Ray of Hope: The Podcast

On this episode, Dr. Raya and fiancé Antwain Lavender have a candid conversation about relationships, dispelling stereotypes and spirituality.They have a platform called Living with the Lavs that provides insight into beating the odds, finding love after 15 years of friendship and keeping God at the center of their relationship.Support the show

On this episode, we speak with Father, Pastor and Coach Anthony "Tony" Lavender and his son Antwain Lavender. Coach Lavender has coached 4 sons (Anthony, Antwain, Andrew, Antonio) and a daughter (April) in basketball. All of his sons have created a legacy on and off the court. We speak about his success as a father, coach and pastor at his church Christian Community Fellowship Church. We also speak with his middle son Antwain Lavender who played basketball for Akron University, Southeastern and Shawnee State, winning championships, becoming player of the year and was named the 2nd all-time scorer. Support the show

On this episode, we speak with basketball legend Andrew "Drew" Lavender. Drew was recently inducted into the Xavier University Hall of Fame 2026. He created the Drew's Crew Basketball Training Camp to instill the youth with life skills, knowledge and confidence on and off the court. We speak about the mental health of previous star athletes and life after sports. Support the show

On the season 4 premiere, we speak with Men's Mental Health Uncaved founder Mr. Erin Saul. This organization fosters connections, brotherhood, and healing for men in our community. Mr. Saul speaks about the importance of men aligning themselves with others in hopes of healing and understanding. Support the show

On this episode, we talk about the connection between sports, gambling and mental health. Student and professional athletes deserve to have access to mental health services. We speak about providing support to athletes and those who also engage in addictive behaviors of gambling. Help is available. Support the show

Disclaimer: Sensitive content may be posted. On the next episode of Ray of Hope, we will speak with Eric Bell who lost his daughter Imani Bell after she complained to her coaches about basketball practice in the heat. The heat index was in the triple digits and a heat advisory was issued in Atlanta. His daughter collapsed and never recovered. The coaches and athletic directors have all been charged in her death. He is sharing his story to bring awareness to school athletic practices and to create change to save other students. Bio: Born and Raised in New Ordnance, LA., Attended SUNO FOR UNDERGRAD, played Basketball, won 2 conference championships, Bachelor of Science, Cambridge University M.Ed., Teacher and Coach since 1997, resident of Atlanta, GA., since 1999....15 years experience as a Head Coach, Current Head Coach@Columbia High School in 8 years we have won 3 region championships, 1 Sweet 16, 2 elite 8 appearances, 1 final four, and we've made the state playoffs every year....3 time region coach of the year, 2 time Dekalb County Coach of the year, 3 time team of the year in Dekalb County.... Most Positive Girls Coach in Atlanta award in 2023.Support the show

On this episode, we speak with Adrienne Wilson about surviving domestic violence and seeking justice against her offender. Adrienne is dedicated to telling her story to inspire others to seek help and justice before it's too late. She is the proud mother of three sons and owns a boutique called S.H.E 614 which stands for sexy, hipped and empowered. Her strength and perseverance are commendable.  Support the show

On the next episode of Ray of Hope: The Talk Show and Podcast, we speak with Dr. Marcie Littlejohn Hill. Dr. Marcie  has a Master’s in Business Administration and Doctorate in Healthcare Administration. She is a licensed financial professional who will be educating us on financial literacy, planning and leaving a legacy of wealth and not poverty. Tune in to be educated and informed about establishing financial freedom. Debt management is vital in these times. Support the show

We speak with the co-founder of The Daughter’s Den, Quanishia Gibson. Quanishia Gibson is a LPC Intern at Victory Mental Health Services of Columbus, she enjoys working with couples, families, and individuals on relationship issues, family dynamics, self-worth, self-esteem, depression, stress, trauma, emotional abuse and other mental health issues. Gibson received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toledo and Master of Arts in Counseling from Geneva College with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is the cofounder of nonprofit The Daughters Den and intergenerational healing space for Black women and girls. Gibson is a member of the Ohio Counseling Association as well as the American Counseling Association. Her approach to therapy is real, holistic, and integrative. She holds training in trauma support, psychological first aid, and Gottman methods for couples. She believes in helping clients embrace a more holistic (mind, body, spirit) approach to mental health for a better lived experience.Support the show

On this episode, we speak with the owner of Allways Working Radio, DJ Swmpthing. He is a native of New Orleans who moved to Columbus, Ohio after being displaced by hurricane Katrina. Erin Saul is a DJ, radio personality, CEO, podcast host, media ambassador, and Midwest training manager for Fleet DJs. Music is a form of therapy for many individuals and radio personalities play a vital role in keeping us inspired. Tune in  to learn more about his new radio station, podcast, and upcoming events.  Support the show

On this episode, we speak about why we pray and praying boldly for healing, confirmation, clarity, and more. We also discuss intercessory prayer when dealing with mental health challenges and more. Scripture reminds us that we can pray boldly which leads to action. Support the show

Raya and Leslie are back for season 3 and open with a discussion on menopause and mental health issues. The signs and symptoms of menopause can mimic other illnesses and impact mental health stability. Various factors including hormones play a significant role in the response to these changes. Support the show

On this episode, we speak with the owner of 1580thepraise.com and his inspiration for having a faith-based platform. Bishop Mel Griffin speaks about his dedication to the faith-based community and ensuring individuals have access to shows that encourage and inspire. Bishop Griffin is instrumental in uplifting other and is a dedicated pillar in the community and church.Support the show

On this episode, Leslie and I speak about trials and tribulations that test our faith. We all face difficult times that test our patience and faith. We all have battles and have to learn how to maneuver through these tough times. It is often said that there are no messages without the mess and not testimony without the test. Learn to be steadfast during your battles and how to increase your faith for a positive outcome. Support the show

On this episode, we discuss the opioid and overdose crisis in Ohio. There  is a influx of overdose deaths related to laced streets drugs. This crisis is impacting all colors, genders, social classes, and races. No one is exempt from this issue. Please listen and learn about getting free Narcan to save a life. Support the show

On this episode, Dr. Raya talks about attending her 30-year class reunion July 2023, and how high school pressure impacts the mental health of our youth. Sound engineer DJ Mike Dickerson joins the conversation to discuss community engagement and assisting our youth through their process of development.Support the show

On this episode, I speak with Bobbi "Chee Chee" Chandler, the CEO and founder of Healing In Victory. Tune in as she shares her personal story and journey to eradicate the stigma associated with HIV. Learn more about her foundation and upcoming community events. Support the show

On this episode, I speak with Dytania Hudson aka Tania who is the proud mother of 3. She is a community educator and member of Ohio Family's Unite Against Police Brutality. She is also the founder of S.T.O.P: Start Teaching Our People. Tania is working with several organizations such as Moms in Healing, Urban GEMS and is currently a foster parent. She lost 2 of her 3 children and 1 grandson.  Johnny L. Bell, III lost his life in our community to senseless gun violence a day before Mother's Day in 2009. Deaunte Bell was shot and killed by 2 Columbus, Ohio police officers on 10/2015. Her grandson was killed by a hit and run driver. She is sharing her story to seek justice and reform laws and policies. Support the show

On this episode, we speak with Mr. Londale Towns, Sr. CLC M.Div. about the power of community and the importance of positive representation for our youth. Londale is a community leader and justice advocate. ✅Mental Health Counselor✅Behavior Analyst ✅Behavior Specialist✅LYFE Savers...Founder/CEO✅We Are Linden…Founding Father🌟Licensed Chemical Dependency counselor- LCDC🌟Masters in Pastoral Leadership and Clinical Counseling, Addictions Counseling concentration🌟Independent Marriage & Family Therapist- IMFTSupport the show

On this episode of Ray of Hope, the conversation continues with Ruben Minor. Ruben discusses his decision to seek help for his personal mental health issues and how the decision has affected his life. Ruben is candid and transparent about his struggles with mental health issues related to his relationship with his father. Support the show

On this episode of Ray of Hope, Raya and Leslie speak with Ruben Minor who is the founder of F4 Men’s Movement for mental health, recording artist, spin class instructor, and financial expert. Ruben speaks about the importance of bringing awareness to men’s mental health issues and how to reach out for help. Ruben’s F4 program focuses on Family, Faith, Fitness, and Finances. Support the show

On this episode, Raya and Leslie continue their conversation with the founder of Lives Worth Saving Foundation, Dana Brock. Dana speaks about bringing the community together to collaborate on an effort to combat gun violence. Dana encourages leaders and activists to join forces to provide programs geared toward helping the youth. Support the show

On this episode of Ray of Hope, Raya and Leslie talk about reaching a milestone of 2 seasons and 20 episodes. We revisit season one, speak about how we met, and the future of our podcast and foundation. We are grateful for all of the listeners and supporters throughout this journey. This platform is focused on faith, favor and fruition. It was created for our community to be heard and supported through the journey of healing. Support the show

On this episode, Raya and Leslie speak with the founders of Phemale Wear clothing line and the Phemale Safe House. Silvia Townsend and Denise Saulsbery lost their friend to domestic and gun violence. They created their clothing line and safe house in honor of their friend with hopes of bringing awareness to domestic violence and providing a safe space for victims. This dynamic duo began as a rap group with songs on movie soundtracks, traveling the world and more. They are using their platform to help women turn struggles into strength. Support the show

On this episode of Ray of Hope, Raya and Leslie speak about the importance of motherhood, mental health and self care to help with the stress. Resources are available for mothers who need assistance with balancing their own struggles with mental health issues. Support the show

On this episode we of Ray of Hope, Raya and Leslie speak about the mental health issues related to nurse burnout. Many nurses are considering other career paths after the pandemic. Nurses work long hours and often neglect their personal health. There is a National shortage of nurses and the issue continues to have an impact on the care of patients. Learn ways to improve overall health and prevent nurse burnout.Support the show

On this episode, Raya and Leslie speak with Jana Hairston, the founder of Around Town with Sweet. Jana shares her experience of being abused and the impact her divorce had on her mental health. Jana speaks about using her faith to persevere and overcome her fears. Her mission is to help other women who may have experienced trauma. Support the show

Raya and Leslie speak with Danielle Dallis-Hairston, the CEO and founder of Women Just like Me. Danielle Dallis Hairston, CEO/ Founder of Women Just Like Me and The Girls of Destiny Leadership Academy. Danielle’s personal mission is to build communities of resilient girls and women by providing social-emotional wellness, counseling, and mentoring at-risk girls and young women. She believes every girl has the right to live beyond their circumstances. Danielle obtained her BA in Business Administration from the University of Arizona Global Campus and seeks to obtain a MSW at The Ohio State University. She is the pioneer of the VISA (Victory in Sustaining Abstinence) program which is delivered in Columbus City Schools. She initiated the Girls of Destiny Summer Camp where girls learn a range of skills involving life-skills training and leadership development.Danielle is a skilled grant writer and finds fulfillment in teaching new and rising nonprofits leaders how to obtain funding and manage their organization. Danielle is most proud to be a wife, mother, and minister in the capacity of serving and giving back.Support the show

On this episode of Ray of Hope, Raya and Leslie speak with Mike Roy, Sr. who founded Out of the Stroke Foundation after suffering a massive stroke in 2016. Mike shares his journey from the weeks prior to his stroke to his current mission to help other stroke survivors. Support the show

April is National Minority Health Month and Raya and Leslie are speaking about the warning signs of a stroke and taking care of your body. Know the signs and symptoms to protect a loved one or friend. Learn important tips to reduce your risk of having a stroke or heart attack. Support the show

On this episode, Raya and Leslie speak with the award winning trainer Austin Parker who is the CEO and head trainer of APFit. Austin speaks about the importance of physical fitness, spirituality, and mental health. Exercise plays an important role in the health and wellbeing of our temples. Physical fitness is instrumental in helping with mental wellness and depression. He has fitness challenges to engage the community with taking control of their goals while having fun. Support the show

This week, Raya and Leslie speak with the founder of The Lives Worth Saving Foundation Dana Brock. Dana is a restored citizen who was turned his life around after dealing with many issues and mental health. Dana speaks about his journey to change and becoming a husband, spiritual leader, and a community activist & mentor. This is a raw and authentic look into how men can overcome personal struggles with street life and addiction. Support the show

In this episode, Raya and Leslie discuss the process of transitioning into your purpose.  We all go through a season of transformation that requires separation and the ability to trust the process. Leslie speaks about a traumatic event that has caused her to transition into own personal purpose and how she was able to surrender to the change. Support the show

Raya and Leslie have an in-depth conversation with the 2021 Ray of Hope: Humanitarian Award winner and community activist Stu Hampton. Stu is the founder of Linden Community Engagement Resource Team, Center of Encouragement, Saving Our Sons event, and the Mother’s are Royalty dinners. Stu has been instrumental in creating forums for change and putting his words into action. Support the show

On this episode of Ray of Hope: The Podcast, Raya and Leslie discuss the impact that friendships have on mental health and wellness. Healthy friendships are vital to growth and transition. Unhealthy friendships can lead to friendship PTSD. Be intentional with friends and learn to listen to each other. Be the kind of friend that you require for yourself. Support the show

In the final episode of season one, Dr. Raya shares some background information about her purpose and passion for creating her foundation and podcast. She takes an opportunity to thank all of the wonderful supporters and listeners. Dr. Raya is closing out season one with words of encouragement to keep you uplifted and hopeful. She provides tools to help you heal and live in your purpose. Support the show

This episode of Ray of Hope: The Podcast, Dr. Raya speaks with Julie Morrison , the founder of The Heal Her Foundation. The foundation was created by Julie as a forum for women to come together to start their healing process with other women.  Julie’s motto is Healing Her Empowers Me. Julie is a survivor and is helping many women along the path of healing and surviving. Support the show

On this episode, Dr. Raya speaks with Angela Crego-Sanders about the mental health impact of growing up as a bi-racial woman. Angela shares some of her personal struggles experienced as a child that led to mental health issues as an adult. She talks about her decision to seek counseling and therapy to improve her feelings of self-worth and love. Angela wanted to share her story to help others dealing with similar struggles. Support the show

On episode 4, Dr. Raya and Nurse Leslie spoke about how life happens and creates stress in our lives. This episode is a follow up to talk about how to cope when those unexpected moments happen. They provide some detailed tools and information to get you back on track and remain positive and hopeful. Sometimes, you just need encouragement, resources, and direction to help you maneuver through challenges. Support the show

In this episode, Dr. Raya and Nurse Leslie discuss the unexpected life events that interrupts life’s balance. Life happens to us all. There will be times when nothing seems to go right and you can’t catch a break. There will be times when life is great and you think you have it all planned out and then, you experience a life-altering event that disrupts life and changes your plans. Nurse Leslie shares the moment that life happened to her and how she survived Hurricane Katrina. No one is exempt from life trauma and events, but there is hope if you keep the faith and be steadfast. Support the show

On this next episode of Ray of Hope: The Podcast, Dr. Raya is joined by the beautiful Queens Alexis Wymer and Jennifer Adams. This episode is about Accurate Representation Matters. As mother’s of daughters, it was important to shed light on having accurate representation of women of color. The media can be one-sided showing the societal standards of beauty with fake additives. We are in our natural state of being and beauty talking about representation that reflects those who have love for self without all of the extras. Support the show

Dr. Raya & Nurse Leslie discuss what Self Love means. Breaking down their personal experiences dealing with loving themselves and how they overcame those struggles. Self Love is a journey and is not a one-way road. You have to take multiple turns and different streets to get to a point where you understand, Loving yourself is the first step in being the best version of yourself! Support the show

Dr. Raya  White is the CEO and Founder of Raya’s Rays of Light Foundation, LLC. Her professional background consists of mental/behavioral health, drug & alcohol rehabilitation, cognitive behavioral issues, and more. Leslie, RN is the Director of the organization. Her professional background consists of geriatric care, utilization management, care coordination, mental/behavioral health, and more. The Raya’s Rays of Light Foundation, LLC. was established to provide individuals with the necessary resources, education, and support lacking in our community. Ray of Hope: The Podcast will discuss overall wellness from a relatable point-of-view to create positive change and improve individual and community relationships. We want to close the  gap on financial and health disparities in our community and to encourage favorable wellness outcomes for all.Support the show