The Rise Live & Direct Tour rolls into North Carolina for our second stop, taking us from campus conversations to community dialogue.

We begin in Durham at North Carolina Central University, where we hosted Rise Outside and connected with students about civic engagement, community leadership, and the power of using their voices in the democratic process.

Later that evening, we headed to Raleigh for Art in Motion, a collaboration with The Lavish House that brought together artists, creatives, community leaders, and changemakers for an evening centered on Black art, culture, and expression. Through a live podcast conversation, we explored the role of Black art in shaping narratives, preserving history, building community, and inspiring action in today’s social and political climate.

From the yard to the art gallery, this episode captures what happens when culture, creativity, and community come together in motion.

Black in Motion is officially in motion!

Season Two launches on the Rise Live & Direct Tour as the team travels to cities across the country to connect with young people driving change on campus and in their communities.

In this premiere episode, Black in Motion heads to Athens, Georgia, for the first tour stop at the University of Georgia. Braxton Simpson leads a Rise University training—guiding students through civic engagement, on-the-ground organizing, and digital organizing—while giving them the opportunity to put their new skills into action in real time.

Join us as Black in Motion partners with campus organizers, highlights the issues that matter most to students, and sets the tone for a season full of movement, impact, and true motion.

Season 1 of Black in Motion concludes with an unforgettable conversation featuring the dynamic Josiah Russell — singer, entertainer, host, performer, industry professional, and a dedicated leader within the HBCU community.

A proud North Carolina Central University alumnus

In Episode 9 of Black in Motion, we sit down with Destiny Butler — educational organizer, activist, mentor, entrepreneur, HBCU graduate, and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Destiny shares her perspective on the unique pressures young Black leaders face while organizing and building in their communities.

We dive into the power of mentorship, the transformative impact of HBCU education, and the urgent need to invest in educators and promote educational equity.

 From navigating societal challenges to creating spaces for Black brilliance to thrive, Destiny breaks down how we can uplift each other while shaping the future of our communities..

In this episode of the Black in Motion Podcast, we sit down with J. “Slim” Robertson, better known as “The Slim Creative.” A creative, photographer, studio owner, event and community curator, and proud father, Slim is a respected force in the Raleigh-Durham area.

From building spaces that inspire creativity to curating events that uplift and connect the community, Slim is deeply committed to progressing Black culture forward. Join us as we dive into his journey, hear about his creative process, and learn how he’s using his talents and platforms to make a lasting impact.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation full of insight, creativity, and legacy in motion.

#BlackInMotionPodcast #TheSlimCreative #LuminaStudios #BlackCreatives #CommunityInMotion

On this episode of Black in Motion, we sit down with Jonathan Gramby— Owner of GTA Fitness, Founder of We Run Durham Run Club, Life Coach, Fitness Coach, proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and dedicated father.

Coach Jon is more than a trainer; he’s a community builder who believes true transformation starts from within. Whether it’s strengthening bodies, guiding people toward healing, showing up in fatherhood, or creating spaces that bring people together, his impact stretches far beyond the gym.

Join us as we dive into a conversation about fitness, mindset, accountability, fatherhood, and the power of community to shape greatness inside and out.

In this episode of Black in Motion, we sit down with Leslie Latrice — Charlotte-based influencer, veteran advocate, entrepreneur, podcast host, avid reader, and true girls’ girl.

Leslie opens up about her journey of transition: from serving in the military, to navigating life as a civilian, and ultimately stepping into her role as a digital creator and influencer. Through her story, she reminds us that growth requires embracing change and trusting the shift.

Tune in for an authentic conversation on resilience, reinvention, and finding purpose in every new chapter.

In this episode, Braxton sits down with entrepreneurs, investors, and business partners Jon Walls and Jamari Sharp for a powerful conversation on what it means to live with intention. From defining manhood and the role of mentorship, to building pathways toward financial freedom and entrepreneurship, Jon and Jamari share lessons learned on their journey of leadership and impact. They also dive into their new book, ”Live on Purpose”—a guide described as “a mentor in your pocket”—that equips readers with the tools to grow personally, professionally, and within their communities.

Who Is She? Rooted in Purpose, Faith, and Community

On this episode of Black in Motion, we sit down with Markela Tarrance and Erica Views, 2/3 of the powerhouse Who Is She Brunch trio, with a special shoutout to their third founder, Crystal Danelle. They share how they navigate a thriving partnership, answer the call to sisterhood and service, and create spaces that uplift and empower women.

Get the inside scoop as we gear up for their 4th Annual Who Is She Brunch, and hear the inspiration, strategy, and Black Girl magic that fuels their work.

On this episode of Black in Motion, we sit down with Breanna “Busy Bre” Powell—entrepreneur, creative, social media guru, wellness advocate, and community curator—who’s making impact by simply showing up as she is. 🎙️💫

Bre keeps it all the way real about battling imposter syndrome while building brands, leading communities, and staying grounded in her purpose. From navigating doubt to finding the courage to take up space, she shares what it means to answer your calling—even when the confidence doesn’t come first.

Whether you're building something from scratch, pivoting in purpose, or figuring it out as you go, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to have it all together to show up and shine.

Press play for gems on grace, grit, and growing through the process. 🖤

#BlackInMotion #BusyBre #NoCapJustCalling #ImposterSyndrome #WellnessInMotion #CreativeEntrepreneurs #CommunityBuilders #BIMPodcast