We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Miles Johnson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Miles, thanks for joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
The mission behind ‘Real Talk with MJ’ stems from my deep-seated belief in the power of authentic storytelling and the transformative impact it can have, particularly within the realm of sports. Growing up, I was captivated not just by the games themselves, but by the narratives that unfolded behind the scenes—the personal struggles, triumphs, and untold stories of athletes that often went unnoticed.
I believe that every athlete has a unique and valuable story to tell, one that goes far beyond their performance on the field. ‘Real Talk with MJ’ is my vehicle to provide athletes with a platform where they can share their authentic narratives, free from sensationalism and stereotypes. By doing so, we not only humanize these athletes but also connect sports enthusiasts with the deeper, more relatable aspects of their lives.
Within the realm of sports media, ‘Real Talk with MJ’ stands as a unique platform where authenticity takes center stage. As a graduate of Morehouse College and currently a first-year grad student at New York University, I’ve been driven by a passion for genuine storytelling, a passion that finds its expression in the podcast. ‘Real Talk with MJ’ goes beyond the surface-level analysis of sports topics—it’s a space where I provide unfiltered, authentic takes on all things sports. Whether discussing the latest game-changing moments, controversial decisions, or the human side of athletes’ lives, my aim is to bring a refreshing and honest perspective to the sports narrative. By fostering candid conversations and embracing authenticity, the podcast becomes a bridge between the athletes and the audience, fostering a deeper connection and understanding. This commitment to genuine dialogue, coupled with my mission to tell athletes’ stories authentically, shapes ‘Real Talk with MJ’ into a dynamic space where sports enthusiasts can engage with the heart and soul of the games they love.
In essence, my mission is meaningful to me because it aligns with my core values of authenticity, inclusivity, and the belief that stories have the power to bring people together and drive positive change. ‘Real Talk with MJ’ is not just a podcast; it’s a commitment to reshaping the narrative of sports media and ensuring that every athlete’s story is heard, understood, and appreciated.”
Miles, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I take immense pride in the creation and coordination of the ‘Journey Through Stuttering’ panel at Morehouse College, a project close to my heart that reflects the intersection of my personal journey and professional aspirations. This groundbreaking panel brought together diverse voices, featuring former No. 2 overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and two students each from Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University, to candidly share their experiences with stuttering. Having grown up with a stutter myself, I recognized the profound impact that speech impediments can have on one’s self-esteem and aspirations. Despite facing this challenge, I refused to let it hinder my dream of being on air.
The panel was not only an opportunity to shed light on the shared struggles of those who stutter but also to showcase the resilience and strength that can emerge from embracing one’s unique journey. I firmly believe in the power of turning obstacles into opportunities, and this event exemplified that ethos. The quote I live by—’Stuttering can be an anchor that holds you back, or a springboard that propels you forward’—captures the essence of my approach to life.
What I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know about me and my brand, ‘Real Talk with MJ,’ is that authenticity is at the core of everything I do. From providing authentic takes on sports topics to amplifying genuine stories through the podcast, I aim to create a space where voices are heard, obstacles are turned into stepping stones, and diverse narratives are celebrated. My journey through stuttering reflects not only my commitment to authenticity but also my dedication to empowering others to turn their challenges into sources of strength. ‘Real Talk with MJ’ is not just a sports podcast; it’s a testament to the power of authenticity, resilience, and the transformative impact of sharing our unique stories
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
One of the most poignant moments in my journey that underscores my resilience occurred during my sophomore year of high school. At that point, I had already set my sights on becoming a sports reporter despite grappling with a stutter since the age of 5. Pursuing my passion wasn’t without its challenges; days were marked by instances of ridicule and bullying due to my speech impediment.
However, a particular incident stands out as a testament to my unwavering determination. Despite facing mockery, I consistently pushed forward, fueled by a deep-rooted belief in my abilities and an unyielding passion for sports reporting. On one occasion, as I was delivering a report, the bullying reached a crescendo. Instead of allowing it to deter me, I used the negativity as fuel to propel myself forward.
This pivotal moment became a turning point in my journey. Rather than succumbing to the pressure, I channeled the adversity into motivation. It reinforced my commitment to overcoming obstacles, and I resolved not to let anyone else dictate the narrative of my success.
Fast forward to today, and I’ve had the privilege of working with esteemed organizations such as the NBA, Warner Bros. Discovery, and HBCU All Stars. My podcast, ‘Real Talk with MJ,’ stands as a testament to the resilience that has defined my path. Through interviews with notable athletes like Jaylen Brown, Giannis, Trae Young, Chris Paul, and others, I’ve been able to amplify authentic voices in the sports world, proving that setbacks can indeed be transformed into stepping stones toward success. This journey has reinforced my belief that resilience, coupled with an unwavering commitment to one’s dreams, can lead to remarkable achievements.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
The driving force behind my creative journey is rooted in a mission to redefine the narrative in sports media. Growing up with a stutter since the age of five, I faced adversity, bullying, and mockery. Yet, I refused to let these challenges dictate the trajectory of my aspirations. My personal journey through stuttering has become a springboard, inspiring my mission to create a more inclusive and authentic space within the sports media landscape.
As a Morehouse College graduate and first-year grad student at New York University, my commitment to authenticity is deeply embedded in my education, emphasizing social responsibility and positive change. ‘Real Talk with MJ,’ my sports podcast, is not merely a platform for sports reporting; it’s a testament to resilience, showcasing that setbacks, like a stutter, can be transformed into powerful stories of triumph.
Through initiatives like the ‘Journey Through Stuttering’ panel at Morehouse College, featuring Michael Kidd-Gilchrist and students from Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University, I aim to amplify diverse voices and foster a sense of community. My goal is to showcase that every obstacle, whether personal or professional, can be navigated with authenticity and determination.
In essence, my creative journey is propelled by a mission to reshape the sports media landscape, celebrating the authenticity of athletes’ stories, and inspiring others to overcome challenges on their path to success. ‘Real Talk with MJ’ is not just a podcast; it’s a platform dedicated to breaking barriers, fostering inclusivity, and demonstrating the transformative power of embracing one’s unique journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: milesjohnsonmedia.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realtalkwithmj/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miles-johnson-a886031a0/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealTalkWithMJ1
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDgNX74Ed3P8GHJ0l_2aw4g