On The Blacktop: Conversations That Matter

On March 12th, I had the opportunity to sit down on The Blacktop with Iysha Jackson, and it was truly one of those conversations that reminds you why storytelling matters.

Sticks, a Memphis native and Missouri-based audio strategist, has built a platform centered around connecting communities through sports, media, and culture. Through her work in radio and podcasting, including POCket Change and The Blacktop, she continues to create space for conversations that are honest, impactful, and necessary.

During our interview, we covered a wide range of topics; from sports and pageantry, to NIL and the evolving landscape of opportunities for athletes. What stood out most was how naturally those conversations intersect. Whether it is athletics, media, or leadership, the underlying theme is always the same: using your voice with intention.

As someone navigating both the sports and pageant spaces, it was especially meaningful to discuss how NIL has shifted the way athletes can build their personal brands and create opportunities beyond the game. It is a reminder that athletes today are not just competitors, but storytellers, entrepreneurs, and leaders in their own right.

Sticks brings a unique perspective to these conversations, particularly through her focus on women in sports and representation in media. Her ability to create dialogue that feels both authentic and thought-provoking is what makes platforms like The Blacktop so important.

I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of that conversation and to continue sharing stories that highlight growth, identity, and impact.

Because at the end of the day, whether it is through sport, media, or leadership — our stories are what connect us.