The Progress Report Podcast

“My best investment is my engineer” ~ E. Heard Selma, Alabama artist E. Heard joins Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report for an honest and insightful conversation with Lalaa Shepard, opening up about his journey, mindset, and the decisions that shaped his path. From life before rap to learning hard lessons in the streets, E. Heard explains why he had to distance himself from his neighborhood for safety and growth, while also reflecting on how his upbringing and early experiences influenced his hustle and work ethic starting back in grade school. One of the standout moments in the interview, E. Heard addresses offering Jermaine Dupri $10,000 to listen to his music, breaking down the thought process behind betting on himself and investing in his career. He also speaks on doing business with BoomMan and AE, meeting Yo Gotti and other influential figures, and navigating opportunities in the music industry with intention. E. Heard emphasizes the importance of smart investments, stating that his best investment has been his engineer, highlighting how serious he is about his sound and long-term growth. The conversation also dives into his first experiences buying jewelry, his perspective on spending money, and his controversial take comparing jewelry to women investing in their bodies. He gets personal about fatherhood and growing up without a father, sharing how those experiences shaped the man he is today. E. Heard also breaks down the meaning behind his name, his purpose, and what “progress” truly represents in his life and career. This episode gives a raw look into his journey, his mindset, and why he believes people should tap into his music as he continues building his legacy. Tap in now and stay locked in with The Progress Report. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1eheard/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I was able to sustain because of Love & Hip Hop” ~ Yung Joc Atlanta legend Yung Joc sits down with Lalaa Shepard on Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report alongside his firstborn son A.M Moni for an authentic conversation about family, music, and legacy. In this episode, Yung Joc reflects on 20 years of his debut album ‘New Joc City’ which released June 2006 and the impact it had on his career, while A.M Moni shares what it was like growing up during that era and now stepping into music himself. The father-son duo also speaks on their new collaboration “Rodeo,” with Moni following in his dad’s footsteps and carving out his own sound and style. Joc opens up about balancing touring, being a radio personality, reality TV, and fatherhood, while also addressing rumors surrounding Love & Hip Hop Atlanta. He speaks on his health and fitness journey, dealing with criticism in the industry, and how he’s evolved over the years — including embracing life as a grandfather. A.M Moni gets candid about becoming a young father, learning life lessons from his dad, and understanding those teachings now from a new perspective. The conversation also touches on industry experiences like performing on Boys 4 Life Tour with Bow Wow and B2K, memorable moments, and staying grounded through it all. This episode is a real look at growth, generational impact, and building legacy through music and family. Watch now and tap in with The Progress Report. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joclive/ https://www.instagram.com/1of1moni/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Philly artist Gwan Goodie joins Lalaa Shepard on Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report to talk her journey, new music, and life as both an artist and a mother. She discusses her new single “Pay For It” and her latest EP “Goodie Bag,” breaking down her growth as an artist and what she wants listeners to take from her music. Gwan Goodie shares that she started rapping at just 13 years old, with early encouragement from her mother playing a major role in building her confidence. As a military brat, she explains how growing up in different environments shaped her perspective, sound, and adaptability. She opens up about balancing motherhood while pursuing music full-time, learning patience as an artist, and the transition from casually creating to taking her career seriously. She also speaks on her ability to both sing and rap, and how she’s developed her artistry over time. The conversation also touches on her experience receiving co-signs from Vybz Kartel and Trippie Redd, what those moments meant for her career, and why she believes people should be paying attention to her now. Gwan Goodie further breaks down her Jamaican and Chinese roots, the meaning behind her name, and defines what “progress” means to her as she continues to grow in music and in life. 🎥 Watch more on: https://TPRMediaGroup.com 📲 Follow: @TheProgressReport101 🎙️ Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audiomack + more Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gwangoodie/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Terrell Carter sits down with Lalaa Shepard for a powerful episode of Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report. In this episode, Terrell Carter opens up about his role as Varney on Beauty in Black, working with Tyler Perry, and how acting has impacted his real life — including fans reacting to his character. He also shares deeply personal moments about his upbringing, including his mother’s story, being raised by his grandmother, and the emotional journey that inspired his new book ‘Problem Child’ and album ‘Mr. Carter’. Terrell talks about: • His transition from church singing with Fred Hammond to acting • Lessons he had to unlearn to become his best self • Why he doesn’t want to be a father • The meaning behind his book “Problem Child” • How “Beauty in Black” influenced his music • Defining what “progress” truly means This is one of Terrell Carter’s most honest conversations yet. 🎬 Watch now & tap in with The Progress Report! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terrellmusic/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I came up in a renaissance time in Atlanta” ~ Cam Kirk Atlanta’s creative scene wouldn’t be what it is today without visionaries like Cam Kirk. In this episode of Skipping Class, hosted by Lalaa Shepard, we sit down with photographer, creative director, and founder of Cam Kirk Studios to talk about his journey from PG County, Maryland to becoming one of the most influential creatives in hip-hop. Cam Kirk opens up about coming up during Atlanta’s “renaissance” era, his time at Morehouse College, and how he built his name by throwing events and creating opportunities from the ground up. He shares the story behind working with Gucci Mane’s “Trap God” exhibit, shooting the iconic Trap House 3 cover, and collaborating with some of the biggest names in the culture. We also dive into his experiences working alongside artists like Young Thug, Metro Boomin, Travis Scott, Young Scooter, and more—plus the reality of growth, loss, mental health, and evolving as both a creative and a person. From building Cam Kirk Studios into a cultural hub to defining what “progress” really means, this conversation is full of game, inspiration, and real Atlanta history. Tap in and get inspired. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camkirk/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Lunch Table Talk, a weekly podcast segment presented by The Progress Report, where hosts Lalaa Shepard, Boss Britt, and DJ eXeL sit down and talk about the latest in culture, entertainment, relationships, and current events. Just like conversations at a real lunch table, nothing is off limits. From celebrity headlines to real-life perspectives, the crew shares their honest opinions while unpacking trending topics shaping the culture. At The Progress Report, we believe in progress over perfection, and these conversations reflect different viewpoints as we continue to grow, learn, and challenge ideas together. In this episode, the crew dives into several viral and controversial topics including: • The ongoing Dwight Howard and Amy Luciani drama and whether relationship issues should be handled privately or publicly • The debate surrounding Julez Smith hosting an LGBTQ+ event in Atlanta and whether straight people should host LGBTQ events • JT and Lil Uzi Vert’s relationship and how celebrity relationships play out in the public eye • A discussion about gender roles shifting in modern dating and why some feel the dating pool is “trash” right now • How bartering really works in Atlanta’s entertainment industry • Royce Reed weighing in on Dwight Howard’s situation • The difference between hosting vs simply showing up in entertainment culture • Claressa Shields and Papoose relationship headlines • Atlanta sports talk, including the Falcons struggles and the NBA canceling the Hawks Magic City collaboration night • Why some creators are moving from YouTube to platforms like Patreon • And more culture conversations, including music, industry experiences, and trending topics shaping the internet. Tap in and join the conversation — because everybody has an opinion at the Lunch Table. Follow us online: https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/djexel/ https://www.instagram.com/bossbritt__/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://tprmediagroup.com https://linktr.ee/TheProgressReportMediaGroup Listen to us on the Revolt Podcast Network: https://tr.ee/GxMmkTcj7o Listen to us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 The Progress Report theme song created by Jaylii (produced by Sparkz): https://www.instagram.com/jayliiradio/ https://www.instagram.com/trakmanmuzikllc/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Atlanta rapper CashTalk pulls up to Skipping Class, a segment presented by The Progress Report, for an honest conversation about life, growth, and music. CashTalk speaks on the inspiration behind his new project “REAL FOREVER (DELUXE)”, how fatherhood changed his mindset, and why his son motivates him to become a better man. During the interview, he opens up about personal struggles including family challenges, losing passion for music after issues with a previous record label, and what ultimately motivated him to return to the studio. The Atlanta artist also discusses navigating friendships, the impact of losing people close to him, and how music has become a form of therapy. CashTalk shares his thoughts on the Atlanta music scene, writing music for other artists, and building his brand while staying authentic. Throughout the conversation, CashTalk reflects on growth, healing, and continuing to push forward in both life and music. What’s next for CashTalk? Watch the full interview to find out. Presented by The Progress Report Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cashtalk1/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Atlanta rapper Slimelife Shawty sits down for a powerful conversation on this new episode of Skipping Class, presented by The Progress Report. Conducted by Lalaa Shepard, this exclusive interview marks one of Slimelife Shawty’s first interviews since being released from jail, where he speaks openly about his journey through the streets, the music industry, and life after being tied to the high-profile Young Thug YSL RICO case. During the conversation, Slimelife Shawty reflects on growing up in Atlanta, discovering music as a kid, and how artists like T.I. and 50 Cent influenced his early passion for rap. He also speaks on the success of his collaboration “Blicky Blicky” with the late Lil Keed and shares emotional memories of their friendship, including hearing about Keed’s passing while he was on the run and being unable to attend his funeral. Slimelife Shawty also shares personal stories about losing money, friendships, and opportunities during his legal battle, while explaining how he’s focused on rebuilding his life, reconnecting with supporters, and continuing to make music. This conversation highlights the realities of the Atlanta streets, the impact of loyalty in the music industry, and the mindset it takes to move forward after adversity. Watch the full interview and stay tapped in with The Progress Report. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slimelife.shawty/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Progress Report’s Skipping Class interview series returns with rising girl group Vanity Rose. The trio — sisters Haze, Honey, and Henny — sit down with Lalaa Shepard of The Progress Report to talk about their journey forming the group, balancing motherhood while pursuing music, and the work ethic it takes to stay consistent in today’s music industry. During the conversation, Vanity Rose shares how their sisterhood helps them navigate challenges within a group, their creative approach to songwriting and self-expression, and the stage chemistry they’ve built through rehearsals and artist development. They also discuss their new EP “No Filter” and their lead single “Hoochie,” while highlighting musical influences like TLC, Chris Brown, and more. The group also reflects on their move to Atlanta, their growth as artists since forming in 2015, and why listeners should tap in with the Vanity Rose movement. Watch the full interview now and stay locked in with The Progress Report for more conversations with rising artists shaping the culture. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealvanityrose/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Everybody has seen everything with my parents and all that (D’Angelo and Angie Stone) and everyone is worried about me but I’m fine, I’m a young n*gga, I’m turnt… I just want everybody to give me a fair shake as an artist, I’m not a charity case” ~ SwayvoTwain SwayvoTwain returns to The Progress Report’s Lunch Table Talk for an honest and wide-ranging conversation about life, music, and current events. Hosted by Lalaa Shepard, Boss Britt, and DJ eXeL, this episode touches on everything from hip-hop debates to mental health and cultural conversations. SwayvoTwain — the son of legendary artists Angie Stone and D’Angelo — opens up about navigating life after losing both of his parents and why he recently decided to begin therapy. He also shares his thoughts on the recent Grammys tribute performances, including Lauryn Hill’s tribute, and explains why he believes Angie Stone deserves her own dedicated tribute as well. SwayvoTwain also discusses his new single “HookahSmoke,” a track blending R&B and hip-hop, and shares insight into continuing to build his own musical legacy. Lunch Table Talk is a segment of The Progress Report, where hosts gather around the table to discuss current events, trending topics, and personal perspectives in music and culture. Follow us online: https://www.instagram.com/1swayvotwain/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/djexel/ https://www.instagram.com/bossbritt__/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://tprmediagroup.com https://linktr.ee/TheProgressReportMediaGroup Listen to us on the Revolt Podcast Network: https://tr.ee/GxMmkTcj7o Listen to us on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts: https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“My proudest accomplishment is forgiving myself” ~ Gunplay Gunplay joins Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report for one of his most honest and revealing interviews to date. In this powerful conversation with host Lalaa Shepard, Gunplay opens up about the legal battle that changed his life, facing up to 15 years in prison, and spending over $250,000 fighting his case against his ex-wife. He speaks on clearing his name, overcoming public misconceptions, and the emotional toll the situation took on him mentally, financially, and spiritually. Gunplay also addresses the viral controversy surrounding his daughter’s GoFundMe and the accusations that he used the money to buy Rick Ross a chain. He explains his side of the story, his loyalty to Rick Ross, and their relationship today. The MMG artist reflects on his personal transformation, including stepping away from Santeria after 13 years, experiencing spiritual warfare, and turning to God for healing and guidance. He shares why cutting his locs symbolized a new chapter in his life and why forgiveness — especially forgiving himself — is his proudest accomplishment. Gunplay also discusses rebuilding his career, releasing new music, navigating life after legal struggles, his upcoming projects, and the importance of growth, accountability, and faith. This is a raw and honest look into Gunplay’s journey, redemption, and the next phase of his life and career. Interview by Lalaa Shepard Skipping Class presented by The Progress Report Subscribe to The Progress Report for more exclusive interviews, artist stories, and hip-hop culture. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notgunplayagain/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“God tore me down to build me up” ~ Trendsetter Sense Trendsetter Sense joins Lalaa Shepard on a brand new episode of Skipping Class, presented by The Progress Report, to reflect on his journey through the legendary mixtape era, his close relationship with DJ Drama and Don Cannon, and how faith ultimately led him into Gospel Hip Hop. During the conversation, Trendsetter Sense opens up about forming The Aphilliates alongside DJ Drama and Don Cannon, becoming a DJ at just 17 years old while attending Clark Atlanta University, and building his name during one of the most influential eras in hip hop history. He also speaks on working alongside artists like Young Dro, collaborating with Zaytoven and 1K Phew on his new single “LORD JESUS,” and making history performing Gospel Hip Hop at Rolling Loud. Trendsetter Sense shares personal stories about his upbringing in Philadelphia, his transition to Atlanta, and the life lessons that shaped both his career and spiritual growth. This episode offers powerful insight into longevity, purpose, faith, and what it truly means to evolve while staying true to your calling. Skipping Class is presented by The Progress Report and hosted by Lalaa Shepard. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trendsettersense/ https://www.instagram.com/lalaashep/ https://www.instagram.com/theprogressreport101/ https://www.instagram.com/tprmediagroup1/ Website: https://TPRMediaGroup.com Listen to us on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-progress-report-podcast/id1494070183 Listen to us on Spotify Podcasts https://open.spotify.com/show/5sBgF6wWa7NmHraP2QuBEv?si=a0f5f19b8a494fb5 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices