In this inspiring conversation, Captain Leighton Jamieson shares his journey from a small rural community in Jamaica and migrating to New York City at an early age to becoming a successful airline pilot with JetBlue Airways. He reflects on the profound impact of being invited into the cockpit on his flight to America, a moment that helped spark his dream of flying. Captain Jamieson speaks candidly about the lack of representation in aviation and the urgent need for more Black pilots. He explains how seeing people who look like you can reshape what young people believe is possible. Captain Jamieson discusses the financial and systemic barriers many aspiring aviators face, especially people of color. He highlights organizations like the OBAP - Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, which works to increase minority participation in aviation and aerospace through mentorship, scholarships, training, youth outreach and career development programs. He reinforces the importance of community, visibility, and paying it forward. His message is clear and empowering. Representation matters, access matters and with the proper support, discipline and belief, the next generation can rise and Prepare For Takeoff.

00:00 - Introduction to Captain Leighton Jamison

00:52 - Journey from Jamaica to the Cockpit

02:59 - Military Influence on Aviation Career

05:34 - Pathways to Becoming a Pilot

08:19 - The Importance of Seniority in Aviation

10:52 - First Officer to Captain: The Journey

13:14 - Life as a Pilot: Challenges and Rewards

15:31 - Navigating the Airline Industry

18:00 - The Economics of Being a Pilot

20:18 - Hurdles in Aviation for Minorities

22:43 - Financial Barriers in Aviation Training

25:44 - The Importance of Military Experience

28:16 - Navigating the Training Landscape

31:10 - Preparing for a Career in Aviation

36:22 - The Role of Representation in Aviation

39:30 - Networking and Mentorship in Aviation

42:26 - The Challenge of Landing

44:27 - The Precision of Autopilot Landings

47:25 - Inspiring the Next Generation of Pilots

48:04 - The Importance of Preparation and Positivity

49:16 - Key Takeaways for Aspiring Pilots

51:18 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing

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In this episode of Prepare for Takeoff, host Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Dr. Brandon Frame, author, professor, Founder & CEO of The Black Man Can Foundation, Inc. He shares his journey from Connecticut to Morehouse College and his path through education, nonprofit leadership and academia. Dr. Frame discusses how his lived experiences and passion for positive representation of Black men and boys led him to build a nonprofit focused on social emotional learning, mentorship and entrepreneurship. He also details his role as a professor of social emotional learning at Sacred Heart University. Dr. Frame opens up about his unlikely and nontraditional path to earning his doctorate, the obstacles he faced and how persistence, community and purpose guided his journey. The conversation highlights the power of storytelling, education and service, reminding viewers and listeners that staying committed to the vision helps you Prepare For Takeoff.

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In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus interviews Tishawa Howard, author, financial advisor and Regional Vice President at PFS Investments. She shares her journey from growing up in Miami to building a successful career in financial services. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and a graduate of West Virginia State University, Tishawa reflects on her nearly decade long career as an IRS Field Agent and how it shaped her passion for financial literacy and community empowerment. She speaks candidly about building a business as a single mother and the importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people. She also emphasizes taking ownership of your financial future. Tishawa highlights the seventh year of her Convergence Empowerment Conference and her book, both created to help others overcome self imposed barriers, walk in faith and pursue their dreams as they Prepare For Takeoff.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Podcast Setup

00:18 - Tishawa Howard's Background and Early Life

03:11 - Transition from Miami to West Virginia

04:32 - Sorority Life and College Experience

06:06 - Career Beginnings with the IRS

08:21 - Life as an IRS Field Agent

11:11 - Transitioning from IRS to Financial Services

15:14 - Building a Financial Advisory Career

18:35 - Faith and Perseverance in Business

19:30 - The Power of Perseverance

19:58 - Financial Literacy and Community Empowerment

22:27 - Building a Strong Financial Foundation

25:46 - The Importance of Supporting Each Other

28:45 - The Convergence Empowerment Conference

33:30 - Becoming an Author and Sharing Your Journey

38:18 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement

42:36 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing

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In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Howard C. Stevenson, Director of the Resilience Empowerment Collaborative and Constance Clayton Professor of Urban Education at the University of Pennsylvania, shares his journey from Delaware to becoming a national leader in racial literacy and community healing. He explains how barbershops can serve as powerful therapeutic spaces for Black men. He speaks to the importance of preparing children for racial challenges and the lasting impact of trauma on mental and physical health. Dr. Stevenson also highlights the mission of Lion’s Story, the nonprofit he co-founded to help communities build racial literacy, reduce identity based stress and reclaim their own stories. He shows how community, healing and joy can strengthen our resilience as we Prepare For Takeoff.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Black Excellence and Community Healing

01:05 - Growing Up in Delaware: Cultural Roots and Family Dynamics

03:30 - Sports as a Pathway: From Soccer to Higher Education

05:14 - Innovative Healing: The Role of Barbershops in Mental Health

08:53 - Navigating Race: Experiences from the East Coast to the West Coast

11:21 - Returning to the Community: The Importance of Family Therapy

13:56 - Giving Back: The Responsibility of Success

14:31 - The Changing Landscape of Faith and Community Engagement

21:43 - Racial Socialization: Preparing the Next Generation for Challenges

24:08 - Understanding Racial Conundrums in Healthcare

24:42 - Navigating Challenges in DEI Initiatives

25:36 - The Importance of Healing Strategies

27:06 - Collaborative Efforts for Change

28:01 - Black Excellence Across Various Fields

29:59 - Empowering Individuals to Pursue Their Purpose

30:22 - Community-Based Interventions for Youth

34:16 - The Role of Nonprofits in Healing

36:52 - Addressing Black Trauma and Its Impacts

43:35 - Preparing for Takeoff: Key Takeaways

46:43 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing

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In this episode of Prepare for Takeoff, host Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Nadia Batchelor, a first generation American, a single mother of four, Chief Operating Officer of Jefferies Wealth Management and the founder of Inspired by Nadia. She shares her journey from her Guyanese roots to the upper ranks of executive leadership on Wall Street. She highlights the importance of mentorship, exposure and representation for people of color. Nadia speaks openly about balancing a demanding career with motherhood, the power of authenticity in leadership and why self love is essential for long term success. With more than 25 years of experience, she discusses the barriers that still exist in the finance industry. Nadia explains her coaching approach, known as the NADIA Method, which guides women to move with clarity, align with purpose, break limiting beliefs, take intentional action and achieve with authenticity. Her wisdom reminds us that clarity, courage and consistency can change your path, so embrace your moment and Prepare For Takeoff.

Chapters

00:00 - Nadia Batchelor: A Journey of Inspiration

01:25 - Education and Early Career

04:15 - Navigating the Corporate World

06:58 - The Importance of Mentorship

09:55 - Career Transitions and Opportunities

12:38 - Balancing Work and Family Life

20:38 - Breaking Barriers in Finance

23:53 - The Call to Empowerment

29:23 - Taking Intentional Actions

34:59 - Preparing for Takeoff Closing

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In this episode, Kelvin Troy Johnson shares the truth about romance and what it really takes to build meaningful relationships. He is proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, author, motivational speaker, owner of Counselors Success System and is widely known as The Love Coach of Atlanta. Kelvin explains that love does not simply appear on its own. It requires effort and intentional positioning. Many people expect romance to unfold effortlessly, but real connection comes from being seen, chosen and desired. He reminds viewers and listeners that career success does not guarantee success in dating. Self improvement, emotional awareness and active participation all play a major role. Kelvin’s message is clear: when you understand how love works and commit to the process, you create the conditions for relationships to rise. When you lean into purpose, clarity and effort, the love you want becomes possible. It is time to Prepare For Takeoff.

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In this powerful episode, Dr. James Norris shares his journey from growing up in Los Angeles to becoming a National Board Certified Counselor, Licensed Mental Health and Professional Clinical Counselor and Assistant Professor at the University of the Cumberlands. He talks about surviving community violence, facing trauma and relying on sports, education and community support to build discipline and resilience. Dr. Norris explains how building a relationship with suffering helped him grow and taught him that success becomes possible when you stay committed to your purpose. He also reflects on his years working in corrections and the lessons he learned about the impact incarceration has on families and communities. These experiences strengthened his commitment to healing, advocacy and intentional growth. Today he leads in higher education and private practice, reminding viewers and listeners that their past does not define their future. This episode encourages you to trust your journey, embrace your purpose and always Prepare For Takeoff.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Dr. James Norris and His Journey

00:53 - Growing Up in Los Angeles: Challenges and Opportunities

06:05 - Navigating Street Life and Education

07:55 - The Impact of Trauma and Resilience

14:37 - Transitioning to College Life in Illinois

19:31 - Pursuing Professional Football Dreams

22:10 - The Unlikely Path to a PhD

26:36 - Working in Corrections and Its Impact

30:30 - Reflections on Identity and Purpose

30:46 - The Impact of Corrections on Humanity

35:32 - Navigating Career Transitions and Exit Strategies

41:11 - Inspiring the Next Generation

41:47 - Building a Relationship with Suffering

47:32 - The Journey to Success and Purpose

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In this inspiring episode, June Cara Christian, PhD shares her journey to becoming a passionate advocate for social justice and education. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she reflects on the strength of sisterhood, community and mentorship that have shaped her path. Dr. Christian opens up about the challenges of academia, the isolating yet transformative nature of the PhD experience and the profound responsibility of caring for aging parents. Through her work with Pineapple Lampshade, she creates liberatory spaces that promote trust, safety and empowerment. She emphasizes the importance of aligning values with actions, drawing lessons from the Civil Rights Movement and finding joy as a personal responsibility. Her story embodies resilience, purpose and collective progress, reminding us all to stand firm in our values, uplift others and always Prepare For Takeoff.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to the Journey of Excellence

02:55 - The Path to Education and Overcoming Challenges

12:33 - The PhD Experience: Challenges and Triumphs

16:53 - Professional Journey and Impact on Education

21:18 - Caring for Family: A Personal Reflection

24:34 - Advocating for Health and Independence

29:43 Pineapple Lampshade: A Vision for Change

32:54 - Rebuilding Trust in Organizations

33:14 - The Power of Community and Collective Voice

36:19 - Living with Integrity and Purpose

43:09 - Preparing for Takeoff: Key Takeaways

50:53 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing.mp4

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In this inspiring episode, Bryant K. Smith shares about his journey from growing up in Chicago to becoming a successful entrepreneur, consultant and author of ten books. He talks about how mentorship, being a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated and family shaped his identity and career. Bryant explains the courage it takes to leave a stable job and start your own business. Guided by mentors like Dr. Na'im Akbar, he highlights the power of partnerships and the importance of embracing change. He also shares how helping others brings fulfillment and purpose. As an author and thought leader, Bryant continues to inspire people to grow and reach their full potential. His story reminds us that when you know who you are, build community and strive to be your best, you are ready to Prepare For Takeoff.

Chapters

00:00 - Navigating the Landscape: Geographic Connections

03:17 - Roots of Identity: Growing Up in Chicago

11:08 - Cultural Commitment: Embracing Black Identity in College

16:45 - The Impact of Brotherhood: Fraternity Influence on Professional Life

22:54 - Entrepreneurial Journey: Building SmithCAN and Overcoming Challenges

25:25 - Navigating Career Transitions

27:15 - The Freedom of Self-Employment

29:18 - Living Without Regrets

31:02 - Credentials and Expertise

33:00 - The Importance of Family Support

38:15 - The Role of Partnerships

40:12 - Embracing Change Management

43:16 - Books and Resources for Growth

47:54 - Three Takeoff Tips

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In this captivating episode, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with filmmaker, serial entrepreneur and Creative Services Director for Outspoken Media Group, Sheldon Shaw. He shares about his journey from a young dreamer in Toronto to a leading voice in film and creative media. Sheldon talks about how collaboration and perseverance have shaped his career and opened new doors. He breaks down the importance of networking and understanding Canada’s grant funding system for independent filmmakers. He also discusses his new documentary Michelle Ross: Unknown Icon, which celebrates the life and legacy of one of Toronto’s most influential performers. Sheldon explains how social media helps elevate visibility, build community and inspire creators to share their stories. He highlights the importance of trusted partnerships and staying open to feedback and new ideas. Through his experiences, he reminds listeners that rejection is part of the process and that persistence leads to success. His story reflects the power of creativity, strategy and purpose. This conversation serves as a reminder that growth and greatness come when we all Prepare For Takeoff.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

01:08 - The Journey into Filmmaking

03:47 - Understanding the Canadian Film Industry

06:26 - Grant Funding and Collaboration

07:40 - The Importance of Networking and Partnerships

10:18 - Influence of Toronto's Music Scene

13:04 - Inspiration and Impact on Others

15:27 - The Role of Social Media in Filmmaking

18:04 - Discovering Purpose in Filmmaking

19:51 - Innovations in VR and AI in Film

22:09 - Festival Involvement and Community Engagement

24:30 - The Importance of Networking and Collaboration

27:24 - Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers

31:19 - Promoting Your Work and Gaining Visibility

33:17 - Key Mindsets for Success in Filmmaking

34:10 - The Value of Being Coachable and Open to Feedback

35:25 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing

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