Generation Motivation: The Podcast

With high profile appearances on NBC's The Voice, The Jennifer Hudson Show, and singing the National Anthem at the WNBA's Atlanta Dream game before she even graduated from high school, singer Mikaela Ayira's trajectory is skies the limit. We got to sit down with the talented artist as she talks about her aspirations, faith, and giving back to the community through her organization "Harmonic Healers" for people with special needs. Follow on IG: @nicewiththatpen and @generation_motivation19Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube:  @Podcasterofthepeople  Follow Mikaela on all platforms:  @mikaelaayirasings  For more info on Generation Motivation and our #powerinyourplatform movement, go to www.GenerationMotivation.com#generationmotivation #podcasterofthepeople #mikaelayira #nbcthevoice #jaysnipes #positivity

In the Season 7 opening episode for the podcast, I sit down with Marvin Hagler Jr., son of legendary boxer Marvelous Marvin Hagler. We both talk about the grief of losing of fathers, how we cope, lasting legacies, and advice for those fighting to overcome the loss of a loved one. Follow us on IG: @nicewiththatpen @champhagler Follow me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Podcasterofthepeople/featured (Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe) The podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Audible, and more.

I had the opportunity to interview the dynamic duo of Tanya Harris and Jerome Fleming of the "My Forking Life" viral cooking show. With Tanya's on-screen personality and delicious recipes coupled with Jerome's creative spirit behind the scenes, this power couple was able to turn their passion into success and bring a fresh, new perspective into the cooking space. What's more fulfilling than being able to teach others how to prepare delicious and nutritious meals and helping families come together over the dinner table to fellowship? Don't forget to like, share and subscribe. Follow me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Podcasterofthepeople/featured Follow me on IG: @nicewiththatpen and @generation_motivation19 For more info on My Forking Life, go to: www.myforkinglife.com http://www.youtube.com/@MyForkingLife

I had the opportunity to interview Lieutenant Commander Gideon Esuzor, who is a member of the US Public Health Services. Two years ago, Gideon and I conducted an interview for the podcast during the height of COVID. He's back to give insight on this side of the COVID epidemic and his thoughts on how we should proceed in the future using his Triple R approach (Remember, Respect, and Retain). He also touches on his biggest fear, which is dying before he can share his wealth of knowledge to impact society and thus he has started his own podcast. He is a true man of action and the definition of selflessness. Don't forget to like, share and subscribe. Follow me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Podcasterofthepeople/featured Follow me on IG: @nicewiththatpen and @generation_motivation19

(S6: Ep 4) - When faith drives you , give God the wheel. Little did I know that when I was taking my son to meet his new driving instructor, not only was he going to get tips on learning to drive, but also tips on learning to navigate through life with confidence and excellence. My guest, Alonzo Thornton, is not only a driving instructor, but he's also a biblical educator, artist, blogger, and so much more. His biblical knowledge is so profound that you're going to want to get a pen and a pad for this one. (Like, share, and subscribe) https://www.youtube.com /@Podcasterofthepeople For more info on Alonzo Thornton, visit his blog at: firstfruitsperspective.org Follow me on IG: @nicewiththatpen and @generation_motivation19 Follow Alonzo on IG: @alonzoethornton For more info on our #powerinyourplatform movement, go to www.generationmotivation.com

(S6 : Ep 3). I had the opportunity to sit down with talented singer and songwriter Aryee' The Gem. The Saint & Citizen Music Group signee just released her latest single and new video for "To It," which is on track to be a summer anthem. Not only does her passion for her craft shine through in her upcoming EP, but so does her commitment to being a positive force in her community. Aryee' understands that as she continues to walk in purpose and shed light in the darkness, the impact is immeasurable. She states, "Mindfulness is another significant aspect of who I am. I understand that my actions affect everyone around me." Tap in! For more info on Aryee' The Gem follow her on IG and various platforms: @aryeethegem Follow me on IG: @nicewithatpen and generation_motivation19 Subscribe to the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Podcasterofthepeople For more info on Generation Motivation and our #powerinyourplatform movement, go to www.GenerationMotivation.com

(S6: EP 2) - I had the opportunity to have a sit down with Candace Haynes. Not only is she a choreographer, creative director, dancer, singer and actress, but she's also a boss! She's the CEO of Consulting For Creatives, an entertainment consulting agency. Although her portfolio ranges from working with the likes of TLC, Keith Sweat, Teyana Taylor, Gabrielle Union and appearing on / choreographing for various television shows, her humble spirit keeps her grounded. She's walking in purpose and eager to share jewels with our audience. Candace touches on her musical background, how she got her start in the industry, her love for reaching back to guide the youth and more. Tap in! ----- For more info on Candace, go to www.CandaceHaynes.com. For more info on Generation Motivation and our #powerinyourplatform movement, go to www.GenerationMotivation.com Follow me on IG: @nicewiththatpen and @generation_motivation19 Follow Candace on IG: @thecandacehaynes

To kick off Season 6, I had the pleasure of interviewing fellow NCA&T alumnus, Felicia Bittle. She is the owner of FABstyles, LLC, an image and style consultation business based out of Charlotte, NC. Felicia talks about how following her passion caused her to step away from a lucrative career in accounting. She also touches on the endowment she established in honor of her grandmother, giving back to the community through her various workshops, how she ended up making guest appearances on WCCB's Charlotte Rising television show, and words of wisdom for those looking to make a leap of faith. For more info on Felicia Bittle or FABstyles, LLC, please visit: www.feliciabittle.com. For more info on Generation Motivation and our #powerinyourplatform movement, please visit www.generationmotivation.com

(Part II)  Having been featured in the NY Times, ABC 7, on CNN and various media outlets, my next guest is one of the most inspirational individuals I've ever come in contact with. Shot at the age of 13 yrs old and paralyzed from the waist down, Jeff Williams has relied upon the use of a wheelchair for the past 41 years.  While he may be confined to the chair physically, he's the polar opposite mentally, emotionally and spiritually.  He's a motivational speaker, fashion designer, real estate broker and author of the inspirational autobiography "My Feet Are Off The Ground," where he details his journey of healing, faith and forgiveness.  For more info on Generation Motivation and our #powerinyourplatform movement, go to www.GenerationMotivation.com.  Connect with me on IG:  @nicewiththatpen and @generationmotivation_19.  Connect with Jeff on IG:  @shoesbyjlorenzo   #generationmotivation  #podcasterofthepeople # jaysnipes #jefferywilliams #myfeetareofftheground  #podcast #inspiration

(Part 1)  Having been featured in the NY Times, ABC 7, on CNN and various media outlets, my next guest is one of the most inspirational individuals I've ever come in contact with. Shot at the age of 13 yrs old and paralyzed from the waist down, Jeff Williams has relied upon the use of a wheelchair for the past 41 years.  While he may be confined to the chair physically, he's the polar opposite mentally, emotionally and spiritually.  He's a motivational speaker, fashion designer, real estate broker and author of the inspirational autobiography "My Feet Are Off The Ground," where he details his journey of healing, faith and forgiveness.  For more info on Generation Motivation and our #powerinyourplatform movement, go to www.GenerationMotivation.com.  Connect with me on IG:  @nicewiththatpen and @generationmotivation_19.  Connect with Jeff on IG:  @shoesbyjlorenzo   #generationmotivation  #podcasterofthepeople # jaysnipes #jefferywilliams #myfeetareofftheground  #podcast #inspiration

I had the opportunity to sit down with Derek St. Hilaire of the G League's South Bay Lakers. He talks about his passion for basketball and the training he puts in daily, making the leap from the NCAA to the G League, aspirations of making it to the NBA, and advice for young ballers looking to take their game to the next level.     #generationmotivation #podcasterofthepeople #dereksthilaire #jaysnipes #podcast #gleague #southbaylakers #nba #motivation For more information on Generation Motivation and our #powerinyourplatform movement, go to www.generationmotivation.com Follow me:   IG: @nicewiththatpen /// IG: @generationmotivation_19

I sat down with award winning author Lana Reid as we analyzed her insightfully triumphant book "Basements and Blossoms: A Few Recollections of the Ugliness That Made My Life Beautiful." In the book, she discusses the healing process she went through as she suffered the traumatic loss of her husband to senseless gun violence, along with other life lessons she learned along the way. She is also the host of the "The Male Perspective" podcast, which focuses on highlighting African-American males, giving them a platform to share their stories of success, aspirations, hopes, dreams, shortcomings and other realities of life.  Check out www.lanareid.com to stay in touch with Lana. For more info on Generation Motivation and our #powerinyourplatform movement, go to www.GenerationMotivation.com #generationmotivation #podcasterofthepeople #lanareid #jaysnipes #themaleperspective #podcast #positivity #motivation #inspiration

I had the opportunity to sit down with Emile from Emile's Creations. He's a dope hip hop photographer/creative out of NY.  Not only has he been able to capture hip hop heavyweights such as Rah Digga, Cormega, Jim Jones, Dave East, Juelz Santana and more through the lens, but he's also creating his own narrative through his faith-based clothing line. He talks about how his faith has helped to keep him on solid footing, as he continues to build a lasting legacy for he and his son. #generationmotivation #jaysnipes #emilescreations #podcast #powerinyourplatform

In this episode, I sat down with fellow NCA&T alumnus Jerome Fletcher as he reflects on his first year as City Manager of North Port, FL. He talks about his goals for helping the city rebuild and heal as they suffered through the devastation of Hurricane Ian, the high profile murder-suicide of Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie (who lived in North Port), and other major occurrences during his brief tenure. He understands that during times of tragedy and heartache leaders must lead and that is what he has done to help his city progress.  For more info on "Generation Motivation: The Podcast" and our #powerinyourplatform movement, go to www.GenerationMotivation.com. #generationmotivation #podcast #podcasterofthepeople #jaysnipes #powerinyourplatform #jeromefletcher #ncatsu #hbcu #inspiration #ncat

(S5: Ep 9)   On this special Christmas Eve edition of the podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing teen actress Avery Jordan.  Avery talks about her acting/musical experiences from currently being the face of Macy's Santaland website as Eve the Elf to her time performing with the popular kids franchise "Kidz Bop".  She also shares advice for those looking to get into the entertainment industry, especially the youth.  Avery understands that as she trailblazes her own path in show business that there are teens and youth, including her younger brother, watching from afar and does not take using her platform lightly. www.GenerationMotivation.com #generationmotivation #podcasterofthepeople #jaysnipes #averyjordan #powerinyourplatform #motivation #inspiration

(S5: Ep 7) I had the opportunity to sit down with Eboni Haynes, PHD, MBA in the midst of a Community Health & Wellness Forum that she organized at St. James UMC . In addition to being the church's Health & Wellness Ministry Chair, she is also CEO of The Mahogany Group, an Assistant Professor at Virginia Union University and an Adjunct Professor at the University of South Carolina. She is on a mission to use her platforms to educate the community about healthy living ... mentally, physically and spiritually. Her faith is what keeps her grounded and walking in purpose.  #generationmotivation  #podcasterofthepeople (Subscribe, share, like and comment)  Thanks for your support! For more info on our positivity focused movement, go to www.generationmotivation.com

(S5: EP 6) I had the opportunity to interview elite basketball trainer S.R. at the Tony Delk Basketball Academy. He talks about how God and basketball helped anchor him when he lost his parents at a young age. His goal is to not only train the youth physically with basketball techniques and tips, but also mentally with words of wisdom. The talk that he gave my son after their training session was so inspiring and thought-provoking that I interviewed him on the spot so others can benefit. (Subscribe, share, like and comment)   #generationmotivation #podcasterofthepeople  www.GenerationMotivation.com

(S5: Ep 5) I had the opportunity to chat with Youth Minister Zoe McDowell from Bethel World Outreach Church in Brentwood, TN. Her passion for leading the youth has come back full circle. She spoke about growing up in the ministry with both of her parents being pastors, overcoming her fears by walking in faith and what advice she would give to the youth that are feeling lost in the shuffle.  (Subscribe and share) Check out previous episodes of the podcast on www.GenerationMotivation.com #generationmotivation #zoemcdowell #podcasterofthepeople #podcast #inspiration

(S5: Ep 4)  In this episode, I volunteered and participated in a 3K Community Cancer Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It was organized by St. James UMC and had a great turn out. I interviewed Rev. Karen Webster-Parks and got insight on her commitment to helping to raise awareness in an effort to finding a cure. It was beautiful to see the bond and fellowship that was on display during the event. Church leaders, survivors, supporters, vendors and more all came together to show there is strength in numbers.   More info will be posted on www.GenerationMotivation.com about how you can help support various causes and organizations aimed at helping to find a cure.  #breastcancerawareness #generationmotivation #podcasterofthepeople #breastcancerawarenessmonth

(S5: Ep 3)  My latest guest, musician / guitarist Ross May, uses his extraordinary gift of music to inspire his community to use their voices. He's performed acoustic renditions of classics with elite hip hop talent that includes the likes of Erick Sermon, Can-I-Bus, Layzie Bone and more and it's all chronicled on his YouTube platform "Bars And Guitars".  Ross talks about how he got his start in music, walking in purpose, giving back to his community via his charitable organization and raising awareness through his musical performances. For more info on Generation Motivation and our positivity movement, go to www.GenerationMotivation.com.

(S5: Ep 2) This is Part II of my interview with Cormega. He delves more into the making of The Realness II, reconnecting with Nas for the song "Glorious", making sure to give back to the community and what he wants his legacy to be. The Realness II  is now available on all platforms. Go support ... www.GenerationMotivation.com #cormega #generationmotivation #podcasterofthepeople #podcast

(S5 : Ep 1) I had the opportunity to sit down with hip hop legend Cormega, as we came back full circle from our initial meeting and interview 20 years ago. Mega just recently dropped his critically-acclaimed album "The Realness II," which is a follow-up to his classic "The Realness" that dropped two decades ago. In Part 1 of our 2 part interview, Cormega touches on his hop influences, preserving the integrity of hip hop and hip hop's impact on the world. Very laid back and humble dude. Sit back and enjoy ...

For the Season 4 finale, I wanted to do something a little different. I interviewed my kids, not only highlighting some of their accomplishments, but also to get their youthful perspective on issues plaguing society. They speak on building self-esteem and confidence, believing in yourself, goal setting, forming good study habits and walking in faith. Saniyah ends our episode and season with a special piano solo. Thanks to everyone for your support this season. We'll be back with Season 5 and all new episodes mid- October.

(S4: Ep 14) The field of education is one I hold with the utmost regard. My parents were both teachers for 30+ years. With that being said, I had the opportunity to chat with David Rogers Jr., who is currently in his 24th year as a high school teacher. With him teaching senior students especially, Dave talks about the weight of making sure they are prepared for the real world upon graduation. He stressed the importance of being a positive role model to the youth, the evolution of teaching during his tenure and his commitment to leaving a lasting legacy of service. Salute to my fellow NCA&T alum for making a difference in his community.

(S4: Ep 13) I had the opportunity to chat with Millicent Ryan of Keller Williams Realty. She spoke about her passion for not only helping people find their dream homes, but also educating them on the benefits of obtaining financial freedom and building generational wealth through property ownership.

(S4: Ep 12) I had the opportunity to chat with Esco, the owner and brainchild behind Esco Eats. With clients such as Amazon and Georgia Tech, he talks about how he created the recipe for his World Famous Apple Cobbler Pie, being a visionary and never giving up on dreams.

(S4: Ep 11) What was it about NCA&T that drew you in? For some, it may have been the legacy, tradition and HBCU experience and for others gym jams and #GHOE...lol Regardless of the reason (and I'm not judging), it was destiny fulfilled. I got the opportunity to interview several of my fellow alumni from the classes of '63, '91, '97, '98, and 2023 to reminisce on what made A&T great to them. Great representation and perspectives throughout the generations. AGGIE PRIDE! *** Special shoutout to Teresa Snipes, Robert Snipes, Vince Snipes, Jerome and Drucilla Fletcher, Brent Woods, Dave Rogers, Jeff Watts, Kelvin Scott, and Jayla Rogers for their input.

(S4: Ep 10) It's always a pleasure when I can show love to my alma mater, NCA&TSU. I got the opportunity to interview Jayla Rogers, a senior on the A&T women's golf team. She talks about the life lessons she's learned through playing golf, the honor of representing not only A&T, but minorities as a whole when she competes, and also being able to use golf as a platform to give back to her community and the younger generation. AGGIE PRIDE!!

(S4: Ep 9) With today being the 49th birthday of Hip Hop, I got the opportunity to sit down with Miami hip hop artist Kingg Bucc. He signed to Crown Recordings/ Atlantic Records. Fresh off tour dates with Sean Kingston, he talks about how he got his start, musical influences and working with grammy nominated producer DJ Hardwerk (Rihanna, Cardi B, Akon, Fergie, Jeezy and more)

(S4: Ep 8) I sat down with Dr. Glenn Baldwin Jr., DDS as he discussed the disparities of African-Americans in dentistry, the importance of oral healthcare (physically and psychologically) and his mission to make a positive impact on society one smile at a time.

(S4: Ep 7) I got to sit down with the newly crowned Miss Teen Cosmos International Queen Simone Fletcher. This 16 year old is really an inspiration to all those she touches. The aspiring attorney talks about her new duties as the reigning queen, using her platform to motivate others and her continuous community service efforts.

(S4: Ep 6) With me growing up a hip hop head, it is always cool to meet/ interview artist that you grew up watching. Who didn't grow up trying to imitate the Kid 'N Play dance or watching "House Party" back in the day? This interview was conducted 20 yrs ago. Play spoke about his faith, his enthusiasm for the evolution of hip hop and finding his purpose, which is being a beacon of light for Jesus.

(S4: Ep 5) With the decision to overturn the landmark ruling of Roe v Wade, which gave women the right to legally have an abortion since 1973, I interviewed several women to get their thoughts and insight. I personally feel that women should have the right to decide what they can and can't do with their bodies. However, I know there are always two sides to a story. What are your thoughts?

(S4: Ep 4) After nearly 3 decades of friendship, I had a candid roundtable discussion with my boys (Jerome Fletcher and Jeff Watts) about what it means to be a father ...especially in today's society with social media, cyber bullying, the pandemic, school shootings and more. We touched on our days of coming in as freshmen at NCA&TSU in the 90's and coming into our manhood to now all being fathers.

(S4: Ep 3) I got to sit down with Sgt. Richard Williams, a 20-plus year veteran of the Greenville Police Department. He talks about using his platform to build trust within the community, his thoughts on the recent mass shootings, his community outreach efforts (i.e. back to school drives, Cops and Barbers program etc.), and how he's found purpose on the police force.

(S4: Ep 2) Triumphing Over Tragedy Forum: "Triumphing Over Tragedy" is a special forum & live podcast we have created to celebrate "Mental Health Awareness Month." Join us as we interact with our extraordinary panelists who will share their inspiring testimonials of overcoming tragedy (love ones lost to gun violence, domestic abuse, homelessness and more). They've turned their traumatic experiences into purpose and want to give encouragement, hope and the motivation you need to continue to rise above. Guest co-host Teresa Snipes. Panelists: Author/Podcaster Lana Reid, Author/ Domestic Abuse Activist Adriene Hall, and Author/ Podcaster/ Mental Health Advocate Raxiel Liz. (First few minutes of dead air was to let the audience join into the forum.)

(S4: Ep 1) To kick off Season 4, I wanted to deviate a little from my normal interview format to speak directly from the heart. Always remember, there is power in your platform. You possess all the tools you need inside to go from having hope to being hope for others. Your voice matters, your dreams matter, your knowledge matters, your courage matters, your platform matters ... use it.

(S3: Ep 15) I had the opportunity to interview Sabriya Charles (formerly Dobbins), who is not only an author, but also a mental wellness advocate and the founder of Project Passport. Her new motivational book, "Purpose Doesn't Care What's In Your Bank Account," just hit stores and she gives personal testimonials and tips on how to maximize your mental wellness. Her goal is to help normalize conversations around mental health/wellness and for our community to know there is help out there and people that generally care about your well-being.

(S3: Ep 14) I spoke with the multi-faceted Jennifer Farmer. Not only is she a two-time author, but she is also the founder of Spotlight PR LLC with a roster of clients including Killer Mike, Rev. William Barber II and numerous socially conscious organizations, hosts the "Faith Talks" podcast and has committed her life to social and racial justice. She is looking to level the playing field with the re-release of her second book "First & Only: A Black Woman's Guide To Thriving At Work & In Life." She uses her personal testimonials to let other women know they are not alone in their trials and tribulations to not only succeed in the workplace, but at life as a whole.

(S3: Ep 13) I sat down with author and domestic abuse advocate Adriene Odom as she shared her remarkable story of triumph in her memior, The Making Of A Soldier. She detailed overcoming domestic abuse, homelessness, surviving a failed suicide attempt, becoming a teenage mother and more to now working on her Master's Degree, becoming an author and founder of two non-profit organizations. She's committed herself to helping bridge the gap for those that were ever in similar situations and felt there was no hope.

(S3: Ep 12) Salute to all of the essential workers on the frontlines! I sat down with Belinda Woods, RN as she discussed her 20+ years in the field, the emotional fatigue of nursing, and her dream of being able to provide quality medical care abroad.

(S3: Ep 11) I was able to sit down with Tamara Fuller, owner and founder of Georgia's hottest jazz club, The Velvet Note. It was voted as the #1 jazz club in Georgia and revered as one of the top jazz clubs in the country. Tamara shared her inspirational journey in opening The Velvet Note, the impact of using her platform to highlight others and words of wisdom to not get stuck in this "maze" we call life.

(S3: Ep 10) This is a special throwback interview I did with Remy Ma from 12/4/05. It was right before she dropped her debut album "There's Something About Mary: Based On A True Story." She touches on how she started rapping, being discovered by Big Pun, the price of fame and advice for those looking to get into the industry. It's great to see how much her career has flourished over the years. She uses her testimony of going to prison and not allowing that setback to become a roadblock in her life, to serve as motivation for others to never give up.

I sat down with Author Namiah Potter as she touched on her powerful personal memoir, "Out Of The Remnants." One of the testimonials she shared was in regards to an incident that happened when she 3 yrs old. Her mom, who was addicted to crack, left her over at a dealer's house while she went to get money she owed him. When she didn't come back, the dealer boiled water, bleach and other chemicals, put it in a tub and placed Namiah's feet in it. It burned her feet so bad that they almost had to be amputated. Namiah is sharing her story of triumph to motivate others. In addition to author, she is also a certified life coach, a podcaster, vocal coach, and sanger (not singer).

In Part 2 of our interview, Reverend Kennedy speaks on the events that led him to help Michael Burden escape the grasp of the Ku Klux Klan. He talks about how the movie "Burden" based on those events came about. Reverend Kennedy also touches on the purchase of a 4,000 square foot space that was once labeled as "The World's Only Klan Museum" and converting it into a community center and racial reconciliation museum. THE ECHO PROJECT was founded by Reverend Kennedy and Regan Freeman and they are spearheading the conversion.

Rev. David Kennedy, leader of New Beginning Missionary Baptist Church in Laurens, SC, has recently been interviewed by The Today Show, The Washington Post, and numerous outlets sharing his story of hope. A movie was made based on his experience of helping a member of the Ku Klux Klan change his life and denounce that lifestyle. It is titled "Burden" and stars Forest Whitaker. In this segment of the interview, he touches on growing up during the Jim Crow era in South Carolina and what led him to the faith.

This is the conclusion of the special Black History Month interview I conducted with my parents. They touched on memories of living during segregation, having seen icons perform live in nightclubs ( Nina Simone, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, James Brown, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, Redd Foxx etc.), my father being honored by Rev. Joseph Lowery during his retirement and the advancements African-Americans have made throughout their lifetime.

This is a special Black History interview I conducted with my parents. They both were educators and taught during segregation and integration, giving insight on their transition. My father also touched on hearing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr speak live, having classes with Rev. Jesse Jackson at NCA&TSU and being taught by the late Coretta Scott King's sister. They both shared what Black History truly means to them in part 1 of this 2 part special.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Youth Minister Warren Hawkins III from St. James United Methodist Church. He spoke on the importance of sowing into our youth, being called to serve as a vessel to lead and using his platform to make a positive impact on generations to come.

I got the opportunity to interview my "big sis" Samara Dobbins Johnson. She spoke on how she felt being inducted into the NCA&TSU Sports Hall of Fame in 2016 for basketball, being a part of winning a MEAC championship in 1994, the progression of women's basketball throughout the years and her commitment to giving back to her community.