LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS podcast

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

28:24

In our second installment of the Small Business Starter Kit series - we’re tackling a topic that’s sometimes tricky, sometimes confusing, but ever-present: taxes. Hosts Austin and Jannese have an insightful conversation with entrepreneur Isabella Rosal who started 7th Sky Ventures , an exporter and distributor of craft spirits, beer, and wine. Having lived and worked in two different countries and started a company in a heavily-regulated field, Isabella is no stranger to navigating the paperwork-laden and jargon-infused maze of properly understanding taxes for a newly formed small business. Join us as she shares her story and provides valuable insight into how to tackle your business’ taxes - so they don’t tackle you. Learn more about how QuickBooks can help you grow your business: QuickBooks.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

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LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

49 एपिसोडस

#Society

updated 4 days ago

साझा करें

शृंखला होम•Feed

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

49 एपिसोडस

#Society

सभी एपिसोड

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

1
Love's Lost Art - What Happened to Romance 35:08

4 days ago35:08

35:08

Remember when romance meant carefully crafted love letters, mixtapes filled with heartfelt ballads, and moments of genuine vulnerability? Our latest conversation tackles the puzzling disappearance of these romantic traditions from modern culture, examining how we've collectively shifted from Jodeci's desert serenades to a world where showing affection gets you labeled as "simping." The panel explores how music has historically shaped our romantic expectations. Where once R&B artists like Boys II Men, Keith Sweat, and Carl Thomas celebrated emotional depth and passionate pursuit, today's hits often reduce relationships to purely physical or financial transactions. This transformation mirrors broader cultural changes – when was the last time you saw romance genuinely portrayed in popular media? One striking revelation emerges across generational lines: many young people today have never witnessed authentic romance. "They haven't even seen it. They don't even know what it is," observes Nina, highlighting how romance has become foreign to an entire generation raised on dating apps and reality TV conflicts. The rise of "Galentine's Day" serves as powerful evidence of how dramatically the romantic landscape has shifted. We explore how technology has created an environment where connections have become too easily accessible, eliminating the need to "work for" relationships. As Delaina aptly notes, "Why do I have to buy edible arrangements when it comes too easy?" This convenience culture, combined with mixed messages about gender roles from single-parent households, has created a perfect storm against romance. Ready to reverse this trend? Join our pledged commitment to bring back genuine romantic expression without fear of judgment. Let's challenge the notion that vulnerability equals weakness and reclaim the art of authentic connection in relationships.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

1
The Death of Romance: Where Did the Love Go? 35:16

12 days ago35:16

35:16

Where have all the love songs gone? Remember when R&B artists would bare their souls in the desert, leather-clad and unafraid to show vulnerability? When albums came with champagne flutes and romance wasn't dismissed as "simping"? On this captivating episode of Let Us Become Sharper, CJ and guests Nina, Delaina, Israel, and Shay dive deep into romance's disappearance from modern culture. With champagne and chocolates setting the mood, this Valentine's Day post-mortem examines how we've collectively lost touch with the art of romantic expression. The conversation unveils multiple culprits behind romance's decline: music that prioritizes transactional relationships over emotional connection; dating apps that make relationships too accessible; a social climate that mocks vulnerability; and a generational disconnect where younger people haven't even witnessed true romance. "They don't even know what it is," one guest observes, highlighting how thoroughly romance has vanished from our cultural landscape. Beyond diagnosis, the discussion offers hope and practical suggestions for reviving romance. From embracing vulnerability to creating modern equivalents of mixtapes, the panel agrees that bringing back romance requires intentional effort against prevailing cultural currents. As CJ reminds us, improvement doesn't happen overnight—it's about becoming incrementally "sharper" in how we express and receive love. Whether you're longing for the days of Carl Thomas's emotional ballads or simply wondering why laying your coat over a puddle became passé, this episode offers both nostalgic reflection and forward-thinking wisdom. Join us as we explore what it might take to fall in love with romance again.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

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Haters Gonna Hate: Why Chaos Might Be the Spice of Life 35:57

27 days ago35:57

35:57

Have you ever wondered how much chaos you should allow in your life while striving for peace? In this engaging episode, we dive deep into the complexities of peace versus chaos, inviting a star-studded panel to share their unique takes on this age-old question. As we explore the inherent tension between the two, we unpack what it means to truly respect ourselves and others, particularly in a world where chaos often seems unavoidable. Throughout our discussion, each panelist reflects on their personal experiences with chaos, illustrating how it has shaped their quest for peace. We tackle the question of whether peace should be a permanent state or if a little chaos is necessary to keep life interesting. Insights flow as we analyze how these moments of unrest sometimes usher in crucial life lessons and foster growth. Join us as we navigate this engaging dialogue, packed with profound insights and relatable anecdotes that highlight our shared human struggle. We aim to inspire our audience to reflect on their own lives, encouraging them to evaluate what balance looks like for them. Are you ready to enhance your understanding and find your unique equilibrium? Subscribe, share, and don’t miss out on this thought-provoking episode!…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

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Balancing Needs and Desires: Exploring the 80-20 Rule and Community Empowerment 34:33

6 weeks ago34:33

34:33

What if the secret to a fulfilling life lies in the balance between essential needs and personal desires? Join us as we unravel the 80-20 rule, a fascinating concept that helps navigate life's essentials while indulging in its pleasures. This episode is a perfect blend of invigorating discussions about the importance of giving your best and the value of genuine effort. We take pride in our achievements and are thrilled to announce Troy's Black History Month panel, featuring influential personalities like city councilman Chantel Jenkins and the legendary rapper Chubb Rock. Together, they tackle pivotal community issues such as resistance, generational cycles, and empowerment. We dive into the intriguing push and pull between the safety of life's 80% necessities and the thrill of the 20% desires. Is it better to chase fleeting thrills or to remain within the comforts of stability? Through engaging conversations, we explore personal growth from reckless abandon to valuing security, and how respecting both lifestyles can lead to true fulfillment. The journey is about finding your own balance, with prosperity and power as essential themes that guide us. Looking ahead, we gear up for the "Get to the Bag" networking event on February 17th, where community connection and skill enhancement take center stage. My salon suites will be proudly represented, offering valuable insights for industry professionals. As the episode draws to a close, we share the excitement surrounding our upcoming event and the importance of community growth. We invite you to join us on this ongoing journey to become sharper, more empowered individuals.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

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Rebuilding Respect in Modern Times 21:29

9 weeks ago21:29

21:29

Who truly holds the key to reaching our goals—the driver with relentless drive or the navigator with a clear path in mind?" This isn't just a question; it's a focal point of our latest episode, where Delana and I embark on a profound quest for understanding respect, inspired by none other than Aretha Franklin's empowering anthem. We weave a heartfelt tribute to the late Brother Larry Dickens II throughout our conversation, ensuring his spiritual leadership continues to guide us, even in the metaverse. Together, we unravel the complex layers of respect within personal and professional circles, spotlighting the beauty and barber industry's unique challenges. The idea of a "spectrum of respect" surfaces, illustrating how grooming and attire can shape perceptions and earn admiration. Our dialogue takes a philosophical turn as we liken goal-setting to a car journey—Delana emphasizing the necessity of navigation, while I uphold the unstoppable nature of drive. This debate mirrors the larger theme of empowerment, urging listeners to reconstruct respect in their lives, brick by brick. We share insights on staying sharp and commanding respect, advocating for a collective mission to restore this vital human value. With gratitude to our supporters, we invite you to join us on this path of mutual respect and collaboration, fueling a movement that's as transformative as it is essential.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

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Love vs. Respect: Celebrating Delaina’s Inspiring Journey and Birthday 34:31

14 weeks ago34:31

34:31

What if respect could outweigh love in the grand equation of life? In our special Birthday Edition, we honor the inspiring Delaina, whose journey has been a beacon of empowerment for everyone around her. We explore the notion of "becoming sharper," drawing parallels between the meticulous maintenance of barbering tools and personal growth. Meet the Thursday Night Society, where community and connection replace the fleeting nature of social media, and everyone walks away a winner in our unique raffle exchange. Love and respect—two pillars of life that often intersect and sometimes clash. Our conversation with Delaina takes us through the labyrinth of emotions as we question whether respect, much like a well-deserved paycheck, might be the true currency of appreciation. In the symbolic space of the Thursday Night Society, respect becomes the cornerstone, reminding us that love without respect is like a melody without harmony. Get ready for a thought-provoking exchange that challenges the age-old debate of heart versus honor. Join us as we toast to Uncle Frank’s birthday, where the themes of love and respect are woven into every moment. Delaina and I reflect on our podcast journey, filled with gratitude for the unwavering support of our listeners. As we celebrate, we discuss the delicate dance between maintaining safety and embracing the thrill of life's challenges. With a month-long tribute to Delaina, we look forward to future gatherings and the joy of personal and collective growth, all while ensuring that kindness is never mistaken for weakness.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

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Building Community, Strengthening Relationships, and Empowering Ourselves with Troy King 31:50

16 weeks ago31:50

31:50

Master barber Troy King joins us once more, bringing his passion for service and community to the forefront. Discover how Troy's third annual toy drive is shaping up to make a difference for less fortunate families during the holiday season with the help of local entertainers, politicians, and dedicated community members. And we're not stopping there; meet Delaina, whose vibrant energy adds a new layer to our conversation as we unpack the innovative Thursday Night Society raffle—a concept where every participant walks away a winner, reinforcing community bonds and enhancing our collective storehouse. Dive into a lively discussion on relationship dynamics as we unravel the metaphorical "five boxes" representing personal standards. Delaina emphasizes communication and loyalty, while Troy and I touch on the transformative power of respect and how it elevates a partner's image. We wrestle with notions of family values, communication, and the often-overlooked importance of looking good, exploring how these elements influence our pursuit of meaningful connections. It's a candid look at what truly matters when forging bonds with others, underscoring the core values that help define our relationships. Finally, we tackle the dual challenge of self-preservation and empowerment in today's world. With Brother Troy and Delaina by my side, we champion the importance of confidence and looking good as we navigate modern life. Our conversation is a call to action, encouraging you to stay safe yet bold in your pursuits, with a promise of more insightful content coming your way. Let's come together, sharpen ourselves, and remain smooth on this journey.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

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Elevating Spirits Together with the Thursday Night Society 27:06

18 weeks ago27:06

27:06

Remember the days when high school friendships seemed unbreakable? Join us as we reconnect with the captivating Delaina and CJ, fellow Highland Park High School graduates from the class of '98. Together, we reflect on the paths we've traveled, leading to the creation of CJ Clippers LLC and this podcast. It’s a journey underscored by our mantra, “The sharper the blade, the better the pay,” which resonates beyond the barbering world into life's broader challenges and triumphs. We also introduce the Thursday Night Society, a dynamic community where dreams are nurtured, and announce an invigorating raffle event designed to strengthen our listener family and foster a spirit of camaraderie. Ever wondered what truly constitutes a serious relationship? We dive into personal “five-star” criteria crucial for evaluating potential partners, spotlighting loyalty as an indispensable trait. Explore how the pillars of communication, loyalty, stability, exclusivity, and humor play varying roles in shaping meaningful connections. As we unravel these qualities' importance, we also focus on elevating morale, its potent influence on mental health, and embracing our inner strength. Our mission with the Thursday Night Society is to lift spirits and support children's well-being, culminating in an encouraging call to action. Let’s unite in boosting community morale and ensuring mental well-being, as we all strive to become sharper together.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

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Balancing Business Success and Personal Happiness: Lessons from the Barber Industry 29:13

20 weeks ago29:13

29:13

What if nurturing the perfect balance between business success and personal happiness was the ultimate key to prosperity? On this episode of the Let Us Become Sharper podcast, we explore the powerful intersection of business and personal relationships, inspired by the legacy of CJ Clippers LLC, a cornerstone in the barber industry. We discuss the transformative journey from the legendary Goodfellas Barbershop in Detroit to the creation of our podcast, celebrating the essence of community, persistence, and the million-dollar success stories that have paved our path. Our unique Thursday Night Society raffle embodies the spirit of inclusivity, ensuring every participant feels victorious. Switching gears, we tackle the timeless challenge of balancing work commitments with quality time spent with loved ones. Is dedicating only 20 hours a week to your significant other truly enough? We break down the complexities of work-life balance, considering the potential pitfalls of prioritizing professional relationships over personal ones. From analyzing the concept of a "work spouse" to sharing insights from our panel, we encourage a reflective conversation about prioritizing personal connections. Join us as we invite our listeners to ponder their own experiences, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the crucial role quality time plays in maintaining a healthy, fulfilling life.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

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Friends and Foes on the Path to Greatness 35:26

23 weeks ago35:26

35:26

Reflecting on the heartening yet complex journey of success, we ponder the impact it has on our relationships. What should you prioritize, compassion for friends who may not support your achievements, or the courage to ask them to rise to the challenge? Our conversation navigates this intricate landscape, sharing personal stories of leaving behind those who couldn't join us on our path to greatness. The truth is, achieving success can sometimes lead to difficult choices, and this episode aims to shed light on these challenges while fostering an understanding of the delicate balance between personal growth and nurturing friendships. Success is a double-edged sword; it can bring admiration and jealousy in equal measure. We share amusing anecdotes of being caught in situations where our achievements spark unexpected reactions, like being mistaken for an event organizer because of our influential presence. Through these tales, we explore whether it's wiser to downplay success to keep the peace or to encourage others to step up. With guest Mike Fox, the rising talent from Tubi's "Relationships," we highlight the power of surrounding ourselves with those who champion our victories rather than resent them. As we wrap things up, the focus shifts to the importance of trust and vigilance in our friendships. How do you stay prepared for challenges while remaining protective of those who matter? By embracing the truth of people's genuine selves when revealed, we highlight the significance of resilience and readiness in our personal and professional circles. Join us as we toast to sharp insights, strengthened support systems, and the promise of continued success.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

1
Utopian Relationships and the Power of Voice 25:49

28 weeks ago25:49

25:49

Would you trade your voice for paradise? That’s the provocative question at the heart of today’s episode! We’re thrilled to be joined by the remarkable Delaina as we navigate the complex terrain of relationships and the essential role of feeling heard. Imagine a utopian relationship where everything is perfect—but you have no voice. Is it worth the trade-off? Delaina and I challenge this fantasy, arguing that true paradise must include freedom of expression. Together, we redefine what it means to be happy and fulfilled in our relationships. We also delve into the magic of the Thursday Night Society (TNS), a sanctuary where people transform into superstars simply by being heard. From 7 pm to 2 am, this space becomes a judgment-free zone where communication reigns supreme. We reveal how creating a space where individuals are genuinely listened to can turn even the most difficult relationships into beautiful ones. Finally, we tackle the delicate balance between safety and risk-taking, proving that perseverance and dialogue can turn any relationship into something extraordinary. Don’t miss this compelling conversation that promises to redefine how you view happiness and personal growth in your relationships.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

1
Youth Empowerment and Community Building with Troy King 30:35

31 weeks ago30:35

30:35

Can we ever truly understand the opposite sex? Join us as we explore this intriguing question with Troy King, the inspiring force behind the "So Fresh, So Clean" barbershop and the mastermind behind the back-to-school block party giveaway. We dive deep into Troy's community-driven event that provides free haircuts and school supplies to local families. Alongside Troy, we welcome Miss Laniece, host of the "Sisters with Opinions" podcast, and Mark Watts, president of the Boys to Men Youth Mentoring Program, to share their thoughts on the complexities of understanding each other across gender lines. Have you ever felt like communication with the opposite sex is a mystery? We unpack the art of understanding women through effective communication, drawing from personal stories and experiences. Hear from our panelists about the importance of listening, interpreting needs, and building genuine connections to foster better relationships. Whether you've been in long-term relationships or are seeking ways to improve your interactions, this segment equips you with valuable insights to bring more empathy and understanding into your everyday exchanges. Our conversation doesn't stop there. We also focus on the power of community and youth empowerment. Troy gives us a glimpse into his barbershop's role as a community hub, where meaningful conversations and mentoring take center stage. We discuss initiatives that address holistic healing and trauma, aiming for personal growth and stronger community bonds. The episode concludes with an exciting preview of an upcoming event that offers free haircuts, beauty supplies, and essential services to families in need. Reflect with us on the positive impact of these efforts and our unwavering commitment to giving back and building unity in our community.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

1
Celebrating 20 Years of Friendship and Business: Accountability, Apologies, and Teamwork 31:10

33 weeks ago31:10

31:10

Ever wondered what it takes to sustain a 20-year friendship while running a successful business? Join us as Carl and his longtime friend and co-host, Dawn, celebrate their enduring bond and the remarkable journey of CJ Clippers LLC, a company celebrated for having the finest blades in the barbering world. We'll also shine a spotlight on the entrepreneurial spirit within our community, giving well-deserved shout-outs to Shay Wills for her new book and Nina’s House of Jewels. Can you tell the difference between a genuine mistake and intentional wrongdoing? In our discussion on accountability and apologies, we tackle this intriguing question head-on. Carl shares compelling personal stories about balancing professional commitments with personal life, likening the relentless hustle to being a Chuck E. Cheese robot or a shark that must keep swimming. The episode delves deep into the significance of teamwork and humility, illustrating how true success is often a collective effort rather than a solo journey. As we wrap up, we emphasize the importance of transparent communication and recognizing the support from those around us. We explore the concept of "all cash is verified," underscoring the need to appreciate both financial and emotional backing. Finally, mark your calendars for an exciting upcoming event at So Fresh, So Clean Barbershop featuring Troy the barber. Stay tuned, stay safe, and stay dangerous as we continue our quest to become sharper together on the TNS podcast.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

1
Celebrating Industry Giants: Honoring Legacies and Embracing Excellence 24:30

36 weeks ago24:30

24:30

CJ Clippers - Let Us Become Sharper -TNS Podcast 7-16-24 How do we preserve and honor the legacies of those who have risen to greatness in their fields? In this episode of Let Us Become Sharper / TNS Podcast, we explore just that, starting with a heartfelt reflection on our longstanding friendship with John from D-Town Coney Island. Our conversation celebrates his thriving business and its deep roots in both Dallas and Detroit. We also share the inspiration behind our podcast title, "Let Us Become Sharper," which aligns with the mission of CJ Clippers LLC and the Thursday Night Society (TNS). The latter is a dynamic community where respect, freedom of expression, and achieving one's dreams are fundamental values. Plus, we give a special birthday shout-out to Reno and preview upcoming TNS events, urging you to stay updated via our social media stories. We shift gears to spotlight the importance of recognizing and honoring the legacies of industry giants, with Chris the Barber receiving a special mention as one of the greatest in the barbering world. This episode underscores the importance of gratitude, persistence, and the need to celebrate the contributions of dedicated professionals. We extend our gratitude to our supporters, highlighting the significance of verified contributions and generosity. Listeners can look forward to future segments featuring guest barbers and other intriguing personalities, all aimed at fostering a community of excellence and respect. Join us on this journey to sharpen both your business acumen and personal growth, inspired by the relentless spirit of industry leaders.…

LET US BECOME SHARPER/TNS PODCAST

1
From Dreams to Reality: Entrepreneurial Success with John from D-Town Coney Island 22:49

38 weeks ago22:49