I'm Speaking Now

You are your most important asset. Jason Brown launched the Protect Your Peace movement to raise suicide prevention awareness and to support people committed to mental health wellness. Jason, who lives with bipolar disorder, shares his triumphs and tools for healing. He reminds us that no matter how isolating depression, anxiety, or life's unexpected potholes may feel - we are never alone. Help is closer than we know.  Follow him at @RevBeezy on Instagram or email him at vantoneconsulting@gmail.com. 

Brooklyn native Gershon Hinkson has worked in the film industry as a writer, director, and editor for nearly 30 years. Some of the pieces he's worked on include Spiderman 2, She's Gotta Have It (the series), Free State of Jones, and The Best Man. He knows a lot about overcoming fears and obstacles in order to grab goals and dreams by the horns. From dealing with sadistic colleagues to learning how to harness the magic of kindness, Gershon shares anecdotes and insider guidance on keeping your feet planted firmly on the ground while reaching beyond the stars! 

Social media is one of the ways that we communicate through language and images. We share captions to give context to images that we post. However, some people never quite make it to the feed of their "supposedly" significant other. In this episode we explore why some people are uncomfortable sharing images of their partners and whether or not it is indeed a malicious, self-centered act.  

Make sure that when you agree to lend a hand, you're not being exploited. This episode highlights the three things you want to keep in mind when discerning whether someone is taking your talents, kindness, or intellectual property for granted. No man or woman is an island as so we all will be asked for help or will be inspired to lend a hand -- but we always want the experience to be fair, first and foremost.

NYC-based Fashion Abby (Abdullah Graham) talks to us about integrating simplicity, humility, and sustainable choices in the clothing that we wear. He also expounds upon his globally chic fez collection and cautions us about not overindulging in "fast fashion." You can find him on Instagram at @fashionabbynyc and he's even up for giving listeners a bit of fashion guidance should you need it.  

Calling all fashion critics, aficionados, and ateliers AS well as the fashionably timid, understated, and intimidated! In this episode Well Read Fly Girl Sakina Pitts helps us all come to terms with the value in being "extra" and owning the power of our personal branding via style and adornment. She's also 1/2 of the machine behind GardenofExtra.com, an online vintage store for curated pieces to add to your closet as well as the principal extraordinaire at Chancellor Avenue Elementary in Newark, NJ. 

If it takes two to tango -- doesn't someone have to ask the other to dance first? In the world of romance, there's always a person who speaks up first or shows signs of interest so that the object of his or her desire is given the opportunity to reciprocate that interest. The question here is -- should men, or more masculine personalities, take on this responsibility? Or, are women, or more feminine personas, just as effective in shooting their shots without being labeled too aggressive?

Learn five things that you want to avoid saying and doing upon lending your condolences to the bereaved.  You'll also learn solutions that allow for you to share heartfelt concern while not overstepping boundaries. Comforting our close ones in mourning can be awkward and scary. These tips will aid you in developing confidence in navigating how to communicate with clarity and compassion. 

Are you code-switching often these days? Everyone has likely done so for one reason or another. Let's explore when code-switching is for the greater good versus when it's a complete fail. 

How do you perfect the art of apologizing? What if you simply didn't grow up learning how to say "I'm sorry"? Also, should we always forgive the people who hurt or violate us? My guest De'Janee' Jones (CEO of Dear Diary, a non-profit support organization for women's wellness) took some time with me to pick apart the complexities of intentional apologies and forgiveness. 

Many abusive and dismissive people use the word "sensitive" to describe people who push back against their disrespect or inappropriate comments or behaviors. My guest, Lori Partin, a Temple University professor and professional in human services, talks about the importance of asserting your humanity in the face of a dismissive and abusive person. 

There are some things that we seriously should not text anyone. Unfortunately, some people are making some pretty poor decisions and texting content that they ought to have thought through before pressing SEND. My guest Ramon Payne -- an accountant-turned massage therapist and entertainer in Los Angeles -- talks with me about best practices in texting. 

Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields, CEO of The Cambio Group, an educational consulting firm that services districts nationwide -- gives us the lowdown on top-notch preparation for exemplary public speaking appearances and our presentations. From technology fails to taking care of your voice prior to your event -- Dr. Shields takes us into the spotlight with tools to ensure our messages and brands make a lasting impression on our audiences. You'll want to take notes, I promise! 

Awkward moments happen. They happen at work, with strangers, when texting, and in a variety of circumstances. Sometimes we are the ones who bring the awkwardness into the center of the arena and at other times, it happens from situations that are beyond our control. Learn three methods for easing the tension, embarrassment, and weird energy we encounter when awkward moments arise. 

Your children have the right to grow into adults who are entitled and unapologetic about asserting their humanity and desires for freedom and peace. In this episode, I share three areas that I think are essential in our parenting practices when intentionally raising resilient and courageous children. 

My guest Scott Cumberbatch and I talk about the ways people have changed their communication habits during this pandemic. We discuss why friends feel guilty for hugging, hysterical religious messaging, the effects of isolation, and also even how folks are using social media amid class and racial conflict that has exploded within the pandemic. The way we are talking, touching, and listening has indeed changed. 

If you're attending online meetings, there are some valid reasons to turn off your camera. However, you should also use your presence and influence by being visibly present. In this episode I share rationale for when cameras should be off as well as when and why they should be on. 

In Season Three's premier episode I tackle navigating avoidant behavior (in yourself and others) when it comes to THREE areas: emotion, health, and justice. It's so important to become comfortable with seeking clarity especially when encountering situations that might exploit us if we are willingly uninformed. I also discuss the Lauryn Hill's response to her daughter Selah's trauma and introduce you to one of my favorite resources, Alan Robarge, for transcending avoidant behavioral patterns. 

You have seen enough to know the truth. But what should you do when a well-meaning person sends you video or images of police brutality, physical assault against helpless victims, or even historically violent content such as lynchings, bombings against Black Americans, or otherwise? Sometimes, it's all too much. This short story supports your desires to create a safe digital space during a time when media sharing is at all all-time high. 

Indulge in 14 minutes of respite as I share a story about peace, courage, and audacity. Enjoy the calming sounds of nature while learning about how the human spirit transcends chaos.