Building The Village Podcast

We all say we trust the process…until it starts taking longer than we expected. 👀Until the results don’t show up when we want them to.Until the effort feels heavier than the progress we can see.In this episode, I get very real about what it looks like to stay committed to building the village when things feel slow, unseen, and uncertain.Because the truth is—anything meaningful takes time.Anything real requires energy.And most people don’t struggle with starting…they struggle with staying.If you’ve ever felt stuck, discouraged, or tempted to walk away from something that matters—this episode is for you.Keep building. Keep growing. Trust what’s happening, even when you can’t see it yet.👍 Like this video if this message resonates with you💬 Comment below: What’s something in your life that’s taking longer than you expected?🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, faith, and building meaningful community📤 Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to keep going📲 Follow me on Instagram: @bjonesspeaks🎤 Want to book me to speak at your campus, church, or organization? Reach out via Instagram or visit bjonesspeaks.com

When The Village Doesn’t Show Up | Episode 56Everybody says they care.But what happens when it’s time to show up… and nobody’s there?In this episode of Building The Village, we take a hard look at something that we don’t talk about enough — what it actually costs when people don’t show up for each other.If you’re a coach, manager, supervisor, leader, mentor — or just someone who wants to build stronger relationships — this conversation will challenge you to rethink what presence really means.Because the truth is, communities don’t just break down because of conflict…Sometimes they break down because of absence.And whether we realize it or not, the moments we miss can leave a lasting impact.This episode isn’t just about community.It’s about accountability.It’s about leadership.It’s about who we choose to be for the people around us.🎧 Tap in and ask yourself: When it matters most… do I show up?🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, faith, and building meaningful community📲 Follow @bjonesspeaks for more insights on building better villages🎤 Interested in booking Dr. Brandon W. Jones? Reach out via Instagram or visit bjonesspeaks.com#BuildingTheVillage #Leadership #Community #Belonging #Accountability #PersonalGrowth #DrBrandonWJones #BJonesSpeaks

🎙️ Episode 55 | The Art of Showing UpEverybody says they care.But who’s actually showing up?In this episode of the Building The Village Podcast, I breaks down what it really means to show up for the people in your life — not just digitally, not just emotionally, but intentionally.Because strong villages aren’t built by good intentions.They’re built by presence.In this conversation, you’ll learn the three movements of showing up:🔥 Pull Up – Why physical presence still matters in a distracted world🗣️ Speak Up – How your voice can strengthen (or weaken) your community🤝 Hang Out – Why real connection happens in unstructured momentsIf you’ve ever felt unseen, unsupported, or disconnected…Or if you want to become the kind of leader, friend, partner, or parent who truly builds community…This episode is for you.✨ Building better villages starts with showing up. ✨🔔 Subscribe for weekly conversations on leadership, faith, belonging, and community-building.📲 Follow me on Instagram: @bjonesspeaks🎤 Want me to speak at your campus, church, or organization? Reach out via Instagram or visit bjonesspeaks.com👇 Drop a comment: Who do you need to show up for this week?#BuildingTheVillage #Leadership #Community #Belonging #Faith #PersonalGrowth #DrBrandonWJones #BJonesSpeaks

STOP BEING SO SERIOUS | Why the Village Needs to PlayWhen did growing up mean we had to stop playing?In this episode of Building The Village, I challenge the idea that adulthood must be serious, rigid, and joyless. Because the truth is — the village needs play to survive.Play isn’t childish. It’s childlike.And when communities lose joy, curiosity, and imagination, they lose connection.In this episode, we explore:• Why adults stopped playing• The difference between being childlike and childish• How play reduces stress, builds trust, and strengthens relationships• Why laughter is one of the fastest ways to create belonging• How bringing play back can heal individuals and communitiesIf you’ve been feeling burned out, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode — this conversation is for you.✨ Because building better villages starts with joy. ✨---------------------🔔 Subscribe to the channel for weekly conversations on leadership, faith, belonging, and community-building.📲 Follow me on Instagram: @bjonesspeaks🎤 Want me to speak at your church, campus, or organization? Reach out via Instagram or visit bjonesspeaks.com👇 Drop a comment: What’s one “childlike” thing you need to bring back into your life?#BuildingTheVillage #StopBeingSoSerious #Joy #Community #Leadership #Faith #Play #Belonging #DrBrandonWJones #BJonesSpeaks

🎙️ EPISODE 53 | WHY WE NEED THE VILLAGEWho told us that when we became adults, we no longer needed the village? 👀In this powerful episode of The Building The Village Podcast, your Chief Village Building Strategist dives deep into what it really means to live in community and why we can’t thrive without it.You’ve heard the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” But what if it also takes a village to nurture and sustain healthy, whole adults? We live in a time where connection is scarce, loneliness is growing, and community feels optional — but it’s not. This episode will challenge how you think about relationships, belonging, and your role in the Village.🔔 Subscribe to the channel for more episodes that help you build better villages — one villager at a time.📲 Follow me on Instagram: @bjonesspeaks🎤 Want me to speak at your next event? Visit www.bjonesspeaks.com or message me directly on Instagram.

On this episode of Building The Village, I’m joined by my friend Ingrid J. Ruffin, M.A. & M.L.I.S for a powerful conversation on the role of libraries, literacy, and librarians in strengthening our communities.We talk about:📚 Why libraries are more than just buildings with books🤝 The courage it takes to ask for help—and why it matters in the village🔑 The many types of literacies (beyond reading) that empower people to thriveThis episode is a reminder that literacy is not just about information—it’s about connection, access, and opportunity.Listen in and let’s keep building better villages, one villager at a time.

How do we bridge the gap between generations in our families, workplaces, and communities? In this episode of Building The Village, we explore four powerful practices that help us move past assumptions and into deeper understanding.Whether you’re a student trying to understand your parents, a leader managing a multi-generational team, or simply someone who wants better conversations with people older or younger than you, this episode gives you practical tools for connection.Because building the village means building bridges—one conversation at a time.

In this milestone episode of Building The Village, I sit down with Dr. Lance K. Bennett, President and Founder of the People's Institute for the Common Good. We explore the transformative work he’s leading to foster equity, build stronger communities, and elevate diverse perspectives. Our conversation dives deep into the power of dialogue, the role of shared responsibility in shaping a better future, and yes—our mutual love for the Philadelphia Eagles 🦅.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that blends wisdom, passion, and a touch of Eagles pride. Listen, share, and join us in building better villages—one villager at a time.

Ever felt like the biggest thing standing between you and your goals… is you?We talk a lot about leadership, growth, and success — but the truth is, most of us are tripping over our own habits, fears, and excuses.In this episode of Building the Village, we’re breaking down the simple, overlooked ways we sabotage ourselves — and how to stop.✅ Why your first reaction under pressure matters✅ How taking ownership builds trust✅ Why self-leadership always comes before influence✅ The power of pausing before you make your next moveIf you’re ready to stop overthinking, stop reacting, and finally lead from a healthy place… this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now — and share it with someone who needs this reminder today!#BuildingTheVillage #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #GetOutOfYourOwnWay

In this episode of the Building the Village Podcast, we explore the power of community and why the people around you matter more than ever.✅ How to map out your personal village — the mentors, friends, supporters, and challengers who shape your growth.✅ Why you should think outside the box when building your circle (spoiler: your next key connection might not look like you expect).✅ How to recognize your own role in someone else's village — because you’re part of their story too.If you're ready to build stronger, healthier, and more intentional relationships that fuel your purpose, this episode is for you.🔔 Subscribe for more on personal growth, leadership, and community building.#BuildingTheVillage #ItTakesAVillage #FindYourPeople #CommunityBuilding #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #Podcast #LifeTips #Relationships #SelfDevelopment

It’s not the big moments that build strong communities—it’s the small, consistent actions that make people feel seen, valued, and connected. In this episode of Building the Village, we explore how simple gestures like a text message, a smile, or remembering a name can transform relationships and strengthen your “village” one moment at a time.🎯 Why do small things make such a big difference?🎯 What stops us from doing them more often?🎯 How can YOU start today and create ripple effects in your community?Listen in for practical tips, inspiring real-life stories, and a simple challenge to help you spread kindness and connection in your everyday life.👥 Tag a friend who needs this reminder!💬 Share your favorite small gesture using #SmallGesturesBigVillage.

🎓 Graduation isn’t just the end of a journey—it’s the beginning of your assignment.In this special episode of Building the Village, we share 3 powerful truths every graduate needs to carry into the next season:✅ Be Faithful to the Mission✅ Be Fruitful in the Work✅ Be a Force for GoodWhether you're stepping into your first job, grad school, or the unknown, this message will encourage you to lead with purpose, serve with integrity, and impact every space you enter.🎧 Listen, reflect, and share this with a graduate who’s ready to build the village wherever they go.#BuildingTheVillage #Graduation2025 #Leadership #PurposeDriven #FaithfulFruitfulForceful #CollegeGraduation #NewBeginnings #LifeAfterCollege

Disappointment is a part of life—but it doesn’t have to hold you back. In this episode of Building the Village, we’re talking about how to handle setbacks, keep moving forward, and turn disappointment into growth. Whether it’s life throwing unexpected challenges your way or things not going as planned, we’ll walk through three key steps: Accept it. Assess it. Apply it.Join us as we unpack how to navigate tough moments, build resilience, and be the kind of villager who models perseverance.If this episode speaks to you, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Share your thoughts in the comments—how do you deal with disappointment? Let’s keep building the village together!

What does it really mean to belong? How do we create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and truly connected? In this episode of Building the Village, we’re diving into "The Blueprint for Belonging: Building A Village That Cares."We’ll explore:✅ How to foster a culture of belonging in any community✅ Why connection is key to growth and success✅ Practical steps to make people feel cared for and includedWhether you’re a leader, educator, or just someone who wants to build stronger relationships, this episode is for you! 🎧💡Listen now on and let’s build the village together! 🌍✨ #BuildingTheVillage #Belonging #Community #Leadership

Are you tired of putting everyone else’s needs before your own? In this episode of Building the Village, I share The People Pleaser’s Recovery Plan: 5 Steps to Take Back Control. If you find yourself constantly saying yes, apologizing unnecessarily, or struggling to set boundaries, this episode is for you. Learn how to:✅ Recognize and admit your people-pleasing tendencies✅ Discover your true self-worth✅ Set healthy boundaries without guilt✅ Confidently say “no” when needed✅ Reclaim control of your time, energy, and life It’s time to stop living for others and start prioritizing yourself. Tune in now and take the first step toward freedom! 🎧 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more. Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share with someone who needs to hear this! Psychology Today Article

Kickstart your new year with purpose and clarity! In this episode of Building the Village, I break down the key differences between resolutions and goals and shares how SMART goals can transform your ambitions into actionable steps. 🎯 Tune in and discover how to make this year one where you don’t just dream—you do. 💪 🎧 Listen now and start building a better village, one goal at a time! Subscribe to my Linktree: https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks Subscribe to my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@bjonesspeaks

In this episode of Building the Village, we’re tackling a question that’s more important than ever: how do we make meaningful connections and build lasting friendships, especially in challenging times? Whether you’re starting fresh in a new environment or looking to strengthen your existing relationships, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you: - Be intentional about the friendships you cultivate. - Show up as the kind of friend you’d want to have. - Create meaningful moments of connection in everyday life. Join us as we explore simple, actionable steps to build and nurture friendships that add value to your life and strengthen your village. Tune in and discover how building better friendships can start today! ========== Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube Channel Stay in the know by subscribing to my Linktree at: https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

Gratitude isn’t just about Thanksgiving—it’s a way of life that can transform how we see the world and strengthen the communities we build. In this episode of Building the Village, we explore how choosing joy, creating intentional moments of reflection, and finding meaning in life’s messier moments can reshape our perspective and deepen our connections. ✨ Here’s what you’ll learn:🔑 How to cultivate joy in everyday life—even when it’s hard.🔑 Why a simple gratitude routine can ground you and uplift your village.🔑 How reframing challenges with gratitude can spark personal growth. Gratitude isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. Ready to build a village rooted in thankfulness? Tune in now and take your first step toward living the thankful life! 🎧 Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Stay in the know by subscribing to my Linktree: https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks Listen to "I Wanna Thank You" by Maze ft. Frankie Beverly 💬 Share your thoughts: What’s one thing you’re grateful for today? Use #GratefulVillage and tag me! #BuildingTheVillage #Gratitude #PersonalGrowth #Community #Podcast #ThankfulLiving

In this episode of Building the Village, we’re talking about breaking up with fear. Fear can hold us back from reaching our full potential, but it’s time to let go and grow! 🌱 Tune in to learn practical steps to overcome fear, shift your mindset, and build a fearless community. Let’s take bold steps together toward a brighter, more courageous future. 💪🏾 ====== EPISODE NOTES: Be sure to get your copy of Microwins by Daron K. Roberts (CoachDKR) TODAY! Also, checkout @JonathanJSpeaks (Twitter and Instagram)!

In this episode of Building the Village, we explore one of the most powerful yet challenging aspects of community: celebrating the successes of others, even when you're in a tough season yourself. How can you authentically cheer others on when your own journey feels stuck? Why does it matter to the health of the village, and what does it do for your own personal growth?Tune in to learn how building better villages starts with celebrating every villager’s victory—one win at a time. ============== linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

In this episode, I share 5 key strategies to help you (the villagers) be ready for whatever "the moment" is for you. ============= https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

In this episode, I talk about the importance of making those midyear adjustments while in pursuit of your goals. ======== Keep up with all things B. Jones Speaks by subscribing to my Linktree: https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

In this episode, I talk about the differences between networking and building genuine connections. I also offer strategies for how you to successfully make the shift. ============= In this episode, I quote Dr. Gary Smalley from his book, "The DNA of Relationships." ============= Stay up to date with B. Jones Speaks by going to: https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

In this episode, I talk about the importance of actually taking the time to get to know the village. Reflection questions from the episode: Do you know what’s good about your village? Do people know you in the village? Do you know what you bring to the village? What is your skill set? What are your strengths? What are those things that come naturally to you? Subscribe to my Linktree at https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

In this episode, I discuss what I've been up to and the importance of Men's Health Month. Resources: https://mhanational.org/infographic-mental-health-men https://www.usa.gov/features/improving-mens-health Want to stay in the know with all things B. Jones Speaks? Subscribe to my Linktree at https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

Let's face it, we all struggle with procrastination from time to time. What do we do when we fall short? How do we overcome it? In this episode, I offer 4 strategies for dealing with procrastination in our daily lives. ======= Want to stay in the know with all things B. Jones Speaks? Subscribe to my Linktree at https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

Are you struggling to find your fit in a new city, organization, or group? Are you finding it difficult to make meaningful connections with people? You’re not alone! However, it IS a process! In this episode, I offer 3 practical ways that can help you make progress in building your village. Looking for a way to keep up with B. Jones Speaks and the Building the Village Podcast? Check out the Link Tree at linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

First YouTube episode of the Building the Village podcast. I explain what I've been up to since May 2023, my village observations, and where the podcast will be going in the days ahead. Keep up with B. Jones Speaks: https://linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe!

Despite our best intentions, our words and actions can impact in ways that we didn’t mean. In this episode, Dr. Jones tells us why it’s important to know the difference between intention vs. impact.Looking for a way to keep up with B. Jones Speaks and the Building the Village Podcast? Check out the Link Tree at linktr.ee/bjonesspeaks

The words that we use absolutely matter! In this episode, Dr. Jones talks about different ways that we use our words to authentically show up for the people in our village.

Dr. Jones offers 3 strategies extraverts can use to be better versions of themselves.

It’s good to think globally. But it’s even better to act LOCALLY! In this episode, Dr. Jones shows listeners the impact they can have by focusing on having a local impact. Let us know what you think about the episode by sending an email to [email protected]

Let’s face it, no one likes to be rejected. Unfortunately, it’s a part of life. What can we do to overcome the hurt, frustration, disappointment, etc. that often comes with rejections? In this episode, Dr. Jones offers 5 strategies for dealing with rejection based on his personal experience. Let us know what you think about the episode by sending an email to [email protected]

It costs absolutely NOTHING to be nice to people. So why is it that we are so afraid to do so? In this episode, Dr. Jones talks about the power of being nice and the impact that it can have in the village.

Lots of people make plans and resolutions to start the new year. But how many of us make plans to finish the year on a high note? In this episode, Dr. Jones gives 3 strategies to help us have a strong finish to this year.

Going into each new year, everyone makes goals and resolutions. In this episode, Dr. Jones offers 3 self-renovation strategies that you can utilize now and take into 2023.

In this episode, Dr Jones discusses how Gratitude makes an impact on your community.

TITLE: E20: 4 Ways to Have Difficult Conversations EPISODE SUMMARY: In this episode, Dr. Jones offers listeners 4 ways to have difficult conversations.

In this episode, Dr. Jones offers listeners 5 ways to master the madness associated with the midterm elections.

In this episode, Dr. Jones provides 3 powerful strategies that will help you transform how you talk to yourself.

In this episode, Dr. Jones gives 3 reasons why being still is so powerful.

In this episode, Dr. Jones speaks with Chief Borders about the importance of the village in overcoming adversity. He also talks about life as a student-athlete, coming from a large family, and his dreams beyond football.

In this episode, Dr. Jones discusses ‘Imposter Syndrome’. Plus, he will provide 3 important points he feels on how to overcome the fears or challenges of Imposter Syndrome.

In this episode, Dr. Jones speaks with Alisha Janette Taylor (actress, producer, and director) about the role of art in highlighting the human experience. Alisha also talks about her journey as an artist, the importance of passing on legacies, and her work with the Curtis House Cultural Center in Abilene, TX.

In this episode, Dr. Jones talks with Chelsea Evans about how she faced her fears while becoming an author, entrepreneur, body positivity advocate, and speaker.

In this episode, Dr. Jones talks with Jess Van Kline (Mother, Philanthropist, and Marketer) about the importance of your village in dealing with difficult circumstances.

In this episode, Dr. Jones talks about the importance of incorporating “playing” into our daily lives.

In this episode, Dr. Jones breaks down the village-building process that he uses to help coaches and organizations.

In this episode, Dr. Jones talks with Deseré Cross Ward and Michael Ward, Jr. about building community, establishing a social media presence, and removing barriers to opportunities.

In this episode, Dr. Jones talks with Rev. Dr. Walter Strickland (Professor, Theologian, and Writer) about the role of the Christian faith in relation to justice, the importance of the written tradition, deconstruction, and the work he is doing with the Strickland Institute.