Shows
Intentionally Overheard w/Robert GinyardDr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsThank you for listening. Send us a text message. In this episode of Intentionally Overheard, I have a conversation with Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields. We talked about his childhood growing up on the South Side of Chicago, the many life lessons gleaned from his mother, and his love and appreciation reading and learning which subsequently led him to teaching...and living a life of purpose. Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields is a distinguished educator, author, and advocate renowned for his transformative contributions to education. A former professor at the School of Education at Johns Hopkins University, Dr. S...2024-09-2049 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsPromoting mental health through storytelling with LaMonika VideoIn this episode, Dr. LaMarr D. Shields is joined by LaMonika Hill, the author of Liv & Gabby. LaMonika shares her personal challenges with mental illness and decided to write a book entitled Liv and Gabby: Brighter Days Ahead to help children understand the effects and causes of mental illness, and to learn the importance of being supportive and never losing sight of brighter days, no matter how dark things may seem.LaMonika's advocacy work is centered on increasing awareness to end the stigma surrounding mental illness. She emphasizes that seeking help for mental illness is a sign o...2023-05-3051 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsOvercoming Generational Trauma in the Latinx Community with Priscilla MariaThe conversation about first-generation trauma is emerging in the Latino community, specifically in social media spaces focused on improving mental health. For this reason, Priscilla Maria joins Dr. LaMarr D. Shields to discuss generational (or intergenerational) trauma, which differs from first-generation trauma because it is passed down through generations.She offers listeners compassion, empathy, and patience because she is a trauma survivor. She knows how challenging it is to replace negative behaviors and thought patterns with healthy coping mechanisms. She understands the obstacles of breaking generational trauma and self-advocacy cycles, especially as...2023-01-2346 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLive Psychic Readings with Medium Chanel Barbi Dahl and Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields (The Mother's Day Edition)Whether you have questions about your love life, need help making a big life decision, or want to know what your future looks like (don't we all!), Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields and Medium Barbi Dahl have teamed up to offer live, free readings to the SoundBalming community.These online readings may be able to give you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.Still a bit cynical? Maybe, that's because you're picturing a veiled fortune teller clutching a crystal ball in a dark-lit room, promising the imminent arrival of someone tall, dark, and...2021-05-151h 30
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLive Psychic Readings with Medium Chanel Barbi Dahl and Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWhether you have questions about your love life, need help making a big life decision, or want to know what your future looks like (don't we all!), Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields and Medium Barbi Dahl have teamed up to offer live, free readings to the SoundBalming community.These online readings may be able to give you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.Still a bit cynical? Maybe, that's because you're picturing a veiled fortune teller clutching a crystal ball in a dark-lit room, promising the imminent arrival of someone tall, dark, and...2021-03-231h 23
Going North PodcastEp. 316 – “Ubuntu Leadership” with Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields (@LaMarrDShields)“We are better friends to other people than we are to ourselves.” - Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields Today’s featured bestselling author is inspirational speaker, educator, thought-leader, author, and artist, Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields. Dr. Shields and I talk about mindfulness, the Ubuntu philosophy, and more!!! Key Things You’ll Learn: What keeps Dr. LaMarr inspired and motivated. 3 keys for being an Effective Servant Leader. A benefit of mindfulness that many people don...2021-01-0437 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLearning to Control the Empathetic Overwhelm with Jennifer MooreFeeling overloaded with the worries of the world? Ever wonder whether you might be an Empath? In this SoundBalming episode, host, Dr. LaMarr D. Shields talks with Jennifer Moore about the energy of COVID 19, and how it will affect empaths. Jennifer also talks about the importance of battling negativity and bringing more positivity and light to raise your vibration an Empath.Jennifer Moore is a mentor and healer for sensitive empathic women. Holding a Master’s degree in Psychology & Religion, she is also an accredited Master Trainer for EFT International and the founder of the Empathic Mastery Ac...2020-09-1255 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsFrom Addict to Advocate with Ed KresseyListen in as host LaMarr D. Shields talks with author Ed Kressey about the process of rebuilding their lives after struggling with the disease of addiction. Ed describes how and why he made the turn away from addiction to seek help and share the most significant lessons learned along the way—about shame, adversity, strength, perspective, and gratitude. Ed struggled through challenges and pain. After two decades of drug addiction—including 11 devastating years of addiction to methamphetamine—Ed had thrown away his life savings, biotech career, home…even his dog. He’d spent months in jail and four years in meth ps...2020-09-1145 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsConnecting With The World - Connecting With Ourselves with Harry SherwoodHarry Sherwood's dedication to following his heart led him to travel the world. Over the last decade, he lived with and learned from monks, yogis, martial arts masters, professors, and psychologists.In this episode, Harry discusses why so many people can’t seem to make lasting change in their personal development and self-help worlds, plant-based diets, and why most people are left feeling unfulfilled no matter how much external success they achieve, as well as his journey through change. He also talks about life lessons that have shaped him, from his hard-knock early years to founding Consciously.or...2020-08-3149 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Start Your Emotional Healing Journey with Kristine Ovsepian, M.A., C.HT.In this episode we talk with Kristine Ovsepian of Journeys to Heal, where she explains hypnotherapy and how she started her path to being a hypnotherapist, how it helped her, and why she wants to help others by doing this work. She also explains what past life regression work is - what happens during this, how it can help you in your current life and/or situation and what results people have seen. Past life regression is so fascinating, and how she explains it will make you want to know more about what your past life was like!2020-08-291h 06
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHelping People Move from Trauma to Growth with Taylor Bryant and Nicole KatsaounisIn this episode of SoundBalming, Taylor Bryant and Nicole Katsaounis join me to discuss the incredible impact of childhood experiences, the fuzzy distinction between trauma and stress, and what we can do to heal from those experiences. Taylor and are mindset coaches who have an extensive background practicing cognitive behavioral therapy with a focus on trauma. They have spent 10+ years serving their community as family therapists, individual therapists, mental health therapists, and trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy. Combining their years of therapy experience, Taylor & Nicole launched their coaching practice to have a more significant impact in their communities and change...2020-08-1757 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsInvest in Yourself with Executive Leadership Coach Dr. David M. ArringtonIf you are ambitious, driven and understand how important it is to have some balance in your life then you are in the right place, because I had the honor to speak with and interview Dr. David Arrington, and he gave me some really good personal and professional nuggets. David is one of the most successful executive coaches in the country. He coaches leaders to use positive accountability on their in-person and remote teams without micromanaging, which increases morale and engagement.He is also the author of Promotable: How to Demonstrate Your Value, Highlight Your P...2020-08-1049 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow I Learned to Forgive My Dad for Leaving with Leonardo L.T. LightbourneWatching your dad or mom walk out the door with all of their stuff isn’t easy.Knowing they aren’t coming back for you is an even harsher, more numbing, reality to grapple with. You’re left with questions like, Is there something wrong with me? Were we not fun to be around? Was I not enough?When loss, violence or betrayal test our willingness to forgive — how do we do it anyway? This hour, Dr. Shields sits down with Leonoardo L.T. Lightbourne and explores the challenges and benefits of forgiving others and ourselves...2020-08-0645 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLeading with Your Heart with Maureen PeltonMaureen Pelton is a Coach, Consultant, Certified Advanced QNRT Practitioner, and Bridge Builders Collaborative Partner, who uses a variety of integrative modalities in her practice. Using her intuitive gifts, Maureen offers support and guidance to those seeking their truth, wisdom and personal power on their path of self-discovery. Through her unique method of HeartSight, she invites clients to open their hearts, blend their bodies and souls and raise their consciousness to include Divine wisdom.Born as a medium with mystic abilities, Maureen has received mentoring from mystics, psychics and mediums from the United States and abroad. She sat down...2020-08-031h 00
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHealing the Energy Body with Author Lisa EricksonLisa Erickson is a chakra-based energy healer, author, and teacher specializing in women’s energetics and sexual trauma healing. She has trained in many energy healing modalities and is certified in both mindfulness meditation instruction and trauma sensitivity. She is also the creator of a popular DailyOM course Awakening Your Feminine Chakras. Lisa is the author of Chakra Empowerment for Women: Self-Guided Techniques for Healing Trauma, Owning Your Power & Finding Overall Wellness. She joined me in the BalmShelter to about how working with your chakra energy can support you through life-cycles, as well as traumas that may cause disassociation wi...2020-07-3051 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsChanging Behaviors by Changing the Classroom (Home) Environment with Kevin StollerWhat impact does the classroom environment have on overall class behavior and learning? A whole lot! Kay-Twelve founder, Kevin Stoller, chats with us about the power of your classroom environment, and how changing the classroom environment can increase academic engagement and decrease disruptive behavior. Kevin's company helps academic organizations better structure learning environments to get better outcomes from their students. Support the show2020-07-2755 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Recover from Generational Trauma with Author Tina Encarnacion.Have you experienced some kind of abuse or trauma in your life? Maybe it was handed down to you generationally, or perhaps you just found yourself on the wrong end of a relationship. Have you endured the loss of a loved one or a friendship? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are going to enjoy my interview with Tina Incarnation. Tina illustrates the many types of traumas she's experienced and the actions she took to survive, grieve and move on. Tina let go of the shame, guilt, anger, and fear associated with trauma and r...2020-07-2345 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow Focusing On Social Capital And Networks Can Increase Agility with Dr. Froswa' Booker DrewBuilding your social capital extends the value and power behind your network of social contacts. All of which can help you further hone your reputation and get ahead in your career.But what exactly does it look like to build social capital? Dr. Froswa Booker Drew stopped by the BalmShelter to share some practical was to build your social capital from practicing the law of reciprocity to staying in touch with friends and family. Listen to what the most well-connected professionals have already mastered.Dr. Froswa' Booker-Drew is an author, speaker, trainer and consultant. For m...2020-07-2045 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsRead Minds and Amaze People with Mentalist Jonathan PritchardJonathan Pritchard is a magician of sorts, but sleight of hand has nothing to do with his tricks. He’s a master at deceiving the mind. Jonathan is really a mentalist who has dedicated his career to tapping into our subconscious to find out what we’re really thinking, and he says we can all do it too. In this interview, Jonathan talks about how he got started in this field of mentalism and how he ended up on stages in Vegas, America’s Got Talent and many more and how he has been able to turn this pa...2020-07-181h 08
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsCreating and Designing in the Time of Coronavirus with Andrew PhelpsANDREW PHELPS is the Creative Director of User10, a boutique studio focused on SaaS product strategy and design. He leads design teams at small startups as well as enterprise brands. An expert in product strategy and design, he was named one of the Arizona Republic's 35 under 35. He shares his knowledge of strategy, design, and entrepreneurship at ASU, SEEDSPOT, and The CleanTech Open.www.user10.comSupport the show2020-07-1749 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsShift Your Life with Jennifer PowersEver feel like you are just running in place? One day bleeds into another, and every day starts to lose the luster of being alive? You might be stuck, depressed, anxious or unable to do the things you want to do, but you can’t seem to do anything about it. The status quo often seems more appealing than expending the energy required to move to a different state – and heck, you might not like the new state any better. What you know is safer than what you might encounter next. Well, by the end of this show you will...2020-07-1152 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsTaking Control of Your Mental Health with Author Michelle DickinsonMichelle E. Dickinson is a passionate mental health advocate, a TED speaker, and a published author of a memoir entitled Breaking Into My Life. After years of playing the role of child caregiver, Michelle embarked on her own healing journey of self-discovery. Her memoir offers a rare glimpse into a young girl’s experience living with—and loving—her bipolar mother.Michelle spent years working to eradicate the mental health stigma within her own workplace by elevating compassion, causing more open conversations, and leading real change in how mental illness is understood in the workplace and within the fi...2020-07-0650 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Overcome Fear and Anxiety with Gina FresquezEveryone has experienced fear at some point in their life. For those of you who have given into your fears and anxieties, we want you to know that you are not alone. In order to overcome fear, you must learn to push through it, not avoid it. Listen as Dr. LaMarr D. Shields ask Gina Fresquez the tough questions about the impact fear can have on our lives.www.ginafresquez.comSupport the show2020-07-0253 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsThe Role Filmmaking Plays in Dealing with Trauma with Acclaimed Filmmaker Eric ChristiansenEric Christiansen is an acclaimed documentarian who has built his brand around socially responsible filmmaking that educates, inspires and heals. He has the capability to identify an issue within a specific population and have it resonate with a general audience through compelling storytelling. A trauma survivor himself, having lost his home in the Santa Barbara Painted Cave fire disaster, he understands trauma, the resilience of the human spirit, and how important HOPE is to the healing journey. A seven-time Southwestern Region Emmy Award recipient, Christiansen's previous films (Faces in the Fire, Homecoming: A Vietnam Vets Journey, Searching...2020-06-3057 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsThe Transformative Power of Your Voice with Cynthia ZhaiCynthia is a Voice Coach, Speaker and Author. She has helped business professionals and professional speakers from 46 countries across 5 continents with their voice to speak with impact and conviction, engages and inspires people to embrace change and take action.Cynthia has been a professional speaker and coach for the past 17 years and her engagement spans 4 continents in countries as U.S., Finland, The Netherlands, Argentina, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, mainland China, India, Brunei, Vietnam and The Philippines.Cynthia and Dr. Shields discuss some of the techniques and best practices towards developing a more confident...2020-06-2539 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields(Celebrating PRIDE Month) How I Survived Sexual Conversion Therapy with Jared DixonOnce a week for a year, when he was in college, Jared Dixon underwent "conversion therapy," a practice that attempts to attempt to change an individual's sexual orientation, sexual behaviors or gender identity. He joined us in the BalmShelter to discuss the dangers of conversion therapy, and to discredit the practices that falsely claim to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity or expression. Jared's journey of survival is the focus of this powerful interview. Support the show2020-06-221h 08
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields(Special Show in Honor of Pride Month) Protecting our Most Vulnerable Youth with Melissa DaSilvaJune is Pride Month and Pride Month presents a chance for you to express your support for your friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, or other LGBTQIA+ people in your life. Navigating how to be an ally appropriately can be tricky, but your support can help LGBTQIA+ people feel heard and safe as well as be used to amplify LGBTQIA+ voices as they advocate for equal rights. As an advocate for the LGBTQIA+, our team has created two shows dedicated to addressing the many challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Our first guest in this series is Melissa DaSliva. Mel...2020-06-1846 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsTransforming Your Life from Darkness... to Greatness with Kenny WeissKenny Weiss is a leading personal development speaker and the author of Your Journey to Success. As a life coach and founder of The Greatness Movement, he works with successful entrepreneurs, professional athletes, individuals, and families. He has been featured for his work in Psychology Today, Phoenix Magazine and Reader’s Digest among other popular publications. He joins me in the BalmShelter to talk about how our childhood affects our adult. https://www.kennyweiss.netSupport the show2020-06-1552 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLetting Go of Anger and Using Your Time Wisely with Life Influencer Tom CornerThe pre-eminent guide and life influencer for leaders, students, athletes and employees on getting out of their own way in business and life to achieve the ‘impossible", Tom Corner, joined me in the BalmShelter to talks about Finding Life After Rage.Support the show2020-06-1149 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsCreating in the Time of Coronavirus with Artist Jodie KingIn this time of crisis and isolation, the role of art becomes more central to our lives, whether we realize it or not. Joining me in the BalmShelter to discuss the role of art and artist during COVID-19 is Artist Jodie King. Jodie's mission is to help others excavate their own authentic power and joy through the use of art and creativity. She possesses a combination of playful irreverence and spirituality with almost 20 years of art experience that resonates with her audience from around the world. As an artist, Jodie paints primarily in abstract expressionism whi...2020-06-0853 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsFrom Teen Mom to CEO: Leading with Compassion during the COVID-19 Crisis with CEO/President Lorna LittleListen in at author, CEO/President, Lorna Little, as she takes us on her incredible journey from being a teen mom to CEO to leading a $28 million organization during an international pandemic. Lorna joined me in the BalmShelter to discuss how she is leading with compassion and integrity. Learn how she is making decisions, what is influencing her, and the challenges she has as experienced as women and a "women of color" along the way. Support the show2020-06-0551 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsInvesting in Yourself with Real Estate Mogul Reed GoossensIn 2012, Reed quit his job in Australia and moved halfway across the globe to the US to change his life, and to chase a dream. With limited funds, no investing experience, and no credit, Reed went from purchasing a small duplex to growing his own real estate investment firm, Wildhorn Capital. Reed has grown a portfolio of 1,100 multifamily units. He has been involved with $500M-worth of large-scale commercial construction and development projects in Australia, the UK and the US. Today, Reed Goossens joins me to share ways to invest in yourself and why it's so powerful.S...2020-06-0143 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Eat Healthy During the COVID-19 Lockdown with Celebrity Dietician Marlisa BrownWith the outspread of the Coronavirus pandemic, one must take care of oneself and loved ones. For this various precautionary measure has been adopted by everyone over time, but with that, it is essential to take care of our eating habits also. It is of utmost necessary to have a healthy diet as it could help us to boost immunity. One should be mindful now that how to make our eating habits healthy so that even if one is contaminated, then also our immunity can fight with the virus. If few food items inculcated in diet, then i...2020-05-2854 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsThe Healing Power of Music with Bill ProtzmannBill Protzmann, a renowned contemporary pianist and composer, tells a very personal story about the healing power of music.Support the show2020-05-2555 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsSpiritual Evolution with Uma ShankariWith self-effacing humor and refreshing candor, Uma Shankari examines her Spiritual Evolution from her childhood in India to her arrival in the United States. What she uncovers are familiar and all too common distortions that shaped her view of about eating healthy, and about the spiritual evolution of our species.Support the show2020-05-1850 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsEnergy Healing with Mark A. HernandezMark Hernandez is the owner and founder of People and Pets Energetics. He is a Holistic Practitioner that helps people and animals that have “hit the wall” with health and well-being issues. He uses non-invasive energy-medicine modalities and tools to help his clients experience a change gently and safely.In this episode, we tap into what the Body Code and Emotion Code are and how we can use these tools to help us understand our energy and the energy that is all around us. Mark is an excellent teacher and is incredibly knowledgeable about how energy and spir...2020-05-1145 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Thrive If You’re a Highly Sensitive Person: An Interview With Alexandria ThibodeauxAre You a Highly Sensitive Person- HSP?Do you even know what an HSP is?Well today may be your lucky day as we interview Alexandria Thibodeaux, transformational leader, teacher and healer for highly sensitive persons -HSPs and HSP Consultant that has helped 100’s of HSPs step into their true gifts as an HSP and let go of “shoulding all over themselves” about how to be in the world in a way that doesn’t suit them.Today we discuss highly sensitive persons traits and problems that are common to HSPs.www.alexan...2020-05-0439 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsThe Business and Health Benefits of CBD with Michael PachanIt’s no secret that the popularity of CBD has grown exponentially in recent years. Chances are someone in your circle of acquaintances has used CBD: a co-worker, a family member, or a friend. And chances are they’ve shared stories about how well it works for whatever ails them: from arthritis and back pain to anxiety relief and acne reduction, the miracle of CBD as a natural remedy seems to know no bounds. In my interview with Michael Pachan, he discusses the hemp, CBD, and cannabis industry, and his startup Mountain Made.During this interv...2020-04-2747 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Eliminate Negative Self Talk with Michelle KueiMichelle Kuei was an 11-year-old student in rural Taiwan when a car running a red light completely altered her life’s trajectory. Through the long and painful process of recovery, Michelle made surprising discoveries about loss, identity, and personal strength--revelations that helped guide her through her journey as an immigrant to the United States. On this episode, Michelle shares her personal story about how positive transformation can happen when we let go of self-pity, embrace our flaws, and learn to love ourselves. Michelle Kuei is a certified transition life coach who helps negative self-talkers discover inner strength and beauty by...2020-04-2045 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsCreativity and Entrepreneurship During COVID-19 with Designer Marjorie NicoleStarting and growing a business in the creative industries can be challenging at the best of times. Can you move your company forward during a major crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and if so, how? Serial creative and designer Marjorie Nicole joins us in BalmShelter to how she's using her skills to protect us from COVID-19.As one of the latest entrepreneurs to step up and help out with the nationwide mask shortage, Marjorie Nicole, founder of NSAA, an African inspired clothing boutique, started selling reusable face masks with fabric from Africa for use as protective m...2020-04-1345 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWhy It's Never Too Late to Follow Your Purpose with Christy RutherfordWhen people first come across the Law of Attraction, their hearts and minds often immediately think of one specific thing that they’d love to manifest in their lives. However, the next thought is usually, “But I can’t do that.” You may come up with all kinds of excuses, from the belief that you’re too old to find love to the assumption that you don’t have the skills to reach the top in the career of your choosing.Luckily, the truth is that it’s never too late to follow your dream. Christy Rutherford shares reasons...2020-04-0648 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Cope with Anxiety and Depression in the age of COVID-19 with Balin A. Durr, MDThe outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a condition can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger.Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations. How you respond to the outbreak can depend on your background, the things that make you different from other people, and the community you live in. Therefore, Dr. Balin A. Durr, a board-certified psychiatrist with 20 years of experience in child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry, joined Dr. Shields in...2020-04-041h 11
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Respond to the Business Impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19)In addition to the serious implications for people's health and the healthcare services, coronavirus (COVID-19) is having a significant impact on businesses and the economy. Dr. Jeffrey A. Robinson shares strategies to help small business prepare and respond to the crisis. Jeffrey A. Robinson, Ph.D. is an award winning business school professor, international speaker and entrepreneur. Since 2008, he has been a leading faculty member at Rutgers Business School where he is an assistant professor of management and entrepreneurship and the founding Assistant Director of The Center for Urban Entrepreneurship & Economic Development. Support the show2020-04-0146 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Pursue Your Purpose with Dr. Towanna Burrous“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born, and the day you find out why.” - Mark Twain. You are going to LOVE this episode! Dr. Towanna Burrous is real. She is a mom, Executive Coach, Founder & President of CoachDiversity Institute, and knows a lot about pursuing your purpose.In this episode, Towanna explains how to release yourself from damaging relationships, debilitating fears, finding a good coach, and the “power” of questions.This episode is for those who refuse to waste a single day and who fervently desire to bu...2020-03-2845 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWhen Diversity & Creativity Meet Nothing Can Stop You with Yolonda BrinkleyFor years, critics have sounded off about the lack of diversity in nominations in the Academy Awards. Social media commentators have used the hashtag, #OscarsSoWhite, to share their disappointment. Just like the Academy Awards, the Cannes Film Festival, considered the world's most prestigious film festival, also has been called out for lack of diversity. Enters Yolonda Brinkley, creator of Diversity in Cannes, an independent filmmaker movement promoting inclusion at the Cannes Film Festival. Due to the continued conversation regarding the lack of diversity in the festival, Yolanda felt it necessary to encourage the presence of m...2020-03-2443 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsMeeting the Needs of At-Risk and Adjudicated Youth with Behavioral Challenges with Jeff "Jazz" JonesJeff gives a candid, unforgettable look at the world for at-risk and incarcerated children and youth today, and the juvenile justice professionals who work with them.Support the show2020-03-1724 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLive from the National Youth a Risk Conference 2020 in Savanah, Georgia with Julia GaborJulia Gabor, Mindful Founder of Kid-Grit, opens up about her personal life, and how her upbringing prepared her to serve some of the most challenging kids. Kid-Grit is committed to a holistic developmental approach promoting the nourishment of a child’s intellect, emotion and intuition, along with the conditioning of his/her body through delicious nutrient-dense food, movement, breathing and other self-regulation tools. In this way, we can holistically impact the whole childhttps://www.kid-grit.comSupport the show2020-03-1621 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLive from the National Youth a Risk Conference 2020 in Savanah, Georgia with Hotep of Hustle UniversityOn this episode of SoundBalming, Hotep, Business Abolitionist, documents his personal and professional journey of building Hustle University in real-time. From his early days of being a kindergarten teacher to creating innovative ideas that evolve to life-changing products. As the founder of Hustle University, the first self-help organization for entrepreneurs, Hotep is an internationally renowned success strategist, Congressional Award-winning educator, and authentic entrepreneur known for his out-the-box thinking, guerilla marketing tactics, branding expertise, and his provocative, “hardcore” approach to teaching leadership, entrepreneurship and practical business best practices.If you need a dosage of thinking big, Hotep...2020-03-1528 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLive from the National Youth a Risk Conference 2020 in Savanah, Georgia with Keith L. BrownKnown Nationally and Globally as, “Mr. I’M POSSIBLE,” Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Keith L. Brown, overcame the systematic labels of, “Special-Ed,” and, “At-Risk,” to become one of the most sought after speakers of our time. Named a, “World Class Speaker. I caught up with Keith at the National Youth At-Risk Conference in Savanah Georgia, and he shared some ways to jumpstart your personal growth by challenging everything that comes your way. You will be inspired, and ready to take control of your life. http://keithlbrown.comSupport the show2020-03-1325 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLive from the National Youth a Risk Conference 2020 in Savanah, Georgia with Dr. Irma GibsonI caught up with Dr. Irma Gibson at the National Youth At-Risk Conference. She was giving a talk about her new book, Intimate Partner Violence Among African American Male Victims. The essence of this nonfiction book pertains to intimate partner violence (domestic violence) with a focus on an unnoticed population, black male victims. The content consists of fourteen awe-inspiring chapters strategically aligned with the task of addressing the twenty-first-century crisis of IPV comprehensively, truthfully, and holistically from a personal, research-based, practice-focused, and policy-based perspective. Real-world truths innovatively address and present a diverse range of topics and solutions, including the...2020-03-1316 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWhat it Means to Serve Others — The Mark of a Servant LeaderBeing a servant leader means putting the interests of others above your own. And no one knows this better than Dr. Shaw Ashworth. For the past two years, every Thursday evening, at the Baltimore Washington Thurgood Marshal Airport, she feeds over 150 people. On this episode of SoundBalming, Dr. Shawn Ashworth explains why she decided to serve displaced men, women, and families living in the airport. And explain why it's important for all of us to serve. Support the show2020-03-1135 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHOW THE HIDDEN POWER OF WORDS INSPIRES, EMPOWERS, AND CREATES CHANGEEver wonder what the hidden power of words is?My next guest would cringe at the sight of the grammar on this blog as I often confuse “Whom with Who,” and “Affect with Effect.”For me, it’s always been about the passion behind my words, not the grammar or structure (that may also be my cop-out since I almost flunked English in high school).The magic of words, however, happens when we learn to use the correct grammar coupled with passion… that’s when the real inspiration happens in creating a visual story and powe...2020-03-0547 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsIt's Yours If You Want ItActor, Gregory Keith Grainger embodies the hope that anyone, no matter how humble their background, can succeed at the highest level. Known for his work on Queen & Slim (2019), Uncle Drew (2018), and Atlanta (2016). He went from studying communications and mass media, then flipped the script entirely and pursued a career in acting. Despite many setbacks and challenges he faced, Greg remained loyal to his core values and his craft. In this episode of SoundBalming, Greg explains precisely how he fell in love with acting, speaks passionately about the importance of forming and nurturing relationships, faith, and even talks about how...2020-02-2035 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsReimagining Success with Ayinde AlakoyeAyinde Alakoye's journey as a serial entrepreneur began early in his career when he created the first iteration of what would become Clear Channel's iheartradio app. Now a highly popular app with over 100 million users, the way in which the world at large listens to radio has been forever changed. A highly tech-savvy individual with a long history of working in – in fact, for the majority of his career. After serving as a speechwriter and advisor for President Obama's 2008 and '12 campaigns, and even appearing on the hit Bravo show, "Millionaire Matchmaker" in 2010.Ayinde talked with LaM...2020-02-111h 02
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsThe Coffee Challenge: The Power of Asking for What You Want with Bobby AudleyAsk for what you want, get what you want. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? But as Bobby Audley explains in this inspiring episode, sometimes it’s the smallest words, the simplest steps, and 50 cups of coffee that can make the biggest difference in our lives. By setting the goal of having coffee with 50 people forces you to be clear about your goals. Making the goal public, one person at a time, also makes it much stronger. Having 50 coffees is good because then you have to commit to the specific move that you want to make. You’ll also ge...2020-01-2743 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWhy Telling Our Own Story Is So Powerful for Black Women with Tiffany GillFor so long, Black women’s and Black girl’s stories and memory have often been ignored, erased, and neglected. However, Tiffany Gill, Founder/Chief Visionary Officer of Black Girls Unscripted, is ensuring that these “errors” and the exclusion of their voices will never happen again. She stopped by the SoundBalming Studio to discuss how she’s pushing back against distorted versions of Black women and Black girls.www.blackgirlsunscripted.orgSupport the show2020-01-1343 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLiving on PurposeHow do you practice staying on purpose? Have you lost sight of the purpose of your life? If so, you're not alone. According to a new book, by Victor Strecher, having a purpose in life is crucial for our health and well-being. Today I sat down with a transformational servant leader, Dr. Tasheka L. Green, who chose to live her life on purpose. As an inspirational speaker, influential coach, thirteen-time best-selling and international best-selling author, entrepreneur, philanthropist, talk show host, and the Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of To Everything There is a Season Enterprises. 2020-01-0739 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsIn Search of My Roots: A Journey to Find Myself and My FatherWhat started as a dare between two college friends in a hotel room in Las Vegas, quickly turned into a journey from rural Pennsylvania to the Mediterranean. When former educator and CEO of Day Real Estate, Mat Day, dared to unearth his family history. So, pull out your Hummus, Rice Pilaf, Fattoush, and pour yourself of a cup of Sahlab, and follow along on Matt's heritage journey to see what happens when he discovers where his ancestors are from for the first time.Support the show2020-01-0445 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Navigate the Holidays After Losing Loved Ones (While Still Serving Others)Family and togetherness are key themes for the holidays. That can make the holidays awfully difficult for people who are grieving the loss of a loved one. My father passed away a few weeks before the holidays. We still shared stories, ate large meals, visited with family, even sang some songs—but it was all pretty subdued.Although grief is nearly universal, it expresses itself in many different ways, and sometimes resembles significant depression. Frequent crying spells, depressed mood, sleep disturbances, and loss of appetite are frequent during the bereavement process.Internationally recognized author, speaker, and...2019-12-2440 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWhy People of Color Need Safe SpacesMaurissa Stone Bass is a social artrepreneur, change strategist, management consultant, facilitator, motivational speaker, executive coach, and community development professional. She sat down with me today to talk about why people of color need safe spaces. And how valuing and protecting areas for people of color (POC) is not just a kind thing that white people can do to help us feel better. She feels supporting these spaces is crucial to the resistance of oppression. She also opened about how she copes with adversity in her own life. Support the show2019-12-2150 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLessons I Learned from Drinking: Life Principles Gained through Investing in SpiritsIn his latest book, Lessons I Learned from Drinking: Life Principles Gained through Investing in Spirits, Timothy Fields reflects on some of his most memorable drinking adventures over the last 20 years. This book is not just about drinking; instead it's about life and the many challenges it contentiously presents and how to combat them to live a better, more carefree, and peaceful life! Support the show2019-12-1740 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields"Vegan Soul Food" is Not an Oxymoron with Gregory BrownI’ve been lucky enough to travel around the country telling folks about the history of soul food. Along the way, I learned a sure-fire way to bring an energetic audience into a stunned silence. I tell them that “vegan” is the hottest trend in soul food. Many African Americans have gnashed their teeth (some have even wailed) after hearing this news. Why? Because vegan cuisine, with its lack of animal products (dairy, lard and meat) is so completely at odds with what the food they grew up eating in their parents’ or grandparents’ kitchen. No fried chicken or catfish? G...2019-12-1242 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsFrom Teen Mom to Rocket ScientistAs a society, we learn about the world and advance our well being through science and engineering. The United States may be known around the world for its higher education, but compared to many other leading and steadily emerging countries, we lack a strong focus on educating scientists and engineers. One significant reason that we have fallen behind is that we do not encourage our female students to pursue career paths in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).Dr. K. Renee Horton believes this needs to change, as the lack of women in STEM will continue to...2019-11-1249 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsLove and Entrepreneurship: The Story of CurlMixMarriage takes work. This is especially true when you literally work with your spouse. Having your partner at your side all day at work and then for the rest of the night at home isn’t for everyone, but for married entrepreneurs, Kim and Tim, they couldn’t see life any other way.Kim and Tim Lewis, the Co-Founders of Curl Mix, which was featured on ABC’s “Shark Tank shares their story of young romance, failed business, and bouncing back to be a force to be reckoned with. Learn how Kim started Curl Mix alongsid...2019-07-2952 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsCreativity, Calling, Culture, and Leading with a Spiritual PurposeDr. Ericka Njeri Elion is an emerging spiritual and cultural leader, as well the Creator and President of the Miriam House, who understands the need to define and respond to the generational spiritual consequences of racism, victimization, marginalization, and isolation experienced by people of African descent, specifically serving as scholar-activists in ministry.She joins me in the BalmShelter to offer practical steps on how to "unlock the creative genius" she believes lives inside all of us. Support the show2019-07-221h 06
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow to Thrive in Life's Toughest SeasonsAre you overwhelmed with life’s changes? Have you gone through a divorce? Wanted to give up? Had a baby? Changed jobs? Switched careers? In this up and close interview, former Ebony Fashion Fair Commentator and model turned psychotherapist and media personality known for her transparent, practical style of communicating and teaching, Dr. Jada Jackson, talks about how to manage life’s losses and common transitions by reframing negative thought processes. Dr. Jada will help get you refocused and back on track! As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Jada shares how she struggled with life’s transitions and emerged to liv...2019-07-1547 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsTwisted Melodies: The Life of Soul Legend Donny HathawaySoul music legend Donny Hathaway, who is name-checked among a list of famous suicides— a man who often refused to take the prescribed medication that was meant to help control the debilitating symptoms of his paranoid schizophrenia takes center stage in Washington, DC.’s Mosaic Theater’s scintillating musical drama Twisted Melodies.Kelvin Roston, Jr., who wrote Twisted Melodies and grew up in St. Louis just like Donny Hathaway, joins me in the BalmShelter to discuss this breathtaking solo performance for which words are really insufficient to describe its emotional impact. Jimmy&Mary's Authentic Body Car...2019-07-0845 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsSecret Confessions of A Real Estate EntrepreneurI recently had a chance to chat with entrepreneur and real estate expert Christian Ross. If she looks and sounds familiar to you, she either sold you your home or you’ve seen her on an episode of HGTV’s “House Hunters.” With more than 10 years’ experience as an international realtor, the TV personality specializes in luxury properties in Atlanta, the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East and Australia.She is one of Atlanta's most respected and recognized top-selling brokers whose success has flourished into an international client base expanding through Europe, South America, Israel, Canada and AustraliaDurin...2019-07-0149 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsMatchmaker Ericka Jackson dishes about love and the job searchIt turns out that dating and job searching aren’t all that different. One expert shares her best advice for flirting, handling rejection and avoiding being too picky.I recently conducted an interview with my friend Ericka Jackson, who is a witty, fun, energetic all around beautiful human being, and also an incredible dating coach. She runs https://ilovethechase.com/, and teaches workshops all over the world on how to meet people. She connects single, busy professionals and entrepreneurs through exclusive, personalized matchmaking services and customized, private matchmaking events. Unlike most Matchmaker, Ericka’s approach is simple, easy...2019-06-2634 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsUncovering the Story of Youth HomelessnessAcross the country, thousands of young people are without permanent homes. Service providers and policy makers have not known how many of these young people exist or how to meet their needs. That picture is changing due to the work of a Rebeka Beach, Director at Project Connect.Founded in 1996, Project Connect provides advocacy paired with specialized educational services and lifestyle enrichment opportunities for children who have neither a voice nor a choice, in being homeless. Cincinnati Public Schools serves about 1,700 students whose families are homeless.We caught up with Rebeka at the National Youth...2019-03-2740 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsStudent Loans Are the DevilIt’s been one week since federal authorities announced that 50 people — including actresses Lori Loughlin and Felicity Huffman — participated in a massive scam focused on getting wealthy children accepted to elite universities.The scandal has sparked an intense discussion about wealth, privilege, and access to America’s most selective schools. But the ongoing fallout, and other recent stories about race-conscious admissions at Harvard and growing racial disparities in New York City’s selective high schools, provide a chance to examine a larger issue: how racial, educational, and economic inequality and discrimination collide to...2019-03-2126 minSoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsOvercoming Adversity with RealitySomeone once said, “Every great loss demands that we choose life again.” This quote sums up the life of Jeff Jordan, social entrepreneur and health and wellness advocate. Despite being raised by a single mom, who was addicted to drugs, and a father who was absent from his life, Jeff has been able to bounce back and build several successful businesses focusing on holistic youth development, mentoring and kinetic life coaching. He shares some of those strategies with me in the BalmShelter.Support the show2019-02-041h 04
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsConfessions of a Special Needs ParentParenting a child with a disability can be a challenge, and often those challenges feel like a strong tidal wave coming, threatening to make parents lose their balance, to fall, and sometimes wanting to give up.Despite the stares, the school system, the medical billing, the ignorance from other people, and or the lack of support, Tracy Ward or Sista Tracy, as she prefers to be called, speaks about finding beauty in brokenness with gritty honesty and openness. She's passionate about sharing the real – sometimes beautiful and sometimes ugly – aspects of faith, parenting, and raising a child with...2019-01-2853 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsYoga, Mental Health and Healing: An Interview With A Yoga Instructor Leonora EubanksI’ve been meditating and practicing yoga for 15 years — ever since I realized that meditation isn’t about sitting in a lotus pose surrounded hippies, pretending you’re as calm as Buddha while pondering what’s for dinner and planning responses to work emails. Meditation is the best tool in the world — life-changing, in fact — for connecting with yourself and making your wildest visions come into fruition. So, I was excited to sit down with talk with yoga and meditation teacher Leonora Eubanks. Leonora shares her insights into anxiety, fear, and schizophrenia and how mindfulness and meditation can be of benefi...2019-01-2144 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWinning BIG in the Game of LifeEducator, author and filmmaker Dr. Marc Williams, a nationally-respected sports marketing pioneer, pop culture expert, has been widely regarded as a Sports Marketing Pioneer. He is one of the nation’s experts on Education, Leadership, Career Transition, Crisis Management, and Professional Development. Dr. Williams has worked for three of the largest Sports Brands in the world: Champs Sports, Footaction and Reebok and was named as one of the Top 20 Inspirational Speakers in the World. His insights have been featured on CBS World News, BBC World News, and CNN. He's worked with Michael Jordan, Beyoncé, Allen Iverson, Chris Rock, Shakira, Wil...2019-01-141h 06
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsReciprocal Healing with Thai MassageFrom the moment we are born to the final days of our lives, touch acts as a central aspect of the human experience — impacting our physical, mental and emotional health, and quite literally shaping the way we go through our lives.Candace J. Mickens, the lead massage therapist at Sacred Touch Body Work, stopped by the SoundBalming Studio to talk about her journey to becoming a Thai Message Therapist, “bodywork,” and how our sense of touch and our emotional responses authentically impact our lives. As a “bodyworker,” her mission is to re-connect the body with the mind and sp...2019-01-0741 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsDoing What You Love While Building a Smart, Purposeful BrandI recently had the opportunity to chat with Samara Stone, Founder of The Stone Foundation, about personal branding, learning from failure, and leading with passion and purpose.Samara is an innovative leader in the field of mental health, where she leverages her 20 years of experience to develop business coaching and branding solutions specifically for her unique niche of mental health entrepreneurs through her work with BeBrandConfident.com. If you find yourself stuck in your career or looking for a boost of motivation, look no further, Samara’s message will encourage you to constantly look for opportunities as wel...2018-12-1148 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsThe Art of Adaptability: Climbing Mountains without LegsAfter walking into Brain Surgery and never walked back out, Dr. Yvette Pagues lost an opportunity for fully-funded Ivy League college scholarship, Fortune 100 Executive Engineering career and the ability to walk on her own. On the other side of tragedy, she won 3-wheelchair pageant titles with platform to help children aged 7-17 years old publish their #Storms2Stories in a book - starting with her own children, active advocacy for Global Inclusion, re-created career as Corporate Disability/Diversity Consultant, became published author, Purpose Coach, Professional Speaker and recently returned to graduate school to earn a Doctor of Education degree...2018-11-271h 01
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsUp Close with Jazz Artist Frank McCombThese days, the word ‘legend’ is very seldom used to describe modern day artists, but I had the opportunity to sit down with a legend, Frank McComb. Frank has worked with this century and last century’s greatest musicians and blessed many people’s lives through his music, including mine. His musical journey started when he was 12 when saw his aunt play at the local church. I caught up with him at The Publick Playhouse in Cheverly, Maryland, known for its comfortable, inviting space and great acoustics. In this interview, he discusses being an independent artist, Prince, crea...2018-10-3031 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsHow 'Mess In A Bottle' Creator Kalilah Wright Defied All Odds To Start Her BusinessWhen Kalilah Wright left her six-figure architect job to follow her true passion of becoming an entrepreneur — crafting cool sayings on cotton t-shirts for her brand, Mess in a Bottle — she never thought she would come face-to-face with crime. More importantly, she never thought the city she loved and called home would be where her nightmare took place. But the root of her story stretches far beyond fashion and entrepreneurship, its premise focuses on empowerment and having the fortitude to forge ahead when you’ve given up hope. Today, Wright will tell anyone who listens, the importance of being happy...2018-10-2646 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsFrom Pain to PurposeShantell Roberts can remember the exact time her mother called her at work to say that she’d found Roberts’ 1-year-old daughter unresponsive in the bed. It was 9:48 a.m. – and the moment everything in her life changed.Tylour Marie had been sick with a fever and vomiting, but doctors didn’t seem too worried, telling Roberts to come back in three days if her daughter hadn’t improved. At the time, it all seemed fairly routine.But the viral infection doctors thought Tylour had turned out to be MRSA pneumonia, and, despite doing everything doctors to...2018-10-0853 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsFinding Your Juicy Integrated Life (JIL) with Executive Coach Anisa RashadBeing happy doesn't have to be hard, says prominent executive coach Anisa Rashad. We each possess an internal compass that expresses our individual wisdom and points to the things that would most fulfill us.On this interview, Anisa offers tried-and-true strategies that help us to access our own inner knowledge to achieve what she calls JIL: Juicy Integrated Life, in which gains come more easily because we've learned to honor our true desires and work with our individual talents rather than exhausting our energy on a traditional model of achievement. Her techniques focus on asking ourselves what we really want...2018-08-2651 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsPhotographer Kyle Pompey talks about his book Perspective Baltimore, living a life of purpose, giving back, beauty, and what it was like being my student.This is one of my favorite interviews to date. It really delves into the details of how Kyle Pompey found his niche, and started to excel in it. We also reminiscence on the days when Kyle was my student, and what he learned from me. Most importantly though, we discover how Kyle has found his own style and the inspiration behind his shooting. And how you can do the same.If you’re an aspiring photographer or just need a bit of inspiration, then this interview is for you.Kyle Pompey is a professional photographer living in Baltimore, Maryland, who co...2018-08-2051 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsConfessions of a Life CoachThis week on the podcast, my guest is Jennifer Powers, author of the Oh, Shift! and Oh, Shift! for Teens. She talks about the power of words, living free, beating depression, and choosing joy. Her message of hope provides real solutions for real people who need a shift in their lives, relationships, jobs, and marriage.Support the show2018-08-1343 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsProfessional Beatboxer Shodekeh talks on the origins of beatboxing, child-abuse, and neuroscienceShodekeh Talifero has embarked on many collaborations over his career as a professional beatboxer - not only with other musicians from a diverse range of backgrounds, but also with neuroscientists as he seeks to reinforce his musical intuition.As a participant in Session 547 | The Neuroscience of Art: What are the Sources of Creativity and Innovation?, the Towson University Department of Dance Faculty spoke to LaMarr about the origins and values of beatboxing, child abuse, the politics of Hip-Hop, and using beatboxing to teach kids math. Listen to the interview and an exclusive beatboxing performance here.Support the show2018-08-061h 18
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsSinger and Activist Ayanna Gregory Reflects on The Legacy of Her Father Comedian Dick GregoryAyanna Gregory is the daughter of longtime civil rights activist and comedian Dick Gregory; she's also an accomplished singer. Ayanna talks about how activism influenced her acting and music. Also, Ayanna Gregory shares an excerpt from her one-woman show, Daughter of the Struggle, including a song she wrote in tribute to her mother and father.Support the show2018-07-271h 16
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsReducing Stress with PeaceBreaksFrom work, school, and finances, to friends, family, and first dates, pretty much every aspect of our lives can (and will) be a cause of stress at some point.In this episode of SoundBalming, author Candance Greene shares her deep breathing technique called Peace-Breaks, used to alleviate in-the-moment tension. In addition, Candance also discusses her new book, Inhale Peace: A 31-Day Journey to Realign with the Peace of God.Support the show2018-07-2356 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWalking While Black' documentary aims to bridge gaps in police, community relationsAfter an interaction with Howard County police in 2012 that he found deeply troubling, filmmaker A.J. Ali says he was motivated to address relations between police and the African-American community.AJ — teamed up with Errol Webber, a Maryland Institute College of Art alumnus and cinematographer who previously worked on an Oscar-winning documentary short. With Ali as director and Webber as director of photography, they produced "Walking While Black: L.O.V.E. Is the Answer," which discusses bridging the gap in police-community relations throughout America. The acronym "L.O.V.E.," coined by Ali, is to encourage people to "learn ab...2018-07-1326 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsCharnele Brown from ‘A Different World’ Opens Up about her life, Acting, and Bill CosbyCharnele Brown's role of Kim Reese in A Different World was one of the most relatable ones during the run of the show. Striving for educational perfection while experiencing real world issues, there was no denying Brown's talent in her role on the show. Charnele joined me in the BalmShelter to talk about acting, colorism, God, Bill Cosby, and so much more. Support the show2018-07-1347 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsEmmy Award- wining talk show host talks about following your passion.People know him as the Digital Lifestyle Expert® on NBC’s TODAY Show, CNN, NPR, FUSE, and more. They’ve watched him on Steve Harvey, Inside Edition, Dr. Oz, and other popular talk shows and news programs.In recent years, Mario has become an even greater pop-culture presence as host of multiple events and shows, including filling in for Carson Daly in the TODAY Show ‘Orange Room’ and hosting an event with judges from the popular TV show Shark Tank.Mario has now launched his own interactive talk show, the Emmy Award-winning Never Settle Show. This is the world’s first crowd...2018-07-131h 04
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWhat You Need to Know About Self-Publishing: An Interview with Dr. Adair White-JohnsonI recently caught up with Dr. Adair White-Johnson, the author of eleven self-published books and the founder of the Johnson Tribe Publishing.In this interview, she told me about:1)How to self-publish a book in 20182)The one thing you must do before you write or self-publish your book3)How to avoid the common mistakes new writers (not authors!) make4)The simple rule that helps Adair balance writing with running a successful business5)And so much moreSupport the show2018-07-1238 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsIn Haiti, Art Remains a Solid CornerstoneJan. 12 will mark the nineteenth anniversary of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Among the millions of Haitians still homeless and rebuilding their lives are artists — painters, musicians, dancers, writers. On a recent trip to Haiti, I caught up with Jean Appollon and Stephanie Scherpf at the Hotel Oloffson in Port-au-Prince to witness the beauty their work, dance.Jean talked about his home country and its art, its history and future, and how its artists are surviving in the earthquake’s aftermath.Jean Appolon Expressions uses dance to celebrate Haitian cultural expression and empower young people through innovative dance performance and comm...2018-07-1118 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsAcademy-Nominated Cinematographer Hans Charles Talks Race, Culture, Relationships, Images, and Hollywood'13th' Cinematographer Hans Charles On 'Mr. SOUL!' And Being Deliberate About The Black Image Selma director Ava DuVernay’s documentary 13th examines America’s prison industrial complex and its effect on African Americans from slavery till now. The 2016 film, named for the Thirteenth Amendment, has been nominated for an Academy Award. LaMarr Darnell Shields spoke with Hans Charles, the film’s cinematographer and an assistant professor of cinematography at George Mason University, about what it was like to work on 13th, being an “angry” Black Male in America, his creative process, and Hip-Hop music, just to name a few.Support...2018-06-291h 28
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsWhy Pursuing Your Purpose MattersThis episode is dedicated to people who are feeling lost, stuck, or stagnant in their lives, people who are in jobs that they don’t love, and people who are struggling with finding what it is they’re really meant to do. Dr. Joe Johnson shares key insights on how to pursue your purpose while getting paid to do it.Support the show2018-06-0635 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsUnmasking the Pain Inside the ClassroomThe extraORDINARY: Mr. Nobody follows Tsanonda Edwards, a young man growing up in inner city Baltimore, MD, as he strives to find his way through high school, college and life having grown up in a strict religious home. After death significantly impacts his family and upbringing, Tsanonda struggles to understand the world around him.Support the show2018-05-2837 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsDoing Time with My Son: A Mother and Son's Enduring Love Through IncarcerationIf you have never experienced firsthand the incarceration of yourself or a loved one, Bettye Blaize’s story will give you an empathetic, but realistic look at a struggle that has become a national crisis. And if you are a family member of an inmate or an inmate yourself, Doing Time will give voice to a struggle that you know only too well. Support the show2018-05-2538 min
SoundBalming with Dr. LaMarr Darnell ShieldsDC Sniper's Ex-Wife, Mildred Muhammad Talks About Link Between Domestic Violence and Mass ShootingsSome experts say domestic violence is a common thread in mass shootings. Mildred Muhammad, D.C. Sniper John Allen Muhammad's ex-wife, said she knows about the connection first-hand. She joins me in the BalmShelter to describe her living nightmare.It is not just “a” story – it is “one of the many” stories built on the experiences of domestic violence and the depths of its terror. After her children were kidnapped and her inability to go on living without them, she began the silent struggle of looking for them, knowing that if she exposed herself, John Allen Muhammad would locate her and kill h...2018-05-2535 min