In this episode of Heard! Afros & Audio Interview Series, Damien L. Butler, founder of the Manifest One Empowerment Media Network, discusses his journey and the mission behind his network.

Established in 2019, the network focuses on developing leadership and fostering community through podcasts. Butler shares the inspiration behind the network, his transition from aspiring radio host to podcaster, and his passion for coaching lacrosse. The conversation also touches on the importance of representation, collaboration, cultural relevance, and staying consistent in podcasting. Butler emphasizes the network's goal of meeting people where they are and helping them grow and achieve their goals.

00:00 Welcome to the Third Season of Heard!
00:25 Inspiration Behind Manifest One Empowerment Media Network
01:26 Journey into Podcasting
02:46 Engaging the Audience through Sports and Laughter
04:22 Coaching and Leadership Influence
06:00 Representation in Lacrosse
08:47 Impact of Podcasting and Community Building
18:10 Fostering Meaningful Partnerships
21:49 The Power of Leading Yourself
22:27 The Importance of Edification
22:39 Staying True to Your Goals
24:24 The Value of Collaboration
24:55 Humility and Learning
26:11 Taking Action and Consistency
32:04 Surprising Lessons and Audience Engagement
34:16 Future Goals and Media Network Expansion
36:42 Recognizing Influential Collaborators
40:42 Legacy and Mission of the Podcast
41:41 Connecting with the Audience

Listen to The LaxBox podcast:

The Manifest One Empowerment Media Network, a collection of podcast and podcasters that discusses challenges and solutions to life's questions through sports, laughter, and common connections: http://www.damienlbutler.com

Follow Damien's brands: https://www.instagram.com/themanifestone, https://www.instagram.com/pizzalaxleadership, https://www.instagram.com/damienlbutler

Learn more about the 7th Annual Afros & Audio Podcast Festival, October 17-19, 2025 in Baltimore, MD: https://www.afrosandaudio.com

Visit https://linktr.ee/afrosandaudio for additional information and opportunities!

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed by guests of Afros & Audio’s Black History Month interview series are their own and do not reflect the values, mission, or business of Talib Jasir, Afros & Audio, Black Podcasters Association, Vanguard Podcast Network, or any other names, podcasts, events, businesses, or organizations mentioned in the video or audio of this series unless explicitly stated.