Ray of Hope: The Podcast

On this episode, Dr. Raya and fiancé Antwain Lavender have a candid conversation about relationships, dispelling stereotypes and spirituality.

They have a platform called Living with the Lavs that provides insight into beating the odds, finding love after 15 years of friendship and keeping God at the center of their relationship.

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On this episode, we speak with Father, Pastor and Coach Anthony "Tony" Lavender and his son Antwain Lavender. Coach Lavender has coached 4 sons (Anthony, Antwain, Andrew, Antonio) and a daughter (April) in basketball. All of his sons have created a legacy on and off the court. We speak about his success as a father, coach and pastor at his church Christian Community Fellowship Church. We also speak with his middle son Antwain Lavender who played basketball for Akron University, Southeastern and Shawnee State, winning championships, becoming player of the year and was named the 2nd all-time scorer. 

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On this episode, we speak with basketball legend Andrew "Drew" Lavender. Drew was recently inducted into the Xavier University Hall of Fame 2026. He created the Drew's Crew Basketball Training Camp to instill the youth with life skills, knowledge and confidence on and off the court. We speak about the mental health of previous star athletes and life after sports. 

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On the season 4 premiere, we speak with Men's Mental Health Uncaved founder Mr. Erin Saul. This organization fosters connections, brotherhood, and healing for men in our community. Mr. Saul speaks about the importance of men aligning themselves with others in hopes of healing and understanding. 

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On this episode, we talk about the connection between sports, gambling and mental health. Student and professional athletes deserve to have access to mental health services. We speak about providing support to athletes and those who also engage in addictive behaviors of gambling. Help is available. 

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Disclaimer: Sensitive content may be posted. 

On the next episode of Ray of Hope, we will speak with Eric Bell who lost his daughter Imani Bell after she complained to her coaches about basketball practice in the heat. The heat index was in the triple digits and a heat advisory was issued in Atlanta. His daughter collapsed and never recovered. The coaches and athletic directors have all been charged in her death. He is sharing his story to bring awareness to school athletic practices and to create change to save other students. 

Bio: Born and Raised in New Ordnance, LA., Attended SUNO FOR UNDERGRAD, played Basketball, won 2 conference championships, Bachelor of Science, Cambridge University M.Ed., Teacher and Coach since 1997, resident of Atlanta, GA., since 1999....15 years experience as a Head Coach, Current Head Coach@Columbia High School in 8 years we have won 3 region championships, 1 Sweet 16, 2 elite 8 appearances, 1 final four, and we've made the state playoffs every year....3 time region coach of the year, 2 time Dekalb County Coach of the year, 3 time team of the year in Dekalb County.... Most Positive Girls Coach in Atlanta award in 2023.

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On this episode, we speak with Adrienne Wilson about surviving domestic violence and seeking justice against her offender. Adrienne is dedicated to telling her story to inspire others to seek help and justice before it's too late. She is the proud mother of three sons and owns a boutique called S.H.E 614 which stands for sexy, hipped and empowered. Her strength and perseverance are commendable.  

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On the next episode of Ray of Hope: The Talk Show and Podcast, we speak with Dr. Marcie Littlejohn Hill. Dr. Marcie  has a Master’s in Business Administration and Doctorate in Healthcare Administration. She is a licensed financial professional who will be educating us on financial literacy, planning and leaving a legacy of wealth and not poverty. Tune in to be educated and informed about establishing financial freedom. Debt management is vital in these times. 

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We speak with the co-founder of The Daughter’s Den, Quanishia Gibson. 

Quanishia Gibson is a LPC Intern at Victory Mental Health Services of Columbus, she enjoys working with couples, families, and individuals on relationship issues, family dynamics, self-worth, self-esteem, depression, stress, trauma, emotional abuse and other mental health issues. Gibson received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toledo and Master of Arts in Counseling from Geneva College with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is the cofounder of nonprofit The Daughters Den and intergenerational healing space for Black women and girls. Gibson is a member of the Ohio Counseling Association as well as the American Counseling Association. Her approach to therapy is real, holistic, and integrative. She holds training in trauma support, psychological first aid, and Gottman methods for couples. She believes in helping clients embrace a more holistic (mind, body, spirit) approach to mental health for a better lived experience.

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On this episode, we speak with the owner of Allways Working Radio, DJ Swmpthing. He is a native of New Orleans who moved to Columbus, Ohio after being displaced by hurricane Katrina. Erin Saul is a DJ, radio personality, CEO, podcast host, media ambassador, and Midwest training manager for Fleet DJs. Music is a form of therapy for many individuals and radio personalities play a vital role in keeping us inspired. Tune in  to learn more about his new radio station, podcast, and upcoming events.  

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