Light Up the Mic Podcast

Kembala Evans
  • 5.0 (10)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
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The “Light Up the Mic” podcast shines a light on meaningful topics to help you win in life. You’ll hear real stories from real people on how they overcame adversity, achieved success, found love, improved their finances, and more.Amazing stories have a way of opening our eyes, teaching us life-changing lessons, and inspiring us to believe in the possibilities. Never underestimate the power of words to change your life.Because hearing stories of triumph, wonder, and inspiration could empower you— to achieve your deepest desires. 😊   * New episodes every other Tuesday starting January 28th.

  1. DEC 5

    Real Estate: The Simple Truth About Buying, Selling & Building a Business | Marci Muster

    In this Light Up the Mic episode, host Kembala Evans sits down with a seasoned realtor Marci Muster with more than 30 years of experience helping families buy and sell homes across Rhode Island and Georgia. Marci puts the real in real estate — from how she got started to why great photos, honest communication, and negotiation skills matter more than fancy brochures or brand names.  She shares stories about walking away from bad deals, building trust that lasts decades, and how today’s market challenges are changing what it takes to close a sale. Marci talks about what really drives a successful home sale — from why pictures are everything to how honesty, accessibility, and keeping your interests in mind can make or break a deal. They discuss how today’s buyers and sellers are adapting to a changing market, why location and timing still matter, and what separates a good agent from a great one. Whether you’re buying, selling, or thinking about a career in real estate, Marci’s straight-talk advice brings clarity to one of life’s biggest investments. Key Takeaways: Pictures Are Everything - Great photos attract buyers before they ever step inside.Relationships Drive Success - Real estate is built on trust, referrals, and long-term connections.Trust Over Transactions - A good agent protects clients from bad deals, even when it costs a commission/compensation.You Can Negotiate Commission - There’s no fixed 6% rule; compensation for realtors is negotiable. You Buy the Realtor, Not the Brand - Big-name agencies don’t guarantee great service—the real estate agent matters.Control What You Can - Focus on curb appeal, decluttering, staging, and visual presentation when the market slows.Honesty Builds Longevity - Integrity, responsiveness, and genuine care can turn clients into lifelong friends.Resources: Here’s why the housing slowdown isn’t lowering home pricesU.S. Foreclosures Rise 17 Percent In Third Quarter Of 2025 Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In by Roger Fisher, William L. Ury and Bruce PattonSend us a text Thanks for joining us today! We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    42 min

  2. NOV 19

    Listen to This Before You Shop Black Friday or Cyber Monday

    The holiday season is here — which means deals, discounts, and temptation everywhere. In this episode, Kembala Evans breaks down 10 powerful strategies to help you shop smarter on Black Friday and Cyber Monday so you can save more, stress less, and protect your wallet. From planning ahead and comparison shopping to avoiding impulse buys and staying safe online, Kembala gives practical, real-world tips to help you stay on budget and make the most of your money. She also shares a heartwarming reminder that some of the best gifts aren’t found under the tree. Whether you love holiday shopping or dread it, this episode will help you walk into the season with confidence, clarity, and a solid game plan. Key Takeaways: Shopping Early Gives You More Savings and Less Stress - Email alerts, comparison shopping, flash sales, and store flyers can lead to real deals.Pay Attention to Shipping Costs and Return Policies - Why “free shipping” isn’t always free — and how returns can eat your budget if you’re not careful.How to Resist Impulse Purchases (even in long checkout lines!) - A simple question that can save you hundreds.How to Shop Safe Online – Avoid unsecure/fake sites, public Wi-Fi traps, and sketchy sellers.Why Tracking Your Spending is a Money Superpower – This helps you stay on budget.Use Old Gift Cards and Cash-Back Bonuses to Stretch Your Budget - Use what you already have—and activate credit card cash-back bonuses to get rewarded.Beware of Holiday Scams - Phishing emails, delivery scams, charity fraud, and urgent fake texts.✨ Bonus: Meaningful gifts don’t have to be expensive; sometimes the best ones are free. Resources: "Get Your Money Right" book by Kembala EvansConsumers to Spend Second-Highest Amount on Record, According to NRF Holiday SurveyThe number of households living paycheck to paycheck has risen. Why?8 Tips To Avoid Black Friday Scams And Keep Your Money SafeSend us a text Thanks for joining us today! We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    15 min

  3. NOV 5

    Delay is Not Denial: Making Childhood Dreams Come True | Lanée Blaise

    In this inspiring conversation, host Kembala Evans sits down with Lanée Blaise—screenwriter, producer, and co-host of Imagine Yourself Podcast—to talk about how delay is not denial when faith, patience, and persistence meet divine timing. Lanée shares how a middle-school “dream binder” became real-life scripts, and her journey from writer to producer of the new Rekindled for Christmas film streaming on Apple TV and Amazon. She opens up about the people who played key roles in her success and why embracing opportunities—and challenges—along the way matters so much. Together, they unpack the importance of planting seeds, trusting seasons, and finding power in the pause. Lanée also reveals how setbacks can become stepping stones when you take time to reflect, heal, and grieve—and why humor and keeping God first are the secrets behind her 26-year marriage. If you’ve ever felt “it’s too late” for your dream, then this episode will remind you: it’s never too late. Your dream still has purpose. Key Takeaways: Delay ≠ Denial: God’s timing brings the best results.Plant and Nurture Seeds: Dreams require consistent effort and faith.Faith + Works: Believe—take steps toward making your dream come true.Healing Matters: Grieve, heal, and seek help when you need it.Humor Helps in Marriage: Laughter lightens marriage and keeps love fresh.Never Too Old: “Aged & seasoned” is an advantage, not a limitation.Power in the Pause: Rest, reflect and get rejuvenated—for what’s next.Resources: Rekindled for Christmas - streaming now on Apple TV and Amazon.Imagine Yourself Podcast- hosted by Lanée Blaise & Sandy Kovach.Blended - a family focused TV Series.Expect a Miracle StoryFollow Light Up the Mic for more stories that inspire you to believe, plant seeds, and trust the process—because your dream still has purpose. Send us a text Thanks for joining us today! We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    52 min

  4. OCT 22

    Breast Cancer Journey: How Early Detection, Mindset, and Faith Saved My Life | Carmaneila Green

    In this heartfelt Breast Cancer Awareness Month episode, host Kembala Evans sits down with Ms. Carmaneila Green, a breast cancer survivor and social worker of 50+ years. Carmaneila shares her candid, hope-filled personal journey. With honesty, humor, and faith, she shares her inspiring story—from early detection to healing—and reminds us of the power of mindset, gratitude, and people.  After a routine mammogram, Carmaneila discovered a lump and learned why a diagnostic mammogram can reveal what screening may miss. She explains how recording a medical consult helped her make informed choices with family, why she delayed reconstruction, and how faith, meditation, and humor carried her through surgery and chemo.  From asking for a port to reduce needle sticks, to accepting help from friends, to an unforgettable act of kindness at a restaurant, this conversation is a masterclass in advocacy, community, and grace. You’ll leave with practical steps for early detection, ideas for supporting loved ones without overwhelming them, and Carmaneila’s enduring motto: “Let your light shine.” Key Takeaways: Early detection saves lives. If you feel something, contact your doctor and ask for a diagnostic mammogram.Ask questions before any procedure. Record (with permission) or take notes during important medical visits.Mindset matters. Faith, meditation, and pacing yourself can steady the journey.Advocate for comfort. Communicate your needs to reduce treatment stress.Ask for support. Small acts of kindness from friends—meals, rides, movie nights—make a big difference.Journal and practice gratitude. Reflecting on your journey and good things in life.How to support someone diagnosed with breast cancer. Simple things like picking up meds, offering a ride, or sending a card with positive words can be helpful.Resources: 1.     American Cancer Society: Breast Cancer Stats 2.     Why mindset is important when facing cancer (Stanford Medicine Research) Send us a text Thanks for joining us today! We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    41 min

  5. OCT 8

    Is Social Media Draining Your Wallet? How to Break the Spending Cycle | Todd Christensen

    Is social media quietly draining your wallet? 💸 In this eye-opening episode of Light Up the Mic, Kembala Evans and Todd Christensen, financial educator and author of Everyday Money for Everyday People, dive into the digital spending trap millions of Americans fall into every day. From flashy ads and influencer “must-haves” to sneaky algorithms designed to trigger impulse buys, social media isn’t just shaping what we see—it’s shaping how we spend. Todd unpacks the psychology of online spending, the emotional triggers behind impulse purchases, and simple ways to become a more mindful consumer. He also discusses how ads, influencers, and algorithms are shaping what we see — and how we can drive change. He breaks down how to spot manipulative algorithms and the small shifts that can help you take control. Kembala also hits the streets to hear real voices on how social media affects their spending habits. And later, Paula in Canada, joins to share her buying based on social media ads experience. You’ll also hear a powerful real-world story about her smart $200 makeup purchase, to a dress that turned into a cautionary tale.  Kembala wraps with an FTC alert on the $1.9 billion lost to social-media scams, plus actionable tips to protect your wallet and your peace of mind from scammers online.  Key Takeaways: Awareness breaks the cycle. Recognize your spending triggers and how social media works.“Buy Now, Pay Later” isn’t your friend. Todd’s theme-park analogy reveals why instant gratification leads to long-term regret.Curate your feed. Unfollow the noise and follow accounts that uplift, educate, and empower.Have a spending plan. This isn’t a restriction — it’s direction.Pay yourself first. Save money in a different account.Protect yourself from scams. Research sellers, use credit cards for protection, and question “too-good-to-be-true” deals.Scroll with purpose, not impulse. Mindful scrolling saves both your money and your mental space.Resources: Book - Everyday Money for Everyday People by Todd ChristensenMoney Fit Online - MoneyFit.org, X and FacebookFTC Social Media Scam AlertSend us a text Thanks for joining us today! We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    34 min

  6. SEP 26

    Money Talks: What Really Keeps Us Up at Night…

    Money worries? From student debt to late payments to skyrocketing housing costs, Americans are losing sleep over money. In this candid episode of Light Up the Mic, host Kembala Evans takes to the streets to hear real voices share their financial worries — and the wisdom they’ve learned along the way. You’ll hear from: A student navigating new federal grad loan limits.An independent contractor juggling unpredictable income.A 21-year-old trying to find balance saving, investing, and spending.An immigrant striving to build wealth to give back to her community.A young professional resisting the pressure to “look rich.”A retired veteran reflecting on time, distractions, and budgeting.An 86-year-old sharing powerful advice on housing, childcare, and life abroad.These raw, honest conversations reveal not only the struggles but also the solutions — from budgeting with purpose to building emergency savings to focusing on what truly matters. 🎧 Tune in for financial truths that cross generations and inspire small steps toward stability, peace of mind, and a stronger future. Kembala shares some practical strategies for budgeting, building an emergency savings fund, and achieving your financial goals—to help you worry less and feel better. She also ways to have more peace of mind, stability, and hope for the future. Key Takeaways: A 2025 Yahoo Finance/Marist Poll survey reveals how Americans feel about their finances.Honest money conversations with people ages 21–80+, uncovering the frustrations and hopes about money.Budgeting isn’t a restriction. It’s freedom with purpose.Emergency savings come first — even $500-$1,000 can help you.Avoid the comparison game. Ask 👉 "Does this bring me closer to my goals?" Time is more valuable than money. "Begin with the end in mind." Clear goals with intention and consistent action drive results. Resources: ·      Yahoo Finance/Marist Poll - My Money August 2025 ·      Changes to Federal Student Loans from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act ·      “The Richest Man in Babylon” book by George S. Clason Send us a text Thanks for joining us today! We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    25 min

  7. SEP 11

    Still Looking for Love? Start Here. | Carla Marie Mills

    ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode mentions domestic violence. Everyone wants to be loved, but it can be hard. In this open and candid conversation, Carla Marie Mills joins Kembala to share why real love starts within. And how you can find healing, happiness and love again after a major breakup.  Whether you’re navigating relationships, healing after divorce, or learning to embrace being happily single, this conversation will encourage you to keep your heart open and choose joy in every season. Kembala and Carla unpack what love really means. They discuss the importance of self-love and wholeness on your journey. Carla openly shares lessons learned from relationships, healing after divorce, and the mindset that carried her through cancer treatment. Throughout their conversation, Carla highlights the power of positivity and faith in overcoming life's challenges. She encourages listeners to keep their hearts open and pursue happiness. Carla’s message is simple, honest, and powerful. She stresses the importance of not settling. Key Takeaways: Be Whole First — You can’t fully love someone else until you’re complete within yourself.Self-Love Sets Boundaries — Valuing yourself teaches others how to treat you.Love Languages Explained — Understanding yours (and your partner’s) may help deepen connection.Recognize Real Love — Love shows up in many forms, but unhealthy relationships aren’t love.Healing After Divorce/Heartbreak — Prayer, solitude, and professional help (if needed) can guide recovery.Mindset is Everything — Positivity and faith shape how you experience life.Strength Through Survival — Carla’s cancer journey reveals the power of resilience and perspective.Important Note - If you or someone you love is experiencing domestic violence, help is available - call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, go to thehotline.org to chat, or text START to 88788. The hotline is available 24/7. Resources: @CarlaMarieMills on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Threads.Jerry Maguire Movie | You Complete Me on YouTubeBooks:The Five Love Languages by Gary ChapmanIn The Meantime by Iyanla Vanzant🎧 Listen & Subscribe If this episode inspired you, please share it with a friend and follow Light Up the Mic so you never mis Send us a text Thanks for joining us today! We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    35 min

  8. AUG 27

    Lifesaver: The Lifestyle Shift That Reversed Type 2 Diabetes | Oscar Camejo

    What happens when your doctor says you’ll be on meds “until your name is on the tombstone”? For Oscar Camejo, that became a challenge to prove his doctor wrong. In this powerful episode of Light Up the Mic, host Kembala Evans sits down with the Beating Diabetes Lifestyle podcast host—to uncover his raw, emotional, and resilient journey of transformation. Oscar opens up about the near-death diagnosis that forced him to confront his habits, the dramatic food purge that put him in grouch mode, and the exact steps that helped him lose 84 pounds and reverse type 2 diabetes. He also shares wisdom on diet, sleep, stress, hydration, and relationships. You’ll also hear the unfiltered “Walrus and the Ring” story, where Oscar reveals what it’s like to fight for your health when the support you expected isn’t there. His journey reminds us that progress, not perfection, is the real goal — and that movement is medicine. This is an empowering health transformation story about courage, resilience, and proving that progress, not perfection leads to real change. Key Takeaways: IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before starting any diet, lifestyle change, or exercise routine.Take Inventory of Your Life: Whiteboard your habits — what you eat, drink, and do daily — then face it honestly.Small Changes Matter: Replacing one snack or one late-night habit with a healthier option can create momentum.Movement is Medicine: Oscar reversed diabetes and lost 84 pounds through consistent exercise and lifestyle shifts — no shortcuts.Rest is Critical: Lack of sleep fuels cravings, stress, and poor health choices.Hydration Matters: Water is the “chief nutrient” our bodies need, not soda or processed drinks.Be Willing to Ask for Help: Get the help you need.Communication is Key: How to communicate effectively to get better results.Resources: Oscar’s Beating Diabetes Lifestyle PodcastThe Mediterranean diet: Mayo ClinicOscar's TikTok: @OscarCamejo “Rising Obesity Rates Among U.S. Men” Send us a text Thanks for joining us today! We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to hello@lightupthemic.com. Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online: X: @Kembala YouTube: @KembalaEvans (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally) Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought. Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

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About

The “Light Up the Mic” podcast shines a light on meaningful topics to help you win in life. You’ll hear real stories from real people on how they overcame adversity, achieved success, found love, improved their finances, and more.Amazing stories have a way of opening our eyes, teaching us life-changing lessons, and inspiring us to believe in the possibilities. Never underestimate the power of words to change your life.Because hearing stories of triumph, wonder, and inspiration could empower you— to achieve your deepest desires. 😊   * New episodes every other Tuesday starting January 28th.

Information

  • Creator
    Kembala Evans
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 © 2025 Light Up the Mic Podcast
  • Show Website
    Light Up the Mic Podcast