Smith Says: Purpose Over Popularity

Smith Says International
  • 5.0 (170)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Smith Says is a weekly podcast hosted by Smith François, founder of Smith Says International. Each episode empowers entrepreneurs, community leaders, and believers to live with purpose, faith, and passion. From real stories to practical insights, Smith Says helps you build a purposeful life one Monday at a time.

  1. 2d ago

    Shega Haiti: Music, Haiti, Esta Noche & Purpose Over Popularity

    In this episode, Smith Francois sits down with Shega Haiti, an international Haitian singer, songwriter, nurse, and multilingual artist, for a conversation about music, Haiti, culture, faith, purpose, and her journey from Haiti to the United States. Shega speaks four languages: Haitian Creole, English, French, and Spanish, and uses those languages to connect with audiences across cultures. She also introduces her Spanish-language bachata song, “Esta Noche,” and gives us a look into the inspiration behind the music. In this conversation: • Shega's childhood and life in Haiti• Teaching herself English through music• Her journey to the United States and college• Becoming a nurse while pursuing an international music career• Singing and writing music in four languages• Winning Best Female Artist at the Kilimanjaro Music Awards• Her love for Haitian culture, food, farming, and community• Haiti beyond the negative headlines• Traveling internationally as an artist• Her favorite music genres, including Kompa, Afrobeats, Gospel, and Bachata• Her new song “Esta Noche”• Faith, service, nursing, and giving back• Haitian identity and the Haitian diaspora• Her perspective on current challenges facing Haitians• What Purpose Over Popularity means to her One of the most powerful parts of our conversation is Shega's reminder that Haiti is much more than the negative stories people often see in the media. She describes the beauty of the country, its beaches, culture, food, people, and the Haiti she knows personally. Shega also shares an important message about purpose: when you genuinely serve others and live according to your purpose, you don't have to chase popularity. 🎵 Listen to “Esta Noche” on streaming platforms. 📲 Follow Shega Haiti on Instagram and YouTube. Special thank you to Radio Télé Dynamique Plus in Columbus, Ohio for hosting this conversation. If you enjoyed the interview, LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE. QUESTION FOR YOU: 🇭🇹 What is something positive about Haiti, Haitian culture, or Haitian people that you believe more people should know? Purpose Over Popularity.

  2. 6d ago

    A Birth Journey: Birth, Epidurals, Motherhood & Community | Monique Whipple, CDB, CHW

    What if we looked at birth as more than a medical event and started talking about it as a sacred journey?In this episode of the Purpose Over Popularity Podcast, I sit down with Monique Whipple, CDB, CHW, also known as The Birth Plug, for a wide ranging conversation about birth, motherhood, family, community, travel, faith, self-love, and finding your purpose.Monique also introduces her book, A Birth Journey: And How We Got Here, and shares what led her to write it after her own experiences with hospital birth, an epidural, and multiple home births.We discuss:• Why Monique describes birth as sacred• Her personal birth experiences and perspective on epidurals and medical interventions• The role of fathers, families, and community during pregnancy and birth• Why she believes “it takes a village” still matters• Columbus, Ohio, youth, technology, and the future of community• Faith, intuition, authenticity, and self-love• What Purpose Over Popularity means to MoniqueMonique closes with a message about treating yourself with the same care, protection, and love you would give your own children.📚 Book: A Birth Journey: And How We Got Here🎙️ Guest: Monique Whipple, CDB, CHW📱 Follow: The Birth Plug / Monique Whipple🎧 Podcast: Purpose Over PopularityNote: This episode presents the guest’s personal experiences, beliefs, and perspectives. Discussion of pregnancy, birth, epidurals, C-sections, medications, and other medical topics should not be taken as individualized medical advice.

  3. Aug 7

    Former Chicago Haitian Radio Host Frantz Remy | 26 Years in Radio, Haiti's History & Chicago Legacy

    What was it like to spend 26 years giving a voice to the Haitian community in Chicago? In this special Purpose Over Popularity: Family & Friends Edition, host Smith Francois sits down with his uncle, Frantz Remy, a former Chicago Haitian radio host whose voice informed, connected, and inspired the Haitian community for more than two decades. Originally from Haiti, Frantz shares his journey of immigrating to Chicago, building a career in Haitian community radio, interviewing political leaders, community figures, and musicians, and the heartbreaking family tragedy that led him to step away from broadcasting after 26 years. More than a conversation about radio, this episode explores Haiti's history, the Haitian diaspora, and the importance of preserving stories that are often overlooked. 🇭🇹 Growing up in Haiti🇺🇸 Moving from Haiti to Chicago🎙️ The history of Haitian radio in Chicago📻 What it was like hosting a radio show for 26 years❤️ The personal loss that changed his life🌍 Haiti's history, identity, and resilience📖 Historical perspectives on Haiti's role in the Americas and its influence on the United States🏙️ Jean Baptiste Point du Sable and Haiti's connection to Chicago's history👨🏿‍👦 Family, mentorship, and preserving our stories🎯 Advice for the next generation This is Frantz Remy's first long-form interview in nearly a decade, making this conversation an opportunity to preserve both family history and the legacy of Haitian media in Chicago. If you believe in documenting untold stories, preserving culture, and having conversations that matter, subscribe and become part of the Smithsonians community. Follow @SmithSays1 on all platforms. 🎙️ Purpose Over Popularity PodcastOne Voice. One Step. One Purpose. In this episode, we discuss:

  4. Aug 4

    James A. White Sr. on Legacy, Leadership & Choosing Family First

    What defines a meaningful life? Is it popularity or purpose? In this episode of the Purpose Over Popularity Podcast, James A. White Sr. shares the life lessons that shaped his journey as an entrepreneur, author, Air Force veteran, and leadership consultant. From walking away from basketball opportunities to provide for his family, to building businesses, overcoming dyslexia, embracing AI, and traveling the world with intention, this conversation is packed with timeless wisdom. In this episode, we discuss: Choosing family over fameBuilding a legacy that outlives youEntrepreneurship and business principlesLeadership through serviceOvercoming fear and self-doubtAI as a tool for growthWhy purpose always outweighs popularityIf you're building a business, pursuing your calling, or looking for practical wisdom to help you grow, this episode is for you.

  5. Jul 28

    From South Linden to Self-Mastery | Kurtis Foster, Founder of Freqncy 36nyne

    What does it take to transform your life from surviving to living with purpose? In this episode of the Smith Says Podcast, Smith Francois sits down with Kurtis Foster, entrepreneur, personal development coach, and founder of Freqncy 36nyne a conscious lifestyle and streetwear brand centered on identity, discipline, and self-awareness. Growing up in South Linden, Columbus, Ohio, Kurtis shares how adversity, fatherhood, community, spirituality, and self-reflection shaped the man he is today. This conversation explores what it means to become your authentic self, develop a purpose driven mindset, and leave a lasting legacy. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, community leader, or someone searching for clarity, this episode offers practical wisdom on personal growth, conscious leadership, and building a life of intention. Growing up in South Linden, Columbus, OhioIdentity vs. external validationBreathwork, mindfulness & self-awarenessFaith, spirituality & personal growthFatherhood, grandfatherhood & legacyEntrepreneurship & founding Freqncy 36nyneFashion as storytellingCommunity leadership & mentoring youthThe power of writing and journalingLiving with Purpose Over PopularityKurtis Foster is an entrepreneur, fashion creator, personal development coach, and founder of Freqncy 36nyne. His work combines fashion, coaching, and storytelling to help people reconnect with their identity, cultivate discipline, and live with greater purpose. Through his brand, books, workshops, and coaching, he encourages others to break unhealthy patterns and create lives built on intentionality. 🎙 Host: Smith Francois 🌐 Website: https://smithsays.one In this episode:About Kurtis Foster

  6. Jul 24

    King Louis: Chicago's Haitian Music Pioneer | From Haiti to Chicago, Radio, DJ Culture & Purpose Over Popularity

    What does it take to preserve a culture, build a community, and stay true to your purpose? In this special Purpose Over Popularity: Family & Friends Edition, Smith Francois sits down with his uncle, King Louis (Louis Douyon) a legendary Chicago radio broadcaster, DJ, music curator, and Haitian community leader whose influence helped shape Haitian culture throughout the Midwest. From arriving in Chicago during one of the coldest winters after growing up in Haiti, to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in Haitian radio, King Louis shares the untold stories behind Chicago's Haitian music scene, broadcasting, DJ culture, and community leadership. This conversation is more than music it's a family story, a history lesson, and a blueprint for leading with purpose. • Growing up in Haiti and immigrating to Chicago in 1976• Adjusting to life in Chicago and surviving the challenges of the 1970s• How radio became a bridge connecting the Haitian community• His journey through Columbia College studying Radio Broadcasting & Sound Engineering• The story behind WHPK 88.5 FM and Chicago's Haitian radio movement• Founding Mixed Masters Incorporated and blending Kompa with House music• Bringing legendary Haitian bands to Chicago, including Top Vice and Bookman Experience• Organizing Caribbean festivals and promoting Haitian culture in the Midwest• Why stronger unity is needed within the Haitian diaspora• The life lessons his mother taught him about resilience, discipline, and hard work• What Purpose Over Popularity truly means "Stay focused on your purpose. It only takes one day and one opportunity." "Don't settle for average. Go for the top." "Popularity is temporary. Purpose is everything." "At the end of every tunnel, there's always a light." King Louis (Louis Douyon) is a Chicago-based Haitian radio broadcaster, DJ, music curator, and community leader. Through radio, live events, and music promotion, he helped introduce generations of Haitians and Chicagoans to Kompa, Reggae, House music, and Caribbean culture while preserving Haitian heritage for future generations. If you enjoy conversations about leadership, immigration, entrepreneurship, faith, family, Black history, Haitian culture, and purpose-driven living, this episode is for you. 🎙 Hosted by Smith FrancoisFounder, Smith Says International LLC

  7. Jul 20

    Haiti's Future: Elections, Security & the Power of the Diaspora | Ft. Sidi Mohamed Diawara

    What will it take to restore security, stability, and democratic leadership in Haiti? In this powerful conversation, international electoral and political expert Mr. Sidi Mohamed Diawara shares his experience serving in Haiti as a senior elections adviser connected to the Office of former Prime Minister Garry Conille. Originally from Mali, West Africa, Mr. Diawara brings nearly 30 years of international experience in democracy, governance, elections, and political reform. Throughout his career, he has worked alongside governments, political parties, civil society organizations, and international institutions across Africa and beyond. 🇭🇹 His three missions to Haiti and his work with Haitian leadership 🗳️ Haiti's electoral process and proposed political reforms 🛡️ Why security and stability are essential for Haiti's future 🌍 The impact of the end of USAID-funded democracy programs 🤝 The role of independent political advisers ✊🏿 Lessons Haiti can learn from post-conflict African nations 🌍 Why stronger partnerships between Africa and Haiti matter 💡 The untapped intellectual power of the Haitian diaspora 🕊️ Reconciliation, accountability, and pathways toward lasting peace 📢 Why Haitian organizations and leaders must unite around a common vision Mr. Diawara describes the Haitian diaspora as a gold mine—not simply because of financial contributions, but because of its knowledge, expertise, leadership, and global influence. The central message of this conversation is clear: Haiti's future cannot depend solely on outside governments. Lasting change will require Haitians at home and throughout the diaspora to organize, build trust, hold leadership accountable, and work together toward a shared vision. Haiti has overcome incredible challenges before. Haiti can rise again. 🌐 Website: https://smithsays.one 🔗 All Links: https://linktr.ee/smithsays1 📧 Email: smithsaysinternational@gmail.com 📱 Follow: @smithsays1 on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Spotify. 💵 Support the Mission: Cash App: $smithsaysllc PayPal: smithsays1 I help fresh entrepreneurs 4S their service-based business income using the power of video. 4S Program Founder Smith Francois 👍 If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow the podcast, subscribe, leave a rating, and share this episode with someone who believes in a stronger future for Haiti. Every share helps amplify meaningful conversations. #SmithFrancois #SmithSays #PurposeOverPopularity #Haiti #HaitianDiaspora #HaitiSecurity #HaitiElections #Democracy #Governance #AfricaAndHaiti #Leadership #PoliticalReform #Caribbean #Podcast #HaitiWillRiseAgain #GarryConille #SidiMohamedDiawara #InternationalDevelopment #ElectionExpert In this episode, we discuss:Connect with Smith Says InternationalAbout Smith Says

  8. Jul 13

    The Untold Story of Black Radio, Journalism & Community Leadership

    What happened to Black media, and what can today's creators learn from it? In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Mr. James A. White Sr. and Dr. Kevin Dixon go beyond broadcasting to discuss the legacy of Black journalism, community leadership, mentorship, and preserving history for future generations. From interviewing cultural icons like James Brown to building community programs, mentoring young leaders, and challenging today's culture of individualism, this conversation is filled with timeless wisdom for journalists, podcasters, educators, entrepreneurs, and anyone committed to serving their community. This isn't just a conversation about media it's about responsibility, legacy, and purpose. The history and influence of Black radioWhy investigative journalism still mattersThe importance of mentorship and leadershipBuilding communities instead of competingWhy purpose should always come before popularityStories behind interviews with James Brown and other influential leadersPreserving history for the next generation "Popularity may get attention, but purpose creates legacy." If this conversation challenged you, share it with someone who cares about journalism, history, and making a lasting impact. 👍 Like • Comment • Subscribe 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. 🌐 Website: SmithSays.one #SmithSays #BlackRadio #Journalism #BlackHistory #Podcast #Leadership #Community #Media #PurposeOverPopularity #Storytelling #Legacy #JamesAWhiteSr #KevinDixon

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170 Ratings

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Smith Says is a weekly podcast hosted by Smith François, founder of Smith Says International. Each episode empowers entrepreneurs, community leaders, and believers to live with purpose, faith, and passion. From real stories to practical insights, Smith Says helps you build a purposeful life one Monday at a time.

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