Episodes

  • Embracing Authenticity: Cyrus Ausar on Building Genuine Relationships and Personal Growth
    Jul 5 2024

    Are you ready to discover the secrets to masked version of yourself? Together with Cyrus, we delve into the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. From confronting emotional barriers and the impacts of upbringing to understanding the imbalance in friendships and the misconception of imposter syndrome, we explore the importance of shedding false portrayals and embracing vulnerability. By surrounding ourselves with influential individuals and continuously seeking personal truth, we aim to foster a sense of personal greatness and articulate our thoughts and emotions more clearly.

    Do you want to live a life aligned with your higher ethical principles and appreciate the fleeting nature of time? In this heartfelt discussion, we underscore the importance of cherishing each moment, preparing for the future through financial planning, and the power of action over empty words. Cyrus and I also touch on the role of role models, the influence of beliefs and values, and the necessity of embracing life’s impermanence. This episode is a powerful call to focus on personal growth, community support, and making meaningful choices that lead to a fulfilling and balanced life. Tune in and be inspired by Cyrus Asar's wisdom and our collective journey toward self-improvement and authenticity.

    Show more Show less
    56 mins
  • Juggling Life's Demands: Tiffany Skillern on Burnout, Balance, and Self-Care
    Jun 5 2024

    Do you ever feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? Tiffany Skillern, the dynamic executive director of Stark Community Support Network, joins us on Lucas Live to shed light on the realities of balancing community care with personal well-being. As a wife, mother of five, and dedicated speech-language pathologist, Tiffany knows firsthand the intense pressures of juggling multiple roles. She shares her invaluable insights on combating emotional burnout, leveraging laughter as medicine, and the importance of self-care in fostering resilience.

    We dive into the often hidden struggles faced by mothers, who are expected to be everything for everyone. Tiffany opens up about the guilt associated with taking personal time and the emotional burdens mothers carry, such as managing household operations with limited resources and dealing with personal losses. Our conversation underscores the critical necessity of acknowledging these challenges to maintain mental health and prevent burnout. By discussing practical strategies for self-care and the power of vulnerability, Tiffany provides a roadmap for mothers and caregivers to recharge and stay resilient.

    Finally, we explore how breaking generational cycles of trauma in Black families can lead to healthier, more compassionate parenting approaches. Tiffany shares her experiences and the importance of seeking therapy to prevent passing unresolved trauma to the next generation. Together, we highlight the transformative role of community support services provided by Stark Community Support Network, emphasizing the importance of accessible mental health resources. Tune in to discover how investing time in yourself not only leads to personal liberation but also a more meaningful and impactful life.

    Show more Show less
    44 mins
  • Transforming Lives: The Role of Support in Addiction Recovery
    May 31 2024
    What if sharing your story could save someone's life? This episode is a heartfelt conversation with my friend James Fye, who bravely opens up about his journey from addiction to recovery. James started drinking at the age of 12 and hit rock bottom on Christmas Eve 2010, but today, he celebrates 13 years of sobriety. His story is a testament to the incredible power of resilience and the importance of speaking out to inspire others to seek help.

    I also share my own struggles with cocaine and alcohol, revealing how addiction wreaked havoc on my personal and professional life. From the exhilarating highs to the devastating lows, I talk about the dangerous behaviors and broken relationships that stemmed from substance abuse. As a fireman, the job's immense pressure only worsened my drinking problem, which ultimately led to the collapse of my first marriage. This episode sheds light on the hidden battles of addiction and emphasizes the urgency of confronting these issues for ourselves and our loved ones.

    We also discuss the transformative impact of Alcoholics Anonymous and the critical role of community support in the recovery journey. From James' life-changing encounter with a dedicated sponsor to my own experiences with service work in AA, we highlight the importance of mentoring and embracing a higher power. This episode underscores that addiction isn't just an individual's fight—it's a community crisis. By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can create an environment where true healing and transformation are possible.

    Show more Show less
    50 mins
  • Exposing the Injustice of Human Trafficking with Michelle Hay
    May 21 2024

    Venture into the heart of darkness with us as Michelle Hay, a passionate advocate and attorney, unravels the complex web of human trafficking. In a profound conversation, we uncover not just the harrowing facts, but the human stories at the core of this global crisis. Our episode is a deep dive into the relentless efforts to combat this insidious trade, spotlighting the upcoming Freedom Cry event by Frontline Ministries International and the inspiring work of Dr. Marlene Carson, a survivor leading the charge on the U.S. Advisory Board on Human Trafficking. With Michelle's expert guidance, we traverse the intersection of her professional endeavors with her personal life as a wife, mother, and woman of faith, underscoring the power of individual commitment in sparking worldwide change.

    This is no ordinary discussion; it’s a rallying cry for awareness and action. We lift the veil on the sinister ties between legalized prostitution and the trafficking industry, with firsthand accounts from former sergeant Dana Hess, directors Bill and Mary Pat Gokee, and Lieutenant Jason Collins, who shed light on law enforcement's evolving approach to prostitution. The episode also shines a spotlight on Columbus's Catch Court, revealing how legal strategies and rehabilitation programs offer more than mere justice—they offer hope. Join us for a compelling narrative that not only educates but empowers you to be part of the solution in the ongoing battle for freedom and dignity.

    Show more Show less
    29 mins
  • Fostering Community Leadership: Through The Journey of Social Renewal and Self-Discover
    May 14 2024

    When Gino Haynes speaks about community development, it's not just talk; it's a life dedicated to action and leadership. From the bustling streets of Akron to the close-knit neighborhoods of Canton, Gino has weaved his narrative into the very fabric of the communities he uplifts. In our enriching conversation, we uncover the roots of his drive to foster change and how his organization, Canton for All People, is not just reshaping landscapes but also the lives within them. His recognition as a 20 under 40 honoree is more than an accolade; it's a testament to the power of connection and the importance of reaching out to those who are steering the helm of community transformation.

    There's something deeply moving about the legacies we choose to carry forward; for me, it's the spirit of my grandmother that breathes life into my mission. Legacy in Action, an initiative born from this inspiration, serves as a guiding light for those seeking to make waves in their own communities. During our discussion, we navigate the challenges and celebration points of nurturing leadership where it's needed most, all while never losing sight of the personal balance that allows us to remain grounded and present for the ones we love. It's a delicate dance between ambition and affection, and I'm here to share what that journey looks like.

    Then there's the chapter of my life that unfolded in the rich tapestry of Africa. A trip meant to be a simple speaking engagement unfolded into a profound odyssey of self-discovery and communal healing. The children and citizens of Nairobi who embraced me as one of their own opened a door to a heritage that had long been awaiting my return. We explore this transformative experience and how it shaped my understanding of identity, alongside the broader conversation of revitalizing neighborhoods and fostering mixed-class communities. The societal shifts from racial to class divisions, and the church's mirror to a community's heartbeat, as taught by Tony Evans, are just a slice of the deep-diving dialogue we engage in. Join us on this auditory journey, where the past, present, and future of community leadership converge.

    Show more Show less
    44 mins
  • "Embracing Vulnerability: Serena Draper Hendershot's Path to Empowerment"
    May 5 2024

    Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment can often feel like navigating through a labyrinth, but with Serena Draper Hendershot by our side, the path becomes clear. As we sit down with the heart and soul behind Holistically Her, Serena shares her own narrative, intricately weaving the threads of therapy, self-awareness, and community into an inspiring tapestry. This episode promises to open your eyes to the transformative power of vulnerability and the delicate dance of balancing transparency in our lives.

    Have you ever questioned what it truly means to lead a life that honors both your emotional intelligence and your deepest values? Throughout our conversation, we tackle the complexities of gender norms, the emotional development of men and women, and the impact of culture on our emotional processing. Whether stepping back from a career to prioritize family or challenging societal expectations, Serena's insights provide a poignant backdrop as we navigate the realms of personal growth and community influence, especially as one approaches life's milestones.

    This episode is a profound reflection on the ties that bind us all—our relationships, whether with partners, children, or our inner selves, and the importance of nurturing them through communication and sacrifice. We wrap up with an empowering discussion on sisterhood, integrity, and the choices we make that shape our legacies. Join us for an enriching exchange that will motivate and educate, aiming to liberate you to become the best version of yourself, all while celebrating the collective journey of empowerment we embark on together.

    Show more Show less
    48 mins
  • Parenting in a Digital World: Balancing Screen Time and Safety with Christian Turner
    Apr 30 2024

    Season four of Lucas Live takes flight with the dynamic Christian Turner, Canton's communications director and a beacon of public service. We leap straight into the deep end, discussing the whirlwind of her career from orchestrating campaigns during COVID-19 to juggling the complexities of motherhood. Christian's blend of humor and wisdom cuts through the noise, offering a perspective that echoes the sentiments of many modern parents facing the digital tidal wave head-on.

    Navigating the sea of pixels and screen time, our talk branches out into the digital transformation of family life, examining the seismic shifts caused by personal devices and social media's pervasive grip. Amidst stories of nostalgia for simpler times, we confront the realities of our children's digital footprints and our role as models for healthy online habits. The staggering statistics of device usage are no match for Christian's insights on establishing boundaries and fostering meaningful connections beyond the blue light.

    In a world rife with online dangers, we're not just speaking theoretically; the heart-wrenching story of James Woods brings us face-to-face with the darker aspects of digital freedom. The conversation becomes a clarion call for vigilance, urging parents to engage in open dialogue with their children about the risks lurking behind their screens. Christian's dedication to awareness and prevention serves as a reminder that amidst endless connectivity, our most vital link is the one we maintain with our kids, guiding them through the virtual and the real with equal parts love and wisdom.

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 5 mins
  • How to Improve your Faith, Finances, Fashion, Family and More...
    Apr 17 2024

    They say life's most profound lessons are often learned through the narratives of those who have walked unique paths. Zach Sweat, the visionary behind Structure Academy, brings his compelling journey to our conversation, offering a potent blend of street wisdom and luxury flair that defines his brand and mission. From his early years, marked by a childhood rich in contrasts, to the impact of sports heroes and championship dreams, Zach's tale is one of deep passion for football and an even greater commitment to mentoring the youth. His story isn't just about athletic prowess; it's a testament to the power of sports as a catalyst for personal growth and community building.

    As we traverse the emotional landscape of my own life, I share the vulnerability and anticipation of soon becoming a father, juxtaposed with the sorrow of losing our cherished Dr. Domingo. This intimate revelation underscores the sacredness of life's transitions and the solace we find in faith and community ties. Yet, it is in these moments of reflection that we also celebrate the indelible influence of mentors who have left their mark on us. Zach and I delve into the philosophical depths of how our life pillars—faith, family, fitness, and financial wisdom—shape our identities and empower us to forge a path that boldly reflects our true selves.

    In the spirit of authenticity and legacy, we tackle the fusion of seemingly disparate worlds: faith and street culture, tradition and modernity, personal development and entrepreneurship. Zach's narrative is a clarion call to embrace the entirety of our experiences, to build bridges across generational and cultural divides, and to craft a community that uplifts and propels us forward. The pursuit of freedom through entrepreneurship becomes a beacon of inspiration, urging us to live out our creativity and free will with purpose. Join us as we go beyond mere dialogue, into the heart of what it means to make a real impact and live a life of true fulfillment.

    Show more Show less
    51 mins