In this enlightening episode of the SeventyTwo Flavors podcast, Whitney Smith from the Lawndale Christian Development Corporation (LCDC) shares how her organization transforms the North Lawndale community through affordable housing, cooperative businesses, and youth empowerment. Discover the power of homeownership in building generational wealth, the legacy of black cooperative economics, and the importance of investing in local entrepreneurs and vocational training. This episode is a must-listen if you're passionate about creating opportunities and fostering resilience in urban communities.

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In this episode of the SeventyTwo Flavors podcast, we sit down with cannabis industry trailblazer Victoria Williams to discuss the lack of black men's representation in the legal cannabis industry and explore ways to elevate their participation. From packaging and transportation to entrepreneurship and supporting black-owned businesses, Victoria shares her insights on navigating the industry, balancing cannabis use for mental health, and the importance of proper training and smart business practices. She also gives us a sneak peek of her upcoming vape line designed for women, WakeNVape. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on empowering the black community in the cannabis industry and learn how to avoid common pitfalls on the path to success.

Timestamps:

00:01:06 - Lack of black men's empowerment in legal cannabis industry

00:03:44 - Packaging, transportation & other ways to get involved besides dispensaries

00:06:16 - Balancing cannabis use for mental health, avoiding overconsumption

00:11:48 - Victoria's new discreet vape line for women - WakeNVape

00:15:00 - Supporting each other's brands to circulate black dollars in the community

00:16:44 - ACC of Illinois: state-approved training to enter cannabis industry 00:21:28 - Importance of thoroughly reading contracts & having good legal representation

00:26:01 - Learning from failures, helping others avoid same mistakes

00:29:06 - Uplifting the community by putting people in a position to win Links:

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Seventy Two Flavors®️

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This powerful conversation delves into the remarkable journey of those who have transitioned from gang involvement to a life of personal growth and positive change. Explore the challenges and dangers of incarceration, the importance of self-respect and responsibility, and the profound impact of finding authenticity and freedom. Discover how embracing self-love, education, and community collaboration pave the way for individual and collective progress. Learn valuable lessons about making better choices, building a fulfilling life, and advocating for the betterment of oneself and others.

Key Takeaways:

• Empowerment through Choice: Understand the transformative power of taking responsibility for your actions and making deliberate choices towards a brighter future.

• Beyond Incarceration: Explore the challenges and dangers of incarceration, highlighting the critical need for mental health support and rehabilitation programs.

• Unlocking Authenticity: Discover how self-respect, self-love, and embracing your true self pave the way for breaking free from negativity and achieving personal freedom.

• Strength in Unity: Witness the transformative power of community collaboration and unity in addressing systemic issues and building thriving neighborhoods.

• Education is Liberation: Cultivate self-awareness and informed decision-making through education, self-reflection, and analyzing the impact of your choices.

Chapters with Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introduction and Goals

• 01:09 Early Life and Gang Involvement: Understanding the Roots

• 02:06 Realization and Change: A Turning Point Towards Growth

• 03:05 Life in Jail: Facing the Realities of Incarceration (4:02 Challenges and Dangers)

• 05:00 Transitioning Out: Reclaiming Life Beyond Gangs

• 06:28 Making Better Choices: Embracing a New Path

• 08:49 Hitting Rock Bottom: Recognizing the Consequences

• 10:38 Finding Authenticity and Freedom: Breaking Free from the Past

• 12:35 Seeking a New Life: A Fresh Start in Colorado

• 13:32 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth: Reflection and Transformation

• 14:32 Building Self-Respect and Self-Love: The Foundation for Progress

• 15:30 Taking Responsibility and Making Progress: Owning Your Journey

• 16:14 The Importance of Family: Rebuilding Connections and Support

• 17:35 Beyond Materialism: Finding True Value and Purpose

• 18:05 Respect and Love in the Community: Fostering Positive Connections

• 19:28 The Dangers of Ego and Self-Hate: Breaking Free from Negativity

• 20:21 The Reality of Street Life: Understanding the Challenges

• 21:20 Unity and Building Up Communities: Collective Action for Change

• 22:48 Hood Millionaires and Responsibility: Using Success for Good

• 23:48 Advocating for the Community: Fighting for Change and Justice

• 25:14 The Consequences of Stripping Dignity: Recognizing Systemic Issues

• 26:42 Choosing Respect and Love: Building a Positive Future

• 27:42 The Importance of Education and Self-Reflection: Tools for Growth

• 28:41 Love, Respect, and Unity: The Cornerstones of Progress

• 30:33 Taking Responsibility and Analyzing Choices: Owning Your Impact

• 32:29 Reparations and Building Up Communities: Addressing the Past and Shaping the Future

• 34:27 Individual Analysis and Education: Empowering Yourself and Others

• 36:23 Accountability and Community Collaboration: Working Together for Change

• 38:34 Closing Remarks: A Call to Action

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  SeventyTwo Flavors® Lifestyle Brand

This insightful conversation delves into the realities of street hustles in urban communities. Explore the risks and rewards, the importance of discipline and community, and strategies for overcoming systemic challenges. Discover how understanding the environment, evaluating opportunities, and fostering empathy can lead to personal growth and collective success. Learn valuable lessons about leadership, financial management, and the power of education in building a brighter future.

Key Takeaways:

• Navigating the Hustle: Understand the inherent risks and cultivate discipline for navigating the street hustle landscape.

• Informed Decisions: Learn the importance of environmental awareness and strategic evaluation before engaging in any hustle.

• Community & Leadership: Witness the transformative power of unity and effective leadership in building strong communities and creating opportunities.

• Bridging Perspectives: Cultivate empathy and understanding to bridge gaps between different experiences and perspectives.

• Lifelong Learning: Embrace personal growth through learning from mistakes, recognizing the value of education, and managing finances wisely.

• Empowerment & Investment: Discover how education, business models, and community investment can pave the way for lasting progress.

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Do More With Your Time®️ https://signup.dmwyt.com/community Seventy Two Flavors®️

Chapters:

0:48 Surviving Street Life

1:47 Incarceration is Designed to Break You

5:44 Gang Life, This ain't GTA

8:23 Choices (Move Better)

10:10 False Idols

11:44 Accountability is a Choice

13:59 The Testimony is in the Test

16:09 Freedom over Ego

19:40 Fake Love: Glorification of Gang Life

22:03 Community Reinvestment

27:18 Self-Hate Deconstructed