Black bookstores were once the heartbeat of our communities—spaces of knowledge, culture, resistance, and liberation. In this episode of The Lifestrong Project, we sit down with the filmmakers behind the upcoming documentary “They Said Niggas Don’t Read: The Rise & Fall of Black Bookstores.” Together, we break down: ✔️ How Black bookstores shaped political thought & cultural identity ✔️ Why these spaces were systematically removed across the U.S. ✔️ COINTELPRO’s role in targeting Black intellectual hubs ✔️ The legacy these stores left behind—and why their story matters now more than ever If you care about culture, truth, and preserving our history… this is the episode you need to hear. Listen, subscribe, and share. Let’s keep the legacy alive. 
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In this episode of the Lifestrong Project, we’re thrilled to welcome Tibisay Hernandez, Founder and Chief Learning Officer of A Curious Space. With over 15 years of experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), leadership development, and interactive training, Tibisay has collaborated with organizations such as the U.S. Department of Justice, Brown University, and the NYC Department of Education. She is dedicated to shaping inclusive spaces and fostering understanding, having delivered training to over 10,000 participants on subjects like leadership development and implicit bias. Holding an M.S. in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology and currently pursuing a PhD in Education Theory and Practice, Tibisay merges academic insight with practical experience, making her an inspiring leader in education and DEI work. Join us as we dive into her journey, her approach to creating meaningful change, and her vision for the future of leadership and inclusivity.
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In this episode of the Lifestrong Project, join us as we sit down with Blanca Rodriguez, the Owner and CEO of Wounded Healer, LLC, a transformative wellness practice dedicated to holistic healing. With over 18 years of massage therapy experience and 8 years as a certified canine massage therapist, Blanca brings a wealth of knowledge to her practice, offering unique healing modalities for both humans and pets. A dynamic speaker, podcaster, Amazon bestselling co-author, and fitness instructor specializing in senior wellness, Blanca champions personal growth through wellness. Her passion for community extends beyond her business; as a bilingual leader in Toastmasters, she serves as Vice President of Public Relations for both the Talking Heads of Stuart and Puerto Rico Toastmasters Clubs, as well as a mentor at the American Massage Therapy Association. She also dedicates her time to The Inner Truth Project, The Pet Cottage, and the Humane Society of Saint Lucie County. Tune in to hear Blanca’s insights on holistic wellness, her journey as a business leader, and her dedication to giving back to the community!
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In this episode of The Lifestrong Project, we are joined by Mercy Kiplagat, confidence and mindset coach and founder of R.E.A.L. Self Academy™. Mercy opens up about her mission to help immigrant communities and women reconnect with their true selves, embrace resilience, and step boldly into the lives they deserve. Through her raw and relatable approach, Mercy shares strategies for overcoming cultural challenges, adapting to change, and building confidence from within. From mentoring young women to speaking on stages at universities and empowerment programs, her work proves that authentic growth begins with honest conversations. If you’re navigating change, seeking confidence, or finding your place in a new environment, this episode will leave you encouraged and empowered to live authentically.
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In this powerful episode of The Lifestrong Project, host Anthony Chappell sits down with entrepreneur, real estate developer, and author Marcel Clarke to explore his incredible journey of transformation.  From navigating the streets to becoming a thriving business owner, investor, and mentor, his story is a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and financial literacy.
Marcel shares the pivotal moments that led him to turn his life around, the lessons he learned from both the streets and the boardroom, and how he built wealth through hard work, determination and faith. He also discusses his upcoming book, “Hiding in Plain View“, an inspiring account of overcoming adversity and forging a new path.In this episode, you’ll gain insight into the mindset needed to break generational cycles, the importance of mentorship, and practical advice for building financial freedom. Marcel’s wisdom and authenticity will leave you motivated to take control of your own success story.
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In this episode of the Lifestrong Project, we welcome Arias Westerberry, a powerhouse in entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and tech innovation. From overcoming a turbulent childhood, marked by homelessness, loss, and adversity, to founding multiple successful businesses, Arias’s story is a compelling testament to resilience and vision. As the founder and CEO of WebsterBerry Marketing, Ignite Funnels, and Launch Ignition AI, he has built a legacy in digital strategy and tech innovation, helping generate over $112 million in revenue for his clients. Arias’s goal of empowering entrepreneurs to surpass six- and seven-figure revenue milestones by 2026 speaks to his passion for transformative growth. He brings a no-nonsense approach to digital marketing and a deep-rooted belief that adversity can fuel achievement. Join us as Arias shares his journey, his mission to uplift others, and insights into digital growth that can help anyone turn their ambitions into reality. Don’t miss this story of grit, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of success!
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In this powerful episode of The Lifestrong Project, we are honored to host Dr. Nicole D. Bradford, a dynamic speaker, educator, and author, as she shares her inspiring journey of overcoming adversity. From witnessing domestic violence as a child to breaking through workplace barriers, Dr. Bradford has faced and conquered numerous challenges in her life and career.
In this episode, Dr. Bradford gives us a glimpse into her upcoming book, “My Soul is NOT for sale,” where she explores how to break free from lies, labels, and limitations to live an audaciously authentic life. Her story is one of resilience, empowerment, and a relentless pursuit of purpose.
Tune in to hear Dr. Bradford’s wisdom on reclaiming your life, shifting your mindset, and creating a future that truly aligns with your values.
#authenticliving #mindsetshift #overcomingadversity #youthempowerment #blackexcellence #blackvoices #blackpodcasts #LifestrongProject

In this insightful episode of “The Lifestrong Project,” we’re joined by special guest Carlina Shotwell, a renowned educator and youth advocate dedicated to empowering young people with the tools they need to thrive in life.
Carlina shares her expertise and passion for teaching essential life skills, covering a range of topics from financial literacy and effective communication to time management and personal responsibility. Drawing from her extensive experience working with youth, Carlina provides practical tips and strategies that educators, parents, and young adults can implement to foster independence and success.
Don’t miss this engaging conversation with Carlina Shotwell as we explore the building blocks for a brighter, more capable future generation. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or young adult, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you or the youth in your life navigate the path to success.
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In this powerful and deeply moving episode, we delve into a topic that often remains in the shadows: the experiences of brothers whose sisters have been molested. While the trauma and recovery journey of the survivors are crucial and well-documented, the emotional impact on their siblings, particularly brothers, is less discussed but equally significant.
We are honored to be joined by special guest Keeper Catran-Whitney, an advocate for survivors and their families. Keeper brings a wealth of knowledge and personal insight into the complexities faced by brothers dealing with the aftermath of such traumatic events.
Join us as we hear heartfelt stories from a brother who grappled with feelings of guilt, anger, helplessness, and the overwhelming desire to protect hisr sisters. Keeper Catran-Whitney helps us explore the complex dynamics that unfold within families dealing with such trauma and offers guidance on how brothers can find their voice and role in the healing process.
This episode is not only for those directly affected but also for anyone seeking to understand the broader impact of molestation on families. It’s a call to acknowledge and support the silent struggles of these brothers and to promote a more inclusive conversation about healing and resilience.
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