In this week’s episode of The IT Factor Podcast, we sat down with author, keynote speaker, and thought leader Ajayi Pickering-Haynes—a man whose story of resilience, healing, and growth is both powerful and timely.

Ajayi opened up about the importance of prioritizing mental, emotional, and physical health, and how starting therapy last year has helped him build tools to navigate life and leadership with clarity. 🙌🏾

We dove into his book “Displaced to Realigned”, where he discusses navigating the challenges of today’s job market, the power of networking, and discovering your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)—a tool to help you stand out while staying authentic.

Ajayi also shared his journey of being laid off and how that moment of uncertainty became the launchpad for his comeback. He spoke on the importance of knowing your values first, before writing your resume or applying for jobs—a mindset shift that can change your entire job search strategy.

This episode is packed with wisdom about growth, mindset, career navigation, and what it really means to pursue your dream job.

🎯 Whether you’re job hunting, career shifting, or simply in need of inspiration—this one is a must-listen!

🔔 Subscribe and tune in now!

#TheITFactorPodcast #AjayiPickeringHaynes #DisplacedToRealigned #CareerGrowth #MentalHealthMatters #NetworkToWin #DreamJob #CareerTransitions #BlackExcellence

This week on The IT Factor Podcast, we sit down with Jamar Root — motivational speaker, Temple University alum, and the voice behind the podcast Root of Everything. 

Jamar opens up about how he went from being afraid to speak on what he wanted to be...

To becoming a motivational speaker, podcaster, and purpose-driven leader. 

In this episode, we explore:

 Turning fear into a calling

 Life at Temple University

 Why it’s crucial to go after 

everything

 on your heart

 The rise of 

Root of Everything

 Using his voice to spread knowledge, truth, and inspiration

If you’ve ever hesitated to speak up, dream loud, or take that next step — this is your sign.

 Tap in. Subscribe. And go listen to 

Root of Everything

 — available now.

#TheITFactorPodcast #JamarRoot #RootOfEverything #PurposeDriven #DreamBig #TempleUniversity #SpeakLife #MotivationPodcast

In this episode, we sit down with Monroe High School’s track and field sensation Marianna Wright, a University of Florida Track Commit, National & State Champion, and a young woman of deep faith.

Marianna shares her IT Factor—being a Christian athlete, where track is not just a sport, but her ministry. She speaks on how God guides her path and why her faith is the foundation of her success on and off the track.

We dive into her journey to committing to UF, how prayer and research led her to become a Gator, and what excites her most about competing in the SEC as a student-athlete.

Marianna also opens up about the importance of family, faith, and purpose, proving that success is more than just records—it’s about staying true to who you are.

I’m beyond proud of her and can’t wait to see what she accomplishes in her senior season and at the University of Florida!

🔥 Tune in now for this inspiring episode!

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Shawn Bane Jr., wide receiver for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, and the visionary behind Bane’s World Clothing Company LLC.

Shawn shares how his high school coach, who has been with him since the 10th grade, played a crucial role in shaping his work ethic and consistency—two things that have carried him through his CFL career. He dives into the mental and physical demands of playing professional football and why staying locked in throughout the long CFL seasons is so important.

But football is only part of his journey. When asked what his IT Factor is, Shawn doesn’t hesitate: "God." He believes that he is a vessel, with a purpose far greater than himself.

We also dive into his unwavering love for his family and friends—his true support system. He speaks passionately about how his circle has been there for him every step of the way, pushing him to be better, holding him accountable, and celebrating his wins. From his parents to his closest friends, he credits them for keeping him grounded and motivated.

Shawn also opens up about his clothing line, Bane’s World, and how it allows him to inspire and give back to others. He explains how his brand is a reflection of his journey—about perseverance, faith, and embracing your purpose.

We close out with him reflecting on the legacy he wants to leave once he hangs up his cleats. He wants to be remembered not just as a great athlete, but as someone who uplifted those around him. A great teammate, a great friend, and an even greater man.

This episode is full of inspiration, faith, and life lessons beyond the game. You don’t want to miss it!

🎥 Watch now!

In this episode, we sit down with Brian Scott, a sports injuries expert, physician assistant, and podcast host, to discuss his passion for helping athletes recover and perform at their best.

Brian shares how his love for sports led him to a career in medicine, where he now serves as a trusted resource for injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Through his work, he has impacted countless lives, ensuring that athletes and everyday individuals receive the care they need to stay in the game.

Beyond medicine, we dive into his journey as a podcaster, where he provides valuable insights on sports injuries, recovery strategies, and athlete wellness. He also opens up about his deep appreciation for the game and the legendary athletes who have inspired him along the way.

His dedication to educating, healing, and uplifting others is truly inspiring. This is an episode you won’t want to miss!

🎙️ Watch the full episode now!

#TheITFactorPodcast #BrianScott #SportsInjuries #AthleteHealth #PhysicianAssistant #PodcastHost #InjuryPrevention #AthleteWellness #KeepChangingTheNarrative

In this episode, we sit down with Kathy Mou, an empowerment coach and host of the Ignite Your Power Podcast. She shares her journey of overcoming challenges, embracing her power, and inspiring others to do the same.

Kathy opens up about her struggles with infertility and how her daughter is her miracle baby, which has shaped her perspective on life and motherhood. She emphasizes the importance of spending time with loved ones and truly being present.

We also discuss how she empowers others through coaching and why she started her podcast to help people recognize their inner strength. Kathy wants to be an example of resilience and overcoming adversity.

One of her key messages? "Don't believe everything you see—be more aware!" She encourages people to break free from limiting beliefs and truly enjoy life.

It was an honor to have Kathy on the podcast. Her wisdom, energy, and passion for uplifting others are truly inspiring!

🎙️✨ Watch the full episode now!

We had the honor of sitting down with Leonard Langford, a professional author and screenwriter, to dive into his journey of storytelling, passion, and perseverance.

Leonard's love for movies started as a kid, sparking his dream of becoming a screenwriter. In college, he majored in English, further developing his writing skills. But it was a screenwriting class that shifted his perspective—showing him he could not only make a career out of storytelling but also bring his vision to life on the big screen.

From there, he attended Chapman University’s Screenwriting Program, where he had a defining moment—“Have you ever done something that just felt right and gave you confidence?” That’s exactly how writing makes him feel.

Now, Leonard is living his dream as a full-time screenwriter and author, and he’s well on his way to becoming a world-renowned storyteller. His journey is a testament to believing in your passion, pivoting when necessary, and staying the course.

Keep changing the narrative! 🎬📖🔥

Full episode dropping soon—don’t miss this one!

#TheITFactorPodcast #LeonardLangford #Screenwriting #Filmmaking #Storytelling #AuthorLife #HollywoodDreams #PassionAndPurpose #BelieveInYourself #KeepChangingTheNarrative

This week, we sit down with David Kitchen, aka “Coach Kitch”, to dive into his inspiring journey from a former Division 1 football coach to a motivational speaker walking in his purpose.

Coach Kitch opened up about his initial resistance to coaching, admitting that he struggled with the idea of transitioning from playing the game to teaching it. Instead, he pursued other jobs, made money, but never felt truly fulfilled. That’s when he decided to take a leap—handwriting letters to coaches across the country, searching for an opportunity. From that moment, he never looked back.

In this episode, we discuss the power of purpose, the importance of mental health, and how coaching ultimately led him to start his own business as a motivational speaker. His impact goes far beyond wins and championships—he’s building relationships, inspiring others, and shifting the narrative.

When asked about his IT Factor, he shared that it’s not about the rings or accolades—it’s about the ability to connect with people, make an impact, and build meaningful relationships.

Salute to Coach Kitch for the work he’s doing. His journey is proof that when you walk in your purpose, true success follows. 💯

Tap in and watch the full episode now! 🎥🔥

In this episode, we sit down with Talia Edmonds, who opens up about her journey as a student-athlete, the transition into life after sports, and the importance of mental health. Talia, who started as a walk-on volleyball player at Michigan State, went on to have an amazing career there before transferring to the University of Hawaii, where she followed in her mom’s footsteps. She shares how her relationships and experiences shaped her, both on and off the court.

Talia talks about the emotional, physical, and mental challenges she faced during her transition out of sports, and how pursuing a Master’s in Social Work (MSW) with a focus on mental health helped her navigate this change. She reflects on how her love for helping people and building relationships has shaped her journey, and how family has played a huge role in her success.

Her story is one of resilience, personal growth, and making a real impact—both in her workplace and on her platform. Watch now to hear her inspiring journey and the importance of mental health in sports and life beyond them.

Keep Changing The Narrative!

In this inspiring episode, we had the privilege of sitting down with Nimesha Coleman, a former standout track and field athlete at Liberty University who is now making her mark at ESPN. At the time of this recording, Nimesha was finishing her senior year and final season of collegiate track, and she shared her incredible journey of finding her passion, purpose, and identity beyond the sport.

Nimesha opened up about how learning to sprint and hurdle was the beginning of her love for track and the driving force behind her decision to attend Liberty University. While excelling as a student-athlete, she experienced a transformative faith journey, deepening her relationship with God and discovering her true identity outside of athletics. She reflects on her time at Liberty University as one of the best decisions she’s ever made, not only because of her athletic success but because it helped shape her spiritually and personally.

Her IT Factor is undeniably her faith, which has remained steadfast through the highs and lows of her track career and beyond. Now, having graduated, Nimesha is continuing to make an impact in the media world as part of ESPN, and her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and trusting the process.

We’re so proud of Nimesha’s journey and know that this is just the beginning of the amazing things she’s destined to accomplish! Tune in to hear her inspiring story and discover how faith can be the foundation for finding purpose in every chapter of life.

#NimeshaColeman #FaithJourney #TrackAndField #ESPN #StudentAthlete #IdentityInFaith #LibertyUniversity #MediaStoryteller #ITFactor