RISE Urban Nation: Amplifying Black & Pan-African Voices Worldwide

Join us in this episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast as we explore the transformative journeys of Dominic Turner and Sunshine Hodges, leaders of the Turner Foundation for Community Advocacy. Dominic shares his transition from a corporate career to founding a nonprofit that focuses on empowering underserved communities in Atlanta. Sunshine discusses her integral role in building the foundation’...

Join us in this episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast as we explore the transformative journeys of Dominic Turner and Sunshine Hodges, leaders of the Turner Foundation for Community Advocacy. Dominic shares his transition from a corporate career to founding a nonprofit that focuses on empowering underserved communities in Atlanta. Sunshine discusses her integral role in building the foundation’...

In this special live episode from Startup Week San Diego, hosts Taryell Simmons and Rylie Jennings of the RISE Urban Nation and Baddies Mean Business Podcast spotlight five remarkable social innovators reshaping their industries and communities. Dive into conversations with: Dissaya T. (Shroomeats) – Championing sustainability in the plant-based food sector. Alex Waters (The Program Labs) – Pionee...

In this insightful episode of the RISE Urban Nation podcast, host Taryell Simmons chats with Loren Cobbs, founder of SD Melanin, a community platform designed to celebrate and empower the Black community in San Diego. Loren shares her entrepreneurial journey, her career as a U.S. Diplomat, and her transition to becoming a marketing and brand strategy consultant. Throughout the conversation, Loren...

In this insightful episode of the RISE Urban Nation podcast, host Taryell Simmons chats with Loren Cobbs, founder of SD Melanin, a community platform designed to celebrate and empower the Black community in San Diego. Loren shares her entrepreneurial journey, her career as a U.S. Diplomat, and her transition to becoming a marketing and brand strategy consultant. Throughout the conversation, Loren...

In this compelling episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast, host Taryell Simmons welcomes Vanessa Green, the co-founder and CEO of Call BlackLine. Vanessa discusses her journey from being a social worker to spearheading a national hotline that provides vital support to marginalized communities. Discover how Vanessa’s experiences shaped her mission to offer a safe space for Black, Brown, Indigenou...

Episode Notes for Simplecast In this compelling episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast, host Taryell Simmons welcomes Vanessa Green, the co-founder and CEO of Call BlackLine. Vanessa discusses her journey from being a social worker to spearheading a national hotline that provides vital support to marginalized communities. Discover how Vanessa’s experiences shaped her mission to offer a safe spac...

Guest: Dr. Marya Wright, Social Worker, Educator, and Author of Redefining Time: A Practical Guide to Achieving Success Through Tasks Topic: Exploring time management strategies to achieve success and balance in life. Key Points: The concept of being “time-centered” and the power of task management. Practical advice on setting SMART goals and using time blocking for productivity. The importance of...

In this episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast, we dive into the world of African cultural representation with Johanne Gnagne, founder of Klaman & Co. Johanne discusses her journey from Côte d’Ivoire to San Diego and how she is creating a platform for African culture through her company. We also learn about the upcoming Klaman Africa Vibe Festival, a unique event showcasing African textile art,...

In this episode, Adesola Akindele returns to share her experiences and insights from a recent wellness journey. We dive deep into: The significance of setting boundaries and how it transformed Adesola’s approach to work and life. Overcoming social anxiety and the steps she took to manage it. The challenges and rewards of transitioning to a three-day work week. Practical tips on maintaining mental,...

In this episode, Adesola Akindele returns to share her experiences and insights from a recent wellness journey. We dive deep into: The significance of setting boundaries and how it transformed Adesola’s approach to work and life. Overcoming social anxiety and the steps she took to manage it. The challenges and rewards of transitioning to a three-day work week. Practical tips on maintaining mental,...

In this episode: Therman Trotman breaks down his transition from dealing with overwhelming spreadsheets to developing seamless SharePoint systems. Explore the benefits of SharePoint over traditional methods like Excel, including improved data integration, security, and collaborative capabilities. Therman provides real-life examples and success stories illustrating the transformational impact of Sh...

Episode Highlights:  Elzie’s journey from Mounds, Illinois, to becoming the Mayor of Podcast Town. The inspiration behind founding Podcast Town and authoring Flame Starter: The Art of Self-Mastery . Key strategies for using the power of voice to build community and foster business growth. Insights into the EMIT Principle (Education x Motivation x Inspiration = Transformation) and its application f...

Episode Highlights: • The founding story of Whayle and its mission • Challenges Leon and Shalimar faced in establishing Whayle Mentality • Key strategies that led to their success • The importance of education, experience, and engagement in wealth building • Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially within the Black and Pan-African communities   Connect with Leon Oloya and Shalimar Jackson: •...

Episode Highlights: Santana’s transition from a high-achieving corporate career to a life of alignment The mental barriers and challenges she faced during her journey Strategies for overcoming limiting beliefs and achieving personal and professional alignment The importance of self-compassion, mindfulness, and holistic wellbeing An impactful project: International Women’s Day initiative offering f...

Episode Highlights: The origin story of Ayo Haynes’ journey into open adoption. Challenges Ayo faced in the adoption process as a single woman. Key strategies that led to her success in becoming a mother. The importance of inclusivity and community in adoption and parenting. Advice for aspiring mothers and entrepreneurs, especially within the Black and Pan-African communities. Connect with Ayo Hay...

In this episode, we sit down with Honorebel Walker, visionary founder of SpaceTime Social, to explore his journey in using technology as a catalyst for community transformation. Honorebel discusses the challenges faced by communities and how innovative tech solutions can bridge gaps and empower individuals. We delve into his strategies for leveraging digital platforms to foster economic growth and...

Episode Highlights: Gain insights into the origin story and mission of Dream Exchange. Learn about the specific challenges Joe and Dwain faced in establishing the exchange. Explore the key strategies that propelled their remarkable success. Understand the importance of inclusivity and community in transforming financial markets. Benefit from practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularl...

Episode Highlights: • The origin story of Dream Exchange and its mission • Challenges Joe and Dwain faced in establishing the exchange • Key strategies that led to their success • The importance of inclusivity and community in financial markets • Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially within the Black and Pan-African communities   Connect with Joe Cecala and Dwain Kyles: • Website: Dream Ex...

Guest: Carmen James Randolph, President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation of the South Discussion Highlights: Challenges in philanthropy, effective strategies for social change, and success stories from WFS. Key Takeaways: Insights on leadership, the importance of community in philanthropic endeavors, and actionable advice for those looking to make a difference. Call to Action: Learn how to suppor...

Guest: Carmen James Randolph, President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation of the South Discussion Highlights: Challenges in philanthropy, effective strategies for social change, and success stories from WFS. Key Takeaways: Insights on leadership, the importance of community in philanthropic endeavors, and actionable advice for those looking to make a difference. Call to Action: Learn how to suppor...

Tune into part 2 a profound discussion with Naketa Ren Thigpen as she unveils her unique insights on achieving life balance and enriching relationships. This episode is packed with actionable advice, making it a must-listen for anyone aiming to enhance their personal and professional life. Engage with Naketa's work, discover her innovative strategies, and learn how you can start building your own...

Tune into a profound discussion with Naketa Ren Thigpen as she unveils her unique insights on achieving life balance and enriching relationships. This episode is packed with actionable advice, making it a must-listen for anyone aiming to enhance their personal and professional life. Engage with Naketa's work, discover her innovative strategies, and learn how you can start building your own legacy...

Introduction: Insight into Odessa's initial meeting with Wil Maker and their shared passion for music. Musical Beginnings and Influences: Discussion on their early music careers, key influences, and experiences in the music industry that shaped their paths. Divine Minds and MagFlux: Exploration of their time promoting music in Atlanta, transitioning to San Diego, and the formation of their music g...

Introduction: Insight into Odessa's initial meeting with Wil Maker and their shared passion for music. Musical Beginnings and Influences: Discussion on their early music careers, key influences, and experiences in the music industry that shaped their paths. Divine Minds and MagFlux: Exploration of their time promoting music in Atlanta, transitioning to San Diego, and the formation of their music g...