Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Duvalier Malone. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Duvalier, 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 inspiration for ‘Those Who Give a Damn’ podcast sprouted from a deep-seated belief in the power of voice and narrative. In today’s world, the loudest voices often overshadow those that hold profound truths and insights. This podcast is my response to that imbalance – a dedicated space to amplify voices that are often sidelined or unheard.

The mission of the podcast is deeply personal to me. Growing up in Fayette, Mississippi, I witnessed firsthand how certain voices, especially in underserved communities, were consistently overlooked. These experiences instilled in me a drive to not only listen but to elevate these stories for a wider audience.

Each episode of ‘Those Who Give a Damn’ is crafted with the intention to not just share stories, but to inspire action and foster a sense of interconnectedness. We delve into topics that are crucial yet often neglected, from social justice to environmental sustainability, and the myriad challenges and victories within these realms.

Our mission is meaningful because it’s grounded in real-world issues and experiences. It’s about creating a platform where genuine dialogue can occur, where guests and listeners alike can engage in conversations that are not just informative but transformative.

In essence, the podcast embodies a commitment to positive change, to understanding and empathy, to challenging the status quo. It’s a rallying cry for anyone who believes that every voice holds power, and every story can be a catalyst for progress. That’s why ‘Those Who Give a Damn’ is more than just a podcast; it’s a movement, a community, and a testament to the belief that together, we can forge a better future.

Duvalier, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am Duvalier Malone, a community activist, author, motivational speaker, and the CEO of Duvalier Malone Enterprises. My journey into this multifaceted career began in my hometown of Fayette, Mississippi, where I grew up witnessing the challenges and disparities in underserved communities. This upbringing instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to be a voice for the voiceless and to work towards positive societal change.

My foray into the world of activism and public speaking was born out of a desire to address these social issues head-on. Over time, this evolved into establishing my own consulting firm, Duvalier Malone Enterprises, which works with non-profits and underserved communities across America, providing strategic guidance, advocacy training, and community development services.

What sets me apart in this field is my personal approach to each project or cause. Having lived the experiences of those I advocate for, I bring authenticity and empathy to my work. This personal connection is also evident in my motivational speaking engagements, where I aim to inspire others to find their voice and their path to making a difference.

In addition to my consultancy and speaking engagements, I am an accomplished author. My writing focuses on civil rights and community empowerment, aiming to educate and motivate the next generation of leaders.

I am most proud of the impact my work has had in driving meaningful conversations and actions. Whether it’s through my podcast ‘Those Who Give a Damn,’ my books, or community initiatives, the goal has always been to empower and uplift.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that my work is more than a business or a brand – it’s a lifelong commitment to creating a more equitable and just society. Every service offered, every speech delivered, and every episode aired is a step towards that goal.

In essence, Duvalier Malone Enterprises and ‘Those Who Give a Damn’ are not just platforms but a movement. A movement towards understanding, community-building, and impactful change. Join us as we continue to write new narratives and forge paths toward a better future.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

One of the most impactful stories of resilience in my journey intertwines with my work on pivotal civil rights issues, notably the Emmett Till case. The moment that lady partially recanted her story was a catalyst for me. I spearheaded the ‘We Demand Justice Rally for Emmett Till,’ a movement that was both a call to action and a testament to resilience in the face of historical injustices.

Organizing this rally amidst a backdrop of systemic challenges was no small feat. It required not only the resilience to stand firm against longstanding societal barriers but also the courage to confront deeply ingrained prejudices head-on. This effort paralleled my relentless work in advocating for LGBTQ rights in Mississippi, a state where such advocacy often met with fierce opposition.

Additionally, my involvement in the campaign to bring down the Confederate flag in Mississippi was a vivid display of resilience. This symbol of division had flown for decades, and its removal was a powerful statement against racial inequality. The process was fraught with tension and resistance, yet our collective perseverance and unwavering dedication eventually led to a historic victory.

These experiences on the frontline of social justice have profoundly shaped me. They’ve taught me that resilience is not just about enduring challenges, but actively transforming them into catalysts for change. My journey has been about using resilience to not only navigate personal adversities but to also dismantle larger systemic barriers, inspiring others to join in the collective fight for justice and equality.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One significant lesson I had to unlearn was the belief that success is a solo journey. When I began my career as a community activist and entrepreneur, I was deeply influenced by the idea of the ‘self-made’ individual. I believed that to be successful, I needed to rely solely on my own capabilities and efforts. This mindset was partly fueled by my upbringing in a small town in Mississippi, where resources were scarce, and self-reliance was a necessity.

As I navigated the early stages of establishing Duvalier Malone Enterprises and delved into activism, I initially took on every challenge alone. Whether it was organizing community events, advocating for policy changes, or managing my business, I resisted seeking help or collaboration. I thought that asking for support or partnership would reflect on my capabilities or diminish my achievements.

However, this perspective soon proved unsustainable. I encountered projects and campaigns, such as the effort to bring down the Confederate flag in Mississippi and the advocacy for LGBTQ rights, that were far bigger than what one person could handle. I realized that these causes required collective effort and collaboration to be successful.

The turning point came with my involvement in the Emmett Till justice campaign. The magnitude of the issue and the need for widespread societal change made it clear that collaboration wasn’t just helpful – it was essential. Working with other activists, community leaders, and organizations, I learned the power of collective action.

Unlearning the myth of the ‘self-made’ success was a pivotal moment in both my professional and personal development. It taught me the value of community, teamwork, and shared leadership. This lesson has since been a cornerstone of my work and philosophy, emphasizing that true success is often a shared journey, enriched by the contributions and support of others.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.duvalierjmalone.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/thosewhogiveadamnpodcast
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/duvaliermalone
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/duvaliermalone
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/duvaliermalone
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/duvaliermalone

Image Credits
Duvalier Malone