In this episode of Behind the Story, host Jelani Gonzalez sits down with Rajiv “Raj” Nathan, the dynamic founder of Startup Hypeman, to uncover how storytelling drives startup success.Raj shares how his journey from hip-hop performer to pitch coach taught him that the real hype starts within. He breaks down his storytelling framework, lessons in authenticity, and how to turn a simple pitch into a powerful narrative that investors, customers, and audiences remember.If you’ve ever struggled to explain your vision clearly — or you want to learn how to tell your story with purpose and power — this episode is for you.
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How Ceri Jones Tretter Turned Pain into Purpose Through The Collaboratory
In this episode of Behind the Story, Jelani Gonzalez speaks with Ceri Jones Tretter, founder of The Collaboratory, a creative school and trauma healing ministry. Ceri shares her powerful journey from corporate executive to spiritual artist and healer — opening up about loss, faith, and how creativity became a path to healing and transformation.
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Behind The Story: Lynne Lambert
In this episode of Behind The Story, host Jelani Gonzalez sits down with Lynne Lambert, actress turned entrepreneur and founder of NYC Subway Line®, the iconic fashion brand inspired by New York's legendary subway system. From Broadway stages to business success, Lynne shares how she transformed her love for New York City into a global lifestyle brand that celebrates urban energy, movement, and identity. She reveals the creative spark that started it all, her journey navigating licensing with the MTA, and what it takes to build an authentic brand that resonates worldwide.
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AI Is Rewriting Marketing: Joe Peña Explains How to Stay Ahead
In this episode, Jelani talks with Joe Anthony about how AI is transforming digital marketing. Joe explains how AI speeds up SEO, boosts Google Business Profiles, automates tasks, and helps agencies scale with smaller teams. They also discuss AI “stacking,” creating realistic video avatars, tailoring content for each platform, and the importance of strong branding. Joe shares real examples, industry trends, and how staying human, communicative, and strategic keeps marketing effective in the AI era.
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From Detroit to Wild ’N Out: The Spanky Hayes Story
In this episode of Behind the Story, host Jelani sits down with comedian Spanky Hayes to talk about his Detroit upbringing, the grind of breaking into comedy, and the wild journey from open mics to Wild ’N Out. Spanky opens up about family, fame, and the state of comedy today — unfiltered, hilarious, and real.
Step inside the stories that shape today's culture and innovation. In Behind the Story, host Jelani sits down with extraordinary people-from an American Music Award-winning songwriter to entrepreneurs reinventing skincare, from a sharp-witted comedians and actors to politicians
Each conversation uncovers the turning points, challenges, and creative sparks that define their journeys. Whether they're making music, building businesses, or shaping policy, these guests share candid insights on resilience, purpose, and what it really takes to create lasting impact.
If you love authentic conversations that inspire and connect, this is the podcast you won't want to miss.
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