Prepare For Takeoff

Terry L. Cyrus

5.0 (7)
SOCIETY & CULTURE
UPDATED WEEKLY

A podcast dedicated to amplifying Black Excellence by highlighting proven professionals and rising entrepreneurs, who are making a difference in the community. We feature subject matter experts who share their secrets of success and so much more. Our goal is to help our viewers and listeners take the next step to achieve your goals. We are here to pour into your professional development and help you Prepare For Takeoff.

3D AGO

From the Courtroom to the Studio | The Story of Raymond L. Hamlin, Esq.

In this inspiring episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Raymond L. Hamlin, Esq. shares his remarkable journey from Long Branch, New Jersey, to becoming one of the region’s most respected trial lawyers and advocates for justice. As a founding partner of Hunt, Hamlin & Ridley Law Firm, Raymond reflects on the early influences that shaped his path, the importance of brotherhood through Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and his commitment to uplifting his community through both law and leadership. As a successful civil rights litigator, Raymond has tried jury trials in both state and federal courts. He has also argued before the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals and the New Jersey Supreme Court. His distinguished legal career includes representing notable clients such as Wendy Williams, Naturi Naughton-Lewis and the estate of Malcolm X Shabazz. Inspired by a musical legacy that includes his uncle Harry Ray, lead singer of Ray, Goodman & Brown, Raymond opens up about his passion for music. He shares his evolution as a singer, songwriter, producer and arranger performing as RayLH. Raymond discusses the inspiration behind finally releasing his music and why this chapter represents purpose, authenticity and growth. RayLH’s album Who I Am arrives May 9 on all music platforms. This episode is a powerful conversation about legacy, perseverance, purpose and embracing every part of who you are in order to Prepare For Takeoff. 00:00 - Introduction to Raymond L. Hamlin 01:12 - Growing Up in Long Branch 02:17 - Influence of Family and Famous Uncle 03:29 - Early Aspirations and Athletic Journey 05:59 - College Experience at East Stroudsburg University 08:13 - Discovering Fraternities and Community Influence 12:29 - The Impact of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity 14:11 - Navigating College and Athletics 20:44 - Transition to Law School and Overcoming Rejection 23:35 - Navigating the Challenges of Law School 26:11 - The Journey to Passing the Bar Exam 29:21 - Starting a Legal Career 32:25 - Establishing a Law Firm 36:33 - Building a Successful Practice 38:23 - Diverse Legal Representation 43:01 - Pursuing Artistic Passions 48:10 - Keys to Success and Personal Growth 50:36 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠. Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

51 min
APR 30

How Crystal Hadnott Built High-Level Success Without Burnout

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Crystal Hadnott breaks down what it takes to sustain success at a high level. She is a PhD, entrepreneur, author and endurance athlete who built her career on discipline, purpose and consistency. Crystal shares how she helps leaders scale impact without burnout, speaking from real experience and proven results. Through her work as CEO at CH Philanthropy & Fundraising, she has helped organizations raise nearly $1 billion. Her role as Founder & Chief Wellness Officer at Performance Pilates reflects her commitment to helping others perform at their best. She also shares insight from her books The Finish Line Was Just the Start, After the Finish Line: The Performance Playbook and Rise and Run. Crystal highlights her advocacy for the HBCU community, which began while she was earning her master’s and later her doctorate at Texas Southern University. She highlights her pride as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Crystal explains the influence of her late mother, also a proud AKA, and the role that legacy plays in her drive for excellence. If you are focused on leadership and growth, this episode delivers real perspective you can apply as you Prepare For Takeoff. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 00:48 - Growing Up in Houston 03:17 - Education and Early Career 05:27 - The Journey to Entrepreneurship 07:13 - Experiences at HBCUs 09:51 - Joining a Sorority and Its Impact 12:21 - Athletic Background and Burnout 14:46 - Transitioning to Consulting 17:31 - Running Marathons and Life Lessons 20:33 - Overcoming Health Challenges 23:17 - Advice for Success 26:09 - Final Thoughts and Future Plans 41:12 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠. Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

41 min
APR 20

From Corporate Executive to Cannabis Entrepreneur: The Faye Coleman Story

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Faye Coleman shares her journey from Pittsburgh’s Hill District to becoming a leading entrepreneur in the cannabis industry. She is a West Virginia University graduate and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She built her foundation through a successful corporate career with companies like Kraft, Campbell's Soup, Target, CVS and Home Depot before co-founding Pure Genesis. She discusses the importance of community, education and strategic networking in building success. Faye highlights Pure Genesis’ partnership with EGOT winner Whoopi Goldberg on Whoop-Tea. She shares plans to open a Pure Genesis location across from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City. Faye reflects on her book inspired by love letters written by two time Pulitzer Prize and multiple Tony Award winning playwright August Wilson to her late mother. The project is being adapted into a film with Gina Torres serving as executive producer. Faye Coleman’s powerful story of preparation, purpose and opportunity will help you Prepare For Takeoff. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Black Excellence and Entrepreneurship 02:34 - Transitioning from Corporate America to Cannabis 05:52 - Mindset and Mentorship in Entrepreneurship 07:10 - Historical Context of Black Women in Business 07:42 - The Value of Networking and Community Support 13:12 - The Role of HBCUs and Community in Success 16:15 - Personal Journey into the Cannabis Industry 19:07 - Understanding Hemp vs. Cannabis 20:48 - The Impact of Big Pharma on Cannabis 25:11 - Future Opportunities in the Hemp Industry 27:28 - Raising Capital and Industry Insights 28:36 - Navigating Capitalism The Gladiator Sport 29:58 - Building Community Wealth and Equity 32:05 - Partnerships with Influential Figures 35:04 - Expanding Horizons International Opportunities 39:07 - The Power of Community and Networking 43:36 - Harnessing Economic Power for Change 47:54 - Legacy and Storytelling Honoring the Past 54:27 - Preparing for Takeoff Key Entrepreneurial Insights 01:00:31 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠. Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

1h 1m
APR 15

Ayinde Warren Took a Leap of Faith… Now He’s an American Gladiator

On this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, model, actor, influencer, personal trainer and American Gladiator, Ayinde Warren shares a powerful story of discipline, resilience and belief. A proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., he started as a student-athlete at West Virginia State University and later finished his final year of football eligibility at the University of South Dakota, earning his master’s degree. After college, he moved to rural North Carolina with his parents and worked for a car rental company while staying locked in on his fitness routine. That consistency helped him become a trainer. He then took a leap of faith to Orlando, where he became a fitness director and expanded into modeling and acting. He went from zero experience to walking the runways of Miami Swim Week and New York Fashion Week. He shares how mentorship from community leaders like Dr. R. Charles Byers helped shape his mindset. An influencer and recognized as one of the top trainers in the industry, he has worked with brands like Under Armour and continues building his Swole Patrol platform. He now steps into a life-changing role as Neon on American Gladiators, premiering April 17 on Amazon Prime Video. This episode is about leveling up, staying ready and betting on yourself as you Prepare For Takeoff. 00:00 - Early Life and Sports Journey 01:22 - Transition to College Football 04:11 - The Road to West Virginia State University 06:24 - Adjusting to College Life 08:18 - Joining Omega Psi Phi Fraternity 10:28 - Impact of Fraternity on Personal Growth 13:00 - Post-College Journey and Future Aspirations 14:53 - From Football Dreams to New Beginnings 19:01 - Navigating Life After Injury 20:57 - The Shift to Personal Training 25:07 - Building a Fitness Brand 28:05 - The Leap to Acting 33:57 - Finding Success in Unlikely Places 38:40 - The Journey of Resilience and Growth 42:15 - Building Confidence Through Community Support 44:41 - The Journey to American Gladiators 46:53 - Resilience in the Face of Adversity 48:18 - The Importance of Mindset and Preparation 57:21 - Key Takeaways for Success 58:35 - The Significance of the Name “Neon” 01:00:48 - Anticipating American Gladiators Premiere 01:05:07 - Prepare For Takeoff The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠. Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

1h 5m
APR 2

From Teen Mom at 14 to $10M Real Estate Developer | The Re'Shane L. Lonzo Story

In this inspiring episode, entrepreneur, real estate developer and vocational education advocate Re'Shane L. Lonzo shares her powerful journey from growing up in Detroit to becoming a developer creating economic opportunity in her community. Becoming a mother at 14 pushed her to work harder and stay focused on building a better future for her family. As she reflects, “Detroit taught me how to navigate life,” and “My son became my reason to work harder.” She graduated from Michigan State University, where her entrepreneurial mindset began to take shape. After initially working in corrections and surviving a workplace attack, she pivoted her career, earned her MBA, and began focusing on building opportunities for others. Re’Shane launched a vocational training school to help people gain practical skills and eventually expanded into real estate development. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and shares how the sisterhood has helped her grow professionally. Today, Re'Shane is leading a $10 million real estate development project in Lansing, Michigan, focused on revitalizing the community through mixed use development that includes workforce training and supportive services. Her ventures also include The Comfort Zone Cigar Lounge & Bistro, a unique hospitality space that became the only cigar lounge of its kind within a 100 mile radius. Her journey reminds us that when resilience meets opportunity and purpose leads the way, you’re ready to Prepare For Takeoff. ✈️ Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the Journey 00:26 - Growing Up in Detroit 03:17 - Adversity and Resilience 06:56 - Navigating Education and Motherhood 10:22 - The Transition to College Life 13:38 - Early Career Choices and Entrepreneurship 17:04 - Building a Business from Scratch 20:44 - Giving Back to the Community 25:21 - Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience 26:52 - The Impact of COVID-19 on Business and Community 30:00 - Real Estate Development and Community Revitalization 33:54 - Empowering Future Generations through Real Estate 42:11 - The Role of Sororities in Professional Growth 49:43 - Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 52:06 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠. Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

52 min
MAR 25

Amy DuBois Barnett on Her Debut Novel If I Ruled the World and the Hulu TV Adaptation

Amy DuBois Barnett joins Prepare For Takeoff for an inspiring conversation about vision, reinvention and building a career at the highest levels of media and storytelling. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Barnett earned her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her master’s degree in creative writing from Columbia University. She made history as the first Black woman to lead a major mainstream consumer magazine in the United States as editor-in-chief of Teen People. She also served as editor-in-chief of Honey and Ebony, deputy editor at Harper’s Bazaar and later held senior leadership roles at TheGrio and BET Digital. Amy reflects on her journey from Chicago to the upper ranks of the media industry, navigating the pressure of representation, adapting to the shift from print to digital and the discipline required to sustain long term success. She also discusses the power of relationships, intentional energy and staying focused on purpose. Amy shares the story behind her debut novel If I Ruled the World and how it led to a television adaptation deal with Hulu, where she is developing the project alongside Oscar nominated filmmaker Lee Daniels. This conversation is filled with insight on creativity, leadership, reinvention and pursuing your vision with clarity and confidence as you Prepare For Takeoff. Chapters 00:00 - The Journey Begins: Amy's Early Life and Education 04:09 - Breaking into Media: Amy's Career Path 07:27 - The Pressure of Representation: Navigating the Magazine Industry 10:06 - Transitioning to Digital: Adapting to Industry Changes 12:22 - The Reality of Success: Hard Work and Intentionality 16:20 - The Importance of Relationships: Networking and Building Connections 19:57 - The Birth of a Novel: Amy's Writing Journey 22:28 - Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Aspirations 22:31 - The Journey to Authorship 27:38 - From Page to Screen: The TV Deal 31:56 - The Art of Pitching: Challenges and Strategies 34:37 - Naming the Novel: A Creative Process 39:48 - Preparing for Takeoff: Key Insights for Success 46:39 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠. Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

47 min
MAR 19

Dinisha Mingo: Faith, Healing and Leadership in Mental Health

In this inspiring episode, Dinisha Mingo, Founder and CEO of Mingo Health Solutions and Founder and Executive Director of Solutions of Change, shares her journey from growing up in Las Vegas to becoming a mental health advocate, entrepreneur and licensed minister. She reflects on being raised by her mother who was a functioning addict and caring for cousins who experienced severe childhood trauma and mental health challenges, which helped shape Dinisha's purpose. She discusses leaving Las Vegas after high school to attend college in Portland, Oregon and her current pursuit of a PhD at Fuller Theological Seminary. Dinisha shares how these experiences led to the creation of her organizations and her mission to serve underserved communities through mental health support, while highlighting the role of faith, resilience and self-trust in her leadership. This episode is a powerful conversation on growth and purpose that will leave you inspired and ready to Prepare For Takeoff. 00:00 - Intro 00:47 - Growing Up in Las Vegas 03:21 - Challenges of Inner City Life 06:06 - Navigating High School Experiences 08:46 - Cultural Shock in College 16:49 - Building Confidence and Resilience 19:40 - Experiences with Racism and Kindness 25:57 - Impact of Childhood on Professional Path 27:33 - The Journey to Mental Health Advocacy 27:33 - Founding Mingo Health Solutions 37:07 - Establishing Solutions of Change 39:13 - The Entrepreneurial Journey and Community Impact 42:27 - Overcoming Doubt and Embracing Purpose 50:15 - Pursuing Education and Spiritual Growth 56:39 - Preparing for Takeoff Key Takeaways 01:04:03 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠. Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

1h 4m
MAR 12

Adrianne C. Smith: From HBCU Roots to Global Influence | Cannes Can & Leadership

In this inspiring conversation, Adrianne C. Smith, SVP & Senior Partner and Chief Inclusion & Impact Officer at FleishmanHillard and Founder of Cannes Can: Diversity Collective, shares about her journey from her childhood in Alabama and Texas to becoming a global leader in diversity, equity and inclusion. She reflects on the role HBCUs played in shaping her leadership and the career milestones that helped establish her voice in the advertising and communications industry. Adrianne discusses the importance of mentorship, relationships and networking in creating opportunities. She shares insights on legacy building and empowering the next generation of leaders. The conversation also explores the founding of Cannes Can: Diversity Collective. She launched the organization after attending the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity in 2017 and discovering that only about 200 of the more than 20,000 attendees were Black. Through initiatives like the CC:DC Ambassador Program, the organization creates opportunities for HBCU students and early to mid-career professionals to attend global gatherings such as the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity and the World Economic Forum in Davos. An inspiring conversation about leadership, access, and creating opportunity. Now it’s time to Prepare For Takeoff. ✈️ Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Adrianne C. Smith 00:54 - Growing Up in Alabama and HBCU Influence 03:51 - The Journey to Spelman College 07:40 - Experiences at Spelman College 11:14 - Entering the Advertising World 15:36 - Transitioning into Entrepreneurship 22:22 - The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins 26:01 - Navigating the Highs and Lows of Entrepreneurship 32:07 - Balancing Multiple Roles as an Entrepreneur 36:56 - Creating Opportunities and Leading by Example 43:05 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠⁠. Start recording like a pro with Riverside, click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

43 min

5

out of 5

7 Ratings

A podcast dedicated to amplifying Black Excellence by highlighting proven professionals and rising entrepreneurs, who are making a difference in the community. We feature subject matter experts who share their secrets of success and so much more. Our goal is to help our viewers and listeners take the next step to achieve your goals. We are here to pour into your professional development and help you Prepare For Takeoff.

Creator

Terry L. Cyrus
Years Active

2023 - 2026
Episodes

120
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© Terry L. Cyrus
Show Website

Prepare For Takeoff