The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd—baseball isn't just a game; it's a thread in the fabric of American history. Reggie Jackson's legendary performance is more than a fond family memory for me—it's a gateway to a feisty debate about baseball championships with my co-host, Al of “Crimefaces.” We take a swing at the weighty issues surrounding titles won before the integration of minority players, questioning if these accolades deserve the same place on the mantle of sports legacy as those earned post-integration.

Life throws curveballs, and it's not always on the mound—just ask the guy from Flatbush who went from hauling trash to sitting in the executive suite. We share an inspiring tale of transformation that's anything but garbage, as we're reminded that ambition, a supportive partner, and seizing the opportunities—even during a pandemic—can rewrite the playbook of one's destiny. It's a story that resonates beyond the streets of Brooklyn, challenging us all to consider how we're crafting our own legacies and shaking up the traditional job market for the next generation.

Closing out, I'm passing you the literary equivalent of a secret playbook, "Who Not How" by Ben Hardy and Dan Sullivan. This book isn't just a read; it's a catalyst for change that's had a profound impact on my own journey from the booth to the boardroom. So, to all our listeners from Staten Island to New Jersey, including those of you in the shadow of the mighty Campbell Soup in Camden, here's to finding your "who" and reshaping your "how." And with that, Al drops his signature send-off, capping another episode that's as rich in diversity as it is in dialogue.

Unlock the transformative power of dance with Ciji Carr, a New Jersey dance studio owner, and myself, Andre Norman, as we reveal the magic of movement in uniting communities and empowering individuals. From my early days as one of Boston's original breakdancers to the current scene where Ciji's studio doubles as a social hub, we share the rhythms that bring people together. Whether it's the diversity of class demographics or the potential for romance on the dance floor, we weave a tapestry of stories that illustrate dance's potent role in society.

Feel the beat of innovation as we groove into the concept of a fitness nightclub, a place where the energy of a dance party fuels your workout. The pulse of live music, the allure of a water bar, and the strategy behind attracting a male audience to the dance floor – we touch on it all, including the pivot from a self-focused venture to a thriving community space. We also underscore the value of documenting the entrepreneurial odyssey, chronicling the steps from a business dream to a brick-and-mortar reality.

Our episode wouldn't be complete without a spotlight on the personal journeys that shape us. Join us as we share the significance of annual self-reflective videos and the impact of life events like divorce on professional paths. We delve into strategies for maintaining brand integrity during expansion and the art of aligning staff incentives with business success. As we step through the intricate dance of personal promises and business progress, join us for an episode that intertwines the art of dance with the science of success.

Reflecting on my own brush with adversity, I couldn't help but be moved by SneakerBox Chock's transformation from serving a 20-year prison term to spearheading an inspiring nonprofit, New Soles. His remarkable journey, fraught with the challenges of reintegration after nearly a decade behind bars, reaffirms the indomitable human spirit. Today's conversation brings to light Chock's story, starting with a pair of sought-after Jordans that lured him onto a precarious path in Camden, New Jersey. We dissect the daunting process of parole hearings, the profound lessons learned both within and beyond correctional programs, and the sobering reality of facing a life sentence at such a young age.

As our discussion unfolds, we recognize the vital role of a strong support system in navigating life's tumultuous seas after long-term incarceration. Chock pays homage to key figures - his then-wife, mother, and brother - whose steadfast support was instrumental in his successful reentry into society after a 22-year absence. Their encouragement and his relentless resolve shine through as we explore his entrepreneurial venture with New Soles, a beacon of hope born out of a childhood yearning and a testament to his mother's unwavering faith in his potential.

Rounding out our time together, we explore the pivotal moment that propelled Chock towards the establishment of his nonprofit. A simple gesture of giving shoes to a young man at a homeless shelter became a stepping stone towards a greater mission. Chock challenges the glamorized media narratives around prison life by sharing the raw, emotional struggles of reentry. The conversation culminates with a powerful message: believe in your inherent ability to effect change and embrace the accolades that come your way. It's a reflection of the impact one can wield by harnessing the power of self-belief, and an affirmation for others to follow suit, particularly in guiding the youth toward a brighter future.