Issa Kickback

Chris Turner, youth advocate in Quincy, reminds us that serving the youth is more than a duty. It's an investment in both present and future. In Quincy, the journey of pouring into the youth has been years in the making, supported by local networks and a profound sense of responsibility to uplift the next generation. If you’re a parent, educator, or community member, remember: you are a mirror. Mo...

Black History Insights & Cultural Reflections || Issa Kickback Epi. 84Conversations about race, history, and aspiration can be heavy, but that is no excuse to avoid them. Instead, the seriousness is the reason to keep the dialogue going, to learn, and to teach. The hosts closed with an exhortation to share what you learn, to ask questions, and to push against whatever cages—in society or in on...

In this powerful episode of Issa Kickback, we dive into the realities of parenthood, co-parenting, and the difference between simply being a “baby mama” or “baby daddy” versus being an active, present parent. We unpack the roles mothers and fathers play in their children’s lives, the emotional responsibilities that come with raising kids, and how accountability, consistency, and intentional parent...

Healing Autoimmune Diseases Naturally w/ Vanessa, Owner of Rooted Wellness || Issa Kickback Epi. #82 Vanessa’s odyssey from near-fatal illness to vibrant health is an inspiration for anyone feeling trapped by their body’s betrayals, medical gaslighting, or emotional overwhelm. Her story teaches a fundamental lesson: healing begins when we refuse to remain trapped, when we choose to become, not wha...

The Blueprint for achievement || Issa Kickback Epi. 81 The journey ahead is one of challenge and opportunity. By training the mind, refining emotional control, prioritizing health, reaching out to community, and committing to consistency, progress is all but assured. The secret, as always, lies not just in dreaming big, but in breaking those dreams down into actionable steps, persisting through di...

Every entrepreneur's story starts somewhere. For Ray, owner of Divine Shine in Quincy, the path from a car-crazy kid to a beloved business owner and community role model wasn’t straightforward. From early passion to painful setbacks, Ray’s journey is a testament to perseverance, faith, and the unspoken responsibility of entrepreneurship. Ray’s story is not just about manual labor or entreprene...

Raised In Chaos || Issa Kicckback Epi.79We dive deep into what it’s like growing up in a toxic household and the long-term effects of being raised in a single-parent environment. We explore how childhood instability shapes emotional responses, relationships, self-worth, and adulthood. From survival mode to breaking generational cycles, this is a real conversation about healing, identity, and choos...

We Hoopin Winter is Heating up! A deep dive into the vision, culture, and behind-the-scenes work that built the We Hoopin Winter Session in Quincy, Illinois. We sit down with the committee to talk about community impact, player development, co-ed competition, and the future of the league. From scheduling struggles to standout moments, this episode highlights what really goes into running one of th...

Spookfest 2025, Quincy DIY Mini Fest w/ Dizzy Wright & MoreUnlock the behind-the-scenes magic of Spookfest 2025 in Quincy, IL, featuring a dope performance of headliner Dizzy Wright. Discover how this Midwest music festival grew into a major cultural event, the process of bringing in international talent, and what makes the fan experience one-of-a-kind. Subscribe to Issa Kickback for more excl...

Friendship is not just about having people to hang out with, it’s about building a circle that supports, challenges, and uplifts you. It’s about choosing quality over quantity, setting boundaries to protect your energy, and being willing to have the tough conversations that lead to growth. Whether you’re nurturing lifelong friendships or seeking to form new ones, remember that the most important q...

In a world that often rewards conformity and surface-level achievement, Devonte stands as a model of what it means to be real to embrace one's unique path, to honor the influences that shape us, and to remain open to the mysteries of existence. Whether on stage, in conversation, or in the quiet moments of reflection, his example invites us all to do the same. *Available on all Streaming Platforms...

Hemp, Healing & Hustle Kickin' It with Matt, SunMed || Issa Kickback Epi. 74 Matt Anderson, is emblematic of the broader evolution of the hemp and cannabis industry. It’s a story of gratitude, resilience, education, and community—a reminder that behind every product on the shelf is a commitment to improving lives. As the industry continues to grow and change, the values of transparency, qu...

Community Impact, Kickin' It with GAYBO/PDL Committee Members || Issa Kickback Epi 73. The story of GABBO PDL and the Quincy 3-on-3 basketball tournament is about much more than sports. It’s about reclaiming public spaces, building bridges across divides, and investing in the next generation. It’s about confronting difficult truths, learning from the past, and daring to dream of a better future. T...

Treacher Collins Syndrome || Issa Kickback Epi. 72 In this deeply personal and insightful episode, Marcellus and James provide a comprehensive look into living with Treacher Collins Syndrome. Through their candid discussions, they emphasize the importance of self-awareness, resilience, and education in overcoming the challenges posed by TCS. Marcellus' story is one of strength, love, and unwav...

Keep It Hemp! Kickin' It with Cole of North Adams Hemp || Issa Kickback Epi #71 In the ever-evolving landscape of hemp and cannabis, understanding the nuances between different compounds can be quite a challenge. As more states legalize various forms of cannabis for medical and recreational use, the market is flooded with terms like THCA, CBD, and Delta-8, each promising unique benefits. This guid...

We Hoopin Basketball League || Issa Kickback Epi 70 James and Marcellus sit down with member of the We Hoopin Board, Kj Bowen. The board also includes Devin Rogers, Cole Abbey, James Calmese Jr.. we kick it in this session and discuss the goal for the league, the reason behind bringing structure competitive hoops for adults, and break down some of the concerns expressed to us. Learn more about for...

Motion & Milestones || Issa Kickback Epi 69 James and Marcelus express their gratitude for reaching 5,000 plays on various platforms after years of hard work. They acknowledge the challenges they faced in the early days of the podcast, from technical issues to personal growth. Despite the obstacles, they persevered and continued to improve, which has led to their current success. With plans to exp...

Class Is In Session, Kickin' It w/ Kristin T || Issa Kickback Epi. 68 Homeschooling and homesteading are both challenging and rewarding. Kristin’s story highlights the importance of flexibility, adaptability, and a strong support system. For those considering this path, Kristin's experience offers invaluable insights: the importance of legal research, resourcefulness in creating curriculums, and t...

Modern Day Dating & Relationships || Issa Kickback Epi 67Explore the challenges of modern dating and relationships, focusing on honesty, accountability, and the choice to love. Discover the importance of self-awareness and communication in building meaningful connections. Relationships in the modern age are undoubtedly complicated and require an evolved understanding of commitment, love, and t...

Navigating the Fire, Kickin' It w/ Mike Dade Epi. 66 Mike Dade's journey encapsulates the essence of dedication, resilience, and the importance of following one’s calling. Being a firefighter is not just a job but a commitment to service, learning, and personal growth. For those interested in pursuing a career in firefighting, Mike’s advice is clear: seek the knowledge, ask questions, and take the...

Never Fall Off, Kickin' it w/ Founder of NFO, Chanse || Issa Kickback Epi. 65 Chance NFO's journey with NFO Studios is a remarkable testament to perseverance, vision, and community collaboration. From overcoming initial rejections to building a reputable platform that highlights Chicago's musical talent, NFO Studios embodies the spirit of "Never Fall Off." As they continue to innovate and expand,...

A Cinematic Vision, Kickin' it w/ LP || Issa Kickback Epi. 64 LP’s career, marked by creativity, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, offers a road map for anyone looking to make their mark in the videography world. Whether it’s through building strong community ties, continually honing one’s craft, or navigating the practical challenges of the industry, LP's journey illustrates tha...

Unapologetically Black || Issa Kickback Epi. #63 In our latest episode of "It's Kickback," we wanted to clear the air about a topic that often comes loaded with misconceptions—Pro Blackness. Here's the takeaway: Pro Blackness does not equate to anti-white sentiment. We love everyone and encourage open dialogue and learning. With that said, Black history is American history. It is storied with hero...

Fresh Cuts, Kickin' It w/ Chris Bradshaw || Issa Kickback Epi #62 Sit down with Quincy's own, Chris Bradshaw, owner of Crown Me Barbershop in Quincy, IL. Chris has been a barber for over 20 years! Kickin' it with James and Marcellus, Chris shares stories from his youth and why he started cutting hair, entrepreneurship endeavors, and the importance of having a black owned barbershop in...

Behind The Sign, Kickin' it with KingRon || Epi. 61 Issa Kickback Join King Ron on his journey as he spreads deaf awareness and sign language education through his engaging and humorous content. Discover the impact of his platform and the importance of learning basic sign language for better communication and understanding within the deaf community. Content creators have a unique opportunity to br...