SpeakUP! International Inc.
SpeakUP! International Inc. is your go-to podcast for inspiring stories, insightful interviews, and educational content that empowers listeners. Join us as we delve into diverse topics with a focus on uplifting black and brown voices, promoting creativity, and fostering personal and professional growth.Â
Dauna Jones-Simmonds: She Doesn’t Drink Coffee, She Brews Change
We sit with Donna Jones- Simmons —the co‑founder and architect of 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women—to trace how a simple idea became a movement that documents excellence, accelerates careers, and reframes what leadership looks like across Canada. From five published books (with a sixth on the way) to fireside chats and biennial galas, Donna shows how visibility plus documentation turns into promotions, board seats, and public recognition.
We dig into her work at ACCES Employment, where speed mentoring connects newcomers directly to employers and the Speak English Cafe demystifies workplace language, idioms, and nuance. The re...
Janet Taylor: Neat Freaks Don’t Always Win—Function Does
What if organization wasn’t about spotless rooms, but about a life that works when it counts? We sit with Janet Taylor—organiser, corporate trainer, and host of “Got Clutter? Get Organized”—to unpack how a layoff became a launchpad, why safety and boundaries protect both client and pro, and how one small step can reset a day, a home, and even a career. Janet takes us behind the scenes of corporate webinars, reveals the simple habits that fight burnout, and shares the moment a surprise email led to a crown on the Rachel Ray Show!
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A brain aneurysm didn’t end Tess Padmore's life; it unlocked an inventor who’s redefining inclusive design and water safety
A simple swim cap shouldn’t decide who gets into the water. That’s where our guest, inventor and author Tess Padmore, begins—transforming a personal challenge after a brain aneurysm into a patented headwear line designed for textured hair, chemo-sensitive scalps, alopecia, bald heads, and anyone who needs comfort, warmth, and confidence to participate. The story widens fast: disability-informed design choices, university partnerships that replace dollars with resources, and a feedback loop that turns customers into co-designers. Each detail points to something bigger—how inclusive products restore access to health, joy, and community.
We dig into...
From Harm to Healing with Leah Brown: Restorative Justice, Institutional Accountability, and Leading Through Chaos
What if the real fix for broken systems isn’t a better press release, but a better way to heal? We sit down with mediator and lawyer Leah Brown—founder and CEO of the Wayfinders Group—to unpack how leaders can move from fire-fighting to genuine repair when conflict, crisis, or scandal hits. Leah’s journey from aspiring violinist to M&A deal-maker to boardroom mediator reveals a throughline: she’s at her best bringing order to chaos and giving people language for what they’re afraid to say.
We also get practical about leadership in the storm...
'Tine Zekis: When Black Women Win, Everyone Wins
Ever been praised in public and panicked in private? That tension sits at the heart of our conversation with author, engineer, and international speaker 'Tine Zekis—who boldly reframes “imposter syndrome” as the byproduct of imposter systems. We move from naming the forces that sap confidence to rebuilding a mindset and strategy that raise pay, expand options, and restore a sense of belonging at work.
We dig into practical salary negotiation tactics—anchoring to the upper half of market data, framing contributions as outcomes, and collaborating on total compensation when base salary stalls. "Tine’s mantra, “know you’re worth...
Leadership with a Servant's Heart: Building Dynamic Teams through Compassion
Kevin Wayne Johnson transforms our understanding of leadership through his powerful personal journey that began at just three and a half years old. Growing up caring for his younger brother with a mental disability while his Marine father served overseas, Johnson learned that leadership extends far beyond authority—it's fundamentally about caring for others who can't fully advocate for themselves. This foundation was reinforced years later when his own son was diagnosed with autism, further cementing his belief in leadership's emotional dimension.
Drawing from 34 years in the federal government and seven years running his leadership de...
Fanny Tristan: Who told you something was wrong with being single?
What if being single isn't something to fix, but a powerful season for growth and self-discovery? Trauma therapist and empowerment coach Fanny Tristan joins us to challenge everything you thought you knew about singlehood for women of color.
Drawing from her experiences as both Black and Latina, Fanny shares how growing up "on the margins" gave her unique insights into systems of oppression that shape our relationships with ourselves and others. She reveals the journey that led her to create two transformative spaces: Restority Space, her therapy practice focused on eldest daughters dealing with trauma...
Brenda Max Cumby-Fashioning a Path: From Red Tonka Trucks to Workwear Revolution
What happens when a fashion model becomes a union carpenter? She discovers there are no work clothes designed for women's bodies and decides to revolutionize the industry. Meet Brenda Max Cumby, founder of Gott Street Blues, whose remarkable journey spans fashion runways and construction sites.
Brenda's story begins with childhood defiance of gender norms – stealing her brother's red Tonka truck while simultaneously developing a love for fashion by watching her mother's impeccable style. This unique combination of interests served as perfect preparation for her groundbreaking business venture decades later.
At 34, Brenda entered the ca...
From Latchkey Kid to Community Builder: Ryan Downey's Journey
Ryan Downey, Executive Director of East Atlanta Kids Club, whose journey from latchkey kid to community leader is rooted in resilience, purpose, and a belief in opportunity for all. Growing up in the south suburbs of Atlanta, Ryan often relied on the kindness of neighbors, friends, and coaches—an early lesson in the power of community support. Today, he channels that same spirit into building programs that give young people access to mentorship, sports, and educational opportunities they might otherwise miss.
Ryan shares how his path—from teaching poetry in schools and correctional facilities, to a de...
Mirror Books and Adolescent Literacy: A Conversation with Dr. Valcine Brown
What happens when adolescents lose their passion for reading, and how do we bring it back? Dr. Valcine Brown, a veteran educator who recently completed her PhD in education, is tackling this challenge head-on with innovative research and classroom practices.
Reading used to be magic. Remember that feeling of getting lost in a book? Too many adolescents don't – they find reading "boring," a sentiment Dr. Brown has found to be universal across different countries. Her research explores how "mirror books" – literature where students see aspects of their identity reflected – might rekindle that lost love of readin...
The Chandler Method: Kem Frasier's Revolutionary Approach to Anti-Bullying
What would happen if we responded to bullies with kindness instead of confrontation? Kim Fraser's groundbreaking approach turns traditional anti-bullying strategies upside down, with remarkable results!
Growing up in the Bronx, Fraser experienced bullying firsthand and once resorted to faking an epileptic seizure to escape her tormentors. Today, as an author, former teacher, and counselor, she's developed a revolutionary method that disarms bullies through unexpected compassion. In her book "Chandler the Handler: You Can't Bully Me," her protagonist responds to bike-stealing bullies by inviting them to a baseball game—his treat. This "shock sy...
From Spoken Word to Community Leadership: Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony's Journey
What does it truly mean to "do the work" in the arts world? Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony answers this question through her remarkable journey from shaking like a leaf during her first spoken word performance to becoming an award-winning curator and advocate who's secured over a million dollars for arts organizations.
This conversation sparkles with insights about the transformative power of artistic expression. Paulina shares how poetry literally took her "everywhere" after being introduced to spoken word at age 18. With mentors like Dwayne Morgan guiding her development, she blossomed into a two-time national finalist at the Can...
Connecting with Divine Intelligence: Ellen Edmondson's Spiritual Awaking.
Have you ever sensed there's more to reality than what meets the eye? Ellen Edmondson's extraordinary journey from logical federal executive to spiritual messenger began with profound loss—her mother's passing just months before her son's birth—triggering questions that would transform her understanding of life's purpose.
Through meditation intended simply to process grief, Ellen unexpectedly discovered her intuitive abilities awakening. "I started having these amazing mystical experiences," she reveals, describing how she began receiving spiritual messages through automatic writing for ten years before compiling them into her award-winning book, "A Place of Love and...
Paulina O'Kieffe-Anthony>> Finding Your Voice: From Spoken Word to Community Empowerment
Step into the vibrant world of arts advocacy with award-winning curator, educator, and spoken word poet Paulina O'Keefe-Anthony. From her first nervous performance at age 18 to becoming a powerful voice championing equity in the arts, Paulina shares the remarkable journey that's taken her from Toronto community centers to international stages.
"Poetry can take you everywhere," Paulina reveals as she unpacks how spoken word became her gateway to community building and artistic expression. With refreshing candor, she describes the parallel paths she's traveled—developing as a performance artist while simultaneously building expertise in arts administration and no...
Elise Harding-Davis: "We Have a History That's Left Out, That Makes History Incomplete."
The threads of African-Canadian history weave a story of resistance, resilience, and remarkable achievement that spans centuries—yet these vital narratives remain largely untold in mainstream historical accounts. Elise Harding-Davis changes that through her lifelong dedication to preserving and promoting Black Canadian history.
As a seventh-generation Canadian whose family has been in Canada since 1798, Harding-Davis brings personal connection to her work as a historian, author, and former curator of the North American Black Historical Museum and Cultural Center. She shares how the proud Black history she learned from her grandmother contrasted sharply with school curricula th...
Breaking Barriers: A Conversation with Rohan Thompson, Dufferin County's Director of People and Equity
What happens when personal experience with discrimination fuels a lifelong commitment to equity work? Mr. Rohan Thompson, Director of People and Equity for the County of Dufferin, takes us on his remarkable journey from youth worker to systems change leader.
Rohan reveals how childhood mentors who kept him "on the straight and narrow" inspired his mission to pay it forward. This calling led him through various roles working with at-risk youth before stepping into pioneering equity leadership positions. Beyond his municipal work, Thompson maintains a private therapy practice using client-centered, trauma-informed approaches—a career path sp...
Queen D. Michele - Discovering Your Roots: How Ancestry, Travel, and Self-Awareness Shape Healing
What would you do if you discovered your teacher's pension wouldn't be enough to sustain you after retirement? For Queen D Michelle, the answer came in a life-changing decision to leave Atlanta behind and start fresh in Mexico's Lake Chapala region. Her remarkable journey reveals how necessity can become the catalyst for profound personal transformation.
Queen D Michelle's story begins with a practical problem faced by many retired educators. After 27 years in the classroom, she found herself working multiple jobs to supplement her pension—driving for Uber, shuttling railroad engineers, designing curriculum online. When the realization hit th...
Beyond the Margins: Tina Garnett's Journey Through Systemic Barriers
"We are not what the system has told us we are," declares Tina Garnett, a powerful voice in the fight against systemic oppression. As a seventh-generation Black Canadian descended from Charlotte and James Handy, Garnett brings three decades of experience championing marginalized communities to this profound conversation about resilience, purpose, and transformation.
Garnett's journey through racism began in London, Ontario, as part of one of the few Black families in the area, before taking her to Northern British Columbia where she witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of systemic violence against Indigenous women. These experiences crystallized...
Amita Sharma and Nourishdoc: Empowering Women Through Perimenopause and Beyond
Half of a woman's life is spent in perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause—yet these critical transitions remain under-researched, underfunded, and shrouded in unnecessary taboo. That's what drove Amita Sharma, after suffering in silence through her own hormonal journey, to create Nourishdoc: a holistic wellness platform empowering women through these transformative years.
"I was too scared to speak up," admits Sharma, despite her impressive education and successful career. "I thought people would judge me or think I wasn't capable." This fear of judgment keeps countless women suffering quietly through symptoms they don't understand—from hot flashes and...
Moy Fung: Embracing Radical Empathy in Entrepreneurship and Empowering Women to Overcome Business Barriers
What if embracing radical empathy could transform not just your life, but the lives of those around you? Join us as we explore this profound concept with the remarkable Moy Fong, an award-winning entrepreneur whose journey of leadership and empathy began at the young age of 19 when she became a mother. Moy shares her inspiring story of resilience, illustrating how her entrepreneurial spirit was born out of the need to secure a better future for her family. Discover how her experiences fueled the creation of innovative programs like STARS, designed to empower and set a...
Micah Elechi: Bridging Opportunities for African Youth with AfriLink and Redefining Tech Innovation Through Courage and Vision
Visionary entrepreneur Micah Elechi takes us on a transformative journey from his early days as a graphic designer in Nigeria to becoming a leading force in tech innovation with Macklemore Solutions . Hear how Micah's determination to overcome employment challenges led him to create AfriLink, a groundbreaking platform empowering African youth by bridging the gap between skilled individuals and job opportunities. His story is a powerful testament to the impact of mentorship and the vital role of individual and governmental efforts in societal progress.
Micah’s bold decision to present AfriLink on th...
Nicole Osbourne-James Creating Safe Spaces for Women in Comedy
Nicole Osbourne-James, a renowned free thinker and accidental stand-up comedian, reveals her fascinating journey from the spoken word poetry scene of the 1990s to the dynamic world of comedy. Unpacking how her evolution as a young mother propelled her into comedy's broader expressive realm, Nicole shares insights into the role of spoken word in activism and community engagement. Her initiatives, like the Black Media Network Conference, showcase the power of grassroots efforts in social change and highlight the importance of community spaces in nurturing activism.
Juggling comedy, motherhood, and festival production isn't a simple feat—an...
Charlene Thomas: Crafting Compelling Young Adult Narratives and Navigating the Publishing World with Perseverance and Passion
Uncover the magic behind young adult fiction with acclaimed author Charlene Thomas on this episode of SpeakUP! International. From her childhood days of weaving tales in scribbled notebooks to becoming an award-winning writer, Charlene offers a heartfelt reading from her latest book, "Streetlight People." Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, imagination, and a strong support system, shedding light on how crucial encouragement can be in nurturing one’s dreams. Listen as Charlene recounts the pivotal moments that validated her career choice and reflects on the evolution of her storytelling.
Ch...
Cheryl Polk: Transforming Career Potentials with Authenticity, Mentorship, and Balance
Cheryl Polk, a holistic career coach from Nashville, Tennessee, joins us on SpeakUP! International, bringing her inspiring journey from corporate accountant to career coach and certified resume writer. Cheryl's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and personal growth, offering insights into how she helps professionals unlock their career potential through personalized resumes. Discover the transformative impact of prioritizing personal values and work-life balance, as Cheryl shares her unique approach to coaching, inspired by her own experiences as a homeschool mom.
Our conversation takes a closer look at the challenges and triumphs of c...
Dr. Asanee Brogan: Embracing Ancestral Wisdom and Decolonizing African Spirituality for Modern Life
Discover the profound world of African spirituality with our captivating guest, Dr. Asanee Brogan, as she embarks on a journey of cultural and spiritual transformation. Dr. Brogan, a spiritualist and life coach, shares how she shifted her focus from financial education for the African diaspora to embracing the guidance of her ancestors through traditional practices like Haitian Voodoo and Ifa. Navigate through the complexities and richness of these traditions, as Dr. Brogan unveils how she brings ancient wisdom into contemporary life, offering clarity and balance amidst modern challenges.
In a candid discussion, Dr. Brogan addresses the misconceptions...
Kason Morris: Redefining Career Success and Navigating the Future of Work with Life-Work Synergy
What if you could craft a career that aligns seamlessly with your life’s mission and values? Join us in our conversation with Kason Morris, a trailblazer in the Future of Work Skills Strategy and the creative mind behind "Life Work Revolutionary." Kason challenges the conventional ladder of career success, urging a shift towards a dynamic lattice of opportunities where personal well-being and family take precedence over relentless title-chasing. Through engaging stories and tangible strategies, he explains how this life-work synergy paves the way for a more fulfilling professional journey.
Kason's insights extend beyond personal career growth, of...
Phil Vassell Championing Black Canadian Artists Through Archiving
Phil Vassell, a renowned figure with over 25 years of journalism experience, shares his remarkable story of transitioning from a career rooted in media to one focused on preserving cultural history through archiving. From his early days in Jamaica, where his love for media began, to his influential roles at CBC and as the creator of Word magazine, Phil has been a steadfast advocate for Black culture, music, and the arts. This episode uncovers how a transformative trip to Brazil inspired Phil and his wife, Donna, to establish a platform that fills gaps left by mainstream media, and...
Michelle Anne Johnson: From Stage to Boardroom and Beyond - A Journey of Leadership, Authenticity, and Self-Discovery
Michelle Anne Johnson joins us to share her captivating journey from a young actress, charming audiences with her George Jefferson impersonations, to a powerhouse in corporate leadership. Her story is a fascinating blend of determination, passion, and the unexpected twists life offers. Balancing auditions with a rising corporate career, Michelle transitioned from a data entry clerk to assistant vice president in a large insurance company, demonstrating how skills from the stage can translate into boardroom success.
Michelle's tale then takes a profound turn as she embarks on a midlife exploration, leaving her acting and corporate roles behind...
Rianna Raymond-Williams: Exploring Identity and Intimacy in Black Women's Health Advocacy
WARNING! There is sensitive or potentially distressing content, as we are talking about intimate partner violence, abuse and harm.
Ever wondered how cultural identity shapes healthcare experiences for Black Caribbean women in the UK? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Rianna Raymond-Williams, a passionate advocate and researcher in the realm of sexual and reproductive health. As she nears the completion of her PhD, Rianna shares profound insights from her research, discussing how her Jamaican heritage influences her perspective on healthcare access and quality. Her work highlights crucial themes of intrusion, advocacy, and healing, urging...
Michelle Forde: Journey to Equity and Authentic Leadership
Michelle Forde, an inspiring educator and communication specialist from Toronto, joins us to share her remarkable journey into the world of education and equity. From her formative years in London, Ontario to influential mentorship from her English teacher, Carol Talbot, Michelle's story is one of passion and purpose. Her dedication to storytelling and representation has shaped her unique approach to teaching, underscoring the power of community and resilience in overcoming educational challenges. Michelle's journey is a testament to the impact of educators who truly connect with and uplift their students.
We navigate the complexities of...
Michelle Forde: Journey to Equity and Authentic Leadership
Michelle Forde, an inspiring educator and communication specialist from Toronto, joins us to share her remarkable journey into the world of education and equity. From her formative years in London, Ontario to influential mentorship from her English teacher, Carol Talbot, Michelle's story is one of passion and purpose. Her dedication to storytelling and representation has shaped her unique approach to teaching, underscoring the power of community and resilience in overcoming educational challenges. Michelle's journey is a testament to the impact of educators who truly connect with and uplift their students.
We navigate the complexities of...
Mentorship and Ubuntu: Building Inclusive Spaces with Rochelle Ramathe
Rochelle Ramathe takes us on an inspiring journey from academic challenges to the triumph of earning a master's degree, sharing her story of resilience and empowerment. Raised in environments where her identity was often overlooked, Rochelle found her true potential at a historically Black university, where mentors championed her growth. Through an excerpt from her poignant book, "Why Black Skin Matters," she highlights the transformative power of visibility and community in her life and career, which now focuses on advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
We explore the challenges faced by Black women...
Titilope Sonuga's Artistic Exploration of Blackness, Womanhood, and Spirituality
Discover the captivating journey of Titilope Sonuga, an acclaimed international poet and playwright, who shares the remarkable story of her transition from civil engineering to a celebrated career in the literary arts. Journey with us as we uncover the pivotal moments that influenced her artistic voice—from her vibrant upbringing in Lagos, Nigeria, to her move to Canada at the age of 13, and her eventual return to Nigeria to reconnect with its literary community. Titilope's narrative is one of courage and creativity, rooted deeply in her Nigerian-Canadian identity, which continues to shape her powerful storytelling and performances.
St...
Carol Kabaale: Embracing Transformation and Empowering Women Entrepreneurs Through Strategic Digital Marketing
Imagine breaking free from the constraints of a corporate career to find the balance and fulfillment you’ve always craved. Carol Kabaale, a pioneering entrepreneur and Meta Certified Ads Strategist, shares her riveting journey from the precipice of burnout to the vibrant world of digital marketing. Her story is a masterclass in resilience and transformation, offering listeners a front-row seat to her trials and triumphs as she helps online coaches harness the power of strategic marketing. Carol’s tale is not just about business success; it's about aligning one's career with personal values and goals, and the empowering freedom that...
Karen Carter's Global Perspective on Culture and Growth
Karen Carter, a true pioneer in the Canadian arts and culture scene, joins us to share her remarkable 25-year journey. Through her roles at B.A.N.D., Heritage Toronto, and more, Karen has transformed cultural landscapes, all while embodying her Caribbean roots filled with music and volunteerism. Her story is a testament to how relationships, readiness, and growth can create lasting impact in the arts sector. Karen's insights into the 80-20 rule offer a compelling framework for success, where she demonstrates that being prepared is just as vital as embracing new learning opportunities.
In...
Navigating Change and Embracing Diversity in Leadership with Jonathan McRoy
 Discover the powerful journey of Dr. Jonathan McRoy, whose remarkable path from the Air Force to civilian leadership offers invaluable lessons for anyone navigating major life transitions. In our conversation, Dr. McRoy shares his leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of understanding what truly matters to individuals when driving change. Learn how he mobilizes teams to tackle complex challenges with precision and empathy, all while maintaining a focus on fostering environments that embrace innovation and calculated risks.
The episode takes a deep dive into the core values of freedom, liberty, and justice that form the bedrock o...
Lee Jones-Imhotep: Transforming Education Through Innovation, Empowerment, and Community Engagement
What drives an educator to transform the landscape of professional development through an anti-oppressive lens? Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Mr. Lee Jones-Imhotep, a renowned adult educator from Canada who has crafted a legacy of innovation in teaching. With over 30 years of dedication, Lee has not only reshaped how literacy is perceived in schools but also earned accolades like the NBA Raptors Read to Achieve Community Award. This episode promises an engaging look at how Lee leverages student voices to invigorate learning, making education a platform for empowerment and change.
Lee's...
Michelle Joseph: Embracing Authenticity and Celebrating Black Canadian Narratives Through Storytelling and Podcasting
Michelle Joseph's journey is nothing short of inspiring! Her transition from a reserved youth to a dynamic storyteller is a testament to the power of courage and authenticity. In this episode, we unravel Michelle's evolution as she candidly shares her experiences growing up, the solace she found in writing, and her eventual leap into podcasting. A true celebration of Black Canadian history and her own narrative, Michelle's story is a reminder of the strength that lies in embracing one's true self.
Through an engaging blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, Michelle opens up about...
Powerful Steve: Building a Masterpiece Through Resilience and Faith-Driven Service
Imagine standing at a crossroads in life and asking, "How do you build a masterpiece?" Our guest, Powerful Steve, did just that in Brampton, leading him on a transformative journey from his adventurous beginnings in Jamaica to becoming an influential thought leader in Canada. Known for his powerful speeches and a Guinness World Record holder, Steve's tale is one of resilience and inspiration. Despite a career-ending concussion in boxing, he channelled his passions into uplifting others, founding the Destiny Leaders Academy and collaborating with businesses and governments to spark growth and innovation.
Discover Steve's vibrant...
Hyacinth Caesar: Weaving Life's Experiences into Compelling Narratives and Embracing Resilience Through Storytelling
Award-winning author Hyacinth Caesar graces SpeakUP! International with a compelling excerpt from her newest novel, "Your Hug Is All I Long For." Journey with us to the idyllic 1960s on St. Christopher's Island, where the Cuthbert family's vacation takes a shocking twist. Hyacinth's rich tapestry of experience—as a teacher, systems analyst, motivational speaker, and pastor—infuses her storytelling with vibrant authenticity and depth. This episode offers not just a glimpse into her gripping narrative style but also a profound conversation on how varied life experiences shape her unique literary voice.
Our dialogue with Hyacinth delv...
