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Dream Chasers,  sit down with John M. Brown Jr., a dedicated educator, mentor, and program coordinator, to explore a life shaped by perseverance, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

John shares personal stories of growing up with parents who taught him the values of hard work, love, and respect, despite the challenges of systemic racial barriers. From his early fascination with science and engineering to discovering his passion for teaching, John reflects on pivotal moments that defined his journey. 

Listeners will hear about:

• The powerful influence of HBCU culture on John’s educational path.
• His transition from physics major to school leadership and district program coordination.
• What success, joy, and mentorship mean to him as an educator and leader.

Join us for an engaging conversation packed with life lessons!

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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Join us in this compelling episode of Dream Chasers as we sit down with Preston McKinnon, an assistant manager at Ashley Furniture with aspirations of owning his own store and venturing into real estate. Preston shares his inspiring journey from being raised by his grandmother—his unwavering rock and foundation—to overcoming challenges and developing a passion for leadership and mentorship.

Through heartfelt reflections, Preston recounts pivotal moments in his life, including the influence of a middle school teacher who introduced him to the world of business, his enriching experiences at Fayetteville State University, and the hard-earned lessons from his time in organized sports. His story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and dedication to building a legacy for his family and community.

In this episode, Preston also opens up about his fears, the joy his daughter and family bring him, and his unwavering belief in the power of setting goals and working toward them with laser focus and prayer. As he defines leadership as helping others achieve their potential, Preston exemplifies what it means to lead with heart and purpose.

Tune in to hear Preston’s powerful declaration of identity and his vision for inspiring the next generation of Black youth to believe in their limitless potential.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of Dream Chasers, Marvin Smith, principal in, North Carolina, opens up about his journey from a small town in Eastern North Carolina to a respected leader in education. 

Marvin reflects on the influence of his close-knit community, where, raised by a single mother and guided by supportive teachers and coaches, he discovered the value of hard work, resilience, and self-reliance. He shares memories of his formative years, balancing academics, athletics, and early responsibilities, which ultimately prepared him for his role as an educational leader. Marvin discusses the challenges and joys of fatherhood, his journey through personal loss, and the importance of therapy and self-care in his life. He offers candid insights into his struggles with imposter syndrome and emphasizes the need for vulnerable, honest conversations—both personally and professionally.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this thought-provoking episode of 'Dream Chasers,'we sit down with Dr. James Ivory, Associate Professor of English at Appalachian State University, to explore the power of identity, resilience, and storytelling. Dr. Ivory shares his journey from growing up in Harlem, navigating the complexities of his early education, to finding his academic calling in literature and post-colonial studies.

Listeners will gain insight into Dr. Ivory's transformative experiences, including the pivotal moment of becoming the first Black battalion commander at his high school, his evolving relationship with military service, and his eventual pursuit of academia. Dr. Ivory’s reflections highlight how identity is shaped through a tapestry of experiences, environments, and influential figures.

The episode concludes with a moving segment where Dr. Ivory shares what it means to see him beyond the titles: “When you see me, know that I am passionate, empathetic, thoughtful, and a voracious thinker.”

Tune in for an episode that promises to inspire and challenge listeners to think critically about their own identities and the stories that shape us all.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this episode of Dream Chasers, we sit down with Jason Richardson, a senior logistics expert with the Department of the Army, who shares his remarkable journey from a small town in North Carolina to a career in high-stakes supply chain logistics. Jason’s path is marked by resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to giving back. From his beginnings in athletics and academics, through his professional roles in operations management and federal logistics, Jason’s journey exemplifies the power of grit and determination. As the founder of Build Another You Foundation, Jason is also deeply dedicated to empowering underserved youth, providing mentorship, and creating spaces for real-life conversations and community building.

Join us as Jason opens up about career challenges, life lessons, and what success means to him. Through his work and personal philosophy, he shows how legacy is built—not just in personal achievements, but in the impact one has on the lives of others. Whether you're navigating your own career path or seeking inspiration, this episode of Dream Chasers offers a candid look at how dedication, community, and purpose come together to create a life well-lived

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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Welcome to Dream Chasers!  In this episode, Dr. Aaron M. Kyle shares his journey as an educator and innovator. Currently teaching at Duke University, Dr. Kyle focuses on enhancing undergraduate education through courses like Bioinstrumentation and Senior Design, while also addressing DEI issues in engineering.

He founded the HYPOTHEKids Maker Lab, an NIH-funded program that introduced over 160 minority high school students to bioengineering, inspiring many to pursue STEM careers. Now, he’s replicating this success in Durham, NC. Tune in to learn how Dr. Kyle’s passion for teaching and equity is shaping the next generation of engineers.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this powerful episode, Steven Mitchell opens up about his journey of self-discovery, overcoming insecurities, and finding his purpose as an educator and father. With deep insights into his experiences growing up in Baltimore, transitioning through a challenging high school experience, and embracing his role in education, Steven shares how trail running, mountain biking, and outdoor activities have shaped his perspectives on life. He reflects on what it means to be an agent of change, fostering respect and understanding in his community, and living a life of intentionality. This episode offers an inspiring look into redefining social norms, building self-confidence, and learning to love and lead authentically. Tune in to hear Steven’s transformative story and his dedication to empowering the next generation through teaching, leadership, and personal growth.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this powerful episode, Steven Mitchell opens up about his journey of self-discovery, overcoming insecurities, and finding his purpose as an educator and father. With deep insights into his experiences growing up in Baltimore, transitioning through a challenging high school experience, and embracing his role in education, Steven shares how trail running, mountain biking, and outdoor activities have shaped his perspectives on life. He reflects on what it means to be an agent of change, fostering respect and understanding in his community, and living a life of intentionality. This episode offers an inspiring look into redefining social norms, building self-confidence, and learning to love and lead authentically. Tune in to hear Steven’s transformative story and his dedication to empowering the next generation through teaching, leadership, and personal growth.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In the fourth episode of Dream Chasers' we sit down with Felton Foushee, a doctoral student in history at UNC Greensboro, to explore the winding journey that led him from working in manufacturing to pursuing higher education. Felton shares his experiences growing up in Greensboro, NC, the historical significance of his community, and the powerful role of education and mentorship in shaping his path. They dive into topics like the influence of Black culture, media, and storytelling on Felton’s academic focus, and how his personal growth shaped his perspectives on education and life. The conversation also touches on the importance of joy, volunteering, and uplifting Black boys, alongside Felton’s reflections on the depictions of Black Americans in media. The episode offers an inspiring look at how non-linear paths and life’s lessons contribute to the development of purpose, resilience, and a deep sense of community. Tune in to hear Felton’s story of growth, empowerment, and the value of staying true to one’s own journey.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this powerful episode of Dream Chasers, host Dr. Dramaine Freeman sits down with Michael Robinson, a program director for North Carolina for Community Injustice, to explore his unique journey of self-discovery, education, and advocacy. Michael shares his personal reflections on navigating identity as a Black man, grappling with societal expectations, and finding freedom by shedding limiting labels.

Listeners will be inspired as Michael reflects on his upbringing in a small town, the challenges of fitting into predominantly white spaces, and how he redefined his path by embracing his authentic self. Together, they delve into themes of identity, the power of education, and the lifelong journey toward self-acceptance.

Michael also discusses his work in social justice and his efforts to create spaces where young people can engage in meaningful conversations about race, gender, and identity. In this heartfelt conversation, he shares what brings him joy, his evolving understanding of success, and the deep significance of learning to love oneself.

This episode is an intimate look into the life of a man who continues to break barriers and inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles. Join us for a conversation about growth, liberation, and the power of storytelling in shaping the futures of young Black men.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.