Bert Knapp and Rachel Young are the founders of Thugging to Loving, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives through mentorship, community building, and second chances. Their work is rooted in the belief that true change begins with love, accountability, and opportunity. Together, they have created safe spaces for individuals to grow beyond their past circumstances and step into purpose.

On September 20th, from 12 PM to 5 PM at Drake Park, they will host their Awakening Event—a day of empowerment, healing, and connection for the community. The event will feature motivational speakers, music, resources, and activities designed to inspire personal growth and unity. Through initiatives like this, Bert and Rachel continue to show how love and compassion can spark transformation and hope.

Website:  https://www.thuggingtoloving.com/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/share/1JzmqU1Geb/

In this episode, I talk with Corey Dion Lewis, founder of The Healthy Project and a leader reimagining how we approach prevention, health equity, and culture. With over a decade of experience as a clinical health coach, Corey has built powerful initiatives like the Save the Homies campaign and the My City My Health Conference to bridge clinical care and community impact. He’s also the host of top-ranked podcasts, where real conversations about health and culture take center stage. Recognized nationally for his leadership, Corey shares how hip-hop, storytelling, and optimism fuel his mission to make health a shared story for all.

Save the Homies

My City My Health

Healthy Project Media

In this episode, we dive into The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt — a powerful and urgent exploration of how smartphones, social media, and shifting cultural norms are reshaping childhood and adolescence. I break down Haidt's core arguments, from the "phone-based childhood" to the rise in anxiety, depression, and fragility among Gen Z, and reflect on what it all means for parents, educators, and leaders today.Whether you're a caregiver, mentor, or simply someone concerned about the mental health crisis among youth, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about how we raise and support the next generation. Tune in for practical takeaways, personal reflections, and a look at what it might take to reverse the trends Haidt so clearly lays out.

Webiste: Jjuanhakeem.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/tmwhakeem?igsh=MW05YnBkMnozaXRubQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

X: https://x.com/themindshakeem?s=11

In this episode, I sit down with my friend and sister in the work, Dani Mincks—Director of Community Engagement and Lead Career Coach at Change Course. We talk about growth, leadership, and what it means to create real change through relationships, purpose, and service. With over 15 years in banking and a deep heart for the underserved, Dani brings powerful insight and passion to the conversation.

Today we sit down with William Jackson, better known as Dolo, co-owner and lead trainer at Just Work Training—a basketball program committed to developing players from grade school to the professional level. We dive into the most impactful lessons he’s learned through his journey in player development, as well as his experience coaching with Next Level Academy in Des Moines, IA.

Connect with Dolo on Instagram: @justwork_dolo

We hope you enjoy this episode! For more conversations like this, visit us at jjuanhakeem.com

Hey everyone! After taking some time off, we’re finally back with Episode 61! Join me and Jon Luke as we talk about where we’ve been, why we needed a break, and what’s coming up next for the show.

In this real talk session, we open up about our challenges, share what we learned while away, and get excited about the fresh ideas we’re bringing to the podcast.

For regular listeners and newcomers alike, this episode bridges the gap between our past and future. Tune in to hear the story behind our break and get a sneak peek at all the great conversations we have planned!Website: jjuanhakeem.com

On this solo episode of the Minds w/ Hakeem Podcast , Jjuan dove into the classic book "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. Self proclaimed as the only book you need for success, the book's insights have caught readers attention for decades. With a focus on the first half of the book, Jjuan meticulously breaks down the key principles outlined by Carnegie. From mastering the art of communication to understanding human psychology, this episode offers a wide and meaningful analysis of the foundational concepts that have helped countless individuals navigate the complexities of social interactions, and most importantly succeed in life Whether you're a seasoned reader or a person who would like to read more, this podcast episode if for you. There are spoilers in this episode!

On this episode of The Minds w/ Hakeem podcast, I had the pleasure of engaging in a conversation with Markee Thompson, the owner of Vivid Vision Media and Elevate Wedding Films. Markee, also serving as a Digital Marketing Specialist for Remax Precision and co-host of "The Creatives POV Podcast," brings a wealth of experience to the table. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of delegations and their role in contributing growth, be it in your business or personal life. A man accustomed to facing numerous challenges, Markee was the ideal guest for this episode. Enjoy this discussion!

Markee’s instagram https://www.instagram.com/markeebthompson?igsh=cDR4bHRpaHFnZjlk

Elevate Wedding Films https://linktr.ee/Elevateweddingfilm?fbclid=PAAaa9SYp89qx7WL9LrlpHk6b2LQOs3XCL4FNq3FQD_AXixtn8GvfBSM7az8M_aem_AbxnjixWYyf53t7-Eo7TWcPTftPt9ebeEI6md06KtGtdzX1CTBslWupkHNMvfCVkVX8

Vivid Vision Media https://www.vividvm.com/?fbclid=PAAaYxQOS7_OgIyhfecUmQYuwWZzXDiZPrNniVVgKok4jSsTvUq_0v8aV_jrQ_aem_Abx63PryjPCvTPGLURROkq0cAL-UNrUSXMo4j_7fAKDXrYamYd412goItvRm__78JTg

The Creative Pov Podcast https://creatives-pov.simplecast.com/?fbclid=PAAaanaUVNPX_oxO3YhY_uMP-DAjc-ubNjVxigIe8ZuR_1qEqixigA55l2NjY_aem_AbxWxIL5EdTAD6g4pgWPMAe8anP-v0dJS02B_cZlENzqSSs-24sXBCdm9DwadtYUV6Y

On this episode of The Minds, Jjuan checks in to chat about his plans for 2024. There are plenty of areas in life with room for growth and reinvention, and Jjuan nails down specific goals and habit changes he will implement in order to make a lasting change. Tune in for inspiration on your New Year’s resolutions and 2024 vision.

On this episode of The Minds w/ Hakeem Podcast, Jjuan had the opportunity to sit down with Derek Witt, a former Air Force officer and collegiate athlete. In their discussion, they explored the significant changes in Derek's life and delved into the ways he managed to thrive in the presence of them all.

Tune in to discover the pivotal moments that shaped Derek's journey and gain insights into the transformative changes you might need in your own life!