In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Taryell Simmons sits down with Setche Kwamu-Nana to explore how she transformed 163 job rejections into a powerful business model. From engineering to equity consulting, Setche shares how systemic barriers became insight, and insight became strategy to help organizations unlock hidden talent.
Aug 18
1 hr 41 min
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Taryell Simmons sits down with Eric L. Johnson II, co-founder, co-owner, and Chief Marketing Officer of Flavor Hills, a fast-growing, veteran-owned hospitality group known for elevated Southern comfort food, craft cocktails, and high-level hospitality.
Eric shares how his experience as a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and Marine Corps Combat Engineer Officer shaped his approach to leadership, branding, team culture, and business growth. As CMO and Chief Leadership Officer, he helps drive Flavor Hills’ community presence, brand strategy, and regional expansion alongside fellow Marine veterans Andre Truss and Tellers Pollard III.
This conversation explores what it takes to build a memorable brand, lead with discipline, create strong community connections, and scale a hospitality business with purpose.
Aug 4
1 hr 2 min
In this powerful episode of RISE Urban Nation, Taryell Simmons sits down with filmmaker and director Dontavious Shuler to explore how faith, loss, and self-discovery shaped his journey into filmmaking. From launching Dontavious Shuler Studios to producing his debut film Echoes, Dontavious shares how creators can use storytelling as a tool for healing, impact, and social responsibility.
Jul 13
52 min
In this powerful episode of the RISE Urban Nation Podcast, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Teri Thompson—federal criminal defense attorney, author, and founder of Justice Redefined to explore the transformative power of radical self-love in shaping the future of Black youth. Drawing from over 30 years in the justice system, Teri shares how early self-esteem, representation, and storytelling can change life trajectories. Through her children’s book series The Adventures of Kai and programs like IMAGINE ME and G.L.O., she is helping young people build confidence, resilience, and purpose. This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and entrepreneurs committed to generational impact.
Jul 8
1 hr 6 min
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with entrepreneur and strategist Stevii Mills to explore how entrepreneurs can transform their knowledge, experience, and expertise into real income streams. Stevii shares practical strategies for recognizing the value of what you already know, packaging that knowledge into offers, and building visibility that creates both impact and opportunity.
Jun 24
52 min
In this powerful episode of RISE Urban Nation, Taryell Simmons sits down with Keith Wattley, Founder and Executive Director of UnCommon Law, to explore second chances, trauma-informed justice, and what it means to advocate for the people society often labels beyond redemption.
Jun 10
1 hr 6 min
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Taryell Simmons sits down with Mo Cisse, founder of Meraki Allure, to explore how he built a sustainable fashion brand rooted in purpose, quality, and environmental responsibility. Mo shares his journey, the challenges of going against fast fashion norms, and the lessons he’s learned in building a brand aligned with values and impact.
Jun 4
1 hr 2 min
In this inspiring episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Melody Shari, founder of Seventh Avenue Beauty, to explore how passion, marketing mastery, and community helped her build a multi-million-dollar beauty brand. From solving her own skincare challenges as a busy mom of four to scaling a one-stop beauty destination, Melody shares the strategies and mindset behind sustainable growth.
Jun 1
37 min
In this episode of RISE Urban Nation, Phillip Hogan returns to share deeper insights on marketing, leadership, and resilience. From overcoming addiction and cancer to building a nationally recognized business, Phillip breaks down what it truly means to operate with relentless excellence.
May 19
1 hr 22 min
In this deeply moving episode of RISE Urban Nation, host Taryell Simmons sits down with Anya Owensbrown, founder of OUR KINGS, to explore how a mother’s love transformed fear into a powerful community movement. Born from the realities of raising Black boys in a world that too often misunderstands them, OUR KINGS creates safe spaces for boys and caregivers to grow, heal, and thrive. Anya shares the journey from small meetups to nonprofit leadership — and why protecting Black childhood is legacy work.
May 5
51 min
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