Shows
SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 18 | The Fire Right Now with Ty Hobson Powell | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCASTIn this conversation, Jabir McKnight interviews nationally recognized activist and author of 'The Fire Right Now,’ Ty Hobson Powell. The episode discusses Ty's early life, educational journey, and the challenges he faced as a young black male in the education system. Ty also shares insights on the importance of identity, community organizing, and the role of fatherhood in shaping his purpose and political views. The discussion also critiques the current cultural landscape — highlighting the need for responsible consumption of media and the impact it has on societal values — stressing the importance of personal accountability within...2025-07-0649 minSPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 17 | Creating in Color: Art, Identity & Impact with Amanda Hunt | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCASTIn this conversation, Amanda Hunt shares her journey as an actor, writer, and filmmaker, discussing her early inspirations, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges she faces as a Black woman in the entertainment industry. She emphasizes the significance of representation, the need for authentic storytelling, and the importance of creating one's own work. Amanda also touches on the balance between creativity and business, the necessity of protecting one's peace, and the personal connections she makes with her roles — highlighting the gaps in mainstream narratives, particularly regarding Jamaican culture and identity. The conversation also explores the cultural sim...2025-06-0942 minSPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 16 | Bridging Politics, People, and Progress with Alexander Hackett | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCASTIn this episode of SPARK*D, host Jabir McKnight engages with Alexander Hackett, City Councilman At-Large for Wilmington, Delaware. They discuss the importance of leadership in the community, particularly in engaging the younger generation in civic activities. Hackett shares his personal journey from education to public service, emphasizing the need for intergenerational connections and the impact of mentorship and reflects on his experiences in the corporate world and on Capitol Hill. The conversation underlines the vital role of community engagement in shaping future leaders by empowering them through career opportunities and engaging them in the political process. Hackett also...2025-06-0246 minSPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 15 | Shaping Tomorrow’s Talent with Rod Adkins | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCASTIn this enlightening conversation, Jabir McKnight interviews Rod Adkins, a strategy consultant and tech expert, about his journey from the Air Force to becoming an executive. They discuss the importance of mentorship, resilience, and the evolving workforce shaped by AI and automation. Rod shares insights on essential skills for the future, the role of communication in business, and the opportunities within the aerospace industry — emphasizing the significance of creativity and innovation in a rapidly changing landscape. Stay connected with SPARK*DInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedreambeaconpodcastTikTok: https://www.ti...2025-05-2638 minSPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 14 | Rewriting Student Life with Dr. T.J. Logan | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCASTIn this conversation, host Jabir McKnight and Executive Director of Brailsford & Dunlavey, Dr. T.J. Logan, explore the evolving landscape of higher education, discussing the impact of the pandemic, the importance of community and shared experiences, and the need for institutions to differentiate themselves by taking audacious chances. Here, they emphasize the role of technology and partnerships in driving innovation, while also highlighting the significance of humility and expertise in professional growth. Visit Brailsford & Dunlavey at https://www.bdconnect.comConnect with Dr. T.J. Logan at https://www...2025-05-1858 minSPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 13 | Rethinking Education with Cortney Woodruff of Assemble | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCASTIn this conversation, host, Jabir McKnight, and Co-Founder and CEO of Assemble, Cortney Woodruff discuss the relevance of higher education, the mission of Assemble, and the importance of bridging the gap between industry and academia. They explore the challenges faced by universities in adapting to changing workforce demands, the role of corporations in shaping educational curricula, and the impact of demographic trends on higher education. Cortney shares his entrepreneurial journey, the significance of cultural intelligence, and discusses the evolving landscape of fundraising and investment in diverse startups as well as the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking t...2025-05-111h 11SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 12 | Black Male Achievement with Anthony G. Stepney and Dr. Robert J. Rodgers Jr.In this week’s conversation, host Jabir A. McKnight delves into the current state and future of male achievement in America, particularly focusing on Black boys and men with Anthony G. Stepney and Dr. Robert J. Rodgers Jr. The discussion highlights the challenges faced in education, the importance of community and accountability through personal stories and historical context. Also discussed is the importance of exposure and education in personal growth, the impact of mindset on financial success, and the need for community-oriented approaches to capitalism—emphasizing the significance of studying one's craft, the role of relationships in sust...2025-05-041h 26SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 11 | The Science of Day Dreaming | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCASTIn this conversation, Jabir McKnight and Paula Intravaia discuss the significance of creativity and daydreaming in today's fast-paced world. Paula shares insights about her organization, Cloud Club Collective, which focuses on activating imaginations and fostering creativity through purposeful daydreaming. They explore the challenges faced in education, the role of nature in creativity, and the importance of encouraging creative expression in both children and adults. The discussion also touches on the impact of lost creativity in under-resourced communities and the mental health crisis, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to enhance well-being and foster a culture of creativity.Stay connected...2025-04-2744 minSPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 10 | The Professional Overcomer with Zakia Blain | SPARK*D THE DREAMBEACON PODCASTIn this inspiring episode, Jabir McKnight sits down with Zakia Blain, Founder and CEO of FBF Body, to explore her powerful journey through resilience, entrepreneurship, and purpose-driven community building. Zakia opens up about the personal health challenges that shaped her path, and how a simple weight loss challenge evolved into a thriving shapewear brand. Zakia speaks candidly about the importance of authenticity, giving back, and uplifting the next generation through her philanthropic efforts. The conversation dives into mental health, navigating business during the pandemic, and the hard-won lessons she’s learned along the way—as a visionary entrepreneur and a de...2025-04-201h 04SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 9 | Protecting Your Mental Health with Dante Wade and Aaron Warrick of Reju | SPARK*DIn this episode of SPARK*D | THE DREAMBEACON PODCAST, host Jabir A. McKnight sits down with Dante Wade and Aaron Warrick, co-founders of Reju, a mental health and wellness app. The conversation delves into their personal journeys, the inception of Reju, the importance of addressing mental health in marginalized communities, and emphasizes the need for destigmatizing mental health discussions and the importance of individual and collective growth. Dante and Aaron both talk about the challenges they faced, the impact of economic factors on mental health, and the significance of mentorship and community support. Stay c...2025-04-1358 minSPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 8 | Smart Girl by Dr. La'Tonya Rease Miles | SPARK*D A DREAMBEACON PODCASTIn this episode of the Spark Podcast, host Jabir McKnight sits down with Dr. La'Tonya Rease Miles, discussing her journey as a first-generation student and the themes of resilience, mentorship, and cultural identity.In this conversation, La'Tonya Rease Miles and Jabir A. McKnight explore the significance of storytelling, challenges faced by first-gen students in navigating their educational paths, themes of success, identity, and the impact of music on personal development. They discuss the importance of redefining success beyond traditional norms, the influence of music on culture and social justice, and the complexities of navigating educ...2025-04-061h 50SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 7 | Influencer Career, Nigerian-Irish Heritage & Entrepreneurship with @KingKarineIn this live episode from Tokyo, Japan, Jabir A. McKnight and special guest co-host Hashone Carry Jr. (@ShotbyHash) sit down with lifestyle influencer Karine Lawani (@KingKarine), a Nigerian-Irish creator now based in London. Karine shares how her multicultural upbringing has shaped her identity, career, and content creation. She discusses balancing Irish and Nigerian traditions, navigating cultural differences, and finding her voice in a fast-paced city. Tune in as she reflects on how her heritage continues to inspire her journey as a global influencer.2025-02-241h 01SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 6 | The Boomers are right, sometimes with Sharon B. MillsIn this episode of The Sparked Podcast, Jabir A. McKnight and Sharon B. Mills explore the generational divide, focusing on the unique traits and challenges faced by Generation Z. Sharon shares her background in higher education and her experiences working with students, highlighting the importance of discernment, professionalism, and communication skills. The conversation delves into the impact of technology and AI on Gen Z's abilities, the significance of building strong habits, and the necessity of relationship building in professional settings.2025-02-171h 17SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 5 | The Power of Intentionality with Tanya E. SpencerIn this engaging conversation, Tanya Spencer shares her journey from a corporate career to becoming a coach and speaker, emphasizing the importance of HBCUs in personal development. She discusses her experiences at Tuskegee University, the impact of identity on success, and the skills needed to thrive in a changing environment. Tanya also highlights the significance of community, prioritizing self-care, and maintaining a vision for the future as essential components for navigating a fulfilling career and life. In this engaging conversation, Tanya E. Spencer shares her insights on work-life balance, the importance of intentionality in managing time, and the role...2025-02-121h 03SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 4 | Survive & Advance: Derek Lewis on Breaking Barriers, Leadership, and PurposeOn this episode of the SPARK*D Podcast, we sit down with Derek Lewis, author of Survive and Advance and one of Pepsi's highest-ranking Black executive. From his upbringing in Washington, DC, to transformative experiences at HBCUs, Derek shares powerful lessons on leadership, mentorship, and perseverance.
Hear how his wife, mentors, and community shaped his journey, and learn what it takes to lead with purpose and heart. Whether you're an aspiring leader or just looking for inspiration, this conversation will spark your drive to keep pushing forward.2025-02-031h 17SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 3 | Building A Legacy BrandIn this episode, host Jabir A. McKnight sits down with Donald Ralls, the visionary behind Uncle Phills Cheesesteaks, to dive into the journey of building a thriving business rooted in passion and perseverance. Donald shares how he turned his love for authentic flavors into a community staple, the lessons learned along the way, and the hustle it takes to balance ambition with staying true to your roots. Whether you’re chasing a dream or savoring the process, this conversation serves up a hearty dose of inspiration with all the fixings. 💡2025-01-2654 minSPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 2 | The Importance of Partnership In A Successful LifeIn this episode, we sit down with a couple who’ve spent 30 years building a successful life together—one a marketing executive, the other a sports executive. They share insights on balancing careers, supporting each other’s dreams, and the key ingredients to building a life together vs waiting until the “right” moment 💡2025-01-201h 34SPARK’D | A Dreambeacon PodcastEpisode 1 | Returning to the Classroom: A Nontraditional JourneyLive from LIU Brooklyn, we sit down with Quinte Scott, a 30-year-old nontraditional student at the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment. Quinte opens up about his decision to return to college after years in the workforce, the unique challenges of balancing life and school, and the motivations behind his pursuit of higher education. His story is a testament to resilience and reinvention, offering practical advice for older students considering a similar leap.2025-01-121h 09