"Never run back to what broke you." — Frank Ocean

In this powerful episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Bartholomew Jones, a Memphis visionary, hip-hop artist, educator, and founder of Cxffeeblack — a cultural movement that's reimagining coffee, community, and Black excellence.

Born Maurice Henderson II, Bartholomew's transformation is rooted in faith, creativity, and purpose. From early years in Louisville and Whitehaven to building one of the most recognized Black-owned coffee brands in America, his story is an anthem for curiosity, culture, and courage.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How a kid inspired by faith turned passion into purpose

• The meaning behind the name Bartholomew Jones and the legacy it carries

• How hip-hop and coffee became tools for empowerment

• The birth of Cxffeeblack and the vision to reclaim coffee's African roots

• Why he believes "God don't make no junk and coffee don't need no cream"

• What it means to run towards what builds you, not back to what broke you

Whether you're a dreamer, creator, or entrepreneur, this conversation will fill your cup, reminding you that your story, your culture, and your faith are your greatest strengths.

"Don't be topic or event-driven — be thought and idea-driven." — Elliott Sayles

In this inspiring episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Elliott Sayles, the visionary behind the Mane T-Shirt, a Memphis-born cultural brand celebrating identity, creativity, and local pride.

From East Cleveland to California to Memphis, Elliott's story is a powerful reminder that creativity, faith, and authenticity can turn a single idea into a movement. A designer, thinker, and spiritual entrepreneur, Elliott shares how he transformed a simple Memphis slang word into a meaningful symbol of community and belonging.

In this episode, Elliott opens up about:

• How he discovered his gift as a creator and idea generator

• The journey from Cleveland to Memphis, and how the city "crashed" his world in the best way

• The prayer and inspiration behind Mane and how it became a brand

• What intellectual property means and why ownership matters

• His advice for dreamers: face what scares you and pursue your ideas fearlessly

• How being a "girl dad" changed his perspective on life and leadership

Elliott Sayles reminds us that success begins with identity and intention. When you create from who you are, not what's trending.

"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success." — Albert Schweitzer

In this episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Austin Baker, Memphis-born entrepreneur, connector, and president of HRO Partners. From launching his first business while still at the University of Memphis to leading one of the region's top HR firms, Austin's story is one of faith, mentorship, and doing well by doing good.

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Austin shares:

• How growing up on a Cordova farm taught him the value of hard work and humility

• Why mentorship became his life's purpose and how the MILE Program is shaping future leaders

• His 20-year practice of writing letters to his future self is "the best form of time travel"

• What it means to "farm for talent" and build people, not just businesses

• His philosophy on using AI and innovation to multiply, not replace, human potential

• Why his mantra "Do well by doing good" drives every decision he makes

Austin's story reminds us that true leadership isn't about titles or awards, it's about impact. His wisdom challenges us all to pause, reflect, and write the next version of ourselves into existence.

"Dedicate yourself to a core set of values. Without them, you will never lead effectively." — Ken Chenault

In this inspiring episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Mack Weaver, a proud son of North Memphis, lifelong leader, deacon, and now CEO of Memphis in May.

From growing up in a single-parent home to leading one of Memphis' most celebrated cultural institutions, Mack's story is a masterclass in perseverance, discipline, and faith.

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Mack shares:

• How football and faith taught him to never give up — "You can't burn me out."

• The prayer that changed his life during his first year at South Carolina State

• What it means to grow up in North Memphis and never forget your roots

• Lessons on leadership, listening, and finding strength through humility

• Why smiling, even through the struggle, can change everything

• How family, faith, and community shaped his path to success

From being a college athlete to becoming a community advocate, church leader, and CEO, Mack reminds us that grit and grace go hand in hand. His message is simple yet profound:

"There's only one you. Be the best you that you can be. Control yourself, control your emotions and just smile."

"I'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day." — Edgar Guest

In this heartfelt episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with the dynamic Ken Griggs. a Memphis visionary, entrepreneur, and connector whose story embodies faith, perseverance, and purpose.

Born and raised in Bolivar, Tennessee, Ken's path has taken him from humble beginnings on a family farm to working with Fortune 500 companies, mayors, HBCUs, and NASCAR. Known for his powerful personality and heart for people, Ken shares his unfiltered truth about growing up Southern, building community, and finding meaning in the grind.

In this inspiring conversation, Ken talks about:

• Growing up in Bolivar with strong family and spiritual roots

• The lessons he learned from elders and why listening matters

• How Memphis taught him to hustle and persevere

• His journey from pig farming to working in business, sports, and entertainment

• The difference between religion and spirituality and how God guides his path

• His timeless message to young people: "Pay attention. Be grateful. See it through."

Whether you're chasing dreams, rebuilding from setbacks, or simply looking for perspective, this episode will remind you that success starts with faith, character, and consistency.

"Dedicate yourself to a core set of values. Without them, you'll never lead effectively." — Ken Chenault

In this powerful episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Richard Fisher, artist, mentor, faith leader, and lifelong Scoutmaster, whose story bridges faith, creativity, and perseverance.

Born on the South Side of Chicago and shaped in St. Louis, Richard's life is a portrait of resilience and reflection. From his early days exploring the Chicago Art Institute with his mother to his 30+ years of leadership with the Boy Scouts of America, he's spent his life inspiring others to believe, create, and serve.

In this heartfelt conversation, you'll discover:

• The power of faith and what it means to be a true "son of a bishop"

• How his mother's love of art planted the seed for his creative journey

• Lessons learned from his father about manhood, responsibility, and perseverance

• His powerful experiences leading youth across America through Scouting

• The mistakes that shaped his wisdom and the grace that helped him grow

• Why his life mantra is simple but profound: "Love everybody like God loves you."

Richard's journey reminds us that life is not about perfection — it's about purpose, progress, and prayer.

"A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives." — Jackie Robinson

In this episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Commissioner Mickell Lowery, a Memphis native, proud HBCU graduate, and community leader whose life exemplifies service, legacy, and purpose.

Loweryl has carved his own path as a leader, husband, and father. From his days as a LeMoyne-Owen College basketball player and SGA president to his current role in public service, Mickell's story is one of faith, discipline, and dedication to Memphis.

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Mickell shares:

• How family, sports, and faith shaped his early years

• Lessons learned from the court to the County Commission

• What being a "girl dad" has taught him about patience and purpose

• How his mother's ministry and his father's politics molded his worldview

• His experience leading Memphis through the Tyre Nichols tragedy and his hope for change

• The advice he gives to young leaders: "Relationships are better than money. Build them with integrity."

Mickell Lowery's journey is a reminder that leadership isn't about titles, it's about impact, empathy, and consistency. His story challenges every viewer to ask:

"What will they say about you when your journey is done?"

"Life is a direct reflection of the choices you make." — Sam Nelson

In this high-energy, brutally honest episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Samuel Nelson, the founder and CEO of Massage on the Go, and one of Memphis' most relentless entrepreneurs.

From surviving a life-threatening car crash to building one of the first Black-owned, nationwide massage companies, Sam's story is a masterclass in resilience, creativity, and legacy-building.

In this unforgettable conversation, Sam shares:

• How growing up in South Memphis and Bethel Grove shaped his grind and mindset

• Why he calls himself a "living legend" — and how he became the first Black owner of a national massage company

• What the Rothschilds taught him about systems, structure, and wealth

• How he built multiple businesses after losing everything

• His faith journey and how he became an ordained minister

• The ultimate relationship advice: "Everything in life is about relationships. If you can't relate in the ship, it won't move."

Sam's wisdom is raw, practical, and powerful, from hustling candy in middle school to employing hundreds of therapists across the country, his journey is proof that discipline, faith, and focus can turn any obstacle into opportunity.