SpeakUP! International Inc.

Meet Jason Browne, a dynamic storyteller and seasoned speaker whose journey into radio and public speaking was shaped by his DJ father and music teacher mother. Jason’s approach to leadership transcends mere motivation, focusing on genuine connection, support, and the exchange of resources. As he delves into his method of addressing sensitive topics through compelling and sometimes controversial storytelling, you'll gain invaluable insights into creating impactful narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

Experience the magic of authentic conversations as Jason shares the importance of moving beyond scripted questions to foster real, emotional connections during interviews and public speaking engagements. Learn how memorable moments are crafted through engagement, repetition, and personalized takeaways, ensuring a lasting impression on your audience. Jason’s blend of personal anecdotes and professional wisdom highlights the balance of firmness and adaptability needed to excel in leadership roles, illustrated by his experiences working with tech giants like Microsoft and Facebook.

Furthermore, Jason opens up about his most rewarding accomplishments and personal interests, from delivering a successful TEDx talk to his love for Star Trek and kayaking adventures in Australia. Hear about the power of storytelling in his video game streaming career and the profound impact of his interactions with viewers. This episode wraps up with a heartfelt thank you to Jason and an invitation for listeners to get involved with SpeakUP! International, whether through interviews, training programs, or our exclusive Patreon community.

Here are Mr. Browne's social media platforms:
Website:  https://www.thejasonbrowne.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/thejasonbrowne

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@thejasonbrowne

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thejasonbrowne

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejasonbrowne/

TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@thejasonbrowne_

TEDx:  https://thejasonbrowne.com/tedx 

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show

What if maintaining a childlike wonder could be your secret superpower in connecting with youth? Join us as we welcome Sophia Jackson, an inspiring child and youth worker with a vibrant passion for the arts. Sophia's journey is a testament to how creativity can weave into a fulfilling career in child and youth care. Listen as she recounts her experiences running a summer camp and working alongside her mentor, Coco Nicole, emphasizing the importance of seeing the world through a child's eyes.

Curious about the dynamics of community engagement and the power of grassroots initiatives? Sophia's candid discussion on her run for school trustee in Brampton sheds light on the unexpected paths that lead to embracing school environments and advocating for change. From monetizing art for community artists to the nuts and bolts of a local election campaign, Sophia shares the invaluable lessons learned and how narrowly missing the trustee seat only strengthened community bonds and visibility.

Representation matters, especially in art and literature. Discover how Sophia's coloring books, "Soulful Colour presents Zeke and Zara" and "Empower Flow," are making waves in promoting mental health and menstrual awareness. Her passionate dialogue on the therapeutic benefits of colouring and the impactful representation in children's books is both enlightening and motivating. Dive into her creative process, rooted in poetry and music, and learn about her ambitious plans to expand Soulful Colour on a global scale, continuing her mission to educate, inspire, and advocate for crucial social issues.

Use the following social media avenues to reach Sophia Jackson:
Website:  https://soulfulcolour.com/

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiajacksonsojay/

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show

Can facing life-altering challenges lead to discovering your true calling? Meet Sara Freeman-Smith, our remarkable guest who turned vision loss into an inspiring journey of resilience and self-discovery. This episode of SpeakUP! International takes you deep into Sara's life, from her roots in an underserved community to her impressive career in recruiting and human resources. Sara's story is a testament to the power of self-belief, the importance of education, and the impact of positive influences. Tune in to hear how she managed to write a book in just 30 days, blending her professional skills with her passion for inspiring others.

Transitioning careers can be daunting, but Sara's experience offers valuable insights for anyone at a crossroads. Discover how aligning your work with your personal passions can lead to true fulfillment. Sara shares practical advice for identifying your strengths and loves, even if they don't align with your current job. She recounts the tools and strategies that helped her navigate the complexities of career transitions and self-awareness. Facing vision loss added another layer of challenge, requiring immense resilience to adapt and thrive. This conversation is rich with lessons on how to turn unexpected life events into opportunities for growth.

Sara's journey didn't stop there. She became a disability advocate, embracing the Americans with Disabilities Act and leveraging accessibility tools to continue her professional journey. We discuss the importance of building a positive support network, the value of true friends, and combating negative self-talk. Sara also shares her experience as a book consultant, shedding light on the essential steps to developing a successful book. Learn about her book "Turning Stones into Gems" and its six critical steps for self-development. This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice for anyone looking to find their true calling and achieve personal and professional success.

You can contact Ms. Sara-Freeman Smith using the platforms:
Website:  https://www.urgems.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/urgemsgroupinc

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-freeman-smith/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sarafreemansmith/

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show

Unlock the secrets to spiritual liberation and transformative leadership with our special guest, Aina-Nia Ayo’dele. As a leadership coach, author, and ancient wisdom teacher, Aina brings a wealth of knowledge rooted in African spiritual practices and traditional wisdom. She shares her impactful journey with Sacred Leaders International and her instrumental role in crafting the confronting anti-Black racism strategy for the City of Toronto. Learn why Aina-Nia believes that true transformation is an ongoing learning journey and how this philosophy led her to establish Aina Nia Learning Journey Inc.

Discover the profound connection between activism and African indigenous spiritual practices. In this episode,  Aina-Nia enlightens us about the significance of the ORI, the crown of the head, as a reservoir of wisdom, and how simple rituals like blessing the ORI can elevate our consciousness. She emphasizes the importance of honoring our ancestors through libation and the guiding role of spirits in our activism and daily lives. This conversation is a deep dive into how aligning our social, spiritual, and physical dimensions can foster meaningful change and a deeper connection to our heritage.

Moreover,  Aina-Nia discusses her transformative 10-month program aimed at empowering Black women through a blend of African-centered and contemporary leadership practices. This initiative doesn't just build leaders but also creates a supportive community where women can navigate both professional and personal challenges effectively. Furthermore,  Aina-Nia shares insights from her self-published book, "Self and Inner Journey to Remembering Her Power," and the role of social media in spreading her message. Tune in to be inspired by  Aina-Nia's dedication to education, spiritual growth, and community empowerment.

Here is Aina-Nia Ayo’dele's connection information:
https://aina-nia.com/

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show

Discover how personal experiences shape powerful leaders in diversity management with our guest, Richard Pinnock. Raised in Montreal by a German mother and Jamaican father, Richard's multicultural upbringing and career journey are nothing short of inspiring. Listen as he shares how his childhood in a diverse neighborhood and early career influenced his commitment to inclusion and equity. Richard offers insightful reflections on the current state of DEI, emphasizing the challenges brought by its politicization and the crucial role of genuine, felt experiences in fostering true inclusivity.

In an unexpected twist, we recount a humorous yet thought-provoking academic encounter involving a test paper swap that led to surprising misunderstandings. This anecdote highlights the unpredictability of human interactions, even in professional settings, and adds a light-hearted dimension to our conversation. Join us as Richard Pinnock shares invaluable lessons and strategies for advancing creative diversity and inclusion initiatives in today's complex world, blending his expertise with personal anecdotes that resonate deeply.

You can connect to Mr. Pinnock using the follow links:

http://www.richardpinnock.com/welcome.html

https://www.instagram.com/p/C7PBpUlsSnZ/

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show

What was it like growing up in a vibrant, multicultural neighborhood in Toronto? Join us as Tiki Mercury-Clarke, a third-generation Torontonian, takes us on a heartwarming journey through her early days on Henry Street. Through her vivid storytelling, Tiki paints a picture of a close-knit community where cultural diversity wasn't just celebrated but lived every day. You'll hear about the playful interactions and the rich tapestry of languages and traditions that shaped her childhood, providing a joyful haven amidst life's challenges.

Tiki's narrative takes on deeper layers as she recounts her family's unwavering dedication to community support. Her grandparents’ involvement with the British Methodist Episcopal Church and the Marcus Garvey movement highlights a legacy of resilience and compassion. Listen to the touching story of Aunt Minerva, who found sanctuary in their multi-generational home, and discover the concept of "landing places"—safe havens for those in need that foster a deep sense of belonging. The episode also shines a light on influential figures like Howard Matthews and their lasting impact on the community.

In a powerful segment, Tiki opens up about her early encounters with racism, including a distressing experience with a first-grade teacher, and how these challenges fortified her resolve as a cultural historian and artist. We also explore her unexpected journey into singing, her spiritual connection with her ancestors, and the balance between discipline and love in her upbringing. Through Tiki's personal stories and reflections, this episode offers a profound look at resilience, cultural richness, and the transformative power of community and education.

Below is Tiki Mercury-Clarke's connection information:

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiki-mercury-clarke-79473420/

Website:  http://www.tikimercuryclarke.com/wordpress/products/.

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show

What inspired the creation of the diverse character Bugsy in the early 2000s, long before diversity became a buzzword? Join us on Speak Up International as we welcome Mr. Prince George, the spokesperson for Warzone Comics and the charismatic host of the Prince George Show. Broadcasting from LA, Prince George takes us through his expansive journey in the entertainment industry, which began under the mentorship of Cassidy DaVinci on the King Chef show. From his roles as an actor, filmmaker, writer, and artist with Warzone Comics, to portraying Bugsy in the upcoming film "Bugsy the Becoming," Prince George's story is a testament to creative entrepreneurship and community building.

How did Prince George transition from television to radio and create a new musical genre in the process? This episode examines his innovative adaptation of the Prince George Show for KLAS, 89.7 FM in Hollywood. With elements from his musical background, Prince George discusses his involvement with Warzone Records and the creation of the Rap Rock Renaissance genre. We also learn about his significant contributions to events like Black Writers on Tour, where he emphasizes the importance of supporting authors and business owners. Prince George's journey is filled with fascinating anecdotes and insights, showcasing his commitment to mentorship and fostering diversity in the entertainment industry.

Ever wondered about the scarcity of African American characters in mainstream comics during the '90s? Prince George reflects on this period and the inspiration behind creating diverse characters like Bugsy. He reminisces about high school days when comic strips sparked his passion for storytelling, eventually leading to his unexpected entry into television. Mentorship played a crucial role in his career, guiding him from behind-the-scenes work to creating his own TV show and securing a product placement deal with Coca-Cola. As we explore Prince George's multifaceted career, we uncover the enduring impact of his creative endeavors and his dedication to community building and mentorship.

Here is Prince George's social media connections:

Website:  https://www.warzonecomicswzc.com/

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/warzone_comics/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/warzonecomics

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/warzonecomicswzc

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/warzonecomics/

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show

How does a South Vietnamese identity shape a career journey from academia to entrepreneurship? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Julie Pham PhD., a Vietnamese-born American and Cambridge-educated social scientist, as she shares her extraordinary path from South Vietnam to Seattle. We explore the profound impacts of her family's escape from communism, her undergraduate research on South Vietnamese veterans, and her unique entrepreneurial ventures. Dr. Pham also delves into her TEDx talk on curiosity and introduces her insightful book, "The Seven Forms of Respect," offering a fresh perspective on understanding multiple viewpoints in today's complex world.

Curiosity is more than a trait—it's a practice, and Dr. Pham exemplifies this through her various career pivots. Listen in as she shares how honing public speaking skills through feedback and Toastmasters has been instrumental in her journey from academia to business, tech, and beyond. Dr. Pham underscores the importance of embracing ambiguity, trusting oneself, and maintaining a learning mindset. She articulates how curiosity drives both personal and professional growth, leading to her unique approach of respect through curiosity, which encourages embracing multiple truths and perspectives for richer storytelling and deeper inclusion.

Storytelling is a powerful tool, and Dr. Pham masterfully intertwines writing and speaking to create dynamic narratives that foster inclusion and understanding. In this episode, we discuss intercultural communication, the sensitivity of language, and the role of intention in fostering an inclusive environment. Dr. Pham's journey offers valuable insights for aspiring authors and researchers, emphasizing the significance of setting one's own terms and the benefits of self-publishing. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, she provides listeners with actionable advice on building self-confidence and navigating cultural sensitivities, all while highlighting the essence of curiosity and respect in communication.

Connection information for Dr. Pham:

Website: https://curiositybased.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/curiositybased

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/curiositybased

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/curiositybased/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/curiositybased

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show

How can self-published authors navigate the complex landscape of modern publishing and retain control over their creative works? Get ready to discover the secrets of successful self-publishing as Michelle DeFilippo, a veteran with over 50 years of experience, joins us on Speak Up International. From her early days at Crown Publishers in New York to founding 1106 Design, Michelle reveals how authors can maintain their rights and maximize earnings through self-publishing. Learn about the pivotal moments in publishing history and how the advent of desktop publishing changed the game forever.

Join us as we break down the self-publishing process with Michelle, who provides invaluable insights into every step, from editorial evaluations to final uploads on print-on-demand platforms. Michelle explains the distinction between true self-publishing and DIY methods, stressing the importance of professional help to achieve high-quality results. She shares her expertise on how 1106 Design supports authors throughout, ensuring their books meet industry standards while allowing them full control over their work and revenue.

The episode also covers the editing challenges authors face and the crucial role of skilled editors in preserving an author’s voice. Michelle sheds light on her own experiences with difficult authorial overreach and the importance of maintaining professional standards. We wrap up with a deep dive into effective book marketing strategies, emphasizing the need to understand your target audience and leverage both social media and traditional marketing channels for success. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspirational stories to guide you on your self-publishing journey.

Connection information for Michelle DeFilippo:

Website: https://1106design.com/

Facebook:  https://facebook.com/1106design

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/1106design

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-defilippo-824247/ 

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show

Mr. What if you could revolutionize your sales game with a simple, structured process? Join us as we sit down with sales expert Mr. Benjamin Brown, who shares his remarkable journey from a farm in South Carolina to becoming a leading sales trainer and entrepreneur. With over 23+ years of experience, Benjamin takes us through his time in the Marine Corps and his initial career in the gym business, which ultimately led him to help small businesses develop effective sales processes. Discover his 10-step sales system from his book, "Master the Art of Closing the Sale," and learn how it can enhance your profitability and sharpen your sales skills.

High turnover rates in sales departments are a common issue, but Benjamin sheds light on how structured training and tools can make a significant difference. Instead of searching for "diamonds in the rough," he emphasizes the importance of investing in employee development and maintaining a consistent sales process. We also explore the shift towards reactive sales methods like online marketing and the crucial role of referrals in building a strong client base. Through Benjamin's insights, you'll understand why consistency and process adherence are key to achieving sales success.

Technology has transformed the sales industry, and Benjamin shares how adapting to advancements like AI can offer substantial advantages. He highlights the necessity of staying ahead of technological trends to remain competitive and underscores the importance of a structured sales process that guides potential clients effectively. For MBA graduates, Benjamin offers invaluable advice on the importance of practical skills, humility, and leveraging education to create generational wealth. Tune in for actionable tips and strategies from a true sales expert who understands the omnipresence of sales in everyday life and the mindset transformation needed for success.

Mr. Benjamin Brown's connection information:

Website:   https://www.meetwithbenjamin.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/benbrowntre/

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/360sales/

Thoughts on the podcast? Send us a text message.

Support the show