Breaking the silence on a deeply personal and often hidden trauma, I share my story of being molested as a teenager by a trusted father figure. This episode of Goodfellas confronts the crisis of black male vulnerability and the societal expectations that can often stifle authenticity. We dive into the harrowing realities of childhood grooming, revealing the manipulative tactics predators use and the long-lasting impact of these traumatic experiences on identity and life choices. Dr. Isaiah Pi...
Ever wondered what it takes to turn a life burdened by 16 life sentences into one of hope, freedom, and impactful change? In this episode, we sit down with Corey Jacobs, who shares his extraordinary journey after serving 17 years in prison. Raised in the Bronx by his loving and resilient grandmother, Corey overcame the odds, transforming his life from a path of despair to one filled with gratitude and purpose. His grandmother’s unwavering support was pivotal, and Corey’s story is one of resil...
What happens when the presence of Black fathers is celebrated, and their stories are shared? Join filmmaker Jermaine Davis as he reveals the inspiration behind his poignant film that challenges stereotypes and highlights the diverse narratives of Black fatherhood. Alongside hosts Hosea Chanchez and Dr. Isaiah Pickens, Jermaine opens up about growing up without a father and the impactful male figures who shaped his life. This heartfelt discussion emphasizes the importance of normalizing Black ...
What if your greatest challenges were the keys to unlocking your potential? Join us Dr. Isadore Hall, takes us on an inspiring journey through his humble beginnings in Compton to powerful political leadership. Raised by a single mother, Dr. Hall shares the profound resilience and support that shaped his life, with faith, family, and the influence of strong women guiding his path to success. In this episode, Dr. Hall reveals his unexpected entrance into politics, sparked by a nomination durin...
How has the COVID-19 pandemic impacted Black men and the broader Black community? In this Goodfellas episode, Dr. Isaiah Pickens joins Hosea Chanchez to discuss the profound effects on mental health, social isolation, and the breakdown of key support systems like the church. We explore how these changes have altered relationships, increased social anxieties, and posed challenges for both children and community leaders. Dr. Pickens also reflects on the losses endured, from loved ones to...
Stepping into Hollywood with nothing but a dream and a suitcase, Hosea Chanchez, Coby Bell, and Pooch Hall share the rollercoaster journeys of their early acting careers. From Coby’s move to California to Pooch’s emotional near-miss with landing his role on The Game, this episode dives into the struggles they faced in their rise to success. This episode explores how a single phone call can change the course of a career, with the actors recalling the thrill of receiving the call from Mara Bro...
Growing up in Washington DC during an era of high crime rates, the protective nature of my father shaped my understanding of masculinity. But what really defines manhood today, especially for black men in 2024? Join us as we navigate these questions with our guest, Dominic Blackwell-Cooper, aka Dom. Together, we explore how accountability and self-awareness are crucial in shaping modern-day masculinity, and why taking responsibility for our actions affects not just ourselves but also our fami...
Join host, Hosea Chanchez, as he speaks with co-host, Dr. Isaiah Pickens, to uncover the transformative power of facing vulnerability head-on. From surviving a severe back injury and temporary paralysis to juggling a high-pressure TV career while being my grandfather's primary caregiver, this episode highlights the critical importance of self-care and the harsh lessons that come with neglecting it. Dr. Isaiah dives into how societal expectations of strength impact men's mental health, especi...