The Power to Persist

The Education Mayor: Birmingham's Randall Woodfin on Rebuilding Trust and Opportunity

On this episode of The Power to Persist, host Lamell McMorris welcomes Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin. Elected as the city's youngest mayor in more than a century at age 36, Woodfin shares how his deep roots across Birmingham's neighborhoods, strong family values, and commitment to service shaped his approach to leadership and community impact. Throughout the conversation, Woodfin embodies the habit of Dogged Determination, reflecting on an early political defeat that could have ended his public service journey but instead fueled his resolve to keep moving forward. He demonstrates remarkable Agility in his approach to public safety, shifting from traditional enforcement strategies to treating violence as a public health crisis while addressing the economic factors that contribute to crime. McMorris and Woodfin also explore the importance of Building a Network, highlighting how communities, relationships, and public-private partnerships can create transformational opportunities. Through initiatives like the Birmingham Promise, which has raised more than $30 million to help local students attend college tuition-free, Woodfin shares how collective action can change the trajectory of an entire city. This episode is an inspiring masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the power of community, proving that lasting change happens when persistence is matched with purpose, partnership, and a commitment to serving others.

Burnout Is a Signal: How to Rest, Reset, and Persist

In this episode of The Power to Persist, Lamell McMorris addresses the rising epidemic of burnout, reframing exhaustion not as a weakness but as a human signal that we are carrying too much alone. This conversation is for anyone who has been running on empty and wondering why rest no longer feels like enough. Burnout is showing up in our homes, workplaces, classrooms, and communities, especially for those trying to   Lamell offers a grounded path forward through three essential practices: focus, vulnerability, and agility. What truly deserves your energy today? What shifts when you tell the truth about what you are carrying? And how can you adjust your pace without losing your purpose? These are practical habits that help protect your peace, strengthen your mindset, and build real resilience over time.   At the heart of this episode is a simple but powerful reminder: resilience is not about pushing through at all costs. It is about responding with honesty, wisdom, and care, honoring your limits, and leaning into community. If you have been feeling stretched thin, this episode will meet you there.        Follow Lamell McMorris  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lamellmc/ [https://www.instagram.com/lamellmc/] Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@LamellMcMorris/playlists [https://www.youtube.com/@LamellMcMorris/playlists] LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamellmcmorris/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamellmcmorris/] Purchase your copy here: https://www.lamellmcmorrias.com/the-power-to-persist [https://www.lamellmcmorris.com/the-power-to-persist]

“Praying With Your Feet”: A Life of Faith and Justice with Rabbi Steven Jacobs

On this episode of The Power to Persist Podcast, Lamell McMorris sits down with longtime friend Rabbi Steven Jacobs for a powerful conversation shaped by nearly 30 years of trust, friendship, and a shared commitment to justice—featuring commentary from Rabbi Philip Lazowski.   Rabbi Jacobs has spent a lifetime at the intersection of faith and moral courage, confronting antisemitism, racism, and extremism with conviction and compassion. Together, he and Lamell explore the historical bond between Black and Jewish communities, the tensions shaping that relationship today, and the urgent need to rebuild trust through honest dialogue.   This conversation leans into complexity. It explores solidarity, pain, faith, and leadership—and what it truly means to pursue peace in divided times. Rabbi Lazowski’s contrasting perspective adds depth, grounded in the same commitment to dignity and shared humanity.   What can we learn when we choose conversation over division? What becomes possible when we make room for complexity without losing our commitment to one another?   If you care about faith, justice, and the future of Black-Jewish relations, this is a conversation worth your time.     Follow Lamell McMorris  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lamellmc/ [https://www.instagram.com/lamellmc/] Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@LamellMcMorris/playlists [https://www.youtube.com/@LamellMcMorris/playlists] LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamellmcmorris/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamellmcmorris/]   Purchase your copy here: https://www.lamellmcmorris.com/the-power-to-persist [https://www.lamellmcmorris.com/the-power-to-persist]

Mental Health Is Resilience: What We Can All Learn from Gen Z About Mental Health

In this episode, Lamell McMoriss dives into the pressure and anxiety of trying to hold it all together during uncertain seasons. Lamell emphasizes that true resilience is not a "solo sport" but a team effort built on vulnerability—admitting that you are human and honestly asking for help when you're tired. Learn why forming a trusted inner circle is crucial, transforming your mental health into something you can navigate through network and community, not isolation. The conversation covers the burden felt by listeners, from young graduates feeling like failures to professionals facing their first layoff, all carrying the same weight. By focusing on small, daily practices like "micro rest" and setting boundaries, you can begin to rebuild your mental resilience from the inside out. You are not alone, you are built for this moment, and together, we will persist.   Follow Lamell McMorris   Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lamellmc/ [https://www.instagram.com/lamellmc/]Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@LamellMcMorris/playlists [https://www.youtube.com/@LamellMcMorris/playlists]LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamellmcmorris/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamellmcmorris/] Purchase your copy here: https://www.lamellmcmorris.com/the-power-to-persist [https://www.lamellmcmorris.com/the-power-to-persist]

John Hudson's Energy: Power, Persistence, and Community

On this episode of the Power to Persist, Lamell welcomes John Hudson, Chief External Affairs Officer of Entergy, and close friend for a candid conversation. John details his rise in the Fortune 500 utility sector and the dogged determination instilled by his father. The discussion dives into the constant industry tension between sustainability and profitability. John outlines the utility’s "obligation to serve" all customers and his efforts to promote energy equity in underserved communities.   Hudson breaks down the billions of dollars in new opportunities driven by AI data centers and renewable infrastructure. John recounts his non-linear career path, stressing the crucial agility needed to pivot during down moments. He attributes his persistence to a strong network of mentors and friends who help reframe challenges. This episode is a masterclass in resilient leadership and building an ecosystem for community success.   Follow Lamell McMorris  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lamellmc/ [https://www.instagram.com/lamellmc/] Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@LamellMcMorris/playlists [https://www.youtube.com/@LamellMcMorris/playlists] LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamellmcmorris/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamellmcmorris/] Purchase your copy here: https://www.lamellmcmorris.com/the-power-to-persist [https://www.lamellmcmorris.com/the-power-to-persist]