The Interludes Podcast: Entrepreneurs and DJ Culture / Music and Rhythm

Val "The Voice" Johnson
  • 4.9 (16)
  • Society & Culture
  • Updated Weekly

The Interludes Podcast: Entrepreneurs and DJ Culture / Music and Rhythm is hosted by Val “The Voice” Johnson, a Chicago-based podcaster, media entrepreneur, and DJ at heart. Blending music culture and entertainment commentary, The Interludes Podcast features conversations with entrepreneurs, filmmakers, artists, athletes, entertainers, and independent creators who are shaping culture and building impactful brands. From music nostalgia and DJ culture to podcasting, film, sports, media, and personal growth, each episode explores the rhythm behind the stories that move us forward.

  1. 1d ago

    Black Music Month: Gospel Roots, Chicago Soul & Inspiration

    In celebration of Black Music Month, Val “The Voice” Johnson reflects on the music, faith, and cultural influences that continue to shape generations through storytelling and sound. In this special episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val revisits powerful moments from Interludes Extra: Talk on Tuesdays featuring award-winning musician, producer, and songwriter Kendall Nesbitt. Together, the conversation explores the deep roots of gospel music in Chicago, the mentorship and musicianship behind the sound, and the surprising connection between gospel and house music culture. Val also shares personal reflections on growing up with gospel music, singing in the choir at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, and how artists like Walter Hawkins, The Winans, Commission, Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, and Donald Lawrence helped shape her musical and spiritual journey. Later in the episode, the conversation shifts from music to inspiration as Val reflects on reading the book “Necessary” by Zenja Glass and discusses the impact of the Unlocking Greatness community and upcoming retreat. Through stories of faith, identity, healing, and purpose, this episode reminds listeners how music, mentorship, and meaningful conversations can help people rediscover who they are. This episode includes:• Black Music Month reflections• Gospel music and Chicago musical legacy• The connection between gospel and house music• Clips featuring Kendall Nesbitt and Coach Tony Thompson• Reflections on Zenja Glass’s book “necessary”• Unlocking Greatness Retreat discussion• Stories of faith, creativity, and reinvention Follow Pure Lighthouse Media and The Interludes Podcast for more conversations celebrating music, culture, creativity, and purpose. Resources Available: The Unlocking Greatness Retreat, hosted by leadership mentor and author Zenja Glass, takes place Saturday, June 13, 2026, with both in-person and virtual attendance options available. Designed for entrepreneurs, creators, and faith-based leaders, this transformational experience focuses on leadership, mindset, visibility, and personal growth. For more information or to book a clarity call, visit the Unlocking Greatness website today. Join ⁠⁠The Lighthouse Lab community on Skool⁠⁠, created by ⁠⁠Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠, and connect with aspiring and growing podcasters learning how to launch, grow, and monetize their platforms. Weekly coworking and podcasting tip sessions begin in June. Join today at ⁠⁠The Lighthouse Lab on Skool⁠⁠ 💜⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow. 🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset. This week's article, "⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unlocking Greatness, Leadership & Finding Your Voice,⁠⁠" highlights the standout points from this episode. ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!

    27 min

  2. May 24

    From Unseen to Unstoppable: Lydia Nicole on Acting, Entrepreneurship & Survival in Hollywood

    In Episode 1015 of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with actress, comedian, writer, producer, and entrepreneur Lydia Nicole for an inspiring conversation about surviving and thriving in Hollywood for over four decades. From working alongside Robert Townsend during the making of Hollywood Shuffle to building her platform “Acting Smarter Now,” Lydia shares powerful lessons about resilience, self-belief, entrepreneurship, and why creatives can’t wait to be discovered. This episode explores the realities actors of color face in the entertainment industry, the importance of creating your own opportunities, and what it truly means to bet on yourself. If you are a creative, entrepreneur, podcaster, filmmaker, or dreamer trying to find your place in the world, this conversation is for you. Topics include: Acting and entrepreneurshipHollywood survival storiesRobert Townsend and independent filmmakingWhy actors must create their own opportunitiesRepresentation in entertainmentPodcasting and personal brandingCreative resilience and reinventionResources Available: Join ⁠The Lighthouse Lab community on Skool⁠, created by ⁠Pure Lighthouse Media⁠, and connect with aspiring and growing podcasters learning how to launch, grow, and monetize their platforms. Weekly coworking and podcasting tip sessions begin in June. Join today at ⁠The Lighthouse Lab on Skool⁠ 💜⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow. 🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset. This week's article, "⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Michael Jackson, Mindset, and the Power of Paradigm Shifts⁠⁠,⁠" highlights the standout points from this episode. ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!

    40 min

  3. May 9

    Michael Jackson, Mindset, and the Power of Paradigm Shifts

    On this episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson takes a deeper look at Michael—not as a traditional movie review, but as a conversation about mindset, greatness, fear, creativity, and transformation. Inspired by the audiobook Change Your Paradigm, Change Your Life, Val explores how paradigms shape the way we think, dream, create, and pursue success. From Michael Jackson’s unwavering belief that he would become one of the greatest entertainers of all time to the challenges creatives face when building businesses, platforms, and purpose-driven work, this episode connects music, culture, ambition, and personal growth in a powerful way. Val also reflects on: the difference between being busy and being productiveclearly defined goals and visionfear, failure, and personal growthaffirmations and belief systemswhy paradigm shifts begin internally before they appear publiclyThis is not just a conversation about music history. It’s a conversation about what happens when someone changes the way they see themselves—and how that shift can change everything. Resources Mentioned: 💜⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow. Join The Lighthouse Lab community on Skool, created by Pure Lighthouse Media, and connect with aspiring and growing podcasters learning how to launch, grow, and monetize their platforms. Weekly coworking and podcasting tip sessions begin in June. Join today at The Lighthouse Lab on Skool 🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠ Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset. This week's article, "⁠⁠Michael Jackson, Mindset, and the Power of Paradigm Shifts⁠⁠," highlights the standout points from this episode. ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!

    35 min

  4. Apr 25

    From First Sponsor to Full Circle: Karen Glace on Faith, Purpose & Overcoming | Ep. 1013

    There are some conversations that go beyond the microphone… and this is one of them. In Season 10, Episode 1013 of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with someone who represents both business and blessing—Karen Glace. Not just a guest, but one of the first sponsors of the podcast and a trusted partner since 2022, this episode is a powerful full-circle moment. Karen shares her journey and her heartfelt contribution to the book, You Can Overcome Anything with God, offering real-life testimony, faith-driven insight, and encouragement for anyone navigating challenges, purpose, and growth. This conversation explores: The power of faith in overcoming life’s obstaclesBuilding meaningful business relationships rooted in trustHow purpose, storytelling, and obedience to God intersectThe beauty of evolving from partnership into genuine friendshipThis isn’t just an interview—it’s a reflection of what happens when you stay consistent, walk in purpose, and build with the right people. ✨ Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a person of faith, or someone in need of encouragement… this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned: 💜⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow. 🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠ Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset. This week's article, "⁠Leadership, Integrity, and Influence: A Conversation with Janice Coleman⁠," highlights the standout points from this episode. ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!

    28 min

  5. Apr 6

    How Great Leaders Think, Communicate, and Grow with Janice Coleman

    In this episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with leadership strategist and keynote speaker Janice Coleman for a powerful conversation about leadership, career growth, integrity, and influence. With over 25 years of leadership and executive development experience, Janice has helped hundreds of leaders gain clarity, improve communication, and lead with accountability and purpose across nonprofit, corporate, education, technical, and faith-based organizations. Val and Janice discuss: What makes a good leader vs. a great leaderLeadership fatigue and performance pressureHelping leaders gain clarity in their careers and businessesThe importance of integrity and accountability in leadershipMusic that inspires leadership and creativityTheir shared connection to Philadelphia and North Philly cultureThis episode is for leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone considering a career change or stepping into leadership for the first time. Leadership is not just about position—it's about responsibility, communication, and integrity. SHOW NOTES: The Interludes Podcast with Val “The Voice” JohnsonSeason 10 – Episode 1012Guest: Janice Coleman Janice Coleman’s leadership journey and backgroundWorking with nonprofit, corporate, and education organizationsHelping leaders get clear about their goals and directionLeadership fatigue and how leaders manage pressureCommunication, accountability, and alignment in leadershipMusic that inspires leadership and creativityNorth Philly connection and cultural influencesLeadership lessons for entrepreneurs and creativesKey Takeaway: Great leadership is built on clarity, communication, accountability, and integrity. Resources Mentioned: 💜 ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠ Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow. 🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠ Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset. This week's article, "Leadership, Integrity, and Influence: A Conversation with Janice Coleman," highlights the standout points from this episode. ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one. ⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!⁠⁠⁠

    30 min

  6. Mar 28

    From Vision to Impact: Danita E. Patterson and the Power of Apprenticeship

    Sometimes we think impact only happens on big stages, in big cities, with famous people. But real impact often happens in classrooms, workshops, studios, and community rooms where someone decides to pour into someone else. In this episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson shares her experience attending a press event and graduation celebration for the DO! Entertainment Industry Apprenticeship Program, founded by Chicago native Danita E. Patterson through her organization, Destiny Outreach. Val first learned about Danita’s program months earlier when the apprenticeship was just getting started with its first group of students. Now, returning for the second cohort’s graduation, Val had the opportunity to speak directly with Danita and several apprentices about the program, their experiences, and the opportunities being created for young people interested in working in the entertainment industry. The program includes industry training, leadership development, and hands-on work experience designed to prepare apprentices for careers in media, film, television, and entertainment production. Through partnerships across Chicago’s entertainment and workforce development community, the program is helping open doors for the next generation. In this episode, you will hear: Val’s conversation with founder Danita E. PattersonReflections on mentorship, leadership, and paying opportunities forwardConversations with apprentices about how the program impacted their confidence and career directionDiscussion about film, storytelling, and recognizing filmmakers for their work and impactThis episode is about purpose, training, mentorship, and transformation — and how one person’s vision can create opportunities for many. Show Notes Val speaks with Danita about the creation of the apprenticeship program, her mission to mentor and develop young people for careers in the entertainment industry, and the importance of leadership, character development, and workforce training. Val also speaks with apprentices, including Jaden MadisonJada LawsMia K. BerryThey discuss their experiences in the apprenticeship program, what they learned, and how the program helped prepare them for future opportunities in the entertainment industry. The episode also includes discussion about filmmaking, storytelling, and recognizing filmmakers such as Ryan Coogler for their work and impact in the film industry. DO! Entertainment Industry Apprenticeship Program 55 hours of weekend workshopsIndustry professionals and leadership trainingPaid 8-week, 200-hour job placementsWorkforce development and entertainment industry exposureFounded by Danita E. Patterson, Destiny OutreachKey Themes MentorshipWorkforce developmentEntertainment industry careersLeadership and character developmentCommunity impactChicago film and media industryApprenticeship programsPaying opportunities forwardResources Mentioned: 💜 ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠ Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow. 🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠ Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset. ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one. ⁠⁠⁠Get your digital copy today!⁠⁠⁠

    31 min

  7. Mar 5

    Why Sade Lauryn and Mariah Belong in the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

    In this special Season 10, Episode 1010 of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson steps behind the DJ booth to celebrate three iconic women whose music shaped generations: Sade, Lauryn Hill, and Mariah Carey. Blending DJ memories, musical storytelling, and cultural reflection, Val revisits the catalogs of these legendary artists—highlighting both classic hits and deep album cuts that still resonate today. From Sade’s timeless quiet-storm elegance to Mariah Carey’s genre-blending influence on pop and hip-hop collaborations to Lauryn Hill’s groundbreaking fusion of rap and soul, this episode explores why these women deserve recognition in the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Val also shares a clip from Interludes Extra Presents Talk on Tuesdays, where she and Coach Tony Thompson discussed the Rock Hall fan vote and the artists currently on the ballot. If these artists were ever part of your CD collection, vinyl stack, or digital playlist, this episode will take you back to the songs, memories, and moments that made their music unforgettable. 🎧 Tune in, reflect, and don’t forget to cast your vote for the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees. • Val reflects on DJ memories connected to the music of Sade, Lauryn Hill, and Mariah Carey• A look at the 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame fan voting process• Why these three artists deserve serious consideration for induction• The cultural impact of their catalogs across R&B, pop, hip-hop, and soul• Classic hits and deep album cuts that defined their eras• A featured clip from Interludes Extra Presents Talk on Tuesdays with Coach Tony Thompson discussing the Rock Hall nominees Sade Smooth Operator Cherish the Day No Ordinary Love The Sweetest Taboo Mariah Carey Vision of Love Fantasy (Remix featuring Ol’ Dirty Bastard) Always Be My Baby Till the End of Time (deep cut from her debut album) Lauryn Hill Doo Wop (That Thing) Ex-Factor Everything Is Everything Lauryn Hill’s work with The Fugees Resources Mentioned: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Morning Meetup ⁠⁠⁠⁠is a global community for entrepreneurs and creatives founded by David Shands. Membership is $19/month and offers community, accountability, and business conversations for creators building with intention. 🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset. 💜 ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow. ABOUT VAL THE VOICE JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!⁠⁠⁠⁠

    28 min

  8. Feb 24

    I Am Somebody: The Legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson

    During Black History Month, we pause to remember a towering icon of civil rights. In this special episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson reflects on the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Jackson—from his early work alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to founding Operation PUSH in Chicago to his historic presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988. But this episode is more than history. It’s personal. Val shares childhood memories of hearing “I Am Somebody” echo through her living room, recounts meeting Reverend Jackson through her uncle and later through her cousin Kendall Nesbitt, and unpacks how Jackson’s presidential runs reshaped the Democratic Party’s delegate system—creating a structural pathway that made Barack Obama’s 2008 victory possible. This is a reflection on legacy, leadership, and the power of using your voice. Because before Obama, there was Jesse. And because of Jesse, generations were reminded: We are somebody. Listen now on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. 📝 Show Notes In This Episode, We Discuss: • Reverend Jesse Jackson’s passing during Black History Month• His birth in Greenville, South Carolina (1941) and move to Chicago in 1964• Work with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference• Founding Operation PUSH in 1971• Cultural impact—Sesame Street (1972) and Save the Children (1973)• The 1984 presidential campaign and the formation of the Democratic Leadership Council• The 1988 campaign and the shift from winner-take-all to proportional delegate allocation• Why that rule change mattered in Barack Obama’s 2008 nomination• “Run, Black America, Run” and political coattails across the South• Personal reflections and two encounters with Reverend Jackson• The generational bridge between Dr. King and President Obama Special Mention: Kendall Nesbitt—musician and producer for The Interludes Podcast—created a tribute reel honoring Reverend Jackson, reminding us how music and leadership intersect. Resources Mentioned: ⁠⁠⁠The Morning Meetup ⁠⁠⁠is a global community for entrepreneurs and creatives founded by David Shands. Membership is $19/month and offers community, accountability, and business conversations for creators building with intention. 🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠ Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset. 💜 ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠ Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow. ABOUT VAL THE VOICE JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one. ⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!⁠⁠⁠

    32 min
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4.9
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The Interludes Podcast: Entrepreneurs and DJ Culture / Music and Rhythm is hosted by Val “The Voice” Johnson, a Chicago-based podcaster, media entrepreneur, and DJ at heart. Blending music culture and entertainment commentary, The Interludes Podcast features conversations with entrepreneurs, filmmakers, artists, athletes, entertainers, and independent creators who are shaping culture and building impactful brands. From music nostalgia and DJ culture to podcasting, film, sports, media, and personal growth, each episode explores the rhythm behind the stories that move us forward.

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