[Black In Motion] is where culture, career, and real-life collide. We’re talking about the highs and lows of adulting while Black—navigating relationships, mental health, and the hustle, all while holding it down for the culture. From the influence of HBCUs and the Divine Nine to reclaiming our power in a shifting world, this is the space where we keep it real, uplift each other, and figure out what’s next. Tap in—it’s about us, for us.

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The Rise Live &amp; Direct Tour rolls into North Carolina for our second stop, taking us from campus conversations to community dialogue.We begin in Durham at North Carolina Central University, where we hosted Rise Outside and connected with students about civic engagement, community leadership, and the power of using their voices in the democratic process.Later that evening, we headed to Raleigh for Art in Motion, a collaboration with The Lavish House that brought together artists, creatives, community leaders, and changemakers for an evening centered on Black art, culture, and expression. Through a live podcast conversation, we explored the role of Black art in shaping narratives, preserving history, building community, and inspiring action in today’s social and political climate.From the yard to the art gallery, this episode captures what happens when culture, creativity, and community come together in motion.

Black in Motion: Carolina, Raise Up

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Black in Motion is officially in motion!Season Two launches on the Rise Live &amp; Direct Tour as the team travels to cities across the country to connect with young people driving change on campus and in their communities.In this premiere episode, Black in Motion heads to Athens, Georgia, for the first tour stop at the University of Georgia. Braxton Simpson leads a Rise University training—guiding students through civic engagement, on-the-ground organizing, and digital organizing—while giving them the opportunity to put their new skills into action in real time.Join us as Black in Motion partners with campus organizers, highlights the issues that matter most to students, and sets the tone for a season full of movement, impact, and true motion.

Georgia on My Mind

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Season 1 of Black in Motion concludes with an unforgettable conversation featuring the dynamic Josiah Russell — singer, entertainer, host, performer, industry professional, and a dedicated leader within the HBCU community.A proud North Carolina Central University alumnus

Voice of the Culture: Josiah Russell on Leading, Creating & Liberating

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In Episode 9 of Black in Motion, we sit down with Destiny Butler — educational organizer, activist, mentor, entrepreneur, HBCU graduate, and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Destiny shares her perspective on the unique pressures young Black leaders face while organizing and building in their communities.We dive into the power of mentorship, the transformative impact of HBCU education, and the urgent need to invest in educators and promote educational equity. From navigating societal challenges to creating spaces for Black brilliance to thrive, Destiny breaks down how we can uplift each other while shaping the future of our communities..

Educate to Elevate: Mentorship, HBCUs, and Educational Equity w/ Destiny Butler

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In this episode of the Black in Motion Podcast, we sit down with J. “Slim” Robertson, better known as “The Slim Creative.” A creative, photographer, studio owner, event and community curator, and proud father, Slim is a respected force in the Raleigh-Durham area.From building spaces that inspire creativity to curating events that uplift and connect the community, Slim is deeply committed to progressing Black culture forward. Join us as we dive into his journey, hear about his creative process, and learn how he’s using his talents and platforms to make a lasting impact.Tune in for an inspiring conversation full of insight, creativity, and legacy in motion.#BlackInMotionPodcast #TheSlimCreative #LuminaStudios #BlackCreatives #CommunityInMotion

Lenses to Legacy: The Slim Creative on Vision, Community, and Culture in Motion

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On this episode of Black in Motion, we sit down with Jonathan Gramby— Owner of GTA Fitness, Founder of We Run Durham Run Club, Life Coach, Fitness Coach, proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and dedicated father.Coach Jon is more than a trainer; he’s a community builder who believes true transformation starts from within. Whether it’s strengthening bodies, guiding people toward healing, showing up in fatherhood, or creating spaces that bring people together, his impact stretches far beyond the gym.Join us as we dive into a conversation about fitness, mindset, accountability, fatherhood, and the power of community to shape greatness inside and out.

More Than Muscle: Fatherhood, Fitness & Community w/ Coach Jon

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In this episode of Black in Motion, we sit down with Leslie Latrice — Charlotte-based influencer, veteran advocate, entrepreneur, podcast host, avid reader, and true girls’ girl.Leslie opens up about her journey of transition: from serving in the military, to navigating life as a civilian, and ultimately stepping into her role as a digital creator and influencer. Through her story, she reminds us that growth requires embracing change and trusting the shift.Tune in for an authentic conversation on resilience, reinvention, and finding purpose in every new chapter.

Boots to Boss Moves: Leslie Latrice on Transition, Influencer, and Trusting the Shift

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In this episode, Braxton sits down with entrepreneurs, investors, and business partners Jon Walls and Jamari Sharp for a powerful conversation on what it means to live with intention. From defining manhood and the role of mentorship, to building pathways toward financial freedom and entrepreneurship, Jon and Jamari share lessons learned on their journey of leadership and impact. They also dive into their new book, ”Live on Purpose”—a guide described as “a mentor in your pocket”—that equips readers with the tools to grow personally, professionally, and within their communities.

Live on Purpose: Mentorship, Manhood, and the Motion of Becoming

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Who Is She? Rooted in Purpose, Faith, and CommunityOn this episode of Black in Motion, we sit down with Markela Tarrance and Erica Views, 2/3 of the powerhouse Who Is She Brunch trio, with a special shoutout to their third founder, Crystal Danelle. They share how they navigate a thriving partnership, answer the call to sisterhood and service, and create spaces that uplift and empower women.Get the inside scoop as we gear up for their 4th Annual Who Is She Brunch, and hear the inspiration, strategy, and Black Girl magic that fuels their work.

Who Is She? Rooted in Purpose, Faith, and Community

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On this episode of Black in Motion, we sit down with Breanna “Busy Bre” Powell—entrepreneur, creative, social media guru, wellness advocate, and community curator—who’s making impact by simply showing up as she is. 🎙️💫Bre keeps it all the way real about battling imposter syndrome while building brands, leading communities, and staying grounded in her purpose. From navigating doubt to finding the courage to take up space, she shares what it means to answer your calling—even when the confidence doesn’t come first.Whether you&#39;re building something from scratch, pivoting in purpose, or figuring it out as you go, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to have it all together to show up and shine.Press play for gems on grace, grit, and growing through the process. 🖤#BlackInMotion #BusyBre #NoCapJustCalling #ImposterSyndrome #WellnessInMotion #CreativeEntrepreneurs #CommunityBuilders #BIMPodcast

No Cap, Just Calling: Busy Bre on Imposter Syndrome & Showing Up Anyway

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In this episode of Black in Motion, we’re joined by Jalen Baker—an influencer, doctoral candidate, HBCU grad, higher ed professional, mentor, and community leader—who embodies what it means to lead with purpose and pride. Jalen takes us on a journey from the HBCU yard to the world of higher education, breaking down the legacy and impact of the Divine 9, the importance of mentorship, and how HBCUs continue to shape Black excellence across generations.With deep insight and unwavering commitment to his community, Jalen speaks on identity, legacy, and the brilliance that comes from being rooted in culture and service. His story is a powerful reminder that when you pour into others, the impact lasts forever.Tune in and be reminded that Black excellence isn’t just a moment—it’s a movement.

From The Yard to Forever: Jalen Baker on Divine 9 & Black Brilliance

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In this episode of Black in Motion, we sit down with Jessica Laure’l—an influencer, entrepreneur, mom, and mental health professional—who’s mastered the art of creating through chaos. 🎙️✨Jessica opens up about balancing motherhood, building a brand, and staying grounded while navigating imposter syndrome, societal expectations, and mental health challenges. With wisdom well beyond her years, she shares how she’s learned to own the room, trust her voice, and show up authentically—even when the world says otherwise.If you’ve ever questioned your worth, struggled to find balance, or felt like your identity had to take a back seat to your responsibilities—this episode is for you.

In Motion, In Mind: Jessica Laure’l on Creating Through the Chaos

[Black In Motion] is where culture, career, and real-life collide. We’re talking about the highs and lows of adulting while Black—navigating relationships, mental health, and the hustle, all while holding it down for the culture. From the influence of HBCUs and the Divine Nine to reclaiming our power in a shifting world, this is the space where we keep it real, uplift each other, and figure out what’s next. Tap in—it’s about us, for us.