Darren M. Haynes | 13x Emmy Winning Sports Anchor

Darren M. Haynes | 13x Emmy Winning Sports Anchor

“From the Field to the Frontlines: Darren M. Haynes on Reinvention, Resilience & Real Legacy” 🎧 OPEN (2–3 mins) HOST (Jamir): Some careers are built on talent. Others are built on resilience. And then there are those rare individuals who master both. Today, I’m sitting down with Darren M. Haynes—a 13-time Emmy Award-winning sports anchor, former ESPN SportsCenter host, now holding it down at CBS Los Angeles… But what makes Darren’s story powerful isn’t just the championships he’s covered—it’s the comebacks he’s lived. From breaking records as a running back… to transitioning at ESPN… to rebuilding into one of the most respected voices in sports media today—this is a story about purpose, pressure, and perseverance. Darren, welcome to the show. 🏈 SEGMENT 1: ATHLETE MENTALITY → BROADCAST MINDSET (6–8 mins) 1. Before the cameras, before the Emmys—you were a highly recruited running back. How did football shape the competitor you became in media? 2. You played at multiple programs—University of Rhode Island, University of New Haven, and Wayne State University—and even broke records. What did those transitions teach you about identity and adaptability? 3. Was there a moment when you realized, “The NFL might not be my path—but storytelling is”? 4. Athletes often struggle with life after sports. How did you mentally pivot from being “the player” to becoming “the storyteller”? 🎥 SEGMENT 2: THE GRIND NOBODY SEES (7–9 mins) 5. Your journey wasn’t overnight—you went from small markets in Michigan and Texas to national television. What did those early markets teach you that big platforms never could? 6. From Alpena to Harlingen to San Antonio… those are grind years. What kept you going when the spotlight wasn’t there yet? 7. You were named Texas AP Sportscaster of the Year early in your career—did that validation change your confidence, or your expectations? 8. Be real with me—what was the hardest moment in those early years where you questioned if this was all worth it? 🌍 SEGMENT 3: ESPN, SUCCESS & SETBACK (8–10 mins) Instagram @darrenmhaynes @jamir_smith JamirSmith.com

5 Film Fridays | Create The Writers Room

FIVE FILM FRIDAYS Shorts FIVE FILM FRIDAYS, powered by Create The Writers Room, is more than a program-it's a launchpad for the next generation of filmmakers. Biannually, FIVE standout short films are handpicked by industry insiders and screened directly for our network of studio and production partners, creating real momentum beyond the screen. Through mentorship, insider access, and our partnership with Roku, select films premiere on The Roku Channel, reaching over 90 million viewers worldwide. This is where bold voices break through, where underrepresented creators rise, and where cinematic visions turn into real opportunity-this isn't just a moment, it's a movement, and your story could be next. Instagram @createthewritersroom @jamir_smith Full interviews on YouTube: Jamir_smith

Griot B -Brandon Brown | Juneteenth Concert “Fresh Out” Interview

We caught up with Rapper, Griot B before his Juneteenth performance: The inspiration behind his new viral single “Fresh Out” and its messages of freedom, family and Black joy. Just released this week, the single has already generated 375K+ views on YouTube. His 6-track EP, Good Trouble is out today on all streaming platforms Using music as a tool to build confidence and empower youth. The growing demand for positive, educational content for children and families. How Griot B balances his roles as an artist, educator, entrepreneur, and founder of School Yard Rap. Headlining & hosting a major Juneteenth Celebration & Community Care Activation on June 19 in Culver City, California Instagram: @thegriotb JamirSmith.com Instagram @jamir_smith

Brandon Claybon | Beyond The Gates Interview

“Today’s guest is part of television history. From modeling and commercials to starring in one of the most groundbreaking soap operas in modern television, he’s helping reshape representation on daytime TV. You know him as Martin Richardson on CBS’ hit series Beyond the Gates — please welcome Brandon Claybon.” SEGMENT 1 — THE BEGINNING OF THE DREAM What was it about storytelling that spoke to you that early? SEGMENT 2 — THE ACTOR’S JOURNEY & HOLLYWOOD REALITY You appeared on shows like Grey’s Anatomy, S.W.A.T., Shameless, and The Neighborhood. How did those early opportunities shape you as an actor? SEGMENT 3 — BEYOND THE GATES & MAKING HISTORY Beyond the Gates is already historic — the first new daytime soap in 25 years and the first hour-long soap centered around a predominantly Black cast. When did the weight of that truly hit you? Support this amazing creative and check out the latest episodes of Beyond The Gates on CBS and Instagram: @Brandonclaybon

Sergio Hudson Interview | RTW Fashion Designer

Today’s guest is one of the most influential voices in modern American fashion. From Ridgeway, South Carolina to dressing some of the most powerful women in the world, his designs have become synonymous with confidence, elegance, and power dressing. He’s dressed icons including VP Kamala Harris, Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Ke Ke Palmer, Issa Rae, and so many more. His work represents more than fashion — it represents identity, empowerment, and cultural legacy. Please welcome Sergio Hudson.” I had the opportunity to sit with an amazing fashion designer and friend, Sergio Hudson and talk about: -ROOTS, CHILDHOOD & PURPOSE -BREAKTHROUGH & BUILDING THE BRAND -CULTURE, POLITICS & ICONIC MOMENTS -MET GALA, LEGACY & CREATIVE EVOLUTION Our final question of.. When people talk about Sergio Hudson 50 years from now, what do you hope they say beyond the clothes? “This conversation was powerful. From fashion and identity to culture, legacy, and purpose — Sergio Hudson continues to redefine what modern American luxury looks like. Thank you for joining us.”