The Journey Memphis

Faith, Flavor & Purpose: How Bartholomew Jones Brewed a Movement with Cxffeeblack

"Never run back to what broke you." — Frank Ocean In this powerful episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Bartholomew Jones, a Memphis visionary, hip-hop artist, educator, and founder of Cxffeeblack — a cultural movement that's reimagining coffee, community, and Black excellence. Born Maurice Henderson II, Bartholomew's transformation is rooted in faith, creativity, and purpose. From early years in Louisville and Whitehaven to building one of the most recognized Black-owned coffee brands in America, his story is an anthem for curiosity, culture, and courage. In this episode, you'll learn: * How a kid inspired by faith turned passion into purpose * The meaning behind the name Bartholomew Jones and the legacy it carries * How hip-hop and coffee became tools for empowerment * The birth of Cxffeeblack and the vision to reclaim coffee's African roots * Why he believes "God don't make no junk and coffee don't need no cream" * What it means to run towards what builds you, not back to what broke you Whether you're a dreamer, creator, or entrepreneur, this conversation will fill your cup, reminding you that your story, your culture, and your faith are your greatest strengths.

Write the Next Version of You: Austin Baker on Leadership, Mentorship & Faith

"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success." — Albert Schweitzer In this episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Austin Baker, Memphis-born entrepreneur, connector, and president of HRO Partners. From launching his first business while still at the University of Memphis to leading one of the region's top HR firms, Austin's story is one of faith, mentorship, and doing well by doing good. In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Austin shares: * How growing up on a Cordova farm taught him the value of hard work and humility * Why mentorship became his life's purpose and how the MILE Program is shaping future leaders * His 20-year practice of writing letters to his future self is "the best form of time travel" * What it means to "farm for talent" and build people, not just businesses * His philosophy on using AI and innovation to multiply, not replace, human potential * Why his mantra "Do well by doing good" drives every decision he makes Austin's story reminds us that true leadership isn't about titles or awards, it's about impact. His wisdom challenges us all to pause, reflect, and write the next version of ourselves into existence.

From Idea to Icon: How Elliott Sayles Built 'Mane' Into a Memphis Movement

"Don't be topic or event-driven — be thought and idea-driven." — Elliott Sayles In this inspiring episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Elliott Sayles, the visionary behind the Mane T-Shirt, a Memphis-born cultural brand celebrating identity, creativity, and local pride. From East Cleveland to California to Memphis, Elliott's story is a powerful reminder that creativity, faith, and authenticity can turn a single idea into a movement. A designer, thinker, and spiritual entrepreneur, Elliott shares how he transformed a simple Memphis slang word into a meaningful symbol of community and belonging. In this episode, Elliott opens up about: * How he discovered his gift as a creator and idea generator * The journey from Cleveland to Memphis, and how the city "crashed" his world in the best way * The prayer and inspiration behind Mane and how it became a brand * What intellectual property means and why ownership matters * His advice for dreamers: face what scares you and pursue your ideas fearlessly * How being a "girl dad" changed his perspective on life and leadership Elliott Sayles reminds us that success begins with identity and intention. When you create from who you are, not what's trending.

From Bolivar to the World: Ken Griggs on Faith, Hustle & Living with Purpose

"I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day." — Edgar Guest In this heartfelt episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with the dynamic Ken Griggs. a Memphis visionary, entrepreneur, and connector whose story embodies faith, perseverance, and purpose. Born and raised in Bolivar, Tennessee, Ken's path has taken him from humble beginnings on a family farm to working with Fortune 500 companies, mayors, HBCUs, and NASCAR. Known for his powerful personality and heart for people, Ken shares his unfiltered truth about growing up Southern, building community, and finding meaning in the grind. In this inspiring conversation, Ken talks about: * Growing up in Bolivar with strong family and spiritual roots * The lessons he learned from elders and why listening matters * How Memphis taught him to hustle and persevere * His journey from pig farming to working in business, sports, and entertainment * The difference between religion and spirituality and how God guides his path * His timeless message to young people: "Pay attention. Be grateful. See it through." Whether you're chasing dreams, rebuilding from setbacks, or simply looking for perspective, this episode will remind you that success starts with faith, character, and consistency.

You Can't Burn Me Out: How Mack Weaver Turned Adversity into Leadership

"Dedicate yourself to a core set of values. Without them, you will never lead effectively." — Ken Chenault In this inspiring episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Mack Weaver, a proud son of North Memphis, lifelong leader, deacon, and now CEO of Memphis in May. From growing up in a single-parent home to leading one of Memphis' most celebrated cultural institutions, Mack's story is a masterclass in perseverance, discipline, and faith. In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Mack shares: * How football and faith taught him to never give up — "You can't burn me out." * The prayer that changed his life during his first year at South Carolina State * What it means to grow up in North Memphis and never forget your roots * Lessons on leadership, listening, and finding strength through humility * Why smiling, even through the struggle, can change everything * How family, faith, and community shaped his path to success From being a college athlete to becoming a community advocate, church leader, and CEO, Mack reminds us that grit and grace go hand in hand. His message is simple yet profound: "There's only one you. Be the best you that you can be. Control yourself, control your emotions and just smile."