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.

23h ago

Beyond the Airwaves: Skip Dillard on Leadership, Radio and Community Impact

What does it take to build a career at the highest levels of radio while making a lasting impact on the communities you serve? In this episode, Skip Dillard shares the journey that took him from a curious high school student in Greensboro, North Carolina to one of the most respected radio programming executives in the country. Inspired by his grandfather's love of music, Skip developed an early passion for radio. He spent time at North Carolina A&T State University's college radio station before attending Hampton University. While still a student, he made his on-air debut in Norfolk, Virginia and began building the foundation for a remarkable career. Over the next three decades, Skip helped shape influential radio brands in New Orleans, Detroit, Buffalo, San Francisco, Washington, D.C. and New York City. He shares the lessons that fueled his success, including leadership, community impact, intentional career growth and taking calculated risks. Skip also offers a behind-the-scenes look at successful radio programming, the launch of 94.7 The Block and the evolving role of radio in connecting, informing and inspiring communities. Whether you're pursuing a career in media, leading an organization or striving for your next level of success, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you Prepare For Takeoff. Chapters 00:00 - The Journey Begins: Skip Dillard's Early Influences 06:58 - From College Radio to Professional Opportunities 11:48 - Navigating the Radio Landscape: Lessons Learned 15:19 - Transitioning to New Markets: The Move to New Orleans 20:49 - Climbing the Ranks: Becoming a Program Director 25:48 - The Detroit Experience: Challenges and Growth 26:20 - Understanding the Essence of Radio: Community Connection 29:40 - Mission-Driven Radio: Serving the Community 30:52 - Navigating Career Transitions: From Detroit to Buffalo 33:03 - Cultural Impact: The Power of Music and Community 34:32 - From Buffalo to New York: A Journey of Growth 39:39 - Challenges and Triumphs in Washington, D.C. 48:39 - Launching 94.7 The Block: A New Era in Radio 54:15 - Leadership Lessons: Preparing for Takeoff 58:13 - 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.

58 min
Jun 10

Dreams Into Reality: From West Virginia Roots to NYC Radio

From creating The Hip Hop Assault, the first Hip Hop mix show in West Virginia radio history, to becoming one of New York City's most respected DJs and radio personalities, DJ Jon Quick's journey is a powerful example of what can happen when talent, preparation and persistence meet opportunity. DJ Jon Quick shares how he broke into the New York City radio scene, built a respected brand and helped elevate Afrobeats through AfroFlava Radio. He discusses his current show, Saturday Nights with The Superhero, on 94.7 The Block, New York's #1 For Throwbacks, where he continues to entertain listeners and influence the culture through music. A proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, DJ Jon Quick reflects on the impact of brotherhood, mentorship and intentional networking throughout his career. He shares what it meant to be selected to DJ at Carnegie Hall's fourth Power Network event, hosted by Ed Lover, with featured performances by Big Daddy Kane and Ghostface Killah. Jon discusses his commitment to educating and inspiring the next generation through the DJ Jon Quick School of Extraordinary DJs. Packed with lessons on preparation, perseverance, authenticity, relationship building and speaking success into existence, this conversation offers a blueprint for anyone looking to turn big dreams into lasting impact. Get ready to Prepare For Takeoff with DJ Jon Quick. 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.

56 min
Jun 3

Christopher Mercado: From Hot 97 to Amazon and Apple – The Power of Reinvention

Chris Mercado joins Prepare For Takeoff to share his incredible journey from growing up in the Bronx and Harlem to becoming a respected force in radio, music, advertising and technology. As Creative Services Director for Emmis Communications, Chris was responsible for all aspects of audio production for three major radio stations, including Hot 97 and WBLS. During the conversation, he reveals how he created the iconic "Bomb" sound effect for Funkmaster Flex, the signature drop Flex uses to let listeners know a record is a major hit. More than three decades later, the sound remains a fixture on Hot 97. Chris shares stories from the golden era of New York radio, lessons learned from working alongside some of the industry's most influential personalities and the work ethic that helped him build a successful career across multiple industries. He also discusses his transition from radio to opportunities with Amazon and Apple while embracing the rapid rise of artificial intelligence. Chris explains how earning AI certifications and leveraging tools such as ChatGPT, Claude and other platforms have helped him enhance creativity, productivity and problem solving. He also explains the impact of being a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative professional, student or someone looking to reinvent yourself, this episode offers valuable insights on perseverance, adaptability, networking, mentorship and continuous learning. Chris Mercado's story is a powerful reminder that success isn't determined by where you start, but by your willingness to evolve, embrace change and never stop learning as viewers and listeners Prepare For Takeoff. 00:00 - Roots and Origins: A Journey Through Virginia and New York 02:47 - Growing Up in New York: The Impact of Environment on Identity 05:35 - The Birth of a DJ: Early Influences and Musical Aspirations 08:06 - Navigating the Music Industry: From Intern to Creative Services Director 10:34 - Work Ethic and Mindset: Lessons from Family and Life Experiences 13:21 - The Role of Radio in the 90s: A Cultural Phenomenon 16:04 - Creating Iconic Sounds: The Legacy of Go Flex and The Bomb 18:51 - Reflections on Success: The Journey and Its Challenges 27:35 - Transitioning from Radio to Amazon 29:28 - Work Ethic and Adaptability in New Environments 31:36 - Embracing AI in Creative Processes 36:13 - The Role of Fraternity in Personal and Professional Growth 44:36 - Key Takeaways for Success and Reinvention 49:25 - 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.

50 min
May 28

How Bunmi Giwa-Bello Built BlackHouse Into a Culture-Driven Agency

Bunmi Giwa-Bello, Co-Founder & President of BlackHouse, joins Prepare For Takeoff to discuss her inspiring journey from Massachusetts to helping build one of the culture’s leading boutique experiential agencies in New York City. Bunmi reflects on the importance of faith, family, mentorship and community in shaping her path. She also shares how her early experiences prepared her for the fast-paced world of event production and entrepreneurship. Bunmi gives an inside look into the vision behind BlackHouse. She discusses the company’s mission to create impactful experiences that connect brands, culture and community. During the conversation, Bunmi shares how BlackHouse has produced campaigns and events for clients including Prime Video, Visit Orlando and Unum. She also talks about the evolution of the experiential marketing industry following the pandemic and the growing demand for meaningful in-person engagement. Throughout the conversation, Bunmi shares insight on leadership, perseverance, relationship building and her commitment to mentoring and pouring into young professionals, especially those entering the industry. This inspiring conversation highlights entrepreneurship, innovation, mentorship, community and the power of building with purpose as Bunmi Giwa-Bello helps viewers and listeners Prepare For Takeoff. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background00:41 - Early Life and Education02:48 - Career Beginnings in New York07:24 - Transition to Event Production12:27 - Founding BlackHouse17:25 - The Mission and Vision of BlackHouse22:36 - Post-Pandemic Industry Insights26:21 - Nostalgia and the Experience of Events28:48 - Future Plans and Upcoming Events31:50 - The Importance of Mentorship35:06 - Community and Relationships38:40 - Key Takeaways for Success45:34 - 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.

46 min
May 21

Always Bet On Yourself: Candace McIntyre’s Journey from Southeast D.C. to the Washington Nationals

Candace McIntyre, Human Resources Director for the Washington Nationals, joins Prepare For Takeoff to discuss her inspiring journey from Southeast Washington D.C. to working for a Major League Baseball organization. During the conversation, Candace reflects on growing up in a close-knit family and how those early experiences helped shape her values, confidence and work ethic. She also discusses the impact of attending Coppin State University and how the HBCU experience strengthened her sense of identity, community and purpose. Candace shares her transition from the telecommunications industry into the sports industry by betting on herself. Throughout the episode, she speaks about the importance of passion, intentionality and authenticity. She opens up about embracing change, building genuine relationships and staying true to herself while navigating corporate leadership spaces. Candace also provides valuable advice for aspiring HR professionals and young leaders looking to grow with confidence and purpose. This powerful conversation highlights perseverance, mentorship, leadership and the importance of embracing every part of your journey while continuing to amplify the many dimensions of Black Excellence. Buckle up and Prepare For Takeoff. Chapters 00:00 - Growing Up in D.C. 03:29 - The HBCU Experience 05:50 - Finding a Career Path 08:37 - Transitioning into HR 13:41 - Moving into Sports HR 19:15 - Advice for Aspiring HR Professionals 23:32 - Embracing Change and Overcoming Resistance 24:32 - Milestone Moments and Humble Beginnings 27:38 - The Power of Support and Mentorship 30:16 - Passion and Intentionality in Career 32:07 - The Importance of Personal Connections 34:28 - Changing the Narrative of Black Excellence 37:49 - Building Genuine Relationships 40:17 - Transforming Challenges into Opportunities 43:11 - The Journey of Continuous Learning 47:04 - Final Thoughts: Passion, Intentionality and Authenticity 51:56 - 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
May 7

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

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

125
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© Terry L. Cyrus
Show Website

Prepare For Takeoff