From Chicago to Change Management: The Evolution of Bryant K. Smith episode artwork

EPISODE · Oct 23, 2025 · 46 MIN

From Chicago to Change Management: The Evolution of Bryant K. Smith

from Prepare For Takeoff · host Terry L. Cyrus

In this inspiring episode, Bryant K. Smith shares about his journey from growing up in Chicago to becoming a successful entrepreneur, consultant and author of ten books. He talks about how mentorship, being a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated and family shaped his identity and career. Bryant explains the courage it takes to leave a stable job and start your own business. Guided by mentors like Dr. Na'im Akbar, he highlights the power of partnerships and the importance of embracing change. He also shares how helping others brings fulfillment and purpose. As an author and thought leader, Bryant continues to inspire people to grow and reach their full potential. His story reminds us that when you know who you are, build community and strive to be your best, you are ready to Prepare For Takeoff.Chapters00:00 - Navigating the Landscape: Geographic Connections03:17 - Roots of Identity: Growing Up in Chicago11:08 - Cultural Commitment: Embracing Black Identity in College16:45 - The Impact of Brotherhood: Fraternity Influence on Professional Life22:54 - Entrepreneurial Journey: Building SmithCAN and Overcoming Challenges25:25 - Navigating Career Transitions27:15 - The Freedom of Self-Employment29:18 - Living Without Regrets31:02 - Credentials and Expertise33:00 - The Importance of Family Support38:15 - The Role of Partnerships40:12 - Embracing Change Management43:16 - Books and Resources for Growth47:54 - Three Takeoff TipsThe future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠.Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

In this inspiring episode, Bryant K. Smith shares about his journey from growing up in Chicago to becoming a successful entrepreneur, consultant and author of ten books. He talks about how mentorship, being a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated and family shaped his identity and career. Bryant explains the courage it takes to leave a stable job and start your own business. Guided by mentors like Dr. Na'im Akbar, he highlights the power of partnerships and the importance of embracing change. He also shares how helping others brings fulfillment and purpose. As an author and thought leader, Bryant continues to inspire people to grow and reach their full potential. His story reminds us that when you know who you are, build community and strive to be your best, you are ready to Prepare For Takeoff.Chapters00:00 - Navigating the Landscape: Geographic Connections03:17 - Roots of Identity: Growing Up in Chicago11:08 - Cultural Commitment: Embracing Black Identity in College16:45 - The Impact of Brotherhood: Fraternity Influence on Professional Life22:54 - Entrepreneurial Journey: Building SmithCAN and Overcoming Challenges25:25 - Navigating Career Transitions27:15 - The Freedom of Self-Employment29:18 - Living Without Regrets31:02 - Credentials and Expertise33:00 - The Importance of Family Support38:15 - The Role of Partnerships40:12 - Embracing Change Management43:16 - Books and Resources for Growth47:54 - Three Takeoff TipsThe future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠.Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

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From Chicago to Change Management: The Evolution of Bryant K. Smith

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This episode is 46 minutes long.

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This episode was published on October 23, 2025.

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In this inspiring episode, Bryant K. Smith shares about his journey from growing up in Chicago to becoming a successful entrepreneur, consultant and author of ten books. He talks about how mentorship, being a proud member of Omega Psi Phi...

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