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“Im just like my fans… I cry like you cry” ~ Derez De’Shon Southside Atlanta artist Derez De’Shon returns to The Progress Report’s Skipping Class for his second interview with Lalaa Shepard, four years after their first conversation in 2022. As The Progress Report celebrates its 10-year anniversary, Derez opens up about the experiences, losses, growth, and vulnerability behind his latest release, I’m Not Ok But… (Deluxe Version). Derez reflects on taking a much-needed hiatus from music and explains why stepping away was necessary for him to regain confidence in releasing music and address his mental health. He speaks candidly about dealing with depression and mental health struggles since childhood, survivor’s guilt, pain, suicidal thoughts, and the difficulty of losing people he once leaned on during his darkest moments. He also discusses slowing down on drugs, struggling with self-forgiveness, and why being vulnerable with his fans has become such an important part of his music. Derez also revisits the success of his breakout record “Hardaway,” including the story behind breaking his plaque and why nobody prepared him for the emotional highs and lows that came with having a hit record. Looking back, he explains how reaching a new level of success changed some of the people around him and shares the lessons he now passes along to other artists, including the mistakes he made by keeping too many people around. During the conversation, Derez defines success on his own terms as finding peace within himself and shares why his children are a major source of that peace. He also reveals that he became a grandfather to four grandchildren around the same time and speaks about watching his family continue to grow. Derez breaks down records from I’m Not Ok But… (Deluxe Version), including “Thoughts Of You” featuring Sy Ari Da Kid, which he says was originally inspired by Summer Walker and produced by London on da Track. He also talks about making music about complicated relationships, putting women’s names in songs, and continuing to embrace the “pain music” label while viewing his music as confessional. The conversation also includes a heartfelt reflection on the late Rich Homie Quan. Derez discusses having unreleased music with Quan and looks back on our 2022 interview, which took place after Derez performed at Quan’s 10-year anniversary concert. Looking ahead, Derez says he plans to remain consistent with new music and reveals plans to release another pain-driven project around Valentine’s Day, inspired in part by heartbreak and the experience of watching someone he still has feelings for move on. He closes by showing love to the day-one fans who have continued supporting him throughout every phase of his journey. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derezdeshon/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Birmingham, Alabama rising artist Moneymyface joins Lalaa Shepard for a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report! During the conversation, Moneymyface gets candid about her identity as a female rapper and explains why she personally isn’t a fan of “p***y rap” and has never wanted that type of subject matter to be the foundation of her music. While embracing her femininity, she says she’s intentional about what she wants to represent through her artistry. Moneymyface also speaks on receiving support and co-signs throughout her journey from SZA, Lil Baby, Wale, Belly Gang Kushington, and Wallo, and reflects on growing up as a fan of Southern rap legends Gucci Mane and Boosie. She breaks down the making of her new single “Bae Please,” revealing how a spontaneous studio session turned into her jokingly approaching the record the way male rappers do — resulting in a song packed with personality and humor. Outside of music, Moneymyface opens up about motherhood and raising her 6-year-old son, explaining how becoming a mother has made her more reflective and conscious of the example she sets. She also discusses teaching her son the difference between pursuing your passion and the work that currently pays the bills while encouraging him to remain creative. The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Moneymyface reflects on learning to do hair at just 12 years old and recalls working in a salon throughout her teenage years and into adulthood. She also shares the shocking story of learning that a woman she once worked with was later accused of kidnapping children. From Birmingham to building momentum as an independent artist, Moneymyface speaks on her music, motherhood, influences, industry support, and continuing to develop her own lane. Watch the full episode of Skipping Class and let us know your favorite moment in the comments! Follow Moneymyface and stream “Bae Please” on all platforms. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moneymyface/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Fame without fortune is even worse” ~ JT Money Miami rap legend JT Money joins Lalaa Shepard of The Progress Report for a new episode of Skipping Class to reflect on more than 36 years in the music industry and the longevity that has allowed him to experience several generations of hip-hop. JT Money speaks on performing at the FAMU kickoff alongside Uncle Luke and Trick Daddy, growing up on funk and soul, the influence of Scarface and Ice Cube, and Atlanta being one of the first cities to embrace his music. He also reflects on the controversy Poison Clan experienced because of their explicit lyrics, defends Yung Miami amid backlash surrounding “Spend Dat,” and recalls meeting JT of the City Girls through his longtime connection with her mother. JT Money discusses his Day Party Deluxe project, his “Little Sister” record dedicated to young women, and sampling his own classic “Shake Whatcha Mama Gave Ya” multiple times throughout his career. He also explains why he wants younger artists to sample his music, speaks on unreleased music with Ball Greezy, collaborating with Too $hort on “Something Bout Pimpin’,” working with Khia in the early 2000s, and remembers the late Bigga Rankin. JT Money also reflects on “Shake Whatcha Mama Gave Ya” appearing in The Players Club, his full-circle relationship with Ice Cube, his health journey, what “progress” means to him, and shares a message for his day-one supporters. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jtmoneyjbaby/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Im not on this tour, Wayne not on this tour… Is it really a Cash Money Reunion?” ~ Hot Boy Turk Hot Boy Turk returns for his third interview with Lalaa Shepard for a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report. Nearly a decade into our history of conversations, Turk gets candid about where he is today personally, musically, and as a businessman. Turk addresses not being included on the current Cash Money & No Limit Tour and reacts to the viral Houston moment where another man took the stage performing his lyrics. While Turk says he was able to laugh at the situation, he makes it clear that his place in history is already solidified and questions whether it can truly be considered a Cash Money reunion without himself and Lil Wayne involved. Turk also clears up the longstanding misconception that Cash Money Records and No Limit Records had real beef, reflects on his relationship with Master P, and discusses their “Wodie” remix collaboration. He also speaks on learning the business side of the music industry, the lessons that came with becoming independent, and why he believes the music business can be even more dangerous than the streets. The conversation gets into Turk receiving backlash for using AI for artwork and covers, why he continues to embrace the technology, and his thoughts on his teenage sons choosing not to use AI. Turk also reflects on unexpectedly going viral after performing outside of Lowe’s, putting diamonds inside his teeth after years of wearing golds, and his experience getting veneers. Later, Turk shares his thoughts on what Lil Durk should focus on as he moves forward with his life, gives his perspective on the Papoose and Remy Ma relationship situation, explains what he wants people to understand about him at this stage of his journey, and shares his goals for 2027 as he continues evolving as an artist, businessman, husband, father, and human being. Turk also discusses his latest music, including “Joseph Reign,” how he defines success today, feeling underestimated, being betrayed by people close to him, his upcoming independent From Magnolia To The World Tour, and much more. Watch the full episode of Skipping Class and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Subscribe to The Progress Report for more exclusive interviews, conversations, and independent music culture. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/originalhotboyturk/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report, Atlanta artist Casper Bluff sits down with Lalaa Shepard for an in-depth conversation about his journey, perseverance, and signing to Gunna’s new record label, Shady Baby. Casper reflects on growing up on the Westside of Atlanta, experiencing gentrification in his neighborhood, making music as early as elementary school, and initially pursuing sports before deciding to take music seriously. He also speaks about his musical influences, his sister being an artist before him, and his mother buying him his first studio equipment. During one of the most personal moments of the conversation, Casper opens up about losing his mother while he was in the 12th grade. As the youngest of six children, he explains how her passing forced him to grow up quickly and become a man. After doctors initially gave his mother only two weeks to live, she lived for over another year and used that time to help prepare him for adulthood and his future. Casper also discusses becoming a father, experiencing a major breakthrough in his career, and signing to Cash Money Records shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic. He explains how the timing of the pandemic prevented the situation from developing the way he envisioned, but ultimately gave him experience that prepared him for the next chapter of his career. Now signed to Gunna’s Shady Baby, Casper explains that he and Gunna have known each other for more than 10 years and were brothers long before deciding to do business together. He speaks about watching Gunna’s evolution, why artists should not expect handouts simply because they are connected to successful people, and the moment he realized his years of consistency were being noticed. Casper also addresses criticism that his sound and style resemble Gunna’s, reflects on advice from the late Chubbie Baby, talks about Gunna’s “health is wealth” mentality, and reveals an upcoming collaboration with Gunna produced by Tay Keith. Plus, things get hilarious when Lalaa tells Casper that she sees a resemblance to Rylo Rodriguez and Lil Gotit—comparisons Casper definitely has some thoughts about. 😂 Tap in for the full conversation and hear Casper Bluff explain what success looks like to him, what he has learned from his journey, and what is coming next musically. New episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casperblufff/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“COVID made me a rapper” ~ H3adband Baton Rouge artist H3adband joins Lalaa Shepard of The Progress Report for a new episode of Skipping Class to discuss his journey from playing basketball in college to becoming a full-time recording artist. During the conversation, H3adband explains how attending college during the COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly pushed him toward music, even admitting that “COVID made me a rapper.” He reflects on releasing his debut project Landlord in 2022 after encouragement from his friends and breaks down the journey behind his breakout record “BOO.” H3adband also opens up about what life looked like after “BOO” took off, including protecting his mental health, taking care of his team, and adjusting to the responsibilities that come with having a successful record. He addresses the possibility of NBA YoungBoy appearing on a “BOO” remix and shares his thoughts on comparisons between himself, NBA YoungBoy, and other Louisiana artists. The Baton Rouge native also speaks about representing Louisiana’s unique sound, his experiences around Boosie, his thoughts on a Cash Money versus No Limit Verzuz, and getting game from Southern legends such as Kevin Gates and Boosie. H3adband reflects on being nominated for the XXL Freshman list but ultimately not making the final cut, explaining why the experience motivated him rather than discouraged him. He also discusses his new project BandBoy, why he chose to release the project without any features, and what he wants new listeners to understand about him as an artist. Watch the full episode of Skipping Class with H3adband, hosted by Lalaa Shepard, and visit TPRMediaGroup.com for more exclusive interviews, performances, and independent music content from The Progress Report Media Group. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/h3adbandshawty/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“You can handle it if God gave it to you” ~ Kaliii Kaliii returns to The Progress Report for her third interview with us and her first-ever episode of Skipping Class, hosted by Lalaa Shepard. This time around, the conversation gets much more personal as Kaliii opens up about becoming a first-time mother, navigating postpartum and changes to her body, taking a brief hiatus from music, and finding herself again outside of the industry. Kaliii also speaks candidly about heartbreak and the end of her relationship with her child’s father, being single and focused on herself, her daughter, and her career, and why motherhood taught her to slow down and appreciate the small wins. During an emotional moment, Kaliii breaks down while remembering the late 1017 rapper Enchanting. She reflects on their friendship, their “Track & Field” collaboration, the unreleased music they recorded together, and people attempting to pit them against each other because of similarities in their voices. Kaliii also discusses her close friendship with Houston rapper KenTheMan, the two of them making the 2022 XXL Freshman class together, her success with records going platinum including “Area Codes” and “MMM MMM,” appearing on the Barbie soundtrack, protecting her creativity, and her new single “Girls Who Want Boys Who STFU.” Watch the full conversation and visit http://TPRMediaGroup.com for more exclusive interviews, performances, and independent music culture. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaliii/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DJ Ace returns for Part 2 of his Skipping Class conversation with The Progress Report, continuing his stories from decades of firsthand experience in Atlanta and Southern hip-hop. In this episode, Ace reflects on the lives, careers and legacies of Shawty Lo, Bigga Rankin, Alley Boy, Trouble, Bankroll Fresh, Young Capone, Rich Homie Quan, Lil Keed and T-Hood, sharing personal memories, lessons and stories from his relationships with many of them. He also speaks on knowing Kirk and Rasheeda, his history coming up around Kizzy Rock, and why DJs still have to create their own lane, master the microphone and stay passionate about the culture. On the lighter side, DJ Ace talks about constantly being mistaken for Yung Joc, while also getting comparisons to Jadakiss and Jeezy — and explains why people say he sounds like Gucci Mane. 😂 Ace also opens up about being a girl dad to two daughters, including one daughter who followed in his footsteps and became a DJ herself. He speaks on her already DJing for multiple celebrities, how proud he is of her growth, and how she helps keep him tapped into new artists, songs and what’s current in music. Later, Ace discusses reconnecting and working with Big Cat, their efforts to bring him back into the music business and signing Circlesmall Juli. He also reflects on the legacy of Big Cat Records and its history with artists including Khia, Rasheeda, Gucci Mane, Maceo, Yung Ralph and Joe Green. 🎥 Watch Part 1: https://youtu.be/61gRoVb152w 🌐 Watch more exclusive interviews and performances at http://TPRMediaGroup.com Subscribe to The Progress Report for more episodes of Skipping Class, independent artist interviews, performances and untold hip-hop stories. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdjace/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

R&B/pop artist Neila returns to The Progress Report for a new episode of Skipping Class, seven years after her first interview with us in 2019! The South Florida-born, Atlanta-based artist catches Lalaa Shepard up on everything that has changed since their first conversation, including the release of her new four-track EP, Pop Priestess. Neila breaks down blending futuristic R&B, hypnotic pop, healing frequencies, affirmations, spirituality, and movement into her music while continuing to create outside of the traditional boxes placed on artists. Neila also explains the meaning behind her name — “alien” spelled backwards — and why remaining authentic in a world driven by trends has always been important to her. She discusses being an astrologist and a true Capricorn, becoming an ordained minister, and how Erykah Badu inspired her to embrace every side of herself instead of believing she has to choose just one path. The conversation also dives into Neila’s success outside of music, including major campaigns and commercial work with brands such as Sprite and Nike, her Pop Priestess track “Zodiac,” and preparing to hit the road for five dates as an opening act for singer and violinist Cain Culto beginning October 1, 2026. Neila also reveals that Victoria Monét is one of the artists she hopes to work with in the future and shares what fans can expect from her next. Watch the full episode of Skipping Class, presented by The Progress Report, and stream Neila’s Pop Priestess EP, available now on all streaming platforms. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neilaofficial/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Gucci Mane was locked up on every album. I never got fired I quit!” ~ DJ Ace  DJ Ace joins us for a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report for an in-depth conversation about his journey as a DJ, road manager and key figure who witnessed some of the most important moments in Gucci Mane and 1017 history firsthand. In Part 1, DJ Ace reflects on knowing Gucci Mane since childhood and breaks down the difference between the old Gucci and the man he is today, including his thoughts on the infamous “Gucci clone” rumors and Gucci’s evolution after getting off drugs and changing his lifestyle. Ace also gives his perspective on the recent Gucci Mane and Pooh Shiesty situation, explaining why “Pregnant Gucci” may have handled things differently and why becoming a husband, father, businessman and CEO changes how you respond when millions of dollars and your freedom are at stake. DJ Ace shares untold stories from his years alongside Gucci Mane, including their personal ups and downs, touring together, the Mr. Perfect mixtape era, Gucci’s rise in show money and Ace’s own hustle selling mixtapes on the road. He also speaks on Gucci Mane’s incredible ability to introduce and put his stamp on artists, producers and DJs, including Waka Flocka Flame, Young Thug, Peewee Longway and others who became major forces in the industry. The conversation also gets into the alleged “1017 curse,” the loss of Slim Dunkin, the different eras of 1017, DJ Holiday, Zaytoven, Southside, Gucci Mane and Jeezy’s historic Verzuz battle and much more from an era of Atlanta hip-hop that DJ Ace experienced firsthand. This is Part 1 of our conversation with DJ Ace. Part 2 is coming soon, so subscribe to The Progress Report and turn on notifications so you don’t miss the rest of the interview. New episode of Skipping Class, presented by The Progress Report. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdjace/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this new episode of Skipping Class, Lalaa Shepard sits down with rising Omaha, Nebraska rapper Naffy G for an in-depth conversation about her music, life experiences, motherhood, and plans for the future. Naffy G speaks on performing at Coalition DJs’ New Music Mondays, the success of her record “Ruth Chris,” receiving a co-sign from Tia Kemp, and the story behind “Naffy Krueger.” She also discusses appearing in Saucy Santana’s “Quiet on the Creek” music video and shares her thoughts on the controversy surrounding the record and male DJs who are hesitant to play it. Beyond music, Naffy G gets personal about beginning her rap career at 13, experiencing street life and gun charges, and how motherhood changed her outlook on life. She opens up about raising her son with autism and addresses common misconceptions surrounding autism. Naffy G also reflects on losing her older brother when they were teenagers and reveals that she and her family are working toward opening a halfway house to help others. She ultimately shares why motivational speaking and giving back are an important part of her purpose beyond music. Watch the full interview and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naffygangsta/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Do good business” ~ Beezo Beatz Multi-platinum and Billboard-charting producer Beezo Beatz returns to The Progress Report for a new episode of Skipping Class with Lalaa Shepard. Beezo reflects on producing Roddy Ricch’s “Every Season” while he was still broke and working a regular job, how the record became his breakout moment, and gives his perspective on Roddy Ricch’s musical hiatus and what fans may not understand about his absence. Beezo also speaks about navigating relationships with artists including NBA YoungBoy, Lil Durk, and Quando Rondo and whether producers are expected to pick sides when artists are beefing. He opens up about his biggest mistake of not learning the music business early enough, the importance of doing good business, building his team of producers, and why he refuses to be boxed in as only a trap producer. Beezo also discusses his Augusta, Georgia roots, working internationally, his evolution as a man and producer, and what’s next for his career. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beezobeatz/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

‘I Don’t Want Them Big Ass Teeth Man” ~ Yung Ralph Yung Ralph returns for a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report! After his first solo interview with us in 2020 and returning alongside Yung L.A. in 2025, the Atlanta veteran catches up with Lalaa Shepard about life, music, longevity, and everything that has changed over the years. Ralph speaks on removing his signature golds for a $52K smile, making major lifestyle changes, Fetty Wap motivating his fitness journey, and unreleased music they have together. Ralph also reflects on 20 years of his street classic “Look Like Money,” reconnecting with Rick Ross at New Music Mondays, the business behind his music, and his unofficial remix of Yung Miami’s “Spend Dat” while discussing the backlash surrounding her original song. He reflects on Angie Stone, Bigga Rankin, Alley Boy, and Young Scooter, weighs in on who popularized the word “juug,” and opens up about fatherhood, recently becoming a grandfather, and his relationship with South Carolina women’s basketball star Raven Johnson. He also discusses reconnecting with Plies through Raven’s mother, Kia, Dawn Staley, and the growing popularity of women’s sports. After surviving multiple eras of Atlanta music, Yung Ralph explains why he continues to stay in his own lane, remain humble, and move differently as he gets older. Watch the full episode on TPRMediaGroup.com and YouTube, or listen to The Progress Report on your preferred streaming platform. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juugmanent/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Atlanta rising artist SMJ joins Lalaa Shepard for her first-ever interview on a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report! The 22-year-old Westside Atlanta native introduces the world to who she is as an artist and breaks down her new project, Pleasure To Meet You, which she describes as her proper introduction to the world. SMJ reflects on performing since the age of 3, beginning to rap at 6 years old, the support of her family, and growing into her own sound as part of Atlanta’s new generation of artists. SMJ also speaks on being influenced by Atlanta artists including YFN Lucci, Young Thug and Rich Kidz, sampling Rich Kidz and being embraced by OGs from the city. She discusses keeping Pleasure To Meet You authentic to Atlanta through collaborations with PLUTO and Anycia, including the story behind creating her Jeezy-sampled record with PLUTO. During the conversation, SMJ clears up whether she and Anycia are actually related, speaks on another record sampling Bow Wow and Omarion’s “Let Me Hold You,” and addresses “industry plant” comments head-on. She explains why her success comes down to years of hard work, dedication and consistency and shares how she has learned to handle negativity on social media without allowing it to distract her. SMJ also reflects on navigating the music industry at only 22 years old, learning the game from her mother and aunts, gives advice to other young women pursuing their goals, shows love to her day-one supporters, and defines what the word “progress” means to her. Pleasure To Meet You is available now on all streaming platforms. Watch, comment, subscribe and let us know your favorite moment from SMJ’s first-ever interview! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tharealsmjj/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“R&B is way cooler than rap” ~ Pofsky Pofsky joins Lalaa Shepard of The Progress Report for a new episode of Skipping Class to discuss his nearly 20-year musical journey, transitioning from rap into R&B, signing to Eric Bellinger’s ALL WINS, and building his identity as an artist, entrepreneur, and creative executive. During the conversation, Pofsky reflects on beginning his musical journey at a young age and the adversity he experienced after being made fun of for rapping as a white kid from the suburbs. He explains how those early experiences affected his confidence, why he eventually returned to music, and how he now uses his journey to encourage and mentor young people. Pofsky also speaks candidly about the credibility that Eric Bellinger’s co-sign has brought to his R&B career and shares some of the tough-love advice Eric has given him about improving his music, creating hit records, remaining hands-on, and never becoming complacent with his growth. Pofsky also discusses touring alongside Steven G. on the “A Night With a G” Tour, evolving his live performances, incorporating a cover of Chris Brown’s “Main Chick” into his set, performing without a traditional backing track, and why he believes he is ready to perform on an arena stage. He also reflects on his latest music and continuing to develop himself as an R&B artist. Beyond music, Pofsky discusses becoming a partner in UNDRGRNDMAG and how he helped expand the platform through events and experiences inspired by Nipsey Hussle’s Proud2Pay movement. He explains how his entrepreneurial mindset has helped UNDRGRND grow beyond its original concept and expand into multiple areas of entertainment. Pofsky closes out the conversation by defining “progress” and explaining why artists and entrepreneurs should not be afraid to publicly show both their wins and losses. He shares why documenting the journey, embracing failure, building community, and “failing forward” are essential parts of creating a lasting brand. Watch the full episode of Skipping Class and subscribe to The Progress Report for more conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pofsky3/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices