Joe Garcia’s story is one of profound transformation, redemption, and the unexpected power of music and writing to change a life. Once serving a life sentence for taking another person’s life, Joe spent over 20 years in prison before finding his voice through storytelling. His powerful essays — “Listening to Taylor Swift in Prison” and “From Life in Prison to the Eras Tour” — published in The New Yorker and read by over a million people, captured hearts around the world. Now free, Joe is a writer for CalMatters and is working on his first book. In this episode, Joe shares how Taylor Swift’s music, self-reflection, and the written word helped him rebuild his identity, offering a moving testament to hope, accountability, and the possibility of redemption.

Step into the world of rising music stars Suede Avery and Jordyn Diew—musicians, singers, producers, and writers—who share their powerful and inspirational stories about chasing dreams, breaking barriers, and creating authentic music. From their roots in Oakland, California, to studying at one of the top music schools in the world, USC’s Thornton School of Music, Suede and Jordyn take you behind the music with raw insight, creativity, and passion. Instagram: @saudeavery @Jordyn_diews_music #RisingStars #SuedeAvery #JordynDiew #USCThornton #OaklandMusic #MusicJourney #NextGenArtists #InspirationThroughMusic #SingerSongwriter #ProducersOnTheRise

n this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Akila Kadambi, a leading researcher at the UCLA Brain Research Institute, USC Brain and Creativity Institute, and fellow at the UCLA-CDU Dana Center. She is an expert in Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience, exploring how positive and humanistic neuroscience reshapes our understanding of the mind. Dr. Kadambi’s groundbreaking work focuses on the neuroscience of empathy, pro-social behavior, and how societal factors shape our brain's expression of compassion and connection. From the wiring of our neural circuits to the impact of culture and community, she offers a compelling look at how kindness isn't just a moral ideal—it's a measurable, trainable, and deeply biological part of being human. Whether you're curious about the science behind empathy or how we can build a more connected and compassionate world, this conversation is a must-listen. Her work is funded by the Dana Center, Google Research, Sanford Institute, and the NeuroArts Blueprint Initiative #USC #UCLA #Neuroscience

Join Grace Nowzari—communications expert, clinical psychology graduate, and improv enthusiast—as she brings her signature energy and insight to the mic. With a B.A. in Communication and Journalism, a minor in French, and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, Grace blends academic depth with real-world wisdom. Grace shares powerful life lessons, confidence-building tools, and transformative conversations—all rooted in the spontaneity and joy of improv. Whether you're a student, creative, or just navigating adulthood, you’ll walk away with fresh perspectives on thriving in college, relationships, and beyond. Authentic, uplifting, and just the right amount of unscripted—this is your invitation to say yes, and to life. #USC #motivation

Kelly Dormandy, USC women's strength coach and USC women's basketball director of sports performance, reveals her powerful journey. Dormandy is a nationally recognized expert in strength and conditioning and has trained elite athletes at the University of Southern California, the University of Georgia, Loyola Marymount University, and the Los Angeles Sparks. She has a BA in marketing and a master's degree in exercise science with a concentration in strength and conditioning. #USC #USCWBB #USC Follow her @kd_coachd

Former Green Berets James Mahurin and Robert Farmer host the new podcast Black Sheep Radio USA: A Conversation with Warriors, which offers an unfiltered, powerful dive into the world of resilience, strength, and survival after war. With over 17 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, both hosts have faced the brutal realities of war, enduring significant physical injuries and battling the invisible wounds of Post-Traumatic Stress. This podcast isn’t just about their stories—it’s about brotherhood, healing, and purpose beyond the battlefield. Through raw conversations with fellow warriors, veterans, and experts, Mahurin and Farmer shed light on the struggles and triumphs of those who have served their country. They tackle mental health, trauma recovery, and the mission to support others—inside and outside the military.

Join Juan Dimas, an acclaimed financial adviser, student engagement expert, and financial aid professional, as he explores the intersection of financial empowerment and education. With a B.A. and M.B.A. in Business Management and Administration, Juan combines his extensive expertise in student loans, financial planning, and higher education with a deep commitment to social impact. Currently a doctoral student at the University of Southern California, Juan is also a passionate advocate for the rights and preservation of indigenous communities. Whether you’re a student, parent, or financial professional, Juan offers actionable advice to help you take control of your financial future while promoting equity and inclusion.

Behind the scenes of the booming Boba Tea business. Are all Boba Tea shops equal? Here is the behind-the-scenes story of two entrepreneurs changing the face of the Boba tea business. Jenna Wu and Cameron Wong are USC Marshall School of Business graduates. Jenna combines her love of fitness and healthy foods with Cameron's Boba Milk Tea business expertise. Amino Avenue specializes in crafting low-sugar, low-calorie boba drinks and high-protein, low-calorie foods and snacks. #boba #USC #USCMarshall #motivation #business @Aminoave Check out: Aminoave.com

Voices in the Spotlight: The Musical Odyssey of Hannah Abrahim. Hannah is a graduate of the USC Thorton School of Music. She is an accomplished voice coach, singer, and writer. She studied under USC Music Professor and legend Patrice Rushen. Hannah has sung background vocals for Jennifer Hudson, Kelly Clarkson, Tiesto, and Lil Nas X, among others. She has sung at the Hollywood Bowl and has amassed 634k downloads for her music. Check out her fantastic song titled Fantasy. You can follow her on her social media at Made4Muisc, YouTube, and Instagram. You can also follow Hannah Abrahim on Linkedin.com and TikTok. USC student Cooper Brown is the co-host for today's podcast.

Join us in this inspiring podcast as we dive into the extraordinary journey of Bee Ayuso, a decorated bodybuilding champion, personal trainer, social media influencer, mother, and business owner. Bee shares her invaluable insights on building a healthy lifestyle while staying positive and motivated in facing challenges. Discover her secrets to balancing fitness, family, and business, and learn how to achieve your goals with determination and a positive mindset. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, an aspiring entrepreneur, or looking for motivation to reach your goals, this podcast has something for everyone. Tune in and get ready to transform your life with Bee Ayuso's expert advice and uplifting stories. Follow her social media: @Beeayuso @wearesharks_fitclub @bfit_mealprep

Fitness Rx: Jump Roping and Lifting Weights to Health with Future Doctor and Influencer Natalie Goldstone. Natalie Goldstone is a fitness enthusiast, avid jump roper, weight lifter, fitness influencer, and future doctor. She addresses fitness myths about weight lifting, dieting, challenges of staying fit while in a demanding graduate school program and staying positive regardless of obstacles in life. It was a fantastic interview, and she is an amazing person. You can follow her on her IG account @gainsbygoldstone and YouTube. Please enjoy my interview with Natalie Goldstone. Fight on!

Elite Leadership: Unveiling Strategy with Dr. Apollo Emeka,  Former Green Beret. Dr. Apollo Emeka is a former Green Beret and FBI intelligence analyst. He is currently a strategy and leadership consultant for his company, Apolly Strategy Group. Dr. Emeka has a B.A. in Sociology and a Doctorate in Policy, Planning, and Development from the University of Southern California. Contact: Apollo@apollostrategy.com #Courgage #Strategy #leadership 

Unlocked: A discussion with attorney Susan Lawrence and Nick Woodall on life after prison. Susan is a famous attorney and physician who tirelessly works for those in prison who want a second chance. She is also an expert on the impact of psychopathy on criminal justice reform and society. Nick Woodall is the founder of POSSE Solutions LLC. I provide clemency application and parole board portfolio preparation services. I also educate prisoners and promote rehabilitation unto release through correspondence certificate courses, which teach the development and understanding of causative factors, remorse, responsibility, impact & magnitude, among others.   

Dive into the captivating journey of Saeed Stikeleather, a true embodiment of resilience and dedication in the entrepreneurial realm. Through highs and lows, Saeed's unwavering determination led him to establish one of Las Vegas's premier Acai and smoothie destinations. Join us as we uncover the trials, triumphs, and invaluable lessons behind his remarkable ascent to success.  Check out his business, Liquid Las Vegas, the next time you are in Las Vegas. IG: Liquid_lasvegas #dedication #entrepreneur #perseverance #Success

Brad Taylor Talks: From Special Forces to writing a New York Times Best-Selling Novel series. I'm thrilled to have a true American hero and New York Times Bestselling author with us today – the only Brad Taylor. Brad spent most of his career as a silent force, serving in the Special Forces on assignments that took him across the globe. His debut novel, "Rough Man: A Spy Thriller," not only marked his entry into the literary world but also catapulted him onto the prestigious New York Times Bestseller list. With 18 novels under his belt, Brad has created a gripping book series that captivates readers with every page turn. And the wait is over! Brad's latest masterpiece, "Dead Man's Hand," is set to hit the shelves on January 23, 2024. The book can be ordered at bradtaylorbooks.com

Fitz Koehler is a world-renowned fitness trainer, media personality, best-selling author, motivational speaker, and cancer survivor. She has an M.S. in Exercise and Sports Science from the University of Florida. The author of Your Healthy Cancer Comeback: Sick to Strong. Check out her website at: www.Fitzness.com #fitness #Wellness #workouts #health #motivational  

Dive into the inspiring journey of Red Claybon III, a multifaceted individual who wears many hats as a successful entrepreneur, model, artist, and visionary founder of Spirit Gallery. With a solid educational foundation, holding both a B.A. and an M.B.A. in marketing, Red shares invaluable insights in this interview. Join us as he candidly discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, advocates for the significance of equity and empathy in the employment space, and offers profound wisdom on achieving balance in the multifaceted tapestry of life. This podcast is your backstage pass to the triumphs, challenges, and lessons learned from a dynamic personality at the intersection of business, modeling, education, and the art of living well. #leadership #motivation #empathy #business #USC 

Unshackled Spirit: Triumph Over a Life Sentence: The Mianta McKnight Story. MIanta McKnight was incarcerated since the age of 17 and in prison for a life sentence. She was eligible for parole after serving 18 years and one day in prison. Upon her release from prison, she earned her B.A. and became a professional dancer, massage therapist, and life coach. She works at several non-profits and is the proud mother of two children. Her story chronicles a fantastic journey of survival and strength! #prisonreform #Socialjustice #inspiration #motivation #justice

Sara Ash is an accomplished ombudsperson, conflict resolution expert, and disability advocate. She has a B.A. in English and a Master's in Adult and Higher Education. She has worked in higher education for over 15 years and has experience as the director of student success. She was a Yale Writers Workshop attendee and was awarded staff member of the year twice. Ms. Ash provides excellent advice and insight on resolving conflicts in your organization while raising essential issues around disability issues. #disability rights #ombudsperson#conflict management #leadership

Frank Zane is a 3x Mr.Olympia and Mr. Universe and is a bodybuilding legend. He is a health and fitness pioneer and is believed by many to have one of the best physiques in bodybuilding history. He has been a lifelong educator, health/ fitness expert, trainer, author, podcaster, and Bodybuilder Hall of Fame member. You can learn more about this living legend at FrankZane.com. #fitness #inspirational #motivational #bodybuilding #health #goldsgym #Frankzane