had a longer Jeopardy than I have and that are doing the work of serving our clients every day.   Michael Hingson  34:54 So dealing with dei B, especially the whole idea of diversity inclusion and so on, I would probably be a little remiss not to at least ask the concept of conceptual question about a lot of us who happen to have a disability, whether it be physical or not, tend to tend to feel that diversity has left disabilities completely out of the scheme of things. If you ask the average person, what does diversity mean? Or what's a diverse environment, they'll talk about race, they'll talk about gender or sexual orientation, so on. And even the experts don't tend to talk about disabilities as part of that. How do you deal with that? Or how do we learn? And as a more general question, how do we change that conversation? So that the 25% of all people who are left out because they have a disability get included in the conversation and truly have seats at the table?   Rhett Burden  35:57 Well, I think you're absolutely right. So let me uplift what you said. And as a practitioner and speaking on behalf of the community of practitioners, you're right, we all have to do a better job and centering, disability accessibility and ensuring that we are inclusive in all of our efforts. I think that far too often. When you are dealing with folks that have physical, visible disabilities, it is a little easier to ensure that they're included. And it is drawn to your attention more. But a lot of that deals with the fact that we are not centering our practice around ensuring that all communities that have been marginalized, all communities that have no voice or a small voice at the table are centered. So I think it begins with educating ourselves a bit more on the disability community, the disabled community, making sure we understand the compliance component of accessibility, working with our HR teams or people in culture teams, and ensuring that we are hearing from those with lived experiences and that are the subject matter experts in this area, centering their voices asking what their needs are, and how we can acquiesce to build an inclusive environment where they are centering, they are helping us center and focus on policies and practices and procedures that make them feel included or make them feel like they belong. So I am with you 100%. As someone that it's interesting when we think about disability, because this is something that even if you are an able bodied person now, you never know what could lead or what could happen that may lead you to having a disability. And as someone that was on the precipice of having Down syndrome, that at any point in time, they're still being researched on all cranial synostosis. I'd like to be mindful of that in not just the way I interact in my practice at the nonprofit, but also in the concerted effort I do or have in my learning. For those listeners of yours that are familiar with San Francisco or I know you're familiar. I am taking classes at City College of San Francisco and I recently completed a disability course that was taught by two amazing women, one of which that had a physical disability. That would, she was just so cute mane and her teaching and helping us understand to become not just better practitioners, but better humans. So I think it begins with education, that's the educator in me, and ensuring that we are centering voices of said community.   Michael Hingson  38:44 He said something that's really interesting, unfortunately, all too often goes the other way, when you said that it's a lot easier when it's a physical disability. And usually that's true because you you can see it too slow to include. The problem is that's not usually what happens because the fear immediately comes out. Oh my gosh, as you pointed out, that could happen to me. And so we ignore it. And we tend to leave out disabilities because we don't recognize that disability doesn't mean a lack of ability. Absolutely. I don't know that there. I don't have a better term than disability. But if we can change the definition of diversity like we have, then we also want to be able to change the definition of disability. It's a characteristic and as I love to point out to people in that I've said it many times on this podcast The reality is we all have disabilities, your disability leaving cranio synostosis or the the the things that other people with eyesight have your biggest disability is that you can see and the reason that's a disability is because as soon as there's a power failure if you don't have your phone or a flashlight or a candle around, you don't know what to do in the dark. Light dependency is not a problem for me. Yeah, we all have disabilities except that technology is covered it up. Yeah, we haven't grown to recognize that in reality, it shouldn't matter. Because disability is not a lack of ability, disability is a characteristic. And we all ought to figure out ways to start to deal with that. And recognize that there's nothing wrong with doing something, using alternatives to what other people use.   Rhett Burden  40:34 Absolutely. And you hit the nail on the head, we all have varying levels of ability. And I think that's where you get this big movement now with folks being more cognizant of neuro divergence, and making sure that they are delineating folks that may be neurotypical or neurodivergent. And again, just centering on the fact that just because we do things differently, just because our abilities vary, does that mean that there is not value that can be added does not mean that folks should be treated differently, but that each of us are capable of making meaningful contributions to any workforce, to any relationship and to society at large. So I am an entrepreneur in agreement with you,   Michael Hingson  41:15 we really need to learn to understand what equality means. And that's part of the issue that equality doesn't mean that just because you provide everybody the exact same thing that it's equal, because providing me with a computer monitor, or a pen and paper, or a calculator that doesn't talk isn't equal. And at the same time, it should be appropriate to say, if you don't know, what do we need to do to give you access to the computer system? Or what do we need to do to give you a calculator, or a lot of companies have coffee machines, they have these fancy machines where you go up and you touch the screen, and you can get anything from espresso to hot tea, or hot chocolate, but they're totally inaccessible to some of us. And the problem in part is that not enough technology is being made that makes sure that there are buttons to do those things as well. So it gets to be a real challenge. But we tend to not be inclusive, in ways that we should. And I recognize that it's not about people hating, in this case, at least hating people. But there is a lot of fear. And it's a lack of education, as you said, but we do need to change that conversation.   Rhett Burden  42:37 I agree. We need both equity and equality, you need both to make sure that everyone has equal opportunities and the chance that they deserve to succeed. So I am in 100% agree with you. And I think it's important that we just like we demystify other terms that disability is not a dirty word, it is not a bad thing is something that we have to unlearn some of the harmful stances and practices that we have been taught whether it's been to our family or the media, and be more accepting, more tolerant, more loving, but most importantly, more informed about what we can do to make the world a better place where all of us have access and opportunities to make the kind of difference that I know that we can make   Michael Hingson  43:25 sure it's a characteristic. Absolutely, and totally and only it's a characteristic. Absolutely. And the reality is, although it's hard to get people to accept it, it's a characteristic that we all have in one way or another. Oh, great. So you know, it is one of those things that one has to deal with, but, but we'll get there. And I expect your daughter to lead the way.   Rhett Burden  43:50 I appreciate that. I will do my best.   Michael Hingson  43:53 Yeah. Tell her it's her job. Yes. So you are also an author? Yeah, yeah. To learn more about that.   Rhett Burden  44:04 Absolutely. So early, early on. In my career, I had an opportunity to go to latonia, Georgia, to the Allen entrepreneurial Institute, which is owned by Lester, Bill Allen, an extremely wealthy and successful black man in Georgia. And being at that entrepreneurial Institute was really insightful and life changing for me. Because far too often what we are taught about money or wealth, is that you need to accumulate it and it's you know, things are better when you have more money, but not just but not as much about the impact you can have not just on your life or that or your family but of your community and the the entrepreneurial Institute into it was his way of giving back to the community to show folks What you can do, and how you can weaponize money and wealth for good. And being at that institute having had the opportunity to sit through several different leadership seminars and meeting community leaders in that area. It got me inspired because one gentleman spoke about telling your story and the power of storytelling in using books to do that. And talking through whether you are self published or you are published through one of the major publishing distribution systems like Penguin or scholastic or Simon and Schuster, that you have a story to tell, and you should do so. So early on, I believe I was 22 or 23, I wrote my first book entitled Brother please, a life book to life and relationships. And that was my introduction into finding my voice and telling my story that led to me co authoring a book with the co author that I've paid for the other five books, entitled mistakes, my life. My pencils don't come with erasers just life lessons. Um, so I was in the professional development world, the self help space. Then when my co author had his son or my nephew, we got into writing children's picture books. So written five children's picture books. One is a trilogy series called when I grow up, so it's called the Super Series when I grow up, I want to be super healthy, super smart, super rich. I that led to the last two children's books, I've written one called My melanated munchkin. And lastly, Dentist Debbie. So I've been very fortunate to tell some stories in the self help sphere, and to do some children's picture books.   Michael Hingson  46:49 So what is Dennis Debbie all about? So dentist, to say,   Rhett Burden  46:54 is about a little black girl named Debbie who is infatuated with dentistry. I think it's amazing that we have so many creative stories, there are witches and dragons and princesses and monsters in so many amazing, different works. But I wanted to send her something that dealt with occupations, things that you can be proud of things that our society and people need. And hence was the birth of dentist Debbie.   Michael Hingson  47:25 Yeah, that's cool.   Rhett Burden  47:27 Yeah, thank you.   Michael Hingson  47:28 And so when she grows up, she'll probably want to be a dentist.   Rhett Burden  47:32 You have it right.   Michael Hingson  47:36 So, will there be sequels?   Rhett Burden  47:39 Well, you know what I am thinking about writing another one. I must say, I have a few ideas. swirling through my brain. I want to write something I want to tell a specific story about my daughter, my wife and I. And I'm still flushing that out. But yes, there is some more coming. I just haven't got that far yet still flushing the story out.   Michael Hingson  48:03 Well, you got to continue Debbie.   Rhett Burden  48:05 Yeah. Well, if not, Debbie, I'm not sure if I'm gonna do a sequel to dentists Debbie or my melanated munchkin. But I am definitely not done writing children's picture books.   Michael Hingson  48:17 Tell me about the melanated munchkin.   Rhett Burden  48:20 So oddly enough, I was on the BART headed to Oakland. And I don't really remember what for. And this was a late night. And the BART wasn't packed with people which is a rarity. And I saw a mother and daughter sitting on the train in the same car as me. We were spread apart but I just saw the mother pouring in to her daughter. They were reading they were laughing they were having a good time. And this was before I had children. And my melanated Munchkin just popped in my head. So I literally wrote 80 to 90% of the book in my phone on the train ride because I was inspired by what I saw. So what's the book about? So my melanated Munchkin is all about a little girl named Kira. And it is telling the history of why she should be proud of her diverse skin of her complexion of who she sees in the mirror. And it relates back to leaders and and women that have had great success and a great impact in history. And it is told from the viewpoint of me being a parent because this is my melanated Munchkin and I am telling her a story that is articulated through her eyes but is in my voice.   Michael Hingson  49:56 Sounds really a lot of fun.   Rhett Burden  50:00 Thank you, I really appreciate that.   Michael Hingson  50:02 Well, I think we're going to have to hunt them down. I'll have to get somebody to read them out loud and describe the pictures, but we'll get there. Absolutely. Well, like other authors, of course, I have to ask this kind of a question. Do you have any kind of a favorite character or story or anything that helps shape you in the author world and just your life in general?   Rhett Burden  50:25 Wow. Well, I would say yes, I would say early on before I had a child, my inspiration was my nephew. This was the first little person that I had a chance to interact with on a regular basis, because he was my co author, son. And now because I have my daughter, she is my source of inspiration. She is my why. And I can't wait to tell more stories that involve her.   Michael Hingson  50:52 You have a favorite author?   Rhett Burden  50:55 Wow, you know, that's a great question. Do I have a favorite author? You know, what if I had to pick an author? That was my favorite, I would probably say it's Dale Carnegie. Because prior to getting into the children, pictures, book space, I was doing personal professional development books, How to Win Friends and Influence People really did change my life. It changed my outlook. And I am a student of Dale Carnegie. So I would say it has to be Dale Carnegie.   Michael Hingson  51:26 I am also a student No, Dale Carnegie. And I think that, although a lot of people say all but it's old, the language is all stilted, and so on. The concepts aren't folks. Yeah, the concepts are absolutely as relevant today as they ever were. And I don't care that the language is a little bit different than what we're used to. That's not the part to pay attention to.   Rhett Burden  51:48 Agreed. I agree with you. If for your listeners, if you've never read How to Win Friends and Influence People pick it up. It's an amazing read. And it is truly transformational. If you take heed to the lessons that he imparts,   Michael Hingson  52:08 the very fact that a guy can advertise to the world come to a meeting and we will show you how to, as you put it win friends and influence people and he fills up a major New York hotel ballroom, just on the basis of that a 1937. And of course it went from there. Yeah. And his his lessons are absolutely as relevant today as they ever were. And I wish more people would recognize the value of reaching out and being open to friendship. I've had a lot of conversations with people about dogs, for example, and people talk about how dogs love unconditionally. And I absolutely think that's true. But dogs don't trust unconditionally. Dogs, however, unlike humans are more open to trust. And unless there is something that comes along that absolutely causes a dog not to have a trusting environment, like they're extremely abused or whatever, they will be open to developing a trusting relationship because it's what they want. And even the most distressful dogs can learn to trust again, we're not as open to trust and we could take lessons from dogs to do that. And certainly, it's the same concepts as to what Dale Carnegie talks about.   Rhett Burden  53:29 Absolutely, I am. Even though I have puppies. For your listeners, my Zoom background is full of puppies because I like puppies. I like dogs who kind of hard not to like them. I haven't necessarily had a lot of dogs in my life. So you know, Michael, I have to ask, Do you have a favorite breed of dog? Is there an adult that you just you feel connected with?   Michael Hingson  53:50 Well, I have had a guide dogs. The first three were golden retrievers. The next four were yellow labs. And now the guide dog I have today Alamo is a black lab. It's the first black lab. Nice I like large, larger dogs. But I really think that all dogs are open develop to develop relationships. So fun. I'm not to prejudice. I like a lot of different breeds of dogs. I appreciate that. But I love labs and I love Golden's especially of course,   Rhett Burden  54:25 absolutely. I have a colleague or a former colleague that has a golden retriever and they just love Golden Retrievers that is the bee's knees to them. Golden Retrievers,   Michael Hingson  54:37 and we have a Kimble well I have a cat it's only I know my wife passed away in November so I keep saying we so she's still here somewhere. But we have a cat and I'm not sure that well maybe stitches is trusting as a dog. It's a different kind of a personality though.   Rhett Burden  54:54 Well, I again I want to share my condolences and we talked about this off camera about to your wife passing, and you don't want to leave your cat out, you don't want to the field,   Michael Hingson  55:06 she loves to be carried around. So whenever I carry her I say, Alright, it's time to activate toda Tabby service. And we, we have a lot of fun with it. She really loves to get carried around and and doesn't seem to complain about that very much. Thank you very much. Oh. So do you have a favorite quote or mantra that you live by? Or think about?   Rhett Burden  55:30 Well, you know, I would say a favorite is is tough. But I do have I am a New Year's resolution asked type of person not sure if you are. And for the listening audience, even if you're not, I know some people think they may be a bit cliche. I'd like to create a yearly mission statements or yearly mantras. And I am guided by this mantra and one question. So I'd love to share that with you in the audience, the question that tends to guide my 2023 is, as of 1220, as of 1231 2023, I want to have accomplished what, and the mantra that goes along with that is, I am going to be focused on solutions, not problems. So that's what it is, for me, especially for 2023, I am going to be singularly focused on solutions and not problems. And I want to hold myself to the standard when I am manifesting what I want for my life, what I want for my family, and in all areas of wellness, as of December 31 2023, what do I want to have accomplished?   Michael Hingson  56:44 What was your 2022 New Year's resolution?   Rhett Burden  56:47 What my 2022 New Year's resolution was pretty simple. It was to sit back, relax, and enjoy. 2021 was a little tumultuous for my family, dealing with some personal issues and some family issues. And I felt that I was always on edge. And that I was not taking time to sit back. Because I felt I had to be in constant motion to relax because I found it very difficult to relax almost as if it pained me to do so. Because maybe my energy should be put somewhere else. And to enjoy and enjoy the smaller things in life and to practice self care and to bring to invest in things that brought me joy.   Michael Hingson  57:37 And that's, that's cool. You've obviously each year, given a lot of thought to what you want for your mission statement and your goal for the next year. Apps in the difference between what you're saying and what a lot of new year's resolutions tend to be all about is that you are providing yourself a general goal, you're not providing you something that you can't keep, and that you can't make happen. Absolutely, absolutely. And the other part about that is you also understand about making choices. So when you adopt that it's great, because then you can look every day even and say, well, am I working toward my goal or my mission this year?   Rhett Burden  58:22 You're ever 100%? Correct? i That's the way I feel. And that's sort of why it's structured in that way.   Michael Hingson  58:28 Yeah. If you wouldn't be able to go back and talk to your 18 year old self or somewhere around that age, what what would you teach them that maybe you didn't know, then that you have learned? That's a lot of answers?   Rhett Burden  58:44 I know that's a that's a great question. I would say if I could impart any wisdom to my 18 year old self, I would say take chances take risk. That high risk, high reward. And that ultimately, I want to make sure that as you are going through these formative years that you are not just experiencing what life has to offer, but you're living it. You are living and breathing, the kind of lifestyle that you want to manifest. So take risks. Go places that you wouldn't normally go experience things that you're not sure if you're interested in, read books that you wouldn't normally pick up, develop friendships and relationships with folks that are not necessarily in your friend group to take chances to be bold to take risk.   Michael Hingson  59:41 You think you weren't as much of a risk taker when you were 18 because you certainly over the years have stepped out a lot of times,   Rhett Burden  59:48 definitely was not this way at 18 a bit more conservative and growing up in a single parent household wanting to do everything I could to be the best Son, to my mom, and to make her proud. So in doing that, you find yourself being a bit more conservative and walking the straight and narrow more than you would if you're in a two parent household if the financial circumstance of your home is set, and wonderful, if you're not dealing with, you know, food insecurity or being on house. So yeah, I was very fortunate to have an amazing upbringing with a truly Godsend of a mother. But I would tell myself to go back and take more risks. And these risks don't have to be, you know, as lavish as, hey, you should jump out of an airplane. But it could be, hey, you should expand your friends circle read different books. So things like that.   Michael Hingson  1:00:52 Do you think your mom would approve? Very much? So? Yeah. It's, it's not a bad thing, to be willing to be adventurous and to step out. And you're right, it isn't all about jumping out of an airplane. That's not the risk taking thing. But it is important to not limit yourself just because you're afraid of doing something even though you know, it's something that you're capable of doing. But I don't want to do that.   Rhett Burden  1:01:21 Yeah, absolutely.   Michael Hingson  1:01:24 So what do you think is the most important lesson you've learned in life? Because you, you, you wax philosophical. So I figured that something worth asking   Rhett Burden  1:01:34 what the most important lesson that I think I've learned, is, probably to love myself and to love myself completely. To understand that I am an ever evolving being, that what is important to me, who is important to me, is going to change. And that I need to trust my instincts and trust myself. So to love myself in a way that makes me lovable from others. But to provide myself everything that I want to give to someone else. So I would say to love myself, and to love myself radically and boldly would be that would be there would be that, that that very thing.   Michael Hingson  1:02:28 And that's not being a conceited kind of thing. We should learn to love who we are and what we are and, and if we don't like what we do, then we choose to make a difference and fix that. But if we like and believe that we're making good choices, then we should love   Rhett Burden  1:02:46 that too. Yeah, absolutely.   Michael Hingson  1:02:48 I agree. We really need to have better respect for ourselves, and kind of go on from there. Well, right. This has been really wonderful. And I'm glad that we got to spend all this time. But I would like to end by asking you if people want to reach out and maybe contact you learn more about you learn about compass and so on. How do they do that?   Rhett Burden  1:03:14 Yeah, well, for your listeners, if you want to stay connected to me, you can go to LinkedIn if you have a LinkedIn profile and just type in my name Rhett Burden, please. Absolutely. That's R H E T T. And then my last name is Burden, B U R D as in David E N. please connect with me on LinkedIn. I would love to learn more about you. I'd love to learn more about your story and find ways for us to collaborate. You can also visit Rhett Burden. That's my first and last name, R H E T T B U R D E N. Rhettburden.com. If you're interested in purchasing your copy of my children's book,   Michael Hingson  1:04:00 that was gonna be my next question. Because I think that people will want to learn more about that. And I'm going to start a campaign to advocate for finding out what happens to Debbie but that's another story. Well, Rhett, we really appreciate you being here and I appreciate you listening to us today. I hope you enjoyed it. And that you will give us a five star review especially if you go to iTunes or whatever, but we'd love a five star rating so please do that. If you'd like to suggest podcast guests and rent you as well. Please feel free. You can reach me at Michaelhi M I C H A E L H I at accessibe A C C E S S I B E.com. You can also find the podcasts at Michael hingson.com/podcasts and hingson is h i n g s o n so Michael hinkson.com/podcast. And as we've talked about it I talked a lot about on podcast. I I am a keynote speaker and do a lot of traveling to speak. So if anybody knows of any speaking opportunities, reach out, I'd love to hear from you for Rhett one more time. Thank you very much for being here. And we'd love to have you come back on again in the future.   Rhett Burden  1:05:14 Absolutely. It'd be my honor. Thank you, Michael.   Michael Hingson  1:05:21 You have been listening to the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. Thanks for dropping by. I hope that you'll join us again next week, and in future weeks for upcoming episodes. To subscribe to our podcast and to learn about upcoming episodes, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com slash podcast. Michael Hingson is spelled m i c h a e l h i n g s o n. While you're on the site., please use the form there to recommend people who we ought to interview in upcoming editions of the show. And also, we ask you and urge you to invite your friends to join us in the future. If you know of any one or any organization needing a speaker for an event, please email me at speaker at Michael hingson.com. I appreciate it very much. To learn more about the concept of blinded by fear, please visit www dot Michael hingson.com forward slash blinded by fear and while you're there, feel free to pick up a copy of my free eBook entitled blinded by fear. The unstoppable mindset podcast is provided by access cast an initiative of accessiBe and is sponsored by accessiBe. Please visit www.accessibe.com. accessiBe is spelled a c c e s s i b e. There you can learn all about how you can make your website inclusive for all persons with disabilities and how you can help make the internet fully inclusive by 2025. Thanks again for listening. Please come back and visit us again next week.

How can we persevere in the face of setbacks? How can we take a chance to discover what lies beyond the obstacles we're facing?   Life is indeed unpredictable. We never know when adversity will strike. In a flash of an eye, the things you were enjoying at the moment can turn into a nightmare. Thus, we naturally get discouraged when confronted with troubles, adversities, or conditions that make our lives uncomfortable. Many things in this world could injure our hopeful hearts and render us defenseless.   However, we must realize that we can still find a glimmer of hope even amid our worst circumstances. There will always be something held in reserve for each of us. Consequently, we cannot see those great opportunities because we dwell too much on rejection, failure, and unfavorable circumstances. Recognize that there are certain things over which we have no control. We must learn to trust God and His judgments since He understands what we genuinely require and how much we can handle. Let us strive to live with no regrets of yesterday's opportunities, leaving no room for doubts and embracing God's plan. Therefore, when bombarded by negative thoughts and self-doubt, take a leap of faith and believe God can take good care of everything. As our guest speaker claimed, "God will never tell you to do something that will lead to your destruction."   Pastor Wesley Thompson is a loving husband, father, educator, author, activist, chaplain, political candidate, pastor, and faithful man of God. He is a native of Florence, Alabama. He is the senior pastor and teacher at Bethel Colbert Missionary Baptist Church and previously served as a youth pastor and interim pastor in his eleven years of ministry. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of North Alabama and a master's of divinity degree from Mercer University. He is pursuing a doctor of ministry degree from the Interdenominational Theological Center. He has worked as a college admissions recruiter and adjunct professor. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., NAACP, the Academy of Preachers, and various community service organizations. He is married to Le'Tanndra Thompson, and they have one son, Miles Thompson.   In this special episode with Pastor Wesley Thompson, we'll learn about the inspiring life of a man of God who encountered an unfavorable situation in life that made him stronger and closer to God. Be captivated as we discover how a young pastor handled his life's most challenging decisions to take care of his pregnant wife as she faced a tragic health crisis.   "God is never going to tell you to go somewhere in which it's going to lead to failure." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   Topics Covered: (00:00:00) Introduction + Episode Snippet (00:00:38) Introducing our special guest, Wesley Thompson (00:02:11) You can make something positive out of a negative situation. (00:02:39) The Bethel Colbert Missionary Baptist Church (00:05:13) The Passing of the torch (00:07:56) The question of "Am I enough?" (00:08:35) Trusting the will of God. (00:10:16) In Sickness and In Health: A Story of Love, Strength, and Faith (00:12:47) How did Pastor Thompson overcome his family's most challenging situation? (00:16:11) God will take care of everything. (00:17:08) How God works in such a mysterious way (00:19:10) Trust God through it all. (00:19:54) Difficult moments reveal how much you love your significant other. (00:21:19) Moving from Atlanta to North Alabama: Was it by choice or force? (00:25:21) Quick Reminder: Are you enjoying this episode? Please share it, leave a five-star review, and give feedback. Go to TimeOut with the SportsDr website.  (00:27:02) God knows what we truly need. (00:27:32) There's no testimony without a test. (00:28:41) The dream of Dr. Martin Luther King: What does it mean to Pastor Thompson? (00:29:20) Nothing can hinder someone from thriving but himself. (00:31:17) The Political aspirations: There's joy in doing something you love. (00:32:57) What did Pastor Thompson learn from losing the election? (00:33:39) There are blessings to simply trying. (00:34:47) Final TimeOut with Pastor Wesley Thompson: How would you encourage a person who fears failure and is afraid of taking the first step toward a goal? (00:36:22) Take a leap of faith and discover what lies beyond the depths. (00:37:21) God will never lead you to a place of failure. (00:38:13) Connect with Pastor Wesley Thompson.   Key Takeaways:    "You never know what's going to give you that spark that you're looking for at times." – Dr. Derrick Burgess   "In every bad situation, there's something good you can pull out of it if you try." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "God reminded me that our ways and our thoughts are not his, and he pulled a surprise on me." – Pastor Wesley Thompson    "No matter how successful, accomplished or educated a person is, there's always that thought in the back of your head where you will ask yourself, am I that enough?" – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "The experience that I went through personally was my preparation to be able to take on." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "We truly believe that we can't love our wives any more than what we do. But through that experience, it opened my eyes to another layer of love that I have for my wife that I didn't know existed." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "Women are putting themselves in danger to have a baby, and that's something that is overlooked many times." – Dr. Derrick Burgess   "We make plans, but then God laughs at those because he knows what we truly need versus what we feel we need at times." – Dr. Derrick Burgess   "When we're in the moment of that depression, sadness, and frustration of just not knowing what in the world is going on, God is building a testimony for us." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "There's no testimony without a test." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "Everybody should be able to look back on their life and say, I'm glad I did instead of, I wish I would have." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "No matter what it is, there's no age limit on when you can do it." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "If you don't fail many times, you're not going to learn and grow." – Dr. Derrick Burgess   "You never know until you do it." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   "You will never give yourself a chance to discover what lies beyond out there in the deep until you go out there." – Pastor Wesley Thompson   Connect with Wesley Thompson:   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MinisterWesleyThompson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westhompson1906/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-thompson-70373845/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@voteforwesley Book: https://www.amazon.com/Sickness-Health-Story-Strength-Faith/dp/0997679786   Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess: Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHGDu1zT4K_X6PnYELu8weg Email: thesportsdoctr@gmail.com   This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines - the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don't have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time, so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.

Spartanburg Police Chief Thompson shares his policing experience, the  relationship  between the police and the community,  measures being taken by the police to combat police brutality, training opportunities within the police force , and the fears faced by members of the force.About Chief ThompsonChief Alonzo Thompson was born and raised in North Carolina and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1982 with a B.A. degree in Political Science. He is a graduate of the 183rd Session of the FBI National Academy, and a graduate of the DEA Drug Unit Commander Academy N° 55. He also completed the Public Executive Leadership Academy (PELA-2012) held at the School of Government of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Chief Thompson served 30 years with the Winston– Salem Police Department and retired from the agency in January 2014 after having attained the rank of Assistant Chief. Chief Alonzo Thompson assumed the role of Chief of Police for the City of Spartanburg on February 1, 2014. He is an active member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE), the South Carolina Police Chiefs Association (SCPCA), and the FBI National Academy of Associates – SC Chapter.Chief Thompson is the immediate past Chair of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Upstate and remains on the Board of Directors. He also serves on the Board of Directors for AMI Kids White Pines; Charles Lea Center; Mobile Meals and Project Hope Foundation. He formally served on the Boards of Directors of Spartanburg Academic Movement (SAM); Spartanburg Disabilities and Special Needs (DSN); Palmetto Council Boy Scouts of America and Fifty Upstate Senior Wellness Initiative. He is currently a member of the Spartanburg Racial Equity Collaborative. Chief Thompson is a graduate of the South Carolina Diversity Leadership Institute Upstate Class XVIII - Fall 2014 of the Richard W. Riley Institute at Furman University. He also completed the Leadership Spartanburg Class of 2014-15 and serves on the Board of Regents of the Leadership Spartanburg Alumni Association. He is also a graduate of the Spartanburg Regional Health System 2017 Regional Fellows Leadership Program. Chief Thompson is a member of the Rotary Club of Spartanburg and the South Side Lions Club. He is also a member of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.Chief Thompson is married to Catrina Amelia Thompson who recently retired as Chief of Police of the Winston-Salem, NC Police Department to be appointed as the US Marshal of the Middle District of North Carolina. He cherishes his roles and responsibilities as a father to the couple's two children, Alyson Blakely and Christopher Aaron.Humanity Chats - a conversation about everyday issues that impact humans. Join us. Together, we can go far. Thank you for listening. Share with a friend. We are humans. From all around the world. One kind only. And that is humankind. Your friend, Marjy Marj