BE A BALLER -"Building a lifelong legacy"

Coach Tim Brown, Uncommon Life

Welcome to Be A Baller, where we're building a lifelong legacy for our families, communities, and the world! I'm your host, Coach Tim Brown, and I'm excited to   for you join me on this journey. On this show, we'll be talking about how to be intentional about building a lasting legacy. We'll be exploring what it means to leave a mark that goes beyond just our own lives, but has a positive impact on those around us and even generations to come.Our guests will be individuals who have built a legacy in various fields – ministry, business, sports, education, and community service. And what's unique about our guests is that they're committed to the Wisdom Pledge. That means they're not just sharing their own stories and experiences with us, but they're also paying forward and sharing wisdom to empower the next generation. So if you're looking for inspiration, guidance, and practical tips on how to build a lasting legacy that makes a difference, then you're in the right place!So grab your earbuds, get comfortable, and let's dive in!

  1. Sep 1

    Remembering Ray Miller: A Legacy of Leadership, Service & Empowering the Next Generation

    Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support. The Be a Baller Podcast is honored to re-release this special conversation with the late Ray Miller, former Ohio State Senator, publisher, community leader, mentor, and devoted servant to the people of Ohio and Lifetime member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Brother Ray dedicated his life to leadership, public service, education, advocacy, and empowering others. During 24 years in the Ohio General Assembly—16 years in the House of Representatives and eight years in the Senate—he championed legislation and initiatives that strengthened communities and created opportunities for generations to come. His impact extended far beyond elected office. As President and Publisher of The Columbus & Dayton African American News Journal, Brother Ray used the power of communication to educate, inform, and empower the community. His commitment to developing future leaders also inspired the creation of the Ray Miller Institute for Change and Leadership and the Progressive Leadership Academy, helping ensure that the wisdom of one generation would be passed to the next. Throughout his remarkable journey, Brother Ray served in government, higher education, organized labor, business, and community leadership—including service on the White House staff during the administration of President Jimmy Carter. But titles and accomplishments tell only part of his story. Brother Ray Miller's legacy can also be found in the people he encouraged, the leaders he developed, the doors he helped open, and the community he faithfully served. As we mourn his passing, we are grateful that his voice, wisdom, and story remain with us through this conversation. We re-release this episode in loving memory of Brother Ray Miller and in honor of his wife Marty, his son Ray Miller III, his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched. May this conversation remind us that a meaningful legacy isn't simply what we accomplish—it is what we invest in others and leave behind for the next generation. Rest well, Brother Ray. Your work, wisdom, and legacy continue. Shorter YouTube/Spotify Description In Loving Memory of Brother Ray Miller The Be a Baller Podcast honors the life and legacy of Ray Miller—former Ohio State Senator, publisher, community leader, mentor, and servant leader. Brother Ray spent a lifetime opening doors, advocating for communities, developing leaders, and preparing the next generation to carry the work forward. Following his passing, we are honored to re-release this conversation so that his voice, wisdom, experiences, and lessons on leadership can continue to inspire others. We dedicate this episode to his wife Marty, his son Ray Miller III, his family, friends, and everyone blessed by his extraordinary life of service. Support the show

    Remembering Ray Miller: A Legacy of Leadership, Service & Empowering the Next Generation
  2. Aug 13

    Best of BAB Podcast - Shelbi Toone: How One Young Artist Is Preserving Black History

    Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support. Shelbi Toone, Community Activist, takes us on a remarkable journey through her evolution as an artist, community organizer, and cultural preservationist in Columbus, Ohio. What began with watching her grandparents honor their elders has blossomed into a multifaceted career dedicated to ensuring Black history and community stories aren't lost to time. Today, as project lead for the Poindexter Village Museum (soon to be Ohio's 59th historical site), Shelbi is creating her most enduring legacy yet – a space that will preserve African American history in Central Ohio for generations to come. Through her inspiring story, we discover that true legacy isn't just about the art created but the platforms built and stories preserved that might otherwise be lost. Growing up as what she calls an "art jock," Shelbi brought unique strengths to her creative pursuits – the teamwork, discipline, and practice ethic from basketball and track meshed perfectly with her artistic talents. While many know her vibrant murals around Columbus, fewer understand the deeper purpose driving her work: creating space for underrepresented artists while preserving cultural narratives. After graduating with her master's degree in 2010 amid economic uncertainty, Shelbi took a leap of faith by starting her own creative services business rather than pursuing traditional employment that didn't align with her passion. This bold move not only launched her career but sparked her commitment to building platforms where other artists could thrive. From founding All People Arts gallery on Columbus' South Side to establishing the Walt Neal Mural League, she's consistently created opportunities specifically for Black artists who historically lacked access to public art commissions. Perhaps most fascinating is the story behind her signature "new peace symbol" and the evolution of her artist name "Peace Shelbi." What began as a personal journey to find peace transformed into a powerful artistic statement that "peace begins with you" – a philosophy she's integrated into virtually every artwork for over a decade. Want to support Shelbi's work? Visit shel10.com to learn about Columbus' Black history and explore poindextervillagemuseum.org to follow the museum's development. Support the show

    Best of BAB Podcast - Shelbi Toone: How One Young Artist Is Preserving Black History
  3. Aug 6

    Best of BAB Podcast Dr. Frederic Bertley: From Childhood Curiosity to Leading COSI Science Center

    Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support. Dr. Frederic Bertley, the charismatic CEO of the Center of Science and Industry, takes us on a captivating journey from his adventurous childhood mishap with a video game and a lamp cord to leading one of the most respected science centers in the U.S. We explore how these early sparks of curiosity ignited his passion for science, proving that even the most unexpected experiences can set the stage for a lifelong commitment to discovery. This episode is packed with tales of wonder and inspiration, as Dr. Bertley shares how these formative moments can encourage young minds to explore the vast potential within STEM fields. While sports icons like LeBron James and cultural figures like Beyoncé steal the spotlight, there’s an urgent need for scientists and engineers to gain recognition for their groundbreaking contributions to society. Dr. Bertley passionately discusses this challenge and how his initiatives, such as the Free Science All Day Community Days, aim to elevate the visibility and appreciation of the scientific community. He invites us to rethink how we perceive scientists, promoting a narrative where scientific achievement is celebrated and accessible to all, especially in communities that often lack representation in these fields. Fashion, diversity, and science intersect in delightful ways as Dr. Bertley illustrates how personal style can complement scientific identity rather than conform to stereotypes. From his favorite Jordans to the importance of visible role models, he highlights how these elements can resonate with and inspire individuals from all walks of life. By blending hip-hop influences with an educational mission, Dr. Bertley is pioneering efforts to make STEM engaging and relatable, particularly for students in underserved areas. Through hands-on experiences and innovative media projects, he is opening doors for the next generation to embrace global opportunities and create their own inspiring legacies in the world of science. Support the show

    Best of BAB Podcast Dr. Frederic Bertley: From Childhood Curiosity to Leading COSI Science Center
  4. Jul 16

    Best of BAB Podcast Season 1 - Dr. Robert Murphy, Building a Lifelong Legacy in Education

    Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support. Dr. Robert L. Murphy is the CEO/Founder of The Masters Preparatory Academy (MPA), a single gender boarding school designed to meet the social, emotional, cultural, and academic needs of African American young men, grades 7-12. He has held leadership roles in parochial, private, and public schools. Dr. Murphy is married with two children and has been a member of World Harvest Church for 30+ years where he has served as an Elder at the church from 2003 to the present. Dr. Murphy’s Ed.D in Educational Administration is from Ohio University where his doctoral research was focused on the impact of single gender schools on the social, emotional, and academic progress of low income African American males. He is deeply committed to expanding the educational opportunities for African American males through the creation and expansion of single gender schools and he continues that work today with the development of The Masters Preparatory Academy.  He is the Area Superintendent for Columbus City Schools and previously served as the Interim Director of School Leadership Development. From 1981 to 1985, he served as an Art teacher and coach at Bishop Ready High School. Dr. Murphy was the first African American teacher at The Columbus Academy when it was still an all-boys academy, serving as the Upper School’s ceramics and sculpture instructor. Other past positions include Columbus City Schools Art Teacher and Coach, assistant principal at Whetstone High School, Director of Christian Education for World Harvest Church, overseeing the operation of the Pre K-grade 12 World Harvest Christian Academy (now known as Harvest Preparatory School) and the two-year World Harvest Bible College (now known as Valor Christian College). He also served as Principal at Africentric and Brookhaven High Schools and as an adjunct professor at Ohio Dominican University. Support the show

    Best of BAB Podcast Season 1 - Dr. Robert Murphy, Building a Lifelong Legacy in Education
  5. Jul 7

    Larry James: Leadership That Lasts, Developing People, Serving Communities & Building a Legacy

    Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support. What does it take to build a legacy that transforms lives—not just your own, but an entire community? The conversation goes beyond professional success into the heart of legacy—fatherhood, mentorship, community giving, and developing the next generation of leaders through the African American Leadership Academy. His message is simple yet powerful: "There is no success without a successor." In this inspiring episode of the Be a Baller Podcast, Coach Tim Brown sits down with Attorney Larry James, one of Central Ohio's most respected legal, civic, and community leaders. From his humble beginnings in the sharecropping fields of the Jim Crow South to becoming a nationally recognized attorney and champion for justice, Larry shares the defining moments that shaped his life and leadership. Discover how unexpected setbacks became opportunities, why integrity and humility remain the foundation of authentic leadership, and how mentors helped prepare him for every season of influence. Larry also explains why relationship equity, servant leadership, and investing in others are essential for creating lasting impact. If this conversation inspires you, subscribe to the Be a Baller Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone you're mentoring. Together, we can build leaders who leave a legacy that lasts for generations. Support the show

    Larry James: Leadership That Lasts, Developing People, Serving Communities & Building a Legacy
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About

Welcome to Be A Baller, where we're building a lifelong legacy for our families, communities, and the world! I'm your host, Coach Tim Brown, and I'm excited to   for you join me on this journey. On this show, we'll be talking about how to be intentional about building a lasting legacy. We'll be exploring what it means to leave a mark that goes beyond just our own lives, but has a positive impact on those around us and even generations to come.Our guests will be individuals who have built a legacy in various fields – ministry, business, sports, education, and community service. And what's unique about our guests is that they're committed to the Wisdom Pledge. That means they're not just sharing their own stories and experiences with us, but they're also paying forward and sharing wisdom to empower the next generation. So if you're looking for inspiration, guidance, and practical tips on how to build a lasting legacy that makes a difference, then you're in the right place!So grab your earbuds, get comfortable, and let's dive in!