Tray of Truths

DJ Dollaz Talks Grief, Music Therapy, Club Culture & The Truth About People | Tray of Truths #40

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Tray of Truths, DJ Dollaz opens up like never before. From navigating the loss of both parents to finding healing through music, this conversation goes far beyond the DJ booth. Dollaz shares how grief shaped his mindset, how music became his therapy, and what it really takes to keep going when life gets dark. He speaks on building his career from Connecticut to Atlanta and Florida, the importance of relationships, and why staying genuine is key in both life and business. This episode also dives into the realities of the nightlife scene, the evolution of club culture, and the mindset required to survive and grow in today’s world. With raw honesty, DJ Dollaz breaks down loyalty, self-reliance, time management, and the importance of doing right by people. If you are an artist, entrepreneur, or anyone going through life transitions, this episode will challenge your perspective and remind you to stay grounded, stay real, and keep going. --------------------------------------------------------------- 0:00 – Introduction & Meeting DJ Dollaz 2:10 – Mental Health Check & Coping With Dark Times 4:30 – Losing Both Parents & Life After Loss 7:15 – How Music Became Therapy 9:30 – Background: From New York to Connecticut to Atlanta 12:00 – Life Without His Mom as Manager 14:10 – Importance of Relationships & “Face Card” 17:00 – Goals: Real Estate & Building Wealth 19:00 – How DJing Started (Influence From His Father) 22:00 – Music as Motivation & Emotional Connection 24:30 – “Nobody Got You Like You” Mentality 27:00 – Trust Issues, Circle & Letting People In 30:00 – Moving Smart & Reading People 32:30 – Transitioning to Atlanta & Homesickness 35:00 – Nightlife Culture & Club Scene Evolution 38:00 – Advice for Artists & Entrepreneurs 40:30 – Three Truths: Loyalty, Being Yourself & Doing Right 43:00 – Final Message: Faith, Staying Grounded & Purpose Leave a review here [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442227/fan_mail/new] Follow Tray of Truths Podcast: INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/trayoftruths?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== TWITTER | https://x.com/1realtray?s=21 TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@1realtray?_t=ZT-8yF4tmKCZ3e&_r=1 FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/share/16NLuKUrxb/?mibextid=wwXIfr SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5bDb2kPVu7sIzaqTb4tOJz APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tray-of-truths/id1794656555 Join the Lounge Family (Free Guides, Merch, & More): Website | www.trayoftruths.com Extras | https://linktr.ee/TrayofTruths

Zachary Bell Reveals How to Turn Setbacks Into Purpose, Trusting God & Purpose | Tray of Truths #39

In this powerful episode of Tray of Truths, we sit down with entrepreneur and visionary Zachary Bell, founder of Black Is Arts, to unpack a transformative season of faith, uncertainty, and self-discovery. Zachary opens up about navigating four months without a job, battling self-doubt, and ultimately using that time to strengthen his faith, redefine his purpose, and build something meaningful from the ground up. What many would see as a setback became a pivotal turning point that reshaped his mindset, priorities, and approach to life. This conversation dives deep into the realities of post-college transitions, the pressure of corporate expectations, and the courage it takes to walk away from comfort in pursuit of purpose. Zachary also shares the inspiration behind his “30 for 30” content series, where he documented his journey in real time, highlighting the power of authenticity, consistency, and vulnerability. If you’ve ever questioned your path, struggled with setbacks, or felt stuck between stability and purpose, this episode will challenge your perspective and inspire you to move forward with faith and intention. --------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00 – Introduction to Zachary Bell & Black Is Arts 03:15 – Life Without a Job: Turning Pressure Into Purpose 08:40 – Faith vs Doubt: Trusting God in Uncertain Seasons 14:20 – The Reality of Corporate America After College 20:10 – Rejection, Interviews & Staying Mentally Strong 26:45 – Choosing Purpose Over Comfort & Security 32:30 – The Power of Community & Brotherhood (J5) 38:15 – Learning to Give Yourself Grace 44:00 – The “30 for 30” Journey: Consistency & Vulnerability 50:20 – Documenting vs Creating: A Mindset Shift 55:10 – Why This Season Was Necessary for Growth 59:30 – Saying No to Opportunities That Don’t Align 01:03:45 – What’s Next for Zachary Bell & Black Is Arts 01:07:20 – Three Truths to Live By (Faith, Perspective, Discipline) Leave a review here [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442227/fan_mail/new] Follow Tray of Truths Podcast: INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/trayoftruths?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== TWITTER | https://x.com/1realtray?s=21 TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@1realtray?_t=ZT-8yF4tmKCZ3e&_r=1 FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/share/16NLuKUrxb/?mibextid=wwXIfr SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5bDb2kPVu7sIzaqTb4tOJz APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tray-of-truths/id1794656555 Join the Lounge Family (Free Guides, Merch, & More): Website | www.trayoftruths.com Extras | https://linktr.ee/TrayofTruths

Niyah Brown on Mastering Self-Worth, Purpose, & Building a Stronger Mindset | Tray of Truths #38

In this powerful episode of Tray of Truths, we sit down with Niyah Brown for an unfiltered conversation about self-worth, healing, and the courage it takes to walk away from what no longer serves you. Niyah opens up about her personal journey through adversity, growth, and self-discovery, sharing real-life experiences that highlight the importance of accountability, emotional intelligence, and protecting your peace. This episode dives deep into relationships, personal boundaries, and the mindset shifts required to level up in life. Through raw storytelling and honest dialogue, Niyah provides insight into what it truly means to choose yourself, rebuild your confidence, and embrace transformation. If you are navigating challenges, seeking clarity, or striving to become a better version of yourself, this conversation will resonate deeply. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually while learning how to move with intention and purpose. ------------------------------------------------------ 00:00 Introduction and welcoming Niyah Brown 02:15 Niyah’s background and early life experiences 06:40 Defining self-worth and where it begins 11:30 Overcoming personal struggles and adversity 16:45 The importance of accountability and self-reflection 21:10 Relationships, boundaries, and knowing when to walk away 27:35 Healing from past trauma and emotional growth 33:20 Building confidence and trusting yourself again 38:50 Protecting your peace and energy 44:05 Lessons learned from life transitions 49:10 Advice for people feeling stuck or lost 54:00 Final thoughts and closing message Leave a review here [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442227/fan_mail/new] Follow Tray of Truths Podcast: INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/trayoftruths?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== TWITTER | https://x.com/1realtray?s=21 TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@1realtray?_t=ZT-8yF4tmKCZ3e&_r=1 FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/share/16NLuKUrxb/?mibextid=wwXIfr SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5bDb2kPVu7sIzaqTb4tOJz APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tray-of-truths/id1794656555 Join the Lounge Family (Free Guides, Merch, & More): Website | www.trayoftruths.com Extras | https://linktr.ee/TrayofTruths

Justin Slaughter on Losing It All, Rebuilding Through Faith & Belief Comes Late | Tray of Truths #37

In this powerful and transparent episode of Tray of Truths, I sit down with Justin Slaughter, a motivational speaker, content creator, and mentor, to explore the realities of navigating life’s most challenging seasons. Justin shares his personal journey of adversity, including losing his job, facing financial instability, and confronting internal struggles that are often hidden behind a curated public image. He speaks candidly about coping mechanisms, moments of self doubt, and the difficult process of taking full accountability in order to move forward. Throughout the conversation, Justin emphasizes the importance of faith, discipline, and acceptance. He reflects on how strengthening his relationship with God, maintaining consistency in the gym, and practicing intentional self reflection allowed him to rebuild both mentally and emotionally. --------------------------------------------------------------- 0:00 – Introduction to Justin Slaughter 2:10 – “I’m at a 6 mentally” – Opening up about tough weeks 6:45 – Losing his job & financial setbacks explained 12:30 – Coping mechanisms: drinking, smoking & reality check 18:20 – Accountability vs excuses in hard times 23:50 – Being the “strong friend” & hiding struggles 30:15 – Why people don’t support your vision 36:40 – Building a real community vs fake support 43:10 – Faith, God & navigating uncertainty 49:25 – Accepting life seasons & letting go of control 55:40 – Depression, isolation & self-reflection (host perspective) 1:02:15 – Lessons from pain: growth, discipline & purpose 1:08:30 – Advice for men struggling without faith 1:13:10 – Finding confidence & becoming your true self 1:17:00 – Final gems: acceptance, resilience & staying the course Leave a review here [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442227/fan_mail/new] Follow Tray of Truths Podcast: INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/trayoftruths?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== TWITTER | https://x.com/1realtray?s=21 TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@1realtray?_t=ZT-8yF4tmKCZ3e&_r=1 FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/share/16NLuKUrxb/?mibextid=wwXIfr SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5bDb2kPVu7sIzaqTb4tOJz APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tray-of-truths/id1794656555 Join the Lounge Family (Free Guides, Merch, & More): Website | www.trayoftruths.com Extras | https://linktr.ee/TrayofTruths

Charity Graham on Process, Passion, & Building Something Bigger Than Herself | Tray of Truths #36

In this powerful episode of Tray of Truths, we sit down with entrepreneur and community builder Charity Graham, founder of 20 Somethings Media, to unpack the real journey behind building a purpose-driven platform for young Black creatives. Charity shares how she transformed a simple idea into a growing digital and real-life community centered on educating, motivating, and entertaining. She opens up about the early stages of building her brand, staying consistent without immediate results, and trusting the process even when the vision was not fully understood by others. This conversation dives deep into mental health, the power of journaling, and how self-awareness plays a major role in growth. Charity also breaks down the realities of being a one-woman team, the behind-the-scenes work that people do not see, and the discipline it takes to keep showing up. We also explore what it means to build a genuine community, how to identify real support versus surface-level connections, and why authenticity is the foundation of long-term success. If you are an entrepreneur, creative, or someone searching for purpose, this episode will challenge you to stop waiting and start building with what you have. ------------------------------------------------------ 00:00 – Introduction & Guest Welcome 02:10 – Mental Health Check & The Power of Journaling 06:45 – Using Journaling as Emotional Release 10:20 – The Birth of 20 Somethings Media 15:30 – Creating Positive Media for the Black Community 20:15 – Going From Idea to Execution 25:40 – Staying Consistent as a One-Woman Team 30:50 – Behind the Scenes of Content Creation 36:10 – Passion vs Purpose: Where It All Started 41:30 – Building Confidence & Being Naturally Outgoing 45:20 – How Charity Built a Strong Community 50:10 – Spotting Fake Support & Protecting Your Circle 54:30 – Lessons Learned: Work Ethic & Self-Awareness 58:00 – Vision for the Future of 20 Somethings Media 1:03:30 – Final Thoughts & Advice for Creators Leave a review here [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442227/fan_mail/new] Follow Tray of Truths Podcast: INSTAGRAM | https://www.instagram.com/trayoftruths?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== TWITTER | https://x.com/1realtray?s=21 TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@1realtray?_t=ZT-8yF4tmKCZ3e&_r=1 FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/share/16NLuKUrxb/?mibextid=wwXIfr SPOTIFY | https://open.spotify.com/show/5bDb2kPVu7sIzaqTb4tOJz APPLE PODCAST | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tray-of-truths/id1794656555 Join the Lounge Family (Free Guides, Merch, & More): Website | www.trayoftruths.com Extras | https://linktr.ee/TrayofTruths