Prepare For Takeoff

Terry L. Cyrus
  • 5.0 (7)
  • SOCIEDAD Y CULTURA
  • CADA SEMANA

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.

  1. From HBCU to U.S. Air Force Colonel: Dr. Gerald D. Curry’s Leadership Blueprint

    HACE 4 DÍAS

    From HBCU to U.S. Air Force Colonel: Dr. Gerald D. Curry’s Leadership Blueprint

    In this powerful episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Dr. Gerald D. Curry to discuss leadership, discipline and purpose. Dr. Curry is a proud graduate of Tennessee State University and a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, initiated at Rho Psi chapter. He served more than 30 years in the United States Air Force before retiring as a Colonel. He later served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Force Resilience, helping oversee policies that impacted nearly 670,000 Airmen and Guardians. He also held senior executive roles supporting the Department of Defense and the Department of Energy, including interagency work at the White House. An accomplished author and avid reader, Dr. Curry shares how lifelong learning shaped his leadership mindset. He rose to become ranked number three in the world in kickboxing and was inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame. As Chief Operating Officer of Curry Brothers Publishing, he advances literacy and empowers new authors. He also leads innovative efforts to bring major data center initiatives to HBCU campuses with support from companies like Google and Microsoft. Anchored by a promise to his father to break the cycle of poverty through wise decisions, Dr. Curry emphasizes discipline, mentorship, community and mastering your craft. This episode is a blueprint for leadership, resilience and legacy. Prepare For Takeoff. 🚀 Chapters 00:00 - The Impact of HBCUs 02:13 - Brotherhood and Fraternity Life 04:55 - Military Service and Leadership 10:03 - Martial Arts and Discipline 15:23 - Navigating Military Challenges 20:39 - Political Accountability and Activism 22:42 - Transitioning from Military to Civilian Leadership 25:12 - Navigating Senior Executive Challenges 28:53 - The Importance of Mentorship and Community 30:06 - Curry Brothers Publishing and Literacy Advocacy 34:55 - Innovative Educational Initiatives 39:05 - Philanthropy and Data Centers at HBCUs 42:08 - Keys to Personal and Professional Growth 51:25 - 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.

    52 min
  2. Experience, Experiment, Engage with Attorney & Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker, Joshua V. Barr

    18 FEB

    Experience, Experiment, Engage with Attorney & Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker, Joshua V. Barr

    In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus interviews Joshua V. Barr, Attorney, Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker, Human Relations Consultant and Public Speaker. He shares his journey from South Carolina to becoming a civil rights advocate and bridge builder. He reflects on earning his undergraduate degree at Francis Marion University and his law degree at the University of South Carolina, later completing his MBA at Penn State. Joshua explains how global exposure shaped his worldview. His advice is direct: put yourself in new rooms, travel when you can, test your ideas, build authentic relationships, and stay civically engaged. He emphasizes that growth requires action, not comfort. He also discusses his Emmy award-winning documentary, Breaking Bread, Building Bridges, created to address polarization and show that we are greater than our differences. His message is clear. Experience more, experiment boldly and engage fully. Now it is time to Prepare For Takeoff. Chapters   00:00 - Introduction to the Journey 01:15 - Roots and Foundations of Identity 03:55 - Education and Expanding Horizons 06:24 - The Importance of Community Engagement 08:50 - Transitioning from Law to Public Service 11:16 - Civil Rights Work and Community Impact 14:08 - Understanding Systemic Issues 16:38 - The Role of Travel in Perspective 18:57 - Documentary and Bridging Divides 21:52 - Building Bridges Through Dialogue 26:49 - Facilitating Human Connections Through SharedExperiences 28:58 - Transforming Perspectives: The Power of Understanding 33:04 - The Impact of Community Engagement and Public Speaking 37:18 - Navigating Opportunities for Change 42:35 - Preparing for Community Engagement and Action 49:52 - 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
  3. Legacy Leadership and the Power of Community with Jerry Holliday

    12 FEB

    Legacy Leadership and the Power of Community with Jerry Holliday

    In this powerful episode of Prepare For Takeoff, host Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Jerry Holliday, a licensed mortgage banker and founder of the Omega Black Writers Series. Their conversation explores Black excellence, identity and purpose through lived experience. Jerry reflects on growing up in St. Louis during a time of social change. He shares how navigating college life at the University of Southern California expanded his worldview. He explains how desegregation, culture and access to education shaped his personal and professional journey. Jerry speaks proudly about his membership in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Lambda Chapter. He describes how brotherhood strengthened his leadership, discipline and commitment to service. Jerry highlights the mission of Omega Black Writers Series, which focuses on amplifying Black voices. The organization supports authors in publishing and marketing their stories with purpose. This episode is a call to lead with intention. It is an invitation to invest in others and honor the journey ahead, so Prepare For Takeoff. 00:00 - Growing Up in St. Louis 06:06 - NEWCHAPTER 06:28 - The Impact of Education and Community 10:08 - Transitioning to USC 24:00 - Joining the Fraternity and Its Influence 27:50 - Leadership Journey and Early Involvement 29:31 - Academic Excellence and Recruitment Efforts 30:21 - Career Path: From Aerospace to Real Estate 35:51 - Entrepreneurial Mindset and Banking Experience 39:49 - Founding Omega Black Writers: A Passion for Reading 44:58 - The Omega Black Writers Forum: Purpose and Structure 48:24 - Promoting Scholarship and Community Engagement 52:24 - Key Takeaways for Personal and Professional Growth 01:04:14 - 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.

    1 h y 4 min
  4. A Living Legacy: Jesse C. Swanigan, Last Living Founding Member of 100 Black Men of America, Inc.

    5 FEB

    A Living Legacy: Jesse C. Swanigan, Last Living Founding Member of 100 Black Men of America, Inc.

    In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, host Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Jesse C. Swanigan, the Last Living Founder of 100 Black Men of America, Inc. Jesse shares how he left his small hometown of Cairo, Illinois after high school and moved to St. Louis to find work and save money to pay for college. That decision laid the foundation for his academic success, including earning his MBA and a distinguished career as a Retired Corporate Auditor at The Boeing Company and Senior Adjunct Professor at the University of Missouri – St. Louis. He also reflects on his enduring leadership with 100 Black Men of America, Inc., where he is currently a member of the national Board of Directors and the holds the title Treasurer Emeritus. His story shows that sacrifice and determination can open doors, build momentum and help you Prepare For Takeoff. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Jesse Swanigan and His Background 00:43 - Growing Up in Segregation 02:19 - Transitioning to St. Louis and College Life 05:33 - Navigating Higher Education Challenges 06:38 - Career Path and Achievements at McDonnell Douglas 14:34 - Founding 100 Black Men of America 17:57 - A Legacy of Leadership and Mentorship 19:21 - Transitioning from Corporate to Academia 22:17 - Staying Active and Engaged in Aging 23:43 - Advice for Healthy Living and Stress Management 26:12 - The Role of Faith in Personal Growth 27:40 - Inspiring Future Generations 28:30 - The Importance of Sharing Knowledge 28:39 - NEW CHAPTER 31:10 - Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Projects 34:52 - 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.

    35 min
  5. Reinventing the Path: Education, Entrepreneurship and Cybersecurity with Dr. Carlous Caple

    28 ENE

    Reinventing the Path: Education, Entrepreneurship and Cybersecurity with Dr. Carlous Caple

    In this engaging episode, host Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Dr. Carlous Caple, an author, cybersecurity expert, entrepreneur and professor from Durham, North Carolina. Dr. Caple shares his journey from aspiring actor to technology leader and reflects on how early interests in psychology and the power of representation in media shaped his career path. He explains how education and mentorship supported his transition into cybersecurity and reinforced the importance of continuous learning in an ever changing digital landscape. As a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated, Dr. Caple speaks to the value of brotherhood, service and community empowerment. He also discusses entrepreneurship as a pathway to opportunity and how AI as well as emerging technologies can be used for personal and professional growth. The conversation highlights the critical role of community colleges in expanding access to education and building sustainable careers. This episode is a powerful reminder that it is never too late to pivot, pursue your purpose and create meaningful impact when you are ready to Prepare For Takeoff. 00:00 - The Journey Begins: From Psychology to Acting 13:11 - Transitioning to Cybersecurity: A New Path 24:09 - Building a Business in Cybersecurity 25:15 - Navigating Opportunities in Contracting and Education 28:33 - The Importance of Entrepreneurship for Ex-Offenders 30:55 - Identifying Market Trends and Career Paths 35:00 - Leveraging Technology and AI for Growth 38:12 - The Role of Mentorship and Community in Success 42:46 - Preparing for Takeoff: Key Takeaways for Listeners 48:10 - 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.

    48 min
  6. Building Brands, Mindset and Opportunity with Award Winning Marketer, Desi Okeke

    21 ENE

    Building Brands, Mindset and Opportunity with Award Winning Marketer, Desi Okeke

    In this inspiring episode, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Desi Okeke, an award-winning marketer and brand strategist with a proven record of building global brands and strong cultures rooted in integrity and inspiration. Desi shares her journey from growing up in Los Angeles to building her life in New Jersey. She explains how earning her MBA from Cornell University sharpened her strategic mindset and clarified her vision. Desi reflects on her work at Fortune 500 companies including Unilever, Mars Wrigley and Johnson & Johnson. She discusses blending creativity with strategy to deliver impactful campaigns and meaningful innovation. Her passion for youth empowerment and community impact led her to found Halo and Kin. The organization equips young people with tools for personal branding, mindset development, goal setting, resilience and leadership. Desi emphasizes the power of exposure and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. The episode reminds listeners that success is built through clarity, intention and consistent action when you are ready to 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.

    43 min
  7. Prepare For Takeoff: From Jamaica to the Cockpit with Captain Leighton Jamieson

    14 ENE

    Prepare For Takeoff: From Jamaica to the Cockpit with Captain Leighton Jamieson

    In this inspiring conversation, Captain Leighton Jamieson shares his journey from a small rural community in Jamaica and migrating to New York City at an early age to becoming a successful airline pilot with JetBlue Airways. He reflects on the profound impact of being invited into the cockpit on his flight to America, a moment that helped spark his dream of flying. Captain Jamieson speaks candidly about the lack of representation in aviation and the urgent need for more Black pilots. He explains how seeing people who look like you can reshape what young people believe is possible. Captain Jamieson discusses the financial and systemic barriers many aspiring aviators face, especially people of color. He highlights organizations like the OBAP - Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, which works to increase minority participation in aviation and aerospace through mentorship, scholarships, training, youth outreach and career development programs. He reinforces the importance of community, visibility, and paying it forward. His message is clear and empowering. Representation matters, access matters and with the proper support, discipline and belief, the next generation can rise and Prepare For Takeoff. 00:00 - Introduction to Captain Leighton Jamison 00:52 - Journey from Jamaica to the Cockpit 02:59 - Military Influence on Aviation Career 05:34 - Pathways to Becoming a Pilot 08:19 - The Importance of Seniority in Aviation 10:52 - First Officer to Captain: The Journey 13:14 - Life as a Pilot: Challenges and Rewards 15:31 - Navigating the Airline Industry 18:00 - The Economics of Being a Pilot 20:18 - Hurdles in Aviation for Minorities 22:43 - Financial Barriers in Aviation Training 25:44 - The Importance of Military Experience 28:16 - Navigating the Training Landscape 31:10 - Preparing for a Career in Aviation 36:22 - The Role of Representation in Aviation 39:30 - Networking and Mentorship in Aviation 42:26 - The Challenge of Landing 44:27 - The Precision of Autopilot Landings 47:25 - Inspiring the Next Generation of Pilots 48:04 - The Importance of Preparation and Positivity 49:16 - Key Takeaways for Aspiring Pilots 51:18 - 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
  8. The Black Man Can: Turning Purpose into Powerful Impact with Dr. Brandon Frame

    7 ENE

    The Black Man Can: Turning Purpose into Powerful Impact with Dr. Brandon Frame

    In this episode of Prepare for Takeoff, host Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Dr. Brandon Frame, author, professor, Founder & CEO of The Black Man Can Foundation, Inc. He shares his journey from Connecticut to Morehouse College and his path through education, nonprofit leadership and academia. Dr. Frame discusses how his lived experiences and passion for positive representation of Black men and boys led him to build a nonprofit focused on social emotional learning, mentorship and entrepreneurship. He also details his role as a professor of social emotional learning at Sacred Heart University. Dr. Frame opens up about his unlikely and nontraditional path to earning his doctorate, the obstacles he faced and how persistence, community and purpose guided his journey. The conversation highlights the power of storytelling, education and service, reminding viewers and listeners that staying committed to the vision helps you 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.

    42 min
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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.

Información

  • Creador
    Terry L. Cyrus
  • Años de actividad
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodios
    111
  • Clasificación
    Apto
  • Copyright
    © Terry L. Cyrus
  • Mostrar sitio web
    Prepare For Takeoff