Positive Philter Podcast
Self-Improvement
About
Positive Philter is a podcast about how to infuse positive thinking into everyday life. Topics range from interpersonal relationships, goal setting, positive self-talk, and spreading positivity. The creator of the podcast is Philip Wilkerson who also created the #illphilawards. The goal is to use social media and technology as a means to spread a message of hope and to influence the world for change one person at a time.
Episodes
- Phirst Month Out: A Conversation with My Neos (featuring Daryn Boden and Conrad Sylvanus)
Conrad Sylvanus and Daryn Boden join the Positive Philter Podcast to discuss their experiences during their first month as "neos" in Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., covering their paths to membership and the significance of brotherhood.
- Actionable Awareness: Using CliftonStrengths to Lead and Succeed (featuring Eduardo Villavicencio)
Eduardo Villavicencio discusses the application of CliftonStrengths for leadership, team building, and personal development on the Positive Philter Podcast. The conversation explores the value of self-awareness and understanding oneself an…
- Securing the Future: From Student to Cybersecurity Mentor (featuring Mussadiq Khan)
Mussadiq Khan joins Positive Philter to discuss his path from mathematics student to cybersecurity professional. He highlights the impact of teachers and mentors on his career and his current work in guiding new talent into the cybersecuri…
- The State of Podcasting and Student Leadership
This episode of Positive Philter features Max Castner, President of the Podcast Club at George Mason University, discussing the club's first year. They reflect on student leadership, their shared enthusiasm for podcasting, and lessons lear…
- Creative Writing Careers: Finding Voice, Purpose, and Expression (featuring Steph Liberatore)
Steph Liberatore, a creative writing professor, joins Positive Philter to discuss creative writing, especially nonfiction, as a means of self-expression. The conversation covers her career path and insights into writing, voice, and storyte…
- Bridging the Digital Divide: Empowering Students Through Technology (featuring Robert Cobbs and Kyle Sumrow)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Robert Cobbs, Founder and CEO, and Kyle Sumrow, Former Director of Outreach & Development for TechMySchool. Their nonprofit is dedicated to expanding access to technology for students, par…
- Leading with Purpose: Student Leadership at GMU (featuring Amaiyah Parker)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Amaiyah Parker, President of the NAACP at George Mason University. We discuss her journey to Mason, her approach to student leadership, and how she balances academics, advocacy, and the co…
- Esports and Community: A New Era of Engagement (featuring David Echeverria)
In this episode of Positive Philter , I'm joined by my fraternity brother David Echeverria to explore the rise of eSports and its potential beyond gaming. From his early work with EA Sports to co-founding Village eSports Entertainment, Dav…
- Discovering Your Professional Identity (featuring Jonathan Segers)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Jonathan Segers, a higher education professional at Washington University in St. Louis, whom I met through NACE. We discuss his career journey from financial services and K–12 education to…
- Be Well, Black Man! A Conversation on Health, Belonging, and Equity
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by my fraternity brother and friend, Dr. Okey Enyia, to discuss his book The John Henry Health Equity Playbook, a roadmap for advancing health equity for Black men through health, economic st…
- Leading an Alumni Chapter Board (pt. 1)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Dr. Michelle Ryan, President of the College of Science Alumni Chapter at George Mason University. We discuss her Mason journey, what servant leadership looks like in alumni spaces, and the…
- Themes & Goals: Living 2026 with Purpose (featuring Keyah Frazier)
In this episode, I am joined by my colleague, Keyah Frazier, for a deep dive into the art of goal setting and vision planning. We explore the power of incorporating new ideas—like setting a "theme" for the year—to maintain long-term motiva…
- Beyond the Board: Using Games to Build Leadership and Connection (featuring Chris Barrows)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Chris Barrows, host of the Why I Social podcast and co-creator of Traveling Boards. This organization uses board games as tools for leadership development, team building, and education. We…
- Local Leadership, Lasting Impact (featuring Dan Helmer)
In this episode, I'm joined by local politician Dan Helmer, who represents Virginia's 10th District in southern Fairfax County. I first met Dan when he visited my son's Boy Scout troop, and I've seen firsthand how dedicated he is to servin…
- Behind the Words: The World of Ghostwriting (featuring Jeff Raderstrong)
In Episode 385 of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Jeff Raderstrong, a professional ghostwriter who has helped CEOs, political leaders, and community activists bring their stories to life. Jeff shares his journey into ghostwriting, what it…
- Dreams, Shadows, and Service: A Trailblazing Journey in Education (featuring Dr. Emma Violand Sanchez)
In this episode of Positive Philter , I sit down with Dr. Emma Violand-Sanchez, a fellow Mount Vernon High School alum, immigrant, and first-generation scholar. Her journey—from arriving in the U.S. as a teenager with limited English to be…
- Higher Education Then and Now (featuring Dr. Nolan Cabrera)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Dr. Nolan Cabrera for a powerful conversation about the history of higher education and its impact on today's academic landscape. We explore how colleges and universities were not original…
- From Music to Finance: A Journey of Reinvention (featuring Dr. Linh Trinh An)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by a fellow George Mason University alum to discuss her inspiring journey from Vietnam to the U.S., her academic path in music, and her unexpected career shift into finance. We explore themes…
- From Vision to TEDx: A Journey of Resilience (featuring Chris Fitzpatrick)
In this powerful episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by my good friend and fellow TEDx speaker, Chris Fitzpatrick. Chris is a passionate public speaker, mentor, and proud alumnus of Montclair State. We dive deep into our paths to the T…
- Reviving the Oldest (featuring Frank Bonner)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I sit down with my fraternity brother, Frank Bonner, for a candid discussion on the topic of reclamation within Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. We explore the reasons why some brothers struggle with su…
- The Ripple Effect of Kindness (featuring Randy McNeely)
In a world where it's easy to feel disconnected, what if the simple act of kindness holds the key to building a more compassionate and empathetic society? In this episode, the Prince of Positivity, Philip Wilkerson, sits down with Randy Mc…
- An Academic Career with Political Science (featuring Dr. Jennifer Victor)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Professor Jennifer Victor from George Mason University's Schar School of Policy and Government. We explore her path in political science and how the discipline helps foster understanding a…
- A Career in Law (featuring Ryan Norman)
In this inspiring episode of Positive Philter , I'm joined by my fraternity brother, Ryan Norman, to discuss his impactful career in law and how it has shaped his leadership journey. As the President-Elect of the Federal Land Chapter of Al…
- Serving with Heart (featuring Rose Pascarell)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Rose Pascarell, Vice President for University Life at George Mason University. We discuss the essential role of student affairs in creating a holistic college experience, her career journe…
- Exploring Holistic Healing and Cultural Awareness in Healthcare (featuring Dr. Haley Parker)
In this episode of Positive Philter, Philip reconnects with high school friend Dr. Haley Parker, the Director of Clinical Operations and Professor at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine. Haley shares her inspiring journey from stud…
- A Career After College Athletics (featuring Jennifer Kious)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I chat with Jennifer Kious about her journey from collegiate hockey to a career in EdTech. We explore how skills from sports translate into the professional world and the lessons learned along the way.…
- Creating a Career Ecosystem (featuring Zayd Hamid)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by student leader Zayd Hamid, a graduate student within the Public Policy Program whose focus is educational policy. We explore the evolving landscape of Career Services, shifting from the tr…
- Networking In-Person (featuring Duane Bailey)
In this episode of Positive Philter , I am joined by Duane Bailey, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at George Mason University's Costello College of Business. We dive into the importance of in-person networking in today's di…
- From Hobby to Hustle (featuring Damon Hudson and Steve Weber)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by the co-owners of Collector's World, Steve Weber and Damon Hudson. We dive into their journey of turning a shared passion for sports collectibles and memorabilia into a thriving business in…
- Intrusive Leadership (featuring Marcus Canady)
In this episode of Positive Philter , I sit down with Marcus Canady to discuss his career in the Coast Guard and his unique approach to leadership. As the author of Intrusive Leadership , Marcus introduces a leadership style that prioritiz…
- Healthy Eating For the Culture (featuring Ashley Carter and Jasmine Westbrooks)
In this episode of Positive Philter , I am joined by two incredible Black dietitians, Ashley Carter and Jasmine Westbrooks. Seeing a gap in the field regarding the cultural implications of eating for Black communities, they took action. We…
- Higher Education Leadership Overseas (featuring Dr. Shannon Davis)
This is the tenth installment of the Positive Philter Dean Miniseries, featuring a captivating conversation with Dr. Shannon Davis, the Interim Dean of Mason Korea. Join us as we explore her inspiring journey in educational leadership, the…
- Being a Black Leader in Tech (featuring Rob Blackwell)
In this episode of the Positive Philter Podcast, I'm joined by my good friend and Fraternity brother, Rob Blackwell. As a leader in the tech space, Rob shares insights about his career journey and what it means to be a representative of Bl…
- Mentorship and Technology (featuring Erin Mayhood)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I'm joined by Erin Mayhood, CEO of Mentorship Collective. Erin shares her inspiring career journey, transitioning from a librarian to a leader in the education technology space. We dive deep into the tr…
- Intergenerational Living Pt. 2
I wanted to follow up with the listeners about how intergenerational living has gone for us since we recorded an episode about it two years ago. I hope this episode helps for those considering the decision to combine homes with family memb…
- Everyone Has a Voice, Everyone Has a Vote-Voter Engagement Webinar
On October 15th, 2024, the Iota Alpha Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated and the Theta Rho Lambda Chapter hosted a dynamic webinar on voter engagement and participation titled "Everyone Has a Voice, Everyone Has a Vote." Th…
- Positive Philter Update Episode 8.26.2024
Season Six has come to an end! Check out this episode to learn about what is next for the Positive Philter! Shout Outs and Plugs Guest Application: https://forms.gle/aduxrFB1n2cFRPw27 Positive Philter Audience Survey: https://forms.gle/8wk…
- Training the Peacebuilders of Tomorrow (featuring Dr. Alpaslan Ozerdem)
In the last episode of season six, I am joined by Dr. Alpaslan Ozerdem. He is the dean of the GMU Carter School of Peace and Conflict Resolution. We discuss his background in academics and how the students within his discipline have skills…
- Mentorship Throughout A Career in Academics (featuring Dr. Cody Edwards)
In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Cody Edwards, Dean of GMU's College of Science. We discuss his childhood and how mentorship played a critical role in his science, research, and academic career. This is a great episode for students wond…
- Career Happenstance (featuring Cassie Spencer)
In this episode, I am joined by fellow podcaster Cassie Spencer. We discuss her journey within the higher education profession and her journey to starting a podcast of her own where she highlights the diverse career journey of others! Shou…
- Literature as a Tool for Dialogue (featuring Dr. Zofia Burr)
In this episode, I am joined by the dean of the honor college, Dr. Zofia Burr. We discuss her academic career and how literature can serve as a tool for insightful discussions among students of various identities. Another great episode in…
- Well-Being at Work for Black Professionals (featuring Sonya Henry and Meaghon Omobude)
In lieu of the "Black Well-Being Panel" hosted by the GMU Black Alumni Chapter being postponed until the Fall, Sonya, Meaghon, and I decided to discuss what well-being at work means to Black professionals. We discuss a variety of topics, r…
- Leaders Develop Leaders (featuring Sean McCaskill)
In this episode I am joined by Brother Sean McCaskill. Executive Director of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated! We discuss his journey in leadership and how brotherhood is core to his development as a leader within his professional l…
- Educating the Future Leaders in Government (featuring Dr. Mark Rozell)
In this episode of Positive Philter, I am joined by Dean Mark Rozell of GMU's Schar School of Policy and Government. We discuss his journey in academia and ideas on why young people should get involved in politics. Check it out! Shout Outs…
- Major Does Not Equal Career (featuring Dr. Ann Ardis)
In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Ann Ardis, Dean of GMU's College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS)! We discuss her career journey in academia as well as her thoughts on the value of a liberal arts degree! This is an episode you…
- The ROI of Kindness (featuring Dr. Ajay Vinze)
In this episode, I am joined by Dean Ajay Vinze of the Costello College of Business. We discuss his career journey in academia and his views on the importance of kindness in the business sector. This is an episode you don't want to miss! S…
- Growing Up Biracial (featuring Teon Frazier)
In this episode, I am joined by Teon Frazier, a recent GMU graduate. We discuss his childhood in Maryland and his experience as a student at Mason! Shout Outs and Plugs Teon's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/teonfrazierjr/ 𝑽𝑬𝑵𝑫𝑬�…
- Maximizing the Value of College (featuring Elliot Felix)
In this episode I speak with Elliot Felix on the value of a college education and whether or not going to college is a value return of investment for college students. As a higher education professional, I know this is an episode you don't…
- TalentFRED: Being the Best Leader You Can Be (featuring Fred Scott)
In this episode, I am joined by my friend and fraternity brother, Fred Scott. We discuss his journey in leadership and his recent book. This episode is sure to motivate and inspire! Check it out! Shout Outs and Plugs Book Launch Party: htt…
- Education as a Means to a Societal End (featuring Dr. Ingrid Guerra-Lopez)
In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Ingrid Guerra-Lopez, the dean of GMU's College of Education and Human Development. We discuss her career journey in academics and her systems approach to how education is critical to the society it is me…