In this episode, we're joined by one of the most trusted voices in American journalism. Soledad O'Brien is an award-winning journalist, Executive Producer of 2 Oscar-nominated documentary films for the 98th Academy Awards, and media entrepreneur whose work has consistently pushed journalism to be more accountable, more human, and more honest.

From landmark projects like "Black in America" to her newly Oscar-nominated documentary film offerings, "The Perfect Neighbor" and "The Devil is Busy," she's built a career telling stories that challenge power and center truth. She's also the founder of Starfish Media Group, now Soledad O'Brien Productions.

Career Highlights (Timeline)

• Harvard University graduate

• NBC News and MSNBC correspondent and anchor

• CNN anchor of American Morning

• Creator of Black in America and Latino in America

• Founder of Starfish Media Group (2013)

• Host of Matter of Fact with Soledad O'Brien (10 seasons)

• Correspondent for HBO Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel

Major Documentary Works

• The Perfect Neighbor (2025) – Executive Producer – 2026 Academy Award nominee for Best Documentary Feature

• The Devil Is Busy (2024) – Executive Producer – Oscar-nominated documentary short

• Black and Missing

• Katrina: Come Hell and High Water

• Who Killed JFK?

• Murder on the Towpath

• The End of Affirmative Action

Current News & Awards

• The Perfect Neighbor nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 98th Academy Awards (2026)

• Continued work with HBO Real Sports

• Active speaking engagements on journalism, democracy, and storytelling

Press & Recognition

Multiple Emmy Awards, Peabody Awards, Gracie Awards, Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame inductee

Sources / References

CNN, HBO, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Starfish Media Group, and The Hype Magazine

You can read the full editorial by our Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Jerry Doby, exclusively on www.thehypemagazine.com. We welcome your comments and feedback!

#media #interview #oscars2026 #film #documentary

In this episode I'm joined by Richard DeVaughn, a visionary reshaping the future of entertainment at its foundation. Richard DeVaughn is the co-founder and CEO of JARO Nexus LLC, the technology media company powering the disruptive platform JaroGO Media.

With an engineering degree from Kettering University and an MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management, he brings a rare combination of technical precision and strategic leadership to the creator economy. His career leading global operations and technology across China, India, Europe, and the U.S. now fuels a platform designed to return control, ownership, and revenue to creators. Richard's mission is transformational for the creator economy.

You can read the full coverstory on Jarogo Media and the founder's stories on each of these dynamos in The Hype Magazine Digital Issue #148.

Feel free to connect with Dr. Jerry Doby via his website

In this episode, I'm joined by a creative force whose fingerprints can be found across two decades of excellence in film, television, and post-production. Wayne Overstreet, Co-founder of JaroGO Media, has helped shape the visual language of major networks, including TBS, TNT, Cartoon Network, Discovery, Lifetime, BET, Aspire, and more.

After leading Wolff Bros Post into the world of long-form television and high-profile award shows, he launched Overstreet Production & Post, handling projects for TV One and The Rickey Smiley Show.

In 2019, he partnered with veteran producer Len Gibson to form GO Media Productions, where together they have produced and distributed a slate of acclaimed films and television series. Wayne's expertise, from concept to post-production delivery, makes him an invaluable force behind today's most impactful storytelling.

You can read The Hype Magazine's full coverstory on JaroGO Media here.

Feel free to send story pitches to Dr. Jerry Doby via his website.

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Len Gibson, a visionary whose influence in film, television, and education spans more than twenty-five years.

Dr. Gibson began his journey as an intern at Spike Lee's 40 Acres & A Mule and has since become a respected producer, executive, and founder of the Peachtree Village International Film Festival, a global platform elevating diverse creative voices. From securing financing and distribution for acclaimed projects to educating the next generation of filmmakers, Gibson's work bridges storytelling, culture, and innovation.

He now expands that mission as a co-founder of JaroGO Media, empowering independent creators with new digital tools and distribution opportunities.

You can see The Hype Magazine cover story on JaroGO Media and its founders here and feel free to connect with me Dr. Jerry Doby, via my website.

From the precinct to the platinum track, our guest embodies the essence of a bold career transition. Meet ⁠Monique Nikkole⁠, a force of nature, a GRAMMY-nominated singer-songwriter, and a proud Brooklyn native. For 24 years, she served her community with dedication, rising to the rank of Detective Sergeant in the Nassau County Police Department. Now, she's trading her badge for the microphone, channeling her deep sense of service into powerful, purpose-driven artistry.

As the founder of CoCo Tunes Publishing Inc. and the Queen of the Hustle lifestyle brand, Monique is on a mission to empower others through music, business, and fitness. Following the success of her acclaimed anthem "⁠Queen of the Hustle⁠," she's returned with a soulful and energetic reimagining of a classic, "⁠We Are One⁠ (Unplugged)."

In this #livesession, I give you a peek into ⁠the remarkable journey⁠ of the woman who proves that it's never too late to pivot to your purpose.You can also read my full editorial on ⁠The Hype Magazine⁠.

From the heart of South Central LA to the screens of millions, viral comedian Big Jeffrey sits down with Dr. Jerry Doby for a powerful and hilarious conversation about turning pain into purpose. Known for his authentic storytelling and quick wit, Big Jeffrey has built a loyal following across TikTok and beyond by keeping it real, spreading positivity, and representing the people who raised him.

In this unfiltered episode of Doby Uncut, Dr. Doby and Big Jeffrey dig down to the roots of his comedy, the importance of community, and how humor can heal and unite in ways words alone can't.

Topics Include:

- The origins of Big Jeffrey's viral success

- Comedy as therapy and connection

- Building community through authenticity

- What it means to represent South Central with pride

Stay tuned for an inspiring and laugh-filled ride that proves why Big Jeffrey is far more than just a social media sensation — he's a voice for the people.

You can also read the exclusive editorial from this interview on TheHypeMagazine.com

San Diego legend Mr. Shadow joins Dr. Jerry Doby on Doby Uncut for a powerful conversation on his historic collaboration "Certified G'z" — featuring Ice Cube and Kokane — a record uniting the Black and Brown communities through authentic West Coast Hip Hop.

In this episode originally airing on The Hype Magazine Live Sessions, Mr. Shadow opens up about working with icons, the making of "Certified G'z", and how this collaboration bridges generations while reigniting the sound of unity, respect, and truth in the culture.

🔥 Key Topics:

• The story behind "Certified G'z"

• Ice Cube's first-ever collaboration with a Chicano artist

• West Coast legacy and Hip Hop authenticity

• The brotherhood between Mr. Shadow and Kokane

• The future of unity-driven Hip Hop

💿 Stream "Certified G'z" on all platforms
🎬 Watch the official video directed by Jeff Reyes
📻 Follow Doby Uncut for more exclusive conversations with legends and culture shapers

Welcome back to Doby Uncut. I'm your host, Dr. Jerry Doby, and this episode is one you won't hear anywhere else. We captured an exclusive moment with R&B royalty, Eddie Levert Sr., as he personally co-signed a young crooner, carrying forward the soul tradition.

That artist is Omar Wilson — and the moment was decisive. Omar delivered a heartfelt new rendition of Gerald Levert's classic Baby I'm Ready, and Eddie not only praised it, he saluted it as a moving, posthumous tribute to his son. It was more than a co-sign — it was a passing of the torch, a moment of respect, legacy, and connection between generations.

In this conversation, Eddie reflects on what makes music timeless, why subtlety and emotion matter more than ever, and how artists like Omar can keep soul alive for the future. Omar shares his journey, his passion, and what this blessing from Eddie means to him personally and professionally.

This is a rare, candid, and emotional exchange — a conversation about family, legacy, and the enduring power of R&B. Let's get into it.