21 Talks with Former FBI Agent LaRae Quy

In this first of a 2-part episode of the 21 Podcast, we have a great conversation with Marcus Guillory. Marcus is an intellect, author, Hollywood writer, musician…a modern-day renaissance man. Marcus grew up in Houston, Texas, and he has deep family roots in Louisiana. His Dad was a renowned cowboy, so Marcus’ formative years were strongly influenced by a neat fusion of rodeo and Creole cultures. Marcus immerses you in the Texan Creole Culture in his novel, Red Now and Laters, which was released to critical acclaim in 2014. Throughout his education, Marcus excelled academically, and he had a particular interest in writing and music. After high school, Marcus left home to attend the University of Pennsylvania. Post college, he began a career as a successful financial analyst. His life-long passion for learning and music would soon take center stage again, guiding his move to New Orleans to attend law school at Tulane University and subsequently start a band, Taino. And while on the surface this sounds fun and sexy, for Marcus this season of his life was all about his willingness to grind and make a way where one seems unlikely. Marcus creates the life he wants, and he tells his story as only a great writer can. Marcus’ drive and work ethic are unmatched. And while he lives what most would deem the ‘glamorous Hollywood life’, at his core Marcus is the authentic, smart, Southern guy who you would love catching up with over a bourbon, BBQ, and cigar. Enjoy this episode of 21!

19 Huhti 202156min

On this episode of the 21 Podcast, we talk with Evelyn Bennett, a National Vice President, and Independent Consultant for Arbonne, a company that provides products that support a holistic approach to beauty, health, and well-being. Evelyn is no stranger to hard work, and she contributes her work ethic to lessons learned from her Mom at a very early age. While in college and playing basketball, Evelyn interned for a local news station. Post College, she continued her career pursuits in broadcasting, eventually becoming a very successful TV news producer in Reno, Nevada. Evelyn, like many of us, experienced a season when she realized that she had to set clear intentions related to the life she wanted to design for herself and for her family. It was then that Evelyn decided to bet on herself and become an entrepreneur. She knew that she could earn money and build a business that provides the flexibility to be fully present for her family. When she initially started her Arbonne business, Evelyn kept her full-time job. During this time, she did not cut corners. She consistently ‘worked her business’ and invested in her development. She studied every aspect of her venture, and devoted time to daily reading. (Some ingredients for success never change. Readers are leaders.) As you listen to this episode, challenge yourself to reconsider that side hustle you have wanted to start for years. Or engineer ways to shift your work schedule to allow more time for your family and self-care. We all have the ability to design the lives that we want. Let’s do it, 21 Family! Enjoy this episode of 21! *Episode Disclaimer - Fewer than 1% of Arbonne Consultants are at the National Vice President Level. Arbonne makes no promises or guarantees that any Independent Consultant will be financially successful. The annual typical earning statement is available at earnings.arbonne.com.*

5 Huhti 202134min

On this segment of 21, we talk with Vanessa Scott, Director of Accounting for the Houston Dynamo & Dash. Vanessa is native Houstonian who attended Westside High School. Vanessa has a tough job, in a tough industry. She attributes her mental toughness to a life lesson her Mom taught her in the 6thgrade. Listen as Vanessa describes this ‘life moment’ that probably shifted her career trajectory, even at this early age. After graduating high school, Vanessa decided to attend Tulane University where she majored in Finance and Spanish. Vanessa knew that she wanted a career connected to professional sports, so she created a network within the sports arena and applied for several positions. She eventually landed a job with the Houston Rockets, and subsequently reunited with a former boss when she joined the Dynamo & Dash to lead their accounting function. Another reminder, 21 listeners, to the power of relationships and building your network. Vanessa is committed to her personal life-long learning and the development of others. Vanessa leads with a spirit of kindness, while holding others accountable to deliver their best. She is a role model to many who are looking to have successful careers in sports operations. When not at work, Vanessa, and her family support various volunteer community projects. She is also a dog lover; Vanessa’s dog even makes a cameo during our recording session! Enjoy this episode of 21!

27 Maalis 202142min

This episode of the 21 podcast is dedicated to the memory of Drew’s cousin, Amanda Sampson. Amanda was a loving mother and daughter who leaves us too soon. May the joy she brought to her family continue in all that they do. On this episode of the 21 Podcast, we team up once again with Linda Lorelle. Linda is a pillar in the Houston community. She is a former news anchor for KPRC, Houston’s NBC Affiliate. With her podcast, Our Voices Matter, Linda remains a master storyteller, committed to being a megaphone for causes that change our world for the better. In our conversation, we simply learn more about Linda, the person. From her upbringing in Chicago, to her college years at Stanford, to her dance career in New York, to her ‘chance’ meeting in a restaurant that transformed her career. Linda has worked very hard during her career, but more important, she has been strategic. Linda is very intentional; every career opportunity had a specific purpose and she knew how to create pathways to her next step. If you are a fan of Linda (like the 21 Family is!), you are going to enjoy this listen. March is Women’s History Month, which was established to highlight the contributions of women in society, in business, in the arts, and in our homes. In the spirit of Women’s History Month, we thank Linda, and all the women who have joined our podcast. Most of all, we thank the women in our lives, especially Vera Lott (Drew’s Grandmother) and Dr. Carol Yvonne Plummer Harris (Yvonne’s Mom) who continue to serve as the inspiration for this podcast. Enjoy this episode of 21!

18 Maalis 20211h 3min

On this segment of 21, we talk with Valerie Holland, Houston Dynamo & Dash Director of Community Relations and Dynamo Charities. Valerie is relatively new to Houston, a transplant from Colorado and an alum of Colorado State University and University of Colorado Denver. Prior to moving to Houston, Valerie started her career in sports operations in the Denver area. 21 listeners, Valerie is another testament to the benefits of internships and being open to opportunities! Valerie impressively obtained her advanced degree while working full time. Listen as she describes how she managed her schedule to ensure that she excelled at both work and her studies. Another reminder, that the grind is available to all who want it bad enough. In her current position with the Dynamo & Dash, Valerie is a real difference maker in the Houston community. She leads efforts to connect more youth to the sport of soccer, including the support of schools that want to start or build a soccer program for their students. As you get to know Valerie, you can tell that she is living out her purpose. She loves her job, and she is passionate about being a role model for young women. To this end, Valerie is driving the planning efforts for the Dynamo & Dash celebration of International Women’s Day 2021. The event is geared towards coaches and student athletes, and will highlight successful women in professional soccer, both players and leaders in operations. Just another day in the office for Valerie…a day that sends moregoodness into our community. Enjoy this episode of 21!

7 Maalis 202144min

On this segment of 21, we spend time with Jonathan “JD” Messinger. JD is a graduate of the US Naval Academy and served our country as a nuclear submarine officer. JD had a successful corporate career, as he rose through the ranks to become CEO of Ernest & Young in SE Asia. It was during that time that he had a self-described wake-up call, which transformed how he views success, and propelled him into his true purpose. Thankfully, JD was called to share this experience with others. In his book, 11 Days in May, JD describes his near-death experience which catapulted him into a spiritual awakening. His insights and lessons have inspired countless others to maximize their potential by aligning their careers with their higher callings. JD is a modern-day Renaissance Man and pre-eminent thought leader on the connection between our spiritual lives and professional lives. His most recent book release, Manifesto for Change describes the ‘great awakening’ that humanity is currently experiencing. Enjoy this episode of 21!

1 Maalis 202157min

On this segment of 21, spend time with John Anderson. John is the Head Basketball Coach for Scottsdale Christian Academy, and one of Drew’s former teammates. John played high school basketball at Scottdale Christian (where he now coaches), and his success as a player afforded him the opportunity to attend Pointe Loma Nazarene University (PLNU). At PNLU, John dedicated the time needed as an underclassman to evolve his game; he went into ‘the lab.’ This intense focus and dedication led to him becoming the school’s all-time block leader, with 241 blocks! Post college, John followed in the family tradition by becoming an entrepreneur and starting his career a coach. Family has always been at the core of John’s ‘why.’ Throughout his life, John has been blessed to have a strong support system from his family, which extended to his teammates. Today, John calls his players his family, and he still considers many of his former teammates his brothers. John’s wife and children are his greatest priority…and he beams with pride as he talks about his wife’s talent as a photographer! Listen as John provides sage advice and lessons learned from the various season of his life, with humility and a quiet sense of humor. And of course, John shares a hilarious ‘Drew Story’. Another reminder, 21 listeners, that Drew, oceans, and beaches may not be an ideal mix. Enjoy this episode of 21!

13 Helmi 20211h 5min

On this segment of 21, we talk with Emmy-winning, beloved news anchor for KHOU 11 News in Houston, Mia Gradney. Mia is a proud, native Houstonian and graduate of Sam Houston State University (Go Bearkats!). She pursued a degree in Radio/Television due in large part to a seed of advice planted by a mentor. After college, Mia started her TV career behind the scenes, making her on-screen debut in cities outside of Houston. She eventually returned to Houston and has been welcomed into our homes for over 20 years. Mia’s warm smile, smart reporting, and generous spirit are an important part of our city’s news landscape. Mia has covered major events that have impacted our city, our country, and our lives. She has also had fun sharing sports and entertainment stories. Mia’s greatest gift to our community, however, comes from her commitment to report on the tough stories that empower and inform. She led a powerful news segment that highlighted the maternal mortality and morbidity issue that has been a silent health crisis in Houston. When she is not on the air, Mia enjoys time with her husband, daughter, and family. She also makes time to support various volunteer/charity efforts in our community. Enjoy this episode of 21, and check Mia out at 5:00, 6:00, and 10:00 pm on KHOU.

28 Tammi 20211h 1min