Dominique Dorsey, owner of Nique’s Hair Styles LLC at Classy Sassy Braids & Beyond in Lakewood, Washington, has quite an inspiring story. It all began with a childhood dream sparked by her father, who gifted her a vanity at the age of six. This seemingly small gesture ignited a passion within Dominique, and she spent countless hours playing and experimenting, laying the foundation for her future career. As she grew older, her interest in braiding evolved, eventually leading her to cosmetology school. In 2016, Dominique took her skills to the next level by graduating and establishing her own LLC. Now, she's living out her dream of being a prominent figure in the hair industry, no longer "behind the scenes" but front and center, making a name for herself.

Dominique's dedication to her craft is evident in her commitment to her clients. She emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships and providing exceptional service. "I feel like from the beginning, I have had clients, and they're still here to this day. I'm able to serve the same community that's been coming to me. So I gotta give back to them. If I didn't have them, I wouldn't be in business right now, not one bit." This quote truly encapsulates Dominique's approach to her work. She prioritizes her clients' needs and well-being, ensuring they receive healthy hair care and their desired styles. Her services range from braids and weaves to color and cuts, catering to a diverse clientele.

Dominique is gearing up for an exciting event on March 2nd, promising a show with diverse hairstyles, great music, and captivating choreography. "I'm excited to bring what nobody has brought yet." With a decade of experience and a passion for innovation, Dominique aims to deliver an unforgettable experience that will leave the audience on their feet. To connect with Dominique and learn more about her services, you can find her on Instagram at @niqueshairstyles_, or visit her website at https://www.niqueshairstyles.com.

Natalie Johnson's passion for hair has spanned nearly two decades. Starting with a Running Start program through Seattle Vocational Institute and Seattle schools after high school, she discovered a love for the craft that would shape her career. "Honestly, I just started falling in love with hair," Natalie recalls from her early days in the industry. This passion has driven her to explore various facets of hair styling, from working at salons like Swank Style Bar to launching her own on-site beauty service, Kiss the Mirror.

Through her 19-year journey, Natalie has witnessed trends come and go, noting, "Someone will come to me and ask for a hairstyle, and like, for instance, butterfly haircut. I didn't know what that was. I have to research it. And then I see the picture and it's like, oh, that's like a Farrah Fawcett shag." This adaptability and commitment to staying current have been key to her success. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the basics, stating, "If you understand the basics of hair, you can apply that to anything."

Natalie is gearing up for the Reign of Style show, where she will lead a team from Foxycut Salon. Having participated in 2018 with Virtuous Hair Studio and a Harlem Renaissance theme, this year, she's bringing an 18th-century-inspired, modernized Bridgerton concept to the stage. "It's really just about having fun," Natalie says about the event, highlighting the creative outlet it provides. "And in the industry, as you may know, a lot of things are repetitive, so it's fun as a creative to be able to get out of your comfort zone and just have fun, because that's that's what art is about."

Mark your calendars for March 2nd to witness Natalie and the Foxycut Salon team showcase their artistry at the Reign of Style show. To connect with Natalie and learn more about her on-site beauty services, visit her Instagram @stylebynataliej #Hairstyling #BeautyIndustry #ReignOfStyle #Entrepreneurship #CreativeArts #Bridgerton

#TheDayWithTrae - Aisha Ellis, the Producer of the Reign of Style Hair Competition, has poured her heart and soul into creating a platform that celebrates the artistry and skill of stylists and barbers. For over a decade, she has cultivated a space where creativity flourishes and community bonds are strengthened. Her journey with Reign of Style symbolizes her unwavering dedication and passion for the beauty industry.

This year marks the 11th annual Reign of Style Hair Competition, a highly anticipated event that showcases the talents of both seasoned professionals and up-and-coming students. Aisha's vision for the competition goes beyond simply displaying hairstyles; she aims to create an environment of friendly competition and mutual support. The event has become a staple in the community, drawing in participants and spectators alike.

Aisha's commitment to her community extends beyond Reign of Style. She is a certified peer counselor with Northwest Credible Messengers, demonstrating her deep care for the well-being of those around her. Her ability to connect with people on a personal level has allowed her to provide support and resources to her clients, further solidifying her role as a pillar of her community.

The 11th annual Reign of Style Hair Competition and Show will be held at the Seattle Center in the Exhibition Hall on March 2nd, from 12 PM to 7 PM. This family-friendly event promises to be a vibrant celebration of talent and community, featuring live watch-me-work competitions, a main stage show, and various vendors and sponsors. Tickets can be purchased at ReignofStyle.com

#TheDayWithTrae - Trae Holiday sat down with Khalia Williams-O'Neal from Northwest Credible Messenger on "The Day With Trae," shedding light on their impactful work within the community. Khalia shared her journey from a recent college graduate to becoming the Operations Manager, emphasizing the organization's focus on empowering Black and Brown leaders. Her initial project involved addressing the increase in domestic violence during the pandemic by engaging young Black youth in conversations about masculinity and behavioral health. This experience led to a significant shift in their approach, recognizing the importance of addressing underlying mindsets and providing behavioral health support within their projects.

A key highlight of the interview was the discussion of the Community Reinvestment Project funds that came through the Washington State Department of Commerce, which allowed Northwest Credible Messenger to support the community further. This initiative led to the development of a barber and beautician Behavioral Health Project, recognizing these professionals' vital role as "unlicensed therapists" within their communities. As Khalia noted, these spaces are where people "unload" and find mentorship, making them crucial for community well-being.

The conversation also highlighted the upcoming 11th Annual Reign of Style competition, an event supported by Northwest Credible Messenger. Khalia emphasized the importance of "highlighting what's already there."  She added, "We can help you with resource navigation, but you already have the tools to do all the work in your shop. You already have been doing it for years, we are resourceful folks." This approach underscores the organization's commitment to empowering community resources and leaders.

For those interested in learning more or getting involved, Khalia encourages contacting Northwest Credible Messenger through their website's contact page and mentioning interest in the barber and beauty project. While they are adjusting their training due to state certification changes, they are committed to including everyone. As Trae Holiday concluded, this conversation serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and uplifting the spaces and people already making a difference in our communities.

#TheDayWithTrae - Zue Sawtell, owner of Defined Salon in South Seattle, has been a pillar in her community for nearly two decades. Her journey began humbly, braiding hair on her middle school stoop, and has blossomed into a thriving business that's about more than just hair. "Hair is just really important to me," Zue explains. "It's a part of our visual identity and how the world sees us." At Defined Salon, Zue and her team focus on helping people find their identity through their hair, understanding that this can be a deeply personal and evolving experience.

Defined Salon, which opened in 2016, isn't just a place to get your hair done; it's a "gathering space" where community thrives. Zue emphasizes the importance of building relationships with clients and becoming a trusted confidante who understands their goals and their challenges. "If you're looking to really get into the health of your hair, improving the health of your hair, that usually comes from sticking with one person who understands your goals, understands some of the things that you are battling. You know, whether that be health issues, family issues, money issues..." This deep level of connection is what sets Defined Salon apart and keeps clients coming back.

Beyond the salon, Zue is a strong advocate for supporting Black businesses. She believes they are "essential to our community" because "they understand you, they support you, and because we are more diverse and spread out as far as our locations. Now, black businesses are some of the things that ground us, bring us together." This philosophy is evident in her work and her dedication to creating a supportive environment for both her clients and her community.

Zue is also excited to be part of the upcoming Reign of Style hair competition, an annual event that showcases the incredible talent within Seattle's hair community. "One day a year, we get the opportunity to just let it be free, let it be creative," Zue says. This year's Reign of Style will be held on March 2nd at the Seattle Center's Pavilion Hall from 12 pm to 7 pm. Tickets are $20, and it's a fantastic opportunity to witness the artistry and innovation of local stylists. You can find more information at www.ReignofStyle.com, Be sure to check out Defined Salon at 925 857th Avenue South and at www.definedsalon.com

#TheDayWithTrae - Nita Jackson, founder of JJ's House of Soul, is bringing her passion for food and community to the forefront with an upcoming vendor event. With a culinary journey that began in her grandmother's kitchen, Nita has turned her love for cooking into a thriving business. "I started it because I always love cooking. Everybody's always like, Your food's so good, you should sell it," Nita shares, reflecting on the origins of JJ's House of Soul. This passion is evident in every dish she creates, infused with what she describes as a "little bit of love."

Beyond her culinary talents, Nita is a strong advocate for community collaboration and supporting local businesses. She emphasizes the importance of vendors coming together, stating, "It is each one teach one. That's my favorite quote." This philosophy is at the heart of her vendor events, which provide a platform for entrepreneurs who may not have a brick-and-mortar location to showcase their products and connect with new clientele. "I wanted to give a space for other vendors like myself that don't have a brick and mortar," she explains, highlighting her commitment to fostering a supportive environment for small businesses to thrive.

Nita Jackson's vendor event will take place on Sunday, February 23rd, from 3 pm to 7 pm at Delancy’s on 3rd in Renton, located at 810 South Third Street. This event will feature a variety of vendors, including Nelly Bell's Boutique, Tasha Beauty, Juicy Eats, and Creative Threads, among others. It's an opportunity to support local black businesses and experience the vibrant community spirit that Nita champions. "Please come out and support me and other local black businesses," Nita encourages, inviting everyone to join in this celebration of entrepreneurship and community. You can find Nita and JJ's House of Soul on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

#TheDayWithTrae - Myesha Mitchell, Owner of My Time For Massage, is a licensed Massage Therapist, Birth Doula, and Community Advocate. Her personal experiences inspired her journey to becoming a small business owner. "My own personal story is something that really brought me to the table of doing this work." Born and raised in Seattle, she is a mother of two and a survivor of police brutality. These experiences fuel her work and allow her to connect with her clients on a deeper level.

"I really like to emphasize that using that pain and feeding it to purpose is what makes me different in the work that I do." Myesha focuses on community equity and provides a safe space for her clients. She created a free massage program in King County and has served 170 people in the last year. "I want to be able to have a community space that continues to grow and thrive."

Myesha's goal is to expand her business and continue to provide care and advocacy for her community. She is currently fundraising for a new space that will allow her to host community events and expand her services. "I need a space that has room for us to be able to do that, to host community events and continue to grow." Her dedication to her clients and her community is truly inspiring.

More Information: https://www.mytimeformassage.com/

#TheDayWithTrae - Dominica A. Myers, Director of Equity and Social Impact for King County Library System (KCLS), is gearing up for an exciting event this Thursday, February 20th. The "Emerging Authors Event" will occur from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at the Renton IKEA Performing Arts Theater. This free event, open to the public, will feature a panel of local authors, including Luther Hughes, Chardonnay Beaver, and Kathia Alexander. Our very own Trae Holiday will facilitate the discussion. 

Dominica emphasizes the importance of community engagement and diverse programming at KCLS. "We don't want to look at it as this is a diverse program, but that KCLS has a diversity of programs, that we are serving a diversity of communities," she stated. The event aligns with KCLS's commitment to intellectual freedom and providing a wide range of materials and programs that reflect the community's diversity. 

This event was inspired by a conversation with the late Dr. Maxine Mims, who suggested showcasing local authors for Black History Month. Dominica and KCLS are excited to honor Dr. Mims's suggestion and provide a platform for these talented storytellers. As Dominica notes, "It's a really wonderful opportunity to be in community, and we hope to see you there." For more information, visit https://kcls.bibliocommons.com/events/679ab0c2b412794100628c88

#TheDayWithTrae - Deaunte Damper sat down with Shekhem Heru TchaasAmen, an African Kamitic Spiritual Initiate and Certified Yuan Ming Instructor. Heru's philosophy centers on the belief that "genuine peace is the key to contentment in any circumstance and the very foundation upon which success is built." He emphasizes that individuals have the power to choose peace, stating, "peaceful is a choice, right? So I have to choose peace." This choice, he believes, is fundamental to navigating life's challenges and achieving personal growth.

Heru's guidance extends to practical tools for cultivating inner peace and resilience. He advocates for practices like Qigong, a movement practice focused on balancing life force energy, and emphasizes the importance of breathing techniques to calm the mind and access full cognitive abilities. As Heru explains, "When we breathe in and out through our nose, it activates the parasympathetic system. It automatically calms the physical vehicle down." He also highlights meditation and visualization as powerful tools for aligning with divine principles and affirming one's inherent worth.

In times of societal unrest and personal struggle, Heru encourages individuals to "resist wherever you are" while simultaneously choosing internal peace. He reminds us that "you were built for the struggle," and embracing this reality can empower individuals to persevere. Heru's message is one of self-love, resilience, and the understanding that "You're a light of being, of peace. Peace is your natural response and reaction to all things."

Learn More: https://www.instagram.com/herunefer/

Stephanie Morales is a visionary artist and community organizer who founded Made Space, a creative hub in Seattle's Central District. She spearheaded the CD Art Walk, now in its fifth month, which has become a vibrant celebration of local art and culture. Morales enthusiastically shared, "Last Friday's Art Walk was amazing. We had so many businesses involved".

The event featured diverse activities, including a fashion show, karaoke, and food, spreading throughout the neighborhood. To enhance accessibility, Morales collaborated with a local bus company to provide transportation, making the event more inclusive.

She emphasized, "He wants elders to be able to get on the bus and enjoy art walk and young people to be able to get on" .

Morales also hosts "Tuesday Things" at Made Space, a series of free or low-cost events designed to foster community connection and creativity. These initiatives reflect her commitment to creating accessible spaces for artists and community members to thrive.

Victor Ryan Robertson, an acclaimed opera singer, discusses his journey into the genre and his efforts to preserve and uplift African American culture. He describes how a professor encouraged him to pursue opera, leading him to discover his passion for composers like Puccini and Pavarotti.

Robertson shares his experiences with crossover projects, such as performing in "Phantom of the Opera" on Broadway, which introduced opera to new audiences. He talks about his role in the best-selling opera "The Life and Times of Malcolm X" and his collaboration with Branford Marsalis on the "Song of the South" soundtrack.

Robertson also discusses his work to preserve Gullah Geechee spirituals and his advice for aspiring singers, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and impact over fame.

Victor Ryan Robertson emerges as a champion of cultural preservation and a bridge-builder between classical and diverse musical traditions.

Andre Franklin's interview with Deaunte Damper highlighted the impactful work of BUILD 206, celebrating its 11th anniversary. Franklin explained, "We focus on leadership development for black men and boys," emphasizing their mission to address community issues.

The organization's Black Build Black Wealth Incubator Program offers up to $5,000 in funding for young black entrepreneurs, aiming to "build confidence, provide mentorship, support, education, and resources."

Franklin stressed the importance of investing in marginalized groups, stating, "We need to help them build their confidence and provide resources for growth." He encouraged community involvement, suggesting, "Mentor one person" and support existing initiatives. Franklin's motivation stems from his brother's legacy and the desire to create a better future for his son.

For more information on Andre Franklin and BUILD 206 go to www.build206.com

Simon Okelo, the founder of the Madaraka Festival, joined Deaunte Damper to discuss the origins and impact of the annual celebration. Okelo explained how the festival began in 2014 with a group of community members in Seattle, using proceeds to support an education, music, and art program for youth in Kenya. The festival has grown significantly over the past 11 years, now drawing crowds of over 5,000 people when hosted in Kenya.

Okelo highlighted the significance of Madaraka, which commemorates Kenya's liberation from British colonial rule. He emphasized the festival's role in uniting the African and African-American communities, building bridges through music and culture. Okelo shared advice for fellow community members, stressing the importance of self-belief and finding committed allies to help realize one's vision.

Okelo outlined plans for the 11th Madaraka Festival in Seattle, including a series of pop-up events throughout the year to engage the local community. He encouraged viewers to stay connected by visiting the festival's website and social media channels.

For more information on the Madaraka Festival visit www.madarakafestival.com

Trae Holiday featured Deon’te and Blaine discussing their roles in the hit musical ‘Hamilton’. Deon’te, who plays Aaron Burr, shared his journey from church choir to musical theater, inspired by his music teachers. He emphasized the importance of portraying a Black man showing vulnerability on stage, saying, "I never take it lightly, because there's always someone out in the audience who can see that hopefully, and it's just like, 'Oh, it's okay for me to show every piece of me.'"

Blaine, who plays Alexander Hamilton, spoke about his early experiences in choir and aspirations to be a pop singer. He discussed the challenge of finding his own interpretation of the role, stating, "It's about like, who am I as a person, and me just showing up as me, and then me saying this text and letting those two just meet."

Both actors emphasized the importance of live performance and the human connection it fosters. They urged audiences to see the characters' humanity and the show's broader themes. Blaine noted, "Any good art, you question it. That's what makes it a conversation, and makes it stand the test of time." Their insights highlight the power of Hamilton to connect with audiences and provoke thoughtful discussions about identity, history, and representation.

Demontrice Bigham sat with Trae Holiday to shed light on the Alain Lock Initiative, a mentorship program for young black queer men. Bigham, drawing from his experience as a Director of Housing at an HBCU, recognized a critical gap in guidance for these young men:

"I realized even more black queer men, being black and being queer, you need that sense of mentorship. You know, how do you talk to your father about sexual experiences? How you talk to your father about being attracted to another man?"

The initiative's inception stemmed from Bigham's personal journey and the lack of mentors who could have helped him reconcile his identity with success. He emphasized the importance of self-esteem and speaking up in dominant spaces to create positive change.

For more infromation on Demontrice and the Alain Locke Initiative, follow Bigham on Instagram @pharaoh_labeija or visit www.alainlockeinitiative.org

Dr. McCoy shared her journey from being a pastor in Harlem during the early days of the epidemic to her current role at African American Reach and Teach Health (ART).

During the interview with Trae Holiday, Dr. McCoy emphasized the ongoing impact of HIV on black communities, stating, "HIV is still a black thing." She highlighted that over 40% of people living with HIV in the U.S. are black, despite advancements in treatment that have made HIV a manageable chronic disease.

Dr. McCoy discussed the persistent stigmatization of HIV and the lack of prevention messages and services tailored for black communities. Dr. McCoy called for a collaborative effort to address HIV stigma and improve access to prevention and care. She stressed the importance of community engagement, education, and support in combating the epidemic.

Renee encouraged parents to educate their children about sex and safer sex practices, and highlighted the availability of home test kits to promote testing. To further these efforts, Dr. McCoy promoted an upcoming town hall meeting at Plymouth Church for National Black HIV and AIDS Awareness Day.

The event will feature experts, people living with HIV, and representatives from the health department, providing a platform for community members to engage in conversations about HIV prevention and care.

Mental health professional Chevonna Gaylor recently shared invaluable insights on maintaining mental and emotional balance amidst life's uncertainties. In a candid conversation on The Day With Trae, she addressed the pervasive feelings of anxiety and depression that many are grappling with today, offering practical advice and highlighting the importance of community and self-care.

The Present Moment is Your Anchor

Gaylor emphasizes the importance of staying present. "Depression tends to live in the past. Anxiety tends to live in the future, but our peace is in the right now," she explains. While acknowledging the value of learning from past experiences, she cautions against dwelling on them. Similarly, she advises against excessive worry about the future, emphasizing that it's yet to unfold.

Instead, Gaylor encourages us to focus on the present moment. "Ask yourself, what do I have control over right now? What am I grateful for right now?" she suggests. By taking action on the things within our control and practicing gratitude, we can foster a sense of empowerment and tap into inner peace and joy.

Community and Connection are Essential

Gaylor also underscores the significance of human connection in times of fear and uncertainty. "We have to heal through each other," she asserts. "We need that love, we need that hug, we need that laugh...we need each other." She cautions against the tendency to isolate oneself when anxious or afraid and reminds us that we are stronger together.

Recognizing When You Need Help

For those struggling with their mental health, Gaylor advises seeking professional help. She points out that our bodies often signal when something is amiss. "Our bodies keep score," she says. "Our bodies will tell us when we're off." Significant changes in sleep or eating habits, unexplained physical pain, and other symptoms can all be indicators that it's time to seek support.

Self-Care is Non-Negotiable

Gaylor emphasizes that self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep—is crucial for mental and emotional well-being. She also encourages finding healthy ways to release pent-up emotions, whether through exercise, meditation, prayer, therapy, or creative expression.

In Conclusion

Chevonna Gaylor's advice provides a roadmap for navigating life's challenges with grace and resilience. By staying present, nurturing connections, practicing self-care, and seeking help when needed, we can cultivate inner peace and well-being even in the face of uncertainty. Remember, you are human, and it's okay to need help.

During her interview on The Day With Trae with Trae Holiday, Laura Clise, the founder of Intentionalist, shared her inspiring journey and shed light on the impactful work Intentionalist is doing to support Black-owned businesses in the greater Seattle area. 

The Genesis of Intentionalist

Clise's desire to bridge the gap between good intentions and tangible action led to the creation of Intentionalist. "Intentionalist began because I went looking for a resource that made it easier to close the gap between my good intentions to get to know and support diverse local businesses and a way to easily take action," Clise explained. The platform's vision is to foster a community-driven economy where everyday choices about where to shop, eat, and drink become opportunities to uplift local businesses.

Building Relationships and Community

Clise emphasized the importance of building relationships with local business owners. She recounted her own experience of returning to Seattle after 20 years and finding a sense of belonging and connection in the brick-and-mortar spaces of her community.

The Buy Black Card: A Vehicle for Intentional Spending

One of Intentionalist's innovative tools is the Buy Black Card. "The Buy Black Card...is like a gift card that can be used at over 135 black-owned businesses throughout the greater Seattle area," Clise shared. The card, available in physical and digital formats, is a practical way to support Black-owned businesses and makes for a thoughtful gift for various occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays. BECU Foundation has partnered with Intentionalist to offer a 20% discount on the purchase of the card, making it even easier for community members to support Black-owned businesses.

Black History Month Initiatives

Intentionalist has several exciting initiatives planned for Black History Month. In partnership with Seattle's pro sports teams -  the Sounders, Seahawks, Mariners, and Kraken -  they are encouraging fans to patronize Black-owned businesses. Fans who upload their receipts from these businesses will have a chance to win exciting prizes from the teams; for example, the Sounders are offering two pre-game field passes and two club level seats. The community goal is to collectively upload $45,000 in receipts from Black-owned businesses during the month.

In addition, Intentionalist and BECU have partnered to create their "Equity in Action" program, which features prepaid tabs at eight Black-owned businesses in the Seattle area. Community members can visit Intentionalist.com to find these businesses and enjoy a "free treat on BECU" while supplies last.

The Power of Collaboration

Clise expressed her gratitude for the partnerships that have been instrumental to Intentionalist's success. Collaborations with sports teams, the City of Seattle, and BECU have expanded the platform's reach and impact.

A Call to Action

Laura Clise's work with Intentionalist serves as a reminder that our consumer choices have the power to shape our communities. By choosing to support local and diverse businesses, we can foster a more vibrant and equitable economy. As Clise eloquently puts it, " we feel that connection offering folks that little nudge, that little incentive, that little reminder to walk in the door and spend some money."

Whitney Williams, the creative force behind Brown Girl Charcuterie, sat down with Trae Holiday to recount her unexpected entry into the world of charcuterie, sparked by a desire to host a memorable birthday party. Whitney's passion for vibrant colors and unique flavors shines through as she describes her meticulous selection process for ingredients. Her business has flourished from Instagram posts to a full-fledged website, offering customizable spreads for various dietary needs.

Whitney emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses and creating lasting memories for her clients. Her approach to charcuterie as an art form, combined with her commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, sets Brown Girl Charcuterie apart in the culinary landscape.

Winfield Ezell Jr. brings a wealth of experience and passion to his role as Chief Storyteller at Converge Media Productions. In his interview with Trae Holiday, Winfield shares his journey from Mississippi to the Pacific Northwest, emphasizing the power of community-driven narratives. He discusses the unique value of Converge's storytelling approach, which spans both news cycles and longer-form documentaries. Winfield highlights the importance of cultivating relationships with communities and the interactive nature of modern storytelling. Winfield's vision for Converge Media Productions focuses on amplifying local voices and preserving history through impactful, healing stories.

Tina Fahnbulleh's interview with Trae Holiday offers a delectable journey through her culinary career and the evolution of Gold Coast Kitchen. From her early pop-ups to establishing a brick-and-mortar restaurant, Tina shares how customer feedback shaped her menu, making Jollof rice a daily staple. She discusses popular dishes like goat peanut soup and seasonal adaptations using local ingredients.

Tina also promotes the upcoming "Soul of Seattle" event, highlighting the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses. The conversation showcases Tina's passion for West African cuisine, her commitment to community, and the ongoing need for customer support in the restaurant industry.

DJ Top Spin, also known as Blendiana Jones, shared insights into his innovative approach to DJing during the COVID-19 pandemic in his interview with Trae Holiday. He discussed adapting to online performances using the "tip jar" concept, which allowed DJs to continue their artistry despite venue closures. Top Spin emphasized the evolving role of DJs in the face of technological advancements and the importance of maintaining a human element in performances. He also introduced his new event, Lit Lounge, combining poetry and parties at Columbia City Station. Top Spin recommended soulful artists like Bilal and Eric Roberson for staying warm during cold days and encouraged aspiring DJs to stand out by creating unique blends and maintaining crowd vibes.

In his interview with Trae Holiday, La’Keith Asphy owner of Presidential Transportation shared the inspiring story of his transportation business's expansion, speaking about the pride of owning commercial vehicles with his name on them, a rarity among Black business owners. Asphy detailed his company's growth from a small limo service to a fleet including luxury coaches and party buses.

He emphasized the importance of community involvement, such as transporting kids to camp and supporting nonprofits, also discussing his role in mentoring new drivers and entrepreneurs in the industry. The conversation highlighted his commitment to excellent customer service, safety, and the positive impact his business has on the local community and Black entrepreneurship.

Danielle Imani, a performer with STOMP, shared her journey from Compton to Las Vegas and her passion for live theater in an interview with Trae Holiday. Discussing her background in body percussion and stepping, which brought unique energy to Stomp. Danielle emphasized the joy of performing and the cultural significance of rhythms on stage, and highlighted the camaraderie among cast members and the positive audience reactions to their shows. Danielle's enthusiasm for her craft and the impact of live performance on both performers and audiences was displayed during the conversation.

In her interview with Trae Holiday, Sheila Kay recounted her musical journey, starting with her first memory of singing at age four using her dad's Panasonic tape player. She discussed her family's love for music, including Motown and blues, and her transition from gospel to neo-soul. Sheila shared the inspiration behind her song "Black Voice Crying Out," sparked by George Floyd's murder and a powerful community march in Seattle. She announced her upcoming show at the Royal Room, focusing on Black lives and gun violence awareness, emphasizing the importance of community support and bringing attention to these crucial issues

Trae Holiday pays tribute to Elijah L. Lewis, a beloved community leader and entrepreneur. As the murder trial begins, Holiday shares clips of Elijah discussing his work and impact. Emphasizing Elijah's dedication to eradicating senseless violence and uplifting his community, Holiday encourages viewers to support Elijah's family and continue his legacy through various means, including courtroom presence and community engagement.

Heru Tchaasamen was recently elevated to the title of Shechem, or chief, of a Kemetic spiritual organization in the Pacific Northwest. He discusses the significance of the winter solstice as a time for spiritual reset and goal-setting.

Tchaasamen is hosting an event on December 22nd focused on holistic healing, meditation, and rewiring the mind to detach from white supremacy. Emphasizing the importance of identifying as a divine being and aligning internal beliefs with external actions. The event will feature various ancient healing modalities to facilitate personal growth and community wellness.

Tune in as The Day With Trae Host Trae Holiday sits down with comedian Sherri Shepherd for an all new special. Join us for this inspiring conversation as Sherri Shepherd shares her wisdom, humor, and insights on navigating the entertainment world with purpose and authenticity.

The Day With Trae interviewed with Deaunte Damper, a lighthearted and fun conversation between two colleagues and friends, the two discussed Deaunte's experience of guest hosting "The Day With Trae" in 2024,. They will discuss the challenges and rewards of hosting, what he is looking forward to in 2025, and insights for his show We Live In Color. Deaunte will share some funny moments from his time in the host's chair. The overall tone will be appreciative and respectful, with both Trae and Deaunte expressing admiration for each other's work.

"It was definitely a challenge," Deaunte chuckled. "But a fun one! I mean, I know what goes on behind the scenes, but being in the host's chair is a whole different ball game. I have even more respect for what you do now, Trae."

Sadé McInnis, Senior Manager of Cultural & Community Programs for Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (BHM) sits down with Trae Holiday to inform about Radiant Reflections, the exhibit they’re set to be hosting and more about BHM programming. Taking on more a community based role in Bainbridge just a year ago, McInnis expressed, “for me it’s really building those relationships, and serving them in a sense of what can we do for you? What do you need to rise to the top or for your organization to shine?”

McInnis understands that the community and artists are the important factors, therefore her position is heavily focusing on providing the resources and outlets that are needed between community and artists to generate ongoing success moving forward.