Valencia Yearwood: From Biology to Broadway

Valencia Yearwood: From Biology to Broadway

Valencia Yearwood’s path to the stage wasn’t a straight line — it was a bold detour. A dancer since childhood, Valencia once planned to become a doctor, studying biology at Syracuse University before realizing her true calling was in the arts. In this episode, Valencia shares how she pivoted from science to performance, what she learned from her early days as an extra on film sets, and how storytelling became her life’s purpose. A Tony-nominated actor, producer, and director, Valencia reflects on discipline, faith, and the power of telling Black stories with truth and intention.

Justice After 35 Years: Damon Venable's Second Chance

Damon Venable spent 35 years behind bars—and emerged with a mission. In this episode of Frolic and Detour, Damon shares his powerful journey from incarceration to advocacy, reflecting on resilience, redemption, and the fight for justice. His story is one of transformation, second chances, and the power of using your voice to change lives.

From Detours to Healing: Dr. Roxanne Richards on Trauma, Purpose, and Mental Health

Roxanne Richards, Ph.D. didn’t start her journey in mental health—she found her way there after exploring several different careers, each one bringing her a step closer to her true purpose. In this episode of 𝐹𝘳𝑜𝘭𝑖𝘤 𝘢𝑛𝘥 𝘋𝑒𝘵𝑜𝘶𝑟, she opens up about that winding path and the powerful lessons she’s learned along the way. We talk about the lasting emotional impact of COVID-19, the rising rates of trauma, and why so many people—especially in communities of color—are now recognizing the need for therapy. Dr. Richards shares her thoughts on when it’s okay to seek therapy privately, and when it might be more helpful to bring loved ones into the process. Dr. Richards also discusses the work she’s doing through her YouTube channel to make mental health conversations more accessible and relatable. Whether you’re feeling stuck, curious about therapy, or just in need of a little inspiration, this conversation is for you.

Prophetic Notes: Tomika Arnold on Music, Ministry, and Meaning

Tomika Arnold was once deep in the world of IT, telecom, and accounting — until her true calling started humming beneath the surface. Now a full-time singer based in Washington, D.C., Tomika brings more than a voice to the stage — she brings 𝑝𝘶𝑟𝘱𝑜𝘴𝑒. In this episode of 𝐹𝑟𝑜𝑙𝑖𝑐 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐷𝑒𝑡𝑜𝑢𝑟, she shares how she made the bold leap from corporate cubicles to center stage, performing at weddings, funerals, engagement parties, and everything in between. Tomika sees her gift not just as talent, but as ministry — a way to comfort grieving families, celebrate love, and stir the soul. She’s worked with legends like Stevie Wonder, Beyoncé, and even the Kennedy Center Honors. And she doesn’t shy away from tough questions: Can Christians sing secular love songs? Should artists collaborate or create in isolation? What does it mean to move prophetically through music? Whether you’re a creative in transition or simply love a story about stepping into purpose, Tomika’s journey will inspire you to find 𝑦𝑜𝑢𝑟 voice — and use it.

Building Brotherhood: Jeff Lindor on Carving a Legacy for Men of Color

In this episode of 𝑭𝒓𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑫𝒆𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒓, I sit down with Jeff Lindor, founder of 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝐺𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛'𝑠 𝐹𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑦--a transformative space for men of color to connect, grow, and build legacy.Recorded in Brooklyn, New York, this conversation dives into Jeff's journey from Coney Island to creating a thriving professional community in Bedford-Stuyvesant. Jeff opens up about the early challenges of keeping the Gentleman's Factory afloat and staying personally grounded while building something bigger than himself.We talk about the power of community in combatting isolation and bias, and Jeff shares how the Gentleman's Factory has become a hub where men gather to network, get inspired, watch games, and even grab a haircut.Most importantly, Jeff discusses the legacy he hopes to leave behind--and his bold mission to expand this model of intentional brotherhood across the country and around the world.