The Interludes Podcast: Entrepreneurs and DJ Culture

There was nothing lazy about my mother. There was nothing lazy about my father. And their stories deserve to be honored.

In the Season 10 finale of The Interludes Podcast, I respond to actor Da’Vinchi’s conversation with Cam Newton on Funky Friday—and explain why the remarks about Black Americans and work ethic hit close to home.

This raw, personal, 17-minute reflection connects my mother’s journey from Jim Crow Arkansas to Chicago, my father’s decades of factory work, and the determination of generations of Black Americans who built lives while navigating discrimination and barriers.

I share why preserving our history matters, ask Da’Vinchi to reconsider his generalizations, and reflect on the unity that Black Panther inspired across the African diaspora. Our different roots can be a starting point for understanding and respect.

Interludes Family, thank you for being part of ten seasons of stories, culture, and conversations. Listen, share this episode, and leave a comment: How can we honor our different histories while building stronger connections?

🎙️ Episode 1020 | Season 10 Finale
Hosted by Val “The Voice” Johnson
Produced by Pure Lighthouse Media LLC

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset.

💜 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow.

ABOUT VAL THE VOICE JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your digital copy today!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

What happens when pressing record becomes something bigger than a podcast?

In Episode 1019 of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson reflects on six years behind the microphone and the unexpected business lessons that came with building a platform.

When Val launched The Interludes Podcast in 2020, she wasn't searching for her voice—she already had one. She needed somewhere to record it. The podcast came first. The business came later.

In this episode, Val explores the evolution from audio podcasting to today's increasingly visual podcast landscape and asks an important question: Does being seen make us better at being heard?

She also shares some of the business lessons she's continuing to learn as a podcaster and media entrepreneur—from protecting guests with releases and consent agreements to understanding intellectual property and recognizing that not every opportunity deserves a yes.

Because building a podcast isn't only about downloads, views or followers. It's about integrity, consistency, responsibility and respecting the people who trust you with their attention and their stories.

In this episode:

• The 2020 origin story of The Interludes Podcast

• How podcasting evolved from being heard to being seen

• Why a podcast can become the foundation of a business

• Protecting your guests, content and intellectual property

• Why every business opportunity isn't necessarily the right opportunity

• The lessons Val continues to learn as a media entrepreneur

• What “being heard” means six years later

The microphone may start the conversation. What you build around it can become something much bigger.

🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset.

💜 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow.

ABOUT VAL THE VOICE JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your digital copy today!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

It’s been a busy summer behind the scenes, but The Interludes Podcast is back!

Val “The Voice” Johnson checks in with the Interludes family with a quick update before the next episode drops. No long explanations—just gratitude, a little reflection, and a reminder that sometimes life gets busy, but the microphone is still waiting.

Stay tuned—“The Business of Being Heard,” Episode 1019, is coming next. 🎙️💜 🎙️💜

What transforms a podcast from a hobby into a sustainable platform? According to Val the Voice Johnson, one of the most valuable investments isn't another microphone or editing software—it's community.

In this episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val reflects on her experience at Podcast Summit 2026 in Atlanta, where she attended as a VIP guest, volunteered behind the scenes, and reconnected with fellow entrepreneurs and creators she had first met through online communities.

From the importance of showing up consistently to building genuine relationships that extend beyond social media, Val shares why community has become an essential part of her journey as a podcaster, entrepreneur, and business owner.

Whether you're launching your very first podcast, growing your brand, or looking for accountability in your business, this episode offers encouragement to find people who will challenge you, celebrate your wins, and remind you that success is rarely built alone.

In this episode you'll hear:

• Why community is one of the best investments a podcaster can make

• How Podcast Summit 2026 reinforced the value of authentic relationships

• The difference between networking and building lasting connections

• Why volunteering created unexpected opportunities

• How online relationships became real-life friendships and business connections

• Why every entrepreneur needs accountability

• An introduction to The Lighthouse Lab community

Resources Available:

Join ⁠⁠The Lighthouse Lab community on Skool⁠⁠, created by ⁠⁠Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠, and connect with aspiring and growing podcasters learning how to launch, grow, and monetize their platforms. Weekly coworking and podcasting tip sessions begin in August. Join today at ⁠⁠The Lighthouse Lab on Skool⁠⁠

Podcast Production 101: From Guest Booking to Going Live

I'll take you behind the scenes of producing a professional podcast—from preparing great guests and using StreamYard to creating AI-powered graphics, YouTube descriptions, and promotional content that reflects your brand.

📅 Saturday, August 1, 2026
🕙 10:00 AM Eastern | 9:00 AM Central

Register here right now!

💜⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset.

This week's article, "⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Why Community Is One of the Best Investments a Podcaster Can Make⁠⁠,⁠⁠" highlights the standout points from this episode.

ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!

Lessons from the Unlocking Greatness Retreat

In this solo episode of The Interludes Podcast, host Val "The Voice" Johnson shares powerful lessons learned from speaking at the Unlocking Greatness Retreat and delivering his Toastmasters speech, "Relationships Pay Better Than Algorithms."

In a world obsessed with followers, views, and engagement metrics, Val explores why genuine relationships remain one of the most valuable assets in business, podcasting, leadership, and life.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why opportunities travel through people, not platforms
• How your voice matters more than your equipment
• Why relationships compound over time
• How mentors, peers, connectors, investors, and door openers can help shape your future
• Why character and service will always outlast changing algorithms

Whether you're an entrepreneur, creator, podcaster, leader, or someone looking to expand your network with purpose, this episode offers practical insights on building meaningful connections that create lasting opportunities.

Remember: The algorithm may introduce you to people, but relationships are what sustain you.

Subscribe, follow, and share this episode with someone who values connection, community, and growth.

The Interludes Podcast – Stories of Reinvention Through Creativity and Rhythm.

Resources Available:

Join ⁠⁠The Lighthouse Lab community on Skool⁠⁠, created by ⁠⁠Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠, and connect with aspiring and growing podcasters learning how to launch, grow, and monetize their platforms. Weekly coworking and podcasting tip sessions begin in June. Join today at ⁠⁠The Lighthouse Lab on Skool⁠⁠

💜⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow.

🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset.

This week's article, "⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Relationships Pay Better Than Algorithms⁠⁠,⁠⁠" highlights the standout points from this episode.

In celebration of Black Music Month, Val “The Voice” Johnson reflects on the music, faith, and cultural influences that continue to shape generations through storytelling and sound.

In this special episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val revisits powerful moments from Interludes Extra: Talk on Tuesdays featuring award-winning musician, producer, and songwriter Kendall Nesbitt. Together, the conversation explores the deep roots of gospel music in Chicago, the mentorship and musicianship behind the sound, and the surprising connection between gospel and house music culture.

Val also shares personal reflections on growing up with gospel music, singing in the choir at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, and how artists like Walter Hawkins, The Winans, Commission, Kirk Franklin, Fred Hammond, and Donald Lawrence helped shape her musical and spiritual journey.

Later in the episode, the conversation shifts from music to inspiration as Val reflects on reading the book “Necessary” by Zenja Glass and discusses the impact of the Unlocking Greatness community and upcoming retreat. Through stories of faith, identity, healing, and purpose, this episode reminds listeners how music, mentorship, and meaningful conversations can help people rediscover who they are.

This episode includes:
• Black Music Month reflections
• Gospel music and Chicago musical legacy
• The connection between gospel and house music
• Clips featuring Kendall Nesbitt and Coach Tony Thompson
• Reflections on Zenja Glass’s book “necessary”
• Unlocking Greatness Retreat discussion
• Stories of faith, creativity, and reinvention

Follow Pure Lighthouse Media and The Interludes Podcast for more conversations celebrating music, culture, creativity, and purpose.

Resources Available:

The Unlocking Greatness Retreat, hosted by leadership mentor and author Zenja Glass, takes place Saturday, June 13, 2026, with both in-person and virtual attendance options available. Designed for entrepreneurs, creators, and faith-based leaders, this transformational experience focuses on leadership, mindset, visibility, and personal growth. For more information or to book a clarity call, visit the Unlocking Greatness website today.

Join ⁠⁠The Lighthouse Lab community on Skool⁠⁠, created by ⁠⁠Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠, and connect with aspiring and growing podcasters learning how to launch, grow, and monetize their platforms. Weekly coworking and podcasting tip sessions begin in June. Join today at ⁠⁠The Lighthouse Lab on Skool⁠⁠

💜⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow.

🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset.

This week's article, "⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unlocking Greatness, Leadership & Finding Your Voice,⁠⁠" highlights the standout points from this episode.

ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!

In Episode 1015 of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with actress, comedian, writer, producer, and entrepreneur Lydia Nicole for an inspiring conversation about surviving and thriving in Hollywood for over four decades.

From working alongside Robert Townsend during the making of Hollywood Shuffle to building her platform “Acting Smarter Now,” Lydia shares powerful lessons about resilience, self-belief, entrepreneurship, and why creatives can’t wait to be discovered.

This episode explores the realities actors of color face in the entertainment industry, the importance of creating your own opportunities, and what it truly means to bet on yourself.

If you are a creative, entrepreneur, podcaster, filmmaker, or dreamer trying to find your place in the world, this conversation is for you.

Topics include:

• Acting and entrepreneurship
• Hollywood survival stories
• Robert Townsend and independent filmmaking
• Why actors must create their own opportunities
• Representation in entertainment
• Podcasting and personal branding
• Creative resilience and reinvention

Resources Available:

Join ⁠The Lighthouse Lab community on Skool⁠, created by ⁠Pure Lighthouse Media⁠, and connect with aspiring and growing podcasters learning how to launch, grow, and monetize their platforms. Weekly coworking and podcasting tip sessions begin in June. Join today at ⁠The Lighthouse Lab on Skool⁠

💜⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow.

🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn

⁠⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset.

This week's article, "⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Michael Jackson, Mindset, and the Power of Paradigm Shifts⁠⁠,⁠" highlights the standout points from this episode.

ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!

On this episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson takes a deeper look at Michael—not as a traditional movie review, but as a conversation about mindset, greatness, fear, creativity, and transformation.

Inspired by the audiobook Change Your Paradigm, Change Your Life, Val explores how paradigms shape the way we think, dream, create, and pursue success. From Michael Jackson’s unwavering belief that he would become one of the greatest entertainers of all time to the challenges creatives face when building businesses, platforms, and purpose-driven work, this episode connects music, culture, ambition, and personal growth in a powerful way.

Val also reflects on:

• the difference between being busy and being productive
• clearly defined goals and vision
• fear, failure, and personal growth
• affirmations and belief systems
• why paradigm shifts begin internally before they appear publicly

This is not just a conversation about music history. It’s a conversation about what happens when someone changes the way they see themselves—and how that shift can change everything.

Resources Mentioned:

💜⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow.

Join The Lighthouse Lab community on Skool, created by Pure Lighthouse Media, and connect with aspiring and growing podcasters learning how to launch, grow, and monetize their platforms. Weekly coworking and podcasting tip sessions begin in June. Join today at The Lighthouse Lab on Skool

🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn

⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠

Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset.

This week's article, "⁠⁠Michael Jackson, Mindset, and the Power of Paradigm Shifts⁠⁠," highlights the standout points from this episode.

ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one.

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!

There are some conversations that go beyond the microphone… and this is one of them.

In Season 10, Episode 1013 of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with someone who represents both business and blessing—Karen Glace. Not just a guest, but one of the first sponsors of the podcast and a trusted partner since 2022, this episode is a powerful full-circle moment.

Karen shares her journey and her heartfelt contribution to the book, You Can Overcome Anything with God, offering real-life testimony, faith-driven insight, and encouragement for anyone navigating challenges, purpose, and growth.

This conversation explores:

• The power of faith in overcoming life’s obstacles
• Building meaningful business relationships rooted in trust
• How purpose, storytelling, and obedience to God intersect
• The beauty of evolving from partnership into genuine friendship

This isn’t just an interview—it’s a reflection of what happens when you stay consistent, walk in purpose, and build with the right people.

✨ Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a person of faith, or someone in need of encouragement… this episode is for you.

Resources Mentioned:

💜⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠⁠

Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow.

🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn

⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠

Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset.

This week's article, "⁠Leadership, Integrity, and Influence: A Conversation with Janice Coleman⁠," highlights the standout points from this episode.

ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one.

⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!

In this episode of The Interludes Podcast, Val “The Voice” Johnson sits down with leadership strategist and keynote speaker Janice Coleman for a powerful conversation about leadership, career growth, integrity, and influence.

With over 25 years of leadership and executive development experience, Janice has helped hundreds of leaders gain clarity, improve communication, and lead with accountability and purpose across nonprofit, corporate, education, technical, and faith-based organizations.

Val and Janice discuss:

• What makes a good leader vs. a great leader
• Leadership fatigue and performance pressure
• Helping leaders gain clarity in their careers and businesses
• The importance of integrity and accountability in leadership
• Music that inspires leadership and creativity
• Their shared connection to Philadelphia and North Philly culture

This episode is for leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone considering a career change or stepping into leadership for the first time.

Leadership is not just about position—it's about responsibility, communication, and integrity.

SHOW NOTES:

The Interludes Podcast with Val “The Voice” Johnson
Season 10 – Episode 1012
Guest: Janice Coleman

• Janice Coleman’s leadership journey and background
• Working with nonprofit, corporate, and education organizations
• Helping leaders get clear about their goals and direction
• Leadership fatigue and how leaders manage pressure
• Communication, accountability, and alignment in leadership
• Music that inspires leadership and creativity
• North Philly connection and cultural influences
• Leadership lessons for entrepreneurs and creatives

Key Takeaway: Great leadership is built on clarity, communication, accountability, and integrity.

Resources Mentioned:

💜 ⁠⁠⁠Join the Interludes Community on Patreon (Free)⁠⁠⁠

Join the Interludes Patreon for free and get even more behind-the-scenes moments, podcasting insights, and community updates as the shows continue to grow.

🔔 Subscribe to The Interludes on LinkedIn

⁠⁠⁠The Interludes Newsletter by Pure Lighthouse Media⁠⁠⁠

Get behind-the-scenes access to Interludes Extra and The Pull Up Podcast Show, plus reflections on culture, creativity, and podcasting—from the mic to the mindset.

This week's article, "Leadership, Integrity, and Influence: A Conversation with Janice Coleman," highlights the standout points from this episode.

ABOUT VAL "THE VOICE" JOHNSON: "A DJ Saved My Life" is the book by Val "The Voice" Johnson. The debut book features a heartfelt tribute to the healing power of music and the therapeutic potential of podcasting, all with the ABCs of podcasting rolled into one.

⁠⁠⁠Get your print or digital copy today!⁠⁠⁠