Prepare For Takeoff

Hosted by Terry L. Cyrus

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Episodes

124

Latest episode

Jun 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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60 recent

June 10, 2026Episode 12455 min

Dreams Into Reality: From West Virginia Roots to NYC Radio

From creating The Hip Hop Assault, the first Hip Hop mix show in West Virginia radio history, to becoming one of New York City's most respected DJs and radio personalities, DJ Jon Quick's journey is a powerful example of what can happen when talent, preparation and persistence meet opportunity.DJ Jon Quick shares how he broke into the New York City radio scene, built a respected brand and helped elevate Afrobeats through AfroFlava Radio. He discusses his current show, Saturday Nights with The Superhero, on 94.7 The Block, New York's #1 For Throwbacks, where he continues to entertain listeners and influence the culture through music.A proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, DJ Jon Quick reflects on the impact of brotherhood, mentorship and intentional networking throughout his career. He shares what it meant to be selected to DJ at Carnegie Hall's fourth Power Network event, hosted by Ed Lover, with featured performances by Big Daddy Kane and Ghostface Killah. Jon discusses his commitment to educating and inspiring the next generation through the DJ Jon Quick School of Extraordinary DJs.Packed with lessons on preparation, perseverance, authenticity, relationship building and speaking success into existence, this conversation offers a blueprint for anyone looking to turn big dreams into lasting impact. Get ready to Prepare For Takeoff with DJ Jon Quick.The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

June 3, 2026Episode 12349 min

Christopher Mercado: From Hot 97 to Amazon and Apple – The Power of Reinvention

Chris Mercado joins Prepare For Takeoff to share his incredible journey from growing up in the Bronx and Harlem to becoming a respected force in radio, music, advertising and technology. As Creative Services Director for Emmis Communications, Chris was responsible for all aspects of audio production for three major radio stations, including Hot 97 and WBLS. During the conversation, he reveals how he created the iconic "Bomb" sound effect for Funkmaster Flex, the signature drop Flex uses to let listeners know a record is a major hit. More than three decades later, the sound remains a fixture on Hot 97.Chris shares stories from the golden era of New York radio, lessons learned from working alongside some of the industry's most influential personalities and the work ethic that helped him build a successful career across multiple industries. He also discusses his transition from radio to opportunities with Amazon and Apple while embracing the rapid rise of artificial intelligence. Chris explains how earning AI certifications and leveraging tools such as ChatGPT, Claude and other platforms have helped him enhance creativity, productivity and problem solving. He also explains the impact of being a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated.Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative professional, student or someone looking to reinvent yourself, this episode offers valuable insights on perseverance, adaptability, networking, mentorship and continuous learning. Chris Mercado's story is a powerful reminder that success isn't determined by where you start, but by your willingness to evolve, embrace change and never stop learning as viewers and listeners Prepare For Takeoff.00:00 - Roots and Origins: A Journey Through Virginia and New York02:47 - Growing Up in New York: The Impact of Environment on Identity05:35 - The Birth of a DJ: Early Influences and Musical Aspirations08:06 - Navigating the Music Industry: From Intern to Creative Services Director10:34 - Work Ethic and Mindset: Lessons from Family and Life Experiences13:21 - The Role of Radio in the 90s: A Cultural Phenomenon16:04 - Creating Iconic Sounds: The Legacy of Go Flex and The Bomb18:51 - Reflections on Success: The Journey and Its Challenges27:35 - Transitioning from Radio to Amazon29:28 - Work Ethic and Adaptability in New Environments31:36 - Embracing AI in Creative Processes36:13 - The Role of Fraternity in Personal and Professional Growth44:36 - Key Takeaways for Success and Reinvention49:25 - Prepare For Takeoff ClosingThe future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

May 28, 202645 min

How Bunmi Giwa-Bello Built BlackHouse Into a Culture-Driven Agency

Bunmi Giwa-Bello, Co-Founder & President of BlackHouse, joins Prepare For Takeoff to discuss her inspiring journey from Massachusetts to helping build one of the culture’s leading boutique experiential agencies in New York City. Bunmi reflects on the importance of faith, family, mentorship and community in shaping her path. She also shares how her early experiences prepared her for the fast-paced world of event production and entrepreneurship.Bunmi gives an inside look into the vision behind BlackHouse. She discusses the company’s mission to create impactful experiences that connect brands, culture and community. During the conversation, Bunmi shares how BlackHouse has produced campaigns and events for clients including Prime Video, Visit Orlando and Unum. She also talks about the evolution of the experiential marketing industry following the pandemic and the growing demand for meaningful in-person engagement. Throughout the conversation, Bunmi shares insight on leadership, perseverance, relationship building and her commitment to mentoring and pouring into young professionals, especially those entering the industry.This inspiring conversation highlights entrepreneurship, innovation, mentorship, community and the power of building with purpose as Bunmi Giwa-Bello helps viewers and listeners Prepare For Takeoff.Chapters00:00 - Introduction and Background00:41 - Early Life and Education02:48 - Career Beginnings in New York07:24 - Transition to Event Production12:27 - Founding BlackHouse17:25 - The Mission and Vision of BlackHouse22:36 - Post-Pandemic Industry Insights26:21 - Nostalgia and the Experience of Events28:48 - Future Plans and Upcoming Events31:50 - The Importance of Mentorship35:06 - Community and Relationships38:40 - Key Takeaways for Success45:34 - Prepare For Takeoff ClosingThe future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

May 21, 2026Episode 12152 min

Always Bet On Yourself: Candace McIntyre’s Journey from Southeast D.C. to the Washington Nationals

Candace McIntyre, Human Resources Director for the Washington Nationals, joins Prepare For Takeoff to discuss her inspiring journey from Southeast Washington D.C. to working for a Major League Baseball organization. During the conversation, Candace reflects on growing up in a close-knit family and how those early experiences helped shape her values, confidence and work ethic. She also discusses the impact of attending Coppin State University and how the HBCU experience strengthened her sense of identity, community and purpose.Candace shares her transition from the telecommunications industry into the sports industry by betting on herself. Throughout the episode, she speaks about the importance of passion, intentionality and authenticity. She opens up about embracing change, building genuine relationships and staying true to herself while navigating corporate leadership spaces. Candace also provides valuable advice for aspiring HR professionals and young leaders looking to grow with confidence and purpose.This powerful conversation highlights perseverance, mentorship, leadership and the importance of embracing every part of your journey while continuing to amplify the many dimensions of Black Excellence. Buckle up and Prepare For Takeoff.Chapters00:00 - Growing Up in D.C.03:29 - The HBCU Experience05:50 - Finding a Career Path08:37 - Transitioning into HR13:41 - Moving into Sports HR19:15 - Advice for Aspiring HR Professionals23:32 - Embracing Change and Overcoming Resistance24:32 - Milestone Moments and Humble Beginnings27:38 - The Power of Support and Mentorship30:16 - Passion and Intentionality in Career32:07 - The Importance of Personal Connections34:28 - Changing the Narrative of Black Excellence37:49 - Building Genuine Relationships40:17 - Transforming Challenges into Opportunities43:11 - The Journey of Continuous Learning47:04 - Final Thoughts: Passion, Intentionality and Authenticity51:56 - Prepare For Takeoff ClosingThe future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

May 7, 2026Episode 12050 min

From the Courtroom to the Studio | The Story of Raymond L. Hamlin, Esq.

In this inspiring episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Raymond L. Hamlin, Esq. shares his remarkable journey from Long Branch, New Jersey, to becoming one of the region’s most respected trial lawyers and advocates for justice. As a founding partner of Hunt, Hamlin & Ridley Law Firm, Raymond reflects on the early influences that shaped his path, the importance of brotherhood through Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and his commitment to uplifting his community through both law and leadership.As a successful civil rights litigator, Raymond has tried jury trials in both state and federal courts. He has also argued before the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals and the New Jersey Supreme Court. His distinguished legal career includes representing notable clients such as Wendy Williams, Naturi Naughton-Lewis and the estate of Malcolm X Shabazz.Inspired by a musical legacy that includes his uncle Harry Ray, lead singer of Ray, Goodman & Brown, Raymond opens up about his passion for music. He shares his evolution as a singer, songwriter, producer and arranger performing as RayLH. Raymond discusses the inspiration behind finally releasing his music and why this chapter represents purpose, authenticity and growth. RayLH’s album Who I Am arrives May 9 on all music platforms.This episode is a powerful conversation about legacy, perseverance, purpose and embracing every part of who you are in order to Prepare For Takeoff.00:00 - Introduction to Raymond L. Hamlin01:12 - Growing Up in Long Branch02:17 - Influence of Family and Famous Uncle03:29 - Early Aspirations and Athletic Journey05:59 - College Experience at East Stroudsburg University08:13 - Discovering Fraternities and Community Influence12:29 - The Impact of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity14:11 - Navigating College and Athletics20:44 - Transition to Law School and Overcoming Rejection23:35 - Navigating the Challenges of Law School26:11 - The Journey to Passing the Bar Exam29:21 - Starting a Legal Career32:25 - Establishing a Law Firm36:33 - Building a Successful Practice38:23 - Diverse Legal Representation43:01 - Pursuing Artistic Passions48:10 - Keys to Success and Personal Growth50:36 - Prepare For Takeoff ClosingThe future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

April 30, 2026Episode 11941 min

How Crystal Hadnott Built High-Level Success Without Burnout

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Crystal Hadnott breaks down what it takes to sustain success at a high level. She is a PhD, entrepreneur, author and endurance athlete who built her career on discipline, purpose and consistency.Crystal shares how she helps leaders scale impact without burnout, speaking from real experience and proven results. Through her work as CEO at CH Philanthropy & Fundraising, she has helped organizations raise nearly $1 billion. Her role as Founder & Chief Wellness Officer at Performance Pilates reflects her commitment to helping others perform at their best. She also shares insight from her books The Finish Line Was Just the Start, After the Finish Line: The Performance Playbook and Rise and Run.Crystal highlights her advocacy for the HBCU community, which began while she was earning her master’s and later her doctorate at Texas Southern University. She highlights her pride as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Crystal explains the influence of her late mother, also a proud AKA, and the role that legacy plays in her drive for excellence.If you are focused on leadership and growth, this episode delivers real perspective you can apply as you Prepare For Takeoff.Chapters00:00 - Introduction and Background00:48 - Growing Up in Houston03:17 - Education and Early Career05:27 - The Journey to Entrepreneurship07:13 - Experiences at HBCUs09:51 - Joining a Sorority and Its Impact12:21 - Athletic Background and Burnout14:46 - Transitioning to Consulting17:31 - Running Marathons and Life Lessons20:33 - Overcoming Health Challenges23:17 - Advice for Success26:09 - Final Thoughts and Future Plans41:12 - Prepare For Takeoff ClosingThe future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

April 20, 2026Episode 1181 hr 0 min

From Corporate Executive to Cannabis Entrepreneur: The Faye Coleman Story

In this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, Faye Coleman shares her journey from Pittsburgh’s Hill District to becoming a leading entrepreneur in the cannabis industry. She is a West Virginia University graduate and a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She built her foundation through a successful corporate career with companies like Kraft, Campbell's Soup, Target, CVS and Home Depot before co-founding Pure Genesis.She discusses the importance of community, education and strategic networking in building success. Faye highlights Pure Genesis’ partnership with EGOT winner Whoopi Goldberg on Whoop-Tea. She shares plans to open a Pure Genesis location across from the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City. Faye reflects on her book inspired by love letters written by two time Pulitzer Prize and multiple Tony Award winning playwright August Wilson to her late mother. The project is being adapted into a film with Gina Torres serving as executive producer.Faye Coleman’s powerful story of preparation, purpose and opportunity will help you Prepare For Takeoff.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Black Excellence and Entrepreneurship02:34 - Transitioning from Corporate America to Cannabis05:52 - Mindset and Mentorship in Entrepreneurship07:10 - Historical Context of Black Women in Business07:42 - The Value of Networking and Community Support13:12 - The Role of HBCUs and Community in Success16:15 - Personal Journey into the Cannabis Industry19:07 - Understanding Hemp vs. Cannabis20:48 - The Impact of Big Pharma on Cannabis25:11 - Future Opportunities in the Hemp Industry27:28 - Raising Capital and Industry Insights28:36 - Navigating Capitalism The Gladiator Sport29:58 - Building Community Wealth and Equity32:05 - Partnerships with Influential Figures35:04 - Expanding Horizons International Opportunities39:07 - The Power of Community and Networking43:36 - Harnessing Economic Power for Change47:54 - Legacy and Storytelling Honoring the Past54:27 - Preparing for Takeoff Key Entrepreneurial Insights01:00:31 - Prepare For Takeoff ClosingThe future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

April 15, 2026Episode 1171 hr 5 min

Ayinde Warren Took a Leap of Faith… Now He’s an American Gladiator

On this episode of Prepare For Takeoff, model, actor, influencer, personal trainer and American Gladiator, Ayinde Warren shares a powerful story of discipline, resilience and belief. A proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., he started as a student-athlete at West Virginia State University and later finished his final year of football eligibility at the University of South Dakota, earning his master’s degree. After college, he moved to rural North Carolina with his parents and worked for a car rental company while staying locked in on his fitness routine. That consistency helped him become a trainer. He then took a leap of faith to Orlando, where he became a fitness director and expanded into modeling and acting. He went from zero experience to walking the runways of Miami Swim Week and New York Fashion Week. He shares how mentorship from community leaders like Dr. R. Charles Byers helped shape his mindset. An influencer and recognized as one of the top trainers in the industry, he has worked with brands like Under Armour and continues building his Swole Patrol platform. He now steps into a life-changing role as Neon on American Gladiators, premiering April 17 on Amazon Prime Video. This episode is about leveling up, staying ready and betting on yourself as you Prepare For Takeoff.00:00 - Early Life and Sports Journey01:22 - Transition to College Football04:11 - The Road to West Virginia State University06:24 - Adjusting to College Life08:18 - Joining Omega Psi Phi Fraternity10:28 - Impact of Fraternity on Personal Growth13:00 - Post-College Journey and Future Aspirations14:53 - From Football Dreams to New Beginnings19:01 - Navigating Life After Injury20:57 - The Shift to Personal Training25:07 - Building a Fitness Brand28:05 - The Leap to Acting33:57 - Finding Success in Unlikely Places38:40 - The Journey of Resilience and Growth42:15 - Building Confidence Through Community Support44:41 - The Journey to American Gladiators46:53 - Resilience in the Face of Adversity48:18 - The Importance of Mindset and Preparation57:21 - Key Takeaways for Success58:35 - The Significance of the Name “Neon”01:00:48 - Anticipating American Gladiators Premiere01:05:07 - Prepare For Takeoff The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

April 2, 2026Episode 11652 min

From Teen Mom at 14 to $10M Real Estate Developer | The Re'Shane L. Lonzo Story

In this inspiring episode, entrepreneur, real estate developer and vocational education advocate Re'Shane L. Lonzo shares her powerful journey from growing up in Detroit to becoming a developer creating economic opportunity in her community. Becoming a mother at 14 pushed her to work harder and stay focused on building a better future for her family. As she reflects, “Detroit taught me how to navigate life,” and “My son became my reason to work harder.”She graduated from Michigan State University, where her entrepreneurial mindset began to take shape. After initially working in corrections and surviving a workplace attack, she pivoted her career, earned her MBA, and began focusing on building opportunities for others. Re’Shane launched a vocational training school to help people gain practical skills and eventually expanded into real estate development. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and shares how the sisterhood has helped her grow professionally.Today, Re'Shane is leading a $10 million real estate development project in Lansing, Michigan, focused on revitalizing the community through mixed use development that includes workforce training and supportive services. Her ventures also include The Comfort Zone Cigar Lounge & Bistro, a unique hospitality space that became the only cigar lounge of its kind within a 100 mile radius.Her journey reminds us that when resilience meets opportunity and purpose leads the way, you’re ready to Prepare For Takeoff. ✈️Chapters00:00 - Introduction to the Journey00:26 - Growing Up in Detroit03:17 - Adversity and Resilience06:56 - Navigating Education and Motherhood10:22 - The Transition to College Life13:38 - Early Career Choices and Entrepreneurship17:04 - Building a Business from Scratch20:44 - Giving Back to the Community25:21 - Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience26:52 - The Impact of COVID-19 on Business and Community30:00 - Real Estate Development and Community Revitalization33:54 - Empowering Future Generations through Real Estate42:11 - The Role of Sororities in Professional Growth49:43 - Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs52:06 - Prepare For Takeoff Closing The future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.

March 25, 2026Episode 11546 min

Amy DuBois Barnett on Her Debut Novel If I Ruled the World and the Hulu TV Adaptation

Amy DuBois Barnett joins Prepare For Takeoff for an inspiring conversation about vision, reinvention and building a career at the highest levels of media and storytelling. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Barnett earned her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her master’s degree in creative writing from Columbia University. She made history as the first Black woman to lead a major mainstream consumer magazine in the United States as editor-in-chief of Teen People. She also served as editor-in-chief of Honey and Ebony, deputy editor at Harper’s Bazaar and later held senior leadership roles at TheGrio and BET Digital. Amy reflects on her journey from Chicago to the upper ranks of the media industry, navigating the pressure of representation, adapting to the shift from print to digital and the discipline required to sustain long term success. She also discusses the power of relationships, intentional energy and staying focused on purpose. Amy shares the story behind her debut novel If I Ruled the World and how it led to a television adaptation deal with Hulu, where she is developing the project alongside Oscar nominated filmmaker Lee Daniels. This conversation is filled with insight on creativity, leadership, reinvention and pursuing your vision with clarity and confidence as you Prepare For Takeoff.Chapters00:00 - The Journey Begins: Amy's Early Life and Education04:09 - Breaking into Media: Amy's Career Path07:27 - The Pressure of Representation: Navigating the Magazine Industry10:06 - Transitioning to Digital: Adapting to Industry Changes12:22 - The Reality of Success: Hard Work and Intentionality16:20 - The Importance of Relationships: Networking and Building Connections19:57 - The Birth of a Novel: Amy's Writing Journey22:28 - Looking Ahead: Future Projects and Aspirations22:31 - The Journey to Authorship27:38 - From Page to Screen: The TV Deal31:56 - The Art of Pitching: Challenges and Strategies34:37 - Naming the Novel: A Creative Process39:48 - Preparing for Takeoff: Key Insights for Success46:39 - Prepare For Takeoff ClosingThe future of business is yours to shape. Sign up for a free Shopify trial by clicking 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 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://riverside.sjv.io/jeVZYP⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started.