Verbally Effective Podcast

Verbally Effective with Ena Esco is a topical interview-style podcast that intersects art, culture, politics and entertainment. Each week Ena is joined by a featured artist, entertainer, elected official or professional with roots in Memphis. Verbally Effective delves into each guest’s personal journey to uncover the incredible stories fueling their purpose, the highs and lows of their pursuits, and how through their passion they are moving the culture forward.

Verbally Effective Podcast is a society podcast hosted by Unknown Host, with 0 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Unknown Host hosts Verbally Effective Podcast, a society show with 0 episodes published.

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  Episode #320

  A Life in Music: Kirk Whalum on Memphis, Ministry & the Music Business

  Aug 18, 202625 minS2

  On this reflective episode, I sit down with Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum for a conversation about music, Memphis, creativity and the journey behind the sound. Kirk takes us beyond the stage and into the experiences that shaped his remarkable career—from his Memphis roots and early musical influences to becoming one of the most celebrated saxophonists of his generation. We talk about the evolution of his sound, navigating the music industry, collaborating with some of the biggest names in music and what it takes to remain creatively inspired after decades in the business. We also discuss the importance of faith, purpose, mentorship and using your gifts to create opportunities for the next generation.This is more than a conversation about a Grammy-winning career. It's a conversation about finding your voice, staying true to your purpose and understanding that your greatest contribution may be the legacy you leave behind.

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  Episode #319

  Making “Hoop Street”: Dreams, Sacrifice & Memphis with Teresa Dickerson

  Aug 13, 202653 minS2

  In this episode, I sit down with Teresa Dickerson, CEO of Isaiah 54 Films, award-winning director, writer and executive producer of the Memphis film “Hoop Street.” We reminisce about our college days, sisterhood and those early radio experiences that taught us lessons about storytelling, resilience, relationships and navigating the media industry. Teresa takes us through her evolution from radio to corporate leadership, including her work as an award-winning Director of Community Investment with the Memphis Grizzlies and later Kroger. But while building her corporate career, she was quietly building another dream - becoming a filmmaker. She shares what it took to finally walk away from corporate America and bet on herself, investing in her vision to create Hoop Street which is a film deeply rooted in Memphis and powered by Memphis talent. With 99% of the cast and production team coming from Memphis, Teresa talks about the heart work, sacrifice and community support that made the film possible. And the journey hasn't stopped there. Hoop Street has traveled from Paretà, Italy, to Las Vegas, NV and beyond earning recognition and awards along the way on the film festival circuit. We also have a candid conversation about Black women in leadership, navigating male-dominated industries, misogyny, finding your voice and knowing when it's time to bet on yourself. Plus, Teresa gives us an exclusive tease about what's next for Isaiah 54 Films.

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  Episode #318

  Once a Magician, Always a Magician: Tracy L. Miller on the Power of Giving Back

  Aug 11, 202621 minS2

  What does it mean to truly love your alma mater? In this Verbally Effective: Magic 807 Sessions with Ena Esco, Ena talks with Tracy L. Miller, LOC Class of 1994, about his journey from LeMoyne-Owen College to a successful career as a retired railroad industry executive. Tracy takes us back to the HBCU experience of the mid-’90s, sharing why he chose LOC, what made the culture special, and why the institution continues to hold a special place in his heart. Recorded during 807 Giving Day, Tracy explains why he makes giving to LOC an annual commitment and challenges fellow alumni to think beyond a donation to think about building financial literacy, creating opportunities, and opening pathways for the next generation of Magicians.

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  Episode #317

  The Intersection of Faith, Justice & Civic Engagement with Dr. Earle Fisher

  Jul 30, 202640 minS2

  On this episode of Verbally Effective, host Ena Esco welcomes Dr. Earle J. Fisher—Assistant Professor and Dean of Chapel at LeMoyne-Owen College, Senior Pastor of Abyssinian Baptist Church, and Founder of Up The Vote 901—for a thought-provoking conversation on faith, education, civic engagement, and the issues shaping our communities. Dr. Fisher discusses his work at LeMoyne-Owen College, where he is committed to developing the next generation of critical thinkers, servant leaders, and engaged citizens. He shares how education, faith, and community advocacy intersect to empower students and inspire meaningful change beyond the classroom. The conversation also explores Memphis' Souls to the Polls initiative and the ongoing importance of voter education, civic participation, and collective action. Dr. Fisher explains how faith leaders and community organizations are working together to increase voter engagement and strengthen democracy at the local level. Additionally, Ena and Dr. Fisher discuss the public reaction to the Karmelo Anthony verdict, examining the broader conversations surrounding justice, accountability, public perception, and the responsibility of communities to engage in thoughtful dialogue during difficult moments.

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  Episode #316

  Beyond the Headlines: Pepper Baker on Journalism, Political Coverage & Future of Local News

  Jul 28, 202653 minS2

  On this episode of Verbally Effective, host Ena Esco welcomes ABC24 News anchor and reporter Pepper Baker for an inspiring conversation about journalism, community, and the future of local news. Pepper shares her journey from Tallahassee, Florida, to the anchor desk in Memphis, reflecting on her path through UMass Boston and Columbia University, her experiences as a former collegiate volleyball player, and the stories that have shaped her award-winning career in broadcast journalism. She also discusses her Emmy-nominated reporting, the responsibility of informing the public, and why authentic storytelling remains at the heart of her work. Together, Ena and Pepper explore how local news is evolving in the digital age, the importance of making politics and civic issues accessible, what happens behind the scenes in a newsroom, and how journalists can build trust while staying connected to the communities they serve. They also bond over their shared volleyball backgrounds and discuss why Memphis has become a city they're both proud to call home.

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