Smith Says: Purpose Over Popularity

Smith Says International
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  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Smith Says is a weekly podcast hosted by Smith François, founder of Smith Says International. Each episode empowers entrepreneurs, community leaders, and believers to live with purpose, faith, and passion. From real stories to practical insights, Smith Says helps you build a purposeful life one Monday at a time.

  1. 2d ago

    King Louis: Chicago's Haitian Music Pioneer | From Haiti to Chicago, Radio, DJ Culture & Purpose Over Popularity

    What does it take to preserve a culture, build a community, and stay true to your purpose? In this special Purpose Over Popularity: Family & Friends Edition, Smith Francois sits down with his uncle, King Louis (Louis Douyon) a legendary Chicago radio broadcaster, DJ, music curator, and Haitian community leader whose influence helped shape Haitian culture throughout the Midwest. From arriving in Chicago during one of the coldest winters after growing up in Haiti, to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in Haitian radio, King Louis shares the untold stories behind Chicago's Haitian music scene, broadcasting, DJ culture, and community leadership. This conversation is more than music it's a family story, a history lesson, and a blueprint for leading with purpose. • Growing up in Haiti and immigrating to Chicago in 1976• Adjusting to life in Chicago and surviving the challenges of the 1970s• How radio became a bridge connecting the Haitian community• His journey through Columbia College studying Radio Broadcasting & Sound Engineering• The story behind WHPK 88.5 FM and Chicago's Haitian radio movement• Founding Mixed Masters Incorporated and blending Kompa with House music• Bringing legendary Haitian bands to Chicago, including Top Vice and Bookman Experience• Organizing Caribbean festivals and promoting Haitian culture in the Midwest• Why stronger unity is needed within the Haitian diaspora• The life lessons his mother taught him about resilience, discipline, and hard work• What Purpose Over Popularity truly means "Stay focused on your purpose. It only takes one day and one opportunity." "Don't settle for average. Go for the top." "Popularity is temporary. Purpose is everything." "At the end of every tunnel, there's always a light." King Louis (Louis Douyon) is a Chicago-based Haitian radio broadcaster, DJ, music curator, and community leader. Through radio, live events, and music promotion, he helped introduce generations of Haitians and Chicagoans to Kompa, Reggae, House music, and Caribbean culture while preserving Haitian heritage for future generations. If you enjoy conversations about leadership, immigration, entrepreneurship, faith, family, Black history, Haitian culture, and purpose-driven living, this episode is for you. 🎙 Hosted by Smith FrancoisFounder, Smith Says International LLC

  2. 6d ago

    Haiti's Future: Elections, Security & the Power of the Diaspora | Ft. Sidi Mohamed Diawara

    What will it take to restore security, stability, and democratic leadership in Haiti? In this powerful conversation, international electoral and political expert Mr. Sidi Mohamed Diawara shares his experience serving in Haiti as a senior elections adviser connected to the Office of former Prime Minister Garry Conille. Originally from Mali, West Africa, Mr. Diawara brings nearly 30 years of international experience in democracy, governance, elections, and political reform. Throughout his career, he has worked alongside governments, political parties, civil society organizations, and international institutions across Africa and beyond. 🇭🇹 His three missions to Haiti and his work with Haitian leadership 🗳️ Haiti's electoral process and proposed political reforms 🛡️ Why security and stability are essential for Haiti's future 🌍 The impact of the end of USAID-funded democracy programs 🤝 The role of independent political advisers ✊🏿 Lessons Haiti can learn from post-conflict African nations 🌍 Why stronger partnerships between Africa and Haiti matter 💡 The untapped intellectual power of the Haitian diaspora 🕊️ Reconciliation, accountability, and pathways toward lasting peace 📢 Why Haitian organizations and leaders must unite around a common vision Mr. Diawara describes the Haitian diaspora as a gold mine—not simply because of financial contributions, but because of its knowledge, expertise, leadership, and global influence. The central message of this conversation is clear: Haiti's future cannot depend solely on outside governments. Lasting change will require Haitians at home and throughout the diaspora to organize, build trust, hold leadership accountable, and work together toward a shared vision. Haiti has overcome incredible challenges before. Haiti can rise again. 🌐 Website: https://smithsays.one 🔗 All Links: https://linktr.ee/smithsays1 📧 Email: smithsaysinternational@gmail.com 📱 Follow: @smithsays1 on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Spotify. 💵 Support the Mission: Cash App: $smithsaysllc PayPal: smithsays1 I help fresh entrepreneurs 4S their service-based business income using the power of video. 4S Program Founder Smith Francois 👍 If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow the podcast, subscribe, leave a rating, and share this episode with someone who believes in a stronger future for Haiti. Every share helps amplify meaningful conversations. #SmithFrancois #SmithSays #PurposeOverPopularity #Haiti #HaitianDiaspora #HaitiSecurity #HaitiElections #Democracy #Governance #AfricaAndHaiti #Leadership #PoliticalReform #Caribbean #Podcast #HaitiWillRiseAgain #GarryConille #SidiMohamedDiawara #InternationalDevelopment #ElectionExpert In this episode, we discuss:Connect with Smith Says InternationalAbout Smith Says

  3. Jul 13

    The Untold Story of Black Radio, Journalism & Community Leadership

    What happened to Black media, and what can today's creators learn from it? In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Mr. James A. White Sr. and Dr. Kevin Dixon go beyond broadcasting to discuss the legacy of Black journalism, community leadership, mentorship, and preserving history for future generations. From interviewing cultural icons like James Brown to building community programs, mentoring young leaders, and challenging today's culture of individualism, this conversation is filled with timeless wisdom for journalists, podcasters, educators, entrepreneurs, and anyone committed to serving their community. This isn't just a conversation about media it's about responsibility, legacy, and purpose. The history and influence of Black radioWhy investigative journalism still mattersThe importance of mentorship and leadershipBuilding communities instead of competingWhy purpose should always come before popularityStories behind interviews with James Brown and other influential leadersPreserving history for the next generation "Popularity may get attention, but purpose creates legacy." If this conversation challenged you, share it with someone who cares about journalism, history, and making a lasting impact. 👍 Like • Comment • Subscribe 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. 🌐 Website: SmithSays.one #SmithSays #BlackRadio #Journalism #BlackHistory #Podcast #Leadership #Community #Media #PurposeOverPopularity #Storytelling #Legacy #JamesAWhiteSr #KevinDixon

  4. Jul 7

    From Hawaii to Philadelphia: How Radio Changed His Life

    What can decades in radio teach today's content creators? In this episode of the Smith Says Podcast, we sit down with a veteran broadcaster, educator, and community leader whose journey spans Hawaii, Philadelphia, and Columbus, Ohio. From growing up in a military family to working at one of America's most influential Black radio stations, he shares firsthand stories about journalism, civil rights, media ownership, community activism, and why independent voices matter now more than ever. If you're a podcaster, journalist, entrepreneur, or someone who cares about preserving history and telling authentic stories, this conversation is for you. In this episode you'll learn: The power of community radioLessons from Philadelphia's media historyWhy independent media mattersHow preparation makes better interviewsThe importance of researching before asking questionsStories from working with influential leaders and broadcastersAdvice for the next generation of creators🎙 Subscribe for more conversations that inspire purpose over popularity. 🌐 Website: SmithSays.one 👍 Like • Comment • Subscribe #SmithSays #Podcast #Journalism #BlackMedia #Broadcasting #Storytelling #Leadership #PurposeOverPopularity #ContentCreator #Media

  5. Jun 29

    Dr. Tracy Robinson: Why Fathers Must Read to Their Children The Literacy Crisis No One Is Talking About

    In this episode of Smith Says, I sit down with Dr. Tracy Robinson, educator, community leader, and literacy advocate, to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing families today: literacy, fatherhood, and leadership. Dr. Robinson recently completed his Ph.D. and shares lessons on sacrifice, faith, perseverance, and why reading with your child for just 20 minutes a day can change the trajectory of their life. In this conversation, we discuss: 📚 Why literacy starts at home👨🏾‍👧 The evolving role of fathers🙏 Faith, prayer, and leadership in the family🎓 What earning a Ph.D. really teaches you🌱 Removing the "weeds" from your life❤️ The sacrifices required for long-term success🏡 Building stronger families and stronger communitiesWhether you're a parent, educator, mentor, or community leader, this episode will challenge you to think differently about the impact you have on the next generation. 👇 What was your biggest takeaway from this conversation? Leave a comment below. Subscribe for more conversations that help people grow in purpose, leadership, and community. 🌐 Website: https://smithsays.one #SmithSays #DrTracyRobinson #Fatherhood #Literacy #Parenting #Education #Leadership #Reading #ColumbusOhio #PurposeOverPopularity #BlackExcellence #CommunityLeadership

  6. Jun 23

    Mr. Brown's Untold Story of Malcolm X, Cycling, and Community Leadership

    What happens when a young boy grows up in Harlem during the Civil Rights era, learns discipline through competitive cycling in Barbados, and later helps shape the future of Bronzeville in Columbus, Ohio?In this powerful conversation, Willis Brown shares stories from his childhood in Harlem, his family's connection to Malcolm X, the lessons he learned from his parents, and how those experiences prepared him for a lifetime of community leadership.Topics include:• Growing up in Harlem during the 1960s and 1970s• Family ties to activism and community service• Personal memories connected to Malcolm X• Moving to Barbados as a child• Becoming a competitive cyclist and learning discipline• Leadership, mentorship, and success• The history and future of Bronzeville ColumbusThis is more than a history lesson. It's a conversation about purpose, identity, resilience, and the responsibility of building stronger communities.Subscribe for more conversations that put Purpose Over Popularity.

  7. Jun 16

    James A. White Sr. Why Most People Never Act on Their Dreams

    What separates dreamers from builders?In this powerful conversation, James A. White Sr. shares lessons from more than 80 years of life, leadership, military service, business ownership, and personal growth.We discuss:• Why some people stay stuck while others move forward• The difference between surviving and healing• How environment shapes identity• The importance of self-awareness and accountability• Why fear stops people from acting on great ideas• AI and the future of learning• The mindset needed to build a meaningful lifeOne of the biggest takeaways: your future is not determined by where you start, but by your willingness to take action.If you've ever struggled with confidence, purpose, identity, or turning your ideas into reality, this conversation is for you.🎙️ Guest: James A. White Sr.🎥 Hosted by Smith FrancoisInterviewer to be named later. 👤 Connect with James A. White Sr.CEO of Performance Consulting Services📧 Email: jWhite2@columbus.rr.com📖 Author of A Better World: A Framework for Diversity, Inclusion, and EngagementSubscribe for more conversations about purpose, leadership, faith, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.🌐 Website: SmithSays.one📧 Contact: info@smithsays.one#PurposeOverPopularity #SmithSays #JamesWhiteSr #Leadership #PersonalDevelopment #SelfAwareness #Accountability #Mindset #Entrepreneurship #AI #Purpose

  8. Jun 8

    From Community Advocate to Healing After Loss: Becca Namaste Powerful Story

    What makes Columbus, Ohio unique?In this powerful episode of Purpose Over Popularity, Smith Francois sits down with lifelong Columbus resident, community advocate, and healthcare professional Becca Namaste for an honest conversation about the city's history, growth, diversity, and the importance of community.Becca shares her perspective on:✅ Growing up in Columbus, Ohio✅ How neighborhoods have changed over the years✅ Gentrification and community development✅ Immigration and diversity in Columbus✅ Advocacy and serving others✅ Healing after the tragic loss of her son, Donovan Lewis✅ Mental health, yoga, and personal wellness✅ Hidden gems and opportunities throughout ColumbusThis conversation is bigger than politics. It's about people, purpose, healing, and building stronger communities together.👇 COMMENT BELOW:What is one thing you love about Columbus, Ohio?👍 Like📲 Share🔔 Subscribe to @smithsays1 for more conversations that inspire purpose over popularity.Follow Smith Says International:Instagram: @smithsays1#PurposeOverPopularity #ColumbusOhio #RebeccaDoran #DonovanLewis #CommunityAdvocate #OhioPodcast #SmithSays #ColumbusHistory #CommunityLeadership #MentalHealth #Gentrification #Diversity #Healing #OhioStories

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Smith Says is a weekly podcast hosted by Smith François, founder of Smith Says International. Each episode empowers entrepreneurs, community leaders, and believers to live with purpose, faith, and passion. From real stories to practical insights, Smith Says helps you build a purposeful life one Monday at a time.

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