SpeakUP! International Inc.

What if you could craft a career that aligns seamlessly with your life’s mission and values? Join us in our conversation with Kason Morris, a trailblazer in the Future of Work Skills Strategy and the creative mind behind "Life Work Revolutionary." Kason challenges the conventional ladder of career success, urging a shift towards a dynamic lattice of opportunities where personal well-bein...

Phil Vassell , a renowned figure with over 25 years of journalism experience, shares his remarkable story of transitioning from a career rooted in media to one focused on preserving cultural history through archiving. From his early days in Jamaica, where his love for media began, to his influential roles at CBC and as the creator of Word magazine, Phil has been a steadfast advocate for Black cult...

Michelle Anne Johnson joins us to share her captivating journey from a young actress, charming audiences with her George Jefferson impersonations, to a powerhouse in corporate leadership. Her story is a fascinating blend of determination, passion, and the unexpected twists life offers. Balancing auditions with a rising corporate career, Michelle transitioned from a data entry clerk to assistant vi...

WARNING! There is sensitive or potentially distressing content, as we are talking about intimate partner violence, abuse and harm. Ever wondered how cultural identity shapes healthcare experiences for Black Caribbean women in the UK? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Rianna Raymond-Williams, a passionate advocate and researcher in the realm of sexual and reproductive health. As she nea...

Michelle Forde , an inspiring educator and communication specialist from Toronto, joins us to share her remarkable journey into the world of education and equity. From her formative years in London, Ontario to influential mentorship from her English teacher, Carol Talbot , Michelle's story is one of passion and purpose. Her dedication to storytelling and representation has shaped her unique a...

Rochelle Ramathe takes us on an inspiring journey from academic challenges to the triumph of earning a master's degree, sharing her story of resilience and empowerment. Raised in environments where her identity was often overlooked, Rochelle found her true potential at a historically Black university, where mentors championed her growth. Through an excerpt from her poignant book, " Why B...

Discover the captivating journey of Titilope Sonuga, an acclaimed international poet and playwright, who shares the remarkable story of her transition from civil engineering to a celebrated career in the literary arts. Journey with us as we uncover the pivotal moments that influenced her artistic voice—from her vibrant upbringing in Lagos, Nigeria, to her move to Canada at the age of 13, and her e...

Imagine breaking free from the constraints of a corporate career to find the balance and fulfillment you’ve always craved. Carol Kabaale, a pioneering entrepreneur and Meta Certified Ads Strategist, shares her riveting journey from the precipice of burnout to the vibrant world of digital marketing. Her story is a masterclass in resilience and transformation, offering listeners a front-row seat to...

Karen Carter , a true pioneer in the Canadian arts and culture scene, joins us to share her remarkable 25-year journey. Through her roles at B.A.N.D., Heritage Toronto , and more, Karen has transformed cultural landscapes, all while embodying her Caribbean roots filled with music and volunteerism. Her story is a testament to how relationships, readiness, and growth can create lasting impact in the...

 Discover the powerful journey of Dr. Jonathan McRoy , whose remarkable path from the Air Force to civilian leadership offers invaluable lessons for anyone navigating major life transitions. In our conversation, Dr. McRoy shares his leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding what truly matters to individuals when driving change. Learn how he mobilizes teams to tackle comple...

What drives an educator to transform the landscape of professional development through an anti-oppressive lens? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Mr. Lee Jones-Imhotep , a renowned adult educator from Canada who has crafted a legacy of innovation in teaching. With over 30 years of dedication, Lee has not only reshaped how literacy is perceived in schools but also earned accolades like...

Michelle Joseph's journey is nothing short of inspiring! Her transition from a reserved youth to a dynamic storyteller is a testament to the power of courage and authenticity. In this episode, we unravel Michelle's evolution as she candidly shares her experiences growing up, the solace she found in writing, and her eventual leap into podcasting. A true celebration of Black Canadian histo...

Imagine standing at a crossroads in life and asking, "How do you build a masterpiece?" Our guest, Powerful Steve , did just that in Brampton, leading him on a transformative journey from his adventurous beginnings in Jamaica to becoming an influential thought leader in Canada. Known for his powerful speeches and a Guinness World Record holder, Steve's tale is one of resilience and i...

Award-winning author Hyacinth Caesar graces SpeakUP! International with a compelling excerpt from her newest novel, " Your Hug Is All I Long For. " Journey with us to the idyllic 1960s on St. Christopher's Island, where the Cuthbert family's vacation takes a shocking twist. Hyacinth's rich tapestry of experience—as a teacher, systems analyst, motivational speaker, and past...

Former Chicago Cubs outfielder CJ Stewart joins us for a heartfelt and compelling discussion on the power of sports in youth development. Learn how CJ's own journey from the streets of Atlanta to the baseball diamond shaped his vision for the L.E.A.D. Center for Youth. By focusing on creating Major League citizens who thrive professionally and personally, CJ and his team offer young people th...

Peta-Gaye Nash, a multi-genre writer and podcast host, brings a refreshing and deeply personal perspective to children's literature. Her stories, inspired by her Caribbean heritage and immigrant experiences, challenge colonial beauty norms and celebrate the journey of self-love. Through heartfelt narratives like " Don't Take Raja to School ," inspired by her daughter's bon...

Kwesi Otoo's journey from radio broadcasting to social services is nothing short of transformative. As a father of a determined four-year-old daughter, Kwesi reflects on the delicate balance of fostering independence at home and in his work. Listen to a heartwarming tale of his daughter learning to put on her coat by herself, which perfectly parallels his philosophy of empowering others both...

Celebrated author Ronald L. Smith joins us to share the enchanting world of "Project Mercury," where childhood curiosity meets the mysteries of military life. With a heartfelt reflection on his own experiences growing up on Air Force bases, Ronald crafts an intriguing narrative following Ike and Isha's adventures. This episode promises listeners a taste of the magical storytelling t...

What happens when a childhood love for reading intertwines with the vibrant culture of Toronto's Little Jamaica? Alannah Johnson , our guest, takes us through her journey as a writer, Black archivist, and EDI professional. From the poignant influence of Sharon Blake's " The Skin I'm In " to the therapeutic power of journaling, Alana reveals how storytelling has been a guid...

Discover the inspiring journey of Richard Jack III , the visionary co-founder and executive director of Ladies and Gentlemen by Choice , as he transitions from a 20-year Air Force career to becoming a beacon of hope and empowerment for the youth. Richard's story is a testament to the transformative power of personal development and the critical role of mentorship. He shares how his military b...

Carlos Anthony , an award-winning author, joins us for a powerful conversation that unearths the emotional and complex layers of his novel, " Shades of Black ." Together, we navigate the tumultuous journey of Romero, a young Black teen grappling with racial profiling in a school environment. The narrative strikes at the heart of fear and vulnerability, bringing Carlos's literary the...

Victoria Allen , a passionate children's book author, joins us to share her remarkable journey from corporate life to the enchanting world of storytelling. Discover how her beloved character, Buddy the Bear , came to life and the universal themes her books explore, such as overcoming childhood fears and embracing imagination. Victoria's story is a testament to the power of creativity and...

Discover how to align your personal and professional aspirations with Lechon Kirb , a creative visionary, speaker, and author. Lechon shares his groundbreaking impact scaling process that transforms expertise into scalable products, perfect for coaches and consultants eager to expand their reach without sacrificing time or resources. Embrace the strategic power of setting growth caps to foster exc...

Zorina Pritchett's life took an unexpected turn in December 2019 when her brother suffered a debilitating stroke. Faced with the daunting task of becoming his primary caregiver,  Zorina embarked on a transformative journey filled with challenges and profound lessons. Her story shines a light on the power of love, resilience, and strategic planning as she transitioned from a 30-year federal se...

Celina Caesar-Chavannes takes us on an empowering journey from the sun-kissed shores of Grenada to the halls of Canadian politics. In this episode, Celina opens up about her experiences as a Black woman navigating the turbulent waters of politics and business. She reveals how her upbringing, blending assertiveness with compassion, shaped her into a formidable force advocating for visible and genui...