//podcastplus.net/feed/start-now-with-armani-rei~7406c291 Start now is a podcast about topical issues designed to get people to think about what is going on in the world around us and how we all can be a part of positive, transformative change. Start Now is meant to be informative and engaging while encouraging and motivating people to start where they are and with the resources they have to make a difference in their local, national and global communities. You have to start somewhere and you have to start sometime, so why not Start Now! Fri, 17 Apr 2026 05:32:12 +0000 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/30133604/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-2-28%2F6d9b40c3-606e-a69c-cf90-8319e5c50563.mp3 In this episode of Start Now, we celebrate black history by exploring the rich cultures of Zambia and Haiti. I am joined by my dear friends, Irvin and Patrick, who share funny tales of growing up within their cultures as well as what makes their countries amazing. From caterpillars, to grubs, beautiful mountainous islands and amazing towering waterfalls, to "unusual" Haitian home remedies, this is a not to miss conversation! I would like to give a special "shout out" to my beautiful and talented co-host, Ms. Tatiana Daguillard.   For more great Start Now episodes, subscribe to Armani Rei on YouTube or like and follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, @armanirei   Start Now is available on your favorite streaming platform including Spotify, Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Buzzsprout, Anchor and more!   Guest Bios:  Irvin Chikoti: Irvin was born and raised in Zambia, where he worked in both Zambia and London before coming to the United States. Se... Sun, 28 Mar 2021 04:53:01 +0000 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/30133604/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-2-28%2F6d9b40c3-606e-a69c-cf90-8319e5c50563.mp3 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/29004481/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-2-15%2F15056c81-1395-5d94-1147-d89642bd0327.mp3 In this episode of Start Now, I will be highlighting Women’s HERstory Month by talking with one of my dearest friends and someone I deeply admire, Ms. Tymisha “Tush” Harris.  In the critically acclaimed and award-winning show, "Josephine", Tymisha plays the iconic Josephine Baker who became famous for her theatrical performances, but who also devoted her life to the idea that people of all nationalities can live peacefully together. She fought against fascism in Europe during World War II and racism in the United States.  Join Tymisha and I for this engaging and light-hearted conversation as we explore Tymisha's artistic journey, and her portrayal of the legendary Josephine Baker.    For more information on Tymisha, follow her on social media @randomtimeswithtush and @josephinetheplay on Instagram and @josephine_play on Twitter, or visit the show online www.josephinetheplay.com  For more great "Start Now" episodes, subscribe to Armani Rei on Youtube or ... Mon, 15 Mar 2021 05:50:45 +0000 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/29004481/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-2-15%2F15056c81-1395-5d94-1147-d89642bd0327.mp3 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/26397653/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-1-8%2Fc8c371a0-de53-3d1d-93da-77b0e54ef809.mp3 In this episode of Start Now, we will be continuing our series on America's Identity as we take a look at ways unity and equity can actually take shape, where talk can turn into action and real change can occur. Through this conversation, my guests and I share where our nation is currently by examining policies and other initiatives, and what actions and steps we need to take to truly move our nation forward. We know that we cannot begin to heal as a nation and grow as a people until the underlying issues that cause divisive and discriminatory practices are addressed honestly and wholistic solutions are implemented. While this particular episode is a fair length, it is filled with valuable information and insight. We look forward to you joining us for this conversation! A very special "Thank You" to my guests, the Honorable Nina Ashenafi-Richardson, Dr. Cicely Walker-Brantley, former State Senator Dwight Bullard, Attorney Mutaqee Akbar, Sgt. Mike Wallace and Jason Warner. For more information on Start Now... Mon, 08 Feb 2021 14:48:01 +0000 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/26397653/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-1-8%2Fc8c371a0-de53-3d1d-93da-77b0e54ef809.mp3 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/25659491/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-0-24%2Ff05828d5-2a70-fde9-6914-df15f580c021.mp3 In the very first episode of Start Now my guests and I discussed how we could begin to restore the soul of a nation that had been torn apart over the past four years by Donald Trump. Fast forward to January 6th 2021, we have an attack on our nation’s capitol led by the nation’s leader himself, the same person who has spent the last four years dividing this country by spreading lies, promoting hate and trying everything possible to retain power, including by breaking state, federal and constitutional laws. When we look at the events that occurred over the latter part of 2020 and into the beginning of 2021, many people sit in disbelief and wonder how and why have we come to such a place? In this episode of Start Now, my guests and I discuss the events which occurred at our nation’s capitol, comparing and contrasting them to the BLM marches, and the real versus perceived identity of America. We also discuss ways everyday citizens can help be a part of positive, lasting change while fighting against syste... Sun, 24 Jan 2021 20:06:59 +0000 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/25659491/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-0-24%2Ff05828d5-2a70-fde9-6914-df15f580c021.mp3 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/25024083/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-0-11%2F73eb3faa-afcc-168d-640e-857c180115bf.mp3 It is a new year. That means new years resolutions and new goals. Studies show that while about 80% of people make new years resolutions, less than 10% of people keep their new years goals, where over half of those goals are health related. In this episode, we will be discussing the importance of setting healthy living goals and how we can be encouraged to stick to these goals in the new year. A very special "Thank You" to our guests: Dr. Alysia Williams-Brown, PT, DPT, CMPT, HHC; Dr. Cicely Walker-Brantley, LMHC, CFLE; and Nekesha Mckinnie,  PA-C, MPAS, BS, CGFI, for joining us on Episode 3 and the first episode for the new year. Here's to a healthier and happier 2021!! Mon, 11 Jan 2021 02:29:54 +0000 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/25024083/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2021-0-11%2F73eb3faa-afcc-168d-640e-857c180115bf.mp3 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/24182176/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2020-11-19%2F70532762-fba2-173a-dbd3-5ceeccaeafa0.mp3 In this episode of Start Now, I begin the multi-part "Living Your Best Life" series. Episode 2 will take a look at trauma, discussing what it is and how we begin to heal as a start to living the life we were meant to live. My guests discuss trauma in its many forms and how it can negatively impact our lives and those around us. As we journey through this topic, identifying trauma is explored as well as ways to begin the healing process. We also discuss the ways COVID-19 has, and still is, impacting people's lives. This episode additionally addresses the importance of and value in seeking mental health care.   Please join us for this fun, engaging and beneficial conversation! Sat, 19 Dec 2020 06:08:04 +0000 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/24182176/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fstaging%2F2020-11-19%2F70532762-fba2-173a-dbd3-5ceeccaeafa0.mp3 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/23042036/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fproduction%2F2020-10-24%2F131616353-44100-2-33f3b79d29ae4.mp3 In this episode of Start Now, my guests and I discuss the recent election and how we can begin to move the nation forward. We explore the challenges this election cycle brought and the importance of what it will mean for the United States to have a female president. Join us for this engaging conversation! Tue, 24 Nov 2020 05:55:02 +0000 https://anchor.fm/s/418f177c/podcast/play/23042036/https%3A%2F%2Fd3ctxlq1ktw2nl.cloudfront.net%2Fproduction%2F2020-10-24%2F131616353-44100-2-33f3b79d29ae4.mp3