Light Up the Mic Podcast

Kembala Evans
  • 5.0 (11)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Biweekly

Light Up the Mic shines a light on meaningful conversations that help you win in life. Through honest stories and inspiring interviews, you'll hear how everyday people and remarkable guests have overcome adversity, achieved success, strengthened relationships, improved their finances, found purpose, and more. Every story has the power to change the way we see ourselves and the world around us. The lessons we learn from others can inspire us to think differently, grow through life's challenges, and believe more deeply in what's possible. Because one conversation... one idea... or one story could change your life. 🎙️ New episodes released monthly — every second Wednesday.

  1. Sep 23

    Are the Best Things in Life Really Free? | Real Voices

    You’ve probably heard “the best things in life are free”—but are they really? In this episode of the Light Up the Mic podcast, Kembala Evans explores this popular saying through street interviews to hear what real people think. Their answers spark unexpected conversations about love, money, work, family, faith, happiness—and even the air we breathe. Some agree and others don’t. Then there’s a twist when one person surprisingly discovers her answer isn’t as black and white as she once thought. 7 Key Takeaways: What’s Does "Free" Really Cost? Cost isn’t always measured in bills—sometimes it’s effort, energy, sacrifice, or time.The Best Things Could Be Priceless. Something may not cost us a thing and still mean everything.There’s Value in Working for Something. When we work for it, we may appreciate and care for it more.More Money Doesn’t Mean More Happiness. Happiness could have less to do with money earned and more to do with how we spend our time.Finding Joy in the Simple Things. Some of life’s greatest joys may be found in everyday moments, like taking a walk in the park or spending quality time with those we love.Free Is Personal. Our faith, beliefs, and experiences can shape what being truly free means to us.Reflection Can Change Our Perspective. Thinking a little deeper can help us see what truly matters.Seven people. Seven different perspectives on what the best things in life mean and cost to them. Listen to what they had to say and decide for yourself:  Are the best things in life really free? 💬  What do you think? Send us a text using the link below and share your thoughts. 📲 And if this episode gets you thinking, share it with someone and ask them the question too. You might be surprised by their answer. Send us Fan Mail Thanks for joining us today!  We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.  Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

  2. Aug 28

    Remarried: Can You Really Find Lasting Love?

    Divorce can leave behind a difficult question: Will I ever find love again? Following Love After Divorce (Part 1), Kembala Evans explores remarriage after divorce. She sits down with Pat LaCroix, who opens up and answers real questions from people who've experienced divorce—from dating and learning to trust again to her non-negotiables, prenups, and blending a family. But this time, we're also hearing a man’s perspective on divorce. In an unexpected encounter on an airport shuttle in Pittsburgh, Kembala meets a man whose first marriage lasted only 18 months—but whose second has lasted almost 30 years. He candidly shares what divorce taught him, why trying again can be scary, and what helped him find lasting love. And remarkably, his story and Pat's have something quite revealing in common. It's an episode about divorce, healing, dating, second chances, remarriage—and why the end of one love story doesn't mean the end of love.  7 Key Takeaways: Know what you can and can't accept. Lasting relationships start with seeing people for who they are instead of entering a relationship hoping to change them. Don't let yesterday's hurt limit tomorrow's possibilities. Healing requires feeling the pain without allowing it to keep you stuck. Pay attention to the lessons from your first marriage. What didn't work the first time can teach you what's important—and help you do better the next time around. Know your non-negotiables. Experience can be a great teacher in helping you understand the values, qualities, and behaviors you need in a partner. Don't look for perfect—look for perfect for you. Compatibility matters more than finding someone without flaws. Lasting love still takes work. Nearly 30 years into his second marriage, the Pittsburgh gentleman says love is possible—but relationships require effort and compromise. Never give up on love. Divorce may end one chapter, but if you’re open to love again, it could lead to a new and even better love story. Resources: Good Will Hunting movieQuotes referenced:“The person who seeks to change another person in a relationship basically sets the stage for a great deal of conflict.” - Wesley Snipes“If you fall, fall on your back. If you can look up, you can get up.” - Les Brown💬 Join the conversation: Follow, share, leave a review, or send us a text below. Send us Fan Mail Thanks for joining us today!  We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.  Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

  3. Aug 14

    Love After Divorce: How to Heal, Trust & Love Again | Patricia LaCroix

    Have you ever stayed in a relationship because you didn’t know how to get off the roller coaster? Pat LaCroix did. After seven years with her first boyfriend, she finally found the courage to end the relationship. She later married, became a mother of two, and after 11 years of marriage found herself facing divorce—and the challenge of starting over.  But Pat never gave up on love. In this candid conversation on Light Up the Mic, Pat sits down with Kembala Evans and shares what divorce taught her about herself, the remarkable second-chance story that reconnected her with someone she’d met 15 years earlier, and how she finally discovered what true partnership felt like. From an undeniable “aha” moment involving Oprah and a box of Wheat Thins to learning to trust again, Pat gets candid about losing yourself in a relationship, recognizing what you can—and can't—accept in a partner, and why knowing yourself may be one of the most important steps toward lasting love.  And, what would she tell her 18-year-old self about finding love? “Play the field.” It’s an episode about love, divorce, healing, self-discovery, second chances—and being willing to learn from the old story to craft a new and better love story. In Part 2: Pat answers real questions from divorcees who want to know more. 7 Key Takeaways: Know when to get off the roller coaster. Loyalty isn't a reason to stay in a relationship that isn't right for you.Don't lose yourself in love. A healthy relationship leaves room for your own identity, interests, and independence. Reflect before you repeat. Pat reflected on what was missing from her first marriage and identified what she needed—and what wasn't negotiable—the next time around. Partnership is more than being together. Pat found her love, teammate and “partner in crime”— finally, someone she could share life with fully. Know what you can and can't accept. Nobody is perfect. Know your standards—and your deal breakers.Stay open to love. Pat didn’t give up on marriage after divorce, She kept the faith—and found love again. Don't rush to find “the one.” Pat's three-word advice to her 18-year-old self: “Play the field.” Meet people, experience life, and learn who you are before making a serious commitment.Resources: CDC on Marriages and DivorcesWomen More Likely Than Men to Initiate Divorces🔗 Follow, share, and leave a review or send us a text below. Send us Fan Mail Thanks for joining us today!  We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.  Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

  4. Jul 15

    What Happy People Know

    How happy are we, really? The latest World Happiness Report inspired Kembala Evans to take this question onto the streets of Georgia and Florida to find out how everyday people feel about happiness today. You’ll hear what happiness means to them, where they believe it really comes from, and the advice they'd offer someone struggling to find it. From a 10-year-old's thoughtful reflection to heartfelt conversations about gratitude, faith, purpose, authenticity, and relationships, a remarkable pattern emerges. While every person's story is unique, many point to the same timeless principles that money can't buy. If you're searching for more joy, navigating a difficult season, or simply curious about what happy people seem to know, this episode offers honest conversations, practical wisdom, and a hopeful reminder that happiness may be closer than you think. And if life feels heavy right now, this episode also carries an important message: you don't have to struggle alone. Sometimes asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do. Join Kembala for an inspiring journey into happiness—and discover how one small step can lead you to a happier, more meaningful life. Key Takeaways: Anchor yourself in something bigger. Faith and deeply held beliefs can provide strength and perspective through life's challenges.Choose gratitude. Focusing on what you have instead of what you lack can transform the way you experience life.Be true to yourself. Lasting happiness usually comes from living authentically instead of following someone else's expectations.Live with purpose. Knowing what matters most helps guide your decisions and brings more fulfillment.Invest in people and healthy habits. Meaningful relationships, honest conversations, and simple daily routines all contribute to well-being. Count your blessings and be a blessing. Helping others often brings joy back into our own lives.Don't carry life's burdens alone. Reaching out for support is a sign of courage, and sometimes the first step toward healing and hope.Resource: The World Happiness Report 🔗 Follow, share, and leave a review or send us a text below. Send us Fan Mail Thanks for joining us today!  We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.  Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

  5. Jun 11

    Your Self-Talk Matters More Than You Think

    What are you saying to yourself every day—and how might those words be shaping your life?  In this episode of Light Up the Mic, Kembala Evans explores the power of affirmations, positive self-talk, and how our self-belief and mindset play a role in helping us become the person we want to be. Drawing from personal experience, scientific research, and the stories of Muhammad Ali, Lady Gaga, W. Clement Stone, and Michael Jackson, Kembala shares how self-talk can shape our beliefs, choices, and ultimately our lives. You'll learn what affirmations are, what the research says about their impact on stress, performance, self-belief, and well-being, and why so many successful people make them part of their daily lives. Plus, you'll walk away with a practical 7-Day Challenge to help you become more aware of the conversations you're having with yourself, along with simple ways to bring more positive self-talk into your life. 7 Key Takeaways: The conversations you have with yourself matter.Affirmations help reinforce the beliefs you want to live by.Research suggests affirmations can support performance and well-being.Affirmations work best when combined with self-belief and action.Many successful people have used positive affirmations to reach BIG goals.It's about who you're becoming, not just what you're achieving.Pay attention to the story you're telling yourself.Resources: Affirmation Research:Carnegie Mellon University’s Self-Affirmation and Stress Performance StudySelf-Affirmation Impact on Brain Stanford University’s Self-Affirmations and Academic SuccessBook: Moonwalk by Michael JacksonCleveland Clinic: Do Positive Affirmations Work Mayo Clinic: Positive Thinking 🔗 Follow, share, and leave a review or send us a text below. Send us Fan Mail Thanks for joining us today!  We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.  Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

  6. May 13

    Beyond the Scale — Chase the Feeling, Not the Look | Steve Parkin

    What if just 15 minutes… one simple sweat… could change how you feel—and ultimately, how you live? In this episode of Light Up the Mic, Kembala sits down with certified personal trainer Steve Parkin to explore what it really takes to build strength, transform your body, and stay committed to your health for life. Born and raised in Jamaica without access to gyms, Steve shares how fitness changed his own life—and how, over 30 years as a trainer, he has helped others reclaim theirs. From helping a client recover after brain surgery to training a runner who returned from Graves’ disease to qualify for the Boston Marathon, this conversation goes far beyond weight loss. If you’ve ever felt stuck, intimidated, unsure where to start, or wondered if it’s too late to make a change—this conversation is for you.  You’ll learn why “just showing up” is the hardest—and most important—step, how clean eating fuels your body, and why chasing how you feel matters more than chasing how you look. Together, Kembala and Steve discuss: Why movement is medicineHow breaking a sweat impacts your mental healthThe importance of clean eating and recoveryThe dangers of losing muscle massHow to build strength the right wayThis episode may change the way you think about fitness, aging, and what’s still possible for your life—while reminding you how one step could lead to your breakthrough.  Key Takeaways: Chase the feeling, not the lookClean eating > dietingJust showing up can change everythingBreaking a sweat can shift your mindsetMovement today protects your futureHealing and recovery are important It’s never too late to improve your lifeDisclaimer: Be sure to consult with your doctor or a healthcare professional before starting any diet, lifestyle change, or exercise routine. Resources: Connect with Steve Parkin on Instagram: @SparkinFitnessBusiness Insider: Bob Marley’s Famous Last WordsUC Davis Health on the Impact of GLP-1 Drugs Statista: 1 in 8 Americans Use a GLP-1 Drug 🔗 Follow, share, and leave a review or send us a text below. Send us Fan Mail Thanks for joining us today!  We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.  Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

  7. Apr 22

    Miracles Abound When You Expect Them...

    After seeing three words in gold—“Expect a Miracle”—on a tall black iron gate, Kembala couldn’t stop wondering what would make someone believe in miracles like that. So, she set out to learn more—and discovered how a single mother’s dream became her reality: owning that very estate. In this episode, Kembala and her friend Kai talk to real people in Florida and ask a simple question: Do you believe in miracles… and why or why not? From doubt to deep faith, the answers were honest, surprising, and thought-provoking. What they discovered—from real people to their own experiences—may change how you think about belief, alignment, and expectation. As they reflect on that morning, what started as a simple outing turned into a series of moments they couldn’t ignore—reminding them that sometimes what doesn’t go as planned may lead to something even better. This episode is about perspective, belief, and the power of expectation. So maybe the real question is—what are you expecting? In this episode, we explore: What people really think about miracles and real-life experiences.The contrast between belief and doubt.A powerful testimony that challenges perspective. How unexpected moments can lead to meaningful connections. The role of expectation in shaping our experiences.Send us Fan Mail Thanks for joining us today!  We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.  Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

  8. Apr 8

    Stuck and Stressed About Money? Take Control | Dorethia Kelly

    With rising costs, economic uncertainty, and increasing financial stress, many people are working harder than ever—but still feel like they’re falling behind. In this episode of Light Up the Mic, Kembala Evans sits down with award-winning financial expert and CEO of MoneyChat, Dorethia Kelly, to break down what’s really keeping people stuck—and how to take control back. From credit cards and emergency savings to job loss and major financial decisions like buying a car, this conversation delivers practical strategies and real-world insights you can apply immediately. Dorethia shares how she helps clients get out of debt, recover from financial setbacks, and build a stronger financial future. She also discusses how you can: Avoid common debt traps Reframe your path to the American Dream Recover after job loss and rebuild savings Reduce financial stress and build confidence with money Whether you're trying to get out of debt, improve your credit, or simply feel more in control of your finances, Dorethia delivers real, actionable advice to help you move forward.  Key Takeaways: Money is a tool—but how you use it determines your results. Financial success starts with mindset. Don’t beat yourself up about past mistakes. Focus on progress, not perfection. Emergency savings are critical—start small and build over time. Aim for 6–12 months expenses as a goal. Use credit cards strategically. Spend what you can pay off monthly. High-interest debt can keep you stuck—take action to reduce it. Increase income and follow a clear plan. Financial stress decreases when you take control and create a plan. Clarity builds confidence. Big purchases like cars require strategy—not emotion. Understand the total cost before committing.Resources: Connect with Dorethia 👉 Dorethia.com or on social media @iamdorethiaDorethia's #MoneyChat® BookGen Z (Fortune) Average Car Payments (NerdWallet)Financial Stress (NFCC)🔗 Follow, share, and leave a review or send us a text below. Send us Fan Mail Thanks for joining us today!  We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.  Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

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About

Light Up the Mic shines a light on meaningful conversations that help you win in life. Through honest stories and inspiring interviews, you'll hear how everyday people and remarkable guests have overcome adversity, achieved success, strengthened relationships, improved their finances, found purpose, and more. Every story has the power to change the way we see ourselves and the world around us. The lessons we learn from others can inspire us to think differently, grow through life's challenges, and believe more deeply in what's possible. Because one conversation... one idea... or one story could change your life. 🎙️ New episodes released monthly — every second Wednesday.

Information

  • Creator
    Kembala Evans
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 © 2025 Light Up the Mic Podcast
  • Show Website
    Light Up the Mic Podcast