The Interludes Podcast artwork

The Interludes Podcast

182 episodes - English - Latest episode: 25 days ago -

What exactly is an interlude? For me, it's those magical, fleeting moments between tracks on a CD or LP record, where powerful harmonies transition you into the next chapter of music. This is where inspiration meets rhythm, and it's where I live as a DJ at heart. "The Interludes Podcast" is the extended play of those moments – a continuous stream of inspiration and up-tempo vibes.

I, Val "The Voice" Johnson, serve as your guide through the voices of creatives, entrepreneurs, and filmmakers who are carving out exciting paths of discovery and exploration. In my podcast, we share intimate conversations with the trailblazers in music, performing arts, sports, and film. It's all about uncovering the pulse of the culture in entertainment and sports - and doing a little self-discovery along the way.

I'm here to inspire you to find your own creative "interlude," to ignite that journey full of fun and awe that audiences are eager to experience. Every Wednesday, I offer you a glimpse into the evolving culture of the entertainment and sports, all while weaving in the music that connects us. It's an invitation to explore, learn, and be moved – with an original soundtrack that inspires.

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Episodes

Mothers Are Superheroes in CJ Charles' World

April 04, 2024 00:06 - 29 minutes - 50.1 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson bring to their live “Talk On Tuesdays” platform, a fun conversation with LA-based children's author CJ Charles. We talk to CJ about the inspirations behind her bilingual book, "My Mother is a Superhero." And discover how CJ's mother influenced her storytelling and her dedication to bilingual teaching. This episode is a celebration of mothers as everyday heroes, a journey through the joys of bilingual literature, and a testament to the lasting i...

Lichelle Marie Laws: The BO$$ Behind the Beats

March 15, 2024 11:57 - 20 minutes - 38.4 MB

March is Women’s History Month.  Val 'The Voice' Johnson pays tribute to the late hip-hop legend Lichelle Marie Laws, better known as BO$$.  Her rise to fame with hits like 'Deeper,' to her struggles with health and the industry, and her eventual transition to a radio DJ in Texas. Hear about her groundbreaking work, the challenges she faced, and the profound impact she had on the music world and her peers. Special segments include insights from her collaboration with Def Jef and heartfelt tr...

Enlighten Filmmaking: Alvin Malcolm Daniels

March 07, 2024 18:43 - 33 minutes - 64.7 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson welcome back friend to the show and the multifaceted creative Alvin Malcolm Daniels. Known for his critically acclaimed stage play “Preacher’s Kids” and a college professor and mentor, Daniels shares his latest project, the docu-series “The Many Stories of Martha’s Vineyard,” and sits down with Coach Tony Thompson and Val to discuss his unique approach to storytelling and filmmaking. This engaging episode offers listeners an inside look at Da...

Juvey D & Ant: Wendell Moore's Film Journey

February 29, 2024 05:39 - 32 minutes - 61.9 MB

This week, Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson discuss the captivating world of independent filmmaking with a multifaceted filmmaker and community advocate, Wendell Moore. His short film, "Juvey D & Ant” brings light to Wendell's remarkable path from the vibrant streets of Brooklyn to the esteemed circles of film festivals. Wendell's latest work, "Juvey D and Ant," is not just a film; it's a heartfelt homage to youth, friendship, and the spirited life of Brooklyn in the early '90...

Inside the Indie Rise of Kingsley

February 21, 2024 06:06 - 31 minutes - 55.3 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson engages with the dynamic indie artist Kingsley. From her early days in Chicago to becoming a standout in Portland's underground scene, Kingsley shares her evolution from family bands to indie pop acclaim. Dive into her journey through music and entrepreneurship, her creative process, and the challenges she overcame along the way. Get a sneak peek into her upcoming 3rd studio album and learn how she's reshaping indie music with authenticity and innovation. Tune in for ...

A Legend in Motion: April Weeden-White

February 14, 2024 20:16 - 37 minutes - 70.3 MB

February is Black History Month and Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson present a new season for The Interludes Podcast called, "A Legend In Motion: April Weeden-White." In this episode, we celebrate the extraordinary career of Weeden-White, a trailblazing stunt coordinator and actress with over 100 TV shows and films to her name. Dive into the inspiring journey of April, from executing breathtaking stunts to her evolution as a sought-after actress in Hollywood. Discover the chal...

The Interludes Podcast Trailer 2024

February 07, 2024 21:22 - 5 minutes - 9.87 MB

"The Interludes Podcast," hosted by Val "The Voice" Johnson, is an inspirational audio journey that celebrates the magic of musical interludes and the rhythm of life. In this weekly podcast, Val "The Voice" delves into intimate conversations with innovative figures in music, performing arts, sports, and film, exploring the vibrant pulse of culture in entertainment and sports. Each audio episode, released every Wednesday, is a blend of inspiring stories, personal discoveries, and an original ...

Steps of Soul: Experiencing the Magic of Alvin Ailey

January 09, 2024 17:52 - 13 minutes - 26.2 MB

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has been culturally entertaining generations for 65 years.  Recently, Val “The Voice” Johnson got a chance to experience several timeless dance compositions in person with her dear friends in New York City.    "Steps of Soul: Experiencing the Magic of Alvin Ailey" is a special episode where Val recounts her enchanting visit to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater's 65th anniversary. Experience the joy and wonderment of Val’s reflections on Alvin Ai...

Restructure, Reinvent, Repeat: The Interludes Journey

December 07, 2023 14:39 - 11 minutes - 22 MB

Welcome to a special edition of the Interludes Podcast with today's episode called, "Restructure, Reinvent, Repeat: The Interludes Journey." Join Val "The Voice" Johnson as we reflect on our remarkable journey since June 2020, navigating the challenges of a global pandemic, inspiring creatives throughout and continuing the vision for this year, 2023 and beyond. Interludes has not just survived but thrived, becoming a beacon of hope and inspiration. In 2012, the seeds for the company, Pur...

R&B Resilience with A Talk About Epilepsy

November 29, 2023 20:31 - 26 minutes - 46.5 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson reviews the recent concert show called "R&B Groove Thing"  featuring Stephanie Mills, El Debarge, and After 7.  She gives insights on their performances and how the music takes many back to a wonderful time in R&B.  Plus, filmmaker and epilepsy advocate Karla Braithwaite joins us to share her epilepsy journey and how she continues to support the Epilepsy Foundation.  For more information about The Epilepsy Foundation and how you can support Karla, please visit the w...

The Aftershow Vibes & Angela Crook

November 16, 2023 03:57 - 36 minutes - 66.3 MB

Have you heard of the midday show called, “The AfterShow with Val “The Voice”?  In this episode, get an exclusive sneak peek into the midday magic of The Aftershow and enjoy an engaging conversation with actress Angela Crook, who shares insights into her role in the independent film 'Kemba: The Kemba Smith Story.' Feel the pulse of creativity in this celebration of independent music and film, presented in the signature style of The Aftershow." Interludes Extra Talk On Tuesdays featuring An...

Resilience with Paintbrushes

October 18, 2023 18:47 - 28 minutes - 51.1 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson welcomes back fellow podcaster and friend to the show, Terrance P. Elmore, the creative force behind the blog & podcast, "The Brown Sugar Cafe."  Elmore is back with a compelling poetry collection called, "Pain Is Not Our Only Paintbrush" and he reveals the threads of resilience and consistency needed to develop his work of art.  For any upcoming self-published writer, blogger or future podcaster, Terrance shares candidly about his journey as a podcaster and how his b...

Beyond the Buzzer: Terry "TC" Cummings

October 11, 2023 20:26 - 37 minutes - 68.2 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson go "Beyond the Buzzer" with NBA legend Terry "TC" Cummings. Beyond the accolades, Terry's story transcends basketball, revealing a minister and man of God. From Chicago roots to defying odds, his journey is a testament to resilience and greatness. Join us for an intimate conversation with Cummings exploring the diverse layers of his extraordinary life. See the full interview with Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson here: https://t...

Beyond the Buzzer: Terry ”TC” Cummings

October 11, 2023 20:26 - 37 minutes - 68.2 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson go "Beyond the Buzzer" with NBA legend Terry "TC" Cummings. Beyond the accolades, Terry's story transcends basketball, revealing a minister and man of God. From Chicago roots to defying odds, his journey is a testament to resilience and greatness. Join us for an intimate conversation with Cummings exploring the diverse layers of his extraordinary life. See the full interview with Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson here: https://ti...

Celebrate The Culture One Book At A Time

September 29, 2023 14:28 - 28 minutes - 50.5 MB

Val "The Voice" is back with a special episode honoring National Hispanic Heritage Month. Introducing children's book author and the founder of SoRim Enterprises, Miros Azuara.  She  discusses her touching work, "Don Leon," and shares how she embraces and celebrates her Mexican heritage through social work and storytelling. Discover the magic of cultural preservation through literature and explore the impact of "Don Leon" in connecting generations. We will dive into the essence of Mexican cu...

The Winning Season

September 20, 2023 21:03 - 47 minutes - 82.8 MB

As the seasons change, so can we. Introducing motivational speaker and author, minister Anthony D. Shannon. His incredible journey of perseverance, resilience, and purpose will ignite your motivation to craft your own story and transform during this upcoming 4th quarter into the best season of your life. Are you ready to embrace a "winning season"? Let Interludes and Dr. Shannon, aka Speaker T, guide you toward your next steps in the world of motivational speaking and writing.  

Women Representation Matters

September 15, 2023 22:53 - 41 minutes - 78.5 MB

Women are being well represented in sports. And behind every great athlete, there’s a phenomenal coach.  This week, Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson speak with Fisk University’s gymnastics coach and athletic director Corrinne Tarver.  Coach Tarver, along with three dynamic gymnastic team members, share their experience in recruitment, competition and how Fisk University is the 1st NCAA college to run a gymnastic program at the collegiate level.  Check out the full visual int...

Game Changers and Grooves: TSU

August 30, 2023 23:48 - 42 minutes - 78.9 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson speak with Tennessee State University's Athletic Director, Dr. Mikki Allen. We'll talk with him about the upcoming TSU Tigers football game with Notre Dame. And as we celebrate Michael Jackson’s birthday, Dr. Allen shares his thoughts on MJ, reminiscing about his favorite LPs from the King of Pop himself and also how music, hip hop and other genres have influenced the tapestry of college sports, creating unforgettable moments both on and off th...

A New Beginning Celebration

August 23, 2023 18:40 - 23 minutes - 42.5 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson takes a captivating journey back through the last three years of the podcast and thanks the audience for all the support.  As part of this celebration, Val engages in a lively and engaging discussion with a truly remarkable guest – one of the very first to grace the Interludes stage – author, writing coach and comedianne Jori O’Neale. Jori shares her latest ventures within her company, IYH Innertainment, and delves into the ever-evolving landscape of self-book publi...

The Film Festival of Purpose: Tylermann

August 04, 2023 13:38 - 43 minutes - 81.3 MB

Get ready for an engaging episode as your host, Val "The Voice" Johnson, welcomes a dynamic duo in the world of independent cinema. In this exciting installment, Val "The Voice" sits down with the visionary independent film director and festival creator, Andrew Tyler, alongside his talented wife and executive producer, Linda Tyler. Join Val "The Voice" alongside Coach Tony Thompson as they delve into Andrew's journey of crafting compelling narratives on the silver screen and founding the r...

The Musical Language of Mark Allen Felton

July 19, 2023 17:38 - 30 minutes - 55.6 MB

Discover the musical journey of Mark Allen Felton, a Chicago native and talented songwriter and saxophonist.   Join hosts Val 'The Voice' Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson as they explore how music becomes a language of love and growth in Mark's life. Tune in to "The Musical Language of Mark Allen Felton" for captivating stories and soulful melodies. Show Notes Interludes Extra presents Talk on Tuesdays - Episode 7/18/23 Full entertainment episode  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcK8mpQ...

Travel Destinations with Auntie Advice

July 13, 2023 02:22 - 22 minutes - 43.3 MB

Whether you're dreaming of a sun-soaked beach getaway, a thrilling national park adventure, or an exciting exploration of vibrant cities, Interludes has got you covered. As we kick off our 7th season, get ready for an insider's perspective on the best places to visit in the USA in 2023. Based on an article highlighting 21 top vacation destinations handpicked by US News and World Report travel writer, Elizabeth Van Tersch, we’ll focus on three to five spots that not only provide unforgettable...

Resilient Journey: Jesse Campbell

June 28, 2023 21:59 - 40 minutes - 76.4 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson introduces a captivating conversation with international recording artist Jesse Campbell. Born and raised in Chicago, Jesse is not only a devoted father but also a finalist from the electrifying second season of NBC's The Voice. As Interludes concludes its celebration of Black Music Month, Jesse shares his insights on the ever-evolving music industry and offers an exclusive glimpse into his upcoming birthday performance in his hometown. Get ready for an engaging discu...

Hip Hop Roundtable: More Beats, Rhythms and Rhymes

June 23, 2023 19:38 - 42 minutes - 71.9 MB

Val “The Voice” Johnson hosts a roundtable with DJ Krate Digga to discuss 50 years of hip hop culture.  Also, Val 'The Voice" speaks with fellow podcasters and fellow artists upon the Clubhouse virtual stage to discuss hip-hop and the direction we see the genre going into beyond these 50 years.  Along with DJ Krate Digga, we spoke with fellow DJ and podcaster Al Pete, filmmaker King B, Mindset Moments podcaster and inspirational DJ Lekeshia Mosley and one of my close friends, supporter and c...

Beats, Rhythms & Rhymes: The Krate Digga Journey

June 14, 2023 23:40 - 32 minutes - 59.6 MB

Val "The Voice" Johnson sparks up an engaging conversation with DJ Krate Digga, a prominent figure in the Columbus, Ohio's music scene. Krate and Val "The Voice" delve into the profound impact of hip hop on culture, explore the significance of Black Music Month, and discover the humble beginnings that shaped Krate Digga's journey as a DJ.

Black Market: The Business of Basketball

June 07, 2023 21:45 - 54 minutes - 102 MB

Coach Tony Thompson invites former basketball sports consultant and author Merl Code to the Talk on Tuesdays platform to discuss his book, “Black Market: An Insider’s Journey into the High-Stakes World of College Basketball.”  

Givers Gain Wisdom

May 31, 2023 21:57 - 20 minutes - 39.7 MB

Val “The Voice” Johnson delves into the world of business technology and service-minded strategies with Azaniah Israel, a visionary business tech guru and the founder of Sirach Consulting.  We explore Azaniah's journey, his secrets to business growth, and the films that have inspired his pursuit in the tech world. Get ready for captivating insights and practical wisdom to empower your own business endeavors.

Seize the Summer

May 25, 2023 06:31 - 17 minutes - 33.7 MB

The Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start to summer season.  Are we ready?  May is Mental Health Awareness month and our team is discussing some of the best ways to enjoy the start of the summer season in and outdoors.

Remake the Franchises

May 18, 2023 06:14 - 15 minutes - 30.8 MB

Val the Voice Johnson discusses the latest studio franchises that are receiving a fresh coat of paint with a remake or a continuation of famed film series: The Little Mermaid, White Men Can’t Jump and The Fast and Furious X.

All Writers Matter - It All Starts with the Story

May 11, 2023 05:23 - 34 minutes - 63.1 MB

Val "the Voice" Johnson speaks with veteran actress Paulette McDaniels about the latest with the Writers Guild strike and her experience with working with some of the most talented actors of our generation. 

Judge A Book By It's Cover

May 03, 2023 23:19 - 35 minutes - 64.5 MB

Should we judge a book by it's cover? This episode we explore the art of creating an eye-catching book cover with Natalie Stokes-Peters, an experienced book designer with over 20 years of expertise. We start by reviewing the Netflix documentary featuring our forever FLOTUS Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey, "The Light We Carry" with Mr. Wamble and Val the Voice Johnson, and later delve into a conversation with Mrs. Stokes-Peters, our book design expert from On Point Book Design. As we discuss...

Judge A Book By It’s Cover

May 03, 2023 23:19 - 35 minutes - 64.5 MB

Should we judge a book by it's cover? This episode we explore the art of creating an eye-catching book cover with Natalie Stokes-Peters, an experienced book designer with over 20 years of expertise. We start by reviewing the Netflix documentary featuring our forever FLOTUS Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey, "The Light We Carry" with Mr. Wamble and Val the Voice Johnson, and later delve into a conversation with Mrs. Stokes-Peters, our book design expert from On Point Book Design. As we discuss...

All Eyes on Them: Afeni and Tupac

April 26, 2023 23:51 - 40 minutes - 76.5 MB

Val 'the Voice' and EP Michael Wamble dive into a captivating discussion on Allen Hughes' "Dear Mama" documentary series. Tune in as they explore Tupac's evolution from a gifted artist to a socially conscious activist, who drew inspiration from his mother Afeni's legacy. Discover how music served as a powerful tool for Tupac to advocate for change and hear how their combined story is portrayed as a dynamic force, drawing the attention of all those who want to celebrate the legacy of Tupac...

Now Streaming: Seasoned

April 19, 2023 22:26 - 17 minutes - 33.1 MB

Join Val the Voice and Michael Wamble as they sit down with Seasoned series director and showrunner Aretha "Ms Respect" Tatum and singer/songwriter, actress Tracy Kincaide to discuss the hit independent Chicago production, Seasoned. Starring Kincaide, Taroniah Rice, and Natasha L. Hudgins, the Tubi series has garnered over 500k streams and captivated audiences with its powerful message. Listen in as Tatum and Kincaide share their insights on what makes Seasoned stand out, the challenges they...

All My Successes

April 12, 2023 22:34 - 35 minutes - 68.4 MB

Monique Lisa Johnson is a Bronx native and an award-winning playwright and writing coach. With a passion for theater that began at just 7 years old, Monique has been producing plays for years.  As a writing coach, Monique inspires and supports other aspiring writers in achieving their creative goals. Join Val 'the Voice' Johnson as we delve into Monique Lisa Johnson's journey and explore her creative process in this exciting podcast episode.

Grand Rising

April 05, 2023 21:34 - 36 minutes - 67.3 MB

Holy week is upon us and Christians celebrate the annual traditional holiday called Easter.  Interludes invites friend to the show and urban apologist Phil Fox to discuss Easter traditions and what it means to truly acknowledge and celebrate the real reason for the Easter season, Jesus Christ.

Literary Page Tuners

March 30, 2023 18:16 - 14 minutes - 27.7 MB

Toni Morrison. Octavia Butler.  Victoria Christopher Murray.  As we close Women’s History Month, allow us to highlight these phenomenal African American women writers who are undergoing a renaissance, gaining new fans and loyal readers.

Soldier of Love

March 22, 2023 21:36 - 27 minutes - 52.6 MB

A married mother of three young kings, an author and now after serving her country, she’s creating a lane for herself of virtual DJ space.  Interludes continues to celebrate Women’s History Month by introducing serial entrepreneur Lekeisha Mosley.  A soldier of light, a soldier for change and a soldier of love…

Women in Motion

March 16, 2023 16:16 - 15 minutes - 30.5 MB

African American choreographers Debbie Allen and Judith Jameson have been making an impact on screen and television for over 5 decades. In celebration of Women’s History Month, we honor their strength and power. And recognize both Allen and Jamison are women in motion.

Reel Women

March 09, 2023 01:31 - 13 minutes - 25.3 MB

African American women filmmakers have been making an impact on cinema for more than 40 years.  One day, maybe the Oscars, will notice. In honor of Women's History Month, we turning the spotlight around from those in the front of the camera to the sisters behind the scenes.... 

Tinted Glass Ceilings - A Celebration of Women's History Month

March 03, 2023 01:49 - 19 minutes - 37.4 MB

Carol Moseley Braun. Ketanji Brown Jackson. Regina Wilson.. Each one of these phenomenal women have broken through many glass ceilings. And for African-American women, let’s call the barriers 'tinted glass ceilings.' Allow Val 'the Voice' Johnson and EP Michael Wamble celebrate some of the women who have broken through many barriers in the political, judicial and career boudaries.  

Tinted Glass Ceilings - A Celebration of Women’s History Month

March 03, 2023 01:49 - 19 minutes - 37.4 MB

Carol Moseley Braun. Ketanji Brown Jackson. Regina Wilson.. Each one of these phenomenal women have broken through many glass ceilings. And for African-American women, let’s call the barriers 'tinted glass ceilings.' Allow Val 'the Voice' Johnson and EP Michael Wamble celebrate some of the women who have broken through many barriers in the political, judicial and career boudaries.  

The History of House Music

February 23, 2023 18:34 - 37 minutes - 72.2 MB

Interludes is celebrating Black History Month in music.  Val ‘the Voice’ Johnson and Coach Tony Thompson dig into their House music roots and discuss the influences of Chicago-style House music on the American music scene.

The Pure Joy of Finding Love

February 16, 2023 01:46 - 49 minutes - 93.3 MB

Sometimes it is champagne and roses. Other times, it is a red velvet cupcake and filtered water. Valentine's Day can be the cruelest day. Or it can be a time to reset your values about what you will and won't accept in search of a soulmate. Val "The Voice" and Mr. Wamble discuss whether or not soulmates exist.

Faith Focus Flow

February 08, 2023 21:08 - 30 minutes - 54.5 MB

Interludes presents faith-based entrepreneur and business coach Tasha 'TC' Cooper for our Black History Month Business spotlight.  She shares how having her faith and bible based principles can help entrepreneurs thrive in business and in life.

Do Ya Know Your History

February 02, 2023 04:30 - 14 minutes - 27.5 MB

February is Black History Month and the Interludes team reviews the limited docu-series on Hulu, the 1619 Project featuring the show’s creator Nikole Hannah Jones.

If We Predicted The Winners

January 26, 2023 00:20 - 29 minutes - 56.4 MB

Film critics Gene Siskel and Roger Ebert were some of the best evaluators of the best films.  As an ode to Siskel and Ebert, Val ‘the Voice’ Johnson and EP Michael Wamble give their predictions for this year’s 2023 Academy Awards nominations. 

Stepping Into Purpose

January 19, 2023 00:59 - 24 minutes - 42.5 MB

Serial entrepreneur, author & friend to the show Jori O’Neale chats with Val ‘the Voice’ Johnson about some of her recent discoveries as a mentor/ coach and how she is using ministry to inspire all who want to step into their purpose.

A King and A Coach

January 12, 2023 00:55 - 42 minutes - 80 MB

Val the Voice plays tribute to civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King and his influence.  Also, Interludes extra Talk on Tuesdays team speak with internationally known Coach John Saintignon about the important of being more than just a coach.

We Love The 90s

January 05, 2023 00:02 - 31 minutes - 57.4 MB

We love the 90s and apparently… the TV and film industry as well.  EP Michael Wamble and Val the Voice are going back into time to the 90s.  We review the recent revival with Malcolm Lee’s The Best Man - The Final Chapters and highlight other film and musical classics that made the 90s worth loving.