2Cups Café

Brinson, the charismatic Christian hip hop artist from Jacksonville, Florida, takes us on a thrilling journey through his fascinating life in this caffeinated conversation. From his early beginnings rapping for the Lord at church to his transition from secular rap to Christian hip hop, Brinson shares valuable insights into the music industry. We dive into the crucial role of relationships, the importance of understanding contracts and publishing, and how his faith played a key part in his transformation. Plus, brace yourself for stories about his exciting collaborations with comic book artist Ken Lashley, his work with All Elite Wrestling and New Japan Pro Wrestling, and his love for Japanese culture and kung fu movies. Brinson's passion, faith, and creativity are truly inspiring, making this an episode you won't want to miss.Join host Allen C Jackson in this captivating episode of "Caffeinated Conversations" as he sits down with Brinson, a Christian hip hop artist with a unique background. Discover how Brinson seamlessly combines his love for wrestling, comic books, and music into a thriving business. From rapping for the Lord at a young age to his admiration for Weird Al Yankovic, Brinson shares his journey from secular rap to Christian hip hop. Gain valuable insights into the music industry, learn about his experiences in Nashville, and uncover the strategic collaborations that have shaped his career. With stories of his ventures at Comic Cons and his work with All Elite Wrestling and New Japan Pro Wrestling, this episode is packed with excitement.In this invigorating episode of "Caffeinated Conversations," host Alan C Jackson and Brinson take you on an exhilarating ride through the world of Christian hip hop. Marvel at Bryson's ability to merge his passions for music and comics, and hear firsthand about his experiences rapping in a bamboo forest in Japan, dressed in a tailor-made samurai outfit. From discussing the power of relationships in the music industry to sharing the importance of setting boundaries with collaborators, Brinson wisdom shines through. Plus, learn about his documentary, God Chaserz godchazers.com, and how his merchandise has become an integral part of his ministry. Get ready to be inspired by Brinsons unwavering faith, creativity, and determination.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Every artist's journey is a tapestry woven with threads of inspiration, setbacks, and triumphs. Join us as we sit down with LaPala Crawford, the visionary filmmaker behind Prime 8 Visions, who peels back the curtain to reveal the heartbeat of his creative evolution. From the echo of youthful enthusiasm in our first artistic ventures, we traverse the landscape of growing pains and milestones that shape an artist. LaPel shares the vibrant tales of his neighborhood that sparked his storytelling fire and the high school script that captured his peers' imaginations, setting him on a steadfast course toward the silver screen.Navigating the film industry's choppy waters, LaPel and I recount the adrenaline rush of submitting films to distributors and the persistence required in the face of industry gatekeepers. As we dissect the process of bringing a vision to life, we celebrate the small victories, like individual scene completions, and reflect on the importance of collaboration and technical savvy. LaPel's anecdotes of overcoming barriers and misconceptions in the industry underscore the determination needed to rise above challenges, reminding us that progress isn't just about motion but also about forward momentum.Wrapping up our conversation, LaPel delves into the nuances of emotional intelligence in directing, how personal inspirations fuel our drive, and the exhilaration of current and future storytelling endeavors. His candid reflections on set dynamics and the care required to foster a positive production atmosphere offer a window into the soul of a filmmaker. As we bid farewell, we invite you to join us on this intimate journey, urging you to explore Prime 8 Visions across various social media platforms and engage with a community dedicated to the art of film.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Imagine facing down your darkest struggles and emerging not only victorious but also as a beacon of hope for others. This is the story of Carter Thomas, our guest on 2Cups Cafe, whose personal battles with addiction and his transformation into a licensed counselor and founder of Good Company Christian Counseling inspire all who hear it. Together, we trace Carter's compelling journey and how his renewed faith played a pivotal role in his mission to heal others. The conversation offers a candid look at the normalization of drug use and its profound impact on the black community, shedding light on the critical need for integrated mental health and substance abuse treatment.The path to redemption is never a straight line; it weaves through the adversities of life, as our discussion with Carter reveals. We share stories of resilience, like the single father who, against all odds, pursued higher education while raising two sons, and my own experience of turning personal hardship into a ministry dedicated to supporting single dads. Our chat traverses the deep connections between trauma and physical health, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and the power of personal stories in guiding others toward healing and empowerment.Join us for a deep exploration of the evolving perspectives on substance abuse treatment, where empathy and understanding emerge as crucial elements in addressing addiction. Carter and I examine the global impact of the pandemic on counseling, the importance of building relationships across communities, and how inclusivity remains at the heart of effective support. These stories of recovery, resilience, and redemption are not just testimonials; they are invitations to find strength in vulnerability and to witness how one man's journey can illuminate the path for many.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Ever found yourself at the crossroads of creativity and the search for identity? Darrell Sheares, the dynamic creative who's been there, joined me at Cups Cafe for a conversation that's as rich and bold as the coffee we sipped. We meander through Darrell's artistic metamorphosis, from graphic design roots to the lush landscapes of audio engineering and music production. This isn't just a chat; it's a raw look at how upbringing influences creativity, the challenges that can spur or smother it, and the joy of crafting something that resonates deeply with both the creator and the audience.As we wrap up, we dip our toes into the waters of AI, debating its role alongside human ingenuity in storytelling and cinematography. Darrell and I unpack the significance of preserving the human touch in an automated world, fostering identity beyond our professional roles, and the responsibility we hold to guide the next generation through sharing our experiences. So refill your cup and join us on this journey that transcends the digital divide, reminding us of the creativity that courses through every aspect of life and the importance of each story in inspiring others to embrace their own path to self-expression.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Ever wondered what fuels the creative spirit of a polymath? Join us as we share a steaming cup of inspiration with Imani Latif, a genuine renaissance man whose canvas spans artistry, entrepreneurship, teaching, and curating digital comics. In our latest episode, you'll walk the bridges between Imani's childhood as a pastor's son turned artist, to the present day, where he serves as a graphic designer, production manager, and a beacon of mentorship within the juvenile court system. His narrative is a tapestry of encounters with art museums, local artists, and the nurturing environment that encouraged both Imani and his brother to fully embrace the world of creativity.With a sip of our caffeinated dialogue, we uncover the profound effect of lifting up black comic book creators and the decade-long transformation within the community. As Imani recounts his journey, he highlights the deep-seated desire to serve that drives his passion for art. Filled with warmth and wisdom, our conversation traverses the complexities of teaching art across different age groups, the significance of morning routines for sparking creativity, and the pursuit of grand aspirations. We hope that Imani's story resonates with you, as it did with us, providing a blend of hope, connection, and the reaffirmation of the worth that every creator holds.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Have you ever wondered about the road less traveled by those who serve our communities? Angel Tucker, a retired public servant with a remarkable life story, joins us to pull back the curtain on his vast experiences. From his transformative Navy years to the discipline-shaping missed opportunities of youth, Angel's journey is as unconventional as it is inspiring. His pivot from music to the adrenaline-fueled world of bounty hunting, and the innovative methods he employed, demonstrate a life lived boldly and without boundaries.Tackling the human element of public service, Angel's ascent to an appointed position in Toledo reveals the heart behind the badge. He shares how critical tactical communication and community programs are in bridging the gaps within diverse socioeconomic landscapes. We also wade into the deep waters of mental health, discussing the often-unseen struggles of first responders and youth in underserved communities. Angel's insights remind us that beyond the uniforms and titles, there lie personal sacrifices and the need for balance between duty and family.By the episode's conclusion, we find ourselves enriched with a more profound understanding of public service's complexities and the continuous effort to uphold mental well-being. Stories of prioritizing family, supporting career growth, and the everyday rituals that stitch our lives together offer a grounding counterbalance to the intensity of public service. Join us for a conversation that's as enlightening and heartening as it is a testament to the resilience and dedication of those who commit their lives to serving others.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

What can you expect when you invite an eleven-year-old to chat, especially when she happens to be your daughter? Welcome to our latest Two Cups Cafe episode featuring a delightful conversation with my youngest, Alana Melon Jackson. She peels back the curtain on sixth-grade life, from tackling homework to making friends, and her budding interest in Japanese culture. We also tackle the transition to in-person learning after the pandemic and the realities of school life through her eyes.The conversation gets more interesting as we navigate Alana's love for global cultures. From the discovery of a Japanese snack box to unique fashion ideas, and her concerns about a beloved anime's live-action adaptation—there's never a dull moment! We also discuss her penchant for storytelling, her dream of having pets, and the responsibilities that come with it.Get ready for a whirlwind of creative exploration as Alana talks about her book-writing journey. Combining the classic Cinderella story with elements from Crazy Rich Asians, she offers a fresh take on storytelling. We also venture into her experiences as an aunt, strategies for dealing with distractions, and the importance of hydration and self-care. Join us on this heartwarming episode of Two Cups Cafe and share in the joy of our caffeinated conversation. Remember to subscribe and spread the word about our podcast!Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a cushy corporate job to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship? Join us as we dive into a captivating conversation with Clyde "Scoop" Kynard - a successful entrepreneur who embodies a true rags-to-riches story. Clyde, who navigated the corporate world as a pharmaceutical rep at Eli Lilly, took an unexpected leap into entrepreneurship, starting from the humble beginnings of a barbershop to establishing his property services business.Clyde's journey wasn't a seamless one, but he pushed through the challenges with unwavering determination and a passion for service. You'll hear about his early entrepreneurial spirit as he began cutting hair at 13, his struggle to overcome personal and professional hurdles, and how his mother's faith-driven resilience inspired him. Additionally, Clyde elaborates on the importance of setting expectations, maintaining professionalism, and referring work to colleagues, offering valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.Wrapping up, we delve into the power of community and connection. We reflect on how Clyde's high school class of '93 continues to support each other, highlighting the crucial role of a strong and supportive community. Clyde generously shares advice on finding motivation and the importance of diversifying contracts. This heartening conversation with Clyde is bound to inspire you, whether you're an established entrepreneur, a budding business owner, or someone fascinated by the world of enterprise and the strength of the human spirit.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

What if you could gain a fresh perspective on life's toughest transitions, from military life to parenthood, through the eyes of a woman who has walked that path? In an inspiring conversation with my better half, Maya, we explore her extraordinary journey. As a child of strict parents, Maya faced the daunting task of navigating predominantly white schools as a minority. Yet, these experiences have helped her carve out a stronger sense of self and a healthier body image.Fasten your seat belts as Maya takes you through her transition from military life to parenthood. She recalls her culture shock in Germany, her challenging decision upon discovering her pregnancy, and her surprising encounter with a lottery system when seeking employment back home. In a heart-to-heart discussion, we compare the intricacies of raising an 11-year-old with having three daughters at home. Our conversation doesn't stop there. We plunge into the essential role of trust in relationships and the ever-so-damaging effect of generalizations. Maya's story is a testament to resilience, strength, and growth. From her military days to her parenting journey, her keen discernment has been an invaluable tool in navigating relationships and making health choices. As we discuss parenting challenges and communication strategies, Maya offers her wisdom on keeping relationships vibrant and strong. If you're ready to hear an eye-opening narrative full of wisdom and resilience, tune into this episode of Two Cups Cafe. Trust us, you won't want to miss it!Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Welcome to 2 Cups Cafe, where we bring you engaging conversations with fascinating people over a cup of coffee. In this episode, we're excited to have, Darren Griffin.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Welcome to 2 Cups Cafe, where we bring you engaging conversations with fascinating people over a cup of coffee. In this episode, we're excited to have, Charles Williams.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Welcome to 2 Cups Cafe, where we bring you engaging conversations with fascinating people over a cup of coffee. In this episode, we're excited to have, David Lewis, Jr.Join us for an insightful conversation that covers everything from finances to farms in Africa. Grab a cup of coffee and tune in to this episode of 2 Cups Cafe.You Follow David Here:Facebook:David D. Lewis Jr.IG: @StewardOfExcellenceTikTok: @StewardOfExcellenceClubhouse: @davidlewisjrFollow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Welcome to 2 Cups Cafe, where we bring you engaging conversations with fascinating people over a cup of coffee. In this episode, we're excited to have  financial expert, Nate McAllister.Join us for an insightful conversation that covers everything from finances to farms in Africa. Grab a cup of coffee and tune in to this episode of 2 Cups Cafe.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Welcome to 2 Cups Cafe, where we bring you engaging conversations with fascinating people over a cup of coffee. In this episode, we're excited to have  recording artist, Thaddaeus Washington.Join us for an insightful conversation that covers everything from personal relationships to the future of education. Grab a cup of coffee and tune in to this episode of 2 Cups Cafe.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Welcome to 2 Cups Cafe, where we bring you engaging conversations with fascinating people over a cup of coffee. In this episode, we're excited to have Al's brother, Richard Jackson in the house.In this episode, Richard and Allen Jackson discuss their brotherhood and part of their life's story. Join us for an insightful conversation that covers everything from personal relationships to the future of education. Grab a cup of coffee and tune in to this episode of 2 Cups Cafe.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles

Welcome to 2 Cups Cafe, where we bring you engaging conversations with fascinating people over a cup of coffee. In this episode, we're excited to have Dr. Calvin Sweeney and Allen Jackson in the house.Dr. Calvin Sweeney is an accomplished academic, with over two decades of experience in the education sector. He's a respected scholar and an expert in his field. Allen Jackson is a successful entrepreneur and a close friend of Dr. Sweeney. Together, they share a unique bond that's built on trust and mutual respect.In this episode, Dr. Sweeney and Allen Jackson discuss their long-term friendship and how they've supported each other over the years. They talk about the importance of having strong relationships in life and how it can help you achieve your goals.They also delve into the topic of education and share their perspectives on how the education system can be improved to better serve students. Dr. Sweeney shares his insights on the challenges facing educators today and how they can be overcome. Join us for an insightful conversation that covers everything from personal relationships to the future of education. Grab a cup of coffee and tune in to this episode of 2 Cups Cafe.Follow Allen C. Jackson - @2cupschronicles