In this episode of The Highlight Real, we’re chopping it up with Coach Shyheim Small, diving deep into HBCU basketball, his journey from North Carolina to making waves with the Central State Marauders, and the real pressures behind coaching at an HBCU. This episode offers a lot of perspective as we break down the struggles, triumphs, and the often-overlooked behind-the-scenes hustle that keeps these programs thriving.

From navigating his PWI experiences at NKU to embracing the vibrant culture of HBCUs, Coach Small shares raw insights on teamwork, community building, and even the anxiety that comes with striving for greatness.

Whether you're a diehard basketball fan, contemplatiing attending an HBCU, or just here to listen, this episode promises something for everyone. Drop a comment, share your thoughts, and join the ocnversation! Tune in!

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- The Highlight Real: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thehighlightreal__/⁠

- Shyheim : https://www.instagram.com/coachswerv_/

- Jhariah: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhariahw/

#thehighlightreal #podcast #hbcubasketball #centralstate

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

01:08 - Shyheim’s Journey to Becoming a Coach

06:56 - Importance of Film in Coaching

10:43 - Aspiring to Be a Head Coach

12:51 - Sankofa: Go Back and Fetch It

15:45 - Checking Your Ego in Coaching

22:15 - HBCU Experience and Impact

27:14 - Coaching as a Labor of Love

33:03 - Coaching's Life Lessons

37:10 - Managing Anxiety and Pressure

40:30 - Shyheim's Goals for the Season

41:33 - Final Thoughts from Shyheim

43:31 - Shyheim's Fundraiser Event

44:29 - Outro

What happens when you stop running the rat race and start chasing peace? In this episode of The Highlight Real, we’re chopping it up with Jelani Taylor—a Flint, Michigan native, artist, and creative —about his brand-new album "The Rat Race," his journey through music, and breaking free from the cycle of exhaustion. From reflecting on Nina Simone's timeless wisdom to unveiling the raw, soul-baring inspiration behind tracks like "Galaxy Lane," Jelani talks love, music, and life with refreshing honesty.

We also dive into his journey through the Ivy League grind at Cornell University, balancing dreams of the NFL with creative expression, and building a life alongside his fiancée - who also doubled as an executive producer on his new album! You’ll hear how their partnership fuels his artistry and why he’s fearless about blending love and ambition. Whether you’re on the fence about taking that next leap or just need some perspective on making life work for YOU, this episode’s got gems for days.

Press play for all things music, love, and the hustle to find balance in today’s world. Don’t miss out—this conversation might just change how you see your own race. Tune in!

Follow Us:

- The Highlight Real: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thehighlightreal__/⁠

- Jelani: https://www.instagram.com/je.lani2/

- Jhariah: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhariahw/

#thehighlightreal #podcast #explore #jelanitaylor #theratrace

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

00:51 - Jelani’s Album “The Rat Race”

01:50 - How Excited is Jelani for His Album ?

05:22 - What Are We Running Towards

09:51 - What is The Rat Race

15:05 - Why "Jelani"?

19:53 - College and Football

24:41 - Black Boy 2020

26:34 - Finding Purpose in Another Dream

27:58 - The Full Spectrum of Hip-Hop

32:15 - How I Make My Life Happen

34:24 - Making Soul Food

37:27 - Changes Between "Life’s a Bar" and "The Rat Race"

40:02 - The 27 Club

41:40 - Jelani’s Relationship with Tyshaia

48:00 - Penwood Productions

50:15 - What Do You Want People to Take Away from The Rat Race?

52:30 - Final Thoughts

Grammy Award-winning songwriter RNB June is back, and this convo is packed with gems! We’re chopping it up about his Grammy win, working with music legends like Chris Brown, and his creative evolution in the ever-changing music industry. From navigating collaboration vs. competition to his plans for a major rebrand, June shares it all—including how his upbringing shaped his humble yet unstoppable mindset. If you’re on the fence about pursuing your passions or want to gain some perspective on balancing success with staying grounded, this episode is for YOU!

Tune in to hear how June’s journey from rapping freestyles to crafting Grammy-winning tracks is inspiring a new wave of creativity. Whether you're a fan of R&B, pop, or just love a good story about growth and community building, you’ll definitely leave this episode feeling motivated to chase your dreams.

Follow Us:

- The Highlight Real: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thehighlightreal__/⁠

- June : https://www.instagram.com/rnbjune/

- Jhariah: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhariahw/

#thehighlightreal #podcast #rnbjune #explore #grammywinner

CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro

01:00 - How Are You?

04:36 - Competition vs Collaboration

09:14 - Trouble Collaborating?

11:20 - Recognition and Its Impact

14:32 - Parents' Upbringing Influence

17:03 - Meaning of Community

18:54 - AI in Music Industry

24:35 - Current Inspirations

27:40 - Who Inspires You?

28:19 - Writing About New Topics

30:45 - Feeling of Being a Grammy Winner

34:05 - Grammy's Impact on Opportunities

36:04 - Possible Rebrand?

39:50 - What's Next for You?

41:40 - Personal Growth and Improvement

46:15 - June Gives Jhariah His Flowers

48:18 - Outro

49:04 - Thank You for Watching