Prepare For Takeoff

Hosted by Terry L. Cyrus

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Episodes

141

Latest episode

Oct 2026

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EN-US

About the show

A podcast dedicated to amplifying Black Excellence by highlighting proven professionals and rising entrepreneurs, who are making a difference in the community. We feature subject matter experts who share their secrets of success and so much more. Our goal is to help our viewers and listeners take the next step to achieve your goals. We are here to pour into your professional development and help you Prepare For Takeoff.

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October 21, 2026Episode 14152 min

FedEx Express Boeing 767 Captain Andre Lewis | Beyond the Sky: Aviation, Entrepreneurship & Literacy | Ep. 141

From a young boy in Columbus, Mississippi who dreamed of flying to becoming a FedEx Express Boeing 767 Captain and President of Literary Engineers , Andre Lewis has built an extraordinary career. His journey reflects perseverance, mentorship and a lifelong commitment to empowering others. In Episode 141 of Prepare For Takeoff , host Terry L. Cyrus explores Andre's journey from receiving a prestigious presidential nomination to attend the United States Air Force Academy to nearly three decades with FedEx Express. After earning a degree in Astronautical Engineering, Andre graduated in the top three of his Air Force pilot training class. During his military aviation career, he met legendary Tuskegee Airman General Benjamin O. Davis Jr., an experience that reinforced the importance of mentorship, leadership and perseverance. Andre later joined FedEx Express, eventually becoming a Boeing 767 Captain and achieving the remarkable distinction of landing aircraft on every continent. Beyond aviation, Andre is making an impact as the author of 27 children's books focused on financial literacy, bullying prevention, health and community empowerment. His accomplishments include seven books in the National Archives at the White House and a letter of acknowledgment from former First Lady Mrs. Michelle Obama. Through Literary Engineers, he helps organizations address social challenges and strengthen families. Andre also shares valuable lessons on fatherhood, mentorship, his family's 5% Rule and the importance of giving back. Andre closes with three powerful lessons: set clear goals, commit to the process and help others succeed. His story is a reminder that success isn't just about how far you go. It's about how many people you help along the way as you Prepare For Takeoff . CONNECT WITH ANDRE LEWIS Website: https://literaryengineers.com 🛍️ Thinking about starting your own business? The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️ Start recording like a pro with Riverside. Get started using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links. Prepare For Takeoff may earn a commission if you sign up through them, at no additional cost to you. 📢 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: This podcast is intended for informational, educational and inspirational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Prepare For Takeoff or Outspoken Media Group. Financial, business, health and other information discussed in this episode should not be considered professional advice. 𝗖𝗢𝗣𝗬𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 © 2026 Outspoken Media Group. All rights reserved. This content is produced for Prepare For Takeoff. Unauthorized reproduction, redistribution or use of this content without permission is prohibited. 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀 – 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁, 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱: Prepare For Takeoff Podcast YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@outspokenmediagroup Prepare For Takeoff Podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/preparefortakeoffpodcast Terry L. Cyrus Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cyrustheceo #BlackExcellence #AndreLewis #LiteraryEngineers #PrepareForTakeoff

October 14, 2026Episode 1401 hr 3 min

Leading With Purpose | Dr. Joseph L. Jones on HBCU Leadership & Black Excellence

From growing up in a military family to becoming a college president, political scientist, author and professor, Dr. Joseph L. Jones has built a career defined by scholarship, perseverance and a commitment to advancing Black excellence. In Episode 140 of Prepare For Takeoff, host Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Dr. Jones, Executive Director of the W.E.B. Du Bois Southern Center for Studies in Public Policy and Associate Professor of Political Science at Clark Atlanta University, to explore his journey through higher education, leadership and social justice. As the 14th President of Arkansas Baptist College, Dr. Jones gained firsthand experience leading an HBCU. He also reflects on his formative years at Philander Smith College and the mentors who inspired his pursuit of political science. He shares the challenges of earning his doctorate while balancing fatherhood, family responsibilities and multiple jobs. As proud members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, they discuss how the cardinal principles of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance and Uplift have shaped their commitment to education and community empowerment. The conversation examines the future of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the importance of developing the next generation of Black leaders and the role of political consciousness in driving meaningful change. Dr. Jones also addresses institutional accountability, social justice and the power of collective action in strengthening Black communities. He closes with three powerful life lessons: understand your purpose and principles, maintain a strong spiritual foundation and surround yourself with mentors who challenge, guide and support you as you Prepare For Takeoff. What lesson from Dr. Jones' journey resonates with you most? Share your thoughts in the comments and subscribe to Prepare For Takeoff for more inspiring conversations amplifying Black excellence. CONNECT WITH DR. JOSEPH L. JONES Website: https://josephljones.com 🛍️ Thinking about starting your own business? The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: ⁠https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj⁠ 🎙️ Start recording like a pro with Riverside. Get started using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: ⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links. Prepare For Takeoff may earn a commission if you sign up through them, at no additional cost to you. 📢 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: This podcast is intended for informational, educational, and inspirational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Prepare For Takeoff or Outspoken Media Group. Financial, business, health and other information discussed in this episode should not be considered professional advice. 𝗖𝗢𝗣𝗬𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 © Outspoken Media Group. All rights reserved. This content is produced for Prepare For Takeoff. Unauthorized reproduction, redistribution, or use of this content without permission is prohibited. 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀 – 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁, 𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗨𝗽𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱: Prepare For Takeoff Podcast YouTube / @outspokenmediagroup Prepare For Takeoff Podcast Instagram / preparefortakeoffpodcast Terry L. Cyrus Instagram / cyrustheceo #BlackExcellence #ClarkAtlantaUniversity #HBCU #PrepareForTakeoff

October 8, 2026Episode 13944 min

Dr. Leroy D. Nunery II: From NBA Executive to Entrepreneur | Leadership & Perseverance

From banking to executive leadership with the National Basketball Association (NBA), higher education and entrepreneurship, Dr. Leroy D. Nunery II has built a career defined by leadership, reinvention and perseverance. In Episode 139 of Prepare For Takeoff, host Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Dr. Nunery, Founder and Principal of PlūsUltré LLC and Co-Host of The Next Move Business Playbook, to explore the lessons behind his professional journey. As a former NBA Vice President, he helped shape organizational strategy, talent development and new business opportunities. Dr. Nunery reflects on growing up in New Jersey, the influence of his parents on his work ethic and how the cardinal principles of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated continue to guide his commitment to Perseverance and Uplift. The conversation explores career transitions, financial independence, artificial intelligence (AI), entrepreneurship, mentorship and the importance of embracing change, lifelong learning and creating opportunities for others. He closes with three powerful life lessons: prioritize your mental and physical health, be kind to yourself and never stop persevering as you Prepare For Takeoff. 🛍️ Thinking about starting your own business? The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️ Start recording like a pro with Riverside. Get started using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP

October 1, 2026Episode 13856 min

From United States Air Force Veteran to Tea Entrepreneur | E. Michelle Watson

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with E. Michelle Watson, Author and Founder & CEO of IngenuiTea™ Gourmet Tea and Spice Company. They discuss her journey from growing up in Connecticut to serving more than 20 years in the United States Air Force. Michelle shares how she began building her business before retiring and how her family’s multigenerational connection to tea inspired her entrepreneurial journey. She also discusses the health benefits of different teas and her book, Tea and the Black Woman: How Natural Teas Can Benefit Black Women’s Health. She closes by sharing three lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs: pay for your weaknesses, look back to childhood to rediscover your passions and support small businesses as you Prepare For Takeoff. 🛍️Thinking about starting your own business? The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️Start recording like a pro with Riverside. Click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link to get started: https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP 📢𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Prepare For Takeoff or Outspoken Media Group. 𝗖𝗢𝗣𝗬𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 © Outspoken Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, redistribution, or re-uploading of this content is prohibited without permission.

September 24, 2026Episode 13751 min

Blueprint for Excellence: Dr. Darryl Scriven on the Future of HBCUs

Dr. Darryl Scriven has built a career at the intersection of higher education, entrepreneurship and the future of HBCUs. In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Dr. Scriven, Executive Director of Centers and Institutes at Florida A&M University. They discuss his journey from growing up in Jacksonville to attending FAMU and earning his PhD in philosophy from Purdue University. He shares how education shaped his path and how entrepreneurship expanded his perspective. Dr. Scriven discusses owning and operating multiple franchises and the lessons he learned from those experiences. The conversation also explores his work leading centers and institutes at FAMU and his vision for research, innovation and entrepreneurship. Dr. Scriven also discusses his book, Black College Blueprint: The Next Frontier for HBCUs and his vision for the future of these institutions. He shares the importance of collaboration and creating greater opportunities for the next generation. Dr. Scriven closes by sharing three lessons that continue to guide him: stay mentally strong, stay hungry and remain grateful as you Prepare For Takeoff. 🛍️Thinking about starting your own business? The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️Start recording like a pro with Riverside. Click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link to get started: https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP 📢𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Prepare For Takeoff or Outspoken Media Group. 𝗖𝗢𝗣𝗬𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 © Outspoken Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, redistribution, or re-uploading of this content is prohibited without permission.

September 16, 2026Episode 13656 min

From Teacher to CEO & Brooklyn Tea ATL Owner | Kerri-Ann T. Thomas

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Kerri-Ann T. Thomas, CEO of Movement Schools and Owner of Brooklyn Tea ATL, to discuss her journey from teacher to education leader and entrepreneur. Kerri-Ann shares how growing up in Brooklyn and attending Spelman College and Columbia University shaped her perspective, aspirations and leadership journey. She discusses educational opportunity gaps, leadership, building strong relationships, entrepreneurship and the importance of creating opportunities for students to see what is possible for their future. The conversation also explores her journey through teaching, school leadership, becoming a superintendent, leading Movement Schools and building businesses such as Brooklyn Tea ATL. Kerri-Ann also shares three lessons for preparing for takeoff: deep belief, strong relationships and discipline. 🛍️Thinking about starting your own business? The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️Start recording like a pro with Riverside. Click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link to get started: https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP 📢𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Prepare For Takeoff or Outspoken Media Group. 𝗖𝗢𝗣𝗬𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 © Outspoken Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, redistribution, or re-uploading of this content is prohibited without permission.

September 10, 2026Episode 13552 min

Own Your Space: AI, Representation & Career Growth | Nathalie Heywood

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff , Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Nathalie Heywood, Founder and CEO of Heywood Smith Consulting and Vice President of Growth and Partnerships at pocstock. Nathalie shares her journey from growing up in the Bronx with strong Jamaican roots to building a career across advertising, business development and entrepreneurship. She discusses the power of curiosity, embracing career pivots and surrounding yourself with people who will advocate for you and help you grow. Nathalie also unpacks pocstock's mission to transform how people of color are represented across advertising, media and emerging technology. From authentic imagery to diverse datasets for AI, she explains why representation matters and why we must have a voice in shaping the narratives and technology of the future. This conversation explores confidence, mentorship, entrepreneurship and opening doors for others while reminding us to trust ourselves, keep learning and build a strong circle as we Prepare For Takeoff. 🛍️Thinking about starting your own business? The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️Start recording like a pro with Riverside. Click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link to get started: https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP 📢𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Prepare For Takeoff or Outspoken Media Group. 𝗖𝗢𝗣𝗬𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 © Outspoken Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, redistribution, or re-uploading of this content is prohibited without permission.

September 2, 2026Episode 13451 min

From Southwest Atlanta to the C-Suite: Redefining Success and Happiness | Craig Robinson

From Southwest Atlanta to the C-Suite: Redefining Success and Happiness | Craig Robinson In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Craig Robinson for a powerful conversation about his journey from Southwest Atlanta to the C-Suite and what success, leadership and happiness really mean. Craig shares lessons from growing up in Atlanta, attending MIT and Harvard Business School, building a nearly 25-year career in commercial real estate, and becoming a CEO and board leader. He also reflects on leadership, values, failure, resilience, mentorship, Black excellence, and the importance of using success to create opportunities for others. The conversation explores why traditional definitions of success do not always lead to fulfillment, the importance of finding your authentic purpose, and Craig’s book The Happiness Reboot . Terry and Craig also discuss the growing opportunities surrounding AI for Black communities and entrepreneurs , the importance of curiosity and courage, and how to approach your journey with greater grace. Craig closes with three powerful principles: curiosity over conviction, courage, and grace . 📌 Explore More Inspiring Conversations • Black History & Identity • Leadership & Personal Growth • Entrepreneurship & Innovation • Black Excellence Stories • Education & Community Impact • Purpose, Resilience & Self-Development 🛍️Thinking about starting your own business? The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️Start recording like a pro with Riverside. Click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link to get started: https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP 📢𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Prepare For Takeoff or Outspoken Media Group. 𝗖𝗢𝗣𝗬𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦 & 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 © Outspoken Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, redistribution, or re-uploading of this content is prohibited without permission. If you enjoyed this conversation, like, comment, and subscribe to Prepare For Takeoff. What does success and happiness mean to you, and what part of Craig Robinson’s journey from Southwest Atlanta to the C-Suite resonated with you most?

August 26, 2026Episode 13357 min

From Adversity to Purpose: The Power of Knowing Your Worth | Delbert Richardson on American History & Identity

From Adversity to Purpose: The Power of Knowing Your Worth | Delbert Richardson on American History & Identity In Episode 133 of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Delbert Richardson , community scholar, storyteller, educator, and curator of the award-winning The Unspoken Truths American History Traveling Museum , for a powerful conversation about Black history, identity, self-worth, purpose, resilience, education and personal growth. Delbert shares his journey from Detroit to becoming an educator, entrepreneur, storyteller, and museum curator dedicated to helping young people understand history and recognize their own value. The conversation explores how learning Black history and understanding where you come from can shape identity, confidence, and the way young people see their future. Delbert discusses the importance of storytelling, representation, education, persistence, and exposing the next generation to the achievements, struggles, innovations and resilience of Black people throughout history. Delbert also opens up about his personal journey, including his experience as a Division I basketball player, returning to college later in life, building his own business, overcoming adversity and finding purpose through his work. Throughout the conversation, he shares a powerful message about knowing your worth, pursuing your purpose, finishing what you start and using your experiences to create a positive impact on others. 🛍️Thinking about starting your own business? The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️Start recording like a pro with Riverside. Click our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link to get started: https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP 📢𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗿: The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Prepare For Takeoff or Outspoken Media Group. 𝗖𝗼𝗽𝘆𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 & 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 © Outspoken Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, redistribution, or re-uploading of this content is prohibited without permission. If you enjoyed this conversation, like, comment, and subscribe to Prepare For Takeoff. What part of Delbert Richardson’s story or message connected with you the most? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation.

August 19, 2026Episode 13248 min

Healthcare Is Personal: The Power of Advocacy | Courtney Lang, JD on Health Equity & Systemic Change

In Episode 132 of Prepare For Takeoff, Terry L. Cyrus sits down with Courtney Lang, JD , health justice attorney and Founder of Langco + Partners . They have a powerful conversation about healthcare advocacy, health equity, representation, leadership and creating systemic change. Courtney shares her journey from Washington, DC to law school and a career in healthcare advocacy. She explains how her personal experiences with healthcare and corporate America ultimately led her to entrepreneurship. Courtney takes us inside her work in rural “frontier communities,” where access to healthcare can mean traveling more than 75 miles to reach a facility. Her experiences reinforced a simple approach to navigating healthcare: know what to do, who to call and where to go. The conversation gets personal when Terry shares the experience of his 91-year-old father waiting hours in an emergency room and how having the right advocate and connections helped change the outcome. Courtney and Terry explore healthcare disparities, mental health stigma in Black communities, the role faith leaders can play in connecting people to care and why representation on hospital boards matters. Courtney closes with three powerful lessons: know your superpower, don’t ask for permission and serve on a board. It’s a grounded conversation about using your voice, advocating for yourself and others as well as turning personal experience into meaningful change that can help us all Prepare For Takeoff. 🛍️ Thinking about starting your own business? Build your online store with a free Shopify trial using our Prepare For Takeoff affiliate link: https://shopify.pxf.io/55LGnj 🎙️ Thinking about starting a podcast? Prepare For Takeoff is recorded with Riverside. Start recording like a pro using our affiliate link: https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP If you enjoyed this conversation, like, comment and subscribe to Prepare For Takeoff. What did Courtney’s story make you think about? Share your thoughts below and let us know how advocacy, representation or access to healthcare has impacted your community.

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