BE A BALLER -"Building a lifelong legacy"

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Scott Mallory grew up in the "Mallory Nation of Men" who loved both the Lord and football, Scott witnessed firsthand how shared passions create pathways for deeper connection. Scott Mallory stands at a remarkable vantage point—the middle link in a five-generation chain of faithful men. Looking back to his grandfather and forward to his grandsons, he offers unique insights into building a legacy that transcends time. 

His family's annual Fourth of July gatherings became more than mere celebrations—they were inten...

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Coach Frank Stretar after raising eight children who've gone on to have families of their own, Frank's impact now touches the lives of 24 grandchildren—and countless young men in Cleveland without father figures. Coach Frank Stretar knows firsthand what it take to build a legacy of fatherhood that spans generations.

Frank takes us on a journey from his Catholic upbringing through decades of youth ministry with FCA, Young Life, and church leadership, before founding Leader Within, a nonprofit equipping young people wi...

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BAB Podcast, Fatherhood Series Guest Chad Wise shares his approach to raising children with purpose and commitment. Chad's perspective is deeply rooted in his upbringing. Growing up with involved parents and grandparents who emphasized academics and hard work provided him with models of excellence he now passes to his children. His 93-year-old grandfather's perseverance through historical challenges and his late father's emphasis on precision helped shape Chad's understanding of what it means to be a man who leads his family with purpose. 

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At the Be a Baller Podcast Live Event Podcast host Tim Brown had an engaging conversation with Fathers and Sons, Randall and Matthew Gaddis, Burt and Steve Lindsay, and Pastor David Forbes Jr. and son David.

The fathers shared life lessons with their sons about faith and family. The live audience was Blessed to hear the importance of preparing and Passing The Torch to the next generation.

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Dan Britton, long time Fellowship of Christian Athletes staff member, author,  and founder of SportsLife Leadership reveals how his father's intentional approach to life and faith created ripples that continue long after his passing.

With remarkable vulnerability, Dan shares how his father balanced success in the financial world with passionate dedication to ministry. The family home became a revolving door for missionaries, creating an environment where faith wasn't just taught but lived breathlessly. Dan's father modeled what it means to be "a...

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Bishop Howard Tillman, New Covenant Believers' Church, takes us on an extraordinary journey from his humble beginnings in Springfield, Ohio to becoming a visionary church leader and international evangelist. With remarkable candor, he reveals how his father's unwavering work ethic and his mother's spiritual guidance shaped his understanding of manhood and faith.

The conversation takes a powerful turn when Bishop Tillman describes his spiritual awakening – moving from merely attending church to developing a genuine relationship with Christ. This transformation ultimately led hi...

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Raima Forbes takes us on a deeply personal journey through what it really means to build an authentic legacy while navigating the complexities of being a pastor's daughter, mother, teacher, and servant. With disarming honesty, she reveals the moment God became real to her – not in a church service or mission trip, but when she called her parents from Los Angeles to share news of an unexpected pregnancy.

"I was so overwhelmed with fear... That's when God became real to me," Ra...

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https://www.bonitahamptonsmith.com/books/

Bonita Smith is author of a new book "Dear White Women, Dear Black Women." A powerful collection of letters between Black and White women, interwoven with stories of pain, forgiveness, and the transformative power of compassion. This collection aims to bridge the divide between women and start the healing of a nation’s soul. Bonita is currently the Chief Operating Officer of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Change in Atlanta Georgia. 

Bon...

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Ralph Smithers Jr., journey from northeast Columbus through Mifflin High School and Ohio State University reveals the power of unexpected paths. Despite being a self-described "C student" and late bloomer physically (just 5'3" and 103 pounds in 9th grade), Ralph found his calling through service and relationship-building. Now leading inclusion, belonging and community engagement at Encova Insurance, he demonstrates how cultivating authentic connections creates ripple effects far beyond what we might imagine.

The conversation takes us through Ralph's foundational influences—parents dedicated to...

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Angela Pace powerful story weaves through the nurturing community of Columbus's historic Poindexter Village (the "Blackberry Patch") where three generations of women taught her about determination and sacrifice. With candid warmth and infectious humor, she shares how her grandmother and mother instilled in her a love of learning, proper English, and unwavering faith that would become the foundation of her broadcasting career.

One teacher's belief changed everything. When Angela Pace's sixth-grade teacher drove her home and told her mother, "This girl...

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As President and CEO of the Ohio Black Expo, Sherri Hamilton brings a fascinating blend of technical expertise and community vision that's reshaping how we think about empowerment. Want to experience the Ohio Black Expo's impact firsthand? Join thousands at the Riverfront Culture Fest on May 24-25, featuring everything from health screenings and youth activities to cultural performances and business showcases. Visit OhioBlackExpo.com to learn more about getting involved.

From her early days taking apart electronics as a curious child...

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Commissioner Kevin Boyce's remarkable journey from childhood tragedy to trailblazing public service offers a masterclass in resilience and purposeful living. When his father was murdered at age seven, Boyce found himself navigating life with a single mother working multiple jobs to make ends meet. What could have been a story of limitation instead became one of extraordinary possibility through what Boyce calls his "village" - recreation leaders who ensured he had lunch when food was scarce at home, teachers who advocated for him...

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Chris Broussard's story is uniquely powerful and he is transparent about the spiritual journey that transformed his life. Despite achieving what many would consider the American Dream—promising career, loving relationship, financial security—he describes feeling an emptiness that only surrendering to faith could fill. On his 21st birthday, this decision became the foundation upon which he's built everything since, guiding his priorities: God, family, and career.

Chris Broussard's remarkable journey from sports-loving kid to nationally recognized analyst offers a masterclass in b...

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Judge Guy Reece's remarkable journey from a Mississippi sharecropper's son to a decorated military officer and groundbreaking African-American judge captivates with its powerful message of perseverance and purpose.

Growing up in the segregated South before his family relocated to St. Louis, Reece's childhood foundation of hard work and determination became the bedrock of his future success. When drafted during the Vietnam War, rather than simply accepting his assigned position, he excelled at testing and earned his commission as a Second Lieutenant...

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https://www.youngmengrowing.org/event-details/black-male-teen-summit-2025

The Young Men Growing Mentor Program is hosting a leadership summit on April 19th at Cuyahoga Community College. Gary Hicks Sr. is transforming lives one young man at a time. As founder and CEO of Young Men Growing, his mission pulses with urgent purpose: to shift how young men see themselves from "just kids" to "growing men" with responsibilities and purpose. 

What happens when a rebellious young man is given the tough love, g...

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What happens when your legacy ends with you? Pastor Charlie Davis believes that true legacy should live on after we're gone, passed to future generations rather than dying with its creator. In this deeply moving conversation, he shares profound insights from over three decades in ministry about building something that outlasts yourself. Pastor Davis new book  "Hidden Blessings: Finding Your Passion After Experiencing Pain" is available now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Growing up on Columbus's east side, Davis was shaped b...

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Dr. Alesia Gillison's powerful journey from track champion to educational leader demonstrates how authentic belief transforms lives and systems. Faith anchors Gillison's approach to both personal challenges and professional leadership. Her powerful statement – "You don't have to prove to me that you're worthy; you're worthy because God made you" – captures the unconditional belief that drives her work with students, especially those society has marginalized. As a former state record-holder who anchored relay teams at Dayton Dunbar High School, Dr. Gillison learned early that "no o...

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 Shawn Harper shares his  journey from the south side of Columbus to seven seasons in the NFL carries powerful lessons about purpose, perseverance, and spiritual transformation. With remarkable vulnerability, he shares the exact moment his perspective shifted from external validation to internal purpose: "Sometimes, when we lack identity, we tend to want to develop an image. But God didn't call your image, God called your identity." What separates an image from an identity? Former NFL offensive lineman Shawn Harper reveals the transformative wisdom th...

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Shelbi Toone, Community Activist, takes us on a remarkable journey through her evolution as an artist, community organizer, and cultural preservationist in Columbus, Ohio. What began with watching her grandparents honor their elders has blossomed into a multifaceted career dedicated to ensuring Black history and community stories aren't lost to time.

Today, as project lead for the Poindexter Village Museum (soon to be Ohio's 59th historical site), Shelbi is creating her most enduring legacy yet – a space that will preserve African Am...

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Coach Stan Jackson, who has a wealth of experience both playing for Ohio State and now coaching at Westerville North HS, emphasizes that the values learned in sports—that accountability, hard work, and competition—carry over into every aspect of life. Coach Stan Jackson shares his journey through sports, weaving in practical wisdom that every athlete and parent should hear. He openly discusses the pitfalls of "Daddy Ball" and highlights how crucial it is for young athletes to earn their positions through genuine comp...

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On this episode, Shirley Rogers-Reece, a seasoned leader with a wealth of experience accrued over 34 years in the McDonald's Corporation. Her unique insights into corporate culture, mentorship, and the power of legacy are invaluable. Shirley shares about her remarkable path—from working her way up through the ranks in the U.S. to becoming a pivotal force in expanding McDonald's operations in Indonesia. 

Shirley recounts her family's encouragement to pursue bold career opportunities, including her transition to managing multiple restaurants overseas. Hea...

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Black History Icon: Catherine Willis is a member of the Columbus, Ohio Hall of Fame, and her legacy extends far beyond her accomplishments. She co-founded Friends of Art for Community Enrichment (F.A.C.E.) nearly 50 years ago, introducing children to the art and culture of Africa and African Americans. Catherine's passion is to encourage minority students to explore their musical talents. As the founder of Urban Strings, she provides opportunities for young people to develop their skills and love for music. And...

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Music Producer, Job Clarkson describes the seven essential mindsets that can lead to a lasting legacy. As a multifaceted artist and the visionary behind the Heart of Job Foundation, Job captivates us with his journey from collaborating with music icons like Ludacris and Rick Ross to founding his own record label, Black Box Entertainment. He shares personal anecdotes that emphasize the importance of making every moment count and reveals how an oversight with TI taught him the value of seizing opportunities. Through an...

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Christian Johnson and Northland High School student Caden Gadjigo share how they turned their passions into thriving entrepreneurial ventures. Christian reveals her evolution from crafting greeting cards to becoming a business co-founder of ABC Black Iconic Figures, driven by a thirst for autonomy and a deep commitment to education. Meanwhile, Columbus Northland high school senior Caden shares how a simple sketch set him on a journey to fashion entrepreneurship and creation of his Creatively Guided Attire clothing brand . Together, they offer a wealth...

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Gene Smith, a Division I athletic director for nearly 40 years was a trailblazer for Black college administrators. In 1986 when he earned his first athletic director job, he was one of two Black Division I-A athletic directors. Through his diversity and inclusion efforts, Smith has played a big role in administrators from underrepresented groups earning athletic director jobs themselves.

Gene Smith’s true legacy can be seen in his diverse pipeline around the country including, Patrick Chun became the first Asian American AD...

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Kristen Jones Miller's entrepreneurial journey is both inspiring and transformative. Driven by a personal frustration with the lack of suitable nude lip colors for darker skin tones, Kristen co-founded Minted Cosmetics with Amanda Johnson, turning a light bulb moment into a multi-million dollar success. Their story is a testament to the power of creativity and resilience, as well as the vital role of community support. Kristen shares how her faith and the encouragement from Second Baptist Church empowered her to pursue her dreams...

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BAB Podcast Black History Month Episode. Judge Yvette McGee Brown. Judge Brown was the first African American woman elected to the Franklin County Common Pleas Court in 1992, and in January 2011, she became the first African American woman to serve as a Justice on the Supreme Court of Ohio. 

Judge Brown graduated from Columbus City Schools and attended Ohio University with a degree in Journalism/Public Relations, followed by her Juris Doctorate from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law. She h...

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Pastor Keith Bradley, Heirs Christian Center Church in Charlotte, North Carolina is  a dynamic leader with a compelling story, joins us to uncover the profound intersection of faith and purpose. From his early days in Newark, New Jersey, where he navigated the challenges of foster care and his mother's mental health struggles, to becoming a beacon of spiritual guidance for athletes at Ohio State University, Pastor Bradley's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Discover how his passion for sports and personal resilience fueled h...

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Join us as we explore this remarkable journey with Vince "The Voice" Bailey, whose signature baritone voice paved his way from a book-loving child in Gary, Indiana, to a prominent voiceover artist and entrepreneur. Vince shares stories of his upbringing, influenced by a hardworking father and a supportive community, highlighting the profound impact of family and mentors on his path to success.

Vince takes us through his transition from radio to community-focused endeavors, illustrating the pivotal role his faith and music...

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Join us as we welcome John Parms, the visionary founder and managing officer of Parms & Company, who takes us on a captivating journey through his 40-year business legacy. Growing up as the youngest of eight children in Akron, Ohio, John shares how the unwavering support of his family and community laid the foundation for his success. With anecdotes from his upbringing and insights into the values instilled by his parents and siblings, John illustrates the power of faith, community, and family influence in...

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Bishop Dr. Daryl Sanders shares his transformative journey from growing up in Columbus, Ohio, to becoming a beacon of leadership in both education and ministry. Dr. Sanders reveals how witnessing the success of Black-owned businesses and the support of inspiring educators instilled in him the values of leadership and perseverance. Listen as he uncovers the pivotal role his mother's belief in education played in shaping his and his siblings' paths, leading to a family legacy rich in academic achievement.

Discover the...

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dee Anders the remarkable CEO and Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio. Discover how her upbringing in Columbus, Ohio, and pivotal experiences at Brookhaven High School, such as engaging in gymnastics and cheerleading, were instrumental in shaping her commitment to community service. Dee Anders early involvement in the Kids Speak program sparked a lifelong passion for connecting children with city government, setting her on a path of impactful leadership. Her story is...

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Ohio University, Cierra Johnson of NBC 4 in Columbus, Ohio offers a candid glimpse into both her professional and personal journey. A Her story is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep-rooted connection to family and faith, all of which have shaped her impressive career over the years. Join us as we explore this enlightening conversation with Cierra, an anchor whose story is sure to inspire.

Picture this: a bustling newsroom, an accomplished reporter, and the grit required to thrive in the...

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Discover how Bexley Police Chief Gary Lewis, the first African-American police chief in Bexley, Ohio, transitioned from his initial passion for art to a career in law enforcement, driven by familial ties and inspiring mentors like his detective uncle and Captain Gilbert Jones. Through  personal stories, Chief Lewis opens up about the profound influence of family and community in his life, underscoring the strength of mentorship and the pivotal role it played in shaping his remarkable journey. As he reflects on his path, y...

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Dr. Frederic Bertley, the charismatic CEO of the Center of Science and Industry, takes us on a captivating journey from his adventurous childhood mishap with a video game and a lamp cord to leading one of the most respected science centers in the U.S. We explore how these early sparks of curiosity ignited his passion for science, proving that even the most unexpected experiences can set the stage for a lifelong commitment to discovery. This episode is packed with tales of wonder...

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What does it take to build a legacy through education and community service? On the latest episode of the Be A Baller podcast, we're thrilled to feature Catherine Willis, a dynamic community activist and life long educator. Catherine opens up about the profound influence of her parents, especially her mother's dedication to teaching, which paved the way for her own commitment to education. Her story takes us through her personal evolution, meeting her husband Ed, a fellow educator, and her enduring dedication to...

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Ever wondered how faith and determination can shape a legacy? Meet our inspiring guest, Henry Golatt, an HBCU graduate and passionate small business development advocate, who joins Coach Tim Brown on the Be A Baller podcast. Raised in a faith-centered Southern community as the youngest boy of 13 siblings, Henry shares his profound journey of building a lifelong legacy in business, deeply influenced by his father, a hardworking contractor and farmer. Together, we explore how early life experiences and community support can mold one's...

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What if you could learn the secrets of a two-time Heisman Trophy winner? Join us on the Be A Baller Podcast as we welcome the legendary Archie Griffin a two-time Heisman Trophy winner. 

Faith, leadership, and legacy are central themes in Archie's life. Reflecting on the role of nightly prayers and gratitude, he discusses how these practices influenced his decision to play for Ohio State University. Despite initial doubts, pivotal moments with Coach Woody Hayes and a grounded approach to life l...

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On Be a Baller Podcast, Baller's Edge Live Event,  Ms. Alethea Gaddis and Mr. Corey Smith,  share their remarkable journeys and the profound influence education has had on their lives. Ms. Gaddis talks about her parents’ unwavering dedication despite limited opportunities, revealing how their commitment enabled her and her siblings to achieve higher education. Mr. Smith, representing "I Know I Can," discusses the responsibility adults have in preparing the younger generation for success through education and mentorship.

Our episode also shines a sp...

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Join us on Be A Baller podcast Live Event Baller's Edge as we hear from Kenny and Chris Crump entrepreneurial powerhouses who passionately discuss the role of mentorship in building a lifelong legacy. They share their inspiring journeys of  successes in the beauty and fitness industries serves as powerful examples of what can be achieved.

We then dive into the real-world challenges faced by entrepreneurs, from the struggle to secure capital to the importance of leveraging networks. The Crump's foundation, We E...