Light Up the Mic Podcast

Light Up the Mic Podcast

By Kembala EvansEducationSelf-Improvement
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Light Up the Mic Podcast episodes

  • Is Social Media Draining Your Wallet? How to Break the Spending Cycle | Todd Christensen

    Is social media quietly draining your wallet? šŸ’ø In this eye-opening episode of Light Up the Mic, Kembala Evans and Todd Christensen, financial educator and author of Everyday Money for Everyday People, dive into the digital spending trap millions of Americans fall into every day. From flashy ads and influencer ā€œmust-havesā€ to sneaky algorithms designed to trigger impulse buys, social media isn’t just shaping what we see—it’s shaping how we spend.

    Todd unpacks the psychology of online spending, the emotional triggers behind impulse purchases, and simple ways to become a more mindful consumer. He also discusses how ads, influencers, and algorithms are shaping what we see — and how we can drive change. He breaks down how to spot manipulative algorithms and the small shifts that can help you take control.

    Kembala also hits the streets to hear real voices on how social media affects their spending habits. And later, Paula in Canada, joins to share her buying based on social media ads experience. You’ll also hear a powerful real-world story about her smart $200 makeup purchase, to a dress that turned into a cautionary tale.Ā 

    Kembala wraps with an FTC alert on the $1.9 billion lost to social-media scams, plus actionable tips to protect your wallet and your peace of mind from scammers online.Ā 

    Key Takeaways:

    1. Awareness breaks the cycle. Recognize your spending triggers and how social media works.
    2. ā€œBuy Now, Pay Laterā€ isn’t your friend. Todd’s theme-park analogy reveals why instant gratification leads to long-term regret.
    3. Curate your feed. Unfollow the noise and follow accounts that uplift, educate, and empower.
    4. Have a spending plan. This isn’t a restriction — it’s direction.
    5. Pay yourself first. Save money in a different account.
    6. Protect yourself from scams. Research sellers, use credit cards for protection, and question ā€œtoo-good-to-be-trueā€ deals.
    7. Scroll with purpose, not impulse. Mindful scrolling saves both your money and your mental space.

    Resources:

    1. Book - Everyday Money for Everyday People by Todd Christensen
    2. Money Fit Online - MoneyFit.org, X and Facebook
    3. FTC Social Media Scam Alert

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

    Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    34 min
  • Money Talks: What Really Keeps Us Up at Night…

    Money worries? From student debt to late payments to skyrocketing housing costs, Americans are losing sleep over money. In this candid episode of Light Up the Mic, host Kembala Evans takes to the streets to hear real voices share their financial worries — and the wisdom they’ve learned along the way.

    You’ll hear from:

    • A student navigating new federal grad loan limits.
    • An independent contractor juggling unpredictable income.
    • A 21-year-old trying to find balance saving, investing, and spending.
    • An immigrant striving to build wealth to give back to her community.
    • A young professional resisting the pressure to ā€œlook rich.ā€
    • A retired veteran reflecting on time, distractions, and budgeting.
    • An 86-year-old sharing powerful advice on housing, childcare, and life abroad.

    These raw, honest conversations reveal not only the struggles but also the solutions — from budgeting with purpose to building emergency savings to focusing on what truly matters.

    šŸŽ§ Tune in for financial truths that cross generations and inspire small steps toward stability, peace of mind, and a stronger future.

    Kembala shares some practical strategies for budgeting, building an emergency savings fund, and achieving your financial goals—to help you worry less and feel better. She also ways to have more peace of mind, stability, and hope for the future.

    Key Takeaways:

    • A 2025 Yahoo Finance/Marist Poll survey reveals how Americans feel about their finances.
    • Honest money conversations with people ages 21–80+, uncovering the frustrations and hopes about money.
    • Budgeting isn’t a restriction. It’s freedom with purpose.
    • Emergency savings come first — even $500-$1,000 can help you.
    • Avoid the comparison game. Ask šŸ‘‰ "Does this bring me closer to my goals?"Ā 
    • Time is more valuable than money.Ā 
    • "Begin with the end in mind." Clear goals with intention and consistent action drive results.Ā 

    Resources:

    Ā·Ā  Ā  Ā  Yahoo Finance/Marist Poll - My Money August 2025

    Ā·Ā  Ā  Ā  Changes to Federal Student Loans from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

    Ā·Ā  Ā  Ā  ā€œThe Richest Man in Babylonā€ book by George S. Clason

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

    Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    25 min
  • Still Looking for Love? Start Here. | Carla Marie Mills

    āš ļø Content Warning: This episode mentions domestic violence.

    Everyone wants to be loved, but it can be hard. In this open and candid conversation, Carla Marie Mills joins Kembala to share why real love starts within. And how you can find healing, happiness and love again after a major breakup.Ā 

    Whether you’re navigating relationships, healing after divorce, or learning to embrace being happily single, this conversation will encourage you to keep your heart open and choose joy in every season.

    Kembala and Carla unpack what love really means. They discuss the importance of self-love and wholeness on your journey. Carla shares lessons learned from relationships, healing after divorce, and the mindset that carried her through cancer treatment.

    Throughout their conversation, Carla highlights the power of positivity and faith in overcoming life's challenges. She encourages listeners to keep their hearts open and pursue happiness.

    Carla’s message is simple, honest, and powerful. She stresses the importance of not settling.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Be Whole First — You can’t fully love someone else until you’re complete within yourself.
    • Self-Love Sets Boundaries — Valuing yourself teaches others how to treat you.
    • Love Languages Explained — Understanding yours (and your partner’s) may help deepen connection.
    • Recognize Real Love — Love shows up in many forms, but unhealthy relationships aren’t love.
    • Healing After Divorce/Heartbreak — Prayer, solitude, and professional help (if needed) can guide recovery.
    • Mindset is Everything — Positivity and faith shape how you experience life.
    • Strength Through Survival — Carla’s cancer journey reveals the power of resilience and perspective.

    Important Note - If you are experiencing domestic violence, help is available - call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, go to thehotline.org to chat, or text START to 88788. The hotline is available 24/7.

    Resources:

    • @CarlaMarieMills on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and YouTube.
    • Jerry Maguire Movie | You Complete Me on YouTube
    • Books:
      1. The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
      2. In The Meantime by Iyanla Vanzant

    šŸŽ§ Listen & Subscribe - If this episode inspired you, please share it and follow Light Up the Mic so you never miss an episode!

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

    Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    35 min
  • Lifesaver: The Lifestyle Shift That Reversed Type 2 Diabetes | Oscar Camejo

    What happens when your doctor says you’ll be on meds ā€œuntil your name is on the tombstoneā€? For Oscar Camejo, that became a challenge to prove his doctor wrong. In this powerful episode of Light Up the Mic, host Kembala Evans sits down with the Beating Diabetes Lifestyle podcast host—to uncover his raw, emotional, and resilient journey of transformation.

    Oscar opens up about the near-death diagnosis that forced him to confront his habits, the dramatic food purge that put him in grouch mode, and the exact steps that helped him lose 84 pounds and reverse type 2 diabetes. He also shares wisdom on diet, sleep, stress, hydration, and relationships.

    You’ll also hear the unfiltered ā€œWalrus and the Ringā€ story, where Oscar reveals what it’s like to fight for your health when the support you expected isn’t there. His journey reminds us that progress, not perfection, is the real goal — and that movement is medicine.

    This is an empowering health transformation story about courage, resilience, and proving that progress, not perfection leads to real change.

    Key Takeaways:

    • IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before starting any diet, lifestyle change, or exercise routine.
    • Take Inventory of Your Life: Whiteboard your habits — what you eat, drink, and do daily — then face it honestly.
    • Small Changes Matter: Replacing one snack or one late-night habit with a healthier option can create momentum.
    • Movement is Medicine: Oscar reversed diabetes and lost 84 pounds through consistent exercise and lifestyle shifts — no shortcuts.
    • Rest is Critical: Lack of sleep fuels cravings, stress, and poor health choices.
    • Hydration Matters: Water is the ā€œchief nutrientā€ our bodies need, not soda or processed drinks.
    • Be Willing to Ask for Help: Get the help you need.
    • Communication is Key: How to communicate effectively to get better results.

    Resources:

    • Oscar’s Beating Diabetes Lifestyle Podcast
    • The Mediterranean diet: Mayo Clinic
    • Oscar's TikTok: @OscarCamejoĀ 
    • ā€œRising Obesity Rates Among U.S. Menā€Ā 

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

    Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    1 hr 4 min
  • From ER to Energetic Athlete: How I Beat Diabetes and Changed My Life | Oscar Camejo

    268 Pounds. Emergency Room. Type 2 Diabetes Diagnosis.

    For Oscar Camejo, that was the wake-up call of a lifetime. On a weekend, his doctor’s office told him to rush to the emergency room — because his life was on the line.

    In this gripping and heartfelt conversation, Light Up the Mic host Kembala Evans sits down with WebMD contributor Oscar Camejo for a candid discussion that will both shake and inspire you. She uncovers how Oscar turned a shocking healthcare diagnosis into a powerful physical and mental transformation. From an overweight man out-of-breath taking the stairs to becoming a strong marathon and ultra runner, his transformational story is about faith, focus and getting back to the basics.Ā 

    Through vulnerability, resilience, and determination, he walks us through his journey of reclaiming his health—sharing not only the physical steps but also the mindset shifts and community support that fueled his transformation. Oscar opens up about the lifestyle changes that helped him reverse his diabetes, drop the weight, and saved his life.

    Whether you’re battling a health scare, looking for weight loss motivation, or seeking fitness inspiration, this conversation will give you the tools — and the belief — to start your own journey.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Take Action: Listen to your body. Don’t ignore warning signs — early action saves lives.
    • The Power of Your Mindset: Self-talk, visualization, and belief fuel long-term success.
    • Overcoming ā€œGym Shameā€: How to stop comparing yourself to others and own your progress.
    • Consistency Beats Quick Fixes and Gimmicks: Small, daily habits create lasting results.
    • Find Your Tribe: How community can help you achieve your fitness goals and stay motivated.Ā 
    • Health Tips: Practical Tips to take control of your health (checkups, stress management).
    • The Dangers of The Comparison Game: Comparing yourself to others can steal your happiness and hinder your progress.
    • IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before starting any diet, lifestyle change, or exercise routine.

    Resources:

    • Beating Diabetes Lifestyle Podcast — Oscar’s platform for health, mindset, and transformation.
    • Black Men Run — Running group promoting health in the Black community.
    • American Diabetes Association — Support, prevention, and education on diabetes.

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

    Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    53 min
  • Wellness Champion: How My Mother’s Health Challenges Fueled My Passion | Vanessa Lain

    In this inspiring episode of Light Up the Mic, host Kembala Evans reconnects with high school track teammate and wellness advocate Vanessa Lain. With over 27 years in the healthcare industry and a passion for running that spans decades, Vanessa shares her personal journey of resilience—from witnessing her mother’s battle with obesity and diabetes to forging her own path of health, discipline, and community connection.

    They discuss the importance of goals, accountability partners, and striking the right balance between diet and exercise to live healthier. They explore the impact of cortisol on weight management, the significance of strength training, and the challenges of overcoming injuries.

    Vanessa opens up about breaking generational health patterns, the importance of your mindset, and the power of accountability through running groups and fitness routines. Whether you’re just getting started on your wellness journey or looking for motivation to keep going, this conversation will remind you that it’s never too late to change your story—one step at a time.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Your mindset can make or break you.
    • Being committed to living a healthier lifestyle may help you overcome genetic patterns.
    • IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before starting any diet, lifestyle change, or exercise routine.
    • Strength training and diet are more important as we age.
    • Community support (running group) or an accountability partner is the X factor in your success.
    • Cortisol levels can significantly impact weight management.
    • Diet and exercise go hand-in-hand for optimal health.
    • Overcoming injuries requires patience and adaptability.
    • A positive, can-do mindset is essential for achieving your fitness goals.
    • You can start with baby steps but get moving and stay committed.
    • Forget about perfection and think about Progress.
    • You can be fit at any age—Never Give Up!

    Resources:

    -Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā Is There An Age When You Can Start Eating Whatever You Want?

    -Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā 6 Exercises That Can Help You Live Longer—No Gym Membership Required

    -Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā Ida Keeling’s book Can't Nothing Bring Me Down

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

    Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    43 min
  • Cheri Huber on Depression: Finding Love, Peace, and Joy

    Content Warning āš ļø: This episode contains an open and honest discussion of depression and suicide. It may be triggering for some. Please use discretion before listening. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 in the U.S. to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—available 24/7.Ā 

    In this inspiring and revealing episode of Light Up the Mic, Kembala speaks with renowned Zen student, teacher, and author Cheri Huber. Cheri shares her deeply personal story of moving from suffering to self-compassion, and how awareness can help us find true joy. Cheri shares her struggles with depression and the major turning point that led her to Zen.

    This is a conversation about healing, hope, and finding happiness.

    She also discusses her philanthropic work in Zambia, where she launched a feeding and education program that now serves over 1,000 children.Ā 

    Cheri’s message is clear and deeply empowering: There’s nothing wrong with you. Our healing begins when we stop believing the voices of self-hate and start choosing love. This conversation is a powerful reminder that transformation is possible—and that healing begins with unconditional love for ourselves.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Healing starts with believing in the goodness of who you truly are.
    • How to handle the negative voice in your head that tears you down.
    • Zen practice is about awakening into presence—and ending suffering.
    • Movement is medicine - Exercise is crucial for mental health.
    • The power of walking and nature to lift your spirits and heal.
    • The origin story of Cheri's project in Zambia that nourishes 1,000+ children daily.
    • Unconditional love and inner peace are powerful.
    • Understanding our past helps us heal from trauma.
    • Gratitude and giving can shift our focus in life.
    • Community support is vital for mental health.

    Resources:

    • šŸ“š Cheri Huber's Books:
      1. Ā There’s Nothing Wrong With You
      2. Ā The Depression Book
    • 🌐 Free Audiobooks and Africa Project:
      https://www.livingcompassion.org
    • šŸŽ§ Recording & Listening Practice:
      https://www.recordingandlistening.org
    • šŸ“ž Open Air Call-In Radio Show:
      Tuesdays at 5PM PT / 8PM ET
    • Need Help? The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is for those in crisis or looking to help someone. Call or text 988. Outside U.S., click here .

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

    Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    36 min
  • The Journey Back to You: Zen, Love, and Letting Go | Cheri Huber

    In this deeply enlightening episode, Kembala speaks with renowned Zen student, teacher, and author Cheri Huber. Cheri has over 45 years of experience with Zen. She is the author of 24 books, including There Is Nothing Wrong With You.Ā 

    They discuss the journey of self-acceptance, the layers that people build over time, and the transformative power of love and understanding in overcoming personal challenges. The conversation emphasizes the need for mindfulness, unconditional love, and being present in the moment, as well as the significance of recognizing one's true nature beneath societal conditioning.

    From the impact of technology on real human relations to how love—not punishment—heals hurt, this episode invites listeners to rethink judgment, embrace self-compassion, and reconnect with the simple joys of nature, meditation, and childlike innocence. Cheri shares practical ways to find peace in a noisy world and offers resources for those struggling with anxiety and depression.Ā 

    Whether you're experienced with Zen or just curious about it, this episode is an invitation to pause, breathe, and explore it more.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Presence is the heart of Zen: being fully in the moment.
    • Social conditioning creates layers that separate us from our true nature.
    • Self-acceptance begins with understanding who we truly are.
    • Love—not punishment—is what reaches and transforms people, especially children.
    • True change starts with self-love; that’s not selfish, it’s essential.
    • Nature, stillness, and volunteering are powerful antidotes to digital overload.
    • Comparison is a thief of joy—your worth isn't measured by external validation.
    • Meditation is challenging but worth it to reclaim your inner peace.

    Resources:

    • LivingCompassion.org – Free downloads of Cheri’s books and more.
    • Some of Cheri’s Books:
      1. There’s Nothing Wrong With You: Going Beyond Self-Hate
      2. The Key: And The Name of The Key is Willingness
      3. Nothing Happens Next: Responses to Questions About Meditation
    • The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
    • The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America's Wealthy byĀ  Thomas J. Stanley and William D. DankoĀ 

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

    Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    44 min
  • Unstoppable Carl Joseph: From One Leg Wonder to Legend

    Born with one leg, Carl Joseph never accepted limits. In this deeply inspiring episode of Light Up the Mic, host Kembala Evans speaks with Carl ā€œSugarfootā€ Joseph—a Hall of Fame athlete. Carl Joseph's praying single mother raised him on a tobacco farm in Madison, Florida—without using the word ā€œhandicap.ā€ Carl’s story is a powerful testament to faith, grit, and unwavering self-belief.Ā 

    With no prosthetic and no excuses, he excelled in sports earning eight varsity letters in football, basketball, and track—becoming a state legend and eventually inducted into the Florida High School Hall of Fame.Ā 

    He shares how faith, self-belief, and resilience fueled every step of his journey—from dominating high school sports to inspiring youth across the nation. Carl opens up about bullying, spiritual purpose, missed NFL dreams, and the life-changing impact of being seen not for what he lacked, but for who he truly is.

    This is more than a sports story. It’s a testimony of what’s possible when you believe in yourself and trust in something greater.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Your mindset defines your potential. Carl never accepted the label ā€œhandicappedā€ā€”even when others tried to impose it.
    • Faith and family are powerful foundations. His mother’s no-excuses love and spiritual leadership shaped his perseverance.
    • Confidence isn't pride—it’s necessary. Carl emphasized the importance of self-belief in overcoming adversity.
    • Purpose leaves a ripple effect. His presence transformed football culture in his hometown and has inspired countless youth.
    • Stay true to your vision. Whether DJing in college or jumping fences as a kid, Carl followed his instincts and God-given path.
    • Tune out the negativity and magnify your belief. He faced negativity in school but never let it define or limit him.
    • It all starts within. Carl's story is a powerful reminder that anything is possible, but it starts with you.

    Resources:

    • That's Incredible Show - Carl JosephĀ (video)
    • One-Legged Wonder Makes Hall of FameĀ (video)
    • Carl's Books:
      1. One of a Kind: The Legend of Carl Joseph
      2. Some Called Me Superstar

    šŸ”— Follow, share, and leave a review or send us a text below!

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

    Links to Other Sites: The "Light Up the Mic" podcast may provide links to other sites and we provide no warranty for other sites. Sites that may be linked have their own policies. Users may reference their terms of use and privacy policy.

    51 min
  • Father’s Day Special: An Authentic Take on Fatherhood | Roderick Langrin

    In this colorful episode, Kembala speaks with engineer and devoted father Roderick Langrin about fatherhood. Growing up with a single mother, Roderick was intentional in creating his own father blueprint.Ā 

    They discuss the origins of Father’s Day from Sonora Smart Dodd’s campaign in 1910 Spokane, WA to its national recognition in 1972. Roderick shares his idea of a perfect Father’s Day and his most treasured gifts—against a backdrop of the National Retail Federation’s projected $24 billion in Father’s Day spending (2025).Ā 

    Roderick shares invaluable, candid lessons on navigating fatherhood, prioritizing his children first, and his dedication to having lasting connections.Ā 

    What do dads want most? Kembala reveals the Top 5 things American dads wantĀ  for Father’s Day 2025 (YouGov survey).

    Key Takeaways:

    1. Presence Over Perfection: Observe positive father figures/role models, extract positive behaviors, and adapt them to your family.
    2. Embrace Individuality: Each child is unique. Celebrate their strengths, address vulnerabilities, and tailor your approach to each.
    3. Sentimental Gifts Mean More: Hand-drawn cards and photo books often outlast expensive gadgets.Ā 
    4. Quality Time is the #1 Gift: Show up—whether that’s being in the delivery room, attending a game, or simply turning off the radio and talking.
    5. Balance Work and Family: Prioritize. Material comforts can’t replace memories of your presence.
    6. Build a ā€œDad Brotherhoodā€: Father’s Day can foster camaraderie among dads—share experiences, encouragement, and mutual support.
    7. Stay Connected to Your Kids: Create group text chats, learn their interests and communicate with them regularly to gain trust.

    Resources:

    • NRF Press Release ā€œFather’s Day Spending to Reach Record $24 Billionā€Ā 
    • History of Father’s Day
    • YouGov Survey What American Dads Want for Father’s Day (2025)

    šŸ‘‰ If you're a dad, have a dad, or want to be a dad—this one’s for you.

    šŸ”— Follow, share, leave a review or send us a textšŸ‘‡

    Send us Fan Mail

    Thanks for joining us today!Ā 

    We want to hear from you with any feedback, show ideas or thoughts. You can send us a text above or email to [email protected].

    Connect with us on Instagram: lightupthemicpodcast

    Follow "Light Up the Mic" host Kembala Evans online:
    X: @Kembala
    YouTube: @KembalaEvansĀ (video podcasts will be posted here occasionally)

    Disclaimer: This "Light Up the Mic" podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It is not intended to deliver legal, accounting, medical, or other professional services. If legal, accounting, medical or other professional advice is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.Ā 

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    44 min

About Light Up the Mic Podcast

From the publisher's feed

Light Up the Mic shines a light on meaningful conversations that help you win in life. Through honest stories and inspiring interviews, you'll hear how everyday people and remarkable guests…