Welcome to JSpeaks!
Meet the people changing the world,
one act of service at a time!
Here, we shine a light on everyday heroes — people and organizations driven by purpose, not profit. Meet nonprofit founders, social entrepreneurs, and community builders united by one mission: creating meaningful change.
Through in-depth conversations, we reveal their motivations and journeys — helping you discover impactful services, support community-driven missions, and align your spending with your values.
When you engage with our featured changemakers, you're not just transacting — you'refueling impact!
Proud Brand Ambassador
Ethically Made, Premium Quality, Eco-Friendly Clothing
Watch Our Latest Conversation
Dive into authentic discussions that motivate, educate, and empower — only on JSpeaks.
Why Teens Need a Gap Year — Ian Parks on Restoring Self-Love, Confidence & Purpose
Ian Parks served five years in the United States Air Force and while fighting for his country he jumped into the IT space to work as a system administrator. Then and now, Ian has always made time to work with teenagers in his community. He has worked with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, The Boys and Girls Club and several other organizations involved in youth development.
With over fifteen years of experience working with teens, Ian released his first book, Gap Year, which encourages teens to reach their full potential in life. Additionally, in 2016 he founded his nonprofit - After School Special - which focuses on restoring self love, compassion and social skills within teens as well as help them to pursue their purpose in life.
Hopefully after watching this episode you will understand for yourself how Ian Parks helps teens - one voice at a time!
🌟Inspiring Stories
Discover powerful narratives from extraordinary individuals making a difference.
Meet Wendy Coulter: CEO of Hummingbird Creative Group
With a passion for big ideas and a mission to empower others, Wendy has spent ov...
Fighting Health Disparities for 35+ Years
Dr. Barbara Pullen-Smith has 35+ years of public health experience. Her early ca...
How P.O.W.E.R. Inc is Revolutionizing Support for Single Parents
P.O.W.E.R. is dedicated to Revolutionizing Support for Single Parents and equipp...
A Safe Path Forward with the RYSE Assessment Center
Are you, or someone you know, a Durham youth aged 10-17 facing social, emotional...
Stop Burnout, Boost Performance Dr Susan Lovelle
From performing at the NYC Metropolitan Opera at age 9 to becoming a prima balle...
Can Nuclear Power Our Future?
Danielle Allen has taught physics in Vietnam, is a trained pilot instructor and ...
How Shemecka McNeil Turns Food Into Freedom for Low-Income Families
Shemecka is a health and nutrition leader who blends her deep understanding for ...
UNC Kenan Flagler Carolina Pitch Fest
The Carolina Pitch Fest, hosted by UNC Kenan-Flagler, is an entrepreneurial pitc...
Upcoming Events
Featuring community leaders and visionaries shaping the future.
Valued Voices
Trusted Feedback from Community Leaders!
This interview with JSpeaks was so fun - thanks to John Blakley for making a couple of hours just fly by!!! Thanks for letting me share about my business, Hummingbird Creative Group, and the NC Women Business Owners Hall...
Winners! Every now and then God puts you in a special , yet unexpected place! That unexpected place for me came in the form of being a guest on JSpeaks’ podcast!! This talented young man has a beautiful gift and he freel...
What an honor to share my story with JSpeaks with James Anthony Wallace! This talented team is doing so much to elevate those in our community-can’t wait for the full episode!
Thanks John Blakely Jr. For a great interview. Really love the work you're doing JSpeaks.
Grateful Moment I just want to take a moment to say thank you to JSpeaks and James Anthony Wallace for such a thoughtful introduction and interview. Hearing someone describe my journey from a little girl on my grandfa...
Thank you, JSpeaks, for the chance to talk in depth about how communities can support children of incarcerated and returning parents!
Event Has Concluded
This workshop has already taken place. Visit our past events page to see highlights and key takeaways.
Upcoming Community Outreach Events
Breaking Ground: A Candid Conversation about Male Mental Wellness
Join us for a transparent, no-holds-barred conversation with community leaders as we explore the real stories behind male mental wellness—what it looks like at its highest and lowest points. This webinar is going to dive deep into the unique mental health experiences of men, shedding light on the pressures of societal expectations, how they’ve influenced personal growth, and the often-unspoken toll they take on relationships, future planning, and overall well-being.
Register Now
Ava’s Pathways
Creating a supportive community for women in search of connections, resources, and relationships within an inclusive and nonjudgmental environment.
Get In Touch
Have questions or want to collaborate? Reach out — we’re always happy to connect!