In Episode #82, I have a candid and enlightening conversation with Jason Williams. Jason is the Youth Director at Renew Birmingham and the Internship Director at Buildup Community School also in Birmingham, Alabama. We begin the conversation discussing Jason's favorite sports as a kid and which sport he ultimately became very good at. Jason talks about the Renew Birmingham program, how he got involved in it and how the program helps out youth in the city of Birmingham. Jason explains, in detail, the challenges the youth, that his program serves and advocates for, deal with on a daily basis. Jason also discusses his own challenges in dealing with the underserved community, his desire to help those in need and the restraints that Renew Birmingham are dealt when it comes to working with the local and state governments of Alabama. We discuss how the internships at Buildup Community School, in an ingenious way, prepares young kids for a career in the trades. Jason offers his insight as to why the disparities exist between black and white communities when it comes to healthcare, education and employment. Finally, Jason offers advice to young kids as to how they can improve their lives and potentially find a great career. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways.'

This is a very informative and sobering discussion. I recommend everyone listen to it. As always, thanks for listening. Take care.

Support the show

In Episode #81, I have an enlightening conversation with Pharmacist Jessica Beal concerning the affect medications have on athletic performance. The conversation begins with Jessica sharing the sports she played as a youth athlete. She discusses which sport was her favorite, why it was her favorite and what inspired her to get involved in sports. Jessica shares, in detail, what prescribed medications she took as a college athlete and how those medications affected her athletic and social life. Jessica goes on to offer great insight into how certain medications can affect two athletes completely different. Jessica discusses what type of athletes she works with now and how she handles their athletic performance based on the medications they're taking. With PED's (Performance Enhancing Drugs) being a constant topic around sports, Jessica breaks down, in simple terms, the difference between PED's and over-the-counter medication and how they affect performance. She touches on how nutrition can aid in improving performance and possibly eliminating the use of medication. Finally, Jessica offers sound and knowledgeable advice to parents, athletes and coaches when it comes to being informed about how medication can and will affect athletic performance. In the end, I offer my 'Three Takeaways' from the episode.

This is a very informative and useful interview. I suggest every parent, coach, athletic trainer and athlete listen to this.

As always, thanks for listening. Take care.

Support the show

In Episode #80, I have a discussion about Depression with the co-host of the Big Bad Morning Show, in Baltimore, Jeremy Conn. Jeremy opens up about the childhood trauma that he endured and what became the root of his battle with depression. Jeremy shares what his childhood was like, the dynamics of his home-life and which sport was his "getaway." Jeremy goes in-depth about his multiple suicide attempts and what ultimately led him to seek help. He also discusses his altruistic motives and who was the inspiration behind them. We cover his selfless community and charity work, and the local Baltimore sports fan who captured his heart.

Whether you're dealing with depression or not, or maybe you know someone who is, everyone needs to listen to this heart-felt, touching and honest episode. It's sure to move you.

Support the show