Discover Your Best Self

John Burns and confounder John Hartsfield founded ICONTALKS and the nonprofit, ICON to ICAN Foundation. This interview walks us through the beginning stages of the foundation and ICONTALKS events.

We sometimes forget what that process feels and looks like once we have accomplished some of our goals. I think what we can learn from John’s interview, is that we don’t have to play small when we first start. Whatever our vision is we can arrive there with intense belief, grit and influence.

Shannon Lanier, is not only your Morning Dose anchor in Houston, TX but he is also a father of three, husband and influencer. Listen to his journey and how he sets examples for his children to follow each day. During this time it is imperative we have black men who are shown in a light where they are set as the standard. We acknowledge you this fathers days and all the fathers who are doing the same. Thank you for being who you are, loving your families and setting the example that black families, black men, black women and black children matter!

During this time, we are experiencing a lot of change and we will have to step up our game to be in a position to win. What does that mean? Well in life we have to move and uproot our families for opportunities unforeseen! And that’s exactly what Shaneve did. Working for Target; a fortune 500 company she realized she had to step out of her comfort zone and create an opportunity she would forever learn from. It is about the money, title and money moves sometimes…. 

Shawn Taylor, former Houston Astros Owner, walks us through his journey as a successful entrepreneur who was able to retire at age 46 due to his tenacious work ethic. His motto is, “Excuses are for losers!” He started his career as a public accountant and made a transition to being the largest African American Taco Bell franchisee and built it to 33 restaurants in the Houston market- sold his company and retired at a young age of 46. He says that competing in sports and the ability to sell yourself are some of the things in his journey early on that helped him on his way to success. This episode is full of gems that will encourage, stimulate and push you to keep pursuing your goals!

This conversation with Kyra Renel Hardwick, Business Strategist will have you ready to accomplish your goals. Unlike any other interview we talk together about the value of collaboration. We dig into what the recent issues are right now in the business world and how our services can become an asset to any organization. Right now is not the time to sit back and watch things happen. It is the time to jump in, be creative and take advantage of the time we have to create unique ways to reach out to your circle of influences. Use this time to listen to how you can jump start your business just by connecting and staying engaged!

Tune in to my doctor and the doctor you want in your corner, Dr. Jaime Middleton. She breaks down the misconceptions we have when it comes to vaginas. She is not only an OBGYN, but also is a vaginal rejuvenation specialist helping women feel empowered. She understands and teaches us that as women we are complex and work with a lot of unplanned barriers after having kids or not having kids. We are sensitive beings and what we go through is NORMAL. We just may need some coaching, and she’s your coach. Take notes and become empowered by the knowledge shared.

Many of us don’t want to expose our in between jobs, but that’s exactly what Andrea did when she explained her “gap” job. This was her phase to establish her own marketing company that has grown to keep her busy for the past 5/6 years. Listen to her story, she is fearless and no matter what people had to say about the “gap’’ job she kept her vision at the forefront!

This episode is brought to you by Leaner Creamer: https://leanercreamer.com/discount/BEST15 Promo code for discount: BEST15

Dr. Nicole Walters is the first Black Woman Dean at The University of St.Thomas located in Houston, TX. She is also the Founding Dean of The School of Applied Science where students can earn a degree in Cyber Security, Network Technology and Electronic Technology. Her position is important because she assists students who look like her matriculate through college. As native Houstonian, Dr. Walters understands that the return on investment for college is a must! She has dedicated her work to make sure her students get the experience and mentorship neccessary to not only complete their degree, but to obtain a career that pays for the student loans borrowed and provides a living. Listen as we discuss the rising price of tuition, leadership, and the influence on students. Dr. Nicole Walters is the Dean you want in your corner when attending any university.

Kevin Knight, CEO of Urban Events Global, has a unique approach to traveling the world. He brings hundreds to thousands of urban friends with him across the world! Talk about a party! Urban Events Global is a one of a kind business model and one of the largest traveling groups. He has created a platform for Black people to experience the world from camping trips, cruises and excursions. Kevin’s background is an array of experiences that creates a particular outlook on life, like understanding true happiness from some of the poorest of people in Mexico because their basic needs are met and they don’t define happiness with material things. Enjoy this candid story of his personal journey that includes; being an army brat, catching the travel bug, transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneur, becoming a dad and building his dream business. You’ll be ready to pack your bags to the next trip that includes some learning and a lot of fun!

Next Act Cinema is one of three black owned movie theaters in the United States. Located in Pikesville, MD, they have impacted their community in ways beyond their belief. Since they have been open they have been able to provide opportunities to other businesses in their theater to vendors and entertainers. This was not an easy walk and continues to challenge the owners, who have a unique husband and wife team dynamic. From learning the entertainment industry, being turned down for business loans and creating their own lane, these entrepreneurs are well equipped for whatever comes their way because of their strong foundation, friendships and business savvy that they carry from previous job experiences. This show is full of life lessons, experiences and a journey that will not only impact you but encourage you to keep pursuing your goals.