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: https://open.spotify.com/show/60hJeA8uhmn9JetntrPCYV?si=nbdqXdFhQ82RMF-7tU4sKg

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.