What happens when life forces you to grieve, parent through uncertainty, and rebuild your faith at the same time? Joseph "JoJo" Simmons sits down with author and autism mom Alicia Lorde for a powerful conversation about grief, faith, motherhood, and resilience on the For Good Podcast.

Life doesn't always unfold the way we imagine — and for Alicia Lorde, survival became a daily act of faith. On this episode of the For Good Podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons sits down with Alicia, author of True Survivor, for a raw and deeply honest conversation about grief, autism parenting, healing, and purpose.

Alicia opens up about losing her husband, raising a child on the autism spectrum, and confronting generational trauma while learning how to lean fully into her faith. Together, JoJo and Alicia explore what it means to heal when life feels overwhelming, how honesty and vulnerability become tools for growth, and why survival isn't meant to be the final destination.

The conversation also dives into the realities autism parents face — from emotional exhaustion to unseen fears — and the strength it takes to keep showing up, even when you're the village.

They dive into:

• Navigating grief while raising a child with autism
  
  

• How faith evolves when life doesn't meet expectations
  
  

• Breaking generational trauma through honesty and healing
  
  

• What resilience really looks like on the hardest days
  
  

• Moving from survival mode into purpose and hope
  
  

This episode is a reminder that healing is possible, faith doesn't require perfection, and your story can become a lifeline for someone else.

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

 

What does success really cost when your mental health isn't protected? Joseph "JoJo" Simmons reflects on MJBizCon and sits down with Vic Mensa for an honest conversation about leadership pressure, mental health, and how fatherhood reshapes purpose, priorities, and legacy on the For Good Podcast.

MJBizCon brought together founders, leaders, and visionaries building real businesses — but some of the most impactful moments happened offstage. Joseph "JoJo" Simmons revisits MJBizCon with a powerful, reflective conversation alongside Vic Mensa on the For Good Podcast, diving into what success looks like when mental health and purpose come first.

In this episode, JoJo and Vic talk openly about the pressure of leadership, the expectation to always be "on," and the importance of protecting your mental health while navigating business, creativity, and life. The conversation naturally shifts into fatherhood, as Vic shares how becoming a dad has changed the way he moves, thinks, and defines success — not just as a parent, but as a man and leader.

They dive into:
The mental health challenges that come with leadership and visibility
Why success means nothing without emotional wellness
How fatherhood realigns priorities and purpose
Building legacy through intention, growth, and presence

This episode is a reminder that the real work happens within — and that healing, growth, and leadership go hand in hand.

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Hollywood has long struggled with representation — and Natasha Ward Shaw has spent more than 20 years fighting to change that. The casting director, producer, and acting coach sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on The For Good Podcast for a powerful conversation about diversity, colorism, and what it really takes to open doors for Black women in entertainment. From interning on Fat Albert to casting, producing, and coaching some of today's most talented actors, Natasha has built a career rooted in purpose. She shares how she's fought to make sure darker-skinned women are seen as leading ladies, how confidence can transform an actor's career, and why representation isn't a trend — it's a responsibility. The conversation also dives into how Natasha balances fighting for others while protecting her own peace, what true inclusion in Hollywood should look like, and why she believes faith and family are the foundation for longevity in any industry. JoJo and Natasha open up about:

• How colorism and bias still show up in casting rooms
  
  
• Why confidence is the foundation for success
  
  
• The importance of creating real opportunities, not just token representation
  
  
• How faith, family, and joy keep her grounded through the fight
  
  

Subscribe to The For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

 

Short Description
Turning 36 isn't just another year—it's a checkpoint. In this special birthday edition, JoJo Simmons opens up about growth, fatherhood, and redefining what legacy means beyond fame. From faith and family to business and purpose, he reflects on how far he's come and the lessons that keep him grounded.

Full Description
In this Just JoJo: Birthday Edition, JoJo Simmons steps into his 36th year with gratitude, growth, and a new perspective on what really matters.

He reflects on life beyond the spotlight—what it means to come from a legendary family yet still build your own name, purpose, and peace. From lessons learned as a husband and father to the mindset shifts that helped him find calm and clarity, JoJo shares how he's learned to "worry less and do his best."

Through honesty and reflection, JoJo opens up about carving out his own identity, choosing faith over fear, and redefining legacy as impact rather than image.

They dive into:

• What legacy really means beyond fame or family name
• The lessons turning 36 has taught him about growth and peace
• How faith and fatherhood gave him deeper purpose
• The power of intention, resilience, and gratitude in building a meaningful life

🎂 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

What happens when chasing success costs you your health? Business leader and executive coach John Thompson III joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to share how burnout at 25 reshaped his life, why being passed over for promotion became a turning point, and how his ACES framework helps people stack their deck for success. John Thompson III spent over 20 years leading teams at GE and United Technologies, generating more than $1 billion in sales — but his biggest lessons came from failure and burnout. At just 25, the pressure of career and school landed him in a psychiatric ward, forcing him to redefine what success really means. Today, John is an executive coach, financial advisor, and author of Stack Your Deck: How to Be an Ace in Business and Life. He joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to talk about his ACES framework (Attitude, Connection, Empowerment, Strength), what being passed over for promotion taught him about resilience, and why leadership is really about creating other leaders. They dive into:

• The truth about burnout and how to build a balanced life
  
  
• Why your attitude shapes everything — and how to shift it
  
  
• The lessons his grandmother's poker games taught him about resilience
  
  
• Redefining success beyond titles, money, or promotions
  
  
• Why quitting alcohol gave him the clarity to create at a higher level
  
  

This episode is a powerful reminder that success isn't about the cards you're dealt — it's about how you play your hand. 🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

 

What happens when your childhood best friend also becomes your partner in music, TV, and life? For JoJo Simmons and his day one, Zach, the answer is a journey that spans from first grade classrooms to middle school rap battles, to forming Team Blackout and appearing together on Run's House. In this episode of the For Good Podcast, JoJo and Zach revisit the funny, heartfelt, and sometimes wild stories that shaped their brotherhood — including the infamous Rapstyle Mondays battles that got so big they were banned by the school, and the moment JoJo realized he'd rather team up with Zach than risk losing to him in a battle.

Zach reflects on the surreal experience of living a "double life" in high school, riding the bus with classmates one moment and being picked up by MTV producers the next. He opens up about the pressures of perception — what it was like to be recognized on the street, receive fan letters, and even adjust how Team Blackout parked their car just to "protect the brand." JoJo and Zach share memories of recording endless tracks in the basement on cassette tapes, chasing record deals, and the lessons they learned from dreaming big as teenagers in the spotlight.

But this conversation isn't just about nostalgia. JoJo asks Zach what it meant to become godfather to his daughter Mia, and Zach opens up about why he takes that role so seriously. They talk about opposites attracting in friendship, how family support kept their bond strong, and how music gave Zach both an outlet and an alter ego that built his confidence. Today, Zach has transitioned into life as a music educator, carrying forward the same passion that started in those freestyle circles. This episode is a celebration of friendship, growth, and the bonds that stand the test of time.

JoJo and Zach also discuss:

• The moment JoJo asked Zach to be godfather to his daughter Mia
  
  

• How Team Blackout formed and the lessons they learned chasing their rap dreams
  
  

• The realities of being young, on TV, and navigating fame in the MySpace/TMZ era
  
  

• Why music became Zach's therapy and gave him confidence as a quiet kid

• A heartfelt message for Reggie
  
  

This episode is a celebration of friendship, growth, and the bonds that stand the test of time.

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

From producing platinum records to surviving bankruptcy — twice — Dr. Sahpreem A. King has lived a life of highs, lows, and powerful transformation. A hip-hop producer for legends like SWV and Wyclef Jean, he went from the top of the music industry to losing everything, rebuilding himself not once but twice, and ultimately finding purpose as an author, educator, and founder of Soular Astronauts. In this deeply honest conversation with JoJo Simmons on the For Good Podcast, Dr. King opens up about the defining moments that shaped his journey: the block party in Amityville that first sparked his love of hip-hop, writing the first-ever book on hip-hop production, and the harsh financial lessons that taught him humility after early success. But the most powerful part of his story goes beyond music and money. Growing up surrounded by domestic violence, Dr. King repeated the same cycle in his first marriage before realizing it had to end with him. He shares how looking into his son's crib became the turning point that pushed him to seek help, take accountability, and break generational trauma. Dr. King opens up about:

• Building a career in hip-hop and writing the first-ever book on hip-hop production
  
  
• How financial collapse and the 2008 housing crisis taught him humility
  
  
• Growing up with domestic violence, repeating those patterns, and choosing to break the cycle for his children
  
  
• Living with ADHD and reshaping education through multiple intelligences theory
  
  
• Why failure is a teacher — and why he now looks forward to it
  
  

This powerful conversation reminds us that transformation is possible, no matter where you start.

 

Bryant McKinnie spent over a decade dominating the NFL, becoming a Super Bowl champion and Pro Bowler. But after the game, he discovered that true strength has nothing to do with size or speed—it's about being vulnerable, telling your story, and creating safe spaces for others to share theirs.

Now, through his B Major Foundation and events like Cocktails and Conversations, Bryant is changing how men—especially athletes and men of color—approach mental health. He sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on The For Good Podcast to share his journey from the locker room to community leadership, and why trusted voices like his are critical for shifting the conversation.

In this episode, they talk about:

• The hidden struggles athletes face after retiring from professional sports
  
  

• Why the locker room was more than just a place to prepare for the game—it was a safe space for brotherhood and honesty
  
  

• How to push past the "tough it out" mentality that keeps so many men silent
  
  

• Why self-care is just as necessary as training your body, and how to start putting yourself first
  
  

• The lessons losing teaches us that winning never could
  
  

🔌 Subscribe to The For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Angela Simmons sits down with her brother Joseph "JoJo" Simmons for Part 2 of their conversation on the For Good Podcast, and this time they're getting into the real—relationships, dating, and navigating life in the public eye. Angela addresses why she's attracted to "protectors," explaining that she sees people past their reputation and judges them by their character, not street gossip.

She opens up about the pressure of dating publicly since she was 17, from Bow Wow's music video to now, and why her love life became a "thing" that overshadows her other work. Angela gets honest about her recent situation with Yo Gotti and why she didn't immediately tell JoJo when things ended, plus how she handles being constantly dragged into drama she wants no parts of.

The siblings also dive into:

• Why Angela dates "protectors" and how she sees past people's reputations to their hearts 

• The viral picture collage that had the internet making assumptions about her dating history

• Her breakup with Yo Gotti and why she went quiet during that time

 • That viral Nicki Minaj challenge in stilettos and why she brought heels to the gym

• Angela's Angels and her Christmas toy drive - the philanthropic work people don't talk about

• Her wellness world she's building and why everyone needs a one-stop shop for health

• Mental health routine - 15-20 minutes of phone-free prayer and grounding every morning

JoJo gives Angela her flowers, telling her she's "the definition of a strong Black single woman" and that if people really knew her, they'd watch their tongues. He acknowledges how she's figuring it out daily in an industry that's not easy to survive, always doing it with dignity and pride.

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

When Jay-Z rapped "in the kitchen like a Simmons whipping Pastry" about their family business in "Empire State of Mind" Angela Simmons knew she made it. She sits down with her brother Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good podcast to reveal what really happened behind the scenes of Run's House, how she and Vanessa Simmons built the Pastry empire that got Jay-Z's attention, and why Rev Run saying "no" became her biggest motivation.

In this unfiltered sibling conversation, Angela opens up about her breakup with Yo Gotti and why she's drawn to certain kinds of men. JoJo hints that she has a type, leading to honest talk about dating patterns and relationships. She also gets real about the unique challenges of raising her son as a single mother and the childhood body image insecurities that JoJo admits he contributed to by calling her "fat" during arguments.

Angela also recalls the exact moment she realized she was famous - standing in Times Square after Run's House aired when someone asked for her picture. She and JoJo also break down the pressures of being from a successful family and why having famous parents actually makes it harder, not easier.

Also:

• Pastry outselling Jordan Brand at Foot Locker
• Body transformation from insecurity to fitness obsession
• Plant-based lifestyle and wellness routines for mental health
• Why Simmons kids don't get handouts despite the famous name

 

Sometimes our biggest mistakes become our greatest teachers. For singer and performer Loomis, a nervous National Anthem performance that went viral became the catalyst for a conversation about resilience, vulnerability, and refusing to let one moment define your entire story.

In this deeply personal episode, Loomis shares her journey from an abusive relationship to finding the courage to pursue her dreams in music. "When I left that really abusive relationship, I said, what I'm gonna do? What I love to do. I love to sing," she tells JoJo, describing how reconnecting with her passion became her path to healing.

The conversation takes an emotional turn as Loomis recounts the morning of her viral performance - how she looked for signs from her recently deceased mother and grandmother, found butterflies circling her, and still felt terrified to perform. When technical difficulties disrupted her performance, leading to the viral moment, Loomis reveals how it actually opened unexpected doors and became part of her larger story of resilience.

Key topics covered:

• Escaping an abusive relationship and reclaiming her voice through music 

• Why she refuses to be a "content creator" and prefers authentic connection over social media fame 

• Her philosophy on overcoming fear: "All you got to do is two minutes... imagine how you're going to feel doing something you're so scared to do"

 

Dr. Jay Barnett's story could have ended tragically twice. The former NFL player survived two suicide attempts, left an abusive home at 16, and found healing through an unexpected white family who showed him what unconditional love looked like. Now a mental health therapist, author, and speaker, he's dedicated his life to helping Black men break free from trauma and build healthy relationships.

On this powerful episode of the For Good podcast, Dr. Jay opens up to Joseph "JoJo" Simmons about the moment Woody Marr became the first man to hug him, how that experience taught him boys need emotional connection to become emotionally available men, and why the dating pool is "screwed up" because people think they have to perform to be loved.

Dr. Jay shares a moving story about a 76-year-old man who'd been carrying guilt about his Black teammate for over 70 years. He also explains how to know when you've truly moved beyond your past:

"You know you're free when you can step back into that thing and it doesn't have the same influence."

He and Joseph "JoJo" Simmons also dive into:

• How childhood trauma shapes adult relationships and why boys need more emotional connection
• The difference between accepting what happened and taking it on as your identity
• Why creating safe spaces is about being safe with yourself first
• His upcoming book on pace and nervous system regulation with Penguin Random House

In this solo episode of the For Good Podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons reflects on gratitude as more than a holiday tradition — but a daily practice that reshapes how we move through stress, pressure, and life itself. From slowing down to appreciating the small wins, JoJo shares why gratitude has become one of his most important tools for mental clarity, peace, and growth.

In this special solo episode of the For Good Podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons takes a moment to slow things down and speak directly to the listener about gratitude — not as something tied to gifts, success, or milestones, but as a mindset that changes how we experience life.

JoJo reflects on a realization that stopped him in his tracks: how much stress quietly shapes our health, our decisions, and our sense of peace. From that moment, he began shifting his focus toward gratitude — especially for the small, often overlooked things we tend to take for granted.

Throughout the episode, JoJo shares honest thoughts on moving at your own pace, resisting comparison, and understanding that your journey doesn't need to match anyone else's timeline. He emphasizes the importance of honoring small steps, trusting the process, and recognizing that consistency — not speed — leads to real growth.

This episode touches on:

• Why stress can quietly run our lives if we let it
  
  

• Learning to move at your own pace without comparison
  
  

• Practicing gratitude for the small, everyday wins
  
  

• How slowing down can create clarity and peace
  
  

• Why small steps often lead to the biggest breakthroughs
  
  

Rooted in reflection and intention, this episode is a reminder that gratitude isn't just something we practice during the holidays — it's something that can ground us, protect our mental health, and reshape how we show up every day.

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on TikTok, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you listen.

At one point, Freeway Rick Ross was making at least $1 million every day. From tennis player to drug kingpin to prisoner to mentor, his story is one of transformation, education, and second chances. He joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to talk about how he went from being a "square" athlete who'd never touched drugs to making millions in the crack era, serving 20+ years in prison, and finding redemption through reading over 300 books behind bars.

Key Topics:

• From Tennis Court to Streets: How Rick went from playing tennis to making millions selling drugs because he "was looking for a way to get out the ghetto"
• Learning to Read at 28: The moment in prison when Rick realized only he could save himself and taught himself to read
• The Three Life-Changing Books: Rick shares the essential reads that gave him "all the principles to do whatever you want to do in the world"
• Coming Home with Nothing: Being essentially homeless with $200 and building a t-shirt empire from a Joe Rogan suggestion
• Mentoring the Next Generation: His current work speaking at schools, supporting reentry programs, and breaking cycles of violence

Rick's story proves that transformation is possible at any moment—that with discipline, education, and intention, anyone can rewrite their story and help others do the same.

Darnell Lamont Walker is an Emmy nominated writer, filmmaker, and death doula whose storytelling spans continents, genres, and generations.

He's written for children's shows like Karma's World, Blues Clues & You, and Rubble & Crew — using imagination and heart to help young people understand life's biggest lessons. But behind the scenes, Darnell has also answered a deeper calling: guiding others through grief, loss, and healing.

On this episode of the For Good podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons sits down with Darnell for a powerful conversation about what it means to create safe spaces — especially for Black men and children — through storytelling, vulnerability, and community care. From the creative breakthroughs of the Sesame Workshop Writers Room to his deeply personal work as a death doula, Darnell opens up about how loss shaped his mission, and why his upcoming book Never Can Say Goodbye is his most meaningful work yet.

Together, they explore: How kids' shows can introduce emotional literacy in accessible, joyful ways What it means to be a death doula — and how the role helps people live more fully Why safe spaces and creative courage are essential for Black mental health The importance of community, self-care, and the audacity to keep going This one's for anyone navigating loss, chasing creative freedom, or building softer worlds for the next generation.

Follow Darnell's journey at: https://www.darnellwalker.com/ Instagram: [@hello.darnell](https://www.instagram.com/hello.darnell/)

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🎥 🌐 Learn more about 3isFor and our mission to uplift the plant, the people and the planet: https://www.3isfor.com

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Dr. Jay Barnett is a former NFL player turned mental health therapist, author, and speaker—on a mission to help Black men and communities heal. After a three-year, 36-city Just Heal Bro tour that reached over 18,000 men, Jay found himself burnt out and battling depression, suicide ideation, and hormonal collapse.

In this episode, he joins host Joseph "JoJo" Simmons to talk about nervous system regulation, the burden of being a giver, and how he rebuilt from the inside out. From morning routines and putting the phone in the kitchen, to redefining what it means to be a provider in a partnership, Jay breaks down what real emotional wellness looks like for Black men.

He shares:

• Why emotional stability—not money—is the true foundation of a successful home
• How he recovered from burnout and vertigo after the tour
• The role of testosterone, holistic healing, and Black men's health in his journey
• Why rest isn't a luxury, and how to start reclaiming your peace today
• The deeper meaning of "control the pace"—in business, relationships, and life

Eric Kussin had what most people would call a dream life: a high-profile career in pro sports (NBA, Chicago Sky, and Phoenix Suns), a luxury car parked outside his South Beach apartment, and a rising trajectory with the Florida Panthers. But beneath the surface, Eric was silently spiraling. When a mental health crisis hit, it nearly ended everything — and forced him to completely rethink what wellness, success, and self-awareness really look like.

On this episode of the For Good podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons sits down with Eric for a raw conversation about how sports culture, high-pressure environments, and emotional suppression can collide in dangerous ways. Eric opens up about his breakdown, his search for healing beyond traditional treatments, and how it all led to the creation of the Same Here movement, a global campaign rooted in storytelling — and beyond that, the launch of 5in5 Inc. and Regional Psychiatry. Together, they form a growing ecosystem of mental health advocacy, education, and care that goes far beyond a nonprofit model. Eric shares how he's building real infrastructure for healing across communities, schools, and businesses.

Together, they explore:

• Why gut health, trauma, and stress are major mental health factors
• How sports culture teaches men to hide pain until it explodes
• Why the "1 in 5" mental health stat is harmful and outdated

This one's for anyone who's ever looked like they had it all together — while falling apart inside.

Follow Eric's Mission at: https://samehereglobal.org/ or on Instagram @samehere_global, https://5in5inc.com/, SameHereScale on Google Play

SameHereScale on Apple Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/samehere-scale/id1564682569

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Jesce Horton's story proves that setbacks can be the setup for something greater. He lost a scholarship and corporate job opportunities because of cannabis. But instead of being defeated, he accepted rejection as redirection and found a career working with the plant. Now, as the founder of LOWD, he's a leading advocate for Black ownership, representation, and real equity in the cannabis industry.

Jesce shares how quitting his lucrative job to grow weed in his basement led to a thriving career in cannabis. His industrial engineering background gave him the tools to develop smart, sustainable systems, helping him scale LOWD into an award-winning cannabis production company. He also opens up about his partnership with NBA legend Carmelo Anthony to develop Stay Melo and launch Grand National Agency, a platform designed to uplift others in the space.

On this episode of For Good podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons and Jesce dive into:

• The first time he smoked and how it changed his path forever.
• The book that shifted his mindset and set him on the road to success.
• Why it's important for celebs like Carmelo Anthony to form strategic, intentional partnerships when entering the cannabis business.

Links and Resources:

• Follow @jescehorton on Instagram
• Follow @thelowd on Instagram
• Follow @forgoodpodcast on Instagram

Subscribe to the For Good podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Welcome to For Good
• 01:45 Why the Cannabis Industry Needs More Black Leaders
• 02:47 My First Smoke: A Life-Changing Connection
• 03:34 Sneaking Weed: My Parents Found Out
• 06:20 How Cannabis Helped Me Ace School
• 07:44 Failed the Drug Test and Lost It All
• 09:26 Amsterdam Changed Everything
• 11:47 From Engineer to Weed Grower: Taking the Leap
• 14:10 What If I Worked on Something I Loved?
• 16:31 How Engineering Made Me a Better Grower
• 20:26 The Biggest Misconception About The Business
• 19:54 Founding the Minority Cannabis Business Association
• 22:33 The Three Pillars of Equity in Cannabis
• 23:32 Using Cannabis to Create Real Change
• 27:27 Teaming up with Carmelo Anthony
• 31:36 Corporate Cannabis Doesn't Get the Culture
• 31:54 The Industry's Biggest Problem Today
• 35:04 Managing Mental Health as a Cannabis Entrepreneur

Corvain Cooper was sentenced to life in prison without parole for conspiracy to distribute 40 tons of cannabis. But even behind bars, he refused to give up hope. As the bookie in prison, he stayed busy, found ways to support his family, and never stopped believing that he would one day be free. In 2021, after years of fighting for justice and an outpouring of public support, he was granted clemency by President Donald Trump.

On this episode of For Good podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons sits down with Corvain to unpack his incredible journey from incarceration to co-founding 40 Tons, a Black-owned, justice-focused cannabis brand that's advocating for equity in the industry. Corvain opens up about the harsh realities of prison, how he adjusted to life after a life sentence, and the ongoing struggles formerly incarcerated people face, even after release.

They also get into:

• How Corvain maintained his love life while locked up and the reality of relationships in prison.
• Valuable insights on mindset and mental health.
• Fatherhood and how they set the bar high for their daughters' future boyfriends.

Links and Resources:

• Follow @corvaincooper on Instagram
• Follow @forgoodpodcast on Instagram

Subscribe to the For Good podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Welcome to For Good
• 00:00:59 Cannabis "Kingpin" Sentenced to Life
• 00:03:41 From One Ounce to 40 Tons
• 00:05:13 Building the 40 Tons Brand
• 00:05:42 Breaking Down the Three Strikes Rule
• 00:06:22 Granted Clemency by President Trump
• 00:07:24 Understanding Conspiracy Charges
• 00:09:14 Supporting Families of Incarcerated Individuals
• 00:12:37 Creating Opportunities for Black and Brown Cannabis Entrepreneurs
• 00:14:42 Stock Trading from Prison: Hustling Behind Bars
• 00:15:53 "I Never Believed I'd Die in Jail"
• 00:17:57 Parenting from Prison: Staying Connected
• 00:19:05 Reclaiming Fatherhood Post Prison
• 00:21:04 Setting Standards for Men in Your Daughter's Life
• 00:21:38 Do My Kids Think I'm Cool?
• 00:23:31 Holding Onto Faith: Surviving and Thriving
• 00:27:43 Maintaining a Romantic Relationship While Incarcerated
• 00:30:25 TikTok Influencers Behind Bars: A New Trend
• 00:32:04 What's Next for 40 Tons: Future Projects
• 00:34:46 Managing Mental Health by Talking to God

Tai Ceme was supposed to be just another virtual assistant. Instead, she became the backbone of 3isFor's production team and one of their most trusted leaders. In this special "Tai's Light" segment, she sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons in the Yurt to share her remarkable journey from cleaning Kris Karl's inbox to directing complex productions for values-driven clients.

 

Tai opens up about how accidentally moving back to New York led her to a virtual assistant platform where she stood out immediately - landing eight clients in her first month when most people struggle to find steady work. She shares the moment she first met JoJo and how the team's belief in her vision unlocked leadership skills she always knew she had: "I've always been a natural born leader. In high school, I was captain of the cheerleading team and I couldn't do a cartwheel."

 

From her beauty brand Tai-Lite to working across PR and fashion, Tai explains how wearing every hat in her own business prepared her to step up at 3isFor. She breaks down the difference between transactional projects and heart-driven work, and why values-driven productions unlock creativity beyond just logistics.

 

Tai and JoJo dive into:

• Why "production is just organizing" - whether it's beauty, film, or experiential work
• Working remotely from Paris and the benefits of European scheduling
• What's coming next with For Good Fashion, 3isFor's regenerative streetwear brand

What happens when your own viewers give you tough love? Joseph "JoJo" Simmons addresses the elephant in the room after viewers criticized him for talking over his sister Vanessa Simmons in a recent episode. Instead of getting defensive, JoJo breaks down why he's grateful for the feedback and how it's made him a better leader.

 

Fresh off missing a major client event in Detroit due to airlines delays, JoJo reflects on his team's success with the BOMESI Summit (Black Owned Media Equity and Sustainability Institute).

 

He gets vulnerable about his growth as an entrepreneur, co-founder of 3isFor, and why treating criticism like market research has changed his approach to business and life.

 

JoJo also dives into:

 

• The difference between confidence (being prepared) and cockiness (thinking you know everything)

 

• Why failing visibly builds stronger communities than hiding your learning process

 

• Behind-the-scenes look at 3isFor's experiential work and what's coming next

Few people have been in the rooms that Steve Lobel has. From managing legends like Run-DMC, Nipsey Hussle, Fat Joe, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, and Scott Storch, Steve has spent decades shaping the culture. In this candid and emotional interview, he sits down with his "nephew" Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good podcast to reflect on his journey, sharing untold stories, personal struggles, and the hard lessons that come with life in the industry.

As a longtime friend of the Simmons family - often called "the White Russell Simmons" - Steve has been connected to hip-hop royalty for years. But despite his success, he's experienced devastating losses, both personally and professionally. In this episode, he gets real about the sacrifices no one talks about, the mental and emotional toll of the business, and how he's managed to stay consistent without selling his soul. He also explains why he diversified into cannabis and tells the wild story of how Berner almost turned down the Cookies empire.

JoJo & Steve break down:

• How mentorship can get you ready to answer when opportunity knocks.
• The mental health struggles behind the music industry's glitz and glam.
• The power of pushing through the no's and staying resilient in an unforgiving industry.

Links and Resources:

• Follow Steve Lobel @weworking on Instagram
• Follow @forgoodpodcast on Instagram

Feeling this convo? Hit subscribe, drop a review, and pass it to someone who needs to hear it!

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Welcome to the For Good Podcast w/ Steve Lobel
• 02:59 How Run-DMC & Jam Master Jay Put Steve on Game
• 03:51 Deeper Than Rap: Steve's Bond w/ Jam Master Jay
• 06:11 Without a Mentor, You Could Get Lost
• 08:45 Wild Tour Stories w/ Run-DMC & Jam Master Jay
• 11:31 The Key to Building a Loyal Fan Base
• 15:29 Losing Legends: How Steve Coped With Grief
• 20:13 Why Nipsey Hussle's Impact Grew After Death
• 20:34 Wanna Make It in Music? Do Your Research!
• 30:06 Respect is Everything - Not Just for Celebrities
• 31:05 Nipsey Never Chased Trends - He Set Them
• 35:51 Even Nipsey & Bieber Struggled to Get Signed
• 36:33 Give People Their Flowers While They're Here
• 38:45 Berner Almost Said No to the Cookies Empire
• 43:19 Winning in the Cannabis Game
• 44:26 I'm Not A Bag Guy, I'm an Equity Guy
• 45:38 What He Thinks About JoJo's Cannabis Advocacy
• 49:16 Music Industry Mental Health Struggles
• 50:05 The Stigma: Treatment in Black & Brown Communities
• 50:55 The Real Story Behind The Heavenly Center (THC)
• 01:01:00 The Reality of Addiction
• 01:04:00 Steve's Biggest Regret? Not Starting a Family
• 01:06:00 The Mindset Shift You Need to Win
• 01:10:00 Why Social Media Ain't Real Connection
• 01:14:00 Why Steve Came on the For Good Podcast

Joseph "JoJo" Simmons and Kris Karl return for another episode of the For Good Podcast from the Yurrrrt, the farm headquarters of their creative studio 3isFor, for a deep dive into sustainability, impact, and building a regenerative business.

Kris shares his perspective on sustainability and why long-term thinking is crucial in both farming and storytelling. JoJo and Kris break down how 3isFor became a member of 1% for the Planet, what it really means to run a values-driven creative studio, and why their mission is bigger than just content — it's about creating lasting change.

They dive deep into how storytelling helps brands build authentic customer loyalty by showcasing their giveback efforts, not in a bragging way, but in an inspirational way that motivates others to do the same. The conversation explores the balance between making money and giving back, revealing how showing up with good intentions has consistently brought business opportunities back tenfold for 3isFor.

JoJo & Kris also discuss:

• How 1% for the Planet connects like-minded brands committed to environmental impact
• Why community is the key to sustainable business and authentic storytelling
• The importance of asking yourself: "What is truly valuable to me?"
• How regenerative thinking applies to both farming and business—looking at the long lens instead of just immediate profits

Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

 

00:00 Welcome to the For Good Podcast
02:25 The Yurt and Community Values
03:03 1% for the Planet Membership
04:55 Importance of Storytelling in Branding
13:09 Balancing Profit and Giving Back
14:41 Inviting Listeners to Join the Community
17:36 Highlighting 1% Brands and Community Impact
18:32 Balancing Profit and Giving Back
19:30 Building Authentic Brand Loyalty
20:44 The Power of Charitable Actions
22:17 Sustainability in Business and Life
24:53 The Importance of Long-Term Planning
29:16 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes

From grief and growth to balance and burnout — every guest we've had on The For Good Podcast has shared one common truth: healing starts from within.

In this special "For Good Reflections" episode, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons brings together powerful moments from past conversations, featuring guests opening up about how they care for their mental health, protect their peace, and stay grounded when life gets heavy.

You'll hear wisdom from voices like Dreka Gates, Vanessa Simmons, Angela Simmons, Lil Eazy E, Corvain Cooper, and more — each revealing their personal tools for healing, reflection, and self-preservation.

Whether it's therapy, faith, fitness, mindfulness, or simply slowing down, these stories remind us that mental health isn't just maintenance — it's movement. It's how we stay aligned with our purpose, break cycles, and live For Good.

 

In this For Good Reflections episode, JoJo Simmons revisits powerful moments from past guests as they open up about how they care for their mental health, protect their peace, and find balance in the middle of life's chaos.

From therapy and faith to fitness and mindfulness, these reflections reveal what healing really looks like behind the scenes — unfiltered, honest, and deeply human. Because taking care of yourself isn't selfish — it's For Good.

 

 In this episode, we reflect on:

• The daily practices that protect our peace and mental clarity
  
  

• How therapy, faith, and fitness help us stay grounded
  
  

• The importance of slowing down and creating boundaries
  
  

• What healing looks like when life gets heavy
  
  

Why mental health is more than maintenance — it's movement

Was Run's House really reality? Or was it just for TV? Vanessa Simmons joins her brother Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good podcast for a rare conversation about growing up in the spotlight, setting boundaries, and balancing fame with real life.

As children of Rev Run of Run-DMC, Vanessa and JoJo have had a unique journey from Run's House to Growing Up Hip Hop, learning how to navigate the industry while protecting their peace. Vanessa opens up about why she keeps her relationship private, the inspiration behind her self-care brand, U4IA, and how she's helping others prioritize wellness. They reflect on their tight-knit relationships with all of their siblings and what it means to raise the next generation of Simmons with intention.

Vanessa and JoJo also discuss:

• Low times and how they've each struggled with depression or social anxiety.
• What it was really like growing up with Rev Run as a dad - the family dynamic behind the scenes. 
• JoJo shares a childhood memory that brings Vanessa to tears.

Links and Resources:

• Follow @vanessajsimmons on Instagram
• Follow @forgoodpodcast on Instagram

Subscribe to the For Good podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 Welcome to For Good
• 00:01:35 You Need the Right Team Behind You
• 00:02:18 Growing Up with a Single Mom in Queens
• 00:04:28 Privileged but Not Spoiled: Our Upbringing
• 00:06:23 Run's House Wasn't Scripted
• 00:10:27 Lessons Learned from Reality TV
• 00:13:40 Being the Family Peacekeeper
• 00:15:02 My Relationships with All My Siblings
• 00:21:37 Being a Good Sister Means So Much
• 00:22:13 Missing New York While Living in LA
• 00:24:01 How Motherhood Changed Me
• 00:27:01 Balancing Career and Motherhood
• 00:29:47 Your Daughter Pranked My Daughter
• 00:31:53 The Spotlight on Self-Care
• 00:35:02 Using Our Platforms to Make a Difference
• 00:36:18 Living in the Public Eye Makes You Hyper-Self-Aware
• 00:38:06 Women Are Still Judged by Their Looks
• 00:39:45 Embracing a More Modest Style
• 00:41:34 Keeping My Daughter Grounded in LA
• 00:42:19 Privacy Is Power
• 00:44:36 Seeing Our Family in the Headlines
• 00:45:58 Remember When You Lived on My Couch?
• 00:51:02 Family Vacations with Our Kids
• 00:52:57 The Impact of the Run-DMC Documentary
• 00:56:18 What's Next: New Projects
• 00:57:51 Motherhood Is My Driving Force
• 00:58:21 What Do You Do for Your Mental Health?

At just 20 years old, Dontrell "Trell the Trainer" Britton was leading 30 to 40 of the toughest men in prison through intense yard workouts. Surrounded by lifers and hardened criminals, he learned that self-mastery is the only way out, whether behind bars or in the real world. He breaks down how his childhood forced him into survival mode, how he manages the PTSD from his arrest and imprisonment, and the habits he built to truly change his life.

Now a fitness entrepreneur and influencer, Trell shares how structure, discipline, and financial literacy helped him transition from incarceration to making a lasting impact. On this episode of the For Good podcast he and Joseph "JoJo" Simmons discuss how fitness builds mental strength, why Black men need safe spaces to heal, and why we need to stop celebrating surviving prison and start creating systems that prevent incarceration in the first place.

Trell also opens up about:

• Why checking in on your people's mental health is more important than ever
• How men, especially Black men, can move beyond suffering in silence
• His journey launching Glizzys Vegan Food Company, a plant-based hot dog brand

Links and Resources:

• Follow @trellthetrainer on Instagram
• Follow @forgoodpodcast on Instagram

Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

 

00:00 Welcome to the For Good Podcast w/ Trell the Trainer
02:42 Survival Mode - Growing Up in a Tough Environment
06:42 PTSD from Prison & Surviving an FBI Home Raid
14:00 Why Black Men Suffer in Silence & How to Break the Cycle
18:00 Opening Up About Emotions Blew Up My Social Media
23:33 Finding an Emotion Deeper Than Anger - Real Healing Starts Here
26:35 Becoming the Unofficial Prison Fitness Coach at 20
30:32 The Power of Keeping Small Promises to Yourself
35:13 Wealth Isn't Fast Money - Why Long-Term Thinking Wins
42:58 Why I Invested in Glizzy's Vegan Food Truck
49:18 Don't Want to Be a Player - Ready for Real Love
01:00:59 What Every Man Needs Before Dating
01:04:31 The One Shift That Changed My Life Forever
01:07:42 Wrapping Up - Thanks for Tuning In!

Fatherhood, emotional intelligence, and men's mental health shaped their bond—now JoJo and Kris are using storytelling to build something bigger.

In this episode of For Good, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons and his co-founder Kris Karl take you inside the yurt on Karl Family Farms—the creative HQ of their values-driven studio, 3isFor. JoJo and Kris first crossed paths as teenagers in North Jersey, but it took decades, fatherhood, and a shift in priorities to turn a surface-level friendship into something much deeper.

Now leading a values-driven company rooted in storytelling, they reflect on how emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and values helped them build a creative studio on a working regenerative farm in New York's Hudson Valley. This episode lays the foundation for the For Good podcast — a space where mental health, legacy, and purpose-driven work take center stage.

In this episode:

• The North Jersey high school days—and why they didn't truly connect until later in life.
• How becoming fathers changed the way they move through the world.
• Why the yurt became the heartbeat of 3isFor.
• What emotional intelligence looks like inside a business partnership.
• How storytelling can be a tool for healing, impact, and generational change.

 

Meet your hosts:

Joseph "JoJo" Simmons is best known for Run's House and Growing Up Hip Hop, but his real evolution began off-camera. A husband, father, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate, JoJo received the Phoenix Arising Award from the Black Mental Health Alliance for his work promoting emotional intelligence and men's mental health—especially in Black communities.

Kris Karl is a regenerative farmer, investor, creative thinker and co-founder of 3isFor. With a background in public service, Kris brings a deeply rooted perspective to storytelling and sustainable business. As a husband and father, he's committed to doing work that aligns with his values—from the soil to the studio.

Links and Resources:

• Follow @forgoodpodcast on Instagram
• Follow @3isfor on Instagram
• Follow @karlfamilyfarms on Instagram
• Follow @dadventuresinfarming on Instagram

 

Subscribe to the For Good podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Introducing the Podcast and Co-Founders
• 02:25 High School Memories and Friendships
• 04:46 Meeting Dave Dow and Forming Bonds
• 06:55 Navigating High School Challenges
• 18:03 Privilege and Grounding
• 20:07 Business Ventures and Cannabis Industry
• 25:51 Pivoting to Content Creation
• 33:01 The Power of Storytelling in Cannabis
• 34:40 Addressing Stigmas and Building Community
• 36:42 Intentional Content Creation
• 37:52 The Journey of Building a Business
• 42:09 Redefining Modern Masculinity
• 47:39 Diverse Approaches to Cannabis Consumption
• 57:21 The Yurt: A Creative Space
• 01:00:27 The Strength of Partnership
• 01:07:11 Upcoming Episodes and Conclusion

Did the world get the full truth about Eazy-E's death?

Eric "Eazy-E" Wright changed hip-hop forever, but 30 years later, questions about his death still remain. His son, Lil Eazy-E, sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good podcast to discuss his father's impact, the pressure of carrying his name, and the unanswered questions surrounding his passing. While honoring Eazy-E's legacy through music and advocacy, he's also focused on fatherhood and building something bigger than rap.

Lil Eazy-E shares that while he questions the official cause of his father's death he still used his platform to push HIV/AIDS awareness. He also tells a funny story about life with JoJo on the Sons of Legends Tour, performing alongside Ice Cube, and what it is like hitting the road with DJ Yella to bring his father's music back to fans around the world.

The conversation shifts to fatherhood, relationships, and Black men's mental health as JoJo and Lil Eazy-E open up about:

• Being a girl dad and raising daughters with intention.
• Turning in their player cards and understanding the value of a good woman.
• Why marriage, emotional growth, and mental health matter for Black men.

Links and Resources:

• Follow @lileazy_e on Instagram
• Follow @forgoodpodcast on Instagram

Subscribe to the For Good podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Dr. Cheyenne Bryant went viral overnight after her deep, unfiltered insights on love, relationships, and healing struck a chord with millions -  including Nick Cannon and Cam Newton. She joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good podcast to talk about how that moment transformed her career and the responsibility that comes with being a public truth-teller in mental health.

In this episode, Dr. Bryant unpacks how childhood wounds shape our adult relationships, explaining why so many people sabotage love without realizing it. She delivers some hard-hitting truth to JoJo about his trauma responses in his own marriage, telling him: "The husband has left the conversation, and the little boy has stepped in. There's no space for a child in an adult relationship."

They dive into: 

• The power of emotional intelligence and how to use it to break unhealthy cycles.
• Attachment theory and how understanding your attachment style can change your relationships.
• How to heal unresolved childhood trauma that impacts love, career, and self-worth.
• Why truth-telling in media is critical for breaking the stigma around mental health.

Links and Resources:

• Follow @_drbryant on Instagram
• Follow @forgoodpodcast on Instagram

Subscribe to the For Good podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

 

Healing isn't just personal—it's powerful. What if taking care of yourself was the first step to changing the world? 

This is the trailer for For Good, a one-of-a-kind podcast rooted in grounded, soul-level conversations about mental health, emotional intelligence, personal growth, and what it means to live with intention. Here, healing isn't a trend—it's a lifelong commitment. Through vulnerable storytelling and honest reflection, For Good helps us reconnect with purpose, reimagine legacy, and choose growth—for ourselves, our families, and our communities.

At the heart of it all is Joseph "JoJo" Simmons—son of hip hop royalty Rev Run of Run DMC—and a multi-faceted entertainer, entrepreneur, husband, father, and mental health advocate. From MTV's Run's House to Growing Up Hip Hop, JoJo's journey has been public—but his evolution has been deeply personal.

After facing public scrutiny in his teens, JoJo stepped away from the spotlight to prioritize his mental health. He reemerged as an advocate, determined to use his platform for good. In 2023, he received the Phoenix Arising Award from the Black Mental Health Alliance, honoring his commitment to wellness and emotional literacy in the Black community.

JoJo brings a rare mix of humility, humor, and heart to every episode. Whether he's solo or joined by a guest, he creates a space for listeners to reflect, reset, and rise together.

Expect episodes that explore the power of emotional intelligence in real life, mental health beyond buzzwords—especially for Black men and fathers—breaking generational cycles through inner work and intention, and what legacy looks like when it's built on love, not ego. You'll also hear honest, unfiltered stories that inspire growth, healing, and a deeper connection to purpose.

Notable guests include:

• Dr. Cheyenne Bryant: Life coach and psychology expert dropping truth bombs on relationships and accountability.
• Lil Eazy-E: Reflecting on his father's legacy and the controversy surrounding his death.
• Trell the Trainer: From prison to purpose—using fitness and emotional vulnerability to help Black men heal.
• Vanessa Simmons: On protecting her personal life while growing up in a public family
  Steve Lobel: Behind the music industry grind—on hip-hop success, grief, and staying grounded.
• Corvain Cooper: From life in prison to presidential pardon—a story of transformation, justice, and second chances.
• Jesce Horton: Building one of the most respected Black-owned cannabis brands with Carmelo Anthony.

How are psychedelics reshaping mental health, spirituality, and healing? Journalist and author Madison Margolin joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to explore the intersection of plant medicine, faith, and emotional wellness. She opens up about growing up between traditional Judaism and counterculture, how psychedelics helped her understand her inner world, and why healing often feels messy, sacred, and nonlinear.

Madison Margolin is a journalist, author, and spiritual storyteller who has spent years exploring the intersection of psychedelics, Judaism, and healing. She joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast for an eye-opening conversation about how plant medicine can open doors to self-awareness, emotional growth, and spiritual connection.

Madison shares how being raised between traditional Jewish practice and the counterculture movement shaped the way she sees the world. She breaks down the role psychedelics can play in confronting trauma, understanding your inner child, and reconnecting with a deeper sense of purpose.

JoJo and Madison also discuss her personal practices — from meditation to prayer to psychedelic exploration — and how these tools can support mental health when approached with intention. She explains why healing doesn't always look peaceful, how spirituality has guided her through difficult seasons, and what most people misunderstand about psychedelics today.

Together, they dive into:

• How psychedelics can support trauma healing and emotional clarity
  
  

• The connection between Judaism, mysticism, and plant medicine
  
  

• What it really means to integrate spiritual experiences into everyday life
  
  

• Why intention, guidance, and mental preparation matter in any healing journey
  
  

• How storytelling can help destigmatize conversations around mental health and psychedelics
  
  

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.

McKenzi Brooke has spent most of her life in front of a camera — but who is she outside the viral videos? The TikTok star, dancer, actor, and storyteller joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to talk about growing up online, separating her real identity from her internet persona, navigating pressure at a young age, and turning criticism into fuel.

From her close bond with her family to the creative honesty behind her music, McKenzi opens up about the parts of her life people don't see — and what it really means to stay grounded when millions are watching.

McKenzi Brooke is one of TikTok's biggest breakout creators — a dancer, actor, musician, and storyteller who built a massive following by being relatable, creative, and unapologetically herself. But behind the viral moments is someone who has been performing since childhood, learning how to grow up while the internet watched.

In this episode of the For Good Podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons sits down with McKenzi for a raw, thoughtful conversation about identity, pressure, confidence, and the power of knowing who you are beyond the screen.

McKenzi opens up about what it's really like to grow up in the public eye, how she separates her real personality from the one people assume she has online, and why she still considers herself "just a normal girl with weird quirks" despite millions of fans. 

They go deep into:

• Growing up online and learning to stay authentic while the world watches

• Finding her voice beyond dance — from acting to storytelling to writing music

• Using heartbreak and friendships as creative fuel in her songwriting
  (yes… she thanks her exes for the inspiration) 

• The support system that keeps her grounded — especially her brother and her mom 

• How to handle comparison, hate, and pressure as a young creator ("Haterade is Powerade" might be the best quote of the episode) 

• Why being underestimated became her superpower

McKenzi also shares the moment she was invited to the United Nations for women's empowerment — and what it felt like to be the youngest person in the room. 

This episode is a reminder that the internet doesn't always show the full story — and that staying grounded starts with knowing yourself first.

Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on TikTok, Spotify, Apple, and everywhere you listen.

What happens when a lifetime journalist turns the camera inward? Award-winning CNN editor and author John DeDakis joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to talk about truth, grief, mental health, and the painful losses that shaped him as a man, husband, and writer. He opens up about losing his sister and son, why men need to cry more, and how storytelling became his path toward healing.

John DeDakis spent decades shaping the news at CNN — but the stories that shaped him were the ones rooted in personal loss, truth, and resilience. The award-winning journalist, novelist, and writing coach sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast for one of the most heartfelt, emotionally open conversations of the season.

John opens up about losing both his sister and his youngest son, how grief never truly ends, and why he believes men must learn to feel instead of suppress. He and JoJo dive into how journaling, mindfulness, and honest emotional expression saved him from breaking — and how those same tools can help others heal, too.

They explore:

• What CNN's fast-paced newsroom taught him about truth, storytelling, and integrity
  
  

• How grief changes a man, a marriage, and the way you show up in the world
  
  

• Why tears are necessary, not weak — and how "your tears become bullets" when you hold them in
  
  

• The evolution of journalism, misinformation, and the responsibility of telling real, human stories
  
  

• How he used fiction to process pain and why writing from a woman's perspective changed his life
  
  

• The sixth stage of grief — and how finding meaning rebuilt his purpose
  
  

In one of the most powerful moments of the episode, John shares that the proudest accomplishment of his entire career isn't CNN, his books, or the awards — it's the choice to fight for his marriage after losing his son. A raw, honest, deeply human conversation about love, loss, truth, and living "for good."

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

 

Dreka Gates didn't set out to build a wellness empire — it found her. When COVID forced her into isolation on 60 acres of Mississippi land, just miles from where her great-grandmother once farmed, everything shifted. One day, while working the soil, she fell to her knees in tears — not because she bought the land, but because she realized: "This really belongs to me."

In this powerful conversation at Black Week, Dreka sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons to share how she transformed her healing journey into a seven-figure empire — from Love's Harvest, her cannabis company, and the first Black woman-owned dispensary in Mississippi (built with a $2 million investment into a 100-year-old building), to Dreka Rose emotional wellness eyewear, a 60-acre regenerative farm, and even an AI avatar that connects with people one-on-one.

But this episode isn't just about success — it's about the spiritual, emotional, and mental work it takes to sustain it all. Dreka opens up about the practices that keep her grounded, from burning negative energy each morning to breaking generational cycles while building generational wealth.

What You'll Hear:

• Why self-mastery is the foundation of every business move she makes
  
  

• The $2M lesson she learned investing in experience, not just space
  
  

• Why cannabis could've been a trillion-dollar industry for Black and Brown communities
  
  

• The "sandwich method" she uses for tough negotiations — firm, but rooted in love
  
  

• How she uses AI and gaming to meet people where they are
  
  

• Why she left the church at 13 to find her own spiritual path
  
  

• Her healing journey to the Amazon jungle with shamans
  
  

• What she'd tell her 13-year-old self who bet on herself before she had proof
  
  

This is a story of alignment, ownership, and audacity — and what it means to truly build For Good.

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

 

What really goes into writing the stories that define hip hop? Journalist, author, and NYU professor Kathy Iandoli joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to talk about her new book The Diary of a Recovering Madman with Gucci Mane, the pressure of documenting cultural icons, and how storytelling can save lives. She opens up about vulnerability in hip hop, the role of mental health in the industry, and what it means to find purpose through pain.

Kathy Iandoli has spent nearly three decades shaping how the world sees hip hop — from writing God Save the Queens and Baby Girl: Better Known as Aaliyah to co-authoring Episodes: The Diary of a Recovering Madman with Gucci Mane. But behind the bylines and book deals is a story about healing, resilience, and the power of truth.

In this episode of the For Good Podcast, Kathy sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons to talk about the emotional weight of telling other people's stories, the responsibility that comes with documenting hip hop's biggest voices, and how vulnerability has redefined her career. She opens up about her own journey through grief and burnout, what it means to evolve alongside the culture, and why storytelling is a form of therapy — not just for artists, but for the writer too.

They dive into:

• The making of The Diary of a Recovering Madman with Gucci Mane
  
  

• The intersection of mental health and hip hop culture
  
  

• How Kathy's writing helped her process personal loss and identity
  
  

• What the next generation of storytellers can learn about truth, empathy, and legacy
  
  

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Transformation coach and author Alechia Reese joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the for good podcast to share how she went from surviving domestic violence and suicidal thoughts to discovering her purpose — helping others create lives that not only look good, but feel good.

On the outside, Alechia Reese had everything — a successful career, a beautiful home, and a loving family. But behind the image of success, she was silently struggling, planning to take her own life. What happened next changed everything.

Alechia joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the for good podcast to talk about how hitting rock bottom led her to find her purpose, heal from abuse, and rebuild her life with intention. Now a transformation coach, author, and host of the Triggered AF and Got Value podcasts, Alechia helps people align their success with fulfillment — proving that no matter what you've been through, you still got value.

In this powerful conversation, they dive into:

• The moment that saved her life and redefined her purpose
  
  

• Surviving and breaking free from domestic violence
  
  

• How low self-worth keeps people trapped in painful cycles
  
  

• The power of intention and emotional healing
  
  

• Why effort, readiness, and self-truth are key to transformation
  
  

"Everything that glitters isn't gold — and sometimes the 'no' you fear is the 'yes' you need."

Subscribe to the for good podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

 

What happens when the cannabis industry promises equity but delivers obstacles instead? Ernest Toney, founder of BIPOCAN, joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to expose the hidden barriers Black and brown entrepreneurs face in legal cannabis—from predatory practices to impossible tax rates. He breaks down what real equity looks like and how he's creating pathways for communities locked out of an industry built on their backs.

The cannabis industry claims to be creating opportunities for communities harmed by the War on Drugs—but is it really? Ernest Toney, founder of BIPOCAN (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Cannabis Network), sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to reveal the truth about cannabis equity programs and why so many BIPOC founders are being set up to fail.

Ernest shares his journey from working at MJBizCon to launching a mission-driven organization that's helped hundreds of entrepreneurs navigate one of the most heavily regulated industries in America. Growing up with a father who worked at a correctional facility, Ernest witnessed firsthand how cannabis prohibition tore apart Black and brown communities. Now, he's fighting to ensure those same communities have real access to the legal cannabis industry—not just licenses, but capital, mentorship, and sustainable business pathways.

In this powerful conversation, Ernest and JoJo dive into:

• Why cannabis equity programs offer licenses but not the resources to succeed

• How predatory practices exploit BIPOC founders desperate for capital

• The mental health toll of leading a mission-driven business through feast-or-famine cycles

• Finding hope when progress feels slow and building something that lasts

• The difference between access and true economic equity

Ernest gets real about the "valley of despair" every entrepreneur faces, the importance of community and mental health practices like running and reading, and why he refuses to be a leader who pleases everyone. He also shares practical advice for anyone feeling locked out of opportunity—in cannabis or any industry.

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Psychologist and mental health advocate Dr. Rheeda Walker joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast for an honest conversation about grief, trauma, and the cost of silence in Black communities. Together, they unpack why naming pain is essential to healing, how generational survival shapes emotional health, and what it truly takes to begin healing — individually and collectively.

Mental health is often discussed, but rarely addressed with honesty — especially in Black communities. On this episode of the For Good Podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons sits down with Dr. Rheeda Walker, psychologist, researcher, and leading voice in mental health advocacy, for a necessary conversation about grief, trauma, and emotional survival.

Dr. Walker shares how personal loss and lived experience shaped her work, why silence around mental health can be just as harmful as trauma itself, and how grief shows up in our bodies, relationships, and communities. Together, JoJo and Dr. Walker explore what healing actually looks like when people are taught to "stay strong" instead of processing pain.

The conversation expands into cultural expectations, emotional labor, and the importance of creating safe spaces for vulnerability — especially for Black men and women navigating grief without support.

They also discuss:

• Why grief doesn't have a timeline — and why rushing healing can be harmful
  
  

• The difference between surviving trauma and actually healing from it
  
  

• How stigma keeps people from seeking help
  
  

• What doing good looks like when it comes to mental health and community care
  
  

This episode is a reminder that healing isn't weakness — it's necessary, intentional, and deeply human.

🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Are we truly supporting Black boys emotionally — or just expecting them to be "strong"? Psychologist and researcher Dr. Alvin Thomas joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to unpack the mental health crisis impacting young Black men, the critical role fathers play, and how we can break generational cycles before it's too late.

Dr. Alvin Thomas, nationally recognized psychologist and leading expert on Black fatherhood and youth development, joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast for a powerful and solution-focused conversation about the emotional well-being of Black boys.

In this episode, Dr. Thomas challenges the idea that strength means silence. He explains how emotional suppression, lack of safe spaces, and generational trauma are quietly shaping the lives of young Black men — and what fathers, parents, and communities must do differently.

JoJo opens up about his own experiences as a father, leading to an honest dialogue about vulnerability, discipline, and how to raise boys who are confident, emotionally intelligent, and secure in who they are.

They dive into:
The silent mental health crisis impacting Black boys
Why emotionally present fathers change everything
How generational trauma shows up in parenting
Practical tools for raising resilient, confident young men
Breaking harmful stereotypes around masculinity

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