William J. Makell, Jr.
Chosen For Greatness
Hosted by William J. Makell, Jr. This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. The Chosen for Greatness Podcast is where powerful conversations meet purposeful leadership. Created by the Chosen for Greatness Leadership Network, this show brings you raw, real, and deeply inspiring interviews with dynamic African American professionals, trailblazing executives, and transformational leaders who are walking in purpose and standing in power. Each episode is a masterclass in personal growth and strategic leadership—built to help you rise above challenges, own your identity unapologetically, and lead wi...
Author
William J. Makell, Jr.
Category
Podcast website
Latest episode
Aug 4, 2025
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Episodes
The Economics of Collective Power: Transforming Communities Through Black Entrepreneurship Inspired by Maria Marshall-Bean 27.06.2025 12:00
Discover how collective action and Black entrepreneurship can drive transformative economic growth in communities across America. This episode explores the structural barriers Black entrepreneurs face, the power of building alliances and cooperative models, and the importance of both policy reform and grassroots innovation. Learn how supporting Black-owned businesses isn’t just about equity—it’s a...
Authenticity as Strategy: Unlocking Your Leadership Edge Inspired by Sandra McGeough 27.06.2025 12:35
In this episode, we explore how authenticity can be your most powerful leadership strategy. Inspired by Sandra McGeough’s journey, we discuss why bringing your true voice, humor, and passion to professional spaces is not just fulfilling, but a game-changer for impact and influence. Learn how embracing what makes you different can set you apart, inspire others, and drive meaningful change in your c...
Faith in Action: Digital Ministry and Everyday Impact Inspired by Dinese Bennett 27.06.2025 13:31
Discover how faith can become a powerful force for transformation in the digital age. In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Dinese Bennett, whose daily acts of encouragement and online ministry have brought hope and connection to thousands. Learn practical ways to serve others, invest in the next generation, and use modern tools to make a real impact—no matter where you are or how b...
Superpower Rising: Turning Resistance Into Legacy Inspired by Doreen Wade 25.06.2025 12:05
Discover how fighting for your rights can become your greatest asset in business and life. Inspired by a powerful conversation with Doreen Wade, this episode explores how resilience, resistance, and lifting others can transform barriers into breakthroughs. Learn actionable strategies to turn adversity into legacy, build networks of support, and create lasting change—not just for yourself, but for...
The Power of Purposeful Choices: Unlocking Greater Impact Inspired by Monica Turner 25.06.2025 12:51
In this episode, we explore how making purposeful, discerning choices can unlock greater impact and fulfillment, especially for Black professionals and entrepreneurs. Drawing on insights from visionary leader Monica Turner, we challenge the "say yes to everything" mindset and discuss why focusing your energy on what aligns with your values leads to deeper, more lasting change. Discover how discern...
Sanctuaries of Healing: Transforming Early Childhood Education for Generational Change Inspired by Valentina Bateman 24.06.2025 13:20
Discover how early childhood education can become a powerful force for breaking generational cycles and healing communities. Inspired by Valentina Bateman’s transformative vision, this episode explores how daycares and preschools can be reimagined as sanctuaries of healing, where emotional development, cultural pride, and neurodiversity are foundational. Learn how trauma-informed practices and fam...
The Invisible Cage: Stepping Into Your Power Inspired by Sheila Nolan 24.06.2025 11:48
In this episode, we explore how fear can quietly confine us and how embracing vulnerability is the key to breaking free. Inspired by Sheila Simmons’ journey from grief to empowerment, we discuss the power of being seen, the importance of sharing your story, and the transformative impact of aligning passion with purpose. Discover practical steps to move beyond invisibility, reclaim your voice, and...
The Power of Perseverance: Redefining Success for Black Entrepreneurs Inspired by Elizabet Tatum 23.06.2025 14:20
Discover how perseverance and self-belief can redefine success for Black entrepreneurs. This episode explores the transformative impact of resilience, community support, and collective action in overcoming systemic barriers. Hear inspiring stories of leaders and local innovators who refused to give up, building legacies that uplift entire communities. Learn why your greatest resource isn’t externa...
Limping Forward: The Power of Imperfect Progress Inspired by Karen Porter 23.06.2025 12:28
In this episode, we dive into the raw reality of resilience, inspired by Karen Porter's journey through physical loss, heartbreak, and business setbacks. Discover why resilience isn't optional, how healing and professional growth intertwine, and why imperfect action is more powerful than waiting for perfect conditions. Learn how vulnerability and community support can transform setbacks into stren...
The Revolutionary Power of Authentic Leadership: Wellness and Storytelling as Success Currency Inspired by Veronique Sobowale 23.06.2025 11:58
Discover how authentic leadership, personal wellness, and powerful storytelling are redefining success for Black professionals and entrepreneurs. Inspired by insights from branding strategist Veronique Sobowale, this episode explores why embracing your unique story and prioritizing wellbeing are not just feel-good ideas, but strategic advantages for sustainable impact and influence. Learn how huma...
The Entrepreneurial Mirage: Beyond the Myth of Liberation for Black Professionals Inspired by Kelly McClane 22.06.2025 13:57
Explore the complex realities behind the popular narrative that entrepreneurship is the ultimate path to liberation for Black professionals. Inspired by Kelly McClane’s insights, this episode unpacks the hidden challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of community support, and the persistent systemic barriers that remain even outside traditional workplaces. Discover why true empowerment requ...
The Invisible Divide: Confronting Breast Cancer Inequity Inspired by Stephani St.Cyr 22.06.2025 11:10
Breast cancer outcomes shouldn't be determined by race or zip code, yet Black and brown women in America face significantly higher mortality rates due to systemic healthcare inequities. In this episode, we examine the invisible barriers—from late diagnoses and communication gaps to underrepresentation in clinical trials—that drive these disparities. Drawing on real-world solutions like mobile scre...
Words That Shape Us: Breaking Free From Limiting Labels Inspired by Dr Marian Dunmore 22.06.2025 11:43
Discover how the words spoken over our lives can either confine or liberate us. In this episode, we explore the journey of breaking free from limiting labels, the transformative power of community support, and the daily discipline of self-affirmation. Learn practical steps to reclaim your narrative, empower yourself and others, and choose greatness—no matter what labels the world tries to place on...
When Faith Meets Fire: Inspired by Kimberly Johnson 21.06.2025 12:31
Standing at your breaking point doesn’t mean your story is over—it could be the beginning of your greatest transformation. In this episode, we explore how faith can turn adversity into purpose, break generational cycles, and empower you to discern which relationships truly support your growth. Discover how spiritual resilience fuels not just survival, but thriving leadership and legacy. If you’re...
When Faith Gets You Going: Turning Adversity into Strength Inspired by Kimberly Johnson 21.06.2025 12:28
In this episode, we explore how faith can transform adversity into your greatest strength. Drawing from Kimberly E. Johnson’s journey through loss, betrayal, and personal challenges, we uncover how embracing faith as an active force leads to resilience, spiritual discernment, and authentic community. Discover practical insights on reframing setbacks, cultivating spiritual practices, curating suppo...
The Cavalry Within: Collective Power and Black Excellence Inspired by Patricia Goins 21.06.2025 12:18
In this episode, we explore how true empowerment and Black excellence are fueled by collective action, not external validation. Inspired by Patricia Goins, we discuss practical strategies for building wealth and influence through community collaboration, fostering innovation with representation in technology, and cultivating resilience through mindset. Hear real-life stories of individuals and org...
The Eight Pillars of Purposeful Leadership: Pathways to Significance Inspired by Darva Watkins 20.06.2025 12:34
Discover the Eight Pillars of Purposeful Leadership as we unpack how Practice, Praise, Peace, Power, Prayer, Passion, Persistence, and Purpose can transform your professional journey. Learn how these foundational principles, championed by the Chosen For Greatness Leadership Network, empower leaders to move beyond mere achievement and embrace authentic alignment, resilience, and impact. Whether you...
When Grief Becomes Your Greatest Teacher: Transformation Through Loss Inspired by Sheila Simmons 20.06.2025 12:07
In this episode, we explore how grief, though deeply painful, can become a powerful catalyst for transformation and purpose. Inspired by Sheila Simmons, we discuss the importance of embracing vulnerability, sharing our stories, and redefining strength within Black professional spaces. Through real-life examples, discover how facing loss with honesty and community can lead to healing, empowerment,...
Destiny by Design: Securing Hope and Building Wealth in Community Inspired by Barbara Drane-Ealey 20.06.2025 12:46
In this episode, we explore how rejecting the myth of a fixed destiny can unlock new pathways to wealth and empowerment within Black communities. Drawing inspiration from Barbara Drane-Ealey’s transformative work, we discuss the power of intentional action, community collaboration, and financial literacy in building generational prosperity. Discover how hope, when paired with strategy and educatio...
Beyond the Label: Radical Inclusion and the Future of Mental Wellness Inspired by Denise Holman 20.06.2025 12:50
In this episode, we explore how radical inclusion can transform mental wellness for everyone. Inspired by insights from Denise Holman, we challenge the limiting labels and stigmas that isolate individuals and redefine mental health as a holistic, community-driven journey. Discover how fostering resilience, purpose, and belonging can break down barriers to healing and create spaces where every pers...
The Illusion of Criminality: Shattering Stereotypes and Reclaiming Justice Inspired by Ramona Brockett 20.06.2025 11:40
This episode dives deep into the roots of America's most dangerous stereotype: the illusion of criminality. Drawing on powerful research and real-world case studies, we expose how systemic bias—not actual crime rates—drives the overrepresentation of Black and Brown communities in the justice system. Discover how challenging these narratives can lead to safer communities, stronger families, and a m...
The Power of Boundaries: Fueling Black Excellence and Sustainable Leadership Inspired by Tangie Fuller 19.06.2025 13:37
Discover how setting clear boundaries can be a revolutionary act of leadership and self-care for Black professionals and entrepreneurs. Inspired by Tangie Murray’s journey, this episode explores why saying "no" strategically is essential for sustainable excellence, authentic relationships, and long-term impact. Learn practical steps to define your non-negotiables, communicate assertively, and crea...
Beyond the Paycheck: Unlocking Workplace Happiness Inspired by Nyree Williams 18.06.2025 11:19
Discover why true workplace happiness goes far beyond a paycheck. This episode explores how recognition, authentic company culture, and genuine support drive employee engagement and innovation—especially for those historically overlooked. Learn practical strategies to create environments where people feel valued, connected, and empowered to thrive. Unlock the keys to lasting motivation and organiz...
Your Voice Is Your Sovereignty: Embracing Authentic Power Inspired by Queen Dè Clayton 18.06.2025 11:38
Step into your power and claim your voice in this inspiring episode inspired by Queen Dè Clayton. Discover why waiting for the perfect moment is a trap, and how embracing your authentic, imperfect self is the key to true sovereignty and leadership. Learn how vulnerability fuels influence, and why your unique story is needed now more than ever. Challenge yourself to stop rehearsing and start living...
Defying Gravity: Faith, Resilience, and Breaking Barriers Inspired by Ivi Shaw 18.06.2025 11:58
In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary journey of Ivi Shaw, a nationally recognized chemist who rose from humble beginnings in rural Alabama to lead teams of top scientists. Discover how faith, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to education empowered her to overcome personal and professional obstacles, break generational cycles, and inspire others in STEM. Learn how your starting p...
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