In this episode of the "Layers of Leadership" podcast, Dr. Michael Marion hosts Kenneth Johnson, CEO of Two Productions, to explore his leadership journey and experiences in media production. Kenneth shares his upbringing in New Orleans, emphasizing the influence of family and mentorship. He discusses transitioning from corporate America to filmmaking, highlighting the importance of starting from the ground up. Kenneth reflects on managing conflict, the significance of community engagement, and fostering creative collaboration. The episode underscores themes of emotional connections, storytelling, and the power of mentorship, aiming to inspire listeners through Kenneth’s authentic and insightful experiences.

In this episode of the "Layers of Leadership" podcast, host Dr. Michael Marion converses with Gordon Fowler, founder of Threefold Communications. Fowler shares his unique upbringing, extensive career in marketing, and the philosophy behind his company. Emphasizing community involvement, he introduces "community tithing," dedicating 10% of time and earnings to local initiatives. Fowler reflects on his educational journey, debate experience, and transition to the professional world. He stresses continuous learning, balancing life and work, and the importance of being actively engaged in the community. The episode highlights leadership principles and the impact of giving back.

In this episode of the "Layers of Leadership" podcast, host Dr. Michael Marion converses with Katie McCleary, a writer, entrepreneur, and founder of 916 Ink, a nonprofit empowering children through literacy. Katie discusses her journey, from her rural upbringing to her success in the nonprofit sector, and the challenges of feeling out of place. She emphasizes the importance of listening, authenticity, and bridging gaps between diverse communities. Katie also shares insights from her book "Bridge the Gap" and her experiences with TED Talks. The episode highlights the transformative power of storytelling, empathy, and connection in leadership.

In this episode of "Layers of Leadership," Dr. Michael Marion Jr. interviews Dr. Brian Bedford, President and CEO of B Better Consulting. Dr. Bedford shares his journey from growing up in a single-parent household in Sacramento, California, to achieving academic and athletic success, including a full scholarship to UC Berkeley and being drafted into the NFL. He discusses overcoming racial discrimination, transitioning to the tech industry, and his passion for education and equity. Dr. Bedford emphasizes resilience, mentorship, and the importance of self-awareness, concluding with insights on leadership and the pursuit of equity and inclusion.

In this episode of "Layers of Leadership," Dr. Michael Marion Jr. converses with Dennis Mangers, a retired strategic advisor and former California State Assemblymember. Mangers shares his journey from his upbringing in Inglewood and Lawndale, California, to his service in the Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis and his extensive career in public service, education, and politics. The discussion highlights the importance of family, mentorship, and authentic leadership. Mangers reflects on personal challenges, including his father's passing and navigating his sexual orientation, while emphasizing the power of resilience, community, and living authentically.

In this episode of "Layers of Leadership," Dr. Michael Marion Jr. hosts Gina Lujan, a tech entrepreneur and founder of Hacker Lab. The conversation explores Gina's inspiring journey from a challenging upbringing in Los Angeles to becoming a prominent figure in the tech industry. Gina shares her early exposure to technology, her struggles as a young mother, and her entrepreneurial ventures, including the creation of Hacker Lab. The episode emphasizes themes of resilience, innovation, and the importance of community support, offering valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs.

In this episode of the "Layers of Leadership" podcast, host Dr. Michael Marion Jr. interviews Rev. Dr. Efrem Smith, a pastor, consultant, speaker, and author. Rev. Smith shares his journey from growing up in a predominantly Black church in Indianapolis to becoming a pastor. He discusses the influence of mentors, his initial aspirations in sports and theater, and his eventual calling to ministry. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, adaptability in leadership, and self-care. Rev. Smith emphasizes lifelong learning and the transformative power of faith in shaping effective leadership.

In this episode of the "Layers of Leadership" podcast, Dr. Michael Marion Jr. converses with Rachel Zillner, co-founder and CEO of RADZ Group. Rachel shares her transition from the banking industry to entrepreneurship, detailing the challenges she faced and her commitment to empowering women in business. The discussion emphasizes the importance of support systems, mentorship, and self-care. Rachel candidly talks about the impact of stress on health and the significance of fostering networks among women leaders. The episode is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the power of community in overcoming professional hurdles.

In this episode of the "Layers of Leadership" podcast, hosted by Dr. Michael Marion Jr., Pam Haynes, a distinguished leader in education and community service, shares her remarkable journey. Pam discusses her upbringing in Los Angeles, her academic achievements at Santa Monica Community College, UCLA, and Harvard, and her extensive work on educational boards. She emphasizes the critical role of education in transforming lives, the challenges faced by students of color, and the importance of leadership, mentorship, and self-care. Pam's insights highlight the need for equitable access to education and the power of compassionate leadership in fostering inclusive communities.

In this episode of the "Layers of Leadership" podcast, hosted by Dr. Michael Marion Jr., Amanda Blackwood, founder and CEO of Blackwood Strategies, shares her leadership journey. Amanda discusses her entrepreneurial upbringing in Kansas, her transition to California, and her experiences in various roles, including as the president of the National Supply Chain Council. She reflects on leading the Sacramento Metro Chamber during the COVID-19 pandemic and civil unrest, emphasizing resilience, seizing opportunities, and the importance of mental health. Amanda's insights highlight the power of action, mentorship, and authenticity in effective leadership.