The Back to Me Podcast

Making the most of your college experience requires you to step outside of your comfort zone and open your mind to the various possibilities you may have never thought possible. In this week’s episode of Our 4th Annual Divine 9 Series, we are joined by Kennedy McIntosh, Upsilon Chapter Initiate of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In an effort to be closer to her family during COVID, she left the initial college she committed to, so she could complete a dual enrollment program at the University of Southern California (USC). In addition to completing both her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and her Master’s degree in Studies in Law, she discovered she had another interest in becoming a Chief Pilot. As a result, she recently completed her pilot training at the U.S. Aviation Academy in Denton, Texas. Find out how she used her college experience to explore all of her interests and how her Greek organization has helped her stay emotionally grounded during this election season. ⁠ Kennedy completed both her Master of Studies in Law with an emphasis in Business, and her Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science/Engineering at USC. She served as a teaching assistant, Resident Assistant, Gibraltar Intern, and Environmental Science/Engineering Intern at Northrop Grumman. In addition to completing her pilot training through the Southwest Destination 225 Cadet Program, she also plans to explore Senior Executive roles within various sectors of the aviation industry. To support this vision, she is actively involved in organizations such as Women in Aviation and the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals. To learn more about Kennedy, connect with her on IG @kennedyhelenaaa or visit her on LinkedIn.

The pursuit of your dream job is often considered Plan A, but life’s responsibilities may cause you to consider a side job or what many consider Plan B. So, what if Plan B aligned with Plan A? Would the dream still be worth the pursuit? In this week’s episode of Our 4th Annual Divine 9 Series, we are joined by Caleb Armstrong, Gamma Epsilon Chapter Initiate of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. During COVID, Caleb decided to participate in a theatrical Zoom production of ‘The Colored Museum’ at the suggestion of his advisor. He did not know what to expect, but he thoroughly enjoyed the experience and is now in pursuit of a Theatre Arts degree at Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia. Find out how he maintains his desire for a career in Acting while he waits for his dream job to come along, and why he believes Generation Z will be the most important voice in this year’s upcoming election. ⁠ Caleb is currently completing his major in Theatre Performance and his minor in Leadership Studies at Hampton University. He has thrived by taking part in several productions that have included both musicals and dramatic plays. In Spring 2024, he also became the Phi Mu Chapter member of the Alpha Psi Omega National Theatre Honor Society. Caleb’s long-term goal is to be a professional actor in television and film, and he plans to attend graduate school, preferably the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale. He then plans to continue his aspirations in his hometown of Los Angeles, California. To learn more about Caleb, connect with him on IG @caleb_cmoney or visit him on LinkedIn.⁠

When COVID caused life as we knew it to shut down for an unforeseen time, some students discovered a passion that led to the pursuit of a degree they did not see coming. In this week’s episode of Our 4th Annual Divine 9 Series, we are joined by Khaleb Byrd, Polemarch of the Zeta Gamma Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. In an effort to maintain a connection with friends and his love for computers during COVID, Khaleb and his friends decided it would be fun and economically sound to build their own computer. This passion project led him to pursue a degree in Management Information Systems and Accounting at Coppin State University in Baltimore, Maryland. Find out how he plans to get the word out about voting on his campus and why he gives his father credit for his tenacious spirit of dedication and commitment to getting the most out of his college experience.⁠ ⁠ Khaleb is currently a third year Management Information Systems and Accounting Scholar in the College of Business at Coppin State University. He recently completed an internship at Koniag Government Services in Virginia. Hailing from prestigious Prince George’s County, Maryland, he has served his college as a member of the Student Activities Programming Board, Strong Men Overcoming Obstacles Through Hard Work (S.M.O.O.T.H.), and First Lady Wellness Challenge for his fraternity. He has also served his community by serving elderly Meals on Wheels, as well as serving youth in summer enrichment programs and football camp. While at Coppin State, Khaleb has previously reigned as Mr. Freshman 2022-2023 and Mr. Sophomore 2023-2024. To learn more about Khaleb, connect with him on IG @zgnupes or visit him on LinkedIn.

Volunteering in your community cannot only benefit the people you are helping, but it can also benefit you by potentially introducing you to a career you might love. In this week’s episode of Our 4th Annual Divine 9 Series, we are joined by Mikayla A. Lomax, President of the Beta Zeta Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. As a result of being a community volunteer throughout her life and recently serving as a Nurse’s Intern, this third-generation legacy sorority member aspires to be a Labor and Delivery Nurse upon completion of her degree in Nursing and Psychology at Kentucky State University. Find out why she is motivated to vote in this year’s election as a second time voter and why it is important to stay focused and develop a strong reputation on campus. ⁠ Mikayla is currently completing a double major in Nursing and Psychology at Kentucky State University, a HBCU that ranks among the top five in the field of Nursing in the country. As the proud daughter of Robert Lomax, Jr. and MeKeeba Lomax, she is a graduate of the Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Indianapolis Chapter Teen group. Through this organization, she received awards signed by President Barack Obama for outstanding service to the community. For several summers, she has served as a volunteer youth counselor at inner-city summer camps, worked at homeless shelters, volunteered in local food banks, and created care packages for those in need. Mikayla is a graduate of Charles A. Tindley Accelerated High School where she was an honor roll student and served as a student ambassador since middle school. To learn more about Mikayla, connect with her on IG @mikayla_lomax or visit her on LinkedIn.

It’s that time again and with the election around the corner and a Divine 9 Candidate on the ballot to be the next President of the United States of America, we couldn’t wait to hear from college students on campuses across the nation! To commemorate our 4th Annual Divine 9 Series, we begin with Ajalon Washington, President of the Iota Kappa Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. This upcoming graduate joins us to discuss the importance of voting based on our history, and why he plans to become a Middle School History Educator in the Dallas Independent School District. Find out how he overcame personal learning differences and how he has been able to maintain his mental health while in college.⁠ ⁠ Ajalon is from Cedar Hill, Texas and he will soon complete his Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts: History with a Path to Teacher Certification at Paul Quinn College in Dallas, Texas. He is currently interning at United2Learn, a Paul Quinn College work program and he plans to teach History at the high school or college level. He also plans to be an accredited author and publish a book series. Ajalon received his high school diploma from Woodrow Wilson High School, and achieved the ranking of Eagle Scout enrolled in 470 Circle 10. His goals in life are to provide and sustain a lifestyle, both in faith and effort, and provide for those under his care or those in need of his help. To learn more about Ajalon, connect with him on IG @b_t_jay or visit him on LinkedIn. ⁠

As we continue to acknowledge the importance of Suicide Prevention Month, we wanted to highlight the importance of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). In this week’s episode, we are joined by Gaëlle Amazan, a proud Haitian American woman and the Assistant Vice President of Student Success and Strategic Retention at Wiley University in Marshall, Texas. Ms. Amazan shares how the implementation of DEI on college campuses empowers students of all diverse backgrounds with an emphasis that is rooted in love, faith and kindness. Find out why diversity matters and why attending college can give you the time and space you need to find your purpose and your identity. ⁠ Ms. Amazan is currently a Ph.D. Candidate in Higher Education Administration at Syracuse University, where her research is centered around inclusion and justice about, for and with Black students in higher education, specifically regarding the intersections of gender and sexuality. She completed her Master of Arts in Psychology at New York University, and she received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Temple University. As a Haitian American woman raised in the United States, Ms. Amazan has learned to analyze, strategize, and navigate space. She has developed a passion for inclusion, which directly stems from her upbringing, and needing the ability to understand different people and diverse backgrounds. In 2021, she founded her Inclusion Consulting Firm, Gaëlle Amazan & co., LLC, where she trains organizations and individuals interested in learning about diversity and inclusion. To learn more about Ms. Amazan and her work, visit her at WileyC.edu or her website at Ginclusion.co, and email her at [email protected].⁠ ⁠

Some of the greatest leaders and contributors of our nation have graduated from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). More and more students are taking advantage of scholarship opportunities, and exposing themselves to a cultural experience that helps them ‘define themselves for themselves’. In this week’s episode, we are joined by Travis P. Jackson, CEO and Founder of HBCU Pride Nation. Mr. Jackson shares why he decided to bring the HBCU Pride Experience to college bound students on high school campuses. Find out how valuable attending an HBCU can be as you consider the college of your choice. Mr. Jackson completed his Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication with a concentration in Public Relations at North Carolina A&T State University. As the visionary behind HBCU Pride Nation since its inception in 2010, Mr. Jackson has consistently demonstrated exemplary entrepreneurial acumen and a profound commitment to uplifting the HBCU community. With over 350,000 followers in 14 years, his dedication has been widely recognized, notably earning him the prestigious title of "Top 30 Under 30 Black Entrepreneurs in Charlotte" by the Charlotte Black Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Jackson's impact extends far beyond entrepreneurial success. His advocacy for historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) has garnered national attention, as evidenced by his invitation to the White House in 2020 to cover the HBCU initiative for Vice President Kamala Harris. Additionally, his contributions have been honored with a proclamation from Mayor Vi Lyles in Charlotte, NC, in 2021, further highlighting his significant influence and leadership within his community. Furthermore, Mr. Jackson's innovative approach to marketing and social media has resulted in impactful campaigns for prominent clients such as BET, Cracker Barrel, Toyota, Honda, AT&T, Lenovo, and more. His ability to leverage digital platforms for social change and brand engagement underscores his versatility and effectiveness as a leader in the modern business landscape. Through initiatives such as the HBCU Pride Experience, which provided $1.5M in scholarships to students, and his philanthropic efforts in Ghana, Africa, Mr. Jackson has consistently demonstrated a deep-seated dedication to improving the lives of others and fostering positive change on a global scale. To learn more about Mr. Jackson and his work, visit his website at HBCUPrideNation.net or email him at [email protected]. Visit HBCU Pride Nation: https://www.hbcupridenation.net/

Another exciting school year is upon us and many incoming students, as well as graduates, are preparing to return to college to develop skills that will help them stand out in their chosen profession. In this week’s episode, we invite back renowned higher education professional, Dr. Parris Carter, who is now the Inaugural Dean of the Graduate College at Wiley University in Marshall, Texas. Dr. Carter discusses the launch of three online master’s programs in the fields of Criminal Justice, Business, and Higher Education. Find out how this private HBCU has been able to increase enrollment by highlighting the importance of equity and social justice.⁠ ⁠ Dr. Carter previously served as the Vice President for Student Engagement and Success at Wilberforce University, where he lead the strategic direction of a multifaceted division responsible for the co-curricular experience at the institution. He returned to Wilberforce University after serving as the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs at Howard University. At Howard University, he assisted in building partnerships with the academic divisions, while implementing effective engagement initiatives that improved the student experience. In addition to his higher education work, Dr. Carter has a unique set of expertise focused on process improvement, people development, diversity, equity, and inclusion. He has assisted many non-profit and corporate organizations in assessing their equity practice and culture, while providing them with recommendations to increase their inclusivity. His Diversity Inclusion Equity and Bias (DIBS) work has been instrumental in helping CEO’s and other executive leaders understand the importance of diversity, but more so, identifying the gaps that exist, and developing strategies for improvement. To learn more about Dr. Carter and his work, connect with him on LinkedIn or email him at [email protected].⁠ Check Out the Graduate Programs at Wiley University: https://www.wileyc.edu/about/graduate-program

“Who’s got next?” is a popular phrase usually shared with the next up and coming generation. Your authentic voice, strength and courage are needed now more than ever. In this week’s episode, we are joined by well-known and highly sought after Youth Development Consultant, Meg Pitman. Ms. Pitman shares how the confidence and candor of young adults inspired her to pursue a career in youth leadership, that eventually led to working with youth in partnership. Find out what assets you will need to recognize and develop within yourself, so that you can breakthrough and lead the life of your own design. ⁠ Ms. Pitman completed her MSW specializing in Children/Families, Management of Human Services and Interpersonal Practice at University of Michigan-School of Social Work. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon. She is currently the CEO of SpyHop Consulting and she formerly served as the National Director of Partnership and Collaborations at Boys and Girls Clubs of America. She has spent the last twenty years developing expertise in youth development impact measurement and program quality, collective impact and social and emotional learning. Ms. Pitman is well known in youth development and educational settings as a tenaciously positive leader who is able to mobilize divergent groups around collaborative change initiatives for youth and families. To learn more about Ms. Pitman and her work, email her [email protected] or connect with her on LinkedIn.

For Mental Health Awareness Month, we wanted to hear directly from your peers! This week, we are highlighting three trailblazing scholars from Coppin State University in Baltimore, Maryland. We are joined by Catherine Addey, Mellany Morales and Khaleb Byrd! These powerful voices joined us for our first student panel discussion in partnership with their university. Find out why mental health is so important to these students, and learn some of their strategies to help you improve your mental health today! Catherine Addey is a Sophomore and Health Science Scholar and she serves as two-time Queen, Thurgood Marshall College Fund Ambassador, NCNW Social Media Manager, and V.P.C.I. Vice President. She is thrilled to be a part of this discussion to spread the awareness and importance of prioritizing one’s mental health, while sharing certain healthy habits to improve it.⁠ ⁠ Mellany Morales is a Junior and Presidential Criminal Justice Scholar, who was born and raised in a little town in Central America, Guatemala called Chiquimula. In January 2019, she moved to the Unites States with her family to begin high school two weeks after her after arrival with very little knowledge of the English language. She works at the Office of Student Experience, volunteers at the Title IX Office, and interns at the Campus Police Department. She serves as the Vice President to multiple clubs and she was nominated NAMI Campus Ambassador. Recently, she was elected Coppin State's President for the Student Government Association.⁠ ⁠ Khaleb Byrd is the current reigning Mister Sophomore and he is a Management Information Systems & Accounting Scholar. Hailing from prestigious Prince George’s County, Maryland, he is a proud Spring 2024 Zeta Gamma Chapter member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.⁠ ⁠ Special thanks to our student scholars, Dr. Stephan Moore, Dr. James Stewart, and this incredible university for this memorable experience. To learn more about Coppin State University, connect on IG @thecoppinroom or visit Coppin.edu.

Visit California State University, Dominguez Hills at CSUDH.eduDr. Herbert's Book Recommendation: Feel the Fear...And Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers

Many students are interested in seeking mental health support, but often find it difficult to balance this support with their academic schedule. In this week’s episode, Seli Fakorzi, Director of Mental Health and Client Liaison for TimelyCare joins us to share how this system of care partners with colleges, students and professors to ensure mental health support is readily available twenty-four hours a day. As the most trusted higher education virtual provider on campuses nationwide, discover the many ways this powerful App can connect you to peer support programs, culturally diverse clinicians, and relationship building workshops that are available right at your fingertips!

It’s Mental Health Awareness Month and it’s time to be intentional about your success! Whether you’re considering attending a four-year university or applying to a vocational program to jumpstart your career, it is important to identify an institution that can meet you where you are. In this week’s episode, Dr. Stephan T. Moore, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs at Coppin State University joins us to share how his university helps students remove access barriers by making sure every student has an option to be successful. Find out how this urban leading institution has been able to increase student enrollment by 5% and support HBCU pathway initiatives at two popular out-of-state community colleges. Coppin State University seeks to develop and design a partnership with their students that supports both academic and holistic development.⁠ ⁠ Dr. Moore completed his Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration at Georgia Southern University, his M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Administration at Argosy University, and he received his Bachelor of Science in Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services at Campbell University. He joined Coppin State University in 2022 with over eighteen years of leadership experience in higher education with a foundation in liberal arts, vocational, and professional training programs. Dr. Moore has an extensive background in higher education research and strategic planning, emphasizing student affairs and previously served as Interim Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, Vice Chancellor of Student Engagement at Louisiana State University, Alexandria, and the Dean of Students and Interim Vice Provost for Access and Enrollment Services at the University of the Virgin Islands. To learn more about Dr. Moore and his work, connect with him on LinkedIn, IG @drstm_coppinvp or visit Coppin.edu.

As you enter the adult stage of your college experience, managing credit, debt and taxes becomes an important concern for many. In this week’s episode, we are joined by James Austin, Tax Consultant and the youngest Associate Superintendent at Twiggs County Public Schools in Georgia. As a Wealth Activist, Mr. Austin shares ways to properly access wealth by leveraging good debt and building a strong credit history while you’re in college. Find out about the importance of tax exemptions and develop a tax plan for paying self-employment taxes as an entrepreneur.⁠ ⁠ Mr. Austin is currently in pursuit of his Master of Education at Harvard Graduate School of Education in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He received his Bachelor of Science in Finance at Morehouse College, and he is a passionate and innovative educational leader who champions rural education and fiscal stewardship. As an Assistant Superintendent, he oversees various areas of operations, including transportation, business and finance, human resources, school nutrition, custodial and facility maintenance, and school safety. He has led construction projects totaling over 40 million dollars, implemented a leadership academy for classified personnel, improved school business processes with digital workflows, and received multiple awards and recognitions for his work. He was also a member of Forbes Finance Council and a presenter for several professional associations. To learn more about Mr. Austin and his work, connect with him on LinkedIn or visit his Facebook page at The J.F. Austin Group, LLC.⁠

It’s Financial Literacy Month and one of the major keys to survival is your financial success. In this week’s episode, we are joined by Shelby Patrice, Financial Literacy Educator and Founder of Budget University. Ms. Patrice joins us to share how she created an innovative program that helps students develop financial literacy by learning through their core academic subjects. Through this fully accredited online program, find out how to sustain the whisper of generational wealth, instead of being perceived as a loud product of ‘new money’. Ms. Patrice completed her Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration at Kentucky State University. She founded Budget University in 2020 and the program was fully accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) within a year. She was featured on ⁠NBC Dallas News, won a $10,000 sponsorship from the Dallas Mavericks, and became a member of Engage Dallas. Ms. Patrice built her learning management system (LMS) and online App from the ground up and has accrued over 2,000 users. Budget University is now a featured program at Kentucky State University as a Freshman Experience course. As the former Miss Texas US 2016 and adoptee with a platform for Adoption and Foster care, she has taken the financial literacy pillar to the next level. To learn more about Ms. Patrice and her work, connect with her on IG @budgetuniversity and visit her website at BudgetUniversityOnline.com. Visit Budget University and start building your financial wealth!

Learn more about The Lifestyle Design Method and improve your wellness routine by checking out Koya's YouTube Channel!Grab Your FREE book here:Let Your Fears Make You Fierce: How to Turn Common Obstacles Into Seeds for Growth by Koya WebbEnjoy our premiere episode with Koya!: EP69 | We Are Not Our Traumas

Visit the California AfterSchool Network

For more great resources, visit https://samfgrant.com/Did You Miss Our Premiere Episode with Ms. Grant? LIsten here: EP140: Reset Your Gut and Simplify What You Eat on Campus

Entrepreneurship is becoming more and more attractive to students who want to take control of their future by profiting from their passions. As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, we are joined by Furniture Flipper and Viral Sensation, Faranne Iman. She has taken her passion for refinishing furniture and turned it into a business that has amassed over 6 million views on TikTok. Find out how she built a sustainable business and attracted the attention of major sponsors, all while keeping her day job. ⁠ After being inspired by her grandmother’s thrift stores, Faranne decided to sell items online in the market place and discovered her passion for flipping furniture. As a loving single Mom, she is building a legacy for both herself and her son.⁠ Her viral transformation videos with step-by-step instructions on TikTok are engaging, entertaining and fun. She also offers virtual furniture flipping consultations to those interested in learning about the flipping process and building their own profitable furniture flipping business. Faranne is not only supplementing her income, but serving as an incredible example of self-empowerment and perseverance. To learn more about Faranne and her work, connect with her on TikTok and IG @FurnitureByFara. Check out Fara's Article with The Root: Viral Mom Turns Trash Into Treasure on TikTok by Angela Johnson Schedule a One-on-One Consultation with Fara! https://furniturebyfara.as.me/schedule.php

It’s Black History Month and students are initiating their own empowerment! In this week’s episode, we are joined by Jovana Tankou and Jazmine Chism, the student podcast hosts of The Empowerment Zone at UCLA. These students have come together to offer a holistic space for the voices of Black students and staff members on their campus. Find out the significant changes that have occurred, as a result of them raising their voices and expressing their needs during the pandemic. As one of the hosts prepares to graduate, find out how she plans to take the unknown leap into her next chapter.⁠ ⁠ Jovana Tankou is a third-year student studying Sociology and African-American Studies. She has taken on roles during her college life working as a peer counselor for the Black Retention Project ASP, the director of a community book club, a peer educator on sexual health, a researcher in the McNair Scholars Program, a mentor for high school students hoping to go into higher education, and an administrative member of the non-profit Community Movement Builders-LA just to name a few. She also co-hosts the Empowerment Zone with Jazmine to further amplify the voices of Black students at her PWI. Jovana is very passionate about creating spaces that liberate us all and allow people to create community. ⁠ Jazmine Chism is a fourth-year student studying Human Biology & Society and African American Studies as a minor. She is the Assistant Project Coordinator for the Academic Supports Program, supporting Black student retention. In addition to her work and academics, she has been doing research as a McNair Scholar and Project Consultant for the Sustainable LA Grand Challenge Research Program, analyzing environmental justice and equity issues.⁠ To learn more about Jovana and Jazmine's work, subscribe to The Empowerment Zone on Spotify and connect with them on IG @aspatucla.⁠ The Empowerment Zone Podcast with Academic Support Program ( ASP) UCLA Black Bruin Resource Center

The University of Cambridge Experiment on Negative ThoughtsThe I AM Affirmation AppDay 11 - Abundance and the Law of Least Effort Meditation by Deepak Chopra (from 21-Days of Abundance Series)

It’s time to meditate! Whether you’ve experienced a guided meditation or not, you have not experienced the power and tranquility of our most requested guest, Rev. Arlene Hylton. In this week’s episode, our favorite Agape Licensed Spiritual Practitioner/Minister returns to offer you a washing away meditation to help you focus on letting go of the past, so you can embrace the prosperity waiting for you on the other side of forgiveness in 2024. Prosperity is your Birthright, so don’t miss the closing prayer at the end. ⁠ Rev. Arlene Hylton has been the Spiritual Director of Safe Harbor Treatment Center in Costa Mesa, CA since 2010 and her work supports the lasting effects of recovery through Spiritual Awareness. She is a Spiritual Alchemist who seeks to assist individuals in remembering their Spiritual Potential through prayer, meditation and the embodiment of spiritual principles. She leads four ministries at Agape International Spiritual Center and delights in assisting youth and adults in realizing their God given attributes through her workshops, lectures and one-on-one sessions. She created a multi-dimensional workshop titled, “I’m Keeping True” that focuses on fasting, prayer, gratitude and intention setting to support individual transformation. To learn more about Rev. Arlene and her popular workshops, connect with her on IG @revarlene1 or email her at [email protected]. Be sure to experience her powerful Monday Night Meditations at RevArlene Cecelia Hylton on Facebook and YouTube. Monday Night Meditations with Rev. Arlene: https://www.facebook.com/RevArleneHylton and Rev. Arlene on YouTube Check Out More of Our Popular Episodes with Rev. Arlene: EP4 | Maintaining Inner Peace in the Face of Change EP38 | Love Unconditional

Check out Tai's Recommended Man Flow Yoga Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ManFlowYoga

Did you know that what you feed your gut could actually contribute to your anxiety and affect your brain? In our first episode for 2024, we are joined by Samantha Grant, 3x award-winning Functional Medicine Nutritionist. If you’re thinking about starting the year off with a healthy detox, Ms. Grant shares the five main ingredients in your meals that you should consider removing from your diet. Find out the truth about soy products, and then consider stocking up on her suggestions of healthy proteins, along with crunchy snacks and veggies for your dorm or apartment. Develop a lifestyle of feeding your gut what it really needs, so that you can truly FEEL the difference.⁠ ⁠ Ms. Grant completed her studies in Nutrition at the American University of Complementary Medicine in Los Angeles and is a member of the National Association of Nutrition Professionals. She specializes in hormonal balancing, correcting metabolism irregularities, weight loss and complex gastrointestinal issues. Throughout her successful career, she has helped thousands on their path to wellness. Her extensive nutritional training, along with graduate studies in Homeopathic Medicine, allows her the ability to assess her client’s issues in a wide-ranging holistic manner, coupling her experience with both eastern and western medical therapies. Ms. Grant's extensive background includes specialized training in vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, homeopathic remedies, Bach flowers, as well as western, Chinese and Ayurvedic herbs. She has been featured in Salon City Magazine, Red Magazine, Vanity Fair Magazine & US Weekly several times. Sam works with A-List celebrities, heads of state, VIPs in numerous industries and everyone in between. She has trained and continues to work with renowned medical doctors and experts worldwide. To learn more about Ms. Grant’s work and her FREE resources, connect with her on IG @samfgrantcn or visit her website at SamFGrant.com.

Check out Happy and Resilient: The Complete Guide to Joyful Teaching, Learning and Living by Roni Habib (Book)Learn how to bring Mr. Habib to your school by visiting EQSchools.com

Expanded Learning Division, CA Dept of Education: CDE.ca.gov/ls/exCalifornia Afterschool Network: https://www.afterschoolnetwork.org/

TheBacktoMePodcast.comYoli's Book Recommendation:Peace from Broken Pieces: How to Get Through What You're Going Through by Iyanla VanzantRecommended Documentary:Maxine's Baby: The Tyler Perry Story (It's actually available on Amazon Prime)

Student Affairs at UCI: https://studentaffairs.uci.edu/

To join Dr. Melton's Weekly Webinars, sign up here: https://form.jotform.com/231974201750048Tennessee State University SMART Innovative Technologies Division

Balancing your time with all your responsibilities can be a task in itself. Fortunately, in this week’s episode, we are joined by Dr. Tracey Ford, Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs for the University of Texas System. While serving over 240,000 students in the system, Dr. Ford manages to help students prioritize their time, in order to reduce stress and manage their wellbeing. Learn how to strengthen self-awareness and incorporate rest as a form of restoration. Dr. Ford completed her doctorate in Higher Education at the University of Georgia Louise McBee Institute of Higher Education, her M.S. in Genetics at Howard University, and her Bachelor of Science in Biology at Norfolk State University. With more than 25 years of experience in Academic and Student Affairs, she has built a strong foundation for driving strategies and solutions in academic policy, student success, student affairs and enrollment management. Whether handling existing student services, training staff on change initiatives or developing new academic support programs, she acknowledges the challenges and collaboration required to accomplish growth. While the organization may grow and the teams may change, her focus remains grounded in education and people. To learn more about Dr. Ford and her work, connect with her on LinkedIn. ⁠

The Back to Me Podcast WebsiteYoli's Book Recommendations:Relational Intelligence: The People Skills You Need for the Life of Purpose You Want by Dharius Daniels The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Miguel Ruiz Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day by Jay ShettyBack to Me: A Devotional Walk for the College Freshman Woman by Yoli Tamu

The Council of African American Parents: https://mycaap.org/

A Guide to Incorporating Social-Emotional Learning in the College Classroom: Busting Anxiety, Boosting AbilityUniversity of Wisconsin-Superior Website

California Black Women's Collective: https://www.cablackwomenscollective.org/

Morgan State University Counseling CenterThe American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

LAUSD School Mental Health Website988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Learn more about us and visit our website: https://thebacktomepodcast.com/

Det. Adrian Goodwin: https://www.adriansgoodwin.co/Check Out Det. Goodwin's Book, 'Twins in the City: Let's Learn About Police Officers'

Center for International Trade and Transportation (CITT): https://www.cpace.csulb.edu/center-for-international-trade-and-transportation

Morris Brown College: https://morrisbrown.edu/

As you plan to head back to school or embark on your new career pathway, be sure to brush up on your social and emotional learning skills. In this week’s episode, we are honored to be joined by Dr. Amy Cranston, Executive Director of the California Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Alliance. Dr. Cranston shares how she struggled as a student in her teen years, but managed to excel in her adult life because she chose to become an advocate for herself. Find out why developing a healthy knowledge of the five core SEL competencies is vital to your success in school and in the workforce.⁠ ⁠ Dr. Cranston completed her Doctorate of Education in K-12 Education Leadership, having conducted her doctoral research on SEL at California Lutheran University. She is a 20+ year veteran educator with a passion for treating students as whole people by prioritizing their social and emotional learning and development. She has dedicated her career to making culturally responsive SEL a priority in all schools for all students, serving as a classroom teacher, school site administrator, county office director, and state representative for a four-county region under the direction of the California Department of Education (CDE). She has lent her passion and expertise at the local, state, and national levels and authored numerous articles in addition to her book, “Creating Social and Emotional Learning Environments”. To learn more about Dr. Cranston and her work, connect with her via email at [email protected] and visit SEL4CA.org.⁠

Connect with Rasheed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rpp2003/

American Film Institute: https://www.afi.com/

UCLA's Academic Support Program: https://academicsupportsprogram.weebly.com/

Partnership for Los Angeles Schools: https://partnershipla.org/Our premiere episode with Dr. Theo Fowles: https://the-back-to-me-project-college-and-beyond.simplecast.com/episodes/building-social-capital-with-dr-theo-fowles

Ashley LIttle Enterprises, LLC: https://www.ashleylittleenterprises.com/ The HBCU Experience Movement, LLC: https://www.thehbcuexperiencemovement.com/

As many students continue to suffer as a result of the ever-changing dynamic of education, more and more students of color are seeking a safe place of refuge in their classrooms. In this week's episode of our 3rd Annual Divine 9 Series, "How Sororities and Fraternities Support Mental Health Awareness," we are joined by Kary Pounders, Spring 1989 initiate Tau Tau Chapter member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. This Restorative Justice Teacher with the Black Student Achievement Program (BSAP) at Manual Arts High School in Los Angeles, CA has also served as an educator in Lynwood and Compton. Mr. Pounders discusses the imbalance and lack of fair opportunities available for students of color in our communities today. Find out how you can still weather the storm and become who you were meant to be. Mr. Pounders completed his Master of Science in Educational Leadership at Pepperdine University and received his Bachelor’s in Accounting at Prairie View University in Prairie View, Texas. As a Tau Tau Chapter member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., he has served as the Chapter GALA Chair, Social Action Chair, Fundraising Chair, and Presenter at the YLC for ages 8-12 for several years at Compton College. He is also a member of the YLC committee and has participated in voter registration, the King Parade for several years, the Easter Egg Hunt, mentorship programming, and sang with the Omega Choir for the 100th celebration. To learn more about Mr. Pounders, connect with him via email at [email protected].

Check out The Marcus Bailey Health Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MarcusBaileyHealth

Tish Norman: https://www.tishnorman.com/Learn more about The Alpha Kappa Alpha Wellbeing Health Fair on 5/13Check out Tish's Recommended Book, "From Letters to Leaders: Leveraging Your Fraternity or Sorority Experience to Land Your Dream Job" by Michael Ayalon and The Greek University TeamStart your day with Tish's Recommended I AM Affirmation App: https://iamaffirmations.app/

Justin Key, The Modern Renaissance Man: https://www.justindkey.com/The Black Theorem: https://www.blacktheorem.com/Check out Justin's Best Selling Book, 'Mind Control: Change the Way You Think So You Can Live a Limitless Life'Don't Miss His Hilarious Audiobook Series: Mama Knows Best: Conversations Between a Southern Mom and Her Son