Source & Co.: Recent Episodes
Source
Everybody has a story.
Source & Co. is a platform where the host, Source, sits down with people who are somehow connected to RVA aka Richmond, VA.
Of course, there is always room for a great story from wherever...or a topic that should be addressed...but there are so many great stories that the 804 angle still reaches people from all walks of life around the country.
Take a listen.
-Source
It’s been a minute.
Couldn’t let this opportunity slip by me.
Ep 75 features a multi-lane dope individual who just so happens to be 1/2 of the hosting duo from the world’s dopest hip hop podcast…Drink Champs.
He, alongside his partner NORE, gives flowers to the most deserving of the hip hop elite on a regular basis.
Great stories, great memories, great drinks, and great times are had by most guests (haha).
Anyway, Source & Co. welcomes to the show;
DJ EFN.
🤘🏽
No need for a long intro here. Let’s just do it like this:
Battle Tested Emcee. Dope Artist. Ghostwriter. Rap Up Guy. Freestyle Fanatic. Skilled DJ. Hilarious Storyteller. Podcast Host. Drink Champs Alum. College Professor. Father. 804 Legend.
I don’t think everyone grasps the magnitude of this man’s journey through the field of music, but y’all gone learn today.
Episode 73’s company;
Skillz
And another one.
If you have a young athlete in the 804, you may recognize this ep's company.
He is a sports medicine physician, orthopedic surgeon, and he provides coverage for several youth sports associations while doing the same for other companies...including The Richmond Ballet.
Although he hasn't been in the Richmond area too long, he is already making his name and brand of practicing medicine known by "leveling the playing field" for his patients.
Only two short seasons ago, he was part of the Brooklyn Nets' medical staff. And now he is here in the Cap City doing his thing via OrthoVirginia.
Also known as Dr. O, please welcome to the podcast:
Dr. Kwadwo Owusu-Akyaw, MD.
Bruh. I know some of y’all be like “How do you have all these dope cousins?”
Fair question. And the wildest part is that I didn’t grow up with any cousins nearby. None.
And that is part of the reason I love social media so much; because I have been able to build relationships with so many of them. 💯
But anyway…this ep’s company is…my cousin.
He is also the dopest DJ in Charlotte, the host of the Without No DJ Podcast; he has done production work with Anthony Hamilton, SAS, and others…
AND he is one of those creatives that you’ve seen making the content showing an original record from years past and a more recent banger it was used for.
Edits are 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.
We hear about his journey with music, fatherhood, mental health, and more.
South Boston, Halifax, Charlotte County, Drake’s Branch, Saxe…
Mosley Clan, stand up!
Show some love for B-Man.
-Source
If you are a music producer, like to vibe to dope instrumentals, and/or enjoy the positive vibes of a community of good people supporting each other, I’ve got something for you.
This episode’s company is a producer from the 804.
He is the younger brother of hip hop artist Michael Millions; and he is also the host of The Producer Lounge Show on Instagram Live every Thursday at 7pm EST.
@the_producer_lounge
He brings beat makers on and they play a few beats they’ve been working on.
The room is filled with other producers, some artists, and also music junkies like me.
Also, 3 other Producer Lounge family members joined the conversation, including a 15 year old phenom, a production veteran, and one of my high school basketball homies.
Love is love, and music is love. So show some love and welcome to the show…
NameBrand
…along with SoularMuzik, JT, and Soultronik of The Producer Lounge Crew.
@namebrand_music @soularmuzik @beatsby_jt @iamsoultronik
-Source
The 757 is quietly trying to take over my show. For the third straight episode, my company has some direct Seven Cities roots.
It’s like Herm Squad all over again. 🤦🏽♂️
Anyway…this gentleman has made waves in RVA since his days as a college student.
From rapping on stages himself to creating the largest Christian Hip Hop concert series in Virginia to serving as Youth Pastor at Hill City Church, his impact is tangible.
We discussed how he ended up staying in the 804 after school, the decision to become a Pastor, playing a part in the 2020 uprisings out at Marcus-David Peters Circle, his thoughts on hip hop as a whole, mentoring the youth, and much more.
Good people, please show some love to episode 65’s company;
Corey Goss. @iamcgoss
Whenever I feel like I have a reason to complain or feel sorry for myself in certain situations, I can think of a few individuals who live amazing lives, despite things that would break other people.
Today’s company is one of those people.
Living a full life with cystic fibrosis seems like enough of an obstacle.
But let’s add to that.
This man is a TWO TIME lung transplant recipient, and he is still outchea running races, speaking publicly (well, prior to COVID), winning awards, and now he is about to start a podcast with a couple of friends.
We talked life, health, organ donation, the Chicago Bears, and finding love after never expecting to get married (he explains why).
And his story is legitimately the reason I added myself to the organ donor list some years ago.
Introducing…Christopher Nalley.
-Source
When one thinks of the 804, there are a few names that come to mind.
But there is one name, regardless of topic, that can be brought up in almost any 804 conversation.
Wanna find something to do in the city? ✔️ Looking for those weekend lottery numbers? ✔️ Need a spot to chill downtown? ✔️ Trying to figure out who that woman is hyping up the Art of Noise crowd? ✔️ Heard of the Jackson Ward Collective? ✔️ Waiting for the next Richmond Black Restaurant Experience event? ✔️
And the list goes on and on.
We talked about: -how she made her way from the 757 to the 804
-her connection to UVA and VCU
-being a social entrepreneur
-her top 5 musical artists
-…and much more.
Welcome to the stage, today’s company…
Ms. Dope and Different herself,
Kelli Lemon @likethefruit
-Source
First off…this is my first blood relative to hit the platform with me.
There are more to come. Trust me.
But this episode’s company is an emcee by trade, a man of God by choice, a husband and father, a mentor and friend, and a hip hop artist.
Whether trading bars with Lecrae, marching through the ATL streets with Killer Mike, kicking with some of hip hop’s elite (Westside Gunn huh? 🤔), or having had the privilege of chatting it up with the late and great civil rights activist, John Lewis, young cuz has been in the mix for a minute.
With 3 albums that debuted on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums list, they know him in these SKREETS.
The NY born, Philly raised, current ATLien…
-Swift
In case you don't know, the American Flag Football League is making a name for itself.
Yes. Flag Football is huge across this country, and the AFFL's 7-on-7 style...and their connection to NFL Network previously and now CBS Sports, is making a big splash.
Right now there is a tournament being played for $200,000.
200K.
And a few 804 and 540 guys are still chasing that bag. After winning 2 games in Indianapolis, they've made it to the Elite 8 and will be playing in Houston, TX on August 14th and 15th.
Introducing Chris Boone, Kashif Charity, Rece Thorne, and Joe Sanders from Showtime.
-Source
What do you get when you combine a love for being a nurse, a passion for filmmaking, and a pandemic that changes the world?
Episode 60’s company.
She is a nurse with 30+ years of experience, and she is the founder of Klosa Productions.
Her latest project, 2020 Year of the Nurse, will debut at the 2021 BronzeLens Film Festival in Atlanta in a few weeks.
The trailer is 🔥🔥🔥🔥.
We talked about COVID-19 and its effect on the nursing industry, how she made her way from Florida to the 804, her latest project, and more…including an unauthorized mention of my least favorite NBA in-game analyst. 😆😆😆
Please follow the Klosa Productions and 2020 Year of the Nurse accounts on FB and IG, and show some love to my latest company;
Robyn Jones
-Source
There are rare occurrences when we meet a person who is unlike any other person we’ve ever met.
Of course, we are all individuals. We are all different, no two of us are the same; but in most cases, we can say “___ reminds me of ____” about a person.
This week’s company stands out in a crowd.
He is an open book and a wealth of verbal gems.
He is an MC, DJ, radio personality, public speaker…and he doesn’t mind sharing his personal experiences of dealing with homelessness, addiction, depression, health scares, and more.
Just listen for yourselves.
Episode 59 is here. Meet Mr. WOFTD himself…
BlackLiq
-Source
In the world of media (print, social, television, etc.), there are three words that describe the current landscape:
Content is King.
This episode's company has created content over the years via television as a freelance reporter, on the production side with collegiate and professional sports teams, and now by capturing moments up close via video and photography.
She is pretty much a one-stop shop for media from beginning to end.
Her travels have landed her in the City of Angels; and she shared her journey, from the RIC to LAX and everywhere in between, with me recently…including an opportunity to shoot at the world famous Drew League.
Yet another Herm Squad representer, today's company...
Caitlin Crumpton.
-Source
For those who still don’t know, the 804 is full of young athletes who have worked their way to the professional level of their particular sport.
NFL, NBA, MLB, WNBA…you name it, we have some homegrown talent there.
This episode’s company is one of them.
And the full circle part of this for me is:
-his pops and I were high school teammates on the basketball court.
Whattup AE!?!?!?!?
This young NFL baller and I discussed family, career highlights (and lowlights), covid, racial uprisings of 2020, his present and future in The League, and more.
And he gave us the real on how his NFL Draft experience went.
Big respect.
Episode 57’s company…from the Detroit Lions;
Jalen Elliott.
-Source
When people speak of HBCU culture l in the state of North Carolina, most will probably say NC A&T first for whatever reason. And big respect to A&T.
But let me tell y’all this.
If you don’t know North Carolina Central University, you gone learn today.
blackexcellence
Today’s company earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s from NCCU.
Not only is he the executive director for the state of North Carolina’s office of minority health and health disparities group, he is also the producer of “Lumdi” from Camp Lo.
Additionally, his love of music mixed with his efforts in the medical world allowed him to create a style of keynote speaking that garnered him a TED Talk.
Oh and did I mention he went to college with Little Brother, created and hosted campus beat battles with 9th Wonder, and helped develop NC hip hop summits with Play (Kid ‘n Play)?
I told y’all. Black Excellence.
So many stories, so little time.
But the one about yours truly indirectly being the blame for a local diss record aimed at today’s company was shared with me for the first time. 🤷🏽♂️
Show some love to my guy, the “almost famous” one...
Cornell Wright, MPA.
-Source
Cheer.
The world of cheerleading has changed and grown exponentially over the years.
And while the original version is still big, the competition cheer world has taken the sport to another level.
Trust me, having a wife who cheered in college and has coached for years and having two daughters who cheered at multiple levels (one until just last week), I have seen it all up close.
The highs, the lows, the wins, the losses, the injuries...all of it. This sport is not for the faint of heart.
More recently, an even newer version of cheer has been created, and its future looks bright.
Acro Tumbling is an extreme combination of cheer and gymnastics; and it has become a sport at the collegiate level.
This episode’s company is a former cheer and acro tumble athlete, a former college coach, and she is now the Director of Operations for Baylor University’s Acrobatics and Tumbling program...and she is under the age of 30.
Oh. Did I mention that the Baylor A&T team has won the NCATA National Championship 6x straight, including last month?
Yep.
It’s a brave new world of athletics, and she is a piece of the initial wave and bringing awareness to it all.
Please welcome Treasure Fields to Source & Co.
-Source
This is a special episode here.
With all of the death and uncertainty surrounding the hip hop community these days (R.I.P. Jo Doja, DMX, Black Rob, Shock G), I want to be even more intentional in how I use my platform.
So right now, WE CELEBRATE OURSELVES !
My former producer/hip hop group partner, Dox-1, and I recently got together for something completely different.
15 years ago we dropped “Child’s Play”...our one and only album.
And on this episode, we listened to the album, talked about the creation of it, and answered questions from people who were either involved with the project or were in close proximity to us back in 2006.
We had a great time doing this.
Things got a little emotional a few times...but doing this review turned out to be a great experience.
Our Grown Folks album, Child’s Play, is available on Apple Music, Spotify, and other streaming platforms as well.
Big thanks to Dox for joining me to do this.
Much love to all involved in the creation of this 2006 dopeness and all other music we released.
Enjoy.
-Source
Imagine growing up with a local legend as a father.
Now imagine ending up in the same field as said legend.
Well, even with all of that, episode 53’s company has made his own name in the basketball world; particularly in the 804.
High school star, collegiate standout, reached the professional level...and then brought it all the way full circle by coaching alongside his father, and becoming a successful coach of his high school alma mater’s girls’ team while dad was still coaching the boys.
That’s a beautiful thing.
He is currently an assistant coach at Richard Bland College, and he is a hoops skills trainer/coach/advocate and mentor to many of the area’s brightest talents.
Say hello to basketball lifer and 804 hero; Southside’s own...
Bo Jones Jr. Instagram - @boknows4
-Source
HEY!!!!
It’s the one year anniversary of Source & Co.
Make some noise!!!!!!! 🎇🔥🙌🏽💰💯💥
Thanks to all who have watched, listened, sat down with me, edited, commented, shared, liked, etc.
I love y’all.
I figured this guy would be a good bit of company for this one.
He and I were a rap group (He was the Producer and I was the MC) called Grown Folks.
We did songs, shows, projects, had a song on a tv show, made a theme song for an arena league football team...but more on that stuff another time.
This man is a dope producer who has done some high wuality work, he is co-founder of Da Spot Recording Studio, and he is currently a web designer at VCU.
It felt odd having this conversation for some reason...but shoot, wait until next time. It’s gonna get REALLY WEIRD.
But today, let’s learn a little more about the world according to Dox-1.
Ladies and Gents, Todd Easter.
-Source
I was all set to take a short break after hitting the 50 episode mark. Wanted to give people a chance to discover the show and appreciate the tremendous list of RVA connected individuals who’ve shared their stories with us already. It has been a fun ride thus far. But...there are many more stories to tell, so we will have to keep moving forward. Ep 51’s company is going hard in the paint right now. He is working on the creation of a Virginia license plate that pays homage to The Richmond Planet, a newspaper that was founded by thirteen freed slaves in 1882. He is also in the fight to have a particular monument removed from the streets of his hometown, Tappahannock. And remember the march that took place in Tapp last year? And the “Black is Beautiful” billboard? Yep. We talked about his efforts to make change in the 804 and much more. Plus he is a Lakers and Eagles fan like me, so this conversation had to happen. 💪🏽 Show some love to my latest company, Reggie Carter. -Source
Curtisssss!!!!!! (IYKYK)
Episode 50’s company is a legendary lyricist whose bars led to the creation of “The Lyricist Lounge Show” on MTV; and he starred in the groundbreaking hip hop comedy sketch show as well.
This man is ridiculous with the freestyles as well as the pen.
You’ve heard him on his solo projects, his work as part of eMC, the Lyricist Lounge compilations, guest verses all over the place (including ATCQ’s “The Love Movement” album), and more.
He is now an author and is currently sharing his experiences in television and music with the youth.
He saw a need in his community and stepped into action as a middle school teacher.
Wow.
Please show some love to a man who is so ahead of his time that when he talks, there’s a seven second delay.
The bar game heavy...
Wordsworth.
-Source
Dope people often move in silence.
Not everybody gets the fanfare some associate with doing good in the world.
And some don’t need it or even want it.
They just continue to sow into their community out of genuine love and that spirit being within them.
To me, this ep’s company exudes that.
When he is not grinding at the old 9 to 5 thing, he is in the mix doing something involving the people.
Whether it’s spinning music as LaDel the DJ, dropping bars as Defakto, or knocking down 3s in your favorite local hoops league as LaDel Curry, my guy loves the people; and he enjoys creating events where that love can benefit others.
Over the past few years he created a series of throwback hoops games between rival high schools, launched a shoe drive, sponsored little league basketball teams...
And none of this was done based on celebrity or anything like that; just a good dude trying to do his part to make the world a better place.
We should all be so inspired.
Introducing...LaDel McNair.
-Source
It’s not easy to transform a passion into a business.
If it was easy, most of us would do it.
Who doesn’t want to make a living doing something they love?
Most of us straddle the fence for whatever reason; desperation, stability, fear, etc.
So when we see folks make the unconventional, conscious decision to leap and live on their own terms, we should appreciate it.
Today’s company left her years working for a big corporation behind in order to pursue her dreams full time.
She is now a fitness trainer, a merchandise distributor, and she does a little model work on the side too.
Hear what made her jump out there into the fitness business, why she became vegan, and more.
Say Whattup to Nutritious Melz.
-Source
Ahhhh yes. Richmond. Rockwood by day, Ivory’s by night. If you grew up around a certain time in the 804, you know the routine. But this ain’t about street ball and then partying. However, I couldn’t pass on a chance to briefly mention two of my favorite places from years ago. Instead, this episode’s company is a former Huguenot High School basketball star who took his game to the collegiate level. Oh and that club part? Nah. Not a nightclub. The Boys and Girls Club. This gentleman is currently the COO of The Boys and Girls Club of Metro Richmond. Last month he was honored at the 19th Annual MLK Drum Major Awards for his service; and he works daily for the betterment of young people in the Cap City. We reminisced on the 804 hoops scene from years ago, and we profiled his journey from then to now. Oh and he even shared his memories of playing against one of the greatest players in NBA history. Good stuff here. Put your hands together one time for the ‘Not’s own, Sean Miller. -Source
Yep.
Hermitage again. I might need some type of rehab.
Anyway...this episode's company was a running back at Towson University and served as a varsity football assistant coach for one of the top programs in the area.
He has now taken his knowledge and love for the game and turned it into a skills and footwork program for young football players in the area.
His Unleashed Skills program is on the rise as he and his team help develop young athletes into better athletes, and more importantly, better people.
Show some love to...Dominique Booker.
-Source
When it comes to being a professional athlete, I don't think the average viewer/fan appreciates the levels of physical, mental, and emotional pain that accompany this line of work.
Yes. Work. We call it a game. But for them, it's their job.
Today's company spent a couple of years in the NFL but recently decided to put the game aside and focus on another line of business.
The business of cannabis.
Our guest suffered injuries throughout his playing career and wanted to find another method of coping with the pain, outside of pills.
His search led him to cannabis; and its effects were so profound that he decided to join the ranks of cannabis advocates and entrepreneurs.
Laruesson, his company, is approaching its one year anniversary, and we will learn more about the man, the business, and the extraordinary value of cannabis.
Say hello to Herm Squad and University of Richmond's own...Brian Brown.
-Source
...New Source & Co. 🔥🔥🔥...
One of my favorite people to hear from or text during breaking news of any kind is with me for ep 44.
He is the Director of Constituent Services and Casework for U.S. Senator Tim Kaine.
He is also the "Cheats" (his nickname) in everything related to The Cheats Movement.
This journalist, photographer, podcaster, and 804 hip hop enthusiast is an integral part of many circles across the Cap City.
But with all great things, there has to be a negative.
He's a Knicks fan.
I guess nobody's perfect. 🤷🏽♂️
Show some love to my guy, Marc Cheatham.
SourceNCo
SbpRelated
Cheats
rva
WeSeeIt
DopePodcast
DopeBlackPods
Sports
HipHop
Politics
Richmond
As we close out 2020 with one last episode, I want to say thank you to all of you who took time to join me on this journey.
And I also want to thank those who have listened, watched, liked, commented, shared, subscribed, and/or followed anything Source & Co. related.
This episode features this Hermitage graduate, UVA alum (along with VT and VCU postgrad), and former high school basketball coach (Armstrong and Meadowbrook), teacher and administrator locally.
Recently he has taken his talents to Suffolk, VA as the Superintendent of Suffolk Public Schools.
We talked childhood, expectations, hoop dreams, education, family, and more.
Welcome to the show, Dr. John B. Gordon III.
-Source
I've known episode 41's company for quite a few years.
We have talked about the good, the bad, and the ugly on occasion; but it wasn't until a few months ago that I found out about my guy's love for writing.
Maybe it was the pandemic that gave him the boost or maybe it was just his time...but this man has stepped out into the world with his penmanship and authored a book of poetry.
Wow.
I am so proud of this guy for putting his work out there. It's not easy to put your subjective art in front of the world.
That's bold. And I love it.
"Stages of a Man" is poetry from a man's heart and mind.
It is available via Amazon and directly from the man himself.
Y'all show some love for one of my favorite flag football teammates ever, and he is also the man directly responsible for my refusal to drink rum anymore...
Kevin Allen
-Source
Did y'all know that Richmond has become a hotbed for Hollywood type actions?
Movies, television shows, commercials, all kinds of good stuff.
Currently, "Swagger!" (about the life of NBA superstar Kevin Durant) is filming here.
Today's company is part of that project.
She is an actor, a model, currently the first Theatre teacher at Boushall Middle School, and much more.
Oh and did you see her shining in the recent Google Nest commercial? 🙌🏾
Ladies and Gents, please give a warm welcome to...
Desirée Dabney.
-Source
Since it is the holiday season for many, I thought this would be a great time to look back at what we've been able to bring to the masses in our first 8 months of existence. Most of my guests, who I refer to as company, are connected to Richmond in some form or fashion. So many successful, accomplished, flat out DOPE individuals have taken time to chat with me. And I appreciate each conversation. This is my salute to them...and you all take the time to watch/listen. Much love. More in store. -Source
Listen. I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that I'm funny. But I would never think that I could get in front of a crowd of strangers, tell jokes, and have it go well. Nah. It takes skill to do that. Now imagine being funny, talented, and driven enough to turn that skill into a 20+ year long career. New cities, new crowds, new results...every night. Wow. This ep's company is well known for his jokes; but truth be told, his command of the stage, the crowd, and the moment is much more than punchlines. Whether cracking people up in comedy clubs across the country, hosting events, coaching high schoolers in volleyball, addressing those in local office, or reaching the public via one of his many other outlets; this gentleman uses knowledge, eloquence, charm...and comedy to make a difference in the world. And specifically, in the 804. Say hello to Micah Bam-Bamm White. -Source
I know that many of us are a bit disturbed and disgusted by recent actions of Young Weezy aka Lil Wayne, but I gots to do it;
"Fiyah man, Fiyah, Fa Fiyah man"
You may have seen this episode's company in these Richmond skreets at one time or another.
They may have even been part of a team that helped you and your family in a time of need.
Because that's what they do; show up for whomever, however, whenever, in a capacity that most of us could never.
And for that, we are grateful.
These three gentlemen are Richmond firefighters, and I wanted to show some love and respect to them and their brethren.
So today we have...
-Nathan McFadden aka Young Nate -Rob Harris aka Karate Rob and -Djalmar Perry aka The Artist
Not only are they firefighters, they are Black firefighters...Black professionals...Black men.
The Source & Co. motto is "Everybody has a story" and here, we get to hear a little about their individual journeys into public service.
Big shoutout to the women who are firefighters as well. Respect.
-Source
If you were a follower of underground hip hop during the Rawkus years, then today's company will be a special treat for you (especially if you are from the 804). With his cousin and a high school friend, this gentleman's rap group quietly helped open doors for "southern-based" emcees and groups to get noticed by record labels in NYC. Their group, Down South, had a single and video called "Southern Comfort" that rang through the underground. After meeting Mos Def, today's company's name as a producer started to bubble and led to working with some underground hip hop royalty. The 804's own Mad Skillz, Q-Tip, Ras Kass, Artifacts, and many others dropped vocals on his production work; and during our conversation, I learned that he was part of the original 4 individuals who began what we now know as Black Star. Jigga WHAT? Jigga WHO? How did I not know that? We discussed his music career, how his spiritual journey changed his life (and his use of sampling), and his Drum Stacks sound design endeavor that is ready to take flight. Say hello to 804-born and raised music producer, Shawn J. Period. -Source
When I was in 12th grade, my Government teacher, Mr. Geary, told our class that someday soon after graduation, we would start watching the news regularly.
He was 100% correct.
If you are one who watches your local news regularly, then you probably feel like you know your favorite News Anchors a little bit...kinda. Right?
Today we truly get to know one of our city's favorite personalities that brings us local, national, and international news on a daily basis.
This episode's company is Texas-born but has called the 804 home for the better part of the last 20 years.
She is an Anchor of the EMMY Award winning "CBS6 This Morning" here in the RVA area.
She is also an entrepreneur.
We discuss her journey as a News Journalist, her Aha Wrap creation, and we learn a little about how she and her middle schooler are coping with the distance learning model.
Please show some love to the awesome, Reba Hollingsworth.
-Source
Episode 34 is sponsored by K-Town Kitchen & Bar in Downtown Richmond. ‐---------------- There are some good people from the 804 who have put everything on the line, at one point or another, to live their dream. This ep's company is one of those people. I met him through music many, many years ago. His dedication to his craft, and later turning that into a business, is an underappreciated thing of beauty. His Charged Up Entertainment label continually puts out music, shoots videos, tours (pre-COVID), etc; and his efforts have even led him to multiple appearances on "Sway in the Morning" as well. That's MAJOR. Always a man with a consciousness about him, he grinds for the greater good through his music and much more. Forever reppin the Bay Area, his Filipino heritage, hip hop, and the Cap City, musical artist and Charged Up ENT CEO, Noah-O, is in the building. Show some love.
Did you miss me? I missed y'all. But we are back at it. Ep 33's company is the end all, be all of Unlocking RVA. Her event planning company is a go to when you want to do something new, fun, and exciting in the 804. She is also a professor at the University of Richmond. Wait. What? Yep. And she is a hip hop head. Don't believe me? Check how many BARS she drops during our discussion. Gotta love it. Say hello to Dr. (I only say it because it's true) Faith Wilkerson. -Source
And another one...
Whattup y'all???
This episode's company is a remarkable young woman who is using her entrepreneurial talents to help others help themselves.
Whether it is through her "Girls Like Me" non-profit where she assists teen girls with self-esteem, her real estate endeavors, or simply being "The Results Enthusiast" (which we will learn more about), today's company is about that action.
We learn more about her as an ODU grad, a Beyoncé fan, and my cuz.
Welcome to the show, Déja Coley.
-Source
In my opinion, episode 31's company is an example of 2 things:
Perseverance and Competitive Fire.
From being raised by her grandmother from the age of 2...
to being pregnant at 16...
to graduating high school and pursuing college and college athletics with a baby...
to becoming a school record-breaking Division I athlete while attending classes, working, raising her daughter, practicing, and maintaining her skill level on the track stage.
Today she is a mom of 3, a military wife, and the Director of the Commonwealth's SWaM Certification (Small, Women-owned, and Minority-owned) program.
Oh, and you don't want any problems with her on the flag football field or at the bowling alley.
Wait.
Did I mention her "Wheel of Fortune" appearance?
Sheesh.
Welcome to the show...
Verniece Love
SourceNCo
rva
vcu
track
BlackExcellence
You may know this episode's company from a few different things, but chances are, you don't know it's the same guy.
Remember the Aaliyah "Are You That Somebody" remix? The first emcee? Yep.
Oh. Those elaborate 804 radio commercials with skits and raps and all that good stuff? Same guy.
The wedding party team that would have your reception lit like the club on a Friday night? Him again.
And that's just the beginning.
We talked business, business, and more business while touching on the topics of mental health, how he copes with being so many things wrapped in one person, a little music biz stuff, and how being the father of three Black males stays at the forefront of his life.
Smart guest. Strong opinions. And a few GEMS for the business minded.
Today's company: The CEO of Maples Media Group...
Adolphus Maples aka Danja Mowf
-Source
Sports.
The final frontier.
...along with hip hop, television, and movies, that is.
All of the above mentioned topics are ones that I love to discuss. And today's company does as well.
He is one half of the dynamic duo from the SBP - Sports Bar Podcast. The other half is yours truly.
The SBP is our Facebook group and podcast, so I had to bring the homie through and chop it up one time.
We talked about everything.
Our show, the untimely passing of Chadwick Boseman, hip hop, our classic movie reviews, his favorite sports teams, his love of the LC Bird Skyhawks, and more.
Salute.
My guy...
Chris Sims
-Source
Have you ever gotten so frustrated in a certain situation that you threw caution to the wind and proverbially pushed all your chips to the center of the table?
Well in 2004, today's company dropped a record that emodied that ideal and shook up the whole hip hop industry.
We talked about how his record, "It's a Problem", was created and how the rap world responded to it.
We also talked about his 804 roots, his time being signed by J Prince and Rap-A-Lot Records, his recent reintroduction to the rap game, and his new project (Shoot Til You Run Outta Neighbors) that is on the way.
Ladies and Gents - Show respect to those who helped pave the way and gave the 804 some national shine:
Southside's own...Big Sty.
-Source
This COVID-19 space has been something. For some it has been something in a negative way solely. But for others, aside from the obvious, they have found some positives within these troubling times. Today's company has made the most of this pandemic state. From creating multiple viral videos (via TikTok, Instagram, etc, their vids have been spotlighted by CNN, The Shade Room, BET) as a family to starting a family YouTube channel (We are DA Coleys) to digging deeper into their individual passions and increasing their effect on the world by simply being themselves...but even more "out loud" than ever before. There are 7 members of the crew, but here I am conversing with three of them mainly...with a cameo by a fourth family member. If you don't know them already, here's your chance to meet Kevin, Mika, and Keon: 3 members of The Coley family. -Source
When I was growing up, it was the norm to play multiple sports. That's just what we did.
I like to remember myself as being pretty decent at everything at a young age.
Episode 26's company took multi-sport athlete to great heights.
This gentleman was recognized at the All-State level in three sports (football, basketball, track)...not just in his Armstrong High School career, but in the same school year; and he did this while maintaining a 4.2 gpa.
Oh, did I mention he is like 5'7? Yep.
He continued his pursuits of football greatness and higher education throughout college and kept pushing towards the professional sports level.
We will learn how life changes after the game stops and how one's understanding of success is redefined as adulthood creeps in.
He also spoke on sports memories, family ideals, education, mental health, learning the real estate game, and much more.
Ladies and gents: say hello to, arguably, one of the best three sport athletes to ever put it down in the city of Richmond (and he has the numbers to prove it)...
L.C. Baker.
-Source
The language of hip hop knows no boundaries. And thankfully for this particular purpose, neither does the internet. In my rappity rap rapping days, I linked up with this brother via Myspace. Yes...Myspace. Although he didn't have to be, he was humble enough to rock alongside me (and L.E.G.A.C.Y. from Hall of Justus) on a song. That internet-created opportunity to meet has allowed for some spirited social media conversations and what I'd like to think is a mutual respect for another solid individual. On this ep, we talked about so much: -his music -his podcast (Rap Sucks Radio) -being a Black man today -ideas for the future -Snoop vs DMX -his "The Family Room" show -Hamilton -our mutual love for the Lakers ...and more. Great conversation. All the way from Long Beach, today's company is...Trek Life. Follow him @treklife daggone nearly everywhere. -Source
This one is special right here, y'all.
We could have recorded for the whole day and still not touched on all the stories, conversations, fights (yes, fights), all night video game sessions, meals, sporting events as teammates, hard lessons, and all around life moments we've shared/had.
Do. We left middle school basketball practice for a chance to try out for Nickelodeon's "Double Dare" show one time.
I mean...we never ACTUALLY got to try out...but we tried.
He is currently the President of Motlow State Community College in Tennessee and was recently mentioned and quoted in a fire article on Apple.com about one of his mentors. And that's just the tip of the iceberg, slim.
Today's company is my lifelong partner in crime, Dr. Michael Torrence.
-Source
Y'all might not know this but...I am a big follower of the WNBA.
Forget what you think...those ladies do work!
That same appreciation is also shown to women's college hoops and on down to the high school level as well.
I'm a coach in my mind. But that's a topic for another day.
Today's company really is a high school basketball coach in the 804. Some might argue that his program is the standard.
With his Monacan Lady Chiefs earning four state titles over the last six seasons, it's tough to dispute.
Add to that, his program has produced quite a few D1 student-athletes; including the area's first ever WNBA first round draft pick, Megan Walker (UConn/NY Liberty).
Coach and I talked hoops, title runs, COVID-19, his visit to the Robert E. Lee monument, and more.
So pull up a chair and enjoy episode 23.
Welcome to the show, Coach Larry Starr.
-Source
We all do it.
Ya know, live our dreams through people we know.
And enjoying watching my old high school teammate's success is no exception.
Today's company was a high school All-American on the court (and a great student off the court), a super highly sought after talent, and his game took him to the professional level overseas.
And now, outside of having his own business, he is sharing his love for music with the world as DJ Why Be? on a few social media platforms.
He hit us with a few memories, including some insight on converting to Islam while in Israel.
Wow.
Respect due to the most coveted basketball player I had the pleasure of lacing up with in school, Yuri Barnes.
-Source
Ain't nothing like talking to an 804 born and raised individual who is able to touch the sky without leaving the city.
Today's company was able to do just that and more. The residents of the Cap City have been able to see his grind and rise to greatness up close, as he has been a constant on our radio stations for 25+ years.
Currently, he is the program director at 106.5 The Beat...and if you need national recognition and awards as proof, check this out:
He is one of only five or so Black people to receive a Marconi Award (awarded to the top radio stations and radio personalities in the United States). Others include Steve Harvey, Funkmaster Flex, and Ricky Smiley.
TakeThatTakeThatTakeThat
Give a warm welcome to...Mike Street.
-Source
Another Thursday, another quality show from Source & Co.
Yep.
Today's company is a Northern VA native who moved to the 804 to attend VCU.
His vision, intelligence, drive, and quality workmanship has landed him in the right place...at the right time...with the right abilities.
Now he is working out of LA as a video director, photographer, videographer, content builder, and more.
From Cardi B to Abby Lee, he has been putting in the time to earn the success. You've seen his work, now meet the man.
Monseé
-Source
First off...L4L! Got a Manchester Lancer in the house!!!! Haha
Today's company is the epitome of dreams fulfilled.
This former collegiate track & field star has combined her love of fitness, performing, and people to become a force in quite a few lanes.
Still conquering the fitness world (@getfitwithnik), Broadway, television, and more...you've seen her and didn't even know she was reppin that 804, but she is.
Her story was so good that we had to make it our first two parter.
So here it is...part one...of my interview with Ms. Nikki Kimbrough.
-Source
In my Kris Parker voice
"The episode starts when I log onto Zoom."
💯
Hip Hop is one of the pillars of my life.
90s hip hop in particular.
Today's company hit the scene during that time and gave us an anthem that still bangs today.
And oddly enough, he has a connection to Richmond as well.
We talked about his:
-days as a kid from East Orange, New Jersey
-connection to Naughty by Nature
-introduction to KRS-1 -activism
-music
-top 5 MCs and more.
We even got a few classic hip hop stories from back in the day, before many of us really knew what the culture would become.
Oh and did I mention he dropped some BARS? Yep.
Spark the Izm, I'm off to Channel Live...with Hakim Green.
-Source
Over my years of playing sports in the 804, from childhood to adulthood, I have met a lot of good people.
Many of them I most likely would have never had the chance to meet any other way; let alone kick it with, week in and week out.
Today's company is an example of this.
Born in Korea.
Family made their way to the U.S. when he was a child.
And after years of living all over the country, he landed in Richmond.
He is the owner of K-Town Kitchen and Bar; and aside from being a Washington football fan, he is a good guy.
No, really. We talked:
-business
-COVID-19
-growing up Asian in America
-sports ...and much more.
Show some love to my guy, Yong Shin.
-Source
What's good, people?!?!? This particular interview is different because this is the first episode where I'm speaking with someone I have known since we were kids. Shoutout to the rest of the "grew up at RCC" church crew. haha Today's company is the owner/head instructor of Karate For Girls, an all-female student and instructor driven karate school, in Columbia, MD. karate4girls.com And she was also the first person I interviewed on my "Straight From the Source" blog/page on Facebook years ago. Here we talked... -karate -Covid-19 -being a woman in a male dominated sport/field -how she navigates being a "bonus parent" ...and more. Please welcome, Monique Washington-Jones. -Source
Whether you are pro-military or anti-military, one thing remains the same; those individuals who put themselves in harm's way for the betterment of others deserve your appreciation.
Respect.
Well...today's company has served in the Marine Corps for over 25 years. In that time, he has risen through the ranks; from private to military advisor to the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines.
Read that again. Yep.
We got into a bit of everything:
-his early days of service
-the roles of our military branches
-life in Manila
-balancing family and duty
-travel
-how things have changed since the beginning of his career ...and more.
Great conversation and perspective.
Give a warm welcome and big salute to David Baumer.
ThankYouForYourService
-Source
Survive and advance.
That's how we make it through this thing called life.
This episode's company has survived some challenging times over the years.
And he has advanced each step of the way. He is a VCU grad, a small business owner in the 804, a citizen of the world as of late, and a pretty cool guy.
Welcome to the stage...Advanced Home Inspection CEO and Virginia Flag Football Association President, Brad Gamlin.
-Source
Whether writing songs or singing them, this episode's company has always been standing beside some VA greats and holding his own.
We will find out what made him step away from the game, and moreover, what brought him back.
His current single, "The Truth", is steadily climbing the U.K. charts, right past some of the biggest names in Soul/R&B music.
And if you have never heard of cryotherapy, bro laces us with some details on another business venture he has.
Say hello to the 804's own, D Folks.
-Source
From real life FBI agent to tv and movie consultant regarding FBI agents, this episode's company has lived an unbelievable existence.
Add in:
-9/11 first responder -lawyer -author ...and you still would only be scratching the surface.
Check out my interview with "Criminal Minds" writer/producer, Jim Clemente.
-Source
Some folks head out to Hollywood for a good time, and others go for a long time.
This episode's company is doing a bit of both.
With more than 10 years in he acting game and 30+ credits under his belt, this Richmond, VA product is in it for the long haul.
We discussed:
-his years as a Gamecock
-what led him down the acting path
-his "Criminal Minds" audition
-his love for his family
...and more.
Brandon Rush is my guest.
-Source
Whether he is trading bars with the likes of Joell Ortiz,
sharing a moment with Lauryn Hill,
or coaching basketball at a prominent high school in North Carolina,
today's company is comfortable in any situation.
Hip hop artist Rise Rashid is my guest.
Source & Co.
Film Industry Professional, Anthony Davis, sheds light on how he grinded his way into the business and shares how he turned a curiosity into a career.
Heavy Hitters member, DJ Lonnie B, discusses how he is handling quarantine, his own health history, the Battle family, IG DJ sets, and much more.
Three of the 804's finest educators join the podcast to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on students, parents, the school system, and themselves.
They also share their immediate reactions to learning the academic year was over, talk about their efforts to connect with students in this "new normal" we are experiencing, and express their thoughts on the near future.
Source & Co.
Spiritual Guide/Teacher, Tisha Michelle, helps break down the myths about psychics and details the life-altering event that pushed her to tapping into her gift.
I spoke with Roc Daddy about his Spiked Punch show, his years as a rapper, and more.
Source & Co.