Three Stores, Two Cotton Gins, One Remarkable Life Dr. Cynthia A. Bond Hopson

This week on 'Three Stores, Two Cotton Gins, One Remarkable Life,' we're joined by Haywood County Tennessee District 8 Commissioner Jeffery Richmond. Hailing from the iconic 'Tina Turner's hometown,' Commissioner Richmond shares his personal and inspiring journey into politics and government service, and his future goals. In this episode Commissioner Richmond talks about:  ●     Roots and family: Richmond shares insights into his roots, the impact of his father's death on his life, and his sister’s activism. ●     Entry into politics: He discusses the driving force behind his decision, namely to do more for his community. ●     Role as Commissioner: He talks about past successes, contributions, and vision for the community's betterment, and maybe ultimately running for mayor. ●     Personal motivations: Richmond is honest about his determination, and his positivity in life, and he always believed he could be elected to public office and make a difference.  ●     Role model: He also talks about the importance of good role models, and how to be one.

This week’s episode dives into the personal history of Professor Henrietta Giles and her experiences as a child at the heart of the desegregation movement of the 1960s. Today, her life has come full circle in her current work as a journalist, cultural historian, professor, and documentary storyteller.   In this episode Prof. Henri talks about:   • Her background. • The two pivotal moments in her youth that had the most impact on her life. • Her work as a college professor enables her to guide students in discovering the social issues that most impact them. • Her dissertation examines the news stories of the Civil Rights era and how they impacted the way black people perceived themselves during that historic time.

This week’s episode details how one determined woman is helping people return to the path of dignity, stability, and wellbeing — with a new pair of shoes. Chicago’s Charisma Cannon describes her journey building the non-profit organization Shoe Heals. Drawing on a combination of faith in God, self-confidence, and determination, Charisma partners with organizations around Chicago to serve people in need. Shoe Heals provides new shoes to the homeless, foster children, recently incarcerated youth, low-income workforce, and many more.  In this episode Charisma talks about: • Her inspiration for the non-profit, Shoe Heals • Can a new pair of shoes really heal the human spirit? • Pivotal moments that brought her to where she is today • The mission of Shoe Heals • How do I get involved?

Dr. Cynthia Bond Hopson’s former student, Dr. Marcus L. Matthews is now a celebrated educator himself. In today’s episode, he shares with her some of the defining moments of his life and how he has converted his experiences into resilience and understanding as an educator. Today, Dr. Matthews leads and inspires teachers and other educators to develop trauma-informed classrooms that help students succeed, no matter their circumstances. Be inspired by his story and learn more about his work, books, and words of wisdom in this episode of Three Stores, Two Cotton Gins, One Remarkable Life: The Journey from There to Here.

"Reverend and Representative" Johnny Shaw, growing up in Laconia, TN, as the youngest of 11, was the golden voice of the church choir. He has become the voice urging citizens to vote for change by representing District 80 of Tennessee since January 2001. From being rejected for having a "Black Voice" to spreading Black Gospel Music globally through his Shaw’s Broadcasting, his story is inspiring. In this candid conversation, he expresses his views on politics, the need to serve, the challenges of having two Black-owned radio stations, 94.7 WOJG FM and WBOL 1560 AM, and staying true to his identity. WOJG currently spreads "Word and Music" all day, every day. The station serves 14 counties in West Tennessee and North Mississippi and can be accessed globally through the website wojg.com. Learn more about Johnny Shaw in this 32nd episode of 3 Stores, 2 Cotton Gins, and 1 Remarkable Life: The Journey from There to Here!

The ability to just show up and do what others have not tried will give you the confidence to break new ground. Civil Miller-Watkins is the Vice-Chair of the Fayette County School board, a mother, grandmother and politician. Over the years, she has contested for a couple of offices that many black women do not even think about running for. Although she did not win some of the elections, she came out with life lessons that can help empower other people, and black women especially, to shoot for the stars. Civil is a leader’s leader, a phenomenal exceptional woman who was able to balance family life, work and politics. The gems she has to share will shape your life and help you live a better and more productive one. Listen to this podcast and become empowered to be all that you were created by God to be