What happens when adolescents lose their passion for reading, and how do we bring it back? Dr. Valcine Brown , a veteran educator who recently completed her PhD in education, is tackling this challenge head-on with innovative research and classroom practices. Reading used to be magic. Remember that feeling of getting lost in a book? Too many adolescents don't – they find reading "boring," a sentiment Dr. Brown has found to be universal across different countries. Her research explores how "mirro...
May 05, 2025•52 min
What would happen if we responded to bullies with kindness instead of confrontation? Kim Fraser's groundbreaking approach turns traditional anti-bullying strategies upside down, with remarkable results! Growing up in the Bronx, Fraser experienced bullying firsthand and once resorted to faking an epileptic seizure to escape her tormentors. Today, as an author, former teacher, and counselor, she's developed a revolutionary method that disarms bullies through unexpected compassion. In her book "Cha...
Apr 28, 2025•48 min
What does it truly mean to "do the work" in the arts world? Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony answers this question through her remarkable journey from shaking like a leaf during her first spoken word performance to becoming an award-winning curator and advocate who's secured over a million dollars for arts organizations. This conversation sparkles with insights about the transformative power of artistic expression. Paulina shares how poetry literally took her "everywhere" after being introduced to spoke...
Apr 27, 2025•55 min
Have you ever sensed there's more to reality than what meets the eye? Ellen Edmondson's extraordinary journey from logical federal executive to spiritual messenger began with profound loss—her mother's passing just months before her son's birth—triggering questions that would transform her understanding of life's purpose. Through meditation intended simply to process grief, Ellen unexpectedly discovered her intuitive abilities awakening. "I started having these amazing mystical experiences," she...
Apr 26, 2025•55 min
The threads of African-Canadian history weave a story of resistance, resilience, and remarkable achievement that spans centuries—yet these vital narratives remain largely untold in mainstream historical accounts. Elise Harding-Davis changes that through her lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting Black Canadian history. As a seventh-generation Canadian whose family has been in Canada since 1798, Harding-Davis brings personal connection to her work as a historian, author, and former curat...
Apr 12, 2025•56 min
What happens when personal experience with discrimination fuels a lifelong commitment to equity work? Mr. Rohan Thompson , Director of People and Equity for the County of Dufferin, takes us on his remarkable journey from youth worker to systems change leader. Rohan reveals how childhood mentors who kept him "on the straight and narrow" inspired his mission to pay it forward. This calling led him through various roles working with at-risk youth before stepping into pioneering equity leadership po...
Mar 30, 2025•54 min
What would you do if you discovered your teacher's pension wouldn't be enough to sustain you after retirement? For Queen D Michelle, the answer came in a life-changing decision to leave Atlanta behind and start fresh in Mexico's Lake Chapala region. Her remarkable journey reveals how necessity can become the catalyst for profound personal transformation. Queen D Michelle's story begins with a practical problem faced by many retired educators. After 27 years in the classroom, she found herself wo...
Mar 27, 2025•55 min
"We are not what the system has told us we are," declares Tina Garnett , a powerful voice in the fight against systemic oppression. As a seventh-generation Black Canadian descended from Charlotte and James Handy, Garnett brings three decades of experience championing marginalized communities to this profound conversation about resilience, purpose, and transformation. Garnett's journey through racism began in London, Ontario, as part of one of the few Black families in the area, before taking her...
Mar 23, 2025•53 min
Half of a woman's life is spent in perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause—yet these critical transitions remain under-researched, underfunded, and shrouded in unnecessary taboo. That's what drove Amita Sharma , after suffering in silence through her own hormonal journey, to create Nourishdoc: a holistic wellness platform empowering women through these transformative years. "I was too scared to speak up," admits Sharma, despite her impressive education and successful career. "I thought peop...
Mar 19, 2025•48 min
What if embracing radical empathy could transform not just your life, but the lives of those around you? Join us as we explore this profound concept with the remarkable Moy Fong , an award-winning entrepreneur whose journey of leadership and empathy began at the young age of 19 when she became a mother. Moy shares her inspiring story of resilience, illustrating how her entrepreneurial spirit was born out of the need to secure a better future for her family. Discover how her experiences fueled th...
Feb 24, 2025•1 hr 5 min
Visionary entrepreneur Micah Elechi takes us on a transformative journey from his early days as a graphic designer in Nigeria to becoming a leading force in tech innovation with Macklemore Solutions . Hear how Micah's determination to overcome employment challenges led him to create AfriLink , a groundbreaking platform empowering African youth by bridging the gap between skilled individuals and job opportunities. His story is a powerful testament to the impact of mentorship and the vital role of...
Feb 20, 2025•47 min
Nicole Osbourne-James , a renowned free thinker and accidental stand-up comedian, reveals her fascinating journey from the spoken word poetry scene of the 1990s to the dynamic world of comedy. Unpacking how her evolution as a young mother propelled her into comedy's broader expressive realm, Nicole shares insights into the role of spoken word in activism and community engagement. Her initiatives, like the Black Media Network Conference, showcase the power of grassroots efforts in social change a...
Feb 10, 2025•55 min
Uncover the magic behind young adult fiction with acclaimed author Charlene Thomas on this episode of SpeakUP! International. From her childhood days of weaving tales in scribbled notebooks to becoming an award-winning writer, Charlene offers a heartfelt reading from her latest book, "Streetlight People." Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, imagination, and a strong support system, shedding light on how crucial encouragement can be in nurturing one’s dreams. Listen as Charle...
Feb 05, 2025•56 min
Discover the profound world of African spirituality with our captivating guest, Dr. Asanee Brogan, as she embarks on a journey of cultural and spiritual transformation. Dr. Brogan, a spiritualist and life coach, shares how she shifted her focus from financial education for the African diaspora to embracing the guidance of her ancestors through traditional practices like Haitian Voodoo and Ifa. Navigate through the complexities and richness of these traditions, as Dr. Brogan unveils how she bring...
Feb 03, 2025•1 hr 4 min
Cheryl Polk , a holistic career coach from Nashville, Tennessee, joins us on SpeakUP! International, bringing her inspiring journey from corporate accountant to career coach and certified resume writer. Cheryl's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and personal growth, offering insights into how she helps professionals unlock their career potential through personalized resumes. Discover the transformative impact of prioritizing personal values and work-life balance, as Cheryl shares...
Feb 03, 2025•49 min
What if you could craft a career that aligns seamlessly with your life’s mission and values? Join us in our conversation with Kason Morris, a trailblazer in the Future of Work Skills Strategy and the creative mind behind "Life Work Revolutionary." Kason challenges the conventional ladder of career success, urging a shift towards a dynamic lattice of opportunities where personal well-being and family take precedence over relentless title-chasing. Through engaging stories and tangible strategies, ...
Jan 31, 2025•1 hr 3 min
Phil Vassell , a renowned figure with over 25 years of journalism experience, shares his remarkable story of transitioning from a career rooted in media to one focused on preserving cultural history through archiving. From his early days in Jamaica, where his love for media began, to his influential roles at CBC and as the creator of Word magazine, Phil has been a steadfast advocate for Black culture, music, and the arts. This episode uncovers how a transformative trip to Brazil inspired Phil an...
Jan 23, 2025•1 hr
Michelle Anne Johnson joins us to share her captivating journey from a young actress, charming audiences with her George Jefferson impersonations, to a powerhouse in corporate leadership. Her story is a fascinating blend of determination, passion, and the unexpected twists life offers. Balancing auditions with a rising corporate career, Michelle transitioned from a data entry clerk to assistant vice president in a large insurance company, demonstrating how skills from the stage can translate int...
Jan 21, 2025•52 min
WARNING! There is sensitive or potentially distressing content, as we are talking about intimate partner violence, abuse and harm. Ever wondered how cultural identity shapes healthcare experiences for Black Caribbean women in the UK? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Rianna Raymond-Williams, a passionate advocate and researcher in the realm of sexual and reproductive health. As she nears the completion of her PhD, Rianna shares profound insights from her research, discussing how her ...
Jan 06, 2025•46 min
Michelle Forde , an inspiring educator and communication specialist from Toronto, joins us to share her remarkable journey into the world of education and equity. From her formative years in London, Ontario to influential mentorship from her English teacher, Carol Talbot , Michelle's story is one of passion and purpose. Her dedication to storytelling and representation has shaped her unique approach to teaching, underscoring the power of community and resilience in overcoming educational challen...
Jan 01, 2025•54 min
Rochelle Ramathe takes us on an inspiring journey from academic challenges to the triumph of earning a master's degree, sharing her story of resilience and empowerment. Raised in environments where her identity was often overlooked, Rochelle found her true potential at a historically Black university, where mentors championed her growth. Through an excerpt from her poignant book, " Why Black Skin Matters ," she highlights the transformative power of visibility and community in her life and caree...
Dec 27, 2024•49 min
Discover the captivating journey of Titilope Sonuga, an acclaimed international poet and playwright, who shares the remarkable story of her transition from civil engineering to a celebrated career in the literary arts. Journey with us as we uncover the pivotal moments that influenced her artistic voice—from her vibrant upbringing in Lagos, Nigeria, to her move to Canada at the age of 13, and her eventual return to Nigeria to reconnect with its literary community. Titilope's narrative is one of c...
Dec 24, 2024•48 min
Imagine breaking free from the constraints of a corporate career to find the balance and fulfillment you’ve always craved. Carol Kabaale, a pioneering entrepreneur and Meta Certified Ads Strategist, shares her riveting journey from the precipice of burnout to the vibrant world of digital marketing. Her story is a masterclass in resilience and transformation, offering listeners a front-row seat to her trials and triumphs as she helps online coaches harness the power of strategic marketing. Carol’...
Dec 23, 2024•54 min
Karen Carter , a true pioneer in the Canadian arts and culture scene, joins us to share her remarkable 25-year journey. Through her roles at B.A.N.D., Heritage Toronto , and more, Karen has transformed cultural landscapes, all while embodying her Caribbean roots filled with music and volunteerism. Her story is a testament to how relationships, readiness, and growth can create lasting impact in the arts sector. Karen's insights into the 80-20 rule offer a compelling framework for success, where s...
Dec 22, 2024•1 hr 2 min
Discover the powerful journey of Dr. Jonathan McRoy , whose remarkable path from the Air Force to civilian leadership offers invaluable lessons for anyone navigating major life transitions. In our conversation, Dr. McRoy shares his leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding what truly matters to individuals when driving change. Learn how he mobilizes teams to tackle complex challenges with precision and empathy, all while maintaining a focus on fostering environments that...
Dec 20, 2024•47 min
What drives an educator to transform the landscape of professional development through an anti-oppressive lens? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Mr. Lee Jones-Imhotep , a renowned adult educator from Canada who has crafted a legacy of innovation in teaching. With over 30 years of dedication, Lee has not only reshaped how literacy is perceived in schools but also earned accolades like the NBA Raptors Read to Achieve Community Award. This episode promises an engaging look at how Lee ...
Dec 18, 2024•47 min
Michelle Joseph's journey is nothing short of inspiring! Her transition from a reserved youth to a dynamic storyteller is a testament to the power of courage and authenticity. In this episode, we unravel Michelle's evolution as she candidly shares her experiences growing up, the solace she found in writing, and her eventual leap into podcasting. A true celebration of Black Canadian history and her own narrative, Michelle's story is a reminder of the strength that lies in embracing one's true sel...
Dec 13, 2024•49 min
Imagine standing at a crossroads in life and asking, "How do you build a masterpiece?" Our guest, Powerful Steve , did just that in Brampton, leading him on a transformative journey from his adventurous beginnings in Jamaica to becoming an influential thought leader in Canada. Known for his powerful speeches and a Guinness World Record holder, Steve's tale is one of resilience and inspiration. Despite a career-ending concussion in boxing, he channelled his passions into uplifting others, foundin...
Dec 09, 2024•47 min
Award-winning author Hyacinth Caesar graces SpeakUP! International with a compelling excerpt from her newest novel, " Your Hug Is All I Long For. " Journey with us to the idyllic 1960s on St. Christopher's Island, where the Cuthbert family's vacation takes a shocking twist. Hyacinth's rich tapestry of experience—as a teacher, systems analyst, motivational speaker, and pastor—infuses her storytelling with vibrant authenticity and depth. This episode offers not just a glimpse into her gripping nar...
Dec 07, 2024•56 min
Former Chicago Cubs outfielder CJ Stewart joins us for a heartfelt and compelling discussion on the power of sports in youth development. Learn how CJ's own journey from the streets of Atlanta to the baseball diamond shaped his vision for the L.E.A.D. Center for Youth. By focusing on creating Major League citizens who thrive professionally and personally, CJ and his team offer young people the tools to rise above systemic barriers such as crime, poverty, and racism. We confront the ongoing chall...
Dec 02, 2024•45 min
