Returning guest: Michael Mercer
Recorded live at: Doubt It (Covington, KY)

Entrepreneurship is full of “are you sure?” moments—aka the ones people doubt. In this live episode, we sit down with returning guest Michael Mercer to unpack everything it takes to open an eclectic, iconic neighborhood bar: the vision behind Doubt It, the risks he took, design choices that create a vibe, building a team, community partnerships, and how to keep a concept fresh long after opening night.

In this episode:

• Why “Doubt It”? Naming, narrative, and brand storytelling
• From idea → doors open: funding, permits, and the unsexy stuff no one posts about
• Designing an eclectic space that still feels curated (materials, lighting, sound)
• Menu philosophy: cocktails, standards, and training that scales
• Hiring for hospitality DNA & creating a culture that lasts
• Lessons from the first months and what Michael would do differently
• Advice for founders hearing “no” (or “I doubt it”) on repeat

Connect on Instagram

• Hosts: @megan_delcorral, @injectorchacha_np
• Guest: @_mercer
• Venue: @doubtitbar
• Show: @btwc.podcast

In this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, we sit down with Jou Jou Papailler, actor, social entrepreneur, and founder of Papailler Creative LLC. We explore the challenging journey of pursuing your dreams without sacrificing your values, the importance of maintaining moral integrity in a competitive industry, and how the art of mentorship fuels passion and purpose.

Highlights & Talking Points

• The Grind of Following Your Dreams: Jou Jou candidly shares his personal journey—breaking into Hollywood, enduring setbacks, and pushing forward with resolve and authenticity.
• Staying True to Your Morals: We discuss the pressures of the entertainment and corporate worlds and how Jou Jou has navigated those environments without compromising his ethics or vision.
• The Power of Mentorship: Jou Jou emphasizes how mentors shaped his path and why paying it forward keeps his passion—and others’—alive and thriving.

About Jou Jou Papailler

• Acting Career Highlights:
  • Played “Jamal” on Sesame Street (1993–1995)
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  • Performed in the off-Broadway play Spoonbread and Strawberry Wine (1995), where he also composed songs
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  • Appeared in independent films like Welcome to Hollywood and The Socratic Method
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• Beyond Acting:
  • As founder and CEO of Jou Jou Presents, he leads ventures in social entrepreneurship, TV/film production, and children’s fitness education.
  • His background also includes sales and marketing, as well as organizational development, encouraging holistic impact through both creativity and strategy
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Stay Connected

• Charia (Injector Chacha, NP): @injectorchacha_np
• Jou Jou Papailler: @joujoupapaille
• Megan: @megandelcorral
• @btwc

Listener Takeaway

This episode reminds us that choosing authenticity over easy shortcuts, investing in meaningful relationships, and staying resilient through the grind are what ultimately drive fulfillment and sustainability in any field. Jou Jou’s story is truly motivational.

In this inspiring episode, Charia (@injectorchacha_np) and Megan (@megan_delcorral) sit down with Erin Lageman (@emlage82), HR Director for the Cincinnati Reds, to talk about what it’s really like being a woman in a high-powered leadership role.

From breaking barriers in male-dominated industries to making intentional time for family, friends, and self-care, Erin shares her personal journey, lessons learned, and the strategies that help her navigate the demands of both career and life.

You’ll hear about:

• Thriving as a woman in leadership in a high-profile organization
• Balancing work, family, and personal wellness without burning out
• The importance of mentorship and building a strong support network
• Why self-care isn’t selfish—and how to make it non-negotiable
• Real-world tips for managing high-pressure schedules with grace

Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, running your own business, or just trying to find more balance in your daily life, this conversation will leave you motivated and equipped with actionable advice.

✨ Connect with us:

• Charia Mam: @injectorchacha_np
• Megan Del Corral: @megan_delcorral
• Erin Lageman: @emlage82

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation Beyond the White Coat.