Urban Family Focus Podcast

Jerrold Smith

The Urban Family Focus Podcast explores the issues shaping Black families and urban communities. Hosted by Rev. Jerrold Smith, each episode features faith-based insight, expert guests, and real conversations on health, wealth, justice, and more. Empowering talk that uplifts, informs, and inspires. 

  1. 4d ago

    The Healing Power of Poetry and Storytelling with Rev. Dr. Albert Starr Jr.

    Can storytelling be a pathway to healing? In this episode of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold Smith welcomes Rev. Albert Starr, Jr., DD for a powerful conversation about the transformative role of poetry, storytelling, song, and art. Rev. Starr is a minister, pastor/teacher, storyteller, workshop leader, conference presenter, and Artist in Residence at Synod Assembly. A native of Durham, North Carolina, he has made Los Angeles his home with his wife, Judith, and has spent decades serving communities through ministry, education, leadership, and the arts. His career has included serving as pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church in Los Angeles, Director for African Descent Ministries, and Director for Ethnic Specific Ministries within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Throughout his work, Rev. Starr has explored the intersection of race, culture, economics, faith, diversity, and community. Our stories can carry pain—but they can also carry wisdom, resilience, hope, and healing. Join us for a conversation about the power of finding your voice and giving meaning to the experiences that have shaped you. To learn more about Rev. Dr. Albert, click here ===> CLICK HERE ------ Whether you're tuning in for insights, solutions, or a dose of motivation, The Urban Family Focus Podcast is your destination for meaningful talk that matters. Subscribe today and be part of the movement to uplift, educate, and transform our future—one conversation at a time. Rev. Jerrold Smith is a Life Coach, Addiction Counselor, and seasoned media professional dedicated to uplifting urban families through faith, wellness, and empowerment. As host of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold brings decades of experience in community leadership, marketing, and ministry to the mic—offering real conversations, expert insight, and inspiring stories that spark meaningful change. His mission is simple: to amplify voices that matter and build stronger, healthier communities—one episode at a time. 🎙️www.UrbanFamilyFocus.com 🎙️https://www.instagram.com/urbanfamfocus/ 🎙️https://www.facebook.com/UrbanFamilyFocus 🎙️https://x.com/UrbanFam_Focus

  2. Aug 10

    Surviving Betrayal and Broken Trust with Dr. Marcus Anderson

    Betrayal has the power to shake our confidence, challenge our relationships, and leave emotional scars that can last for years. But healing is possible. In this episode of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold Smith welcomes Dr. Marcus Anderson—educator, author of Betrayed by Love & Faith, founder of The Writehood LLC, and lifelong advocate for personal growth and education. Drawing from his lived experiences and passion for helping others transform adversity into opportunity, Dr. Anderson shares how painful experiences can become catalysts for healing, growth, and renewed purpose. As a lifelong educator, father, author, and founder of The Writehood LLC, Dr. Anderson encourages others to embrace growth, resilience, and hope while learning that our greatest setbacks do not have to determine our future. Whether you've experienced betrayal in your personal life, career, family, or faith journey, this conversation offers encouragement for anyone seeking healing and restoration. To learn more about Dr. Marcus, click here ===> CLICK HERE ------ Whether you're tuning in for insights, solutions, or a dose of motivation, The Urban Family Focus Podcast is your destination for meaningful talk that matters. Subscribe today and be part of the movement to uplift, educate, and transform our future—one conversation at a time. Rev. Jerrold Smith is a Life Coach, Addiction Counselor, and seasoned media professional dedicated to uplifting urban families through faith, wellness, and empowerment. As host of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold brings decades of experience in community leadership, marketing, and ministry to the mic—offering real conversations, expert insight, and inspiring stories that spark meaningful change. His mission is simple: to amplify voices that matter and build stronger, healthier communities—one episode at a time. 🎙️www.UrbanFamilyFocus.com 🎙️https://www.instagram.com/urbanfamfocus/ 🎙️https://www.facebook.com/UrbanFamilyFocus 🎙️https://x.com/UrbanFam_Focus

  3. Aug 3

    Property Ownership: Then & Now with Richard Rice

    For decades, homeownership has been one of the most powerful pathways to building generational wealth in America. But today's housing market raises new questions about who owns our communities and how those changes affect future generations. In this episode of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold Smith welcomes retired real estate entrepreneur Richard Rice, whose nearly five decades as a California housing provider offer a unique perspective on the evolution of property ownership. After purchasing his first rental property in 1978, Richard built and managed residential properties throughout Los Angeles, Inglewood, and the Bay Area while remaining deeply committed to neighborhood revitalization, quality housing, and community engagement. His experience spans changing economic cycles, housing regulations, and significant shifts in California's real estate landscape. Together, they explore one of today's most important housing conversations: How has property ownership changed from individual investors to large corporate ownership—and what does that mean for California communities? Whether you're a homeowner, investor, policymaker, or simply interested in the future of housing, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the most significant economic issues affecting families today. To learn more about Richard, click here ===> CLICK HERE ------ Whether you're tuning in for insights, solutions, or a dose of motivation, The Urban Family Focus Podcast is your destination for meaningful talk that matters. Subscribe today and be part of the movement to uplift, educate, and transform our future—one conversation at a time. Rev. Jerrold Smith is a Life Coach, Addiction Counselor, and seasoned media professional dedicated to uplifting urban families through faith, wellness, and empowerment. As host of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold brings decades of experience in community leadership, marketing, and ministry to the mic—offering real conversations, expert insight, and inspiring stories that spark meaningful change. His mission is simple: to amplify voices that matter and build stronger, healthier communities—one episode at a time. 🎙️www.UrbanFamilyFocus.com 🎙️https://www.instagram.com/urbanfamfocus/ 🎙️https://www.facebook.com/UrbanFamilyFocus 🎙️https://x.com/UrbanFam_Focus

  4. Jul 27

    Grief, Black Men & Mental Health with Charles “Chuck” Clemons

    As part of our continued observance of Black Mental Health Awareness Month, Urban Family Focus explores the often-overlooked intersection of grief, Black masculinity, and mental health. In this episode, Rev. Jerrold Smith welcomes Charles “Chuck” Clemons—Board-Certified Chaplain, Pastoral Counselor, Corporate Trainer, Keynote Speaker, and Owner of Charles Clemons LLC. Grief is a universal experience, but many Black men have been conditioned to navigate pain privately. Cultural expectations around strength, responsibility, leadership, and emotional expression can sometimes make it difficult to acknowledge grief or seek support. This conversation creates space to examine what happens when grief goes unaddressed and how men can begin to move toward healing. Charles Clemons brings a unique perspective shaped by his work as a Board-Certified Chaplain, Pastoral Counselor, executive, corporate trainer, and keynote speaker. Through his work, he focuses on inspiring meaningful change in individuals, companies, and communities. This is an important conversation about giving Black men permission to acknowledge their pain, process their grief, and pursue healing. Because strength doesn't always mean carrying everything alone. To learn more about Charles, click here ===> CLICK HERE ------ Whether you're tuning in for insights, solutions, or a dose of motivation, The Urban Family Focus Podcast is your destination for meaningful talk that matters. Subscribe today and be part of the movement to uplift, educate, and transform our future—one conversation at a time. Rev. Jerrold Smith is a Life Coach, Addiction Counselor, and seasoned media professional dedicated to uplifting urban families through faith, wellness, and empowerment. As host of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold brings decades of experience in community leadership, marketing, and ministry to the mic—offering real conversations, expert insight, and inspiring stories that spark meaningful change. His mission is simple: to amplify voices that matter and build stronger, healthier communities—one episode at a time. 🎙️www.UrbanFamilyFocus.com 🎙️https://www.instagram.com/urbanfamfocus/ 🎙️https://www.facebook.com/UrbanFamilyFocus 🎙️https://x.com/UrbanFam_Focus

  5. Jul 20

    Recovery Is Possible with Adriene Bausley & Yvette Townsend, LCSW

    Recovery from mental illness is possible—and no one should have to navigate that journey alone. In this episode of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold Smith welcomes Adriene Bausley, Program Director of NAMI Urban Los Angeles, and Yvette Townsend, LCSW, retired Deputy Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health and current NAMI Urban LA Board Member. Together, they explore how education, advocacy, peer support, and community partnerships help individuals and families overcome mental health challenges while reducing stigma and increasing access to care. Drawing upon decades of leadership in public mental health systems and community-based advocacy, Adriene and Yvette discuss practical ways to strengthen emotional wellness and ensure that more people receive the support they need. Whether you're supporting a loved one, living with a mental health condition, or simply want to become a stronger advocate, this conversation offers practical guidance, encouragement, and hope. Because recovery is possible—and healing begins with community. To learn more about Adriene, click here ===> CLICK HERE To learn more about Yvette, click here ===> CLICK HERE ------ Whether you're tuning in for insights, solutions, or a dose of motivation, The Urban Family Focus Podcast is your destination for meaningful talk that matters. Subscribe today and be part of the movement to uplift, educate, and transform our future—one conversation at a time. Rev. Jerrold Smith is a Life Coach, Addiction Counselor, and seasoned media professional dedicated to uplifting urban families through faith, wellness, and empowerment. As host of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold brings decades of experience in community leadership, marketing, and ministry to the mic—offering real conversations, expert insight, and inspiring stories that spark meaningful change. His mission is simple: to amplify voices that matter and build stronger, healthier communities—one episode at a time. 🎙️www.UrbanFamilyFocus.com 🎙️https://www.instagram.com/urbanfamfocus/ 🎙️https://www.facebook.com/UrbanFamilyFocus 🎙️https://x.com/UrbanFam_Focus

  6. Jul 13

    Mental Health Check In: Where Are We Now? with Dr. Loren M. Hill

    Mental health has become one of the most important conversations of our time, impacting individuals, families, workplaces, schools, and communities across the nation. In this episode of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold Smith sits down with our beloved resident psychologist and mental health expert Dr. Loren M. Hill for a thoughtful discussion on the current state of mental wellness and what it means to thrive in today's complex world. Together, they examine the ongoing effects of stress, trauma, grief, anxiety, burnout, and societal pressures while exploring practical strategies that help individuals build resilience and emotional well-being. This episode offers valuable insight for anyone seeking to better understand mental health, strengthen emotional well-being, and support healthier conversations in their personal and professional lives. To learn more about Dr. Loren, click here ===> CLICK HERE ------ Whether you're tuning in for insights, solutions, or a dose of motivation, The Urban Family Focus Podcast is your destination for meaningful talk that matters. Subscribe today and be part of the movement to uplift, educate, and transform our future—one conversation at a time. Rev. Jerrold Smith is a Life Coach, Addiction Counselor, and seasoned media professional dedicated to uplifting urban families through faith, wellness, and empowerment. As host of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold brings decades of experience in community leadership, marketing, and ministry to the mic—offering real conversations, expert insight, and inspiring stories that spark meaningful change. His mission is simple: to amplify voices that matter and build stronger, healthier communities—one episode at a time. 🎙️www.UrbanFamilyFocus.com 🎙️https://www.instagram.com/urbanfamfocus/ 🎙️https://www.facebook.com/UrbanFamilyFocus 🎙️https://x.com/UrbanFam_Focus

  7. Jul 6

    Trust Me with Attorney Caprice L. Collins

    On this BWAARP edition of Urban Family Focus Podcast—our Black Wealth Attainment & Retention Program—we’re diving deep into the world of estate planning with none other than Attorney Caprice L. Collins, a Harvard Law graduate and one of the nation’s top-rated experts in Living Trusts, Asset Protection, and Generational Wealth. With over 40 years of experience, Caprice has helped thousands of families and nonprofits secure their futures and protect their legacies. In this powerful episode, she breaks down the essentials of estate planning—what a trust is, why a will alone isn’t enough, and how to avoid costly mistakes that could derail everything you've worked for. If you’re serious about financial literacy, legacy planning, and Black wealth retention, this episode is your blueprint. Don’t wait—get informed, get protected, and trust the process. Whether you're tuning in for insights, solutions, or a dose of motivation, The Urban Family Focus Podcast is your destination for meaningful talk that matters. Subscribe today and be part of the movement to uplift, educate, and transform our future—one conversation at a time. To learn more about Caprice, click here ===> CLICK HERE ------ Whether you're tuning in for insights, solutions, or a dose of motivation, The Urban Family Focus Podcast is your destination for meaningful talk that matters. Subscribe today and be part of the movement to uplift, educate, and transform our future—one conversation at a time. Rev. Jerrold Smith is a Life Coach, Addiction Counselor, and seasoned media professional dedicated to uplifting urban families through faith, wellness, and empowerment. As host of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold brings decades of experience in community leadership, marketing, and ministry to the mic—offering real conversations, expert insight, and inspiring stories that spark meaningful change. His mission is simple: to amplify voices that matter and build stronger, healthier communities—one episode at a time. 🎙️www.UrbanFamilyFocus.com 🎙️https://www.instagram.com/urbanfamfocus/ 🎙️https://www.facebook.com/UrbanFamilyFocus 🎙️https://x.com/UrbanFam_Focus

  8. Jun 29

    Is GLP Weight Loss for You with Dr Zuri A. Murrell

    Weight loss medications have become one of the most discussed topics in healthcare, but understanding how they work—and whether they're right for you—requires more than social media headlines. In this episode of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold Smith sits down with renowned colorectal surgeon Dr. Zuri Murrell to explore the growing use of GLP-1 medications and their role in modern healthcare. Together, they discuss the science behind medications such as Ozempic® and Wegovy®, how these treatments impact weight management and metabolic health, and what patients should know before considering them as part of their wellness journey. This informative conversation provides listeners with practical knowledge and expert guidance to better understand one of today's most talked-about healthcare innovations. To learn more about Dr. Zuri, click here ===> CLICK HERE ------ Whether you're tuning in for insights, solutions, or a dose of motivation, The Urban Family Focus Podcast is your destination for meaningful talk that matters. Subscribe today and be part of the movement to uplift, educate, and transform our future—one conversation at a time. Rev. Jerrold Smith is a Life Coach, Addiction Counselor, and seasoned media professional dedicated to uplifting urban families through faith, wellness, and empowerment. As host of Urban Family Focus, Rev. Jerrold brings decades of experience in community leadership, marketing, and ministry to the mic—offering real conversations, expert insight, and inspiring stories that spark meaningful change. His mission is simple: to amplify voices that matter and build stronger, healthier communities—one episode at a time. 🎙️www.UrbanFamilyFocus.com 🎙️https://www.instagram.com/urbanfamfocus/ 🎙️https://www.facebook.com/UrbanFamilyFocus 🎙️https://x.com/UrbanFam_Focus

About

The Urban Family Focus Podcast explores the issues shaping Black families and urban communities. Hosted by Rev. Jerrold Smith, each episode features faith-based insight, expert guests, and real conversations on health, wealth, justice, and more. Empowering talk that uplifts, informs, and inspires.