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Ever wondered how something that seems harmless could rewire your entire view of people? Zion opens the door to a rarely discussed topic that affects countless lives: pornography addiction and the objectification of women.

With remarkable vulnerability, Zion shares his personal battle with pornography addiction that spanned more than a decade, starting in fifth grade. He walks us through how what began as curiosity transformed into a coping mechanism for stress, boredom, and overwhelming emotions. This isn't just a confession – it's a roadmap for understanding how digital content consumption shapes our perception of others and ourselves.

Drawing from Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown's powerful statements, Zion examines how pornography "desensitizes your brain" until you're seeing objects instead of human beings. He explores concerning cultural trends like referring to women as "ball" and challenges listeners to recognize how language reflects deeper attitudes about humanity and worth.

What makes this conversation especially valuable is Zion's focus on recovery and alternatives. From his partnership with the Brightn journaling app to finding comfort in physical exercise, reading, and authentic relationships, he offers practical pathways forward. The broadcast channel community he's built further demonstrates his commitment to vulnerability and mutual support.

Whether you're struggling with similar issues, supporting someone who is, or simply want to understand these dynamics better, this episode provides compassionate insight without judgment. Remember Zion's powerful reminder: "You're not navigating this life alone" – and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement!

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What happens when the thing you've built your identity around becomes the source of your deepest pain? For SELYM, basketball was more than just a sport—it was his projected future. The explosive young athlete they called "Lil Westbrook" seemed destined for greatness on the court, touching rims in fifth grade and outplaying kids years older.

But beneath the athletic prowess, a storm was brewing. During his time at Phoenix College and later Langston University, SELYM found himself spiraling into depression, caught in toxic relationships, and struggling with abandonment issues. The breaking point came when heartbreak drove him to contemplate ending his life. "I didn't even feel like I was good enough anymore for anybody," he reveals with raw honesty.

Salvation came in an unexpected form. In his senior year, SELYM recorded a song simply as emotional therapy—never intending to release it. When friends heard it and insisted he share it, something remarkable happened. The track went viral around campus, leading to a performance opportunity that awakened something dormant within him. Music became more than art; it became ministry.

Today, SELYM creates Christian hip-hop that speaks directly to mental health struggles, heartbreak, and finding identity in faith rather than others' expectations. His story breaks critical barriers around Black male vulnerability while offering hope to anyone facing similar battles. As he puts it: "Be the light. Let your light so shine before men that they see you do good works which glorify your father, which is in heaven."

Follow SELYM's journey across all platforms @SELYM and experience music that doesn't just entertain—it heals. Because sometimes our greatest purpose reveals itself on the other side of our deepest pain.

We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement!

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Father and son duo tackle the controversial dismantling of the Department of Education, dispelling misconceptions and exploring potential consequences for students nationwide. They examine how this executive order could widen educational gaps between states and impact vulnerable students, especially those requiring special education services or living in underserved communities.

• Department of Education doesn't control curriculum - states have always determined what's taught in schools
• The Department was created to establish national standards and promote equal access to quality education
• Dismantling this federal agency could disproportionately affect students in rural communities and those with special needs
• IEPs (Individual Education Programs) have provided crucial support for learning disabilities, speech therapy, and other educational interventions
• Parents should engage youth in conversations about these changes since they're already hearing about them through social media
• Having uncomfortable conversations with empathy and openness creates stronger family connections
• Maintaining mental health during uncertain times requires self-awareness and appropriate coping strategies

Check out the Brighton app to help track your emotions and maintain mental wellness during these challenging times.

We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement!

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In this powerful episode of Up To It Parenting, Jamal and Zion sit down with Richard and Reid Wobby, a father-son duo making national waves in the construction industry through their work in overdose and suicide prevention. Broadcasting all the way from Vermont, the Wobbys share how they’re challenging safety directors to think beyond hard hats and harness prevention as a life-saving resource for employees. Tune in to hear how their mission is reshaping safety culture and why conversations like these are critical for the well-being of construction workers and their families.

To book Reid and Richard at your next event email Reid.Wobby@gmail.com

We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement!

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In this episode, we take a deep dive into the reality of substance use among young people, focusing on the devastating impact of fentanyl. We share the heartbreaking story of a middle schooler’s overdose and discuss the rising prevalence of drug use in schools. Jamal and Zion reflect on their own experiences, breaking down why young people turn to substances, the dangers of modern drug culture, and how parents can stay connected with their kids.

This episode isn’t about scare tactics—it’s about real talk, prevention, and equipping families with the tools to have open, honest conversations that can save lives.

We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement!

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With the U.S. Surgeon General raising awareness about parental stress, it’s time to talk solutions. In this episode, we unpack the challenges parents face and offer tools to help manage stress while fostering strong family connections.

We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement!

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Jamal and Zion dive into the world of mental health tech with Jeffery Johnston, the mind behind Brightn. They uncover the app’s mission, its user-friendly features, and why it’s a game-changer for young adults and older adults navigating life’s challenges.

We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement!

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Jamal and Zion take a deep dive into The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt, explaining why it’s a must-read for anyone raising kids today. They highlight key takeaways, explore the book’s relevance to mental health and family dynamics, and share how its lessons can strengthen parent-child relationships.

Link to book- https://www.amazon.com/Anxious-Generation-Rewiring-Childhood-Epidemic/dp/0593655036

Brightn app merch- https://www.brightn.shop/discount/uptoit10

We are so appreciative of you listening we want you to be part of the Up To It movement!

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