Soulful Expressions : Love, Light, and Wisdom

Eugenia Gardner, Koko Evans , Dr. Jamille Harrell-Sims, Crysta Garner and Aunt Mae.

"Join us on a transformative journey with 'Soulful Expressions: Love, Light & Wisdom,' a podcast hosted by a diverse and insightful group of women, each with their own unique life paths. Through soulful stories, personal experiences, and captivating interviews, we aim to inspire, educate, inform, and entertain. Our podcast is for those seeking deeper connections and insights, as we explore the realms of love, light, and wisdom. Discover the power of shared narratives and join us as we delve into the tapestry of human existence, weaving together threads of inspirations for all who listen."

  1. 3d ago

    Season 3 | E:1 "From Counselor to Change Agent: The Bold Strategy Behind HBCU Transfer Guarantees and Faculty Pipeline Reform"

    In this powerful episode of Soulful Expressions, we sit down with Dr. Helen P. Young—educator, counselor, administrator, and equity-driven leader with more than 25 years of experience in higher education. From her early days at California State University, Dominguez Hills to her doctoral journey at San Diego State University, Dr. Young has dedicated her career to expanding access, strengthening transfer pathways, and transforming outcomes for historically underrepresented students. As former Project Director of the California Community College Transfer Guarantee to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Dr. Young shares how HBCU transfer partnerships are creating life-changing opportunities for community college students across California. She unpacks the power of representation, faculty diversity, and equity-centered leadership in closing achievement gaps and improving student success. We also explore Pipelines to Possibilities (P2P)—the innovative internship and faculty pipeline program she co-founded to recruit, hire, and retain diverse tenured faculty within the California Community College system. Designed to strengthen HBCU partnerships and build a more inclusive academic workforce, P2P is helping change the face of higher education through intentional collaboration, proactive recruitment, and equity-driven programming. This conversation offers insight, inspiration, and strategy from a woman who is reshaping systems from the inside out. Tune in for a powerful discussion on higher education reform, Black academic excellence, and building sustainable pipelines from community colleges to HBCUs and beyond.

    46 min

  2. May 21

    Season 2 | E9: "Aysaman and khamal: Beats, Roots & the Business: Honoring Black Music in the Modern Age."

    In this episode of Soulful Expressions, we explore the soul of Black music, its roots, how it has shaped and its impact on culture, and where its sound and influence are moving next. We’re joined by Aysaman, music producer and founder of Carbon Bluprint, LLC, and khamal., artist and producer, for an honest conversation on the evolution of Black music—from spirituals, rhythm & blues and soul to hip-hop, trap, and the art of sampling. They break down how the sound has changed over time, but the message and the spirit behind it still carry weight. We also get into the bigger picture: how Black music shapes global culture, how it’s often commodified, and what it means to stay authentic in an industry driven by trends, algorithms, and profit. If you care about music, culture, creativity, and the stories behind the sound, this episode is for you. Press play and tap into the conversation.

    37 min

  3. Apr 22

    Season 2| E8: Co-Kiid Craig (Craig Becton Jr.): The Untold Story of Act Loud’s Rise From the Streets to Purpose

    We sit down with filmmaker, storyteller, and community activist Craig Becton Jr. for an in-depth conversation about the powerful journey behind his creative movement, Act Loud. Born in Southeast San Diego, Craig shares how he overcame addiction, homelessness, trauma, and years of instability—turning his personal struggles into a mission rooted in healing, empowerment, and bold self-expression. Craig breaks down how Act Loud became a platform dedicated to amplifying voices, authentic storytelling, mental health awareness, and real narratives of resilience often erased or ignored in mainstream media. He opens up about rebuilding his life through sobriety, teaching himself filmmaking, and using digital storytelling to highlight community strength, cultural truth, and everyday triumphs. This episode offers powerful insights on personal transformation, creative entrepreneurship, recovery, self-empowerment, excellence, and the inner work required to rise from rock bottom. Craig’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when you speak your truth, trust your voice, and choose to Act Loud.

    28 min

  4. 12/30/2025

    Season 2 | E7 : "Carl Nelson: A Legacy in Black Media, Truth, and Public Service"

    In this powerful episode of Soulful Expressions, Eugenia, Koko and Aunt Mae sit down with legendary broadcast journalist and talk show host Carl Nelson, whose groundbreaking broadcasting career spans more than five decades. Beginning in 1971 at WYNT Radio in New York City, Nelson went on to work with Inner City Broadcasting’s WLIB and WBLS before becoming News Director at Stevie Wonder’s KJLH Radio in Los Angeles. Carl made history as the first reporter to interview Nelson Mandela on the eve of his release from prison in 1990 and was the only journalist allowed across police lines during the 1991 Rodney King riots, coverage that earned KJLH a Peabody Award, NAACP Image Award, Golden Mike, and multiple press honors. Throughout his career, Nelson has interviewed world leaders, U.S. presidents, civil rights icons, and cultural legends—including Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, Jesse Jackson, Maxine Waters, Oprah Winfrey, Prince, Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, Muhammad Ali, and many more. Named News Director of the Year by Black Radio Exclusive Magazine, Carl Nelson continues to shape public discourse as host of a four-hour daily news program on WOL 95.9 FM & 1450 AM in Washington, D.C., syndicated in Baltimore. This episode is a masterclass in radio journalism, Black media history, and broadcasting excellence.

    49 min

  5. 12/18/2025

    Season 2 | E6:"Hiram Sims: Poet, Professor and Cultural Architect: From South Central to Literary Leadership"

    In this episode, Soulful Expressions hosts Eugenia, Koko, Aunt Mae along with with talk show host Carl Nelson sit down with Hiram Sims — Poet, Professor, and founder of the Community Literature Initiative. Born and raised in South Central LA, Hiram shares how his personal experiences shaped his passion for storytelling, community, and creating space for Black voices in literature. We talk about his recent appointment as a Library Board Commissioner for the Los Angeles Public Library system, what it means to him, and what he hopes to bring to the role. Hiram also reflects on starting California’s first Black-owned poetry library, the growth of the Community Literature Initiative, and why representation in libraries matters more than ever. This conversation is honest, grounded, full of heart, and a look at how purpose, poetry, along with public service can come together to spark real change.

    1h 8m

  6. 12/01/2025

    Season 2| E5: A Beautiful Journey Part 4: "Bound by Love: Denise & Roger's Story"

    “ A Beautiful Journey series Part 4: "Bound by Love: Denise & Roger’s Story” In this heartfelt episode of "Soulful Expressions: Love, Light & Wisdom, we explore the timeless love story of Denise a career professional in Food Service Management and Co-Owner of "Sista to Sista" event planning company, and Roger a career professional in Medical Management, high school sweethearts whose bond has flourished through decades of shared experiences. Together for 40 years and married for 30, their journey is a shining example of enduring love, commitment, and the power of growing together through every stage of life. From their early years as young sweethearts to building a strong, loving family, Denise and Roger have shown how patience, faith, and mutual respect can create a marriage that stands the test of time. With two children and two grandchildren, Denise and Roger reflect on the lessons they’ve learned about sustaining a happy marriage, nurturing family bonds, and keeping love alive through life’s ups and downs. They share insights on effective communication, emotional intimacy, partnership, and staying spiritually connected, showing listeners how two people can support each other through challenges, celebrate each other’s successes, and cultivate a relationship that grows deeper with every year. This episode is a celebration of real love, lasting relationships, strong marriages, and multigenerational family values. Denise and Roger’s story is a reminder that true love is not just about passion but also about dedication, friendship, and walking through life’s journey together. Join us as we honor the beauty of lifelong partnership, the joy of family, and the inspiration that comes from witnessing a love that truly lasts a lifetime.

    28 min

  7. 11/14/2025

    Season 2| E4: A Beautiful Journey Part 3: From Facebook to Forever: Caleb & Courtney’s Story of Love and Purpose

    Welcome to Soulful Expressions "A Beautiful Journey" a series where we explore real stories of love, growth, and the soul’s path through relationships. In this soulful and heart-centered episode we sit down with Caleb and Courtney — a couple whose love story proves that sometimes forever begins in the most unexpected places, even a Facebook group chat. What started as a simple online conversation turned into a beautiful testimony of faith, timing, and the kind of love that grows stronger through every season. Caleb entrepreneur and owner of True Men Barbershop in Culver City, CA, and Courtney, a dedicated Leasing Manager, share how divine timing brought their paths together. They open up about what it truly means to grow as a couple — spiritually, emotionally, and through the real-life challenges that shape who we become together. From learning to communicate and support one another to finding balance between purpose and partnership, their story is a reminder that love is both a choice and a journey. Honest, grounded, and full of laughter and wisdom, this episode celebrates love, faith-based relationships, and the beauty of building something real. Caleb and Courtney’s story invites listeners to believe in the power of connection, patience, and divine timing — because when love is meant for you, it will always find its way.

    24 min

  8. 10/27/2025

    Season 2 | E3 : A Beautiful Journey Part 1 : Kamal and Diana from Gym Sessions to Wedding Bells

    Welcome to A Beautiful Journey, a series where we explore real stories of love, growth, and the soul’s path through relationships. In this first episode, we meet Kamal and Diana. What started as weekly workouts between a trainer and his client slowly unfolded into something deeper. While Kamal helped Diana build her physical strength, something unexpected happened — their connection began to grow stronger, too. Now married, they look back on the journey from gym sessions to wedding bells. This episode is about more than just romance , it’s about being open to the unexpected, trusting the process, and allowing love to meet you where you are. If you believe in alignment, growth, and love that builds over time, you’ll feel right at home here.

    32 min
See All (20)

About

"Join us on a transformative journey with 'Soulful Expressions: Love, Light & Wisdom,' a podcast hosted by a diverse and insightful group of women, each with their own unique life paths. Through soulful stories, personal experiences, and captivating interviews, we aim to inspire, educate, inform, and entertain. Our podcast is for those seeking deeper connections and insights, as we explore the realms of love, light, and wisdom. Discover the power of shared narratives and join us as we delve into the tapestry of human existence, weaving together threads of inspirations for all who listen."

Information

  • Creator
    Eugenia Gardner, Koko Evans , Dr. Jamille Harrell-Sims, Crysta Garner and Aunt Mae.
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Eugenia Gardner, Koko Evans , Dr. Jamille Harrell-Sims, Crysta Garner and Aunt Mae.
  • Show Website
    Soulful Expressions : Love, Light, and Wisdom