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Dr. Khalid White, founder of BLKMPWR, joins RISE Urban Nation to discuss fatherhood support, early literacy, Black education, and building a mission-driven business rooted in empowerment. From Morehouse to Harvard to entrepreneurship, this conversation explores how storytelling, books, media, and culture can transform communities and create lasting impact.   Resources & Mentions🌐 Website: https://www.blkmpwr.com   Episode ContributorsHost: Taryell SimmonsGuest: Dr. Khalid WhiteMusic: Will MakerProduction: RISE Urban Nation Media   🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

What happens when a former NASA engineer decides to stop working within the system and start building the future of it? In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Taryell Simmons sits down with De’Schzunell “DJ” Catlin, former NASA Flight Research Engineer and Co-Founder and CEO of Osoosi, to explore his journey from aerospace engineer to technology entrepreneur. DJ shares what it takes to build an aerospace AI startup in an industry where safety, trust, precision, and innovation matter. The conversation explores Osoosi's work around real-time cockpit intelligence, Artificial Pilot Awareness, the Halo AI Copilot, and a future where artificial intelligence enhances human decision-making rather than simply replacing it. DJ also opens up about making the mindset shift from engineer to CEO, navigating entrepreneurship as a Black founder in aerospace and AI, and why greater representation matters in the industries shaping our future. This conversation is for entrepreneurs, engineers, innovators, and anyone who has ever looked at an industry and wondered, “Is there a place for someone like me?” The bigger message: You don't have to wait for permission to enter the future. You can help build it. What You'll LearnHow DJ's aerospace journey led him to NASA and eventually entrepreneurshipWhat it takes to transition from engineer to startup founder and CEOThe challenges of developing AI technology for a high-stakes industry like aviationHow Osoosi approaches Artificial Pilot AwarenessThe vision behind the Halo AI CopilotWhy human-machine collaboration matters in the future of aviationHow entrepreneurs build trust and credibility in complex industriesLessons from building an aerospace technology startupDJ's experience navigating aerospace and AI as a Black founderWhy representation matters in emerging technology industriesAdvice for young Black engineers, innovators, and entrepreneurs entering spaces where they may not see themselves representedKey TakeawayThe future doesn't have to be human versus machine. It can be human with machine. And as artificial intelligence transforms industries like aviation, Black entrepreneurs and innovators have an opportunity not only to participate in that future—but to help build it. Resources & MentionsOsoosi: Osoosi.com Topics discussed: Aerospace AI, aviation technology, NASA, Artificial Pilot Awareness, Halo AI Copilot, human-machine teaming, artificial intelligence, aerospace entrepreneurship, Black tech founders, engineering, startup leadership, and innovation. Episode ContributorsHost: Taryell SimmonsGuest: De’Schzunell “DJ” CatlinFeatured Company: OsoosiMusic: Will MakerProduction: RISE Urban Nation 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

Danela Butler, actress and poet, joins RISE Urban Nation to share her journey of turning pain into purpose through creativity. This episode explores acting, poetry, resilience, and how Black creatives can use storytelling to heal, inspire, and transform communities.   Resources & Mentions📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danela_butlerofficial/🎭 Acting Portfolio: https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/danelabutler🌐 Website: DanelaButler.com📧 Email: [email protected]📘 Facebook: Danela Butler📱 Threads: @Danela_Butlerofficial📱 TikTok: @DanelaButler1    Episode ContributorsHost: Taryell SimmonsGuest: Danela ButlerMusic: Will MakerProduction: RISE Urban Nation   🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

LaTonja Muhammad, founder of College Cost Cutter, shares how families can navigate the complex college financial aid system and significantly reduce the cost of higher education. From common mistakes to proven strategies, this episode is packed with actionable insights for parents, students, and entrepreneurs looking to build generational wealth without student loan debt.   Resources & Mentions🌐 Website: https://CollegeCostCutter.com 📘 Book: The College Funding Playbook   Episode ContributorsHost: Taryell Simmons Guest: LaTonja Muhammad Music: Will Maker Production: RISE Urban Nation   🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

Setche Kwamu-Nana, inclusion strategist and founder of Bridges to Belonging, shares her powerful journey from facing 163 job rejections to building a consulting business that helps organizations identify overlooked talent and dismantle systemic barriers. This episode dives into entrepreneurship, identity, and how Black and African entrepreneurs can turn lived experiences into strategic power. Resources & Mentions 🌐 Website: https://www.setche.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/setche-kwamu-nana/   Episode Contributors Host: Taryell Simmons Guest: Setche Kwamu-Nana Music: Will Maker Production: RISE Urban Nation 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

How do you turn military leadership into a powerful business advantage? Eric L. Johnson II of Flavor Hills breaks down how discipline, brand strategy, leadership, and community engagement have helped grow a standout Black-owned hospitality brand. From shaping the customer experience to expanding into new markets, Eric shares lessons on building a brand people remember and a company culture people want to be part of. For entrepreneurs, veterans, and business leaders looking to scale with intention, this episode offers practical insights on leadership, marketing, and sustainable growth. Resources & Mentions 🌐 Flavor Hills: https://theflavorhills.com Flavor Hills Leadership: Eric L. Johnson II, Andre Truss, Tellers Pollard III, and Culinary Director Chef Morgan Teianne Topics Discussed: Veteran entrepreneurship, hospitality leadership, restaurant branding, community engagement, business expansion, team culture, customer experience, and Black business growth. Episode Contributors Host: Taryell SimmonsGuest: Eric L. Johnson IIMusic: Will MakerProduction: RISE Urban Nation 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

Dontavious Shuler is an Emmy-winning Director of Photography known for his exceptional work in TV. Dontavious Shuler’s journey into filmmaking began during a deeply challenging period marked by personal loss, isolation, and financial struggle. Through faith, journaling, and community support, he transformed those experiences into his film Echoes, which explores the impact of unresolved trauma. In this episode, Dontavious shares how he built his production company from the ground up, the importance of social responsibility in film, and how creators can turn their life experiences into meaningful content.   Resources & Mentions 🌐 Website: https://dontaviousshulerstudios.com 📱 Instagram: @dontaviousshuler 📘 Film: Echoes   Episode Contributors Host: Taryell Simmons Guest: Dontavious Shuler Music: Will Maker Production: RISE Urban Nation 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

Bio:  With a legal career spanning three decades, Teri Lee Thompson has carved a distinguished career as a federal criminal defense attorney in high-stakes capital cases, adjunct professor, and associate magistrate court judge. But Teri’s impact stretches far beyond her courtroom. She is an author and the owner of ZELLA PUBLISHING, an independent producer of books, audiobooks, and digital content. As a writer, Teri produces powerful collections that address culture and diversity. She is the creative force behind the children’s book series, the Adventures of Kai, that ocuses on self-esteem in Black children. She is the author of Kinky, Curly, Mine, Sun-Kissed, and Princess Locs. Her nonprofit, JUSTICE REDEFINED, furthers her mission to inspire girls and teens to overcome challenges and achieve all that they can.  Her program, IMAGINE ME, serves girls between ages six and nine, and focuses on reading and technology. Her program, G.L.O., which stands for Grow, Lead, Overcome, is designed for preteen and teen girls, and empowers them to realize their full potential by enhancing their reading, technology, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills to lay the groundwork for future success. Each facet of JUSTICE REDEFINED provides comprehensive mental health resources. Resources & Mentions: Website: https://www.girlswhorise.com Zella Publishing Justice Redefined Programs The Adventures of Kai Book Series Credits: Host: Taryell Simmons Guest: Teri Thompson Production: RISE Urban Nation Music: Will Maker   🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

Description Many Black and African entrepreneurs possess powerful knowledge and lived experience but have been taught to only use those gifts within traditional jobs or business structures. In this conversation, Stevii Mills explains how entrepreneurs can package their expertise into coaching programs, digital products, workshops, and other income-generating opportunities. This episode explores visibility, ownership, storytelling, and the power of turning what you already know into a scalable business.   Bio Dr. Stevii Aisha Mills is a Visibility Coach and Strategist with over 30 years of experience in marketing and public relations and 16 years as an entrepreneur. She helps high achieving professionals turn their knowledge and expertise into income generating opportunities so they can increase their impact and live the life they love. A two time six figure business owner, author, and podcast host, Dr. Stevii has been featured on major platforms including BET, CBS, FOX, and ABC. Through her work and community, The Permission Slip Club, she empowers others to confidently step into visibility, monetize their experience, and get paid for what they already know.   Resources & Mentions Connect with Stevii Mills Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevii.mills Website: www.stevii.com   Episode Contributors Host: Taryell Simmons Guest: Stevii Mills Music: Will Maker Production: RISE Urban Nation 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

Keith Wattley, attorney, Obama Foundation Fellow, and Founder & Executive Director of UnCommon Law, joins RISE Urban Nation to discuss criminal justice reform, second chances, and the humanity of incarcerated people serving life sentences. With more than 25 years of experience advocating for people in prison and on parole, Keith shares how healing-centered and trauma-informed legal advocacy can create pathways for accountability, transformation, and safe reentry into society. This powerful conversation explores redemption, storytelling, parole reform, and why some of the people society finds hardest to defend are often those most in need of hope and healing. About Keith Wattley Keith Wattley is the Founder and Executive Director of UnCommon Law. He has spent more than two decades advocating for the rights of incarcerated people and those on parole. His work focuses on helping individuals demonstrate personal transformation and successfully navigate California’s parole process. In addition to individual advocacy, Keith has trained hundreds of attorneys and law students and has led efforts to improve prison and parole conditions through impact litigation. Keith was selected as an inaugural Obama Foundation Fellow in 2018 and received the James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award in 2020. Resources & Mentions 🌐 Websitehttps://www.uncommonlaw.org/ 👤 Keith Wattleyhttps://www.uncommonlaw.org/keith-wattley 📱 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/uncommonlawyer/ 📘 Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/UnCommonLaw/ 💼 LinkedIn (Organization)https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncommon-law/ 💼 LinkedIn (Keith Wattley)https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-wattley-44050034/ 📺 YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8K93TWilSZeD8QYVp20Kiw 📧 Email:[email protected]   Celebrating 20 Years of UnCommon Law Learn more about UnCommon Law’s 20th Anniversary storytelling and event series, including: Film screenings Educational webinars Community conversations Annual conference 🔗 20th Anniversary Page https://www.uncommonlaw.org/20th-anniversary Call for Speakers UnCommon Law is currently accepting proposals from mission-driven leaders and organizations interested in presenting at the 20th Anniversary Conference. Proposal Deadline: June 15 🔗 Submit a Proposal https://www.uncommonlaw.org/20th-conference Episode Contributors Host: Taryell SimmonsGuest: Keith WattleyMusic: Will MakerProduction: RISE Urban Nation Media 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

Mo Cisse, founder and CEO of Meraki Allure, joins RISE Urban Nation to share his journey of building a sustainable luxury fashion brand that prioritizes quality, purpose, and environmental responsibility. In an industry driven by fast fashion, Mo chose a different path—focusing on made-to-order clothing, ethical manufacturing, and environmental impact. This episode dives into entrepreneurship, sustainability, and how to build a brand that reflects your values while creating lasting change.   Resources & Mentions 🌐 Website: https://www.MerakiAllure.com 📱 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merakiallure/ 🌱 Environmental Partner: https://www.edenproject.com/mission   Episode Contributors Host: Taryell Simmons Guest: Mo Cisse Music: Will Maker Production: RISE Urban Nation 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

What happens when efficiency meets effectiveness? Melody Shari built Seventh Avenue Beauty for women on the go—creating skincare and beauty products that deliver results with minimal time. In this episode, learn how Melody leveraged authentic marketing, community connection, and product clarity to expand across skincare, body, haircare, kids, cosmetics, and apparel—without losing balance or purpose. MELODY SHARI RODGERS   Dr. Melody Shari Rodgers is a multi-millionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist who has continued to establish a large national fan base in the millions due to her style, resilience, vibrant personality, and her prowess in business, fashion, beauty and real estate. As a star on the popular show Love & Marriage: Huntsville, the mother of four has taken people through her journey and challenges, showing how she has overcome life's obstacles to emerge bigger and better. A woman who is always inspired to action, Melody is currently teaching master classes in real estate and business, making her mark in fashion through her electric women's collection with celebrity stylist J. Bolin, trending in the beauty industry with her skin care line Seventh Avenue Beauty. In March, Melody was honored at the inaugural Goli Gala hosted by Goli Nutrition and TikTok for "Best Celebrity Shoppable Live." Additionally, she recently became the first Reality TV star to have ownership in a Network, with the launch of Nubian TV, and she won the Silver Award for Best Reality Series at the 46th Annual Telly Awards for the show Charnita's World.  Melody prides herself on effectively leveraging the power of relationships, and coupling that with her fierce drive, work ethic, and desire to make an impact in the lives of others. She serves as the chair of the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce in her hometown, and is an advisor to the College of Business and Public Affairs at her alma mater, Alabama A&M University. As a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Melody fully embraces the call to excellence, and exemplifies what it means to truly be a servant leader.   Website: https://seventhavenuebeauty.net/ Instagram:https://seventhavenuebeauty.net/ TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@melodyshari11 TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@seventhavenuebeauty 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

Phillip Hogan, CEO of Signing Services of America and author of Relentless Excellence, returns to RISE Urban Nation to share powerful insights on building a marketing strategy that drives real connection and results. This episode explores entrepreneurship, resilience, leadership, and how to turn life’s toughest challenges into a foundation for lasting success.     Resources & Mentions 🌐 Website: https://www.philliphogan.com 📘 Book: Relentless Excellence 🎙️ Podcast: Closing Market Weekly   Episode Contributors Host: Taryell Simmons Guest: Phillip Hogan Music: Will Maker Production: RISE Urban Nation 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

OUR KINGS was born from grief, fear, and love — and grew into a movement. In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Anya Owensbrown shares the powerful story behind OUR KINGS, a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing the brilliance of Black boys and supporting the families raising them. From Mommy & King to Kings to Kings, this conversation explores community, belonging, identity, and what it truly means to raise Kings in today’s world. Anya bio:  I’m Anya Owensbrown — an early childhood educator, a mom of five, and the founder of OUR KINGS. This work started from something real: looking at my own sons and realizing the world didn’t always see them the way I do. I noticed there was a gap — no one was pouring into our boys early, during those critical years from birth to 13. So I created OUR KINGS. We celebrate, support, and uplift Black boys from the beginning. We build a village around them — one that shows them they’re worthy of joy, protection, and a strong foundation. We do this by partnering with schools and community organizations, running in-school programs, and offering yearly membership options that keep our boys connected, engaged, and growing, building a strong brotherhood and an united village. And when we say KINGS, we mean it: Kind, Intelligent, Noble, Gifted Sons of Queens and Kings. THAT’S WHO THEY ARE— and that’s how we treat them. Because I’m a mother, I understand how important it is to have a village, so we have created a just that by supporting families by giving them the tools and knowledge to advocate for their sons — especially when navigating health care, the education system, or the justice system. Because strong boys need strong support, and no parent should have to figure it out alone. This isn’t just a nonprofit — it’s a movement grounded in love and built for real impact. We start young, stay consistent, and never let them forget how powerful they are. That Black boy joy is real and they deserve every bit of it Media:  Website: Ourkings.org  Instagram: ourkingsanonprofit  TikTok: ourkingsanonprofit  Facebook: OUR KINGS  email: [email protected] (inquiries sponsorships ) [email protected] ( volunteer, collaborations, partnership opportunities)  BBJOY to 53555 to donate    Resources & Links: 🌐 Website: https://ourkings.org 📧 Contact: [email protected] Credits: Host: Taryell Simmons Guest: Anya Owensbrown Music: Will Maker Production: RISE Urban Nation   🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥

How do you create a career in education beyond institutional walls? R. Preston Clark joins RISE Urban Nation to discuss his book Black Bliss Volume 1, the emotional complexity of Black male storytelling, and how creators can use social media and podcasting to control their narrative. This conversation explores mentorship, literature, identity, and building platforms that shape culture. Resources & Mentions: 📘 Get the book:Black Bliss Volume 1 👉 rprestonclark.com 📚 Club FBS — Book Club & Mentorship for Black Males Episode Contributors: Host: Taryell Simmons Guest: R. Preston Clark Music: Will Maker Production: RISE Urban Nation 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to the RISE Urban Nation Podcast—where we amplify Black and Pan-African voices, stories, and strategies shaping the future of business and culture. If this episode inspired you, make sure to follow, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. Stay Connected: 🌐 RISEUrbanNation.com 📲 Instagram: @RiseUrbanNation 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to RISE Urban Nation 🔗 Linktree: All Links Unite. Uplift. Ignite. 🔥