Blatantly honest with makaila nichols
EPISODES
Dr. Corey Hicks on overcoming obstacles
On this episode of “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” is Corey Hicks, former three-time NCAA All American Decathlete in the sport of Track and Field, former 1996 Olympic Hopeful, A two-time Author, Coach & Motivational Speaker Corey Hicks. Today we discuss how his career ending injury had a silver lining he never expected.
Brittni Schroeder on compassion
On this episode of “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” is Brittni Schroeder. She’s a business coach, marketing strategist for female entrepreneurs and former photographer who’s been featured in WSJ, GMA and other publications. In May of 2017 Brittni lost her 14-year-old son. In efforts to help his friends and others heal she founded her own non-profit called, “The Compassion Club.”
Minda Parker on surviving an AVM
Today on “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” is Minda Parker, former air-force veteran, mom of two and brain aneurysm survivor. At just 35, Minda almost lost her life to something she had no idea was inside her. Minda hopes to spread awareness for AVM and is grateful to be alive. She started a clothing line called “God is my Glowup” to help cover her medical bills.
Brandon Cole Bailey on social media
Today on “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” is fashion model, Brandon Cole Bailey or @itsreallyken. Despite his Ken Doll image, he faced harsh criticism for being openly gay as a model, was bullied, sexually assaulted and struggled with substance abuse. Now, Brandon is changing the stigmas that once followed him with his new book “It’s Not Really Ken” is out now!
Kristofer Buckle on bullying
Today on “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” is makeup legend Kristofer Buckle. He has his own makeup line and works with the likes of Madonna, Mariah Carey, Blake Lively and other household names. Before his glow up, Kristofer dealt with severe bullying and self-esteem issues. But today, he celebrates his differences and is a role model for every diamond in the rough.
Adam Comer on addiction
Adam Comer is an upcoming R&B pop artist. He was a contestant on Season 4 of “The Voice.” He was cosigned by many artists such as NEYO, Lance Bass from NSYNC, Mya, Soulja boy, Lil Scrappy and also has cosigner's in Tomi Lauhren, Real Housewives Gretchen Rossi, blogger Perez Hilton and more. Adam shares his passion for music in hopes of becoming one of music’s top influencers in the coming months after he overcame alcohol addiction.
Jethro Jones on teaching our youth
On this episode of “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” is Jethro Jones. He’s a former principal at all K-12 levels, host of the podcast series Transformative Principal and author of the book “SchoolX: How principals can design a transformative school experience for students, teachers, parents – and themselves.” We dive into education and topics that are impacting today’s education and more importantly our youth.
Brandi Benson on the enemy within
Today on “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” I caught up with Brandi Benson. She’s a true warrior. At just 24 she joined the army and was deployed to Iraq. Brandi soon learned that she had a deadly form of cancer called Ewing Sarcoma and was told she would not survive. But Brandi proved everyone wrong. Today, she’s a motivational speaker and author of the book “The Enemy Inside.”
Thais Lopez Vogel, co-founder of the Volo Foundation on climate change
Today on “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” I sat down with Thais Lopez Vogel! She’s a powerhouse for change. Thais is one of the co-founders and trustees, of the VoLo Foundation, a private family foundation that exists to educate the public to create a sustainable and secure planet for generations to come.
Nancy Conrad on humanity
On this episode of "Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols" is Nancy Conrad, who has become a recognized leader in transformative education & named one of the top 100 leaders in STEM education. She has presented across the globe. Nancy founded the Conrad Foundation after the loss of her husband, Pete Conrad, who during the Apollo 12 mission became the third man to walk on the Moon.
Randy Haveson on self-esteem
Today on "Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols" I spoke with Randy Haveson. He has overcome so much adversity in his life. He’s a former drug addict and alcoholic but has been sober now for over 36 years. Today, Randy is an author, speaker, life coach, father and husband. He's living proof that you can overcome any obstacle if you believe in yourself.
Aly Rae on body image & breast cancer awareness
On today’s episode of “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” is fashion model, Aly Rae. She refers to herself as the one boob bada** because at 20 she underwent a double mastectomy to eliminate her risk of breast cancer. She was dropped by her former agency because she wasn’t viewed as beautiful anymore. Aly was featured as the first woman with only one breast to appear in a swimsuit in both Glamour UK and Vanity Fair UK. Now, she advocates for representation for all men and women.
Shenea Booth on discrimination and sexual abuse
On today’s episode of “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols” is guest Shenea Booth. She was the first-ever African American female soloist to play a lead character in a Cirque Du Soleil production and was featured in RAINN’s “Don’t Stay Quiet” Campaign. She's a survivor of sexual abuse from both her performance partner and her former acrobatics gymnastics coach, David Reiakvam. Shenea's part of a new wave of the #Metoo movement within the Circus Arts world and is advocating for change.
Hillary Husband, former St. Jude Patient on bullying and body image
On today’s episode of Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, I sat down with Hillary Husband. She’s a three-time cancer survivor and former patient at St. Jude. Today, we discuss the stigmas associated with cancer, bullying and other hurdles. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month so be sure to stay tuned to the end of the episode to hear how you can help cure childhood cancer.
Kechi on surviving
Kechi is a burn survivor, musical artist, and advocate. She was a passenger on the plane when it fatally crashed taking the lives of 107 people along with it. Kechi claims that her passion for music, her faith and her family helped her get through her burn treatments and daily life. Years later Kechi was a finalist on Americas Got Talent and Simon Cowell gave her the golden buzzer. Aside from creating music, she is a motivational speaker and soon to be author.
Bubba Almony on bullying
Bubba Almony is a celebrity bodyguard. When he’s not guarding people and crowds, he is passionate about sharing his life experiences. He started his own podcast series called, “Bubba’s Bodyguard Podcast” where he shares stories about his life in the field and those he has helped. Bubba is also an ambassador for “Bodyguards Against Bullying” where he inspires kids to take care of one another.
Heather Drevna on sexual violence resource, RAINN
On today’s episode of Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols I spoke with Heather Drevna. She's the VP of communications at RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN has a hotline for victims of sexual assault to call: 1-800-656-4673. Heather discusses what goes on at RAINN and how victims can get the help they need, even during a pandemic.
Karen Noseff Aldridge on bullying
Karen Noseff Aldridge is founder of Rebel Athletic and she is an anti-bullying advocate. Karen has made a name for herself in the cheerleading and athletic industry by building a multi-million-dollar company with a purpose. She has chosen to create an anti-bullying line within her company called “Rebel Against Bullying.” On today’s episode, she opens up about her own experiences with bullying and how she hopes to inspire the youth to be kind to one another.
Harrsion Houde on body image
Harrison Houde is a 24-year-old actor, writer/director, comedian, and music producer. He’s also an early YouTube creator and musician. We dive into the conversation of body image and how double standards can impact men just as much as women. Harrison’s confidence radiates but he says he adopted such a personality to mask what he once thought were insecurities. Harrison hopes to inspire others to love themselves and be confident always.
John Spencer on space
Today on Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, I spoke with John Spencer. He’s a space architect that has worked on designs for the International Space Station, SpaceHab and he’s designing an original concept for an orbital superyacht. He’s been quoted and appeared in over 200 media outlets covering space tourism. Now he is designing a $2.6 billion complex called Mars World. John also advises entertainment companies who are filming space-related films and shows. He’s an anti-bullying advocate and serves as a space advisor for the Blatantly Honest Foundation.
Sarah Turney on justice
Today on Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, is Sarah Turney. Sarah's sister, Alissa, has been missing since 2001. Sarah is determined to get justice for Alissa and shed light on her life. Now she has a podcast called "Voices for Justice" that is climbing the charts all in the name of a sister's love and commitment to uncovering the truth.
Jonte Hall on stereotypes
On this episode of Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, I spoke with former Harlem Globetrotter, Jonte Hall. He was known as “Too Tall Hall” ironically enough he is just 5’2”. When he was young, he was told to quit pursuing his aspirations of becoming a professional basketball player but against all odds, he became the shortest player in Harlem Globetrotters history. Now he is a motivational speaker and visits schools nationwide to deliver his message of dreaming big, and never giving up, no matter the size of their obstacles. His mantra is, “as long as your heart stands tall, you’re not so small!”
Anne Therese Gennari on ethics
Today on “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols,” I spoke with Anne Therese Gennari. She is a former fashion model, current entrepreneur and environmental advocate. She is the co-founder of an ethical modeling agency called Role Model Management. She hopes to inspire brands, companies and people use their following for good.
Miah Green on bullying
On today's episode of Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, I spoke with Miah Green. She's a 14-year-old award-winning aerialist, actress and humanitarian. She is first and foremost an advocate for anti-bullying. In 2013 Miah started her “circus” training in aerial silks/lyra and over the years has evolved to numerous disciplines and performing throughout the US and internationally. She starred in the film, "Lucky Star” as Avery which won Best Short Film at the Utah Film Awards. Her goal is to bring joy, light and love to the world through entertainment.
David van de Velde on success
On today's episode of Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, I spoke with Mr. David van de Velde. He is the co-founder of Ketel One vodka and the founder of Van Gogh vodka. He shares stories of success, innovation, and his work with the community.
Marc Mero on addiction and bullying
Today I spoke with Marc Mero, a former WWE Wrestling Champion known as Johnny B. Bad. Marc’s journey through life was not easy. He grew up in an impoverished area of Buffalo, NY. He was bullied throughout his entire life and turned to wrestling to protect himself. He rose in ranks from boxer to wrestler. During his time in WWE he battled addiction, loss and hitting rock bottom mentally. Marc now shares his story as a motivational speaker to change the stigma behind the topics youth are facing.
Tommy Radon on Bullying
Tommy began his dance career as a jazz and hip-hop dancer before becoming a professional choreographer at only 13. He was bullied and beaten to the point of near-death because of his dancing passions and the stereotypes that came with it. This almost stopped him from becoming part of many performance tours, working as a choreographer, master teacher and consultant. Despite all odds, he went on to earn Top World Instructor at Arthur Murray; Top NY Instructor each year he was at Fred Astaire as well as Top US Instructor at Fred Astaire in 2008. He holds the world record of teaching 214 dance lessons in a single week to raise funds for charity. Tommy has received many awards throughout his life and continues to compete professionally.
Jessica Craft on body image and substance abuse
Today on Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, is guest, Jessica Craft. She is a model living in New York City who is trying to “fit” into the fashion industry. She has always been told she was too big to be a model. This led Jessica into battling substance abuse, eating disorders and bullying. She hopes to use her platform to let young girls know that social media is not all that it seems and there is more to life than conforming to the beauty standards of today.
Peach Martine on being a teen
Today on Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, I caught up with Peach Martine. She's an 18-year-old singer, songwriter, composer & model. Originally from Cleveland, OH, she moved to Miami Beach, FL to be classically trained as a vocalist & study music theory at Miami Arts. Peach enjoys making music for her fans of all ages, especially on the social media app tik tok, where she has over 150,000 followers. She’s looking forward to touring soon, and to releasing many new songs this summer.
Damion Gross on Bullying & Disabilities
On today’s episode of Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols, I spoke with the inspirational Damion Gross. At 21, Damion has become an influencer with over 1.6 million followers. He makes videos of himself dancing, writing positive messages and he takes a stance against bullying. Bullying is something that Damion experienced firsthand because he has cerebral palsy. He was told that he would never walk again let alone be able to dance but he has defied all the odds. Now, he is an aspiring fashion model, an influencer and most importantly he is a role model for all of us to never give up on our dreams even when it feels like the odds are stacked against us.
Mrs. Hillsborough County, Katrina Spagnoletti on sexual abuse
On this episode of Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols. I talk with Katrina Spagnoletti who is currently Mrs. Hillsborough County America. She is a survivor of sexual abuse and has turned her trauma into empowerment for others. She created her own platform "Voices" where she educates people on how to protect themselves, inspire and motivate others through even their darkest of times.
The Last Ringmaster, Johnathan Lee Iverson on anxiety
Johnathan Lee Iverson, is the youngest and first Black Ringmaster of the iconic Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey, which he served until its closing in 2017 making him the last ringmaster in the 146 year history of "The Greatest Show On Earth." He's been named one of Barbara Walters 10 Most Fascinating People, but is most proud of being a question on JEOPARDY® twice.
Sydney Scotia on peer pressure
Today, I got to sit down with a long-time friend whom I met when I first moved to California. She is an incredible actress who has been on series such as: "Some Assembly Required," "Reboot: The Guardian Code" and more. Aside from being featured on the big screen, she now produces and directs her own films including a documentary on domestic abuse that will be released in the up-coming months. Sydney and I chat about the pressures of living in Hollywood, peer pressure, domestic abuse, body image and more importantly, friendship.
Casey Conroy on body image
On this episode of “Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols.” I am chatting with an incredible alternative-pop artist who I have known since we were young, Casey Conroy. She has juggled many obstacles such as: body-image as a female artist, finding the right people to surround herself with and feelings of self-consciousness. She has been able overcome this and is now blooming even more as an up and coming artist.
Call Me Karizma on mental health
On today's episode, I am interviewing, Call Me Karizma! He is an incredible artist in the world of hip hop and punk rock. He inspires the youth to overcome their obstacles through music and hopes to change the stigma behind mental health issues.
Chris Lowe on suicide awareness
On today's episode I sat down with Chris Lowe. She is a speaker, writer, influencer for O! (Oprah's magazine), and activist on topics such as suicide and mental health after losing her own son, Hudson Lowe, at age 20. He left behind a speech called "Fall Forward" which motivates Chris to carry on his message to never give up.
Meet Makaila Nichols
Welcome to Episode One of Blatantly Honest with Makaila Nichols! I'm your host, Makaila. On today's episode I will be interviewing myself because why not?! This way, you will have a better understanding of who I am and the direction that this podcast will be going. I plan to post weekly content and interview guests from a variety of backgrounds, careers and lifestyles. I hope to use this platform to raise awareness on social issues and let people know that they are not alone. So without further Adieu, sit back, relax and become Blatantly Honest.