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Ted Turner revolutionized modern media, and his story is as riveting as it is inspirational. From a raw and candid Playboy interview where he opens up about love and violence to the tragic suicide of his father that set him on a relentless path to success, you'll learn about the man behind CNN. This episode lays bare the complexities of Turner's life, shedding light on his controversial views and the personal trials that shaped his unyielding drive.

We also explore the profound influence of paternal figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s father and Turner's own. See how these relationships helped mold their destinies, with Turner reviving his father's business through ingenious, sometimes audacious strategies. From acquiring a UHF TV station in Atlanta to leveraging unsold billboard inventory for promotion, Turner's innovative tactics in the early television market reveal the importance of seizing opportunities in emerging industries.

Ted Turner's entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop at television. His foresight in acquiring sports rights, like the Atlanta Braves' TV rights, and his bold moves in the realm of free agency in baseball were game-changers. Discover the intricate process of establishing the first satellite transmission for WTBS, marking the dawn of nationwide broadcasting. This episode captures Turner's indomitable spirit, highlighting his ability to navigate technological and competitive challenges to leave an indelible mark on the broadcasting landscape. Join us in celebrating the legacy of Ted Turner, a maverick who forever changed the media world.

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What if breaking a legendary sports record brought not just fame, but also unimaginable pain and regret? Join Zettler IV and Zettler V as they delve into the life and legacy of baseball legend Hank Aaron, focusing on the events surrounding his record-breaking 715th home run and the subsequent impacts. 

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Aaron's historic home run, they reflect on the Hammer's enduring legacy and the scars that remained long after his playing career.

The narrative covers Aaron's unwavering honesty, his weariness after achieving the milestone, and his complex feelings about surpassing Babe Ruth's home run record due to the intense scrutiny, death threats, and racial challenges he faced. 

With insights from biographical accounts by journalists Howard Bryant and Terence Moore, as well as from Aaron's own autobiography, the guys shed light on the man behind the numbers, exploring the complexities of his life post-record.

It also reflects on Aaron's contributions to the game, his struggles with media and fans, and the lack of support from his own home crowd. The discussion honors Aaron's his lasting impact on baseball while highlighting his intense focus and the racial obstacles he overcame. 

Drawing parallels to the unyielding work ethic of icons like Edwin Land, Jay-Z, Kobe Bryant, Rakim, DMX and Charlie Munger, this episode underscores Aaron's unyielding resilience starting as a child in segregated Mobile's hotbed baseball culture into his transformation into the man who decided upon his arrival in Atlanta in 1966, that he was uniquely suited to becoming the all-time home run champion. 

Through the lens of these celebrated figures, the Atlanta natives highlight the power of planned perseverance, his often-overlooked baseball mind and relentless dedication in achieving greatness.

Lastly, they connect the dots between Ted Turner's media empire and Hank Aaron's invaluable contributions to the Atlanta Braves' championship run in the 1990s, as well as discuss MLB's recent decision to integrate Negro League statistics into its records.

This episode is a true tribute to the best hitter Major League Baseball has seen. A hero to legions, the late Henry Aaron has a legacy that was shaped by his extraordinary talent and the societal and racial challenges he couldn't seem to escape.

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Discover the unsung hero of Atlanta's music scene as we honor the indomitable Rico Wade, co-founder of Organized Noize. Wade's mastery in elevating the unheard voices from the SWATs to stardom echoes the strategic insight of business moguls when it comes to identifying and nurturing hidden talent. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of the man whose mentorship birthed icons like OutKast and Future, and the profound impact his guidance has had on shaping not just careers but a cultural movement.

Venture with us into a world where the potential in every individual is not only recognized but unleashed to its fullest. The episode draws striking parallels between the approaches of visionary leaders across industries, from music maestro Rico Wade to tech titans like Elon Musk and Steve Jobs. We unravel the art of talent development and the ripple effect of empowering those around us. Join me, Zettler, as we bid a fond farewell to a hometown hero.

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Dive into an enlightening conversation with Atlanta-born educators Zettler Clay and Shaka Bailey, who bring their passion for academic excellence to our discussion on educational mastery. Bailey, wielding his 'superpower' as an African American male teacher, shares invaluable strategies for guiding students to 100% mastery in their learning. We tackle the obstacles in achieving grade-level competencies, especially in critical areas like reading and math, and consider how respect, knowledge, and motivational scaffolding can reshape the educational experience.

As we close this episode, the host gives a toast to his late father, whose wisdom and legacy inspire daily. With gratitude for the episode's contributors and a nod to the transformative power of literacy, I invite you to join the mission to nurture a generation of avid readers. From personal practices to fostering direct communication with children, to the simple yet powerful act of book donation, we can all play a role in creating a brighter future.

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As the hum of Atlanta's traffic weaves a story of infrastructure and societal evolution, our latest conversation invites you into the living history of a city's love affair with transportation. We lay tracks through the personal and the communal, sharing tales that are often overshadowed by the roar of engines—like the legacy of my own family's Pullman Porters and how these railroading pioneers laid the foundations for our economic growth. Dr. Chris Wyczalkowski from MARTA steps aboard to unravel the systemic challenges preventing Atlanta from fully embracing public transit, dissecting the complex intersections of race, city culture, and the stigmas that linger around bus and train travel.

Our journey continues as we navigate the societal impact of Atlanta's transit decisions, from the erection of neighborhood barricades against integration to the suburban sprawl that followed. We turn the spotlight on the unsung heroes behind the wheel, like Coy Dumas, with over two million miles of untarnished driving record, whose personal stories of perseverance remind us that public transit is more than just a mode of travel—it's the pulse of our communities. These narratives take us down memory lane, reflecting on the profound changes within Atlanta's landscape, from the Lakewood Assembly plant era to the present day, and how every turn of the wheel has left its mark on the city's soul.

Wrapping up our expedition, we celebrate the enduring spirit of Atlanta's public service workers through the story of a top-ranked transit operator, whose dedication and discipline exemplify the qualities of success in this field. We examine the pivotal role of public transportation in urban resilience, pondering the varied needs of city dwellers and suburbanites alike. With heartfelt anecdotes and critical insights, this episode is a testament to the hardworking individuals who keep Atlanta moving and a call to action for a more connected and equitable future on the roads and rails of this storied city.

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Like the boy Leland Wayne, metro Atlanta's population is booming. But as our city grows, so does the challenge of keeping it affordable. Is Atlanta becoming a place where its current citizens can no longer live?

As the shadow of high-rises extends over Atlanta, I find myself grappling with the memory of my grandmother's recent passing—a profound loss that echoes the complex narratives built from the people before us. See, she was the one (along with my grandfather, who settled my maternal family into this city. Our heartfelt discussion casts a light on the stark contrasts defining a city celebrated as a black mecca, yet marred by economic disparities and gentrification that upend the dreams of homeownership for many.

This episode is a heartfelt dive into what it means to live amidst a landscape where median home prices soar and income growth lags, and where the vibrant culture of hip hop and comfort food joints offers a balm for the soul. Your ears won't want to miss the cultural pulse of the city, as described by local writer and vibe curator Jeney Barlow, who joins us to celebrate the places and beats that give Atlanta its unique rhythm.

As we wrap up, we turn to practicality, sharing survival tips and resources for those squeezed by the affordability crisis. I'll walk you through leveraging assistance programs, refinancing strategies, and SBA lending, guiding you toward economic respite and empowerment. Finally, we reflect on the profound social impacts of rising costs on community engagement and mental well-being. This journey through Atlanta isn't just about the numbers—it's an intimate portrait of resilience and connection, where every story and every struggle is an opportunity to learn and grow together.

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Zettler links with national ESPN reporter and SWAT native Coley Harvey rap about the Atlanta Braves’ historic June, as well as SCOTUS’ recent ruling on college admissions. Also, a special guest (Squeeze!) comes on the show to talk about her love for the Braves and grandson (hint: his name is Zettler).

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Live from Piedmont Park, Zettler is joined by founder and CEO of Cultr Collective Jillian Lofton and fellow Benjamin Mays High alumni Win On The Track and Jamario for a deep dive into hip hop, city curfew measures, fake meat endorsed and available for public consumption, extreme tourism and more. They go in. Share, like and review us with the 5 stars. The Atlanta Formula is here.