Perfecting Progession

Dior Johnson
  • 5.0 (14)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Biweekly

A conversation about navigating life’s many obstacles. As a former college athlete, my goal is to break down certain experiences that may be rude awakenings. I look to clarify common misconceptions, talk about discovering ones purpose, and discuss how to navigate societal issues as a young black adult. This podcast will strive to keep all listeners ahead of the game.

  1. Jul 31

    Run Your Race W/Laurie Washington (S3,E6)

    What Does It Truly Mean To "Run Your Race" In Your Career And In Life? In This Episode Of Perfecting Progression, I Sit Down With Accomplished HR Strategist, Workforce Development Leader, And Founder Of Run Your Race, Laurie Washington. With More Than Two Decades Of Experience In Human Resources, Leadership, And Professional Development, Laurie Shares The Lessons That Have Shaped Her Journey While Equipping Others To Navigate Their Own Careers With Confidence, Purpose, And Intention. Together, We Explore The Importance Of Leadership, Building Authentic Relationships, Professional Presence, Career Mobility, Belonging In The Workplace, And Why Every Transition In Life Presents An Opportunity To Grow. We Also Dive Into Laurie's Inspiring Run Your Race Initiative—A Program Dedicated To Helping Individuals Develop Essential Career Skills, Build Confidence, Strengthen Their Professional Identity, And Position Themselves For Long-Term Success. Whether You're A Student, Young Professional, Experienced Leader, Career Changer, Or Someone Looking To Reach The Next Level, This Conversation Will Challenge You To Think Bigger, Lead Better, And Continue Investing In Yourself. Topics Discussed: • Workforce Development & Career Growth• Leadership & Professional Presence• Human Resources Insights & Best Practices• Relationship Building & Networking• Belonging & Workplace Culture• Essential Power Skills For Career Success• Navigating Career Transitions• The Story Behind Run Your Race• Laurie's "All In" Moment

  2. Jul 13

    Lit Happens W/Sydnee Little (S3,E5)

    In This Episode Of Perfecting Progression, I Sit Down With Longtime Friend, Producer, And On-Air Personality Sydnee Little For A Conversation Centered Around Growth, Purpose, And Owning Your Journey.Together, We Explore Sydnee's Path Into The Media Industry, The Experiences That Helped Shape Her Career, And How Her Passion For Literature Ultimately Led To The Launch Of Her New Fox 2 Segment, "Lit Happens With Syd."Whether You're A Creative, A Professional, A Student, An Entrepreneur, Or Simply Someone Working Toward Becoming A Better Version Of Yourself, This Episode Will Challenge You To Bet On Yourself, Continue Learning, And Trust The Process Even When The Outcome Isn't Yet Visible.Topics Include:• Navigating A Career In Media & Television• The Power Of Reading & Lifelong Learning• Building Confidence In Your Voice• Embracing Life's Transitional Seasons• The Story Behind "Lit Happens With Syd"• Why Owning Your Journey MattersIf This Conversation Adds Value To You, Please:👍 Like The Video💬 Share Your Biggest Takeaway In The Comments🔔 Subscribe To Perfecting Progression For More Conversations That Inspire Growth, Leadership, And Purpose.Progress Isn't About Perfection... It's About Perfecting Your Progression.

  3. Mar 16

    Collins Ave W/Curtis Collins (S3,E4)

    Curtis Collins, CEO and founder of Collins Ave Champagne, shares his incredible journey from athlete to entrepreneur. After being rejected by every major alcohol company, Curtis decided to build his own black-owned champagne brand from the ground up. In this episode, he breaks down the mindset, relationships, and strategic moves that got him here!

  4. Feb 13

    Turning Pain Into Purpose with Bianca Dawkins (S3,E3)

    IN THIS EPISODE:- Bianca's journey from North Minneapolis to becoming a community leader- Overcoming childhood trauma and developing healthy coping mechanisms- The power of gratitude and learning to receive- Early involvement in economic development and youth violence prevention- Building authentic relationships and understanding alignment- Grant making and equitable resource distribution- Board service and extending the ladder for others- Faces of Hope fellowship initiative and play therapy work- Launching the BE Podcast (Being in Love, Lost, and Lessons)- Vulnerability, emotional intelligence, and breaking down barriers- Leading DEI efforts in sports and fostering belonging- Challenges as a Black woman leader and strategic leadership- Creating space for others and extending opportunity- Closing advice: Trust the process, do inner work, document your journeyKEY TAKEAWAYS:- Unlearning negative habits through self-awareness and accountability- The importance of being present and practicing gratitude- Understanding attraction vs. alignment in relationships- The value of vulnerability and emotional intelligence- Extending your ladder to help others climb- Strategy and protecting yourself as a leader of colorGUEST: Bianca Dawkins- DEI Senior Manager, Minnesota Timberwolves & Lynx- Founder, Faces of Hope- Co-Host, BE Podcast- Board Member on 7+ community organizations

  5. Jan 25

    Fortress Financial W/Armand Cartwright (S3,E2)

    In Episode 2, I Sit Down With Armand Cartwright — CEO & Founder Of Fortress Financial, Michigan Native, Entrepreneur, And Lifelong Friend — For A Deeply Personal And Powerful Conversation That Blends Family, Discipline, Emotional Maturity, And Business Strategy Into One Impactful Story. Armand Opens Up About The Pivotal Turning Points That Shaped Him:- Growing Up In Detroit And Navigating Early Life Transitions.- The Family Structure That Molded His Character.- Lessons In Leadership And Intentionality From Both His Father And Mother- The Guidance And Emotional Grounding He Gained From His Siblings- Finding True Love, Marriage, And Stability During His Evolution.- And Ultimately… How He Built Fortress Financial, An ATM Business Rooted In Resilience, Discipline, And Long-Term Vision. Throughout The Episode, Armand Drops Transparent Gems About Entrepreneurship — From Starting With Nothing, To Understanding Your Market, To Staying Locked In Through Lonely Seasons. Whether You’re Curious About The ATM Business, Navigating New Chapters In Life, Or Simply Trying To Build Your Foundation From Scratch, This Conversation Will Leave You Inspired To Take Your Next Step With Purpose. This Episode Is A Reminder That:Your Story Matters. Your Structure Matters. And Your Growth Is Built Brick By Brick — Just Like A Fortress. Tune In, Take Notes, And Tap Into A Story Built On Family, Faith, And Fortitude.

  6. 12/05/2025

    X Hydration With Brian Boakye - Ansah (S3,E1)

    🎙️ Episode 1: "X Hydration" | Season 3 OpenerGuest: Brian Boakye - Ansah — Entrepreneur | Founder & CEO of X HydrationIn this powerful episode I sit down with Brian Boakye - Ansah — An Emerging, Impactful Leader In The Food And Beverage Industry And The Visionary Founder Behind X Hydration.Brian is part of a new wave of entrepreneurs redefining what it means to fuel the body with intentional, functional products. His Minnesota-made adaptogenic hydration brand is quickly gaining momentum, not just because of its taste or quality, but because of the purpose behind it — creating a healthier, more optimized future for athletes, creators, and everyday individuals looking to take care of their bodies at a higher level. In this conversation, Brian opens up about the mindset needed to build a brand from the ground up, the discipline required to stand out in a competitive industry, and the importance of creating products that genuinely support human performance. His journey, his vision, and his authenticity make this an episode that sets the tone for what Season 3 is all about: impact, elevation, and intentional progression. 🔗 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.🎧 Tap in. Lock in. Elevate your mindset.

  7. 05/18/2025

    Mind Over Matter With Nate Graham (S2,E10)

    🎙️ Episode 10: "Mind Over Matter" | Season 2 FinaleGuest: Nate Graham — Entrepreneur | Founder of GLU Athletics & Dark Horse ManagementStreaming on all platforms We’ve reached the grand finale of Season 2 — and we’re ending it with impact. In this powerful episode, I sit down with Nate Graham, a multifaceted leader who's redefined the grind through discipline, vision, and creative leadership. From launching his clothing brand GLU Athletics, to managing rising talent through Dark Horse Management, Nate has built it all from scratch — and he’s just getting started. 🚀 What You’ll Hear In This Episode: The mental toughness required to build something when no one’s watching Why betting on yourself is the most important investment you’ll ever make The role of discipline and mindset in pushing through self-doubt and adversity The unseen realities of building a brand, managing talent, and staying grounded What it really means to lead with purpose, not just passion 🧠 “Mind Over Matter” is more than a phrase — it’s a challenge to dig deeper, think sharper, and move with intention even when the world says stop. Nate doesn’t just talk about it — he lives it. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, athlete, or just someone looking for a spark of motivation — this episode will shift your perspective and fuel your next move. 🔗 Available now on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more.🎧 Tap in. Lock in. Elevate your mindset.

  8. 03/30/2025

    Defying The Odds With Blake Cashman (S2,E8)

    Episode 8 is with a very special guest, Blake Cashman who is a 7 year and counting NFL veteran. Look forward to a powerful conversation revolving Blake's background upbringing, collegiate & professional journey, leadership & community impact, and lastly what it may look like to redefine after sports! This is an episode you most definitely do not want to miss out on, so please comment, and share your thoughts!

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About

A conversation about navigating life’s many obstacles. As a former college athlete, my goal is to break down certain experiences that may be rude awakenings. I look to clarify common misconceptions, talk about discovering ones purpose, and discuss how to navigate societal issues as a young black adult. This podcast will strive to keep all listeners ahead of the game.

Information

  • Creator
    Dior Johnson
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dior Johnson
  • Show Website
    Perfecting Progession