Grab Your Y

Beyond the Lab: Science, Resilience & Self-Discovery

At Chapel Hill, our paths converged—two Black men forging our way through academia and bias, and emerging as scientists with a story to tell. I sit down with my brother, Dr. Patrick McCarter, to reflect on the good times competing on the court, and to explore how the grind of the lab and confronting bias led us to therapy and the healing that comes with it. In this intimate conversation, we reclaim our narrative, celebrate resilience, and uncover the strength in owning our journey.

An Uncomplicated Yet Extraordinary Man

Season 2 of the Grab Your Y podcast opens with a tribute to my grandfather, Papa—a man who lived an uncomplicated yet extraordinary life. Born in 1931 in rural eastern North Carolina, he overcame countless challenges to become the first in his family to graduate from college in 1954. In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my mom and aunts to reflect on his journey as a Black man navigating a changing world, his quiet resilience, and the profound impact of a life lived with purpose, integrity, and unwavering commitment to family.

From the Bay to the A: Oakland Raised, Morehouse Made

Join us for the Season 1 finale of the Grab Your Y podcast with De'Andre Cherry, a Physicist and Nanoengineer from the Bay Area. From our days at Morehouse College, to navigating the game of life, Cherry shares his unique perspective on being a Black man, pursuing the highest form of himself, and the profound influence of his hometown, Oakland. This is one of the coldest episodes, filled with endless gems and wisdom. So tune in and get some game from Oakland’s finest. Ism!

Destined for Science: The Power of Mentorship in Navigating STEM

Step into the world of Dr. Michael Johnson, a mentor, Associate Professor and Dean with a unique story. From his musical roots and leadership as head drum major at Duke to his unexpected transition into science, Michael's journey is a fascinating blend of art and academia. In this episode, we traverse Michael's diverse path, exploring the defining moment that steered him toward a scientific career. Join us as we explore Michael’s upbringing on the south side of Chicago, the world of STEM, the power of mentorship, and the unique experiences and advantages of being a Black man in biomedical research.

The Way to Be a Man is YOUR Way to Be a Man

North Carolina natives? Check. Tar Heels? Check. In this episode, we explore Cedric Brown's journey to authenticity, with insights into his experiences as a Black queer man. Rooted in both the divine and his personal determination, he sheds light on the importance of granting oneself the freedom to be true. Our conversation delves into the dynamics of relationships between gay Black men and their straight counterparts and the significance of balancing masculine and feminine energies. Join us as we navigate identity, masculinity, and the power of being true to oneself with everybody's favorite uncle, Cedric Brown. 

From Mischief to Men: Navigating Black Childhood and Brotherhood

Join me and Quintin Boykins, my partner in crime since middle school, as we dive into the undervalued curiosity of Black children, the importance of context in understanding our worth, the unique experiences of attending an HBCU (shout-out to NC A&T State University) and therapy. This episode is a blend of laughter, reflection, and the enduring bond of old friends.

Black Men Affirmed: From STEM Scholars to Lifelong Friends

In this episode of Grab Your Y, I chop it up with Jockquin Jones. Our friendship started in 2009 through a research internship at Howard University. As we delve into Jock's distinctive path to academic and career success, we explore the crucial role of Black men uplifting each other. We cover survivor’s guilt, maintaining friendship over the years and the power of faith and manifestation of dreams. Throughout, we highlight the profound significance of our HBCU experiences. This one's a must-listen.

The Best Man: Brotherhood, Manhood, and Morehouse

Join me in an engaging and reflective conversation with one of my closest friends, Dominic Jones. From our freshman days at Morehouse College, we explore the paths that brought us to our beloved alma mater. Dominic shares insightful views on masculinity and manhood, and we delve into the significance of Morehouse in shaping our experiences as Black men. With stories from our college years, we navigate the complexities of masculinity and celebrate the enduring bonds of brotherhood. Additionally, having recently stood by his side as his best man in his wedding, we share candid and laughter-filled moments, providing a unique perspective on friendship and self-discovery.

The Come Up: Struggle, Serendipity, and Triumph (Part 2)

Join us for Part 2 of my conversation with Kornelius Bankston, as we talk salary, the struggles of striving for success, and the incredible journey from an unexpected offer to Georgia Tech's MBA program during a lunch break to driving for Instacart to manifesting TECHPLUG. This one's for dreamers, hustlers, those who need hope, and anyone who loves a come-up story. We’re closing out part 2 scrong!

Parallel Pathways: Rejections & Resilience in Science and Tech (Part 1)

In this episode, I invite you to meet my mentor and friend, Kornelius Bankston, a fellow chemistry alumnus from Morehouse College. We explore the genesis of our unique bond, marked by the many intersections in our educational and career journeys. From rejections that turned into blessings to the trials and tribulations of pursuing PhDs, we take a walk down memory lanes, illuminating the remarkable similarities in our stories. Join me for an engaging conversation that reflects on our shared journey in the world of science and tech and discover Kornelius's mission as the owner of TECHPLUG, where he addresses health disparities and tech accessibility for vulnerable populations. Child, let's get into it!