The Progress Report Podcast

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The Progress Report Podcast episodes

August 17 SMJ First-Ever Interview: “Pleasure To Meet You,” PLUTO & Anycia Features, Jeezy Sample + ATL Roots
Atlanta rising artist SMJ joins Lalaa Shepard for her first-ever interview on a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report!
The 22-year-old Westside Atlanta native introduces the world to who she is as an artist and breaks down her new project, Pleasure To Meet You, which she describes as her proper introduction to the world. SMJ reflects on performing since the age of 3, beginning to rap at 6 years old, the support of her family, and growing into her own sound as part of Atlanta’s new generation of artists.
SMJ also speaks on being influenced by Atlanta artists including YFN Lucci, Young Thug and Rich Kidz, sampling Rich Kidz and being embraced by OGs from the city. She discusses keeping Pleasure To Meet You authentic to Atlanta through collaborations with PLUTO and Anycia, including the story behind creating her Jeezy-sampled record with PLUTO.
During the conversation, SMJ clears up whether she and Anycia are actually related, speaks on another record sampling Bow Wow and Omarion’s “Let Me Hold You,” and addresses “industry plant” comments head-on. She explains why her success comes down to years of hard work, dedication and consistency and shares how she has learned to handle negativity on social media without allowing it to distract her.
SMJ also reflects on navigating the music industry at only 22 years old, learning the game from her mother and aunts, gives advice to other young women pursuing their goals, shows love to her day-one supporters, and defines what the word “progress” means to her.
Pleasure To Meet You is available now on all streaming platforms.
Watch, comment, subscribe and let us know your favorite moment from SMJ’s first-ever interview!
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tharealsmjj/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/
Website:
https://TPRMediaGroup.com
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183
Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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18 min
August 14 Pofsky on Signing to Eric Bellinger, Being a White R&B Artist, Adversity & UNDRGRNDMAG
“R&B is way cooler than rap” ~ Pofsky
Pofsky joins Lalaa Shepard of The Progress Report for a new episode of Skipping Class to discuss his nearly 20-year musical journey, transitioning from rap into R&B, signing to Eric Bellinger’s ALL WINS, and building his identity as an artist, entrepreneur, and creative executive.
During the conversation, Pofsky reflects on beginning his musical journey at a young age and the adversity he experienced after being made fun of for rapping as a white kid from the suburbs. He explains how those early experiences affected his confidence, why he eventually returned to music, and how he now uses his journey to encourage and mentor young people. Pofsky also speaks candidly about the credibility that Eric Bellinger’s co-sign has brought to his R&B career and shares some of the tough-love advice Eric has given him about improving his music, creating hit records, remaining hands-on, and never becoming complacent with his growth.
Pofsky also discusses touring alongside Steven G. on the “A Night With a G” Tour, evolving his live performances, incorporating a cover of Chris Brown’s “Main Chick” into his set, performing without a traditional backing track, and why he believes he is ready to perform on an arena stage. He also reflects on his latest music and continuing to develop himself as an R&B artist.
Beyond music, Pofsky discusses becoming a partner in UNDRGRNDMAG and how he helped expand the platform through events and experiences inspired by Nipsey Hussle’s Proud2Pay movement. He explains how his entrepreneurial mindset has helped UNDRGRND grow beyond its original concept and expand into multiple areas of entertainment.
Pofsky closes out the conversation by defining “progress” and explaining why artists and entrepreneurs should not be afraid to publicly show both their wins and losses. He shares why documenting the journey, embracing failure, building community, and “failing forward” are essential parts of creating a lasting brand.
Watch the full episode of Skipping Class and subscribe to The Progress Report for more conversations with artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/pofsky3/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/
Website:
https://TPRMediaGroup.com
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183
Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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27 min
August 11 Real Recognize Rio Remembers Alley Boy & Young Scooter, Addresses Being Signed to 21 Savage
Real Recognize Rio returns to Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report for his first interview with Lalaa Shepard since 2020. The Eastside Atlanta artist catches us up on everything that has changed over the years, his growth as an artist and man, and his newly released project, Here to Stay.
Rio has consistently released music since 2017, and with Here to Stay, he intentionally made room for Atlanta talent. The project includes appearances from Bally Baby, Shad Da God, Derez De’Shon, BHM Pezzy, NDA Mollo, Lil-Jr., and M6. He also speaks on the fan-favorite record “Paper Cuts” and the importance of continuing to develop his own sound and identity.
During the conversation, Rio pays homage to several Eastside Atlanta figures who helped shape him, including the late Alley Boy, Trouble, and Young Scooter. He recalls Trouble giving him an opportunity to perform at Center Stage, exchanging music and receiving encouragement from Alley Boy, and Young Scooter blessing him with thousands of dollars after winning a contest. Rio explains how Duct Tape and Freebandz influenced not only his approach to music, but also the brotherhood and structure he created with his own day-one friends.
Rio also reflects on his relationship with the late Lotto Savage and opens up about the realities of being signed to another artist. He addresses fans who believe 21 Savage should be doing more for his career, explains why outsiders don’t know everything that happens behind the scenes, and discusses why he refuses to measure his success by being seen around famous rappers, wearing chains, or projecting a certain image.
For Rio, success means something much deeper. He wants to be financially secure enough to take care of his family, move his mother wherever she wants to live, and create opportunities and jobs for people in his community.
The conversation gets personal as Rio discusses his close relationship with his mother, growing up as an only child, having both his mother and aunt serve prison time when he was young, and how his father’s lifestyle shaped the type of father he hopes to become one day. Rio also shares his thoughts on dating, spending money on women, stereotypes surrounding rappers, learning how to cook, and one of the biggest misconceptions people have about him—that he is unapproachable.
Watch the full episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report and stream Here to Stay now.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/1realrecognizerio/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/
Website:
https://TPRMediaGroup.com
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183
Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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42 min
August 08 Myrically Survived a 750-Pound Steel Beam Hitting His Head, Talks Music, Recovery & “Living Proof”
In a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report, Lalaa Shepard sits down with independent artist Myrically to discuss his incredible journey of survival, recovery, and finding purpose through music.
Myrically reflects on the August 2020 construction accident that completely changed his life when a crane malfunction caused a 750-pound steel beam to fall on the right side of his head. The accident resulted in a traumatic brain injury, and Myrically opens up about undergoing extensive therapy and having to relearn how to walk and talk. He also discusses the important role his mother played throughout his recovery, including introducing him to art therapy, which helped him discover a deeper passion for creativity before eventually taking music seriously.
Originally born in Federal Way, Washington, Myrically also speaks about living throughout the West Coast before making Denver, Colorado his home, his experiences in Denver’s music scene, and the independent grind behind his career. He explains the meaning behind the name “Myrically,” which combines “miracle” and “lyrical,” and reflects on how much his perspective on life changed following his accident.
During the conversation, Myrically discusses working closely with producer Rooftop York, remaining consistent as an independent artist, and collaborations with artists including Trev Rich, Ray Reed, Tana 10 Birdz, Scotty ATL, Dollface Henn, and others. He also speaks about upcoming music with Yung Ralph and Big Moochie Grape, his love for the recording process, and why music continues to serve as a form of therapy for him.
Myrically also breaks down his new project Living Proof, the deeper meaning behind its title, his record “Honest Truth,” and why his story and music are ultimately about showing what is possible after tragedy.
Living Proof is available now on all streaming platforms. Watch the full interview and stay connected with Myrically for new music and upcoming releases.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/myricallymusic/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/
Website:
https://TPRMediaGroup.com
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183
Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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32 min
August 08 T-Bo DaVIP on Bloody Jay Co-Sign, 4 Days in Rice Street Jail, “DaVip” Project & Atlanta Dance Era
Southside Atlanta artist T-Bo DaVIP joins Lalaa Shepard for a new episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report to discuss his journey from dancing as a youngster to building his career as an independent artist.
During the conversation, T-Bo DaVIP reflects on growing up on the Southside of Atlanta and recalls dancing in Jagged Edge’s “What’s It Like (Remix)” with Jermaine Dupri. He also speaks on being part of Atlanta’s Whoop Rico dance era and shares his perspective on how dancing went from being embraced by everybody in the city to people becoming “too cool” to dance.
T-Bo DaVIP breaks down his new 9-track project “DaVip,” which features Bloody Jay and BLE Ambitious, and explains why he created the project with Atlanta’s club and nightlife scene in mind. He also discusses his buzzing single “Oh Wow,” his growing catalog of projects dating back to 2020, and the realities of remaining independent when other artists may have bigger budgets and resources behind them.
He also opens up about serving four days in Atlanta’s Rice Street Jail, which inspired his song “901” and his own version of a “First Day Out” record. T-Bo explains how the experience taught him patience, forced him to examine his decisions, and showed him who was truly in his corner.
Elsewhere, T-Bo DaVIP discusses receiving co-signs from Atlanta OGs including Bloody Jay and Runway Richy, the responsibility he feels toward younger artists, fatherhood and raising his 7-year-old son, dealing with social media pages being removed or restricted, working with rising artist 1Blocko, the meaning behind his name, and what the word “progress” means to him.
Stream “DaVip” and watch the full conversation now!
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tbodavip/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1

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21 min
August 03 Too Short Speaks on Becoming a Father at 52, 20 Years of “Blow the Whistle” & New Album with Lil Jon
Hip-hop legend Too Short (Too $hort) joins Lalaa Shepard for an exclusive conversation on Skipping Class, reflecting on his legendary career, fatherhood, timeless records, and his latest album.
Too Short breaks down the story behind “BIA BIA” with Lil Jon, explains how moving to Atlanta and building relationships with producers like Lil Jon and Jazze Pha gave his career new life, and reflects on performing music from his catalog at Coalition DJs New Music Mondays with DJ Funky. He also shares how his creative partnership with Lil Jon led to multiple classic records throughout the years.
During the conversation, Too Short celebrates the 20-year anniversary of “Blow the Whistle,” explains why the song became one of the biggest records of his career, breaks down its true meaning, and reflects on Lil Jon producing both “Blow the Whistle” and “Shake That Monkey,” including memories from filming the iconic “Shake That Monkey” music video in Miami.
Too Short also opens up about intentionally becoming a father at 52 years old, how fatherhood changed his perspective on life, and what it has been like introducing his daughter to his music.
Elsewhere in the interview, Too Short discusses collaborating with hip-hop icons including Jay-Z, The Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac, Diddy, and Lil’ Kim, while also reflecting on Oakland culture, his Oakland Ballers Minor League Baseball team, defining what “progress” means to him, and his goal of becoming the first active rapper performing into his 70s.
Too Short also discusses his newly released album, ‘Sir Too Short, Vol. 2 (Drink & Smoke)’, executive produced by Lil Jon alongside his late son, Young Slade, continuing a creative partnership that has spanned decades.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tooshort/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/
Website:
https://TPRMediaGroup.com
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183
Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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43 min
July 31 Maleigh Zan on “Such A Time” with Anycia, Living Abroad & Staying True to Herself | Skipping Class
“Life can be serious but you have to have fun too” ~ Maleigh Zan
Maleigh Zan returns to Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report for an honest conversation with host Lalaa Shepard about her growth over the past two years, the lessons she has learned within the music industry, and the importance of staying true to herself and the community she has built.
During the conversation, Maleigh Zan reflects on her new song, “Such A Time,” with Anycia, and discusses how their close friendship and natural creative bond helped bring the collaboration together. She also opens up about the difference between modeling and making music, explaining that music gives her the freedom to express her personality, creativity, and authentic self more fully.
Maleigh Zan also shares how traveling and living abroad in London changed her perspective on life, culture, work, relationships, and creativity. She explains why experiencing different parts of the world taught her to slow down, appreciate life, and make more time for fun and meaningful experiences.
After releasing a consistent collection of singles, Maleigh Zan is now preparing to release her first full-length project, an upcoming debut EP titled The Summer That Never Ended. She also shares what she wants people to take away from her music and brand: have fun, catch a vibe, live your best life, and remain true to who you are.
Watch the full episode and let us know your favorite moment in the comments.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/maleighzan/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/
Website:
https://TPRMediaGroup.com
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183
Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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24 min
July 28 Sammie on Being Overlooked, Verzuz, His Mother’s Mental Health & His Final Album
“People don’t know if you don’t talk and I got tired of being overlooked” ~ Sammie
R&B superstar Sammie returns to Skipping Class, presented by The Progress Report, for his first sit-down with Lalaa Shepard since 2018. Since becoming the youngest solo artist to earn a No. 1 hit with his breakout record “I Like It” at just 12 years old, Sammie has continued evolving as an artist, businessman, and father.
In this exclusive conversation, Sammie reflects on his journey from child stardom to building an independent career on his own terms. He discusses surviving multiple eras of the music industry, his experiences surrounding the Verzuz era alongside Pleasure P, Ray J, Bobby V, forming RSVP, and thoughts on the Pretty Ricky and B2K Verzuz. He also shares his thoughts on Ray J’s upcoming celebrity boxing match with Orlando Brown, the Millennium Tour, fatherhood, embracing aging, raising both a son and daughter, releasing visuals independently, and the importance of ownership.
The conversation also takes a deeply personal turn as Sammie opens up about losing his father, supporting his mother through mental health challenges, creating his FINAL album The Journee, named after his daughter staying inspired after decades in the industry, and why he no longer wants to creates music from a place of pain. He also shares memories of Hardball, working alongside Michael B. Jordan, his admiration for rising star Young Roddy, his thoughts on G-Baby’s unforgettable scene, and closes the interview by defining what “progress” truly means.
Watch the full episode now and be sure to subscribe to The Progress Report for more exclusive interviews with today’s biggest artists, producers, executives, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/sammiealways/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/
Website:
https://TPRMediaGroup.com
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183
Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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54 min
July 24 ReddLoe Talks “Trenches,” Motherhood, Faith & Her Upcoming Project with Waka Flocka
A new episode of Skipping Class, presented by The Progress Report, is now available. In this episode, Lalaa Shepard sits down with recording artist ReddLoe for an inspiring conversation about her journey in music, motherhood, faith, personal growth, and staying true to herself.
Originally from Indiana, ReddLoe reflects on relocating to Georgia at 13 years old, discovering her sound, auditioning for The Voice and American Idol at a young age, and drawing inspiration from artists like Tupac, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Avril Lavigne, and Nelly Furtado. She also discusses growing up with several brothers, the importance of family support, and why she always knew she wanted a career in entertainment.
ReddLoe also shares the story behind her latest single, “Trenches,” explaining how the record is rooted in her real-life experiences and how turning 30 completely changed her perspective. She opens up about becoming more authentic, prioritizing her children, following God’s purpose, and finding peace after leaving the “trenches” behind.
The conversation also covers balancing motherhood with music, navigating today’s independent music industry, misconceptions about female artists, social media, her upcoming single “Paranoid,” her forthcoming project with Waka Flocka, and what the word “progress” truly means to her.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/reddpebblz_/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/
Website:
https://TPRMediaGroup.com
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183
Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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17 min
July 23 Kocky Ka Explains Why He Chose QC, Clears Up Viral Busta Rhymes Moment, Lil Poppa Passing
“I was rapping before singing” ~ Kocky Ka
Brooklyn, New York artist Kocky Ka joins Lalaa Shepard of The Progress Report for an all-new episode of Skipping Class. During the conversation, he reflects on growing up in Brooklyn, singing in church, pursuing music after the passing of his father, and why he was rapping long before he transitioned into the melodic sound fans know today.
Kocky Ka also explains why he chose to sign with Quality Control (QC) after meeting with several major labels, including Sony and Yo Gotti. He discusses becoming one of the first East Coast artists on the QC roster and talks about how his collaboration “Dark Nights” featuring Meek Mill and Fridayy helped elevate his career.
He also clears up the viral Busta Rhymes moment, revealing what really happened after Busta heard one of their records together and how social media created its own narrative. Kocky Ka opens up about using music as therapy, the challenges that come with fame, why he believes he makes uplifting music instead of “sad music,” pays tribute to Lil Poppa, discusses his collaboration with Trae Tha Truth on “Alone,” speaks on his new single “Westside,” and shares what progress means to him.
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/kocky_ka/
https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/
https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/
https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/
Website:
https://TPRMediaGroup.com
Listen to us on Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183
Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts
https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5

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21 min

About The Progress Report Podcast

From the publisher's feed

The Progress Report is more than media—it’s a movement. Founded in Atlanta, we are a premier hip-hop platform dedicated to documenting the culture, amplifying untold stories, and championing the voices that shape the streets and the sound. Through raw interviews, real conversations, and unapologetic content, we bridge the gap between underground talent and mainstream recognition.