Positive Philter Podcast

I celebrate reaching 100,000 downloads of my Positive Filter podcast and reflect on a near-decade journey of consistency, growth, and meaningful conversations with over 150 guests. He breaks down the milestone's statistics, shares his top episodes, and explores what it takes to sustain a podcast in an industry where most shows don't make it past twenty episodes. Along the way, he challenges listeners to think about their own goals, the stories they want to preserve, and why the process of creating matters just as much as the results.

Shout Out and Plugs

First Positive Philter Episode: https://traffic.libsyn.com/forcedn/positivephilter/Positive_Philter_Episode_01.mp3

Random Ramblings Playlist: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0y8z-Mhlwp1xXqMuXPyThlG4g0oIlI7C&si=O0IwEFyaxAt_Si7S

Alpha Phi Alpha - Theta Rho Lambda

Learn more about the Theta Rho Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha: Visit Website

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Featured Products & Music Recording Credits

• Mason Innovation Exchange (The MIX): A collaborative space for innovation and entrepreneurship. Visit The MIX.

Community & Support Pats for Patriots

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List

In this episode of Positive Philter, I sit down with my friend and fellow Patriot, Chris Preston, a dedicated George Mason University alumnus and former president of the GMU Alumni Association. Chris is someone I look up to in the Mason alumni community, and we discuss his journey as a Patriot and how staying connected to his alma mater has continued to enrich his life. We explore the power of alumni engagement, the value of volunteerism and service, and the many ways graduates can remain involved long after they leave campus. Chris also shares advice for recent graduates looking to build meaningful connections, give back, and make the most of their lifelong relationship with Mason.

Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your Mason journey. Sometimes, it's just the beginning of an even greater one!

Guest Information & Recording Location Shout Out and Plugs

University Scholars Program: https://honorscollege.gmu.edu/admissions/university-scholars

Chris Preston LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipwilkersoniii/

GMU Donor Recognition Program (including Legacy Society): https://giving.gmu.edu/your-impact/donor-recognition/

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Featured Products & Music Recording Credits

• Mason Innovation Exchange (The MIX): A collaborative space for innovation and entrepreneurship. Visit The MIX.

Community & Support Pats for Patriots

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List

In this episode of Positive Philter, I sit down with my mentor, friend, and colleague, Lewis E. Forrest II, M.Ed., Assistant Vice President for University Life at George Mason University and co-chair of Mason Chooses Kindness. We discuss his career in higher education leadership, his approach to supporting student well-being, and his journey back to the classroom to pursue a postgraduate certificate in mental health counseling.

Our conversation explores the importance of lifelong learning, mentorship, and prioritizing well-being in the spaces where we live, learn, and work. Lewis shares insights on leadership, personal growth, and the importance of caring for the people behind the positions they hold. This meaningful conversation explores leading with purpose, investing in yourself, and creating environments where people can thrive.

Shout Out and Plugs

Never Saw It Coming: A Well-Being Journey Fueled by Faith Book: https://a.co/d/0gtJPyFc

Lewis Forrest LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewisforrest2/

GMU Center for the Advancement of Well-Being: https://wellbeing.gmu.edu/

GMU Higher Education Leaders Podcast Mini-Series: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1YPuNMphGVW8CVdpRClu6x0yi6rVQ2XWdqM4bhWzatdM/edit?usp=sharing

Alpha Phi Alpha - Theta Rho Lambda

Learn more about the Theta Rho Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha: Visit Website

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Featured Products & Music Recording Credits

• Mason Innovation Exchange (The MIX): A collaborative space for innovation and entrepreneurship. Visit The MIX.

Community & Support Pats for Patriots

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List

In this special bonus episode of Positive Philter, I sit down with my dad, Retired Colonel Philip Wilkerson Jr., to discuss his experience serving as a poll officer in the same community where I grew up. We explore the vital role poll officers play in the election process, why local elections often directly affect our daily lives, and practical ways everyday citizens can stay informed and engaged.

Our conversation goes beyond politics and focuses on civic responsibility, public service, and the importance of participating in our communities. Whether you're a first-time voter, a longtime voter, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes on Election Day, this episode offers valuable insights into the democratic process and why every election matters.

Shout Out and Plugs Virginia Department of Elections: https://www.elections.virginia.gov/

Ballotpedia: https://ballotpedia.org/Main_Page

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Featured Products & Music Recording Credits

• Mason Innovation Exchange (The MIX): A collaborative space for innovation and entrepreneurship. Visit The MIX.

Community & Support Pats for Patriots

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List

In this episode of Positive Philter, I am joined by Marvin Lewis, George Mason University's Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics. Marvin shares his journey growing up in the DMV, his experience as a student-athlete and basketball player at Georgia Tech, and how a career in finance ultimately led him to leadership in collegiate athletics. We discuss the importance of education for student-athletes, building strong organizational cultures, developing future leaders, and balancing competitive excellence with student success. This conversation offers valuable lessons on leadership, mentorship, and the power of investing in people both on and off the court.

Shout Out and Plugs

Marvin Lewis LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marvin-lewis-43ba645/

Mason Athletics Website: https://gomason.com/

Mason Athletics Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MasonAthletics

Mason Athletics Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masonathletics/

Mason Athletics X/Twitter: https://x.com/MasonAthletics

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Featured Products & MusicRecording Credits

• Mason Innovation Exchange (The MIX): A collaborative space for innovation and entrepreneurship. Visit The MIX.

Community & Support Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here Pats for Patriots

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List

In this episode of Positive Philter, I am joined by Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards, author of The Venus Flytrap, spiritual counselor, and coach. We discuss how childhood experiences and unconscious patterns can shape our relationships, careers, and everyday decisions. Dr. Edwards shares insights on healing from shame, breaking unhealthy cycles, and developing greater self-awareness. This conversation offers practical wisdom for anyone seeking personal growth, stronger relationships, and a deeper understanding of the stories that influence their lives. Shout Out and Plugs

Complimentary access to the First 3 Chapters of The Venus Flytrap: Sex, Lies, and Repercussions: https://bit.ly/4eZEDeN

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/venusflytrap_official

Facebook

www.facebook.com/people/VFT23Official

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Community & Support Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here Pats for Patriots

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List

In this episode of Positive Philter, I am joined by Patrick Harris II, educator, author, and doctoral student. We discuss the intersection of emotions, leadership, and identity, including how race, gender, and queerness can shape perceptions of leadership. Patrick also shares insights on authenticity, human-centered leadership, and the power of storytelling.

Shout Out and Plugs Patrick Harris on Instagram @PresidentPat

The First Five: A Love Letter to Teachers Book: https://a.co/d/03KyquoG

Pats for Patriots

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Community & Support Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List

In this episode of Positive Philter, I am joined by Jaylen Christie, researcher, writer, and fellow Alpha Phi Alpha brother. We discuss Black representation in comics, his research on the impact of superheroes on young readers, his experiences at San Diego Comic-Con, and his upcoming novella Thermosphere.

Shout Out and Plugs

Jaylen Christie Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thesuperflynerd/

Jaylen Christie LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaylenchristie1/

Jaylen Christie's Website:

jalenchristy.com

Dr. Sheena Howard (Eisner Award-winning scholar):

sheenahoward.com

World Space Week (October 4th–10th) :

worldspaceweek.org

Community & Support Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund

Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here

Pats for Patriots

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Featured Products & Music

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List

In this episode of Positive Philter, I am joined by Coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis, Head Coach of George Mason Women's Basketball. We discuss her leadership philosophy, the culture she has built within the program, and the power behind the team's mantra, #BelieveBig. Coach Blair-Lewis shares how belief, accountability, and relationships help shape successful student-athletes on and off the court. We also explore leadership, resilience, and what it takes to build excellence before the results show up. This conversation is part of the GMU Leaders Mini-Series and is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, teamwork, and creating a culture of success.

Guest Information & Recording Location Shout Out and Plugs

GMU Women's Basketball Website:

https://gomason.com/sports/womens-basketball

GMU Women's Basketball Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/masonwbb/

Coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis's LinkedIn URL:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-blair-lewis-571312232/

Coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis's Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/coachvbl/

"Big" by Pastor Mike Jr.

https://open.spotify.com/track/7iI6ZQ20by9MtBOSu9DQy8?autoplay_ok=1

Recording Credits

• Mason Innovation Exchange (The MIX): A collaborative space for innovation and entrepreneurship. Visit The MIX.

Community & Support Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund

Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here

Pats for Patriots

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Featured Products & Music

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List

In this episode of Positive Philter, I am joined by Scott Stirrett, author, entrepreneur, and founder of Venture for Canada. We discuss overcoming social anxiety, the power of networking and weak ties, and why embracing uncertainty can be a valuable skill for personal and professional growth.

Guest Information & Recording Location Shout Out and Plugs

Scott Stirrett Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/scottstirrett/

Scott Stirrett LinkedIn URL:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottstirrett/

"The Uncertainty Advantage" by Scott Stirrett

https://www.scottstirrett.com/the-uncertainty-advantage

"The Strength of Weak Ties" by Mark Granovetter

https://www.jstor.org/stable/2776392

Braxton Cook

https://www.braxtoncook.com/music-1

Recording Credits

• Mason Innovation Exchange (The MIX): A collaborative space for innovation and entrepreneurship. Visit The MIX.

Community & Support Jeff's Anti-Hunger Fund

Dedicated to Jeff Kirsch, this fund supports the careers of future anti-hunger advocates. Please consider donating to the Jeff Kirsch Fund for Anti-Hunger Advocacy: Donate Here

Pats for Patriots

Members of the #MasonNation can recognize colleagues or students for their kindness via Pats for Patriots. We have received over 3,000 nominations—keep them coming! Nominate Someone Here

Podcast Resources Connect & Follow

• Newsletter: Sign up for the Positive Philter Weekly

• Patreon: Support the Podcast

• Feedback: Complete our Audience Survey

• Questions: Call 571-336-6560 or use this Google Form

• Reviews: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts

• Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Featured Products & Music

• Book: "Forty Years of Advice" by Philip Wilkerson: Purchase on Amazon

• The Five Minute Journal: Shop Intelligent Change

• Tappy Card: Get Your Electronic Business Card

• Intro Music: DJ BIGyoks (Instagram | Soundcloud)

• Outro Music: Ryan Rosemond (Soundcloud)

Positive Philter is honored to be among the Top 20 Positive Thinking Podcasts by FeedSpot: View the List