Verbally Effective

Ena Esco

Podcast by Ena Esco

  1. 2d ago

    The Intersection of Faith, Justice & Civic Engagement with Dr. Earle Fisher

    On this episode of Verbally Effective, host Ena Esco welcomes Dr. Earle J. Fisher—Assistant Professor and Dean of Chapel at LeMoyne-Owen College, Senior Pastor of Abyssinian Baptist Church, and Founder of Up The Vote 901—for a thought-provoking conversation on faith, education, civic engagement, and the issues shaping our communities. Dr. Fisher discusses his work at LeMoyne-Owen College, where he is committed to developing the next generation of critical thinkers, servant leaders, and engaged citizens. He shares how education, faith, and community advocacy intersect to empower students and inspire meaningful change beyond the classroom. The conversation also explores Memphis' Souls to the Polls initiative and the ongoing importance of voter education, civic participation, and collective action. Dr. Fisher explains how faith leaders and community organizations are working together to increase voter engagement and strengthen democracy at the local level. Additionally, Ena and Dr. Fisher discuss the public reaction to the Karmelo Anthony verdict, examining the broader conversations surrounding justice, accountability, public perception, and the responsibility of communities to engage in thoughtful dialogue during difficult moments.

    The Intersection of Faith, Justice & Civic Engagement with Dr. Earle Fisher

  2. 4d ago

    Beyond the Headlines: Pepper Baker on Journalism, Political Coverage & Future of Local News

    On this episode of Verbally Effective, host Ena Esco welcomes ABC24 News anchor and reporter Pepper Baker for an inspiring conversation about journalism, community, and the future of local news. Pepper shares her journey from Tallahassee, Florida, to the anchor desk in Memphis, reflecting on her path through UMass Boston and Columbia University, her experiences as a former collegiate volleyball player, and the stories that have shaped her award-winning career in broadcast journalism. She also discusses her Emmy-nominated reporting, the responsibility of informing the public, and why authentic storytelling remains at the heart of her work. Together, Ena and Pepper explore how local news is evolving in the digital age, the importance of making politics and civic issues accessible, what happens behind the scenes in a newsroom, and how journalists can build trust while staying connected to the communities they serve. They also bond over their shared volleyball backgrounds and discuss why Memphis has become a city they're both proud to call home.

    Beyond the Headlines: Pepper Baker on Journalism, Political Coverage & Future of Local News

  3. Jul 23

    Dominic Lawson & Keedran Franklin on Restoration, Redemption & the Power of Civic Engagement

    In this episode of The Ena Esco Show, Ena Esco gets #VerballyEffective with filmmaker Dominic Lawson and community activist Keedran Franklin about Restored Voice—a powerful documentary that began with a voter restoration drive in Memphis but became a much larger conversation about what happens after punishment. The conversation explores the realities formerly incarcerated people face when trying to reenter society, the barriers that can make restoration feel out of reach, and the grassroots organizers working to reconnect people with their communities and their civic power. Dominic Lawson discusses his evolution from nonfiction audio into filmmaking and the decision to tell this story in real time, allowing Memphisvand the people navigating this process to become central characters in the film. Keedran Franklin brings the perspective of someone deeply involved in community organizing and civic engagement, offering insight into the importance of helping people understand that they still belong, their participation still matters, and their voices still have power. This is a conversation about voting but it is also about redemption, dignity, second chances, reentry, representation, and belonging.Because sometimes restoring someone's voice is about far more than giving them the right to cast a ballot.

    Dominic Lawson & Keedran Franklin on Restoration, Redemption & the Power of Civic Engagement

  4. Jul 21

    From Radio to AI: John Best on the Future of Media, Technology & Innovation

    In this episode of The Ena Esco Show, Ena Esco sits down with John Best, General Manager of 88.5FM MSCS Radio, AI industry expert, and Technical Engineer for the Lowery Communication Center at LeMoyne-Owen College. John shares his journey through the world of radio, technology, and media while offering insight into the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. From his work in broadcasting to helping build and support the next generation of multimedia professionals, John discusses how technology continues to reshape the way we communicate, create, work, and consume content. The conversation explores some of the leading AI tools transforming today's industries, the opportunities and challenges AI presents, and why understanding this technology is becoming increasingly important for media professionals, students, educators, and creators.

    From Radio to AI: John Best on the Future of Media, Technology & Innovation

  5. Jul 16

    Degrees, Dreams & Punchlines: Demario “Poundcake” Hollowell on LOC, Comedy & Culture

    In this episode of The Ena Esco Show, Ena Esco sits down with comedian, entertainer, and recent LeMoyne-Owen College ASAP graduate Demario “Poundcake” Hollowell for a candid conversation about his journey as a nontraditional student, finding his voice as a comedian, and his ambitions to take his talents all the way to Hollywood. Poundcake opens up about balancing education, life, and entertainment while navigating the ASAP program at LOC. He also shares his perspective on the Memphis comedy scene, building an audience online, the realities of creating content in today's digital landscape, and his plans for the next chapter of his career. The conversation also dives into the cultural conversation surrounding Yung Miami's new song “Spend Dat,” including the debate over scammer culture, the glorification of the lifestyle, and the tragic Nolan Well controversy that has sparked broader conversations about social media, influence, accountability, and the culture surrounding online fame. From the classroom to the comedy stage, from Memphis to Hollywood, this episode is a real conversation about ambition, entertainment, culture, and the courage to pursue your next level.

    Degrees, Dreams & Punchlines: Demario “Poundcake” Hollowell on LOC, Comedy & Culture

  6. Jul 14

    Dr. Seth E. Davis on AI in Higher Ed, Cheyenne Bryant, Queen Latifah, Gayle King & Media Culture

    In this episode of Verbally Effective, host Ena Esco sits down with Dr. Seth E. Davis, Assistant Professor of English & Communications at LeMoyne-Owen College and host of the Black College Matters podcast, for a thought-provoking conversation on higher education, media, culture, and today's biggest headlines.Dr. Davis shares insights into teaching the next generation of communicators, the growing role of artificial intelligence in higher education, and how educators are preparing students for an ever-evolving media landscape. He also reflects on his doctoral journey and weighs in on the public discourse surrounding Dr. Cheyenne Bryant and the conversations around academic credentials and credibility. The discussion also explores: 🎙️ Queen Latifah's candid conversation with Angie Martinez and the public's continued fascination with celebrity privacy. 🎙️ Gayle King's revelation on Call Her Daddy about overcoming personal betrayal and finding resilience. 🎙️ Naomi Osaka's private dinner honoring Black tennis players during the French Open and what it says about representation, community, and inclusion in sports. 🎙️ The power of media narratives, identity, and the evolving conversations shaping Black culture.If you're passionate about media, education, culture, and meaningful dialogue, this is an episode you don't want to miss. Subscribe to Verbally Effective for new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday featuring influential voices in business, entertainment, education, politics, and culture.

    Dr. Seth E. Davis on AI in Higher Ed, Cheyenne Bryant, Queen Latifah, Gayle King & Media Culture

  7. Jul 9

    HBCU Pride, Alumni Giving & the Future of Black Higher Education with Jerry Redmond

    On this episode of the Verbally Effective Podcast: Magic 807 Sessions, host Ena Esco welcomes Jerry Redmond, Chief of Alumni Affairs and Relations at LeMoyne-Owen College, for a timely conversation about the vital role alumni play in sustaining and advancing HBCUs. Jerry shares his vision for strengthening alumni engagement, cultivating a culture of giving, and creating meaningful opportunities for graduates to invest in the next generation of students. From financial support and mentorship to advocacy and community involvement, this discussion explores why alumni participation is essential to the future of historically Black colleges and universities. The conversation also examines the NAACP's call for Black student-athletes to reconsider commitments to SEC institutions amid concerns surrounding voting rights in the South. Ena and Jerry discuss the intersection of athletics, education, civic engagement, and the broader responsibilities of colleges, alumni, and community leaders during pivotal moments in history. Whether you're an HBCU graduate, student, educator, or supporter, this episode offers valuable insight into preserving the legacy of Black higher education while empowering future generations.

    HBCU Pride, Alumni Giving & the Future of Black Higher Education with Jerry Redmond

  8. Jul 7

    From Misconceptions to Momentum: Mayor Paul Young Speaks

    In this powerful episode of Verbally Effective, Ena Esco sits down with Memphis Mayor Paul Young inside Cossitt Library for an honest and forward-thinking conversation about leadership, perception, and the future of the city. Mayor Young addresses some of the biggest misconceptions about him and breaks down what it truly means to serve as a government official in today’s climate. From navigating the city’s budget to responding to the recent “No Kings” protest in Memphis, he offers transparency and insight into the decisions shaping the city. The conversation also explores the growing role of AI and big tech in Memphis and the Mid-South, along with the importance of youth programming and workforce development in building sustainable opportunities for the next generation. Looking ahead, Mayor Young shares his thoughts on future ambitions, including another mayoral run, and paints a vision for what Memphis can become. Most importantly, he challenges Memphians to take pride in who they are and push back against negative narratives surrounding the city. This is more than a conversation. It’s a call to reimagine Memphis through leadership, innovation, and community pride.

    From Misconceptions to Momentum: Mayor Paul Young Speaks
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4.8
out of 5
59 Ratings

About

Podcast by Ena Esco

Information

  • Creator
    Ena Esco
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    316
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Verbally Effective

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