On today's episode of Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, I spoke with the inspirational Damion Gross become an influencer with over 1.6 million followers. He makes videos of himself dancing, writing positive messages and he takes a stance against bullying. Bullying is something that Damion experienced firsthand because he has cerebral palsy. He was told that he would never walk again let alone be able to dance but he has defied all the odds. Now, he is an aspiring fashion model, an influencer and most importantly he is a role model for all of us to never give up on our dreams even when it feels like the odds are stacked against us.

Izzy Skormin is a survivor of domestic abuse and has started a platform called "Life After Him" to inspire men and women to get the help they deserve after leaving a toxic relationship, while learning to love themselves again and how to see the warning signs of abuse.

Katrina Spagnoletti is a survivor of sexual abuse and has turned her trauma into empowerment for others. She created her own platform "Voices" where she educates people on how to protect themselves, inspire and motivate others through even their darkest of times.

Johnathan Lee Iverson, was the youngest and first African-American Ringmaster of Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus who discusses his incredible career, near-death experiences and the close of a 146 year old icon.

Sydney Scotia is an actress known for "Some Assembly Required," "Reboot: The Guardian Code" and more. She now produces and directs her own films including a documentary on domestic abuse. Sydney and Makaila chat about the pressures of living in Hollywood, peer pressure, domestic abuse, body image and more importantly, friendship.

Casey Conroy is an upcoming musical artist who has juggled many obstacles including body-image issues as a young female artist, finding the right people to surround herself with and feelings of self-consciousness.

Call Me Karizma is an upcoming artist in the world of hip hop and punk rock. He hopes to change the stigmas associated with mental health issues through his music.

Chris Lowe is a speaker, writer, influencer for O! (Oprah's magazine), and activist on topics such as suicide and mental health after losing her own son, Hudson Lowe, at age 20. He left behind a speech called "Fall Forward" which motivates Chris to carry on his message to never give up.

Welcome to Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols! I'm your host, Makaila. On today's episode I will be interviewing myself because why not?! This way, you will have a better understanding of who I am and the direction that this podcast will be going. I plan to post weekly content and interview guests from a variety of backgrounds, careers and lifestyles. I hope to use this platform to raise awareness on social issues and let people know that they are not alone. So without further Adieu, sit back, relax and become Blatantly Honest.