"We are in the business of moving people," Denise Barreto told Pivotal Moment. Barreto is the first-ever chief equity and engagement officer for the Chicago Transit Authority, the nation's third-largest transit system - and TEDx speaker of Normal is Optional. The author, executive producer, and co-founder of Serqet Productions talks about entrepreneurship, fighting systems of injustice, and the joy of saying, No. Tune in for Barretos advice for entrepreneurs and creatives...and her message to Tom Hanks. :-) 

Key takeaways in this episode:

• You dont have to leave your job to start your business.

• When your life shatters, you can decide which pieces you want to keep.

• Recognize systems of injustice and the pathways to correct them.

• Our current situation is a quiet prelude to liberation

My goal is to bring out the best in teachers so they can bring out the best in their students, Dr. Donald Parker told Pivotal Moment. The former principal, author, professional development leader, and keynote speaker has a message for educators. Listening is the first step to letting students know that you care.

In this episode, the author of Be the Driving Force shares helpful tips from his TEDx talk and proven strategies for success in the classroom in 2025 and beyond:
 

• Take a stand against authoritarian leadership and embrace radical empathy leadership.
  
  

• Teachers must touch the heart before they touch the brain. 

• A job is something you do, a calling is what you love. Its an inspired action.
  
  

• Stressed-out teachers make stressed-out students. Healthy teachers make healthy students. 

• Practice the SNAP method. Speak up for yourself. Never compromise your respect. Affirm your worth. Protect your rights. 

TEDx Arlington Heights talk

• How to start a radical leadership rebellion

Books by Dr. Don

• Be the Driving Force: Leading Your School on the Road to Equity

• Building Bridges: Engaging Students at Risk Through the Power of Relationships

Booking, contact, and details

• https://drdonparker.com/about/

Suggested readings

• The Speed of Trust: The One Thing that Changes Everything by Stephen Covey

• The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell

Dr. Ava Thompson Greenwell is a documentary filmmaker, author, and journalism professor at Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism. In this episode, she talks about the mounting challenges facing todays reporters, the importance of journalism during times of political transition, and Medills continuing leadership in training tomorrows storytellers. 

Tune in to learn the ONE question every journalist should ask.

Your setback is setting you up for something better, Mack McGhee told Pivotal Moment. 

Changing hearts and transforming lives is more than a slogan for McGheeits his ministry. The chief administrator and division director of Institutional Care for Wayne County Michigan is a recognized leader in juvenile justice and a champion of true reform for young people in the system. 

The adult justice system is punitive, McGhee said. But young people need a chance. They need an opportunity to think differently. Juvenile justice should provide a future-focused orientation.

McGhee, author of B.E.L.I.E.V.E. In Your Dreams: If You Can See It You Can Be It, shares these fundamental truths during his motivational talks and with his students at Howard University. In this episode, he provides an outline of how to break the school-to-prison pipeline, and how to help young people tap into their power and potential: 

• God has given each of us a gift. Your purpose requires you to use it.  

• Dont miss out on opportunities because youre more concerned about what people think about what youre called to do.

• You need motivation and inspiration to reach your transformation.
  
  

• Follow the P.A.C.T. approach - professionalism, accountability, communication, teamwork. 

Works referenced in this episode:

Autobiography of Malcolm X as told to Alex Haley

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell

The number one mistake people make is not starting, Angel Livas told Pivotal Moment.

Thinking of starting a business? A podcast? Or writing a book? Angel Livas, founder and CEO of the Alive Podcast Network, has conquered each goal, with plans to revolutionize the media space. I didnt come to play, I came to revolutionize the landscape for Black creatives, Livas said. The Inc. 2024 Female Founder honoree is a noted TEDx speaker, the recipient of the 2023 Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award (Biden Administration), and a rising star on AWS Startups Pitch Whats Possible which garnered 50 million views before the seasons grand finale. 

The ALIVE Podcast Network, a Techstars Portfolio Company, powered by JP Morgan, is the latest business venture by Livas whose career includes developing radio shows for Larry King and Jane Pauley. In this episode, the media mogul talks to Pivotal Moment about her blueprint to help creatives tap into their God-given purpose - and turn their vision into reality. On the show, she shares industry insight for 2025 and beyond: 

• It takes a village to raise a successful business.

• Youre the person youre looking for. You have the skills and the credentials."

• Even in difficult times, there is hope, blessings, and abundance on the other side.
  
  

Check out these lessons, and more, in this episode. 

And despite Chicago's reputation for violence, Chi Candi says, "Chicago is not just one thing. We are many things. I'm who I am and where I am because of this town." 

Check out her sizzling single and video, I'm Hott, and listen to excerpts throughout the show. 

Crusher's Mission:
"Our mission is to be the strongest alternative to gangs. We arm young people with the support and skills they need to restore their lives and improve their neighborhood. Crushers Club is rooted if four ideals - respect, discipline, ownership, and love - that give our members a fighting chance."--Sally Hazelgrove, Founder

For more information, visit Crushers Club.

Books by David Murray:

• An Effort to Understand: Hearing One Another (and Ourselves) in a Nation Cracked in Half
• Raised by Mad Men
• Tell My Sons: A Father's Last Letters (co-authored with Lt. Col Mark M. Weber)

Blog:

• Subscribe to Writing Boots

Website:

• Professional Speechwriters Association - Prorhetoric.com

New book "Soccer Dad" coming up!

West is an executive pastor at The Crossing Church in St. Louis where her focus is on coaching, counseling and consulting. For West, leading WXP is an extension of her desire to serve and her gift to lead. If you're a woman in leadership or looking for inspiration and guidance, listen to this episode of Pivotal Moment for the lessons that help women unlock their greatness:

• Find an environment where your gifts can flourish.
• Use the gifts that were given to you.
• Its not about the balance of life. Its about rhythm.
• Acknowledge that you dont know everything.
• Recognize that you dont need to prove yourself.
• Figure out what your strengths are.
• Be You. Find a place to use your talent and gifts

For this and so much more, tune into this episode of Pivotal Moment with Nikitta Foston.

The Crossing Church https://thecrossing.church/

Women Executive Pastors https://wxpastors.com/

In this episode, Osuji discusses his journey as an entrepreneur, brand architect and growth driver. Watch to learn more about:

• Eventnoires selection as the official ticketing platform for TechChicago Week
• The role of crowdfunding in investing and wealth generation
• What to consider before starting your business and biggest mistakes people make
• Keys to maintaining and growing your company
• How to position your business for investors

For more information on Eventnoire, visit eventnoire.com.

• Her former role as the assistant administrator for Human Resource Management at the Federal Aviation Administration
• Enhancing diversity recruitment in the U.S. Navy and initiatives to promote and support women
• Her motto at the FAA: People first. Mission always. You matter.
• Three keys to effective leadership: authenticity, approachability and accountability

Listen to the full episode for the pivotal moment that made the biggest impact on her journey. Learn the three keys to maximize your leadership skills every day.

If youd like to be a part of the next cohort, visit: andrewsconsultingenterprise.com

What youll learn about Tolu in this episode:

• The comeback performance that turned the tide
• How his growth spurt changed the game
• Staying humble in the face of media attention
• Becoming a defensive powerhouse
• The key to staying agile and preventing injuries

Follow Tolu on IG @12k.tolu

Listen to Pivotal Momoent here and everywhere you find your podcasts, including Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, iHeartRadio, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Combining style, culture and storytelling, the founder and CEO of ROCKaBLCOK lifestyle brand is making a worldwide impact in the fashion industry. From his humble beginnings making T-shirts in his basement, to fielding TV interviews and design awards, the Chicago native recognizes the opportunity of the moment and the power of his platform.

Pages app-enabled clothing is a reflection of his truth. One of his most popular pieces is the Freedom Fighters T-shirt, representing heroic figures who led historic battles in the fight for freedom.

I wanted to create a platform for people to have discussions about what these heroes fought for, he said. About race, history, equity and how we fought so hard to have a voice. With a simple T-shirt, we can do that. But T-shirts are only a part of his growing empire. ROCKaBLOCK sells a variety of merchandise including home goods, tote bags, art prints and sporting goods like skateboards.

Page talks to Pivotal Moment about seeing his name on billboards, the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, and the famous entertainer hed most like to work with in the future. Check out the full episode to find out who!

For the latest collections and hottest styles, browse ROCKaBLOCK!!

ROCKaBLOCK - Website

https://www.rockablock.com/

ROCKaBLOCK - Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/rockablockbrand

ROCKaBLOCK - LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/company/rockablock/

ROCKaBLOCK - Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/rockablockbrand/

ROCKaBLOCK - TikTok

https://www.tiktok.com/@rockablock

ROCKaBLOCK - Pinterest

https://www.pinterest.com/rockablockbrand/

CONTACT:

info@rockablock.com

219-472-8483 81 W. 7th Avenue Merrillville, Indiana 46410

As chief wellness officer, Dr. Elmore travels the world, leading people to healthier lives - spiritually, physically, financially, mentally and emotionally, or SPF ME, part of her VivaLife global health and empowerment movement.

VivaLife is designed to educate, encourage and inspire men, women and youth to live their best lives, Dr. Elmore said.

As a certified OB-GYN, Dr. Elmore is especially focused on quality care for women. The most pressing issue today for women is access to high-quality, safe, equitable, evidence-based and inclusive care.

Dr. Elmore said shes committed her lifes work to the delivery of care. VivaLife is the global extension of her mission and an accelerator for her message.

As we prepare for Womens History Month in March, we celebrate women leaders who are making history today.

#WomensHistoryMonth #BlackHistoryMonth #physicianleaders #VivaLife #leadership #wellness #health

But Rubin's book, Speaking While Female: 75 Extraordinary Speeches by American Women," debunks the myth that men were the only powerful speakers in our country's history.

"Women in America have been speaking out for nearly four centuries," Rubin said. "And their speeches have contributed to the formation of the nation, even if theyve been written out of the history books.

According to Rubin, the anthology "charts the story of America as it unfolded through decades, showing that at every critical juncture, women were speaking. It's a long-needed corrective to the story we have always told ourselves about whose ideas and voices shaped the nation - a search for long-buried truths, a celebration and an inspiration."

But the historic collection is also a galvanizing tool, empowering women today to move beyond their fears of speaking to the power behind their voices.

"You don't have to be a speaker to use speaking skills in your daily life. Rather than run away from those opportunities, take advantage of them, find them and use them," Rubin said. "To use your voice is to lead. If we're not all contributing, how can we be heard?"

To learn how to use your voice to lead, watch the full episode here.

Follow/Contact Dana Rubin:

https://speechstudio

SpeakingWhileFemale.co

dana@danarubin.com

https://amplifypublishinggroup.com/product/nonfiction/history-nonfiction/speaking-while-female/

Shabazz had an answer: culturally competent care that recognizes and responds to the social determinants of health. She also had a vision: the Salaam Community Wellness Center of Chicago. This is more than a center, Shabazz said. This is a movement. In this episode of Pivotal Moment, Shabazz reveals the four key modalities included in her integrative approach to wellness for vulnerable populations.

Shabazz is the former CMO at Aunt Marthas Youth Services in the south suburbs of Chicago. She received two master's degrees from St. Xavier University and a Master of Public Administration from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. For more than 17 years, Shabazz has provided technical assistance and program development to the federal governments Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA), helping 300+ health centers across the U.S.

For more info, visit: salaamcwc.org, info@salaamcwc.org, (773) 435-9493

IG: @karimatrotter

Watch Karimas "Redeemer"

Wilson is the winner of multiple Stellar Awards, a GMA Dove Award, and an ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Award. Hes also received nominations for NAACP Image, Billboard Music, BET Soul Train Music, and Grammy awards.

IG: @briancourtneywilson Twitter: @BCourtneyWilson FB: Brian Courtney Wilson| Breathe Again, Live Podcast, Thursdays @ 6p CT Website: briancourtneywilson.com

Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, and Mariah Carey were among his celebrity clients for his first business. That power of celebrity soon led Fred Mwangaguhunga, a former Wall Street tax attorney, to create MediaTakeOut, featuring the hottest African-American celebrity news online. MTONews, known as the Black TMZ, has been featured in Black Enterprise, Vogue, CNN, the Wall Street Journal, Entrepreneur, GQ, and the New York Post. If youre looking to start or expand your business, listen to Mwangaguhungas advice to transform your idea into a reality.

For the latest celebrity and entertainment news, visit MTOnews.com

Allen Iversons wicked crossover became part of her WNBA game before thrilling crowds as a Harlem Globetrotter. Now, Joyce Ekworomadu is using her skills off the court to inspire and empower as a motivational speaker.

Its about the business of serving others, she says. Who can your life story help?"

In the league, Ekworomadu is known as Sweet J for her smooth jump shot, including 15 threes (in a row) that clinched her spot with the Globetrotters. She is only the 12th female in history to play for the Globetrotters and the first Nigerian player.

As a woman," she says, "you have to go in proving yourself. You have to earn it. Now she's teaching others how to find their gift, their space, and their place in the world. "It may not be about basketball or sports, but its always about purpose.

To learn more or to book Ekworomadu, visit her website at: www.jmoneytalks.com

IG: @missjoyce22

Twitter: @missdeucedeuce

Photo: @KRISHPHOTOS

Visit www.stampedoutmovement.com for more information, to donate, or to be a part of the movement in your city.

We are growing and weve got a great product on the court, says Kelsey Plum, 58 point guard for the WNBAs Las Vegas Aces and member of the USA team. In 2017, Plum was named espnW Player of the Year, AP Womens Player of the Year, and the #1 draft pick. Although she was on the injured list this season, she continues to make moves off the court, representing the Nike brand and cheering on her teammates who advanced to the 2020 WNBA semifinals under former Detroit Piston and current head coach, Bill Lambert. With an eye toward the Finals, the Aces and Plum are looking for the win. In this episode, Plum encourages us to dream big as she describes what she did to bring her vision to life and the pivotal moment that changed it all.

Alter, who played in the AAU league with industry legends like Terry Cummings and Isaiah Thomas, says that he would not have had exposure to the diversity of players or communities without basketball. "It changed the way I view the world."

Now, the Chicago Sky is looking to make an impact through sports. The team announced its social justice initiative, #SkyTakesAction, which will support Chicago organizations based on game performance: $10 for every point scored, $100 for every win, and $50 for every loss during the 2020 season.

The WNBA opened its 2020 season this week at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, the home base for all teams and games. All WNBA players will wear jerseys with Breonna Taylor's name on the back.

Click on the link below to view the full schedule for the Chicago Sky.

Chicago Sky 2020 Schedule

Inspired by a visit to a homeless shelter, Jackson decided he wanted to help. At just 5-years-old, he created Blessing Bags, filled with toiletries to distribute to the nation's homeless, from Chicago to Los Angeles and every stop in between.

Now, Jackson is a CNN Hero, a member of LeBron James' Always Believe campaign, and most recently, a Marvel Superhero. Check out his show, Make Way for Jahkil, part of Marvel's Hero Project, on Disney+. Jackson's vision has captured worldwide recognition and the attention of entertainers, athletes, and industry leaders.

Visit Project I Am for more information and details on how you can help. https://officialprojectiam.com/

Answer: Felischa Maryes new hit, "BIGGER," on BET+

The show follows five thirty-something friends and their quest for all things BIGGER: from paychecks, to careers, to success in relationships. Marye talks about leaving public relations for film school at UCLA, where she later sold her first comedy sample to HBO. Tune in for the moment that changed it all!!

BET+ Exclusive - The visually stunning world of, "BIGGER,"

Hollywoods Newest TV Writer

I am able to see past what the crime is, or alleged crime, to see the person, Burton says. Lawyers can be the most important part of getting your freedom and liberty back.

Burton, a partner with Bur-Men Law Group, was the first African-American public defender in Lake County, Illinois. Now in private practice alongside partner Renea Amen, the firm focuses on criminal law, civil law and family law, with a special emphasis on fathers rights.

Burton is bold, passionate and unapologetic about standing up and speaking out for her clients rights. She talks to us about her Pivotal Moment, a letter she penned to God and the phone call that came immediately after.

Burton shares her insight about standing beside those who society leaves behind and the rewards of defending those who need it most.

Learn more about Bur-Men Law Group: https://www.burmenlawgroup.com/

Learn more about LaTonya Burton: https://www.burmenlawgroup.com/latonya-burton.html

Named one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Chicago Journalism, Ijehirika pens Chicago Chronicles, a long-form column on "people and places that make Chicago tick," with a focus on black and brown communities. She is the author of "Escape from Nigeria: a Memoir of Faith, Love, and War."

During an interview at the Chicago Sun-Times offices, Ijehirika opens up about her faith, fears and her background as an immigrant and refugee. She talks about her Pivotal Moment and shares a story shes never told anyone else. Ijehirika is the president of the National Association of Black Journalists - Chicago and president of the Chicago Journalists Association. Ijehirika has appeared on CNN, FOX, ABC, CBS, and NPR among other outlets. Shes a frequent guest contributor on WTTWs "Chicago Tonight: Week In Review" and FOX32s "Good Day Chicago."

Learn more about Maudlyne at: https://chicago.suntimes.com/authors/maudlyne-ihejirika

Follow: @Maudlynei on Twitter & IG

I am able to see past what the crime is, or alleged crime, to see the person, Burton says. Lawyers can be the most important part of getting your freedom and liberty back. 

Burton, a partner with Bur-Men Law Group, was the first African-American public defender in Lake County, Illinois. Now in private practice alongside partner Renea Amen, the firm focuses on criminal law, civil law and family law, with a special emphasis on fathers rights.

Burton is bold, passionate and unapologetic about standing up and speaking out for her clients rights. She talks to us about her Pivotal Moment, a letter she penned to God and the phone call that came immediately after.

Burton shares her insight about standing beside those who society leaves behind and the rewards of defending those who need it most.

Learn more about Bur-Men Law Group: https://www.burmenlawgroup.com/

Learn more about LaTonya Burton: https://www.burmenlawgroup.com/latonya-burton.html

That pivotal moment would eventually lead Major to the University of Florida and a BCS Championship, to the Chicago Bears and an NFC Championship, to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the American Flag Football League.

Now, Wright is CEO of The Wright Baagz, a new line of book bags for the athlete. In the meantime, his Good Deed Tuesdays, #GDT, continue to provide mentorship to young athletes across the country. 

Influenced by NFL veterans like Brian Urlacher, Julius Peppers, and Lance Briggs, Wright shares words of wisdom for young athletes and NFL hopefuls. "No matter how great of a player you are, you will not see the field if you are not coachable."

For more information about The Wright Baagz, visit: http://thewrightbaagz.xom 

If you're interested in a dream job, or your next role, listen to King's insight on positioning yourself as the solution to the problem that the hiring manager is trying to solve. King talks about a candidate for ESPN, whose approach that he considered GENIUS!

Tune in for King's pivotal moments and his career tips that can make the difference from where you are to where you want to be. 

• The degree to which you listen and communicate is the degree to which opportunities open up. 
• Produce where you consume. 
• If you're in a position to help someone succeed, do it. 
• When you're authentically yourself, that's when you've arrived. 

Listen to the full episode for more career advice and the pivotal moments that led King to ESPN and continue to define his approach to the industry. 

She talks to us about a pivotal moment involving Cover Girl cosmetics AND the experiences that gave her the courage to be bold, fierce and flawless. In creating the perfect style for clients, the Chicago beauty boss has worked with celebrated brands like Urban Decay, Pixie Beauty and Mented Cosmetics. In the future, she'd love to work with MAC, Fenty and her favorite, Sam Fine.

Check out Candice's advice on building your brand on YouTube:

1. Stayahead of the trend 2. Knowyour audience 3. Categorize your audience's interests 4. Meet your audience's needs 5. Integrate your message across platforms

Download Pivotal Moment for more tipsand learn more at www.eyecandycandicemakeup.com. Also find us on YouTube, Spotify, iTunes and Google Play Music.

In a newly-created global role, Killion was named Head of Private Capital Administration, North America, for Northern Trust. In this capacity, she will focus on Northern Trusts global capabilities on a segment of the alternatives market experiencing rapid asset growth and increased demands for transparency.

On Pivotal Moment, the Chicago native shares the amazing story of how her humble beginnings set the stage for her quest for excellence and her trajectory in the field. At the heart of the story, she reveals a moment in a grocery store with her mother and siblings when she was just six-years-old, that would forever guide her path.

Killion also shares how one important mentor helped propel her from struggleand uncertainty -- to triumph. Today, she speaks at schools, colleges, seminars, and panels regarding her journey and how financial services can be both a viable and lucrative career choice.

If you are the boss or plan to become one, listen to Killion's journey and the surprising stops along the way to the top.

In "Empire: The House that John H. Johnson Built," Dr. Christian reveals personalinsights on Johnson's passion, personality, andvision for his company. With a foreword by Jesse L. Jackson Sr., rave reviews and a spot at the top of the charts, could a movie deal be in the works?? Download to find out here.

Dr. Christain says she wrote the book to preserve our history, to document our legacy, and to make sure that Mr. Johnson's legacy survives. "We need gatekeepers who look like us to tell our stories. We must speak in our name. We have power."

"Empire: The House that John H. Johnson Built," is available on Amazon, Barnes & Nobles, via Kindle, via Nook, and on Dr. Christian's website at www.margenachristian.com.

At the request of then-governor Patt Quinn, Governor sang the national anthem at the signing of the Marriage Equality Act. Known for her sultry sounds and rock vocals, Grisafe's first album, Atlantis, earned six pre-Grammy nods. Her upcoming album, which will debut next year, will serve as the soundtrack for the soon-to-be-released documentary on the singer-athlete's life, A Football Story. Wait, there's more. This month, she'll be inducted into the Semi-pro Hall of Fame. Yep.

In the interim, check out Grisafe's song, 'It's All Un-American' here. It's a message for Donald Trump.

Miami model-maker Sunnie Morrison is revolutionizing the runway and making space for girls and women of color in the process. Her Miss Runway Competition offershas helped hundreds of girls to be powerful, to be beautiful --and to be fearless. From 4-years-old to over 18, Sunnie's girls are dominating, ON and OFF the runway. For the winner? A trip to New Yorks Fashion Week, a photo shoot in Times Square and Central Park, $1,000 and a year as the spokesperson for an issue affecting our nations.

Miss Runway enters its 11th season this year. Stay tuned at the end of the show as Sunnie Morrison provides daily tips for beauty every day of the week.

Check out the trailer toAll the Queen's Horses