Haines Directive POD

Recorded live at Baroness on Baronne in New Orleans during 2026 Essence Fest weekend, this special episode features co-host Karima Williams-Naringi, Esq, an attorney and speaker based in the New York City area, alongside Kwamara Thompson, an accomplished speaker, consultant, educator, entrepreneur, and activist. Together, the conversation dives deep into the intersection of Black entrepreneurship,...

In this episode, I sit down with Jasper Smith, the Chief Visionary behind Build Wealth Movement, a financial education company dedicated to disrupting generational poverty through financial literacy and empowerment. With years of experience in the financial services industry, Jasper shares practical insights on building wealth, managing debt, planning for retirement, and the growing role of artifi...

In this episode, I have a conversation with Paul John, a Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement professional with over 10 years of experience. Paul has built a strong track record in mobilizing grassroots efforts, managing programs, advocating for legislative change, and maintaining impactful public relations. We discuss the importance of strategic partnerships and community engagement fo...

In this episode, I have a conversation with Reuben Lowing who is the the founder of My Business Is Your Business, where he leverages his background as a Navy SEAL to bring tactical precision to the financial services industry. A specialist in debt elimination and wealth protection, Reuben focuses on empowering individuals to build generational legacy through holistic financial planning. We discuss...

In this episode, I have a conversation with Ken Benavides, an entrepreneur and delivery leader focused on helping organizations move from concept to production turning innovative ideas into real, scalable systems that create measurable business value. We discuss AI, DNS, and the evolving technology landscape shaping businesses in 2026, along with insights relevant for entrepreneurs, business owner...

In this episode, I have a conversation with Carol Perez Quezada. We have a conversation about life after high school and the transition students face as they prepare for higher education, careers, and adulthood. We discuss AI, the opportunities, challenges, and important decisions high school students encounter while navigating their next chapter after graduation.

In this episode, I have a conversation with Dr. Cleopature Thelus, a professor of Applied Social Psychology, to explore key issues shaping higher education today. We discuss higher education as a pivotal pathway for high school students, the growing role of AI in academic institutions, current enrollment trends, adult literacy, and advice for college seekers navigating their next steps.

In this episode, I have a conversation with Jessica Georges, an educator, transformational leadership expert, and career coach for an insightful conversation on career pivoting. We explore what it really takes to make a successful transition, how to prepare for a career change, and the mindset shifts needed to navigate uncertainty with confidence.

In this episode, I have a conversation with Safiyyah Salahuddin, a San Francisco State University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in accounting who is now working as a Senior Associate at an accounting firm in California. We dive into her journey from college to building a successful career in accounting, including the lessons she learned along the way and what it really takes to grow in the pro...

In this episode, I have a conversation with Charmaine Shuford, a dancer, high school educator specializing in project-based learning, and a world traveler who has explored over 30 countries. We dive into travel tips, traveling with a group vs solo, and the lessons gathered from global adventures.

In this episode, I have a conversation with Sarah Aguilar, a University of California, Berkeley graduate in mathematics and a California based math teacher with over 20 years of experience, as we explore the evolving landscape of math education, AI, student engagement, and the real challenges math educators face today.

On this episode, I speak with Dr. Charles Rismyhr, MD a board certified family medicine physician for a powerful conversation on navigating healthcare options. Whether you’re unemployed, currently employed but feeling the pressure of rising healthcare costs, or stepping out on faith to start your own business, this episode is for you. We break down real options, clear up confusion, and share pract...

In this episode I have a conversation about navigating the film industry while living in Los Angeles. My guest is Dexter Pierce Jr. a Los Angeles based film maker, director, content creator, and the founder of Pierce Productions. Through his brand Dexx Films, Dexter continues to grow a powerful online presence while developing original films that aim to resonate far beyond the screen.

Mini pod on navigating a job loss and being prepared!

An introduction to Haines Direct POD.