College And Beyond: Real Talk with Amour Carthy

What happens when a young man from Brooklyn finds his voice at a historically Black university — and never looks back? In this episode of College and Beyond: Real Talk with Amour, we sit down with a creator whose journey from New York to Tennessee State University shaped everything: his artistry, his identity, and his hustle. We're talking about more than a college story. This is a conversation about what it means to bet on yourself, find your community, and build something real — one step at a time. A Communications degree from TSU gave him the tools, but it was the culture, the connections, and the HBCU experience that gave him the foundation to step into the spotlight on his own terms.00:00 Introduction to College and Beyond00:53 From Brooklyn to TSU: A Journey Begins05:29 Finding Purpose at TSU09:26 Building a Media Career at TSU12:34 Navigating Post-Graduation Challenges18:14 Creating Opportunities in Media21:46 Establishing Brooklyn Media24:55 Overcoming Financial Hurdles28:39 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

What happens when college isn’t just a personal decision—but a family expectation?In this episode of College and Beyond: Real Talk with Amour Carthy, Amour sits down with Alise Givens, an Atlanta native carrying a multi-generation Spelman College legacy while forging her own path toward becoming a pediatric neurosurgeon.Together, they unpack the reality of growing up inside a legacy, the pressure to honor family history, and what it takes to make even an “expected” path truly your own. This conversation goes beyond the highlight reel—touching on ambition, sacrifice, identity, and the emotional weight that often comes with excellence.If you’ve ever felt torn between who you’re expected to be and who you’re becoming, this episode is for you.00:00 Introduction to Legacy and Education02:51 Understanding Legacy: A Personal Perspective04:43 Family Legacy and the Pressure to Conform06:06 Choosing Spelman: A Personal Decision08:13 High School Experience: Navigating Identity10:48 Sports and Community at Spelman11:48 Academic Aspirations: Biology and Medicine13:55 Exploring Cognitive Development in Children14:40 Empowering Education: The Impact of ADW Class17:13 Understanding Systemic Issues: School-to-Prison Pipeline19:19 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions20:22 Navigating Challenges in a Competitive Environment22:59 Sisterhood and Community at Spelman26:11 Advice for Future Spelman Students

What does it actually look like to turn a computer science degree into a thriving tech career?In this episode of College and Beyond Real Talk with Amour, Myles Nobles shares his journey from Houston to Rice University to the San Francisco Bay Area, where he now works as a Software Development Engineer II. A few years into his career, Myles pulls back the curtain on what those early post-college years really demand — professionally, mentally, and financially.We talk about making the leap from college into Silicon Valley, growing beyond your first job, navigating promotions and performance expectations, and what skills truly matter once you’re in the room. Myles also reflects on taking a backpacking trip through Europe before starting full-time work — why that decision mattered, and how it shaped his transition into adulthood.This conversation is honest, practical, and grounded in real experience — not highlight reels.In this episode, we cover:What helped Myles stand out early in his tech careerThe realities of working in the Bay AreaHow college prepared him — and where it didn’tThe difference between landing a job and building a careerAdvice for students considering computer science or techIf you’re a high school or college student thinking about tech, a recent grad trying to find your footing, or a parent curious about what early career life actually looks like — this one is for you.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest05:49 The Coding Journey: Languages and Logic10:59 Challenges in the Dating App Market17:02 Advice for Aspiring Engineers

Jorah left Atlanta, enrolled at North Carolina Central University, and jumped headfirst into nursing school — already ahead of the game with college credits earned before she ever stepped on campus. In this episode of College & Beyond: Real Talk with Amour, she opens up about the transition from home to HBCU life, why she chose nursing, and what nobody tells you about your first year. Raw, real, and deeply relatable — this one is for every student in the middle of figuring it all out.

In this episode of College and Beyond Real Talk With Amour, we sit down with the remarkable Lynsey Weatherspoon — award-winning photographer, director, filmmaker, and Canon Explorer of Light — for a conversation that goes far beyond the camera lens.Lynsey's story starts where the best ones always do: with a mother's love. Her first photography teacher was her late mother, Rhonda, and that first camera — a gift — delivered her purpose. From those early lessons in patience and seeing the world differently, Lynsey built a career that has taken her work to the New York Times, Vanity Fair, Time, ESPN, NPR, the Washington Post, and beyond. But this episode isn't just about photography. It's about what happens when you commit to something that feels bigger than you — and what you discover about yourself along the way. Lynsey opens up about the moments she considered walking away, the sacrifices she made to stay focused, and what gaining a higher sense of purpose and confidence really looks like when you're building a creative career from the ground up.Whether you're a teen trying to figure out if a creative path is "real," a young adult unsure if your passion can pay the bills, or a parent wondering how to support a kid who doesn't fit the traditional mold — this episode is for you.00:00 Introduction to Photography and Identity02:22 The Journey into Professional Photography05:13 Philosophy and Approach to Photography07:59 Styles and Storytelling in Photography10:33 Influences and Inspirations13:02 Current Projects and Future Aspirations15:41 Navigating the Business of Photography18:08 Reflections on Growth and Opportunities21:33 Navigating Transitions in Art and Networking23:57 The Impact of Photography on Life and Identity29:07 Understanding Representation in Photography31:36 The Importance of Archiving and Documenting History35:54 Showing Up for Yourself Through Photography

What does it really take to go from a small-town upbringing to presiding over a courtroom in one of the largest metro areas in the South?In this episode of College & Beyond Real Talk with Amour, Judge Charity Bridgewater shares her journey from Mississippi to the Atlanta bench. She breaks down the educational path, the discipline, the setbacks, and the defining decisions that shaped her career in law.This conversation goes beyond titles and robes. We talk about:The college choices that matteredWhat law school actually demandsHow to build credibility in competitive spacesThe mindset required to lead with authorityWhat students need to understand about the justice systemIf you’ve ever considered law, leadership, or a career that carries real responsibility, this episode is for you.

In this episode of College & Beyond: Real Talk with Amour, I talk with ZsaVette Eze, a Vice President of Technology who built her career while navigating college, full-time work, and parenting at the same time.ZsaVette walks through what it actually looked like to finish college while raising a child, dealing with financial instability, and making decisions based on survival—not “passion.” She breaks down how those early choices shaped her entry into tech, how she moved up in the industry, and what most people don’t tell students about career progression in technology.We cover:Managing school while working and parentingMaking practical education decisions when time and money are limitedMoving up in tech without coming from a traditional pipelineWhat students and parents misunderstand about tech careers and advancementThis episode is for anyone tired of polished success stories and wants an honest conversation about education, work, and building a career under real constraints.00:00 Introduction to Tenacity and Triumph01:53 ZsaVette's Unique Journey to Technology05:49 Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience11:42 Education Path and Non-Traditional Learning16:10 Navigating the Tech Industry19:38 Advice for Aspiring Tech Professionals24:35 Community Involvement and Giving Back26:12 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

On this episode of College and Beyond: Real Talk with Amour, I sit down with Melvin Hodges III, a student at Howard University, for a conversation about purpose, pressure, and what it really means to carry legacy forward.Melvin comes from a powerful lineage — both his father and grandfather attended Morehouse College and his mother attended Spelman. That kind of tradition is deep. It shapes expectations. It shapes identity. And it raises real questions about how you honor your family’s path while choosing your own.We talk about his decision to attend Howard University and what the HBCU experience has meant to him. We start with philosophy — not just as an academic discipline, but as the foundation for how he thinks about law, social justice, and power. He breaks down why understanding systems matters if you plan to challenge them.In this episode, we unpack:• The weight of family expectations and building on a strong legacy• His first impressions of Howard and finding his voice on campus• Pursuing law through a social justice lens• Balancing academics and social life• Competing in Mock Trial and developing confidence under pressure• Navigating failure and growing through challenges• The role faith plays in his resilienceThis conversation is about more than choosing a college. It’s about becoming. About discipline. About responsibility. And about defining success on your own terms — even when tradition runs deep.If you’re a student navigating expectations or a parent thinking about generational impact, this episode will resonate.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:57 Exploring Philosophy and Its Impact 04:06 The Power of Law and Social Justice 05:37 Legacy and Family Expectations 07:57 First Impressions of Howard University 10:51 Advice for High School Students 13:08 Balancing Academics and Social Life 16:08 Involvement in Mock Trial 19:46 Overcoming Failure and Challenges 21:56 Faith and Resilience 23:11 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode of Codge Beyond Real Talk, host Amour Carthy sits down with Lena Johnson, a Spelman College freshman from Philadelphia majoring in biomedical engineering, who earned a 4.0 GPA in her first semester as a STEM major.Lena breaks down what it actually takes to excel in rigorous STEM courses while balancing undergraduate research, campus involvement, and life as a member of the Spelman Jaguarettes. She shares the real strategies behind her time management, the mindset shifts that helped her adjust to college-level academics, and how she navigated the cultural transition to an HBCU.The conversation also dives into practical advice for high school students—especially those aiming high. Lena talks about building strong study habits early, managing your schedule before it manages you, and why smaller scholarships can add up in a big way.This episode is for:Students preparing for demanding majorsParents supporting high-achieving college studentsFamilies exploring HBCUsAnyone who wants an honest look at what thriving in college really requiresIf you’re serious about academic excellence and long-term success, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, Amour sits down with Michael Henry, a Fayetteville, North Carolina native, Morehouse College and Pepperdine University alum, whose career path took him from global study and international travel to the realities of politics, education, and higher ed leadership.Michael shares his journey studying abroad in London, traveling to Taiwan and Rwanda, and interning with the U.S. Department of State while preparing for a career in foreign public diplomacy—until administrative changes forced a major pivot. Instead of chasing a closed door, he returned home to teach American History and later stepped into a newly created role impacting higher education at Pepperdine.This conversation is about:What happens when a “prestige path” disappearsNavigating career pivots that aren’t your choiceTranslating global experience into real-world impactWhy education is not a fallback—it’s influenceIf you’re a student, graduate, or professional questioning what comes next when the original plan falls apart, this episode is for you.

Getting into a top school doesn’t guarantee an easy college experience—and this episode tells the full truth.In this conversation, Amour sits down with Rüben Stephen, a first-generation student at MIT studying mechanical engineering and computer science, to talk honestly about the highs, lows, and in-between moments of college life. From moments of excitement and pride to academic pressure, isolation, and family responsibility, Rüb shares what it’s really like navigating a prestigious institution while carrying personal, emotional, and financial realities that don’t pause for coursework.Rüb reflects on the misconception that elite schools solve personal struggles, the ongoing impact of family dynamics and inherited trauma, and why building intentional support systems—community, mentorship, faith, and mental health resources—matters at every stage of college, not just during the hard years.This episode is for students who love parts of college, struggle through others, and are learning in real time that success isn’t just about where you go—but who supports you while you’re there.

What happens when the journalism industry changes faster than the career you built inside it?In this candid 30-minute episode, journalist and cultural critic Janee Bolden shares the real story behind a career that looks glossy on paper but required grit, adaptability, and constant recalibration in practice. From growing up across Alabama, Iowa, and Massachusetts to earning her degrees at NYU, Janee reflects on what she thought a journalism career would be—and what it actually demanded.She unpacks 15 years of shaping editorial strategy at BOSSIP, writing for outlets like Variety and Ebony, and navigating an industry reshaped by digital disruption and corporate downsizing. Now freelancing and building her own platform through the Hey Janeé Podcast, Janee talks honestly about career pivots, identity, and redefining success when stability is no longer guaranteed.This episode is for anyone chasing a dream job—and learning, in real time, how to survive and evolve when the dream changes.

In the premiere episode of College and Beyond: Real Talk with Amour, I sit down with Lauren Winslow—Atlanta native, Woodward Academy graduate, and freshman at Hampton University. Lauren shares her journey from high school band to Hampton’s band, what influenced her decision to attend an HBCU, and how she successfully navigated her first semester academically and socially. This 30-minute conversation offers honest insight into the college transition, balancing passion with responsibility, and building confidence during freshman year. A must-listen for students preparing for college and parents who want a realistic picture of what thriving in year one can look like.

In this episode, we sit down with rising Howard University sophomore Stanley Scott III, a student leader with big dreams and an even bigger heart. From earning a 3.79 GPA and leading on campus through the Howard Union and Economic Society, to landing an internship tied to New Orleans’ political scene, Stanley is already shaping a future steeped in civic impact.Stanley shares how his vision to become a businessman and ultimately the President of the United States is deeply inspired by his grandfather, Stanley Scott, who served two U.S. presidents as the Director of Communications and the Director of Domestic Affairs. Grounded in his family's legacy of public service, Stanley III is passionate about financial literacy and empowering communities.In our conversation, we explore Stanley's entrepreneurial spirit, the impact of mentorship in his journey, his long-term aspirations, and what it takes to lead with purpose and integrity in every space he enters.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Cameron from the Atlanta Metro—fresh off earning her second Master’s degree and preparing to begin a Ph.D. program at the University of Alabama this fall. Cameron shares the full arc of her academic and personal journey, from early aspirations of attending Penn State to finding her place—and her purpose—on Alabama’s campus. Encouraged by her parents and a childhood best friend, Cameron initially overlooked Alabama—but after visiting, she fell in love with the community and culture. She ultimately secured $40,000 in scholarships and became a standout student leader through roles as a parent ambassador, orientation leader, and proud member of AKA. Cameron’s academic journey is marked by courageous pivots—from nursing to public health to sports management, and now sports psychology. Her experiences in football recruiting, behavioral health, and public health internships (including one with the CDC) reflect a deep commitment to people, purpose, and possibility. With sights set on a career in professional sports, perhaps even with the Atlanta Falcons, Cameron’s story is one of intentional growth, community impact, and resilience. This episode is a must-listen for students navigating change, professionals seeking reinvention, and anyone chasing purpose on their own terms.

Braylen Burgess had it all — a full-ride football scholarship, a 3.7 GPA, and a future in economics at Bucknell University. But what happens when the dream comes with a dose of reality? In this episode, Braylen opens up about moving from the fast pace of Atlanta to the quiet of Lewisburg, PA, and how that shift impacted his life on and off the field. We talk about the power of education, the pressure of performance, and his recent decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal. If you're chasing big dreams in unexpected places, this one’s for you.

In this episode, MIT sophomore Stone Smith shares how he turned a deferral into a full acceptance—and how he’s navigating life as an aerospace engineering major, lacrosse player, and fraternity brother at one of the most demanding schools in the world. We dive into the academic pressure of MIT’s pass/fail system, the challenges of an accelerated coding course, and the reality of managing sports, research, and social life all at once. Stone also talks about his work on a rocket team, his involvement in a NASA challenge, and the importance of showing genuine passion in college applications. If you're curious about what it really takes to succeed—and stay grounded—at MIT, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we sit down with Kailyn Philpot, a junior at Howard University majoring in Legal Communications with a minor in International Affairs. As a resident assistant and active member of a Christian fellowship for young women, Kailyn opens up about the realities of campus life at an HBCU known for its "go-getter" culture.She reflects on the highs and lows of striving for excellence—while managing burnout, relationships, academic expectations, and staying spiritually grounded.Kailyn shares honest insights on learning how to interact with adults, maintaining balance between her commitments, and avoiding the trap of temporary gratification in a socially charged environment. Whether you're a student, mentor, or young professional, Kailyn’s story is a powerful reminder that you are more than your achievements—and your peace is worth protecting.🗣️ Topics Covered: • The pressure to do it all—and what it costs • Finding faith and sisterhood in a fast-paced environment • Navigating adult relationships as a Gen Z student • Why discipline, boundaries, and self-worth matter more than ever • Howard’s culture, burnout, and becoming your own version of success

In this episode of College & Beyond: Real Talk with Amour Carthy, we sit down with Laila Johnson, a dynamic Spelman College student passionate about social justice and advocacy. Growing up in Philadelphia, Laila honed her voice early, participating in oratorical contests and even publishing an op-ed in the Philadelphia Inquirer about the impact of a newly implemented student lottery for magnet schools. Now, as a sociology and anthropology major with an education minor, she continues her work through Spelman’s social justice program, under the guidance of her advisor, Dr. Spence.Laila has competed in debate tournaments at Vanderbilt and Howard, showcasing her skills in argumentation and advocacy. She has also taken her studies global, studying abroad in Santiago, Chile, broadening her perspective on activism beyond U.S. borders.With a deep-rooted legacy—her mother, a Spelman alumna and lawyer, and her father, a Morehouse graduate and preacher—Laila is carrying forward a tradition of leadership, advocacy, and impact. Tune in to hear her inspiring story, her thoughts on using debate, writing, and activism as tools for change, and what’s next in her journey.Don’t miss this powerful conversation! 🎙️✨

In this episode of College and Beyond: Real Talk with Amour Carthy, we sit down with Ellie Correa, a driven and passionate freshman at Florida International University. As a Psychology major and part-time Pilates instructor, Ellie has found the perfect balance between her love for mental wellness and movement. We dive into her journey from a private high school in Miami to navigating independence at FIU, her passion for mental health advocacy, and how road-tripping with friends has shaped her college experience. Ellie shares how she’s built confidence in advocating for herself, staying motivated, and embracing new opportunities as a go-getter.

Kamaria Sequeira’s journey is a story of ambition, entrepreneurship, and embracing the HBCU experience. Growing up in the Atlanta metro, she was one of the basketball managers for her high school team while also gaining business experience by helping sell and manage her father’s brand, Forever Homecoming, at a local farmers market. Now a student at Alabama A&M, Kamaria has taken her entrepreneurial spirit to the next level—running her own market on campus, where she sells her dad’s sought-after sweet teas and builds her own brand. Tune in as we discuss her transition from public high school to an HBCU, her hands-on business experience, and her vision for the future.

This episode takes you inside the world of Miles Johnson, a rising star in sports journalism. From his time at Morehouse College to graduate school at NYU, Miles has carved out a path to success in a competitive field. In this episode, Miles shares the story of his journey, including his transition from an all-male HBCU to the environment of NYU, and his rise in the sports media industry. He also discusses how he built and grew his successful podcast, Realtalk with MJ, and what it takes to thrive in digital sports commentary. Tune in for an insightful conversation on breaking into the industry, navigating challenges, and building a personal brand.

In this episode of College & Beyond: Real Talk with Amour, we sit down with Kevin Washington Jr., an Atlanta native whose passion for storytelling led him from a small private high school to Morehouse College and now to the prestigious USC School of Cinematic Arts for graduate film studies.Kevin shares how his time at Morehouse, where he majored in Cinema, Television, and Emerging Digital Media, helped shape his creative vision and prepared him for the highly competitive world of film. We also dive into his experience as a brother of Omega Psi Phi, his transition from Atlanta to Los Angeles, and what it takes to break into the film industry as a first-year graduate student at USC.Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a college student navigating your next steps, or someone who loves inspiring journeys, this episode is packed with insights on education, storytelling, and chasing big dreams.

In this episode ofCollege & Beyond: Real Talk with Amour, we sit down with Solomon Tucker, a freshman at Morehouse College, as he shares his journey from Drew Charter School to one of the nation's most prestigious HBCUs. As a Morehouse legacy student, following in his father’s footsteps, Solomon reflects on what it means to continue the tradition while forging his own path.We dive into his transition from high school to college, how he’s adjusting to academic expectations, and what it’s like to attend college in the same city where he grew up. Solomon also shares his experiences navigating social life, finding his community on campus, and taking advantage of opportunities beyond the classroom.Tune in for an insightful and inspiring conversation about legacy, growth, and making the most of the college experience!

Listen & Watch the inspiring story of Donovan Jones, a Black male student who transitioned from a small private high school to the bustling halls of Georgia Tech. Donovan discusses how he earned a prestigious scholarship, navigated the challenges of a large public university, and embraced the opportunities of studying in his hometown. Join us for a deep dive into Donovan’s unique experience and his advice for students making similar transitions.

In this episode, join Bailey as she shares her journey from a small private high school to earning a full-ride scholarship at a large public university. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of making the leap to college, from the scholarship process to adjusting to campus life. Whether you're a student, parent, or just looking for inspiration, Bailey’s story is packed with practical advice and motivation to help you achieve your own dreams.

"The Road to D1: Gisella Sweet’s Journey" offers an insightful look into the journey of Gisella Sweet, a biracial student-athlete who overcame a high school injury to become a D1 soccer player at a private college in rural North Carolina. In this episode, Gisella shares her experience of transitioning from a small private school to college athletics, the challenges of balancing academics and soccer, and the role her identity as a Black and Latina woman plays in her athletic and academic life. Join us for a thoughtful discussion on resilience, determination, and success in collegiate sports

Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of a D1 college pitcher, diving into how he balanced the demands of baseball and academics to achieve success on and off the field.