Prepare For Takeoff

Terry L. Cyrus

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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.

4 ngày trước

Leading Lasting Change | James Breedlove on Leadership, Mentorship & Community Impact

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with James Breedlove, President of Bridge Builders Foundation Los Angeles, to discuss how leadership, mentorship and collective action can transform communities. A proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, James shares how growing up in Watts and Carson, the example set by his father, a probation officer and his own career as a California parole supervisor inspired a lifelong commitment to serving others. For more than 15 years, James has led Bridge Builders Foundation Los Angeles, connecting Black youth to life changing opportunities through STEM education, scholarships, mentorship and leadership development. He explains how partnerships with the UCLA School of Medicine, the University of Southern California, The Aerospace Corporation, Raytheon, the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and AEG are helping open doors to brighter futures. From servant leadership and nonprofit sustainability to the power of mentorship and community collaboration, James offers practical lessons for anyone committed to creating lasting impact. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, educator, entrepreneur or mentor, this conversation will inspire you to invest in others, strengthen your community and Prepare For Takeoff. 🛍️ Thinking about starting your own business? Build your online store with a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: ⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠ 🎙️ Thinking about starting a podcast? Prepare For Takeoff is recorded with Riverside. Start recording like a pro using our affiliate link:⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, follow Prepare For Takeoff on your favorite podcast platform and leave a rating or review. Your support helps us continue amplifying Black Excellence by sharing the stories of accomplished leaders, innovators and changemakers who are making a difference in their industries and communities.
23 thg 7

From Modeling to CEO | Dr. Kim McNair on Entrepreneurship, Leadership & Legacy

In Episode 128 of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Dr. Kim McNair, Founder and CEO of Kim McNair Productions, accomplished entrepreneur, event producer, author and leadership advocate. From her early days in New Jersey and a successful modeling career to building a nationally recognized event production company, Dr. Kim shares the pivotal moments that shaped her entrepreneurial journey. Drawing from the principles in her book, Knowledge, Money and Power, Dr. Kim explains why knowledge is the foundation for creating wealth, influence and lasting impact. She discusses the importance of strategic pivoting, positioning yourself for growth, building multiple streams of income and cultivating meaningful relationships that open doors to new opportunities. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, aspiring leader or someone looking to elevate your personal and professional life, this conversation is filled with practical insights on leadership, resilience, faith and creating a legacy that extends far beyond financial success. In This Episode You’ll Learn: How Dr. Kim McNair transitioned from modeling to becoming a successful CEOWhy knowledge is one of your greatest business assetsThe importance of leadership, positioning and strategic growthHow to create multiple streams of incomeBuilding meaningful relationships through networking and collaborationWhy faith and resilience are essential for long-term successCreating a legacy through entrepreneurship and community impactPractical strategies for entrepreneurs looking to grow and scale their business 🛍️ Thinking about starting your own business? Build your online store with a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link:https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️ Thinking about starting a podcast? Prepare For Takeoff is recorded with Riverside. Start recording like a pro using our affiliate link:https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP If you enjoyed this episode, follow Prepare For Takeoff on your favorite podcast platform and leave a rating or review. Your support helps us continue amplifying Black Excellence by sharing the stories of accomplished leaders, innovators and changemakers who are making a difference in their industries and communities.
15 thg 7

The Power of Brotherhood | Jonathan Griffin, Sr. on Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. & Leadership

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, retired U.S. Army Colonel of Infantry Jonathan Griffin, Sr. reflects on the power of brotherhood and servant leadership. He shares how being initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated through the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter at Benedict College in Fall 1981 laid the foundation for a lifetime of leadership, service and excellence. Griffin explains how the Fraternity's Cardinal Principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift have guided his military career, corporate leadership and unwavering commitment to serving others. Griffin discusses his campaign for Grand Keeper of Records and Seal. He shares his vision for strengthening transparency, modernizing records management and preserving the legacy of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated. Griffin explains how his experience as a former 13th District Representative, retired U.S. Army Colonel and accomplished corporate executive has prepared him to serve the Fraternity in one of its highest elected offices. Discover how brotherhood, character and servant leadership can elevate your purpose and inspire your legacy as 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.
8 thg 7

Compete to Win. Outwork Your Competition. | Leah Turner, Ph.D.

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Leah Turner, Ph.D. shares how BMX racing with her brother and playing sports in north central Ohio helped shape the resilience, determination and competitive mindset that have defined her journey. Dr. Turner reflects on earning a volleyball scholarship to West Virginia State University, helping her team go from last place in the conference to winning a conference championship and embracing the underdog mentality. She discusses the importance of mentorship, lifelong learning and developing diverse skills to create new opportunities. She also opens up about earning her Ph.D. while raising two children under the age of two, navigating a divorce and becoming a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. Those experiences strengthened her leadership, resilience and commitment to helping others succeed. Today, Leah Turner, Ph.D. leads with purpose through her work at Broader Impact Partners, where she helps organizations build stronger partnerships, strengthen communities and create lasting social impact. Outwork your competition, embrace the underdog mindset and Prepare For Takeoff. 00:00 - Introduction to Dr. Leah Turner 02:55 - Early Life and Sports Background 06:43 - Transition to Volleyball and College Experience 07:41 - The Impact of West Virginia State University 11:27 - Joining Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated 19:02 - Mentorship and Pursuing a Ph.D. 21:11 - Navigating the Unknown: Career Paths and Education 22:15 - The Ph.D. Journey: Challenges and Triumphs 25:47 - Personal Challenges: Balancing Family and Education 28:28 - The Power of Perseverance: Don't Quit 29:11 - Winning Others Over: The Art of Woo 34:32 - Transitioning to Texas: New Opportunities 40:17 - Launching Border Impact Partners: A New Venture 43:30 - Key Takeaways for Success: Preparing for Takeoff 49:40 - 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.
18 thg 6

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.
10 thg 6

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.
3 thg 6

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.
28 thg 5

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.

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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.

Nhà sáng tạo

Terry L. Cyrus
Năm hoạt động

2023 - 2026
Tập

129
Xếp hạng

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Bản quyền

© Terry L. Cyrus
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Prepare For Takeoff