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In this episode of 21, we talk with Marvin Pierre, Co-Founder and Executive
Director of Eight Million Stories (8MS). The mission of 8MS is to transform the
lives of vulnerable youth (12–21-year-old) through education, skills training,
employment, and authentic relationships. Marvin and his team work to bring hope,
vision, and practical work/life skills to young people who feel disenfranchised,
disconnected, and/or in despair. The work of 8MS is aimed at eradicating the
school-to-prison pipeline by creating alternate success pathways for students who
are not succeeding in traditional learning settings...breathing new life into the
concept of ‘no child left behind.’
Marvin attended Trinity College in Connecticut, and later, the University of Houston.
He started his career in investment banking, but later heeded his life’s calling to
work with young people in a way that is truly meaningful. Listen as Marvin
describes his path towards fulfilling his purpose, the role that his mentors and
sponsors played along the way, and how a song from a famous hip hop group
impacted the name of his nonprofit. (Reminders of the power of networking, betting
on yourself, and grasping moments of inspiration!)
And while work is a priority for Marvin (he refers to his students as ‘his kids’), he
also has other neat things going for him outside of work. After hearing this episode,
we will hope that you will be inspired to learn more about 8MS atwww.eightmillionstories.org, and endeavor to make a difference in young person’s
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In this 1st episode of the 21 Podcast’s 2021 fall season, we talk with LaRae Quy, author, mental toughness coach, former FBI agent, and Founder of the Mental Toughness Center.
LaRae Quy was an undercover and counterintelligence FBI agent for 24 years. She exposed foreign spies and recruited them to work for the U.S. Government. As an FBI agent, she developed the mental toughness to survive in environments of risk, uncertainty, and deception. Faced with stressful and fast-moving situations, she needed to move through barriers if she was to succeed. LaRae’s decision to join the FBI was a ‘road less traveled’ moment. While she knew in her heart and mind that this was an intended part of her life journey, LaRae’s transition into the FBI was challenging mentally and physically. She exceled while others may have underestimated her.
Today, LaRae is a highly sought-after speaker on the topics of mental toughness and positive thinking. She believes that mental toughness can be developed and is not necessarily an innate trait that we are born with.
Listen as LaRae talks about her upbringing on a Wyoming cattle ranch, her college years, and when fate opened doors for her at the FBI. Her story will inspire you to seize an great opportunity, even though it may come in an unlikely package. If you are a fan of CSI, SVU, NCIS and Law & Order, this episode is for you…including self-proclaimed ‘couch detective,’ Drew! Enjoy this episode of 21!
For more information and resources about LaRae here: https://laraequy.com/
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In this episode of 21 Podcast, we talk with Jeff Fryer. Jeff is a former college and professional basketball player who now coaches many talented, young athletes.
Jeff is known to many as a standout competitor on the hardwood, going as far back as high school. A native of Southern California, Jeff is a graduate of Corona Del Mar High School and then attended Loyola Marymount University (LMU). At LMU, Jeff was the consummate student athlete, earning a degree in Business Administration while also a star basketball player. Balancing school and sports can feel like a full- time job, Jeff advises good time management to ease the workload. In 2013, Jeff was honored by the NCAA as a member of a select group of college players designated as the, “Best of Los Angeles College Basketball.”
After college, Jeff played for the Houston Rockets, and then overseas for 10 years. These days, Jeff’s passion for basketball manifests in his coaching. Jeff has coached high school and college teams, and he founded the Fryer Basketball Academy (FBA) in 2003 which allows him to help develop the next generation of basketball players. His goal is to provide young athletes with the skills and discipline they need to be successful in basketball and in life.
Above all else, Jeff is a man of faith. His belief in God has guided him all of his life, both on and off the court. Enjoy this episode of 21!
Jeff Fryer links: FBA: https://www.fryerbasketballacademy.com/index.php
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In this episode of 21, we talk with Dionna Widder, the Chief Revenue Officer for the Houston Dynamo/Dash. Dionna’s passion for sports began at an early age and became the foundation for her desire to build a career in sports administration and operations.
Dionna hails from Michigan and she attended Central Michigan University and obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. During her freshman year in college, Dionna channeled her passion for sports into a tangible action plan to achieve her career goals...which clearly worked! She explains how important it is (at any age) to push yourself, take risks, and put yourself out there. If you want it, you’ll get it! With an unwavering determination, Dionna risen through the ranks in sports. And more greatness is still yet to come.
Through it all, Dionna keeps her family her #1 priority. She loves all facets of her life, and she goes hard! As you listen to Dionna describe her schedule, you can’t help but be inspired to identify your own timewasters and eliminate them. While Dionna is very driven, she also is intentional about sowing into the success of others. She is a manager that understand the importance of lifting as she climbs.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
Dionna Widder links:
Podcast- Women Blazers:https://anchor.fm/womenblazers
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dionna-widder-5a2584a
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In this episode of 21, we talk with Tamika Curry Smith. Tamika is an expert and powerhouse in the space of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DE&I), with experience driving business outcomes in top companies, including Mercedes Benz and Nike. She is also president of TCS Group, Inc. Tamika’s work in DE&I is her life purpose. While she obtained an accounting degree and had a successful career in public accounting, she pivoted to a DE&I leadership role and quickly learned that this is her true passion.
She speaks with ease about racial and gender dynamics that impact sports and business...topics Tamika mastered prior to 2020 when DE&I really became central focus for global companies. She also talks to us about work life integration and how hybrid work arrangements over the last year have been beneficial for working women and working parents. And tune in as Tamika explains the “Pro Formula” (Performance + Relationships =Opportunity).
Tamika is University of Michigan graduate; she has Wolverine in her DNA! She gives back to her alma mater in a number of ways, and she is a mentor and coach to so many.
Enjoy this episode of 21, and let Tamika inspire you to make your mark in the space of racial and social justice.
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In this episode of 21, we talk with Coach DeAntoine “Cat” Beasley. Cat is the Assistant Coach for the women’s basketball team at the University of Dayton. (Go Flyers!)
Cat’s journey to Dayton is truly inspirational. He hails from Atlanta, Georgia, and attended Tennessee Tech. In 1999, while playing basketball for Tech, Cat was diagnosed with lymphoma. He underwent chemotherapy while. balancing basketball and his studies. Cat was healed, and his physical strength was only surpassed by his mental fortitude. He attributes his love for basketball and his family as the driving forces for him to get well.
Post college, Cat went to the UK and played 7 years with the Plymouth Raiders. Cat then retired from his playing career to start his next chapter asa coach. And he did so in place that was very familiar to him, by joining the coaching staff at his alma mater, Tennessee Tech.
Eventually, Cat’s path led him to his current position at Dayton. While this was Cat’s first experience coaching women, he will be the first to tell you that basketball is basketball, and he considers himself fortunate to coach a team of players who are talented, driven, and coachable.
Enjoy this episode of 21 and add the Dayton Flyers women’s basketball team to your watch list for the upcoming season!
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Calling all Texas high school football fans! This episode of 21 is for you as we recently met with Katy High School Head Football Coach, Gary Joseph. Since becoming the Head Coach in 2004, the program has won 5 state championships. As a reminder to our 21 listeners, Drew is a graduate of Katy High School...so this interview has very special meaning to him.
‘Friday Night Lights’ is alive and well in Katy, Texas. And Coach Joseph and the Katy Tigers football team are at the center of it all. Football is in Coach Joseph’s DNA, passed onto him by his Dad. He considers his coaches and players as an extended part of his family. There is no secret sauce to his recipe for success, just hard work, dedication, love for the game, and faith in God.
Coach Joseph’s love for God and his family are his guide points. He talks about his experience coaching his sons during high school, and the joys of being a grandfather.
Listen as Coach Joseph discusses his career, and shares in great detail the highs and lows of his years at Katy. Many of these stories will be familiar to Katy fans, but this may be the first time you hear perspectives directly from Coach Joseph. This episode is a must listen for all current, past, and future Katy Tigers.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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Welcome back to the 21 podcast and the second part of our conversation with Marcus Guillory, native Houstonian who continues to blaze an amazing career as an author and Hollywood writer. (Marcus was a Bollywood writer too.)
As you listen to Marcus describe his current projects, you feel his laser focus. He is a man on a mission, expertly navigating obstacles in the entertainment industry that would discourage most.
Marcus has never forgotten the role that mentors played in his life; and now he is a role model and advisor to young people who are just starting out.
Keep your eye out for Marcus. His next life chapters will be his best yet. He has new and impressive projects on the horizon, so stay tuned.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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In this first of a 2-part episode of the 21 Podcast, we have a great conversation with Marcus Guillory. Marcus is an intellect, author, Hollywood writer, musician…a modern-day renaissance man.
Marcus grew up in Houston, Texas, and he has deep family roots in Louisiana. His Dad was a renowned cowboy, so Marcus’ formative years were strongly influenced by a neat fusion of rodeo and Creole cultures. Marcus immerses you in the Texan Creole Culture in his novel, Red Now and Laters, which was released to critical acclaim in 2014.
Throughout his education, Marcus excelled academically, and he had a particular interest in writing and music. After high school, Marcus left home to attend the University of Pennsylvania. Post college, he began a career as a successful financial analyst.
His life-long passion for learning and music would soon take center stage again, guiding his move to New Orleans to attend law school at Tulane University and subsequently start a band, Taino. And while on the surface this sounds fun and sexy, for Marcus this season of his life was all about his willingness to grind and make a way where one seems unlikely.
Marcus creates the life he wants, and he tells his story as only a great writer can. Marcus’ drive and work ethic are unmatched. And while he lives what most would deem the ‘glamorous Hollywood life’, at his core Marcus is the authentic, smart, Southern guy who you would love catching up with over a bourbon, BBQ, and cigar.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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On this episode of the 21 Podcast, we talk with Evelyn Bennett, a National Vice President, and Independent Consultant for Arbonne, a company that provides products that support a holistic approach to beauty, health, and well-being.
Evelyn is no stranger to hard work, and she contributes her work ethic to lessons learned from her Mom at a very early age. While in college and playing basketball, Evelyn interned for a local news station. Post College, she continued her career pursuits in broadcasting, eventually becoming a very successful TV news producer in Reno, Nevada.
Evelyn, like many of us, experienced a season when she realized that she had to set clear intentions related to the life she wanted to design for herself and for her family. It was then that Evelyn decided to bet on herself and become an entrepreneur. She knew that she could earn money and build a business that provides the flexibility to be fully present for her family.
When she initially started her Arbonne business, Evelyn kept her full-time job. During this time, she did not cut corners. She consistently ‘worked her business’ and invested in her development. She studied every aspect of her venture, and devoted time to daily reading. (Some ingredients for success never change. Readers are leaders.)
As you listen to this episode, challenge yourself to reconsider that side hustle you have wanted to start for years. Or engineer ways to shift your work schedule to allow more time for your family and self-care. We all have the ability to design the lives that we want. Let’s do it, 21 Family!
Enjoy this episode of 21!
*Episode Disclaimer - Fewer than 1% of Arbonne Consultants are at the National Vice President Level. Arbonne makes no promises or guarantees that any Independent Consultant will be financially successful. The annual typical earning statement is available at earnings.arbonne.com.*
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On this segment of 21, we talk with Vanessa Scott, Director of Accounting for the Houston Dynamo & Dash.
Vanessa is native Houstonian who attended Westside High School. Vanessa has a tough job, in a tough industry. She attributes her mental toughness to a life lesson her Mom taught her in the 6thgrade. Listen as Vanessa describes this ‘life moment’ that probably shifted her career trajectory, even at this early age.
After graduating high school, Vanessa decided to attend Tulane University where she majored in Finance and Spanish. Vanessa knew that she wanted a career connected to professional sports, so she created a network within the sports arena and applied for several positions. She eventually landed a job with the Houston Rockets, and subsequently reunited with a former boss when she joined the Dynamo & Dash to lead their accounting function. Another reminder, 21 listeners, to the power of relationships and building your network.
Vanessa is committed to her personal life-long learning and the development of others. Vanessa leads with a spirit of kindness, while holding others accountable to deliver their best. She is a role model to many who are looking to have successful careers in sports operations.
When not at work, Vanessa, and her family support various volunteer community projects. She is also a dog lover; Vanessa’s dog even makes a cameo during our recording session!
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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This episode of the 21 podcast is dedicated to the memory of Drew’s cousin, Amanda Sampson. Amanda was a loving mother and daughter who leaves us too soon. May the joy she brought to her family continue in all that they do.
On this episode of the 21 Podcast, we team up once again with Linda Lorelle.
Linda is a pillar in the Houston community. She is a former news anchor for KPRC, Houston’s NBC Affiliate. With her podcast, Our Voices Matter, Linda remains a master storyteller, committed to being a megaphone for causes that change our world for the better.
In our conversation, we simply learn more about Linda, the person. From her upbringing in Chicago, to her college years at Stanford, to her dance career in New York, to her ‘chance’ meeting in a restaurant that transformed her career.
Linda has worked very hard during her career, but more important, she has been strategic. Linda is very intentional; every career opportunity had a specific purpose and she knew how to create pathways to her next step.
If you are a fan of Linda (like the 21 Family is!), you are going to enjoy this listen.
March is Women’s History Month, which was established to highlight the contributions of women in society, in business, in the arts, and in our homes. In the spirit of Women’s History Month, we thank Linda, and all the women who have joined our podcast.
Most of all, we thank the women in our lives, especially Vera Lott (Drew’s Grandmother) and Dr. Carol Yvonne Plummer Harris (Yvonne’s Mom) who continue to serve as the inspiration for this podcast.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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On this segment of 21, we talk with Valerie Holland, Houston Dynamo & Dash Director of Community Relations and Dynamo Charities.
Valerie is relatively new to Houston, a transplant from Colorado and an alum of Colorado State University and University of Colorado Denver. Prior to moving to Houston, Valerie started her career in sports operations in the Denver area. 21 listeners, Valerie is another testament to the benefits of internships and being open to opportunities! Valerie impressively obtained her advanced degree while working full time. Listen as she describes how she managed her schedule to ensure that she excelled at both work and her studies. Another reminder, that the grind is available to all who want it bad enough.
In her current position with the Dynamo & Dash, Valerie is a real difference maker in the Houston community. She leads efforts to connect more youth to the sport of soccer, including the support of schools that want to start or build a soccer program for their students.
As you get to know Valerie, you can tell that she is living out her purpose. She loves her job, and she is passionate about being a role model for young women. To this end, Valerie is driving the planning efforts for the Dynamo & Dash celebration of International Women’s Day 2021. The event is geared towards coaches and student athletes, and will highlight successful women in professional soccer, both players and leaders in operations. Just another day in the office for Valerie…a day that sends moregoodness into our community.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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On this segment of 21, we spend time with Jonathan “JD” Messinger. JD is a graduate of the US Naval Academy and served our country as a nuclear submarine officer.
JD had a successful corporate career, as he rose through the ranks to become CEO of Ernest & Young in SE Asia. It was during that time that he had a self-described wake-up call, which transformed how he views success, and propelled him into his true purpose.
Thankfully, JD was called to share this experience with others. In his book, 11 Days in May, JD describes his near-death experience which catapulted him into a spiritual awakening. His insights and lessons have inspired countless others to maximize their potential by aligning their careers with their higher callings.
JD is a modern-day Renaissance Man and pre-eminent thought leader on the connection between our spiritual lives and professional lives. His most recent book release, Manifesto for Change describes the ‘great awakening’ that humanity is currently experiencing.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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On this segment of 21, spend time with John Anderson. John is the Head Basketball Coach for Scottsdale Christian Academy, and one of Drew’s former teammates.
John played high school basketball at Scottdale Christian (where he now coaches), and his success as a player afforded him the opportunity to attend Pointe Loma Nazarene University (PLNU).
At PNLU, John dedicated the time needed as an underclassman to evolve his game; he went into ‘the lab.’ This intense focus and dedication led to him becoming the school’s all-time block leader, with 241 blocks!
Post college, John followed in the family tradition by becoming an entrepreneur and starting his career a coach. Family has always been at the core of John’s ‘why.’ Throughout his life, John has been blessed to have a strong support system from his family, which extended to his teammates. Today, John calls his players his family, and he still considers many of his former teammates his brothers. John’s wife and children are his greatest priority…and he beams with pride as he talks about his wife’s talent as a photographer!
Listen as John provides sage advice and lessons learned from the various season of his life, with humility and a quiet sense of humor.
And of course, John shares a hilarious ‘Drew Story’. Another reminder, 21 listeners, that Drew, oceans, and beaches may not be an ideal mix.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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On this segment of 21, we talk with Emmy-winning, beloved news anchor for KHOU 11 News in Houston, Mia Gradney.
Mia is a proud, native Houstonian and graduate of Sam Houston State University (Go Bearkats!). She pursued a degree in Radio/Television due in large part to a seed of advice planted by a mentor.
After college, Mia started her TV career behind the scenes, making her on-screen debut in cities outside of Houston. She eventually returned to Houston and has been welcomed into our homes for over 20 years. Mia’s warm smile, smart reporting, and generous spirit are an important part of our city’s news landscape.
Mia has covered major events that have impacted our city, our country, and our lives. She has also had fun sharing sports and entertainment stories. Mia’s greatest gift to our community, however, comes from her commitment to report on the tough stories that empower and inform. She led a powerful news segment that highlighted the maternal mortality and morbidity issue that has been a silent health crisis in Houston.
When she is not on the air, Mia enjoys time with her husband, daughter, and family. She also makes time to support various volunteer/charity efforts in our community.
Enjoy this episode of 21, and check Mia out at 5:00, 6:00, and 10:00 pm on KHOU.
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This segment of 21 is being released as the world celebrates and remembers the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The impact of Dr. King’s work lives on in all of us. He was a hero among heroes.
As we reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, let us also remember our everyday heroes. Our teachers, coaches, first responders, and community leaders. And our mentors, like Jesse Tyson who we feature in this episode.
Jesse came from humble beginnings. He played basketball but chose to make academics his competitive sport. Jesse’s life was forever changed when he traveled outside of the US for the first time.
Fast forward, Jesse went on to become a highly respected executive with ExxonMobil. After ExxonMobil, Jesse was the President and CEO of the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA), the largest association of MBA graduates with over 12,000 members and 400 corporate partners representing leading Fortune 1000 companies. His work with the NBMBAA changed the career trajectory of thousands of students and professionals.
Jesse’s efforts were not done for or in the limelight, were largely unheralded but countless people can point to the positive impact that Jesse had on their lives. Jesse is a hero and his two of his superpowers are mentorship and sponsorship.
As you listen to Jesse, reflect on the everyday heroes who have changed your life, and also think of ways that you can be a hero/mentor/sponsor/coach to someone in your life.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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This is the third in our 3-part series with Fabulous “Fab” Flournoy. (Notice that we don’t say our last segment as we hope Fab will join us for another chat in 2021. Setting the intention!)
This episode follows Fab’s professional career, which may be familiar to many who will listen. Fab continues to share his story with an authentic spirit of humility. Off the court, Fab is kind, laid back, and humorous. On the court, he is a fierce, formidable opponent. And to the latter point, Fab’s current workout and diet regimens are just as disciplined as when he played. (No cheeseburgers for Fab!)
There is no question that Fab is living out his purpose. He was created to play basketball. The sport is in his DNA. Fab will always have a special connection to the hardwood. Period.
Now that all 3 episodes of our discussion with Fab are available, consider a ‘binge’ and listen to Fab’s story in 1 sitting. We are confident that you will hear at least one nugget of wisdom that could become a new habit for you in the new year.
As we transition from 2020 to 2021, the 21 Family expresses gratitude to all our supporters.
To our Guests, thank you for the gift of your time and your willingness to share your story and life lessons with others. To our Listeners, thank you for engaging with us and supporting this project in its infancy. Your presence powers us. To our Families, thank you for believing in our efforts and for attempting to be as quiet as possible during countless recording sessions, at all times of the day and night. To Vera Lott and Dr. Carol Yvonne Plummer Harris, thank you for sowing your love and prayers into our lives. Your legacies of educating and inspiring future generations live on in this podcast. We know that 21 is a manifestation of seeds planted over the generations. We love you always! We hope you are proud of what we have started. There is so much more to come.Enjoy this episode of 21, and let’s all make greatness happen in 2021!
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This is the second in our 3-part series with Fabulous “Fab” Flournoy.
When we leave Fab in episode 1, he is about to begin his collegiate journey. College basketball takes Fab from New York to Texas, then Louisiana.
It is during this season of his life, the Fab begins to really know how good he is at basketball, and that the sport can be a tool to help him create the life he wants. (This is still very true for Fab today!)
While in college, Fab was diagnosed with dyslexia. He embraced resources provided to him and transformed his learning difference into a gift for storytelling. Dyslexia was yet another “Virgil” that shifted Fab to a higher level of greatness.
Fab also faced tragedy, as his brother was killed while he was away at college. Fab mourned the loss of his brother and shifted his sadness into a determination to honor his brother’s memory through his hard work and love of basketball. Fab has done just that, and then some.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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This segment of 21 is the first in a 3-part series of a recent conversation with had with Fabulous “Fab” Flournoy. Fab is one of Drew’s former teammates with the Newcastle Eagles, and he is currently with the Toronto Raptors organization.
You cannot be a fan of the British Basketball League and not know Fab. His accomplishments in the sport seem surreal. He is not only a BBL record-holder, a fan favorite, a medalist with the EnglandNational Team, and a BBC Commentator, in 2017, Fab was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to British basketball and the community.
Fab shares his story with Drew and Yvonne in a way that is authentic, captivating and inspiring. It feels like old friends catching up after years apart. This episode guides us from Fab’s formative years through high school.
Lastly, listen for the name, Virgil. He could very well be the person who played a major role in changing the trajectory of Fab’s life. Who are the Virgils in your life? And do you face your Virgils in a way that set you up for long-term success?
As a reminder, 21 Listeners, it is not where you start…it is where you finish AND how you create and embrace milestone moments along the way.
Enjoy this episode of 21!
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