The Crossman Conversation

Communication impacts us all, yet so many in businesses and organizations still underplay the importance of such skills. Every CEO not only needs to have a handle on giving presentations...he also needs to build his team relationally. Michael Strawser is a Communications Professor at UCF, and he weighs in on this most valuable resource.

Host John Crossman engages in a dynamic discussion with Reginald K. Ellis, the Provost Professor of Community Outreach, Engagement, and Research at Florida A&M University. The conversation delves into Ellis' background growing up in a farming community and explores his role in fostering connections between the university and the broader community. They discuss the importance of reengaging with local communities, breaking down silos, and the university's commitment to serving its broader community. The episode also touches on topics like the significance of HBCUs, the role of politics in education, and the need for stronger ties between universities and local businesses. Ellis also shares insightful stories and perspectives.

Host John Crossman interviews Nehemiah Jefferson who is an attorney, pastor and philanthropist. Jefferson and John discuss the impact of mental health, the importance of faith and staying true to your principles.

Monica Williams, corporate council for Cox Media Group, joins John on the podcast to discuss Williams' education journey from FAMU to the University of Florida Levin College of Law. Williams sheds lights on the benefits of pursuing a law degree and the transformative years she had at FAMU.

Marcelia Freeman, a distinguished member of the FAMU Foundation Board joins John. Freeman shares her journey from an Army brat to a Harvard MBA, offering insights on authenticity, empathy, and the transformative power of education. The episode highlights Freeman's unique experiences, emphasizing the importance of service and diversity in shaping a better future.

John Crossman engages in a dynamic conversation with Kristen Harper, Chair of the Family Board of Trustees. They discuss imposter syndrome, burnout, and the essence of leadership. Kristen shares insights from her book, "Heart of a Leader," emphasizing emotional intelligence and the intangible aspects of success. Harper shares about her journey at FAMU School of Business and Industry, highlighting the unique professional development approach.

John Martinez rejoins John Crossman for a candid conversation about the hurdles of teaching in under-resourced schools. They discuss book banning controversies and recent rule changes. Martinez explains the unique challenges teachers face and shares how listeners can make a positive impact on students' lives.

Willie Montague is the founder of House of Timothy. Willie's passion is to make a positive impact on young lives ages 7 to 25, providing guidance and structure. Willie shares his personal journey and the inspiration of "The House of Timothy." Discover how the organization works and how you can take part in changing the lives of young men.

John is joined by Chief Sustainability Officer for Linkscape360, Elaine Armster. Armster shares her personal experiences on navigating a male-dominated industry to becoming a successful woman in leadership. The episode also explores the unique leadership traits instilled by HBCUs such as professionalism and the strong alumni community.

John is joined again by J.C. Derrick to finish their conversation on the intricacies of responsible media consumption through seven recommendations. The tips given are meant to help navigate the complex media landscape with discernment and intentionality.

J.C. Derrick is an accomplished journalist, having worked for years for World Magazine along with assisting on their podcast, "The World and Everything In It." This is part one of a two-part series of episodes on John's podcast, dealing with J.C.'s recommendations for us all to consider. J.C. is the Publisher of Mainstreet Daily News in Gainesville, FL. (www.mainstreetdailynews.com)

John Crossman has spoken of his friend Thomas Bolen as a superstar. Yet Thomas was going through a dark time, and he found help that was much need. Click on this link for more info on Alpha Stim - https://alpha-stim.com/

Andrew Mwavua, the Executive Director of Community Advocacy for AdventHealth. The healthcare system is headquartered in Altamonte Springs and operated in nine states across the U.S. Mwavua speaks about the organization's mission for whole-person care in the Central Florida community.

FAMU alumni and Board of Trustee member, Kelvin Lawson joins John on The Crossman Conversation to discuss FAMU and its recent achievement of making U.S. News' top 100 university list. Trustee Lawson and John discuss how successful the FAMU student body is and how the HBCU is aiming to continue to grow in the future.

Wendy Roundtree joins John on the podcast to discuss the importance of public relations and how it plays an integral part in getting traction for many organizations. Roundtree is the Founder and Lead Strategist of Jarel Communications which was started in 2019.

Mike Walters, the owner of Seniors Helping Seniors, joins John on the show for Veteran's Day to discuss how his organization is helping veterans. Mike also shares insights on the VA and receiving benefits as a veteran. John reflects with Mike on the lives of veterans and the sacrifice they made when they chose to serve our country.

Shepherd's Hope provides resources and helps those in need navigate the stressful world of health insurance. Donna Walsh, the CEO, and Abby Rice, Vice President of Operations, join the podcast to share how Shepherd's Hope provides for those in our community and how listeners can get involved through volunteering.

Deveron Gibbons has checked a lot of boxes on John Crossman's favorites list. First, Deveron is a trustee at TWO of John's favorite HGCUs...Bethune Cookman and FAMU. His is also a college athlete, and can say that he played for the Gators under the Ol' Ball Coach himself, Steve Spurrier. Deveron is a developer in the St. Petersburg area, and gained his love for HBCUs from his father and grandfather.

Cherlette McCullough the Vice President of Mental Health Association of Central Florida and founder of Center Peace Couples joins the show to discuss mental health. John and Cherlette narcissism disorder and tips to deal with narcissists. Cherlette also touches on how to take care of yourself during the holiday months.

J.C. Derrick, the publisher of Mainstreet Daily News in Gainesville, FL rejoins John on the show to discuss 7 important warning signs to avoid when reading or watching the news. Now more than ever, where you consume your news is important. J.C. Derrick explains the warning signs and why these signs lead oftentimes to misinformation being spread. Enjoy the show? Please consider leaving a review or rating?