Grown and Greek Podcast

In this heartfelt episode of the Grown and Greek Podcast, host DJ Chocolate (@djchocolatedotcom) sits down with Toyal McLain, a breast cancer survivor, educator, and minister, to share her powerful journey of faith, resilience, and purpose. Toyal opens up about how her unwavering faith guided her through her battle with cancer, the strength she found in family and community, and her passion for ed...

In this heartfelt episode of the Grown and Greek podcast, host DJChocolate welcomes the Williams couple as they open up about their journey through love, marriage, and resilience. From facing cancer and surviving a mass shooting to navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple shares how communication, trust, and vulnerability kept their bond strong. They also highlight the role t...

In this episode of the Grown and Greek podcast, host DJ Chocolate sits down with Jeremy Ervin, a PR strategist and workforce development leader, to talk about his powerful journey in politics, public relations, and purpose. Jeremy shares how his work on political campaigns shaped his approach to building authentic connections, the importance of representation in leadership, and why workforce devel...

Leadership, purpose, and community power. In this episode of the Grown & Greek Podcast, DJ Chocolate sits down with Dr. Halima Leak Francis to talk about her journey in public administration, the legacy of the John Lewis Public Administration Program, and the role of Greek life in driving systemic change. From philanthropy rooted in love to collective action through the Divine 9, Dr. Leak Francis...

In this episode of the Grown & Greek Podcast, host DJ Chocolate sits down with Anthony Thomas, a real estate investor whose journey from a small town in Alabama to thriving in Atlanta is nothing short of inspiring. Anthony opens up about the mindset shifts, mentorship, and resilience that fueled his success, while also sharing the lessons he’s passing on to others. From building wealth through rea...

In this episode of the *Grown and Greek* podcast, host DJ Chocolate sits down with Todd Tarnett Morris to discuss his incredible journey—from his days as a student at Miles College to becoming a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, a circus performer, and now the voice of the Black Rodeo. Todd shares his passion for service, leadership, and community engagement, while shedding light on the r...

In this episode of Grown and Greek, host DJ Chocolate welcomes Dr. Nicole Lee Plenty—double board-certified OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine specialist, and host of the Pregnancy Pearls podcast on the Mean Ole Lion Media network. Dr. Plenty opens up about her journey in medicine, her passion for improving maternal health outcomes, and the critical need for advocacy, education, and policy reform...

In this insightful episode of Grown and Greek, DJ Chocolate sits down with licensed therapist Merland Tony Baker, who brings over 30 years of experience to a powerful conversation on mental health, fatherhood, and emotional well-being in the Black community. From the importance of open communication in parenting to the critical role of male figures in shaping young boys, Baker unpacks the cultural...

In this inspiring episode of Grown and Greek, host DJ Chocolate welcomes Lyord Watson Jr., a dedicated social entrepreneur, philanthropist, and change agent, for a conversation rooted in purpose and progress. Watson reflects on his journey in community building and the launch of the Future Forward Fund, created during the COVID-19 pandemic to support local businesses. He shares how strategic givin...

In this episode of the Grown and Greek Podcast, host DJ Chocolate sits down with the multifaceted Errick Presley—better known as Mr. SODO. A fearless firefighter, cigar connoisseur, and talented musician, Mr. SODO shares his inspiring journey of service, creativity, and community. From life-saving experiences on the front lines to founding the highly anticipated Houston Cigar Week, Errick opens up...

In this episode of *Grown and Greek*, host DJ Chocolate sits down with Charisse D. Stokes, a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., to explore her inspiring journey from ceramic engineering to driving tech innovation in Alabama. Charisse unpacks the meaning behind “IT” and shines a light on the transformative power of technology and innovation—especially through the work of the Alabama...

In this inspiring episode, DJ Chocolate sits down with Elias Hendricks—artist, entrepreneur, and cultural visionary—to talk about his global journey through music, legacy, and service. From a career in opera to founding the classical crossover quartet Vox Futura, Elias shares how cultural exchanges, international travel, and the Divine Nine have shaped his mission and message. They explore his rec...

In this compelling episode of the **Grown and Greek Podcast**, host **DJ Chocolate** (@djchocolatedotcom) sits down with the Honorable **Tiffany Johnson Cole**, a municipal court judge and proud member of a Black Greek-letter organization, for an enlightening discussion on civic responsibility, political awareness, and the power of community engagement. Judge Cole breaks down today’s political cli...

In this episode of the Grown in Greek podcast, DJ Chocolate interviews Amartei Amamoo, an HBCU graduate and entrepreneur with deep ties to Ghana. Amartei shares his journey from playing soccer at Birmingham Southern to managing nightclubs in Birmingham, Alabama, and eventually expanding his business ventures to Ghana. He discusses the importance of cultural heritage, the unique experiences at HBCU...

In this episode of the Grown in Greek Podcast, DJ Chocolate talks with Dr. Tamisha Hubbard, a veterinary dermatologist, who shares her journey through veterinary medicine, the importance of HBCUs, and the challenges of modern pet parenthood. Dr. Hubbard discusses common pet allergies, the significance of preventative care, and the need for diversity in the veterinary field. She emphasizes the impo...

In this episode of the Grown in Greek podcast, Shannon Jackson, a strength and conditioning coach for the WNBA's Atlanta Dream, shares her journey from growing up in a sports-oriented family in Alabama to her current role in professional sports. She discusses the rigorous demands of training camp, her experiences coaching both male and female athletes, and the differences between HBCUs and PWIs. S...

In this episode of the Grown and Greet podcast, host DJ Chocolate interviews actor Charlie Hudson III, who shares his journey from Montgomery, Alabama, to becoming a successful actor in the Marvel Universe. They discuss the significance of attending an HBCU, the importance of nurturing artistic talents in the community, and the value of graduate school in honing acting skills. Charlie reflects on...

In this episode of the Grown and Greek podcast, Joanne Beauvoir, a self-identity and growth catalyst, shares her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. She discusses the importance of understanding one's identity beyond societal roles, the courage required for personal growth, and the impact of her experiences in pageantry on her self-perception. Joanne also emphasizes the significance of equi...

In this episode of the Grown in Greek podcast, host DJ Chocolate interviews Tony Billups, a dedicated HIV advocate and author. Tony shares his personal journey of living with HIV for over 30 years, discussing the stigma surrounding the disease, his experiences in activism, and the importance of mentorship in HIV care. He reflects on his life experiences, including fatherhood and personal loss, and...

In this episode of the Grown in Greek podcast, Rev. Jonathan A. Mason, Sr. shares his inspiring journey from overcoming personal adversity to becoming a leader in his community and beyond. He discusses the founding of Camp New Joy, a program aimed at empowering at-risk youth, and his impactful work in Ghana, where he supports education and community development. Rev. Mason emphasizes the importanc...

In this episode of the Grown in Greek Podcast, host DJ Chocolate talks to Abra Barnes, a successful realtor and community leader. They discuss Abra's journey from a marketing and fashion merchandising major to a prominent figure in real estate, influenced by her family's legacy. Abra shares her experiences with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and how it shaped her commitment to community service. The c...

In this engaging conversation, Jasmine Sanders and DJ Chocolate explore themes of personal growth, the impact of the pandemic on life perspectives, the journey to success in radio, and the importance of teamwork. They also delve into their shared experiences in sports and Greek life, highlighting the significance of relationships and community in their professional and personal lives. In this enga...

In this episode of the Grown in Greek podcast, host DJ Chocolate welcomes Byron McGowan, a former Marine and current farmer, to discuss his journey from college to military service and ultimately to agriculture. Byron shares his experiences in the Marine Corps, particularly in Africa, where he developed a passion for agriculture and community service. He emphasizes the importance of quality food p...

In this episode, Eddie Francis discusses the critical role of brand strategy in business growth, emphasizing that marketing is a long-term commitment rather than a quick fix. He shares insights from his experience in higher education branding and highlights the importance of understanding your audience and articulating your value proposition. The conversation also features a case study on Uncle Ne...

Welcome to the Grown and Greek® Podcast with Phaith “DJ Chocolate” Frazier, a podcast that will connect and empower our community as we celebrate trailblazers and thought leaders that are driving change throughout the world. With over 2.5 million members collectively representing the nine black Greek letter organizations known collectively as the Divine Nine, our goal is to share stories that will...