Best The Upnup Network Podcasts (2025)

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"Just A Conversation"(Spotlight Series) w/ Michael-Shawn Dugar 48:47

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7d ago48:47

48:47

Welcome back to another episode of "Just A Conversation" - where we highlight and amplify the incredible work happening in our community.Today I'm joined by Michael-Shawn Dugar, Seattle-based journalist and author of the new book "The Franchise: Seattle Seahawks - A Curated History of the Legion of Boom Era." This is his first book, and the stories…

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'The Invisible Work' w/ Michael Huang 1:16:12

7d ago1:16:12

1:16:12

Michael Huang is the founder of Milli Agency, Vice Chair of the Seattle Film Commission, and a former professional breakdancer who's revolutionizing how creative agencies operate.Learn how this Taiwanese-American entrepreneur built a social impact agency using hip-hop culture principles, why he left Madison Avenue success to start over in Seattle, …

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"Just A Conversation"(Spotlight Series) w/ Anthony Curtis & Jimmy Brown 37:25

27d ago37:25

37:25

Join us for a powerful conversation with two community change makers who are literally transforming lives in the Puget Sound region every single day. Jimmy Brown, Executive Director of Build to Lead (serving 1,800+ students and community members since 2021), and Anthony Curtis, Founder/CEO of Black Equality Coalition, share raw insights on grassroo…

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'We Major' w/ Tyrah Majors 51:37

28d ago51:37

51:37

Discover the inspiring journey of Tyrah Majors, morning news anchor at KOMO-TV Seattle, as she shares her path from San Diego child model to major market television success. In this in-depth conversation, Tyrah reveals the strategies behind her career progression from market 125 to market 12, her approach to work-life balance with a 2:30 AM schedul…

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'Kick That Knowledge' w/ Ivery Rhodes 1:12:37

1M ago1:12:37

1:12:37

When teachers wrote off Ivery Rhodes as "just another Black misguided kid with no future" they had no idea he'd become the change agent our schools desperately need.Ivery's story isn't just about overcoming obstacles—it's about becoming the mentor he needed, creating the village that raised him, and proving that when you lead with love and high exp…

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"Just A Conversation"(Spotlight Series) w/ Matt McAlman 30:06

2M ago30:06

30:06

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Matt McAlman, drummer for Marshall Law Band and the cinematic folk-pop band OK Tiger, as he shares the real truth about making it in the music industry. Discover how Fremont Fridays transformed from a pandemic necessity in an empty parking lot to one of Seattle's premier music festivals, attracting 650+ ar…

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'Do It For The Love' w/ Donald Watts Jr. 1:19:57

2M ago1:19:57

1:19:57

Building Champions: The Donald Watts Jr. MethodEver wonder why Seattle consistently produces elite basketball talent? If you look at the Watts family - you'll find three generations who've helped contribute to the culture of Pacific Northwest basketball from the SuperSonics era to today's college stars.Why This Matters for Basketball Development: D…

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'Produce the Dream' w/ Cotto ("BeatsByCotto") 47:25

3M ago47:25

47:25

From Puerto Rico to Pacific Northwest Hip-Hop Royalty - This is the "BeatsByCotto" StoryIn this episode, we sit down with Cotto (BeatsByCotto), the producer behind hits for 'BigXThePlug', Afroman, 03 Greedo, LaRussell and many more. Discover how he transformed from a college soccer player to accumulating 850+ production credits in just 5 years.What…

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"Just A Conversation"(Spotlight Series) w/ 'Lexscope' 32:26

3M ago32:26

32:26

Join in on an in-depth conversation between Robel and LexScope, Seattle's newly appointed Film Commissioner (Position 8) and founder of 'Scope Screenings', Seattle's premier film festival. In this conversation, we dive deep into his journey from videographer to city leader, the evolution of Scope Screenings from 50 to 300+ attendees, and his missio…

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'Give Back or Give In' w/ Ernest Kelly lll 48:31

3M ago48:31

48:31

Ernest Kelly III went from struggling to find Black-owned businesses in Seattle to founding the Seattle Black Business Network - one of the most influential community organizations in the Pacific Northwest. In this powerful conversation, Ernest shares the exact blueprint he used to build a thriving business community from scratch.🔥 WHAT YOU'LL LEAR…

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'Well-being Wake Up' Season 2 (Ep.1) - 'Take Care of You' 56:14

3M ago56:14

56:14

Season 2 kicks off with a powerful conversation about balancing entrepreneurial ambition with personal well-being!Join host Robel Andmicael as he sits down with Chase Linder (Acre Media) and Patrick Smith (Graduated Money) to discuss:- The real cost of grinding without boundaries- How fitness transformed their business mindset- Breaking the cycle o…

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'Keep On Building' w/ Jaebadiah Gardner 1:16:14

4M ago1:16:14

1:16:14

"I don't compete in the same arena as everyone else. I run my own track."Meet Jaebadiah Gardner, the force behind 'Gardner Global' who's redefining what it means to develop real estate with purpose and cultural integrity. In this powerful conversation, Jaebadiah shares the wisdom gained from his remarkable journey—from humble beginnings to becoming…

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'The Hustle is Spiritual' w/ Jameel Shabazz 1:24:10

4M ago1:24:10

1:24:10

From cutting hair in 7th grade to owning Seattle's 'J Styles Barbershop' for 20 YEARS, Jameel Shabazz's journey is a masterclass in purpose-driven entrepreneurship.In our latest episode, Jameel shares how his father, the legendary Brother Benjamin Shabazz's lessons shaped his path. Also he speaks on how barbershops should be treated as community ce…

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'The Real Wealth is Health' w/ LaTaunya Witherspoon 51:16

5M ago51:16

51:16

In our latest episode, we sit down with LaTaunya Witherspoon, founder of 'Spoon Fed Training' @spoonfed_training and one of the less than 3% of Black women who own fitness facilities nationwide!From competing on American Ninja Warrior to training NFL stars like Richard Sherman, LaTaunya shares her journey of building a fitness empire that was voted…

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'When Life Imitates Art' w/ "Creative Lou" 1:03:54

5M ago1:03:54

1:03:54

Resilience, creativity, and purpose define Seattle artist Creative Lou's remarkable journey.In this episode, Damon Brown opens up about: • His transition from corporate design to becoming one of Seattle's most impactful public artists • Overcoming a life-altering health crisis that temporarily left him paralyzed • Creating the first Black-themed ma…

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'Faith It Til You Make It' w/ Michelle Lang-Raymond 1:10:19

6M ago1:10:19

1:10:19

Michelle Lang-Raymond, founder and Executive Director of Acts on Stage, joins The Up and Up to share her journey of creating spaces where artists of color and people of faith can bring their full authentic selves. From her southern roots in Mississippi to building a groundbreaking theater company in Seattle, Michelle discusses how she's bridging th…

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'Possibilities Over Excuses' w/ Jesse Rhodes Jr. 1:07:20

6M ago1:07:20

1:07:20

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Jesse Rhodes Jr., author of "Leadership Unlocked: Harness the Power of Your Ambition" and a transformative leader who's reshaping how we think about authentic leadership and personal growth.From his groundbreaking work as Head of Inclusion, Diversity & Equity at Amazon Web Services to mentoring our youth a…

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'Live What You Preach' w/ Julie C. 1:06:49

7M ago1:06:49

1:06:49

In a world where artists struggle to survive, Julie Chang Schulman chose to build something different. Journey from her early days as a teenage hip-hop artist navigating trauma through music, to becoming the architect behind Seattle's most innovative creative movement.Discover how 'Forever Safe Spaces' and 'On The Block' are revolutionizing the cre…

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Live Show: 'Let Us Create Showcase' @ Apex in Everett 1:35:52

7M ago1:35:52

1:35:52

Join us for an inspiring journey through Everett's first-ever Let Us Create showcase, where entrepreneurs and creatives came together to celebrate community, innovation, and success!KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED: • Building successful businesses from scratch • The importance of community in entrepreneurship • Overcoming challenges and staying focused • Find…

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'Free Yourself' w/ Kiesha B. Free 1:10:53

7M ago1:10:53

1:10:53

From Corporate Tech Executive to Cultural Bridge Builder: Meet Keisha Free, founder of Hey Black Seattle. Journey through her transformation from a 15-year tech industry veteran to creating a digital platform connecting Black culture, business, and community across the Pacific Northwest. Learn how personal purpose became a powerful movement for cha…

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'Control Your Crowd' w/ 'DJ Nayiram' 1:14:09

8M ago1:14:09

1:14:09

Join us as 'DJ Nayiram' shares his extraordinary journey from Medina, Ghana to becoming Seattle's premier Afrobeats curator. Learn how he went from practicing on YouTube tutorials to sharing stages with Davido and revolutionizing the Pacific Northwest music scene. This episode is a masterclass in cultural entrepreneurship, music business developmen…

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'Dream in Style' w/ Laron Daniels 1:03:02

11M ago1:03:02

1:03:02

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', we sit down with Laron Daniels, former pro basketball player turned entrepreneur, and Co-Owner of the amazing 'Self-Made Couture'. Laron shares his journey of stepping off the court and making a bold pivot from sports to the business world of fashion by partnering with the founders of Self-Made Couture, a bes…

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Wellbeing Wake Up: (Ep.5) 'Generational Shifts' 47:43

12M ago47:43

47:43

From tackling mental health to navigating the rollercoaster of emotions in career pursuits and everything in between, the ‘Wellbeing Wake Up’ is your dose of inspiration & empowerment.No judgment, no pretenses—just real people, real dialogue, and a real commitment to our wellbeing.Today's guests feature:Entrepreneur/Creative Artist:Aaron Davis aka …

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'To Live is To Give' w/ Annabel Quintero 1:07:57

12M ago1:07:57

1:07:57

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast' we welcomed Annabel Quintero, M.Ed., a dynamic author, speaker, and DEI strategist committed to uplifting communities through storytelling and social transformation. Annabel's life trajectory shifted after surviving the September 11th attacks from the 46th floor of the World Trade Center, and since then, she h…

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'Tend To Your Garden' w/ Leo Nguyen 1:05:45

1y ago1:05:45

1:05:45

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', we sit down with Leo Nguyen, the visionary behind 'Community Gardens NW', a clothing brand that captures the essence of Seattle through creative expression and collaboration. For nearly two years, Leo has been cultivating a brand that not only creates unique products but also represents and highlights the div…

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'Create or Die Trying': Live Show @ 'Seattle MXR' - Pioneer Square 59:02

1y ago59:02

59:02

Last week we were honored to join in and contribute to such an amazing vehicle/gathering in the legendary Occidental Mall for the powerful ‘Seattle MXR’ series. Powered by SeattleOED 'MXR Events' 'FreeagentSea' + many more!‘The UpNUp Podcast’ hosted a live recording episode hosted in the amazing Frederick Holmes Gallery located in the legendary Pio…

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'Fill Your Pages' w/ Jeffery Lee Cheatham ll 50:25

1y ago50:25

50:25

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', we sit down with Jeffery L. Cheatham ll, Author, Entrepreneur and the founder of the 'Seattle Urban Book Exchange'. A visionary who turned frustration into action when he couldn't find children's books that reflected Black and Brown faces. Starting with no experience in publishing, he faced a steep learning c…

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'Eat What You Sow' w/ Chef Tarik Abdullah 1:00:24

1y ago1:00:24

1:00:24

Join us for a flavorful journey with Tarik Abdullah, Founder & Executive Head Chef, on this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast'. With 30 years of culinary experience spanning Los Angeles and Seattle, Tarik's cooking is a vibrant fusion of Middle Eastern, Southeast Asian, African, and Mediterranean influences. Raised in a culturally rich neighborhood, Ta…

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'We Got Now Not Next' w/ Josh Binda 1:26:50

1y ago1:26:50

1:26:50

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', we have an engaging conversation with Lynnwood City Councilmember Josh Binda, who is making headlines with his bid for the 2nd District Congressional seat. At just 22 years old, Binda is aiming to make history as the youngest African American ever elected to Congress in the United States.Join us as we delve i…

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'Either Wine or Climb' w/ Shahron Chaudhry 55:48

1y ago55:48

55:48

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', Owner of the new emerging Winery 'Saanj Winery', Shahron Chaudhry, takes us along a journey of truly bringing a vision to life that will be changing the game in the wine industry, for years to come.From him and his wife's first date of wine-tasting adventures to the creation of an inclusive wine experience, t…

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'Answer the Call' w/ TraeAnna Holiday 1:08:39

1y ago1:08:39

1:08:39

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', join us for an insightful journey into the evolving landscape of media/activism through the eyes of TraeAnna Holiday, a Seattle native whose passion for media began at a young age. From her early training to her academic journey at Howard University and the University of Washington, TraeAnna's path has been s…

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Wellbeing Wake Up: (Ep.4) 'Pay it Forward Always' 59:52

1y ago59:52

59:52

From tackling mental health to navigating the rollercoaster of emotions in career pursuits and everything in between, the ‘Wellbeing Wake Up’ is your dose of inspiration, empowerment, and connection.No judgment, no pretenses—just real people, real dialogue, and a real commitment to our wellbeing.Today's guests feature:Music Artist/Community Builder…

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'The Role is Yours' w/ Jon Meggison 1:14:09

1+ y ago1:14:09

1:14:09

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast' Professional Actor/Performer/Artist, Jon Meggison, takes along an amazing journey of answering your true calling and never hanging up! On the eve of the pandemic, Jon Meggison embarked on an incredible journey to become a professional film actor. With no prior acting experience, formal training, or industry co…

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'Legacies are Earned' w/ Terrell Jackson 40:13

1+ y ago40:13

40:13

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast' we sit down with Terrell Jackson, Owner and inspiring force behind Seattle’s beloved 'Jacksons Catfish Corner'. Growing up working in his grandparents’ iconic restaurant in the Central District, Terrell witnessed firsthand the impact of displacement on Black-owned businesses. After the original Catfish Corner …

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'When the Smoke Clears' w/ Mitch Pfeifer 1:01:34

1+ y ago1:01:34

1:01:34

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast' we sit down with Mitch Pfeifer, the visionary Founder of Respect My Region, who truly exemplifies what it means to stay consistent in an ever changing landscape.In our conversation, Mitch shares insights from his diverse background within the hardships in his entrepreneurial beginnings. From apparel, music, an…

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'Keep On Dancing' w/ Jonathan Batista 1:03:12

1+ y ago1:03:12

1:03:12

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast' Jonathan Batista, from Rio De Janeiro to the global stage, this ballet virtuoso has graced renowned companies with his unparalleled talent. Learned and trained at esteemed institutions like the English National Ballet and The Royal Ballet School, Jonathan's journey led him to principal roles at prestigious com…

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Wellbeing Wake Up: (Ep.2) 'Holistic Health' 49:20

1+ y ago49:20

49:20

From tackling mental health to navigating the rollercoaster of emotions in career pursuits and everything in between, the ‘Wellbeing Wake Up’ is your dose of inspiration, empowerment, and connection.No judgment, no pretenses—just real people, real dialogue, and a real commitment to our wellbeing.Today's guests feature:Branding/Marketing Expert/Entr…

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'Lace'Em Up' w/ Takiyah "T-Dub" Ward 57:30

1+ y ago57:30

57:30

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', multi-talented artist, community force, and entrepreneur, Takiyah "T-Dub" Ward takes us on a journey of how belief in your artistic vision can unlock the doors to not only your dreams, but culture shifting impact.Born and raised in Seattle, Ward is a wildly multifaceted artist: a muralist, dancer/choreographe…

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'Dream in Kolor' w/ Armando Garzon 1:06:03

1+ y ago1:06:03

1:06:03

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast' Founder and Leader of Seattles #1 destination for the entire creative community 'Kolors Studios', Armando Garzon, takes us along a journey of bringing a vision to life that eventually became the home for so many others visions and dreams.From his early journey of finding his way and developing his professional…

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Wellbeing Wake Up: (Ep.1) 'The Art of the Pivot' 39:30

1+ y ago39:30

39:30

From tackling mental health to navigating the rollercoaster of emotions in career pursuits and everything in between, the ‘Wellbeing Wake Up’ is your dose of inspiration, empowerment, and connection. No judgment, no pretenses—just real people, real dialogue, and a real commitment to our wellbeing.Today's guests feature:DJ/Entertainer "THEISHYU" @th…

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'Set Your Own Stage' w/ Jay York 48:03

1+ y ago48:03

48:03

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', the one and only 'Jay York', sits down with us to share a journey of truly letting your expressions and creativity pave the path you want for yourself.From his early upbringing being raised in Oakland California, the musical and cultural influences of this thing we call Hip Hop were always all around him. The…

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'It's All By Design' w/ 'La Union Studio' 1:00:00

1+ y ago1:00:00

1:00:00

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', the dynamic duo and powerhouse leaders of 'La Union Studio', Sonia-Lynn and Sergio-Max, take us through a true journey of designing your own future.From their early upbringings, both growing up in Seattle, it was only a matter of time until they'd have the opportunity to pour back into the very same city/regi…

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'Stick to your Script' w/ 'Lexscope' 1:13:41

1+ y ago1:13:41

1:13:41

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', Founder/Owner of 'Lexscope' Productions and 'Scope Screenings', Lexscope, takes through a journey of directing your dreams through your own lens.As an award-winning Artist, Director and film festival programmer, he traces his artistic roots to NorthCarolina, with a transformative decade here in Tacoma/Seattle…

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'Dialogue for Direction' w/ Girmay Zahilay & Dominique Davis 1:04:29

2y ago1:04:29

1:04:29

In this episode of ‘The UpNUp Podcast’, we are joined by the amazing leaders and forces for change, City of Seattle Councilman, Girmay Zahilay and CEO/Founder of ‘Community Passageways’, Dominique Davis, for a much needed conversation and dialogue for a better direction. Whether it’s the rising issues in Gun Violence, Public Safety, and overall Com…

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'Always in Style' w/ Rio Estolas 58:42

2y ago58:42

58:42

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', Owner/CEO of the Pacific Northwest staple and legendary home for fashion 'Throwbacks NW', Rio Estolas, takes on a journey of using nostalgia to carve out the future.From his early upbringing in the Bay Area, being surrounded by the culture clash of Hip Hop, Streetwear, Vintage, and everything in between, he w…

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'Hunger For More' w/ Teena Thach 48:40

2y ago48:40

48:40

In this episode of ‘The UpNUp Podcast’, Storytelling powerhouse, Media extraordinaire and Community uplifter herself, Teena Thach( @teena_thach ) takes us along a journey of true passion turned into truer purpose and impact.With an early upbringing being fully emerged in such diverse culture and communities, along with always having a drive to lear…

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'School These Fools' w/ Brandon K. Hersey 1:06:58

2y ago1:06:58

1:06:58

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', Education advocate, Leader and President of the City of Seattle's School Board himself, Brandon K. Hersey(@bkhersey) takes us along a journey of truly stepping in to step things up!From his early upbringing growing up in Mississippi, being surrounded by so many strong black educators in his family, the seeds …

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'Mind Yourz Love Yourz' w/ Nhautrey Brown 50:55

2y ago50:55

50:55

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', Professional Therapist and Owner of 'Whys Words Therapy' herself, Nhautrey Brown, opens the conversation to elevate our focus on our collective wellness.From her early days of entering such an immense role, she immediately embraced not just the job title but the "calling". Carving her way to elevate her passi…

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Ep.100 'Reflection is Eternal' 1:01:38

2y ago1:01:38

1:01:38

In this episode of ‘The UpNUp Podcast’ we felt it was only right to make this one all about REFLECTION.This episode is an ode to:The 99 legacies we’ve helped amplifyThe 99 moments in history we’ve preservedThe 99 visionaries & culture cultivators The 99 attempts to push & contribute for “us”🥂 to 💯 Make sure to tune in and reflect, recap & recharge …

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'The Push You Need' w/ Dr.John PUSH Gaines 1:01:24

2y ago1:01:24

1:01:24

In this episode of 'The UpNUp Podcast', professional speaker, author, leadership consultant, and mentorship expert himself, Dr.John PUSH Gaines, shares an amazing journey of truly owning your story to inspire the world to own theirs.Growing up surrounded by drugs and violence, facing personal struggles, and being bullied for his differences, he had…