SpeakUP! International Inc.
SpeakUP! International Inc. is your go-to podcast for inspiring stories, insightful interviews, and educational content that empowers listeners. Join us as we delve into diverse topics with a focus on uplifting black and brown voices, promoting creativity, and fostering personal and professional growth.
Episodes
204 episodes
Powerful Steve: Building a Masterpiece Through Resilience and Faith-Driven Service
Imagine standing at a crossroads in life and asking, "How do you build a masterpiece?" Our guest, Powerful Steve, did just that in Brampton, leading him on a transformative journey from his adventurous beginnings in Jamaica to b...
Hyacinth Caesar: Weaving Life's Experiences into Compelling Narratives and Embracing Resilience Through Storytelling
Award-winning author Hyacinth Caesar graces SpeakUP! International with a compelling excerpt from her newest novel, "Your Hug Is All I Long For." Journey with us to the idyllic 1960s on St. Christopher's Island, where t...
Cj Stewart - Transforming Lives Through Sports and Civic Engagement
Former Chicago Cubs outfielder CJ Stewart joins us for a heartfelt and compelling discussion on the power of sports in youth development. Learn how CJ's own journey from the streets of Atlanta to the baseball diamond shaped his ...
Peta-Gaye Nash: Challenging Beauty Norms and Celebrating Self-Love Through Children's Literature
Peta-Gaye Nash, a multi-genre writer and podcast host, brings a refreshing and deeply personal perspective to children's literature. Her stories, inspired by her Caribbean heritage and immigrant experiences, challenge colonial beauty norms and ...
Kwesi Otoo: Empowering Communities and Navigating Social Systems Through Resilience and Media Skills
Kwesi Otoo's journey from radio broadcasting to social services is nothing short of transformative. As a father of a determined four-year-old daughter, Kwesi reflects on the delicate balance of fostering independence at home and in his work. Li...
Ronald L. Smith: Crafting Diverse Narratives and Inspiring Young Minds Through Fantasy and Science Fiction
Celebrated author Ronald L. Smith joins us to share the enchanting world of "Project Mercury," where childhood curiosity meets the mysteries of military life. With a heartfelt reflection on his own experiences growing u...
Alannah Johnson's Mission to Preserve and Empower Black Narratives
What happens when a childhood love for reading intertwines with the vibrant culture of Toronto's Little Jamaica? Alannah Johnson, our guest, takes us through her journey as a writer, Black archivist, and EDI professional. From t...
Richard Jack III: Empowering Youth with Leadership, Communication, and Personal Growth
Discover the inspiring journey of Richard Jack III, the visionary co-founder and executive director of Ladies and Gentlemen by Choice, as he transitions from a 20-year Air Force career to becoming a beacon of hope and e...
The Power of Storytelling in Overcoming Adversity with Carlos Anthony
Carlos Anthony, an award-winning author, joins us for a powerful conversation that unearths the emotional and complex layers of his novel, "Shades of Black." Together, we navigate the tumultuous journey of Romero, a you...
Victoria Allen: Crafting Enchanting Stories and Embracing Self-Publishing Freedom
Victoria Allen, a passionate children's book author, joins us to share her remarkable journey from corporate life to the enchanting world of storytelling. Discover how her beloved character, Buddy the Bear, came ...
Lechon Kirb: Transforming Expertise into Impact and Embracing Calculated Risks
Discover how to align your personal and professional aspirations with Lechon Kirb, a creative visionary, speaker, and author. Lechon shares his groundbreaking impact scaling process that transforms expertise into scalable produc...
Zorina Pritchett - Creating Connections Through Adversity and Innovation
Zorina Pritchett's life took an unexpected turn in December 2019 when her brother suffered a debilitating stroke. Faced with the daunting task of becoming his primary caregiver, Zorina embarked on a transformative journey ...
Tenacity and Joy: Celina Caesar-Chavannes's Guide to Living Audaciously
Celina Caesar-Chavannes takes us on an empowering journey from the sun-kissed shores of Grenada to the halls of Canadian politics. In this episode, Celina opens up about her experiences as a Black woman navigating the turbulent waters of politi...
Mark Paisant: Transforming Lives Through Fitness and Mental Health Advocacy
Ever wondered how the struggles of weight gain and mental health can lead to a journey of self-discovery and profound transformation? Join us as we sit down with Mark Paisant, a certified personal trainer and host of the
Pamela M. Covington - Stories of Resilience, Growth, and Triumph Over Adversity
In this episode of SpeakUP! International, Ellington Brown and Rita Burke host Pamela M. Covington, a professional speaker, storyteller, and advocate for anti-poverty programs. Pamela shares her incredible journey from a ...
Karlline Wilson-Mitchell: Championing Reproductive Justice and Black Health Equity in Midwifery
Curious about the transformative power of midwifery and its role in achieving reproductive justice? Join us on SpeakUP! International as we welcome Karlline Wilson-Mitchell, the trailblazing first Black Canadian midwifery education professor. C...
Creating Memorable Narratives: Insights from Jason Browne
Meet Jason Browne, a dynamic storyteller and seasoned speaker whose journey into radio and public speaking was shaped by his DJ father and music teacher mother. Jason’s approach to leadership transcends mere motivation, focusing...
Sophia Jackson's Vision for Community Engagement and Representation
What if maintaining a childlike wonder could be your secret superpower in connecting with youth? Join us as we welcome Sophia Jackson, an inspiring child and youth worker with a vibrant passion for the arts. Sophia's journey is ...
Navigating Life's Challenges: How Sarah Freeman-Smith Found Her True Calling
Can facing life-altering challenges lead to discovering your true calling? Meet Sara Freeman-Smith, our remarkable guest who turned vision loss into an inspiring journey of resilience and self-discovery. This episode of SpeakUP!...
Empowering Black Women through Tradition and Innovation-Aina-Nia Ayo’dele
Unlock the secrets to spiritual liberation and transformative leadership with our special guest, Aina-Nia Ayo’dele. As a leadership coach, author, and ancient wisdom teacher, Aina brings a wealth of knowledge rooted in African spiritual ...
Richard Pinnock, MBA: Data-Driven Decisions: The Power of Insight
Discover how personal experiences shape powerful leaders in diversity management with our guest, Richard Pinnock. Raised in Montreal by a German mother and Jamaican father, Richard's multicultural upbringing and career journey are nothing short...
From Childhood Challenges to Cultural Historian: Tiki Mercury-Clarke Inspiring Journey
What was it like growing up in a vibrant, multicultural neighborhood in Toronto? Join us as Tiki Mercury-Clarke, a third-generation Torontonian, takes us on a heartwarming journey through her early days on Henry Street. Through ...
Prince George's Artistic Journey and Mentorship Impact
What inspired the creation of the diverse character Bugsy in the early 2000s, long before diversity became a buzzword? Join us on Speak Up International as we welcome Mr. Prince George, the spokesperson for Warzone Comics and the charismatic ho...
Curiosity and Respect: Dr. Julie Pham's Journey from Vietnam to Entrepreneurship
How does a South Vietnamese identity shape a career journey from academia to entrepreneurship? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Julie Pham PhD., a Vietnamese-born American and Cambridge-educated social scientist, as she shares ...
Marketing Mastery and Editing Excellence in Self-Publishing with Michelle DeFilippo
How can self-published authors navigate the complex landscape of modern publishing and retain control over their creative works? Get ready to discover the secrets of successful self-publishing as Michelle DeFilippo, a veteran with over 50 years...
