Podcast
For Good
Hosted by Joseph "JoJo" Simmons · EN
What if healing yourself was the first step to changing the world?
This is a space for grounded, soul-level conversations about mental health, emotional intelligence, personal growth, and what it means to live with intention. Here, healing isn't a trend, it's a lifelong commitment. Through vulnerable storytelling and honest reflection, For Good helps us reconnect with purpose, reimagine legacy, and choose growth — for ourselves, our families, and our communities.
At the heart of it all is Joseph "JoJo" Simmons, the son of hip hop royalty, Rev Run of Run DMC, and a multi-faceted entertainer, entrepreneur, husband, father, and mental health advocate. From MTV's Run's House to Growing Up Hip Hop, JoJo's journey has been public but his evolution has been deeply personal.
After facing public scrutiny in his teens, JoJo took a step back from the spotlight to prioritize his mental health. He reemerged as an advocate, determined to use his platform for good. In 2023, he received the Phoenix Arising Award from the Black Mental Health Alliance, honoring his commitment to wellness and emotional literacy in the Black community.
JoJo brings a rare mix of humility, humor, and heart to every episode. Whether he's speaking solo or sitting with a guest, he creates space for listeners to reflect, reset, and rise together.
Expect episodes that explore the power of emotional intelligence in real life, mental health beyond buzzwords — especially for Black men and fathers, breaking generational cycles through inner work and intention, and what legacy looks like when it's built on love, not ego. You'll also hear honest, unfiltered stories that inspire growth, healing, and a deeper connection to purpose.
Notable guests include:
Dr. Cheyenne Bryant: Life coach and psychology expert dropping truth bombs on relationships and accountability
Lil Eazy-E: Reflecting on his father's legacy and the controversy surrounding his death
Trell the Trainer: From prison to purpose: using fitness and emotional vulnerability to help Black men heal
Vanessa Simmons: On protecting her personal life while growing up in a public family
Steve Lobel: Behind the music industry grind: on hip-hop success, grief, and staying grounded
Corvain Cooper: From life in prison to presidential pardon: a story of transformation, justice, and second chances
Jesce Horton: Building one of the most respected Black-owned cannabis brands with Carmelo Anthony
For Good is a production of 3isFor, a values-driven creative studio founded by childhood friends JoJo Simmons, Kris Karl, and David Dow. The three co-founders come from vastly different backgrounds — hip hop royalty, regenerative farming, and media production — but their values are the same. Together, they build with purpose, tell stories that matter, and champion regenerative business as a model for healing industries, communities, and the planet.
Listen if you care about:
- Growing from the inside out
- Breaking cycles and red...
59episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Becoming McKenzi Brooke: Growing Up Online, Finding Her Voice & Turning Pressure Into Purpose
Nov 2501:01:58Summary readyMcKenzi Brooke has spent most of her life in front of a camera — but who is she outside the viral videos? The TikTok star, dancer, actor, and storyteller joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to talk about growing up online, separating her real identity from her internet persona, navigating pressure at a young age, and turning criticism into fuel. From her close bond with her family to the creative honesty behind her music, McKenzi opens up about the parts of her life people don't see — and what it really means to stay grounded when millions are watching. McKenzi Brooke is one of TikTok's biggest breakout creators — a dancer, actor, musician, and storyteller who built a massive following by being relatable, creative, and unapologetically herself. But behind the viral moments is someone who has been performing since childhood, learning how to grow up while the internet watched. In this episode of the For Good Podcast, Joseph "JoJo" Simmons sits down with McKenzi for a raw, thoughtful conversation about identity, pressure, confidence, and the power of knowing who you are beyond the screen. McKenzi opens up about what it's really like to grow up in the public eye, how she separates her real personality from the one people assume she has online, and why she still considers herself "just a normal girl with weird quirks" despite millions of fans. They go deep into: Growing up online and learning to stay authentic while the world watches Finding her voice beyond dance — from acting to storytelling to writing music Using heartbreak and friendships as creative fuel in her songwriting (yes… she thanks her exes for the inspiration) The support system that keeps her grounded — especially her brother and her mom How to handle comparison, hate, and pressure as a young creator ("Haterade is Powerade" might be the best quote of the episode) Why being underestimated became her superpower McKenzi also shares the moment she was invited to the United Nations for women's empowerment — and what it felt like to be the youngest person in the room. This episode is a reminder that the internet doesn't always show the full story — and that staying grounded starts with knowing yourself first. Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on TikTok, Spotify, Apple, and everywhere you listen.
Summary
Grief, Truth & Becoming a Better Man: John DeDakis Opens Up
Nov 1800:41:56Summary readyWhat happens when a lifetime journalist turns the camera inward? Award-winning CNN editor and author John DeDakis joins Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast to talk about truth, grief, mental health, and the painful losses that shaped him as a man, husband, and writer. He opens up about losing his sister and son, why men need to cry more, and how storytelling became his path toward healing. John DeDakis spent decades shaping the news at CNN — but the stories that shaped him were the ones rooted in personal loss, truth, and resilience. The award-winning journalist, novelist, and writing coach sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on the For Good Podcast for one of the most heartfelt, emotionally open conversations of the season. John opens up about losing both his sister and his youngest son, how grief never truly ends, and why he believes men must learn to feel instead of suppress. He and JoJo dive into how journaling, mindfulness, and honest emotional expression saved him from breaking — and how those same tools can help others heal, too. They explore: What CNN's fast-paced newsroom taught him about truth, storytelling, and integrity How grief changes a man, a marriage, and the way you show up in the world Why tears are necessary, not weak — and how "your tears become bullets" when you hold them in The evolution of journalism, misinformation, and the responsibility of telling real, human stories How he used fiction to process pain and why writing from a woman's perspective changed his life The sixth stage of grief — and how finding meaning rebuilt his purpose In one of the most powerful moments of the episode, John shares that the proudest accomplishment of his entire career isn't CNN, his books, or the awards — it's the choice to fight for his marriage after losing his son. A raw, honest, deeply human conversation about love, loss, truth, and living "for good." 🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Summary
Dreka Gates: 60 Acres, a 7-Figure Wellness Empire, and the Moment She Reclaimed Her Power
Nov 400:36:12Summary readyDreka Gates didn't set out to build a wellness empire — it found her. When COVID forced her into isolation on 60 acres of Mississippi land, just miles from where her great-grandmother once farmed, everything shifted. One day, while working the soil, she fell to her knees in tears — not because she bought the land, but because she realized: "This really belongs to me." In this powerful conversation at Black Week, Dreka sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons to share how she transformed her healing journey into a seven-figure empire — from Love's Harvest, her cannabis company, and the first Black woman-owned dispensary in Mississippi (built with a $2 million investment into a 100-year-old building), to Dreka Rose emotional wellness eyewear, a 60-acre regenerative farm, and even an AI avatar that connects with people one-on-one. But this episode isn't just about success — it's about the spiritual, emotional, and mental work it takes to sustain it all. Dreka opens up about the practices that keep her grounded, from burning negative energy each morning to breaking generational cycles while building generational wealth. What You'll Hear: Why self-mastery is the foundation of every business move she makes The $2M lesson she learned investing in experience, not just space Why cannabis could've been a trillion-dollar industry for Black and Brown communities The "sandwich method" she uses for tough negotiations — firm, but rooted in love How she uses AI and gaming to meet people where they are Why she left the church at 13 to find her own spiritual path Her healing journey to the Amazon jungle with shamans What she'd tell her 13-year-old self who bet on herself before she had proof This is a story of alignment, ownership, and audacity — and what it means to truly build For Good. 🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Summary
The Fight for Representation in Hollywood: Natasha Ward-Shaw on Colorism, Confidence, and Change
Oct 1400:39:51Summary readyHollywood has long struggled with representation — and Natasha Ward Shaw has spent more than 20 years fighting to change that. The casting director, producer, and acting coach sits down with Joseph “JoJo” Simmons on The For Good Podcast for a powerful conversation about diversity, colorism, and what it really takes to open doors for Black women in entertainment. From interning on Fat Albert to casting, producing, and coaching some of today’s most talented actors, Natasha has built a career rooted in purpose. She shares how she’s fought to make sure darker-skinned women are seen as leading ladies, how confidence can transform an actor’s career, and why representation isn’t a trend — it’s a responsibility. The conversation also dives into how Natasha balances fighting for others while protecting her own peace, what true inclusion in Hollywood should look like, and why she believes faith and family are the foundation for longevity in any industry. JoJo and Natasha open up about: How colorism and bias still show up in casting rooms Why confidence is the foundation for success The importance of creating real opportunities, not just token representation How faith, family, and joy keep her grounded through the fight Subscribe to The For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Summary
Just JoJo: Birthday Edition — Redefining Legacy Beyond the Spotlight
Oct 700:37:42Summary readyShort Description Turning 36 isn’t just another year—it’s a checkpoint. In this special birthday edition, JoJo Simmons opens up about growth, fatherhood, and redefining what legacy means beyond fame. From faith and family to business and purpose, he reflects on how far he’s come and the lessons that keep him grounded. Full Description In this Just JoJo: Birthday Edition, JoJo Simmons steps into his 36th year with gratitude, growth, and a new perspective on what really matters. He reflects on life beyond the spotlight—what it means to come from a legendary family yet still build your own name, purpose, and peace. From lessons learned as a husband and father to the mindset shifts that helped him find calm and clarity, JoJo shares how he’s learned to “worry less and do his best.” Through honesty and reflection, JoJo opens up about carving out his own identity, choosing faith over fear, and redefining legacy as impact rather than image. They dive into: What legacy really means beyond fame or family name The lessons turning 36 has taught him about growth and peace How faith and fatherhood gave him deeper purpose The power of intention, resilience, and gratitude in building a meaningful life 🎂 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Summary
From Burnout to Billions: John Thompson III on Resilience & Redefining Success
Sep 3000:47:27Summary readyWhat happens when chasing success costs you your health? Business leader and executive coach John Thompson III joins Joseph “JoJo” Simmons on the For Good Podcast to share how burnout at 25 reshaped his life, why being passed over for promotion became a turning point, and how his ACES framework helps people stack their deck for success. John Thompson III spent over 20 years leading teams at GE and United Technologies, generating more than $1 billion in sales — but his biggest lessons came from failure and burnout. At just 25, the pressure of career and school landed him in a psychiatric ward, forcing him to redefine what success really means. Today, John is an executive coach, financial advisor, and author of Stack Your Deck: How to Be an Ace in Business and Life. He joins Joseph “JoJo” Simmons on the For Good Podcast to talk about his ACES framework (Attitude, Connection, Empowerment, Strength), what being passed over for promotion taught him about resilience, and why leadership is really about creating other leaders. They dive into: The truth about burnout and how to build a balanced life Why your attitude shapes everything — and how to shift it The lessons his grandmother’s poker games taught him about resilience Redefining success beyond titles, money, or promotions Why quitting alcohol gave him the clarity to create at a higher level This episode is a powerful reminder that success isn’t about the cards you’re dealt — it’s about how you play your hand. 🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Summary
From Rapstyle Mondays to Run’s House: JoJo & Zach Reunite
Sep 2301:16:29Summary readyWhat happens when your childhood best friend also becomes your partner in music, TV, and life? For JoJo Simmons and his day one, Zach, the answer is a journey that spans from first grade classrooms to middle school rap battles, to forming Team Blackout and appearing together on Run’s House. In this episode of the For Good Podcast, JoJo and Zach revisit the funny, heartfelt, and sometimes wild stories that shaped their brotherhood — including the infamous Rapstyle Mondays battles that got so big they were banned by the school, and the moment JoJo realized he’d rather team up with Zach than risk losing to him in a battle. Zach reflects on the surreal experience of living a “double life” in high school, riding the bus with classmates one moment and being picked up by MTV producers the next. He opens up about the pressures of perception — what it was like to be recognized on the street, receive fan letters, and even adjust how Team Blackout parked their car just to “protect the brand.” JoJo and Zach share memories of recording endless tracks in the basement on cassette tapes, chasing record deals, and the lessons they learned from dreaming big as teenagers in the spotlight. But this conversation isn’t just about nostalgia. JoJo asks Zach what it meant to become godfather to his daughter Mia, and Zach opens up about why he takes that role so seriously. They talk about opposites attracting in friendship, how family support kept their bond strong, and how music gave Zach both an outlet and an alter ego that built his confidence. Today, Zach has transitioned into life as a music educator, carrying forward the same passion that started in those freestyle circles. This episode is a celebration of friendship, growth, and the bonds that stand the test of time. JoJo and Zach also discuss: The moment JoJo asked Zach to be godfather to his daughter Mia How Team Blackout formed and the lessons they learned chasing their rap dreams The realities of being young, on TV, and navigating fame in the MySpace/TMZ era Why music became Zach’s therapy and gave him confidence as a quiet kid A heartfelt message for Reggie This episode is a celebration of friendship, growth, and the bonds that stand the test of time. 🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Summary
Hip-Hop, Hard Lessons & Healing: Dr. Sahpreem A. King’s Journey of Redemption
Sep 1601:03:08Summary readyFrom producing platinum records to surviving bankruptcy — twice — Dr. Sahpreem A. King has lived a life of highs, lows, and powerful transformation. A hip-hop producer for legends like SWV and Wyclef Jean, he went from the top of the music industry to losing everything, rebuilding himself not once but twice, and ultimately finding purpose as an author, educator, and founder of Soular Astronauts. In this deeply honest conversation with JoJo Simmons on the For Good Podcast, Dr. King opens up about the defining moments that shaped his journey: the block party in Amityville that first sparked his love of hip-hop, writing the first-ever book on hip-hop production, and the harsh financial lessons that taught him humility after early success. But the most powerful part of his story goes beyond music and money. Growing up surrounded by domestic violence, Dr. King repeated the same cycle in his first marriage before realizing it had to end with him. He shares how looking into his son’s crib became the turning point that pushed him to seek help, take accountability, and break generational trauma. Dr. King opens up about: Building a career in hip-hop and writing the first-ever book on hip-hop production How financial collapse and the 2008 housing crisis taught him humility Growing up with domestic violence, repeating those patterns, and choosing to break the cycle for his children Living with ADHD and reshaping education through multiple intelligences theory Why failure is a teacher — and why he now looks forward to it This powerful conversation reminds us that transformation is possible, no matter where you start.
Summary
From Super Bowl to Saving Lives: Bryant McKinnie Gets Real About Mental Health
Sep 900:30:46Summary readyBryant McKinnie spent over a decade dominating the NFL, becoming a Super Bowl champion and Pro Bowler. But after the game, he discovered that true strength has nothing to do with size or speed—it’s about being vulnerable, telling your story, and creating safe spaces for others to share theirs. Now, through his B Major Foundation and events like Cocktails and Conversations, Bryant is changing how men—especially athletes and men of color—approach mental health. He sits down with Joseph "JoJo" Simmons on The For Good Podcast to share his journey from the locker room to community leadership, and why trusted voices like his are critical for shifting the conversation. In this episode, they talk about: The hidden struggles athletes face after retiring from professional sports Why the locker room was more than just a place to prepare for the game—it was a safe space for brotherhood and honesty How to push past the “tough it out” mentality that keeps so many men silent Why self-care is just as necessary as training your body, and how to start putting yourself first The lessons losing teaches us that winning never could 🔌 Subscribe to The For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Summary
Angela Simmons: Dating Drama, Mental Health & Why She Attracts 'Protectors' (Part 2)
Sep 200:26:35Summary readyAngela Simmons sits down with her brother Joseph "JoJo" Simmons for Part 2 of their conversation on the For Good Podcast, and this time they're getting into the real—relationships, dating, and navigating life in the public eye. Angela addresses why she's attracted to "protectors," explaining that she sees people past their reputation and judges them by their character, not street gossip. She opens up about the pressure of dating publicly since she was 17, from Bow Wow's music video to now, and why her love life became a "thing" that overshadows her other work. Angela gets honest about her recent situation with Yo Gotti and why she didn't immediately tell JoJo when things ended, plus how she handles being constantly dragged into drama she wants no parts of. The siblings also dive into: • Why Angela dates "protectors" and how she sees past people's reputations to their hearts • The viral picture collage that had the internet making assumptions about her dating history • Her breakup with Yo Gotti and why she went quiet during that time • That viral Nicki Minaj challenge in stilettos and why she brought heels to the gym • Angela's Angels and her Christmas toy drive - the philanthropic work people don't talk about • Her wellness world she's building and why everyone needs a one-stop shop for health • Mental health routine - 15-20 minutes of phone-free prayer and grounding every morning JoJo gives Angela her flowers, telling her she's "the definition of a strong Black single woman" and that if people really knew her, they'd watch their tongues. He acknowledges how she's figuring it out daily in an industry that's not easy to survive, always doing it with dignity and pride. 🔌 Subscribe to the For Good Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Summary