The Hold it Down Podcast

In this inspiring episode of Hold It Down, we sit down inside the legendary Chicken‑N‑Mo with Spokane pioneer Mr. Bob Hemphill, a man whose entrepreneurial journey spans 34 years and continues to shape the city’s culture. Born and raised in Texas, Bob shares how he went from a “country boy” with military experience to becoming one of Spokane’s first Black cab company owners, a used‑car dealer, and eventually the founder of one of the city’s most beloved restaurants.Bob talks about Spokane as a place where “you can get along with anybody” and where opportunity is wide open for those willing to work and dream. He shares powerful stories about mindset, faith, and the importance of having a vision — from Thomas Edison to George Washington Carver to Bishop Mason — reminding us that “you can’t do anything without a picture.”The conversation dives deep into the power of dreaming, the responsibility of creativity, and the spiritual truth that we are made in the image of God — “the crown of His creation.” Bob explains why asking boldly, speaking life, and refusing to limit yourself are essential to success. The hosts reflect on their own journeys, including vision boards, entrepreneurship, and the importance of believing in what you can’t yet see.This episode is a masterclass in wisdom, faith, business, and legacy — delivered with humor, honesty, and the unmistakable spirit of a man who has truly held it down for Spokane.

This episode of Hold It Down opens with the hosts catching up after a long stretch of “life life‑ing,” celebrating growth, resilience, and the journey of becoming better versions of themselves. Mike updates listeners on the Spokane Legends basketball season, while Lee shares a personal moment — attending his aunt’s wedding and hearing people say, “You look confident. Something’s different about you.”That difference becomes the heart of the episode.The hosts introduce Andrew Salas, a lifestyle medicine educator who has played a major role in Lee’s health transformation over the past year. Lee explains that when he met Andrew, he was dealing with serious health concerns — poor gut health, low energy, back pain, and the belief that “this is just what happens when you get older.” Andrew challenged that mindset, teaching him that aging doesn’t have to mean decline.Andrew shares his own story of growing up sick, deciding at 15 to become a doctor, and later discovering that true healing comes from lifestyle, not prescriptions. He explains how the body can “grow into health” when given the right conditions — hydration, plant‑based nutrition, cleansing, rest, and intentional habits.The conversation dives into:How Lee lost 50+ pounds in a yearHow his colon and gut health improved by 30–40%Why plant‑based eating is easier and cheaper than people thinkHow intermittent fasting resets the bodyWhy discipline matters more than perfectionHow men can inspire each other through healthy competitionWhy aging can be reversed through lifestyle choicesAndrew emphasizes that health is a journey, not a punishment: “If you take a detour, you just find your way back to the road.” The episode is filled with practical wisdom, humor, and hope — showing listeners that living your best life is possible at any age.

This episode of Hold It Down opens with reflections on growth, rest, and the unexpected weight of leadership. After a holiday break that “was holidaying,” the hosts talk about stepping back, grounding themselves, and preparing for a year focused on scaling - in business, mentorship, and community impact.The conversation centers on the cost of leadership, and the featured guest is Stephanie Courtney, Executive Director of the Shades of Motherhood Network. Though younger than the hosts, she is described as a “big sister,” someone who has pushed, inspired, and supported them through every major step of their community work.Stephanie shares her journey from being a lifelong background person to being called into leadership — a calling she says she “didn’t have a choice” but to answer. She speaks openly about the weight of leading as a Black woman, the sacrifices required, and the emotional labor that comes with serving community. She explains that leadership is not glamorous; it is “one of the most sacrificial things you will do.”She also highlights the importance of her team, acknowledging that while the community sees her shine, her team sees the full spectrum — the good, the bad, the messy, the growth. She shares a vulnerable moment from her pregnancy, when a team member told her, “You don’t have to carry this weight by yourself this time.” That moment reshaped how she leads and how she allows others to support her.The episode explores themes of purpose, mentorship, community healing, and the responsibility leaders have to build spaces where others can grow. It’s a raw, honest, and deeply human conversation about what leadership really costs — and why it’s worth it.

This episode of Hold It Down blends humor, real‑life storytelling, and a powerful conversation about education as a pathway to prosperity. After opening with jokes about turning 50, bucket‑list stand‑up comedy, and “flying the plane as we’re building it,” the hosts shift into a meaningful discussion with Guillermo Espinoza, Associate Dean for Access, Outreach, and Dual Enrollment at Spokane Community College.Guillermo shares how his 11‑year journey at SCC began with multicultural student support and evolved into leading access and equity initiatives. He explains that his “gift of gab” became a calling to help students—especially first‑generation and multicultural students—navigate college systems that often feel out of reach. As he puts it, education became his way out of generational poverty, giving him “paid days off,” stability, and the ability to support his family and community.The conversation dives deep into Running Start, with the hosts sharing firsthand how the program helped their son get ahead academically, save money, and learn how to navigate college while still at home. Guillermo breaks down how Running Start works, why Washington’s model is unique, and how the new “Jump Start” option lets students try college the summer before junior year.Throughout the episode, the theme is clear: education is a building block for prosperity, and access matters. Whether through mentorship, community support, or programs like Running Start, the episode highlights how one opportunity can create a ripple effect that changes families and futures.

What do we do with the pain, trauma, habits, and beliefs we didn’t choose—but still carry?In this episode of the Hold It Down Podcast, Big Lee sits down with Dr. Mace for a powerful conversation about healing, personal responsibility, and breaking generational cycles.Together, they explore how childhood experiences shape adulthood, why unresolved trauma often shows up in our relationships and communities, and what it takes to move from surviving to truly healing. Dr. Mace shares practical wisdom on self-awareness, resilience, and the importance of doing the inner work necessary to create a different future.This episode is for anyone who has ever looked at their life and asked: “How much of this is mine, and how much did I inherit?”Because while we may not be responsible for what happened to us, we are responsible for what we do with it.

In this episode of The Hold It Down Podcast, hosts Big Lee and Michael Betheley sit down with Ashanti Williams, a Spokane native and real estate agent with D.R. Horton, to talk about growth, responsibility, and building a better future.Ashanti shares her journey growing up between Spokane and California and how life challenged her early when she became a mother at a young age. That experience forced her to mature quickly and helped shape the determination and mindset that drives her today.From navigating life’s obstacles to building a career in real estate, Ashanti talks about the lessons she’s learned, the importance of perseverance, and why creating opportunities for the next generation matters so much to her.Her story is one of resilience, accountability, and purpose — making her a powerful role model for young women and an inspiration to anyone working to turn challenges into success.

In this episode, we sit down with Kerra Bowers — a woman whose impact reaches far beyond titles. Kerra is a mother, sister, daughter, childcare professional, and recipient of the NAACP President’s Award in Spokane — but more than anything, she is a pillar of strength and compassion in our community.Kerra shares her journey of leadership rooted in service, resilience, and love for families and children. Through her work in childcare and community advocacy, she has consistently shown what it looks like to lead with courage, wisdom, and grace — even when the work is hard and the stakes are high.This conversation highlights:The unseen strength it takes to show up for children and families every dayWhy nurturing the next generation is one of the most powerful forms of leadershipHow women like Kerra carry communities forward through consistency and careThe importance of courage, faith, and wisdom in times of challengeWhat it truly means to be a champion for othersKerra doesn’t seek the spotlight — the impact speaks for itself. She represents the backbone of our city: women who hold families together, protect children, and lead with heart. This episode is a tribute to the quiet warriors and visible leaders who make Spokane stronger every day.Tap in and listen closely — this one is filled with truth, inspiration, and deep respect.

In this episode, we sit down with Yashar Jones, founder and leader of the Locked‑In Fatherhood Alliance, an organization committed to strengthening families by restoring and empowering fathers.Yashar shares the heart behind his work — why fatherhood matters, how absence impacts generations, and what it looks like to truly be locked in as a man, a parent, and a leader. He walks us through the mission of Locked-In Fatherhood Alliance and the practical ways his organization is creating space for healing, accountability, and growth for fathers across our city.This conversation goes beyond programs and titles. We talk about:The responsibility men carry as fathers and father figuresBreaking cycles that have existed for generationsHow strong fathers help build safer, healthier communitiesThe vision Yashar has for Spokane and the role men must play in itWhy mentorship, support, and presence change everythingYashar brings clarity, conviction, and vision — not just for fathers, but for the future of our city. This episode is a reminder that when fathers show up, families grow stronger — and when families grow stronger, communities thrive.Tap in. This is a powerful one.

In this episode, we sit down with Bobby Richmond, a mental health professional in Spokane whose life journey and work are rooted in resilience, discipline, and deep self-awareness.Growing up on the Hilltop of Tacoma, Bobby learned early that mindset can either limit you or liberate you. Surrounded by real challenges and real consequences, he discovered that self-awareness, discipline, and resiliency weren’t just personal tools — they were survival skills. Those same tools are now the foundation of the work he does with Spokane’s youth.Bobby shares how understanding your emotions, taking ownership of your choices, and staying disciplined in hard moments can completely change the direction of a young person’s life. We talk about the importance of mental health, breaking cycles, and creating safe spaces where young men can be honest, accountable, and empowered to grow.In this conversation, we explore:How Bobby’s upbringing shaped his approach to mental healthWhy self-awareness is the starting point for real changeThe role discipline plays in emotional regulation and decision-makingHow resiliency is built through lived experience, not just theoryWhat Spokane’s youth need right now to thriveThis episode is a powerful reminder that healing, growth, and leadership all begin on the inside. Bobby brings wisdom, authenticity, and a clear message: when young people learn to understand themselves, they gain the power to change their future.Tap in — this one hits deep.

In this episode, we sit down with Dominic DeCaro, Vice President of Business Banking at Washington Trust Bank — a Spokane native whose journey from the halls of North Central High School to the executive boardrooms of regional banking is nothing short of inspirational.Dom breaks down what leveling up really looks like when you start from humble beginnings. He walks us through his path into finance, the mentors and decisions that shaped him, and how he developed the mindset, discipline, and professionalism required to rise through an industry where representation is limited and competition is heavy.This conversation is packed with gems for young men, especially those who want to build a future bigger than their circumstances:How Dom built confidence and competence early in his careerThe power of saying yes to opportunity, even when it scares youWhy financial literacy is generational — and how to flip the script for your familyHow he learned to navigate corporate spaces as a leader with integrityThe role of mentorship, preparation, and discipline in becoming an executiveWhat it means to create change that lasts long after you’re goneDom’s story is about more than banking — it’s about changing the trajectory of generations. His rise is proof that you can come from the neighborhood, stay rooted in who you are, and still walk into any room with the skill, credibility, and purpose to make real impact.If you’re a young man trying to figure out your path, or someone building toward financial freedom and legacy, this episode is a blueprint.Tap in — Dom came to drop game.

In this episode, we sit down with Luc Jasmin III — educator, entrepreneur, policy leader, and one of the most respected community advocates in Eastern Washington. Luc has worn many hats in service of Spokane: co-owner of a family childcare center, former Eastern Washington Representative for the Governor’s Office, and now Director of Strategic Initiatives at Community-Minded Enterprises, where he leads work centered on equity, early learning, family stability, and community development.Luc’s story is one of resiliency and mental toughness. As a first-generation Haitian American, a business owner, and a public servant navigating systems that weren’t always built with people like him in mind, Luc learned early how to stand firm, stay grounded, and keep moving forward with purpose. His leadership has helped shape conversations around housing, childcare, opportunity, and representation in Spokane — always with a heart for the people and a vision for stronger communities.In this conversation, we explore what resiliency really looks like:• how to stay committed when challenges hit from every angle• the discipline required to lead in public spaces• the cost of standing up for your community• why mental toughness is built, not born• and how persistence can change the trajectory of entire neighborhoodsAnd honestly — who better to have this conversation with than Luc?He’s a man who has stood strong for our community for years, showing up with consistency, courage, and the kind of quiet strength young men need to see modeled.This episode is raw, grounded, and full of wisdom. Tap in — this one is a blueprint for anyone learning how to endure, rise, and lead

This episode… whew.When you hand a pastor the mic, you already know something special is about to happen — and Pastor Amos Atkinson did not disappoint. What was supposed to be a conversation turned into an experience.Pastor Amos came in with passion, wisdom, vulnerability, and a presence that took over the entire show in the best way possible. From personal breakthroughs to spiritual insight, from accountability to purpose, this conversation is full of gems that hit your heart as much as your mind. That’s why this episode runs long — every moment had value, and nothing could be cut.This is the kind of episode you listen to twice.The kind you send to a friend.The kind that reminds you that growth isn’t just mental — it’s spiritual, emotional, and personal.If you’re ready for truth, inspiration, and perspective you didn’t even know you needed, buckle up.This is Amos Atkinson.This is purpose speaking.This is The Hold It Down Podcast.

Description:Every movement starts with a why.In this pilot episode, Big Lee and Michael sit down to share the real reason behind launching The Hold It Down Podcast — a platform built for the culture, for the community, and for every young man trying to find his path in a world full of noise.This episode pulls back the curtain and gets personal. Lee and Michael talk about the moments that shaped them, the people who poured into them, and the responsibility they feel to pour back into the next generation. They break down the heart behind Everyday Mentors, the vision for this podcast, and why creating a space for honest, unfiltered conversations is more important than ever.If you’ve ever wondered what drives a man to serve, to grow, and to lead — this is the foundation.This is the mission.This is the why.Tap in and let’s build something real together.Welcome to The Hold It Down Podcast.

In Episode 3, Big Lee and Michael sit down with Michael Moody, a powerful community leader whose life’s work centers around discipline, consistency, and building generational change. This conversation goes deep into the habits, routines, and mindset shifts that create real legacy — the kind that outlives you.Michael shares the lessons that shaped him, the failures that refined him, and the daily disciplines that keep him locked in on his purpose. From fatherhood to leadership to self-development, he breaks down the practical tools that help young men stay focused, stay grounded, and stay committed to their growth.This episode is honest, vulnerable, and packed with game for anyone trying to level up and create a life that matters. If you’re serious about becoming the best version of yourself — this is the one you don’t skip.Tap in and build with us.Legacy starts with your habits.

In this powerful second episode, Big Lee and Michael sit down with community leader and difference-maker Dennis Mitchell to break down what it really means to take control of your life — no excuses, no shortcuts, no victim mentality.Dennis opens up about his personal journey, the adversity he faced, and the mindset shifts that helped him transform his direction and his purpose. Together, the conversation dives into accountability, self-leadership, and how your attitude and energy determine where your “bus” is headed.This episode is raw, inspirational, and full of practical wisdom for anyone trying to rewrite their story. Dennis doesn’t just talk motivation — he lives it, and listeners will feel that through every minute.If you’re ready to step into ownership, walk in your purpose, and surround yourself with the right energy, this is the episode that sets the tone.Tap in.Level up.You’re the driver of your bus.