Verbally Effective

In this episode of The Ena Esco Show, Ena Esco sits down with comedian, entertainer, and recent LeMoyne-Owen College ASAP graduate Demario “Poundcake” Hollowell for a candid conversation about his journey as a nontraditional student, finding his voice as a comedian, and his ambitions to take his talents all the way to Hollywood.

Poundcake opens up about balancing education, life, and entertainment while navigating the ASAP program at LOC. He also shares his perspective on the Memphis comedy scene, building an audience online, the realities of creating content in today's digital landscape, and his plans for the next chapter of his career.

The conversation also dives into the cultural conversation surrounding Yung Miami's new song “Spend Dat,” including the debate over scammer culture, the glorification of the lifestyle, and the tragic Nolan Well controversy that has sparked broader conversations about social media, influence, accountability, and the culture surrounding online fame.

From the classroom to the comedy stage, from Memphis to Hollywood, this episode is a real conversation about ambition, entertainment, culture, and the courage to pursue your next level.

In this episode of Verbally Effective, host Ena Esco sits down with Dr. Seth E. Davis, Assistant Professor of English & Communications at LeMoyne-Owen College and host of the Black College Matters podcast, for a thought-provoking conversation on higher education, media, culture, and today's biggest headlines.Dr. Davis shares insights into teaching the next generation of communicators, the growing role of artificial intelligence in higher education, and how educators are preparing students for an ever-evolving media landscape. He also reflects on his doctoral journey and weighs in on the public discourse surrounding Dr. Cheyenne Bryant and the conversations around academic credentials and credibility.

The discussion also explores:

🎙️ Queen Latifah's candid conversation with Angie Martinez and the public's continued fascination with celebrity privacy.

🎙️ Gayle King's revelation on Call Her Daddy about overcoming personal betrayal and finding resilience.

🎙️ Naomi Osaka's private dinner honoring Black tennis players during the French Open and what it says about representation, community, and inclusion in sports.

🎙️ The power of media narratives, identity, and the evolving conversations shaping Black culture.If you're passionate about media, education, culture, and meaningful dialogue, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

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On this episode of the Verbally Effective Podcast: Magic 807 Sessions, host Ena Esco welcomes Jerry Redmond, Chief of Alumni Affairs and Relations at LeMoyne-Owen College, for a timely conversation about the vital role alumni play in sustaining and advancing HBCUs.

Jerry shares his vision for strengthening alumni engagement, cultivating a culture of giving, and creating meaningful opportunities for graduates to invest in the next generation of students. From financial support and mentorship to advocacy and community involvement, this discussion explores why alumni participation is essential to the future of historically Black colleges and universities.

The conversation also examines the NAACP's call for Black student-athletes to reconsider commitments to SEC institutions amid concerns surrounding voting rights in the South. Ena and Jerry discuss the intersection of athletics, education, civic engagement, and the broader responsibilities of colleges, alumni, and community leaders during pivotal moments in history.

Whether you're an HBCU graduate, student, educator, or supporter, this episode offers valuable insight into preserving the legacy of Black higher education while empowering future generations.

In this powerful episode of Verbally Effective, Ena Esco sits down with Memphis Mayor Paul Young inside Cossitt Library for an honest and forward-thinking conversation about leadership, perception, and the future of the city.

Mayor Young addresses some of the biggest misconceptions about him and breaks down what it truly means to serve as a government official in today’s climate. From navigating the city’s budget to responding to the recent “No Kings” protest in Memphis, he offers transparency and insight into the decisions shaping the city.

The conversation also explores the growing role of AI and big tech in Memphis and the Mid-South, along with the importance of youth programming and workforce development in building sustainable opportunities for the next generation. Looking ahead, Mayor Young shares his thoughts on future ambitions, including another mayoral run, and paints a vision for what Memphis can become. Most importantly, he challenges Memphians to take pride in who they are and push back against negative narratives surrounding the city.

This is more than a conversation. It’s a call to reimagine Memphis through leadership, innovation, and community pride.

In this powerful episode of Verbally Effective, American writer, professor, editor, and social commentator Roxane Gay joins Ena Esco for an intimate conversation that spans identity, intellect, and influence. Roxane reflects on her upbringing in Omaha, Nebraska as the daughter of Haitian immigrants, and how those roots shaped her voice as a writer and cultural critic. We dive into the evolution of feminism, her current role as a professor at Rutgers University, and why she believes HBCUs are more vital than ever. Roxane also shares bold thoughts on artificial intelligence—and why she’s not impressed—plus details on her exciting new romance novel project with none other than Channing Tatum.

In this Financial Literacy Month edition of the Verbally Effective Podcast, we’re diving deep into smart money moves, digital banking trends, and everyday financial empowerment. Ena Esco is joined by Brody Wamble of Simmons Bank and Karen Madlock of the Greater Memphis Financial Empowerment Center for a powerful conversation on FINTECH, budgeting, credit, and how to build wealth in a digital world. Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or ready to level up, this episode is packed with insight and practical advice you can bank on.

In this special episode, I'm sitting down with the visionary behind PLATFORMS by Christy B: The Hair & Fashion Experience—none other than Christy B herself. We're diving into why this is a must-attend event for creatives, trendsetters, and beauty industry professionals. Christy shares her inspiration behind the show, how she’s building platforms for stylists and fashionistas to shine, and what attendees can expect from this elevated and diverse showcase of talent. From bold cuts to runway-ready looks, this experience is all about celebrating the culture, highlighting innovation, and building brands in the beauty, barber, and fashion world. Tap in as we talk style, substance, and the powerful movement Christy B is creating through PLATFORMS.

Join me as I sit down for a live podcast inside of Cossitt Library with Dr. Russell Wigginton, President of the National Civil Rights Museum, to explore his inspiring journey and leadership. In this episode, Dr. Wigginton shares insights into the museum's plans for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, current and upcoming exhibitions, and the parallels between the modern civil rights era and the legacy of Dr. King. Discover how the museum continues to educate, inspire, and empower future generations in the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

Keyanna Sawyer-Jones is a leading strategist in beauty and wellness brand development, with nearly two decades of experience driving growth for multicultural brands. As the founder and CEO of Bleum Creative, Keyanna has established a premier brand strategy agency dedicated to helping BIPOC beauty, lifestyle, and wellness brands create lasting legacies and achieve meaningful market impact.

Take a listen as Ena and Keyanna discuss her early career as a model and actress, finding Bleum Creative, collaborating with iconic brands and her philanthropic efforts.

On this episode of the Verbally Effective Podcast, we’re joined by political commentator Theryn C. Bond to unpack the heated Memphis-Shelby County School Board meeting and its controversial attempt to oust Superintendent Dr. Marie Feagins. Theryn provides sharp analysis and context surrounding the drama, highlighting the potential implications for Memphis’ education system.

We also shift gears to celebrate Memphis rap sensation Glorilla’s homecoming to her alma mater, Melrose High School, where she made a heartfelt impact by donating $25,000. Tune in as we discuss the significance of her generosity and how it reflects the power of giving back to the community.

Join us for an engaging conversation that blends politics, culture, and the spirit of Memphis. Now streaming on all podcast platforms!