The Minds w/ Hakeem

Literary Lifestyle: Abena Sankofa Imhotep

In this episode, we sit down with Abena Sankofa- Imhotep, the host of the Black and Privilege in America Podcast, to talk about a simple yet transformative topic: reading.Abena shares her perspective on why reading as an adult is not just a hobby, but a discipline that sharpens thinking, strengthens identity, and fuels leadership. We explore how reading expands worldview, deepens cultural awareness, and challenges complacency in a distracted world.This episode is an invitation to return to the page or pick it up for your first time, not just for knowledge, but for growth, clarity, and empowerment.If you’ve been needing a push to pick up a book again, this conversation is it.Abena's Instagram is @theofficalSankofa Her website, where you can find her Substack: The Imhotep Report and podcast Black and Privileged in America, is (abenasankofa.com)

65: Bert Knapp & Rachel Young - Thugging to Loving

Bert Knapp and Rachel Young are the founders of Thugging to Loving, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives through mentorship, community building, and second chances. Their work is rooted in the belief that true change begins with love, accountability, and opportunity. Together, they have created safe spaces for individuals to grow beyond their past circumstances and step into purpose. On September 20th, from 12 PM to 5 PM at Drake Park, they will host their Awakening Event—a day of empowerment, healing, and connection for the community. The event will feature motivational speakers, music, resources, and activities designed to inspire personal growth and unity. Through initiatives like this, Bert and Rachel continue to show how love and compassion can spark transformation and hope. Website:  https://www.thuggingtoloving.com/ [https://www.thuggingtoloving.com/] Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/share/1JzmqU1Geb/ [https://www.facebook.com/share/1JzmqU1Geb/]

64: w/ Corey Dion Lewis - Save the Homies

In this episode, I talk with Corey Dion Lewis, founder of The Healthy Project and a leader reimagining how we approach prevention, health equity, and culture. With over a decade of experience as a clinical health coach, Corey has built powerful initiatives like the Save the Homies campaign and the My City My Health Conference to bridge clinical care and community impact. He’s also the host of top-ranked podcasts, where real conversations about health and culture take center stage. Recognized nationally for his leadership, Corey shares how hip-hop, storytelling, and optimism fuel his mission to make health a shared story for all. Save the Homies [https://www.savethehomies.com/] My City My Health [https://www.mycity.health/] Healthy Project Media [https://www.healthyproject.co/]

The Minds: Mindful Moments with Jjuan Hakeem - The Anxious Generations by Jonathan Hadit

In this episode, we dive into The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt — a powerful and urgent exploration of how smartphones, social media, and shifting cultural norms are reshaping childhood and adolescence. I break down Haidt's core arguments, from the "phone-based childhood" to the rise in anxiety, depression, and fragility among Gen Z, and reflect on what it all means for parents, educators, and leaders today.Whether you're a caregiver, mentor, or simply someone concerned about the mental health crisis among youth, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about how we raise and support the next generation. Tune in for practical takeaways, personal reflections, and a look at what it might take to reverse the trends Haidt so clearly lays out. Webiste: Jjuanhakeem.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/tmwhakeem?igsh=MW05YnBkMnozaXRubQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr X: https://x.com/themindshakeem?s=11

63: w/ Dani Mincks

In this episode, I sit down with my friend and sister in the work, Dani Mincks—Director of Community Engagement and Lead Career Coach at Change Course. We talk about growth, leadership, and what it means to create real change through relationships, purpose, and service. With over 15 years in banking and a deep heart for the underserved, Dani brings powerful insight and passion to the conversation.