Thinker vs. Speaker

Thinker vs. Speaker

By Thinker vs. SpeakerEducationSelf-Improvement
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Thinker vs. Speaker episodes

  • Never Giving Up: Learning to Keep Going No Matter What

    Welcome back, thinkers! 🎙️✨ In the first episode of 2024, I'm diving deep into my recent hiatus and the invaluable lessons it brought. Join me as I open up about the unexpected break, its origins, and the crucial self-reflection that followed.

    I lay bare my past fears and the struggle with the haunting specters of failure and motivation. This hiatus wasn't just a pause; it was a powerful revelation about the art of achieving goals. Discover with me the significance of taking breaks, letting go of past failures, and embracing the chance to shape my future.

    In this episode, we explore the concept of redirecting our approach to goals in the face of obstacles. What if life's challenges are nudges towards a different, more fulfilling path? We'll unravel the idea that a temporary pause doesn't equate to surrender. Instead, it's a strategic move to recharge, reassess, and return stronger.

    Life may throw curveballs, but our determination shouldn't waver. I share my personal journey of overcoming obstacles and realizing that sometimes, the key is not giving up but picking up where you left off. Join me in rediscovering the resilience to face challenges head-on and the courage to pursue our goals with renewed vigor.

    As we gear up for a fantastic 2024, I'm thrilled to announce the return to our regular programming next week, featuring a captivating new guest. Expect exciting updates to the show's look and a lineup of engaging episodes waiting to be unleashed.

    Thinker vs. Speaker is officially back, and the mission to "Give a Voice to Every Story" continues. Join the conversation as we connect communities through authentic dialogues that challenge the norm and provide a safe space for healing.

    Tune in, share your thoughts, and let's embark on this journey together! 🚀 #ThinkerVsSpeaker #PodcastRevival #NewBeginnings

    32 min
  • Did You Give Up? Asking Important Questions to Navigate Life's Challenges (Remastered)

    In this compelling episode of "Thinker vs Speaker," join Marissa the Thinker and her frequent collaborator, producer Ashton "StonedVapor" Davy, as they embark on a soul-stirring journey through the layers of self-reflection. What begins as an impromptu conversation in the aftermath of a mass shooting event evolves into a powerful exploration of mental health, environmental influences, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.

    Delving into their personal experiences, Marissa and Ashton underscore the significance of therapy, emphasizing the transformative impact of open conversations about thoughts and emotions. The narrative unfolds to unveil the negative mindsets bred in inner-city environments, where survival mode often stifles the contemplation of alternative paths.

    The hosts navigate the complex web connecting high crime rates and self-hate, posing profound questions about the perceived value of one's life. As the conversation unfolds, Marissa and Ashton issue a call to action, urging listeners to take responsibility for their own healing journey.

    Soul searching and self-reflection become the focal point as the hosts encourage listeners to assess their desires and align their paths with personal fulfillment. The episode culminates in a poignant inquiry: Are you settling for a life that leaves you miserable, or have you given up on the vision buried deep within?

    Tune in to this thought-provoking episode as Marissa and Ashton inspire change, challenge perspectives, and illuminate the path towards personal growth.

    1 hr 3 min
  • Breaking Stigmas: Should I See a Therapist?
    Welcome back to "Healed for the Holidays: A Mental Health Rewind." In this remastered episode, we delve into the heart of breaking stigmas surrounding mental health as we revisit the inaugural episode of Marissa the Thinker's solo journey on Thinker vs. Speaker.
    Joining us is the incredible Ka’Cheena (Kay) Lucas, a seasoned social worker and therapist. Together, we embark on a candid exploration of our personal therapy journeys, unraveling the societal beliefs and misconceptions that once held us back. We share the circumstances that finally propelled us to take the courageous leap into therapy.
    In a raw and vulnerable conversation, Kay courageously shares her battle with suicidal ideation, navigating the hesitancy to seek help, and the transformative journey towards securing a brighter future. (🚨 Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions about self-harm and emotional distress. Listener discretion is advised.)
    Throughout the episode, we tackle essential questions like: What makes a good therapist? What should one look for in their therapeutic journey? We emphasize the importance of creating a receptive headspace for the therapy process and discuss the distinctions between therapy and conversations with loved ones.
    Our aim is to reshape the narrative around mental health within the black community, shedding light on available resources and their life-changing impact. This episode underscores the significance of prioritizing mental health, recognizing that therapy may not be a universal solution but is a valuable resource for many.
    Key themes and keywords such as accountability, self-reflection, mental health resources, healing trauma, breaking stigmas, overcoming obstacles, mental health crisis, trusting the process, self-love journeys, and releasing control weave through our conversation. The underlying message resonates—there are options, and it's essential to value oneself enough to seek the help needed, fostering the necessary changes for a more fulfilling life.
    Tune in as we challenge perceptions, share stories, and encourage a shift towards a more open, understanding, and supportive approach to mental well-being. This is "Breaking Stigmas: Should I See a Therapist? Remastered," part of our special December series on "Healed for the Holidays."
    1 hr 16 min
  • Game Time! Changing the Narrative to Re-Write Your Life's Story

    🎙️ Episode: Game Time! Changing the Narrative to Re-Write Your Life's Story

    In this special recap episode, join me, Marissa, as I share the transformative journey post the Emerging Business Leaders Expo, a monumental event where Thinker vs. Speaker and Passion and Purpose Candles were active participants.

    Delving into my reflections on the Expo, I take you through the impactful connections made within the community. It was more than just expanding our reach; it was an immersion into the stories of fellow entrepreneurs, their paths, and the passions that drive them. Engaging with the Emerging Business Leaders reaffirmed the immense support they provide, amplifying the voices of our communities.

    This experience was a testament to personal growth and overcoming internal barriers. It illuminated the culmination of hard work, dispelling fears, and embracing a newfound self-awareness. The Expo became a pivotal moment – game time – where I challenged myself, affirming my capabilities to pursue heartfelt aspirations.

    This episode is a motivational testimony, a beacon for those following this journey and for those seeking courage to leap towards their aspirations. It's a reminder that despite life's narratives, they can be rewritten, and the effort is worthwhile.

    Sponsor Spotlight: This episode is proudly sponsored by Passion and Purpose Candles and More, a family-operated black-owned business. With every purchase, they contribute to Alzheimer's and Dementia charities. Visit my website for more info and a special mention to Chris Perry of Perry Web Design, the mastermind behind thinkervsspeaker.com, offering affordable website solutions to elevate your business!

    Want to join the conversation? Visit my website to schedule a 30-min Zoom call. Let's collaborate and bring your story to the forefront!

    41 min
  • The Right Sauce Reloaded: Reviving Your Motivation and Overcoming Stagnation Part 1

    Hey, fellow thinkers! We're switching things up on the show and taking a trip down memory lane to breathe new life into one of our all-time favorites, "The Right Sauce." In this special two-part episode, I'll be your guide as we revisit this gem from the early days of the podcast.

    Join me as we dive into the episode and relive the inspiring conversation with my beloved uncle, Jerry. Together, we'll explore the power of faith, the art of overcoming adversity, and the importance of critical thinking. It's like catching up with an old friend, filled with insights, reflections, and a dash of nostalgia.

    As we hit the play button and live react to this cherished episode, I'll share my personal thoughts and behind-the-scenes moments that went into its creation. You'll discover why I chose my uncle for this heartfelt chat and how it shaped my mindset during that recording.

    But that's not all – we've got some exciting news! I'm gearing up for an appearance at the Emerging Business Leaders Expo, where I'll be hosting a panel, giving away goodies, and even setting up a table. It's all part of our ongoing mission to give a voice to every story.

    And speaking of missions, this episode is proudly sponsored by Passion and Purpose Candles, a family-run candle company on a noble journey to support the Alzheimer's and Dementia foundation. Their story is rooted in personal experiences, and their candles light up not just rooms but lives.

    In "The Right Sauce," we tackle themes of overcoming adversity, finding your fire, and embracing faith in the face of uncertainty. We'll explore the courage to be yourself, the power of listening, and the significance of creating a space for growth and healing.

    Let's not forget the mustard seed of faith. We'll reflect on how even the tiniest bit of optimism can lead to monumental growth and change. The journey from that original recording to where I am now is a testament to not giving up, even when doubt creeps in. It's a reminder that delay is not denial, and divine timing is something to trust.

    We'll also discuss the strength it takes to walk away from comfort zones and the importance of being still, allowing time for healing and growth, no matter how daunting it may seem. Tune out the fear, ignore the background noise, and embrace your calling.

    Join me in this nostalgic yet forward-looking episode that's filled with wisdom, heart, and the spirit of personal growth. It's a reminder that we're all on a journey, and together, we can conquer life's challenges, one episode at a time.

    So, grab your headphones, get comfy, and let's press play on "The Right Sauce - Mustard Seed Edition." Your seat at this virtual roundtable is reserved!


    1 hr 10 min
  • Taking the Torch: Meet the Emerging Business Leaders

    In this inspiring episode of "Thinker vs. Speaker," we shine a spotlight on the "Emerging Business Leaders," a dynamic group of young black entrepreneurs dedicated to uplifting their community. Meet the driving forces behind this remarkable endeavor, including co-founders Trey Scott and Dominick Tice, President Johnelle Brown, Vice-President Dr. Precious Hardy, and Media Specialist Rashid Troupe.

    While the episode explores the stories of these incredible individuals, we also acknowledge the valuable contributions of Chris Perry (Web Designer) and Donald James (Photographer), integral members who share in the vision of the Emerging Business Leaders.

    This episode serves as a prelude to the eagerly anticipated "Emerging Business Leaders Expo," a groundbreaking event happening in St. Louis, MO, on November 4th from 11 AM to 4 PM. We delve into the personal journeys that led these leaders to form the group, emphasizing their commitment to creating new opportunities and addressing unmet needs in underserved communities.

    Discover how their businesses were born out of a desire to promote business development and community engagement. Explore their pop-out sessions dedicated to ending gun violence, an initiative born from a deep connection to their hometowns and a commitment to serve everyone, regardless of age, race, or financial status.

    Listen as they reflect on the community's reception of their efforts, sharing the humbling experience of bringing the community together and receiving divine guidance along the way. Through their work, these young black entrepreneurs aim to redefine perceptions and uphold professionalism in their field.

    Learn about the origins of the "Emerging Business Leaders Expo" and its mission to provide affordable resources and opportunities to aspiring entrepreneurs. Discover their vision for a meaningful event that connects businesses with industry experts and ensures wise investments for all involved.

    Join us in their excitement for the expo, where the focus is on empowering youth and future entrepreneurs, fostering relationships, and uplifting the entire community. This event is not limited to business owners; it's an opportunity to unite the St. Louis community, engage in a way that hasn't been seen in decades, and witness the collective hard work of these visionary leaders come to fruition.

    As the Emerging Business Leaders work diligently to grow their organization and expand their impact beyond St. Louis, this episode offers a glimpse into the incredible journey they're embarking on to uplift communities everywhere.

    1 hr 11 min
  • Grind Mode Re-Activated: Mastering the Hustler's Mentality Without Burning Out

    📅 Season 3 Opening Episode

    In the highly-anticipated return of "Thinker vs Speaker" podcast, Marissa The Thinker delves deep into the relentless "hustler's mentality." Join her as she questions the societal pressures that urge us to keep grinding towards our goals, and the profound effects it can have on our lives.


    🌟 Episode Highlights:


    • Having Nothing to Prove: Marissa shares her personal journey and how the need to prove herself fueled her hustle.

      • Self-Reflection for Internal Validation: Discover the importance of self-reflection to find internal validation and fulfillment.

        • Comparing Yourself to Peers: Marissa explores the pitfalls of constantly comparing oneself to peers and the impact on mental well-being.

          • Redefining Success: Challenge your perception of success and how it's defined.

            • Overcoming Pride and Ego: Uncover the ways pride and ego can dictate your actions and decisions, and how to break free from their grip.

              • Embracing Your Journey: Learn how to let go and allow results to happen in their own time, aligned with your personal growth.

                • The Essence of Thinker vs Speaker: Marissa reiterates her passion for the podcast, driven not by ego but by a genuine love for meaningful conversations and positive impact.

                  • Upcoming Expo in St. Louis: Discover the upcoming expo in St. Louis, Missouri, on November 4th. This event will feature resources for both new and existing entrepreneurs, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in business ventures. Marissa encourages everyone to explore emergingbusinessleaders.org for valuable resources and support.

                    • Stay Connected: Visit thinkervsspeaker.com to stay updated on all things Thinker vs. Speaker. The website serves as a hub for social media links, old episodes, new releases, and more.

                      • Get Involved: If you're interested in sponsoring the podcast or becoming a guest, you can easily reach out to Marissa through the website.

                        • Gratitude for the Audience: Marissa expresses heartfelt gratitude to her listeners, who have been a constant source of motivation and encouragement. Their unwavering support keeps her going and fuels her passion for creating impactful content.

                        • Join Marissa and her guests as they navigate the pros and cons of the hustler's mentality and contemplate the true meaning of success. It's a soul-searching, eye-opening conversation you won't want to miss.

                          49 min
                        • Taking a Break: Resetting, Recharging, and Working Smarter

                          Hey there, Thinker vs. Speaker community! Marissa here, and I've got some important news to share with you in this week's video recap. But before we dive in, I want to express my gratitude for all your support and engagement with the podcast.

                          In this episode, I'll be discussing my decision to take a break from actively posting new episodes for a little while. Yes, you heard that right! I've been going strong for two years, working tirelessly on Thinker vs. Speaker, and it's time for me to shift gears and focus on working smarter, not harder.

                          I'll be delving into the reasons behind this choice, including the need for personal growth, self-care, and how it aligns with the podcast's mission. This break is all about making Thinker vs. Speaker an even better experience for you, our loyal listeners.

                          So, don't worry! I'm not disappearing entirely. I'll still be recording new episodes and working behind the scenes to bring you quality content. Stay tuned, because I'll be sharing updates, insights, and more during this break.

                          Remember, taking care of oneself is essential, and I hope you understand and support my decision. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey with me. I'll be back soon, refreshed and ready to continue our conversations about life, growth, and everything in between.

                          27 min
                        • Igniting Dreams: Turning Passions Into Purpose One Candle at a Time

                          Welcome to another illuminating episode of Thinker vs Speaker! In this captivating conversation, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Marvin and Valerie, the passionate minds behind Passion and Purpose Candles and More. Get ready to embark on a journey of transformation as we delve deep into the art of turning passion into purpose and the inspiring stories that unfold along the way.

                          Our guests, Marvin and Valerie, open up about their remarkable journey of embracing new chapters and phases in life, and finding the confidence to step out of their comfort zones. Join us as we explore the significance of re-evaluating circumstances to foster positive change and growth. Discover how Val's personal journey led her to the enchanting world of candle making and the heartfelt inspiration that fuels her creativity.

                          But that's not all—Passion and Purpose Candles and More is on a mission that goes beyond crafting candles. Through their initiatives, they offer unwavering support to families impacted by Alzheimer’s and Dementia diagnoses. We shine a light on the often-overlooked struggles faced by these families and bravely dismantle the stigma that surrounds these challenges. Together, we're creating a safe haven where difficult conversations are embraced, and a sense of community emerges, providing solace and understanding.

                          As we navigate through this enriching dialogue, we also address the hurdles of building genuine support systems, particularly within the realm of entrepreneurship and black-owned businesses. Marvin and Valerie share their insights on fostering a nurturing community for black entrepreneurs to share resources, uplift one another, and collectively thrive. We explore the empowering journey of releasing control and leveraging individual talents to collaborate effectively, all while embracing our unique purposes and callings.

                          Join us for an episode brimming with inspiration, empowerment, and heartfelt conversations. Let's shine a light on the power of purpose and explore the many avenues of personal and communal growth. Tune in, engage, and embark on a journey towards positive transformation and self-improvement.

                          Thank you for being a part of the Thinker vs Speaker community!

                          1 hr 13 min
                        • Stepping Stones: The Big Announcement, Healthy Competition, and Finding Your Lane
                          Welcome to a monumental episode of Thinker vs Speaker, where Chris Perry, the visionary CEO of Perry Web Design, and I sit down to reveal an announcement that's been eagerly anticipated. Join us for an invigorating conversation that delves into Chris's journey from passion to success, while also uncovering the exciting keynote of our show.
                          In this episode, Chris shares his incredible story of becoming a website creator, emphasizing the importance of following one's heart and pursuing passions. We explore how building a robust network can foster both healthy competition and unwavering support among peers. Discover how embracing the strengths of others can lead to collective growth and empowerment.
                          But that's not all—the heart of this episode lies in the big announcement that's set to redefine the Thinker vs Speaker experience. As Chris and I discuss stepping stones of self-discovery and personal development, we'll also pull back the curtain on the major keynote that's poised to elevate our show to new heights.
                          "Stepping Stones" isn't just a conversation; it's a journey of inspiration, self-discovery, and the revelation of a game-changing announcement. Tune in on your preferred podcast platform and be a part of this transformative experience. Don't miss out—join us today and be ready to step onto a path of growth and empowerment!
                          1 hr 33 min

                        About Thinker vs. Speaker

                        From the publisher's feed

                        Welcome to 'Thinker vs. Speaker,' a podcast that serves as a journey through personal growth, relationships, spirituality, entrepreneurship, and society. Join Marissa the Thinker for authentic,…