<![CDATA[Leave It Better Podcast with Dwain Daniels]]>https://www.leaveitbetterpod.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Thu, 27 Aug 2026 01:35:18 GMTThu, 09 Jul 2026 17:29:55 GMT60Dwain DanielsLeave It Better is more than a podcast — it’s a movement to live with purpose, build a legacy, and make an impact that lasts. Through real stories and authentic conversations, Dwain Daniels invites you to pause, reflect, and be inspired. Each episode feels personal, like sitting with a friend who wants to see you win. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What kind of mark will I leave behind?” — this podcast is for you. Listen, watch, and be inspired to leave it better. Remember, when you leave, leave it better.episodicDwain Danielsdwaind@gmail.comno<![CDATA[Episode 12: Kenneth E.Morris: Every Challenge is a Runway]]>Kenneth E. Morris shares his inspiring journey from growing up in the Fifth Ward to becoming a United States Navy combat veteran and a commercial pilot. He discusses the challenges he faced, the pivotal moments that shaped his path, and the experiences of being a veteran. The conversation also delves into the importance of supporting veterans and addressing racial profiling. Kenneth Morris shares his journey of resilience, gratitude, and community impact, from overcoming personal and professional challenges to inspiring young people to pursue careers in aviation. He also discusses the creation of a coloring book to showcase diverse career opportunities in aviation and the life-changing experience of being selected for a program that turned veterans into pilots. Kenneth Morris shares his experience as the only black student at a flight school, the impact of having instructors of similar skin complexion, and the importance of leaving a positive legacy. He emphasizes the value of mentorship and giving back to the community.

Takeaways

  • Resilience
  • Exposure Resilience
  • Gratitude
  • Community Impact
  • Diverse Career Opportunities
  • Life-Changing Experience Representation Matters
  • Mentorship and Giving Back
  • Leaving a Positive Legacy

Chapters

  • 00:00 From the Fifth Ward to the Navy
  • 01:34 Navigating Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
  • 03:16 Discovering Aviation and Overcoming Fear
  • 09:42 The Navy Experience and Camaraderie
  • 18:11 Transitioning as a Veteran
  • 22:03 Addressing Racial Profiling and Supporting Veterans
  • 23:26 Resilience and Gratitude
  • 32:51 Inspiring Young People in Aviation
  • 38:56 Creating the Coloring Book
  • 44:32 Life-Changing Experience
  • 47:20 Navigating as the Only Black Student
  • 48:14 The Impact of Instructors of Similar Skin Complexion
  • 51:19 Leaving a Positive Legacy and Giving Back
  • 55:24 The Power of Mentorship and Representation
  • 59:11 Leaving a Positive Legacy and Impactful Relationships
]]>563c3ea8-cbd5-4f7b-840b-445febb30dc7Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:37:06 GMT<p>Kenneth E. Morris shares his inspiring journey from growing up in the Fifth Ward to becoming a United States Navy combat veteran and a commercial pilot. He discusses the challenges he faced, the pivotal moments that shaped his path, and the experiences of being a veteran. The conversation also delves into the importance of supporting veterans and addressing racial profiling. Kenneth Morris shares his journey of resilience, gratitude, and community impact, from overcoming personal and professional challenges to inspiring young people to pursue careers in aviation. He also discusses the creation of a coloring book to showcase diverse career opportunities in aviation and the life-changing experience of being selected for a program that turned veterans into pilots. Kenneth Morris shares his experience as the only black student at a flight school, the impact of having instructors of similar skin complexion, and the importance of leaving a positive legacy. He emphasizes the value of mentorship and giving back to the community.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Resilience</li><li>Exposure Resilience</li><li>Gratitude</li><li>Community Impact</li><li>Diverse Career Opportunities</li><li>Life-Changing Experience Representation Matters</li><li>Mentorship and Giving Back</li><li>Leaving a Positive Legacy</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 From the Fifth Ward to the Navy</li><li>01:34 Navigating Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles</li><li>03:16 Discovering Aviation and Overcoming Fear</li><li>09:42 The Navy Experience and Camaraderie</li><li>18:11 Transitioning as a Veteran</li><li>22:03 Addressing Racial Profiling and Supporting Veterans</li><li>23:26 Resilience and Gratitude</li><li>32:51 Inspiring Young People in Aviation</li><li>38:56 Creating the Coloring Book</li><li>44:32 Life-Changing Experience</li><li>47:20 Navigating as the Only Black Student</li><li>48:14 The Impact of Instructors of Similar Skin Complexion</li><li>51:19 Leaving a Positive Legacy and Giving Back</li><li>55:24 The Power of Mentorship and Representation</li><li>59:11 Leaving a Positive Legacy and Impactful Relationships</li></ul>no01:07:50112Episode 12: Kenneth E.Morris: Every Challenge is a Runwayfull<![CDATA[Jordan Lovell-Smith: Financial Literacy as Liberation]]>Trailer for episode 11!! How often do you pause before making a purchase?

]]>528d3bab-75f5-4039-b183-77a5d6697efbTue, 14 Jul 2026 22:22:41 GMT<p>Trailer for episode 11!! How often do you pause before making a purchase?</p>no00:00:44Jordan Lovell-Smith: Financial Literacy as Liberationtrailer<![CDATA[EP: 11 Jordan Lovell-Smith: Financial Literacy as Liberation]]>In this insightful interview, Dwain Daniels speaks with Jordan LaVelle-Smith about her journey into financial literacy, her innovative approaches to teaching money management, and the importance of mental health and community support in financial education. Discover practical tips, personal stories, and strategies to improve your relationship with money and build a legacy. In this insightful conversation, Jordan shares practical advice on investing, saving, and financial literacy, emphasizing the importance of grace, intentionality, and community support in building wealth and leaving a legacy.

]]>e14fa4ac-2286-4960-a2a5-173cc9192dfbTue, 14 Jul 2026 22:20:12 GMT<p>In this insightful interview, Dwain Daniels speaks with Jordan LaVelle-Smith about her journey into financial literacy, her innovative approaches to teaching money management, and the importance of mental health and community support in financial education. Discover practical tips, personal stories, and strategies to improve your relationship with money and build a legacy. In this insightful conversation, Jordan shares practical advice on investing, saving, and financial literacy, emphasizing the importance of grace, intentionality, and community support in building wealth and leaving a legacy.</p>no01:26:37111EP: 11 Jordan Lovell-Smith: Financial Literacy as Liberationfull<![CDATA[Episode 9-Tony Porter: Being Responsible for the Space You Take Up]]>Most men are trapped in the "man box" a society-mandated cage of toughness, emotional suppression, and disconnection from women and their own feelings. Tony Porter, founder of A Call to Men and author of Breaking Out of the Man Box, reveals how this restrictive socialization keeps us silent about mental health, fuels violence against women, and prevents authentic connection. But more importantly, he shares the empowering path to redefine manhood, foster vulnerability, and create a new legacy for future generations.

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/Episode-9-Tony-Porter-Being-Responsible-for-the-Space-You-Take-Up-e3gh1mm61822df5-480f-4896-be6c-c08ba2d266c7Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:00:06 GMT<p>Most men are trapped in the "man box" a society-mandated cage of toughness, emotional suppression, and disconnection from women and their own feelings. Tony Porter, founder of <em>A Call to Men</em> and author of <em>Breaking Out of the Man Box</em>, reveals how this restrictive socialization keeps us silent about mental health, fuels violence against women, and prevents authentic connection. But more importantly, he shares the empowering path to redefine manhood, foster vulnerability, and create a new legacy for future generations.</p> no01:02:0219Episode 9-Tony Porter: Being Responsible for the Space You Take Upfull<![CDATA[Episode 3: Leading with Purpose: A Conversation with Dr. Nadira Ramcharan]]>In this episode of the Leave It Better podcast, host Dwain Daniels speaks with Dr. Nadira Ramcharan about her journey into consulting, the importance of planning and taking leaps of faith, and the challenges of self-doubt. They discuss the significance of having a strong support system, leading with purpose, and defining personal success and freedom. Nadira shares her insights on the 1% rule for progress and the legacy she hopes to create, emphasizing the need for authenticity and vulnerability in leadership.

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/Episode-3-Leading-with-Purpose-A-Conversation-with-Dr--Nadira-Ramcharan-e395if9ee473f8c-d47f-40aa-92c2-835e5ecd8ff8Mon, 06 Oct 2025 14:36:46 GMT<p>In this episode of the Leave It Better podcast, host Dwain Daniels speaks with Dr. Nadira Ramcharan about her journey into consulting, the importance of planning and taking leaps of faith, and the challenges of self-doubt. They discuss the significance of having a strong support system, leading with purpose, and defining personal success and freedom. Nadira shares her insights on the 1% rule for progress and the legacy she hopes to create, emphasizing the need for authenticity and vulnerability in leadership.</p> no00:47:3513Episode 3: Leading with Purpose: A Conversation with Dr. Nadira Ramcharanfull<![CDATA[Episode 8: Franchesca and Anthony: Walking the Same Road—Then Choosing Your Own]]>The conversation explores the power of mentorship and support, highlighting the impact of a strong mentor-mentee relationship in the field of education. It also delves into the shaping of educational leadership styles through personal experiences and interactions. The conversation delves into the themes of authenticity in teaching, overcoming pressure to conform, teaching as a calling, recognizing one's calling, navigating career crossroads, achieving personal and professional goals, and the power of mentorship and support. The speakers share personal experiences, cultural influences, and the impact of mentorship on their teaching careers, highlighting the significance of authenticity, purpose, and support in the education profession. The conversation delves into the power of showing up, leaving a space better than you found it, and the influence of reaching one person at a time. It emphasizes the impact of small actions and the importance of making a positive difference in the lives of others.Takeaways* Mentorship and Support* Educational Leadership Authenticity* Mentorship Showing up is powerful* Leaving a space better than you found it* Influence is about reaching one person at a time

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/Episode-8-Franchesca-and-Anthony-Walking-the-Same-RoadThen-Choosing-Your-Own-e3fepd530030102-3b22-4f6c-a620-51b388a8bbbaSun, 22 Feb 2026 18:13:54 GMT<p>The conversation explores the power of mentorship and support, highlighting the impact of a strong mentor-mentee relationship in the field of education. It also delves into the shaping of educational leadership styles through personal experiences and interactions. The conversation delves into the themes of authenticity in teaching, overcoming pressure to conform, teaching as a calling, recognizing one's calling, navigating career crossroads, achieving personal and professional goals, and the power of mentorship and support. The speakers share personal experiences, cultural influences, and the impact of mentorship on their teaching careers, highlighting the significance of authenticity, purpose, and support in the education profession. The conversation delves into the power of showing up, leaving a space better than you found it, and the influence of reaching one person at a time. It emphasizes the impact of small actions and the importance of making a positive difference in the lives of others.Takeaways* Mentorship and Support* Educational Leadership Authenticity* Mentorship Showing up is powerful* Leaving a space better than you found it* Influence is about reaching one person at a time<br /></p> no01:07:5218Episode 8: Franchesca and Anthony: Walking the Same Road—Then Choosing Your Ownfull<![CDATA[Episode 5: Joel Leon Daniels-Stories That Leave Us Better]]>In this heartfelt episode, Dwain Daniels and his brother Joél Leon explore the transformative power of storytelling and its impact on personal growth and healing. They delve into Joél's journey from rapper to writer, discussing pivotal moments that shaped his career and personal life. The conversation touches on themes of grief, legacy, and the importance of community, offering listeners a deep and authentic look into the lives of two brothers navigating their paths with intention and love.

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/Episode-5-Joel-Leon-Daniels-Stories-That-Leave-Us-Better-e3b34h31ed2a816-5fb7-4e1c-a57a-fc90578f6fa7Mon, 17 Nov 2025 14:54:22 GMT<p>In this heartfelt episode, Dwain Daniels and his brother Joél Leon explore the transformative power of storytelling and its impact on personal growth and healing. They delve into Joél's journey from rapper to writer, discussing pivotal moments that shaped his career and personal life. The conversation touches on themes of grief, legacy, and the importance of community, offering listeners a deep and authentic look into the lives of two brothers navigating their paths with intention and love.</p> no00:52:18Episode 5: Joel Leon Daniels-Stories That Leave Us Betterfull<![CDATA[Episode 2 – Carmen Jones: Leading with Grace & Grit]]>In this episode of the Leave It Better podcast, host Dwain Daniels interviews Carmen Jones, an entrepreneur and founder of the Black Girl Social Club. They discuss Carmen's journey from education to entrepreneurship, the importance of community, and the challenges of leadership. Carmen shares her experiences of building a network for Black women, the significance of self-care, and the lessons learned from failure. The conversation emphasizes the need for grace and grit in both personal and professional life, and the impact of leaving spaces better than they were found.

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/Episode-2--Carmen-Jones-Leading-with-Grace--Grit-e38i3r6c8a593b7-862d-46e6-9d74-5022eff422dfMon, 22 Sep 2025 12:20:09 GMT<p>In this episode of the Leave It Better podcast, host Dwain Daniels interviews Carmen Jones, an entrepreneur and founder of the Black Girl Social Club. They discuss Carmen's journey from education to entrepreneurship, the importance of community, and the challenges of leadership. Carmen shares her experiences of building a network for Black women, the significance of self-care, and the lessons learned from failure. The conversation emphasizes the need for grace and grit in both personal and professional life, and the impact of leaving spaces better than they were found.</p> yes00:54:3412Episode 2 – Carmen Jones: Leading with Grace & Gritfull<![CDATA[EP 4: Game Changing Leadership with Devon Bandison]]>In this episode of the Leave It Better podcast, host Dwain Daniels welcomes Devon Bandison, a transformative coach and mentor. They discuss the importance of leaving every room better than you found it, the power of commitment in personal growth, and the significance of vulnerability in leadership. Devon shares his journey of transformation, emphasizing that feelings do not dictate who we are and that we can choose how to respond. The conversation also touches on defining success on one's own terms, the nature of relationships, and the impact of integrity. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to take action, honor their feelings, and create a better world through intentional interactions.

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/EP-4-Game-Changing-Leadership-with-Devon-Bandison-e3a2h9ga4eb17d8-8e85-4e58-897a-0647222e0b5bMon, 27 Oct 2025 13:00:00 GMT<p>In this episode of the Leave It Better podcast, host Dwain Daniels welcomes Devon Bandison, a transformative coach and mentor. They discuss the importance of leaving every room better than you found it, the power of commitment in personal growth, and the significance of vulnerability in leadership. Devon shares his journey of transformation, emphasizing that feelings do not dictate who we are and that we can choose how to respond. The conversation also touches on defining success on one's own terms, the nature of relationships, and the impact of integrity. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to take action, honor their feelings, and create a better world through intentional interactions.</p> no00:53:0814EP 4: Game Changing Leadership with Devon Bandisonfull<![CDATA[Why We Leave It Better]]>In the inaugural episode of the Leave It Better podcast, host Dwain Daniels shares his personal journey and the inspiration behind creating a platform dedicated to leaving a positive impact on the world. Reflecting on his life experiences, especially turning 50, Dwain emphasizes the importance of legacy, authenticity, and the small actions that contribute to a better community. He aims to foster hope and connection through meaningful conversations, encouraging listeners to show up for others and leave spaces better than they found them.

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/Why-We-Leave-It-Better-e37tvi7cf515667-7f3a-4646-a3aa-d033371ae1c5Sun, 07 Sep 2025 23:34:20 GMT<p>In the inaugural episode of the Leave It Better podcast, host Dwain Daniels shares his personal journey and the inspiration behind creating a platform dedicated to leaving a positive impact on the world. Reflecting on his life experiences, especially turning 50, Dwain emphasizes the importance of legacy, authenticity, and the small actions that contribute to a better community. He aims to foster hope and connection through meaningful conversations, encouraging listeners to show up for others and leave spaces better than they found them.<br /></p> no00:21:0711Why We Leave It Betterfull<![CDATA[Episode 6-Jessica Contreas-Living Life Magical: Purpose, Presence & the Power of Self]]>In this engaging conversation, Jessica Contreras shares her journey from reality TV star to a dedicated advocate for the transgender community and a passionate researcher. She discusses her personal growth, the importance of self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating relationships and parenting. Jessica emphasizes the significance of spirituality and manifestation in her life, while also highlighting her commitment to community engagement and empowerment. As she looks towards the future, she expresses her aspirations for property ownership and the importance of leaving every situation better than she found it.

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/Episode-6-Jessica-Contreas-Living-Life-Magical-Purpose--Presence--the-Power-of-Self-e3clt7t7c9ca666-b923-4f81-968a-fc508d64689dMon, 22 Dec 2025 14:00:00 GMT<p>In this engaging conversation, Jessica Contreras shares her journey from reality TV star to a dedicated advocate for the transgender community and a passionate researcher. She discusses her personal growth, the importance of self-discovery, and the challenges of navigating relationships and parenting. Jessica emphasizes the significance of spirituality and manifestation in her life, while also highlighting her commitment to community engagement and empowerment. As she looks towards the future, she expresses her aspirations for property ownership and the importance of leaving every situation better than she found it.</p> yes00:52:0816Episode 6-Jessica Contreas-Living Life Magical: Purpose, Presence & the Power of Selffull<![CDATA[Episode 7 with Nancy Ruffin: Coming Home to Yourself and Reclaiming Who You Truly Are!]]>The conversation delves into the themes of embracing imperfection, trusting one's intuition, and the importance of self-care and self-reflection. It explores the challenges and growth associated with these themes, providing valuable insights and perspectives on personal development and well-being. The conversation delves into the themes of continuous growth, reinvention, and self-improvement, emphasizing the importance of valuing spaces and relationships, healing without pressure, and practicing patience and trust in the process.

]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/Episode-7-with-Nancy-Ruffin-Coming-Home-to-Yourself-and-Reclaiming-Who-You-Truly-Are-e3e7r5pdc69011f-a96d-4302-a142-add1b703e2b8Mon, 26 Jan 2026 23:11:39 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the themes of embracing imperfection, trusting one's intuition, and the importance of self-care and self-reflection. It explores the challenges and growth associated with these themes, providing valuable insights and perspectives on personal development and well-being. The conversation delves into the themes of continuous growth, reinvention, and self-improvement, emphasizing the importance of valuing spaces and relationships, healing without pressure, and practicing patience and trust in the process.</p> no01:01:5317Episode 7 with Nancy Ruffin: Coming Home to Yourself and Reclaiming Who You Truly Are!full<![CDATA[Episode 10: Aysha Schomburg: Leadership, Grace, and the Power to Belong ]]>Most leaders say they’re committed to service, Aysha Schomburg exemplifies it. As the President and CEO of Healing New York, she shares how intentionally expanding the room for marginalized voices creates ripples of real change. When a black woman steps into a space traditionally inaccessible, she doesn’t just enter, she opens doors wider for others to follow. This episode reveals how living a purpose of service, love, and humility fuels transformative leadership, especially in difficult environments. Aysha’s journey from Brooklyn roots to leading a 150-year-old organization dedicated to healing speaks to the power of authenticity and intentionality. She discusses the importance of representation, navigating predominantly white spaces, and the vital role of confidence and preparation in breaking barriers. Her story is rich with lessons on resilience, serving with love, and the profound impact of fostering community driven change. She shares how her leadership style centered on vulnerability and humility and models the values that uplift and empower others, especially in high-stakes settings like child welfare and advocacy.


]]>https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dwain-daniels/episodes/Episode-10-Aysha-Schomburg-Leadership--Grace--and-the-Power-to-Belong-e3ir88q18b4f2f7-b239-4892-a00c-7cfd324e0194Mon, 04 May 2026 13:00:00 GMT<p>Most leaders say they’re committed to service, Aysha Schomburg exemplifies it. As the President and CEO of Healing New York, she shares how intentionally expanding the room for marginalized voices creates ripples of real change. When a black woman steps into a space traditionally inaccessible, she doesn’t just enter, she opens doors wider for others to follow. This episode reveals how living a purpose of service, love, and humility fuels transformative leadership, especially in difficult environments. Aysha’s journey from Brooklyn roots to leading a 150-year-old organization dedicated to healing speaks to the power of authenticity and intentionality. She discusses the importance of representation, navigating predominantly white spaces, and the vital role of confidence and preparation in breaking barriers. Her story is rich with lessons on resilience, serving with love, and the profound impact of fostering community driven change. She shares how her leadership style centered on vulnerability and humility and models the values that uplift and empower others, especially in high-stakes settings like child welfare and advocacy.</p><ul><p><br /></p></ul> no00:46:37110Episode 10: Aysha Schomburg: Leadership, Grace, and the Power to Belong full