When It Rains Hosted by Martine H. Powell

In this powerful episode of When It Rains Podcast, we sit down with a guest whose journey proves that purpose doesn’t expire and dreams don’t come with a deadline. After facing years of personal and professional setbacks, he made the courageous decision to remain in college and finish in his 30s. What followed was a season of testing, stretching, and ultimately triumph. He opens up about the moments that nearly broke him, the faith that kept him grounded, and the family and village who refused to let him quit. From balancing adult responsibilities with coursework to rebuilding confidence after past disappointments, his story is a testament to resilience and grace. This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt “behind,” anyone rebuilding after life’s storms, and anyone who needs a reminder that with faith, support, and determination, you can finish strong — no matter when you start.

In this eye‑opening episode, Dr. Sultanna McCormick-Stewart, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist joins me to peel back the layers of Narcissistic Personality Disorder and reveal what’s really going on beneath the surface. Together, we explore the psychological roots of narcissism, the early developmental patterns that may contribute to it, and the subtle signs that often go unnoticed until the damage is done.Dr. McCormick-Stewart breaks down the difference between healthy self‑esteem and pathological narcissism, offering clear, practical ways to recognize red flags in relationships, families, and workplaces.  Whether you’re trying to understand a partner, a parent, a colleague, or simply want deeper insight into personality dynamics, this episode offers clarity, validation, and tools for navigating narcissism with confidence. 

In this episode, Martine H. Powell unpacks the connection between boundaries and better days. From saying no without over-explaining to living with intention, this conversation centers on reclaiming your time, energy, and self-worth. Better days don’t just happen, they’re built through clear choices, healthy limits, and alignment with what truly matters. 

In this powerful and purpose-filled conversation, I sit down with Dr. Angie Williams-McMichael to explore the heart behind her commitment to community transformation. As a devoted mother, educator, and First Lady of her church, Dr. Williams-McMichael shares how each role has shaped her calling to serve and lead with intention. We discuss what it means to show up fully for a community you love—balancing family life, faith, and the responsibility of educating and uplifting others. Dr. Williams-McMichael opens up about the values that guide her work, the lessons motherhood has taught her about leadership, and how her faith informs her vision for lasting change.This episode is an honest reflection on purpose, resilience, and the power of service; highlighting how one woman’s dedication to faith, education, and community can inspire meaningful impact. Whether you’re a parent, educator, faith leader, or someone searching for purpose, this conversation offers insight, encouragement, and a reminder that change begins with showing up where you are.

In this timely and necessary conversation, When It Rains host Martine H. Powell sits down with Forsyth County, NC Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough to examine how public safety policies, law enforcement practices, and community relationships directly impact Black youth. Together, they discuss the challenges of building trust, the realities young people face, and the responsibility shared by law enforcement, families, schools, faith leaders, and community members.  This episode goes beyond statistics and headlines to focus on accountability, prevention, and partnership. Sheriff Kimbrough discusses current initiatives, opportunities for reform, and how community engagement can play a meaningful role in protecting and empowering young people, before harm occurs.  If you care about justice, youth advocacy, and creating safer communities through collaboration rather than fear, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

In this episode of When It Rains, we sit down with a social media influencer whose journey began simply for fun, but quickly grew into a thriving, purpose-driven platform. What started as casual content creation during the uncertainty of the 2020 pandemic became a powerful outlet for connection, creativity, and community.  Guided by intention rather than trends, our guest shares how she made conscious decisions about the type of content she would create content rooted in ethics, authenticity, and accountability. With women and Black communities at the center, she discusses the responsibility that comes with influence and why integrity matters more than algorithms or viral moments.  This conversation explores how the pandemic shifted perspectives, opened doors for digital storytelling, and allowed creators to show up fully as themselves. Our guest reflects on balancing growth with values, staying aligned with her purpose, and thriving without compromising who she is or who she serves.  Influence With Intention is a powerful reminder that real impact happens when influence is used thoughtfully, joyfully, and with care for the communities watching and listening.

In this powerful episode of When It Rains, Martine sits down with the CEO and founder of Lake & Prosper, an apparel brand rooted in inspirational messages and devoted to honoring the beauty, resilience, and culture of Black people. The founder shares the deeply personal journey behind the brand’s creation—one shaped by loss, love, and clarity of purpose.After the passing of his mother, his world shifted. Through grief came a renewed vision, and Lake & Prosper was born as a tribute not only to her legacy .  He opens up about channeling pain into purpose, building a brand that speaks life, and using fashion as a form of affirmation for the culture.  This episode explores entrepreneurship, healing, and the transformative power of vision. Listeners will walk away inspired by his story, encouraged by his resilience, and reminded that even through the rain, purpose can prosper.  Visit www.lakeandprosper.com and enter discount code-LAKE10 and purchase your merchandise today. 

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, I sit down with Karen Canion, for an intimate conversation about the purpose and healing power of forgiveness. Together, we explore what it truly means to release people not through confrontation or closure, but through the quiet, personal act of forgiveness that often happens without the other person ever knowing.  Karen shares her transformative journey of letting go of long-held pain, resentment, and disappointment. She opens up about the moment she realized she was carrying weight that wasn’t hers to hold, and how choosing forgiveness set her free emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. She discusses the surprising peace that comes from releasing people who may never apologize, may never acknowledge the hurt, and may never even realize they’ve been forgiven. Throughout the episode, we dive into the liberating truth that forgiveness is not about the other person, it’s about reclaiming your joy, restoring your power, and closing emotional chapters that no longer serve your life’s purpose.Listeners will walk away encouraged to examine their own “unreleased baggage,” consider who they may need to quietly forgive, and embrace forgiveness as a profound act of self-love and personal freedom.

In this heartfelt and candid episode, I sit down with my favorite high school English teacher; the one who nurtured my love for words and first inspired me to consider a career in education, even though life ultimately led me down a different path. Her influence has remained a constant thread, shaping how I communicate, advocate, and show up for others.Together, we reflect on the moments in her classroom that left a lasting imprint, the power of teachers to recognize potential before students recognize it in themselves, and the ways those early lessons still guide me today. We also discuss the evolving landscape of education and the challenges teachers face now more than ever.This conversation is a tribute to every educator who pours into their students without always knowing the long-term impact, reminding us that the lessons they teach continue to live on in the lives they touch.

In this powerful episode of When It Rains, I sit down with a remarkable community leader who proves that even without a traditional father figure, success and purpose can still be built, one choice at a time. Growing up in low-income housing, my guest turned adversity into ambition, using his experiences to inspire and guide the next generation.Now a quiet force behind the success of many, he’s devoted his life to mentoring young people through the community recreation center  teaching them that even without a blueprint, you can still build something lasting, meaningful, and strong.Join me for an honest and heartfelt conversation about resilience, leadership, and the power of giving back.

In this inspiring episode of When It Rains, our guest opens up about the moment a self-breast exam changed everything. From navigating the medical world and learning to advocate for herself, to experiencing a love that only intensified during treatment, her journey is one of faith, strength, and transformation. Now thriving and  living life on the other side of cancer, she uses her voice,  sometimes quietly, sometimes boldly, to inspire and empower others. Tune in to hear her story of resilience, hope, and what it truly means to thrive after the storm.

In this powerful episode of When It Rains, I sit down with a former college wide receiver and rapid rising actor , whose journey is a true testament to resilience, reinvention, and purpose. Once celebrated for his speed and playmaking ability on the football field, his dreams were suddenly interrupted by a injury during practice-an injury that impacted his football career.  But this setback became a setup.  Refusing to be defined by disappointment, he turned his pain into fuel and discovered a new passion—acting. Today, he is an emerging television and film star with inspiring screen presence and drive. His journey includes a breakout role in Disney’s heartfelt sports drama Safety, where his own story as a former athlete brought authenticity to the screen.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, I  sit down with, Ian L. Haddock,  a true trailblazer from Houston, Texas; Founder and Executive Director of The Normal Anomaly. With raw honesty and unwavering courage, he opens up about his childhood, the moment he shared his truth with his family, and the life-changing experience of becoming unhoused as a teenager.Through it all, he emerged not only as a survivor but as a visionary. Today, he leads a nonprofit dedicated to amplifying Black queer voices and shifting narratives around identity, equity, and resilience. Tune in as we explore how one person’s truth can become a lifeline for others — and how living authentically can create space for liberation, community, and impact.

Tune in for a very transparent and heartfelt conversation with a remarkable woman who wears many hats.; wife, mom, sister, daughter, friend, and collegiate coach. In this powerful episode, she opens up about how a routine mammogram unexpectedly led to the discovery of breast cancer. With honesty and grace, she shares her emotional journey from diagnosis to resilience, the lessons learned along the way, and how faith, family, and determination have carried her through. This episode is a reminder of the importance of early detection, self-advocacy, and the strength found in vulnerability.

In this inspiring episode of When It Rains, I speak with a remarkable college student whose story embodies courage, passion, and purpose. Once a patient undergoing surgery for spinal scoliosis, she now walks confidently toward a future in nursing — determined to give others the same care that changed her life. As one of the faces of Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, she uses her platform to inspire others living with medical challenges, all while pursuing her first love — dance. Her story reminds us that healing isn’t just physical; it’s a journey of faith, resilience, and finding beauty in every step.

Tune in for a conversation with the creator of Thrown to the Wolves, a brand born out of adversity after losing his job in 2016. With early dreams of serving in the United States Marine Corps, he instead chose a different path—pursuing higher education. Despite facing significant obstacles along the way, he is now nearing the completion of his Ph.D. and has built a career in psychotherapy, dedicated to helping others navigate life’s toughest battles. Tune in as he shares how setbacks became stepping stones, how purpose was discovered through perseverance, and how Thrown to the Wolves has become both a personal mantra and a message of hope for anyone fighting to overcome.

In this deeply moving episode of When It Rains, our guest opens up for the very first time about the unexpected and heartbreaking loss of her brother. She shares the journey of walking alongside him as he navigated life with a mental health diagnosis, the challenges they faced together, and the pain of losing him too soon. With raw honesty and courage, she reflects on love, loss, and the complicated layers of grief that follow. This conversation sheds light on the importance of mental health awareness, the silent struggles many families endure, and the strength it takes to find your voice after tragedy.

In this heartfelt and lighthearted episode, we reflect on our journey of parenting in parallel—sharing the funny stories, memorable lessons, and meaningful moments that shaped our son’s path from childhood to college. With laughter, honesty, and reflection, we revisit the joys and challenges of raising him, celebrating the growth of both parent and child along the way.

During an unexpected hour-long flight, a candid conversation unfolded between two strangers about race, upbringing, and personal growth. The guest shared his experience of being raised in a family where racism was normalized and openly acknowledged how those early beliefs shaped his worldview. Over the years, however, exposure to diverse people and life experiences challenged those views, leading him to a powerful realization: everyone is different, and no one should be judged by race alone.What began as a casual chat in the sky turned into a meaningful exchange rooted in honesty, vulnerability, and respect. This dialogue highlighted the possibility of change, the importance of listening, and the courage it takes to confront ingrained beliefs. By the time the plane landed, both strangers walked away with a deeper appreciation for perspective, humanity, and the potential for growth when we dare to have difficult conversations.

Tune in for a powerful conversation with a true lupus warrior whose story embodies both grace and grit. In this episode, she opens up about her journey to push for answers that ultimately led to her lupus diagnosis, the challenges and triumphs of raising two incredible young girls, and her ongoing mission to uplift and help others while beating the odds stacked against her. Her strength, determination, and resilience shine through as she shares what it means to live—and thrive—despite life’s storms.

In this heartwarming and deeply honest episode, five women—friends for over 35 years—gather to reflect on the journey of sisterhood that has sustained them through college days, career changes, motherhood, and personal growth. With laughter as their soundtrack and love as their anchor, they share the real stories behind staying connected across decades. From late-night phone calls to front-row seats at each other's biggest moments, these women reveal how they've supported each other through life's highs and lows—especially as Black mothers raising young kings in today’s world. Tune in for wisdom, warmth, and the beautiful power of lifelong friendship.

Podcast Summary: Last year, I had an unexpected but unforgettable conversation on a flight with none other than Coach Ken Canion—a celebrated relationship coach, speaker, and transformation expert. What started as casual airplane chatter quickly turned into a deep dive into the world of relationships, filled with insight, humor, and real talk. In this episode, Coach Ken joins me to continue that conversation, and we’re unpacking the assumptions people make in dating. So pull up a seat—this one’s too good to miss!

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, our guest opens up about her lifelong journey with Sickle Cell Disease—sharing candid reflections from childhood to adulthood. She speaks honestly about the physical and emotional challenges of managing a chronic illness that many don’t fully understand. Despite being told by medical professionals what she couldn’t do, she chose to focus on what was possible. Against all odds, she went on to fulfill one of her biggest dreams: becoming a flight attendant. Her story is one of courage, resilience, and unwavering determination—a reminder that purpose can still take flight, even in the face of pain.

On his commute home from work, Adonis Williams experienced a moment of compassion that changed the trajectory of a family in need—and his own career. What started as a simple act of kindness led to a lifelong mission of helping others rebuild and move forward. Now, more than 2 decades later, Adonis continues to make a lasting impact through his work. Tune in to hear his inspiring journey and how one selfless decision turned into a purpose-driven business.

Some voices don’t need to be loud to make an impact. This guest’s presence, passion, and resilience speak volumes beyond words. Tune in as she shares her powerful journey of choosing adoption during a season of uncertainty, proving that faith can carry us through life’s toughest challenges. From job loss to the joy of motherhood, she opens up about the obstacles she faced and the unwavering belief that led her to the family she was always meant to have. This is a story of courage, love, and the faith that made it all possible.

Tune in for another great conversation as my son shares his perspective as a college freshman. He opens up about his upbringing, the lessons he’s learned from us as his parents, and how those values are showing up now that he’s navigating life on his own. From embracing independence to juggling school, friendships, and new challenges, it’s an honest and relatable take on the freshman experience. Expect real talk, a few laughs, and moments that both parents and students will connect with.

Tune in and hear a story shared by a courageous guest about love, loss and liberation. What began as a beautiful romance soon turned into a cycle of control and abuse, forcing her to make the hardest decision of her life—walking away to save herself.With raw honesty, she reflects on the obstacles she faced, the strength it took to leave, and how she rebuilt her life. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, Tune in, be inspired, and remember—you are never alone.

Podcast Content Summary:If pivoting was a person, this guest would be the perfect example. You don’t want to miss this motivating discussion as we dive into her journey of turning passion into purpose. Tune in to hear how she embraced the power of the pivot—balancing her deep commitment to helping others while fulfilling her dream of entrepreneurship. Her story is one of dedication, resilience, and the rewards of hard work. Get ready to be inspired!

Podcast Summary:Tune in for an insightful and joyful conversation with a veteran "girl dad" as he shares his experiences in raising strong, successful daughters. In this heartfelt discussion, he opens up about the sacrifices of parenting, the importance of supporting his daughters’ dreams, and the role of communication in building lasting relationships. Whether you're a parent, mentor, or simply interested in the journey of fatherhood, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and a few laughs along the way. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!

Join us for an inspiring episode as Michelle Reese opens up about her journey with Polycystic Kidney Disease. Despite the challenges, she continues to embrace life while awaiting a kidney donation. Tune in to hear her story and learn how you can make a difference. To find out more about Michelle’s journey and how you can become a kidney donor, click here: https://nkr.org/GUF422.

Join us every Thursday at 6:00 PM EST for powerful real-life stories from individuals who have faced life’s toughest challenges and overcome adversity. When It Rains reminds us that even in life’s storms, resilience can shine through. Tune in and be inspired.