Dorcas Young Griffin
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From 22-Year-Old Single Mom to County Leader: Dorcas Young Griffin’s Story of Resilience

In this inspiring episode of S.O. What! Success Stories, I sat down with my longtime friend, Dorcas Young Griffin, whose journey exemplifies resilience and grace. From our first connection at the Healing Center to her current role as Deputy…
motivational interview on overcoming obstacles - real life inspirational stories of success - Jara Best
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From Medical School to Medical Director: Dr. Jara Best Resilient Rise

In this episode of S.O. What! Success Stories, I’m reconnecting with my friend, Dr. Jara Best, whose journey is a powerful example of resilience and success. From being one of only 20 Black students in her medical school class to becoming…
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Rooted in Memphis, Built on Resilience: The Cortney Richardson Story

In this episode of S.O. What! Success Stories, I had the honor of speaking with Cortney Richardson, CEO of Peer Power Foundation and a proud University of Memphis alum. Cortney’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience, leadership, and…
Linda Hall
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Teen Mom to University Dean: Linda Hall Journey of Resilience and Leadership

8/22/25 Update: Due to the Dismantling DEI Departments Act, the University of Memphis closed the Multicultural Affairs Office, impacting and upsetting thousands of students and alumni who benefit from that office, Dean Hall, and staff. ___________________________________________________________________________________ In…
Geo Derice
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Navigating Obstacles: Geo Derice Blueprint for Resilience and Success

I am so excited to share my latest S.O. What! Success Stories episode with the incredible Geo Derice, a marketing genius, author, and founder of 2020 Living and First Book Done. This episode was special because Geo has helped me in my business…
Marty Kelman
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Marty Kelman: A Journey of Resilience as the Son of Holocaust Survivors

An unexpected new friend. When Marty Kelman joined the board of the University of Memphis National Alumni Association, I had no idea who he was. Nor did I expect to be having lunch with him, laughing with him, or talking life with him.  In…
motivational interview on overcoming obstacles - real life inspirational stories of success - Denise Hamilton
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Building Indivisible Resilience | Denise Hamilton

I’m thrilled to share a very special episode of S.O. What! Success Stories with you! I recently sat down with my friend and Mastermind partner of five years, Denise Hamilton. Denise is a true powerhouse who has spent over 25 years leading…
James Earle Dortsch, Jr convicted of capital murder of Avis Terrell Jones
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Actions and Accountability, Choices and Consequences: The Capital Murder of My Cousin, Avis Terrell Jones

August 22, 2021, that was the last time I saw my cousin Avis Terrell Jones. He was showing me around a house he was fixing up for his mother. It was about two months before his life was tragically taken. I had gone to visit his father, my great…
Dr. Justin Lawhead
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The Power of Authentic, Resilient Leadership | Dr. Justin Lawhead

In this inspiring episode of S.O. What! Success Stories, I was moved by Dr. Justin Lawhead openness and vulnerability that I’m sure will move you too. As someone I consider a friend, I call him Justin.  There are people in every organization…