Light Up the Mic Podcast

Are you stressed? In this episode, Kembala shares some proven, practical and effective stress management techniques to help you find relief. She also discusses the state of Financial Stress in America today. And the negative impact it has on your mental health.

Just in time for #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth - This episode emphasizes the need for managing stress, having a positive outlook and actionable steps you may consider to help improve your mental well-being and financial health.

Kembala highlights five effective and practical tips for managing stress, including relaxation techniques, the power of your mindset, practicing gratitude, self-care strategies, and the importance of seeking help (if needed).

Key Takeaways

• Money is a leading cause of stress for many Americans.
• Over 80% of adults are stressed about money.
• Deep breathing, meditation and stretching can help reduce stress.
• Your mindset is crucial for managing both finances and life.
• Positive self-talk can take the limits off and lift you up.
• Gratitude journaling can help us reflect on the positive.
• Self-care includes physical activity and healthy eating too.
• Laughter can be a great stress reliever.
• Asking for help and finding the support you need to start feeling better.
• Focus on what you can control regarding finances.

🔗 Follow, share, and leave a review or send us a text below!

Resources:

• Fortune magazine article on Financial Stress
• Deep Breathing Exercises
• Stretching for Stress Relief
• Mayo Clinic on Meditation
• "Get Your Money Right" book by Kembala Evans
• Thinking Poem by Walter D. Wintle
• Hawkins Family Downsized article
• “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” book by Dale Carnegie

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.

What do moms really want? In this candid and lively Mother’s Day episode, Kembala Evans sits down with her dear friend Mayra McEvoy for an honest, uplifting conversation about the joys and struggles of motherhood. They also unpack what moms really want—and it might surprise you.

From navigating multigenerational households and dreams, the two explore how family, faith, and self-reflection shape a mother’s journey. 

Mayra shares how understanding love languages, embracing change, and letting go have deepened her relationships. With humor, vulnerability, and wisdom, this episode reminds us that the best gifts aren’t bought—they’re felt.

Mayra discusses the challenges in balancing family, a successful business, and self. And how she learned to be still in a go-go world. If you’ve ever felt stretched thin, questioned if you’re doing enough, or just wanted someone to say “me too,” this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

• The surprising origins of Mother’s Day
• How understanding love languages deepens relationships
• Why presence often matters more than presents
• How relationships between mothers and children evolve
• Balancing motherhood and self-care
• Meaningful (and affordable) Mother’s Day ideas - procrastinators rejoice!
• Trusting God in life

👉 If you're a mom, have a mom, or miss your mom—this one’s for you.

🔗 Follow, share, and leave a review or send us a text below!

Resources:

• The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
• 2025 National Retail Federation’s Mother’s Day Press Release

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.

In this heartfelt episode, Kembala Evans takes to the streets and a college campus across Florida and Georgia to explore a timeless question: What is love? Through candid interviews with everyday people of all ages (20-85) and backgrounds, she uncovers the different ways love is defined, experienced, and how love has shaped their lives.

Kembala also reveals what Americans think about love from a recent YouGov survey. And other stats on what Americans think about true love and marriage. Some of this may surprise you, especially when it comes to relationships.

She closes sharing the powerful impact Dr. Leo Buscaglia (“Dr. Love”) had on teaching others about the power of love. 

Tune in and be inspired to reflect on what love means to you—and to choose love. 

Key Takeaways:

• The many faces of love: from romantic to platonic, from self-love to appreciation of nature, from unbelief to belief.
• Personal stories of long-term relationships, family bonds, strong faith, and the power of caring actions.
• Love is both a feeling and an action, shown through commitment, caring, and respect.
• Communication and mutual support are essential for lasting relationships.
• True love often starts with loving yourself—self-love enables us to love others fully.
• Love extends beyond romance into every aspect of life.
• Choosing love gives our lives more meaning.

A Special Thank You to the kind souls who agreed to talk about love in this episode. We appreciate your time, honesty, and sharing your thoughts with us!

Love Survey/Stats:

• What Americans Believe about Love (YouGov)
• Americans Who Believe in Love (Statista)

Dr. Leo Buscaglia 

• Living, Loving, & Learning book
• PBS KVIE “Speaking of Love” YouTube presentation

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.

“Light Up the Mic” listeners get answers to their burning money questions from nationally recognized personal finance expert Beverly Harzog. Kembala Evans and Beverly Harzog sit down and discuss the challenges many Americans have living paycheck to paycheck, side hustle ideas for more income, and the necessity of having an emergency fund. 

Beverly shares her insights on building a diverse retirement portfolio and the significance of shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance. They both agree your mindset is very important in achieving your financial goals. So, changing the way you think could impact your finances and the way you see the world around you.

The conversation also touches on the current housing market, navigating the complexities of homeownership in today's economy and how to build residual income. Additionally, they talk about foreign currency considerations for travelers, and Beverly provides listeners with practical advice to save money when traveling abroad. 

And the significance of teaching children about financial literacy. Beverly shares the strategies she used to help her kids develop strong money management skills, including involving them in family budgeting and financial conversations. Stressing the importance of age-appropriate discussions about finances, especially during challenging times.

She also encourage listeners to seek professional advice for tax and financial planning (when needed).

Key Takeaways:

• Side hustles can provide additional income and savings.
• Living paycheck to paycheck is a common struggle for many Americans.
• An emergency fund is crucial for financial stability.
• Investing early, even with small amounts, is important for retirement.
• Diversifying income sources can lead to financial independence.
• Homeownership requires careful consideration of current market conditions.
• Mindset shifts from scarcity to abundance can open new opportunities.
• Do your research before traveling to avoid foreign transaction fees.
• Start teaching kids about money at a young age by counting real money.
• Involve children in family budgeting to help them understand financial decisions.
• Use shopping trips as opportunities to teach kids about costs and budgeting.
• Encourage kids to save for items they want to teach them about budgeting.
• Seek professional financial/legal advice to navigate tax laws and savings.

For more information on Beverly Harzog, please visit BeverlyHarzog.com

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.

Are you ready to transform your finances? Nationally recognized personal finance expert Beverly Harzog joins Kembala Evans for a money conversation on how to do just that. They explore the importance of setting specific financial goals, practical tips for budgeting and saving, and the emotional aspects of spending. 

Beverly stresses you don't have to give up everything to reach your financial goals. 

Beverly shares her remarkable personal journey from being in debt to achieving financial empowerment, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and strategic planning in managing finances. She also stresses the importance of Knowing Your Worth and the steps she took to get it.

Throughout their conversation, they share personal experiences and practical advice for achieving financial wellness and empowerment. They discuss various aspects of personal finance, including the impact of social pressures on spending habits, the importance of planning for financial goals, and strategies for saving. 

Key Highlights:

• The #1 New Year's Resolution in 2025 - Saving More Money
• Setting goals and laying out a plan with actions to achieve them.
• Tracking spending helps you gain more understanding of your finances.
• Beverly's journey from $21,000 in debt to financial empowerment is inspiring.
• Emotional spending can lead to financial difficulties.
• Planning ahead can save you money and give you more peace of mind.
• Understanding the difference between needs and wants is key to budgeting.
•  It's not just the need to keep up with the Joneses that people struggle with.
• Using tools like budgeting apps can help track expenses effectively. 
• Building an emergency fund is crucial for financial security.
• Using credit cards wisely can lead to rewards and benefits.
• Financial anxiety can affect overall well-being and quality of life.
• Self-control and discipline are essential in personal finance management.
• Enjoying life while being financially responsible is achievable with careful planning.
• Spending less than you make is fundamental to financial health.

For more financial tips, check out Beverly's "Your Personal Economy" video podcast on YouTube.

Bankrate’s 2025 Annual Emergency Savings Report

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.

In this episode of “Light Up the Mic,” host Kembala Evans speaks with Mark Carruthers about his transformative weight loss journey that began with a doctor's visit. Mark shares the real challenges and motivations behind losing 30 pounds in one month without any weight loss surgery, pills, or shots. 

And the secrets behind his success in losing 80 pounds —focusing on nutrition, cutting out processed foods, and making lifestyle changes. Mark’s take on diet and exercise might surprise you, but he’s managed to maintain his weight since 2016 using his strategy.

The conversation delves into the importance of seeking a medical professional, understanding what we consume, the role of exercise, and the impact of genetics on health. Mark emphasizes the need for personal responsibility in making health decisions and the significance of regular checkups to monitor health and get the doctor’s guidance. 

The episode concludes with insights on dietary choices and the glycemic index. He discusses the challenges of adjusting to a new lifestyle, the benefits of homegrown produce, and the cultural differences in diet outside of North America. Mark highlights the significance of self-care in achieving long-term health goals, encouraging listeners to take it step-by-step and prioritize their well-being.

Key Takeaways from the conversation:

• Regular health checkups and being honest with your doctor are important for managing your health and well-being.
• Commitment and willpower are important for changing your lifestyle.
• Overcoming cravings is a major challenge during weight loss.
• The power of nutrition in weight loss.
• Cutting out processed foods was crucial for Mark's success.
• Mark lost 60 pounds in six months after a doctor's visit.
• From a doctor’s concern to the doctor’s poster boy and weight loss motivator.
• Exercise can be integrated into daily activities, not just gyms.
• Understanding the glycemic index may be useful for healthier eating.
• Homemade foods are often healthier than processed options.
• Mark's waist size changed from 44 to 36 inches in a year.
• Sustaining weight loss requires ongoing commitment and lifestyle changes.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before starting any diet, lifestyle change, or exercise routine.

Obesity Medical Stats Referenced:

• U.S. CDC - https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db508.htm
• Canada NIH - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4910458/

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.

A “clean” mammogram almost cost today’s guest her life—hear what saved her. In this episode of “Light Up the Mic,” host Kembala Evans interviews Shalita Thrasher, a breast cancer survivor who shares her powerful journey of self-advocacy, faith, and resilience. Shalita recounts her experience of discovering a lump in her breast after receiving a clean mammogram, her relentless determination to seek more testing, and hearing the eventual diagnosis of stage two breast cancer. 

Shalita emphasizes the importance of being an advocate for your own health and early detection. In this inspiring conversation, Shalita Thrasher shares her story in navigating a breast cancer diagnosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. And her decision to undergo a double mastectomy and how strong faith helped her in the healing process. Shalita talks about her mission to empower others through her nonprofit organization, Shine Through Me, Incorporated, which helps others in cancer treatment with resources and support. 

She talks about the power of your mindset, the significance of community support, and the lessons she learned throughout her fight with cancer. Shalita encourages others to never give up and to prioritize their health through diet and exercise.

Key Highlights:

·      Listening to your body can be a matter of life and death.

·      Self-examinations are crucial for early detection of breast cancer and survival.

·      Being an advocate for your health is essential.

·      Faith can provide strength during difficult times.

·      Misdiagnosis can happen; always seek a second opinion.

·      3D mammograms can provide clearer imaging than traditional ones.

·      Mindset plays a vital role in overcoming cancer diagnoses.

·      Never give up and keep the faith, regardless of challenges.

·      Community support can make a significant difference in recovery.

The power of self-advocacy in healthcare is undeniable because your health is your wealth. 

Share this podcast with the women in your life you care about.

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.

In this engaging conversation, 2x Miami Hurricanes National Football Champion, Coach Hurlie Brown, shares his incredible journey from a young athlete in Merritt Island, Florida, to a successful football coach today. He reflects on the profound influence of his mother, who instilled a strong work ethic in him. And the impact his mentor Bubba McDowell (former Prairie View A&M football coach) had on his life. Coach Brown discusses the importance of mentorship, visualization, great coaches, hard work and the lessons learned from his experiences in sports and life. 

He emphasizes the significance of legendary Miami Hurricanes football head coach Jimmy Johnson on his life and how his remarkable coaching philosophy influenced his own. Throughout the conversation, Coach Brown highlights the value of continuous learning (on and off the field) and the impact of positive relationships in achieving success.

Key Takeaways:

• Life lessons learned in sports apply to real life.
• Mentorship plays a crucial role in personal development.
• Visualization is a powerful tool for success.
• Belief and hope are essential for achieving goals.
• Family influences shape our aspirations and values.
• Continuous learning is vital for growth and success.
• Success is a result of hard work and perseverance.
• A positive mindset can transform challenges into new opportunities.

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.

Do you believe in the power of prayer? Kembala interviews her friend Jannie Grant. Jannie shares two amazing stories about the answers she received to prayers. Kembala and Jannie discuss the significance of these unbelievable and timely prayer responses. If you’re interested in the supernatural or have ever questioned anything in life, you don’t want to miss a word of this! 

Jannie is a devoted mother, committed to growth, creativity, and community service. She balances her professional life as a government servant with her civic responsibilities and entrepreneurial ventures. Jannie has always had a deep interest in spiritual matters.

A few highlights from their conversation:

• Miraculous encounters can happen in dire situations.
• Prayer and faith can manifest in tangible ways during tough times.
• Life's challenges can lead to extraordinary experiences.
• Self-reflection is key to understanding one's purpose.

Resource: National Day of Prayer Study 

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.

Are you curious about why Kembala started "Light Up the Mic"? In this episode, she reveals the real inspiration behind it and gives you a peek into what’s to come. Get ready to be in the know!

A special thanks to Oscar Camejo from "The Beating Diabetes Lifestyle" podcast.

Send us Fan Mail

Thanks for joining us today! 

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: @KembalaEvans (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. 

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.