Conversations Are Key

In this episode of Conversations Are Key, Key Will Voice sits down with Grammy-nominated songwriter and recording artist Alvin Garrett for a powerful conversation about the evolving music industry and what it means for creatives today.From writing for artists like Kelly Rowland, Fantasia, Joe, and Ruben Studdard, to building his own lane in “inspirational soul,” Alvin shares the real truth about songwriting, rejection, and longevity.The conversation takes a deep turn into artificial intelligence and its growing role in music, exploring whether AI is a threat or a tool, if it can truly replicate human emotion, and what happens when machines begin to compete with creators.Alvin also breaks down why the best songs don’t always become hits, the importance of infrastructure and visibility, and how artists can maintain authenticity in a rapidly changing landscape.In one of the most powerful moments of the episode, Alvin shares a life-changing story about his early partnership with Ruben Studdard and how a single act of obedience and belief helped set the stage for a journey that would ultimately change both of their lives.He also discusses his latest album Talk To Her Like This, available now, featuring the standout single “Roll Slide Roll”—a feel-good record with a deeper message about relationships, communication, and connection.Plus, Alvin opens up about his initiative The Write Life, using music as a tool for healing and transformation in underserved communities.This episode is a must-listen for artists, creatives, and anyone navigating the future of culture, technology, and ownership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Conversations Are Key, Key Will Voice sits down with Nino Breeze for a powerful and unfiltered conversation about transformation, responsibility, and the true cost of second chances.Nino opens up about his journey from the streets of Florida to federal prison and the mental and emotional challenges that came with it. While many focus on the personal struggle of incarceration, he shares a deeper reality: the impact it had on his family, including navigating serious mental health challenges while he was away.He also discusses:The hardest part of being incarceratedThe emotional toll on his familyLessons learned from adversityHis growth and mindset after prisonConnecting with Rick Ross and entering the Maybach Music Group ecosystemWhy success still requires relentless work — even with a record dealThis is more than a music interview, it’s a conversation about accountability, resilience and what it truly means to rebuild your life.🎙 Conversations Are Key is hosted by Keyon Williams, bringing you real stories from culture, business, and entertainment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Conversations Are Key, host Key Will Voice sits down with entrepreneur Sandy Sandiford, co-owner of the premium whiskey brand Amber & Opal, created in partnership with hip-hop icon Ja Rule.Amber & Opal has quickly captured attention as one of the newest brands entering the spirits industry. In this conversation, Sandy shares the origin story behind the brand, how the partnership with Ja Rule came together, and the strategy behind building a premium whiskey company from the ground up.Key Will and Sandy discuss the realities of launching a spirits brand, the importance of culture and storytelling in modern business, and the lessons learned while building a product designed to stand out in a competitive market.The conversation also explores entrepreneurship, partnerships, and the mindset required to turn a bold idea into a growing lifestyle brand.In This Episode• The origin story of Amber & Opal • How Ja Rule became involved in the brand • Developing a premium whiskey product • The business of launching a spirits company • Entrepreneurship, culture, and brand building • Lessons from building a modern lifestyle brand Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a time where work is shifting faster than most people can process, many creatives and professionals are asking the same question: what do we do now?In this episode of Conversations Are Key, Keyon Williams sits down with Justin Burns, founder of Miestro, to unpack how artificial intelligence is impacting creative industries, business, and everyday work.As a producer, editor, and voice actor, Key Will Voice brings a grounded, real-world perspective to the conversation — reflecting on what he’s seeing firsthand:Work slowing downBudgets shrinkingAI tools becoming part of everyday workflowsInstead of focusing on hype, this episode focuses on clarity and application:How can people actually adapt right now? Where are real opportunities emerging? And what does it look like to start using AI without being technical?The episode also introduces a live experiment: The 30-Day AI Challenge — documenting the process of building something from scratch using AI in real time.This is a grounded conversation for creatives, freelancers, and working professionals trying to understand what comes next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful Women’s History Month episode of Conversations Are Key, host Key Will Voice sits down with rising actress Danielle LaRoach for a deeply honest and inspiring conversation about purpose, resilience, and the journey to self-worth.From her breakout role as Belinda on Zatima to working within the world of Tyler Perry, Danielle opens up about the realities of the industry, the discipline behind the craft, and what it truly takes to build a lasting career in entertainment. But this conversation goes far beyond Hollywood.Danielle shares her personal journey of overcoming trauma, finding her voice, and learning how to reclaim her power — offering a message that speaks directly to women navigating their own paths to healing and purpose.Key and Danielle also dive into the cultural impact of this year’s awards season, reflecting on long-overdue recognition for Black creatives and what those moments mean for the future of storytelling. This episode is about truth. It’s about faith. And it’s about becoming the person you were always meant to be.Listen, reflect and join the conversation — because Conversations Are Key. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Conversations Are Key, host Key Will Voice sits down with tech executive, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Reginald “Cool Mill” Shareef, founder of The E.D.G.E. Foundation (Educate, Develop, Grow, and pursue Excellence).After building a successful career working with global organizations including Microsoft and Lockheed Martin, Shareef shifted his focus toward empowering the next generation through education, technology, and leadership development.Through his national initiative “It’s C.O.O.L. to Be S.M.A.R.T.”, he is challenging outdated cultural narratives and encouraging young people to embrace intelligence, curiosity, and excellence as a pathway to opportunity.In this conversation, Keyon and Reggie explore:• Why intelligence must be celebrated again• The difference between information and real intelligence• The importance of HBCUs in developing leaders• Corporate America vs entrepreneurship• The future of technology, AI, and robotics• Why investing in your mind is the most important investment you can makeThis episode is a powerful conversation about education, culture, ownership, and preparing the next generation for a rapidly changing world.Listen now and join the conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Actor, coach, and creative leader Dennis L.A. White joins Conversations Are Key for one of our most powerful and honest episodes yet.Known for portraying D-Roc in Notorious and his roles in The Brave One and Parenthood, Dennis has over 80 film and television credits to his name. In this conversation, he opens up about:- Grinding through the trenches in NYC- Being racially profiled in South Carolina and the resulting Hollywood fallout- Losing representation after speaking out- Building a career across 25+ cities- Coaching the next generation of actors- Why he refers to today’s performers as “microwave actors”- Unforgettable red carpet moments with Will Smith and Ice-TThis episode dives deep into integrity, legacy, resilience, and protecting your peace in an industry that constantly asks, “What have you done for me lately?”If you are an actor, creative, entrepreneur, or anyone navigating purpose through pressure, this episode is for you. Be sure to stay until the end for "Keys to the Street." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Access to capital can determine whether a business survives—or never gets off the ground. In this episode, I sit down with Jekwenta “Coach K” Primm, a former corporate banker turned nationally recognized grant-funding strategist, to break down what most entrepreneurs misunderstand about grants, funding, and financial access.After spending 15 years in corporate banking, Coach K was fired for teaching business owners how to pursue non-dilutive funding. That moment became the catalyst for building a seven-figure education company and helping thousands of entrepreneurs rethink how they fund their businesses—without taking on debt or giving up equity.We talk about:What the grant funding ecosystem really looks like (and who it’s actually built for)The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when applying for grantsHow AI is changing the way founders search and apply for fundingWhy mindset, structure, and preparation matter more than luckRedefining work-life balance while scaling as a single parentThis conversation goes beyond headlines and hype to explore access, accountability, and strategy—and what it truly takes to position your business for opportunity.Tap in for a grounded conversation at the intersection of entrepreneurship, funding literacy, and economic empowerment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Chapters & Search Keywords00:00 – Mixtape Culture OriginsMixtape era history, hip hop before streaming, DJs as gatekeepers, street tapes, cassette culture02:00 – Malik Buie’s Career at BETBET Rap City, hip hop television, music video culture, behind-the-scenes BET stories06:30 – Rap City & the Birth of the CypherRap City freestyles, Hip Hop Awards cypher origins, BET programming innovation12:10 – Why Tale of the Tape Had to Be MadeHip hop documentary filmmaking, mixtape history, preserving Black culture14:45 – Early Footage: Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole & MoreKendrick Lamar early career, J. Cole mixtapes, Big Sean rise, Future first TV appearance16:40 – Clark Kent Interview & Hip Hop ArchivesDJ Clark Kent interview, hip hop historians, archival storytelling, Peerspace filming21:40 – Challenges of Independent Documentary FilmmakingIndependent film production, editing challenges, budget constraints, creative perfectionism27:15 – Mixtapes vs Streaming & PlaylistsSpotify playlists, Apple Music, Rap Caviar, DJs vs algorithms, music discovery changes38:15 – Owning Your IP & Cultural PreservationIntellectual property, owning your masters, archival rights, Black media ownership41:35 – Combat Jack & Mixtape Legal HistoryMixtape legality, DJ Drama case, hip hop law, music industry prosecution49:25 – DJ Mentorship & Voiceover InfluenceMegatron radio DJ, DJ mentorship, voiceover technique, mic control55:30 – Advice to Filmmakers & CreatorsCreative advice, documenting the process, never taking no for an answer57:25 – Legacy of Tale of the TapeHip hop legacy films, Style Wars, Beat Street, hip hop documentaries64:50 – What’s Next for Malik BuieRed Summer TV, HBCU Honors, Morgan State hip hop history, upcoming projects68:20 – Key to the StreetsMotivation, belief in yourself, creative perseverance, hip hop wisdomTale of the Tape: How the Mixtape Revolutionized Hip Hop is available now on Amazon Prime Video and Tubi.Follow Red Summer TV for more hip hop documentaries, DJ culture stories, and archival footage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Conversations Are Key, host Keyon Williams sits down with acclaimed actor Omar J. Dorsey for a powerful, honest conversation about the long game.Fresh off his 50th birthday, Omar reflects on a career built not on shortcuts or hype—but on craft, consistency, and conviction. From his Atlanta roots and lifelong immersion in the arts to unforgettable roles in Queen Sugar, When They See Us, Snowfall, Selma, Django Unchained, Bookie, and the Halloween franchise, Omar breaks down what it really takes to stay working—and evolving—in Hollywood for decades.They talk rejection that later made sense, the auditions you think you nailed (until you don’t), and how missing out on Luke Cage led to a life-changing call that reshaped his career. Omar opens up about leadership on set, protecting your peace, portraying Black men with dignity and complexity, navigating Hollywood politics, mental health, financial literacy, and why success today is about legacy—not validation.Plus, a perfectly timed Atlanta Falcons vs. New England Patriots voiceover story that underscores the power of alignment and divine timing.This episode is a masterclass in longevity, growth, and staying ready.Follow the conversation: @ConversationsAreKey @omarjdorsey Host: @KeyWillVoice Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From dirt-poor Memphis beginnings to owning 23 roofing locations, 11 companies, a sunglasses brand, and a cult-following in country music — Shi Eubank has lived every lyric he writes. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, Keyon Williams sits down with the man behind “Shi Country” to unpack the grind, the trauma, the entrepreneurial hustle, and the music that turned his story into a movement.Shi opens up about growing up with nothing, the moment he took accountability for his life, the two years he lived on $5 a day, and how he turned $1,200 into a multi-million-dollar empire. He also shares unheard stories about Memphis grit, the toxic relationship that pushed him to Nashville, the insane COVID controversy that landed him in jail twice, and the 73-songs-in-13-days writing camp that changed everything.This episode is heavy, inspiring, hilarious, and vulnerable — one of the most powerful conversations on Conversations Are Key to date.Timestamps: 00:00 — Shy Country origins 05:10 — Growing up dirt poor 13:40 — Accountability & the $5-a-day grind 23:00 — How he built 11 roofing companies 38:20 — The Nashville move & toxic love 55:00 — The COVID controversy 1:08:00 — Car collection & Shy’s Garage 1:21:00 — Keys to the Street🔑 Follow Shi Eubank: @shieubank (all platforms) 🎵 Stream the music: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube 🎙️ Follow Conversations Are Key: @conversationsarekey @keywillvoice 🔗 Subscribe for more interviews with culture-shifting creators & visionaries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nineteen years. That’s how long it took executive producer and actor Markuann Smith to bring his dream project, Godfather of Harlem starring Forest Whitaker, to the screen. In this powerful episode of Conversations Are Key, Markuann sits down with host Keyon “Key Will Voice” Williams to talk about what it really costs to chase a vision with no Plan B.From growing up in Far Rockaway and Harlem, to touring the world with his brother Father MC, to doing the heavy lifting that sold Godfather of Harlem and landed him on camera as “Junie Bird,” Markuann breaks down the grind behind the glory. He shares how he literally had to audition for a role in his own show, why he’ll never compromise his vision for “peanut butter and jelly” budgets, and what creators need in place before they approach a producer: decks, scripts, research, relationships, and a clear understanding of ROI.The two dig into:Persistence as a superpower – why there’s “no bunk beds in the graveyard” and how to keep going when success is a slow burn, not microwave-fast.Ownership & the business side – attorneys, industry rates, heavy lifting, and why networks only speak the language of return on investment.Authentic storytelling – making history cool, building big, believable characters, and protecting the integrity of a story in Hollywood.Relationships & integrity – treating everyone from the mailroom to the C-suite the same, protecting your energy from jealousy and envy, and doing good business even when deals fall apart.Keys to the Street – Markuann drops his own “keys,” from staying sucker-free in a world full of lollipops to building your own door when opportunity won’t open the first one.Whether you’re a writer, actor, producer, or anyone grinding toward a dream, this conversation is a masterclass in resilience, relationships, and refusing to take no for an answer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Will Voice is joined by award-winning editor Deanna Nowell (Marvel’s Ironheart, Raising Dion, Sistas,) and JaBarr “Barr Foxx” Lasley, creator of Cosplay Your Way. They dive into cosplay as a space for people of color, breaking stereotypes and why authentic representation matters. Deanna shares how cosplay helped her land her Marvel dream job and drops gems for aspiring editors. Barr Foxx delivers sharp insights on nepotism vs. real talent. Real talk, real laughs, real keys. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Key Will Voice Keys It Up with Chanel Nicole Scott — the Queen of Relationship Talk, host of CheMinistry, and CMO of In The Black Network. They dive into red flags, trauma bonds, and the pain of staying too long in unhealthy relationships. Chanel also opens up about eight years of celibacy, losing everything, and the journey of rebuilding through self-love and purpose. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the premiere episode of Conversations Are Key with Key Will Voice, host Keyon Williams (Emmy-nominated producer, award-winning editor, and celebrated voice actor) sits down with two powerhouse creatives to unlock stories of culture, resilience, and legacy.Luke Burke, Emmy Award–winning Executive Producer and founder of BURKE IV, has spent over 20 years shaping groundbreaking projects for MTV News, BET, VICE, STARZ, Tyler Perry Studios, Will Packer Productions, and SpringHill. His latest work — the docu-series Years Later and its new installment Hurricane Katrina: 20 Years Later — revisits history with a modern lens, reminding us why storytelling matters.Joining the conversation is Ishmael Morgan, a multi-platform writer and producer known for creating bold, dynamic content across TV, film, and digital. Together, Luke and Ishmael reflect on the keys to building authentic narratives, the responsibility of creators, and the human stories that connect us all.Recorded at iHeartRadio, this episode goes beyond headlines — bringing you truth, creativity, and perspective from voices who shape the culture.This is Part 2 of 2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the premiere episode of Conversations Are Key with Key Will Voice, host Keyon Williams (Emmy-nominated producer, award-winning editor, and celebrated voice actor) sits down with two powerhouse creatives to unlock stories of culture, resilience, and legacy.Luke Burke, Emmy Award–winning Executive Producer and founder of BURKE IV, has spent over 20 years shaping groundbreaking projects for MTV News, BET, VICE, STARZ, Tyler Perry Studios, Will Packer Productions, and SpringHill. His latest work — the docu-series Years Later and its new installment Hurricane Katrina: 20 Years Later — revisits history with a modern lens, reminding us why storytelling matters.Joining the conversation is Ishmael Morgan, a multi-platform writer and producer known for creating bold, dynamic content across TV, film, and digital. Together, Luke and Ishmael reflect on the keys to building authentic narratives, the responsibility of creators, and the human stories that connect us all.Recorded at iHeartRadio, this episode goes beyond headlines — bringing you truth, creativity, and perspective from voices who shape the culture.This is Part 1 of 2 — stay tuned for the continuation of this powerful conversation in next week’s episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conversations Are Key with Key Will Voice unlocks authentic, behind-the-scenes conversations with innovators, creators, and culture-shapers from entertainment, business, and beyond. Hosted by Emmy-nominated producer, award-winning editor, and celebrated voice actor Keyon Williams — whose voice has been heard across BET, MTV, VH1, NBC, iHeartRadio, and more — the show blends truth, humor, and perspective to reveal the human stories that inspire, entertain, and connect us all. Recorded at iHeartRadio Atlanta, each episode goes beyond headlines to deliver the keys you didn’t know you needed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.