December 26er Podcast

Founder of Quantum Leap Fitness, Irving "Zeus" Hyppolite discusses making the transition from professional arena football to elite personal training, building his fitness brand from the ground up, and utilizing health and wellness initiatives to address cultural issues and foster a sense of empowerment amongst his clientele.

Fit Technology expert, strategist, and writer, Jessica Couch discusses opting out of a career in law to pursue her interest in fashion, building an online boutique after college, and now serving as an advisor to companies seeking to integrate technology throughout the supply chain to improve fit.

Host Delisha and Producer Damarcus discuss coping with the tragic loss recently experienced by their family and their renewed commitment to using the December 26er brand to promote health and wellness.

Writer, speaker, and social innovator, Toby Thompkins discusses integrating academic and professional spaces, amassing 30 years of experience across corporate, government and international development sectors, and building Safioo, LLC, a leadership development platform that helps develop and inspire leaders who are facing important real-time business and social challenges.

Writer, podcaster and content creator, Uchechi Chinyere discusses foregoing a career in medicine, pursuing her passion for storytelling, and utilizing her talents as a contributor for Medium, panelist on The Grapevine, and co-host of Run the Tape Podcast.

Producer, Songwriter and Engineer, Anu Sun discusses his Las Vegas origins, leaving his football career behind, building a musical resume that includes work with Robert Glasper, Bilal and Ledisi, and conveying a purposeful message through his recent solo release.

Designer, apparel manager and host of the BlackNFashion Podcast, Lenese Calleea discusses starting her retail career in Chicago, relocating to the East Coast to further her education, and lending her talents and expertise to emerging designers and private label brands.

Entertainment Attorney and General Counsel of AfroPunk, Gerard Anthony discusses overcoming implicit biases regarding his credentials, using persistent networking to launch his career in the entertainment industry, and contributing to the expansion of one of the most popular festivals celebrating Black music and culture.

Wardrobe stylist, costume designer, and creator of the Artist Kit, Erika Nuñez discusses breaking into the industry as an assistant stylist, leveraging her talent to build her own clientele, and venturing into the world of product design.

To celebrate their 100th episode, Damarcus and Delisha look back on memorable moments, both good and bad, answer listener questions, and discuss their 2020 plans.

Educator, entrepreneur, editor and writer, Yahdon Israel discusses founding Literary Swag and spawning a cultural movement that facilitates the exchange of ideas through a mutual love of books.

Entrepreneur, creative, and designer, Mugzy McFly discusses leaving behind aspirations of an accounting career to pursue entrepreneurship, building a clothing brand from the ground up, and opening his retail store Clout CTRL.

Award-winning author, entrepreneur and host of the Faith, GRIND, Inspire Podcast, Jean Alerte discusses finding early career success in the mortgage business, building his company, ACA Branding Agency, from the ground up, and educating others on the entrepreneurial mindset.

Founder and Owner of Diaspora Travel & Trade, Kasara E. Davidson, Esq. discusses overcoming immense loss and leaving her life as a corporate lawyer behind for a career in sustainable travel and social enterprise. Learn more about Diaspora Travel & Trade at www.DiasporaTT.com

Founder of American Youth Wrestling Club, David Allen discusses remaining true to his values while working in Banking and Finance, shifting gears professionally, and providing mentorship and guidance to young athletes every step of the way.

Middle school principal, Sofia Mohammed discusses discovering her talents in education, despite not wanting to be a teacher, being tapped for administration after only five years in the classroom, and coping with self doubt while making significant strides in her professional journey.

South Bronx Native and doctoral candidate, Tyron Pope discusses attending a prestigious boarding school in the Midwest, leaving NYU to join the NYPD, and furthering his education after 21 years on the force.

Activist, Labor Leader, and Trade Unionist, Justice Favor discusses growing up in New York City Public Housing, building a lucrative career as union organizer, and helping to create pathways to union opportunities for others.

Attorney at Law, Denver Edwards discusses making the transition from his East Orange high school to college in Vermont, choosing a legal practice area with financial security in mind, and rebuilding his life and career after the recession.

Creator and Host of The Grapevine, Ashley Akunna discusses entering the job market during a recession, identifying the need for millennial perspectives on current issues, and investing her own resources to bring her web series to life.