In this episode of the Thorn City Spotlight Show, host Na’eem Hall sits down with Jermaine Thompson, owner of The Highest Xpectation a Portland-grown, Black-owned cannabis dispensary that’s changing the game. With three OLCC licenses covering retail, production, and processing, Jermaine shares what it means to be a vertically integrated operator and how he uses his business to uplift the community.

We dive into his 13-year journey in the industry, discuss equitable pricing, and learn how The Highest Xpectation is more than just a brand — it’s a mission to serve, inspire, and elevate.

📍 Located at 4931 NE 33rd Avenue (corner of 33rd & Alberta)

📲 Follow them on IG: @THX33rd

🌐 Visit: TheHighestXpectation.com

🎙️ Topics Covered:

• How Jermaine got started in cannabis
• The value of owning multiple OLCC licenses
• What vertical integration means in this space
• The power of giving back and staying community-first
• Summer deals, daily discounts & how to “Just say THX”

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🔗 Subscribe Now: https://www.youtube.com/@thorncityspotlight

📱 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thorncityspotlight

🎧 Listen to the Podcast: https://thorn-city-syndicate.captivate.fm/listen

🎥 Watch the Live Show: https://www.twitch.tv/thorncitypodcastguy

👀 Want to Be a Guest?

Apply here: https://www.thorncitysyndicate.com/guest-intake-form

💼 Business & Sponsorship Inquiries

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#JermaineThompson, #TheHighestXpectation, #PortlandDispensary, #BlackOwnedBusiness, #CannabisCommunity, #CannabisEntrepreneur, #VerticalIntegration, #TopShelfFlower, #OregonCannabis, #CannabisCulture, #EquityInCannabis, #THX33rd, #JustSayTHX, #ThornCitySpotlight, #NaeemHall, #PortlandBusiness, #SupportLocal, #SmallBusinessSpotlight, #CannabisPodcast, #PortlandPodcaster

Welcome to the first episode of What I Think with Seeznin — recorded LIVE from GMP Podcast Group Studios!

🌹 Hosted by Seeznin and the Thorn City Podcast Guy, we dive into real conversations about life, sports, and everything in between.

🎙️ In This Episode:

Marvin Sapp controversy: Is church becoming a hustle?

The real reason college athletes needed NIL money 💰

How the transfer portal is changing college sports

March Madness reactions + the rise of women’s basketball 🏀

Portland’s youth basketball scene 🔥

And why live podcasting is the future!

👀 WATCH every Thursday at 7 PM PST live on the Thorn City Spotlight YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch!

👉 Follow Sam Thompson

Instagram | @seeznin503

👉 Follow Naeem Hall

@thorncitypodcastguy | @thorncityspotlight

📍Recorded at GMP Studios | 2406 E Burnside St, Portland, OR

💬 Tell a friend to tell a friend. Join the convo — this is JUST the beginning!

#Podcast #PortlandPodcast #WhatIThink #Seeznin #ThornCitySpotlight #BasketballTalk #NIL #ChurchMoney #MarchMadness

🚀 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

👀 Want to Be a Guest?

Apply here: https://www.thorncitysyndicate.com/guest-intake-form

💼 Business & Sponsorship Inquiries

Connect with us: https://www.thorncitysyndicate.com

In this episode of the Thorn City Syndicate Spotlight Show, host Na’eem Hall sits down with Seeznin (Sam Thompson)—a well-respected community leader, mentor, and sports advocate who has dedicated his life to uplifting Portland’s youth through sports, mentorship, and service.

Seeznin shares his journey from being an athlete to becoming a pillar of leadership in the Portland community. He discusses how his experiences growing up, attending 13 different schools, and building relationships across diverse communities shaped his ability to connect, mentor, and give back.

As the founder of Next Level Sports Entertainment and the Director of the Base 55 Foundation, Seeznin is actively involved in empowering young athletes and underserved families. He also discusses his latest initiative, the Mike James Elite AAU team (@mikejameselite), and his new role in revitalizing the Portland Pro-Am Summer League.

Key Highlights:

✅ The power of sports as a tool for youth development and community-building

✅ The origin of Next Level Sports Entertainment and its impact on the Portland sports scene

✅ The Base 55 Foundation (@base55foundation), co-founded with Mike James (@mikejameselite), and its focus on youth engagement and service

✅ Revitalizing the Portland Pro-Am Summer League and its significance in professional basketball development

✅ The challenges young athletes face and the importance of mentorship and networking

✅ How event promotions led to a career in community activism

✅ Strategies for engaging youth in positive, community-driven activities

About Our Guest: Seeznin (Sam Thompson)

Seeznin is a community-driven entrepreneur and advocate for youth empowerment through sports. He is the founder of Next Level Sports Entertainment, the Director of the Base 55 Foundation, and the organizer of the Mike James Elite AAU team (@mikejameselite). His work has been instrumental in creating opportunities for young athletes, fostering leadership skills, and supporting underserved families in Portland.

📌 Connect with Seeznin & His Work:

🌐 Instagram: @seeznin

🌐 Twitter/X: @seeznin503

🌐 Mike James Elite: @mikejameselite

🌐 Base 55 Foundation: @base55foundation

🌐 Website: http://www.base55foundation.org

🚀 Call to Action: Get Involved!

🔥 Support the Base 55 Foundation! Help create opportunities for youth and families in need of extra love. Visit Base55.org or follow @base55foundation for updates on upcoming events.

🏀 Follow Mike James Elite AAU Team (@mikejameselite and give them some support as they compete on the Adidas circuit!

👀 Stay Tuned for Pro-Am Summer League 2025

Bringing back NBA-level competition, community engagement, and Portland vs. Seattle rivalries!

🎧 Subscribe & Stay Connected!

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the Thorn City Syndicate Spotlight Show and leave a review! Follow us for more inspiring interviews with community leaders, entrepreneurs, and game changers.

📲 Follow Thorn City Syndicate:

🔗 Instagram: [@thorncitysyndicate](https://www.instagram.com/thorncitysyndicate)

🔗 Twitter: [@thorncitypodcastguy](https://twitter.com/thorncitypodcastguy)

🔗 Facebook: [facebook.com/thorncitysyndicate]

🔗 LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/naeemhall]

🎙️🔥 Listen & Watch the Full Episode Now!

In this compelling episode of the Thorn City Syndicate Spotlight Show, host Na’eem Hall sits down with Patrick Shaw, the founder of We Are 4 Fathers, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to advocating for, healing, and motivating fathers. As a single divorced father, Patrick shares his personal journey, the inspiration behind his organization, and the crucial role of fatherhood, financial literacy, holistic healing, and community empowerment in shaping the lives of Black and Brown men.  

Patrick’s insights shed light on the challenges fathers face, including navigating co-parenting, breaking generational cycles, and building financial stability, while also discussing ways to engage men in positive, community-driven solutions.  

Key Highlights: 

✅ The origin story of We Are 4 Fathers and Patrick’s journey as a single father  

✅ The importance of fatherhood and its impact on children’s lives  

✅ How financial literacy empowers fathers to create generational wealth  

✅ The intersection of holistic healing, fatherhood, and mental well-being 

✅ Strategies to engage Black and Brown men in community-driven solutions  

✅ Ways to break negative cycles and redefine modern fatherhood  

✅ Insights on reducing violence, drugs, and systemic barriers 

About Our Guest:  

Patrick Shaw is a dedicated advocate for fathers' rights, financial literacy, and holistic healing. His nonprofit, We Are 4 Fathers, is committed to empowering fathers through mentorship, resources, and community support. He has been featured on the Dirty Rose podcast and is actively working to strengthen fatherhood representation in underserved communities.  

📌 Learn more about Patrick Shaw & We Are 4 Fathers:  

🌐 Website: [WeAre4Fathers.org] (https://weare4fathers.org)  

📧 Email: [email protected]  

📱 Instagram: [@iv_fathers] (https://www.instagram.com/iv_fathers)  

Call to Action: 

🚀 Join the Movement! Support We Are 4 Fathers and help uplift fathers in our communities. Visit [weare4fathers.org] (https://weare4fathers.org) to donate, volunteer, or connect.  

🎧 Subscribe & Share! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Thorn City Syndicate Spotlight Show and leave a review! Follow us for more inspiring interviews with community leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.  

📲 Follow Thorn City Syndicate:  

🔗 Instagram: [@thorncitysyndicate](https://www.instagram.com/thorncitysyndicate)  

🔗 Twitter: [@thorncitypodcastguy](https://twitter.com/thorncitypodcastguy)  

🔗 Facebook: [facebook.com/thorncitysyndicate](https://facebook.com/thorncitysyndicate)  

🔗 LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/naeemhall](https://linkedin.com/in/naeemhall)  

🔊 Listen & Watch the Full Episode Now! 🎙️🔥  

Welcome to the Thorn City Syndicate Spotlight Show! In this episode, we shine a light on Dapper Clothing Company, a boutique streetwear brand founded by Chris Ryan aka C-Smooth in 2019. Dapper Clothing is dedicated to creating high-end fashion that seamlessly blends classic styles with modern trends, catering to both men and women. Join us as Chris shares the personal journey that led him to create a brand that exudes sophistication and elegance through meticulously curated collections.

• Origins of Dapper Clothing: Chris Ryan discusses the founding of Dapper Clothing Company during a challenging period in his life and how he turned adversity into an opportunity to innovate fashion.
• Brand Philosophy and Craftsmanship: Insights into Dapper Clothing’s commitment to quality, with a focus on using only the finest fabrics and materials to create timeless pieces.
• Challenges and Triumphs: A deep dive into the obstacles Chris faced in the early stages of his business and how he overcame them to establish a reputable boutique streetwear brand.
• Strategic Partnerships: Explore how Chris’s partnership with Rivermark Community Credit Union has supported his brand’s growth and presence in the community.
• Future Vision: Chris shares his goals for expanding Dapper Clothing’s reach and impact, including potential collaborations and new collection launches.

• Chris Ryan aka C-Smooth, Dapper Clothing Company
• Website: Dapper Clothing Company
• Instagram: @dappercc

Special thanks to Rivermark Community Credit Union for their continued support in making episodes like this possible. We also appreciate the team at the Rivermark Hollywood branch for their collaboration and support of local entrepreneurs like Chris Ryan.

Enhance your brand’s impact with our expert management and promotional services. Schedule your free strategy session at Thorn City Syndicate Management.

For more inspiring stories and updates, follow us at Fanlist and subscribe to our newsletter at www.thorncitysyndicate.com.

Don’t miss out! Follow, subscribe, and engage with us for a journey filled with inspiration and knowledge sharing.

Thanks to GMP Podcast Group for their support. Discover how GMP can amplify your podcasting efforts at GMP Podcast Group.

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with John Schrag, a seasoned journalist who has made significant strides in Oregon’s media landscape. From his early beginnings at the Chicago Reporter to his current role with the Oregon News Exploration Project, John shares his journey and insights on the evolving world of journalism. We dive into the mission of the Oregon News Exploration Project, discuss the importance of diversity in newsrooms, and explore how modern media formats like podcasts are shaping the future of news reporting.

Episode Highlights:

• John Schrag's Journalism Journey: Discover how John transitioned from his early days at the Chicago Reporter to leading groundbreaking initiatives in Oregon’s media industry.
• Oregon News Exploration Project: Gain insight into this project's mission to enhance local journalism and bridge the gaps in news coverage across Oregon, ensuring no story goes untold.
• Diversity in Newsrooms: Explore the crucial role that diversity within journalism staff plays in building community trust and improving the quality of news reporting.
• Engaging Local Communities: Learn effective strategies for community engagement and the importance of producing impactful local news that truly resonates with residents.
• Adapting to Modern Media: Examine how podcasts and other modern media formats are being utilized to address the specific news needs of various communities.

Guest Connection Information:

Please stay connected with John Schrag and his ongoing work by visiting the Oregon News Exploration Project’s website at www.oregonexploration.news and follow their social media channels for updates and more information.

Call to Action:

• Elevate Your Brand with Thorn City Syndicate Management: Enhance your brand’s impact with our expert management and promotional services. Schedule your free strategy session at Thorn City Syndicate Management.
• Engage with the Thorn City Podcast Guy: For more inspiring stories and updates, follow us at https://fanlist.com/thorncitypodcastguy and subscribe to our newsletter at www.thorncitysyndicate.com.

Follow and Subscribe:

Don’t miss out on our future episodes! Follow, subscribe, and engage with us to continue your journey filled with inspiration and knowledge sharing.

Powered by GMP Podcast Group:

Thanks to the GMP Podcast Group for their support in making this episode possible. Discover how GMP can amplify your podcasting efforts at GMP Podcast Group.

In this powerful episode of the Thorn City Syndicate Spotlight Show, host Na'eem Hall sits down with Nikole Brewster Bishop, the founder of Elevate Him. Nikole shares her deeply personal and inspiring journey that led her to establish an organization dedicated to empowering men and providing them with the resources they need to overcome life's challenges. From the tragic loss of her brother to her own battles with health and adversity, Nikole opens up about the resilience that fuels her mission and the impact Elevate Him has on the community.

Episode Highlights:

• Nikole's motivation for founding Elevate Him following the suicide of her brother.
• The organization's mission is to provide professional clothing and resources to men for economic stability and personal growth.
• Nikole's challenges in 2023, include a severe car accident, a brain aneurysm, skin cancer, and more.
• The ongoing impact and future goals of Elevate Him, including plans for expansion and a men's conference.
• The importance of mental health advocacy and support systems for men.

Guest Connection Information:

Stay connected with Nikole Brewster Bishop and her impactful work by visiting the Elevate Him website at http://www.elevatehimnow.org.

Follow their social media channels on Instagram at @elevate.him and on Facebook at Elevate Him for updates and more information.

Call to Action:

Elevate Your Brand with Thorn City Syndicate Management: Enhance your brand’s impact with our expert management and promotional services. Schedule your free strategy session at Thorn City Syndicate Management.

Engage with the Thorn City Podcast Guy: For more inspiring stories and updates, follow us at https://fanlist.com/thorncitypodcastguy.

Follow and Subscribe:

Don’t miss out on our future episodes! Follow, subscribe, and engage with us to continue your journey filled with inspiration and knowledge sharing. http://www.thorncitysyndicate.com

Powered by GMP Podcast Group:

Thanks to the GMP Podcast Group for their support in making this episode possible. Discover how GMP can amplify your podcasting efforts at GMP Podcast Group. http://www.gmppodcastgroup.com

In this, episode of the Thorn City Syndicate Spotlight Show, Doris Woods explores her remarkable journey from Detroit to Portland. Discover how Doris turned her passion for balloon artistry and real estate into thriving ventures while focusing on community service and personal growth.

Key Highlights:

-Background and Move to Portland: Doris opens up about her transition from Detroit to Portland, the cultural shifts, and her initial challenges and triumphs in finding her community.

-Founding of Small and Mighty Events: Learn about the humble beginnings of her business in balloon artistry and event decor, evolving from simple rentals to full-scale designs.

-Adaptation and Growth During COVID-19**: Doris discusses how the pandemic reshaped her business model towards intimate, home-based celebrations, helping her business survive and thrive.

-Community Engagement and Future Goals**: From contributing to the Portland Pride Festival to her plans for venturing deeper into real estate and mentoring young entrepreneurs, Doris shares her ongoing commitments and dreams.

-Work Philosophy and Community Impact**: Highlighting the joy and connections her work fosters, Doris reflects on the importance of community and creativity in business.

Small & Mighty Event Rentals Plus

Small & Mighty Event Rentals Plus, owned by wife and wife Alisshia and Doris Woods, is a Black women-owned and operated, LGBTQIA2S+ friendly event decor and rental company that caters to all events from small to mighty. Launched in early 2020, the company initially focused on renting tables and chairs for small events. However, as the COVID-19 pandemic shifted events to more intimate venues like homes and backyards, the demand for personalized, “Made with Love” experiences increased.

Emerging from quarantine in 2023, Alisshia and Doris, originally from Detroit, decided to specialize in custom balloon setups and throne chair rentals. Doris enhanced her skills through online courses and in-person classes, while Alisshia’s background as an Engineer and risk assessment expert ensures the structural integrity of each balloon project.

By June 2022, Small & Mighty was in high demand, providing custom balloons for major events such as Portland’s Pride Parade and working with organizations like Nike Moms, the Urban League of Portland, and the Portland Trailblazers. Today, Alisshia and Doris are dedicated to building their brand, giving back to the community, and participating in local organizations including The Washington County Chamber of Commerce and the Black Business Association of Oregon.

Connect with Doris Woods and Elevate Your Next Event:

Ready to make your next event unforgettable? Visit https://smallandmightyERP) for balloon designs.

Instagram @smallandmightyERP

Elevate Your Brand with Thorn City Syndicate Management:

Enhance your brand’s impact with our management and promotional services. Schedule your free strategy session at Thorn City Syndicate Management

Engage with the Thorn City Podcast Guy:

For more inspiring stories and updates, follow us on our Fanlist Fan Page https://fanlist.com/thorncitypodcastguy

Don’t miss out! Follow, subscribe, and engage with us for a journey filled with inspiration and knowledge sharing.

Powered by GMP Podcast Group:

Thanks to the GMP Podcast Group for their support. Discover how GMP can amplify your podcasting efforts at GMP Podcast Group

Episode Description:

Welcome to the Thorn City Syndicate Spotlight Show! In this episode, your host, the Thorn City Podcast Guy, sits down with Sai Stone, a visionary artist and cultural advocate. Sai Stone takes us on a journey through his creative process, his dedication to preserving cultural heritage, and his impactful street photography during the George Floyd protests.

Key Highlights:

• Sai Stone's Artistic Journey: Explore Sai Stone's path from video production to street photography and how his upbringing in Portland shaped his artistic vision.
• Street Photography During Protests: Delve into Sai Stone's experiences capturing raw and authentic moments during the George Floyd protests. Learn about the challenges he faced and the ethical considerations involved in documenting such emotionally charged events.
• The Role of 503 TV: Discover how Sai Stone uses 503 TV as a platform for community engagement, supporting local artists, and showcasing the diverse cultural landscape of Portland.
• Creative Process and Inspirations: Gain insights into Sai Stone's creative process, his inspirations, and the themes that resonate most with him, including candid photography and capturing life as it unfolds.
• Community and Cultural Advocacy: Learn about Sai Stone's commitment to preserving cultural heritage and his efforts to build community connections through art and storytelling.

Guest Connection Information:

Connect with Sai Stone through his official website and follow him on social media to stay updated with his latest projects and exhibitions.

• Website: 503 TV
• Social Media: @503TVSai on Instagram

Calls to Action:

• Engagement: Visit the podcast website for more detailed information on Sai Stone’s work and other episodes.
• Elevate Your Brand with Thorn City Syndicate Management: Enhance your brand’s impact with our expert management and promotional services. Schedule your free strategy session at Thorn City Syndicate Management.
• Engage with the Thorn City Podcast Guy: For more inspiring stories and updates, follow us at Fanlist - Thorn City Podcast Guy and subscribe to our newsletter at Thorn City Syndicate.
• Follow and Subscribe: Don’t miss out! Follow, subscribe, and engage with us for a journey filled with inspiration and knowledge sharing.

Powered by GMP Podcast Group:

Thanks to the GMP Podcast Group for their support. Discover how GMP can amplify your podcasting efforts at GMP Podcast Group.

Introduction to Sonya Judd and Biz Whiz Kids:

Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Thorn City Syndicate Spotlight Show. In this episode, we shine a light on Sonya Judd, a financial strategist and the founder of Biz Whiz Kids, an organization dedicated to helping students graduate college debt-free.

Episode Highlights:

Sonya Judd's Background and Impact: Sonya shares her extensive experience with major corporations and her journey in founding Biz Whiz Kids. Her insights reveal how she leverages her corporate background to empower the next generation with financial knowledge.

Empowering Youth with Financial Knowledge: Sonya discusses the importance of early financial education and its long-term benefits. She emphasizes how equipping young people with financial literacy can transform their futures and help them avoid debt.

Exploring Investment Opportunities: A detailed conversation on the potentials of real estate and hotel investments. Sonya provides strategies to navigate common challenges and highlights how these investment opportunities can build wealth.

Addressing Racial Disparities in Financial Sectors: Sonya addresses systemic issues limiting financial opportunities for Black individuals. She discusses ways to combat these disparities and offers practical solutions to help Black communities achieve financial success.

Combatting Self-Sabotage: Sonya identifies self-sabotaging behaviors that affect financial success and provides solutions to overcome these obstacles. Her advice aims to help individuals develop a mindset geared towards financial stability and growth.

Closing Thoughts:

Today's discussion with Sonya Judd underscores the importance of financial education, especially for young people. It also highlights the ongoing challenges and potential solutions for achieving financial equity. Sonya's expertise and commitment to financial literacy provide invaluable insights for anyone looking to improve their financial health.

Guest Connection Information:

Connect with Sonya Judd through her social media platforms and the official Biz Whiz Kids website for more insights and resources on financial literacy.

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonyarjudd/

X - https://x.com/sjsexeccoach

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sjscoach

Website - https://www.sjsexecutivecoaching.com

Elevate Your Brand with Thorn City Syndicate Management:

Enhance your brand’s impact with our expert management and promotional services. Schedule your free strategy session at

Thorn City Syndicate Management https://www.thorncitysyndicate.com

Engage with the Thorn City Podcast Guy:

For more inspiring stories and updates, follow us at Fanlist https://fanlist.com/thorncitypodcastguy and subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.thorncitysyndicate.com

Follow and Subscribe:

Don’t miss out! Follow, subscribe, and engage with us for a journey filled with inspiration and knowledge sharing.

Instagram

http://www.instagram.com/thorncitypodcastguy

http://www.instagram.com/thorncitysyndicate

http://www.instagram.com/gmppodcastgroup

Powered by GMP Podcast Group:

Thanks to GMP Podcast Group for their support. Discover how GMP can amplify your podcasting efforts at GMP Podcast Group https://www.gmppodcastgroup.com.