concretegrowthproject's podcast

Libsyn
  • 5.0 (10)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Most of our stories aren't neatly packaged, and even in their current states, can be used to help someone else make it one more day. The Concrete Growth Project is a podcast comprised of stories – some anonymous and some not – of resilience and encouragement meant to uplift and motivate others to press through life's most challenging situations.

  1. 08/28/2025

    When the Exit is the Beginning: The Plot Twist with Darlene O. Hightower

    Description: What happens when a Black executive walks away from a six-figure role with no plan but a promise to reclaim her peace? She writes the book we all needed. In this powerful follow-up to our most-listened-to episode, Darlene Hightower returns to The Concrete Growth Project to talk about her debut book, The Plot Twist: Press Pause and Reset Your Life. We explore what it means to let go of old titles, rediscover your joy, and redefine success on your own terms. From quitting her job to napping on purpose, Darlene shares the vulnerable, hilarious, and deeply resonant lessons behind her transformation—and why you might be just one pause away from your own breakthrough. Link with Darlene: www.darleneohightower.com BUY THE BOOK: Topics: What it means to reset your life in mid-career How to reclaim rest, clarity, and confidence The lies we believe about productivity and self-worth Romantic fiction, soul food, sabbaticals, and serendipity And why we should all be okay with not knowing what's next Listen now if: You've been wondering whether your life still fits you—and need permission to rewrite the script. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/oh4BudYiD3E     Follow us on Instagram: @ConcreteGrowthProject

    45 min

  2. 06/26/2025

    DETAINED (Episode 3 of 3)

    In the explosive conclusion of Detained, Marisol's world shatters once more as ICE targets her daughter Ana. As the family is pulled even deeper into the system, legal tactics collide with raw emotion, and public outcry becomes their only weapon. With mounting pressure and fading hope, the fight for Miguel's freedom and Ana's safety becomes a national flashpoint. Will justice prevail—or will the system silence them for good? The Concrete Growth Project brings you a gripping final chapter in this audio drama series confronting family separation, immigration enforcement, and the courage to rise. Trigger Warning: This episode contains emotionally intense scenes related to family detainment and child separation. Follow us on Instagram: @ConcreteGrowthProject Learn more: www.ConcreteGrowthProject.com

    6 min

  3. 06/22/2025

    DETAINED (Episode 2 of 3)

    EPISODE 2 of 3 Miguel has been detained. Now, it's up to Marisol and fierce immigration attorney Raquel to fight a battle that's as emotional as it is political. As bureaucracies stall and ICE tries to vanish Miguel into the system, Raquel exposes the truth—this isn't random. It's war. In the second part of Detained, justice collides with fury in a courtroom, at ICE facilities, and across social media. But when the fight gets personal—and Ana, their daughter, becomes a new target—the stakes soar. The Concrete Growth Project continues this bold audio drama series that dares to put a spotlight on erasure, resistance, and the power of a mother's voice. Themes: Legal injustice, systemic racism, family courage, representation Trigger warning: child detainment, ICE facility trauma, aggressive enforcement Follow us on Instagram: @ConcreteGrowthProject Learn more: ConcreteGrowthProject.com

    6 min

  4. 06/21/2025

    DETAINED (Episode 1 of 3)

    concretegrowthproject's podcast

    6 min

  5. 06/18/2025

    The Weight of Representation - Audio Drama Part 2 of 2

    Someone has been eliminated. Lena is accused. This is no longer just a fight for change. It's personal now. After a tragic death and a political setup, Lena is forced to make a choice: silence or scorched earth. In this explosive conclusion to The Concrete Growth Project's debut audio drama, the stakes are higher, the system is darker, and Lena's next move could cost her everything—or change everything. 🎧 Episode 2 of 2 in The Concrete Growth Project's original audio drama series. Like what you hear? Subscribe and share the series with your community. New audio drama series are coming soon. #TheConcreteGrowthProject #AudioSoapOpera #PoliticalThrillerPodcast #ShortPodcastSeries #BlackStorytelling

    6 min

  6. 06/18/2025

    The Weight of Representation – Audio Drama (Part 1 of 2)

    Lena has stepped into the spotlight—but the weight of representation is heavier than it seems. In Part 1 of this short-form audio drama, she pushes back against institutional gaslighting, media manipulation, and performative diversity. What begins as a plea for change edges dangerously toward open rebellion. 🎧 Episode 1 of 2 in The Concrete Growth Project's original audio drama series. Subscribe to The Concrete Growth Project Podcast for future audio dramas that tackle real-world issues through gripping fiction. #AudioDrama #EquityInTheWorkplace #RepresentationMatters #BlackWomenLead #MiniSeries

    8 min
  7. Reclaiming Rest: A Vision for the Black Executive's Well-Being

    04/10/2024

    Reclaiming Rest: A Vision for the Black Executive's Well-Being

    Join us for an insightful conversation with Darlene Oliver Hightower, J.D., the trailblazing President & CEO of Chicago's Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC), as we delve into the heart of leadership, authenticity, and the Black executive's journey towards well-being. In this episode, Darlene shares her remarkable insights gleaned from her extensive experience, including her pivotal role in spearheading transformative initiatives such as West Side United. Discover the essence of authentic leadership, the challenges and triumphs of Black leaders in organizational settings, and the imperative of embracing rest as a form of self-care and sustainability. Don't miss out on 'Reclaiming Rest: A Vision for the Black Executive's Well-Being,' where Darlene's wisdom illuminates a path towards inclusive, resilient leadership. WATCH the Episode on YouTube HERE!

    55 min

  8. 06/11/2022

    PART 2: BEHIND THE CATFISH

    It's finally here!! The finale to Behind the Catfish. Randy and Stacey have been talking on the phone for a week or so and Stacey is ready to see Randy's face. We will leave the real conclusion to your imagination. However, be careful out there, y'all. Catfishing is a real thing.  Special shout out to Lanisha Fisher for writing this episode.  Gratitude as always to our voiceover and vocal acting partner; The House of Genesis Music for the episode provided by: Tone Jonez Follow us on instagram @concretegrowthproject for show updates.  Visit our website HERE

    5 min
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5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Most of our stories aren't neatly packaged, and even in their current states, can be used to help someone else make it one more day. The Concrete Growth Project is a podcast comprised of stories – some anonymous and some not – of resilience and encouragement meant to uplift and motivate others to press through life's most challenging situations.

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