Best Chevon Podcasts (2026)

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From Classroom To Canvas: Jessica Chevon On Art, Censorship, And A Modern Renaissance 39:49

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8d ago39:49

39:49

Send us a text A decorated high school art teacher walks away from the system—and finds a bigger canvas. Jessica Chivon joins us to share how she traded classroom constraints for a studio-first life, why students are hungry for handwriting and analog craft, and how sketchbooks can quietly reveal anxiety, resilience, and hope. Her story threads pers…

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When The Most Educated Group Gets Laid Off, What Does That Say About America 17:46

3h ago17:46

17:46

Send us a text The numbers don’t add up—or do they? We break down why black women, the most educated segment among black Americans and a cornerstone of the middle class, are experiencing historic job losses across government, healthcare, manufacturing, and construction. With unemployment touching a post-2020 high and roughly 300,000 black women exi…

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From Haiti To Healing 51:03

1d ago51:03

51:03

Send us a text A teenage diary named Nancy. A snowstorm walk after a father’s refusal. A boot camp commander who sees what no one else did. Yasmin Charles joins us for a fearless conversation that traces a path from Port-au-Prince to Brooklyn to the Navy—and into the kitchen where healing meets hunger. We open with the shock of migration and the ac…

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How Writing Turned Loss Into A Life Rebuilt By The Ocean 43:01

1M ago43:01

43:01

Send us a text Some stories aren’t meant to be told once; they’re meant to be lived, spoken, and reshaped until the truth inside them finally lands. That’s where we go with poet Tony B, whose book Runaway Home charts a fierce, tender path through grief, reinvention, and the power of choosing your own voice. We start with the line that won’t leave h…

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How One Nonprofit Uses Dance, Language, And Story To Heal And Educate 51:32

1M ago51:32

51:32

Send us a text What happens when culture becomes the bridge instead of the barrier? We sit with Rita Addico Cohen, executive director of the Tidewater African Cultural Alliance, to explore a life that stretched from Accra to Hampton Roads and a mission that now spans classrooms, libraries, and community stages. Rita shares how TACA’s African Cultur…

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How Fashion, Music, And Community Power Hampton Roads 28:51

2M ago28:51

28:51

Send us a text Fashion doesn’t just live in New York or Paris. It thrives wherever creators take the risk to build a stage. We sit down with Ann Ward Lester and Jennifer Lester of Splash Entertainment Group to trace how a model management experiment became Virginia Fashion Week, why they aligned this year’s showcase with Timbaland Way, and what it …

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Hello Mama Episode 9 -The Weight of Mom Guilt: Learning to Breathe Again 25:20

2M ago25:20

25:20

Send us a text Hey Mama… this one’s for you. 💛 In this heartfelt episode of the Hello Mama Series on the No Filter, No Fence Podcast, we’re unpacking the silent struggle so many mothers carry — mom guilt. From the pressure to be everything for everyone, to the quiet tears behind closed doors, we’re naming it, facing it, and freeing it. Host Chevon …

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Where Music Becomes A Universal Language For Confidence, Culture, And Connection 29:25

2M ago29:25

29:25

Send us a text What if a music program could flip the switch from shy to fearless in a single season? We sit down with Jake Smalls, music director at School of Rock Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, to unpack how performance-based training builds skill, confidence, and community faster than traditional lessons. With three themed seasons a year—think B…

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Hello Mama Episode 8 - Mothering Then & Now 28:16

2M ago28:16

28:16

Send us a text EPISODE 8 — Motherhood: Then & Now (with Special Guest, Coach Chris) In this episode of No Filter, No Fence, we dive into a conversation that every generation of mothers has felt, but today’s moms are drowning in: how the heart of mothering remains the same, while the demands have evolved faster than ever before. We unpack the invisi…

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Hello Mama Episode 7 - How Society Can Better Support Single Moms 22:28

2M ago22:28

22:28

Send us a text In this powerful 21-minute episode, Chev opens a raw and redemptive conversation about what it truly means to support single mothers in today’s world. From late-night tears to morning miracles, Chevon unpacks the unseen battles single moms face—financial strain, emotional exhaustion, and social stigma—and calls for a modern village m…

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From Hampton Roads to Hollywood: A Comic’s 17-Year Grind, Hecklers, and Heart 43:30

2M ago43:30

43:30

Send us a text We sit down with Tim Loulies, a Hampton Roads comic and teacher, to trace his 17-year journey from sticky-note premises to packed clubs, from the Comedy Store’s unforgiving OR to the Apollo’s infamous boo, and into the wild psychology of being a heel in professional wrestling. Tim opens up about stage fright, why you literally lose y…

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Virginia Beach Voices: Small Business, Big Community 29:11

3M ago29:11

29:11

Send us a text Local stories can change the fate of a city when they’re told with care. Tony B sits down with Al Neely of Neely Media and Councilman Cash Green to chart a people-first media plan that lifts small businesses, reduces stigma, and builds real civic momentum across Virginia Beach. What starts as an origin story—an online inquiry, a comm…

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Hello Mama Episode 6 - Through the Heart of a Mama: A Revolution for Humanity 18:58

3M ago18:58

18:58

Send us a text In this powerful episode of No Filter, No Fence, our host delivers a groundbreaking message to mothers and women across the globe. Speaking as a son, husband, and brother, he steps into the sacred space of motherhood to honor, affirm, and call women everywhere into a new revolution — one of unity, empowerment, and unstoppable strengt…

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Democracy in Action: The 10-1 System and Fair Representation in Virginia Beach 40:54

3M ago40:54

40:54

Send us a text What happens when a decorated Air Force pilot turns his attention to local democracy? Sean Monterio, chairperson for the Virginia Beach Democratic Party Committee and retired Air Force colonel who flew the fearsome A-10 Warthog "tank killer," brings the same precision and purpose to his fight for fair representation in Virginia Beach…

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Laughing Through Life's Chaos 32:22

4M ago32:22

32:22

Send us a text Comedy isn't just about making people laugh – it's about processing life's challenges and speaking truths others can't. That's what local comedian Steve Wills discovered after stepping onto the stage for the first time nearly two years ago. In this revealing conversation with Al Neely, Steve shares how comedy transformed from a simpl…

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Hello Mama Episode 5 - Men, Build Your Queens 24:44

4M ago24:44

24:44

Send us a text In this powerful episode of the Hello Mama Series, we speak directly to the men—challenging them to step up and become true builders, not breakers. Too often, relationships are strained because men unknowingly tear down the very women they’re meant to uplift. Today, we uncover how words, comparisons, and unintentional actions can dam…

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The Greater Men Foundation: Youth Mentorship Beyond the Barber Chair 45:07

4M ago45:07

45:07

Send us a text What happens when your barber becomes more than someone who cuts your hair? For many young men in College Park, Virginia, the chair at Dreams Barbershop has become a confessional, a counselor's office, and ultimately, a lifeline. Brothers Derek and Dwayne are transforming their neighborhood through an unexpected hub of mentorship and…

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Youth in Crisis: How New Vision is Rebuilding Lives 55:05

4M ago55:05

55:05

Send us a text What happens when a youth in foster care turns 21? Far too often, the answer is devastatingly simple: they receive a garbage bag with their belongings and face immediate homelessness. Without family support or a safety net, these young adults find themselves in crisis with nowhere to turn. Meet Clara Wilson and Sean Tull from New Vis…

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Hello Mama Episode 4 - Reclaiming Your Glow 15:32

4M ago15:32

15:32

Send us a text In this soul-stirring episode, we break the silence surrounding a burden too many mothers carry — the quiet war with low self-esteem, body image, and the crushing expectation to be picture-perfect. Through raw storytelling, mirror-talk moments, and unapologetic truth, we speak to the thoughts women are often too embarrassed to share:…

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From Family Values to Fighting Crime: Suzanne Richmond's Journey 50:16

4M ago50:16

50:16

Send us a text Suzanne Richmond's doesn't just understand Virginia Beach—she embodies its spirit. As a native daughter who was raised in the heart of Kempsville, Suzanne brings a unique perspective to her candidacy for Commonwealth Attorney, one shaped by deep community roots and professional expertise. The daughter of a federal prosecutor, Suzanne…

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Hello Mama Episode 3 - Lonely Mama, The Silent Ache 17:51

5M ago17:51

17:51

Send us a text Motherhood is full of noise, mess, and constant motion — yet so many mamas quietly carry a deep loneliness. You can be surrounded by kids, a partner, and even friends… and still feel invisible, unheard, or unappreciated. In this episode of the Hello Mama Series, we open up a raw conversation about what it really feels like to be a lo…

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Election Conversations with Tim Anderson 37:08

5M ago37:08

37:08

Send us a text Virginia's housing crisis, education challenges, and tax burdens are crushing everyday families, and Tim Anderson has a plan to tackle them all. Running for delegate in the 97th District, Anderson draws from his previous experience in the General Assembly where he learned that effective governance demands reaching across the aisle. D…

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Hello Mama Episode 2 - Do you see her? 14:35

5M ago14:35

14:35

Send us a text Do You See Her - In this heartfelt Hello Mama Series episode, we challenge fathers, partners, and families to truly see the woman who is the heart of the home. Beyond the daily routines and shared responsibilities, there's a soul with dreams, needs, and untold stories. We talk about slowing down, paying attention, and recognizing the…

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Why Nobody Wants to Wait in Line Anymore 45:06

5M ago45:06

45:06

Send us a text The invisible aftermath of the pandemic lingers in our collective psyche, manifesting as road rage, workplace tensions, and an unprecedented reluctance to wait in line for anything. Patricia Heard, with three decades of clinical social work experience, unpacks these phenomena through the lens of unresolved trauma and adaptation. Patr…

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Why Our Children's Education Demands More Than Just Schools 48:39

5M ago48:39

48:39

Send us a text Dr. Karen Underwood opens a window into education's past, present, and uncertain future in this thought-provoking conversation. Drawing from three decades of teaching experience across multiple states, she offers rare and valuable insights into how our educational systems function—or dysfunction—across different cultural and geograph…

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Hello Mama Episode 1 - Introduction 9:46

5M ago9:46

9:46

Send us a text Step into the The Hello Mama Series - a bold, beautiful, and soul-stirring experience designed to affirm, empower, and uplift the hearts of overwhelmed moms everywhere. Hosted by a compassionate male voice, this series cuts through the noise to offer real conversations, raw encouragement, and refreshing perspectives from a space ofte…

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From Hardship to Hope: A Nonprofit's Remarkable Journey 1:01:49

5M ago1:01:49

1:01:49

Send us a text Behind every successful community support system stands someone who understands what it means to need help. For Sabrina Davis, founder of Reset Inc, this understanding comes from personal experience. As a child, she once attempted to steal a Lunchable because she wanted what other kids had—not because she was starving, but because he…

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Human Trafficking: The Hidden Crisis in Virginia 35:28

6M ago35:28

35:28

Send us a text Patrick McKenna pulls back the curtain on America's hidden human trafficking epidemic, revealing how this modern form of slavery operates within our own communities. As an attorney with over 35 years of experience and the Director of the Virginian Coalition Against Human Trafficking, McKenna provides eye-opening insights into why Vir…

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The Classroom to Capitol Journey: Cheryl Smith's Run for Virginia Delegate 33:00

6M ago33:00

33:00

Send us a text Cheryl Smith brings a refreshing perspective to politics after dedicating 38 years to educating Virginia's children. In this candid conversation, she shares what compelled her to run for Virginia's 98th District Delegate seat after decades in the classroom. Growing up in a military family during the Vietnam War shaped Smith's worldvi…

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From Military to Microphone: Kells Morton Comedic Journey 34:37

6M ago34:37

34:37

Send us a text Comedian Kells Morton steps away from her 25-year military career to pursue her original dream of entertainment in this fascinating conversation about second acts and finding your voice. As she prepares for retirement, Kells reveals how she's transforming decades of leadership experience into comedy gold on stages across the country.…

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What Happens When Leaders Fall in Love with Money Instead of People? 41:39

6M ago41:39

41:39

Send us a text When politicians fall in love with money instead of people, what happens to the dreams and aspirations of ordinary citizens? Merle Rutledge Jr., a Norfolk State University graduate and former gubernatorial candidate for Virginia, joins us to share his vision for a political system that prioritizes people over partisanship. Rutledge d…

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Beyond Politics: Finding Common Ground in Local Government 41:06

7M ago41:06

41:06

Send us a text What does it take to transform a community from the ground up? Councilman Michael Berlucci opens a window into local governance that few get to see, sharing the daily work that shapes Virginia Beach's District 3 and beyond. After nearly six years serving his diverse community, Berlucci reveals how his journey from passionate voluntee…

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Bridging America's Two Justice Systems: The Fight Against Inequality in Law 1:04:50

9M ago1:04:50

1:04:50

Send us a text RamIn Fatehi, Commonwealth Attorney for the city of Norfolk in Virginia, shares his unique journey from a privileged upbringing as the son of Iranian-American parents to becoming a prosecutor dedicated to reforming a flawed system. His contrarian nature and experiences with prejudice from both sides led him to pursue a career where h…

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Sexual Addiction, Trauma, and Finding Grace: One Man's Story 48:44

10M ago48:44

48:44

Send us a text Support the show Do us a favor and like, comment, share, and subscribe so you don't miss any future episodes. To see the full video on YouTube go to Listen Up with Host Al Neely Reach out to us on our socials and hit us up with any questions! Email: [email protected] Instagram: ListenUp4U Facebook: Let's Talk About It - Listen Up Twi…

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Immigration Myths and Realities 45:53

10M ago45:53

45:53

Send us a text Al Neely and Tina Jenkins explore how immigration discourse disproportionately focuses on Latino immigrants while ignoring significant migration from countries like China and India, and how fear-based policies threaten America's economic stability. • Media coverage of immigration overwhelmingly focuses on Hispanic immigrants crossing…

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From Classroom to Legislature: Justin Burns' Vision for Virginia's Future 42:30

10M ago42:30

42:30

Send us a text A third-grade teacher with a passion for change is stepping into the political arena. Justin Burns, Virginia Beach native and special education inclusion teacher, shares his journey and vision as a candidate for Virginia State Delegate representing District 100—a diverse area encompassing Northwestern Virginia Beach and the Eastern S…

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Al Neely on the Black Manosphere: Toxic Influences, Societal Struggles, and Pathways to Empowerment 25:58

10M ago25:58

25:58

Send us a text What if the Black Manosphere, meant to be a sanctuary for open dialogue, mirrors the broader manosphere's darker themes? On this episode of the Listen Up Podcast, I, Al Neely, tackle the nuanced and often controversial dynamics within the Black Manosphere. We unravel the layers of societal struggles and survival mentalities that have…

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Navigating Education Policy: Tina Jenkins and Al Neely on Equity, Media Influence, and Political Engagement 1:00:28

10M ago1:00:28

1:00:28

Send us a text What if the shifting tides in education policy could reshape the future of our classrooms? Join Tina Jenkins and me, Al Neely, as we tackle the pressing questions surrounding the educational landscape under the new administration. We explore the potential impact of executive orders on funding for special needs and Title I students, d…

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Mary Carter on Education's Uncertain Future: Funding Challenges, Policy Shifts, and Global Implications 58:27

10M ago58:27

58:27

Send us a text The episode features Mary Carter discussing the challenges students face in accessing higher education amid shifting federal policies and misinformation. Concerns about funding, student debt, and undocumented students illustrate a landscape fraught with uncertainty, while the conversation emphasizes the importance of advocacy and gra…

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Brenten Sims on Amplifying Black Voices: Mental Health, Identity, and Cultural Impact 41:06

11M ago41:06

41:06

Send us a text What happens when Black men are given a space to speak openly about their mental health and societal pressures? Join my conversation with Brenten Sims, a local influencer and the voice behind the podcast "I See You, Bro," who has made it his mission to uplift Black men through candid dialogue and community support. We tackle the ofte…

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Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl Commentary: Art, Race, and Challenging American Inequality 42:21

11M ago42:21

42:21

Send us a text What if art could truly transform society's views on race and inequality? Join me, Al Neely, on the Listen Up Podcast as we explore the cultural earthquake triggered by Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl halftime show. We tackle the uncomfortable realities of racism in America, a persistent force dividing our nation—especially in the wake o…

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Blame and Political Attitudes: Dr. Gail Sahar on America's Cultural Divide 46:20

11M ago46:20

46:20

Send us a text What if the real divide in America isn’t just about left versus right, but rather how we assign blame? Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Gail Sahar, a distinguished professor at Wheaton College and author of "Blame and Political Attitudes: The Psychology of America's Cultural War." Together, we unravel the complex cognit…

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The Legacy of Coach Field: Fast-Paced Basketball, Harlem Globetrotters, and Empowering Youth 40:41

11M ago40:41

40:41

Send us a text Step into the fast-paced world of Coach Field's basketball philosophy, where shooting every seven seconds was the norm and camaraderie was key. This episode takes you on a journey through the experiences of players thriving under his guidance, much like the modern-day Golden State Warriors. Discover the significance of the "last supp…

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Brotherhood and Basketball: Tommy Long and Roscoe Brown on Norfolk State's Legacy 40:52

11M ago40:52

40:52

Send us a text Two Norfolk State University alumni, Tommy Long and Roscoe Brown, share their journeys from high school to college basketball, highlighting the powerful bonds of mentorship and friendship that formed along the way. They discuss the importance of community involvement and the impactful legacy of their mentor, Coach Fields, encouraging…

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Carl Poole on Community Power: Navigating Politics, Education, and Housing in Norfolk 1:00:10

1y ago1:00:10

1:00:10

Send us a text The episode provides a deep dive into the critical transformations occurring in Virginia's local elections and their impact on communities. We discuss the role of voter turnout, historical changes in electoral laws, the dynamics of local governance, the implications of school funding disparities, and the challenges of affordable hous…

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The Complexity of Memory and Healing from Abuse 33:11

1y ago33:11

33:11

Send us a text Megan Stover bravely joins us to recount her journey of uncovering repressed memories of sexual abuse, highlighting a painful experience from her childhood involving a church janitor. Her story uncovers the alarming realities of abuse within trusted environments, such as churches, and the complex psychological mechanisms like memory …

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Andre Council on Resilience and Racial Identity: Navigating Systemic Inequality in America 1:22:44

1y ago1:22:44

1:22:44

Send us a text Join us in an eye-opening episode of Listen Up Podcast as we sit down with Andre Council, a respected historian, author, and business consultant. Andre takes us through his inspirational journey, from growing up in Suffolk, Virginia, to becoming an influential figure within the African American community. His candid reflections on th…

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Finding Strength in Estrangement and New Beginnings 46:03

1y ago46:03

46:03

Send us a text Leaving behind a cult-like church and experiencing the heartbreak of divorce, Megan Stover shares her transformational journey with us in this episode. Her story is not just about estrangement but about the courage it takes to redefine relationships and values. Discover how Megan navigates the emotional labyrinth of family rifts, par…

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Resilience and Innovation in Greenwood: Carlos Moreno on Tulsa's Untold Stories Part 2 51:07

1y ago51:07

51:07

Send us a text Uncover the untold stories of resilience and innovation in our latest episode with Carlos Moreno, a dedicated activist from Tulsa. We journey through the historical layers of the Greenwood neighborhood, shedding light on the often-overlooked impact of the Tulsa Race Massacre and its reverberating effects on post-World War I America. …

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Challenging the Manosphere and Modern Masculinity with Listen Up Podcast 42:11

1y ago42:11

42:11

Send us a text What if traditional masculine ideals are not only outdated but also harmful? Join us on the Listen Up podcast as we critically examine the "manosphere"—a complex digital landscape influencing societal norms and even impacting recent elections. We dissect this multifaceted community, breaking it down into its primary subgroups: the wh…