IN THIS EPISODE:- Bianca's journey from North Minneapolis to becoming a community leader- Overcoming childhood trauma and developing healthy coping mechanisms- The power of gratitude and learning to receive- Early involvement in economic development and youth violence prevention- Building authentic relationships and understanding alignment- Grant making and equitable resource distribution- Board service and extending the ladder for others- Faces of Hope fellowship initiative and play therapy work- Launching the BE Podcast (Being in Love, Lost, and Lessons)- Vulnerability, emotional intelligence, and breaking down barriers- Leading DEI efforts in sports and fostering belonging- Challenges as a Black woman leader and strategic leadership- Creating space for others and extending opportunity- Closing advice: Trust the process, do inner work, document your journeyKEY TAKEAWAYS:- Unlearning negative habits through self-awareness and accountability- The importance of being present and practicing gratitude- Understanding attraction vs. alignment in relationships- The value of vulnerability and emotional intelligence- Extending your ladder to help others climb- Strategy and protecting yourself as a leader of colorGUEST: Bianca Dawkins- DEI Senior Manager, Minnesota Timberwolves & Lynx- Founder, Faces of Hope- Co-Host, BE Podcast- Board Member on 7+ community organizations

In Episode 2, I Sit Down With Armand Cartwright — CEO & Founder Of Fortress Financial, Michigan Native, Entrepreneur, And Lifelong Friend — For A Deeply Personal And Powerful Conversation That Blends Family, Discipline, Emotional Maturity, And Business Strategy Into One Impactful Story.

Armand Opens Up About The Pivotal Turning Points That Shaped Him:
- Growing Up In Detroit And Navigating Early Life Transitions.
- The Family Structure That Molded His Character.
- Lessons In Leadership And Intentionality From Both His Father And Mother
- The Guidance And Emotional Grounding He Gained From His Siblings
- Finding True Love, Marriage, And Stability During His Evolution.
- And Ultimately… How He Built Fortress Financial, An ATM Business Rooted In Resilience, Discipline, And Long-Term Vision.

Throughout The Episode, Armand Drops Transparent Gems About Entrepreneurship — From Starting With Nothing, To Understanding Your Market, To Staying Locked In Through Lonely Seasons. Whether You’re Curious About The ATM Business, Navigating New Chapters In Life, Or Simply Trying To Build Your Foundation From Scratch, This Conversation Will Leave You Inspired To Take Your Next Step With Purpose.

This Episode Is A Reminder That:
Your Story Matters. Your Structure Matters. And Your Growth Is Built Brick By Brick — Just Like A Fortress.

Tune In, Take Notes, And Tap Into A Story Built On Family, Faith, And Fortitude.

🎙️ Episode 1: "X Hydration" | Season 3 OpenerGuest: Brian Boakye - Ansah —

Entrepreneur | Founder & CEO of X HydrationIn this powerful episode I sit down with Brian Boakye - Ansah — An Emerging, Impactful Leader In The Food And Beverage Industry And The Visionary Founder Behind X Hydration.Brian is part of a new wave of entrepreneurs redefining what it means to fuel the body with intentional, functional products. His Minnesota-made adaptogenic hydration brand is quickly gaining momentum, not just because of its taste or quality, but because of the purpose behind it — creating a healthier, more optimized future for athletes, creators, and everyday individuals looking to take care of their bodies at a higher level.

In this conversation, Brian opens up about the mindset needed to build a brand from the ground up, the discipline required to stand out in a competitive industry, and the importance of creating products that genuinely support human performance. His journey, his vision, and his authenticity make this an episode that sets the tone for what Season 3 is all about: impact, elevation, and intentional progression.

🔗 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.🎧 Tap in. Lock in. Elevate your mindset.

🎙️ Episode 10: "Mind Over Matter" | Season 2 Finale
Guest: Nate Graham — Entrepreneur | Founder of GLU Athletics & Dark Horse Management
Streaming on all platforms

We’ve reached the grand finale of Season 2 — and we’re ending it with impact.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Nate Graham, a multifaceted leader who's redefined the grind through discipline, vision, and creative leadership. From launching his clothing brand GLU Athletics, to managing rising talent through Dark Horse Management, Nate has built it all from scratch — and he’s just getting started.

🚀 What You’ll Hear In This Episode:

• The mental toughness required to build something when no one’s watching

• Why betting on yourself is the most important investment you’ll ever make

• The role of discipline and mindset in pushing through self-doubt and adversity

• The unseen realities of building a brand, managing talent, and staying grounded

• What it really means to lead with purpose, not just passion

🧠 “Mind Over Matter” is more than a phrase — it’s a challenge to dig deeper, think sharper, and move with intention even when the world says stop. Nate doesn’t just talk about it — he lives it.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, athlete, or just someone looking for a spark of motivation — this episode will shift your perspective and fuel your next move.

🔗 Available now on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more.
🎧 Tap in. Lock in. Elevate your mindset.

Episode 8 is with a very special guest, Blake Cashman who is a 7 year and counting NFL veteran. Look forward to a powerful conversation revolving Blake's background upbringing, collegiate & professional journey, leadership & community impact, and lastly what it may look like to redefine after sports! This is an episode you most definitely do not want to miss out on, so please comment, and share your thoughts!

Episode 7 will be with a good friend & Detroit native, Eboni Sawyer! Be sure to take a dive into this impactful episode as conversations will revolve around the significance of Detroit culture, self awareness & mental health practices, factors that develop your purpose, balancing multiple pursuits and much more! This episode will educate the audience around Eboni's business "Evolving Still" and how her platform focuses on emotional wellness.

Welcoming back a close friend on season 2 & returning guest from season 1, head coach of women’s basketball Kynadi Johnson!

Take a walk with me in episode 6 “Passing The Torch” as I first have a conversation with Kynadi about continuous growth as being a business owner, importance around community impact, and being in position to pass down advanced knowledge being the program’s new basketball coach.

The episode will then transition into introducing Mya Karsten, Aubrey Cochran - Starr, and Brandi Washington who will all be senior players this upcoming season. Be sure to tune in as they will talk about season aspirations, lessons/experiences, leadership styles, and what leaving their mark looks like!

In episode 5 I had the pleasure to connect with Rachel Lindquist who is a licensed therapist in Minneapolis, MN. Take time to listen to our conversation as we discuss her journey through identifying root causes of trauma, anxiety and awareness around how important mental health is. We will then take a deeper dive into her private practice “Annew Innergy Therapy & Wellness” and the services that she offers!

Episode 3 will be with Marcus Williams, a special and much appreciated guest! Marcus is a Minneapolis native who is an established athlete who is a North Dakota State University Alum, Ex NFL professional, and now business owner of Breakfast Bar restaurant!

Key Topics In This Conversation:

Keeping these impactful conversations going through season two will continuously emphasize one's journey of redefining, identifying true purpose, and finding success through learned experiences!