SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon Podcast

The DreamBeacon Company

SPARK’D is a podcast that dives into diverse career journeys across industries, uncovering unique stories, challenges, and insights. Each episode explores the intersection of professional growth and personal lifestyle, offering inspiration and practical advice for navigating your own path. Whether you’re seeking a career pivot, fresh ideas, or simply curious about the world of work, this podcast delivers engaging conversations with professionals from all walks of life.

  1. 07/06/2025

    Episode 18 | The Fire Right Now with Ty Hobson Powell | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCAST

    In this conversation, Jabir McKnight interviews nationally recognized activist and author of 'The Fire Right Now,’ Ty Hobson Powell. The episode discusses Ty's early life, educational journey, and the challenges he faced as a young black male in the education system. Ty also shares insights on the importance of identity, community organizing, and the role of fatherhood in shaping his purpose and political views.  The discussion also critiques the current cultural landscape — highlighting the need for responsible consumption of media and the impact it has on societal values — stressing the importance of personal accountability within the community, urging individuals to recognize their choices and the power they hold to effect change. Stay connected with SPARK*D Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedreambeaconpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedreambeaconpodcast Check out our parent company at www.mydreambeacon.com Follow Ty Hobson Powell on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tyhobsonpowelldc/ Purchase The Fire Right Now on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Right-Now-Ty-Hobson-Powell/dp/B0F8P8XSDQ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Ty Hopson-Powell 01:06 Early Life and Education Journey 05:46 Navigating School and Identity 09:57 Experiences of Early Adulthood 15:07 The Fire Right Now: Book Insights 19:56 Wisdom and Adaptation in a Changing World 25:00 Fatherhood and Its Impact on Purpose 25:50 The Influence of Fatherhood 31:55 Cultural Consumption and Its Impact 39:08 Choices and Accountability in the Community 45:50 Empowerment Through Knowledge and Action

    50 min

  2. 06/08/2025

    Episode 17 | Creating in Color: Art, Identity & Impact with Amanda Hunt | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCAST

    In this conversation, Amanda Hunt shares her journey as an actor, writer, and filmmaker, discussing her early inspirations, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges she faces as a Black woman in the entertainment industry. She emphasizes the significance of representation, the need for authentic storytelling, and the importance of creating one's own work. Amanda also touches on the balance between creativity and business, the necessity of protecting one's peace, and the personal connections she makes with her roles — highlighting the gaps in mainstream narratives, particularly regarding Jamaican culture and identity.  The conversation also explores the cultural similarities between Southern and Caribbean communities and its shared values and traditions. Host, Jabir A. McKnight and Amanda also discuss the importance of ancestry and the creative process, highlighting personal rituals that inspire their work. Stay connected with Amanda Morris: Website: https://www.amandamhunt.com/about Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nalasoul/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@AmandaMHunt Stay connected with SPARK*D Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedreambeaconpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedreambeaconpodcast Check out our parent company at www.mydreambeacon.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Amanda Hunt 01:07 The Journey into Entertainment 04:12 Mentorship and Advocacy 07:29 Identity and Representation in Storytelling 11:03 Challenges in the Industry 13:39 The Importance of Creating Your Own Work 17:19 Balancing Creativity and Business 19:04 Protecting Your Peace 21:35 Personal Connections to Roles 23:30 Missing Narratives in Mainstream Media 26:24 Cultural Connections: Southern and Caribbean Similarities 28:36 Exploring Ancestry: The Ties Between Cultures 30:02 Creative Process: Rituals and Inspirations 36:02 Film Inspirations: Analyzing Recent Works 44:50 Legacy and Impact: Inspiring Future Generations

    43 min

  3. 06/01/2025

    Episode 16 | Bridging Politics, People, and Progress with Alexander Hackett | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCAST

    In this episode of SPARK*D, host Jabir McKnight engages with Alexander Hackett, City Councilman At-Large for Wilmington, Delaware. They discuss the importance of leadership in the community, particularly in engaging the younger generation in civic activities. Hackett shares his personal journey from education to public service, emphasizing the need for intergenerational connections and the impact of mentorship and reflects on his experiences in the corporate world and on Capitol Hill. The conversation underlines the vital role of community engagement in shaping future leaders by empowering them through career opportunities and engaging them in the political process. Hackett also addresses the challenges small businesses face in politics and the necessity of proactive involvement in community issues. He shares his vision for innovative governance that balances tradition with change, encouraging future leaders to take action and invest in their communities. Stay connected with Alexander Hackett at www.alexanderhackett.com/ or on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexanderhackett_ | https://www.instagram.com/councilmanhackett Twitter: https://x.com/hackett4wilm  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Alexhackett2020  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alexander-hackett-070b21109  Stay connected with SPARK*D Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedreambeaconpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedreambeaconpodcast Check out our parent company at www.mydreambeacon.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Community Engagement 03:01 Personal Journey and Community Impact 06:07 Defining Leadership Through Experience 09:08 Navigating the Corporate World as a First-Gen Student 12:07 Lessons from Capitol Hill 14:56 Building Coalitions for Community Success 17:56 Innovative Campaign Strategies for Youth Engagement 23:47 Engaging the Community: A New Approach to Campaigning 28:09 Empowering the Youth: Career Opportunities and Community Engagement 32:46 Bridging the Gap: Engaging Small Businesses in Politics 39:44 Innovating Governance: Balancing Tradition and Change 41:54 Inspiring Future Leaders: The Call to Action

    47 min

  4. 05/25/2025

    Episode 15 | Shaping Tomorrow’s Talent with Rod Adkins | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCAST

    In this enlightening conversation, Jabir McKnight interviews Rod Adkins, a strategy consultant and tech expert, about his journey from the Air Force to becoming an executive. They discuss the importance of mentorship, resilience, and the evolving workforce shaped by AI and automation. Rod shares insights on essential skills for the future, the role of communication in business, and the opportunities within the aerospace industry — emphasizing the significance of creativity and innovation in a rapidly changing landscape. Stay connected with SPARK*D Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedreambeaconpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedreambeaconpodcast Check out our parent company at www.mydreambeacon.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 02:52 Early Influences and Resilience 05:48 Mentorship and Leadership Style 09:00 Adapting to Change in Consulting 12:10 Essential Skills for the Future Workforce 15:02 Opportunities for Human Innovation 17:52 The Role of Communication in Business 21:09 Exploring the Aerospace Industry 23:48 Crowdsourced Innovation and Future Work 26:56 Advice for Gen Z 30:11 The Truth About Innovation 32:59 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

    39 min

  5. 05/18/2025

    Episode 14 | Rewriting Student Life with Dr. T.J. Logan | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCAST

    In this conversation, host Jabir McKnight and Executive Director of Brailsford & Dunlavey, Dr. T.J. Logan, explore the evolving landscape of higher education, discussing the impact of the pandemic, the importance of community and shared experiences, and the need for institutions to differentiate themselves by taking audacious chances. Here, they emphasize the role of technology and partnerships in driving innovation, while also highlighting the significance of humility and expertise in professional growth. Visit Brailsford & Dunlavey at https://www.bdconnect.com Connect with Dr. T.J. Logan at https://www.linkedin.com/in/t-j-logan Stay connected with SPARK*D Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedreambeaconpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedreambeaconpodcast Check out our parent company at www.mydreambeacon.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Higher Education Landscape 03:06 The Journey into Higher Education 05:55 Mentorship and Professional Growth 08:49 Balancing Expertise and Storytelling 12:01 The Changing Value of Higher Education 15:01 Post-Pandemic Challenges in Higher Education 17:58 Navigating the Job Market and Student Support 21:02 Systemic Changes Needed in Higher Education 23:51 Talent and Professionalization in Higher Education 27:09 Technology Implementation in Education 29:57 Public-Private Partnerships in Higher Education 32:23 Navigating the Higher Education Landscape 36:15 The Importance of Humility and Authenticity 41:40 The Role of Resources in Innovation 43:21 Embracing AI and Technology in Education 51:30 Defining the Value Proposition of Higher Education 58:57 Evolving Perspectives in Higher Education

    59 min

  6. 05/11/2025

    Episode 13 | Rethinking Education with Cortney Woodruff of Assemble | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCAST

    In this conversation, host, Jabir McKnight, and Co-Founder and CEO of Assemble, Cortney Woodruff discuss the relevance of higher education, the mission of Assemble, and the importance of bridging the gap between industry and academia. They explore the challenges faced by universities in adapting to changing workforce demands, the role of corporations in shaping educational curricula, and the impact of demographic trends on higher education.  Cortney shares his entrepreneurial journey, the significance of cultural intelligence, and discusses the evolving landscape of fundraising and investment in diverse startups as well as the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking to advance their careers within corporate structures. The conversation also touches on the frustrations within the Black community regarding access to opportunities and the importance of democratizing education. Stay connected with SPARK*D Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedreambeaconpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedreambeaconpodcast Check out our parent company at www.mydreambeacon.com Check out Assemble at https://www.assemble.fyi/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Assemble and Its Mission 03:03 Bridging the Gap in Higher Education 06:05 The Role of Corporations in Education 09:04 The Impact of Demographics on Universities 12:11 The Pandemic's Influence on Education 15:02 Cortney's Entrepreneurial Journey 18:07 Cultural Intelligence and Global Perspectives 20:59 Fundraising Challenges and Opportunities 24:06 Navigating the Investment Landscape 27:07 The Shift in Silicon Valley's Diversity 30:02 Conclusion and Future Outlook 38:19 Navigating Corporate Hierarchies 41:33 Building a Network for Future Executives 44:07 Curating Executive Connections 48:11 Frustrations and Aspirations in the Black Community 51:42 Democratizing Access to Opportunities 54:43 Engaging with Universities 01:00:04 The Future of Education 01:04:34 Future-Proofing Careers for the Next Generation

    1h 11m

  7. 05/04/2025

    Episode 12 | Black Male Achievement with Anthony G. Stepney and Dr. Robert J. Rodgers Jr.

    In this week’s conversation, host Jabir A. McKnight delves into the current state and future of male achievement in America, particularly focusing on Black boys and men with Anthony G. Stepney and Dr. Robert J. Rodgers Jr. The discussion highlights the challenges faced in education, the importance of community and accountability through personal stories and historical context. Also discussed is the importance of exposure and education in personal growth, the impact of mindset on financial success, and the need for community-oriented approaches to capitalism—emphasizing the significance of studying one's craft, the role of relationships in sustaining success, and the value of mentorship. Ultimately, the speakers advocate for setting high standards and aspirations within the community to foster growth and success, emphasizing the necessity of redesigning educational systems to better support the Black community. Stay connected with SPARK*D Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedreambeaconpodcast TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedreambeaconpodcast Check out our parent company at www.mydreambeacon.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Male Achievement Challenges 03:06 Personal Stories and Motivations 05:56 The Evolution of Educational Environments 08:48 Classroom Dynamics and Student Performance 11:58 Common Issues Faced by Young Men 14:53 The Crisis of Male Motivation 18:00 The Role of Accountability in Education 21:04 Equity and Representation in Education 23:59 Historical Context of Education for Black Men 27:02 The Importance of Community and Support 29:58 Future Directions for Black Male Achievement 32:22 The Importance of Exposure and Education 33:29 Mindset and Financial Success in Education 34:51 Community and Capitalism: A Different Approach 37:11 The Legacy of Hard Work and Craftsmanship 39:35 Perception of Success and Aspiration 41:24 The Role of Relationships in Sustaining Success 42:51 Defining Your Why: The Meaning Behind Aspirations 44:20 The Reality of Entrepreneurship and Planning 46:28 Investing in Yourself: The Path to Mastery 48:11 The Value of Consistency and Accountability 50:27 Delayed Gratification and the Journey to Success 52:24 Learning from Failure and the Slow Burn of Success 53:10 The Role of Mentorship in Personal Growth 55:40 Pruning: The Tough Love of Mentorship 57:54 Setting Standards and Aspirations in the Community 01:01:04 The Historical Context of Change 01:04:43 Reframing Family Dynamics and Economic Realities 01:08:42 Vocational Education and Skills Development 01:12:20 The Importance of Mentorship and Role Models 01:17:13 Redesigning Education for Black Boys 01:23:01 Empowering Black Boys Through Opportunity and Accountability

    1h 27m

  8. 04/27/2025

    Episode 11 | The Science of Day Dreaming | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCAST

    In this conversation, Jabir McKnight and Paula Intravaia discuss the significance of creativity and daydreaming in today's fast-paced world. Paula shares insights about her organization, Cloud Club Collective, which focuses on activating imaginations and fostering creativity through purposeful daydreaming. They explore the challenges faced in education, the role of nature in creativity, and the importance of encouraging creative expression in both children and adults. The discussion also touches on the impact of lost creativity in under-resourced communities and the mental health crisis, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to enhance well-being and foster a culture of creativity.Stay connected with SPARK*DInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedreambeaconpodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedreambeaconpodcastCheck out our parent company at www.mydreambeacon.comChapters:00:00 Introduction to Cloud Club Collective03:00 The Importance of Daydreaming05:51 Priming the Mind for Creativity08:54 Creativity in Education11:47 Nature's Role in Creativity14:52 Encouraging Creativity in Children17:52 The Consequences of Lost Creativity21:05 Creativity and Mental Health23:49 The Entrepreneurial Journey of Cloud Club29:46 Future Vision for Cloud Club Collective

    45 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

SPARK’D is a podcast that dives into diverse career journeys across industries, uncovering unique stories, challenges, and insights. Each episode explores the intersection of professional growth and personal lifestyle, offering inspiration and practical advice for navigating your own path. Whether you’re seeking a career pivot, fresh ideas, or simply curious about the world of work, this podcast delivers engaging conversations with professionals from all walks of life.

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