SPOLITICS is where we don’t just stick to sports, but examine the world and all of its complexities through the lens of sports. Each week, this podcast will enthusiastically explore the intersection between sports, race, gender, sexuality and culture. In this narrative-style podcast, expect sharp commentary, novel conversations, and compelling guests that will drive nuanced sports conversations that drive culture.

JEMELE HILL BIO An Emmy Award winning journalist, Jemele Hill is the Co-founder of Lodge Freeway Media and a contributing writer for The Atlantic. On October 25, 2022, Henry Holt and Company published Hill's memoir, UPHILL: A Memoir. In this character-rich, unapologetically provocative memoir, Hill reveals her tumultuous childhood, complicated family dynamics, and her life-saving journey into journalism. Hill's 20-plus year journalism career has included stops at the biggest sports media network and several reputable newspapers. She originally joined ESPN in 2006 as a national columnist for espn.com. Her profile gradually rose as she began to make appearances on television, including SportsCenter, First Take, Around the Horn, The Sports Reporters and Outside the Lines. She also spent a season as a sideline reporter for ESPN college football games. Her foray into daily television began in 2013, when her and co-host Michael Smith began the daily, sports discussion show, His & Hers, which sprang from their popular podcast of the same name. In February 2017, Hill and Smith co-anchored the 6 p.m., SportsCenter, which debuted as a more personality-driven approach to the traditional SportsCenter. After her stint as SportsCenter host, Hill was a senior columnist for The Undefeated, ESPN's sub-site that focuses on the intersection of sports, race, culture and politics. In addition to breaking ground as a podcaster, Hill continued her celebrated television broadcasting career. In 2020, Hill and her longtime friend, former ESPN anchor Cari Champion, launched a weekly, late-night show on Vice Network called Cari & Jemele: Won't Stick to Sports. The show covered politics, sports, news, current events, and pop culture. Hill is also stretching her muscles behind the camera. She is executive producer of former NFL quarterback and civil rights activist Colin Kaepernick's documentary, which will air on ESPN and is directed by legendary filmmaker Spike Lee. She also is currently developing a comedy series with acclaimed actress Gabrielle Union.

Uphill: A Memoir

https://a.co/d/7qhPXO3

One of Oprah Daily's Best Fall Nonfiction Books of 2022

An empowering, unabashedly bold memoir by the Atlantic journalist and former ESPN SportsCenter coanchor about overcoming a legacy of pain and forging a new path, no matter how uphill life’s battles might be.

Jemele Hill’s world came crashing down when she called President Trump a “white supremacist”; the White House wanted her fired from ESPN, and she was deluged with death threats. But Hill had faced tougher adversaries growing up in Detroit than a tweeting president. Beneath the exterior of one of the most recognizable journalists in America was a need―a calling―to break her family’s cycle of intergenerational trauma.

Born in the middle of a lively routine Friday night Monopoly game to a teen mother and a heroin-addicted father, Hill constantly adjusted to the harsh realities of not only her own childhood but the inherited generational pain of her mother and grandmother. Her escape was writing.

Hill’s mother was less than impressed with the brassy and bold free expression of her diary, but Hill never stopped discovering and amplifying her voice. Through hard work and a constant willingness to learn, Hill rose from newspaper reporter to columnist to new heights as the coanchor for ESPN’s revered SportsCenter. Soon, she earned respect and support for her fearless opinions and unshakable confidence, as well as a reputation as a trusted journalist who speaks her mind with truth and conviction.

In Jemele Hill’s journey Uphill, she shares the whole story of her work, the women of her family, and her complicated relationship with God in an unapologetic, character-rich, and eloquent memoir.


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Pro-Life America, explores the future of the pro-life movement under President-Elect Donald Trump’s leadership. Pritchard offers an insider’s perspective on the strategies that secured recent victories, the movement’s goals with Trump’s support, and how SBA Pro-Life America plans to leverage this historic moment. From record-breaking investments to grassroots volunteer mobilization, Pritchard shares what it will take to create lasting change and how pro-life advocates across the nation can make a difference. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on the challenges, victories, and vision that will shape the pro-life movement’s future.

Kelsey Pritchard is the State Public Affairs Director for SBA Pro-Life America. She works with SBA’s State Affairs team to shape the narrative on abortion policy and politics in the states. Kelsey previously served as Communications Director for South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard who was the most popular governor in the U.S. during his second term. Pritchard spent seven years working in the governor’s office, serving as the administration’s communications strategist and press secretary, developing messaging for issues ranging from disaster response and state pension funding to education standards and infant mortality. She joined SBA Pro-Life America after spending four years in the private sector. Pritchard worked for an ad agency in Omaha, Nebraska, where she led the PR and social media department, and she served on the executive leadership team for a land development company. She attended college at Dakota Wesleyan University and earned a master’s degree in Politics at the University of Dallas. Kelsey is a mom of three: two energetic little boys and a sweet baby girl. She and her family live in western South Dakota.

https://sbaprolife.org/


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Join us for an exclusive conversation with Rene Benton, the versatile guitarist who has taken the music world by storm. From his roots in Omaha, Nebraska, to touring 38 states and 50 countries, Rene has worked with an impressive array of artists, including Rock and Roll legends, Pop stars, and Grammy award winners. In this episode, Rene shares his inspiring journey, from his early influences to his current projects and collaborations. Tune in to discover the incredible story behind this guitar maestro and his remarkable discography.

There aren’t many guitarists who possess the versatility as Rene Benton. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, his musical influences ranges from progressive rockers Kansas to the sophisticated funk of the Ohio Players. After a stint in the Marine Corps, Rene decided to dedicate his energy towards music. Touring extensively throughout the United States and abroad(38 states and 50 countries to date), he has produced an astounding resume which includes Rock and Roll legends, such as Chubby Checker band; Pop Star artists, such as Sweden’s Gigi Hamilton, with Warner EMI; and, Columbia Records recording artist – Fishbone through recording, to name a few. More recent performances include collaborations with Tuhran Terrell (keyboardist/Anita Baker), Jerome “Stixx” Davis (drummer/LaFace/Arista recording artist Tony Rich); singer Hunter Gerard (soap opera star/General Hospital); and, Louie Louie (WTG recording artist , chart topping hit “Lap of Luxury”). Rene was also involved with the modern musical Dreamscape; created and performed by Steve Reed, percussionist for fusion jazz legends – The Rippingtons As well recording with Grammy award winning writer Sleepy Brown writer of the hit by Outkast (I like the way U move) and multiple performance with Grammy award winning bassist for Latin pop star Mark Anthony Mel Brown and Christian Rapcore band Junkyard Prophet and a faction of The Fortunes(UK 70’s group that had the hit (“Here comes that rainy day feelin’ Again”) Taking time to record his first full-length release, Rene employed expertise from Troy Johnson, bass; and, the dynamic drumming of Todd Roberson; both backing up the likes of Michael Lee Firkins (Shrapnel records alumni), Stephen Pearcy (former frontman of Ratt); and their own instrumental powerhouse JRZ System. The result was a throttle-filled carpet ride sounding like a fusion between Stevie Wonder and Tony MacAlpine. His follow up project Rene called on more musical friends such as, Philip Bynoe (bassist/Steve Vai, Nuno Bettencourt, and Mark Boals), and Atma Anur (drummer/Greg Howe, Cacophony , Vinnie Moore, Jason Becker), Kelly Conlon (bassist Death, Monstrosity, Azure Emote) Funk legend guitarist Charlie Singleton(Cameo) and drummer/producer Paul Vowell(Radioactive Chickenheads, Green Jelly, Sleepy Brown of Outkast) along with appearances by long time comrades Troy Johnson(bassist JRZ System) among others. Also recorded with Belizian/Central American superstar Andy Palacio who passed away shortly after those sessions. Discography: Expressions and Expressions Too, Rene Benton (Floodgate Entertainment Group); Gigi Hamilton (Warner EMI Sweden); DJ Suku (Avex Trax Japan); Wade Martin (JWS Enterprises UK/US); Makala Nikol (SRE Japan); Various Artist (Stonetree Records Belize); Junkyard Prophet (Independent); Stephanie Joy ( Independent). Stone Paxton(Sony Records) Sleepy Brown (Universal Records) Breekay(Independent) Angela Ferrari(Independent) Current Endorsements: Fryette Amplification; Digitech Corp.; Rocktron Signal Processors; KTS Titanium bridges; KXK Custom Guitars; Strictly 7 Guitars,Seymour Duncan Pickups; NADY Wireless Systems; GHS Strings; Q-Lighting; Morley Pedals; Techstar/Palmer speaker simulators; Voodoo Labs; Digital Music Corp, Gig-Fx pedals, Dava Picks

https://renebenton.net/

















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GABRIELLE ZABOSKY

Team Gwen

Hometown: Oxford, PA Resident: Philadelphia, PA Gabrielle has been singing since she could talk. Her music career really took off when she turned a day job at a major supermarket chain into a springboard for her dreams. When she was 20, she auditioned for the store's radio station and was cast in their first-ever a cappella group, consisting of 11 talented employees from across the country. This gave Gabrielle the opportunity to work alongside Cupid on "Cupid Shuffle," perform on "Good Morning America" and star in music videos for social media. Even with all of her success, Gabrielle came from humble beginnings. She was raised in a three-bedroom trailer with her mom, four younger sisters, and an honorary auntie" Despite facing times without power or heat and her mother's struggle with mental health, Gabrielle has immense respect for her mom, who raised her family with limited resources. Gabrielle's relationship with her father was distant growing up, but, after he was involved in a severe car accident that left him partially immobile, she rekindled their bond. This tragic event, along with Gabrielle becoming an adult, not only brought them closer than ever before, but also motivated Gabrielle to pursue her musical dreams.

MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS 8/7c
Michael Bublé, Gwen Stefani, Reba McEntire and Snoop Dogg search for the country's best singers.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

ALIYAH KHAYLYN

Team Snoop (Formerly Team Buble)

Hometown & Resident of Philadelphia, PA Aliyah Khaylyn, a Philadelphia native, is an artist whose journey is marked by extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication. Her musical path includes standout performances, such as a mesmerizing rendition of "America the Beautiful" at tennis' U.S. Open and a featured role in the 2019 Teddy Pendergrass documentary "If You Don't Know Me." In 2024, she graduated from Berklee College of Music where her education deepened her understanding of music's transformative power. Tragically, the loss of her mother in 2021 profoundly impacted her, further fueling her mission to use her gifts for healing. As an aspiring artist, Aliyah is committed to showcasing her talents to the world, creating music that resonates deeply and offers a therapeutic experience to all who listen.

MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS 8/7c
Michael Bublé, Gwen Stefani, Reba McEntire and Snoop Dogg search for the country's best singers.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

SYDNEY STERLACE

Team Gwen 

Hometown & Resident of Buffalo, NY Although Sydney is the only musical one in her family, she has always had their full support throughout her journey. It began with competing in local talent shows when she was 7 and by the time she was 10, she had already struck gold by winning first place in the Erie County Fair Talent Competition. She has since kept that momentum, singing the national anthem at a Buffalo Sabres game this year and multiple Buffalo Bisons games. She has also been a regular performer at a local music arts festival organized by Robby Takac of the Goo Goo Dolls. Her dedicated mom has played a crucial role in Sydney's success, including scouting singing opportunities on social media to finding local competitions for Sydney to compete. Sydney recently won a TikTok challenge promoted by Broadway Evolved. Unsure if the competition was real and never dreaming it would lead to anything, Sydney was blown away when she won. She was flown out to New York on an all-expenses-paid trip for a weeklong Broadway intensive with Betsy Wolfe, an experience she will never forget.

MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS 8/7c
Michael Bublé, Gwen Stefani, Reba McEntire and Snoop Dogg search for the country's best singers.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

Discover the art of balancing work, life and everything in between with Arlene Miller, a compassionate and experienced coach. In this podcast, Arlene shares practical strategies, inspiring stories and expert advice to help you navigate life's challenges, nurture your well-being and unlock your full potential.

Arlene Cohen Miller brings a wealth of training and experience to help you compassionately and wholeheartedly lead yourself and create the life that works and feels right for you, a life where you experience less stress and more patience, kindness, and peace; a life where you experience more contentment and joy.  

She is a Work-Life Balance Coach and a Professional Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation.  Arlene is also a Colorado attorney, a Certified Meditation Facilitator, and has a Diploma in Transformational Holistic Counseling from Australia.

https://www.jewelconsultancy.com/

https://www.facebook.com/arlene.jewel/

https://twitter.com/JewelCoachPCC

https://www.youtube.com/@arlenecmiller

https://www.instagram.com/jewelcoach2/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/arlene-cohen-miller-54435b59/

https://www.tiktok.com/@jewelcoach2?lang=en


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Join Thomas Brown on "Inner Monologue," a poignant and inspiring podcast exploring the human experience. Through intimate conversations with individuals who have faced adversity, Thomas delves into stories of struggle, resilience, and redemption.

Thomas Brown
Thomas Brown is a multifaceted individual who has dedicated his life to promoting mental health awareness, creative expression, and personal growth. Following the devastating loss of his brother to suicide in 2001, Thomas embarked on a transformative journey of healing and self-discovery.

Key Achievements
Cross-Country Bicycle Tour
In 2012, Thomas co-founded a cross-country bicycle tour, riding from San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge to Wappinger's Falls, New York. This odyssey aimed to raise awareness about suicide prevention and the therapeutic power of art. The experience profoundly impacted Thomas, fueling his passion for advocacy and creative expression.

Mental Health Advocacy
Thomas has spent three years facilitating support groups for individuals who have lost loved ones to suicide. His empathetic nature and personal understanding of grief have enabled him to provide a safe and nurturing environment for others to share their stories.

Creative Works
Podcasting
Thomas launched the popular podcast "Inner Monologue" in 2015, featuring conversational interviews with individuals who have overcome adversity. Through this platform, he explores the human experience, resilience, and personal growth.

Writing
Thomas is also a published author, with his book "2012: A Bicycle Odyssey" chronicling his life-changing cross-country journey. His writing offers a poignant and inspiring account of his experiences, serving as a testament to the healing potential of art and human connection.

Artistic Expression
As an artist, Thomas continues to explore the intersection of creativity and mental wellness. His work embodies the transformative power of art, inspiring others to embrace their own creative expression.

Mission
Through his advocacy, podcasting, writing, and art, Thomas Brown strives to:

Normalize conversations about mental health

Foster empathy and understanding

Empower individuals to share their stories

Promote creative expression as a tool for healing

Thomas's remarkable journey serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in darkness, there is always the potential for growth, healing, and transformation.

http://www.risephoenix.org/  

https://www.facebook.com/risephoenix2012/

https://www.instagram.com/_rise_philosophy/  

https://www.tiktok.com/@rise_phx?_t=8nr9tf3EF8I&_r=1





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Jose Luis

Team Gwen

Jose grew up immersed in the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico, surrounded by beautiful music. He always dreamt of becoming a pop musician in the mainland U.S. Jose's aunt, Wally Waleska, played a pivotal role in his musical journey. Not related by blood but bound by deep familial ties, Wally introduced Jose to music and supported his dream to perform. One of Jose's most vivid memories was watching Lady Gaga perform "Just Dance" on Waleska's TV when he was 5. Lady Gaga became Jose's icon, and he knew he wanted to pursue a life of music and performance. After the death of his great-grandmother in 2021, Jose struggled with his mental health. His great-grandmother was a pillar of his family and taught him about unity and selflessness. Later, Jose's therapist provided tools to manage his mental health, which eventually led him back to music. Now, Jose strives to be the pop star he's always dreamt of becoming by conquering 'The Voice' stage.

MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS 8/7c
Michael Bublé, Gwen Stefani, Reba McEntire and Snoop Dogg search for the country's best singers.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

MIKAELA AYIRA

Team Snoop

Mikaela has already accomplished so much inside and out of the classroom at just 16 years old. Mikaela founded a program in her school called Harmonic Healers, a music therapy program aimed to help kids with special needs. On the weekends, she often performs as a princess for birthday parties where she gets to use her musical gift to entertain little kids. Despite her busy schedule, she always makes time for her favorite thing to do: writing songs. She wrote her very first song, "Smoothie," at age 8. Performing around town for various events is also a passion for Mikaela, but one of the most incredible things she's done thus far is singing the national anthem for the Atlanta Dream. Mikaela wouldn't be able to do this without the support of her loving family, especially her mother. Mikaela's mom has never misses Mikaela's performances and is excited to cheer her on on "The Voice."


MONDAYS AND TUESDAYS 8/7c
Michael Bublé, Gwen Stefani, Reba McEntire and Snoop Dogg search for the country's best singers.



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.

Pastor Vera McEwen is incredibly excited to give an open welcome to all at Love God Ministries! An online community where all truly are welcome, Pastor Vera embodies the Love of Christ through witness and discipleship. She founded Love God Ministries because conversations with people revealed a need for a community of believers where it does not matter how you look but recognize that you are a child of God.

Pastor Vera has been teaching and preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Word of God for over 30 years. Her primary emphasis is spreading God's Love by providing pastoral care, preaching God's Loving Word, teaching God's Light-Filled Word, and implementing God's Living relational group architecture via in home communities.

She is currently reviewing the prospects of a doctorate in religious studies with an emphasis on Biblical Hebrew and Aramaic as encouraged by her professors at seminary. In addition to her vocation as Pastor she ministers as a certified professional and personal coach.

With God's help, she implements 1 Thessalonians 5.11, motivating people to be and do their very best by building one another up. Pastor Vera is a joyous, ever singing sister in Christ who after years of being pursued by God, stopped running and answered the call, halleluiah, הַלְלוּיָה

https://www.lovegod-ministries.org/


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