Stir Crazy

Monkeypaw Production's Director of Social Impact Keisha Senter joins host JP Reynolds to talk about the long game, entertainment's role in changemaking, and having something to contribute.

About Keisha Senter:

Keisha Senter is the Director of Social Impact for Monkeypaw Productions. She leads the social impact strategies and campaigns that support Monkeypaw’s film and television slate, and develops partnerships with organizations and communities that mobilize around the issues addressed in the company’s storytelling. Throughout her career, Keisha has built global brands and executed strategies for leaders at the highest levels of politics, entertainment, fashion, sports and philanthropy. Whether bringing a former United States President’s vision for civic action to life or helping America’s oldest philanthropy recalibrate to a new century, her creativity continues to push audiences to think differently about global problems, while bringing new voices into critical dialogues for creative problem solving.

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Topics of Conversation:

How Are We Doing? (4:06) • The "Why" (8:37) • Willingness to Say Yes (18:54) • Having Something to Contribute (24:24) • The Long Game (37:42) • Entertainment's Role in Changemaking (51:12) • Joy (56:40) • Shoutout to Charles Barkley (59:44)

Suggested Documentary

Activist and policy entrepreneur Zaki Smith joins host JP Reynolds to talk about perpetual punishment, restorative justice, and prison reform vs. prison abolition. 

About Zaki Smith:

Black cultural writer and strategist Melissa Kimble joins host JP Reynolds to talk about black ownership, taking breaks, and the difference between art and content. 

About Melissa Kimble:

In this crossover episode with American Legacy Network's Memoir Noir, Co-Founder of The Collective Stefanie Brown James joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about black political power, coalition building, and being a social entrepreneur.

About Stefanie Brown James:

Stefanie Brown James is the Co-Founder and Senior Advisor of The Collective – a consortium of organizations including The Collective PAC and Collective Future – dedicated to recruiting, training, funding and supporting black candidates to run for office across the country. Founded in 2016, The Collective has raised over $6.5 million dollars from 13,000+ contributions, helped over 40 black candidates win their elections and launched the Black Campaign School to specifically train black candidates and campaign operatives to win elections and better serve their communities. With 15+ years of executive leadership experience, Stefanie is a highly skilled leader in the areas of community and civic engagement, donor relations and fundraising, issue campaign development and implementation.

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Topics of Conversation:

Entry Point into Politics (3:43) • What is a Political Action Committee? (5:58) • Evolution of Black Political Power (10:59) • Coalition Building (16:26) • Being CEO (21:00) • Handling the Ego (25:00) • Being a Social Entrepreneur (27:37) • Exciting New Things (35:29) • This Watershed Moment (36:46)

Theme Songs:

In this fifth and final episode of a Black History Month music series, Grammy-winning musician Kevin "KO" Olusola joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about soul posture, the democratization of art making, and being in shape to perform. 

About Kevin "KO" Olusola:

Kevin Olusola is a Grammy-winning musician, beatboxer, cellist, rapper, record producer, singer, and songwriter. Olusola is best known as the beatboxer of the a capella band Pentatonix. After the group won NBC's The Sing-Off in 2011, they released eleven albums, which all charted in the top 5 of the Billboard 200 charts, have sold over 2 million records, and have amassed more than two billion views on their YouTube channel. Olusola has also been identified as developing the art of "celloboxing" (playing cello and beatboxing simultaneously). In 2015 Olusola released his debut solo EP, Renegade, which further showcased his unique classical, pop, hip-hop, and electronica-influenced mix of cello playing, beatboxing, and singing. His latest solo project, Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood, was released in April 2020. 

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Topics of Conversation:

Staying Grounded (4:20) • Soul Posture and Success (7:06) • Setting Our Voices Free (11:38) • Stage Fitness (16:38) • The Power and Problems of Social Media (33:44) • Democratization of Art Making (42:19) • Being a Married Touring Musician (48:17) • Expanding the Musical Palette (56:36) • Joy (59:39) 

Suggested Documentaries:

In this fourth episode of a Black History Month music series, former Roc Nation president Benny Pough joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about preparation, betting on yourself, and alignment for music artists navigating the pandemic. 

About Benny Pough:

Decades of dedication and determination propelled Benny Pough to the forefront of the music industry and made him one of today’s successful and innovative business leaders. Pough has helped shape the sound and culture of music worldwide, having been instrumental in delivering radio hits for superstar artists such as Jay-Z, Rihanna, Kanye West, Travis Scott, Future, DJ Khaled and 21 Savage. Having made significant contributions to the entertainment industry via executive positions at powerhouse labels from Motown Records and Def Jam to Epic Records and Roc Nation Music, Pough is now blazing his own trail as an entrepreneur. Pough is currently the CEO of D.Verse Media, a full service global music distribution and publishing company. The inaugural recipient of the Urban One Honors Record Executive of the Year Award, Pough was a featured speaker at the ITP Media Group’s international conference in Dubai and plans to grow his speaking profile in the near future. Beyond his illustrious music career, Pough has a strong interest in public speaking, real estate investment, and collecting art and wine. He currently resides in Bergen County, New Jersey.

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Topics of Conversation:

Preparation x Leadership (2:28) • Getting Into Music (5:51) • Making Stars (12:10) • Betting on Yourself (14:17) • Ownership: Real Estate + Art Collection (22:34) • Humility in Team Building (27:46) • Current Sources of Inspiration (29:51) • Role of Faith in Music Industry (31:02) • Joy (32:49) • Alignment (39:04)

Theme Songs:

In this third episode of a Black History Month music series, singer-songwriter-producer KAIRA joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about performance, fearlessness, and color psychology. 

About KAIRA:

Singer-songwriter-producer of the R&B-Soul, TOP 200 charted, “Road To Love” EP, and the hit single “Other Side of Tomorrow”, Kaira is soulful, vibrant, and consistently bringing us something new. Her infectious optimism and positive approach to life, shines through her sonically warm voice, and her familiar feeling production. She invites you on a journey to hear the true human heart, while you explore a range of emotions. Her freedom, expressed through her writing and musicality, gives listeners a glimpse in the bright future of soul music.

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Topics of Conversation:

Surviving with No Live Shows (3:06) • Fearlessness on Stage (8:42) • Roots of Musicianship (13:11) • Songwriting & Production (17:00) • Impact of the Times on Creating (21:44) • The Prism (27:01) • Music Inspiration (31:14) • Performance Inspiration (34:11) • Joy (38:59) • Color Psychology (41:34) • The Future of Live Music (44:07)

In this second episode of a Black History Month music series, singer, songwriter, and vocal architect Ekela joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about obstacles, the necessity of music training, and what makes a complete performer.

About Ekela:

Ekela Is a singer, songwriter, producer and vocal developer from Brooklyn, NYC with Jamaican blood. While she Is known for her Island-style R&B blend - when she's writing songs like "Just a Sunrise Away" for Kristina Halloway, "Marrow" for Ashley Skerritt, "Half Bad" for Eerie, as well as producing & penning "Don't You Worry" for K'reema and "BrokenHearts" by newcomer Lordus - you can count on Ekela's music to merge 90's feel with modern emotion. Her 2018 release "Catalyst" continues to pick up traction, while her latest island bop "Na Na" Is slowly picking up its own steam. Get ready to use her unique lyricism as your captions for your next few IG posts.

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Topics of Conversation:

What is a Vocal Architect (4:13) • Emotions Are Not Homes (9:14) • Obstacles Aren't Always Negative (12:53) • Entertainment as Craft (17:28) • The Necessity of Music Training (23:56) • Songwriting Processes (29:48) • What Makes a Complete Performer? (38:17) • Teddy Riley Appreciation (40:51) • Brandy Appreciation (44:07) • Transferable Skills from Being an Artist (46:37) • Joy (53:13)

In this first episode of a Black History Month music series, artist-theologian Julian Reid joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about creation, reflection and the power of improvisation.

About Julian Reid:

Julian Reid plays, speaks, and writes at the intersection of music, faith, and story. He studied theology & the arts at Candler School of Theology and philosophy at Yale College. Hailing from the Southwest side of Chicago, Julian grew up playing classical, gospel, and jazz piano. A founding member of The JuJu Exchange, Julian has been blessed to collaborate or share the stage with many artists spanning various literary and musical genres, from jazz to classical to hip-hop to gospel including Chance the Rapper, Peter CottonTale, Tank and the Bangas, and Jamila Woods among many others.

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Topics of Conversation:

To Create and Reflect Equally (5:44) • Being an Intersectional Artist (11:17) • The Root of Motivation in Fulfilling a Call (13:40) •  Focusing Your Energy on Who Shows Up Instead of Who Doesn't (18:26) • The Eternal Boombox (25:26) • The Power of Improvisation (32:59) • Relationship Between Creation and Reflection (38:16) • Creating in Such a Time as This (43:51) • The Value of Old Things (47:37) • Inspiring Each Other (52:22) • Joy (56:24)

In this Martin Luther King, Jr. Day episode the week of Joe Biden's inauguration, Rev. Dr. Willie Dwayne Francois III joins host JP Reynolds to talk about abolition, situational wokeness, and Christianity's relationship to white supremacy.

About Rev. Dr. Willie Dwayne Francois III:

A native of Galveston, Texas, Willie Dwayne Francois III is a 2009 Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Morehouse College with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Religion, named the ranking scholar in both departments. While at Morehouse, he served as the president of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel Assistants Program and was named the 2009 Martin Luther King Jr. Scholar. Francois received a Master of Divinity from Harvard University's Divinity School, where he received the Hopkins Shareholders Award—the school's highest academic recognition—and served as the class of 2012 commencement speaker. In 2020 Francois completed a Doctor of Ministry degree at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology. Called to empower people through transformative preaching, teaching, and organizing, Francois serves as the Senior Pastor of Mount Zion Baptist Church of Pleasantville, NJ.

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Topics of Conversation:

Where Have All the Prophets Gone? (2:08)・How Will History Look Back at This Moment (7:27)・Truth Telling in the Off-Season (13:52)・Situational Wokeness (21:04)・Police v. Public Safety (23:21)・Prophethood of All Believers (30:48)・Chickens Come Home: Accountability, Jobs, Reparations (35:12)・White Supremacy's Dependence on Christianity (40:44)・Exorcising the Demon on Whiteness (47:33)・Joy (50:13)・Growing Areas (53:56)

Book Choices:

Writer-Director Sontenish Myers joins host JP Reynolds to talk about the roots underneath storytelling, creating for the moment and finding your voice.

About Sontenish Myers:

Sontenish Myers is a Jamaican-American writer-director based in Harlem, NY. She is a graduate of NYU's Graduate Film program where she’s now an adjunct professor.  In her work, racial identity, womanhood, power dynamics, and the heroic journey are often explored. She is particularly interested in doing so across genres, from dramas, science fiction/fantasy, to dark comedies. Her most recent short film, Cross My Heart, won the Vimeo Staff Pick Award at Hamptons International Film Festival for its “outstanding performances from its two young leads and a nuanced directorial approach.”

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Topics of Conversation:

The Power of Storytelling (3:18)・Shaping Our Voice (8:14)・The Spectrum from Art to Entertainment (9:51)・Ontological Guilt (14:03)・Creating for the Moment (17:31)・What's Love Got to Do with It? (22:44)・How to Get This Grant Money (26:30)・Shedding Ego (33:41)・Sources of Inspiration (38:44)・The Future of Experiencing Film (43:06)・Joy (48:03)

Theme Songs:

To kick off 2021 with some money talk, wealth management advisor Travis Henry joins host JP Reynolds as the first guest to return to the podcast. They discuss entrepreneurship, ownership, and the Black Ambition Prize - a Pharrell Williams powered opportunity that Travis help bring to life.

About Travis Henry:

Travis is a Vice President at True Capital Management (TRUE). As an advisor to sudden wealth clients, he navigates complex financial, business, and life challenges for professional athletes, entertainers, entrepreneurs, lottery winners, and inheritors. A native of Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, Travis received his B.A. from Yale University, where he organized and led mentoring initiatives for local underserved youth. He was also a four-year letterman and All Ivy League selection, helping Yale win the 2006 Ivy League Football Championship.

This barbershop style bonus episode features an unfiltered and stimulating conversation between host JP Reynolds and his four fraternity brothers. Just in time for the new year.  

Topics of Conversation:

Black Famous v. Famous (6:38) ・Evolving Work Communities (21:02) ・ Learning As We Go (39:24)  ・ The North Star (50:26) ・ The Opps (1:02:26) ・ What Have You Overcome? (1:07:49) ・ Was This Episode Too Tame? (1:29:04)  

Theme Songs:

Professor and speaker Shantae J. Edwards joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about the benefits of personal rituals, the generational impact of our moves, and the power of 'what if.'

About Shantae J. Edwards:

Shantae J. Edwards is a native of Chicago, first of seven children, and first-generation college graduate from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. As a speaker, professor, coach and trainer Shantae helps people who are struggling with recognition, meaning and fulfillment in the workplace. In addition, Shantae helps organizations who are struggling with inclusion, team building, and employee engagement and productivity in the workplace.

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Conversation Topics:

What Have You Not Considered (5:52) • The Benefit of Personal Rituals (14:10) • Anger, Fear and Mistrust (20:46) • Generational Impact of Our Moves (26:15) • The Power of 'What If' (32:34) •  Live, Beautiful Human (41:02) • Joy (47:33)

Theme Songs:

Lead Pastor of Elm City Vineyard Church Joshua Williams joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about hope, reconciliation, and cultivating a lifestyle of compassion.

About Joshua Williams:

Joshua Williams is the lead pastor of Elm City Vineyard Church in New Haven, CT. Originally from Iowa, Josh moved to New Haven for school. After graduating from Yale in the spring of 2008, he decided to stay in New Haven to go to Yale Divinity School for a M.Div, to pursue his future wife, and to invest further in New Haven. He is thankful and excited for how God is maturing ECV’s vision and taking the community to new places.

About JP Reynolds:

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Conversation Topics:

Is There a Balm? (4:30) • Religious Manipulation (7:56) • The Complexity of Reconciliation (10:51) • Cultivating a Lifestyle of Compassion (17:32) • Keeping That Same Energy (24:30) • Faithfulness in Your Calling (32:04) • Here's the Good News (49:51) • Joy (56:31)

Theme Songs:

Mental health professionals and twin founders of Unearth + Bloom, Khadijah & Zakiyyah Abdul-Mateen join host JP Reynolds for a conversation about intergenerational healing, meaningful liberation, and ancestral rhythms.

Hip-Hop archivist Syreeta Gates joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about family, legacy and the power of crafting our own narratives.

Casey Gerald, author of "There Will Be No Miracles Here," joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about ancestors, hope, and the nature of time.

During the process of developing a new book creative, writer, and educator Kleaver Cruz joins host JP Reynolds for an exchange about imagination, liberation, and the complexities of black joy.

Two weeks after Election Day the sitting president, Donald Trump, still has not conceded that he lost the race to President-Elect Joe Biden. Political operative and organizer Mayra Macías joins host JP Reynolds to discuss what Trump's resilience means for U.S. democracy, the power of coalition building, and what's exciting about our journey forward as a nation. 

About Mayra Macías: 

Mayra Macías is a highly sought-after organizer, educator, and political operative. She joined the Latino Victory Project in 2017, serving as national political director and vice president before taking the role as executive director. Mayra was the architect behind Latino Victory’s 74% win rate in the 2018 cycle — playing a critical role in electing the most diverse congressional class in history. Mayra began her work in politics as a field organizer for the 2012 Obama campaign, working in the Little Havana office. After working in several issue-based campaigns, Mayra transitioned to the Florida Democratic Party, serving first as the Hispanic outreach director for South Florida and then as the deputy political director where she helped flip the Sarasota City Council. Mayra then transitioned from politics to policy by joining the Capitol Hill Fellowship, working for Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro, D-CT. Mayra returned to Florida the summer of 2016 and became the Florida Democratic Party’s political director — becoming the first Latina to hold this position. Mayra’s media appearances include CNN’s New Day with Chris Cuomo, Telemundo, and Univision. She has been featured on The New York Times, Time Magazine, The Miami Herald, NBC News, Vox, Business Insider, Politico, and The Hill. 

About JP Reynolds: 

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University. 

Conversation Topics: 

The State of Our Democracy (4:56) • Holding Politicians Accountable (12:06) • Reducing the Weight of Presidential Office (22:34) • What's Exciting About the Future of Politics? (27:16) • Dealing with Desensitization (40:28)

Theme Songs:

A day after freshly projected presidential election results political strategist Tunisia Morrison joins JP Reynolds for an exchange about holding elected officials accountable to their word, the state of democracy and how citizens can stay engaged. This episode also features surprise guest appearances by NYC mayoral candidate Ray McGuire, NYC City Council candidate Nantasha Williams and Khaair Morrison, Esq.

About Tunisia Morrison:

In this Election Day episode, educator, entrepreneur, and lawyer TyAnthony Davis joins JP Reynolds for an exchange about picking your spots, finding compassion, and being a neighbor in an uncertain political climate.

About TyAnthony Davis:

For his Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd, JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode motivational speaker and educator Lamarr Womble joins JP for an exchange about motivational wellness, grind culture, and identifying values.  

For his Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd, JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode H. Westley Phillips, MD joins JP for an exchange about frontline wellness, the importance of health access and who should have a hand in constructing medical policies.   

About H. Westley Phillips, MD:   

From Tulsa, OK H. Westley Phillips, MD is a neurosurgeon in UCLA's residency program. He holds degrees from Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and Yale University. And he is the recipient of numerous honors and awards including the Fulbright Independent Research Fellowship and NIH R25 Grant.   

About JP Reynolds:   

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University. 

Conversation Topics:   

Showing Up Authentically (4:30) • Healthcare System (9:01) • Health Access & Literacy (12:06) • The Relationship Between Medicine and Politics (21:27)  Suggested Reading:  Statement by Black Neurosurgeons 

Theme Song: "Reset (Hold Your Horse)" - JP Reynolds + BACHTROY

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For his Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd, JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode lawyer, writer, and organizer Derecka Purnell joins JP for an exchange about human rights wellness, police abolition, and joy.  

About Derecka Purnell:  

Derecka Purnell is a human rights lawyer, writer, and organizer.  She works to end police and prison violence by providing legal assistance, research, and trainings to community based organizations through an abolitionist framework. Derecka received her JD from Harvard Law School, her BA from the University of Missouri- Kansas City, and studied public policy and economics at the University of California- Berkeley as a Public Policy and International Affairs Law Fellow. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, The Guardian, The Appeal, Truthout, Slate, Boston Review, Huffington Post, Vox, and In These Times. She’s been featured on NPR, the Boston Globe, Slate’s What Next, and MSNBC, and is the former Editor-in-Chief of the Harvard Journal of African American Public Policy. Derecka has lectured, studied, and strategized around social movements across the United States, The Netherlands, Belgium, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and Australia. Derecka is currently a columnist at The Guardian and Deputy Director of Spirit of Justice Center at Union Theological Seminary.  

About JP Reynolds:  

Called “remarkably special” by AllHipHop, JP Reynolds is an innovative artist, rapper and songwriter with an eclectic sound. The creator of “rap gumbo,” his music is a powerful blend of jazz, funk, gospel and soul. In addition to music JP is an entrepreneur, coach, activist, and minister. In 2012, he created Peace and Power Media, an artistic hub that produces music and multimedia content. Since 2014, JP has supported young people in pursuing passion and purpose through various initiatives and partnerships with organizations and communities within the non-profit sector. JP holds a Bachelor of Arts in African-American Studies and a Master of Divinity from Yale University.

Conversation Topics:  

Police Abolition v. Police Reform (2:44) • Why It's Different This Time (8:30) •  The Prison Industrial Complex (14:12)  

Book Choices:  

Our Enemies in Blue by Kristian Williams  

Black Marxism by Cedric Robinson

For his Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd, JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode educator, speaker, and author Dr. Gemar Mills joins JP for an exchange about educational wellness, the role of parents in teaching, and intellectual curiosity.  

For his Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd, JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode co-founder of We Run 313 Lance Woods  joins JP for an exchange about physical wellness, its impact on all areas of your life, and the importance of accountability and consistency.  

For his Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd, JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode poet, actor, and star of Hamilton Carvens Lissaint joins JP for an exchange about artistic wellness, its connection to spirituality, and how to find identity. 

For his Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd, JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode wealth advisor Travis Henry joins JP for an exchange about financial wellness, building sound mindsets and habits, how to start paying yourself first. 

About Travis Henry:

 Travis is a Vice President at True Capital Management (TRUE). As an advisor to sudden wealth clients, he navigates complex financial, business, and life challenges for professional athletes, entertainers, entrepreneurs, lottery winners, and inheritors. A native of Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, Travis received his B.A. from Yale University, where he organized and led mentoring initiatives for local underserved youth. He was also a four-year letterman and All Ivy League selection, helping Yale win the 2006 Ivy League Football Championship. 

For his Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd, JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode educator and activist Andom Ghebreghiorgis joins JP a day after Andom's release from an overnight stay in jail after a violent police response to a peaceful protest in the Bronx. JP and Andom engage in a discussion about political wellness, particularly during a pandemic and an uprising.

For his Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd, JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode entrepreneur and natural lifestyle enthusiast Dr. Kristian H joins JP for an exchange about consumer wellness, problem solving, and the power of the black dollar.

For his online Stir Crazy Festival 11 days after the death of George Floyd , JP Reynolds engaged some of his brilliant friends in wellness conversations. In this episode Rev. Dr. Neichelle R. Guidry joins JP for an exchange about spiritual wellness, what God is saying, and the power of your breath in such a time as this.

Music artist and social advocate JP Reynolds engages some of his brilliant friends in conversation about our uncertain and transforming world. Listen for illuminating dialogue with movers-and-shakers across a variety of fields as they discuss what's going on and what should be. Tuesdays and sometimes Thursdays. Tap in.