Tajala Kelly – The Recap Report

JEFF NELSON: THE VISIONARY BEHIND THE VIBE — HOW BLAVITY BECAME A MOVEMENT

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 29, 2025. Posted in Uncategorized. Leave a Comment

Jeff Nelson, COO Blavity Photo by Riki Brewer

Yo, if you ever needed a reminder that Black brilliance hits different when we build together, let’s talk about Jeff Nelson—co-founder of Blavity and one of the sharpest minds in the culture game.

You might know Blavity as the go-to platform for Black millennials but let me put you on to the story behind the story. Jeff Nelson didn’t just stumble into greatness. He built it, brick by digital brick, with heart, hustle, and a vision that never quit.

Back in the day, before the stages and sponsorships, Jeff met Morgan DeBaun in college—he was her RA! From that moment, he saw her magic and pulled her into student government as his VP. That bond turned into a business blueprint, and together, they sparked something that would turn into a cultural wave.

Fast forward, and now Jeff is the behind-the-scenes master operator. As COO of Blavity, he’s the tech whisperer, the one turning ideas into impact. From AI-driven apps to strategizing event tech, he’s the guy making sure Blavity doesn’t just show up, it shows out.

Let’s talk Blavity Fest—the new crown jewel in the culture calendar. Jeff calls it a “big block party around the city,” but make no mistake, this is luxury meets community meets turn-up. From Kirk Franklin and 2 Chainz to Marsei Martin and Keith Lee, this year’s lineup is stacked with voices that move the culture forward.

What makes Blavity events special? According to Jeff, it’s that intentional energy. They don’t just throw events—they design exp

eriences. “You can be an exec by day and hit the afterparty by night,” he says. It’s about honoring every facet of the Black identity.

And listen, if you’re a content creator, talk show host, DJ, or someone with a vision and a mic—Jeff says tap in. Blavity has open applications, partnerships, and a Creator Collective that’s linking talent with major brands. They’re not gatekeeping the game—they’re opening doors.

The future? Oh, it’s global. Blavity’s touching cities from Houston to Paris, Miami to Martha’s Vineyard, building a real-world network to match the online movement.

So here’s the vibe: Jeff Nelson isn’t just operating a company. He’s architecting culture. And if you’re about your purpose, your people, and your power—it’s time to take notes and take up space.

Article by Tajala Kelly

Interview powered by The ReCap Report

Dr. Tanika Long: Building Bridges of Hope in Barnesville and Beyond

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 13, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Entertainment, Health and Beauty, Uncategorized.

Sometimes all it takes is one moment — one post, one realization — to change everything.

For Dr. Tanika Long, that moment came during the height of the pandemic.

Scrolling through Facebook, she saw a post celebrating Black history moments from her hometown, Barnesville, Georgia.

Right there, in black and white, was her name — the first and only African American woman from Barnesville to become a physician.

And it hit her: If I didn’t even know that about myself, how would the next little girl know what’s possible?

That spark lit a fire.

It wasn’t enough to have made it out — she had to come back, full circle, and show the next generation how to dream even bigger.

That’s how Full Circle of Hope was born.

More Than Just a Scholarship — It’s a Movement

Launched in 2022, Full Circle of Hope is Dr. Long’s love letter to the town that raised her — and her challenge to every child who’s ever been underestimated.

“We’re teaching kids that no matter where you start, no matter what your circumstances look like, you can still win,” she said. “It doesn’t matter if you grew up in the projects or had a teenage mom — your story isn’t over.”

Through scholarships, book drives, financial literacy carnivals, and holiday giving events, FCOH is rewriting the narrative for families in Barnesville and beyond. It’s about more than money — it’s about breaking cycles, planting seeds of hope, and watering them until they bloom.

The Gala That’s Bigger Than a Party

Every year, Full Circle of Hope throws a gala — but this isn’t just another fancy night out. It’s a celebration of impact, growth, and the dreams that are just getting started.

This year, they’re turning up even more.

For the first time, the gala is moving to the metro Atlanta area — Eagles Landing Country Club in Stockbridge, Georgia.

With a live DJ, surprise guests, a VIP mixer, and 102.9’s very own Vassier Serrano hosting, it’s about to be a night to remember.

But at the heart of it all is purpose: raising money to not only support new scholarship recipients but also bless former recipients with continued scholarships. Because dreams don’t stop after freshman year — and neither should the support.

Why You Should Care — Even If You’ve Never Heard of Barnesville

You don’t have to be from Barnesville to feel the mission.

You just have to believe that every child deserves a shot, no matter their zip code.

“You never know where the next game-changer, the next leader, the next life-saver is coming from,” Dr. Long said. “It could be from a small town like Barnesville. And if we don’t invest in them, who will?”

Want to help? You can sponsor, donate, or grab your ticket at givebutter.com/FCOH2025Gala.

The Message Every Kid Needs to Hear

Before we wrapped our conversation, I asked Dr. Long what she would say to every student she’s reaching through Full Circle of Hope.

Her answer was powerful:

“Don’t let anyone count you out based on where you come from. What they see as weakness — that’s your superpower. Own it. And once you make it, reach back and lift somebody else up too. That’s how we change the world — together.”

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJHagAuuYb1/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

Detroit’s Tel K. Ganesan vs. Everybody: Indian-American Engineer Turned Filmmaker Leading a Stellar Black Cast in Trap City

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Entertainment, Influential People, Lifestyle, Music, photography, Sports, Top 10.

Tel K. Ganesan, Visionary Filmmaker and Detroit’s Cultural Ambassador to Hollywood

Tel K. Ganesan isn’t your typical filmmaker—and Trap City isn’t your typical indie film. With a background rooted in engineering, entrepreneurship, and leadership, Tel made a bold pivot into storytelling. Today, he stands at the helm of a film that’s not only streaming on Prime Video and Apple TV, but also sparking conversations around ambition, redemption, and the mental and social traps we navigate every day.

The story behind Trap City is as compelling as the film itself—and it’s a testament to what can happen when vision, purpose, and a refusal to follow the rules collide.

A Nontraditional Path with Intentional Purpose

Tel’s entry into film wasn’t calculated—it was inspired. “Every 10 years, I switch careers,” he shared. “This one stuck because the story felt personal. It mirrored the internal traps I had to overcome.”

That message—about confronting mental, societal, and spiritual barriers—is what drives Trap City. It’s not just a title. It’s a metaphor for the cycles people often find themselves in, especially in underserved communities.

A Story That Speaks to the Moment

Trap City explores a range of issues that feel more relevant now than ever: incarceration, viral fame, systemic pressure, sacrifice, and self-belief. The film resonates because it holds a mirror up to real struggles—and does so with sincerity.

“This isn’t just entertainment,” Tel said. “This is a film about recognizing what’s holding you back—and deciding you won’t stay stuck.”

Acting Legend Clifton Powell (left) and Rising Star Brandon T. Jackson in Trap City

A Bold Casting Approach

One of the most talked-about decisions was casting Brandon T. Jackson, known for his comedy, in the lead role of a serious street rapper. Then flipping expectations again by casting rapper Jeezy as a pastor.

“We didn’t cast based on image—we cast based on alignment with the story,” Tel explained. “Jeezy didn’t need convincing. He connected with the message. That’s what matters most.”

With standout performances from Clifton Powell, Omar Gooding, and more, Trap City delivers authentic emotion and energy—exactly what Tel envisioned.

Challenging the Industry’s Blueprint

Without ties to Hollywood, Tel faced resistance—but also found room to innovate.

“Not following their playbook was an advantage,” he said. “It gave me freedom to move without limits. I wasn’t waiting for permission—I created my own lane.”

After completing a successful theatrical run across 30+ cities, Tel partnered with FilmHub to take Trap City to streaming platforms worldwide. The long-term plan includes global distribution, awards consideration, and building it into a cult classic.

Leading with Vision and Faith

Reflecting on the process, Tel emphasized the importance of preparation, flexibility, and mindset. “I put more into pre-production than anything else,” he said. “You have to be ready for setbacks. But more importantly, you have to believe—fully.”

That belief, he said, extended beyond the film itself. “The movie reminded me that I, too, needed to walk in faith. That’s the message I hope people take away: you’re not limited unless you believe you are.”

For Those Who Want to Collaborate

Tel is open to working with creatives, producers, and emerging filmmakers who align with his mission. The best way to connect? Reach out.

Instagram: @TelKGanesan

Website: www.Tel KGanesan.com

Trap City may be Tel’s latest project, but it’s clear—it’s just the beginning. With a voice that’s fearless and a vision grounded in purpose, he’s not here to follow the industry. He’s here to reshape it.

The critically acclaimed Trap City is NOW available on demand. ▶️ Watch it today on Prime Video & Apple TV.
#AppleTV https://ffm.link/trapcityappletv
#AmazonPrimeVideo https://ffm.link/trapcityprimevideo

WATCH THE TRAILER:

Healing the Whole Woman: Dr. Jennifer Mbianda’s Vision for Transformative, Culturally Rooted Care

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Entertainment, Health and Beauty, Influential People, Lifestyle.

In a world that often asks women—especially Black women—to carry it all while caring for themselves last, Dr. Jennifer Mbianda is creating something different: a safe, intentional space where women are seen, affirmed, and given the tools to heal wholly.

She’s not just wearing the white coat. She’s wearing her story, her purpose, and her mission—to bridge the gap between clinical care and the personal, emotional, and cultural nuances that shape how we truly feel. And she’s doing it with compassion, excellence, and authenticity.

Medicine That Honors the Whole Woman

Dr. Mbianda’s practice, EMDI Health, is a reflection of her truth: that health is not just the absence of illness, but the presence of balance, confidence, and care. With specialties in family medicine, obesity medicine, and aesthetics, she meets women at every stage of their journey—from chronic illness to personal restoration.

“I’ve always believed that how a woman feels on the inside should be reflected on the outside,” she says. “We deserve to look in the mirror and recognize our strength, our softness, and our beauty.”

Healing Beyond the Scale

As a board-certified obesity specialist, Dr. Mbianda challenges the deeply ingrained shame and stigma that often surround weight. “Obesity is not about a lack of willpower,” she says. “It’s a chronic, complex disease tied to genetics, hormones, trauma, and environment.”

Her approach is rooted in evidence—but delivered with empathy. She doesn’t just treat conditions. She treats the woman behind them.

From the Bahamas to the U.S.—and Back Again

Raised in the Bahamas and trained in the U.S., Dr. Mbianda walks between worlds. She saw what was missing in both and decided to create a bridge between them. EMDI Health now serves women in Florida and the Bahamas, bringing advanced, culturally-aware care to places where access is limited—but the need is great.

“There was a gap in care, especially in women’s health,” she reflects. “So I built what I wished I had growing up.”

The Power of Representation

“I didn’t see doctors who looked like me,” she shares. “And I knew that had to change.”

Today, she’s the doctor she needed as a girl: one who not only treats her patients but truly sees them. She talks honestly about aging, skin care, beauty, and body changes—not to shame, but to empower.

“We say ‘Black doesn’t crack,’ but that’s not entirely true,” she laughs. “Our melanin protects us, but we still age—and we deserve to age beautifully and intentionally.”

Leading With Transparency—On and Off the Screen

Dr. Mbianda isn’t just making moves in the exam room. She’s sharing her journey, wisdom, and life lessons with thousands of women online. From health education to motherhood moments, she’s inviting us behind the curtain—and modeling what balance looks like in real time.

“My patients wanted to see the person behind the white coat,” she said. “So I show up as my full self—because that’s where the connection begins.”

A Message for the Women Still Finding Their Voice

When I asked what she would tell the next generation of aspiring physicians and wellness leaders, her answer was simple and bold:

“Own your story. That’s your power.”

Dr. Mbianda built Emdi Health from a vision rooted in gaps, challenges, and lived experience. She didn’t wait for permission—she created what didn’t exist.

“There is room for you. And if you can’t find it, create it. You don’t have to fit someone else’s mold to be excellent.”

A Quiet Force with a Loud Impact

Dr. Jennifer Mbianda is quietly shifting the landscape of healthcare, one woman at a time. Her work is a call to be intentional—with our bodies, our choices, and our healing.

She reminds us that we are allowed to be soft and strong. That we are deserving of rest, beauty, and comprehensive care. That our well-being is not a luxury—it is a birthright.

And as Michelle Obama would say, “When they go low, we go high.”

Dr. B just showed us how.

Dr. Mbianda’s EMDI Health, Hollywood FL

Ayiti! Ayiti! Ayiti! Director Robenson Lauvince’s Film ‘July 7’ Reclaims Haiti’s Narrative on President Moïse’s Assassination

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Entertainment, Fashion, Featured, Influential People, Lifestyle, Top 10, Trending.

In the heart of Atlanta, I sat down with Haitian filmmaker Robenson Lauvince to discuss one of the most anticipated international films in recent years: July 7th: Who Killed the President of Haiti? What began as an exploration of a tragic political event unfolded into a conversation about legacy, truth, and the power of telling your own story.

From the opening of our conversation, Lauvince made it clear—this was more than just a movie. “It’s the first time we get to talk about ourselves,” he said. And he meant that literally. With 90% of the cast and crew being Haitian, the film is deeply intentional in its authenticity. Shot in Creole and French, and featuring cultural giants like former Miss Universe Haiti and acclaimed author Gary Victor, the project is a landmark achievement in Haitian storytelling.

A Story That Had to Be Told

When asked what compelled him to tell this story, Robenson didn’t hesitate. “Haiti is the first Black independent nation in the world,” he said, passionately. “But we’ve always been silenced. Misrepresented. Forgotten.” That frustration turned into fire, fueling a production that became his most serious and personal work to date.

The film’s gripping trailer—tense, evocative, and emotionally rich—set the tone for what audiences could expect. But Robenson revealed it wasn’t just crafted for impact—it was a solo mission. Due to the language barrier with his production team, he had to create the trailer on his own. “I wanted it to feel urgent. Honest. I wanted people to want more.”

Not Just a Day, But a Movement

While the film’s title references the day Haitian President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated, Lauvince emphasizes that the story isn’t confined to that moment. “This isn’t about one day,” he said. “It’s about how we got here. About a system designed to divide us.”

The film dives deep into Haiti’s historical, cultural, and spiritual foundation. It’s a layered portrayal of a people often painted in a singular, monolithic way. And it’s not afraid to hold a mirror up to internal conflict either—highlighting how systemic manipulation often turns Haitian against Haitian.

A Global Response Rooted in Pride

With over $60,000 in pre-sale tickets and a Miami premiere that drew over 2,000 attendees, the response has been overwhelming. Haitians across the globe—UK, Africa, Canada, and beyond—bought tickets even if they couldn’t attend. “We’re prideful,” Robenson said. “When one of us does something good, we show up.”

That energy has caught on outside of the Haitian community too, with African-American executive producers and allies joining the movement. “Our PR rep is a woman, my assistant director is a woman—it’s women that have driven this engine.”

The Risk and the Reward

Taking on a story of this magnitude wasn’t just emotionally heavy—it was dangerous. “This kind of truth-telling comes with risk,” Robenson admitted. “People don’t know your intentions. They don’t know what you might reveal.”

But the reward? Global distribution. A cultural awakening. And perhaps most importantly, a reminder to Haitians everywhere that their voice, their pain, and their power matter.

“We can’t wait for others to tell our stories anymore. If you’re a singer, sing. If you’re a writer, write. If you’re a filmmaker, make films. That’s how we take our voice back.”

As for what’s next? Robenson teased more Caribbean-rooted stories—less political, but equally powerful. And while he carries the weight of a nation’s voice, he does so with pride, clarity, and unshakable purpose.

WATCH THE TRAILER:

Cocoa Brown on Finding Healing and Strength in Comedy, Motherhood, and Her New Film ‘Twisted Hearts’

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Entertainment, Fashion, Influential People, Top 10.

Actress. Comedian. Mother. Mogul. Cocoa Brown is all these things and more—but above all, she is real.

In an intimate sit-down interview with The Recap Report, Cocoa Brown opened up about her multifaceted journey in entertainment, the healing power of comedy, and how she continues to reinvent herself through life’s highest highs and lowest lows.

“The Only Purpose I Have on That Stage Is to Free Me.”

From her roles in For Better or Worse, 9-1-1, and Never Have I Ever, Cocoa Brown brings heart, grit, and humor to every character. When asked how she breathes life into her roles, she shared, “I always try to find a connection between me and those characters… Carla was the nurturer in me. Jennifer was every girl I knew in high school—hood but with a heart of gold.”

But beyond the camera, the stage has always been her sanctuary. “Comedy is my therapy,” she admitted. “Those people in the audience are my therapists and don’t even know it. I get to purge, say what I need to say, and keep myself sane in an insane world.”

Twisted Hearts, Real Healing

In her latest film Twisted Hearts, Brown plays a no-nonsense therapist—an easy yes for her. “All my friends have called me Oprah since college,” she joked. “Everybody wants to tell me their problems. I’m not political—I just keep it real.”

For Brown, the role wasn’t just acting—it was reflection. “Love is vulnerable. Love is transparent,” she said, speaking on the film’s themes. “You gotta love you first. Heal your trauma, or you’ll traumatize others.”

Wigs of Love: Turning Loss into Legacy

Outside of Hollywood, Brown is the founder of Wigs of Love, a nonprofit born in memory of her aunt and countless women battling hair loss due to illness. “Our hair is an extension of us, especially as Black women,” she shared. The organization provides custom wigs, support services, and an annual red carpet-style celebration honoring survivors. “We let them know: you are more than lupus—you are a queen.”

And it’s inclusive: “Whether you’re feminine or masculine presenting, we got you. These wigs are custom. Send us your top three hairstyles—we got you.”

After the Fire: A New Foundation

In 2024, Brown lost her home in a devastating fire—an event that shook her, but also freed her. “That house had to go. I had let a lot of vampires in. The energy was heavy,” she revealed. “After the fire, my son said, ‘Can we never go back?’ And I knew—we were finally at peace.”

But what followed was a reminder of who she is, and who she has impacted. From Tyler Perry to Chris Tucker, an outpouring of support followed. “I didn’t ask for a dime. But my village showed up because of the seeds I’ve sown.”

Raising Her Greatest Role Yet

Motherhood changed everything. “It’s the best gig I’ve ever gotten,” she smiled. “I hustle for my son now. I’ve done everything I wanted—this is all for him.”

As a single mother raising a son, she’s mastered the balance of masculine and feminine energy. “He’s seen both sides of me. But I’ve also made sure he has strong male mentors. I’m raising the man of my dreams.”

A Word to the Dreamers

For those chasing dreams, Brown keeps it honest. “I think about quitting every week,” she confessed. “This industry isn’t for the weak. It’s a popularity contest. One minute you’re hot, the next you’re not.”

But her advice? “Learn the craft. Then learn how to market it online. Because Hollywood is looking on TikTok—not the clubs. And through it all, take God with you.”

What’s Next?

From her luxe collection of “Minty Toes” foot balm to her signature lashes, t-shirts, and menopause-ready hand towels, Cocoa Brown continues to build an empire. And if you want to keep up, she keeps it simple:

Visit: www.CocoaBrown4Life.com

As for how she wants to be remembered?

“That I had a good heart. That I loved my child. That I was accountable. That I was real.”

STREAM: Twisted Hearts Film on Amazon Prime; Twisted Hearts Film on Apple TV.

WATCH THE TRAILER:

Blueprints, Not Handouts: How Star Chapman Engineers Community Wealth

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Influential People, Top 10, Uncategorized.

In a world that too often confuses profit with purpose, Starsheema Chapman is carving out a lane where both can not only coexist—but thrive. Hers is a mission rooted in dignity, driven by lived experience, and charged with a purpose that echoes through every community she touches.

“I came from public housing. I didn’t have a trust fund, a Rolodex, or a roadmap—but I had a knowing,” Chapman tells me, her voice steady, resolute. “I knew I wanted more, and I wanted to bring people with me.”

That conviction led to the creation of Star The Accelerator, a business that’s more liberation blueprint than startup course. Alongside her husband, Star also co-founded First Choice Care, a thriving home care agency in Kinston, North Carolina. But let’s be clear—this isn’t just about entrepreneurship. This is about emancipation.

“When you build something for your people, you’re not just breaking cycles—you’re building altars.”

Star’s course doesn’t just teach clients how to start businesses—it teaches them how to reclaim their time, their finances, and their futures. From navigating EINs and licensing to mastering Medicaid billing and team training, she’s holding doors open and handing out keys.

“Mentorship saved me,” she says. “And now I do the same. I’m not gatekeeping, I’m giving game.”

That game includes a full A-to-Z playbook: client intake systems, staff policy manuals, and even branding and marketing strategies. The goal? To fast-track success for women and men who, like Star, weren’t born into access but were called to impact.

And Star doesn’t disappear once the check clears. Her alumni know her by name, and many still call her years after they’ve launched—some now earning six figures, thanks to her guidance.

“We don’t toss you to the wolves. We walk with you,” she insists.

This model of communal success isn’t just good business—it’s radical in a world built on individualism. It’s James Baldwin in motion: “You have to go the way your blood beats.” And for Star, that rhythm has always led back to community.

From back-to-school drives to HBCU scholarships, from food banks to future children’s books for foster youth, the Chapmans’ commitment is comprehensive. Their forthcoming series—The Brotherhood and Sisterhood of the Traveling Suitcases—is a love letter to foster children who deserve more than a trash bag to carry their belongings.

This is the work of people who see, who feel, and who act.

“It’s one thing to survive the system. It’s another to rebuild it for others. That’s the Star Accelerator difference.”

—a sentiment worthy of Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s unapologetic truth-telling.

Looking forward, Star has her eyes on franchising First Choice Care, turning it into a plug-and-play model that helps others leap over the hurdles she once faced. Education programs, policy updates, and private-pay expansions are all in the pipeline, proving once again: she’s not just responding to the moment—she’s shaping it.

“I’m building something bigger than me,” she says. “Because when you empower one, you empower many.”

Follow the movement: @StartheAccelerator

Enroll or learn more: www.startheaccelerator.com

Mindfulness, Mayhem, and a Meditating Llama: Emotional Intelligence Coach Emily Morash’s Neuroscience-Driven Guide to Unfunking Leadership

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Education, Influential People, Top 10, Uncategorized.

If you’ve ever walked out of a meeting thinking, “What just happened?”—this book is for you.

If your team is talking in circles, burnout is the norm, and your Slack thread is a silent scream—this book is for you.

And if you’re a leader who wants to do better but feels like you’re winging it every day—this book was made for you.

Meet Emily Morash—keynote speaker, coach, former nonprofit executive, and the brilliant mind behind Unfunk Yourself: Leading Mindfully in the Midst of Mayhem. In a lively interview with The Recap Report, Emily opened up about her unconventional journey, the science behind her work, and why it’s time for leaders to stop reacting on autopilot and start leading with purpose.

This isn’t your typical leadership manual. Unfunk Yourself is part self-awareness deep dive, part neuroscience lesson, and part pep talk from your no-nonsense best friend. Oh—and the cover features a meditating llama surrounded by chaos. Because of course it does.

From Nonprofit Firefighting to Focused Leadership

Before the workshops and keynotes, Emily spent 20 years managing nonprofit teams—where limited resources, high stakes, and chronic miscommunication were a daily reality. “I worked in small nonprofits, big ones, corporate-style nonprofits—you name it,” she said. “And no matter where I was, the same problem kept showing up: people couldn’t talk to each other effectively.”

That experience sparked a realization: strategy doesn’t matter if your team can’t communicate. So, she made it her mission to teach leaders how to slow down, tune in, and build teams that actually work.

Why Leadership Feels So Funked Up

According to Emily, the root of most leadership chaos isn’t incompetence—it’s biology. Our brains are wired to react emotionally before we process things logically. That’s why a sharp email can feel like an attack. Why meetings spiral. Why feedback becomes conflict. “We’re constantly scanning for danger, even in the boardroom,” she explained.

The result? Leaders are often making decisions based on assumptions, stress, or past experiences—not the present moment.

The fix? Mindfulness. But not the Instagram-quote kind. Emily teaches a grounded, practical version of mindfulness: being aware of what’s happening inside you and around you, in real time, without judgment. And yes, it’s harder than it sounds—but her book makes it feel doable.

The Tools: Mindful, Practical, Game-Changing

Unfunk Yourself offers more than reflection—it gives you actionable frameworks to shift how you lead:

The Communication Compass: Helps teams understand how they speak, listen, and process. Because not everyone communicates the way you do—and that’s okay.
The Identity Trap: Reveals how internalized “shoulds” and assumptions shape your leadership style—and how to break free from them.
The Mindful Leader Practice: The centerpiece of Emily’s method—a hands-on approach to cultivating awareness, empathy, and intentional action.

Each tool is grounded in research, brought to life with real client stories, and wrapped in just enough humor to keep things human. One skeptical reviewer summed it up perfectly:

“I regret to inform you that I enjoyed this book.”

Insight with a Side of Sass

What makes Unfunk Yourself special isn’t just the frameworks—it’s Emily’s voice.

She’s smart, compassionate, and unapologetically herself. “I take my work seriously,” she told us, “But I don’t take myself seriously.” That philosophy shines through every page, making the book as enjoyable as it is useful.

And yes, the meditating llama on the cover? That’s intentional. It’s a symbol of what it means to be a grounded leader in a chaotic world. “That llama is me,” Emily laughed. “Learning to stay centered while everything’s on fire behind you.”

Ready to Unfunk?

Whether you’re leading a team, navigating a career pivot, or simply tired of chaotic leadership culture, Unfunk Yourself is the no-fluff, full-heart guide you didn’t know you needed.

Grab your copy and explore the tools at www.unfunkyourselfbook.com.

You’ll find free resources like communication assessments, guided meditations, reflective journals, and pep talks to keep you on track.

Because leadership doesn’t have to be soul-sucking.

With Emily Morash, it can be mindful, bold—and just a little bit funky.

Scoops, Service & Strategy: Inside Antonio McBroom’s Billion-Dollar Mindset

Written by Tajala Kelly on May 2, 2025. Posted in Business, Food, Influential People.

From scooping cones as a college student to becoming one of the most successful franchise owners in the country, Antonio McBroom is building businesses with boldness, heart, and vision.

Dressed in a bowtie and a beaming smile, McBroom walks into the room with the quiet confidence of a man who’s built a portfolio that spans 20 Ben & Jerry’s shops, a Starbucks café, and now—a legacy-driven brand rooted in servant leadership.

His newest release, The Self•ish Servant, isn’t just a book. It’s a movement—a rallying cry for entrepreneurs who lead with purpose and move with intention. It’s the blueprint for how to serve, scale, and sustain success without selling your soul.

The Book That Brought the Boardroom to the Block

“I didn’t want to just talk business. I wanted to talk breakthrough,” Antonio shares. “This book is my journey—my wins, my stumbles, my moments of faith. It’s about growth. It’s about purpose. It’s about leadership that serves.”

Written like a memoir but packed with real leadership gems, The Self•ish Servant unpacks McBroom’s rise from college hustle to corporate empire, all while staying rooted in his mission to build up people who look like him.

“I want readers to feel seen,” he says. “Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a high school kid, I want you to see yourself in my journey—and avoid the pitfalls I had to learn the hard way.”[

The Lesson His Son Taught Him at Chick-fil-A

One of the book’s most touching moments doesn’t happen in a boardroom—it happens in the backseat of McBroom’s car.

“My son loves Chick-fil-A—he’s a chicken tender guy,” Antonio says with a laugh. “One day I had to make a quick detour before we got there, and he got upset. Real tears.”

What came next shifted Antonio’s whole perspective.

“He asked me, ‘Dad, do we have a gazillion billion hours to live or something?’ And it hit me… we really don’t. We only get so many minutes and moments. And we have to be intentional with every single one.”

From College Job to Corporate Vision

Antonio’s empire started the way many great stories do—unexpectedly.

While attending UNC Chapel Hill, he picked up a job at Ben & Jerry’s just to make ends meet. By senior year, he was managing the store. By graduation, he owned it.

“That was the first time anyone in my family ever owned a business,” he says. “It lit a fire in me.”

From there, the vision expanded fast. One store turned into five. Five into ten. Then came the leap: multi-state expansion, Starbucks, and multiple brands under his belt.

“I call myself a serial scooper of opportunity,” Antonio says. “I stay scouting for new ways to grow—and serve.”

Franchise Secrets & Six-Figure Lessons

But it wasn’t always smooth sailing. One of his biggest lessons came with a painful price tag.

“I opened an Auntie Anne’s Pretzels in the wrong location and lost $100,000 in ten months,” he reveals.

But McBroom doesn’t call it a failure—he calls it a filter.

“It taught me the power of Main Thing Energy. Every day, there’s one thing that matters more than anything else. If you do that, everything else becomes easier—or irrelevant.”

It’s a principle he lives by, and one he credits for his empire’s continued growth.

Community Isn’t a Buzzword. It’s His Bottom Line.

For Antonio, success means nothing without service. His business philosophy flows in a cycle: grow the business, pour into the community, then let the community fuel the next wave of growth.

“I get very involved with nonprofits like WEAR—Working to Extend Anti-Racism Education—because I believe in creating lasting impact. We support them financially, and I sit on the board. They’re reaching kids and educators with anti-racism education. That’s the kind of legacy work I want to do.”

It’s not just about donations—it’s about dedication. “If I want to be more involved, I’ve got to run the bag up. Then I come back and serve harder. That cycle fuels everything I do.”

Next Chapter: Stages, Speaking, and Soul Work

With The Self•ish Servant now in the hands of readers, Antonio is stepping fully into his next season: speaking on major stages, mentoring the next generation of leaders, and bringing his message of servant-led success to the masses.

“This is my transformation season,” he says. “Sharing the Primo story, standing on stages, pouring into rooms I never could’ve imagined being in—it’s the best part of the journey so far.”

But don’t think he’s done building.

What Legacy Looks Like

“When it’s all said and done, I want to be known for impacting the business world by $10 million—through mentorship, partnerships, and platforms that changed lives. Not just my life. Our lives.”

And if The Self•ish Servant is any indication, he’s not just on track—he’s already leading the way.

Antonio McBroom isn’t just a franchise mogul. He’s a movement.

And The Self•ish Servant? It’s more than a book.

It’s a mirror, a map, and a mission.

Author: Tajala Kelly