Our Community: From Local Engagement to Future Pavement

Laying a foundation of power is about taking control of your potential and setting the stage for lasting success. It’s more than just achieving short-term goals—it’s about building a strong, resilient base that will supports you and your community for years to come.

Whether in your career, personal growth, or within your community, creating a foundation of power involves taking bold action and building a network of empowerment.

It’s a process that not only elevates your own path but also empowers others, turning obstacles into opportunities and paving the way for sustained success.

Watch the Video

Episode 4: The Foundation of Power with Monty, Teddy and Vehriion

On this episode, Tavares Bethel engages with a dynamic group of young men—Monty, Teddy, and Vehriion—from the Jacksonville community. The conversation brings to light personal stories, the lack of relatable political candidates for millennials, and the importance of creating power and accountability within their own communities. The episode is a candid discussion aimed at providing future generations with the insights and tools they need to create meaningful change.

This episode contains explicit content. Viewer discretion is advised. The intention of The Slide podcast is not to offend but to provide real conversations into topics affecting communities within the United States. The opinions contained within this episode are solely those who have expressed them. Proceed only if you are comfortable with potentially sensitive topics.

See Time Stamps for this video at the end of this article.

Running the Bread Up

One of the key takeaways from our latest episode is the need to "run this bread up," a metaphor emphasizing the importance of driving economic success and resource accumulation. It’s not just about making financial gains for the sake of profit; it’s about creating meaningful economic opportunities that can be reinvested into nurturing our next generation leaders.

Building a foundation of power requires taking accountability for our actions and making deliberate efforts to create opportunities that lead to long-term prosperity. Waiting for change is not enough—you must take responsibility, make moves, and actively shape your future.

Take Bold Action

Building a foundation for success requires bold moves, even if they’re small at first. In the local community, taking bold action means stepping up, challenging the status quo, and creating opportunities where there may seem to be none. Whether it’s organizing local events, supporting small businesses, or leading community-driven projects, these actions inspire others and ignite a ripple effect of empowerment.

Taking initiative to address issues and find creative solutions through collective effort, you not only establish your own foundation of power but also inspire others to take bold steps and do the same. When one person dares to act, it empowers the whole community to rise.

Here are some personal steps to take bold, confident actions:

• Shift Your Mindset: View risk as part of growth rather than something to be avoided. Even if you fail, you learn and get closer to your goal.

• Start Small but Think Big: Bold action doesn’t have to be monumental all at once. Begin with small, manageable steps that align with your larger vision. Each step forward, no matter how small, builds momentum.

• Challenge the Status Quo: Think outside the box. Traditional pathways to success may not always be available, so don’t be afraid to create your own opportunities. Whether through entrepreneurship, advocacy, or grassroots movements, finding your own lane can lead to empowerment and progress.

Taking bold moves allows you to move toward real change, bringing you closer to success with every step.

Build A Network of Empowerment

One of the most impactful ways to create lasting change is to connect individuals, small businesses, and organizations with shared goals and values. A foundation of power is created through mutual support that strengthens everyone involved. This type of network allows for the exchange of resources, knowledge, and opportunities that may not be available otherwise, helping to break down barriers and lift up those who may feel isolated or underrepresented.

When communities intentionally invest in empowering each other—whether through mentorship, collaborative projects, or simply amplifying one another’s voices—they build a resilient system of growth and success. Together, this united force can drive significant progress, ensuring that no one is left behind and that the community thrives as a whole.

By collaborating and cooperating with others in your community, you amplify your strength, combining efforts to achieve goals that are more significant together than alone. Here’s how to build a powerful network of empowerment:

• Seek Mentors and Allies: Look for people who have walked the path you wish to follow. Mentors provide guidance, insight, and encouragement. Allies, whether they are peers or community leaders, can amplify your voice and create opportunities.

• Invest in Your Community: Give back by supporting others who are also striving for success. By lifting others up, you not only create a stronger network but also contribute to a culture of empowerment and collaboration.

• Collaborate to Grow: Don’t be afraid to share your resources, knowledge, and connections with others. Collective success is powerful, and working together can open doors that would otherwise remain closed.

Conclusion: Empower Your Future by Taking Bold Action Today

The power to make change already exists within each of us; it simply needs to be exerted and amplified with the power of community. When we leverage our collective resources and talents, we not only elevate ourselves but also lay the groundwork for lasting economic success for future generations.

Now is the time to take that bold step forward. You already have the power within you; it’s time to unleash it and make your mark on the world.

Your future belongs to you—take it boldly.

Meet the Guests (from left to right) - Monty, Teddy, Tavares, and Vehriion

Episode Notes:

Future Focused: The Path to Empowering Our Youth

This episode of The Slide, host Tavaris Bethel engages with a group of young men, Monty, Teddy, and Vehriion, to discuss the importance of local political engagement, health care, and creating a prosperous future.

The conversation spans various topics, including personal accountability, the impact of upbringing, the drive behind joining the military, and the need for unity and trust in communities.

The episode emphasizes self-reliance, the power of teamwork, and the significance of building strong local economies. With a touch of humor and profound insights, this discussion aims to inspire the younger generation to strive towards happiness and power.

00:00 Introduction to Health Care and Local Politics

00:38 Meet the Host and Guests

00:51 Future-Minded Discussion

02:00 Personal Introductions

02:14 Monty's Background and Values

02:33 Teddy's Military Experience

08:08 Challenges of Returning Veterans

09:08 Vehriion's Perspective on the Future

13:48 The Importance of Power and Unity

16:17 Teddy on Business and Trust

18:39 A Humorous Start: Shoe Stories and Shoutouts

18:55 Exploring Social Responsibility and Brand Loyalty

19:53 Philosophical Musings: Social Contracts and Consciousness

20:57 The Importance of Financial Support and Community Building

21:24 Real Talk: Reparations and Accountability

25:44 Millennial Political Views and Technological Evolution

27:59 Revolutionary Thoughts and Economic Realities

29:18 Empowerment and Personal Responsibility

30:36 Closing Remarks and Call to Action