Frolic and Detour

Iris Bodre didn’t follow a straight path to the classroom. Before becoming a writing professor at St. John’s University in New York, she worked in crisis counseling, fundraising, and even at a hedge fund. A Brooklyn writing group helped reignite her passion for writing, ultimately leading to a faculty position and the creation of her student-focused e-book, 𝐸𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑒𝑟 𝐸𝑠𝑠𝑎𝑦𝑠. In this episode, Iris shares how she turned lived experience into a teaching tool and why she believes writing is a craft that should be accessible and inclusive. Raised in a family of educators, and once aspiring to be a surgeon, Iris now helps students find their voice through the written word. Her journey is one of rediscovery, purpose, and creative return.

What happens when the path you planned doesn’t pan out? Kyla Denanyoh—law school grad, podcast host, and creative entrepreneur—faced that question head-on after not passing the bar exam. In this episode, Kyla shares how she transformed a moment of uncertainty into a powerful pivot, launching 𝑌𝑜𝑢 𝐴𝑟𝑒 𝐴 𝐿𝑎𝑤𝑦𝑒𝑟, a podcast that celebrates curiosity and nontraditional legal careers. She discusses how her worker mindset fueled her journey as a business owner, helping others grow their podcasts and scale their brands. With honesty and insight, Kyla breaks down why being an employee feels safe—but building your own thing can unlock your full value. Her story is a bold reminder that there’s more than one way to use a law degree—and more than one way to define success.

Sergio talks about his path from lawyer to podcaster and the meaning behind "Frolic and Detour."

In 2004, Marjorie Vail gave birth to her son, Alexsei, who was stillborn. Devastated and depressed, she questioned her purpose and distanced herself from her pregnant friends—only to help one deliver her baby just two months later.Volunteering with New York Cares became her path to healing. Now a trauma therapist, Ph.D. student, and co-founder of Push for Empowered Pregnancy, Marjorie supports families impacted by stillbirth and pregnancy loss, especially women of color who face higher risks.She’s also a former Mrs. New York International, Mrs. Brooklyn America, and Mrs. New York American.This episode explores grief, service, and how one woman turned personal tragedy into powerful advocacy.

Laurent Amzallag is living his dream—part fitness guru, part stand-up comic, and all heart. In this episode, the Montreal-born founder of FlexPods shares how a near-death childhood illness, including a collapsed lung and multiple infections, shaped his lifelong devotion to movement and health.Laurent’s story moves from hospital beds to the Dr. Oz Show, from Oprah’s 𝐿𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑌𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝐵𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝐿𝑖𝑓𝑒 Tour to the comedy stage. He believes fitness should feel like a celebration, not a chore—and that laughter belongs in every workout and every life.We talk about overcoming rejection, finding joy in service, and what it takes to stay energized while chasing multiple passions. Whether you’re into reps or punchlines, Laurent’s approach will leave you feeling inspired—and smiling.

Davon Harris isn't your typical law school graduate. Before entering the legal profession, Davon battled a storm of mental health challenges, identity struggles, and even served time for arson. In this powerful episode, Daven opens up about the years he spent searching for purpose--from dropping out of school and navigating paranoia to ultimately reclaiming his future through law. His story is a bold reminder that redemption is possible, and sometimes, the best advocates are forged in fire.

In part two of my conversation with artist and Instagram sensation LaNia Roberts, I explore how a simple weather report on Snapchat turned into a movement of joy and self-expression. LaNiya opens up about her journey from being bullied and feeling invisible to becoming a beloved voice on campus--and now a celebrated artist with over 300,000 followers. LaNiya shares how fame initially triggered old wounds, and how she transformed visibility into power, purpose, and paint. This is a story about resilience, creativity, and learning to shine no matter the forecast.

In part one of this powerful two-part series, artist and Louisville, KY native LaNia Roberts opens up about the early chapters of her journey--before the likes, the followers, and the viral fame. At just 15, LaNiya struggled deeply with self-image and acceptance, often moved to tears by her reflection. Now known for her striking two-panel paintings that bridge duality, LaNiya explains how art helped her find dimension in a world that tried to flatten her. As her Instagram following soared into the tens of thousands, she faced an unexpected backlash that made her question everything. One night, overwhelmed by online hate, LaNiya prayed to be released from it all--and woke up saying she had been "hacked by Jesus." This is the raw, remarkable beginning of a story about healing, visibility, and redefining beauty.

Florine Demosthene discusses charting a new path as a first-generation American artist.

Ben Green talks about his passion for broadcasting, film, and using his gift of communication in his 5th grade classroom.

After losing a legal challenge to get out of prison after 16 years, Lawrence opts to focus on self improvement -- mentoring other inmates, teaching literacy courses, and graduating summa cum laude from Rutgers University.

Lawrence Bell discusses being wrongfully accused and convicted of murder and rape and spending more than 30 years in prison.

YouTube content creator and social media influencer, Kenya Chestnut, discusses personal growth and development and connecting with the younger generation.

Kendra Cabrera, a licensed social worker and therapist, talks about administering mental health services and insights from her personal journey.

Meditation Instructor Satira Janine talks about experiencing greater self awareness and insight with meditation.

Jeff Ansah, a personal trainer and fitness enthusiast, discusses the mind-body connection to health and wellness.

Author Celeste Duffie discusses her book, "The Assbackwards Way To Move Forward: A Tongue-in-Cheek Guide to Poverty and Misery." 

Sharon Wise is an artist and trauma expert and survivor. Sharon discusses her history of sexual abuse, suicide attempts, homelessness, and giving up her children at an early age.

Daisy Guzman, a Garifuna American, talks about the historical and present day influence on Garifuna culture by Garifuna women from Livingston, Guatemala. Daisy also talks about her work in higher education.

Bruce Thomas, a leadership life coach and inspirational speaker, talks to Sergio about coaching, life balance, career, and leadership.