Some stories stay with you long after the conversation ends. Not because of dramatic moments or timelines, but because of the depth of truth behind the words. That is what I experienced in my conversation with Tiran Jackson. Tiran is a leader, speaker, and resiliency expert, but more than that, he is someone who understands […]
Merry Christmas. This one feels different. This is the first Christmas I am truly aware of how much of a gift it is just to be here. Surviving cancer has a way of slowing everything down and turning your heart up real loud. Today, gratitude feels heavier and sweeter at the same time. I keep […]
Life often throws labels and limitations our way, but what we choose to do with them defines who we become. Will Richardson’s story is a reminder that resilience, faith, and determination can turn doubt into destiny. Growing up in Memphis, Will was called the “black sheep” of his family and almost didn’t graduate high school. […]
What does it really mean to live boldly? For many people, being bold is about confidence, risk-taking, or standing out in a crowd. But for me, it has meant something deeper. Living boldly has meant choosing to move forward when everything in me wanted to stop. It has meant saying “S.O. What!” to obstacles, expectations, […]
When I heard the words, “You have breast cancer,” I took a deep breath and went straight to the mindset that has carried me through every obstacle of my life: S.O. What! My next words were, “So NOW what?” It wasn’t denial. It wasn’t avoidance. It was my declaration that this diagnosis would not control […]
Sixty-six years ago, eight courageous students walked onto the campus of Memphis State University for the first time, integrating the school and making history. On that September day in 1959, the Memphis State Eight faced hostility and isolation so that students like me could one day thrive. Because of their bravery, my own journey was […]
Life will always test us. Some challenges break us, while others push us to rise higher than we ever imagined. Chief Deputy Anthony Buckner story is proof that no matter how heavy the obstacles, we can still choose resilience, faith, and purpose. Growing up without his father and later losing his mother, Chief Deputy Anthony […]
Growing up in South Memphis without his father, Meka Egwuekwe could have let his circumstances hold him back. Instead, he leaned on education, community, and faith to write a different story. From teaching himself programming as a kid to earning degrees from Morehouse and Duke, Meka proved that where you start doesn’t determine where you […]
When I think about resilience, Mellissa McTizic is one of the first names that comes to mind. Mellissa is a professional school counselor, fitness advocate, and line dance leader in our shared hometown of Bolivar, Tennessee. I’ve watched her transformation over the years, and it’s been nothing short of inspiring. Mellissa’s journey through weight loss, […]
