The Interludes Podcast: Entrepreneurs and DJ Culture / Music and Rhythm

We love the ’90s — and apparently, so does Hollywood. In this nostalgic episode, Val “The Voice” Johnson and Executive Producer Michael Wamble take a trip back in time to revisit one of the most beloved eras in film and music. The duo dives into Malcolm Lee’s The Best Man: The Final Chapters and reflects on how this revival captures the heart, humor, and legacy of the original. Along the way, they...

The temperature’s dropping, and so is everyone’s guard — it’s officially cuffing season ! In this fun and insightful episode, Val “The Voice” Johnson breaks down what cuffing season really means and how singles can stay strong during the emotionally charged holiday months. With her signature mix of wisdom and wit, Val explores the social and emotional dynamics of this seasonal phenomenon, offering...

Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with Brooklyn-based designer Wilbur Pack Jr. , the creative force behind SK Wilbur , to explore how music, film, and culture continue to shape his bold and inspiring fashion brand. From the rhythms that move his design process to the cinematic influences that inspire his collections, Wilbur shares how storytelling and style intersect in his work. He also discusses...

Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with Christie Love , motivational speaker, talk-show host, and passionate communicator who’s on a mission to uplift others through authenticity and love. In this inspiring conversation, Christie opens up about her early fears of public speaking , the mentors who guided her, and the powerful lessons that helped her evolve into a confident, fearless voice who makes...

November is Epilepsy Awareness Month , and Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with Karla Braithwaite — digital compositor, entertainment consultant, and passionate advocate — for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation about her journey living with epilepsy . Karla opens up about her challenges, breakthroughs, and resilience , sharing how she turned her experience into purpose through advocacy...

The epic sequel has arrived! Val “The Voice” Johnson and Mr. Michael Wamble return with a special audio breakdown that serves as your passport into the world of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Together, they explore the film’s powerful themes of legacy, grief, and resilience, its breathtaking visuals, and the ways it honors both Chadwick Boseman’s enduring spirit and the cultural impact of the Bla...

Val “The Voice” Johnson and Executive Producer Michael Wamble sit down with Alvin Malcolm Daniels playwright, filmmaker, and son of a preacher woman — for a powerful conversation about faith, creativity, and storytelling. Daniels shares insight into his acclaimed docuseries and stage play, Preacher’s Kids: The Untold Stories , which shines a light on the often-unspoken experiences of children grow...

Val “The Voice” Johnson welcomes Tracy R. Kincaide — a talented singer, actress, and passionate breast cancer awareness advocate for an inspiring conversation about her latest single, “The Time Is Now.” Tracy shares how her journey through music, faith, and advocacy continues to shape her creative voice and purpose. With new projects on the horizon, she opens up about using her gifts to uplift, he...

You’ve already heard about the season’s major “Black” blockbusters — from DC’s Black Adam to Marvel’s highly anticipated Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. But what about the powerful dramas and independent films made for adult audiences that deserve just as much attention? In this episode, Val “The Voice” Johnson and Executive Producer Michael Wamble step away from the superhero spotlight to highlig...

Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with Terrance P. Elmore — author of Love Letters: A Collection of Poems , blogger, and fellow podcaster — to explore the soulful, reflective world he’s created through his platform, The Brown Sugar Café . With his signature smooth tone and poetic insight, Terrance discusses the inspiration behind his writing, the healing power of words, and how his podcast blends...

Val “The Voice” Johnson welcomes Dr. Raykel Tolson , author of Why Are Church Folk Poor? , money mindset consultant, and entrepreneur, for a powerful discussion about faith, finances, and finding freedom through purpose. Dr. Tolson shares her life-changing journey —from financial struggle to homeownership and entrepreneurship and reveals how reshaping one’s mindset can transform not just bank acco...

How has the African American college experience been portrayed on film and television? This week, the Interludes team takes a look at how movies and shows have celebrated — and sometimes challenged — the journey of Brothers and Sisters heading off to college in fictional worlds that still feel all too real. From campus life and Greek culture to friendship, love, and self-discovery, Val “The Voice”...

As we fall into a new season , Val “The Voice” Johnson takes a moment to reflect on her recent trip to Brooklyn , sharing personal insights and stories from the road. Then, the Interludes team dives into a spirited review of the critically acclaimed film The Woman King , celebrating its powerful storytelling, historical depth, and the commanding performance of Viola Davis . Together, they explore...

In this episode of Interludes Extra, Sports Correspondent Coach Tony Thompson sits down with his longtime friend and respected leader in women’s basketball — Coach Ty Evans, Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Tennessee State University (TSU). Coach Evans shares his journey through the world of collegiate athletics, offering wisdom on leadership, player development, and perseverance both on and off t...

Ahead of the 74th Primetime Emmy Awards, Val the Voice and Mr. Wamble gives their top five comedies and top five dramas that you should be binging. 

Lorraine Hansberry. Lynn Nottage. Christine Houston. Three trailblazing playwrights from different eras — united by one essential message: our voice matters. In this episode, Val “The Voice” Johnson speaks with veteran actress Felisha McNeal about the groundbreaking work of playwright Christine Houston, best known for her iconic creation Two Twenty Seven, which inspired the beloved television seri...

August is National Black Business Month, a time to celebrate and empower Black entrepreneurship while learning what it takes to build sustainable success. In this episode, Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with Shirrod Le’Det — business leader, educator, and author affectionately known as the “leadership locksmith.” Together, they discuss the keys to developing strong leadership skills, adapting t...

Today’s music scene can be hard to decipher — and when our parents couldn’t relate, it just sounded like noise. 🎶 But not all modern music blends into the background. This week, the Interludes team turns up the volume with their very own Val and Michael Awards (aka the VMAs), honoring three standout artists who rise above the noise and define the sound of now. Join Val “The Voice” Johnson and Mic...

While names like Jackie Robinson and Tiger Woods are iconic in sports history, the broader story of African Americans in golf remains largely untold. This week, Interludes takes a thoughtful walk through golf’s past and present to explore the sport’s deep cultural roots and growing influence within the Black community. Val “The Voice” Johnson welcomes Jim Beatty, Executive Editor of African Americ...

When it comes to film, the name Tyler is becoming synonymous with movie magic. But this week, we’re not talking about that Tyler. Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with Andrew Tyler — filmmaker, storyteller, and founder of the Wheaton Film Festival — to explore his creative journey and his mission to bring independent film to new audiences. From script to screen, Andrew shares how passion, purpose...

From Scorsese and De Niro to Jordan Peele and Daniel Kaluuya, Hollywood has long been shaped by creative partnerships that bring unforgettable stories to life. This week, Val “The Voice” Johnson and the Interludes team step into the director’s chair to explore the powerful chemistry between actors and directors — the kind of collaboration that defines a generation of storytelling. From the hauntin...

Summer in Chicago is heating up! ☀️ From the iconic Lollapalooza Music Festival to neighborhood block parties and lakefront concerts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season. Join Val “The Voice” Johnson and comedian Michael Wamble as they serve up a taste of Chicago’s biggest and best summer events — from R&B queen Erykah Badu and hip-hop hero J. Cole to the legendary Diana Ross g...

Get ready for laughter and live energy as Val “The Voice” Johnson and Executive Producer Michael Wamble prepare to debut their comedic talents before a live audience at Riddles Comedy Club this weekend! 🎤😂 Joining them is comedian, author, and founder of IYH Innertainment, Jori O’Neale, who shares valuable insights on the art of live comedy — from timing and confidence to connecting with an audi...

Interludes kicks off its fifth season with an inspiring Women in Business Spotlight featuring Deloris Williams, founder and owner of Divine Connections. Join Val “The Voice” Johnson as she sits down with Williams to discuss her journey of faith, determination, and purpose — and how she built a thriving media platform dedicated to uplifting and connecting others. Through her vision and passion, Del...

It’s a celebration! Interludes marks an incredible milestone — 100 episodes and the kickoff to Season 5! Join Val “The Voice” Johnson and her guest co-host and childhood friend Princess Hoy as they take a joyful look back at the moments, memories, and meaningful interviews that have defined Interludes. The duo also revisit their fun-filled adventures from the 2021 Chicago Auto Show, sharing laughs...